La Vida Dulce

Musings on a Winter Day

2012-01-24T08:33:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was such a dreary day that I heeded the advice my mama taught me: if you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all. So I kept myself from social networking of the internet kind.

It actually started on Sunday afternoon. A cold wind blew into town with a thick and heavy fog and a promise to stay.

Honestly, one of my biggest pet peeves is a whiner, especially an adult whiner, and the absolute worst is when that whiner is me. So I decided to keep from splashing my dissatisfaction (over something as silly as weather) to myself. --Although if you ask The Mister, he will tell you my day wasn't completely weather whine-free.

Instead, before waking the kiddos from slumber, I lit a candle, ate my breakfast, and did a little reading. It helped straighten up an entitled attitude. The fresh coffee helped too.

I am such a sunshine girl.

And warmth... I'm a heat and warm weather kind of girl.

Of course, what did I do with the rest of my day?

I went ice skating.

The Boy had some friends that were all meeting to ice skate, so with the promise of finishing his assignments, we headed to the ice rink in the early afternoon. I hadn't been skating in nearly two decades; the kids had never been. They both did great. I did pretty good for a near 40 year old homemaker who hasn't worn skates since the 80's.

I fell for the first time, ever. Today I cannot tell if the left side of my body is sore from yesterdays workout or that lovely (and ever so graceful) crash meeting I had with the ice while all the smart parents (who sat in the grandstands) watched.

However, it was good exercise for the kids and The Boy enjoyed hanging out with friends on a Monday. My favorite part was the opportunity to spend a couple hours holding my Girl's delicate hand. She was like a new fawn, all lanky arms and legs, on ice skates trying to figure it out... cute as can be.

Today the weather man said there would be sunshine by noon, and I will enjoy it because more cold and wet weather is on its way.

I'm not worried.

I've got lots of candles...

Random Gratitude

2012-01-18T09:49:00.001-05:00

"friends" by The Girl

For the creative people with whom I share this life...

For the rain tapping the window while I try to fall to sleep...

For wool yarn slipping through my fingers...

For antihistamines to help with wool allergy...

For strong words pondered, that reflect True love:

"Someday God's wrath will come to judge all the injustices of today.

Our mess will be rectified." - D. Bowen

For the imperfect beauty of a scrappy quilt... and able hands to make it.

For noisy geese that fly over the piney woods each morning, and then come honking home each night...

...For all these things I am thankful.

Happy Wednesday!

Giveaway: My Memories Software

2012-01-13T07:58:00.003-05:00

*Update* Sandra, I just did my random drawing and your number is the winner! Thanks for playing!

Right before Christmas I received an email from a representative of My Memories Digital Scrapbook Software.

I've done traditional scrapbooking, and had seen digital editions by some really talented bloggers and friends, but had resisted the urge to dive into yet another crafting endeavor in which I would need to buy a whole new set of supplies, digital or material!

My Memories was willing to let me download their latest software, and offered another to giveaway.

My hope was that I would be able to make our Christmas card this year, but the learning curve proved to be a little more involved than I had originally estimated! There truly is an art to digital work, and I needed a bit more time to learn the software. I'm looking forward to learning how to efficiently use this software in the coming year.

With that said, I did spend several hours playing, and I was impressed with the amount of artwork that was included. There are a lot of digital decorations and papers included in the software, as well as a large selection of free digital papers to access from the My Memories website.

If you would like to be entered in the giveaway to receive a downloadable copy of the My Memories software all you have to do is visit their site, look around, and come back and tell me what what your favorite digital pack or layout is in the comments section.

You do not have to have a blog to win, but you do need a valid email address! And unlike other giveaways on this blog (when I had to mail something to you!) this one I can include those living outside of the USA!

For extra entries, follow the My Memories blog, Twitter, or Facebook page and then add another comment(s) here letting me know to add your extra entries to the list.

I will pick a random number using the random number generator on Monday, January 16, 2012.

Good Luck!

Bullet Posting

2012-01-11T14:23:00.002-05:00

Not much time today. Gotta be quick!

Lately this has been my favorite spot in the house. And yes, that is a fire burning above my fireplace. Check it out on Netflix, its a movie called Fireplace for the Home. It has crackling fire sounds and everything but heat. I love it (since our fireplace has issues).

I've spent most of this week preparing things for school so I haven't had much time for crafting, but I did manage to crank out a pair of fingerless gloves while watching the first episode of the second season of Downton Abbey on Monday night.

These are three crafting books The Mister gave to me at Christmas. I have flipped through them each and looked at all the pictures,which inspired the owls pictured above, but I haven't had proper time to dig complete in... I plan to remedy that this weekend.

Last , but certainly not least, I had a moment of weariness toward the beginning of the week. Nothing major, just the briefest of moments when I felt overwhelmed (and inclined to panic) with how I am going to accomplish all the things that are set before me... and do them well. Soon after, I read the following quote. I hope it encourages you as much as it encourages me.

With Christ beside us, we cannot be conquered or cowed -

never forget that the power of God working

through a faithful servant

is a mighty thing.

-Turning Points Devotional, June 2011, Day 13

Happy Wednesday!

Tortilla Legacy

2012-01-09T15:47:00.000-05:00

I have spent the last 18 years trying, without success, to make a flour tortilla.

I have high expectations because the minute I get out the flour my mind wanders to an afternoon nearly thirty years ago when I sat on a tall chair in my godmother's kitchen and watched her and her sisters make stacks of tortillas.

Three sisters. Talking and working. Laughing and cooking. My memory as clear as the day.

Without need of measuring, they mixed flour, salt, (quite possibly) lard, and boiling water.. with bare hands. Heat wasn't a bother. Once the dough was all mixed they placed large portions into the palm of one hand and by making a fist, squeezed out a perfectly sized ball through the circle made between the thumb and the finger. No gadgets, or worry.

They had heavy wooden rolling pins, without handles or fancy, and would roll out the thinnest tortillas without hole or misshape.

It may be the glorifying imaginations of a young and tender mind, but I am certain each tortilla was perfectly round and nearly all the same size.

I remember the black, cast iron griddle, hot beyond reason, and yet they would flip the tortillas using only their fingers. And when the tortilla was done, it was quickly placed between the folded ends of a dishtowel to keep them soft and warm.

It goes without saying... these tortillas were good. Not like anything you buy in the store.

A vivid memory of a warm day, doors wide open, the sound of wind chimes on the breeze; tradition shared between women, and a little brown-headed girl sitting at the counter watching their every move... dreaming of the day she'd make tortillas too.

I have spent nearly two decades trying to make tortillas like them.

This morning I found a recipe for whole wheat tortillas (sacrilege, I know). I was stumped because the recipe called for avocado oil. I have tried many different recipes, but using oil was something I'd never seen. I figured it would taste wheat-y and weird.

They didn't. They cooked up amazingly delicious. I burned my fingers three times... but, oh! it was worth it.

I was so impressed that when I was done, I just had to know.. What would these taste like with white flour and regular oil. Would they come close to the standard that lives in my heart?

So I threw caution to the wind (and my current non-processed food plan) and whipped up a batch. My own brown headed kids anxiously waiting.

They aren't round. They aren't pretty. I had to use the knife to get them evenly portioned... but they tasted very much like a sweet memory of this brown-headed girl.

Tortilla's (as modified from wheat recipe above)

2.5 cups of flour

3 Tbls oil (I used Canola)

1 tsp salt

1 1/4 cup boiling water

Mix flour, salt, and oil in mixer until crumbly. Add hot water slowly. When dough holds to itself, it done. It will be very moist, but not wet. Shape into log. Cut into twelve pieces and cover. let rest for 15-30 minutes. Roll out and place on a very hot griddle until bubbly, flip and cook for about a minute more (don't overcook or they will be too crisp). Place in between two kitchen towels while cooking the rest.

Enjoy!

New Beginnings

2012-01-05T12:52:00.000-05:00

I served toast with butter and hard boiled eggs for breakfast.

On the outward appearance, its just breakfast, but my thoughts were elsewhere.

Eggs have long been a symbol of new beginnings.

Last night the four of us sat around the table after dinner, all a bit tired. We played a new board game that confounded us all and we fussed at each other in frustration. Each of us (present company included) let our attitudes color our vision, and said things that weren't as kind as they could have been. Apologies were made and forgiveness declared, but the wounds of sharp words aren't so quickly healed. We all went to bed feeling "weird".

Before sleep came to stay, The Girl tip-toed to me with a sad look in her eye and said she couldn't stop feeling sorry. I hugged her and told her to tuck herself back in the bed, to remember that God loves us more than we can imagine, even when we aren't at our best. Tomorrow, I told her, she would wake up knowing that "God's mercies are new every morning."

What I told her is true. I know this not because I am wise enough to see it, or good enough to receive it, or rich enough to buy it, but because God's love is lavish; His grace, generous; His mercy, more than I can imagine.

How do I know His mercies are new?

Early today, when the kids came with energy and laughter downstairs for their breakfast I looked up at their faces, and then down at those eggs and felt grateful for the gentle reminder...

I need new beginnings too.

Books and Resolutions

2012-01-04T08:56:00.000-05:00

The two questions I have been asked several times in as many weeks are: What books are you reading? Have you made any resolutions?

Right now I am reading as if I hadn't ever seen a book before. I find myself reading in the bathroom while I am drying my hair or brushing my teeth, when I have down time between subjects in the school day, and sometimes when I should be doing something else... like sleeping or folding laundry.

I always like to read fluff during Christmas break (and always, really) and this year I am nearly finished with a billion reasons why, by Kristin Billerbeck.

My mom sent Killing Lincoln by Bill O'Rielly to my husband...and I stole it. What makes this book of history so interesting to me is that I live (and have been!) to many of the places this history happened.

I asked for the Meaning of Marriage by Timothy Keller for Christmas. I'm only three chapters in, but it is good. Really good.

For a devotional I have been using the Puritan Paperback (easy reader version) of Communion with God which is John Owen's work worded in layman's terms. I could sum up this book in two syllables: Mea-ty. Honestly I have been working through this book for the last nine months. It's not a quick read, but worth the time.

On my Kindle App, I have been reading Fast Food Nation by Eric Schlosser, and In Defense of Food by Michael Pollan. You may remember these journalists from a documentary that came out a year or two ago called Food Inc.

That documentary prompted last years resolution, or goal as I am wont to call them, to go back to an old habit I had when my kids were younger (and the wallet leaner): intentional meal planning and preparing, in particular, dinner planning.

The story of how I went from healthful eating to not-so-much-healthful-eating is a long story better saved for another day, but let's just say the Queen of Twig Eating, Kale Juicing, and Veggie Pushing, found the likes of PopTarts and chicken nuggets as a mainstay in her cupboard. And what's worse? Grew to like them.

Processed foods become so easy to grab when the cook is tired and busy. (Not to mention, not as young as she used to be!)

Currently, meal planning and preparing aren't as much about budgeted-living as it was back-in-the-day. Today it's about time-management, with the added benefit of keeping money in the pocket. My life is different with a full-time job as educator. I no longer have the convenience of home-making full time, it must be balanced with my other full time jobs as mom and teacher.

With last years goal in mind I was able to make great strides in dinner prep and healthful cooking and it feels great to be back on track... but I could step it up a notch in keeping the non-processed foods out of my fridge and pantry, and being intentional not just about dinner, but breakfast and lunch as well. So that is the major goal I have set for the following year.

If this is something you are interested in there is a great blog that I am sure is going to help me in this years goal: 100 Days of Real Food. There are lots of great recipes for ALL meals.

I am also reading several new crafting books, but I think I will post on that tomorrow.

Happy Wednesday and Happy New Year!

True Confessions

2011-12-28T08:52:00.000-05:00

Today, instead of waxing eloquent on our awesome Christmas holiday, I thought I would have a moment of confession. After all, in just four days we turn the page on a New Year...and confessing is good for the soul.

Confession 1 -

Of all the gifts I made this year, these little owls were a great source of pride, I just LOVE them. Made of wool felt, hand embroidered and stuffed with cotton. Seriously thinking of making a pair for myself, but I know they just wouldn't be the same...

Confession 2-

I spent a ridiculous amount of time on the front steps last week. But the best morning of all was Christmas Eve. It was a little chilly, enough to need a hat and a blanket. Kona came out with me and while I fed her treats I ate the BEST breakfast: homemade bread and jam, a gift from our neighbor. So good. All of it.

Confession 3-

I may have had more than two pieces.

Confession 4 -

I received the perfect tri-fecta of gifts this season. Gingerbread coffee, a new NC mug, and a french press. Lets just say that I have had ~~more than~~ my fair share of coffee in the last three days.

Confession 5 -

All the decorations are ~~put away~~ boxed... putting boxes back in the attic is man's work.

One box that came down from the attic this year wasn't Christmas stuff. As a matter of fact it was an unpacked moving box left from our move in 2007. Yes, five years ago. We've moved twice since then.

Obviously we weren't too worried about unpacking it. It contained BIG (seriously, the biggest I have ever seen) pine cones, and some "magic" glitter. Oh, and also, some fine glitter that I decided to keep in the 4 ounce breast-milk bottles I used back-in-the-day. Of course re-purposing old things for new storage is nothing new... you may remember the time I used the cookie jar to house our new fish.

Confession #6 - (and the real reason I called you all here today.)

Somebody (who shall remain nameless) should have probably been on the Naughty List instead of getting all those nice coffee related gifts.

It seems, while decorating gingerbread houses and people this year, things got out of hand. In the alleged culprit's defense, there were two gingerbread people that came with the kit, and it was unanimously decided one cookie would be The Mister, and the other would be His Wife.

The decorator of The Wife took creative license by use of Milk Duds. A girl can dream right?

She nearly blew her cover when she posted this picture online a couple weeks ago:

This was the original picture and it was quickly removed from the Internet due to inappropriate nature (and children who are easily embarrassed.)

It was quickly replaced with this one:

Thankfully, Kona the Wonderdog ate The Gingerbread Wife (Milk Duds and all) while the family was at Christmas Eve service, making all evidence null and void, and saving me her from the naughty list.

Whew! I feel better already!

Happy last Wednesday of the Year!

Merry Christmas 2011

2011-12-26T11:33:00.004-05:00

Click on picture to see up close!

From the Little Yellow House on the Hill to yours, Merry Christmas!

The picture above is the poem from this years Christmas card, along with current pictures of each of us... Of course,The Mister likes to keep his anonymity here at La Vida Dulce, so this year The Girl painted his picture instead.

Blessing on each of you who read this... May you find true Joy in this season.

With Love,
Kellie

Tamales 2011

2011-12-21T07:48:00.000-05:00

The last time I made tamales on my own is was December 13, 2005.

Six years ago.

Of course, that wasn't the last time I made tamales. I have had a couple of Christmases at my Arizona home since then.

Christmas 2010 - at my parents house.

But never again have I made them by myself.

Why?

It's not that tamale making is exceptionally difficult.

It's not.

It's not that it takes a lot of preparation and makes a big mess.

It does.

It's that tamale making is more than the outcome.

It's about family time and tradition, about celebration and being together.

Tamale making just isn't fun when doing it alone.

When the CarPoolQueen mentioned that she was up for some tamale making, I was very excited.

Today we will skip the yarn isle, and head to CPQ's kitchen.

Anybody who has made tamales knows that there is nearly always a story that rolls through this happy event... and anybody who has read CPQ's blog, or spent some time with her knows that with her there is always an adventure, with laughter and fun... I cannot wait to see the stories this day will hold.

Happy Wednesday!

Crochet Christmas

2011-12-20T08:10:00.001-05:00

I've been meaning to show this to you for over a week now.

One evening I was at my neighbors house and she had a crochet Nativity set displayed on the coffee table.

Y'all, I had to hold myself back I was so excited! I asked (as casually as I could) to take a picture.

I cannot imagine all the work that went into this set. It is perfect. Right down to the removable shepherds hats and baby Jesus. Amazing.

I could have played with them all night (especially those sweet sheep!), but being a near 40 year old, I thought I would mind my manners.

Happy Tuesday!

"The Rose I Have In Mind"

2011-12-16T10:54:00.000-05:00

"It came a floweret bright,

amid the cold of winter,

when half spent was the night."

Years ago, when we bought the Little Yellow House on the Hill, I didn't know that the little green bush on the edge of the driveway was a gift...until one day their pink and yellow blooms opened just when I needed them.

I soon learned this winter-happy plant is a Camellia, my favorite flower because she is the most beautiful when all the world is closing up. As temperatures drop and leaves fall; when suddenly, as if overnight, the world lacks colorful life, the Camellia "bursts into bloom" and is glad. She knows harsh weather and frozen earth won't be her end. She sits beneath the protection of a hardwood tree, her leaves green and hearty, flower-faces pressing toward the sun.

It would be enough, this little spot of encouragement, but our hill holds an abundance of flora favor.

There is also the Camellia Tree.

She lives close to the house, offering her brilliant blossom in the last weeks of winter.

If I am not careful, I can be driven by the changing of cold and bitter winds, my heart wandering into places of despair. It is in these moments I'm prone to ponder: will winter never end?

The Camellias encourage me to push through to the promise of warmer, more colorful days.

Last winter, when we had storm after storm, more snow than I had seen in my lifetime, I prepared my heart for the worst. It was too much to hope for beautiful blossom on the Camellia tree when ice had frozen her limbs.

I was wrong.

Winter made her stronger. More vibrant and fruitful than ever.

There is hope in the winter... even when we think all is lost.

I want to be like the Camellia, facing winter with strength. Finding a place to thrive under the protection of the Tree of Life. Inspiring hope in those who walk through seasons of their own.

The Camellia is but a glimpse of the beauty and mercy of our Creator, who in the face of all the most beautiful things on earth, will remain the Loveliest of all lovely things, because He Himself is Love...

These little plants in my yard, here today and gone tomorrow, are but a shadow, but they do remind me of the Christmas story.

There is One who came to us, on the coldest of nights, through the deadliest of winters, in the darkest of seasons... to all people. Prince of Peace, Mighty God, Jesus Christ, Savior.

We can lift our faces upward and see the beauty in our winter because He is living Hope: yesterday, today, forever.

~~~

Lo, how a Rose e’er blooming from tender stem hath sprung!

Of Jesse’s lineage coming, as men of old have sung.

It came, a floweret bright, amid the cold of winter,

When half spent was the night.

Isaiah ’twas foretold it, the Rose I have in mind;

With Mary we behold it, the virgin mother kind.

To show God’s love aright, she bore to men a Savior,

When half spent was the night.

The shepherds heard the story proclaimed by angels bright,

How Christ, the Lord of glory was born on earth this night.

To Bethlehem they sped and in the manger found Him,

As angel heralds said.

This Flower, whose fragrance tender with sweetness fills the air,

Dispels with glorious splendor the darkness everywhere;

True Man, yet very God, from sin and death He saves us,

And lightens every load.

O Savior, Child of Mary, who felt our human woe,

O Savior, King of glory, who dost our weakness know;

Bring us at length we pray, to the bright courts of Heaven,

And to the endless day!

(15th Century Carol)

Christmas Past

2011-12-13T08:40:00.000-05:00

This weekend The Boy came home from a Christmas party and told us about a "cool gift" he saw during the gift exchange.

He described it as a sculpture of Spongebob that you spread seeds on so grass will grow.

The Mister and I smiled at each other and sang at the same time: ch-ch-ch-Chia Pet!

I told him that those had been around for ages, only back in the day we didn't have the fancy characters as-see-on-TV. We just had plain old terra cotta animals of unknown origin.

I remember the year I got one for Christmas. Unfortunately, I killed it. I wasn't much of a green thumb back then.

Anyway, this conversation led me down a long walk through memory lane...

There was that Christmas all I wanted was a pair of Keds and a Swatch watch. Oh! and a crimp iron to fix my otherwise straight-as-a-board hair. It knew it would take me hours to crimp my hair, but I didn't care because I just knew I would look amazing with teased-out bangs and a banana clip.

I'll never forget the Christmas my mom and I decorated a bunch of sweatshirts in iron-on holiday decals and puff paint. Oh puff paint! I loved that stuff.

In the years that go way back, I asked for Blueberry Muffin to go with Strawberry Shortcake, and felt a Care Bear was just what I needed to go with my stuffed animal collection... I won't even mention the year I wanted a Cabbage Patch doll but there were none to be found at our local Kmart (Target? Walmart? What were those?) I quickly got over my sadness as I played with my Simon (bought from the Radio Shack) and watched my brothers play Frogger and Donkey Kong on the Atari.

I will admit that the year I got a Rubik's cube I was pretty excited, until I figured out that that puzzle was really difficult to solve, and it was easier to just pull the stickers off and place them back in order. Except you never really could get the stickers to look new again... which was a bummer.

There was the year when I got the Debbie Gibson album, and Tiffany, and Wham!, and spent the rest of the year singing Bangle's Eternal Flame, in between rounds of Walk Like an Egyptian and Just Another Manic Monday. I'm not talking downloads here... I'm talking genu-ine tape cassettes that you had to flip over to hear Side 2.

I could go on and on... so instead you tell me: What do you remember, from back in the day, that you wanted from dear Old Saint Nick?

Happy Tuesday!

GlitterWing

2011-12-12T08:12:00.001-05:00

Good Monday Morning!

As soon as I finish this post I plan to get online and finish my Christmas Shopping.

Then I am going to order Christmas cards, (oh! I am woefully behind this year!)

Then I am going to lock myself in my office and finish the handmade gifts I was supposed to finish this weekend, but didn't...because I did something I shouldn't have done.. but did anyway.

Make sense?

In August of 2010 I started this project, then I put it in a drawer and forgot about it.

Honestly, its a simple case of out of sight, out of mind... until I remembered! And had to get it done.

So that's what i did.

Then I decided I should make one of my little birds... you know, the one I doodled a couple years ago when I was supposed to be doing something else? (hmm, I'm seeing a pattern here)

Well, I made her into a little ornament and put some sparkle on her wing.

She's all dressed up for her place in the tree. I know she is just a wool felt ornament, but i love her.

I also finished up my LVCG (La Vida Coffee Gal) coffee mug. She isn't hand embroidered. My Brother (the monogram machine) helped with this one.

Side one:

Side two:

Now that those are finished... I hope to whip out a couple of ornaments as gifts based on one of my beloved decorations:

This angel has hung on my Christmas tree my whole life. I cannot remember a Christmas without her. I don't know who made her or what Christmas she came to live on our tree, but when I was a kid I used to sit and stare at her, all glittery and beautiful under the lights. I used to wish I could wear jewels on my dress too. It's funny, I just (right this moment) noticed that she also has glitter on her wings...

I am going to try to make a few copies of this ornament this week. Let's hope it doesn't take 17 months to finish them.

All right, time to put on my ~~glitter wings~~ teacher face and wake up the natives.

Happy Monday!

Brown Eyed Girl

2011-12-07T13:15:00.001-05:00

If you ever have to have a minor "surgical" procedure that requires you to wear a bandage on your face for a week, I recommend three things that will help you through:

1. Flesh colored bandages for camouflage.

2. A large purple flower, worn in the hair for distraction.

3. One brown eyed girl who who has your back, in accessories and band aides, with generous amounts of love and concern.

Having "beauty marks" removed is really not a big deal.

But if you have to do it... these three things will make it all a lot better.

The Tall Friendly (banana eating) Monster

2011-12-06T10:15:00.001-05:00

This post is long over-due.

Sometime back in late August the people who live in this house were having a rough day.

Well, actually, we weren't all having a bad day, just my oldest offspring and me.

It isn't easy to be fourteen, nor is it easy to be his mother. Watching teenage angst in someone you love is nearly as bad suffering from it. The only consolation of teenage angst in adulthood, is the knowledge that this whacked-out time in life doesn't last forever... it just feels like it.

The Boy and I had spent most of the early morning discussing important issues and I knew that before he set himself to schoolwork he might benefit from a moment to think about something else... anything else that might help him get his mind off his circumstances.

You might recall that I have the gift of Thinking Random Thoughts at Inappropriate Times, such was the case in the midst of that deep and long conversation with my son. I remembered that my blogging friend Lisa of Lisa Photography had recently posted about her husband's new blog. I was familiar with Scott's work as he had been the creator of Lisa's blog headers, which were always amazing. I was happy to click over to see more.

Once I clicked over to Art in the Margins I knew that I had to show The Boy (who has an interest in drawing/sketching) but I forgot to tell him.

Until that wonderful, angst-y, morning.

Soon The Boy was clicking away and laughing out loud, and saying things like: You gotta see this one mom! and This one is my favorite and Have you seen this one?

I decided to comment on one of Scott's posts. I didn't relay any of the mornings dilemma, but simply told him my son enjoyed his work.

Scott did something that completely changed the course of the day: he encouraged a young man.

He sent the The Boy a few questions to answer, and based on those questions he drew up a sketch and sent it to him.

The picture above shows the sketch unframed but it is now in a frame and hanging in his room.

The Boy thinks it is an awesome personalized piece of art by a cool artist.

His mother thinks it represents a day when encouragement came just when we needed it.

Scott,

The Boy and I thank you for giving us the

Tall Monster Who Likes Bananas.

It is an amazing sketch and a generous gift,

and we are so proud to have him living here!

Kellie and The Boy

December: Random Thoughts from Kellie's Brain

2011-12-05T13:05:00.001-05:00

At some point I am going to figure out how to incorporate blogging into my weekly schedule.

I used to write Monday- Friday in rain, sleet or snow, and take the weekends off to think about what I would write the next week.

Now maybe I should write on weekends and take the week to decide what I will write.

Yes, I think that might be a good idea.

Today I am blogging in an attempt to avoid the grocery store. I am currently eating a slightly green, near blooming, baked potato. It was the only thing left in the cupboard, aside from some spices and jumbo sized marshmallows.

I would have eaten the marshmallows if it didn't break the "no dessert for meals" rule. Especially since I had ice cream for dinner last night.

Speaking of last night, we attended the nicest Christmas Cantata at our church and honestly, it completely turned my Christmas Spirit around. It's not that I was Grinch-y in my thoughts or feelings, quite the contrary, I love this season and all its glitter and lights. But I do have to say I was walking through the motions of this season without a good deal of thought as to the Reason I do the things I do.

Yesterdays Sunday school class and sermon were both just fantastic, and it tied in so well with the evening Cantata. It was a wonderful day that has carried into this morning and creates a great anticipation for this time of celebration.

I haven't written much about our new church mostly because I know it was difficult for those we love and care about when we left our old church home. But also because part of the process in this new place has been deeply personal, something I haven't yet had the words to share.

I am still putting my thoughts together and hope to write about it in the coming weeks, but the truth is I have felt spiritually dry for quite some time and in the last months I have felt a green wick within myself begin to grow and stir.

I know this could have happened at any time in any church, but I feel that in the Providence of God, it is in this time and place. I am learning so much about God as he works in me and in those he has placed in my life in this moment.

For instance, this weekend... There was the first Celebration of Artists event on Saturday. I spent weeks getting ready for it.

Honestly, I didn't actually sell much of my stuff, but I came home richer.

I was encouraged to hear those in leadership building up others who are artists by divine appointment. It was moving to hear others speak Biblical truth about beauty and those here on earth who are privileged to create it. I was blessed to hear speakers who appreciate art , not as little things that artsy people create, but those who bring glory to God through the gifts He has given. I don't think I have ever heard a Christian prospective of the artist that isn't in some aspect condescending. This weekend I realized that creativeness can be (and is!) just a mere shadow of the beauty God has created, but a reflection that is glorious when it reflects Him.

I don't know the why's behind my long, dry spiritual drought, but I do know that I feel I am drinking large gulps of Living water, and I'm starting to perk up! More thoughts on this soon...

One more little random thought...

This year while decorating the tree I will admit I had a moment when reality hit me, and if I had thought too long I might have wept. For years our tree has been "bottom heavy" with decorations. In the early years, when the kids were little and low swinging ornaments proved too tempting, I would move them up and out of reach.

When the kids were old enough to leave things alone, I kept the decorations right where they were. Afterall, little children come to an age when they know you've undone what they did. This became a joy each year: my ornaments weren't perfectly placed, but there would be no denying it had been decorated with a kind of love that only comes from little hands.

This year, for the very first time in my parenting career, I had to tell the kids to put more ornaments on the bottom of the tree. For the briefest of moments that truth made me sad. It all goes to quickly and I am greedy enough to want more...

However my sadness couldn't last. Not with these two around.

There was a bit of confusion as to whose turn it was to hang the Christmas Star this year. I left them to figure it out. Soon there was laughing and cackling from the living room so I thought I better investigate.

This was apparently the best option because "no one had to be inconvenienced by going to get the ladder."

All right, enough procrastination!

I better get to the store, the natives are getting hungry.

Happy Monday!

Goodbye November

2011-11-29T08:24:00.001-05:00

And like that {snap} Thanksgiving is over.

In my minds eye, I am clinging, scrambling, holding on with all my might, to the edge of this 29th day of November. Hoping that if I just hold tight enough to this day (and the next), the month won't flip over quite as easily... but it will and that's OK. I just that I do love November so.

I've spent the last several weeks enjoying my morning coffee on the front steps. It amaZes me that in just 15 days the view went from this:

...to this:

Now I find myself going out of the way to find things to feast my eyes upon... things to remind me the season of winter will be short... but that is for another post. Perhaps tomorrow...

We had a lovely Thanksgiving. Sharing the day with family and friends. It went too quickly, but I am grateful for it all the same.

The Mister had the holiday (and all this week) off from work, so we have lots of walking and hiking.

We couldn't believe that it was warm enough to be outside to be in short sleeves and without shoes.

The kids spent thirty minutes catching crawdads...

... while The Mister and I rested and talked about how quickly these kids have grown.

Actually, I think The Mister was just grateful to be able to sit for a minute. He had spent most of the weekend putting up Christmas lights on the house. He did a fantastic job too.

The same night we put up all the lights the sky turned our little acre into a pinkish wonderland. I looked to the sky and the sunset was amazing.

Not something we see every day in the Piney Woods.

These are the reasons I'm sad to see November go.

But I'm also sad because it means I've run out of time to prepare...

This coming Saturday I volunteered to be part of a Celebration of Women Artists at our church. Which is a fancy way of saying I'm selling my stuff in a very nice craft show. I have spent the last several days sewing and hooking like C-R-A-Z-Y. The more I make, the closer I get to the big day, the more I panic a little bit... people are going to realize that I'm not an artist.

Hopefully I can cover my insecurities with crocheted flowers.

That is a small glimpse of the last week of November in the Little Yellow House in the Woods.

I hope December doesn't go so fast...

Gratitude in a Change of Plans

2011-11-21T13:18:00.001-05:00

I'm finished. And yet, the week has just begun!

I have everything I need to make dinner on Thursday and I do not plan to be in (or anywhere near!) a grocery store or shopping center until next Monday.

Do you think I can do it?

We are also celebrating a birthday this week. The Mister is turning another year older (and more good looking) and I am planning a birthday feast for Wednesday. To say we are going to eat well this week is an understatement.

To my great surprise, our Thanksgiving plans changed quickly this weekend, and we will have the privilege to share Thanksgiving with long-time friends.

Providence has gathered a group of us, all from Arizona, but living (and visiting) in North Carolina. It all came together in a 12-hour flurry of emails and texts, and I amazed that a party of nine will sit at a table in the Little Yellow House on the Hill.

I couldn't have planned this in advanced if I had tried. I just feel thankful to have received an invitation.

Guest Post: Danger at the Wheel

2011-11-17T07:08:00.001-05:00

Dear friends and readers,

My son, The Boy (as he's known here on the blog) was given the assignment to write a persuasive editorial on an issue he feels passionate. Honestly, I was surprised to see the topic he had chosen: Texting While Driving. After turning in his assignment to his writing teacher at our homeschooling co-op, I asked if he would let me post his work here. I think it is particularly important information for those of us that may be tempted to pick up the phone to text or read texts (or otherwise be distracted) while operating a vehicle. Myself included.

With love,

Kellie

Texting: Danger at the Wheel

Texting while driving is dangerous and can be deadly. You may think that looking down to read or reply to a text is not a big deal, but it is. Statistics show that in just five-seconds of distraction allows a driver to travel the distance of 100 yards, which is the length of a football field. In this time any driver could be hit, rear ended or hit someone else. It’s like driving with your eyes closed. Can you imagine getting in your car, putting on a blind fold and expecting to arrive at your destination safely?

According to a study by Virginia Tech University on driving distractions and cell phone use, a person texting while driving is twenty-three times more likely to crash or be hit than someone who is not using a cell phone. This is disturbing when statistics show that 50% of drivers between the ages of 18-24 acknowledge that they text and drive. As a matter of fact, in 2009 drivers under the age of 20 were the most distracted drivers, taking the lives of 5,474 people.

While these facts show that texting while driving is dangerous and deadly, above all its against the law. In June 2009, the legislative office of North Carolina signed a ban on texting while driving, making it illegal with the consequence of a $100 (plus court fees) fine. If you are a minor the fee is only $35. Law enforcers are not allowed to confiscate your phone, although personally, I think phones should be taken because it could make a stronger impact for the person texting.

In 2008 nearly 6000 people died while texting at the wheel. This is a potentially deadly distraction that endangers not only the drivers life but lives of others too. As you can see, texting while driving puts precious lives on the line and could be solved by individuals believing the risks and putting the phone away while driving.

http://www.vtnews.vt.edu/articles/2009/07/2009-571.html

http://www.drivinglaws.org/ncarolina.php

http://www.momlogic.com/2008/08/texting_and_driving_deadly_for.php

Essential Post

2011-11-14T13:47:00.001-05:00

This time of the year always zips by so quickly.

Its going so fast that at the end of each day I find myself with a long list of things that I wanted to do, but didn't get done. All "non-essential things" gets passed to the day ahead. Unfortunately, not all things are unessential, just more easily passed onto another day... blogging is one of those things.

Last weekend was a great one... the perfect blend of activity and rest.

Early Friday The Mister and The Boy took off for a long weekend of backpacking through the Great Smoky Mountains with some friends. The Girl and I took off for a day of shopping. After lunch and shopping we came home to get ready for a slumber party with our BritishBFF's, including (although not pictured) the mums.

We started the evening in matching pj's (moms excluded... we were happy to chat whilst the girls giggled and played) and cuddled up to watch the Sound of Music.

I'm quite certain that nobody was more excited about this slumber party than our youngest slumberer, who (I am delighted to say) can sing beautifully to every song in the musical right down to the last do-re-mi. However, right before we had tucked ourselves under blankets for a nights rest, she asked to sing me a song in Swahili (her dad recently came home from a missions trip in Africa.)

You may remember that there is nothing that moves me to tears quicker than a child singing. But a child singing God's praises in a forgein language? Water-works. Although I did my best to hold it in. Best bedtime prayer ever.

After our guests left The Girl and I tidied up a bit and had ourselves a movie day. I'm proud to tell you that from noon until nearly 11p., we watched five movies. Right in a row. And we crafted and crocheted and it was wonderful.

I managed to finish up the blue baby sweater.

Then I tried my hand at another baby sweater in some leftover yarn I had in my office.

It came out teeny-tiny... not quite preemie size, but definitely for a small newborn, the likes of which I have never seen (seeing as my babies were only slight less than 9-10 pounds at birth.)

While The Girl and I shopped on Friday I found some beautiful cotton yarn (on sale!) in a beautiful orange-burgundy and gold. I didn't have a clue as to what I could make (especially since fall is almost over) but that yarn called to me like a long lost child waiting to come home.

So I bought it and made this:

Here's the back.

And a close up of the details:

Why am I making all these baby products?

Honestly, I don't know.

Maybe its because I can get them done in the length of one movie. Maybe I can't resist an end that is so adorable. Maybe its because there is a baby out there who needs something soft and cozy... who knows. But at some point I will know who needs/wants these things and it will make me happy to think that a little one wears something I enjoyed making.

Until then, I've already another project on the hook, but today its on the "non-essential" list... so you know what that means.

Happy Tuesday!

Kellie's Kuerig (2009 - 2011)

2011-11-09T12:55:00.001-05:00

After a six-month battle with half-brewed K-Kups and chronic warnings to DE-SCALE, Kellie's Kuerig (or KiKi as she was often called) has died.

Kellie remembers with fondness that cool morning in October, when her parents sent her this wonderful one-cup elixir machine for her 37th birthday.

KiKi was a fine coffee maker and often brewed Kellie's favorite afternoon pick-me-up. She almost always worked with great efficiency and speed. Many Kuerig owners complained about the noisy sputter and loud thunking their makers made, but KiKi was always quiet and gentle.

Kellie, who took great care of KiKi by DE-SCALEing several times a year (using many gallons of vinegar, as noted in the user manual,) is very sad at this passing and is consoling herself with the knowledge that she always treated KiKi with the utmost of care. She even carefully took a paper clip to clean out the very sharp and dangerous exit needle, a job that is necessary, if not slightly dangerous.

These loving efforts did prolong KiKi's life, but towards the end she would often brew a full cup only if Kellie stood next to the counter speaking kind words like: "You can do it!" or "Just one more cup" and also, regretfully, out of pure caffeine withdrawal, "For $20 I'd replace you for a Mr. Coffee."

As a last ~~cry for help~~ ditch effort, Kellie did consider contacting the Kuerig company to inquire about a replacement, since two-years seems like a short life span on such an expensive machine. But, alas, an extensive Google search found that the manufacturers would not be supportive if past the 1-year warranty, being even less sympathetic if you did not register your product upon purchase.

Kiki was unregistered.

She will be greatly missed, but will be donated to the La Vida science class for research on her parts and motors.

Five Photo Friday

2011-11-04T08:19:00.002-04:00

She has always wanted to take pictures at one of these booths at the mall. Imagine her surprise when I found an app for that!

If you like Nutella, or rich chocolate cookies, go make a batch of these P-R-O-N-T-O. All you need is an egg, 1-1/4 cups cake flour, 2 tbls butter, 1.5 tsp baking powder, and 3/4 cup Nutella. My only complaint is that the batch makes only 18 16 cookies... we were all eating cookie dough... The recipe says to cut the cookies in half and spread Nutella between them. For the sake of being true to the recipe, I tried it (pictured in the upper left of the photo.) Honestly, I liked them better plain, with a cup of coffee. They are as rich as Daddy Warbucks, but Oh! very good!

Two weeks ago today was my birthday... and I'm still talking about it. I wanted to show you the paper clip necklace my friend made for me. She said she wanted to make something for me since I l-o-v-e homemade gifts. I thought it was great! And I wore it all day. Its now in my office so I can think of her every time I see it! (she also gave me a Starbucks card!)

The Boy needed to find some string to do a science project. He ran to my office to get some left over para-cord from a project we did last month (see his right wrist). Somehow the two pieces were stuck together ~~with some microscopic thread~~ by his amazing teenage magic skillz.

This was the view of my back yard on Wednesday morning. I wish I could have captured the golden hue that hung in the air. I am so grateful that I was in the yard at that moment because next day a wind came through an blew most of those leaves off the trees.

Happy Friday!

Grumpy Gratitude Giver

2011-11-03T14:55:00.001-04:00

I'm trying to hide it, but I'm in a bad mood.

Honestly, its not that bad (unless you ask my children) but I must confess the normally joyful heart that beats in my chest is feeling a little... pensive.

I blame it on being grateful.

It is in this season when most in America begin to give thanks and, of course, its a good thing.

Honestly, if you've read this blog for any length of time you'll know I do my best to intentionally cultivate a heart of gratitude. Perhaps for me it is easy, I don't have much to grumble about, but in a weak moment I'll go searching for something.

I find it ironic that when all the world is giving thanks, I'm seeking-out reasons to grumble.

For instance yesterday morning, I could not decide what to wear. I tried on the clothes from my closet over and over. I was desperately looking for the elusive outfit that is supposed to make me feel different. What is it that makes the outfit I wore last week, not enough this? Am I looking to be taller, thinner, cuter, wiser, friendlier, happier? I don't fully know, because it so often changes.

I'll tell you what I do know: I was flailing about in a closet brimming with clothes. Its a wardrobe that is clean and attractive, and in one grumpy moment, I decided it wasn't enough.

I stood at a proverbial fork-in-the-road. I was caught in a moment when I had the privilege to choose.

Unfortunately, the choice I made was the road most traveled, and it certainly makes a difference.

The self-focused road is a trap made to look like a savior.

I wish I could tell you it is just about my body and clothes. But it isn't. I often find complaint (even if unspoken) over the food in my cupboard. The children I raise. The man I am married to. The job that I have. The gifts I've been given. The talents I possess. The time that I need....just to name a few.

They are small non-issues in life; made bigger when the focus is me.

So today I give thanks for...

... second chances to walk a less traveled road.

... Truth in hard-hearted places (even when its uncomfortable)

... opportunities to turn this grumpy, greedy, gone-hiding heart, back to gratitude.

(Already I feel so much better.)

Psalm 139

Peanut Butter Crises 2011

2011-11-01T10:39:00.002-04:00

I should have listened to my husband.

His hero is George Washington Carver, the inventor of peanut butter. My man LOVES his peanut butter. And after 18 years of being together, I will admit, I'm a peanut eater too.

Years ago, when I was getting my garden cleaned and closed up for a winters rest, the Mister said I should plant peanuts because they would not only yield a crop of nutty deliciousness, but Mr. Carver had proved that peanut plants help the soil for future harvests.

I chuckled at his practical ways.

What he said was true. But it is also true that he and I eat a LOT of peanut butter. I could grow the peanuts, but when it came to mashing them up and putting them in a jar, I wasn't so keen. After all, why grow them myself when "I can buy organic peanut butter at the Buy-in-Bulk Warehouse for practically nothin' ?"

Of course now I am eating my words. Without nutty goodness.

I had heard talk around the blogosphere about a peanut shortage, but I didn't believe it.

I guess I was in denial.

The rumors are correct. Don't panic, but, there's a peanut shortage.

Right before I went to bed last night I read this article. I tried to break the news gently to The Mister.

"The price of peanut butter is going up 40%. I hope you like almond butter."

I thought he took the news pretty well until I received a phone call this morning at 9:00a. He had called to see if I had gone to the store yet to start a peanut butter stockpile .

We may need an intervention.

I, for one, plan to do my part in this crises.

For instance, this morning for breakfast I toasted a slice of Whole-Wheat Pumpkin yeast bread with peanut butter and half-a banana, but I only used one-tablespoon of peanut butter instead of two. And this afternoon, instead of making peanut-butter cookies I am going to make Nutella Sandwich Cookies.

It's all going to be OK. But I think I will ~~run~~ stop-by to the store today for a jar or ~~eight~~ two... and maybe next year I'll try my hand at peanut farming.

Happy Tuesday!

The Arrival of Fall

2011-10-31T11:02:00.003-04:00

We finally turned on the heat.

The Mister and I always play the "How long can we wait to turn on the Heat/AC?" at the beginning of every season.

Yesterday the Fall/Winter 2011 Thermostat Game came to screeching halt when we walked in the door from church at 1:00p. The downstairs thermostat read: 59 F.

I don't love being cold, but there are so many things I do love when the weather decides to turn...

I love sleeping under the heavy down comforter. I love lighting candles and wearing socks with slippers.

I love seeing the glittery frost on the grass and watching steam float from the pond.

And the trees?

Amazing.

But perhaps, of all the things I love about cold weather, I love blankets the best...

They seem to be falling out of the linen closet one-by-one.

Its probably a sickness, my love for blankets, but for the next five-months I'll likely be wrapped up in one... or eight.

Happy Monday!

Five on Friday:

2011-10-28T15:32:00.006-04:00

~My friend Becky sent me her recipe (and secret ingredient) for her delicious Empire Biscuits (cookies) pictured above. I made a batch to share with the CarpoolQueen today. You really can't eat these biscuits alone... you must be with a friend.

~Speaking of friends.... My lovely British friend Alison came bearing gifts on my birthday last week. She and her youngest girl, Esther brought me lovely gifts that remind me so much of them: English tea and homemade Lemon Curd.

If you could meet Esther you would love her immediately. She is cheerful and loving and just as cute as can be. If her sweet smile and golden braids weren't enough, her endearing inability to pronounce the hard-sound for"C" or "K" would certainly win you over. She uses a "T" sound instead.

She was so excited to give me her gift that she excitedly exclaimed in her English accent, "Tellie! We've made you some Lemon Turd!"

Oh! She is a glittering ray of happiness, she really is...

~On Tuesday evening The Mister and I took the kids for a sunset hike. This is the suspension bridge that runs over the river. Its my favorite part of the hike...

~The Girl came home from Girl Scouts with this Loblolly Pine sapling. She is supposed to take care of it for a month. I find it ironic. We live on an acre in the piney woods. We actually pull pine saplings like this out of the ground. They grow like weeds between brick walkways, and rocks. Last year The Mister even plucked some out of the gutters of our house. But we'll go ahead and transplant this one in the yard for the sake of the project. Maybe we could make it our Christmas tree...

~As i type I can feel the temperature dropping. My fingers are turning cold. Its predicted to be a wet and cold weekend. I don't have to worry though, my sweet husband gave me a super-soft Slanket for my birthday... so I will be warm, and cozy... and maybe even try a few Obi-Wan Jedi tricks.

Happy Friday!

Praises in an October

2011-10-27T10:56:00.002-04:00

Its not like me to be quiet during the month of October. It is, after-all, my favorite month.

This year October is bittersweet. Sweet with celebrations and lovely moments; Bitter as I grieve relationships that are difficult. Situations that are painful. Loss that is tough.

Its just one of those times in life, when bad news seems to come in a string of storms, and I am tempted to believe that all that was sacred is now desperately at risk.

But, that is a lie I cannot afford to believe, because storms pass, and there is always the good that springs from the rain.

Yesterday I was reading in Prayers for Today: A Year-Long Journal of Contemplative Prayer, by Bjokrlund, and this prayer (written by the author) was good for my heart, my soul, and my mind:

Lord, You sometimes take away what I value most.
It is easy to praise You when You give to me what I want most.
And it is easy to blame you when I suffer.
It is hard for me to imagine that there is a good reason for suffering if i can't think of
one, Yet You, my maker, know better about my life than I.
Should I accept the good and not the bad from Your hand? So in faith, no matter the
circumstance, I shall praise Your name.
When laughter and success are my current reality, I shall praise Your name.
And when hardship and loss are my current reality, I shall praise Your name.
When scarcity and need mark my path, I shall praise Your name.
When all seems broken, I shall praise Your name.
Lord, whatever I experience, I choose to praise Your name.
Amen.

Life is messy. But I am thankful for a husband who is wise and strong. I am thankful for two kiddos who are tender-hearted and loving. I am thankful for family and friends who love lavishly, and are a blessing to me even when they are unaware.

October is my favorite month, and this year I am grateful that God has given me this time to look to Him, to remember that I am not in control.

He is.

It is easy to believe this truth when all of life is tied up with string like so many gifts at a party. These gifts... aren't so tidy.

However, these gifts of sorrow are opening up a new place to surrender to Him.... Oh, that I will not waste these gifts and forfeit His work in me...

Lord, where shall I find you? High and hidden is your place.

And where shall I not find you? The world is full of your glory.

I have sought your nearness, with all my heart I called to you

And in going out to meet you I found You coming to me.

-Judah Halevi, Spanish Poet (1075-1141)

Blessings

2011-10-18T11:37:00.000-04:00

"Every hard duty that lies in your path,

that you would rather not do,

that it will cost you pain and struggle or sore effort to do,

has a blessing in it.

Not to do it,

at whatever the cost,

is to miss the blessing."

-LB Cowman

I met with Providence this morning.

I don't remember reading the quote, or what book it came from. I don't recall scribbling it on a note card. But there it was, written with purple ink in my scratchy script. Just waiting for this day, when I needed it most.

The conversations I have, the boundaries I set, the help I ask for, the decisions I make ... every hard duty that lies on our path... in all these things... blessings.

The follow-up, and follow through; the starting strong and finishing well... blessings.

The hopes and dreams, and sometimes disappointment... even in the pain and struggle... blessings.

The happy, the sad... don't miss the blessings.

But, what do I do when sore-effort hinders, blinds my vision, tempts me to doubt?

Believe in the One who promises blessings. For our good, and His glory.

"No eye can see,

no ear can hear,

no mind has imagined,

the things God has prepared

for those who love Him"

-1 Cor. 2:9

(emphasis mine)

Yes, early this morning while the world was asleep, I met with Providence... and He opened my eyes to His blessings.

Home and Happy

2011-10-17T08:53:00.002-04:00

It's as if the last three weeks has been a whirlwind.

We had a great time visiting friends and family out west.

I got to visit with many of my desert peeps, but I wish I could have seen more...

Time has a way of going fast, in life and on vacation.

We ended our 16-day stay in Southern Arizona with a 40th anniversary celebration for my parents.

We spent the morning setting up tables in the courtyard and in the carport, and running around in general busyness. I was giddy with excitement.

The weather was perfect and I think everyone had a good time.

I did my best to make sure I harassed these two every chance I got...

These are my little brothers. Isn't' it funny how they keep getting older, but I just stay the same? ;)

I miss 'em... my mom and dad, my brothers and their families. But I'm also glad to be home.

I was so worried I was going to miss the changing of seasons. It's silly, but true.

There is something profound about watching the world prepare to fall asleep. Its amazing to see the colors turn from green to orange and yellow and red... the colorful grand finale before a long and wintery rest.

I shouldn't have worried.

The Mister and I got up bright and early before church yesterday for a long walk through the woods.

The smells, the colors, the sounds... its October in the Piedmont, and it is beautiful.

Of course, I can't stay outside all day looking at leaves. The house is completely out of order, school is back in session, laundry is piled up, and I have a bunch of projects to finish. Namely this one:

My mom picked out four beautiful colors of pima cotton for a granny-square jacket I'm making for her birthday.... and I need to hurry. Her birthday is Thursday, which is sooner than i'll be finished.

The good news is that when I left Arizona it was 90 degrees outside, so she won't need it this week anyway.

Well, the laundry calls...

Happy Monday!

Desert Hello

2011-10-05T11:38:00.001-04:00

Vacation. Its been great!

I have been visiting family and friends (and their new puppy!) Eating a lot of Mexican food. And, of course, crafting.

We are staying within 5 miles of a yarn boutique, and two major craft and fabric stores. The kids and I have gone to the stores several times already.

We made paracord bracelets (with para-like cord. We had trouble finding paracord but will order some when we get home.)

We also made them in black, but they don't photograph quite as nicely!

I brought my crochet hooks and hooked up a little sweater. It still needs a ribbon that will be woven through the row where the crochet hook sits:

The best parts of shopping was running into Becca from Our Crazy Boys.

I've been reading Becca's blog for a couple years, and every time I come to town I want to meet her, but time always gets away. Imagine my surprise when I saw her in line at the craft store.

I was so excited to hug her neck that i pushed four ladies out of my way to get to her. Then, in my impetuousness I called her Stephanie. Oops! I was just so happy to get the opportunity to say hello!

I'm off to go for a walk this morning. Nothing like walking and getting a tan in October!

Happy Wednesday!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Six on Saturday

2011-10-01T12:26:00.001-04:00

We are having a blast here in Southern Arizona! Seeing family and friends is so much fun.

They've had so much rain here this summer that everything is blooming! This picture is not so very good, but these flowers are everywhere. I love the bright bold colors that pop amidst the desert greens and browns. Like little floral flames, they lit the path on my morning walk.

The Boy walked with me and every time we saw a Teddy Bear cholla cactus, he would pretend to hug it. Which makes me laugh and freak out every single time. Which, now that I think about it, is probably why he does it.

My Dad went to the Mexican Bakery to get my favorite treat. MMMmmm... the snack of champions!

Last night we attended the wedding of a dear friend of the family. The wedding was amazing. So honoring to God and family. The little church was beautiful... Such a great setting for a great couple!

The reception was fun and The Girl and her Paw cut a rug dancing the Cumbia together. It was a great party!

The Boy and his Uncle Dan. They look a lot alike and they like to hang out...

We are having a wonderful time!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Light and Fluffy

2011-09-28T12:41:00.000-04:00

Perhaps my "thinky-ness" in the last few weeks has scared you.

My thoughts have been more introspective lately, it always happens to me this time of year.

However, when ever I get too "heavy" in my writing, my subscribers and readers drop like flies.

Its actually funny... I won't blog for 7 days in a row and I'll have 6 new subscribers. Then I'll blog consistently, with a few deep thoughts thrown in, and every body changes their mind!

Maybe its a coincidence, maybe its not. Honestly, "thinky" is who I am, and I know that that isn't everyones thing, so I am truly OK with a few readers clicking somewhere else, but fluffy is good too. Being serious all the time is for squares. I like to think that my corners are more rounded... or at least I try to round'em out from time to time. :)

So today we'll go "light and fluffy."

~Today I went to the dentist with tooth pain (so much for 'light and fluffy'). I took my credit card because these sort of things never end well.

Turned out I just bruised the tissue around a recent root canal. (who knew eating granola could be so dangerous!) But the appointment went well. No needles, no drama. No bill when I walked out the door!

That has NEVER happened to me at the dentists office. NEVER.

So that was very light and fluffy! Especially on The Mister's wallet. Win-win, all around!

~ Last Sunday I was on my way to pick up the kids from youth group when I got a text from my teenage son that simply read: Bring a towel.

How do you respond to something like that? I told him next time he should add a little detail:

Found a kitten. Bring a towel.

Having fun! Bring a towel.

Profusely bleeding. Bring a towel.

Seriously, there is a full spectrum of towel needs, and a mom in her minivan, unable to text back needs a little more detail...

~ Hey, how about a little de-lurking?

Do you read this blog? Why? How did you find it? Are you a crafter, a blogger, a homeschooler, a stalker?

Inquiring minds want to know...

All right, tomorrow at this time I will be full-swing into my Fall Break Adventure! Pictures and stories to come!

Don't forget to de-lurk!

Seeing

2011-09-27T07:26:00.000-04:00

Today I'm pulling from the archives.

I'd actually forgotten about this post, but when I was looking for something else I came across this one. I believe its Providential.

This afternoon I am headed back to the same hospital, with the same child.

Perhaps, coming across my own words, getting a good taste of my own medicine, is a reminder to start this day with a focus that is radically different than four years ago.

I pray today my "Seeing" will be filtered through compassion and grace, with love and mercy... and yes, even patience.

(Originally posted in February 2007.)

~~~~~~~~~

The lens in which I see the world is shamefully, selfishly, colored.

Yesterday, my prescription was changed.

I spent the afternoon taking The Boy to an appointment at a Children's Hospital. It was an appointment I had to book three months in advance. A timeline I felt was far too long and inconvenient.

I started the day grumbly, irritated, because our insurance carrier won't cover a GI Specialist in our town... even though there is a well known major medical health system that sits literally 6 miles from my front door.

This meant that I would have to drive twenty miles away, to a place I'm unfamiliar; navigate through a construction zone, and park (for a fee) in the parking garage across the street. Oh yeah, and by the way, it was 33 degrees outside (and you know I don't like to be cold.)

My mind was a myriad of grumbles over details and annoyances.

I'm certain my ingratitude was palpable as I walked hand-in-hand, both children in tow, to the hospital doors and into the first of several lines where I would spend the next three hours.

After giving a long history (although I had already called and given all this info to someone over the phone) we were finally whisked away to the first of three waiting rooms.

I'm grieved, now, to list the sad and selfish condition of my heart. But the crusty exterior of my callused heart would soon give-way to new perspective.

It was in the first large waiting room, colorful and friendly, with child size chairs and toys that I had my first dose of reality: Your child is here for stomach aches, and that bald 4-year old boy sitting next to you is dying. You are going to get a quick-fix medicine that will help your son. That little girl is going to get a year of chemo.

I looked at these beautiful children, pale and poorly, and quietly looked into the faces of my healthy, robust kids; faces rosy and flush from our walk in the cold.

Life. Sometimes it isn't easy.

Life shouldn't be about comparisons. But every so often, when the focus becomes so self oriented its good to take a look around you and realize that your life, in comparison, is easy.

Sometimes we have to be inconvenienced to remember that we aren't the center of the universe.
Sometimes it takes seeing the faces of other people's struggles to see that we should just shut-up and sit-down... to wait a minute. To wait your turn.

The doctors were fabulous, the radiologists kind, the phlebotomist funny. The visit was so worth the drive, the time, the "inconvenience."

It was time to check out. The ream of paper work I had shuffled from place to place was handed over to a clerk. I watched as the clerk took a big black marker and wrote, NO COPAY, across the top of the page. I looked to my left and a young father, tired and weary with worry for his sick child, stood in the next line working out his payment plan.

I was given a prescription for my sons belly... and a prescription for the eyes of my heart, and was sent on my way.

Humbled.

Righteously so.

Life is comfortable for me. What a shame that I don't raise my thanksgivings in all circumstances instead of throwing tantrums like a child. How pitiful an attitude of entitlement looks and feels!

These lessons are hard. Selfishness is ugly; it makes me uncomfortable.

I guess that's the point.

Life isn't always about being comfortable. It isn't always about avoiding pain. It isn't always about being easy. Or having my way...

May I see through the lens of gratitude and praise, in times of trouble, in times of peace. Not just today, but in the days to come...

Weekend

2011-09-26T08:54:00.002-04:00

Fourteen years.

Its gone so quickly.

He mentioned once that he'd love a whole box of Twinkies. I never buy them because I am uncertain of what they are made of - they are chemically-engineered for sure. But I bought them... just for him. And quite frankly, I'd've paid big-money to see him smile like that.

Lucky for me, a box of Twinkies cost $2.87, and he's always generous with that grin.

Happy Birthday Fuzila! You are such a fun, compassionate, smart guy.

I wouldn't want any other boy but you... Happy Birthday!

In between celebrations and soccer games, I had a moment of inspiration... or should I say courage?

I actually finished a quilt that I started six-weeks ago.

My favorite part of quilting (making the top) is smack-dab in the middle of the things I don't like about quilting (cutting fabric and the actual quilting part: sewing the three layers together.)

I was given a free-form quilting attachment for my machine last Christmas. Fear kept me from trying to sew with it. After some internet research (AKA- reading blogs and watchin' YouTube vids... sounds official, doesn't it?) I decided that perhaps I should give free-form quilting a whirl.

I'm hooked! Its like drawing with needle and thread. I was so enamored I ran out of thread before I was finished, but in the end, it was enough. So I finished up, and then decided to do more research on fabric to see what I might start next!

The only snafu with this project is that it is quite small. As a matter of fact it should be called a mini-quilt. The finished measurements are 37x32 when I hoped it would be 36x54. I always forget my quilt pieces, laid on the floor, will actually be smaller sewn up. And since I didn't exactly have a recipe that gave me exact-directions and measurements, (not to mention my phobia of math) I made things up as I went along...

All right, must close up for now. Our fall-break begins in just three days! And there is much to be done in between.

Happy Monday!

Five Photo Friday: Sundry

2011-09-23T09:13:00.002-04:00

Not only did I steal these flip-flops from my son, but I'm bragging about it on the blog. They are just so comfy. Albeit, just a little weird that his feet are bigger than mine. And I have big feet.

The kids went outside this week for a little break from school. Its been raining here a lot so when I heard them yelling for me to come out quick with my camera, I always know it gonna be something creep or crawly. This thing was huge... As big around as my thumb and three inches long. Disgusting.

The Girl texted me one afternoon and said she wanted a little something sweet and could she have some chocolate chips... I texted back this picture and said, " There you go! Enjoy!"

She didn't think I was funny.

The Boy found a banana suit at Target this week. He immediately threw it on and asked me to take his picture. This is him trying to be a Banana with Attitude. I think the smile makes him look totally mean, doesn't it? (And for those that are wondering, we brought the banana home.)

I mentioned its been raining a lot... these mushrooms sprouted literally overnight. I first noticed them from my window. Its hard to tell in the picture, but this bunch is actually about four feet across and some of the mushroom tops are the size of the palm of my hand.

Mushroom soup anyone?

Just Kidding!

Happy Friday!

Cloudy Morning

2011-09-22T09:02:00.000-04:00

I'm letting the kids sleep in this morning.

Its wet and dark outside and, with the exception of a light rain falling and the whirring of my dryer, its cool and quiet.

I love it when the rainy weather washes the woods, turning their color into darker shades and hues. I especially love cloudy days when the hope of sunshine is forecasted soon. Its like a little respite in an otherwise busy time. Its a good excuse to rest.

Actually, I've promised my man I would rest today. I'm fighting a scratchy throat (a cold he had last week.) I'm hoping that a day of laying-low, along with chain drinking Emergen-C, will cure what ails me.

Of course, I have other plans as well. I cannot let a rainy morning go by without baking a loaf of bread. This day might also call for a pot of pintos... comfort food for this CoffeeGal.

I'm also tempted to see what I can do with some new flannel fabric I bought on a whim last month.

Its not yet cool enough for flannel, but soon winter will come - when the world takes its rest. Winter isn't my favorite-est of seasons. I tend to get contemplative, extra-thinky. I'm certain this cheerful pattern will remind me that under the barren colors of winter the promise of spring is to come. Perhaps this fabric is meant to be pajama pants?

I think I'll ask The Boy to go in the attic and get out my fall decorations today too. I'm ready for the pumpkins to come out; ready for the orangey-red colors to take up residence in my home.

All right, I think its time to wake up the kids. School has to be completed... and then, after I teach English, and fold laundry, and make bread, and craft, and decorate my house, I'll rest.

I promised I would.

Defining Brave

2011-09-21T08:59:00.000-04:00

It was so subtle, I didn't even notice.

The brave shall inherit the earth. They will explore, experiment and challenge. They will value exhilaration over relaxation. They will reject anything that insulates them from the world. And they will drive a luxury car that makes them feel alive....

As a matter of fact this ad lay open on my counter for a couple of days before The Mister noticed and pointed it out.

It bothers me.

Why?

The ad above is a lie at best, and blasphemy at worse.

Harsh thoughts over an ad?

Let me explain.

The brave don't inherit the earth.

The meek do.

Have you ever met someone who appears particularly brave? I have.

What I've noticed when talking (or reading) about those who choose courage when adversity comes their way is that they don't feel particularly brave. Those who are courageous in sudden calamity have an all encompassing knowledge that they have nothing left to lose. They choose courage by choosing to live uncommonly - to face danger, fire, fear - and really live by faith that LOVE wins out. No matter the outcome. Every single time.

Those who live bravely do not do so because they set their standards by embracing the culture of this world. On the contrary! The world tells us we can "have it your way," or "those with the most toys wins,"and "you can never be too rich or too thin," with a little, "you deserve to be happy." to round things out.

You see, those slogans, the ad above (and others like it), try very subtly to re-define what it is to be brave. And we suffer because of it. The businesses laugh all the way to the bank, while we slump with our head in our hands and wonder why, after all the exploration, experimentation, challenge and exhilaration we don't feel alive. Worse, we feel tired, depressed, rejected.

People who are brave aren't self-focused. They have rejected that which tells them they are the center of the universe.

This month I have met and read about many brave people: A woman who's young daughter is facing multiple surgeries that are serious in nature; A mom who's adult daughter has turned away from all she loved, leaving a young child and parents who "wait for the other brick to fall."; Two weeks ago we remembered the courage of those who, in the face of buildings set ablaze by cowards, ran towards tragedy to save thousands.

The Truth is... The meek will inherit the earth.

Not because of anything we do, but because God, who is Love, who will never leave us or forsake us, gives us the strength to be brave and courageous in the midst of all that threatens to overcome us.

It isn't popular, it isn't subtle, but its the Truth... and it is a gift, for all who want not just to feel alive, but to really live. Here on earth and in heaven above.

Sweater Dilemma

2011-09-20T11:16:00.001-04:00

I swear this is the last time I'll write about this sweater.

At least I think it will be...

As far as dilemma's go, this is the best kind to have, but still... such a quandry.

You see, I finished this sweater some time ago, and then I put it away because the end of the recipe says to 'block' it, and I am afraid.

Actually, fear is a large percentage of my unfinished sweater, but also... I don't have a blocking board, nor do I have a spray bottle for plain water, or waterproof/rust proof pins.

This sweater is also made of 100% acrylic, which is soft and cheap. When I started the project I wasn't sure I would finish, having never made adult size clothing before.

Here are some pictures of the sweater this morning (I do actually plan to wear real clothes with this sweater, not just my walking gear. but who has time to get dressed in real-people clothes when contemplating big decision?)

At first glance it seems great... look to the right of the photo, the fabric lays very nice (both in the front and the back), but to the right, as the yoke meets the mid-section it poofs just a bit.

It does the same thing on the back too.

The (your) left side of the sweater poofs out, while the right side lays as if it is tailored.

So, will blocking fix this? Once you block do you have to do it over and over? Should I just bite the bullet and go get waterproof pins? Should I just forget my left-side-poofy-woes, and call the project Done?

I would love your advice, since I am already thinking about my next project. I've narrowed it down to two choices.

Wanna peek? Of course you do!

Choice 1 and Choice 2 (scroll down)

So to block or not to block... discuss.

The Gift of Beauty

2011-09-20T11:07:00.000-04:00

I love small gifts in the middle of a day... and yesterday I received one.

I was invited to a teatime by my sweet friend Alison.

There were six other moms there, all new to me, and a plethora of children between us. We met on a grassy knoll of the wide open spaces of a small farm. The home of a gal with a gentle spirit.

There were horses and goats and chickens. There was a garden full of basil and herbs. There was the green of the pines, the blue Carolina sky.

I wanted so-very-badly to take pictures, but I figured whipping out my camera for the sake of the blog would be tacky.

I walked in a total stranger, and walked away feeling I'd been privilege to a treasure chest just waiting to be found.

We sat on an aged-wood picnic table covered with an old, soft blanket, and sipped hot tea (with milk) from beautiful cups and saucers. The fall breeze occasionally took the warm sun from our skin. We laughed and listened. We prayed.

It was ... communion... just sitting with them, sharing together.

It wasn't fancy, or showy... it was simple.

Beautiful.

It was a blessing, and a reminder.

Do not shy away from inviting those around me to partake in the people and things I love... to intentionally create something lovely, something simple, something beautiful to share. It doesn't have to take a lot of time, or energy, or expense. A small amount of effort could be, while I am unaware, the brightest spot in someone's day.

Speaking of..a random Monday Post

2011-09-19T12:36:00.000-04:00

The kids and I were on our own this weekend.

It was deliciously cold and wet outside. After the back-to-back soccer games on Saturday morning, we spent the weekend folding laundry and watching a Billy the Exterminator marathon.

Nothing makes me want to clean my house more than watching six-hours of cockroach and vermin infested homes.

Unless, I happen to be watching Hoarders... but that's a post for another day.

I managed to make it through the weekend without baking anything. Which is a challenge for me in the winter months. I do love to bake...but we've barely made it through the pumpkin products I baked last week, so I am trying to use self-control.

Speaking of self-control: I have none.

Case in point: The Girl asked me to take her to the craft store after church yesterday so she could get some polymer clay.

I told myself I would not look at the yarn.

Especially since I bought 6 skeins on the first of September and made this:

My self-imposed monthly yarn quota had long been met, and I was really trying to be good.

Don't buy yarn. Don't buy yarn. Don't buy yarn, I chanted to myself as I walked around the store...

... but, of course, i did.

I found THE softest, loveliest, coziest, yarn. Ever.

It's Lion Brand: Quick and Cozy bulky yarn. It looks and feels like chenille, but is as light as feathers.

Y'all, its like crocheting with spun clouds.

I'm sure I looked a fool as I stood there feeling each skein and flipping through that rolodex in my head of people who needed something, anything.

I remembered a little boy on my September list. He needed this yarn.

Without a pattern or an idea of what I would do, I threw four skeins in the cart and ran to the checkout before I got into bigger trouble.

I came home and made this:

If anyone is interested in the super-easy pattern,
let me know and I will write it out and post it.

I have to send this out ASAP, because this yarn does crazy things to people... both of my kids were lobbying for this little, puffy, blanket of love.

Speaking of kids... this one is walking around like an old man.

He's been dealing with hip pain for over a year. We took him to an orthopedist and his hips are perfect but he's been referred to a general surgeon.

Turns out he has a sports-hernia, quite possibly bi-lateral. He has had a great sense of humor about this issue, even when in significant pain. Most mornings when he wakes up, he can barely get out of bed. It takes him a long time to come down the stairs. He is like an old-man in a 14 year old body. Yesterday, he went to the garage and made himself an "old-man cane." He thinks he's quite clever.

I think he maybe headed for a little outpatient surgery toward the end of October. When that happens I may see if they can surgically remove that hat.

Speaking of hats...

Nope.

I've got nothin' on hats, but I couldn't think of a third Speaking of, and I hated to end with two...

Happy Monday!

Five Photo Friday: Fall Has Arrived

2011-09-16T15:43:00.000-04:00

Last night a cold front blew in. We couldn't be more pleased.

We hauled out our fussy slippers and warm robes, and headed outside for an early morning, cold-nose gathering.

We drank warm beverages of various kinds...

We wrapped ourselves in quilts and blankets... some unfinished, but perfectly warm.

We dug out our crazy-hats and sweatshirts, and hoped the day would go nice and slow.

The pressure cooker pressurized a pot of vegetable soup, and the kids can't stay focused cuz they keep checking to see if the first loaf of pumpkin bread is ready to slice.

Ah! Pumpkin bread... a lesson in patience in one, spicy, loaf.

Life is happy and chilly, yet cozy and warm...in the Little Yellow House on the Hill...

Pumpkin Bread

Shortening (for pan)
2 cups all purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice*
1/4 tsp baking soda
1 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup shortening
2 eggs
1 cup canned pumpkin
1/4 milk
1/2 chopped walnuts

Grease bottom of loaf with shortening. Turn oven to 350. Beat together shortening and sugar until well mixed. Add eggs and milk. Mix well. Add flour, baking powder, salt and pumpkin spice. Mix well.

Pour into the loaf pan. Cook for 1 hour.

Enjoy!

*You can buy pumpkin spice, but if you don't have it on hand you can make your own.

Pumpkin Spice

2 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp nutmeg
1 tsp ginger
1/2 tsp ground cloves

Mix together in a small container with a lid, store in a dry place. This makes approximately 4.5 tsp of Pumpkin Spice mix.

~~~~~

Since the bread recipe only calls for one- cup of pumpkin, but the can is nearly two, I found this recipe for Pumpkin Chip Cookies that are delicious and easy. The original recipe makes 60 cookies, but I cut the recipe down to 30 cookies (except I used a whole egg - it will tell you to use half an egg?) which was perfect for the last 7 oz, of pumpkin.)

Happy Fall Y'all!

Just Buy the Bag

2011-09-15T15:05:00.001-04:00

Maybe it was trying to multi-task while the sugar boiled.

I was talking to my mom.

Maybe its because I added more powdered sugar because the butter was seeping from the dough.

I mean, like completely separating from the sugar.

Maybe its because I should have done exactly as the recipe said: wear disposable gloves to protect hands when rolling dough.

I thought it was too keep my hands from turning orange. Apparently its to keep your hands from 3rd degree burns.

Unfortunately, the dough was boiling hot (and I didn't have gloves in the house not made of worsted weight yarn) I let it cool for about five minutes before rolling, but the cooled dough became crumbly quite quickly.

By the time I got to the stems, which I had to scrounge around for in my sprinkles jar, they wouldn't stay secure in the hardened candy.

Whatever the reason, trying my hand at Homemade Mallow Creams was an epic fail.

Honestly, they tasted OK, they were buttery-salty and super sweet... but the dry milk the recipe called for didn't properly disintegrate, so there were little white chunks of dry-milk in the finished product. Yuck.

Normally I wouldn't give a recipe a one-time-try before giving up, but I can't say they tasted any better than the package you can buy for $2.00/bag. So I am going to save my butter and sugar for another afternoon.

Rambling Monday

2011-09-12T14:54:00.002-04:00

~If I could make a wish, I would wish that you could have seen the sky here in the Piedmont this weekend. The sky was beautiful, with its happy little clouds. A perfect day for a soccer game, and sitting outside in the shade.

~ I had to give my hands a rest this weekend because apparently crocheting for 15+ hours over Labor Day weekend makes ones hands a little... well... tired. Who'd've thunk?

Instead of crocheting, Friday night I made an Infinity Dress for The Girl. I had about 3 yards of polyester knit just sitting on my shelf, which wasn't enough for an adult-size pattern. Plus, I figured since she still likes to dress-up from time to time I could try the pattern out without too much emotional investment... if it was easy, I would make one for myself, for a wedding I'm going to at the end of the month. If it was hard... well I wouldn't feel too bad about it, since it was just for "play."

Good news! It is super easy... after the measurement taking, pattern making and cutting (which took nearly 45 minutes - and was the "hardest" part because it was the not-as-fun-but-necessary part) the sewing took approximately 10 minutes. Literally. Ten-minutes.

So, for my newbie sewing friends (or for those who have sewn along time but are afraid of sewing clothes) this is the perfect project. Cheap, quick and easy... the trifecta of crafty women everywhere.

~ This morning The Mister took me to the Military ID office. My ID had expired in February. Oops.

Dependents (that would be me) are not allowed to go by themselves to renew their ID unless they get a legal affidavit signed by the sponsor in front of a witness, proving you are who you say you are (even though you have two "other" ID's to prove it.) Then, you get to go to the ID office and wait in line for and an hour and half for the appointment you made in advance.

However, if you make that same appointment, and bring your man in his uniform with you, you will walk in the door, get whisked away to the first open office, and will walk out with a sparkly-new ID within 10 minutes.

(Honestly, I might not have waited today. When we walked into the office nobody was in the waiting area.)

However, today I would have sat in that lobby all morning if it was meant to be, because the view of my man in his Dress Blues is something to be seen. So very easy on the eyes he is... Just so lovely to look at...

As a matter of fact, I was filled with pride for him and, knowing that he doesn't like me to post photos of him on the blog, snapped a picture of his arm.

He said, "Your not going to put that on your blog, are you?"

Of course I am...

Of course I am.

~Happy Monday!

Crochet Candy Corn Garland

2011-09-09T09:57:00.000-04:00

So excited to share this with you.

This little Garland was quick to stitch up and it makes me happy. I hope you enjoy it too!

~~~

Get your H-hook (5.0mm) and any worsted weight yarn. I used cotton (Peaches and Cream is what I used) but I think any worsted would do.

With white yarn, Ch 4, sl st in first chain to make ring,

Row 1: ch3, 2 dc into ring.

Row 2: Ch 3, turn, 2 dc (in the space between ch3 and 1st dc in row 1), ch 1, 3 dc (in space between 1st and second dc in row 1). Finish off.

Row 4: Switch yarn (orange) slip stitch to beginning stitch. Ch 3, 2 dc in first dc space), 3 dbl in ch 1 space, 2 dc in last dc space.

Row 5: Ch 3. turn, dc in first dc space, *3 dc in next space* 3 times, dc in last space.

Row 6: Ch 3, turn, dc in first dc sp, *3 dc in next space* 3 times, 2 dc in last dc space. Finish off.

Row 7: Switch Yarn to yellow w/ sl st in last stitch. Ch 3, *dc in each space* 4 times, dc in last dc space.

Row 8: Ch 2, hdc in next dc space, 2 hdc ineach space* 4 times, hdc in last space. Finish off.

Make as many candy corns according to your desired garland length.

Banner Chain:

Chain 10 -12 (+/-), depending on your preference for end-ties. Slip stitch to first stitch on top of candy corn. Sl st in each stitch across corn. I put 5 chains between each corn. Continue until all corn is added to banner. Chain 10-12 for end tie. Cut off or tuck in any end strings and find a happy place to hang.

Here is a very poor hand drawn pattern, that I hope makes it easier for those of you who (like me) are visual learners! If you cannot see the picture better by clicking on it and downloading, please send me an email and I will happily email you a .pdf file of the picture instead!

If you have any questions please let me know! And if you make one I would LOVE to see it!

Happy Friday!

Five Photo Friday: Feeling 'Think-y'

2011-09-09T08:04:00.000-04:00

On this day I got glasses, and learned how to see...

Choosing color amidst the black-and-white... its not always easy.

A warm kettle, some toast. A bright spot during a tough part of the week.

The blue hat. He's worn it nearly everyday this summer, including in the pool, the ocean, and most places in between.

"Emergency" water, not yet put away... A reminder that storms do pass - in weather, in life .

These bottles will empty... but we won't be left thirsty.

A Neighborly Cup of Sugar

2011-09-08T10:37:00.002-04:00

It's here!

Candy Corn time!

Its finally here.

I've seen it in the store for the last several weeks, but I'm one of those "rule-followers". I don't eat popsicles in winter. I don't listen to Christmas songs until after Thanksgiving. I don't bake pumpkin products in the summer, and I don't eat candy corn until the fall... and when November is over, so is the time for eating candy corn (and its sweet bigger sister, the mallow cream pumpkin.)

You would think after 6 years as a blogger I would tire of writing about this treat in beautiful hues of yellow and orange. But what can I say? I'm inspired each year.

Pictured above is a sneak peek at a quick and easy project I have going. I'm in the process of writing the recipe down for you... fingers crossed, it will be ready for the big reveal tomorrow. So get your yellow, orange and white yarn ready (and a hook, size H, 5.0mm) and get ready to hook up a little something fun for your fall decoration.

If you aren't of the crochet kind, here is a little candy corn love for you: Candy Corn Sugar Cookies

This picture was swiped from Kathy's blog. Link posted above.)

I hope to make these cookies right after I finish this post. The kids and I have a tea date this afternoon with a friend. I thought these might be fun.

Let's see... not a crocheter or a baker?

Well, how about a video on how candy corn is made?

Side note: Do you remember the show Mr Rogers Neighborhood? My favorite part of the show was when Mr. Rogers would talk to the frame on his wall called Picture-Picture. He would show how things were made in real factories... important things like crayons (loved that one!) and how shoes were made. Who knew, that many years later at the click of a mouse and a keyboard, you could see inside a factory any old time you want?

I've seen a few links flying around the net to other candy corn ideas as well. I am especially interested in this recipe for Homemade Butterfingers made with melted candy corn. Who'd've thunk? Melted candy corn in recipes? Genius.

All right, its a beautiful day in the neighborhood and I need to get some work done...

I have always wanted to have a neighbor, just like you...

always wanted to live in a neighborhood with you,

so lets make the most of this beautiful day.

SInce we're together, we might as well say...

will you be mine, won't you be mine.

Won't you be my neighbor?

(uh, sometimes I worry about myself... that song just whipped out of my mind into the keyboard before I knew what happened. Now I'll be singing it all day. xoxo)

Being a Woman

2011-09-07T10:10:00.000-04:00

This weekend The Girl and I continued our conversation about what it is to be a woman.

We talked about fashion and modesty. We talked about how we can be fashion forward, attractive and yet not reveal too much of the wonder (and power) of the female body.

I took her to a really fun vintage boutique that was awesome... it was chock-full of polyester. I had memory after of memory flood through my mind. After all, I am a child of the 70's.

We identified fashion of the past that was very modest...

And one that was less...

We liked the colors...

We liked the glitz...

We laughed.

It was fun.

But, I'd be remiss if I didn't tell you the Truth that fell in my lap...

As I taught my young daughter, the student was me.

Our first stop of the day was to the art museum with an agenda (look for art with women as the subject) and a few questions in mind:

1.) What does this say about feminine beauty?

2.) Is this a healthy view of women.

3.) If you are able to see art from different cultures, how does this society portray women differently from the way ours does today?

We had several different pieces that were great for discussion, but one photograph in particular,
Comilo Jose Vergara's, Girls, Barbies, Harlem, 1970, got my attention.

The picture of African-American girls sitting on the door-steps of a Harlem neighborhood, their white Barbies lined up in a row. It haunted me all weekend.

No one escapes. I thought to myself. No time. No culture.

Not one wonderful, beautiful, uniquely-made girl escapes this "ideal", if she isn't careful.

Here we are, forty years later, and that tall, blond-haired, blue-eyed, big-busted, small-waisted, have-it-all standard still rules the world.

And no one, not the young black girl in Harlem, not the Latina girl who writes this blog (or any women who reads this post), nor our sweet little girls playing dress up in the vintage boutiques can ever measure up when our measuring stick isn't real.

It doesn't matter if we are poor, rich, black, white, or all colors in between, we are not immune.

So we must equip ourselves, our daughters, our nieces, our friends, to love that which makes us unique. Our lovely brown hair, our big blue eyes, the curve of our hips, the shape of our nose... the wrinkles, the gray hair, the stretch marks on our bellies.

We must equip ourselves. Recognize the lies of media and worldly "standard." Must remind ourselves that we will never achieve what they say we can have. To think, and to realize that we really don't want it.

Here is the Truth I want to live and to learn: instead of fighting the air and losing heart, we can choose to love the unique way God created us, that special way he sets us apart from all those plastic dolls standing in a row. Once we recognize it as a gift, instead of a flaw, we are free to move about our lives outwardly focused, not inwardly stuck...

This weekend we talked, The Girl and I, about what it is to be a woman.

I'm still learning too.

Ice Cream for Monkeys

2011-09-05T12:40:00.001-04:00

I'm short on blogging time today. Its a government holiday. Which means The Mister is home, so I have to go sip coffee and watch him work in the yard before it begins to rain. Its a tough job, but somebody's got to do it.

I'm going to post a recipe for Banana Ice Cream that my friend Becky made for me earlier this summer.

I have monkey that lives here who eats a lot of bananas. He just really likes them, but the window between ripe and over-ripe is short.

If you have some bananas that are going brown, but aren't completely mushy you have the right banana for this ice cream. Of course, I think it would work with any banana at varying ripeness, dependent on your tastes.

Peel and slice your banana and freeze them on a cookie sheet or cake pan covered with butcher paper (wax side up) or plastic wrap (this makes taking the frozen banana off the cookie sheet very easy!)

Freeze slices for 45 minutes - 2 hours.

After completely frozen, I take the slices and place them in a zip bag until I'm ready to use them.

When ready to make ice cream, place frozen slices in a food processor.

Pulse until bananas look like little pieces of gravel.

Scrape down the sides if needed.

Put lid on and keep pulsing.

I can't tell you exactly when the banana magic will happen, but suddenly (just when you think it isn't gonna happen) they pulse into what looks like soft serve ice cream... its amazing, actually.

My monkey enjoys his ice cream just as it is, so I usually scoop a bit out for him before adding anything else. However, I occasionally add a small scoop of peanut butter and Nutella.

Oh, who am I kidding, I ALWAYS add a scoop of peanut butter and Nutella. But one time I pulsed up a scoop of peanut butter and a teaspoon of (unsweetened) cocoa powder, and it was divine.

So go bananas, and make some Monkey Ice Cream next time you need a little something sweet, and you have some brownish bananas on hand.

Happy Labor Day!

Five Photo Friday : Take 2

2011-09-02T08:52:00.001-04:00

Look what I found at the store yesterday! Aren't they beautiful in all their orangey goodness?

The Girl helped me pick out a new pair of glasses this week... by trying on glasses too. She told me she liked these frames on her because they "make me look smarticle"... and pretty cute, I might add.

Yesterday the CPQ and I had a little date. When we were finished drinking our coffee she said she'd come to Michael's with me. I always enjoy a little moral support when shopping for craft supplies so we were off. At one point we were oohing-and-aahing over bamboo in the yarn isle when I heard faint music in the background:

Morning just another a day,

Happy people pass my way.

Looking in their eyes,

I see a memory,

I never realized,

you made me so happy,

oh, Mandy!

I had myself a little moment right there in the craft store... yarn, a good friend and now Barry? Seriously, it couldn't get any better.

Thank goodness the CPQ was with me. In one short visit, she helped me pick a color for my new cardigan (I only hemmed and hawed for 30 minutes or so) so I could be fashion forward in the months to come. She helped me to decide on the accent notions, and reminded me to do something I NEVER remember to do - check dye lot numbers to be sure they match. That is a good friend!

In other news, my son's feet are no longer small enough to purchase athletic shoes at the normal (read: cheap) places, so we headed off to the sports store for an adult-size 10. These cleats photograph yellow but they are actually bright lime-green. It was worth the purchase when, in his pitch for me to buy them, he ran around the shoe department to prove they made him run F-A-S-T.

It worked. I bought them.

For my crafting/crochet readers... I have a secret to tell you.

I never do the swatch on projects I make. I'm far to impetuous.

But for the Cardigan I did, and it turned out great. I immediately unravelled the swatch and dived into the project full speed. I proceeded to crochet the first 11 rows, which took me over 5 hours.

It only took about 3 minutes to unravel it. I had done the yoke corner stitches incorrectly. Instead of doing three treble clusters, I had done three trebles... big mistake. I had to start from row one all over again...

But as a wise and true (and very British) friend always reminds me - the product isn't worth much if we don't enjoy the journey.

That is wonderful advice. In life and in crochet.

Happy Friday friends! Have a great long weekend!

On This First Day of September

2011-09-01T08:44:00.002-04:00

Thursdays during the school-year are my favorite days.

I teach in a co-op on Wednesday afternoons and the preparation from Monday to Wednesday always makes me a little bit busier than usual. It's the same for the kids too, who have to prepare their writing assignments, history timelines, geography maps and get their history literature read to be ready for discussion.

On Thursday morning we all sort of fall in a heap of relief. Another week done!

I love all the "-ber" months. Love them. Here we are, the first day, of the first month, of my favorite time of the year. I love this place of anything exciting, when you are at the beginning and the anticipation of all the good things to come lies open in front of you. Just waiting to be enjoyed... love that.

I'm typing at you this morning between bites of my favorite fall-time breakfast: Oatmeal with Craisens, walnuts and cinnamon. With a side of fresh hot coffee.

The mornings are cool. It's as if a switch was flipped and the world knows its time to slow down. I am certain that pumpkin bread and soups are soon to take their place on the menu once again.

We have taken to having school outside in the mornings.

Even the leaves on a few trees have begun to change.

I just love the weather this time of year.

Today is going to be a fun day. This morning I get to have a cup of coffee with my dear friend the Carpoolqueen. I am certain I see a pumpkin latte in my future. Then I am off to buy some new soccer cleats for The Boy.

There is just something about soccer that makes me happy. Maybe its those years my dad coached my brothers' teams. My mom worked 3-11p shift at the hospital back then so I had to tag along to soccer practices. I would hang out with the other sisters playing on the playground. The air would slowly get cooler as the season went on. I loved it... the practices, the games, the oranges cut into quarters at half-time...

I still love it today... only now I bring my folding chair and a cup of coffee, and maybe something to crochet. I get to sit and chat with the other mom's and enjoy a bit of time outside.

I am pretty sure I love everything that has to do with the fall season... I could write volumes I think.

I'm also going to make myself a new fall crochet project... and today I am buying the yarn: Everyday Cardi. I'm not sure if I should do a fall color, a neutral color, or a bright and sassy color to lift my spirits come January/February when the world turns a little grey and my heart gets homesick for color.

Well, the oatmeal is eaten, and the coffee mug is empty. Thanks for enjoying a moment in the first day of September with me.

xox

The Topless Carpool Mom - and other thoughts on insecurity

2011-08-30T07:54:00.000-04:00

In 2005 we moved from Texas to North Carolina and immediately got The Boy registered in a new school.

The night before his first day I had a dream that I showed up bright and early to the carpool line. As I pulled into the parking lot I realized I would need to walk into the building. But when I looked down to take my seatbelt off, I wasn't wearing a shirt.

It was such a vivid dream that I woke up with heart palpitations and was sweating. I've laughed about that dream for years now. I guess it doesn't matter how old you are- when you are insecure you are going to have dreams that you show up to school in your underwear.

Co-op starts tomorrow. I had a dream two nights ago that I completely dropped the ball and didn't show up, even though I knew that I was letting down people I care for and love, especially one friend in particular. I spent all of yesterday having to tell myself that that dream wasn't real.

I know why I am having dreams of insecurity. This is a new season for me. We are in a new school year. We are attending a new church. I am meeting new friends. Starting new groups.

I can sum up in three words how I am feeling about this new season in life: I love it.

Even so, isn't it funny how new things can stir up old insecurity?

I'm convinced that insecurities are just distractions in my focus. They are bright warning lights that lead to dead end spaces. Diversions from the truth set before me.

I found myself fretting over what to wear to church early Sunday morning, and then weeping in the sanctuary with gratitude for the place we have found ourselves in... who cares what I was wearing?

"Be thou my vision..." I sang between catches in my throat. "Thou with me dwelling, and I with thee one."

Riches I heed not, nor mans empty praise,

Thou mine Inheritance, now and always:

Thou and thou only, first in my heart,

High King of heaven, my treasure Thou heart.

Weeping tears of contentment and praying for a vision that isn't set upon myself. That is the cure for insecurity: Gratitude for the gifts given. A heart, mind and vision focused on the One who holds the future. And the security of knowing I don't walk alone.

Even when I show up in my underwear.

Coveting Thy Neighbors Front-Loader

2011-08-29T13:29:00.001-04:00

When our dryer went up in smoke last week I was thankful my home hadn't burned down.

Today I have an issue...

When things in my life have ever broken down (or spontaneously combusted, as it may be) my gut-reaction is to replace it. Out with the scorched. In with the new!

I'm slowly learning when things go awry in life (or the laundry room) there is often more than one solution. The best part? In the process of the final solution, you may pick up a skill or two.

Or at least your husband will.

For instance, The Mister could write volumes on how to repair a washing machine when it goes out. Or how to replace a sink. Or fix stucco when your wife backs her car into the side of the house.

He might call it : Fixing the Mess She's Got Herself Into.

I'd call it: Helping him see his Mr. Fix-It potential.

He's handy around the house... especially when I give him the time to figure things out; when I give thought to what might be another (less expensive) solution.

When my dryer set itself on the path of a slow burning inferno I put this lesson practice. I wasn't going to rush to the department store, I was going to let my man handle it! Wasn't that amazing?

Well, no, actually it wasn't.

Enter the front-loader.

This morning, after a laundry-lapse of 84 hours it was time to call on the kindness of our neighbor.

Mrs. E is a wonderful lady who I've written about before. She loves on my kids, is kind to my man, and has generously treated us as family. She gives treats to my dog, cuts fresh flowers from her garden for others to enjoy, and she has the most beautiful front-loading washer and dryer I have ever seen.

This morning I walked across the woods, arms straining to carry a basket full of laundry, with school-girl giddiness. I had been there a couple years back when the delivery truck pulled up Mrs E's driveway and unloaded the precious metal machine duo. I've been eying them ever since.

I'm just gonna spill my guts to you this morning and admit I made a wish right then and there, that my machine would die... so I could get a match-set too.

Before you judge, just remember, that was before I was using my powers of messing-things-up for good.

Honestly, this pearly white, energy-efficient, super-capacity, intelligent-timing, moisture sensing, with 9-cycles and 6- temperature settings might as well be my neighbors ox or donkey.

Have I mentioned how quiet it is? How it practically folds the clothes for you? How I have done four days worth of laundry in less than four hours because of its amazing ability to dry a load of laundry in less than hour?

I ~~want~~ am enjoying that machine.

The Mister ordered the new parts he's replacing for our old dryer. They should arrive in the mail today or tomorrow. I'm pretty sure its going to fix our issue.

The question is: Will it fix mine?

Happy Monday!

Five Photos Friday

2011-08-26T08:17:00.002-04:00

I will admit, this week has been a strange one. We started with an earthquake, had a laundry fire mid-week and will finish it off with a hurricane.

There is truly never a dull moment.

Actually, that's not entirely true. There were a few moments of respite. Let me share them with you....

1. Living with a teenager is an adventure. I spend a lot of time vacillating between great rounds of laughter and frantic moments of prayer. Its all good. I'm thankful for a boy like this one...

2. I think I might have control issues... and heaven help the woman who might get to the locker room at the gym first. Locker 19 is mine, mine, mine. Just kidding! (Sort of.)

PS: I love my new blue lock... when I purchased it I was so worried that the combo would be too hard to remember. When I opened the packaging the combo was made up of months/dates corresponding to the birthdays of The Mister, The Boy and The Girl. Isn't that cool?

3. I'm getting a little worried about the science curriculum we are using for eighth grade this year. Last week's experiment involved lighting matches, and this week he had to use the stove burner on high heat. (See #1.)

4. The Girl is a card shark. A serious card shark. She pretty much cleaned us out on Wednesday night. All I can say is: Paw you better buy the Costco-size bag of m&m's... and hide your wallet.

5. I will admit that sometimes when I step on a Lego with bare feet I say bad words. And I have been known to vacuum up scattered and lonely Lego pieces because my cries for them to be picked-up often go unheard.

However, just between you and me, deep down inside, finding Lego soldiers guarding my deodorant and Smashbox makes me exceedingly happy.

So there it is... the "boring" parts of my exciting week.

Happy Friday! And stay safe out there!

~~~

OH! And one more thing! I have a message for Mary from the pool (should you read my blog). I feel horrible that I have let a sister in a hair crisis down! I cannot for the life of me remember your last name... and I have tried high and low to find you on Facebook with your first and maiden name... even looking at other friends pages to see if they knew you. Please find me and friend me on Facebook, or leave a comment or email here, so I can find you and give you my hair-apists name.xox

Unplugging my Toaster... and Counting My Blessings

2011-08-25T11:01:00.000-04:00

Six months ago I pulled a load of towels out of the dryer and it smelled like smoke. I checked every thing out and it looked all right.

And then I forgot about it.

Growing up my dad had three household "rules" that he was fairly serious about:

1. no flame candles in the bedrooms,

2. don't leave the dryer running when you aren't at home,

3. unplug the toaster when you are done, and certainly before you leave the house.

As a kid, I followed along and did my best to remember (if not with a secret eye roll or huff here and there.)

Now I know how very important those rules are...

Yesterday, I threw in a load of laundry into the dryer and ran upstairs to grab some shoes and brush my teeth before taking my son to the doctor. The kids were downstairs finishing up their work and getting ready to go.

Within five minutes I could smell acrid smoke that burned my nose. I ran downstairs to find my dryer was on fire.

When I opened the door a puff of smoke came out and continued to rise from the lint screen.

We unplugged it and took the clothes out, and waited to see if the smoke would stop. It did.

Then we prayed that it wouldn't re-ignite, cuz we had to leave, we couldn't miss the appointment at the orthopedic office.

When The Mister got home he pulled everything apart and this is what he found...

We're pretty sure that this has been a slow-burn, a six-month tinder... a tragedy in the making.

Honestly, I try not to run the dryer while I am out of the house, but occasionally it happens. LIke two weeks ago when I ran the kids to the pool. I left the dryer running because I was only going to be gone for 20 minutes. Never again.

We escaped and I am grateful.

So for now, this is our dryer:

And this...

I know that, "faith is being sure of what we hope for, and certain of what we do not see"...but I do believe that every once in awhile we get the opportunity to really see.

Maybe more often than we choose.

Today I don't have to choose. Those wet clothes hanging all over the house are my memory stones.

I've been given the chance to see, and I am grateful.

The LORD is good to all;

He has compassion on all he has made.

Psalm 145:9

A First for Everything

2011-08-24T11:35:00.001-04:00

I am sure that every blogger on the coast is blogging about the same thing today...

Earthquakes and Hurricanes.

If you can't beat 'em, join 'em.

I was grading math assignments when I thought I heard a large airplane in the distance. I noticed because its very rare to hear an airplane in my neck of the piney woods. The sound grew louder... and somehow, if sound can have feeling, the growing rumble felt oppressive, foreboding. I looked at the dog, who on most days is afraid of her shadow. She was not bothered at all.

Then the cupboards started to rattle and I could feel vibrations through the floor.

I ran to the stairs to find out what in the world those kids were doing that would cause such commotion. Did they have music on that would make all that noise and racket?

By the time I reached the bottom of the stairs they were making their way down.

"Mom, the whole up-stairs is shaking!"

And I knew. I knew something was amiss.

The shaking stopped. Lasted less than a minute...

Its amazing the thoughts you can think in less than a minute.

I'm ashamed to say my first thought was sinister... thoughts of explosions and terror came to my mind. Something, someone was under attack...

The minute is was over, I felt shaken, and began to doubt. I wondered if I had made it up. Maybe somehow my imagination had conjured something that wasn't quite real. I quickly got on Facebook (after-all thats the first place you should run when you fear you are losing your mind) to see if any of my neighbors had felt it too.

Immediately my friend Heather replied and said she had felt it too. I felt so relieved. I wasn't crazy! (at least not today.) But I was shocked. Heather is a neighbor in heart, but she lives 25 miles away. Certainly whatever had happened was big. Honestly, I thought it might have been an earthquake, but I figured it highly unlikely. We don't have earthquakes in the East.

But it was.

My first earthquake... in the state of North Carolina. May it be the last!

Our state was not preparing for an earthquake, but for a hurricane named Irene. Thankfully, us inland peeps should only get some rain and maybe some wind (at least as projected today), but I am making sure we are prepared. I'm making whole-wheat bread today. I bought extra coffee last week. We have three 10-gallon water bottles and enough toilet paper to get us through until next Christmas.

Its all about essentials, my friends.

Talk to me: Where were you during yesterdays earthquake?

You don't live on the East Coast? Well, if you were preparing for a hurricane, what one item would be in your survival kit?

Show and Tell

2011-08-23T08:36:00.000-04:00

I got a new phone a week ago and I was inspired to crochet a cozy that was fun, whimsical... and uncomplicated. I also wanted it to be a project I could get done in one hour.

You may remember the crocodile I crocheted last month... this cozy was inspired by those loopy stitches that are so very easy, and offer a fun look without a lot of trouble!

Here is the open view. (that is my daughter's bedazzled device... not that I haven't been known to bedazzle and item or two myself)

Here's a side view....

and the back...

When the cozy was finished (and my afternoon plans fell through) I decided to be brave and try to make some hand-warmers. I had been putting off this pattern found in the Nov/Dec '10 issue of Crochet Today because they looked so complicated.

Now I am sorry I didn't make them last winter. They were simple. It took about an hour for each glove. And they are soft and lovely.... maybe a little bit big... but wonderful.

Then I decided to make a Kaleidoscope hexagon (also from Crochet Today, July/August 2011), just for kicks, to see how easy they would stitch up.

This was of course the kiss of death-by-crochet. I'm in love. This hexagon stitches up BIG. This one is nearly 9-inches across. I see a new blanket in my future... which is sort of funny considering I haven't finished the afghan I put down early this summer, when it got too hot to crochet under all that yarn....

Hmmm.... I think I may have a new project for the weekend: finish the wavy blanket to make room for the kaleidoscope...

Until then, its business as usual.

Happy Tuesday!

Body Guard or Fraidy Cat (depending on the day)

2011-08-20T08:22:00.001-04:00

I'm taking my coffee on the deck this morning.

It's quite dangerous out here, what with all the squirrels noisily chasing through the trees. I can hear crickets chirping, and a crow squawking in the distance... I even hear a big animal off in the forest. Most likely its the buck with big antlers that lives in our woods.

It's a jungle out there.

But I'm not afraid. I've got my guard dog, Kona.

When I sit out here she places herself right at the entrance to our deck, ready to take on all that might come.

Well, almost anything.

Right after I snapped this photo she got up from her perch and ran like a flash to keep me safe me from suspicious three-inch Millipede crawling across the bricks. You should never trust anyone with 1000 short legs.

She sniffed at it and moved it around with her nose.

The suspect was deemed harmless and allowed to go on his way.

She's just doing her job, saving the day.

Occasionally, when things are a little slow, she gets up to check the perimeter. To chase those brown tree-climbing varmints back into there deluxe nests in the sky.

Then she comes back to resume her post for duty.

Just between you and me, my guard-dog is nice, but she's extremely high
-strung and afraid of her shadow. She can make me feel content and crazy within a fraction of a second.

She's the family dog, but likes me the best - following me around from room to room. She sits in the middle of the kitchen when I am cooking and if I don't shut the the door, will follow me into the bathroom. Every. Single. Time.

She is a loyal guard dog who's afraid of my sports-watch and the sound of the fire alarm when I occasionally "overcook" something in the kitchen. She saves me from bugs, but runs away from the deer. She'll crawl in your lap like a puppy is there's thunder.

She's a mess. But she doesn't know it.

This morning she is doing the job she takes with all seriousness: She is keeping me safe from millepedes and squirrels.

Shes my dog... and I love her.

Saying Nothing At All

2011-08-19T14:23:00.000-04:00

Today I'm ~~feeling~~ choosing quiet.

I'm a girls-girl. A people-person. A sociable gal.

But sometimes? I let people get me down.

Which isn't right, or even fair... but it's what feels true for me today.

Instead of focusing on a confidence lost, I am going to focus on what I have learned... so I don't make the same mistakes twice. Instead of lashing out with my own thoughts and words, I am going back to my roots; to what my very own mama-hen taught me as a child...

"If you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all."

You would think I am nearing an age that would render a modicum of maturity-- some control over my people-pleasing ways; Some protection of the heart when those around me fail (and, when I fail others)...

I am learning that age, and security, and love for people cannot ease the sorrow of a trust broken.

But, there is One profound cure... A balm that leads to joy. Encouragement... not from the words of my mouth (or feelings of my heart) but those from the Word of God.

No. I'll say nothing at all. I'll hold tight to what is True...

[Kellie is]... not to please man [or people],

but to please God...
We know that God is greater than our hearts... and He knows everything.

~1 Thessalonians 2:4~

ESV - my paraphrase; and
1 John 3:20

Thursday Things That Make Me Happy

2011-08-18T11:23:00.001-04:00

Counting-down on paper chains.

(The Girl made this... she is counting down days until she see her Paw and Grannie. Only 44 chains left!)

Banana treats...

...for a monkey boy.

...and his mother.

Sweet smelling soaps that make me want to clean.

Wildlife in my own back yard.

Two Bambies. Love their spots.

Teaching our kids to play poker.

Traditions - I told the kids how my dad taught us how to play poker on camping trips. They want to play with him but are hoping to play like the "olden days" (a.k.a - when I was a kid)...we didn't bet with pennies. We played for m&m's.

Crocheting a poncho... with a name that's like my own.

Being almost done...

Quiet times.

Lego mansions.

A teenage boy who is generous with his smile.

These things. They make me happy.

A Bowl of Cherries

2011-08-15T20:56:00.000-04:00

I am so grateful for this past weekend. It was the first since early spring that all four of us were at home with nothing to do.

The cherry on top?

It rained.

A cool, steady, drenching rain.

Nearly all day Saturday.

It was perfect.

So with an empty calendar and a cloudy sky, I thought of what I might do...

I started a new crochet project. My niece shared a pattern with me last fall called the "Kellie" poncho.

(i'm not even kidding, that's really the designs name)

It's like, kismet... that poncho and me. We were meant to find each other on a rainy Saturday afternoon in August.

I'm doing it in a shade of aqua, to match the wool felt flower I made last week. I'm hoping to post pics sometime soon.

While I was hooking (oh! That makes me giggle.) I watched about six episodes of Gidget (Sally Field) with The Girl.

So fun, and frivolous... and wonderful.

And can I tell you a secret?

On Sunday afternoon we came home from church, ate leftover pizza for lunch, took the nap-of-all-naps (you know, the one where you wake up with pillow marks on your face) and had ice cream for dinner: cookies and cream. Two big scoops. And I didn't even feel guilty for it. Not even for half-a-second.

Seriously, the weekend was perfect. I should have taken pictures.

But I didn't, so I'll just say that our home this weekend.... Was an overflowing bowl of cherries.

Flying

2011-08-12T10:02:00.006-04:00

Time is moving so quickly these days.

Its really just flying.

This week has been good.

But I've come to the realization that my job is changing... and yet the foundation stays the same.

Gone are the days of working hard all day with young children. Of waking up tired from holding sick babies all night and chasing/cleaning after preschoolers.

I am now one of those moms I used to envy. You know the one... she shops without her kids, sips latte's without sharing, isn't wearing gooey graham cracker on the front of her shirt. I have become that mom who can read poolside while the kids are swimming.

But, let me tell you what I am reading...

I'm reading on how to encourage my teenager toward healthy and strong relationships. I'm reading up on how to keep the heart, mind, and body pure in a world that treats relationship (and dating) as something that isn't revered, but looked upon as conquest.

I'm reading on how to help them be excellent communicators (and listeners) when our media-filled age is all about 140 character or less... when conversations that should be held face-to-face are texted-- when words that should be private are splattered all over Facebook.

I'm reading about how to help them see the value in who they have been created to be; to be content with the gifts and talents they have been uniquely given for their good and the to the glory of God. I'm trying to learn how to help them find a way in a society that praises the mean-girl and emasculates the good-boy.

I'm reading up on how to keep my kids spiritually and mentally healthy in a world that offers nothing of sustenance on which to feast, and then glorifies the emaciated mind and body.

I'm trying to gain knowledge and wisdom, help steer the way, but it isn't always easy and often the lessons learned are not just for them... but for me.

I have prayed, and prayed, and prayed again for wisdom. For understanding. For a life-line.

Ten days ago, while I was sitting at the table teaching English and wondering how this whole teenage parenting thing was gonna work out, I received answer to that prayer.

It wasn't what I was expecting.

It was a thought so very clear in my mind that I had to write it down to be sure it was true.

"Be present with those you're with."

Three days later, nearly to the hour, as I anticipated the crossing-off of To-Do lists; in between grocery lists and papers to grade I got caught in the cross-winds of a storm I didn't know was brewing in my heart: How am I supposed to navigate this crazy time of hormones and history papers? How am I to nurse the whiplash that comes in the battle of snarkyness vs. neediness that can happen from the same child within a ten-minute span? How do I mentor and mother? Teach and Talk? Listen and learn?

Two little words calmed the raging storm. Hope came to soothe my heart as a dozen(ish) letters bled from my pen.

Job description: Be available.

That's a hard one for me. It always has been.

Over and over again I have had to choose to be available.

Why did I think it would change now?

This Wednesday we had our usual Family Night. We started this tradition over a decade ago when I realized that The Mister and I needed a night that we could count on... a night when we could spend some time with the kids, and then after tucking them in bed, could have some time together. It's been our date night, and with the exception of a half-a-dozen very good reasons, we have kept that date.

Not every night has been sweetness and light. As a matter of fact there have been some Wednesday evenings that we all should have just crawled into bed at 6:00 pm and stayed there. But our choice to be available to one-another every Wednesday over the period of a decade is beginning to show its fruit. And to be very honest with you, two nights ago it was of great encouragement to me.

Why?

Because choosing to be available again, and again, in the face of discouragement - when family night felt more like a lesson in patience; when others around us discouraged us, didn't understand us, sometimes even asked us to change our date to accommodate things they thought more important; when I just didn't have energy or desire to plan and prepare and my attitude reflected it - there was still blessing in being available.

This Wednesday my two worlds collided: that world of choosing availability when my children were little (even when I couldn't see the fruit) and realizing how important it will continue to be as I navigate these sometimes-murky teenage waters.

Maybe, even more important.

This week Family Night was a quiet and tender gift ... just for me... although, at the time, even I didn't know it.

I made a dinner that everyone loved. The bread came out just perfect. The Girl set the table with added touches. Everyone was happy and communicative. The wine tasted delicious.

Laughter and Joy and Love was set before us. As we looked across our big walnut table at the faces of this family, we got to taste and see what is good... and it helped me glimpse into the future.

This. This one moment that took eleven-years to build is what comes of being available, but this isn't the end. Its just the beginning.

Time is flying... but I don't need to worry... when all plans fail... when I think I am failing...

I will choose to be present with those I am with...

I choose to be available.

Random (Flowery) Thoughts from Kellie's Brain

2011-08-10T14:16:00.000-04:00

I'm sure by now you've guessed that I have ~~an obsession~~ a passion for flowers.

I love them, but I also really love to make them. Paper, yarn, fabric, tissue, beads, all flower-making medium is fair game... and this week wool-felt is my textile of choice.

I found this picture through Pinterest, (Go on, CLICK HERE to see the picture and then come back, I'll wait.)

OK... So glad you came back.

Seriously, if those beautifully colored felt dahlia's don't make your heart just swell with happiness, well... I'm worried about you.

Then again, maybe you should worry about me, because that picture made me want to run warp-speed to my studio/office and start making these bold, blooming, blossoms by the dozens.

Yesterday, I did my very best to muster up enough self-control to get two things done: teach some school, and finish up my last crochet project (pics below).

But then, without stopping at Go (or fixing lunch,) I found my wool-felt stash and sat to work.

My first attempt turned out all right. Not quite as neat and tidy as the picture, but give me a couple days and we'll see what happens...

Speaking of blue flowers....

I didn't give too much info on our beach trip. I plan to write more tomorrow but i will say I had forgotten how much I love the sea. I was surprised how blue the Atlantic ocean looked. Especially in the morning, when the sunlight was filtered through marine haze.

I must have been inspired by that azure hue because not only did I come home and make blue flowers, I bought one too.

I'm not really a souvenir type person, but when I saw this bracelet in the hotel gift shop, it was... just waiting there for me to pick it up... sitting there so pretty in all its flowery-blue goodness.

If happy were a wool-felt flower, or a beaded bracelet, this is what it would look like.

I mentioned that I finished my tea cozy project... Here it is.

No matter how hard I tried, I could not get the picture to show the true color red. in the picture it looks very orangey, but in real life its a beautiful blue-red. Mrs. P. This should be living in your kitchen within the next 5 business days! Hooray!

Well, I would love to sit and chat all day... seriously, I would. But I want to try to make one more flower before this afternoon gets away!

Happy Wednesday!

By the Sea

2011-08-09T07:05:00.000-04:00

I took a little blog-hiatus last week to get prepared for our family weekend away.

The Mister had a long-weekend so we whisked away Friday for an overnight trip to Atlantic beach.

Originally we had planned to camp on the beach at a State Park, but axed that plan at the last minute. Which was good, because after 7 hours of playing in the surf and sand, we were all ready to come home.

Today I come back to reality. Its not gonna be easy. First thing on my agenda (The bad news): a dentist appointment. The good news is that when you start your day with the dentist, it can only get better from there.

Happy ~~Monday~~ Tuesday!

black, white, red, giraffe

2011-08-02T11:30:00.000-04:00

At the moment I have a lot of black, white, and red happening in my house.

I think my favorite thing from the garden this year are those twin-cherry tomatoes, so perfectly colored and shaped. Little gifts from a poorly tended garden.

I almost didn't eat them they were so cute... but I did eat them.

They were tasty.

This is a commissioned tea cozy, meant to be finished late last week. I'm struggling with the flowers. Not with the making, but with the size, the placement, the kind... it'll all come and fit together like it wants to be, but in the meantime I'll fuss... and then set it aside. Rearrange... then put away. I know the moment will come, when I'll put it together and it will all be right... perfectionist? Nah. I like to think of it as art.

Speaking of art...

As a family we are working on a project this year that will require each of us to keep a composition book.

I've never liked composition books because they are so drab looking... so I've decided a little decoupage is in order... but first I needed to get the cover looking like I wanted it to.

Have you ever used Graphite paper? Its one of my very favorite crafting supplies (you can find it in the drawing and painting sections of craft stores.)

I used scrapbook paper to make my numbers and background, then I found my favorite computer font for the written word 'thanks'.

Then I placed the 'thanks' where I wanted it on the cover with the graphite (black side down) in between.

I traced over the letters with a pencil, checking twice that I'd gone over all the lines, its impossible to place in the same spot once you remove the graphite.

The graphite leaves a faint line. I traced over the line with my favorite permanent marker (the one I hide in my office where no one can find it... I'm not even kidding.)

Then I used a glue stick to place the cover over the composition book. After I've given it a little time to dry I will Mod-Podge the cover so it all stays in place.

As a non-black/white/red side note:

You can also use graphite paper to trace onto canvas.

I am not the only one in this house that L-O-V-E-S graphite paper. The Girl is a big fan too.

She is painting in the kitchen as I type.
I offered to put the easel on the floor so she could sit in the chair.
She declined.
Artists.

Last year a friend recommended the Color-Me-Online website. They have all sorts of printable animal drawings and famous masterpieces geared toward teaching your kids about art (and its free!) It is really a great website, good for artists of every age.

The Girl's first project was to print out this black and white giraffe.

I helped her transfer the giraffe with graphite paper and she set to work painting.

Isn't that fun?

Happy Tuesday!

Always

2011-07-31T08:03:00.000-04:00

taidyoriginal

Today I rejoice that my family is once again together under one roof.

Would love to hear what you are rejoicing...

Maybe its easy for you to think of a something...

Maybe... today is a day when rejoicing will be an act of your will choosing to hope, choosing to see, choosing to give thanks in a place not comfortable...

Today my rejoicing is easy, but I've been there... when rejoicing felt like a sacrifice of my heart; when choosing to be grateful for things unseen, unknown, felt like carrying a boulder up a hill.

There is joy in gratitude...

So tell me. What are you thankful for today?

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!

Philippians 4:4

Quilt Accomplished

2011-07-30T09:50:00.003-04:00

"Listen! My Lover!

Look! Here he comes,

leaping across the

mountains,

bounding over hills.

My lover is like a gazelle or

a young stag.

Look! There he stands,"

~ Song of Songs 2: 8-9

He comes home today. After a week of leaping mountains in northern New York.

In my Bible I have the scripture above underlined, and in the margin is written: Reminds me of The Mister!

I don't know when I wrote that note. Which is strange, I almost always write a date... but I guess that's how love should be... timeless.

While he was away, I had several goals - make dinner every night (when he's gone I'm tempted to eat toast or cereal for dinner), watch lots of movies with the kids, and finish the 16th Anniversary Quilt.

I managed to accomplish all three. (Smoothies are a meal, right?)

I'm most excited about the quilt. My mountain-man enjoys a good back-packing trip. He loves his ultra-light and warm sleeping bag on the trail, but at home he enjoys a good quilt.

Several years ago, he kept hinting that I hadn't made anything for him, and that he would love to have a quilt for his office. So I made him this one....

Its not beautiful or fancy, and it isn't even "quilted" but its a favorite and often in the winter on weekend afternoon, I'll peek in his office and he'll be napping on the floor... wrapped up like a quilted burrito.

Makes me happy.

This week I only needed to bind the Anniversary Quilt. I tried to do it the "correct" way. By hand. But in the end it was all machine sewn. I'm a quilting newbie... plus, I was running out of time and just wanted it to be done.

When the last stitch was sewn I put it on the bed, just to see what it looked like...

...and, of course, take some pictures...

I kept thinking to myself... I can't believe it I did it... I can't believe I finished it... I can't believe it all came out... ~~just the~~ nearly the way I wanted...

Its made from fabrics that have been repurposed so its already amazingly soft and light.

I spent a good chunk of time looking at it, admiring it. Wondering if The Mister will like it too...

...and then I took it off again.

Because I won't sleep under it until I'm with him.

Taking My Own Advice

2011-07-29T09:06:00.000-04:00

It always happens around this time of year.

I get asked for homeschooling advice.

This flatters me and makes me scared all at the same time.

What makes me nervous is when I hear: You must be so organized... You always have it all-together. Or more recently, You seem like you're a pro!

Oh that those things were true!

But they aren't.

Which is why I get twitchy.

Unfortunately my response to this young mom was probably not what she was expecting, and in re-reading my reply, was more vague than I intended.

Homeschooling isn't half as romantic as I thought it would be, but its ten-fold the blessing, which I never expected! Remember that some days are going to be AWESOME! And some, well, they're just gonna be hard and you'll wonder if your kids will end up dumb as stumps... but its ALL worth while!

I think its great that you are going to homeschool! As far as advice... practice grace - with yourself, with your kids. Expect things to take less time and more time, all at once! Remember that home education is not like traditional schooling... your kids will learn so much more than their A-B-C's, things that cannot be measured or tested, and many won't understand...but that that is OK!

Prayer is the one thing that gets you through, and the first thing you'll set aside... pursue prayer! You can't live without it! (that is true for traditional or home education!)

What I should have said was this:

On more days than not every table in the house is covered with something...

it might be books,

or laundry,

or (many) unfinished projects.

(I act like it doesn't bother me... often it does.)

There are usually clean dishes left drying on the stove top (which is a terrible place to dry your dishes... but I do it anyway.)

... not to mention open cupboards and popcorn on the floor.

Organization happens, but it isn't done quickly, and is often done in short increments of time over many days... like this pile of new school supplies that have been laying in the hall way.

Most days... I can't find my red pen (even though I have a dozen):

I don't often wear make-up when school keeps us at home,

... but I wear a furrowed-brow more than I should...

You may have to click on the picture to see the furrow-ness... it's there, I promise.

I'm impatient.

Quick to assume the worst.

I fail to see the good things when there is so much good to be seen.

I make schedules that I can't always keep.

My projects often don't work.

I waste precious time on things that aren't important.

But the biggest mistake I make every blessed day?

I forget that I am called to this gig with dual purpose... I am not to simply teach my kids, but to train them. Teaching is when I impart my knowledge (or that of the text in front of me) and it is important.

But training is when I come along side them and actively help them to "develop habits, thoughts and behavior by discipline and instruction" and it requires (a lot of) time, (a lot of) grace, and (a lot of ) repetition.

Training is often where I fail.

Time, grace and repetition are places in which I am the most greedy, the most selfish... and its what my children need of me the greatest.

I am quick to compare, and slow to prayer.

Oh! the struggle is fierce in this place, not just in my role as a mother and an educator, but personally as well.

In the midst of all that is imperfect, I forget to be thankful.

I stumbled across a blog post this week that expressed much more eloquently what I was trying to say...

When we give thanks, we gain joy. All of us. These daily lessons looking for grace is the way we see God even here.
Because what will the math really matter if they are bitter? If the house is immaculate — but my attitude a mess? If they can count — but they don’t know how to count all things as joy? If we get the lists done, but have lost happiness in Him? How can any grammar skill outweigh the fact they don’t know the language of grace and thanks? What good will it be if they can recite all the major British battles — but they don’t know to see beauty? What am I teaching our children if I’m not living simply, quietly this: “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things” (Phil. 4:8). Focusing on what is beautiful, good, true –isn’t this the truest education? - Ann Voskamp

Ultimately I want my students, my children, to learn what they need to know to be successful in life, but if I do not train them to see the Joy in life, to see passed the to-do lists and the syllabus, then I have failed them. Those things are chaff on the wind, here today and gone tomorrow, they add nothing to the value in the hearts of my children. Or mine!

If I'm honest I must tell you that I struggle with these things. I want the romance of homeschooling, and I am surprised when it is not. I want the facade of the clean house and perfect kids, but it just doesn't exist.

This is my homeschooling reality. Its my life. And you know what? Its been an amazing experience for our kids, our family, for me.

Still looking for advice?

Me too.

This morning I'm right here with you. Refilling a prescription to my own medicine:

The romance of homeschooling is in the hindsight vision... but the joy of homeschooling is giving thanks in advance.

May I live this out in the coming year.

Little Yellow Schoolhouse: 2011-2012

2011-07-26T08:23:00.000-04:00

Well, its official.

The Little Yellow Middle School is open.

First year without any elementary aged children... and it feels weird. If you have preteens/teen in the house you know what I mean.

For the record, I am enjoying this age and stage with my kids. I know a lot of people don't consider these awkward middle school years their "favorite." I get it, I do. But, I think this stage is kind of fun; most certainly, its funny.

Yesterday, I took the obligatory first day of school photos.

The Girl, who is VERY excited to be starting school again was up and dressed and ready to go.

It just goes to show that wether schooled traditionally or home-educated, fashion is still of utmost importance to the preteen girl.

The Boy, isn't quite ready to be back...

He asked me to take pictures of him looking sad/mad about going back to school.....

He couldn't keep it up for very long... he's a smiler, that Boy. (He's is looking so much like my youngest brother these days... its kind of spooky!)

So there they are the 2011-2012 middle school class.

One sixth-grader.

One eighth-grader.

One teacher.

Living on a wing and prayer.

Scathingly Brilliant Idea (and it wasn't even mine)

2011-07-22T14:55:00.000-04:00

She wants everything to be blue.

I'm not sure why.

I mean, since the moment I knew she was a girl-child I bought-up every pink hair bow and outfit I could find.

Maybe its 'cuz I painted her nursery and several rooms pink without even asking.

Maybe its 'cuz blue is the farthest you can get away from pink.

I don't know. I just know she's all about the color blue.

Blue.

Blue hair streaks, blue bedroom walls, blue curtains.

She likes her blue.

I still dabble in pink here and there - in fabric, in yarn - but I've learned that where The Girl is concerned its better to allow her own style shine through. However, when she came to me and told me that she wanted to paint the table her Poppa built for her over a decade ago in her favorite color.... I. just. couldn't. do it.

She loves that table. I tried to convince her that she should get a desk to match her bed and dresser. That toddler size table doesn't quite fit anymore. But she doesn't want to give it up. Not yet... she just wants it to be blue.

So, I was thinking of how could we change the color without permanent damage when The Girl approached me with a scathingly brilliant idea!

(ten points if you can name the movie that quote comes from...its one of my favorite movies (and quotes!))

Nowadays duct tape comes in all sort of fashions and colors. She figured we could cover the table with tape and someday, if she ever loves the color ~~pink~~ purple. We could change it. Or if she will ever allow me to haul it out of her room for a bigger desk and chair, I can uncover the blue tape, take some alcohol wipes to the duct tape stickiness, and have a white table for the grandkids to play on in the (longtime) future.

And, in the pitch that won the game she said, "Its like a craft project we could work on together!"

That Girl, she knows me.

How could I say no?

We bought the tape and rushed home.

We wiped down the table and let it dry. Then we turned it over and started with the legs. This part was more difficult for her to do on her own without the tape bunching up (it was difficult for me too) so she worked on another project until I could get that done.

Then we turned it over and started with the top.

The whole process took about an hour. And we didn't have to prime or clean paint brushes after!

The Girl and I were so excited about it that we are trying to figure out how to do the chairs as well---although honestly, they look overwhelming with all their spindles and curves.

Maybe. Maybe chairs...

We decided to do the legs and trim in silver to give it that 50s formica feel.

She loves it.

And I may have a new crafting obsession...

When The Mister came home and saw our completed project he applauded our efforts in that quiet way he has -- I looked at him with a twinkle in my eye and said, "Yeah! what else do you think needs covering with tape?!"

To which he chuckled and said, "Uh oh. Here we go again..."

At $3.50 a roll, its the cheapest of craft supplies I own!

Happy Friday!

Birds of a Feather

2011-07-20T13:09:00.000-04:00

Weeks ago I read a blog post that solved my Great Dilemma.

I have a daughter who is cultivating a two-year fascination with mermaids.

Two years ago we saw a movie called Aquamarine about a mermaid of the blonde persuasion who had a lovely blue streak in her hair.

This little blue lock of tress made quite an impact on my (then) nine-year old and the campaign for azure adornment was born.

For two years she was denied.

Just when she had nearly worn me down I came upon this post and instantly I knew: Feathers were the answer.

So I did what any mom of a tween-ager does: I Googled it.

Within days I had The Girl sitting in a posh salon where, for three-minutes and twenty-bucks, you could have your blue streaks... and your feathers too. It's quick, and easy, and best of all not permanent.

I watched the stylist put this thing in her hair and the mantra I have on a day-to-day basis began to chant in my head: I could ~~make~~ do this!

All it took was a feather, some hair, a small crochet hook, a pair of pliers and a special bead to attach it with...I had everything but the feather and bead.

So I came home and ordered some.

They've been sitting on my bathroom counter for a couple of weeks.

One of the great joys of my life is to think up things to do and say that will make my kids laugh.

Yesterday morning after drying my hair I had a brilliant idea: put one of those dark feathers in your hair and see how long it takes for the kids to notice.

(This was going to be WAY more fun than that time I put googly eyes on their toothbrushes.)

As I was putting in my purple plumes I had a flashback to my college days when I had come home and was searching for snack in my parents kitchen. My dad walked in and asked about my day, when i looked up he had a small gold-ball piercing... in his nose.

In the moments that passed (that felt like hours) I contemplated my response... this was the man who told my brothers that if they ever came home with a pierced ear they better be wearing a dress. This was the man who had long let us know that his preference was that we keep our tattoos and piercing down to a minimum... but here he was with a ring in his nose.

But before I could say anything he started to laugh in the quiet way my daddy does... laughing, laughing laughing... while I wondered if he was having a crises. Oh, he was tickled with himself.

Turns out he had found a magnetized earring and bought it. Hours later I was in my room studying when I heard my brother walk in the front door and say, "Dad! What is that in your nose?!?!"

And the laughing commenced... still makes me laugh today.

All feathered and ready I ran downstairs waiting for someone (anyone!) to find it.

They are subtle...

Nobody noticed until late in the night and by that time I had forgotten.

They laughed (a little), and declared it looked "cool."

I guess for big laughs nose-rings are best.

I had decided I would take them out, but The Boy said, "Why mom? I think they look nice." So I am going to keep them for a day or two... or at least until co-op starts in September.

Who knows? Maybe I'll start a trend with all the other housewives and home-educators. You know what they say.....birds of a feather.

~~~~~~~

PS: It was recently brought to my attention that I make a "funny scrunchy-face." When I asked The Mister if this was true he said, "Oh yeah, that's classic Kellie." So Becky, this is for you:

Never Smile at a Crocodile...

2011-07-19T11:45:00.002-04:00

The words to that old Disney song are true:

Don't be taken in by his welcome grin,

He's imagining how well you'd fit within his skin.

But my Crocodile is the friendly-sort of crocodile.

I'll prove it:

He does dishes...

He folds laundry...

He keeps me company while working-out and surfing the net...

The best thing of all? He's agreed to do all my lesson planning for the rest of the year.

No crocodile tears here...

Oh yeah, and he's a vegetarian. Good thing my tomatoes are a-plenty in the garden these days.

Would YOU like to have your own friendly crocodile?

Of course you would!

Click on over to the Cult of Crochet. I found this post yesterday and immediately started to work. She has written an excellent tutorial for a Crocodile Scarf. This was my "prototype". Which is fancy way of saying: The compulsive crafter that lives in me had to make that crocodile ASAP!, so I started without any thought to having enough yarn to complete it. (Which is why he is only a foot and half long and has a different colored snout)

Instead of scarf he's just a friendly crocodile...

unPopular

2011-07-18T09:44:00.000-04:00

The young people in this house aren't happy.

Well, I should say that the oldest child in this house isn't happy, but I think he's gonna live.

Late Saturday evening I was doing my yearly calendar count trying to figure out how the school-year was going to play out. I like to get 180 days of school in each year. This year we will travel to AZ in the fall for a couple weeks and have will VIP visitors in the New Year.

The good news?

With the holidays listed above and Christmas and Spring break we get to take nearly five weeks of vacation this school year, and still finish by the third week of May.

The bad news?

School starts next week.

So there is a bit of mopey-ness going on around here.

My favorite part of starting school?

School supplies.

I am a serious office product junkie.... serious.

But who can resist a new red pen, a fun folder, or a set of post-it notes in an array of colors?

Not me, that's who.

Secretly, the switch has flipped for me - eight weeks ago I was so done with school. Now I am ready to get back at it. Ready to have some routine.

Which makes me very unpopular.

The great news? The pool will still be open through August so we can count swimming as PE class.

Silver-linings... sometimes they aren't so hard to see.

I just have to convince the kiddos.

Making, Doing, and Thinking: A Rambling Post

2011-07-15T10:23:00.000-04:00

My apologies to those who visit the blog because I make things.

I know you have been sorely disappointed.

I've been so busy, you know. Laying around at the pool and chatting with girl-friends is seriously hard work.

Actually, this summer has been busy, but its been wonderful. Its been a time to lay aside the fabrics and yarns to sit face-to-face with people I love. To pour tea, to laugh, to listen... to reconnect, heart-to-heart and enjoy the making and keeping of friends.

I have also enjoyed time to be with my kids... as their mom, apart from the role of educator. Its the same (after all ALL moms are their child's first and primary teacher in life!), and yet, so very different. I sometimes miss it during the school-year.

As a family we've had a lot of cooking-out...

and eating al fresca... on the deck, yet in the Ring of Fire.

We have five citronella candles on the deck that we light. Its a win-win: they add ambiance, and the bugs stay away.

I do have a few projects on-the-hook. I'm in the middle of a Tea Cozy like this one...only in black/red/white. I'll be sure to post pics when its finished (its hard to photograph black yarn.)

I had need of some color last night, so I took a black-yarn break and started this real quick before I went to bed....

I'm not sure what this will be, nor what I will do with it... but playing with my favorite colors makes me happy.

I've also been baking: banana bread, carrot-cake cookies, and bread.

I tried my hand at some Five Minute Artisan Bread...mine didn't turn out quite as pretty. But The Mister, said, "This is delicious, did you make it? It tastes like its from the bakery!" Which, as you can imagine, made me very happy... Hopefully the next batch will look like it was from the bakery too.

My poor neglected garden is so sad. The rabbits ate all my cucumber, and my bell peppers have been poorly from the get-go. But the tomatoes love this North Carolina heat. I picked three red ripe 'mater's yesterday, and ate them before I could take their picture.

I also had two green ones fall to the ground before their time. If I was a bettin' gal, I would say I see Fried Green Tomatoes in my future. (Can you believe I've lived in the south for nearly 15 years and have never had a fried green tomato?) Anybody got a good recipe?

My bee-lady (aka - local honey supplier - who is also my fresh chicken egg's lady) brought me a dozen yesterday.

I know they are just eggs... but look at how beautiful they are! You can't tell from the picture, but the white ones in the back row are actually blue. They are so fresh there is still a feather on one. Can you see it?

I haven't been as creative in the office this summer, but there has been more room to stretch, to think deeply, to ponder, to read.

This week I have been pondering this old hymn. The words are just so beautiful. So True.

May the mind of Christ my Savior

Live in me from day to day,

By His love and pow'r controlling

All I do and say.

May the Word of Christ dwell richly

In my heart from hour to hour,

So that all may see I triumph

Only through His pow'r.

May the peace of Christ my Savior,

Rule my life in everything,

That I may be calm to comfort

Sick and sorrowing.

May the love of Jesus fill me,

As the waters fill the sea;

Him exalting, self abasing,

This is victory.

May I run the race before me,

Strong and brave to face the foe,

looking only unto Jesus

As I onward go.

The fourth verse is my favorite...

Summer... you are more than half-way through. Onward I go...making, doing, thinking.... stretching. It all makes me happy.

What We'll Do For Love

2011-07-13T09:52:00.006-04:00

Young love is foolish.

Apparently, old love is too.

Eighteen years ago I had a summer romance.

At first it was a glance, then a few spoken words, and soon we were holding hands and taking walks and spending time together.

When the days began to shorten and the air began to chill we knew we were in love, but we wouldn't admit it to each other.

Yes, there were love notes and picnic/dinners in the park, but by far the craziest thing I did for love was to wake up at 4:30 am to beat him to the gym.

You see, I knew he got up early to work out. I also had a membership to the same gym (although my favorite part of the gym was the ~~smoothie bar~~ aerobics class.) I certainly had never seen the inside of the building at an hour the birds aren't even awake.

But I had a plan.

I would intentionally get there 10-15 minutes before him, with fixed hair (and the cutest work out clothes I could find) so he would walked in and see my dedicated-self running (all too fast) on the treadmill.

I had the whole conversation worked out in my head -

"I didn't know you worked out this early." he would say.

"Yeah, I like to get it over with. Out of the way." I'd nonchalantly reply, trying to act like my lungs weren't burning in my chest.

He would be so impressed with my dedication, my early morning stick-to-it-iveness... he would like me.

Of course, it never went the way I had imagined. He was surprised but polite, and all business and routine that early in the morning...there wasn't much time for ~~flirting~~ chatting.

Plus, he already liked me. What was I thinking???

Within a couple weeks I realized that my early morning trips to the gym to impress my man were better left to brighter times of day. Getting up that early was hard work! It all worked out though. We declared our love for each other that Christmas and were married 17 months later.

As it turns out that wouldn't be my last early morning trip to the gym.

My mid-morning workout has been lacking since homeschooling put a monkey in the mix....so I started to look for an early morning work out partner.

Turns out I didn't have to look far...

The Mister, also desiring to be more consistent with exercise volunteered to work out with me. So several days a week we are getting up before the roosters to enjoy some early morning time at the gym.

I'm thankful. Thankful for a man who is generous and faithful, with his time and with his heart... as well as easy on the eyes. If you're going to the gym at 5:30 in the morning, its helps to have something nice to look at...

The things you'll do for love.

In the Heat of the Day

2011-07-12T09:21:00.004-04:00

A heat wave is coming.

I felt it move in on the wind yesterday, the sun melted anyone standing in its way.

The silently spoken promises of the aqua-colored pool were deceiving - for when you jumped in to be refreshed it was as a lukewarm bath.

It's always at this time of year when I begin to have faint longings for fall.

It isn't like the pining away for warmer days in the dead of winter, when my heart and vision cries out for a glimpse of green. It's more of a nudge, a glimmer, a comfort taken in knowing: the scorching heat that wilts and withers will soon come to an end.

Recently I had a conversation about 'heat' with my daughter.

Life offers up moments when the temperatures of living get hot: a mean person, an awkward moment, a difficult choice. Oh, that I could protect her from the heat that threatens to steal her joy and tempts her to believe that she is left on her own in a vast and thirsty land.

And yet, heat is what refines us and makes us strong.

Still, when life is hot we look for shade and feel alone.

The Good news?

God shows up in the heat of the day.

He shelters us.

He cares for us.

He leads us to a living water that never fails; a water that always cools our brow and quenches our thirst.

Best of all... when we are tempted to despair, when we feel all is lost, when our mouths are dry and we can no longer speak... we can trust in His promise.

Its there, in that promise, I will be waiting... in the heat of this warm summer's day.

Never again will they hunger;
   never again will they thirst.
The sun will not beat down on them,’
   nor any scorching heat. For the Lamb at the center of the throne
   will be their shepherd;
‘he will lead them to springs of living water.’
   ‘And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.’”
(Revelation 7:16-17)

Saying Good Bye

2011-07-11T17:08:00.005-04:00

On Friday morning we woke up from our first, and last, slumber party.

We had had our coffee and a quick bite to eat.

The moving truck was packed. It was time to go.

For the first time in sixteen years it wasn't me who was moving.

But I was unpacking memories of my own....

I remembered the weeks before our move from Fort Worth. A lady from church encouraged me to be sensitive to those I was leaving behind. She reminded me that I was leaving with my family for a "great adventure" while my friends would have to learn to adjust to life with a Kellie-shaped void.

She was a women I respected and I took her words to heart; tucked them away gently... tiny little pearls I was saving for later... only I didn't know just when.

This was the week-- nearly seven year later.

Things are going to be so strange without my Friday-Lunch Bunch (which this summer turned into an often Wed-Thur-Friday Breaksfast/Lunch Bunch.)

There is a huge void that has settled in the Little Yellow House on The Hill, and its gonna be awfully hard to move around it.

Since there is nothing so well worth having as friends, never lose a chance to make them.

~Francesco Guicciardini