Toddler Territory
I've got baby books scattered across my floor,
And somehow she always wants more.
My brother carries her to her room,
And suddenly I hear a boom!
Something crashes, but what can I say?
It's toddler territory - she's on her way!
If you're busy - better run!
But if you're not, then have some fun!
Here on the floor - come play with her!
Oft reading books she would prefer.
But sometimes you can dance and sing!
And when you're done she'll yell 'gain!
''Keep Going" she once told me.
I love her kisses - oh so sweet!
She's cubby, soft, and full of spice,
To season all our grown-up lives.
Hug a toddler, make them laugh!
-You'll find your 'stressures' cut in half!
Big Sisters are so special!!
PS. I took some meds starting yesterday, so now am much better. Hoping to keep improving over the next few days. :-)
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Saturday, November 22, 2008
What a weekend
What a weekend. I am so tired and tired of feeling achey! Darling is getting so much better, just a cough left. Now I'm the one with the Milk Fever. I'd think Darling would be too old for me to get this kinda thing, but... Everytime I get serious with my jogging, this is what happens. I get a chest cold, or the Milk Fever (aka breast infection). Not much else new here. I hope to be back up and running for the week. I'm looking so forward to a two day school week!
We plan (Lord willing) to put our tree on Friday, and I hope to maybe start some cookie baking. One year I had the baking done before the 10th of December. As a family, we so enjoyed having a tray of cookies every evening with candles. Really stretched out the holidays. Would love to do that again, but doubt I can do it. We did it a year when we started homeschooling in August and took the whole month of December off. Very nice.
Darling was so sad and funny. She had a couple medicines to take for a few days. Eventually when I set the medicines out again - she said, "Hide! Wun Away!!" She's been talking so much more. She also jumped with two feet. I was amazed. Probably from jumping on the trampoline during the summer. Her hair is starting to grow in. Yeah!!
We plan (Lord willing) to put our tree on Friday, and I hope to maybe start some cookie baking. One year I had the baking done before the 10th of December. As a family, we so enjoyed having a tray of cookies every evening with candles. Really stretched out the holidays. Would love to do that again, but doubt I can do it. We did it a year when we started homeschooling in August and took the whole month of December off. Very nice.
Darling was so sad and funny. She had a couple medicines to take for a few days. Eventually when I set the medicines out again - she said, "Hide! Wun Away!!" She's been talking so much more. She also jumped with two feet. I was amazed. Probably from jumping on the trampoline during the summer. Her hair is starting to grow in. Yeah!!
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
My Mother's Wish - Book Review
"It's the 1960's Midwest, and Ellee Crumb McKutcheon wants to change the world, starting with her mother, but she's having trouble even getting her teachers to know her real name. So Elle sits at the Comeback Cafe, her broken heart lying there on the table, when a three-armed waitress and a quirky stranger show up and hand her back the pieces."
My Mother's Wish is about a teenager and her girlhood wish to be called Ellee not Eleanor. It is about her desire to be recognized for the person she is, not who her mother wishes she was. On Christmas Eve, the miracle happens and begins a new life for Ellee.
Author Bio:
Jerry Camery-Hoggatt, Ph.D., is professor of New Testament at Vanguard University, in Costa Mesa, California. A professional storyteller, he is the author of the highly-acclaimed Christmas stories When Mother Was Eleven-Foot-Four (in trade adult and children’s picture book editions) and Givers of Gifts; plus Irony in Mark’s Gospel and Grapevine: A Spirituality of Gossip. His passion is theology and storytelling, which he believes are meant to go together. Jerry and his wife, Shaleen, are the parents of three children.
Jerry Camery-Hoggatt, Ph.D., is professor of New Testament at Vanguard University, in Costa Mesa, California. A professional storyteller, he is the author of the highly-acclaimed Christmas stories When Mother Was Eleven-Foot-Four (in trade adult and children’s picture book editions) and Givers of Gifts; plus Irony in Mark’s Gospel and Grapevine: A Spirituality of Gossip. His passion is theology and storytelling, which he believes are meant to go together. Jerry and his wife, Shaleen, are the parents of three children.
To purchase the book online, check out:
- http://www.amazon.com/
- http://www.christianbook.com/
- http://www.familychristian.com/
- http://www.amazon.com/
- http://www.christianbook.com/
- http://www.familychristian.com/
Or feel free to leave a comment before Nov. 24th for your own copy of this book.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Saturday Ramblings
The boys have been hunting all week to no avail. :-( Please pray they are blessed with a deer, so that they would get to have that experience, and we would have meat in the freezer. I'm delaying my walk/jog so that I don't disturb the deer.
I still spend time nursing Darling. She likes to catch a snack and exercise at the same time. :-) Silly Girl!!
Darling sure enjoys our cat, Kip. Kip is generally very patient with her "loving." :-)
I still spend time nursing Darling. She likes to catch a snack and exercise at the same time. :-) Silly Girl!!
Our faucet was having trouble and then gave up on us. My dh rigged it until it could be fixed properly. How gorgeous was this? My dear father-in-law put in the new faucet. Yeah!!
I've been working on a new set of stockings for Darling for Christmas. They are so easy and cute!! :-) I almost have ten done.
I wish it was as cheap and easy to make a gift for the teenagers in our family. Dessert says he wouldn't mind a pair, but I told him only girls wear lace on their socks. He was kinda bummed, but too boy and grown-up at 6 to admit he'd take a pair anyway.
The boys are in, out I go...
Monday, November 10, 2008
What I have to look forward to..
Last week my Dad had a crown break off. He went to the dentist to get it fixed. When they did the x-ray, they discovered he had an abcess in the tooth next to it. They couldn't believe he didn't feel any serious pain yet. Was just a little sore. So he made an appointment for another root canal. Bummer! He was on call the day of the procedure, but everything was quiet. He gets there, they give him the shot (in the roof of the mouth, the worst place, if you don't know), and he waits for it to totally numb up.
The Dr. comes back and Dad's beeper goes off. They all of a sudden need a third guy at the hospital! He has to head out with his mouth numb, and no fixed tooth. Real Bummer!! Now he has to go through it all again....
I have teeth like my Dad's. I've had my second root canal this fall, and need a bridge (but can't afford it right now). I'm not looking forward to my dental days ahead, but compared to getting called after being numb - it could be worse!!!
The Dr. comes back and Dad's beeper goes off. They all of a sudden need a third guy at the hospital! He has to head out with his mouth numb, and no fixed tooth. Real Bummer!! Now he has to go through it all again....
I have teeth like my Dad's. I've had my second root canal this fall, and need a bridge (but can't afford it right now). I'm not looking forward to my dental days ahead, but compared to getting called after being numb - it could be worse!!!
Saturday, November 08, 2008
Election 2008
After the election, I've been having a hard time thinking what to post.
I would have to say "Congratulations!" to the blacks in our country. As McCain said, "This is an historic election, and I recognize the special significance it has for African-Americans and the special pride that must be theirs tonight.”
As G. Bauer said in his End of the Day Report, "For any Americans who may have felt disillusioned or cynical about politics, last night’s election was truly historic, and we should take some pride in that. America has taken a major step in atoning for the national sin of slavery.
So, perhaps now radical leftwing “educators” will stop denigrating our nation and obsessing about its failures. I hope we will finally move beyond the issue of race and focus instead on the issues that matter most. I pray in the years ahead liberal politicians will stop hiding behind race and start answering for their policies. And I hope that America-haters and black supremacists, such as Jeremiah Wright, the former pastor of Barack Obama’s church, will be disavowed by the black community. "
That said, I have some personal thoughts on the election.
I am so sad for our country.
I hurt for what we are going to see happen in the first 100 days of Mr. O's presidency.
I weep for the unborn who will be murdered cruelly because he doesn't care.
I groan over the cluelessness of Christians and people who can vote for O. because of his skin color and charisma, and are so ignorant of the values he stands for.
To me, this is the ultimate of racism, to vote for someone just because of his skin color. I don't care what color he is, I just am sickened over the consequences there will be for our country.
I'm praying the Democrats are so ridiculous in how liberal they try to push our country, that in four years we will have a chance to pull back the tide. But I'm hoping that they don't get so strong, that even the liberals themselves won't be able to help change what is put in place, when they realize the liberties they've lost. I'm grateful that the Lord does still hold the whole world in His hand and that He has a home for us in a "country" where the leaders will not change, and where righteousness will prevail forever. I will enjoy the peace that comes with that knowledge.
I am encouraged by the fact that it took so much for O. to win - 700 million dollars, the media totally on his side, a recession, voter fraud, an economic crisis, and help from the radical left. All that, and it was still a relatively close election. As Gary Bauer stated, " America still remains a fundamentally conservative nation. According to the exit polls, 44% of voters identified themselves as “moderates” and 34% identified as “conservatives.” Just 22% called themselves “liberal.” We’ve clearly got a lot of work to do, but that’s a pretty good foundation for us to build upon!"
So, in lieu of wanting to just curl into a hole and worry about what will happen, I choose to join those who are going to continue to work, pray, and support those who really want to serve our country. I will work to encourage those elected officials on the local, state, and federal levels who are standing strong like pillars in a tide of liberalism. May their moorings be grounded in rock. I will work to continue to educate our children in the standings of the constitution and our conservative values, so that they will not be swayed by the jargon of the liberal agenda.
I don't know what our future holds, but I do know the One who is there in the future!
I would have to say "Congratulations!" to the blacks in our country. As McCain said, "This is an historic election, and I recognize the special significance it has for African-Americans and the special pride that must be theirs tonight.”
As G. Bauer said in his End of the Day Report, "For any Americans who may have felt disillusioned or cynical about politics, last night’s election was truly historic, and we should take some pride in that. America has taken a major step in atoning for the national sin of slavery.
So, perhaps now radical leftwing “educators” will stop denigrating our nation and obsessing about its failures. I hope we will finally move beyond the issue of race and focus instead on the issues that matter most. I pray in the years ahead liberal politicians will stop hiding behind race and start answering for their policies. And I hope that America-haters and black supremacists, such as Jeremiah Wright, the former pastor of Barack Obama’s church, will be disavowed by the black community. "
That said, I have some personal thoughts on the election.
I am so sad for our country.
I hurt for what we are going to see happen in the first 100 days of Mr. O's presidency.
I weep for the unborn who will be murdered cruelly because he doesn't care.
I groan over the cluelessness of Christians and people who can vote for O. because of his skin color and charisma, and are so ignorant of the values he stands for.
To me, this is the ultimate of racism, to vote for someone just because of his skin color. I don't care what color he is, I just am sickened over the consequences there will be for our country.
I'm praying the Democrats are so ridiculous in how liberal they try to push our country, that in four years we will have a chance to pull back the tide. But I'm hoping that they don't get so strong, that even the liberals themselves won't be able to help change what is put in place, when they realize the liberties they've lost. I'm grateful that the Lord does still hold the whole world in His hand and that He has a home for us in a "country" where the leaders will not change, and where righteousness will prevail forever. I will enjoy the peace that comes with that knowledge.
I am encouraged by the fact that it took so much for O. to win - 700 million dollars, the media totally on his side, a recession, voter fraud, an economic crisis, and help from the radical left. All that, and it was still a relatively close election. As Gary Bauer stated, " America still remains a fundamentally conservative nation. According to the exit polls, 44% of voters identified themselves as “moderates” and 34% identified as “conservatives.” Just 22% called themselves “liberal.” We’ve clearly got a lot of work to do, but that’s a pretty good foundation for us to build upon!"
So, in lieu of wanting to just curl into a hole and worry about what will happen, I choose to join those who are going to continue to work, pray, and support those who really want to serve our country. I will work to encourage those elected officials on the local, state, and federal levels who are standing strong like pillars in a tide of liberalism. May their moorings be grounded in rock. I will work to continue to educate our children in the standings of the constitution and our conservative values, so that they will not be swayed by the jargon of the liberal agenda.
I don't know what our future holds, but I do know the One who is there in the future!
Monday, November 03, 2008
Saturday turned out a little different than planned. When the kids got home from soccer, they found out that raking started at 10 not 12. The rakers had such a great group show up, they were already done! So we had our crew home for the afternoon. Yippee!
We fed them, and then hustled them out the door to help with wood. We usually heat with corn, but with the price of corn, we want to concentrate on wood heat this year.
We did still clean up and head into church for the games and movie. The movie was "Secondhand Lions". One of our family's favorites. I found that it is not any easier at church to play games or watch a movie with Darling. I finally gave up on the movie and hung out with her in the nursery. She is so into babies!! She gathered five dolls in the nursery, and would lay on them, hugging them (when the little boy came close) saying "My babies!!"
I made it out jogging (well - walk/jogging, it'll take while to get back up to speed) and even took the time for a quick post. I had to write an e-mail, and of course since I was already on the computer.... I better get moving or I'm going to get in trouble. :-)
We fed them, and then hustled them out the door to help with wood. We usually heat with corn, but with the price of corn, we want to concentrate on wood heat this year.
We did still clean up and head into church for the games and movie. The movie was "Secondhand Lions". One of our family's favorites. I found that it is not any easier at church to play games or watch a movie with Darling. I finally gave up on the movie and hung out with her in the nursery. She is so into babies!! She gathered five dolls in the nursery, and would lay on them, hugging them (when the little boy came close) saying "My babies!!"
I made it out jogging (well - walk/jogging, it'll take while to get back up to speed) and even took the time for a quick post. I had to write an e-mail, and of course since I was already on the computer.... I better get moving or I'm going to get in trouble. :-)
Saturday, November 01, 2008
Saturday Morning Ramblings
The kids are off and running for a busy day. Dunk took them to their last soccer this morning. They'll get home about 11:30, and then the four oldest will be off to "Rake-the-Town" with the youth group. They'll get home from that about 5-5:30. They we are all headed to our church for a fun evening of games, snacks, and a free family movie! It'll be fun to hang out with other families at church.
Last night we took the four youngest to the "God is Greater" party at a local church. Darling had a blast at the petting zoo. I think she could have hung out there for hours. So cute!! I wish I had a camera. The kids had fun with the games, and then we came home to join the rest of the family and some friends who came over. The grownups ate and chatted while the kids ate and played. I did get to go for a walk. It is so fun to walk and talk!
Dunk did get my camera to the camera fix it store. They told him it would cost $100 to fix it. Bummer!! I bought it for only a little over that much. I guess I'll be shopping for a camera after Christmas (if I get any money - Lord willing :-)
Wednesday I finally got to talk with the Dr's nurse and get an antibiotic for Darling and I!!! I was so excited for hope in getting better. She and I are finally showing improvement. PTL. Lord willing - I get to go to church on Sunday!!
I've been on a sabbatical from jogging for at least two weeks now with my cold. I think my chest can get enough air in it again to start on Monday. I hate to have to go through the getting started process again. It is so hard to get started in a good habit.
Tuesday I went to play percussion at a community band with a friend. I had a blast and got to play the crashing cymbols. I was hoping I was playing them at the right time, as they are soooo loud! :-) I hope to join until Christmas. We'll see. It is hard to give up an evening, but it would really help with learning to play the drums and getting comfortable reading the percussion music. My friend just rattles off the rolls on the snare drum. So cool!!
My Dad gave us some buttercup squash Thursday, so yesterday I made our first fall pan of squash bars with cream cheese frosting. Yummy!!! I think I'm going to go get some for breakfast. Catch ya later....
Last night we took the four youngest to the "God is Greater" party at a local church. Darling had a blast at the petting zoo. I think she could have hung out there for hours. So cute!! I wish I had a camera. The kids had fun with the games, and then we came home to join the rest of the family and some friends who came over. The grownups ate and chatted while the kids ate and played. I did get to go for a walk. It is so fun to walk and talk!
Dunk did get my camera to the camera fix it store. They told him it would cost $100 to fix it. Bummer!! I bought it for only a little over that much. I guess I'll be shopping for a camera after Christmas (if I get any money - Lord willing :-)
Wednesday I finally got to talk with the Dr's nurse and get an antibiotic for Darling and I!!! I was so excited for hope in getting better. She and I are finally showing improvement. PTL. Lord willing - I get to go to church on Sunday!!
I've been on a sabbatical from jogging for at least two weeks now with my cold. I think my chest can get enough air in it again to start on Monday. I hate to have to go through the getting started process again. It is so hard to get started in a good habit.
Tuesday I went to play percussion at a community band with a friend. I had a blast and got to play the crashing cymbols. I was hoping I was playing them at the right time, as they are soooo loud! :-) I hope to join until Christmas. We'll see. It is hard to give up an evening, but it would really help with learning to play the drums and getting comfortable reading the percussion music. My friend just rattles off the rolls on the snare drum. So cool!!
My Dad gave us some buttercup squash Thursday, so yesterday I made our first fall pan of squash bars with cream cheese frosting. Yummy!!! I think I'm going to go get some for breakfast. Catch ya later....
Red Door
Our dear friends are doing well in China. They have a website up and running at http://www.reddoor.us/ Feel free to check it out and find out what God is up to through the Heddens in China.
They have an adorable picture of a Chinese baby girl in their Keyhole Monthly Newsletter. Check it out to find out a special story about her. :-)
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
I Love this Bumper Sticker!!
Going around on e-mail:
Bumper Sticker recently seen in Texas:
"I'll keep my freedom, my guns, and my money,
and you can keep THE CHANGE".
Vote for McCain/Palin
Don't forget to vote November 4th!!! :-)
Bumper Sticker recently seen in Texas:
"I'll keep my freedom, my guns, and my money,
and you can keep THE CHANGE".
Vote for McCain/Palin
Don't forget to vote November 4th!!! :-)
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Random Pictures
Dot took her camera up the hill and got some good shots of the boys at play.
Deer took this one.
Dime and his friend after a fishing trip.
The fall leaves have been beautiful around our place.
This tree is out our bedroom window.
Happy Fall!!
Dot's Birthday
I realized I had pictures on the computer from Dot's camera. These are a month old, but still worth posting about. Dot passed her driving test and celebrated her birthday on the same day. She and her girlfriends made pies and then had a blast hanging out.
I thought this picture was a cool idea.
Chest colds and update
I haven't been on the computer much lately. Darling and I have been sick with chest colds. After her bad chest cold as a baby, I think this is going to be what she and I deal with every winter - chest colds. I usually get chest colds in Dec and then can't get rid of them until the end of March or April. (Except for years when I've jogged the whole winter.) This year I started jogging regularly the end of Sept. - I don't want a chest cold. Darling got it first, and after getting worn down I got it too. Bummer - it's only October!!
Last year I tried the antibiotic route - and loved it!! Three sessions of antibiotics - but each time it completely cured the chest cold. I love not having a tight chest. I'm not a big cougher. I took Darling and I in on Wed to see if we could get help - Nope, haven't had it long enough - come back in 3-4 days. Well, at this point we are going back in on Monday.
Darling's cough is looser, but still about the same. She's not a big cougher, just like me, but at night if she wakes up, she coughs and coughs with the tickle. I know exactly what she feels like. After she finally gets back to sleep, my tickle sets in. Usually graham crackers settle it (I know, weird, but it works, I've tried alot of different things), but I'm out. I tried sleepy-time tea, and that has helped! I should go back to bed, but I wanted to check out friend's blogs, and then realized I really needed to update!
The Dr. at the clinic mentioned I should try this inhaler product (which one does every day all winter) and that might help preventing getting the cold in the first place. Interesting thought, but I doubt my regular Dr. would consider it. I usually don't come in, I just live with it, so there is no documentation for regular chest colds. I'm not a big fan of antibiotics. Although maybe now I am! Anyways....
Dunk still needs to drop off my camera to see if we can get it fixed. Always seems like somethings going on after work, so not a good day to take the extra time to drop it off. Hopefully next week, and hopefully it'll work and I'll get my camera back.
I haven't been playing my drums lately - mostly hanging with Darling and trying to keep up with school and life.
I made apple strudel on Wednesday. My Grandma's K's recipe. Mmmmmm soooo good! I miss her even after all these years. She would have loved Darling's chubby sweetness and soft tootsies. I miss Grandma's smell, fluffy hugs, and sweet strudel.
Drum's been playing the drums alot. He really has a knack for them, just a little too loud for us. :-) His clavicle is getting better. He had 4 baby teeth pulled on Friday. One was giving him trouble, so he was up during the night with me.
Dime and his friend spent the night in his fort. Brrrrrrr. So cold! Boys. He finally passed his test at CAP and is looking so forward to promoting in a couple weeks. He's been fishing at the bridge a couple miles from our place, and caught a number of nice northern!!
Duke's reading has really picked up!! I'm so excited for him. He still acts like it's a major chore to read - why do I need to do this, etc - but it's coming. I'm soooo grateful for our NILD instructor - Mrs. L. She's been so awesome.
Well, I think I can go back to sleep now and sleep through everyone else getting up for soccer. Only today and next week and then it is done for the year. The kids are getting so cold, but they are really bummed it will soon be over. I wish there was a place indoors, although Dunk will probably be glad he gets to sleep in on a Saturday.
Last year I tried the antibiotic route - and loved it!! Three sessions of antibiotics - but each time it completely cured the chest cold. I love not having a tight chest. I'm not a big cougher. I took Darling and I in on Wed to see if we could get help - Nope, haven't had it long enough - come back in 3-4 days. Well, at this point we are going back in on Monday.
Darling's cough is looser, but still about the same. She's not a big cougher, just like me, but at night if she wakes up, she coughs and coughs with the tickle. I know exactly what she feels like. After she finally gets back to sleep, my tickle sets in. Usually graham crackers settle it (I know, weird, but it works, I've tried alot of different things), but I'm out. I tried sleepy-time tea, and that has helped! I should go back to bed, but I wanted to check out friend's blogs, and then realized I really needed to update!
The Dr. at the clinic mentioned I should try this inhaler product (which one does every day all winter) and that might help preventing getting the cold in the first place. Interesting thought, but I doubt my regular Dr. would consider it. I usually don't come in, I just live with it, so there is no documentation for regular chest colds. I'm not a big fan of antibiotics. Although maybe now I am! Anyways....
Dunk still needs to drop off my camera to see if we can get it fixed. Always seems like somethings going on after work, so not a good day to take the extra time to drop it off. Hopefully next week, and hopefully it'll work and I'll get my camera back.
I haven't been playing my drums lately - mostly hanging with Darling and trying to keep up with school and life.
I made apple strudel on Wednesday. My Grandma's K's recipe. Mmmmmm soooo good! I miss her even after all these years. She would have loved Darling's chubby sweetness and soft tootsies. I miss Grandma's smell, fluffy hugs, and sweet strudel.
Drum's been playing the drums alot. He really has a knack for them, just a little too loud for us. :-) His clavicle is getting better. He had 4 baby teeth pulled on Friday. One was giving him trouble, so he was up during the night with me.
Dime and his friend spent the night in his fort. Brrrrrrr. So cold! Boys. He finally passed his test at CAP and is looking so forward to promoting in a couple weeks. He's been fishing at the bridge a couple miles from our place, and caught a number of nice northern!!
Duke's reading has really picked up!! I'm so excited for him. He still acts like it's a major chore to read - why do I need to do this, etc - but it's coming. I'm soooo grateful for our NILD instructor - Mrs. L. She's been so awesome.
Well, I think I can go back to sleep now and sleep through everyone else getting up for soccer. Only today and next week and then it is done for the year. The kids are getting so cold, but they are really bummed it will soon be over. I wish there was a place indoors, although Dunk will probably be glad he gets to sleep in on a Saturday.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Bon Appetit - A Book Review
Sandra Byrd's second book in the French Twist Series- Bon Appetit - is a fun read!!
Twenty-some year old Lexi Stuart starts her adventure in France working at a well-known, family-owned bakery in the village of Presque le Chateau. This is in exchange for attending the famous "L'Ecole du Patisserie" to become a pastry chef.
It takes awhile for Lexi to break into the culture of the French and feel at home. She meets her boss' son Philippe and his sweet-hearted, adorable child, Celine. They help her in her adjustments into life in France. Finding an English-speaking church helps her to maintain her bearings and reminds her so that she can remind others that Jesus is the Bread of Life.
I really enjoyed the quotes at the beginning of the chapters and the introduction into French culture.
"Lexi discovers that as she leans more on God the choices become a little clearer - and making them, well, c'est la vie!"
I'm already looking foward to the third book in this series, as I'm sure it will be a perfect recipe for a tasteful ending.
"Fast, fun, and packed with French culture, foodie appeal, and unique recipes readers will love accompanying Lexi on her journey in Bon Appetit as she tries to choose between two countries, two men and the faith to lean on God while savoring the surprises life brings!"
Author Bio: Best-selling author Sandra Byrd enjoys a successful career writing adult, teen, and children’s books, including the Friends for a Season, Secret Sisters series and the French Twist series, including the first Lexi Stuart novel, Let them Eat Cake. She is also a regular contributor to newspapers and magazines. Sandra lives in Washington state with her husband and two children.
This is a delicious book with an enriching message!!
Want your own copy of Bon Appetit? Leave your comment below on what are some of your favorite items to cook. I have two copies to give away!! :-) I'll randomly choose winners on October 25, 2008.
Twenty-some year old Lexi Stuart starts her adventure in France working at a well-known, family-owned bakery in the village of Presque le Chateau. This is in exchange for attending the famous "L'Ecole du Patisserie" to become a pastry chef.
It takes awhile for Lexi to break into the culture of the French and feel at home. She meets her boss' son Philippe and his sweet-hearted, adorable child, Celine. They help her in her adjustments into life in France. Finding an English-speaking church helps her to maintain her bearings and reminds her so that she can remind others that Jesus is the Bread of Life.
I really enjoyed the quotes at the beginning of the chapters and the introduction into French culture.
"Lexi discovers that as she leans more on God the choices become a little clearer - and making them, well, c'est la vie!"
I'm already looking foward to the third book in this series, as I'm sure it will be a perfect recipe for a tasteful ending.
"Fast, fun, and packed with French culture, foodie appeal, and unique recipes readers will love accompanying Lexi on her journey in Bon Appetit as she tries to choose between two countries, two men and the faith to lean on God while savoring the surprises life brings!"
Author Bio: Best-selling author Sandra Byrd enjoys a successful career writing adult, teen, and children’s books, including the Friends for a Season, Secret Sisters series and the French Twist series, including the first Lexi Stuart novel, Let them Eat Cake. She is also a regular contributor to newspapers and magazines. Sandra lives in Washington state with her husband and two children.
This is a delicious book with an enriching message!!
Want your own copy of Bon Appetit? Leave your comment below on what are some of your favorite items to cook. I have two copies to give away!! :-) I'll randomly choose winners on October 25, 2008.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
The Shape of Mercy - Book Review
As soon as I received the book, "The Shape of Mercy" by Susan Meissner, I delved into it with interest. I thoroughly enjoyed the story. This was one of those rare stories that I literally could not put down.
Main character, Lauren Durough, is a rich college girl who wants to find out what it is like to live in the working world. She pursues an education and then also chooses to take a part-time job from interesting 83 yr old Abigail Boyles. Abigail chooses Lauren just as much as Lauren chooses this job - transcribing a diary by Mercy Haworth, a victim of the Massachusetts witch trials. It was gripping to hear about the history of witch trials and how they began.
What starts out as an interesting diary to transcribe, turns into a strong interest in the girl, her life, her story, her hopes and dreams. Somehow Mercy Haworth's diary is a part in the life of Abigail Boyles, and will eventually help Lauren to "take a startling new look at her own life, including her relationships with Abigail, her college roommate, and a young man named Raul. ... Can she break free from her own perceptions and see who she really is?"
The realization Lauren had gripped me as I looked at the issue of evaluating others in a whole new way. Very powerful.
"Meissner's prose is exquisite...she is a stunning storyteller." Publishers Weekly
"Author Bio: From early school-day projects to becoming editor of a local newspaper in Minnesota, Susan Meissner’s love for writing has been apparent her entire life. The Shape of Mercy is her latest novel in a string of books that delve into the deeper issues of life. She is the author of nine novels and lives with her family in San Diego. Find out more about her at http://www.susanmeissner.com/. "
I'm so sorry to report that I forgot to rsvp that I wanted give away copies for this book. I certainly would have loved to pass this book on. I will loan it out to anyone in my area, but I really want it back to keep. :-) A great book to own or give as a gift.
Tuesday, October 07, 2008
Drum Surgery Update, etc. :-)
Drum had surgery Friday morning to put in two plates over his left clavicle. The surgery took about an hour and a half. Papa K was in residence. He put in Drum's IV and kept an eye on him in surgery. He's the only family member to have seen the plates in place. :-) When we got home about 5 pm, the pain wasn't too bad, but the nausea was terrible. He finally quit throwing up on Sun about noon. His stomach was still hurting on Monday, but he kept food down in small amounts. By Monday night he was eating frequently and in larger amounts. Yeah! He's sounding more and more like his chipper self. We are so thankful that he won't have to worry about breaking it again. An interesting note was that he has broken it 4 times, and I believe they were all in the month of October - three years in a row, skip a year, and then this year. It will be awhile before he's back doing push-ups, but it'll be much sooner than if there were no plates.
Dot told me she's already sick of driving for everyone, and it's only been two weeks! :-) She was just frustrated to have to go to the dentist because Drum was in no condition to go, so she had to take his place. I just smiled.
The leaves are beautiful around our place. Around the trees in the yard are carpets of fall leaves. I'm looking forward to raking when it quits raining, and I get time.
Dot and Deer get hair cuts today. Basically a good trim.
Dot had a great trip birthday shopping with her Grandma. She got new black shoes (so cute!), two skirts, a sweater, a black belt, a pretty pink necklace and earrings. They hit some great deals, and had alot of fun. Papa joined them here afterwards to check on Drum, and brought pizza!! Hurray for Grandparents! :-)
This morning it is raining so no jog for me. But now I have time for this post! :-) Thanks for the prompting fellow blogger. :-)
Update on the camera situation: I need to call the camera shop to get the number again for the place to have Dunk take it to. I never remember in the day, just late at night or early am. Someday...
Dot told me she's already sick of driving for everyone, and it's only been two weeks! :-) She was just frustrated to have to go to the dentist because Drum was in no condition to go, so she had to take his place. I just smiled.
The leaves are beautiful around our place. Around the trees in the yard are carpets of fall leaves. I'm looking forward to raking when it quits raining, and I get time.
Dot and Deer get hair cuts today. Basically a good trim.
Dot had a great trip birthday shopping with her Grandma. She got new black shoes (so cute!), two skirts, a sweater, a black belt, a pretty pink necklace and earrings. They hit some great deals, and had alot of fun. Papa joined them here afterwards to check on Drum, and brought pizza!! Hurray for Grandparents! :-)
This morning it is raining so no jog for me. But now I have time for this post! :-) Thanks for the prompting fellow blogger. :-)
Update on the camera situation: I need to call the camera shop to get the number again for the place to have Dunk take it to. I never remember in the day, just late at night or early am. Someday...
Thursday, October 02, 2008
Catch-Up
I thought I'd give everyone a quick update from the W Household.
- My oldest dear daughter, Dot, turned 16! Where did the time go? We celebrated her birthday as a family on Tuesday. Her brother got her "Eldest" and "Brisinger". She was ecstatic!
- After a super busy week she passed her driving test! Everyone was so booked when I went to schedule her test, we had to travel 1 1/2 hours north to be able to take the test in Sept. I was way more nervous than her. I guess I had more riding on it. :-)
- We got back and Dot had a huge party! 10 girls over for pie-baking and girly fun. We ate leftover pie all weekend.
- My camera is still on the blink.
- I bought a mp3 player with my birthday money. I'm still working on getting the music on it that I want. Plus, I found out that I am not like my kids. I can't listen and think at the same time anymore. just weird :-) I want to get music on it, so that I can listen and practice on my birthday drums!
- In my spare time, think middle of the night usually, I recently read "Ergon" and "Eldest." Sooo fun! I can't wait to read "Dresingr." I also read "The Shape of Mercy." I think I need to do a review on that. Ooops.
- Last evening Drum broke his clavicle again!!! Same side. Poor kid! We want to get it plated for him, so this doesn't keep on happening. This is the 4th time!! Something's wrong with his healing in that spot. We had it x-rayed, and they said it was all healed, but... He has been handling the pain well. I went and dug out his sling. It sure fits better than it used to. :-) We talk with the Dr. today. Speaking of which, I gotta run...
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
An Update!!
I'm so bummed! My camera accidentally got dropped and now I'm out for the count for picture taking. I was just wanting to take a picture of my new drum set I received for my birthday!! It is a beautiful used set, that I have so enjoyed playing on. My brothers and their families surprised me and came for the birthday party. We had a great time. I feel spoiled. :-)
I used some of my birthday money for new tennis shoes! and new chair cushions for our dining room table!! Our old ones were getting so tacky and beyond any more repair. Hooray for Kohl's 30% off coupons!! :-)
Yesterday was a big day, as we started up ballet lessons at our home again. One of my former students, who has continued her ballet education, is returning to teach in our small studio. She is so sweet and did a fantastic job on her first day! Deer is so excited about lessons, and our boys are thrilled with the sibling friends they get to play with during ballet time.
Yesterday I got to see a God-incidence. Wednesday I had an unbelievable schedule. Dot needed to be at Behind-the Wheel classes 30 min. north of our home. Dime needed to be at guitar lessons 20 min. south of our home. At approximately the same time. I was looking at possibly going to take Dot north, drive Dime south, go north to pick up Dot, take her south to join Dime for Bible Study. Way too much time in the vehicle, much less gas, four younger kids at home, etc. I couldn't change the driving lesson. Didn't think there was any way I could change the guitar lesson. Then yesterday the guitar teacher called, and he was having scheduling conflicts for Wednesday, could we change to Tuesday! PTL!!
This morning we had much the same sheduling conflict, but with no possible way of doing both, so Dot's orthodontic appt. got cancelled. Hopefully it'll work out fine. I am so thankful for the Lord seeing the big picture.
My dear husband got a job!!! in our home state!!!!!!! I feel so blessed to have him have a job and be around home. His side job is picking up a bit in the fall season, so sometimes he's home late, but at least he's HOME! Monday nights go so much smoother. Darling loves being home with Daddy, so I can take the big boys to CAP, without the stress of taking the younger ones with me, or leaving them home which gets long even with big sister Dot.
Dot is checking out a new babysitting job today. She is excited about the possibilites of regular employment at a time that works with her schedule. We are really praying about some sort of job for Drum and Dime as well. They need the money just to go to CAP events. :-) They are not super expensive, but it adds up! or should I say their wallets are getting slim to empty. :-)
Well, I should either hit the hay for an hour, or get busy with some paperwork. Darling has been up and down since 3:30 am. After Dunk got up for work, I was too awake and hungry to go back to sleep, so decided to join the computer with some left over popcorn. This is going to hit me this afternoon, but it was fun to have time for a post.
I used some of my birthday money for new tennis shoes! and new chair cushions for our dining room table!! Our old ones were getting so tacky and beyond any more repair. Hooray for Kohl's 30% off coupons!! :-)
Yesterday was a big day, as we started up ballet lessons at our home again. One of my former students, who has continued her ballet education, is returning to teach in our small studio. She is so sweet and did a fantastic job on her first day! Deer is so excited about lessons, and our boys are thrilled with the sibling friends they get to play with during ballet time.
Yesterday I got to see a God-incidence. Wednesday I had an unbelievable schedule. Dot needed to be at Behind-the Wheel classes 30 min. north of our home. Dime needed to be at guitar lessons 20 min. south of our home. At approximately the same time. I was looking at possibly going to take Dot north, drive Dime south, go north to pick up Dot, take her south to join Dime for Bible Study. Way too much time in the vehicle, much less gas, four younger kids at home, etc. I couldn't change the driving lesson. Didn't think there was any way I could change the guitar lesson. Then yesterday the guitar teacher called, and he was having scheduling conflicts for Wednesday, could we change to Tuesday! PTL!!
This morning we had much the same sheduling conflict, but with no possible way of doing both, so Dot's orthodontic appt. got cancelled. Hopefully it'll work out fine. I am so thankful for the Lord seeing the big picture.
My dear husband got a job!!! in our home state!!!!!!! I feel so blessed to have him have a job and be around home. His side job is picking up a bit in the fall season, so sometimes he's home late, but at least he's HOME! Monday nights go so much smoother. Darling loves being home with Daddy, so I can take the big boys to CAP, without the stress of taking the younger ones with me, or leaving them home which gets long even with big sister Dot.
Dot is checking out a new babysitting job today. She is excited about the possibilites of regular employment at a time that works with her schedule. We are really praying about some sort of job for Drum and Dime as well. They need the money just to go to CAP events. :-) They are not super expensive, but it adds up! or should I say their wallets are getting slim to empty. :-)
Well, I should either hit the hay for an hour, or get busy with some paperwork. Darling has been up and down since 3:30 am. After Dunk got up for work, I was too awake and hungry to go back to sleep, so decided to join the computer with some left over popcorn. This is going to hit me this afternoon, but it was fun to have time for a post.
Monday, September 08, 2008
A Walk Around Our Yard
Things I noticed on my walk this morning:
- pearly dew on the grass
- perky wildflowers already up and ready for the day
- yellow sunflowers that Papa missed when he mowed
- tracks from a deer who visited our yard last night
- crocs from a child who enjoyed the tramp last night
- socks from a kid who could climb trees better in bare feet
- one of the last glimpses of the season of green, green trees and a blue, blue sky
- a woodpecker going after his breakfast
- several Canadian geese visiting while they traveled together
- busy songbirds
- a quiet house and yard looking forward to the promises of a new day :-)
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Wild Goose Chase - A Book Review
I am still in the middle of reading "Wild Goose Chase, Reclaim the Adventure of Pursuing God" by Mark Batterson. This has been an inspiring, encouraging book. One that I prefer savoring in chapters at a time so that the encouragment and thoughts can sift deeper in.
The Celtic Christians called the Holy Spirit - The Wild Goose. When one thinks about the characteristics of the wild geese, I think this is a very apt name for the Holy Spirit. Since reading this book, I have gone on-line and have thought about some of the facts about the Canadian goose. For instance: the Canadian geese who are in back of the v-formation, honk to encourage the ones in front to keep up their speed. Sometimes it feels like the Holy Spirit gives us honks of encouragement through God-incidences in our daily lives.
One of my favorite comments in this book is that circumstancial uncertainty equals adventure. The Holy Spirit leads us on the adventure of our lives. :-)
I'd love to write more, but for lack of time let me just encourage you to get your own copy of this wonderful book at Amazon.com: Wild Goose Chase
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1590527194 It will be worth it.
Author Bio:
Mark Batterson is the lead pastor of Washington, DC’s National Community Church, widely recognized as one of America’s most innovative churches. NCC meets in movie theaters at metro stops throughout the city, as well as in a church-owned coffee house near Union Station. More than seventy percent of NCC’ers are single twentysomethings who live or work on Capitol Hill. Mark is the author of the best-selling In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day and a widely read blogger (www.markbatterson.com). He lives on Capitol Hill with his wife, Lora, and their three children.
The Celtic Christians called the Holy Spirit - The Wild Goose. When one thinks about the characteristics of the wild geese, I think this is a very apt name for the Holy Spirit. Since reading this book, I have gone on-line and have thought about some of the facts about the Canadian goose. For instance: the Canadian geese who are in back of the v-formation, honk to encourage the ones in front to keep up their speed. Sometimes it feels like the Holy Spirit gives us honks of encouragement through God-incidences in our daily lives.
One of my favorite comments in this book is that circumstancial uncertainty equals adventure. The Holy Spirit leads us on the adventure of our lives. :-)
I'd love to write more, but for lack of time let me just encourage you to get your own copy of this wonderful book at Amazon.com: Wild Goose Chase
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1590527194 It will be worth it.
Author Bio:
Mark Batterson is the lead pastor of Washington, DC’s National Community Church, widely recognized as one of America’s most innovative churches. NCC meets in movie theaters at metro stops throughout the city, as well as in a church-owned coffee house near Union Station. More than seventy percent of NCC’ers are single twentysomethings who live or work on Capitol Hill. Mark is the author of the best-selling In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day and a widely read blogger (www.markbatterson.com). He lives on Capitol Hill with his wife, Lora, and their three children.
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