Three's A Crowd

A Very Late Birth Notice

2012-01-24T21:02:00.000-08:00

I'm used to watching a rush of rain water flowing down the street. It's quite another thing to watch rain water flowing UP the street - courtesy of the heavy winds we are getting today. Rain blows east and then west all within a few seconds. It doesn't know which way to go. I know the feeling.

I can't help but write about yet another coincidence I encountered last weekend. Alec had ordered an item online and had been waiting for it for several weeks. A box arrived last Friday and I put it aside, thinking it was one of the items that I had ordered, with Alec's birthday approaching. At the time, I remember thinking it was a bit big for anything I had ordered but then I forgot about it. Anyway, on Saturday, Alec tracked his package online and found that it would be delivered at 3:30 on Saturday. We all picked times that we guessed it would REALLY be delivered and when those times came and went, he was a bit disappointed. And then, I remembered that package delivery from the day before (duh!) Yes, it was his package, after all! What joy was felt in the household!

So, I was going through the newspaper that was used as packing material since I find newspapers from other places interesting. This was a newspaper from a tiny town in Minnesota, filled with Norwegian names, very much like our town (lots of Scandinavian influence here). My eyes happened to fall on a section of the paper devoted to happenings 70 years ago. And there it was ... an article saying, "Mr. & Mrs. D. Cheney were blessed with a baby boy, as reported in 'The Astorian Budget', in Astoria. Mr. Cheney is well known in our town."

I got so excited! What are the odds of this newspaper with this article being sent to someone in Astoria? Someone who actually finds these coincidences interesting? I have read a good book about the newspapers of our town's past, including "The Astorian Budget", so I know of the now-defunct paper. I got out the phone book to see if there were any Cheneys still in Astoria. There are two couples living in Tillamook, about 75 miles south of us. Tillamook is famous for the cheese produced there, lots and lots of cows, and I recommend Tillamook Swiss, it's the best! Anyway, I haven't contacted them though I'd really like to. Imagine, it could be a brother or uncle or something. If it were me, I'd want to have the article, just for historical significance. Should I call them? What would YOU do?

Rain/Snow/Apples/Babies

2012-01-19T20:43:00.000-08:00

There are many times I am thankful to live on a hill. This is one of those times. Apparently, in counties all around us, the rain has wreaked havoc on the landscape, causing flooding severe enough for governments to declare that overused phrase "state of emergency" wherever necessary. We are fortunate not to have all the ice and snow that our northern friends in Washington are having. I guess it's really bad up there right now. We had our snow over the weekend and, boy, did our kids have fun! Chad built a 7-foot snowman with Carmen and Alec assisting. It loomed large in our front yard and we were all sad to see the rain reduce it to a basketball-sized lump of snow. The kids' muscles were sore for several days - playing in snow is hard work, after all!

It was wonderful to watch the blizzard-like snow fall for a few days. But then the rains came, warming things up a bit. Two nights ago, it rained so hard that it flooded the rain gutter just outside my window. Sounded like the kitchen faucet running at full blast - all night long. It's amazing to watch the rain flow down the street in great sheets. We are not in danger of any mudslides, either. No, our hill is pretty well situated for this weather, as far as I know, and I am thankful.

All this cold weather has made it nice to stay in and read or play games. Our newest game was sent as a gift from Todd's sister - Apples To Apples. I have heard of this game through homeschool channels for years but never thought to buy it. We have played it a lot since Christmas. All five of us played for several hours straight on New Year's Eve. While I do get tired after awhile, I am impressed at how much our kids have learned from this game. It's all about adjectives. Some of the subjects in this mod version of the game are things I'd rather not know more about (man cave, anyone?) but even these subjects launch us into discussions about the world that we might not otherwise have.

The adjective thing, however, is what is so great (to me, anyway). Every time a child has to think of an adjective, it's a mini-grammar lesson. Painless learning. I love Mad Libs for the same reason. Carmen knows a lot more about grammar than I do, just from doing Mad Libs. She'll correct me if I give her the wrong word (an adjective instead of an adverb, for example). How cool to have your 10 year old know more grammar than you!!

On a completely different note, my extended family grew by two these past few months. A close cousin of my husband's had her first baby, Adell Rae. I love this cousin and her husband and I'm so happy for them. Adell will need heart surgery to repair a hole in her heart but it sounds like the doctors are confident the surgery will be routine. I'll be praying anyway! My oldest sister's daughter (Zana) had her second child, a boy named Thomas Marshall. What's cool about Zana's son is that his middle name is my step-dad's last name. Grandpa Marshall was the only grandpa Zana knew, since my dad died when Zana was a toddler. She was very close to my Mom and step-dad when he was alive and has honored him with this baby's name. She also named her first child Isabella Daphne, after my Mom (Daphne). I am so thrilled and proud of Zana for her decision to carry on these family names. Zana and her husband are a great couple and very much into caring for their family. It is wonderful to know these babies have been born into wonderful families that will love and care for them!

Something Funny's Going On

2012-01-09T23:22:00.000-08:00

The day after Christmas, I heard my 13 yr old son giggling in the living room. No, actually he was guffawing. I'd never really heard anyone guffawing so I was curious as to the cause. He was reading Cristina's book "No School Today". After that, the thing snowballed. When Alec wasn't reading it, I spied Carmen curled up in the corner of the sofa, intently reading and giggling herself silly, the way 10 yr old girls do. And then Chad could be heard, laughing hysterically now and then, eventually bringing the book into the kitchen to share with me, a habit he started years ago with anything he is reading. The book stayed on the kitchen table just long enough for Todd to read a bit. Then it disappeared. I've actually been able to hold it twice, once in the photo on my last blog and two days ago, I picked it up long enough to read 3 strips but got called away to another distraction. Sigh. But that's o.k.

Because I think everyone in this family has shared nearly every comic strip with me at some point in the the last few weeks. It has been so fun, hearing my kids laughing at what they see as themselves sometimes. They are fascinated with these mini stories about homeschool kids, living a lot like we do here. And they absolutely love the cat references, perhaps because we don't have any animals outside of fish tanks. Lines from Toby and his dinosaur are also a favorite, being recited over and over, and laughed at.

Cristina's book has definitely been a highlight with our kids (thanks, Cristina AND Todd!) I'm sure I'll get to read it all someday soon ... when I can find it.

Just wait. When she comes out with Volume 2, I won't let anyone else touch it until I'm done reading it! (There's incentive for you, Cristina!)

I did, however, get to start one of Paula's books and immediately got wrapped up in the story line. Again, I didn't want to put it down but had to (chores were waiting). It's too bad life gets in the way of good reading!

Happy New Year (and a shameless endorsement!)

2011-12-29T20:54:00.000-08:00

Why is this woman so surprised?

She's just unwrapped a gift from one of her children: A kitchen towel set wrapped around a book by one of her talented blog friends! And that's not all ...

I unwrapped another ...

and another!

The first book is a compilation of comic strips by my blog friend jugglingpaynes (Cristina) and her book is available on Amazon. I was intending to make the purchase after Christmas but my husband beat me to it ... and completely caught me off guard! This is Cristina's first book but she has been writing for a long time, homeschooling is the theme and, boy, can I relate to so many of her ideas!

The second and third books shown are by Paula Vince, my published author blog friend in Australia. Her books are available through her web site appleleaf (at left). I have all of her books now, I think, and am so happy Todd thought to order them for me. Her books are thoughtfully written and take the reader right into the story and the fictional characters. When I read one of her books, I don't want it to end!

I am so excited and proud of these two awesome women and wish them great success in their respective fields of talent. This is not a paid advertisement - I just wanted to share my joy. Thank you, Cristina and Paula, for helping my Christmas to be all the more blessed!

Mercy

2011-12-17T23:14:00.001-08:00

Chad had his final exam, came home and promptly came down with a cold. He was kind enough to pass it on to his siblings a few days later. We lost a whole week there but we are back on tract, my shopping is done and I'm determined to mail out cards this Monday. Oh, Chad passed his class with an 'A' and if I sound impressed, relieved and proud, I am. This being his first college class, his first class ever, he's only 16 and he didn't do any extra credit - we really didn't know how he'd do. But I am proud of him, unashamedly. He never missed a class, participated in discussion and turned in all assignments on time. Wrote his first essay ever and got a good grade which gave him confidence to do all the rest. Now, he'll take the winter term of this history class but, unfortunately, it is being phased out in spring. We are all so glad for him.

I got a wake up call a few days ago. I drive to a tiny little town across the river in Washington twice a week, taking Chad to his volunteer job at a museum. Yes, I do speed some of the time, the highway takes us through a lot of field/farm land with mostly tourists driving along the coast. Last Thursday, I happened to be driving alone to pick him up and I wasn't paying attention to my speed. I was actually listening to a Christmas song on the radio, trying to figure out if it was Bobby Darin singing. There was no one on the highway in front or behind me but I rounded a corner and of the two cars that passed me, one was a highway patrol. Lights flashed. I slowed down to see if he'd turn around and he did. As he came up behind me, I pulled off as best I could (there was a hill to my right). I didn't panic like I have in the past. I just looked wide-eyed as a young officer (trooper hat and all) approached and asked if I knew how fast I was going. Just then, a pick up truck whoosed past, way too close to the officer. I pointed to the truck and said, "Not THAT fast!" He asked if I knew the speed limit there, I said 50-55 (I wasn't that certain, the speed changes several times on this route. When he told me I was doing 63 in a 50 zone, I was surprised and apologized. He asked if I was just not paying attention and I told him the truth - that I was "listening to the radio, trying to figure out if it was Bobby Darin or not". He didn't laugh but I'll bet he wanted to. He asked for my license and proof of insurance. I had my license, of course, but my proof of insurance was expired last month - I did, however, have my husband's car's proof of insurance and it was still good and on the same policy. I knew I had put my new card in my car but couldn't find it. Anyway, while I was looking for the right card, the officer watched another car speed past and said, "That driver has a suspended license. I'm going to let you go but I want you to be more careful." I said I would and thanked him for his compassion. He took off and I let out a big sigh. Mercy. Thank you, Lord.

I'm doing my best to obey the speed limit, all the time now. God has been merciful to me twice. When we first bought my Prius, I got stopped by an officer on the drive home from the dealer (50 miles from our home) because I was speeding, trying to keep up with Todd who was in his car ahead of me. At that time, I explained to the officer I was trying to keep up with my husband (it was nighttime). She let me go with a stern warning to be more careful. That was 3 years ago. I never want to be pulled over again - and I want to be a better example to my children. I'm so glad they weren't with me last Thursday, they usually are. God is good.

We've had Advent nearly every night with nearly perfect attendance. Some nights we dissolve into laughter, with our own personal versions of certain Christmas carols. Sometimes we sing a carol with another carol's tune. A few times have ended with disciplinarian actions. But most of the time it's been very enjoyable and everyone has fun and the Bible reading time is special. We add the fourth candle tomorrow night. Carmen has been the most interested in Advent, reminding us when we were about to forget and making sure when we need to add the next candle. She wants all the songs sung the right way, etc. I love how much interest she's taking in Advent. It wasn't always like that.

If I do not post before Christmas, I want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas! I really appreciate those of you who still visit, even though I blog so infrequently. You are and have been my friends for quite some time now and I really appreciate each of you. Have a wonderful Christmas season and Happy New Year! God bless!

The Season Begins

2011-12-02T21:31:00.000-08:00

Our tree is up, we've done quite a bit of Christmas shopping, a great start to the season. Todd's 10-hour days finally caught up to him at Thanksgiving, keeping him on the couch for several days. He finally returned to work on Wednesday but not before the bosses got a taste of just how much work he does and how many people it takes to do his job when he's not there. They survived and he's back to normal, I think. He's needed an assistant for, like, months but the powers that be don't feel it necessary at this point. Humph!

Since Todd wasn't up to decorating, the kids did just about everything. Chad put up the tree and lights himself, Alec and Carmen helped him with the ornaments and the household decor. They did a terrific job! We still have some lights and rearranging to do, seems like this year is more relaxed than in the past. We started Advent, and I'm so glad to see all the kids still enjoy this special time of singing and reading from the Bible. I love my kids.

I have returned to my natural brunette - time for a change. It was hard to get used to at first but the kids are definitely happier about it. It's just hair for goodness sake!

I hope this Christmas season is a good one for everyone out there!

Watch Your Back

2011-11-08T21:40:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year (again) ... cooler days, more rain, occasional gusts of wind and - the always unsettling sound of not-so-distant gunfire. Those lovely deer we've been walking among all summer are being hunted down like, well, animals. At first it was just on weekend mornings, starting about 7:00 a.m. And if it's raining, oddly enough, more shots can be heard. Now, it can be any day, any time. The hunters go out whenever they can, apparently. Sometimes it sounds like they are in the forest just 3 doors down but Todd says they are about 2-3 miles away. That's still too close for my city-girl standards.

When we were out and about on Monday, we saw deer all over town, apparently flushed out of the forest. Last night, Todd and I were on our way back from Home Depot when we saw deer out on the highway, most unusual but understandable, considering they are being pursued. They are so sweet. Yes, they are in abundance this year, it seems, but I still can't feel right about the whole hunting thing. I never will.

However, I would prefer animal hunting to people hunting. My son was walking home from college last week when he stopped to read the front page news of our local paper (it's sold at a stand that he passes on his way home.) Apparently, some stupid high school kid here in our town was plotting a murder at the high school and had asked another student to help him. Fortunately, this second student informed the authorities who arrested the first student and he's now in the youth detention center. Chad was quite shaken up by this news. Having the local high school be just down the hill from our home didn't help matters. I'm so thankful this terrible thing was stopped short. I'm extremely thankful I homeschool my kids. Sigh.

Can anything good come from the use of a gun?

(My apologies to those of you who enjoy hunting - this is, after all, my blog and my opinions!)

Recent Technology

2011-10-21T20:03:00.000-07:00

Chad just submitted his first essay to his college class. He was required to email it to the teacher. The teacher liked it but the issue was with its format. The teacher wanted it in a format we do not have on our computer. I could not help thinking that if Chad was to type it out (double-spaced, of course) on paper and submit it, there would be no problem. Instead, we had to buy some hardware to meet the needs of the teacher. Sometimes, technology can be a nuisance (and, more often than we realize, I'm thinking). On the flip side, I was the one who walked into the office supply store and asked for help to buy the flash drive we needed. I'm proud of myself for remembering what to ask for, even if I had no idea where it was or what it looked like. I am techless and don't mind asking for help. I even got a storage card for my new phone-camera. Aren't you impressed?

Todd has been hankering to buy a larger TV than we've been watching for the duration of our marriage (23+ years). When we married, I contributed my 13" that I bought with the insurance money I received after a burglar broke into my home and stole my brand new TV (before I ever met Todd). That really ticked me off, I had bought that first TV on a Wednesday and we (my sister and I) were robbed a few days later. At least I got compensated the full purchase price! Anyway, I have always been happy with a 13" TV. Todd put up with it as long as he could stand, until last weekend. He found a 26" screen TV on sale and I reluctantly agreed. It's way too big for me but I guess it's my turn to be tolerant. I have never liked the big screen, either in theatres or in private homes. We have distant friends whose TV is practically life-sized. Makes me uncomfortable to have basketball players standing right next to me on the screen. I suppose the smaller screen seems more intimate to me but Todd is happy which makes me happy.

Chad recently bought a DVD with a huge collection of old Sherlock Holmes movies and TV shows. They date back to the 1930's and 40's. Basil Rathbone (from the 40's) is amazing to watch. Face it ... when we think of Sherlock Holmes, it's his face we picture. My opinion, anyway!

After about 1-1/2 weeks of nice walking weather, we are back to rain and wind. So goes October. I just read it's supposed to be wetter than usual in the Pacific Northwest this winter. I'd like to know what they mean by "usual"?

Boots

2011-10-05T22:27:00.000-07:00

Fall is here. Rain. Wind. Cold mornings and evenings. Sigh.

On the flip side, I find I am tired of my summer clothes anyway but nothing looks cozy enough to wear right now. Not a dilemma or anything, just an observation. Which brings me to the subject of boots.

They are EVERYWHERE! At the college, girls are wearing rubber boots with pants tucked in. In town, it's a free-for-all. Minis with tights, jeans with furry boots, long hippy skirts with cowboy boots. Then there are the women who really shouldn't be wearing boots (for one reason or another). They wear them with short skirts, with or without leg coverings. Our town has a shortage of boot-worthy women and it's hard not to pass judgment on the rest of the female population. On the other hand, more power to them for wearing boots because they want to, brave souls.

I like boots. I have two pair. Make that three, if you count the short black boots I've been wearing for most of Carmen's life. Fortunately, they are still in style. My husband wants me to get, oh, perhaps five more. He keeps looking online and in catalogs for me. I imagine one of these days I'll get a pair with fur lining for the warmth but not the stiletto heel. And I should probably get a pair before I stop feeling brave enough to be boot-worthy.

Time For School

2011-09-28T21:12:00.000-07:00

We spent the entire week, last week, getting Chad into a college class. After finding the math instructor to sign Chad's petition (insuring that my son is not a physical threat to the class - seriously, that's what it said!!), we went into the office to pay for the class. Then the admission's person said, "Did you know there's a waiting list for this class?" She then proceeded to tell us this was a limited-seating class due to the amount of computers available. All the work is done on the computer, using the ALEKS program. As a homeschooler, I am familiar with this program though I've never used it. She then said how the college felt this was a better way for a student learn, at their own pace with the program providing the correcting, tutoring, etc. The instructor would be available if he was needed. I laughed a little and said, "That sounds like homeschooling." She said nothing, apparently she was not amused. So, we put him on the list (3rd) and went home. I stressed and fretted, just feeling this wasn't right. I mean, couldn't we just sign up for this program ourselves and skip the $400 tuition, since it was self-directed? Why send my son to college just to be self-directed by a computer?! After much prayer, I talked it over with Todd and, to my relief, he agreed. We took Chad off the waiting list and proceeded to look for a class that he would be more interested in and would fit his schedule. We found it in an ancient history course. Getting down to the wire, we finally met up with the instructor, he signed a new petition (since Chad is under 18, this petition is necessary) and he personally walked us over to admissions. Nice of him. We ordered the books online and they arrived today. Also last week, we had to get Chad an identification card. We considered getting his learner's permit instead (the I.D. was $40 versus only $10 for the permit!) but since he's not enrolled in a school, he couldn't get the permit. I was aghast! I really have no desire to go crawling to the school board for permission for my son to learn to drive! We could have waited until this week and gotten enrollment proof from the college but Chad decided he wasn't ready to learn to drive. He's been a bit dazzled by all the new turns his life has taken. After preparing him as much as I thought I should, I dropped him off last Monday for his first day of class. It was a terribly windy, stormy day. Students were running everywhere. It took him a few moments to open the car door. We had prayed in the driveway before leaving so I just told him it was going to be fine. He could do it. He sighed and said, "O.k." He shut the door and started the long, long climb of stairs that lead to the hall door. Even in the pouring rain, he turned around midway and waved, smiling. I won't soon forget that. I drove downtown to buy bread but not before I cried. Can't help feeling like I've just thrown my son to the wolves but it's not that bad, I know. An hour later, I picked him up. His eyes were glazed. I couldn't get much out of him so we stopped by the side of the road before we got home. He cried a bit and we talked about how he was feeling. What it all amounted to was nerves, youth, and feeling overwhelmed. No surprise there! He was concerned about the workload the class would take. We got home and who should show up unexpectedly? Todd! The only college student in our home and God arranged for him to stop by the house on his way back to the office from the hospital. Chad showed Todd his class syllabus and Todd explained it to him. They talked about some other issues and by the time Todd left, Chad was smiling. As we waved goodbye to Todd, Chad quietly said, "I'm glad he stopped by." God is so good.

So, that was Monday. We also started our homeschool on the same day. It went well. We started a program on logic which all the kids enjoyed. After attending the second day of college today, Chad walked home and was smiling. Apparently, even though he wasn't able to do the reading required (his books didn't arrived until later today) he was able to participate in the class discussion, based on his current knowledge! Cool, huh? He has decided to stay with the class and I am very glad. The credits for this class will count toward a degree once he turns 18. God answered my prayers.

Yesterday, Chad and I went to the museum he volunteers at for a special tour of the new facility that was built to house their archives of Northwest information. Chad very proudly showed me around, where he works and what he's done. All the volunteers he works with were very complimentary of him. I was very glad to be there, we had fun and I was proud of him. (Is there another word I can use in place of "very"?)

Last Friday at Todd's office they held the blessing for the facility. The heart clinic Todd works for is part of a huge Catholic hospital organization and it's their tradition to bless the new facilities and the workers. It was really beautiful and I met so many nice people that are part of the administration. Todd's office just has 3 employees but many people came to support them. Todd had a part to speak and after several people spoke, there was a prayer and then a priest sprinkled everyone with water he had blessed. I didn't mind being sprinkled but for some reason I instinctively ducked! It is so nice that Todd is part of an organization that cares about the compassionate part of healthcare and desires God's presence and blessing. I felt God there that day. It was really special. My kids were so well-behaved, Chad was Mr. Social, I didn't see him much as he made the rounds. The doctor Todd works for spent time talking to me about Todd which I thought was so nice of him, since we had not really spoken much prior to this day. He also expressed his concern about the long hours Todd works most days and said he would try to help with that. I also heard many good words about Todd from the administrators which made my heart swell. I was really proud of my husband and my kids.

Today was probably the least busiest day I've had in about 2 weeks and it was beautiful here. I napped in the sun on our deck this afternoon. Oh, and that ALEKS math program? Through a homeschool offer, I signed up for a free 2-month trial and if I choose, I'll pay $99.00 for a 6 month subscription. Chad started it today - at home.

Train Pain

2011-09-10T22:40:00.000-07:00

Today we stumbled upon a group in our small town who are working to restore a steam engine train that was built and operated in the 1920's. Amazing to see such a thing up close and think about what it must have been like when it was in operation, a modern marvel in its day. My sons got to ring the bell and work the (loud) whistle. We even ducked underneath and into the boiler area, getting a firsthand look at the restoration process (no, it wasn't boiling).

All was well until I ducked back out from underneath the boiler area. I vaguely heard our guide say something about being careful not to hit my head, when I started to stand back up ...

WHAM! For a moment, I thought someone had hit me over the head with something. Stunned, I fell to the ground, holding the top of my head. Looking up, I saw several faces looking down, one of them my husband's. In tears and pain, woozy and embarrassed for me, my family and our guide, I reached out for Todd. He tried to stand me up but I found it difficult. I apologized to our guide, saying it wasn't his fault; I tend to run into things. My white pants were filthy (we were in a large warehouse-type building filled with all kinds of greasy stuff.) Todd led me out of the shop and into the car. I was holding my head as the bump grew larger. I couldn't believe what had just happened.

Hard not to be scared at times like these. Fortunately, I hit my head on the hardest part, the top, and there was no blood evident. But, man, did it hurt! At home, with an ice pack on my head and snug in my recliner, I kept reliving the incident. It took several hours of rest to recover. Every time I hear the word "train", I shudder. Washing my hair tonight will be interesting.

Lesson learned: I'm a klutz. Class dismissed.

Edenton Family History

2011-08-31T09:36:00.000-07:00

I've spent some time recently trying to learn more about my father's parents. My father was born in the old historic town of Edenton, North Carolina in 1930. Anyone who would know about my grandparents is gone now so I've tried searching some of the genealogy websites, garnering very little info. Time keeps me from researching as often as I'd like. My grandfather, William M Morris, was in WWI, was gassed during the war which resulted in some sort of paralysis in the form of a stroke or something. He was bedridden but I don't know at what point this happened. He did suffer depression from being unable to support his family and, when my father was 9, my grandfather somehow got hold of his gun and shot himself in the head. Writing this down for the first time makes me very sad. How he got the gun has never been known since the kids were always told not to give it to him for any reason. My father never talked much about this. I don't remember when I first heard about it. All my father would say was that people in town said "the son would do as the father would" (his actual words). I hate that kind of nonsense. My father didn't suffer depression, however, and when he'd say this, I always reminded him that he wasn't his father nor did he live like his father. Looking back now, it could have been scary, hearing my father say this. But, really, my grandfather had a good reason to be depressed. All I know about him was that he was a strict disciplinarian. A big man with red hair. Looked exactly like my Uncle William, Dad's older brother. My dad looked like his mother, Mary Ann Nixon. Nixon is a prominent name in Edenton, the Nixon family going back to at least the early 1800's. There is a Nixon cemetery, which I remember visiting once. From what I've gathered, my grandmother worked in a chicken factory, cutting up chicken, to support the family. I've also heard that she took in laundry and ironing. I know the kids also worked in various jobs to help out. My grandmother was a funny, warm, sweet lady who loved telling stories (just like my father and my son, Chad). If only I could get the three of them in a room together! I like thinking that my grandmother and my father are in heaven, telling stories and laughing. Anyway, my grandmother never saw me. She went blind in the late 1950's, but continued to live in the house she and her husband moved into when they were married. Being blind didn't stop her from cleaning her two story Victorian home on Broad Street. I remember seeing her wipe each step with a white cloth, one at a time, carefully backing down the stairs as she went. Her Venetian blinds were never dusty. I miss her.

My grandparents had three children, William, Mary and George Edward, my dad. When we would visit, everyone would call him, "Eddie" and I was always confused. These people are all gone now. William's wife is still living (in Texas) but I do not know her; however, she or her children may have some info. There's a source I didn't think about.

Anyway, I grew up hearing about the Chowan Herald, the weekly Edenton newspaper. I decided to call the paper and see if they had any info on my grandfather's death, since there must have been a police report or news item about it. Suicide is usually news, especially in a small town. This paper was established in 1934. I found the phone number and called the paper yesterday morning. I began talking to the lady who answered and told my story fairly quickly. She was quiet for a moment and then said, "I know about this. My mother told me. She knew your grandmother and on the day your grandfather died, she went over to the house and helped your grandmother." I was stunned. I almost didn't believe her but then she said, "I remember where your grandmother's house was - it's not there anymore." Since I knew this was true, I had no reason not to believe her. We talked for 20 minutes. She said that her brother was born in 1934 and might have known my dad. I asked if I could call again sometime, since I'd love to hear more, if there is more. Amazing! Talk about small town! My husband said, "Oh, it's just you and your coincidences." I guess so. I called my Mom and she was also stunned. Then she cried.

I wish I could go back there and do some research. I called the police department and when I told the lady on the phone I wanted some info about a suicide that happened in 1939, she declared, "Oh, Lord!" I almost laughed because she sounded just like my Aunt Mary, the NC accent and all. She tried to help me but was unable. At the Chowan Herald, there is a very old, decrepit book of records that no one is allowed to touch. It's too bad they can't somehow preserve it but maybe someday. This has been interesting and I've only begun, however, it will have to be put aside for now until I have more time to pursue it. I only wish I hadn't waited so long.

A Blue Ribbon Week

2011-08-09T21:12:00.000-07:00

A busy week! Todd's birthday at the end of July. Then the county fair began a few days after. My daughter entered two drawings this year and did smashingly well! None of us have participated in the fair before so this was a new experience for us. Carmen entered a black line drawing of a baby bunny hiding in grass and a colored pencil drawing of a grasshopper on a mushroom. We went to the fair on the first day (Tuesday) and looked for Carmen's drawings in the Exhibit Hall. We found the mushroom and were thrilled to see she had won first place (youth division, category "Other".) Then we looked for the bunny ... and were amazed to see 3 ribbons hanging on it! She won first place (youth division, category "Animal"), then Champion and Reserve Grand Champion. Which means she won first place of all the pen/pencil/ink drawings entered, including adult entries. Boy, were we happy for her! She also won a special prize given to "New Youth Exhibitor". Who knew? Now my sons are wishing they had participated and are planning what they can enter next year. Carmen received a lot of compliments on her artwork and she handled it with quiet grace. Makes me a proud Mom all around but mostly because of her sweet attitude.

Todd and I celebrated our 23rd wedding anniversary last Saturday. We didn't have definite plans but we had a fun day. We brought home lunch from a nice place in town along the river so we could share with the kids. This place also sells ice cream and they had a flavor that I recently discovered I like but I decided not to buy any on this day. After lunch, I was wishing I had gotten the ice cream but I didn't tell Todd. Later, Todd and I went for a LONG walk, all the way into town and in and out of some antique stores and a favorite art gallery and a shoe store. When we left the shoe store, Todd turned toward the river instead of toward home. I asked where he was going and he said, "I thought we'd get that ice cream you wanted earlier!" That's what 23 years of marriage should do ... enable your spouse to read your mind! I was so shocked and pleased - it was the best ice cream I think I've ever had, since it was given with love!

We walked home and decided to make pizza for dinner. Todd volunteered to run to the store for mushrooms while I started preparing the meal. He returned home, leaning in the door with a big grin and a dozen white roses! He really knows what makes me happy! After dinner (with apple pie for dessert!) he and I drove up to the tallest hill in Astoria to watch the sunset. It almost felt like years ago, before we got married. We talked about things we would have done differently back then, in hindsight. Like getting married sooner than we did (we had a 9 month engagement, far too long for us). But it doesn't matter now, all our history has brought us to this point. Lessons learned and paths taken have created the marriage we now have. We both feel blessed to have each other.

It was a lovely, lovely day!

Next post ... Enrolling Chad in a college class. Stay tuned.

Sweet 16

2011-07-26T23:18:00.000-07:00

My oldest turned 16 yesterday. Pretty amazing. I'm feeling all the usual cliches (where did the time go, etc.) We are so blessed, he is such a great kid. I think he's enjoyed this birthday since we stretched it out into three different days. With Todd and Todd's mom all having birthdays near Chad's, we celebrated last Saturday at my in-laws and last week, we went to Portland for the day, took in the zoo (he's an animal enthusiast) and had fun. Yesterday was cake and gifts, though one of his gifts still hasn't arrived. Chad has always been easygoing about getting gifts and always, always appreciates whatever he is given. I love that about him. I remember one year, at Christmas, we got him a Playmobil pirate ship and the kid cried, he was so happy! I think he was 7 or so. He just couldn't believe we actually got it for him. It was precious and, fortunately, we got it on film.

I don't know what God has in store for this child but I do know he has a good head on his shoulders. My prayer is that Todd and I will do all we can to guide him and prepare him for his future.

Summer Update

2011-07-11T15:35:00.000-07:00

So far, my summer has been about lousy weather, being blonde and liking it, and various medical appointments. Since being diagnosed with osteoporosis last month, I have been focusing on my own health and maintenance. Getting more exercise, more calcium, trying to be more committed to using weights, have all taken up my time. Not to mention my mental health. My mother was diagnosed in her 60's so it's no surprise that I have it, though I wish it had waited a decade or more. On the other hand, I can do more to help myself now than later in life. Fortunately, my doc doesn't want me to take medication right now and I agree. I am not convinced the current meds out there are worth the risks that they carry. I am also over being depressed by this (well, almost). Being proactive feels better than wallowing in a sea of tears (ask Todd, he'll agree!) And get this ... being thin is actually a mark AGAINST me! Isn't that a rotten blow?!! Not enough weight to make my bones work harder. God, it's not fair!! (I know, who ever said life is fair.) That's where building muscle comes into play, if I can do it. Muscle is heavier, therefore, it might help my bones. O.k., enough about me.

My darling daughter has now joined the eye glass club in our home. She's actually very excited to be getting glasses as she has been complaining of not seeing so well far away. She chose a cute lavender pair that should be here next week. She does look adorable in them - wish I could wear them!

My oldest son was asked by a neighbor to feed their cats and mow their lawn while they are away in Alaska fishing. This is a fishing town and it's all too common for men to head off to Alaska for weeks/months. Sounds like fun, right? Anyway, Chad has been doing a great job of looking after the place and will be paid when this neighbor returns. His first paying job - cool! Hopefully, the catch will be plentiful as I'm sure Chad's pay will depend on how much they haul in.

Alec has suddenly become as tall as his brother, despite the fact that he's 2-1/2 years younger. And he has replaced Chad in the sarcasm department. Woo-boy, he's a pistol lately and it's no fun to come down hard on him but I have to. I refuse to let him grow up rude - know what I mean? Any one out there want to offer some helpful teen tips on this subject? I love my kids too much to raise them badly. I actually told my kids the other day that they are not to repeat my mistakes but to learn from them. Not sure they believed me on that one!

Seriously, though, nearly every day I am so thankful for my kids, who they are and how they act. They have been especially annoying since school ended (for some reason) but all in all, they really are not that much trouble. Especially compared to what I see and hear all around us.

Todd has been busy getting various jobs out of the way with our house. There is so much he wants to do and only so much time. He and the kids moved Chad downstairs into our finished basement, so now the boys each have their own room. I think they secretly miss each other but won't admit it. They have both enjoyed getting their rooms the way they want them and they'll be painting Alex's room soon.

Well, I just came home from getting my yearly mammogram (have you had yours yet this year??) and I'm off to do more laundry. And lift some weights.

She Wore A Dress!

2011-06-26T21:44:00.000-07:00

Curious about the title? Yes/No? I'll get to that.

My father-in-law turned 80 last week and they had a big bash yesterday at his home to celebrate, including all their musician friends (and families) and their various musical instruments. Bob, the birthday boy, plays trombone in our local symphony, and is a member of a tuba quartet that is well known in these parts. The live music was loud, constant and varied. There was even an accordion player who played a polka and one couple couldn't help but dance. It was an unusually warm day for the coast but we try not to complain about nice weather especially for a party that was held primarily outdoors. It was difficult to talk sitting in front of the horn section but when I looked at Bob, he was smiling and looking around at everyone. I knew he was having a good time.

Now, I spent the last few days figuring out what everyone was going to wear to this party. My daughter, Carmen, is not usually inclined to wear a dress but I was planning to wear one myself so I thought I would just suggest that she try on the dresses she had in her closet to see if they still fit. She agreed without any fuss, even seemed a bit eager. I hid my inner joy. We put together an outfit for her with a pink t-shirt, a brown print sundress and leggings (to keep her legs warm). The sundress needed the t-shirt because it seldom gets warm enough here to go sleeveless, at least for Carmen and me. Anyway, she really liked her outfit and looked so cute in it. Now for shoes. Oops. She had outgrown her nice flats. Out we went to find shoes that fit and went with the dress. She is at a funny size right now, not yet in adults sizes but too big for little girl shoes. After trying on about 20 pairs of shoes (all on clearance, thankfully) we found some that fit her perfectly and she loved. Then we found some pink sparkly socks when she also loved. We were both very happy!

It all brought me right back to being a young girl, getting ready for an event and having to run out at the last minute to find something needed to complete an outfit (usually shoes!) It was almost surreal. One of those Mom moments, you know?

After the party, Carmen didn't want to change into play clothes and that was fine with me. I thought it was so cool that she was enjoying wearing a dress. Why is this so important to me? Because my daughter spends her day with older brothers and is a sweat shirt/sweat pants person, usually. Seeing her in a dress and liking it was fun and special. I want her to enjoy the fun of being feminine, like I do, and that doesn't always mean ruffles and bows. It means feeling good in what you are wearing and how you look. Nothing wrong with looking nice, considering how I see a lot of people dress these days.

So, perhaps there will be more dresses in Carmen's future, worn without complaint or pouting (as in the past). My little girl is growing up.

2011-06-13T11:24:00.000-07:00

Call this "Kate In Summer". Irish blood runs thick in my veins, which means lots of reddish blonde. I'll gradually go darker but for now, this is me. Photo courtesy of Todd. And, yes, Cristina, I am having more fun. I dare you to try it!

Don't Laugh

2011-06-02T10:45:00.000-07:00

I've gone blonde.

And it's weird.

I had been thinking that I wanted to go a little lighter for the summer, you know, a bit of a change. And it is a change, no doubt about that.

At the risk of blaming my husband, it was actually his idea. And he loves it. My kids all have mixed reactions. I'm still not sure. But there's not much I can do about it right now. It's only been a few days. We'll tone it down the next time we color it (Todd does this for me, bless him.) I think I've processed my hair enough for the time being. Let it rest.

If I'm feeling brave, I'll post a photo (if anyone actually cares, that is!) If anyone asks, I've decided to say that I've gone back to my natural color. I won't mention that this was my natural color when I was 16 years old.

Like I said, it's weird.

Other than that, we've just been busy. School throughout the month of June and then our summer break. The kids want to be done but we started a month late last year. Besides, with all the rainy weather we're having, staying indoors isn't so bad. Most of the time. Especially when I'm still a bit shy about my hair. Not looking forward to my mother-in-law's comments, we'll be seeing her in a few weeks. I'll just smile and change the subject. I'll bet my father-in-law will like it, though.

Kate At 48

2011-05-16T11:53:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to me. My birthday landed on Mother's Day this year so we packed up the kids and headed to Leavenworth, WA, once again. We stayed two days and had beautiful weather except for the freak shower that hit just as we arrived - we must have dragged it along with us for 6 hours from the coast. Waking up to the beauty of Wedge Mountain gleaming in the sun ... what a gift! At no other time can I wake up at 5:30 so refreshed. I wish I could take that snow capped peak home with me. The word of the day on the opening page of my computer today was "alpenglow" which means the red glow on mountain tops at sunrise and sunset. I was thinking about that glow when I turned on the computer this morning and now I can put a name to it. We shopped, played golf on the hotel's mini green, used all the hotel's recreational facilities, enjoyed the terrific breakfast. And, as always, we looked for land to buy "someday". Two days of putting real life on hold - fabulous. A perfect birthday and Mother's Day gift (Thanks, Todd!) The kids slept well this time - an absolute first! They have difficulty getting to sleep at hotels but I guess they are growing up. I love my family.

When I got home, I found out that I was going to be on the front page of the Business section of the Oregonian newspaper. No, not because of my birthday. I've been trying to resolve a telephone issue for the past year and I finally contacted a writer who does a column called, "The Complaint Desk" to help frustrated consumers. Boy, that was where I was at, for sure. She was instrumental in getting this phone issue resolved and she ran the column yesterday. She also posted it on their blog, which (if you are interested) you can take a look at here.

I was so happy to have this issue resolved, I hadn't really thought about this story being printed. She quoted some of my conversation with her and Todd took the photo that they used. It's hard for me to see myself in print (too critical, you know!) but, really, no one cares. My kids are very excited to see their Mom in the newspaper and Todd is also excited a photo he took got published. I am happy all around and very much appreciate this lady's help. I love her column. Hopefully, this phone issue will not return.

All in all, it's been a busy week!

Let's Rewind A Bit - Wedding Thoughts

2011-05-02T10:01:00.000-07:00

I want to move on from that last post.

The Royal Wedding! This was one of those times I wish we could have TV only when we want it. I would have loved to have watched the coverage of the wedding. I listened to the BBC on radio and scanned newspapers and the Internet for coverage. I think this couple is so adorable - he is SO taken with her, it's sweet! That's what it looks like to me, anyway. Of course, I loved her dress, it was perfect for her and appropriate for the setting. I love how these two are playful, not stiff and stuffy. I hope they enjoyed their special day (weekend, really) and wish them all the best. This wedding came at a time when we needed a good diversion from the woes of the world.

I can think of many times in my life where I was glued to the TV for coverage of something. It's been 13 years since we've done that. When we find ourselves glued to the radio for coverage (like when we had the tsunami warnings after the Japan earthquake) it's a bit different. When you just have to listen, you can still function. Only one sense is being used. When the TV is on, no one moves. You really are stuck to the screen. I think I prefer the radio.

Of course, last night we were glued to the radio listening to coverage of a different topic. Everyone just stopped what they were doing and we all stared at each other in disbelief. Well, Carmen was clueless which is good. But Alec knew what was going on. We also have talked about how we do not celebrate the death of anyone, which I think is important, but how the consequences of someone's actions can lead to death. Geez, it's been a busy weekend!

OBL is dead.

2011-05-01T22:05:00.000-07:00

It's 10:00 p.m. and we are listening to the radio special news. I wish I was in NYC right now, hugging policemen. We are amazed and still not quite believing that this man responsible for so much suffering is dead. I can't say I feel like celebrating really, just feel relief that he can no longer hurt anyone. I got out my diary from 9/11 and read what I had written back then. You know, I actually prayed for this person before I knew who they were? And now, I just wrote that he is dead. End of story.

We are hearing how NYC crowds are gathering together, it's after midnight there. I wish I could be there, too. I hugged my sons when I heard the news. We just happened to turn the radio on briefly when we heard someone saying that people were cheering and crying. What? Then we heard why. I really don't want to include his name in this post, I don't want it on my blog. But he is dead. Let's hope there will never be another one like him. Praise God that no American was hurt in the attack and the mission was successful.

End Of April Blues

2011-04-27T14:35:00.000-07:00

Easter was a nice day, inside anyway. The weather is still cold/windy/heavily raining. Todd and I went for a walk during what looked like a break but I was so cold in the wind it wasn't much fun. I'm such a baby!

However, all my daffodils are now in bloom and my courtyard looks beautiful! Todd and the boys took out some pine bush-like trees at the end of the courtyard, which makes my view out the kitchen window even better. Somehow, the daffodils stay standing even in torrential rain and wind. When we first moved here, I worried about the daffodils being pummeled but they always survive. We even had a pink tulip appear - sometimes we get tulips, sometimes we don't. Todd has a landscape plan for the courtyard and it's nice for him to be able to do a bit of work toward that. He's still working long hours at the heart doctor's office but he doesn't seem to mind. It's so much better than what he was doing before.

So, who's going to be watching the wedding? Please tell me about it - I'll only get to see the photos. I hope they have good weather for their special day!

Happy Easter!

2011-04-23T22:15:00.000-07:00

“He is not here; He has risen!” Luke 24:6a

This is what the angel told the women who went to Jesus' tomb. It was also the memory verse I gave my kids this week. Don't you love it - Jesus lives!

I Won!

2011-04-07T21:44:00.000-07:00

Well, what do you know? I won a contest! Rachel at southseaislandhome had a stamp giveaway that I just had to enter. The stamps are commemorating the royal wedding (you know, THE royal wedding!) and I thought our family would enjoy them, especially Chad. I was so happy when Rachel named me the winner. It's been a tough week for me - this was really a day brightener! Thanks Rachel!

Rachel lives in New Zealand, a land near to my heart (Todd's too). Stop by and visit her blog!

Our First Daffodil of 2011

2011-03-31T08:30:00.000-07:00

We have one daffodil in bloom! It is so beautiful. All the others want so badly to fully come up but, alas, we have had two days straight of sideways rain, unrelenting wind and gray skies. That sideways rain is REALLY annoying me this year. I don't know why. I'm so tired of seeing it out my kitchen window, as I do dishes. My son said, simply, "Don't look at it." Hmph. Easier said than done. But ...

This post was going to be a rant (seems I'm annoyed at a lot of little things this week) until I read Sue in Japan's post. Now, how can I possibly complain about life's little daggers when she's over there, an ocean away, dealing with relocation, future decisions, being apart from her husband, etc. Her post talks about their situation but also lists her blessings. What a great focus and a reminder to me that I have NOTHING to complain about! Thanks for that gentle nudge, Lord!

So, if I'm not going to complain, how can I redirect this post? O.k., I'm happy that I'm able to post this morning. It's been tough trying to make time to blog/comment. My husband doesn't get home from work until 7 or 8, so I do like two dinners every night, then we have coffee (our daily bonding time) then it's dishes, read to Carmen, and bed time. Morning seems to be the only time for me on the computer and I feel guilty, like I should be doing something more important. For now, I will try to take a few mornings a week, that should be enough to do what I need to do and not feel like I'm neglecting other things. I miss keeping up on my friends' blogs!

Chad has starting playing euphonium again. A blessing (for him) and a curse for us with ears. Practice can be, um, painful. He makes up for it with his continued piano practice, which is lovely. Carmen has refused to pick up her recorder or try any other instrument. Sigh. That girl. I don't know. She's a puzzle. It's not required that all of our children play an instrument but we feel it's an important learning skill. Suggestions, anyone?

So, I will try not to look at the sideways rain today. I'll look at the lovely daffodil, proudly facing my window. Nice of it to do that instead of facing the street. I do need to drive Chad across the Columbia River over to Ilwaco (the tiny town in WA that houses the museum he works in) but I'll try to focus on the car ahead of me and not the rain. Sometimes the weather is different over there - who knows, maybe the sun will show its face! One can hope.

Daffodils (almost) and Mysteries

2011-03-16T21:15:00.000-07:00

Spring is trying to make its appearance, in the form of daffodils pushing up their slender leaves through the soil, refusing to bow down to the torrents of rain and wind.

Rain ... rain ... wind ... rain ... thunder/lightening ... wind ... oh, yes, and hail

Yes, this is springtime where I live. Today we felt the air wasn't quite so biting cold, even with a high of 50 degrees. However, the night sky was beautiful. Pink sunset, fluffy clouds. And then, 2 planets, the Dog star and Orion in all its glory. Followed by more rain.

All this is an attempt to distract me from what I've been listening to on the radio. As well as daily life annoyances/difficulties. Keep looking at the daffodils, they show courage in the face of adversity.

A bright spot ... my kids were happy to receive a shipment of Boxcar Children books that arrived a few days ago. We all enjoy reading these little mystery stories. I still read to Carmen every night and had been reading Laura Ingalls Wilder for years. We recently switched to Boxcar Children which is good as it broadens her reading horizons. A bit sad as I miss Laura just a little. But, really, I'm happy to read something I haven't memorized! These books are fun and easy reading. And there are a lot of them. I'm afraid the kids will want us to order more when these have been read! A box of books is a great way to perk up an otherwise cold and dark, rainy day. Nicely timed!

In addition: Please pray for Sue and her family, in Japan. They have left their home for a safer place, as they feel they are in danger. Pray that her husband can join them soon. Pray for their safety. Please, also, pray for the people of Japan. Thanks!

We Are Fine

2011-03-11T23:31:00.000-08:00

The tsunami warnings ran all day but our town wasn't told to evacuate. The towns of Seaside and Cannon Beach (15 and 25 miles south) were evacuated, however, and that was where all the focus was. Schools were closed to act as shelters. People were awakened at 2:00 a.m. by neighbors and local officials, knocking on doors to spread the news. These coastal communities had full tsunami training and practice just a few years ago - what terrific timing! Everything went very well, lots of tired people at the end of the day I'm sure. I am very thankful that nothing happened in our area. There was damage to the southern OR coast and down parts of the CA coast, however. Minor, compared to Japan.

We were very saddened by the news we were hearing all day on the radio. Prayed all day for a blog friend in Japan, found out just now (nearly midnight) that she and her family are fine. Please pray for Japan.

I'll tell you how we found out about the earthquake. Once a week, a Portland cardiologist drives out here to the coast to work in the office Todd works in (Todd's usual cardiologist works just 4 days/week.) Todd got a call from his boss in Portland, saying that this visiting physician wasn't coming due to the tsunami alert. What? We turned on the radio and listened to local news alternating with national news. It took awhile to get the whole story. So, Todd got the day off. An unexpected blessing, since he's been putting in 10-hr days for the last couple of weeks. He ended up taking our boys to the orthodontist for me, only to return home because the office was closed - again, due to the tsunami alert.

So, what do we do with our day? Of course, we head over to an estate sale that we learned of due to the people driving up and down our street, looking for the right address which is nearly impossible in our extremely old town with crazy streets that begin and end at random (now, there's a sentence for you.) Astoria is the oldest settlement west of the Rockies and the town kind of spreads out over a peninsula and up and down the hills.

Later, I had to drive Chad to his volunteer job at the museum over the river and into another coastal community in south Washington state. Like in other coastal towns, the tsunami evac route signs are posted along the main street - these signs took on new meaning for me today. We called ahead to make sure the museum was open, just in case. While crossing the 4-1/2 mile bridge over the river, we both studied the place where the river and the bay converge (called the bar) and meets the ocean, about 10 miles away. Did the tide look lower than normal? Who knows.

Oh, Alec got his top row of braces put on last week. He has had discomfort but is so excited to see his front teeth already beginning to line up. He's really proud and excited - we are excited, too. He'll have to wait to get the bottom braces on, since the office was closed today. I'm sure he didn't mind too much!

Thanks for thinking of us today. Chad got a bit frightened, thinking our area would be hit by an earthquake, too. We did a lot of talking. I told him to talk with the people at the museum about where one should go during an earthquake. I said that all you can do is try your best to be prepared and then sort of forget about it. Ignorance breeds fear, is what I like to say. I grew up in Southern California where earthquakes were part of our lives. I NEVER got used to them and shook with fear whenever we had one. It was awful. I was so glad to move up here where earthquakes were not so common. And do you know, just a couple of weeks after our move, we had an earthquake here? I couldn't believe it! Since then, I think there have only been two that I've felt but they've been talking about a "big one" for years. You can't sit and worry about it. It's hard to comfort a child (or a teen) sometimes but I did my best and reminded him that God is always with us, no matter what. No matter what.

Inspiration

2011-02-28T22:12:00.000-08:00

Well, it looks as if I've taken to blogging once a month. Besides other more pressing matters keeping me away from the computer, I find myself, once again, uninspired to write. Except ... a few days ago (maybe, Friday) after I waved goodbye to my husband as he headed up the hill toward town. I stood looking out the kitchen window, marveling at the snow that covered the ground. And the trees. And the rooftops. It was so pretty, I found myself describing the scene in my head. Words! An idea! I almost ran to turn on the computer but, alas, I needed to get ready for the day. I was hoping I could remember my thoughts at a later time but I could not.

I grow weary of simply recording the events of our lives. Yes, it's important to me to remember these times, knowing how quickly my kids grow. But I want more from my writing. I must remind myself that there is a season for all things. This is the season of growing and teaching my kids, of watching my husband blossoming in a new position in the medical field, a position important to the community. A time of wondering how much longer I'll have my mom around to talk on the phone with. And me, approaching (and probably beginning) the stage of life that cruelly reminds us our child-bearing years will end someday soon. Not that I want more kids but it's still nice to know I possibly could.

I love pushing "Check Spelling" and having it tell me "No misspellings found". Something I'd love to tell my high school typing teacher. Boy, she was sure an inspiration. She was to be feared. I totally respected her. In my yearbook, she wrote, "You have a talent that will serve you well", speaking of my typing skills. I never was able to tell her just how prophetic her words were. Typing was my life for years, and I owed her a great deal for that.

Who have you inspired? Think about it. It could be years ago or yesterday. Or tomorrow.

Thankful in February

2011-02-15T19:51:00.000-08:00

February ... Todd's new job has been going very well. We are so happy for him! He is a different man. And we love having him home every night. We are so thankful.

Alec had a nice birthday on the last day of January. Carmen's birthday was last Sunday and her day was nice, too. Valentine's Day always gets tucked in behind her birthday but we somehow manage to show a little more love to each other around here on the 14th.

So, all the birthdays are done (for now) and we are all adjusting to Todd's new schedule ... well, sometimes I'm still surprised to see him come home for lunch which he can now do one or two days a week. Next on my agenda is taxes (yikes!) and Alec will be getting braces put on near the end of the month.

I'm kind of weird in that I actually enjoy doing my taxes although I hate them at the same time. I love research and that is essentially how I view completing my tax forms. I have a good tax program to use which has made things much easier than it used to be. Back when we had our own business and had renters in a second home, it was a lot of work. Now it almost seems like I haven't done enough when everything is complete.

Enough about taxes. My baby is 10 - that is so amazing to me. And for Alec to be 13 is hard to believe. When I see my boys together, they look so tall - giants! When I look around at the dinner table, I am so thankful for my family. It's one of those "How did I get here?" moments.

More About January

2011-01-17T23:40:00.000-08:00

I was hoping January would be a month of rest, after all the holiday business. What WAS I thinking?!

Alec's birthday is at the very end of the month which means I need to order his gifts early enough to get here. Right after Christmas, the last thing I want to do is buy more stuff! Our shopping is limited where we live so online is the way to go, especially since he has such eclectic interests. Carmen's birthday follows two weeks later so I generally try to get all the shopping done at the same time. She says she really doesn't need anything which is fine but on her birthday, I'm sure she'll want to open something!

Adding to this is the reality that my husband has gotten himself a new job. Yes! It's true! The story is long about all the twists and turns of life at our local hospital. My son, Chad, and I are seriously thinking of writing a book about all the nonsense (we'll change the names of the victims, naturally). Chad has a great title for it. Anyway, Todd has finally been freed of it all and starts his new job on Alec's birthday (great timing!) Sadly, he has to spend two days of training in Portland on Alec's birthday and the day after, which is a bummer for us but we are so happy for Todd that it doesn't really matter.

He applied for this job back before Christmas. They said they would begin the interview process after the first of the year. It was hard to wait, and wait, but then they called to say he was one of the finalists. We waited two more days and (drum roll, please) they called to say, "You're the winner!!"

Not really, but that's what it felt like. When Todd came into the kitchen, after that phone call, I looked at him, dying of curiosity. All the kids ran in to hear the news. Then he said he got the job! It took a bit to sink in. And then tears (me, not Todd!) We are all so happy for him. Looking forward to a normal schedule for him and us. No more nights or weekend work. Finally. Praise the Lord!

I really kept this job in God's hands. I just kept praying for God's will. If it wasn't what was best for Todd or our family, then so be it. But I'm so glad God answered our prayers the way he did. I'm very proud of Todd. It's a new position with a new heart doc in our area, part of a huge hospital network so there is security in that. Once you get into a hospital system, you can transfer easier to other hospitals in that network which would be helpful if we move in the future. It's a blessing.

And, of course, a new job calls for new scrubs. That's the fun part for me! Too bad Boden (see last post) doesn't make nurse's scrubs!

2011

2011-01-07T20:31:00.000-08:00

Well, it's a new year. The Christmas decorations are put away, the house is back to normal, our school schedule has begun again. And the rain has come.

Just a normal beginning to a Northwest January.

At least we are not freezing and there are no weather delays in these parts. We are expecting some snow this weekend but probably nothing much, if any. I appreciate living where I do in the winter, raining or not. The older I get, the less I can take freezing temps. Oh, sure, if I gained perhaps 30 pounds, I might be able to keep warm but I'm not that desperate. I just wish they made more fashionable Arctic clothing. Todd prefers to see me in sweaters but, darn it, it's hard to find women's clothing that is warm enough for me without making me look frumpy. I've been saying this for years: They make men's clothing warm, well-sewn and long-lasting. Always. Women's clothing isn't meant to last long or be warm. I'm sure there are exceptions but I probably can't afford them. Well ... wait a minute. Todd did buy me a yak sweater from a German company for Christmas. It was made in Mongolia of undyed yak wool. It's beautiful browns, striped on one side and reverses to an interesting weave on the other. A hat and scarf came with it. And it is warm and beautiful. It sheds like a yak would but that's no surprise. However ... we can't afford to have a drawer full of yak sweaters. Now I know how those Mongolians survive those cold winters.

So, o.k., MOST women's clothing isn't warm or made very well. Even Boden (sorry Johnny) tends to wear out after a few washings on delicate with delicate soap and lay flat to dry care. If you don't know about Boden, Johnny Boden is the humorous owner and spokesman for his British clothing company of fabulous clothing and great catalogs. I love them but I wish they lasted longer. Perhaps I wear them too much. They are worth every penny, though. Boden clothing makes me feel young and pretty. Eddie Bauer clothing (Seattle, Washington origin) is actually made better (most of the time) but it's more Northwestern type stuff - flannel, hike-worthy, rugged stuff. Definitely different from the Boden London style. I like them both, depending on my mood. Does anyone care about any of this?

Sorry, I've completely forgotten why I sat down to write except that I knew I needed to move on beyond my Christmas post. Hope I didn't keep you from something vastly more important!

Happy New Year!

Merry Christmas 2010

2010-12-23T23:09:00.000-08:00

As Christmas nears, things get a little crazy around here. First, let's start with Advent. I'll describe last night: The kids are starting to get on each other's nerves as they are excited about Christmas but don't want to admit it and their excitement manifests itself in crankiness. Fun. Advent begins with everyone arguing about which candle they get to blow out. Singing evolves into the words of one carol being sung to the tune of another. We all dissolve into laughter but, you know, some of the songs don't sound too bad with a new tune. And don't forget that "We Three Kings" has more than one version, which Alec has relished singing and acting out. Spare me. When the candles are finally blown out, we all sit in the dark and try to be silent, all the while trying to make someone else make a sound. Stupid, I know, but these are kids, remember. It's usually all in fun but not always. All in all, I've been trying to keep the kids busy to make the time go by quicker. When bickering erupts, you just deal with it and, if necessary, threaten to remove all the gifts. But things are mostly calm and we are having fun.

I spent most of Tuesday getting all the Christmas cards sent out. We took a Christmas photo in the morning (for which I threatened Carmen with great punishment if she caused any trouble!) and Todd put it onto the newsletter I'd typed out a few days before. Chad helped with stamps and Alec & Carmen helped by not bothering me all afternoon (bless them). Tonight, I happened to re-read the newsletter ... finding two errors in the last paragraph. Big, big, sigh. You know how much I hate typos; at least the errors just involve spacing and an extra "a". Still. Grrr. The photo looks good, though.

We received a gift of fruit and candy from a company in Texas. The label had our names but did not say who it was from. I assumed it was from my sister who lived in Texas until last month, since she usually sends us gifts from there. However, today it dawned on me if may have been from my oldest sister (I have my reasons for believing this). The only issue is that I've already sent a thank you to my used-to-be Texan sister. Oops. My Mom will be seeing sister oldest tomorrow and is willing to help me in this matter. Little sigh.

A few years ago, I sent one of my sisters a gift of a specialty popcorn. The company ran out of that particular gift and sent her 2 pears instead (it was in the same price range). They gave her no explanation nor did they notify me of the switch. My sisters and Mom all pondered the meaning of me sending 2 pears to my sister and her family. Finally, my oldest sister had the guts to call me and delicately ask if I had sent pears. Apparently, they thought I was playing a mean joke or something. Stupid, right? I mean, why didn't the sister who received the gift just call and thank me for the pears. If she had done that, I could have contacted the company for an explanation. After finding out from my oldest sister, I did contact the company and they sent the other sister the correct gift, at no extra cost, with an explanation. Of course, my sister never, ever thanked me for either gift. You know what, I didn't send her a gift this year (I have my reasons, other than this.)

What is funnier still is that my husband's Dad sent us a thank you right after that, saying that they were enjoying the pears! We had sent them a gift from the same company, however, this gift was a bit larger and we are pretty certain it was the right gift. Still, my heart stopped for just a second when I read that note.

O.k., back to the present. I've gotten all my baking done, the dishes are done and I'm off to shower and bed. Todd is working but has the next two nights off. Praise the Lord!

I wish you all a Merry Christmas! God bless you wherever you are!

Christmas Season 2010

2010-12-14T22:49:00.001-08:00

We have really been enjoying Advent this year. I love how much better everything seems to be as the kids get older. Advent has been particularly fun, everyone loves singing and they all pay attention during the Bible reading. We've been celebrating Advent every Christmas for about 10 years now and each year has gotten better. I'm so glad. I think they miss it when Christmas is over. I wish there was some way to continue it throughout the year but I know it wouldn't be as special, it would become too routine. Funny, we have Bible study, though not as frequently as I wish to, and it's not nearly as much fun. Perhaps we should sing and light candles for Bible study - I might be on to something there!

Carmen has really gotten into Christmas this year. Everything seems very important to her and I am really enjoying having another girl in the house. Until last year, she was just a kid but now, she's matured enough that we are more on the same level. She is good at wrapping gifts and has helped out a bunch with that. She's also making a gift for Alec, which has caused much whispering and closed-door work, with my assistance. We let her put up Christmas lights over her window and she loves looking at them before she goes to sleep.

This year, after Todd put the lights on the tree, the kids went to work decorating. I had to make dinner and, fortunately, they left a box of ornaments for me to put up. In fact, they left those ornaments especially for me. The kids also took over decorating the rest of the house. I did some of it but mostly, they enjoyed the job.

Since we had kids, Christmas decorating became so exhausting to me. And wrapping gifts always took place on Christmas Eve ... leaving me wiped out. How wonderful that the kids all participate now and we can put out wrapped gifts earlier. Call me quirky but I much prefer the "now" Christmas over the Christmases of overly excited kids and diapers to change.

I've even had time to make fudge and cookies. I hope to make carmels as well, something new for me. Now if I could just get the kids to write a newsletter and sign Christmas cards!

Oh, Deer

2010-12-10T22:58:00.000-08:00

Ah, nothing like waking up on a weekend morning, knowing you don't have to get up early. You roll over to doze off again and - BOOM, BOOM, BOOM-BOOM! Yes, 'tis the season to go out and shoot a deer! I just don't get it. When we moved to this area nearly 20 years ago, it seemed like everyone either fished or hunted or both. We don't do either. Which means we are different and that's fine with me. But this season (which spans from, like, October until who knows when), it seems like I've been hearing gunfire a lot more. We live just on the other side of the hill from town but not that far from the rural area that becomes a hunter's dream this time of year. What's worse is that all year, we've been watching the deer grazing on the empty corner lot across the street and encountering deer all over the hill when we walk. It is no surprise that there are less deer sightings of late. Makes us sad, you know? How anyone can shoot such sweet-looking animals is beyond me.

I'm always wishing the hunters would go home empty-handed. Todd hopes they'll bag a deer soon so they'll stop shooting sooner and go home. These people even hunt when it's raining buckets or freezing cold! I'm laying snug in my warm bed and they're tramping around in the mud, soaked to the skin. My impression of them, at least. Certainly not my cup of tea.

Reminds me of a family I knew that was so excited one year because they'd gotten a bear tag. Apparently there is some kind of lottery-style set-up where only 50 or so people can hunt bear in the eastern part of our state. Getting a bear tag is big deal (who knew?)

Of course, not everyone adheres to the no-shooting-in-town ordinance. Last weekend, we heard the usual gunfire in the distance, mostly during the morning. But on Saturday night, around 10:15, we were in the kitchen when there was an extremely loud boom-boom, sounded just down the street. We live 3 houses down from a forested strip of land, where the deer live but is obviously within city limits. Of course, Todd was working (he always seems to be working when I hear noises at night). The kids and I looked at each other, wide-eyed. A few minutes later, there was another boom-boom. I called the non-emergency police line and began describing what I heard and where I was. The dispatcher said, "I know where you live, this is Wanda." I love it - only in a small town can you personally know the police dispatcher and she happens to live across the street from us! She said they had received other calls on this and were sending patrolmen out. After that, we just stayed away from the windows and I got everyone to bed. About 11:30, I heard another shot but it was dark down the cul-de-sac and I didn't see or hear anything else. Funny, we weren't afraid really, we just talked about who it could be and why.

It's certainly not the first time we've heard gunfire so close. Over the years we've been here, I've heard a random shot perhaps 4-5 times. A few days after we moved here, someone drove up the street, shooting the entire time. Todd and I were in bed and we instinctively ducked beneath the window at the head of our bed. You could hear the car going up the hill and turning toward town, still firing. I was shocked! Before we moved to town, we lived out in a rural area and I really don't recall hearing gunfire except out at the firing range. That's different. But in town? I think it was last year that I was home on a weekend night, Todd was working, and again, someone else drove up the street, shooting. Again, I heard them go up the hill, turn toward town and continue all the way to the main street down into town. I just ducked until they passed the house. Now, you know this could be very dangerous to someone but it probably isn't going to hurt you. Maybe. After both of these incidents, we checked on the kids just in case (their bedrooms face the street).

The closest to home was back when I was pregnant with Carmen (10 years ago, now). We were saying goodbye to guests and we heard what sounded like firecrackers popping. It was early summer so not such an odd sound to hear on a Saturday afternoon. A few minutes later, police pulled up at the side of our house and ran onto the back of our property and up onto our deck, guns pulled and aimed at the house behind us. It turned out that the troubled druggy teen that lived behind us was seen waving a gun out the window and a neighbor had called the police. An officer came to our door and suggested we leave the house. We gathered the boys and went to the beach. All was quiet when we returned and we later learned that the boy had been arrested. That's another story (and he has since moved out).

Our neighborhood is one of the best and safest areas of our town. However, guns are a big part of life in these parts. It's not uncommon to see a gun mounted in the rear window of a pick-up. But it's still foreign to me. I grew up in Southern California and guns and gunfire always meant big trouble. They can mean big trouble here, too, but not always. Unless you are a deer.

Just Thankful

2010-11-25T23:34:00.000-08:00

The kids are nearly all in bed and I'm headed that way, too. But I just wanted to write about what a nice Thanksgiving I had. After reading my last post, it made me want to write something more upbeat, right away. My pies came out just fine, Todd's mom decided not to brine the turkey but did end up nearly setting in on fire. Fortunately, it only burned the underside as she turns it over halfway through the cooking time. The dinner was very good. I drove back and forth, delivering pies, children and husband at different times, then returning him home in time for him to go to work. Went back and chatted for several hours before leaving. It was a terrific group of family members (very nice people), we all get along and enjoy talking about anything. Nothing is sacred and we laughed a lot. I missed Todd being there but I'm glad I'm comfortable enough to be at ease with his family. And they seem to like me, too. Todd's Uncle Dick is especially dear to me, I realized tonight that whenever I see him and go to hug him goodbye, it's so natural for me to tell him I love him. He's been there for us many times and has treated me like a daughter since the first time I met him. A great guy and a terrific storyteller. I can always tell that I've had a fun time when my jaws hurt from laughing.

God is good. He gets me through the rough patches and blesses me with loving family and friends. Thanks, Cristina and Cate, for your friendship here. You lift me up with your encouragement and make me smile! Todd ... thanks for putting up with me these past few weeks - love you!

Why I Don't Like November

2010-11-22T22:18:00.000-08:00

There are times in one's life that just seem a bit too crazy. I am having one of those times.

A week ago, I had to hold my son's hand while he went through minor surgery. Ugh!! My nurse husband is usually the one to do this but since it was on a weekend, Todd was unavailable. My poor son was in quite a bit of pain which is so hard to deal with but God got us both through it. Alec is doing fine, now, and we are glad it's behind us. It's one of those things that I look back and think, "How did I ever get through that?" but I guess Moms are strong when they need to be ... or at least we hope we can be! Later that day, I was sitting with Alec and holding his hands. He had taken a pain pill and was feeling a whole lot better. I looked him in the eye and said, "You know, I would have taken that pain for you." He said, "No, Mom! But you know what? I was thinking how Jesus went through a lot more pain than I was and if He could do that, I could handle my pain." Wow! It's amazing to hear something like that from your 12 year old son! I was praying for Alec during the surgery and told him to pray, plus I was talking to him to try and distract him. I didn't know what was going through his mind but how sweet to hear these precious words. God is good.

Prior to this surgery, I was talking to my Mom and right before we said good-bye, she chimes in, "Oh, your sister is in Portland now. She's living in an apartment with her daughter and granddaughter." I was so stunned I couldn't speak. There is a lot more here than I want to write about but let's just say that I don't want my niece anywhere near my family. It took days for me not to be depressed about this. But, there's nothing I can do about it and she is 2 hours away. So, it's not a problem unless it becomes one - don't worry, right? Two days after Alec's surgery, I get an email from my sister saying that her son (still in Texas, where she moved from) is getting married Nov. 20. There was more in the email and then there was an ecard invitation to the wedding. It said not to reply unless we were attending. Call me old-fashioned but this was pretty tacky, in my opinion. And weird.

But here was a good thing that happened: Two weeks ago, I remarked that "Wouldn't it be nice if we got money in the mail?" Since then, I have received about $225.00 in the form of refunds, rebates, credits and store rewards. Hot dog!! Be careful what you wish for, I say!

And last Sunday, my mother-in-law came to borrow our camping cooler. She had told me she needed it to store food in for Thanksgiving (she's hosting quite a crowd) and, of course, she was welcome to it. Turns out she's going to brine the turkey in our cooler. Hmmm... Stay tuned on this one. We are thinking that the cooler will probably always smell like turkey. It sure doesn't make me look forward to the turkey feast. Somehow a brined turkey just sounds, well, like olives in a jar. Perhaps I'm not being adventurous enough.

So, whether you are hosting the family for Thanksgiving or lucky enough not to have so much work to do, I wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving! Please drive safely ... it's been lightly snowing on and off here so anything is possible.

Just A Few Things

2010-11-08T22:48:00.000-08:00

I've been thinking about how to motivate my middle son to read more, or at least, expand upon his rather narrow realm of reading material. I have heard/read about keeping a list of books one has read (as oppose to me, who has a list of books I'd like to read). I suggested it to the kids as a fun way to see just how much they've read. My oldest, Chad, thought it a good idea and has spent days listing all the books he's read. He's at 300+ and counting. Carmen is thinking about making a bookworm, you know, cutting out circles for each book read and making a picture of it. That would be right up her 9 year-old alley. I told Alec he could start at the end of one of our many bookshelves and read his way through it. He's thinking about that, but has finally given in and decided to make a reading book list also. Who knew? I never know what will motivate my kids toward learning and it's always a happy feeling to see something spark some interest.

Saturday night (a working night for Todd) I sat the kids down to play Careers. It's a busy boardgame that involves a lot of decisions and risk-taking. We played for over two hours until Chad reached his pre-set goals. The rest of us continued until we had each finished. We had so much fun that Alec, Carmen and I played the next day, while Chad was in town, working as an usher for a local concert. Carmen asked if any learning happened while we were playing this game and I pointed out the decision-making, etc. She always wants to know if what we are doing is something to learn from. Some people would warn me not to tell her, for if she knew, she wouldn't want to do it. This way of thinking is so wrong, I think. It really makes a mockery of kids' intelligence. Anyway, it makes Carmen happy to know she's learning!

Sunday morning, I realized that Chad needed some nicer clothes for his usher job. We had less than 2 hours, of course! The store in town didn't open until noon so we rushed over to a store across the bay and, praise the Lord, we found just what we needed. Racing back home, lunch and then out the door to where the concert was, right on time. I really felt like I earned my Mom points that day! His grandpa was playing in the concert and his grandmother was in charge of the ushers so it was extra special for him to work that day. I was very proud of him. He looked so grown up in his new clothes - one of those moments you want to remember.

Found out I have to bake three pumpkin pies for Thanksgiving. Can't complain, if that's all I have to do (Todd's mom is hosting). If you've known me for more than a year, you know I hate Thanksgiving but somehow I'll get through it. I have promised myself not to wallow in sorrow this year like I have for the past few years. My dad's been gone for, what, 24 years now? I fail to understand why it seems to get harder the older I get. But since I can't ignore the holiday, for the sake of my family, I will walk through it. This is one instance in my life that age has not softened the blow.

And lastly, while the rest of the nation is either enjoying their new Republican government or lamenting "What happened?", our state has, once again, elected a governor that I did not vote for. What's worse is that he has been governor before, running two terms before the last governor (someone else I didn't vote for). That's Oregon, for you ... recycle, recycle, recycle!

Halloween At Our House

2010-10-30T22:16:00.000-07:00

Who's daughter is she??? We had our annual pumpkin carving yesterday, Todd has to work this weekend so we got started early. Chad has carved his own pumpkins for a few years now. This year, Alec did a lot on his own - he's so proud of himself. He actually wields a pocketknife with more confidence than his older brother but pumpkin carving is a new skill for him. Carmen wanted to assist more this year but first, I told her to change into a shirt she didn't mind getting dirty. Who knew what fireworks this would ignite? It took what seemed like half an hour and lots of whining (from her) and escalating irritation (from me) for her to find a shirt. Good gracious! I seriously don't know why she did that except that she's 9 and can be moody/stubborn/such a gem at times. So, after the wardrobe change, they set to work. Every year, for a long time now, the kids draw several pumpkin faces on paper and decide on one, eventually. Dad transfers their designs to the pumpkin and away they go. It's messy work so I am glad to relinquish this family time to Todd. I do the clean up. The kids find a place to display their art. We usually set them on our baby grand piano but one year, we left them on there a little too long - pianos and mushy pumpkins are not a good combination. Anyway, this year Alec and Carmen have fully decorated the piano for Halloween. For the last few years, they have made haunted houses out of cracker boxes and this year, the village is quite full. No room for pumpkins.

It's so fun that the kids have taken over the decorating. I didn't decorate for years, not wanting to emphasize the scary parts of Halloween. But now that they are older, I let them be creative - nothing bad just fun and a bit creepy. I especially like the mummy Alec made a few years ago. He drew a mummy image on construction paper (it's about 10" long), cut it out and painted with glow-in-the-dark paint. It gets taped up on a wall somewhere between the kitchen and dining room and when I turn off the lights to go to bed, there it is! There are some black paper spiders with glowing eyes as well. Much more fun for them to create than to hang up store-bought stuff. In fact, I've never, ever bought anything Halloween. It's all homemade. This year, they hung up black paper bats at the end of the kitchen. One bat is always swaying while the others remain still. We think it's picking up an air current from the refrigerator. A few years ago, they rigged up a spider to a pulley on one of the kitchen cabinet doors - I never did get fully used to it dropping down on me when I reached to get a plate! One year, they filled every empty corner in the house (it seemed) with spider webs made from cotton string (not that store-bought filmy stuff) complete with a black paper spider with red eyes. They really liked that. And we save nearly everything to reuse the following year. It's fun to see their artistry develop.

It's Alec and Carmen, my creative kids, that do all the decorating. It's not really Chad's thing. What he likes best about Halloween is that we always go out (or eat in) Chinese for dinner. Then the kids watch "The Great Pumpkin" video. And they get candy, of course. Then, the pumpkins are put on the bathroom counter and anyone who wants to, gets to take a bath by pumpkin light. I don't know if that will happen this year, with Todd having to work that night. We'll be going out to dinner, then he'll head off to the hospital. We'll do whatever the kids want to after that. I won't have to watch "The Nightmare Before Christmas", which is just fine by me. Too creepy for my tastes. We usually watch this on Halloween after the kids go to bed. Of course, after Todd reads this, he'll probably want to watch this on Monday night, after his work week is over. I can always cover my eyes at the really scary parts!

Happy Halloween!

A Good Nurse

2010-10-19T23:18:00.000-07:00

What a week! I've been playing nurse at home, with all three kids having colds since last Thursday. Todd has been working as a nurse, saving the lives of not one but two patients. Of course, he DOES work in the Critical Care unit of the hospital but he doesn't usually have two nights in a row with such hang-in-the-balance patients. One was a 17 y.o. who partied too much on alcohol and an over-the-counter drug - stupid, stupid, stupid! Why, oh, why do kids do this? It has sparked much discussion in our home, since my homeschooled kids do not usually hear about this kind of thing. Fortunately, we later heard that this kid has since recovered and is going into drug/alcohol rehab. Considering what bad shape the patient was in when Todd's shift ended (couldn't breath on their own), it is a miracle that this patient survived. Had Todd not been as quick thinking and skillful as he is, this patient would have died. God is good. When Todd goes to work, I pray several times during the evening for him and his patients. Praise the Lord for answered prayers. It's a shame that all of this could have been prevented if this young person hadn't abused their body and mind like that. So senseless.

The other critical patient Todd had on the following night was an older person who's blood pressure wouldn't stabilize, among other issues. Todd worked hard for hours, trying to keep this patient alive. They were ultimately flown by helicopter to a larger hospital 100 miles away but 20 minutes by air. Our local hospital can't handle the very serious patients - we are thankful for the helicopter service that makes it possible to receive care sooner than a 2-hour drive by ambulance. It's worth the membership fee. Poor Todd worked 2 hours overtime, making his last shift 14 hours.

It makes me so proud of my husband when I hear how he helps the people in our community. He (and I) feel that he is right where he's suppose to be. I am happy to pray for these people, I like to pray for others and I somehow feel that I'm supposed to give this kind of support - some of these people may not have anyone praying for them. When the 17 y.o. came in, all that was known about them was their first name. I cried when Todd told me about the situation. I prayed that there was family nearby that cared about this young person. Around here you never know. There is so much need, everywhere ... I tend to get overwhelmed. Todd and I were discussing how nurses can't be empathetic - they can only be sympathetic. I know I could never be a nurse. I feel others pain intensely. It's really awful, sometimes. But it's just me. I squirm when Todd talks about his night shifts but as a wife, I want to be available for him to discuss his work. Sometimes I cry. I am, however, learning how to let it go and not dwell on what I've heard. I'm just so glad when his work week ends - and I get to have him home for 3-4 days, straight. That's the payoff!

Braces and Boggle

2010-10-09T22:50:00.000-07:00

Boy, I thought I was excited when I got my braces off earlier this year. But when I saw my son, Chad, with his upper braces off - I was SO thrilled! He has grown so much these last two years, his face has changed and matured since he first got his braces on. What a joy to see those upper teeth so straight. He has a great smile. It's all been worth it. He's been good about wearing the retainer - it helps that I'm wearing one, too. He's learning how not to lisp when he has it in. My husband still makes fun of me when I sound funny talking with my retainer in. I have learned how to whistle through it - such talent.

Chad will get his lower braces off in a few months. Alec will be next. We are waiting until he turns 13, which he will this January. I was shocked when I realized how soon that was. It doesn't seem right - Alec just can't be that old!

We are settling into our school week fairly well. Chad's math is going slightly better, his attitude has greatly improved. Alec and Carmen are using a math program that I am not too pleased with. Bummer. Math seems to be the subject we all barely tolerate in this house. Todd loves it - too bad his enthusiasm can't rub off on the rest of us!

Our first gnarly Northwest storm arrived today. Days of wind and rain. I like listening to it at night, sort of nice to fall asleep to.

This summer, after dinner, we spent a lot of time going for walks and playing Yahtzee. I think everyone is tired of those activities - I can't get the kids to play anymore (Todd will when he doesn't have to work). Our newest phase is Boggle. Carmen wants to play all night. The boys aren't too keen on this game (the boys in this house seem to prefer number games). But Carmen and I will play game after game. I love word games and she is enjoying learning new words. She asked if this game was educational - I asked her if she was learning anything. She answered her own question. We get out the dictionary for her to look up words, we talk about definitions and different spellings, we have fun. I love easy learning!

Our School Year Begins

2010-10-02T22:42:00.000-07:00

Our plan was to begin school the first week of October. But the closer that time came, I found myself seriously procrastinating. It didn't help that September's weather was far closer to summer than at any other time this year. Who wants to miss out on sunny days? However, we did begin last Tuesday, slowly. On Monday, when I told Alec we would begin the following day, he wasn't at all pleased. I thought he'd be the one I'd have trouble with but, no, he was the first one up and hasn't had any difficulties all week. What a pleasant surprise. Carmen has been eagerly awaiting school time and though the first hour was difficult, she has enjoyed the week, being very proud of herself when she gets everything on her schedule accomplished.

My challenge has been Chad. He has grown considerably this year and become more independent. His brain, of course, has not grown as fast. He is finding it difficult to listen to instruction, along with his new and more difficult math. We are both finding our way, I think. After several lectures, I finally remembered to pray for his attitude. It's hard for me - one minute we are talking like friends and the next, I have to be his mother and then, I have to be his teacher. Sigh.

What I don't like, as I read my first paragraph up there, is how structured our school sounds. I really feel that learning should flow, not be boxed in but we do need some structure to our day. I do up a small schedule for each child every week as my kids like knowing what they have to do and like checking the boxes when they finish an assignment. There's nothing wrong with that until I read someone unschooling or Charlotte Mason-ing or whatever. But then, I must remember that our homeschool will look very different from anyone else's. We are such a mixed bag - perhaps I should avoid reading about different methods of homeschooling. I was in need of motivation this past few weeks and got out some of my homeschool books and magazines for inspiration. As long as I use these resources as a guide and don't let them confuse me. Here I am a veteran homeschooler - I need to remember my focus and rely on God for guidance.

But we have finished our first week. We have started slowly and I plan to add, adjust and rethink as we go. That is definitely a benefit to this lifestyle of learning - nothing is set in stone.

Carmen Goes Nuts

2010-09-23T23:10:00.001-07:00

Another venture into the world of teaching my daughter how to cook. Today we made homemade peanut butter. She has been wanting to do this since we made pancakes. I don't know why it's hard to make time for these little cooking sessions but, for me, it is. Anyway, we had lessons on blender etiquette (do not remove the lid until the blade has stopped!) and watched while the peanuts magically turned into ... well, they didn't actually turn into mush like the cookbook said. I'm sure Molly Katzen's peanut butter was a better success than ours but we like our product. Seems like our peanuts needed more peanut oil than the recipe called for - it made all the difference. It's excellent on English muffins and later, Carmen had a sandwich of homemade bread with homemade jam and homemade peanut butter. She was so thrilled! So what if some of the peanuts are still whole. Carmen named it, "Mom & Carmen's Extra Crunchy Peanut Butter". She's thinking of making an ad complete with a coupon, advertising our creation.

The more of these kitchen moments I have with my daughter, the more motivated I am to make time for them. I am still not comfortable in the kitchen and I want my kids to enjoy cooking. I know I've said that before but it really is heavy on my heart. I want them to experience success with creating something that tastes good and not feeling like they've failed if it doesn't turn out right.

Stay tuned ... Carmen will probably begin asking for something else to make soon.

Not Something You See Everyday

2010-09-18T23:23:00.001-07:00

Last night, my husband and I had the opportunity to go to a seminar given by Graham Kerr of all people. Remember The Galloping Gourmet cooking show on TV back in the 1970's? The one and only. What on earth was Mr. Kerr doing in our little town on the coast?

Since we are on the coast, our town tends to have festivals that celebrate things of the sea, like fish, fishermen, crab, seafood, etc. This time it was the humble commercial fishermen that were being festive. And they managed to invite Graham Kerr to the party (he now has a home in Washington state, so he's not too far away). Today and tomorrow, he's doing something with fish - filleting, perhaps. But on Friday, he held a seminar in our local theatre.

He was older, of course, but still a vibrant, funny man. He talked about making healthy lifestyle changes, helping out the community and reaching out to those less fortunate. He connected all this and if you want more info, he has a website. Our family already does a lot of what he spoke of - good to see someone giving talks like this. And judging from the audience, most who attended could use a healthier lifestyle (our town has it's issues, like most of America I'm sure).

But the greatest thing to me was that he told us that he was a Christian, and he actually prayed for the audience at the end of his talk. You could just see that he really wanted to reach these people. This was not a spiritual meeting, but he wanted to bring God into the picture and he did it in non-threatening way. Todd and I, of course, were totally fine with him praying and I thought it was awesome. We live in a very secular town - these people needed the prayer.

I loved hearing some of his history. How he met his wife when they were 10 years old. They celebrated their 50th (I believe) anniversary this weekend. How they were living in New Zealand when they first started his cooking show. Apparently, there were only 15 TVs in New Zealand at the time and he said that not many shows can boast 100% viewing - all 15 TVs watched his show! His wife decided a change was needed in his show and began directing the program. That's when he began displaying his outgoing personality on TV. My Mom and sisters watched his show with me when I was very young. We thought he was so funny and wondered what it would be like to be in the audience. Didn't he always invite someone (usually a female) from his audience to dine with him at the end? Seeing him brought back a lot of childhood memories. Our family was big on charades and The Galloping Gourmet was always an easy one to act out. I'll let you think about that for a bit ...

It was fun to have a little date with my husband, sitting together and holding hands. We were home by 7:30 pm, which was good. In typical Kate fashion, the night was not without its mishaps. I had sent a check for the tickets (by donation only, the proceeds going to the festival by Mr. Kerr's request) and was told by phone that our tickets would be held at the box office. Calling the box office on the day of the event was useless - there's not always someone there to get the phone (small town, remember?) That night, there were no tickets there for us at the theatre. But after earnest explaining, they let us in. When Todd and I were walking down an aisle to get to the front, I nearly ran over an older lady. I apologized and continued on my way. You guessed it ... I found out a few minutes later that I had nearly knocked over Mrs. Kerr!! When Graham introduced his wife to the audience, I nearly died of embarrassment. Fortunately, she couldn't see me from where she was sitting and she was so nice, I'm sure she forgave me. Still.

They really seem like a terrific couple. I'm so glad they came to our town this weekend. I wish our weather had been nicer but they're used to rain, living in WA. It has been raining for days. I think the term "muggy" must have been invented in this place.

Oh, thanks for praying for my blog friend on HSB. I really appreciate it.

Please Pray

2010-09-13T23:47:00.001-07:00

My blog friend on HSB, thystledown, posted this morning that her husband passed away suddenly on Labor Day. I had not visited her blog in a couple of weeks and felt led to visit tonight - now I know why. Please pray for her. She has two children and they just recently moved from Texas back to New York (her story is all in the archives on her blog). It was such a shock to read her short post. I had followed her Texas story from the beginning and was looking forward to seeing how things went with the move back to NY.

Please pray for this lady and her family. I'm still in shock. I can't imagine how sad she and her children must be. Thanks for your prayers.

It Wood Be That Time

2010-09-10T22:55:00.001-07:00

It's that time of year again, when I usually spend way too much time locating a good source for our winter fuel. (Oh, no, NOT the firewood post again!!) You know the drill ... calling on newspaper ads, driving around looking for "For Sale" signs on pick up trucks filled with a cord of wood, pestering anyone in the yellow pages who might be able to help me find SOMEONE who has firewood - at any price!!!

But this year was different. Todd had mentioned a few times that we needed to get firewood. I was waiting for payday. Yesterday, I called the guy who sold us wood last year. He called back and, thankfully, Todd answered the phone (sometimes, it's just easier for a guy to talk to a guy about wood, at least in these parts). Two cords, no hemlock, same price as last year, delivered before 10:00 am tomorrow. No way!! It just can't be that easy!

But it was. The only catch was that Todd wouldn't be here in the a.m., which I had thought would be a mild inconvenience but wasn't after all. Last year, the wood guy (Al) showed up with two pick-up trucks that looked like they had seen better days. His two helpers were real characters as well. I'll be kind and not go into detail. Anyway, I was a bit apprehensive until they showed up (at 10:00!)

Al's trucks were in better shape. They didn't have to push the one to get it going. A different truck, perhaps (business is that good, maybe?!) His only helper was the same as last year but this time, he was clean and sober, not shaky and limping like last year. Same sense of humor, too. And they were so quick! It was a much more pleasant experience this year, probably the best it's ever been. If you've been my blog friend for awhile, you know my past experiences with firewood. Anyway, this year was a piece of cake. When they were done unloading the wood in our driveway, Al smiled and said, "Have fun!" I shook his hand and thanked him. Now the hard work for us would begin.

My whole family chipped in and helped with the loading. We had to clean out the fenced area where we store our wood and take out what was left from last year. Then stack the new wood, and restack last year's on top to be used first. Chad did most of the work this time. When Todd got home, he helped before going to bed since he works tonight. Alec and Carmen did what they could. I worked with Chad and later on my own, when everyone else was tired. Errands and dinner got in the way but we got it nearly done. One day! Unbelievable.

Watching the boys work together today made me realize that I was actually seeing the fruits of my labor. For years, I have been taking the boys out with me to teach them to stack wood. Oh, it was SO difficult! Chad was just so hard to keep on task, arguing and running off, and Alec would complain and give up too soon. I sometimes resorted to letting Alec keep Carmen company so Chad and I could stack but I knew it wasn't teaching Alec to work. But today, they worked together and I knew that my efforts had paid off. In fact, Chad did a lot of the work without me, including putting together the rack we keep near the door and stacking some of the wood there, as well as showing "Al" where we wanted the wood unloaded. What a blessing that I can rely on him for things like that. It wasn't that long ago that I wondered if he'd ever be responsible to take on these kinds of tasks without being supervised. He's really grown up so much in a lot of ways, it's a joy to see. Helps to balance those times when he can still be exasperating!

And then there's Carmen. She has wanted to help stack wood ever since she was old enough to pick up a small stick. She has always been so small that I was nervous having her out there around the wood pile. Wood has a way of falling, hard and chaotic. I have a sore foot to prove that theory. But Carmen has never been afraid and helps out as long as she can. It was drizzling when we started but by the time the kids got tired, the sun had come out just hot enough to make stacking kind of miserable. All the kids went in at that point. I stayed out working and dodging the yellow jackets, bumble bees and wasps. This evening, there was some rather large flying thing. It was huge. It buzzed my ear and I ran, screaming behind the gate. I waited. Ventured back out to the wood pile ... I could hear it's wings humming. Couldn't see it. Deep breath. Continued stacking wood, beating each piece on the driveway to remove spiders. That darned thing buzzed me again, sending me off to the gate. More waiting. Geesh, I just wanted to get things done, you know? I spent the next half hour gingerly approaching the pile, pounding wood and stacking, all the while listening for the thumping wings. I never saw it again and I hope I never do. At least there were no snakes this time.

I'm so thankful our winter fuel is here, paid for and ready to heat our home, even when the power goes out. God is good.

Week of Cleaning

2010-08-28T23:53:00.000-07:00

We've had a productive week. I've been wanting to really clean the house and we got a good start this week. We had a short visit from some relatives last Thursday and we used that as our motivator. I always need motivation for this kind of thing. Of course, Monday and Tuesday were absolutely sunny and beautiful but, alas, we were inside cleaning and dusting, getting rid of clothes to donate, putting stuff away and throwing stuff out. The kids were so great. They really worked hard and did everything I asked them to. Chad is great at organizing, Carmen is good at cleaning and putting things away and, Alec ... well, he's just good at obeying me when I give him an order. Todd got motivated to clean part of his side of our office room. Thus, I was motivated to clean my side ... at a future date. Priorities! Clean everything the company will see first, then move on to everything else.

Lists really help me. If I don't make lists, I get scatter-brained. Now I need to make new lists, with the next phase of cleaning. Though after this week, I needed a few days rest to recover.

Carmen has really taken an interest in the kitchen this summer. She wants to learn how to cook. She has been regularly asking to empty the dishwasher and learned how to fill it as well. Tonight, she was looking at a recipe for making pancakes. She said, "This doesn't look hard." I said that I'm glad she thinks that way. I am not a confident cook and pancakes scare me. But we will do it together and perhaps some of her confidence will rub off on me. Todd is the resident pancake maker in this family. Every time I make them, they turn out icky, like those thin, round rubber sheets you use to open a jar with. I can't see wasting good ingredients on my disasters. Chad likes to flip pancakes so perhaps I'll have them work together. Alec can help by eating them. Alec is growing fast this summer - his increased appetite is evidence of this.

I'm sad that September is a few days away. I hate September. Something to do with school starting/summer ending. I need to remember that our school doesn't start until October. Yippee! Perhaps September will be warm. One can always hope.

How many blog posts have I ended with that last phrase? Must write this on my list: Increase phrase repertoire.

August ... Summer?

2010-08-21T23:06:00.000-07:00

Honestly, we've tried not to complain but, seriously ... will we ever have a summer? We've had maybe a handful of days over 70 degrees and 4 days over 80 degrees - which were difficult because they appeared and disappeared sooner than we could adjust to. 65 degrees seems to be the norm and clouds, clouds, clouds, dark clouds frequently. Fog and drizzle appear from time to time - tomorrow is likely to be drizzly as well. I get up each day looking for something summery that will keep me warm. Call me quirky but I hate wearing winter clothes in the summer. Today I spent two hours in my comfy chair in the living room, snuggled under a blanket trying to get warm. I seldom get a chance to snuggle in my comfy chair so I didn't feel a bit guilty. Todd was sleeping (in between 12-hour shifts) and the kids busied themselves without disturbing Mom (for the most part).

Enough mild ranting. Chad is still enjoying his volunteer job at the museum. I took Alec with me last week to pick up Chad and we toured the museum a bit. Before I saw Chad, I met the lady that hired Chad and she told me how pleased they are with him. That makes me very happy.

I'm still trying to find a book to follow Tolstoy - no luck, yet. Big shoes to fill.

Two Milestones

2010-08-09T20:53:00.000-07:00

I'm happy to announce what I consider to be a major accomplishment ... I have finished "War & Peace" by Leo Tolstoy. Regardless of what others may think, this book is not a boring read. Of course, this is my opinion (what else do I have to offer?) but I was really quite surprised when I began reading the first page. It wasn't what I had envisioned at all. Yes, there is page after page of war description, destruction and strategy (they were the pages hardest for me to get through) but I enjoyed the chapters relating the lives of several families of wealth and nobility in Russia. Todd and I decided that this book is the forerunner of every historical novel and soap opera that has been written since the mid 1850's. I also loved learning more about Russia and its people, at least from the very early 1800's. The book's time period is from 1805-1820, covering the War with Napoleon. I have learned a lot. I really knew nothing of this time period. Most of what I've read has been before the 1800's or after 1850. I also wasn't sure just when I would finish the book but I found that I really wanted to read it so it took priority over a lot of things (blogging, for example).

When I was growing up, "War & Peace" was always joked about and I knew that it was a big book but that's it. It has been on our book shelf (Todd may know where it came from) for a long time and a few weeks ago, I just picked it up out of curiosity. I'm so glad I did! The most interesting fact, to me, is that people really don't change, regardless of the time period. They just speak and dress differently.

Also of interest (and sadness) is the reality that Russia is up in flames this past week or so, with all the wild fires burning. Just last week, I was reading in this book about Moscow burning during the war. One of those coincidences I have sometimes.

So .... if you have a few weeks to devote to this kind of literature, I recommend it. Just skim over the hard-to-read horrors of war that are in a few paragraphs. Tolstoy had a sense of humor, though, which pops up in unexpected places. It compelled me to read a bit about the author as well, to get an idea of where he was coming from. Of course, I related all that I read to my husband and the kids heard quite a bit. I think everyone feels like they read the book through me so now they don't need to read it themselves!

During this frenzy of heavy reading, I did find time to celebrate our wedding anniversary. On Aug 6, Todd and I celebrated our 22nd year! We had a quiet lunch at a lovely restaurant in town, overlooking the river. Now begins year 23 - I am so blessed and thankful. He's my man!

We also found out that a nice couple I met at the Frances Mayes book signing I attended last spring (we've been emailing ever since) also got married on Aug 6, a year after we did! How fun to find that out! My parents also got married on this date, now that I think about it. Unfortunately, my father died a few months before I met Todd; my parents did, however, have a very good marriage. Yes, it was a good date to get married on!

Busy Week

2010-07-30T22:58:00.000-07:00

Yikes! What a week it's been! Beginning with Sunday ...

My oldest turned 15 on July 25th! Another yikes!! No, it's o.k., really. I love who my son has become and I wouldn't turn back the clock for a second. There are times I see an expression on his face that reminds me of him as a child and I remember. But, sincerely, raising Chad was a challenge and I was so happy when he got to be about 13 or so. And he just keeps becoming more of a joy as he grows older. He's a stinker like his Dad but I'm used to that. He makes me proud nearly every day in the way he behaves and interacts with others; when he remembers to do what he needs to do and even does the unexpected (both good and bad!) and his kindness to me and, sometimes, to his siblings, especially makes my heart sing. I get positive feedback from those who meet him and have gotten to know him. Of course, he needs improvement in lots of areas (show me a teen who doesn't) but my prayer is that God will continue this child on the right path and give him guidance and wisdom throughout his life.

Chad began a volunteer position at a historical museum located about 17 miles from our home. He had his interview last week and I coached him a lot before that. I waited for him in the car and when he returned to the car, he honestly thought he'd been gone over an hour (it had been about 15 minutes!) Nerves can do that! His interviewer liked him as well as the people he'd be working with. He was so excited! I was happy for him but I knew that this was the beginning of change in our home. I'll be driving him (Todd might be able to help with this) every Thursday. It's an hour round trip but I'm not going to sit and wait for him there so I'll get home and then make the trip again in an hour or so. But more than the driving, it's the start of Chad spreading his wings. Know what I mean? I'm so glad for him and proud but am resisting pulling him back to just play with Legos. I know how I felt at his age - I wanted to work, move out, be in the world. I had a 20-hr week job by the time I was 15-1/2. A car at 16. At 18, I was wishing I had started working later and just played during my teens but I know it was good for me. This position is volunteer but I think that's a plus. He had his first day yesterday and he loved it. He's working in the museum's archive room, organizing files of people in the area. He loves history and is good at organizing so he's in his element. He is, however, in another state, as this museum is across the river in WA. It's the first time he's been so far away all by himself and that seems weird to me. The drive is beautiful, crossing the 4-1/2 mile bridge across the Columbia is lovely but terrifying sometimes. I was pretty tired last night but we had a very busy day so I'm sure I'll get used to taking him. It's all worth it.

So, we had Chad's birthday on Sunday, working around Todd's work schedule. I made the cake for Chad. Yesterday was my husband's birthday and today is his mom's birthday. We celebrated last night at her house. Todd made the cake and we brought Chinese take out. It was so nice not to have to prepare any food, since I wasn't home most of the day (Chad had a dental appointment in the morning as well.) I spent today catching up on laundry and dishes but actually got in a nap. And, of course, "that" time of the month had to occur. I am tired. But it's been a good week. The bonus: My 9 year old daughter actually wore a dress last night - and loved it! She never fails to surprise us and is a stinker, just like the rest of my family. I am so blessed!

Oregon Strawberries

2010-07-17T21:59:00.000-07:00

Trivia question: Are Oregon strawberries a blessing or a curse? Should the mere mention of the Northwest berry make one laugh or cry? Both, perhaps? Let me explain ...

We look forward every year to the arrival of Oregon strawberries. You can only get them (around here, anyway) from little stands that spring up on busier roads around the area. People make little signs with a big, red berry and the word, "OREGON", with an arrow pointing the way. As you drive closer, more little berry signs beckon you. When you get to the stand, you see a few tables put together under a striped canopy (tent-like covering), holding pints and pints of berries. If you're lucky, that is. More often than not, you are greeted only by empty tables with a few smashed berries underneath. Too late. There have been some years that we looked and looked for a berry seller but those were years that the season was bad or they never made it out here to the coast. Cherries often compete with the berries at stands but that's another story.

This year, we were fortunate. I guess. We found a lady selling berries just down the street - we could walk there (and did!) And, yes, we got there too late several times. Finally, we arrived just in time to buy the last flat she had that day (the lady ahead of us got the next-to-last flat). We took them home and immediately began to prepare them for jam. You see, the Oregon strawberry is so delicate it begins to deteriorate the minute you bring it home. It is evil in that respect. So, being the chief strawberry preparer, I began washing and de-hulling the berries. Each pint took 15-20 minutes (I'm really picky). The beautiful day was passing before my eyes out the kitchen window. At least I could watch. After I prep the berries, Todd takes over with the jam making. Lucky me! The reward is having wonderful, homemade strawberry jam to last for some time. Makes my stiff back and aching arms almost worth it.

The next week, Todd took Chad to his orthodontia appointment. They came home bearing TWO flats of Oregon strawberries! Guess what I did all day? Berries, berries, berries! We had to go to the store before I could begin and by the time we got home, the berries were looking pretty weak (these were day-old berries this time). I got started and by 11:30 pm, I prepped the last pint I could do. I was bushed! Todd finished the jam and we went to bed. He decided that the last few pints could be made into strawberry pancakes the next day - bless him! Refrigerating them helps a bit but they still deteriorate fast.

All in all, I'm glad we go to all the trouble to make the jam but by now, I don't want to see another berry for quite some time. Unless, of course, Todd brings home another flat. Oh, please, don't read this, honey!

Finding Chad

2010-06-25T22:24:00.000-07:00

Every once in a while, one has a day that ends very differently than one thought it would. Like yesterday ...

Started out as a typical week day for us. Nothing out of the ordinary. Then, while Todd went to a class at work (just what he wants to do on one of his days off) the rest of us decided to go for a walk. How we came to the decision of walking where we did, doesn't really matter (we all jokingly have been blaming each other). The fact remains that we chose to walk on a trail that we didn't know much about. That's where the trouble began.

This trail is out among wetlands and mostly along a bay, not far from our house. We've walked some of it before but not very far. It's very windy there, as it is everywhere around here, especially near the water. After walking just a little ways, I decided I'd had enough of the wind. It had been a warm day and now I was cold. Chad wanted to keep going. So, brilliantly, I suggested I would take the younger two kids and meet Chad further down the trail. So he kept walking and the kids and I went back to our car. I was thinking that I could drive on the main road and meet up with Chad fairly easily further down the trail. If this sounds confusing, it is or it became confusing very quickly. We drove past way too much beach shrubs and trees until I finally found a very bumpy, long, long road that ended up in sand. I couldn't go any further. And there were some creepy teens hanging out there. I couldn't see the bay or any sign of a trail - just grass, shrubs and the bluff. Back down the bumpy road and on to the next possible way to get to the trail. It was in a marina, along an inlet from the bay. More grass and a long, long trail. By now, I was scared. I figured Chad would keep walking until he met up with us. So I kept going, hoping that around the next bend, we'd see the bay. Nope. I turned right into another trail and came out into a big, sandy clearing. I kept the kids at that trail opening and walked all over that area, screaming Chad's name. Walked up on a bluff - no trail, no bay. No Chad. I couldn't believe what I had gotten us into. A Coast Guard helicopter flew over and I screamed, "Do you see him?!" Silly, I know, but you had to be there. I was getting desperate. I knew I needed help - I couldn't find him on my own. So the kids and I walked as fast as they could manage back to the car. Lord, it was far. And it had gotten hotter. I had been crying and praying, I was exhausted but I kept going. On my way back, I called 911. I decided that this was emergency enough - I didn't know the trails and couldn't find my son. After losing reception and actually dialing 991, I finally got through to 911. The calm dispatcher handled the situation and after listening to my description of Chad, she asked, "The one with glasses?" It turned out to be my neighbor, Wanda! "Oh, Wanda!", I wailed. How cool to have a neighbor helping me! (Wanda is a 911 dispatcher and I knew that but at that moment, it didn't occur to me it was her!) We lost reception during our conversation but she called me back. I told Wanda that I was returning to where the trail started and she said a policeman would meet me there. He was there when we arrived (I actually drove right passed him - duh!) I managed to be calm enough to tell him everything he needed to know. It was surreal, describing my son's clothing and such. The officer said they had two other policemen out and they would cover the trail from three different ways. He assured me he'd find him. I was so grateful for this man's can-do attitude. Very comforting. There was an espresso hut in the parking lot near this trail head and the employee working there saw the police car. Right at that moment, her parents drove up for a coffee. She told her Dad to go tell the policeman that a boy had asked to use her phone to call his mom and had asked her more about the trail. So, her folks relayed the message to the officer. Can you believe the timing of their being there? So, now we knew Chad had been back there about 10-15 minutes before and this helped him to be found. While I waited, I went over to thank the espresso employee. She said when we drove up the second time, she saw Alec and thought he looked just like Chad. Then she remembered that we had been there before and had seen us all walk over to the trail. When she saw me the second time, she said I looked like a Mom who had lost her child. This lady was very reassuring. We talked while I waited and amazingly, she didn't have any customers during this time. She was my age with kids about my kids' ages so it was like an instant bond. Just what I needed. Then, I saw a jogger leaving the trail and I asked if he'd seen Chad. He said no but he passed a policeman and heard on the policeman's radio that they'd just found him. I was so thrilled - the jogger was happy, too! So, I knew Chad would be coming back soon but it didn't dawn on me how they would bring him back. As I emptied a ton of sand out of my shoe, a police 4-wheel vehicle drove up. I saw Chad waving frantically from the back. The officer got out and I said, "Did you cuff him?!" He laughed and let Chad out. Chad ran into my arms and we hugged and hugged. I thanked the officer tearfully but I was amazed at how calm I was at that moment. Chad was the one that was shaking and starting to cry. I guess because I'd had a few minutes to calm down after talking to the jogger, that it made it easier for me to calm Chad. I went from being the frantic one to being the comforting parent (have you been there?) What a moment.

God is good.

God is good even when I am stupid ... STUPID! I know better than to let my son explore a trail that we are both unfamiliar with. I feel so stupid that I put us all in this situation. When I was calling out his name, in the middle of what seemed like no where with absolutely no one around, I kept apologizing to him, to God, to my family, for making this stupid mistake. I asked God not to let Chad be harmed because of my stupidity. Those creepy kids I had seen really added to my fears. And, of course, with all the headlines about that 7 year old who disappeared in Portland a few weeks ago (have you heard about that?) I have been more vigilant about keeping my kids safe. We had no business on that trail, really. The espresso employee said she wouldn't take this trail alone or any of the trails along this bay. Too secluded.

Anyway, all ended well because of the quick action of the policeman, the dispatcher, the espresso lady and her folks, the jogger. Think of all the people God brought in to help us. I am so grateful to these people, used by God.

No, I never envisioned that this day would end with me seeing my son climbing out of a police vehicle. He didn't like it at all. We joked (later) that it's all the more reason to never do anything that would land you in one again. But this wasn't his fault. I'm so proud of him for trying to do the right thing. I had wondered if he'd return to the trail head and I'm proud of him for asking for a phone to call me. He didn't, however, leave a message - I think he was just a little too shaken up to think of that. So his next solution was to get more info to try and find me again. We were both so exhausted when we got home. Fortunately, we have both been walking nearly every day so we were in better shape to handle this than we would be otherwise. Alec and Carmen never once complained or gave me any trouble. They prayed for Chad and trudged along with me, even though they were hot and tired. All I had to give them in the car were breath mints! And this is the Mom who is always prepared with water and stuff! I tell you, I just royally blew it yesterday. Today, Chad and I said it would be awhile before we venture out on a walk. It was cold and cloudy out today so it felt good to just stay home. Yesterday, after we got home, Todd and I headed out to the store for a few things to make a quick and easy dinner. I kept quietly sobbing every now and then. I forgot what I wanted to buy. I forgot to swipe my Safeway Club card. I think it was post-traumatic stress or something. I was still out on the trail, mentally, screaming for Chad. I'm fine, today. He's here and we can (and do) hug often. Yesterday, Chad said he figured I'd call the police at some point - boy, that kid knows me so well!

I Have Nothing Against Chickens

2010-06-18T23:29:00.000-07:00

I'm thinking about doing a "Cooking Camp" with my kids this summer. Spending the whole week working with them in the kitchen, teaching. I want Todd to be in on this as well, since he's the one who taught me how to cook.

I was wondering if any of you had any helpful hints, tips, recipes to share. I am open to any suggestions, including comments like, "Are you crazy?" (just kidding!)

I have to get over my fear of eggs. My kids have never cracked an egg, except for the one time Chad attempted to make French toast. He was about 8 or so. I had the crazy idea that making French toast would be an easy thing to start with. I let him crack the first egg. Somehow it exploded and egg was on the counter, Chad and the floor. Since I was also the mother of a 5 year old and toddler, I did not exactly have the patience to deal with the mess so I ended up making him feel badly about it (I didn't mean to). Since then, he has avoided cracking eggs. And I have not asked anyone else to do so. I didn't really mean to follow down this path, it has just seemed easier. But I feel I'm doing my kids a disservice by not letting them learn this simple task. And the careful handwashing required afterward! (Remember, I'm queen of handwashing!) So, at the risk of sounding more paranoid, let's just say I am considering egg-cracking to be a required lesson during our Cooking Camp. Again, if you have any advice, I'd appreciate it.

But did you know, there are lots of recipes that don't require any eggs? Believe me, I'm nearly an expert on this topic, so if you want a terrific applesauce cake recipe (sans eggs), just ask. (Pathetic, pathetic!)

Sun Day On A Saturday!

2010-06-12T23:17:00.000-07:00

Glory be! Sun, sun, sun! It was a GLORIOUS sunny day! Just when you think it's never, ever going to happen, God gives us this beautiful day! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!

Lest you think I'm nuts, it's just been so long since I've spent the day in capris and a t-shirt. With the windows open, no less. I'm not pathetic, just jubilant.

On days like these, I tend to go a little bonkers. What do we do with such a day? It seems a shame to stay inside and do chores, even if they need to be done. And Todd had to work so we had to stay close to home. So the kids and I went for a walk on the river walk in town. O.k., so I had to put on jeans and wear a fleece for most of it (it's nearly always windy on the river) but it felt so good to be warm. Warm! Even the wind was mostly warm. I changed back into my capris when we got home.

The railroad track runs along the river walk even though a train hasn't been out our way in several years. (Joke: How do you know a railroad has been here? Because it left tracks.) We do have a trolley that runs up and down the river, the length of our town and when it passes by, one feels compelled to wave. I appreciate the kindly tourists who wave back. We ride it once a year or so, it's fun to hear the conductor talk about the town, etc. But not today, no, today was for being outside. We heard chirping along part of the track where it split into three rails. We found some adolescent sparrows hiding down under the unused track, calling for their mom. We walked among a large flock of pigeons. Then we spotted an enormous container ship entering the river under the big bridge that spans across to Washington. The pilot boat zipped across to sidle up to the ship. We knew we were in for a treat. The river pilot shimmied up the ladder hanging on the side of the container ship (these guys are nuts!!) While we waited for the hand off, a raccoon scampered up from the river bank and ran across the tracks in front of us. After several minutes, we spotted the bar pilot walking on the deck, then making his way down the side of the ship on the ladder. From there he safely made it to the pilot boat. Whew! This happens several times every day but we don't get to witness it very often. From our living room at home, we see the helicopter take off that takes the bar pilot out to the ship in the ocean that needs to enter the river at the "bar". It's dangerous work. The bar pilot is deposited by cable down on the ship. He pilots the ship through the bar and into the river. That's where the pilot boat comes in and delivers the river pilot to the ship. Greetings are exchanged, as well as information. Then the bar pilot climbs down the ladder and literally jumps on board the little pilot boat. One false step ...

It's always amazing to watch, it's never boring. I couldn't help but think that with all of today's technology, there are some things that are still done the same way they've been done for a long, long time. Brave men, these guys are. And it pays good money, too (anyone interested?)

Our walk back to the car was uneventful, everyone being hot and tired but we all had fun. We went home, I made dinner, Todd went to work. It was still beautiful out. Chad set up croquet and we played. He beat me, the scoundrel! Then Chad and I went for a walk around our neighborhood. We spotted a large flock of cedar wax wing birds. They flew down onto the sidewalk in front of us for a minute. They are such pretty birds and rare in these parts. We got home and still I wanted to be out. So, close to sunset, I took Chad and Carmen out to the river, this time at the end of the boat docks, to watch the sunset. A lovely ending to a warm, wonderful day!

Memorial Day

2010-05-30T23:11:00.000-07:00

It's been years since my husband has had the day off for Memorial Day. Years. And since we homeschool, it's not a holiday for the rest of us, either. So I've always sort of struggled with this day - do we take the day off (we don't really need to), do I spend it as a regular school day or take extra time to learn about the "why" of this holiday. I think I've done all of the above, most of the time.

Since it has been and will be wet and rainy for (ever) a long time, I don't think we'll venture out to any cemeteries, at least not on foot. In the past, looking for war memorials was one way to bring home what war ends up being for most soldiers. Remember, I was a young child during Vietnam and what I remember about that war were the protests and people dying. However, my Dad and Stepdad served in Korea, and taught me respect for military and being thankful for the brave people who serve. As a result, I teach my kids all these things.

My boys are fascinated by the history of the wars we've fought in, as well as battles in other countries. It's a boy/guy thing I guess, as my Dad was the same way. I suppose that's what gives so many boys/men the bravery/nerve to go into battle the way they do. Yes, I know women serve on the front line as well but I'm talking about my sons at the moment. Anyway, I wish (oh, how I wish) my Dad had lived to see my sons, to share stories with them, to talk about war planes and hear of his stateside experiences (he never saw combat, praise God). My Stepdad visited with my sons a few times but not enough. He did fight in battles but hesitated to talk about them, which is understandable. Good, strong, brave men, George and Richard were. Perhaps that's who I'll talk about tomorrow with my kids - their maternal grandfathers. Though Dad and Richard were both humble and probably wouldn't want all that attention. Oh, man, I better stop writing about them, the tears are flowing.

Boy, this post sure deviated from the original idea. It can't be helped - Memorial Day means more than just honoring our brave. For me, it also means remembering two wonderful men in my life. I will always miss them.

Cooking With Carmen

2010-05-25T22:17:00.000-07:00

My 9 year old, Carmen, has recently started asking to learn how to cook. That's what I was waiting for. We decided to start with some recipes in Mollie Katzen's "Honest Pretzels" cookbook and so far, we have baked banana bread twice and "not-from-a-box" macaroni and cheese for dinner last week.

She was especially excited to actually make dinner. She loves my macaroni and cheese recipe (made with Velveeta) but this recipe calls for sharp cheddar. I hate Velveeta and was glad to use another kind of cheese and we added some white cheddar as well for extra flavor. We also used mini penne mixed with mini wheels, instead of (boring) elbow macaroni noodles. My kids have never eaten macaroni "from a box", and the male family members aren't really mac & cheese fans but they ate it and I made sure they thanked Carmen for making dinner. Carmen and I thought it was yummy. She was so proud and I was equally proud of her.

The banana bread recipe uses yogurt (this cookbook is mostly vegetarian and health-conscious) and just 1/2 cup of butter. It was very good the first time we made it and, tonight, we added walnuts for variety. We'll find out tomorrow morning if we like it with nuts.

What I love about working with Carmen in the kitchen is that she has no fear of trying to do something. She'll just go ahead and do it or ask if she can try something once. Like when I was chopping the walnuts, she asked if she could try cutting one. I handed her the knife and she made just one cut, but that was enough for her to see if she could do it. She has no hang-ups (yet, like her mother) and is eager to learn. I love it.

It takes longer to do everything but it is so worth it. Instead of her just helping, I make it truly a teaching time. I make sure she is doing most of the work. I try to explain everything we are doing and why we are doing it. She asks a million questions. Well, she does that all day long anyway, why should cooking be any different? Sometimes, she stops talking long enough to actually hear my answer. We need to work on her listening skills!

This is all foreign territory for me. My mother taught me absolutely nothing about cooking so I learned what I know by experience (or out of hunger), lots and lots of reading and, mostly, from my husband. I still rely on him for quite a bit. Mostly for things I know really matter to him, like when his steak is done. So I understand how important it is for kids to become confident in the kitchen early on. I want them to be able to learn and teach themselves new things, to be able to take care of themselves well and to have fun. I have so many hang ups in the kitchen that I lack confidence. But I find that when I'm teaching Carmen, I don't feel that way. It's either a good act or perhaps, at 47, I do know my way around the kitchen (don't laugh, Todd!)

Surprise

2010-05-15T22:42:00.000-07:00

Two weeks ago, on Monday, May 3rd, I was walking into the kitchen when I noticed my whole family looking at me. My husband was sitting at the kitchen table and he said, "Surprises are best left to the very last moment (a direct quote from the Brit sitcom "As Time Goes By"). I suddenly felt disoriented, like I was floating. I looked at each face and couldn't figure out what was going on. "What?" I said, rather alarmed. I honestly don't remember much about what was said after that but here's the (ahem) short story. They had planned a two-day trip (beginning Tuesday) to Leavenworth, Washington, for us to celebrate my birthday/Mother's Day. And they kept it so under wraps that I was TOTALLY clueless! They were so excited, the kids had all packed their clothes and even had helped out (more than usual) with laundry and dishes (I just thought they were finally learning more responsibility - silly me!) I was in shock, so much that I wasn't all that thrilled to begin with. It's, after all, a financial strain on our already strained finances. I had told everyone not to spend a dime on me for this birthday (May 8th) and Alec almost gave it away, now that I recall, but I just wrote it off to his being silly Alec. I was happy but worried. I discovered a lot about myself through this trip. I felt I didn't deserve it. I was so used to being in control of things that it was near impossible to believe that everyone had planned this without me. Honestly, I was in a daze all afternoon. It took me a full day to warm up to the idea. I tried to tell my family how much I appreciated all they did but that I wasn't used to surprises like this. Now I know just how uptight I really am. And I don't like that about myself. I'm also more of a control freak than I thought. Ugh!

But, fortunately, my family loves me anyway and we had a very nice time. It rained, then snowed on us during the 6 hour drive into the mountains of north-central Washington. Gosh, it was beautiful. Leavenworth is a town that reinvented itself back in the 1970's into a Bavarian-themed, snow-capped village. The mountain view is amazing - Wedge Mountain looms straight up behind the town. We love the view from our favorite hotel. I can lay in bed and look out the window at "The Mountain". I love it.

After check-in, we had dinner at one of our favorite restaurants. After dinner, we played racquetball at the court in the hotel, had coffee and hot chocolate in our room and went to bed. It's too bad the kids don't sleep well on the first night out and Carmen was exceptionally grumpy. But we got through it and woke up in time for the awesome breakfast this place serves. The breakfast room is on the fourth floor and has awesome views on three sides. Our hotel is also Bavarian-themed and the owner plays an Alpine horn from the balcony twice a day. A good photo op. We played golf across the street at the hotel's putting green, ate lunch in our room and then the kids swam in the pool. Dinner was at another favorite of ours, called Cafe Mozart. It's very nice with decor themed around Mozart and the era he lived in. The waitress actually remembered us from last year and seated us at the same table. After dinner, Chad and I played ping pong and listened to the nightly piano player in the lobby. Chad got to play a bit of piano, too, that night. The next day in the breakfast room, a lady came over to our table and told Chad how much she enjoyed his playing and encouraged him to continue learning. He beamed! Later, he asked if he could play on the piano in the breakfast room, just one song. Chad really had the best time on this trip. After we checked out, we headed over to a park on a little island on a lake that was created years ago by a lumber company that used to be there. Then it was time to go home.

I smile when I think of how, before the trip, my 9 year old daughter kept saying, "We planned everything, Mommy!" I'm ashamed at how I kept thinking, "If only!" I guess since I'm the Mom, I'm so used to being the one to make sure everyone has enough underwear and we've brought the right food and I've got my make-up, etc., that letting go is not something I easily do. I realize now that I have to work on loosening up, not worrying so much, and, most of all, allowing others to do something nice for me. I wrote thank you notes to each of my family members yesterday. I wanted something in writing for them to remember - not the stressed out Mom they saw at the beginning of the trip. How I wish I could go back and act the way I really wanted to! I was never angry, just in shock. That's the best way to describe it. I did have a really nice time and that's all we've talked about. So, hopefully, that's what the kids will remember. And I am so proud of them all, especially my husband. I'm proud and impressed that he went to so much trouble for me. What a guy! He really wanted me to have a good time - and I did. I just needed more than 24 hours to adjust to my "Surprise!"

2010-05-08T23:58:00.000-07:00

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

With love, Kate

P.S. Happy Birthday To Me!

The Storytellers

2010-04-25T22:27:00.000-07:00

If you looked back and read our family's Christmas newsletters, you'd soon see a pattern. When giving a brief (one sentence) description of each kid, I always, ALWAYS, say that Chad is our storyteller. Or, Chad continues to be our storyteller. Or, Chad continues to enjoy telling stories. You get the idea. I'm glad I finally realized how repetitive I was being a few years ago. But how many different ways can you say the same thing? (There's a blog right there.)

This year, however, I may have to give that same description to my other children as well. It seems they have discovered just how fun being a storyteller can be. Fun, right? Of course, it's fun but sometimes it can get out of hand. It's terrific when all is going well and everyone is happy with the status quo. Sometimes, it's just one child and other times, it's two or three, taking turns. TAKING TURNS is key, here. Until someone tries to take over or finish someone else's story - that's when the trouble starts. Rude remarks, yelling, Carmen running into the kitchen (where else would I be?) crying, saying "Alec is trying to finish my story!", etc. Of course, the worst thing I can say is, "It's just a story." JUST A STORY! How dare I make such a statement! These kids place great value on what they say and take great offense at being told how they should say it. At least, for the moment. In the next minute, they are off on another tangent and all is forgotten. If I can just remember how brief these squabbles are, I'd be a lot happier. Just let them work it out, as long as they don't get violent and nothing is thrown.

Though the noise level can rise quite high, I actually love all this story telling. Lots of learning is taking place here and I really can't take credit for it. Just be the referee.

The other day, I printed out something I had saved, explaining a writing exercise for kids. I try to add writing lessons every so often and while I was contemplating this one, my daughter started asking me how to spell different words. When I finally realized what she was doing, I had to laugh. She was writing a story. In chapters. Without me even asking. She asked, "Mommy, what's that in your hand?" "Nothing, sweetheart," I said, putting the paper away for later. It seems that Alec had started writing a story in chapters and Carmen, who copies nearly everything Alec does, started to write her own. She asked me to check her papers for mistakes and then asked if I could type up her story on the computer. We printed the pages and she is very pleased with her work. All without a single curriculum idea from me. Amazing.

Like I've read before (and I truly believe in) - sometimes you just have to get out of the way and let your kids learn.

Why Can't They Be More Like Me?

2010-04-11T22:34:00.001-07:00

I just finished a post full of complaints and rants about my kids. But I didn't want to save it. My kids have been unusually cranky these past few days (during my husband 12 hr shift work week). It's been frustrating for me but I didn't feel like posting all the negative words. Sometimes when I complain on paper, it's not helpful to re-read it. It just makes me feel lousy. Like, "poor me", or something.

It's simply been a time when I fail to understand why my kids can't be more like me! I find myself repeating, over and over, "Be nice", "Don't do that", "Enough!", "Knock that off", etc. But, they ARE kids. It will be years before they understand the things I have already learned. To my daughter, most slights or inconveniences are the end of the world. To my oldest, annoying his siblings is an art form. To my "poor, neglected" middle son, it's an Alec-centered world. I spend an enormous amount of time trying to explain things to my kids to make them understand sooner than I did as a kid. But their minds just aren't there yet. When my oldest is embarrassed, he's not able to brush it off - he's half way to 15, that is the time of his life when being embarrassed is normal. I try to give my kids words to their feelings to help them understand their emotions. I try to give them nice words to say instead of insulting each other. I try to help them think through situations so they can see the bigger picture. All this is exhausting to me and I know I won't see any fruit of this effort for some time. Perhaps I work too hard on this but it is my hope that it will be worth it and they'll turn out better people for it.

I wonder if I frustrate God when I fail to understand what He's trying to teach me. Well, maybe not frustrate but, perhaps, He sighs when, yet again, Kate is floundering. Oh, how I flounder! I hope I can remember this paragraph the next time I go head to head with a child. Dear Lord, please give me what I need to be the best Mom I can to my kids. I don't need perfection - just less floundering!

Good Friday

2010-04-02T22:28:00.000-07:00

Tonight, my kids and I had a great Bible study about Good Friday. I read to them from John and then some from Luke. We discussed everything. Chad added quite a bit to the conversation, which makes me happy. It means he's understanding what he reads and (hopefully) this is helping him grow in his faith. I had to work hard to keep them on track sometimes but it's worth the effort. I love, love having these kinds of conversations with my kids. Especially now that they are getting older and contributing their own opinions. We can get wildly silly at times but, in the end, I can usually rein them in and make sure everything is explained as well as possible. If no one gets rude or mad (including me!) we have fun.

As an adult, it's interesting to see how important it is to not get lost in debates or trivia (there are exceptions, of course). To stay on course and stick with the important issue of the conversation is vital. If we get off on a tangent, then that's all they remember. That's not always bad but it's not what I want out of the situation.

I guess the bottom line is to pray beforehand, do my best and let the conversation take its course. I can't force learning - no one can. God knows my kids' hearts and knows what they can handle and when. I am just the go-between - from the Bible in my hands to my kids' hearts and minds. It's a scary place to be until I remember that God is in control, not me. What a relief!

Dream Fulfilled

2010-03-24T23:39:00.000-07:00

Some of you know that my favorite author is Frances Mayes. I have always wanted to meet her, to tell her how much she's inspired me and how I have enjoyed her writing.

Tonight, I got to do just that!

I even had the wherewithal (what a great word that is) to tell her all that and more without gushing or giggling. I was so nervous all day, all the way there (2 hour drive to Portland) and the entire time I sat there at the book reading. I enjoyed hearing her read from her book but, seriously, my hands were sweating, I was so nervous about speaking to her. I had been practicing what I would say, so I would sound like the intelligent person I believe I am (hah!). When I finally had my turn to meet her, I told her she had inspired me to write and she asked me what I wrote. Whoa! I didn't expect her to ask ME a question. I told her I wrote from my personal experiences. And that I've attempted to learn some Italian. She was very kind and signed my copy of her new book. Gee, at the beginning of this day, I had no idea I'd end it with a new Frances Mayes book! I'm waiting until tomorrow to open it. Extending the joy!

Yesterday, I was reading the book section of the Sunday paper and came across this tiny ad about Frances Mayes being at Powells Books in Beaverton. I wanted to go so badly but didn't know if the planets would align enough for me to go. It's not easy to get out, especially at night and so far away. God answered my prayer. Todd wasn't working and I was feeling up to going, so I got the kitchen all cleaned up for Todd to make dinner, fueled up the Prius and took off.

I had such a good time. It was heaven to be with other people who enjoyed Frances Mayes books. It was a joy to see her and hear her read from her new book. And I'm still thrilled about meeting her. When I left the parking lot, I was trying to process the evening. Sometimes I immediately forget what I just said after I talk with someone and I wanted to remember. I do remember saying, "... and I can't remember what else I wanted to say!" But I was gracious (and so was she) and she won't remember me. I know I'll remember finally meeting her. She has made such an impact on my life and I hope to continue to be inspired by her.

It's funny, after hearing her talk, I realized just how much I've learned about her through her books. And that's what I want people to feel about my writing - I want them to know me from my words. Another thing I got from tonight was the idea (not a new one) that you should live your life and the write about it. Which is what I do anyway. Good advice - I think Mark Twain said that, didn't he?

Even more fun was the fact that I met a terrific couple who homeschool their son. They were sitting behind me at the book reading and I mentioned to the lady next to me that I homeschooled, which started the conversation with them. We talked the whole time we were waiting in line for Ms. Mayes to sign our books. By the time it was my turn, I was totally relaxed and it was pretty easy to talk with her. Again, God is good!

On my way home, I was thinking how I went out tonight hoping to meet my favorite author and always remembering this evening. Well, I think I still feel that way but I had just as much fun talking with this homeschool couple, as well as talking with the ladies sitting around me about books and writing. It was a really, really nice evening. I've been stuck on writing inspiration lately but now, I'm feeling refreshed and renewed

Sigh

2010-03-16T22:48:00.001-07:00

My mother turned 80 a few weeks ago. I had no idea that this occasion would cause me to feel old. But it did. It seems that now, when I talk on the phone with her, she says things like, "I'm 80, I can't do _____ anymore." Or, "I'm 80, I get confused."

As frustrating as this is for her, it is also frustrating to me. I feel badly for her and I wonder how much of this is truly valid or just her giving up. Since I've only seen her a few times in the last 20 years, it's hard for me to really know how she's doing. I hear from her and then I hear from my sisters (once a year or so) and the two stories are usually in conflict. Who to believe is anyone's guess.

Either way, it just makes me feel old. I don't know why. I suppose I get concerned that I'll be that way someday and I don't want to. I don't want to be reminded that I'm not 25 or even 30 anymore (30 seems SO young when you are 46!) It's not that I want to be that young ever again. I like the knowledge and wisdom I have now. Insight I didn't have then I'm so thankful for. Being able to see the whole picture is such a blessing. I wish someone would have filled me in on such things way back when. But when I talk with my mom, I just feel ... well, old.

I feel guilty that I really don't want to talk with my mom much on the phone. But I will continue to call her because I love her dearly. I'm sure this is just a phase (for me) and I will adjust.

Gosh, if you aren't depressed by now, then good for you! Now, how can I end this on a lighter note? Let's see ... I recently read in a magazine that married couples in their 40's who "cuddle" (or whatever your code word is) three times a week look younger. You can choose to tell your hubby that information if you wish!

Vancouver ... Over Too Soon

2010-03-12T22:27:00.000-08:00

I'm always a little sad when the Olympics are over.

This past February, during the Winter Olympics, we wanted to get a daily paper. This is one of those RARE times I wish we had TV but it's not important enough to go that route. Anyway, after several days of struggling to find quarters, forgetting to go out to get one until after dark, etc., my brilliant husband suggested we sign up for a subscription to the daily newspaper. Don't know why I didn't think of that sooner (yes, I do ... Carmen had a bad cold for three weeks in Feb., I was distracted.) So, when I called the local paper distributor, the lady said we could have a two-week subscription for free, then decide if we wanted to commit to a subscription. Wow! I was so happy! It was so nice to get the paper from the driveway and check up on the Olympics. Chad and I began a daily discussion on what we'd read in the paper. It has been a great addition to his education. Unfortunately, I hate all the bad stuff they print. We kept receiving daily papers, even after the two free weeks were up. I gave them a call and she said that they'd had extra papers for some reason so they just kept delivering! Sounds good to me! However, I did decide to subscribe for weekend delivery. Daily was just too much information and now that the Olympics are over, the sports have gone back to highlighting the latest bad boy in basketball/baseball/name-that-sport. It's pathetic (my opinion).

My mom did tape the Olympics for us and we received 9 video tapes last week. It's always a little strange to view the Olympics weeks after they happened. Like a time warp. When we were watching the Opening Ceremonies, the tape made it as far as Wayne Gretzky getting a little nervous when the flame ceremony didn't go as planned. Then the tape stopped. Bummer. But that's the way it is when you rely on Grandma to tape the games for us. She doesn't watch them, just sets the tape and lets it go. I find it amusing. I remember the Salt Lake City games, they were just about to hand over the torch to the final runner (a secret) and the tape stopped. We all shouted, "No!" Of course, I never, ever tell my Mom. I'm just grateful she takes the time to do this for us.

Don't get me started on those infernal commercials. I am so anti-commercial. I hate them. Hate them! It's a good thing fast-forward exists.

When we first heard the Games were going to be held in Vancouver, BC, I was really hoping we'd be able to go. I mean, it's just a few hours north! Closer than Salt Lake City. Years ago, when the Summer Olympics were in Los Angeles, I was living about 45 minutes away from most of the venues but wasn't able to attend any events. A girlfriend and I did go downtown and drove around to see all the Olympics sites, taking photos of each other in front of the Coliseum, etc. Being there and really "being there" aren't the same thing.

As it was, there was no way, for various reasons, that we would have been able to go this year. Oh, well.

Looking back, I suppose the Olympics were ingrained in me as a young child. Mark Spitz was so important in our home. If you don't remember who he was, you probably don't care. But my sister had a life-sized poster of him on our bedroom wall, wearing nothing but his speedo and his seven gold medals. Having that imposing figure staring down at you every day must have made an impression (be it good or bad). And, believe it or not, years later when I was working as a typesetter in Huntington Beach, California, someone from the business next door came running over to tell us that Mark Spitz was in their office! We all ran to the window and I was just in time to see his elbow as he was leaving. His elbow! Imagine that!

We weren't a sports family but the Olympics were important. And still are, I suppose. For me, the inspiration and interest is not just in a particular sport or athlete but the coming together of so many nations for a single purpose. If only our entire world could unite in peace, for even two weeks. What an impact that could make!

Coincidence Queen 2010

2010-03-02T22:50:00.000-08:00

Yes, it's time again for a little ridiculous fun. Read on if you dare.

On February 14th, my mother-in-law sent us a Valentine’s Day e-card and on the same day, I was looking for a card to send her in return, as a thank you. I came across a sweet card that had a beautiful piano arrangement of a song I really like. I knew the singer (Seal) but I didn’t know the name of the song and I happened to mention it to my son, Chad. I figured I'd do some research later and decided to send the card to Todd, so we would have it on our email. That afternoon, Chad was reading his 2008 World Almanac and was telling me different winners of the Grammy awards. I don’t know what led him to do this but I was listening and making comments about different people. Then, he said, “Seal won for “Kiss From A Rose.” I yelled, “What? Say that again?” He repeated it and I reminded him that Seal was the singer I was talking about that morning and that Chad had just given me the answer I was looking for. I was blown away. We both laughed.

On February 19th, my son and I were discussing Seal and I said I didn’t know his real name or at least, his full name. Tonight, I went online and my home page listed things that happened today, including the birth of, you guessed it, "Seal," an English Afro-American soul singer. His full name is “Seal Henry Olusegun Olumide Adeola Samuel” (whoa) and he was born the same year I was. Unbelievable. I laughed out loud.

Chad has been working on a piano piece, teaching himself, for several weeks now. One morning, I found myself humming a tune I couldn't quite place until I heard him practicing. Duh! It was the piece he’s been playing! I asked him the name of it and he said it was from the opera, “Raymond.” I was unfamiliar with it so he told me the composer’s name. I didn’t recognize him either and we wondered as to how to correctly pronounce his French-sounding first name (Ambroise Thomas). Chad went to the computer to do a Google search on Ambroise and discovered that 144 years ago, on this very day, this composer had died!

Saturday night, my husband was at work, and I was listening to a local radio station that plays all 80’s music from 6 to midnight. They played a song by Robert Palmer and, remembering that he had died in the 1990’s, I decided to learn more about him. Reading Wikipedia, I was reminded of the videos he did with five models backing him, all dressed nearly identically. I always wondered what that was all about and learned that the videos were reminiscent of a particular artist’s work (the name escapes me at the moment). Anyway, the next day, I got the Sunday paper and opened up the Parade magazine section. There, on the “Ask Walter Scott” page (a page dedicated to reader’s questions about famous people, etc.) was a photo of Robert Palmer with some of those models standing behind him, from one of the videos! The question was about what had become of the models but I couldn't believe the timing. Why would they run a piece on Robert Palmer on that particular day?

On Friday, I was reading the newspaper. I saw all this on one page: A zebra named Lima escaped from the Barnum & Bailey Circus in Atlanta, Georgia. After a long chase down an interstate, the zebra was caught, unharmed. Directly below that was the byline, “Obama Quietly Meets with the Dalai Lama.” We all laughed at the zebra-Lima-Obama-Lama page and figured the editing department of The Oregonian had fun with that. The next day, Saturday, I was reading the paper again and saw a photo of an army soldier, after a skirmish in Afghanistan. Reading the article, I saw he was with the Lima Division. Directly after that, I turned to the weather section, looking for somewhere it was warm. You guessed it - one of the first places I saw on the world chart was Lima, Peru. And, yes, it’s warm there today.

Another Saturday night, I was listening to the radio and heard a Billy Joel song. The DJ mentioned that he had recently seen Billy Joel and Elton John perform in Portland. The next day, I got the Sunday paper and opened up the Parade magazine section. Elton John was on the front cover. In the interview inside, the writer said that Elton looked well-rested even though he had performed the night before with Billy Joel in Atlanta.

My New Zealand friend, Cate, mentioned in her blog a quote from a U2 song. It was the last thing I read on the computer that night before I went to bed. The next day, I went to the orthodontist and sat down in the waiting room. They usually have a radio going and the first song I heard was a U2 song. Days later, Cate mentioned the group, AC/DC and, this time, I had heard an AC/DC song just a few hours prior to reading her blog. These are not groups I hear often on the radio.

I was reading the magazine, VIA, that I receive because we are members of AAA (an automobile club). In this issue, there was an article about Ashland, Oregon, listing places to eat, stay, etc. It caught my attention because the last time we were in Ashland (years ago) we couldn't find a good place to eat. One of the restaurants they mentioned was in a small town not far from Ashland and I took note of the chef. The next day, the Oregonian newspaper ran a column about several Oregon chefs that are up for the James Beard Award, a prestigious trophy coveted by many chefs. Yes, you guessed it, this particular chef that I read about in VIA is one of those chefs in the running. I guess we should try out her restaurant if she's that good!

Finally, the polar bear. On Thursday, I was listening to National Public Radio (NPR), and during a program called “All Things Considered”, one of the reporters speaking was Robert Segal. I listen to this program all the time. Mr. Segal was speaking about online video games and used the term “polar bear” as an example of a user name someone might use. The next day, he said a listener had emailed him to ask why Mr. Segal used the term “polar bear” twice, not only in the radio segment I’d heard but in another segment about something else that I hadn’t heard. Mr. Segal simply said it was just what came off the top of his head. Then, the next day, I opened up the Saturday paper and there was a large photo of a polar bear. I can’t remember why it was there but I was feeling haunted by polar bears by now. And then, on Sunday, I opened up the comics and there, in Mark Trail (a nature comic) was a frame showing a polar bear, look here to see for yourself. I hope it ends there, believe me.

So, have you noticed any coincidences in your life lately? Or do you have better things to do with your time?!!

About That Retainer ...

2010-02-27T23:05:00.000-08:00

Hey, thank you so much for all the incredibly sweet comments! What an encouragement you ladies are! Too kind, really. Thanks again.

Now ... this was written the evening after I got my braces off. Here goes:

Dark Side of Braces

I’m hear to warn you … there is a dark side to having braces. A side no one talks much about, apparently.

The "Retainer.”

Oh, the orthodontist and the assistants throw that word around a lot, like it’s no big deal. But they fail to tell you the truth. Curse them.

Let me explain.

When they removed my braces, finished polishing all the cement off and gave me a mirror, I was so surprised, I cried. I had straight teeth. Jubilation! I couldn't believe it! I was so overcome with emotion. My minor ordeal was over. They had said that I would need to wear a “Retainer”, day and night, for a year and then just at night for another year. I guess I should have paid more attention.

As I left, one of the assistants came over to hug me (she was happy for me) but then she said, “Enjoy that freedom until you come in later for your retainer.” There was that word again, “Retainer”. I walked downstairs a bit subdued. What did she mean by that? I fretted about it for several hours. It really rained on my parade. Such a giant high squelched - it left me feeling emotionally torn. I had 3 hours to wait it out until I knew the truth.

When I returned at 2:00 pm, I had a near 45 minute wait until they put me in the chair. Then the orthodontist appeared with something small and pink, wrapped in paper. He stuck it in my mouth and, I kid you not, the expression on his face changed as he said, “Now, you need to wear this day and night for a year and then a year at night after that.” Remember that scene in “Raiders of The Lost Ark”, where that eccentric French man was dressed like a priest and lifted the lid on the Ark he had stolen from Harrison Ford? He’s watching the angels flying around and he yells, “They’re beautiful!” in his French accent. And then, one looks directly at him and the face changes to an evil, evil expression (maybe a skull, even). Well, that is exactly how I felt, looking at my doc’s face. Seriously! His face changed so seriously and at the same moment, I felt that wretched retainer stuck to the roof of my mouth. I felt ill. All I wanted to do was get out of there. Of course, I said nothing and made polite niceties. An assistant came in and gave me a choice of several, pearlized cases to choose from, some effervescent tablets to clean the thing in monthly (like dentures!) and a few sheets of literature. She, herself, said that she still needs to wear her retainer at night and it’s been 6 years!! Another assistant came in with gloves on to show me how to remove it correctly (don’t pull from the front). She had trouble, giving it a few hard tugs but finally removing it, just to show me how to put it back in. When I tried to speak to her, I sounded like I had Silly Putty stuck to the roof of my mouth and it was hard to keep from spitting.

I finally got to leave. I wanted to run away - far, far away. But no, I had to go to a local store and buy just one item before I went home. I practiced saying, “Thank you”, all the way there, so I wouldn't lisp. Despondent and sad, I went home, where everyone made fun of how I spoke. The first thing I had to say to my daughter was, actually, a scolding and instead of listening, she just stared at my mouth and wanted to know why I was talking funny. Hard to discipline when you are not being taken seriously!

So, there you have it. The real truth about having braces. When you get them off, it’s not the end. It’s just the beginning. But please, please don’t ruin your kids with this information. I just wanted to inform you, as parents, to be prepared, in case your kids have difficultly with the “Retainer”.

___________________________

I've been wearing the retainer for over a week now and at my last check, my orthodontist said everything looks good. I no longer hate the darn thing and my teeth don't hurt as much as they did. You could say I am adjusting to my new "friend", brushing it day and night, making sure I don't lose it ($250 to replace). Like I have a choice.

Evolution Of A 46 Year Old Smile

2010-02-19T09:16:00.000-08:00

From May 2009 to the present ...

So, there you have it. What'd ya think?

Amazing how the teeth got younger as the face got older. How does that work?

Next venture (according to Todd): Laser treatments. We will see.

February Days

2010-02-10T23:11:00.000-08:00

9 year old birthday approaching!

But how cool - she's totally oblivious to it. Tonight, she asked when her birthday was and when I told her it was in 3 days, she was surprised. What a contrast to her brother, Alec, who spent the two weeks prior to his birthday taking a lot of naps, to make the days go by quicker. What a silly boy! Carmen just isn't a very greedy kid and for that, I am grateful. She has insisted that she doesn't need or want anything. Very sweet but I'm sure if she woke up on Saturday with no gifts to open, she'd be a bit put out. Ya think?

I have managed to find a few things she might like. She'll be getting a "new" bike as well, courtesy of her father's skill at refurbishing her brother's still-in-good-shape bicycle. Bake a cake, hang some balloons and streamers and she'll be a happy girl. She did request a trip to a well-known (locally, at least) salt water taffy store down near the beach, so we'll go there on Valentine's Day (the day after her birthday) for some candy. There is a carousel there and I'm going to surprise her with a ride on that. Simple and low cost - I like that kind of birthday.

I have had my brain focused on finishing my taxes. It's such a relief when they are done and I'll be more happy when I get them mailed out. A necessary evil. Seems like the last few years, I spend at least one evening figuring out medical expenses only to find that we don't have enough to deduct - a cruel irony! We have a flexible spending account which allows us to get that money back throughout the year but somehow it's disappointing to not get that deduction, especially after working so hard. But that's life.

After several sunny and rather warm days, we are facing 10 days straight of rain. But I'll take that compared to being buried in snow as elsewhere in the country.

2 weeks until I go braceless ... no, I'm not counting the days!!

One Down, One To Go

2010-01-31T23:08:00.000-08:00

My middle son, Alec, turned 12 today. His sister will be nine in 2 weeks. So, one birthday done, one to go. Birthdays are kind of stressful, for some reason. This year was a quiet, less-costly (out of necessity) one which is just fine. He had a great day. Todd worked, came home this a.m., decorated the cake he baked yesterday and went to bed after Alec opened his gifts. We do this at breakfast usually, why wait, I say? Chad and Carmen decorated the dining room with streamers and balloons. All I had to do (after spending 3 weeks of "what do I get him and what can we afford?") was wrap the gifts and sign his card. I personally spent the day quietly, walked with Carmen and read a lot. Alec wanted hot dogs for dinner so that was easy. He's usually a much more demanding kind of kid but today, he was just appreciative and nice. In fact, Todd had said that we could do the cake after lunch, as usual, even though Todd would be sleeping (he works again tonight). When I told Alec this, he asked if we could wait until dinner because he wanted his Dad to be a part of it. That's not like Alec at all, to wait for anything! I thought it was sweet and Todd appreciated it, too. It did make for a hectic meal, as Todd gets up at 5:30 and has to leave by 6:30 but we did it. It was worth it. Todd, by the way, makes great cakes.

We watched a DVD that Todd's sister sent for Alec, a great documentary on whales and dolphins (right up Alec's alley) this evening. When it was over, Alec jumped up and said (for some reason), "I'm strong, I'm 12!" and dashed out of the room. We all laughed ... I think he was really happy. 12 seems to be a milestone for him. And I'm breaking all the rules here about how to write numbers in a sentence. Chad's recent grammar lesson explains the appropriate way to write numbers and I can see glaringly what I'm doing wrong. It's amazing how much I've learned by teaching my kids. Homeschooling is cool.

Drum Roll, Please ...

2010-01-18T22:51:00.000-08:00

I have news!!

No, not that kind of news (our family is complete, thank you very much!)

This is better!

These braces are coming off - February 18, 2010!

I will probably post before, during and after photos, if Todd gets industrious (and if anyone cares).

Then comes a year in a retainer, 24/7, and then another year with retainer at night. Small price to pay. I can't wait to brush my teeth without wires shredding the bristles. Actually feeling the brush on my teeth! Never thought I'd care about that, but, oh! Oh ... I can't wait!

After Holiday Ruminating

2010-01-12T21:59:00.000-08:00

Christmas is put away. New Year's decorations just got taken down (doesn't everyone decorate for New Year's?) The house looks somewhat empty but back to normal. Even better than normal. We hope to try and keep it looking guest-ready, for our own enjoyment. But how do you keep the clutter down with three kids at home, all day long? School papers, art projects, etc. - you know what I'm talking about. But we are all willing to try and keep the house neater.

Next - we want to tackle the garage.

Alas, we have two birthdays to prepare for, the end of Jan and mid Feb. After that, finally, there will be no more gift buying. The kids don't really want or need anything, it's a bummer to be born so soon after Christmas. Alec wants a trip to Hawaii. Carmen says she doesn't need anything. What to do?

We Wish You A ...

2009-12-30T22:11:00.000-08:00

2010!

2009-12-21T23:04:00.000-08:00

For unto us a Child is born ...

Wishing you all a wonderful Christmas and God's blessings on you in 2010!

Your friend,

Kate

This Past Week

2009-12-12T22:36:00.000-08:00

O.k., I'm back to a pleasing shade of light-medium brown with beige highlights. The box actually says, "beige highlights that are flattering to maturing complexions", or something like that. Really. Hmm.

It is so nice to look in the mirror and not cringe. When we bleached my hair the second time, to get as much red out as possible, things got even worse. Most of my hair was a light banana yellow but still had a lot of red. There I was with braces and hair in an unbelievable shade. I was miserable.

But now that's all behind me. I am very happy with this color and, hopefully, they won't discontinue it.

On a sad (and obviously more important) note, my favorite (and last) uncle died last week. I couldn't make it to the funeral. Sometimes it's tough to be so far away from my family. With kids and all, I just can't jet down for things like that. This uncle always called me "Chatty Cathy", which was the name of a doll that came on the market the year before I was born. I actually never saw this doll until the last few years, when a company re-issued it. Apparently, it was a new kind of talking doll and when I was small, I chattered quite a bit (not unlike my own daughter). My family calls me Kathy and my Uncle Derrell dubbed me "Chatty Cathy". The name stuck.

My daughter, Carmen, was chatty all day long today and I finally asked her why she was talking so much. She sighed in exasperation and said, "I just don't know!" I said I'd start calling her "Chatty Carmen", to continue my uncle's tradition. I haven't seen him since 1999, but I miss him, knowing he's gone.

We also got news last week that the husband of friends of ours passed away this year. It's been a long time since I've received news like this so this week has been rather sober.

The good news is that after more than a week of bright sun and temps during the day of high 20's to mid 30's, with lows in the low 20's at night, we finally got to 40 degrees today! It was down right balmy! I never thought I'd be happy about 40 degree weather! I'm always so cold but after freezing temps for so long, you can really feel the difference in just a few degrees. At least I can.

Now I need to start work on my Christmas letter. Make it short, funny, informative but not too much detail. I hate writing these things but people say they want to know about the family. I got the annual Christmas letter from a dear friend of mine that usually expounds upon how brilliant her children are and how many trips they've taken but this year was different. She was rather subdued. It's been a tough year for many. Praise the Lord for keeping them afloat. Praise the Lord for keeping us afloat, as well!

Hair Of Gold?

2009-12-05T00:47:00.000-08:00

Oh, boy. You should see me. I don't think much about posting photos (for whatever reason, or no reason) but I'm SO glad you can't see me.

Being a woman of a "certain age", I dye my hair. But this time, we (my husband is my colorist) dyed it a bit too dark. It looked o.k. but I thought it was too dark brown for me. So ... we tried to lighten it up. Twice we tried a lighter brown - didn't work. My poor hair.

The next step was to bleach all the dark out of it. What I am left with is what my dear old Dad left me, genetically. My Dad was a redhead. My son was born a redhead. And now, I am a redhead, too. Can you say "copper-top battery?" Carrot head? Look - your hair's on fire!! That's what I keep thinking every time I happen to see my reflection. It's unbelievable. Totally.

It's, like, orange-gold-unreal. I cannot leave the house. I have become another Christmas decoration, put me on the mantle. I do have a soft hat that I stuffed my hair into this afternoon because I just couldn't take seeing it anymore. When my kids first saw me, I told them to get their comments out of the way, I knew what they were thinking. Bless them, they all kept saying how nice I looked. Liars! Todd keeps looking at me and smiling. He likes it, for goodness sake!

The good news (I think) is that we will be dyeing my hair again, this time to a nice shade of light-medium brown. I hope, hope, it works. As long as my hair doesn't all break off or fall out in the meantime.

Give Thanks

2009-11-23T22:24:00.000-08:00

I'm starting to mold. It has been raining for so long I've quite forgotten what a sunny day looks like. Oh, we had a bit of sun break yesterday and I ran outside with the kids for a quick walk. Within minutes after we returned home, the rain began again. At least the wind has calmed - three bad storms in one week is all one really needs. At least the power only went out once for 1-1/2 hours. I consider us fortunate. Today it went out for just a few minutes for no good reason. Just for fun, I suppose.

Oh, Happy Thanksgiving, by the way. I dislike this holiday but I've written about that several times so I won't go into the details again. However, I truly wish everyone who reads this a very happy time where ever they celebrate this holiday of thanks. I try to be thankful each day, anyway.

My daughter has been wanting all our Pilgrim story books read to her. We decorated the piano with a cornucopia and she wants to make a paper bag turkey like her brother did years back. But she doesn't want to go to Grandma's for dinner, she wants our feast at home. So do I. But this is one of those times when you can't do what you want, you do what is expected of you. Can anyone relate?

Praise the Lord for family, for keeping us safe and providing for us. I am thankful for God, for our country and those who came before us who worked so hard to eventually create what we call America. What we have is special, important and worth hanging on to. May God bless our country and give those in power guidance and wisdom. They need it.

Worth Your Salt

2009-11-13T19:19:00.000-08:00

My oldest son, Chad, decided he wanted to see how much salt was in sea water. What is cool about this is that Chad has never been too interested in science - he's a history/music guy. So, of course, I took him down to the beach and let him brave the wind and rain to gather two gallons of sea water. One thing I love about Oregon beaches is how desolate they are on days like that. It was just Chad down by the water with nothing but the shipwrecked Peter Iredale (the iron remains of a ship that ran aground about 100 years ago) for company. Of course, as soon as he left the car, my Prius decided to flash an unfamiliar warning light at me. While he was enjoying the surf, I was frantically thumbing through my owner's manual, trying to decipher this strange symbol lit up on my dashboard. The bad thing about Oregon beaches on days like this is that they are desolate - just me and my Prius and possibly in need of a tow home. Todd was at home asleep (he had to work later) and the younger two were home but they would be of little use. I did have my cell phone but, fortunately, I figured out what that dang light meant. I had put my cell phone on the car charger for the first time and this light was to politely tell me that my phone was fully charged. AS IF I NEEDED TO BE TOLD! The symbol was of a key with an exclamation point through it. I ask you, does that mean "cell phone fully charged" to you? And the owner's manual showed the symbol but conveniently forgot to say what it meant. I discovered on my own by unplugging the cell phone charger, thinking that it might have something to do with the light. It's a good thing I have a few wits about me.

Anyway ... We got home with the water but waited until the following day to start boiling. We were thinking it would take all day. We have been discussing Lewis & Clark for the last month or so, since we just went through some of the places that they traveled. And the Salt Works where the Corps of Discovery made their salt during their winter stay here on the coast is down south of us in Seaside, about 17 miles away. We have visited this place in Seaside and during the summer, there is a Salt Work reenactment down on the beach where the actors immerse themselves in the roles of the Corps. If you ask them about anything modern, they don't understand but they'll tell you all about the Lewis & Clark expedition and the making of salt from sea water. So, now, Chad wanted to make his own salt. It actually didn't take that long. We got it boiling pretty good and after about 45 minutes, salt started boiling over onto the stove top. I think it took about an hour for the water to boil away. Chad ended up with nearly a cup of salt. It was pretty amazing to me. He spread the salt out on a cookie sheet to let it dry out thoroughly. We are not going to consume this salt as it has a lot of impurities in it but the boys will be using it for further science experiments. I think they want to figure out some kind of fuel source involving salt, something like that. So I think the experiment was a success. Chad enjoyed the process and we all learned something. Fortunately, we don't need this salt to season rotting elk meat, as I believe that was the reason Lewis & Clark needed their men to make salt. The next time you use your salt shaker, be thankful you don't have to work too hard for it. I know I am.

Kitchen Blunders, The Sequel

2009-11-08T22:24:00.000-08:00

I'll have to admit that making mistakes, wherever you make them, has the potential to teach you something. It should, anyway. And I suppose that I have learned a few things as I've blundered along in the kitchen for 20+ years.

I have learned that omitting the seasoning in the homemade pizza sauce and then sprinkling dried oregano, garlic and basil on top (before the cheese) is a sacrilege. It doesn't work. You may as well scrape the pizza sauce off into a bowl and then mix in the seasonings. Trust me on this (Todd agrees, whole-heartedly).

A recipe printed on a box or package seldom goes well. Forget it. Betty Crocker is best for most things. The first meal I cooked for Todd was on the back of a pepperoni package and involved some kind of pasta. We both still shudder when this is spoken of. I am surprised he proposed to me, after this nightmare.

I completely forgot about the yearly pumpkin pie episodes! I know of at least two times I have forgotten to put eggs in the custard. One year (or two, maybe), I actually removed them from the oven, poured the too-thin batter back into a bowl, mixed in the eggs, poured the batter back into the pie tins and rushed them back into the oven. They survived. Then there was the time I went a bit heavy on the cloves - whew! Way too spicy. Another time, I put the pies in and Todd wanted to go driving, to look at the Christmas lights (we make our pumpkin pies for Christmas dinner). I thought it would be o.k. as long as we were back in half an hour. As we were driving, I started getting anxious about the pies and we finally returned home. The timer had plenty of time left on it but the pies were way too brown. Um, oh, yeah ... I was suppose to turn down the oven temp after 15 minutes. We foiled the pies and they turned out o.k. - once again. I don't think I've actually ever ruined my pies but I really don't want to push my luck. Someday, I may not fare so well.

I will say one thing in my defense - my pies usually do taste good. They often don't look very pretty but I do know how to crimp and, armed with Todd's paternal grandmother's recipe, my crust nearly always tastes good. I say this now but I just found out that I am expected to make the pies for Thanksgiving dinner at my mother-in-law's. My sister-in-law usually makes them but things have changed this year. I need to pray.

Let's see - when I was single, used to broil steak whenever I had to cook for someone, as most of my friends couldn't afford steak so it was a treat (I worked full-time while my friends all went to college). I nearly always caught the steak on fire. That was before the days of required smoke alarms in apartments. Good thing.

I know I've caught at least a few things on fire in our married life but I can't remember right now. Scary isn't it? Oh, and then there are the times that are completely out of my control. When we first moved to Oregon, we lived in a little old house built in 1949, with an oven to match. I swear it had a place to put wood in to heat with, it was so huge. Anyway, that old oven gave out on me right in the middle of baking Christmas cookies, either the first or second Christmas we lived here. I finished baking the cookies in our toaster oven. Fortunately, we were just about to head home to see family and Todd's grandmother had an oven she didn't need anymore. What a blessing that was. Another time, I was experimenting with baking scones (I sometimes crave scones) but I don't think I had made them before. Anyway, the oven element decided to fail, right in the middle of baking my scones. Bummer. I can't remember if it burned the scones or if we finished baking them after we went and got another element. I guess I subconsciously try to forget these things, small wonder why.

There are many more stories but I'm sure you've had enough (I know I have). Tonight, I watched my husband skillfully make perfect steak and sauteed mushrooms. Watching him cook is like watching a ballet. He is so confident. He makes it look so effortless. I used to be jealous of his kitchen ability but I am over that. Now I just appreciate it and thank God that I have Todd to rescue me in the kitchen.

Never Ask Me To Bake Cornbread

2009-10-25T23:10:00.000-07:00

I have had it.

When it comes to kitchen blunders, I top the list. But my biggest and most frequent goof-ups always involve cornbread.

Don't ask me why.

I never, never seem to be able to make my cornbread come out the same way twice. Even when using the same recipe, it ends up being too ... something ... or whatever. I just can't get it right.

But tonight really took the cake (or bread but it really seems like cake to me.) Tonight I made cornbread in two smaller pans in our large toaster oven (yes, it has a bake control). I had a ham going in the big oven so I thought this would be a good idea. And it was. The cornbread looked terrific and baked about the same length of time as it would have in the big oven. I brought them to the table and Todd started cutting the breads to serve. I went back to the kitchen and when I returned, Todd asked me how much cornmeal I had put in the recipe. I about died. That's when I realized I had completely forgotten the cornmeal! As I stood there, speechless, my entire family was looking at me, waiting for my response. I finally admitted that I hadn't put ANY cornmeal in it. You should have seen their faces! Surprise, shock, a bit of fear (my kids REALLY love cornbread and probably were afraid to eat it). While I began to whimper, my dear husband (who is no longer surprised by anything I do or don't do to a recipe) said with a smile, "Mommy made 'Cornless' bread". Every child got up to hug and kiss me and say it was o.k. Talk about an embarrassing/humiliating/frustrating moment. What a dufus I am. (But what sweet kids I have!)

Then I tasted the cornbread (I figured it was only fair to be first). It wasn't bad. Everyone liked it, actually. Whew! I absolutely can't stand to waste time and resources on something that turns out inedible. I'm just not good in the kitchen, at least at cooking. You can read what you want into that sentence.

Now, every Mom kitchen blunder is always followed by my family recounting and retelling every kitchen blunder I have done in the past. What is funny is that several of my blunders have turned out to taste o.k., even to the point of being asked to repeat it. Like the time I had the oven turned to broil when I made pizza. I make homemade pizza weekly but I've only broiled it once and the kids liked it but Todd would have liked the crust a bit more done on the bottom. That blunder is talked about frequently. Omitting an ingredient happens a lot but I also get distracted a lot when I'm cooking. I've taken to telling the kids not to talk to me when I'm in the middle of a recipe.

There are so many, many things I've done wrong, I don't feel like discussing any more right now. I'm still so miffed about the cornmeal thing. I'd like to go back to Jiffy mix cornbread which is what I grew up on but my family prefers from scratch. My Mom used to make it from scratch until she discovered Jiffy. Now I know why. I never liked the way she made it until she started using a mix. Cornbread was a major staple in her house as well as my Dad's when they were young. It was made weekly when I was growing up. You'd think I'd learn a thing or two. But that's part of the problem. My mom didn't teach me a thing about cooking and I never was interested enough to learn (I'm not blaming you mom, it's just the way it was).

When I got married, my husband taught me to cook. But he just can't teach me the essence of cooking. He tries. Tonight he asked what ratio of flour to cornmeal did I have. I just looked at him. He then asked what the consistency of the batter was. I said I didn't really notice. He just shook his head. I feel badly that I don't notice things like that (not often anyway). But that's the difference in a cook and someone who just makes a recipe - attention to detail.

Sigh. My Mom burned a lot of food. My Dad would always say it was just the way he liked it. Now that's love. Still, I am fortunate - my husband continues to eat my blunders. And fortunate that he tries to help me improve. If only I were a better student!

Yellowstone or Bust

2009-10-05T21:45:00.000-07:00

We got the trailer. We went to Yellowstone. And now we are home.

If only it was that simple.

The funding finally arrived on a Mon. to pay the seller of the travel trailer (also known as a caravan to some of you). But the seller was out of town until Saturday. We had various problems and delays equipping the van (our tow vehicle) for this 10-day trip. Todd got his flu shot on Friday and spent the next 48 hours having an immune response (chills/fever). Finally, on Sunday, we crossed the Columbia River to get the trailer in Washington. Transaction completed, shaking of hands, a few words of advice and we hitched up. As we pulled out of the driveway, it was then that I realized the scope of what we had just done. Driving the narrow (oh, so narrow) winding road along the river back toward Oregon, I could feel just how looming and large that trailer was behind us. Going through the tunnel, then over the steep incline on the bridge back into Oregon, I shuddered at the thought of following the Lewis & Clark trail on our way to Wyoming.

Whimper.

There was no turning back now. On Monday, we had the transmission serviced on the van, obtained insurance for the trailer and got it registered with the state. We spent part of Monday and all day Tuesday cleaning the trailer and packing for the trip. Amazingly, we headed out on Wednesday, September 23rd, taking the highway that goes through the mountains headed toward Portland. My son, Alec, shouted, "Yellowstone or Bust!" Little did he know. 1-1/2 hours into the drive, we started seeing steam pouring out from under the hood. Todd pulled over to the side. We were in the middle of nowhere, about 1/2 hour from Portland. Cell phone service was sketchy but we talked with our travel club (AAA) to arrange to be towed. They didn't know where to send us. So I called an RV store I knew in the nearest big town (Hillsboro) and they recommended a radiator repair shop. Todd kept stopping to fill the radiator with water and we limped into Hillsboro. They said it could be fixed by the next day and offered to let us park next to the building, even allowing us to use their electricity. I was in tears. This was not the way I pictured starting our trip. But it was really the best option. However, at about 6:15 pm, the manager knocked on our door of the trailer and said we were good to go. What an angel! He stayed late so we could get on our way. This was only the beginning of us seeing God's hand at work on this trip.

We stayed at a campground in Portland. It had been an extremely hot and exhausting day and we were so thankful to finally stop for the night. Our first night was interesting because no one knew where anything was or how things worked in the trailer (there had been no time for a tutorial) and sleeping was difficult as no one was used to the shaking of the trailer everytime someone rolled over in bed. Carmen was especially whiny, a bad habit that we became used to every night of the trip.

The next day was awesome. A beautiful drive along the Columbia river, through the Gorge and on up into Washington's lower tip, staying along the Snake river where it meets the Clearwater, right at the Idaho border. This would become our favorite campground where we biked a bit until Chad's tire sprung a leak. Then we headed out on Highway 12 which is known as a long and winding road. We were basically following the Lewis & Clark Trail and stopped to read a lot of historic signs along the way. We had to stop 4 times due to road construction but it gave us time to hop out and explore the Lochsa river. Then we started to climb. It got steeper and steeper, on Lolo Pass. Alec and Todd started to see smoke coming from under the van. It got pretty thick. We pulled over and saw something leaking under the van, where it was hitting hot metal and causing the smoke. Since we were near the top of the pass, Todd decided to keep going until we found a better place to pull over. As the van slowly lurched to the top, I yelled to the kids, "Pray!" Amazingly, there was a huge parking lot and visitor center, waiting for us to pull in. I yelled to the kids to get out of the van, as smoke was everywhere. We ran. But Todd said it wasn't going to blow up or anything, it was just the transmission leaking. We went into the visitor center where they let us use their phone (again, NO cell phone service) and we arranged for a tow vehicle from AAA in Missoula, Montana (the nearest town down the other side of the pass, we were still in Idaho). The park rangers were so, so kind and helpful to us and our kids. God put us right where we needed to be. We needed transmission fluid but they didn't have any. Then a delivery man pulled up (it was about 4:30 pm) and came in. I jokingly asked if we could hitch a ride with him. Then I had a thought, "Hey, do you have any transmission fluid in your truck?" He said no, sorry, and went into another room. Then he came out and said his next stop was a ranger station that had a store - perhaps they had some. I gave him $20 (all I had) and teased that if he didn't return, it would be on his conscience (he laughed but I just knew he'd be back). We waited while the rangers closed up the center and Todd finally got through to AAA. Amazingly, the tow truck arrived, followed by the delivery man who handed Todd the transmission fluid and our change. I ran out in time to grab his hand and thank him profusely for helping. I could have cried (I think I did). May God bless that delivery man for coming to our rescue. God put him there just at the right time. We filled the transmission and the tow truck driver followed us all the way to Missoula, right up to the campground (where I had already called as soon as we got cell phone reception.) Tow truck man waved goodbye and we parked and set up camp for the night. Another late night but at least we were where we should be. The rangers in Idaho had called a transmission repair for us and Todd had arranged for us to take the van in on Monday (this was late Friday, of course, everything was closed.) Saturday, we spent doing laundry and resting. It was hot and windy in Missoula but it was my first time in Montana so I was a little stoked. I haven't been in a new state since I was 12, which makes 39 states I have set foot in. There was, however, a fire to the northeast (in Helena) and we could actually see a red glow. This would not be the only fire we encountered and with the wind, it was a little unnerving. The kids played a little mini golf at the campground and Todd made some decisions. If we waited until the van was repaired, we would run out of time to go to Yellowstone. So I started making calls, booking a hotel room just outside of Yellowstone and reserving a rental van. If we couldn't camp in Yellowstone, at least we could go there. Sunday, we got the rental van, packed our stuff in plastic trash bags and left the van at the repair shop. Yellowstone, here we come!

We had a beautiful drive through Montana - my goodness, it's big! Mile after mile of burnished hills and valleys. It seemed to take forever, going through Butte and nearly getting to Bozeman. We turned south then and headed toward the North entrance of Yellowstone. We walked into the Super 8 that our travel club had arranged for us and, of course, they didn't have our reservation. I wasn't surprise at all, it seemed that nothing would go smoothly on this trip but things did work out and they apologized for the inconvenience (it was actually their mistake, for once!) We got a big corner room that overlooked the parking lot and the sun set over the hills just beyond. I asked the front desk for a dinner recommendation and we ate at a pretty good Italian restaurant. To me, vacations are made up of little moments and that night, as everyone else was asleep and I was just getting into bed, I heard some motorcycles zooming into the parking lot. Three way-too happy guys headed toward the hotel when one of them shouted, "Viva Las Vegas!" It was all I could do not to laugh out loud. This became my mantra for the rest of the trip. The next morning, I saw these same guys in the parking lot and couldn't help but shout, "Viva Las Vegas!" Todd was stunned and the men looked a little sheepish. I explained that I'd had a good laugh at that one and asked if they had a good time. "Oh, yeah!" came the reply and they went on. Todd said, "What was all that about?" I said I'd explain later. Anyway, both nights at the hotel, we heard the mating call of a bull elk outside the window (I was glad to be on the 2nd floor). Quite a noise, especially at 2:00 am. We saw the female in the morning, right outside. Cool.

We spent two terrific days in Yellowstone, exploring the northern half. We could not get to Old Faithful (the most reliable and huge geyser) because of road construction to the east and a fire blocking the road to the west. This fire was near where we had made reservations to camp, near the lake, so it is obvious God didn't want us to go there. Amazing how you see things clearer on reflection. The smoke from this fire covered the east side of the park but it was far enough away not to cause danger where we were. However, we had to make a 120 mile detour on Tuesday just to get to Old Faithful, a must-see. It was worth it but, oh, so much driving. At least we had a reliable van and nothing to tow. We saw so much wildlife, nearly everything on Chad's list. Todd had his new baby, a digital camera, and would regularly hop out of the van to take photos whenever the opportunity came. We'd see people lined up on the side of the road and knew there was something to see. Remarkably there were few people at the park so we had a lot of it to ourselves.

On Monday, we spent a lot of time walking around hot springs and such and I was looking for a particular one, with a hole in the bottom in the shape of a bear. This was special to me because the last time I was here I was 6 and with my own family. They had teased me that a bear had fallen into the spring and I believed them. When I saw that hot spring, I was excited. But then I started to cry ... and cry. I didn't want to leave. Memories of my Dad, knowing he had stood here with me and my family, it just kind of overwhelmed me (PMS didn't help my mood, either). Todd and the kids moved on, leaving me there all alone. All alone. It was quite a moment. Just me, in Yellowstone, with my memories. I will not forget it.

So, after enjoying all we could in Yellowstone, we had to head back late on Tuesday for Missoula. Now, I have always scoffed at minivans equipped with DVD players for the kids. I mean, WE survived traveling without these things as kids so who needs them? However, we bought a DVD of Yellowstone and thought, what the heck! It was late, so we let the kids watch as we drove and then they all went to sleep. Don't knock it until you try it, right?!

We'd had awesome weather in Yellowstone but on Wednesday, we knew a storm was moving in, complete with snow. We headed out of Missoula (with our van and trailer), back to the campground on the Washington/Idaho border (Clarkston/Lewiston). We took a different route, to avoid the snow we had seen on the pass that morning. This route was beautiful but at one point, we began climbing, and climbing. It was awfully hard on the van and Todd was pensive. Just as we were thinking we couldn't get much higher, we came out onto an enormous expanse, like a great canyon. It looked down on Moscow, Idaho, and it was beautiful but the grade going down was going to do a number on our brakes. I think I held my breath and prayed harder than ever. Everyone was silent. I was so glad to reach the bottom. The brakes were a bit warm but we made it.

We stayed two nights at the Clarkston, WA, campground, biking and hanging out. Friday, we headed for home, holding our breath with every incline. There seemed to be a lot of inclines and we didn't know if the van would be o.k. By this time, we didn't trust it (at least, I didn't). Going through the Columbia Gorge, we encountered a head wind that lasted about 80 miles. Todd fought that wind the whole way, poor guy. It beat us around a bit. Then, after Portland, there are at least 4 passes to deal with, along the Columbia River. But we made it. It has taken us two full days to recover. Even today, (Monday), everyone is still a bit shell-shocked by our trip. We had a lot of good times but way too many tense and stressful times. The kids held up well. And we saw our faith tested and strengthened by looking for God to provide and protect. On our last night camping, I needed just one more quarter to finish my laundry. The office was closed so I took my coins and began praying for an angel with a quarter. It was dark but I started walking around the campground and finally saw a couple walking. I knew I had found my angel. I asked if they would exchange my coins for a quarter. The husband obliged and even asked if I needed more. I said, "No thank you but I was praying for an angel and you're it!" So many times I was able to share with the kids how God provided for us. It would have been nice to have had a smooth, trouble-free vacation but life's not like that. We have to be thankful for what we are given and look for the good in people, places and life in general. And that's what this trip did. Definitely.

No Trailer Yet

2009-09-13T22:48:00.000-07:00

No, no trailer yet. However, that didn't stop us from taking a short, 2-day camping trip last week. Dang it.

We had hoped to have the trailer before we left for a couple of days at a beach campground we like, just 1-1/2 hours south of us. We had also hoped it wouldn't rain.

But rain it did. It let up long enough for Todd and Chad to set up the tent (ugh, says Kate) and then Todd said (bless him!) we weren't going to cook in the rain so we set out to search for a restaurant. The campground is just outside of Tillamook, which means "Land of Many Waters" but I believe it really means, "Land of Many Cows", because there are a lot of dairy farms in the area. However, it floods there almost annually so there you go. Tillamook is famous for it's cheese and it's our cheese of preference. Now, we've been to Tillamook many times but we've never actually eaten there so we didn't know where to go. I just happened to have called the local radio station before we left home to ask what the weather was there and I still had that phone number on my cell phone (brilliant, right?) We passed the local radio station on our way to the campground so I got the idea to call them again to ask where to eat. I listen to this station all the time at home so I knew who would answer the phone and I was right. The evening DJ gave me a couple of names of restaurants so we headed out for the first one he recommended. It was right on the bay, had a great view but it was under construction and looked like a dive at first. We decided to drive through town but didn't see anything that looked appealing so we went back to the first place. It turned out to be a nice place after all and the food was good. Thank you, Lord.

It was late and dark when we returned to the campground but it had stopped raining, except for occasional drizzle (nothing new here) so Todd started a fire and we sat around until 10:00 or so, talking and telling stories. That's probably my favorite time of camping. Good thing because I had no idea just how long my night was going to get.

After teeth brushing, we put everyone to bed and got in ourselves. The kids were already grumbling and whining. We haven't camped in our tent in over a year and a half and the kids have all grown, as in, outgrown our tent. It's supposed to sleep 6 but we think that means 6 little people or perhaps 2 adults and 4 very small kids. Carmen had outgrown her sleeping bag and kept flipping around until she was out of the bag completely. She cried and cried because she couldn't sleep, gave herself a headache and was nearly inconsolable in spite of all my efforts to comfort her. I rubbed her head, rubbed her back, etc., praying for God's help. I finally put her in my sleeping bag and she began to calm down, finally going to sleep around 12:30 or so. The bad thing about this is Todd and I sleep in two sleeping bags zipped together to make a double bag. With 8 year old Carmen next to me, I was sandwiched in the middle with 6' Todd on the other side. I couldn't move. At least I wasn't cold (for once). I laid there, dozing off and on, all night long, afraid to move as I didn't want to wake Carmen. The boys tossed and turned for several hours, it sounded like Alec was rolling over and over in his bag. Then, around 3:00 or so, everyone in the tent began to snore. First Alec, then Chad, then Todd, then Carmen. It was like a chorus of snoring, in harmony. I nearly burst out laughing but knew I had to be quiet. Before I knew it, I woke up hearing myself snore, proof that I had slept at least a little. What a night.

Did I mention I really don't like camping, especially tent camping?

I laid there until I saw light and, thank the Lord, it was a sunny day. We had breakfast, walked on the beach, made lunch, the kids went exploring. Todd and I took naps in the van. Well, he slept but I couldn't really. He took the kids kite flying while I tried to sleep some more. I wanted to go home but relented because everyone wanted to stay. Todd could see how upset I was and did all the cooking for dinner. We watched the sun set on the water and Todd got some good photos. We had a campfire again, which was fun but we put everyone to bed earlier this time. The kids all said they'd try harder to go to sleep. But we still had to put Carmen in our sleeping bag. Night 2 of no moving. But I was so tired I didn't care and fell asleep almost immediately at 10:00 (I'm a clock-watcher when we camp, a bad habit). An hour later, our camp neighbor's car alarm went off, sending Todd and me nearly through the top of the tent. Todd tried frantically to unzip the tent and I dove to get out of his way. We were both disoriented, forgetting momentarily where we were. He never did get the tent unzipped before our neighbor got the alarm turned off and we heard him say, "Sorry". I called out, "That's O.K." but I was so shaken it was quite some time before I could calm down enough to go back to sleep. During that time, Todd was turning over in his small space, just as I was sitting up a bit and, "WHAM" his strong elbow came into contact with my forehead. My whole head was shaken. He really belted me one good! It still hurts. I wanted to go home so badly. At that moment, I hated the world, hated the tent, hated the stupid yurt campers next door, hated my daughter's too-small sleeping bag. She spent part of the night perpendicular to me, kicking me in the knees. I kept moving her over to no avail. Todd finally offered to be in the middle, which I gladly accepted. Finally ... sleep.

Amazingly, and by God's grace, Carmen never woke up during all that commotion.

Another beautiful morning but I couldn't wait to get out of there. I accidentally tossed out one of my favorite paring knives (Note to self: Never take a kitchen utensil that you really like camping). I also closed the van door on my hand, not hard enough to do much damage but it scared me (well, it did hurt). My knees are bruised from getting in and out of the back of the van where the cooler and the food were stored. My back and knees hurt for 2 days from sleeping on the ground. What a baby ... waaah, waaah.

O.k., I've gotten this all out of my system. I am not a good camper, didn't camp as a kid, I'm spoiled by the conveniences of life. I do appreciate the beauty of the outdoors, God's creation and all. I just want a shower and private toilet at the end of the day. And a bed. Is that asking too much?

Oh, yeah. If we ever get the trailer, I will have those things. I think that's what frustrated me so much, knowing that trailer is across the river and there we were, sitting in the rain, slogging through the mud, sleeping on uneven ground under a wet, wet tent. This campsite is completely shrouded by trees, dripping, wet trees. All night long, the trees dripped so hard on the tent I envisioned chipmunks slapping the tent. (Chipmunks were everywhere.) Every time I got into the back of the van, there was one particular tree branch that waited for me, just to drip down my neck. Seriously! After the umpteenth time, I was ready to scream.

So much for relaxing in the great outdoors.

Perhaps I had to go through this experience to really appreciate the trailer. God forgive me for being so spoiled.

Our Long Trailer

2009-09-01T23:23:00.000-07:00

In case you were wondering, I have reached my goal of learning "Memories" by the end of Aug. Now, I'm working on "The Sound of Music", although I'm not setting a deadline. But, gosh, playing piano is fun! I love the challenge of trying to make my fingers work at the same time my brain is trying to remember what note is what. It seldom gels but when it does, I'm so stoked!

But that's not what you came here to read about. Are there any Lucille Ball fans lurking about out there? I'm not much of a fan anymore but I grew up on the "I Love Lucy" b&w reruns that were always on Channel 11. There was also that movie (in color) called, "The Long, Long Trailer", starring Lucy and Desi Arnaz (of course). If you've ever seen that movie, you will understand the next paragraph.

We are in the process of buying a long trailer. A travel trailer. And more often than I care to admit, that movie comes to mind. I have no idea what I'm getting into. I'm sure camping in the trailer will be not that much different than tent/van camping except we'll have our own kitchen and bath (a godsend) so I'll bet I will like it a lot more. And perhaps I won't be cold, now there's a selling point right there. But I get the feeling that I should learn a lot more about it and fast. I stopped a neighbor down the street the other day (we've never spoken but he was walking out of his travel trailer as I drove by) just to see if he had any advice about RV's, like safety issues, etc. I've been reading anything we have in the house about RV's, which isn't much. I get research-happy about new things and this is no different. I just haven't had much time to research lately but I will.

In that Lucy movie, I remember her trying to prepare dinner in the trailer while her husband was driving it. As you can imagine, stuff was flying everywhere, typical Lucy-humor. In fact, it's the only scene I remember from the movie, which was probably way too adult for me to watch at the age I saw it. While I know I won't be in the trailer while it is moving, I keep thinking of stories I've heard, like the time some husband was doing a repair on the road and something electrocuted him, leaving the wife stranded. True story, unfortunately. I keep thinking, "What exactly did he do?" I also wonder if I'll get claustrophobic but the thing is huge, much larger than the van or the tent. I'm trying to look at the positive things and not dwell on my concerns. But I keep seeing Lucy lurching about, trying to stir something while her husband is turning corners. I think they pulled their trailer with a car. Don't ask me why my mind has chosen this scenario - I can't figure it out.

You know, my poor dear mother actually asked if we were going to pull that trailer with my prius. I guess that's the only vehicle she can remember that we have. I wanted to scream but I simply said that, no, we have a van quite capable of doing the job. My mom makes me want to scream frequently these days but that's another story that won't be posted here. Respect your mom, never write negatively about her. There's some stand-up comedienne who's being sued by her mother-in-law because of the negative things this lady has been saying about her in her comedy shows. That'll teach her.

Oh, I've digressed again. The trailer. Yes. My family is excited. It hasn't sunk in for me. It's not here yet. When we do finally pull it into our driveway, perhaps all my concerns will be put to rest. I hope.

Never Too Old

2009-08-22T23:04:00.000-07:00

This is kind of cool. We are a semi-musical family. My husband plays piano and is teaching himself guitar. He's also trying to teach second son, Alec, guitar but Alec is not known for being consistent. There's still hope. Chad took piano for five years then switched to euphonium until his braces prevented him from playing. He switched back to piano on his own but I hadn't heard him play in months.

The cool thing is that I decided I would try to learn how to play piano on my own. After several months of sporadic playing here and there, I finally learned two small pieces (I especially like "Scarborough Fair") and am currently working on "Memories" from the Cats musical. I have observed a resurgence of interest in Chad since I have been working on these pieces. I have asked for his help several times since I only read music up to a point. My formal (school) training is in clarinet and choir, which only helps so much but at least I can figure out the notes. And it's fun! When I was 20, I rented a piano for $21 a month and tried to teach myself from a book of music that included Elton John and Steely Dan, not exactly beginner's material. I got discouraged after 6 months and turned in the piano.

Now, at least, I have two trained pianists for help and I'm much more patient with myself. Owning the piano helps. I also have an audience, including the dogs next door who hear me through the window. Playing for an audience makes one sit up straighter, etc. My family also encourages me which is nice, even when I hit the wrong notes.

But the best thing is seeing Chad tackling a hard piece. He's been listening to a CD of the music he's playing and then goes to the piano to work on it. It's wonderful to watch. He really has potential, this young one. I try to be encouraging to him without pushing. I hope, hope, hope, he pursues it.

Anyone out there remember Steely Dan? (I loved the "Aja" album but I was in Jr. High, I think, so I'm probably the only one who remembers!)

O.K., About The Llamas ...

2009-08-10T22:41:00.000-07:00

Funny you should ask. When Todd and I were young, idealistic, and newly married to boot, we began working on a dream to move to a small piece of land in the country and raise something. An animal something, that is. We were living in Southern California at the time, where we grew up, and had no idea how to raise any kind of live stock but we started researching. We first heard about a woman raising muskoxen in Montana. But after learning more about the injuries she received from her precious herd, we began looking for less dangerous beasts. Enter the alpaca. Smaller than its cousin, the llama, producing better wool to sell or spin, and darn cute to walk among (especially the babies) we thoroughly researched this kind of venture. We visited several alpaca farms in California, meeting owners and learning how it's done. We were hooked. The downside was that alpacas were very expensive at the time (this was 20 years ago, before the market became glutted and then declined in popularity). So we began looking at llamas more seriously. They were less expensive and could be trained to carry a pack and used for hiking. We made the big move to OR in our 3rd year of marriage, after several trips north and a lot of prayer. God's guidance was so evident that it would take another post to tell. Anyway, we ended up on nearly an acre in a rural setting which allowed us to have perhaps 2 llamas. We figured it was a start and hoped to get more land someday and grow more animals. We found our first llama, which we named Abraham, in a cramped little stall on a makeshift petting zoo/farm. The eccentric owner sold him to us for a price we could afford and we took our 6 mo old babe home. He was so cute. We fell in love. I got so used to watching him out the kitchen window, grazing and walking around within the electric New Zealand style fencing that Todd labored to put up. The electric wire was to keep out the vicious dog next door that had tried to attack Abraham the day we brought him home. I was so glad when that dog disappeared, along with it's weird owners.

After 6 months, we visited a veterinarian on whose farm Abraham was born. Abraham's older brother was still there and we decided to purchase him as well. Bad move. We loved Abraham's gentle demeanor and sweetness. Big brother was a nasty animal. Hard to train, stubborn. Abraham trained to a halter and pack with no problems, really. Isaac was always difficult. We named him Isaac because it means something like laughter but he was no laughing matter. He kicked Abraham in the face right after we brought him home. I was in tears. They resolved their difficulties, however, and learned to live together. Every evening, they would begin chasing each other, then stop and pose, chase again, then would begin galloping around and around. It was hysterical. I have observed this kind of behavior in my own kids when they were very small. What is it about the evening?

To sum things up, after we had our second child, we were forced to move from our dinky house in the country and into a larger home in town. Shortly thereafter, we auctioned our llamas off to a couple who had a place for them down the coast, south of here. We've not seen them since. It was an experience I'm glad we had and there are times I wish my kids could have grown up with them. We will never forget them.

21

2009-08-07T21:43:00.000-07:00

Todd & Kate

August 6, 1988

3 - kids

2 - states

3 - homes

4 - moves

2 - businesses

3 - episodes of melanoma

1 - heart surgery

2 - llamas

1 - God

___________

21 years of happy marriage

Thanks Todd!

You have been and always will be the only one for me!

Whew! (In more ways than one)

2009-07-28T22:32:00.000-07:00

It's official - the Kay Snow Awards winners were announced via email and I did NOT win. I am so relieved to know, even though I was pretty certain I didn't have a chance. I kind of hate what I submitted - I deserved not to win! It was too dark, coming from a sad and scary place and time for me. I'm also relieved that I do not have to attend the awards ceremony, taking place two days after our 21 wedding anniversary in August. However, I just found out who the guest speaker at the awards is going to be and it's a Portland author I am interested in meeting. She used to write a weekly column in the Sunday Oregonian and I always wanted her job. Every time I read her column, I thought I could at least write the kind of stuff she wrote about - usually short essays about her daily life or past. The stuff I write about. Now, she no longer has that column but is concentrating on her third book. Her first book was a best seller and her second is doing very well. Sigh. While I am thrilled for her and her success, I really don't want her life, I just want my own life as an author. Preferably one who can make a little $$. Know what I mean? (Yes, Todd, I know, I know.)

"Whew" also refers to how stinkin' hot is was here today! Man! We actually went out and bought an air conditioner for our bedroom and another fan for the living room. We had every window and ceiling fan in the house going. We were all miserable. Even going in and out of stores was rough, being blasted by heat again and again. We are not used to this. It gets like this, though rarely, where it will be cool and in the low 70's forever and then, wham! The temps shoot up 15-20 degrees in one morning and everyone wilts. It was interesting to see how people around here dress for heat they are not prepared for. Lots of white, white limbs and an interesting array of summer clothes. One woman looked like a street walker (she might have been, I didn't ask.) I was pretty certain I saw a teenage boy in a skirt. And then, at the grocery store, I was walking past a display of signs, the one I focused on said, "Dog On Premises". Then I turned my head and there was a dog, right there at my feet in the store! This is not a common sight at Fred Meyer. The lady walking behind him said he couldn't take the heat in her car. I asked if the store allowed it and she said they would tolerate it for a few minutes. So, off goes this dog wandering the aisles, no leash. Hmmm. I think the heat makes people a little nuts - at least here on the OR coast.

So, now, we have the equivalent of a hotel room-like atmosphere in my own private bedroom. I get to freeze just like I do in Portland. Why is my side of the bed always nearest the air conditioner?

Fraise Fatigue

2009-07-19T22:30:00.000-07:00

I have had this title in my head for a week now. Our two strawberry pots on our deck have been flourishing, rewarding us with ripe strawberries not once but twice a day. My daughter likes to go out in the morning, basket in hand, and pick the best ones. Later, before dinner, she heads out, usually with Chad, and finds more that have ripened in the heat. Yes, we are actually having a summer now, after a cold and foggy June. What a great feeling to wear summer clothes around the house and be too warm. Evenings, when we walk, I still wear a sweatshirt but I don't have to wear my winter parka anymore. It was getting embarrassing in June, the sun shining but there I was, freezing in my parka during our after-dinner walks. Anyway, I digress ...

The strawberries, yes (fraise, in French). Having strawberries means you have to prepare them because you do, after all, have to eat them. Every day, I have been preparing strawberries. At first, we bought those sponge cake cups at the store to eat them on. But they have changed the sponge cakes - they are now Twinkies without the cream (Hostess is the only brand that makes these cakes, at least here in our stores.) Ugh. We are not a Hostess family. So I made our favorite pound cake, a recipe from my first Better Homes & Gardens cookbook that a kind boss of mine gave me back when I turned 21. He liked to cook and was always telling me recipes that I would scribble down on scratch paper. I still have some of those scraps in my recipe box. Anyway, the pound cake lasted 3 days, slicing it thin and only having it after dinner (it's pretty rich). No whipped cream, just cake, strawberries and, for some of our family, milk poured in around the cake in a bowl. Delicious. But now the cake is gone. And there are still strawberries ripening daily. The boys and I like to eat them plain, on their own. But my husband will only eat them cut up, smashed with sugar and on top of something cake-like. So now, I have to make something else. Shortcake seems the likely suspect but I've not had very good luck with shortcake. Decisions, decisions.

Don't get me wrong. I am thankful we have been blessed with strawberries. Growing up in California, it wasn't summer if there weren't strawberries bought at one of the many local farms around our town. As I got older, I saw a lot of those farms get plowed under and turned into buildings and parking lots. But there was always a place to buy strawberries. When we moved here to Oregon, we discovered Oregon berries, available for a very short time. They are smaller but really good. I like them better than the huge berries you buy shipped up here from CA. It's just that I have never, ever prepared so many strawberries in one summer in my life.

I think it was the way our summer of berries began that led to my early fatigue. The day before the 4th of July, Todd spotted big, beautiful strawberries at the grocery store and couldn't resist. We here on the coast don't often get terrific berries at the stores, I don't know what happens to them between their place of origin and here but this was a rare find. He bought 6 quarts (I think that was the size) and announced we were going to make jam. He filled the sink with water and berries and I stood there for 2 hours, rinsing, hulling and slicing strawberries. He and the kids did the jam part. I was exhausted. I never wanted to see another berry again after that. And then our plants on the deck began to ripen. And ripen. And ripen.

So, that's my story. I love how much fun Carmen is having, being the official strawberry picker. I took her photo with her basket. Funny thing is, she won't eat them. She tried one and it was too "stingy". Go figure. She likes the cake, but without strawberries. I guess you could say she has fear of fraise.

Seeing (Simply) Red, Leo and Thunder

2009-07-12T23:20:00.000-07:00

The Coincidence Queen strikes again (I'm sorry, I can't help myself.)

Last night, I was listening to a local radio station that plays 80's music from 6 pm-midnight on Saturday. I love 80's music so I was listening with my oldest son. Lately, he's been asking me who the singers are whenever I listen to the radio. Anyway, on this Saturday 80's program, they feature something called Back-To-Back, where they play 3 songs in a row and the listener is to try and guess the name of the song and the singer/group. The songs are often something that wasn't played a lot so this can be a challenge. And they don't tell you the answers until all 3 songs have been played. Song #1: I couldn't think of the singer's name but I knew the song. Song #2: I guessed the group Simply Red but didn't know the title. Song #3 was unremarkable and I didn't have a clue. Then they gave the answers. Song #1 was a surprise (it was U2). Song #2 was a group I had never heard of. Song #3 - you guessed it - the group Simply Red. Is that weird or what? I guessed the name of the group during the 2nd song and it turned out to be the group for the 3rd song! Weird. So today, I turned on the radio (to a different local station) and it was just finishing up a song. The very next song was Simply Red (I Keep Holding On)! I shouted to my son, "Hey, Chad, this is Simply Red, you know, the group from last night!" He just rolled his eyes and shook his head. He's used to his eccentric mother getting excited about obscure things.

On to more important things. Like fish. Todd was not content with just Chad's fish in Todd's new tank. He bought a few more. One, a butterfly fish, he allowed me to help with naming: I said "Flutter" so he changed it to "Flutterbudget" after the nickname Pa gave to Laura Ingalls when she was a tyke. Alec, for reasons unknown I think even to himself, decided he just had to have a lionhead goldfish. Named Leo. (A $7 goldfish - yikes!) He put it in with his female betta. Within a few hours, she nipped a hole in the new guy's tail. Out she went, banished to her former and much smaller home. Leo 1, betta 0. (Her name escapes me at the moment - we are so overrun with fish there's NO WAY I can remember who is who.) Leo appears to have a grin when you look at him just right - I think he's feeling smug 'cause he's got the place to himself now.

Ever heard of MaryJanesFarm magazine? It's really cool. It's for chic farmgirls, in the city or country. Or for those of us who aspire to be farmgirl-like but don't have a clue and hate to get our nails dirty. I just subscribed mainly because of an amazing biscuit recipe in it. My husband declared they were the best biscuits I had ever made. If you knew my miserable history with biscuit making (no Bisquick here folks), you'd understand just how awesome it felt to hear him make that statement. Let me know if you are interested - there's nothing in it for me, I'm just excited about it and want to spread the joy.

I must go - my oldest son is asleep on the couch because Alec's new pump in Leo's tank is too loud for Chad to sleep in the same room with. But we can't let Chad continue to sleep in the livingroom. Maybe we could set him up with a sleeping bag in the dining room. Or pitch a tent on the deck - oh, wait, it's raining. We had a remarkable day of thunder and lightning today. It went from about 4:00 a.m. until nearly lunchtime, I think. Just yesterday, we went for a walk in the warmth of the sun and stopped to talk to the owner of a beautiful hidden garden in our neighborhood. We both agreed that July is the time of year when you could almost count on sunny weather here. Apparently, we were wrong.

Because We Don't Have Enough Fish Tanks

2009-07-06T22:50:00.000-07:00

My husband has been eyeing a rather large fish tank at our local pet store for the past month or so. I was not convinced that we needed more fish in our home at this time. But then there was Father's Day and I said he could get the tank as his gift. The next time we went to the pet store, that particular tank was gone. Ever so accommodating, the store had other tanks to choose from. We decided to wait.

Late last night, I heard a noise down the hall so I went to investigate. As usual, Todd was working, which is the only time I hear strange noises. My oldest son was still awake because of the activity going on across the street. It seems that some older teens decided to pour some gasoline in the middle of the street and set in on fire. My son watched it all from his window (he has the top bunk). They were leaving by the time I looked out. We live in a quiet neighborhood, things like this don't usually happen. Calling the police would have been pointless because we think one of the kids was a neighbor's son and his father IS a cop. So we let it lie. The kids left and all was quiet. Then my son pointed his flashlight at his fish tank and said it was leaking. Sure enough, it was. Water was seeping slowly out from the bottom. Great. Why do these things happen at 11:30 pm, while Todd is away?! I put a towel around it and said we'd deal with it tomorrow. Just as I was closing Chad's door, I heard the front door open (always a startling sound late at night). ICU was closed (meaning no patients) and Todd had spent 5 hours working in the ER, then he was sent home to be on-call. By now, I was wide awake and figured it was useless to try to sleep. But I did, after everyone else went to sleep.

Next day, we decided now was a good time to get Todd's new fish tank. We have to put Chad's fish somewhere while Todd repairs Chad's tank. So, of course, it made sense to buy a 26 gal. tank to put in the living room (um, o.k.) It's big. Chad's enormous plecostomus(?) (a ground feeding fish) is dwarfed by the size of this tank. Tonight will be the first time I will sleep (alone) with this new noise (the filter, pump, etc.) just down the hall in the living room. I don't know if it will lull me to sleep or not - I hope so. When Chad's tank is repaired, we'll have to buy new fish for the new tank. I just hope I don't have nightmares about Chad's huge pleco jumping out of the tank and swishing down the hall - that thing scares me. A blog friend had fish jump out of her tank once, huge fish. (If you read this, you'll know who you are.)

The good news is that I refuse to accept responsibility for any maintenance of any of the fish tanks. All I do is feed Carmen's guppies. All the cleaning, etc., is left up to the guys. Chad and/or Todd maintain Carmen's tank. So, I suppose, if all I have to put up with is a little water noise, it's not so bad. Sounds kind of like a fountain in a pond. I can hear it from in here (where the computer is) but the house and neighborhood are pretty quiet right now. The tank looks nice in the living room, I must admit.

But where will it end? How much is enough when it comes to fish? Carmen has been talking about wanting a betta. Alec, who has a betta, wants to get a tank like Chad's. But first, Alec wants to build his own jelly fish tank. Todd is contemplating breeding his male and female bettas. Me? I just want a quiet life ...

The Coincidence

2009-06-23T22:39:00.000-07:00

It's happening again.

I have this knack for coincidences. It's like they are drawn to me, like a vortex with me at the center. I used to think if was eerie, but now I think I'm just overly sensitive to them so I notice them more. I also ponder them for awhile, which is why they stay in my head for a time.

The following are coincidences that have happened to me in the last 2 months:

- My son, Chad, and I were driving into town to the bank. It's a small town, 10,000 people, and the bank is about 2 miles away. In that time, we began to discuss the type of car my husband used to want to buy. We hadn't seen one in a long time; in fact, we couldn't remember the name of the car, even though Todd used to point out this particular car every time he saw one. We pulled up to the drive-through at the bank and at the same time saw the car in front of us. In unison, Chad and I said, "Eagle Vision!" Yep, it was the car in question.

- Another car issue. Chad and I were walking in our neighborhood, taking a different loop which led us into a street we hadn't walked on in a long time. We were discussing the Neon, another car we hadn't seen in a long time. We came around a corner and there sat a Neon. Again, we both said, "A Neon!" This may become a recurring theme.

- About two weeks ago, I was listening to my all classical radio station out of Portland and they were playing Beethoven's only opera, "Fidelio", mentioning the fact that it was originally called "Leonora". The following Sunday, on our local radio station, they played the entire opera during the Sunday morning opera time. Here is where I learned more about the plot and storyline. I didn't like it but the music was good. And then, 3 days later, we were in the car listening to different stations, when I came across music I recognized - sure enough, it was from "Fidelio" and they mentioned Leonora again. I couldn't get away from it!

- Today - I've been reading Frances Mayes book entitled, "In Tuscany", and her husband, Ed, writes a few chapters in this book. He quotes Ralph Waldo Emerson as saying, "Hitch your wagon to a star." Until today, I had never heard this quote (I need to read more Emerson) . Tonight, I was reading a news story from the home page online about Ed McMahon who just passed away. In this news story, they quote him from several interviews and in one of the interviews, he is talking about his good fortune to work with Johnny Carson. He says, "There's the old phrase, hook your wagon to a star. I hitched my wagon to a great star." I found it interesting that I read this phrase by Emerson twice within a few hours of each other, from completely different sources.

I think it's kind of fun to notice a coincidence. It's not hard, they happen all the time. Have I mentioned this one: My husband's mother is married to Bob, my stepfather-in-law. He has two daughters, and one of them (Lisa) was in my 8th grade English class. Bob didn't know my mother-in-law at that time. I remember his daughter from that class but she doesn't remember me very well. What's more, one my best friends from that time is Jeree, who was also good friends with Lisa. Bob remembers Jeree very well. And get this: My husband's sister, Jill, worked with Jeree for a time about 15 years ago. So, when I get my yearly Christmas newsletter from Jeree, I update Jill and Bob on how Jeree and her family are doing. Got all that?

I told you this is fun!

How Does Your Garden Grow?

2009-06-14T23:07:00.000-07:00

We've been doing a lot walking in our neighborhood this past week and it's been fun and interesting observing all the gardens. Some are carefully planned, some have made some gallant attempts and others are pretty much weed gardens. Most everyone has the same plants (all bought at one of three local nurseries) so it's a challenge to seek out more unusual plants and flowers. I love the hidden gardens that we have seen. There are even some hidden homes that I never noticed before, blocked from view by trees or shrubs, sometimes unruly overgrowth. One home has an old bicycle as an ornamental element (?) O.k. Lots of trees have been cut down, due to that bad storm we had at the end of 2007. Which has given some people on the hill a view they never had.

I wish I had a gardener's touch. I can only read about it and observe others' creativity. Perhaps I just lack confidence. Is it a learned technique? Or are you born that way?

The book I'm reading is discussing gardens in Italy. Now there's some creativity, to be sure. Centuries-old creativity, in the form of mazes, pergolas and fountains. Gardens were often an extension of the home, apparently. I guess when you live in a place that allows you to be outside often, a lovely garden would be like having another room. That certainly can't be done here.

I will be content with my geranium in a pot on my deck, flanked by our potted strawberries, peppers and tomatoes. For now. If I start reading soon, perhaps I can expand my horizons next year.

In A Mood

2009-06-08T22:03:00.000-07:00

A month ago today, I was in Leavenworth, WA, celebrating my birthday. My, how time flies.

Anyway, I've been re-reading "My Life In France", by Julia Child, and it inspired me to find her first cookbook online. As I was looking for it, I discovered that this book (the one I just read) has been made into a movie, starring Meryl Streep! I can't think of anyone else in this role, as I happen to be in awe of Ms. Streep and her chameleon-like acting ability. I don't think this movie is out yet (we don't go to the movies) but if anyone of you do happen to see it, I'd love to know what you thought of it.

I think I've found the Julia Child cookbook I want to get. Who better to learn how to cook from? I still struggle with my cooking ability, although I love to read cookbooks and books about cooking. Eating is not my favorite thing to do so I don't know why I like reading about food. Bon appetit!

It's not fair. I'm newly 46 and I thought I'd have my life in better order by now. No. I'm still pretty much the same person I was 20 years ago, in a lot of ways. Perhaps I need to concentrate on the good things about me that I still am, rather than focus on the things I still am and wish I wasn't. I'll give you a minute to figure out that last sentence ...

You know, I think my braces make me feel younger somehow. Isn't THAT a strange thing to think?

I apologize for the mood I've been in lately. Age has been a theme and a depressing one at that. I hope this passes. And soon.

O.k., think about something I am now that I wasn't 20 years ago. The mother of 3 children. Considering I thought I would never be a mom, that's a pretty good something. (Thank you, Lord!)

Strange Days

2009-06-02T23:41:00.000-07:00

Is it just me or are strange things happening around your neighborhood as well?

A few days ago, my family was out on our after dinner stroll, this time all five of us, when we passed by a neighbor's house. My husband knows this neighbor and this man waved us down to his home, (his driveway is long and on an incline, therefore, we had to walk "down"). He seemed very friendly, even overly so, and that's when I saw the bottle of beer in his hand. Bummer. I'm not at all comfortable with people who have been drinking and here we were with all my kids as well. The neighbor wanted us all to come in to see his newly remodeled kitchen. Apparently, Todd had installed a counter top for this neighbor years ago (back when he was a self-employed cabinet maker) and now that counter top has been removed and replaced, along with other changes to the kitchen. It was really nice and we all enjoyed seeing his home. But ... this guy was drunk, at least he was a happy drunk. He tried to call his wife out to meet us but apparently she was, how did he put it ... "Oh, she's gone," he said, and we guessed she had already passed out from her evening imbibing. It was only 8:00 pm for goodness sake! Anyway, we politely left as soon as we could and when we got home, we had a really good discussion with the kids about his behavior. We discussed how we shouldn't talk bad about him but also how drinking affects your behavior, etc. It turned out to be a good discussion but I really didn't expect the night to turn out like it did. We saw him again tonight, wielding a weed-eater and we were hoping he was sober.

A few weeks ago, we went to get milk at our favorite pharmacy and we saw that the front door was all closed up with wood and the glass was gone. When we asked what had happened, they said a lady had pulled up in front of the store and stepped on the gas instead of the brake. She was in her 70's and had a small dog on her lap. Fortunately, no one was really injured, except for a man who was hit by a side mirror, scraping his arm. Stupid and strange.

We had a garage sale over Memorial Day. It went reasonably well, had good weather and most people bought something. My son did nearly all the work, bless him. However, our first customer was a family of ethnic origin, bringing with them a small boy wearing a face mask and a smaller girl with sniffles. Ugh! Why on earth did they feel the need to drag these sick kids to our sale I don't know. I took their money and after they left, I put the bills in a baggie and sprayed Lysol in it and let if dry. I know, I know, I'm paranoid but after they left, we went inside and listened to the local news on the radio. They announced the first swine flu case in our county. Great, just great. My husband said, "Yeah, the second case just left our garage sale!" I was not amused. Strange, stupid and sick!

The second customer that day was an older guy that pulled up in an old sedan with signs on the door protesting something or other. He bought a bunch of children's books and said he was a child psychiatrist for the police department. Then he said he had a stuffed bear in his car named after a character Elvis played in some movie. He was jittery and made me really nervous, especially after hearing about Elvis. Oooh, boy, was I glad when he left.

Fortunately, we had fairly normal people after that disturbing morning. We even had a guy buy our pedestal sink for $5.00. We were selling it so cheap because we got it free from another neighbor about 4 streets over last year. It turns out that this man grew up not far from where I did and we talked a fair amount. Too much, apparently, for his wife as she finally went out to their car and started the engine. He gave us the money for the sink and asked it he could come back later to pick it up. We said that was fine. And then he never showed. We still have the sink AND his money. It didn't feel right but I wasn't sure what to do. Then I decided I'd donate the money he gave us to a local charity, which DID feel right. But now we have to store the sink.

Perhaps June will be more normal - unless normal no longer mean what I think it means.

???

2009-05-26T22:22:00.000-07:00

Is it possible to like change yet have difficulty adjusting to change?

Is it also possible to like to go to different places, even live in different places far and near, yet like the comfort of being at home?

How do you balance serving your family and allowing your kids to learn how to take care of themselves?

Why is it that about 60% of the time, when I go to the market, the handwipes container to clean the grocery carts is empty?

Which brings to mind another grocery store question: Is it normal to suspect that the store monitors what you buy just to discontinue selling that very item (we certainly feel this is true of our family, as this happens time and time again.)

Do you ever buy from those bulk containers that look less than sanitary?

Do you stack the dishwasher from the front to the back or vice versa?

Why is it that I only hear loud, strange noises in our neighborhood at night when my husband is at work.

Is it better to live life knowing the answers or asking questions? (This thought came from a book I'm reading called, "Crispin, The Cross of Lead" by Avi.)

This isn't a question, it's an answer (in case you were wondering). My teeth aren't hurting as much, it's getting easier to eat. I am adjusting. My daughter says my braces look beautiful.

Now how can I argue with that?

Bonding With My Son (It's Not What You Think)

2009-05-17T22:06:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday, I officially joined the ranks (young and old) of brave souls who willingly allow a trained professional to glue metal brackets on your teeth that are guaranteed to inflict pain, usually when you least expect it. We even pay lots of money to let these people do this to us. And we curse them again and again, as we bite down on something as innocent as a toasted English muffin and wince in pain. The knowledge that you can't remove these darn things is somewhat akin to how The Man in The Iron Mask must have felt. At least that's my opinion. I'm at the end of Day 4 and still, it hurts. Advil has been my friend. I've even lost a pound because it just seemed easier not to eat, although today is better. At the table, my family shows sympathy whenever I wince, which is embarrassing to me but sweet of them. I have learned to eat nearly everything cut up in small bites, including sandwiches.

Last week, I told my mother (by phone) that I was getting braces. She was silent. Then she said, " I didn't think you could get braces when you are so old." Good ol' Mom.

When I walked into the orthodontist's office, all the workers (they are called "the girls", believe it or not) were standing there and they turned and stared at me. I stared back until I finally said, "Stop looking at me like that!" Todd told me later that they were all surprised that I kept my appointment, they figured I wouldn't show up. I guess I showed them. Apparently, I have a reputation in this office, as the orthodontist has been after me for a year to get braces. I've always given my excuses for not wanting them. He and my husband chat when Todd takes Chad in for his monthly adjustments. This was all Todd's idea, completely. I would not have dreamed of doing this, due to the expense and the inconvenience, not to mention the pain. I hate, hate, hate the "chair" - in ANY dental office. And now I am committed to "monthly" adjustments for 6-12 months - these people belong in a medieval torture chamber!!!

There ... now I've gotten my rant out of the way.

I really hate having my mouth propped open but that's what they have to do. I laid there for an hour, getting pumiced and glued. Wire inserted. Lovely shade of pink rubber bands wrapped around each brace. Todd came in and stood by the chair. Tears started to flow down my cheeks and into my ears (the chair was tilted into a near headstand position). As he looked down at me, I waited for Todd to say something comforting ... "You look like Wallace and Gromit*, you know, the way they smile?" Not what I expected. More tears. He held my hand and Chad came in, stood on the other side of me and held my other hand. That helped. The tech (or whatever her name or title is) finally removed the darn plastic mouth-prop thing and I felt my lips go over the braces for the first time. What did I feel? Panic! Oh, my gosh! This is me for many months to come! At least it's only the top row of teeth. Sigh.

Fortunately, the pain didn't begin right away. It hurt but I got through it. It's better now but there are times I still feel bummed. Everyone keeps saying how glad I'll be when it's done. I look forward to that time.

About the bonding with my son: Chad has been my support and my coach through this whole thing. I asked him a ton of questions before and after and he's been a doll. Very comforting. I love this kid. Now we have more in common than acne and the gift of gab.

*"Wallace and Gromit" is a British clay-mation series of short, silly movies - and not a complement to be compared to.

How I Spent My Birthday (For Once, It Wasn't On Mother's Day)

2009-05-10T23:31:00.000-07:00

On May 8, 1963, a daughter was born to a family that already had 3 daughters. By then, Dad had given up on ever having a son, though he never, ever complained about it. It was close enough to Mother's Day that Mom always said their daughter was the best Mother's Day gift she could ever receive. That daughter was me, of course. Forever cursed to do the Birthday-Mother's Day dance. How do you celebrate both holidays properly, especially when they land on the very same day? Together? Not fair. Apart? Too frivolous. Add the mother-in-law in there and you've got more problems. I now live too far to even see my own Mom on Mother's Day. Sigh. This year, I had seriously felt like skipping them both altogether. Who cares, really? But my sweet husband had other ideas.

He secretly planned a short holiday for our family at one of our favorite places to visit. We were already scheduled to see our droll dermatologist in Portland and stay overnight, since it was so close to my birthday. But Todd went and booked two nights in Leavenworth, WA, for the following days! Imagine my surprise when I accidentally found this out by seeing an e-mail confirming our reservation! I felt SO badly for that but I couldn't undo what had been done. And I had to tell him I knew. He was bummed but I tried to cheer him up by telling him he should have seen my face when I found out! Anyway, he forgave me, I worked like mad to do a ton of laundry and we set off on a foggy, way-too-rainy Wednesday.

After our appointment, we went to the Oregon Zoo to see the baby elephant that was born 8 months ago. He's grown, all right! The zoo was basically empty as it had been raining and everyone else was at school (the joys of homeschooling!) A quick dinner at Togo's and back to our usual Portland hotel for the night. The kids usually have no trouble sleeping here as it's kind of like our home away from home but I guess they were excited about Leavenworth. Todd and Carmen slept - the rest of us struggled.

Up for our hotel breakfast and then on to Leavenworth. This town is set in what they call "The Enchantments", a valley surrounded by awesome mountains usually covered in snow. The town redid itself in a Bavarian theme and the hotel we stay at is one of the best there. It's definitely an infrequent treat. It has a huge breakfast room with amazing views of the mountains and serves an excellent breakfast, which is one of my kids' favorite things about it. I happen to love their oatmeal (I'm not hard to please). I got to watch the sun rise and set over the hills from our room and the moon was full or nearly so and one night, Todd and I went out to the large deck to look at the moon together. The moon gazing down on us over "The Enchantments" was very romantic. But the door back in was locked. Finding our way back into the hotel was fun - the place is big. It's so nice that the kids are old enough to stay in the room by themselves for a bit. Todd and I also went down and listened to the nightly piano music together. Good to spend alone time with my husband. When we first went into our hotel room, I saw that they had put out a bottle of sparkling cider with a card that said "Happy Birthday" with two wine glasses. On my birthday, all five of us toasted to me. My non-soda drinking kids didn't like the bubbles but that's just fine. I hope they always stay non-soda drinking! Todd and the kids also had cards for me to open. We ate well for every meal, I didn't have to do dishes, it was a great time all around. On my birthday, we ate at a restaurant called "Cafe Mozart". It was so cool and our meals were excellent. The background music was familiar to us (we like Mozart) and that night there was a harpist playing. She took to our family immediately and my kids ended up sitting with her while she played. I got a photo (for once) but only after I saw another lady take a picture and it dawned on me that I should do the same. I'm clueless about photo ops. We walked around the little shops, the kids swam and played racquetball, we golfed at the hotel's putting green. I had a wonderful time and a terrific birthday. Thanks, Todd!

After all this extravagance, I thought today would be rather quiet. My husband came home from work this morning and about an hour later, I finally got up and ready for the day. Walked into the kitchen and there was a dozen pink roses on the table with cards and donuts. Todd was cooking eggs and bacon. What a guy! He really made me feel special this week. I am so thankful for this husband of mine. He went to bed (he's working tonight) and my kids did the dishes. I read. After lunch, I took a nap in my big chair and when I woke up, I read some more. Without guilt. It felt terrific. In between, I finished unpacking our suitcases and did laundry. But it was a great Mother's Day. Oh, and my mother-in-law? She's been in Turkey since last Tuesday. I wonder what kind of day she had?

What I've Learned Recently

2009-05-03T22:25:00.000-07:00

With my 46th (gasp!) birthday approaching at the end of this week, I'm taking stock of what I've learned recently.

I've learned that it is, indeed, possible to put a thong on wrong - and wear it a few hours before realizing the mistake.

I've learned that getting older sucks. One day you are young and can do anything. The next day ....

I've learned that one must not react immediately to anything a child confides in you. One must think carefully about how to respond. Never be shocked or dismayed (at least openly) to what you hear.

I've learned that without God, I am nothing and can do even less. To reach down deep and find the strength to crawl out of whatever hole you've dug for yourself cannot be done alone. I need God.

So, what have YOU learned lately?

Deadline

2009-04-23T22:39:00.000-07:00

Well, in case you were wondering, it's April 23rd and my story was mailed yesterday. Hooray! It had to be postmarked by today and it's just going to Portland. Now, Portland is only 100 miles away, as the crow flies. (I love that saying, "as the crow flies") From Astoria, that envelope left yesterday in a big, white truck at 6:00 pm (so they say). It takes two hours to get to Portland, but who knows what post office it will end up at. It may take a day or two for that envelope to get handed off from person to machine and back again, getting stamped and perhaps folded up a bit along the way. Into another truck with a friendly postperson who probably will be wearing one of those ranger-like brimmed hats and baggy shorts. They'll pack up their bags and head into Portland, after stopping for coffee (of course). That envelope will be delivered to the suite number it's addressed to and will lay on someone's desk for an unknown amount of time. Finally, someone will notice it and say, "Hey, here's another unknown writer hoping we'll love their story and award them first prize." Or maybe second, or even third. (The third place prize will almost cover the entry fee - it's a small contest.) The envelope will be opened, the check given to accounts receivable, the package divided up between the three judges that will be deciding who the winner is. I had to send three copies so I'm assuming there are three judges. Of course, this is all speculation. Who knows what journey my story has taken. The good news is that I retain ownership of my writing (it's in the rules!) Which means that I can use it again anywhere I want.

The main thing is that I DID IT! After posting about the contest, I knew I had to achieve my goal. Or else risk being scolded by my husband (or perhaps an encouraging blog friend.) In my opinion, it doesn't matter if I win or not; to me, I have already won my own contest. And it feels good.

Procrastinate: To Dilly-Dally, Delay

2009-04-19T22:48:00.000-07:00

Has it already been a week since I posted? I'm sitting here posting instead of doing what I should be doing: dishes, laundry, washing my hair, finishing that piece I said I was going to enter into a writing contest. I finally (gulp!) read the thing to my husband today. Gosh, that was hard! Hard!! I feel so extremely vulnerable whenever I read something I've written to someone (that sentence is awkward but you get my drift). It's like opening up your chest and exposing your heart, allowing someone the opportunity to injure it. Especially if it's an emotional thing, which this piece of writing definitely is. But Todd was sweet and said he thought it was good, and worth the entry fee to submit. Bless him! The deadline is April 23rd, so I'd best get it done.

We actually hit 62 degrees outside today - what a thrill to be warm, even too warm. I just learned today that the word "thrill" actually comes from being pierced with a spear, or something like that, back in medieval days. I love word origins.

See, I'm just playing here. Procrastinating. So, how's the weather in your part of the world? Anybody know a good recipe using mushrooms? Read any good pirate stories? ARE there any good pirate stories?

Enough. I'm off to write a little, launder a little and dish wash a lot.

Easter Weekend

2009-04-12T23:26:00.000-07:00

Weeks ago, my mother-in-law called to invite us to Easter dinner. Actually, the night before Easter (Easter eve?). My husband had to work so it would be a (mercifully) quick affair for us and that would be that. I decided to do the basket/egg hunt thing on Sat. morning as well. Have our Easter early. Then Carmen decided she wanted to hide baskets for Todd and me (what a sweetie!), which she did with her brother's help. And I did my typical stay-up-way-too-late filling plastic eggs and Todd hid them, and the baskets. We scaled way back this year. Less candy, one non-candy item per basket. Saturday a.m. was fun and then Todd went back to bed. We rested most of the day and I read from the Bible. I've been reading all week from Mark, about the last week of Jesus' life on earth. Then I got the kids ready to go to grandma's, woke Todd up and got ready myself. We were actually the first to arrive - a monumental first. My mil was shocked to see us there so early! Then her friends arrived, an older couple. She had warned us about them beforehand - her exact words were, "She's obese and he's a typical educator." By this, I decided that we shouldn't be shocked at this person's weight and we shouldn't discuss homeschooling. O.k. So, when we see this couple walk up the driveway, the wife is, indeed, just as my mil described ... she's also wearing pink bunny ears. And she wore them throughout dinner and probably throughout the evening. Hmm. Her husband came in carrying a flowering plant. My mil introduced me to this couple and then she did a funny thing. She introduced each of my kids and then said, in a really condescending tone, "Can you each come here and shake hands with ____?" My kids dutifully obeyed but I know they were a bit embarrassed at being spoken to that way. They aren't little kids, after all. But what good kids they were (are!) I know they thought this lady with the bunny ears was really strange but they never said a word about it during the time were were there. This couple was nice but the wife was a bit annoying, with or without the pink ears. Like I said, we had to leave after about an hour and we went home so Todd could go to work. After he left, my middle son said, "Mom, I really wasn't comfortable with those people that were there." I said I understood and made a point of telling all my kids how proud I was at their good behavior. We discussed how we should act even if we are uncomfortable. I love my kids.

Today, I said to my older son that I was sorry Grandma spoke to them like she did about shaking hands with her friends. Chad said it was o.k. I said I wondered why she had them do that, as I didn't really think it was necessary. I have taught my kids to shake hands but I don't think you always need to. Do you know what he said? He said he thought it had more to do with making her friends feel accepted. What wisdom! I had to agree. Chad also said that the husband asked him the typical question, "So what grade are you in?" (Like, is that the ONLY question adults can ask??) My son told him and said he was homeschooled. This man was pleased to hear that, which I was glad to know. If only he had known that he could have discussed politics or world history with my son, instead of boring "school" questions!

Anyway, today was Easter and it was truly a rotten weather day. Wind, rain, wind, etc. My poor daffodils had finally bloomed but they are now face-down in the mud. So glad we didn't have to go out. I read about Jesus' resurrection and beyond. The kids have really enjoyed our daily Bible reading. I try to do Bible study several times a week but I'm not that consistent and I use the Daily Bread devotionals, which read something different every day. This was the first time we read daily throughout the same book. I'd like to continue doing this.

I'll end with this: My daughter has spent the last two days drawing robots that can do housework, cook, kill spiders, etc. I was in another room when I heard Carmen ask her brother if something like this was really possible. Before he could answer negatively, I said that it didn't matter if it's possible. Carmen said, "I know, Mom - DREAM BIG!" I said, "What?" She repeated, "Dream Big!" I smiled and said, "That's right, honey." We talked about how if people didn't dream up things that had never been, then things wouldn't improve or be invented. I was struck at Carmen's response, though. It tells me she's been listening. Modesty forbids me to say who has always told her to Dream Big. I love my kids!

Anything You Can Do, I Can Do Better ...

2009-04-05T22:14:00.000-07:00

We had a bit of a bake-off in our kitchen this week. Last Tuesday, I decided to bake an apple pie. It's been a long, long time since I baked an apple pie so I was a bit out of practice but I just did it. I put Chad to work peeling apples and Carmen stirred the flour/sugar/cinnamon mixture. Alec even tried the peeling apparatus (it's one of those crank-type things). By the time it went into the oven, the kitchen was a disaster and I was a floured mess. I couldn't get to the rolling pin (a long story) so I rolled out the pie crust with a large glass. This was nothing new as I went a long time without a rolling pin in my life and learned long ago how to roll out crust with just about anything. Anyway, it looked beautiful. It was so full of apples I could barely get the top crust over it. A few slits in the crust, a little water and sugar on top and into the oven it went. Just in time, as I had to get dinner going to feed Todd before he left for work. The pie boiled over onto the floor of the oven but it's self-cleaning - I just had to remember to start the cleaning cycle. More on that later. The pie came out and was wonderful. Everyone was pleased, especially me.

Todd bakes bread for our family every week. He has to time that baking with his work schedule. So, a few days ago (after the pie had been consumed), he decided to bake bread in the evening as he had to work the following night. He got everything ready and when he had the dough rising, he decided to bake a cake. Not any ol' cake, but a German chocolate cake. I stood in amazement. I am very leery of baking bread, which is why he does it, but to bake a cake WHILE one is baking bread - I just couldn't do it. I guess I can only focus on one baking task at a time. Todd, on the other hand, sees it as a time-saver (he's SO dang logical!) So, when he's all done, he has 5 loaves of bread, and a frosted chocolate cake, topped with coconut and surrounded with sliced almonds. He knows I'm a very simple dessert eater and he said, "I know, you're thinking it's too much, right?" Well, that's EXACTLY what I was thinking but I know other people don't always think like I do. Anyway, I was so impressed with all this baking he did and in the evening, too. I didn't even mind all the kitchen clean up. I'm so glad he knows how to do these things for our family. And the cake is delicious. I think there's still enough for a small sliver tomorrow for each of us. But I still don't like the almonds.

Now, back to the apple pie filling on the floor of the oven. At some point this week, I turned on the oven to preheat for dinner and shortly heard a sizzling - you guessed it, hot pie filling. Oops! That's not such a big deal except that a few weeks ago, I was baking meatballs in the oven and when I removed the pan, one rolled onto the floor of the oven. It was too hot to retrieve so I made a mental note to wait until the oven was cool and remove it. So much for mental notes. The next time the oven was used was when Todd had to do a baking of bread. He set the meatball on fire! We could see flames through the oven window! Alec freaked out (he does that occasionally). Carmen characteristically covered her ears (as if that's going to help!) Todd made his best "I'm so disgusted" face and took care of the situation. I meekly apologized. He told me firmly that I needed to clean the oven. I made another mental note. Well, I finally cleaned the oven last night - no more pie filling or charred remains of meatball.

I have to admit, it was kind of funny seeing that meatball explode into flames like that. Reminds me of the English muffin I set on fire in the toaster oven. Or that time my steak got too close to the broiler element. Do we see a pattern here?