Enjoying the Ride

Today's Mail

2011-12-14T23:36:00.007-05:00

Look what came in the mail today... A beautiful Nutcracker wreath that my sister Audrey made!

Our mom loved The Nutcracker and we grew up going to see it every year. It is one of my favorite things about Christmas! It brings back so many wonderful memories from my childhood. The Nutcracker was, is, and always will be, magical to me.

Thanks Aud, I love my wreath! And I love you.

Peas and Carrots Anyone?

2011-12-13T23:37:00.003-05:00

It is no secret that my sweet Logan is not a big fan of vegetables. Bergen, on the other hand, will eat them every chance she gets. So I was pretty excited when I found a little something to use to trick the boy.

Candy peas and carrots!

I've had then in the pantry for a few weeks and Bergen has been really good at keeping them a secret. I've just had a hard time trying to come up with the right meal to serve them with. Well tonight's Parmesan Chicken was it.

I poured them in a bowl and Bergen put them on the table right after the prayer. As soon as Logan saw them he was suspicious. Darn smarty pants. But he tried them anyway. And would you believe, he liked them. Kind-of.

After dinner he grabbed a handful of carrots, but no peas. He said the carrots tasted better. (And no, they didn't taste like the real thing.)

I had to laugh in the end. Logan was a trooper and did eat a couple of bites of mashed potatoes with gravy and a few real peas and carrots. It was the two pieces of chicken that got me!

Christmas Card Picture Preview

2011-12-10T23:27:00.005-05:00

I think I got the picture for our Christmas card today. If only Santa had been looking at the camera... Oh well, nobody's going to be looking at him anyway.

Merry Christmas!

Sinterklaas

2011-12-06T23:15:00.010-05:00

I introduced Sinterklaas to the kids as part of our 25 Days of Christmas tonight.

I love that I am part Dutch and have always been interested in the traditions that surround Christmas. When we were kids our grandparents would give us a *Dutch chocolate letter on Christmas Eve, and it's something I still try to do for my kids today.

Although we didn't celebrate Sinterklaas growing up, he still has meaning to me. I hope that through this fun new tradition Logan and Bergen will come to have fond memories of him too.

Here's the story I told them. It was one of several I found on Google, and I went with it because I didn't have time to consult my dad.

At the start, Sinterklaas was a real person. He was born in the 4th century in Myra, Asia Minor, where he became a bishop as a grown man. Little else is known about him—except that he loved children.

A story is told about Sinterklaas to illustrate this point. It is said that three little boys dined at a restaurant and, after eating their fill, informed the innkeeper that they could not pay their bill. To exact payment, the innkeeper chopped them up into little bits and cooked them in a stew.

Nicholas heard about the awful deed and came to the inn to find the boys boiling away in the pot. He told the innkeeper that if he, Nicholas, could find one little piece of each boy that was good, he would perform a miracle and bring them him back to life. Now, what child does not have at least one little piece of good in him? And, so Sinterklaas returned the boys to life and took them into his care.

Nice story! Not. But I told it anyway.

And there's more...

There is not a single family in Holland that does not in some way or another honor the old "Bishop" and his servant the Grumpus (or Black Pete as I was told growing up) with a party, a small get-together or by going to somebody's else's house to celebrate. There may be many presents, or just a few, tables laden with traditional candles and cookies, or just a pot of hot chocolate. The house may be teeming with children, or with perhaps just a few grown-ups around the dining room table—but the Sinterklaas spirit is everywhere—one simply can't miss it. It is far and away the nicest, most wonderful and exciting festivity in the land!

When the early Dutch settlers came to America, they naturally brought with them their venerated old bishop. St. Nicholas and their favorite holiday, Sinterklaas.

And so that I don't have to keep this all in my head to remember it, I have even more information:

Did you know that “cookie” is a Dutch word? And that the first chocolate in America came from Holland? Not only did children in New Amsterdam (NYC) love the Dutch tradition of Sinterklaas, they also quickly came to love another tradition the Dutch brought to the New World: cookies!! The Dutch word was "koekje," and meant "little cake." The Dutch brought the "koekjes" to America in the 17th century and the word became "cookie." Much like Sinterklaas became Santa Claus. The first cookies were created by accident. Cooks used a small amount of cake batter to test their oven temperature before baking a large cake. Almost immediately the Dutch knew they had discovered something very, very good. With a little bit of sugar added, crackers became cookies! Before long, special cookies were being made for the Dutch’s favorite holiday -- Sinterklaas. These cookies are called Speculaas.

The kids and I finished things up with hot chocolate and speculaas before putting a pair of wooden shoes under the tree. They really seemed to like tonight's activity and I think they're excited about their Dutch heritage. I hope they like what they find in the morning...

*At many Dutch Sinterklaas Eve parties, the very last surprise in Sinterklaas’ special burlap sack, are chocolate initials, the first letter of each person’s name.

There will be one for each person—the first given to the youngest child, then on up to the oldest person present. These letters are popular throughout the Sinterklaas season. The tasty treats may be found in shoes, left by Sinterklaas as he makes his rounds checking on children. These letters make special little Sinterklaas remembrances to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea. The letters, in brightly colored boxes, are sold from around October 15th through December 5 only. Unsold letters aren’t marked down, rather, they are returned to the manufacturers to be melted down for other chocolate treats.

The custom of edible letters goes back to Germanic times when, at birth, children were given a runic letter, made of bread—as a symbol of good fortune. Schools in the Middle Ages used bread and chocolate letters to teach the alphabet. When the letter was learned and could be written well, a pupil could eat it up! Letters became associated with Sinterklaas in the 19th century, when a sheet was used to cover St. Nicholas presents. A bread dough letter, placed on top of the sheet, identified where a child’s gifts were located.

During the 1800s, advances in cocoa bean processing led to the production of chocolate letters. The Netherlands is the only place with a St. Nicholas chocolate initial letter tradition.

(This is a happy post for me. I am proud of my part Dutch-girl status! Thanks Dad!)

Lunch with Logan

2011-12-01T20:57:00.006-05:00

I hit the McDonald's drive thru and then headed to school to have lunch with Logan today. He's been asking me to have lunch with him for weeks. (That, and he noticed that Bergen had been to McDonald's on Tuesday...) He asked me for a double cheese burger meal and that's exactly what he got!

I arrived right at lunchtime and after signing in, waited by the lunchroom door. Logan ran over when he saw me; excited about his Happy Meal.

We sat at a table full of girls from his class, and let me tell you that was fun. I think I talked - or rather listened - to them more than I did to Logan. He was a sport about it though, and I think he was glad I was there. I know he was happy his food was there!

So after our quick encounter, my boy was off to recess and I was off to the grocery store. What a nice little break in my day. I love that kid.

*Oh, and I don't want to forget this: While I was waiting in the hall before eating, a class walked by me to the lunch room and a little girl I didn't know said, "Hi Logan's mom!" I asked he how she knew I was his mom and she said, "Because you look like him!" Saweet!

Family Home Evening Props

2011-11-27T23:02:00.002-05:00

I've mentioned before that I love having Family Home Evening. It's not something I grew up with; maybe that's why I love it so much!

Tonight Bergen wanted to present the lesson. She's wanted to do it before, but I think each time she's asked I've already have it planned. And then there was the night Logan decided to be in charge without really asking, so I'm sure she's been waiting for quite a while...

Well, tonight was her night. We talked about it before hand and she wanted the lesson to be about Jesus. "What about Jesus?," I asked? And she told me "His life." Then she told me who she wanted to talk about which parts. So I told about when Jesus was born, and Craig talked about the teaching he dud during his life, when he was crucified, and when he was resurrected.

Of course Logan couldn't stand to be left out, so he asked Bergen if he could make some props. He held these up at the appropriate times: Jesus swaddled as a baby, Jesus as he taught, and Jesus when he was crucified. He would have done more, but didn't have time because we wanted to get started.

I love the testimonies of my children. They are simple, but growing. They know Jesus and want to learn about Him all the time. I hope they always will.

Oh Happy Day

2011-11-23T23:12:00.001-05:00

I haven't had good luck with hand mixers. I think I've gone through three in the last few years.

I've been looking around for one for a while and making due with my KitchenAid stand mixer, but it isn't my favorite for mashing potatoes. Transferring them from the pan to the bowl cools them down and I don't like reheating them in the microwave. Call me picky, but they're just not the same.

So with Thanksgiving coming, Craig agreed that it was time to get a new mixer. (Yay from the crowd.) I purchased this beauty at Meijer today, and couldn't be more excited about it.

Bring on the mashed potatoes!

Family Home Evening

2011-11-13T22:40:00.009-05:00

We have Family Home Evening on Sunday nights because that's when Craig is home. Tonight we talked about doing chores and how each of us needs to do our part as a member of our family.

Logan and Bergen already do some things around the house, but we've decided to set aside a certain time for chores each week in order to be more consistent. We'll be adding regular dusting, and vacuuming to their chores as well as taking out the garbage and loading/unloading the dishwasher. And they are excited!

After that we talked about how nice it is to live in a clean house and to be able to have friends over on the spur of the moment without having to run and pick up toys! They had that experience last week and l-o-v-e-d it. Craig and I also explained that we appreciate it when they clean up after themselves.

And then... we talked about doing secret service.

Secret Service is doing something for someone without being asked, just because you want to be nice. It was funny because while we were talking about it, Craig got up and took Logan's church shoes into his room without saying anything. When he returned Logan wasn't sure what he'd done, but Bergen had seen it, so she did something for someone else. Then it became a game.

After some oven s'mores for our treat and a little more discussion we read the scriptures, had family prayer and the kids went to bed.

I love nights when we have Family Home Evening!

Nothing, Nope, Nada

2011-11-08T09:36:00.007-05:00

My camera was accidentally dropped in September. Yes, I said September. That was over a month ago.

I'm frustrated.

I've missed out on getting pictures of so many events over the last several weeks. Which is why I have nothing to put on this blog. Oh I have a lot to write about, but posts without pictures are boring. So for now; zilch.

Hoping to have a new camera soon...

Struggling

2011-10-14T22:38:00.009-04:00

I know we all have struggles, I'm just having more than I want to at the present time.

And just so that I can look back with perspective later on, I'm listing some of the things I'm grateful for right now:

1. I have shelter. (Something my kids remind me of every night when they say prayers.)
2. I have two beautiful children who are the lights of my life.
3. I don't have to get up and go to work anymore.
4. I can now make time to exercise.
5. Craig and I are communicating better than we ever have in our lives.
6. I know others who are struggling with things that I know I personally couldn't handle.
7. I am not alone.

Have you ever heard the saying, "Some day we'll look back on this and laugh."? Right now, I don't think so. But I'm hoping to at least be able to smile.

So Proud of Our Dad

2011-08-29T22:43:00.006-04:00

Craig has been training for a Century Ride for months. He's ridden over 1,300 miles since July, and today was the big day. He left before the kids were up.

He had set a goal to finish the ride in 3 hours. He did it in 3 hours, 15 minutes!

I really wanted to make signs and wait along side the road for him to ride by like the spectators do for the Tour de France, but he had no idea where he'd be when, and he didn't want us to have to wait around for him all day. (He didn't know we wanted to have signs either, just that we wanted to cheer.) So we decided to make some to greet him when he got home.

Logan and Bergen had a blast painting and putting up pictures! Of course being the mom that I am, I wanted to take a picture of them with all their hard work before he saw it. Wouldn't you know it, we got caught! I was just taking a picture when we heard Craig's Jeep coming around the corner in the neighborhood so we ran to the front door as fast as we could. But he had already seen us.

I think he smiled the whole way down the street thinking about that. I'm glad he liked his signs...

We are SO proud of our Dad!

More Creativity

2011-08-24T23:02:00.004-04:00

Logan and Bergen l-o-v-e sidewalk chalk! They would draw with it every day if they could. In fact, they do draw every day - just not with chalk. (I really should post some of the things they've done on paper.)

Today Logan drew yet another Delorian. Bergen drew various other things.

They're still into Back to the Future. It seems like their play every day this week has been a different variation on the theme.

Logan is so into it that he asks to go to the movie section every time we're in a store just so he can see if the boxed set is there. I think that boy may be getting those movies for Christmas.

Hmmm, now I just have to find something comparable to get for Bergen...

Tomato Bruschetta

2011-08-24T19:00:00.004-04:00

I have really been enjoying tomatoes this summer. In fact, just the other day I scored a big bunch of Romas from a friend who had an abundance of them in her garden. Lucky me!

And since my sister-in-law Nicole has been making bruschetta for a while, and it always sounds delicious, and since I'm on a tomato kick, I made some.

Man, oh, man, this was gooooood. And easy to do. So I'll definitely be making it again. Soon.

First Day of Seconds

2011-08-22T22:55:00.008-04:00

The kids started school today.

Bergen is in her second year of preschool and Logan is in second grade!

They were both pretty excited about it being their first day.

Logan was up before Craig went to wake him. He got up and got dressed before eating breakfast, and he brushed his teeth and hair before we could remind him to do it. He was also pretty set on what he wanted to wear. His shirt says, "Wake Up. Brush Teeth. Be Awesome!" He's even made up some actions to go with it. Silly kid.

Bergen was good about eating breakfast, but was a little reluctant to get dressed because I wouldn't let her wear clothes that didn't match. It's hard to understand at
4 1/2 that just because shorts and a shirt both have flowers on them doesn't mean they go together. However, when she did finally decide on her outfit, she was good to go.

I wanted to make cookies as an after school snack, but had a busier day than I'd planned and didn't even get started on them until both Logan and Bergen were home from school. Not that they minded. They love helping me in the kitchen and they got to eat them right out of the oven.

And no homework for either of them! I'd say not a bad first day.

Creative Kids

2011-08-20T17:18:00.000-04:00

I love to see my kids imaginations at work. They are so creative!

Today Logan came up to me asking me to zip his pants because he couldn't do it with his batting gloves on. He was also wearing a lab coat and sun glasses. I had to laugh when he thrust his hips at me. Then he was off to play as Dr. Brown from Back to the Future, of course!

I found the good doctor outside a few minutes later in his "Delorian" with Marty (Bergen) and Einstein (Bergen's puppy, Howard). I'm glad I got some pictures. If you look closely you can see that they have the rod in the back of the truck. They're ready for lightning to strike!

I even got a picture of the Flux Capacitor. Awesome.

I love those creative kids of mine.

17 Again

2011-08-11T23:48:00.005-04:00

Yesterday was like being back in high school... After coming home from work I got to have some fun.

The kids and I went for a late afternoon swim at Castaway Bay while Craig stayed home from work - he was ill. We thought he got strep throat from Logan, but the antibiotics aren't doing much for him and he's really wiped out. However, before we left and because I'm the parent at home with the kids while he normally works 2nd shift, Craig told me I shouldn't just sit home with him after they went to bed. He encouraged me to go out.

So, after the kids and I got home from the pool, Craig got them dinner while I took a quick shower. Then I dried my hair and put on some mascara. And then...

I went to a movie.

By myself.

I saw The Help.

It was good and I enjoyed it. Very much.

Summers were fun and carefree when I was young and tonight took me back to that. I remember swimming all day and then going to the drive-in with friends at night. We were in shorts and summer tops, had freshly blow-dried hair, wore mascara, and sported a tan or slight sunburn.

It felt good for a little while, to be 17 again.

Thanks Craig.

Quotes

2011-08-10T23:23:00.002-04:00

Here's an unknown fact about me: I love quotes! I used to have books full of them. Now I just write them down randomly when I see or hear one that strikes me.

My bishop posted this one on facebook recently:

"I believe the best test of our integrity and honesty is when we personally enforce in our own lives that which ultimately cannot be enforced."
--David A Bednar

Wow, this is so true! And I have a lot of work to do. Thanks Bishop.

Thoughtful Words

2011-08-04T23:55:00.003-04:00

I received an email from one of my mom friends today. She's the mom of one of Logan's classmates so we know each other through our boys. We actually see each other quite a bit in passing during the school year, and we've made it a point for our kids to have regular play dates this summer, but she isn't someone I feel like I know really well (although I'd like to). Anyway, she said this:

"I really appreciate how easy it is to talk with you. We really need to spend more time together. Thank you so much for having such a joyful and generous spirit."

Can you believe that? It made my day!

I think this woman is amazing and to know that she thinks this of me is... nice. Really nice.

Thanks Sarah.

Hot Humor

2011-07-20T22:26:00.003-04:00

We are in the middle of a heat wave here in Indiana. So, although 'we don't say shut up in our family', I had to laugh when I got this cartoon from my mother-in-law!

I completely understand how that ear of corn feels! It's like Craig's the regular ear of corn and I'm the popped one. And I admit it, I might even think those words in my head on occasion... but only when he's teasing me mercilessly. ha! ha!

Leo the Lovely Lion

2011-07-18T22:21:00.009-04:00

Bergen has gotten sloppy with her speech over the last couple of months. Especially when saying her L's. They sound like W's.

Well, last night after dinner Craig suggested we go for a drive. He took us out and showed us some of the routes where he rides his bicycle. ~Cool!~ And while we were in the car we came up with this little ditty:

Leo the lovely lion loves me and I love Leo. Leo loves to lick lollipops, (and play ball and jump rope) and roar and run, (and he loves his friend cheetah).

The words in parenthesis are the ones Bergen added as we went along. She had fun with it and really loved saying it; both with and without emphasizing the L's.

I was pretty amazed that she remembered it all when I asked her about it this morning. She's a bright and silly girl. And we're lucky to have her in our family!

My Handsome Hoosband

2011-07-11T23:21:00.001-04:00

Woooooooo Hoooooooo! I got a great picture of Craig over the weekend.

I love my handsome hoosband.

My New Motto

2011-06-26T23:29:00.008-04:00

I have committed to making some changes in my life, and after reading this quote today, think it sums things up quite nicely:

"Happy are those who dream dreams and are ready to pay the price to make them come true." ~Leon J. Suenes

Yay me! I'm ready. And it's about time!

We are Thankful for Good Teachers

2011-06-03T23:05:00.018-04:00

Logan had a great school year this year! Mrs. Cahill was his teacher and she was wonderful. I emailed and spoke with her quite a bit throughout the year, and really appreciated the things I learned from her. She taught me how to motivate my boy and to get him interested in doing his homework. I can't say enough good about what we now call "study" time rather than "homework" time. Here she is with Logan on his last day of first grade. Thank you Mrs. Cahill!

Bergen had an amazing first year of preschool. She had the same teachers Logan had when he was in preschool and she loved them! I've known these ladies for several years now and am happy to be able to call them my friends. Holly (on the right) and I even hang out with our kids. Bergen was eager to learn and enjoyed getting homework this year. So much so, that Craig and I had to give her assignments when she didn't get them from her teachers. Without homework she was one sad girl!
Thank you Mrs. English and Mrs. Black! We are looking forward to seeing you both again next year.

By the way, I think teachers have one of the most important jobs in the world.

Life's Greatest Joys

2011-05-08T23:46:00.007-04:00

I have Craig try to capture the perfect moment every year on Mother's Day. It never happens. I'm not sure it ever will. But I love these two More. Than. Life. They are my life.

Here is our best Mother's Day picture ever! Thanks Logan and Bergen (and Craig) for making me a mom. It brings great joy to my life!

Sweet Sickies

2011-05-04T00:25:00.006-04:00

My children get along unusually well with each other. In fact, I've been told it's not normal that the get along so well!

And look at this - even when they don't feel good they're kind to each other. Bergen is always quick to give Logan a hug or a kiss, and he really looks out for her.

What sweet kids. I know they're going to have their differences, but I hope they'll always have that deep bond and that they'll always be close.

A Fun Memory

2011-04-27T23:14:00.003-04:00

I have so many good memories of growing up with my brother and sister. One in particular came to mind tonight. Let me explain:

Audrey got married while Eric and I were still in junior high and high school so we had a few years to hang out; just the two of us. We had a lot of inside jokes during that time and one still makes me laugh. Only it wasn't a joke really.

Eric had a pet name for me. He called me My Little Babushka. Don't ask me why, I think we just thought babushka was a funny word. Didn't you find things funny for no reason when you were a kid?

Well, tonight after asking Bergen to put her pajamas on I heard her calling for help and found her like this!

Ha! Ha! She looks like a little babushka! Or at least how I remember picturing one.

The After Party

2011-04-26T23:32:00.004-04:00

We didn't have time to color our boiled eggs before Easter, so we did it two days later. I was stressed because we were doing it late, but the kids didn't mind. They were just happy to be dying eggs - period.

Logan is seriously concentrating on getting just the right second color on a two-tone egg.

And Bergen, always the entertainer, has proudly dropped her egg in the dye.

What a beautiful finished product!

Now, can you guess who will be eating these eggs?

Easter Comes Again

2011-04-25T20:45:00.003-04:00

Easter was one of my favorite holidays as a child. We would go to Omi and Opa's (my Dutch grandma and grandpa's) house for breakfast every year! And Mmm Mmm, was it good. I remember Easter dresses and baskets of candy, but not Easter egg hunts. And that was okay. We did things the European way... ha! ha!

Things are a little different now. Logan and Bergen get new outfits, and baskets filled with candy and more, and Easter egg hunts on occasion. And yes, the Easter Bunny comes to our house on Sunday. Here the two of them are after church, not containing themselves very well because they know their baskets are inside waiting for them. (I told them in the car on the way home that I wanted pictures first!) They are such cute and silly children.

Their baskets contain a movie - don't ask - and a kite since they don't last from year to year, plus a few little toys and some candy. I laughed when I found out the Cheez-Its were the high point of their spoils this year. Maybe they'll get more of that kind of stuff next year.

Note: I was a bit concerned when Logan decided to write a note to the Easter Bunny on Saturday night. We had to explain more than once that the Easter Bunny is not the same as Santa and that he doesn't bring "big" things. The boy was seriously expecting a Lego set! I'm glad he was happy with the small ones he got. Bergen too for that matter. She got some Littlest Pet Shop animals and a Flatsy doll - a total blast from my past!

Also, I personally think of Easter time as family time, not having come from a family who went to church regularly. However, I am grateful for Jesus' atonement and resurrection and know that we can live with our Heavenly Father again because of what He did for us.

This is a time to rejoice!

This is Baseball

2011-04-21T23:14:00.010-04:00

We hit a new milestone tonight. Logan played his first baseball game - ever.

It was really more like watching cattle graze while listening to coaches and parents "encourage" the boys to keep their eyes on the ball, but it was still fun.

Logan had a blast! See him dancing? I mean, see him all ready to go before the game started? (Honestly I think he was scraping the white line off the dirt.) Well, I'm glad I got these few shots because he was digging holes in the ground and cleaning his cleats with his mitt while he was supposed to be playing short stop.

Let me say right now, that I admire the coaches who have taken on this task of teaching 7 and 8 year-olds, most with no experience, to play baseball. Because they are awesome!

Logan did alright when he was up to bat; hitting the ball both times. He's the only lefty on the team so it took some time for the coaches to realize he needed to stand opposite from everyone else, but they've got it now. I think the stance has been the hardest thing for him to learn, but he's looking good here.

I don't think score was officially kept during the game and that's alright. Logan really was just so excited to play that that's all that mattered. That and a juice box and a granola bar afterward!

Just a little GROSS follow up

2011-04-20T23:35:00.005-04:00

Remember that blister I mentioned in my last post? Well, it became a blister within a blister. And it popped. A couple of times.

It swelled and hurt and I was squeezing some fluid out of it when all of a sudden my skin popped out of the pin hole I'd made! GROSS! I freaked out! It was disgusting! So I quickly ripped it off - a perfect little round blister circle.

Look! (This was right before I squeezed the puss out of it.)

Things like this really make me sick. I'm a wimp. So why the blog post? Well, because I didn't want to ruin my crafty post with such offensiveness. I did however, want to remember it so that the next time I want to get crafty... I don't!

Behold My Craftiness!

2011-04-18T23:34:00.007-04:00

It has been way too long since I made a craft. And I really don't miss it that much. If I see it and like it, it's just easier to buy it.

Not today though. I saw a super cute Easter decoration on a friends blog -- flowers made with jelly beans -- and thought it would be fun to make with the kids. Of course I wasn't thinking clearly when I got out the glue gun because it quickly became the "kids watch while mommy makes the craft" craft and wasn't that much fun for them. Sure, they liked choosing the jelly beans for me to glue onto the styrofoam ball, but I'm sure it got a little boring.

They were good sports though, especially when I kept burning my fingers and asking them to move away! (This is the worst of the three burns I got.) Can you say ouch? I can.

So here is the finished product. Pretty cute. Pretty festive. Pretty hard to keep up in the pot. Maybe I'll go and get some quick-set plaster...

so we can put it up (with its partner that I haven't made yet) next Easter. That is if it makes it through being stored for a year.

Uniform and Picture Day

2011-04-16T23:37:00.008-04:00

Logan has been anticipating this day for a few weeks now, although we'd swear it's been more like a year... He got his uniform and had his picture taken after baseball practice today!

He also got to practice in the rain, which meant very muddy cleats in the church where the pictures were taken.

I am SO glad that Logan's enjoying baseball so far. I remember my brother Eric playing baseball when he was
a kid. I loved going to the games then and I'm going to love going to them now. The practices, not so much, but hey, they're part of the experience too.

Anyway, the team plays their first game on Thursday. Won't that be fun!

Movie Night

2011-03-25T23:52:00.004-04:00

A few weeks ago my friend Misty asked me about having movie night. Apparently there are times when (after a long day at school) her husband relaxes with his computer games giving her some free time. And obviously my hoosband is working in the evening. I was very excited at the prospect of having some fun without having to worry about what to do with my kids...

So on Friday night, Misty and Maren came over. We had yummy snacks and watched a pretty good (although I'm glad I didn't pay to see it in the theater) movie.

It was nice to have company after the kids were in bed and I can't wait to get together again!

A Tasty Treat

2011-03-24T23:48:00.006-04:00

I was in the middle of reading a blog post when I had to go turn the oven on so I could make these to. die. for. cheesy bacony potatoes. (Is bacony even a word? If not, I don't care.)

It was a simple recipe that hit the spot. I will definitely be making them again.

*Update: I made a second batch for Craig when he got home from work. Totally worth it - again.

Music

2011-03-24T23:08:00.006-04:00

Music makes me happy. I think I'm going to get back to listening to it more.

Today while I was in my car I heard some songs that made me turn up the radio. I felt like I was a teenager. The music was blaring and I was singing away at the top of my lungs as I drove down the interstate.

It did wonders for my mood and my spirit. I have missed my music.

Just because

2011-03-21T23:39:00.002-04:00

Just a picture of my kids because I think they're so cute! Come on, you know you think so too.

A Monkey

2011-03-21T21:26:00.003-04:00

I have decided that Bergen is a monkey. She learned to hang from the "monkey bar" on the swing set last summer and it was the first thing she did when she went outside today.

Silly - oh so cute - girl.

New Glasses

2011-03-21T21:11:00.006-04:00

I picked up my new glasses today. They're different than any I've had before and although they're going to take some getting used to, I love them! Especially the etched swirls on the sides. They're so "artsy!"

Yeah me, I can see (again).

Columbian Park

2011-03-19T23:59:00.013-04:00

Logan asked if we could go to the park on Thursday, but being the tired mom I was, I put him off. Although in my defense I did tell him we might be able to go if he got his homework done. He didn't. (I knew he wouldn't.) He procrastinated and played until it was almost dinner time, and then he whined when I told him we wouldn't be going. He finished his homework after dinner.

Today it was a different story...

Craig took Logan with him to help a friend this morning and I took Bergen to run errands with me. Then Craig had to go to work. Not long after he left, both kids asked if we could go to Columbian Park. And I was happy to say yes, as long as they cleaned up their toys while I put the groceries away. It took them longer than it took me, but they did it!, so we went.

Look at those happy faces. The last day of winter sure felt more like the first day of spring to me!

The kids were eager to get going and jumped out of the car as soon as I parked it. In fact, they were already playing by the time I caught up with them! (Of course, I quickly talked to them about not taking off without me. ha! ha!) Bergen always loves playing in the sand and they're both climbers. So they were off again and had fun with that.

Once they'd had their fill of the lower play areas, we trekked up the hill. Then those kids of mine were all over the place. They were going down the slides and playing hide and seek and I enjoyed watching them. They are really, sincerely, nice to each other and it made me proud to be their mom as I watched them interact. I couldn't get many pictures though, because like I said, they were all over the place.That was until they got to the Merry-Go-Round. They l-o-v-e that thing! So for the next hour I watched as they rode it and pushed it and jumped off of it. Whee!

It was fun to watch them start off in the middle and venture out to the edge. I don't think Bergen got off the thing until she decided she was big enough to push it. I had to laugh too, when she was the only girl pushing three big boys!

The swings were occupied the majority of the time we were at the park. We were able to find a couple that were available on our way back to the car though, so the kids wrapped things up there. Logan is a pro and Bergen is getting good at pumping on her own.

What a fun way to spend a Saturday.

Exactly the way my sweet boy wanted...

Farewell For Now

2011-03-19T08:21:00.020-04:00

During a recent visit to the doctor, I found out that in
my "maturity" I may be becoming lactose intolerant.

This is not my idea of a good thing
because I love my milk!
However, it may become a good thing
because I love my milk.
Not that it's the only think I drink...

Starting today, I will be going for two weeks without drinking milk or eating yogurt (which are breakfast staples for me). I will also be eating cheese sparingly, and watching a couple of other things. When the two weeks are over my grumbling insides should feel somewhat better and a few other minor discomforts should disappear.

I'm telling you, this is going to be hard. It is quite a sacrifice for me to give up my milk. It's a good thing
I'm not a big fan of ice cream!

St. Patrick's Day 2011

2011-03-17T22:40:00.007-04:00

We are about as far from Irish as a family can get, but I love any excuse to party, so we do a little something to celebrate St. Patrick's Day every year.

We usually have green eggs and ham, but Logan didn't want his food to be colored this year. So because I wasn't putting food coloring in the eggs, Bergen settled for green milk. (She is such a sweet girl. She hardly ever complains when she doesn't get what she wants.) This year we had shamrock shaped toast too!

Then there was a sugar cookie recipe I wanted to try, but the kids wanted cupcakes, so we made them instead. Bergen chose to decorate them with green with yellow (gold) frosting, and of course sprinkles! Yum!

Lastly, they each devoured their small bags of gold coins. I'd say all in all it was another successful St. Patrick's Day!

Book Returns

2011-03-17T22:30:00.008-04:00

We've been to the library several times in the last few months. We got some movies when Logan was home sick from school, we got some fun books to read when we returned the movies (Can anyone return something to the library without bringing something else home?), and just a couple of weeks ago we got some books to do research for a big biography project.

I think its funny how much the kids look forward to helping me return the things we check out from the library. Logan walked up to the book return on campus one day while I waited in the car by the curb. He's such a big kid. Of course that meant Bergen had to help by herself too. However, I'm not ready to let her walk up there by herself yet. Here she is returning some books at the drop off box in front of Payless a few days after Logan returned his.

I love little things that bring big smiles!

A Biography

2011-03-16T23:09:00.006-04:00

Logan has been working on his fourth - yes, fourth - big project for school for the last week or so. He had to write a biography, and he chose to do it on George Lucas.

Talk about getting sidetracked!

Every time we'd read something new about the man Logan would have to tell me something about Star Wars or Indiana Jones! I think this project really took a toll on me. I was the one who just wanted to get it done!

Today Logan dressed up in a tux and presented his biography to his class as if he were George Lucas (at the Academy Awards). And he did a great job!

Here he is taking questions afterward. Don't you love his hair?!

His teacher, Mrs. Cahill really liked his hair. She thought it was a dead giveaway as to who he was and was so taken with it that she had me take Logan down to the office before he changed so the guidance counselor and principal could guess who he was. I think they were surprised to see him in a tux. It caught them little caught off guard and the counselor asked for a hint. Logan told them he made Indiana Jones, and their first answer was Steven Speilberg. Then when I suggested they think "Star Wars" the principal immediately yelled George Lucas!

Here's Logan's report:

Biography Project - George Lucas

Hello, my name is George Walton Lucas, Jr.

I was born on May 14, 1944, in Modesto California. I have three sisters and grew up on a walnut ranch. My father, George Sr. and my mother Dorothy, owned a stationery and office supply store. My dad wanted me to take it over one day.

When I was your age, I played with my friends like you do, but I really loved comic books. My sister Wendy and I used to look at them all the time! Comic books are what got me interested in drawing.

We didn’t have a television in our house until I was 10 years old. Some of my favorite shows were Westerns and Flash Gordon, where “the good guys” fought the “the bad guys.”

I didn’t do very well in school because I didn’t think schoolwork was important. I wanted to be a racecar driver and cars were the most important thing in my life. Then I was in a bad accident three days before my high school graduation.

I was speeding home after school and another car hit mine and sent it flipping into a tree. My seatbelt broke in the accident and I was thrown out of the car. The police said if I had been in it when it hit the tree, I would have been crushed to death. That was scary and I was very lucky.

While I was in the hospital I decided I wanted to go to college. My grades weren’t good enough to go to a four-year school so I went to Modesto Junior College. That is where I became interested in film.

My grades got better and after graduating I thought about going to art school. Then I heard about a cinematography program at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles. I thought cinematography was like photography. It wasn’t. It was motion picture photography and I loved it. I also learned film editing while at USC, and that is where I think my real talent was.

There was a war going on in Vietnam when I graduated and I was drafted into the military. But when I went to have my physical the examination showed that I had diabetes, so I couldn’t be drafted.

Because I couldn’t serve in the military and it was too late to go back to school, I got a job doing editing work and took a scholarship from Warner Brothers. Then I went on to get my Masters degree from USC.

I have made lots of movies. My favorite part of making movies is editing them. You may have heard of some of my movies, like Star Wars and Indiana Jones. The THX sign you see before a movie in a theater is also mine. Sound and lights are a big part of movies and I have companies for both of them.

I am famous for making movies and using computer generated visual effects in them.

If I could teach you something I would say, “Dreams are extremely important. You can’t do it unless you can imagine it!”

Logan chose to do his report on me because he likes my Star Wars and Indiana Jones movies. He especially likes to dress up like the characters!

Some things he thought you might find interesting are that:
1) I was in Revenge of the Sith. My daughters were extras in a crowd scene and made me be in it with them.
2) Star Wars was nominated for ten Oscars at the 1978 Academy Awards. It won six. And is still one of the highest moneymaking movies ever made.
3) I bought myself a gift after making Star Wars. I was driving a 1969 Camaro and bought a used Ferrari.

Thank you.

I think for the adults who were there, the highlight of his presentation was when he said "Thank You" at the end while holding up his award! Way to go Logan!

Homework

2011-03-09T23:44:00.014-05:00

I've been trying to think of fun, new, ways to get Logan excited about doing his homework. He is not a fan. And I don't like having to nag him about it. Today we used letter tiles to practice his spelling words. And you know what? I think he liked it! I think it was good for him to see the actual letters in front of him rather than trying to come up with them from memory and recite or write them after looking at his list for a few minutes.

Bergen, on the other hand, is not happy when she comes home from preschool without homework and often asks me to print some from the computer so she can do it. Today she worked on the letters H and I.

Bergen l-o-v-e-s her homework. This is what Logan has to say about it:

"Homework. It's just that annoying thing that keeps you from playing." 1/5/11

My Free Lunch

2011-03-09T23:18:00.009-05:00

One of my favorite "fast food" places is Panda Express. Yum. The only problem is that I have a hoosband (and maybe even children - I haven't asked them) who are not fans of Chinese food, so I only eat there when I am alone or with friends. Today I was alone.

I completed an online survey from the back of a receipt a few months ago and have been receiving emails ever since. This week I got one advertising a new entree and offering a free single serving TODAY. Now I don't normally go out of my way for things like this, but I had a chance to try something new from Panda Express...

I have to say, it was pretty good. I like tempura. I liked the flavor and the red and green peppers. But, it wasn't as good as my usual - Orange Chicken. I could seriously eat that stuff every. day.

So yay for Panda Express and for my free lunch! It was delicious. And I think I'll be heading there again soon. For Orange Chicken.

Released

2011-02-27T23:02:00.007-05:00

I was released from Primary recently and I have mixed feelings about it.

I wondered what in the world 'someone' was thinking when I was called. Me? In the Primary Presidency? Me? But, after a lot of time spent on my knees, I realized that it was where I was supposed to be. I felt strongly that because I wasn't raised actively when I was little, that this was my opportunity to grow and learn with my kids (especially Logan who would be coming into Primary shortly thereafter) while they were little. It was my chance to learn the scripture stories I hadn't learned as a child, and to gain a stronger testimony.

Well now that it's almost three years later, I'm not sure I fulfilled my calling to my expectations. I thought I would feel differently than I do when it all came to an end. It's not that I feel like I shirked my responsibilities exactly. I guess I just thought I would feel like I completed my task. I don't.

I came to love the children in Primary and am grateful to have had the opportunity to serve them and to serve with some very wonderful women. I love them and that can never be taken away.

I'm in Sunday School and Relief Society again. It's unfamiliar territory. These are places I haven't been in years... I'm anxious about it. I want to read the lessons ahead of time and be prepared. I want to participate. But I don't like starting in the middle of something so it's going to take some getting used to.

I don't want to let go of Primary, but I can't wait to fill my cup. It's time...

Can you say procrastination?

2011-02-16T23:55:00.001-05:00

I really need to blog. I have several posts ready to go, I just can't seem to motivate myself to push the 'publish post' button. That and I can't find my camera. So I can't load the latest pictures onto the computer to add to the posts I have ready to go. That's an excuse though. I'm just not feeling it right now. I want to, I'm just not. Craig even commented tonight that I hadn't posted anything for a while. I guess I'd better get on it.

I really just need to stop procrastinating and blog...

Wise Words

2011-02-16T11:43:00.006-05:00

I found this on a blog somewhere. I'm sorry I can't give the person who posted it proper credit. I think this is very true and that I need to get a move on and change my ways.

"If you don't have time to pray and read your scriptures, you are busier than God ever intended you to be."

Sadly I have so much to do today that I'll probably have to start tomorrow.

Who Knew?

2011-01-19T23:07:00.007-05:00

Craig and I went to watch Logan give a presentation at school and saw this on the wall outside his classroom door. Apparently there was some kind of assignment where the kids had to write about their hero. Logan
never said a word about it.

Here's what he wrote:

You were a hero in the Navy. You would save the world. You are awesome.

Who knew he thought so much of his Uncle Jared? Way to go Jared!

No More Nursery

2011-01-09T23:00:00.001-05:00

Bergen went to Primary for the first time today. And she loved it! She listened, answered questions, and sang to her heart's content.

I think my beautiful girl is going to be very happy there.

Christmas Casualty

2011-01-08T23:34:00.000-05:00

While taking the ornaments off the tree I noticed a Christmas casualty. One of our Nutcrackers had lost an eye. I was ready to throw it away, but Craig suggested we turn it into a pirate. So I got out a Sharpie...

Aaarrrggghhh - I like it me hearties!

A Request

2011-01-07T23:23:00.003-05:00

Bergen asked me today when we're going to start having "Fun Friday's" again. I told her we could have one tonight. Unfortunately she wanted to have one at Castaway Bay!

When I explained that the pool isn't open right now because it's winter, she couldn't help but cry. I guess summer can't come soon enough for my girl.

I'm glad she was happy with her pizza though.

The Andriese Kids

2011-01-03T00:16:00.014-05:00

I love getting together with my brother and sister at Christmas time, but it seems we never get a decent picture. This year I really tried, and again, it's not the best, but, here we are... "The Andriese Kids" (At least that's what our orthodontist called us when we walked into his office in our youth. He really liked the fact that
we could open our mouths wide!)

L to R: Gigi (middle), Eric (youngest), Audrey (oldest).
I love you guys!

A Day Out With Dad

2010-12-22T23:20:00.001-05:00

Winter Break is here so today Craig took the kids sledding at Murdock Park. It was cold, so for once I didn't mind being at work while they were out playing.

They got in several good runs; lasting for about an hour and a half. Then they came home and had hot chocolate (made as only Craig can make it)!

Don't mind the look on Bergen's face. She doesn't like having her picture taken lately. If you were to ask, she and Logan had a great time and can't wait to go again!

Christmas Card Pictures

2010-12-18T23:16:00.000-05:00

I sure had a hard time getting a decent picture for our Christmas card this year. I tried several times to get the kids to cooperate, but they really didn't want to. Then when I thought I finally I had a few to choose from, Craig wasn't thrilled with them. Here are the results:

We certainly weren't going to have an indecent picture of our kids in the bathtub sent out to our loved ones! Although I thought it was cute.

The kids looked nice when they were all dressed up in their new Christmas outfits, but they wouldn't stop making silly faces, and the lighting didn't cut it. Neither did the lamp cord in the background, by the way.

And of course the only shot of them with Santa was blurry.

So I finally settled on a (not too staged looking) shot I got of them playing in the snow. We used it to wish everyone a "Warm Holiday Season."

Next year I think we may have to have a family picture taken in the fall...

CAT Christmas Party

2010-12-14T23:11:00.001-05:00

CAT had Binky the Clown entertain at their 'Kids Christmas Party' this year. Craig and I (and a lot of other adults) could have done without him, but Logan and Bergen thought he was pretty tricky.

They liked the balloons they got after the show too.

Both chose to have Rudolph painted on their hands, and received a goodie bag.

Then they were off to see Santa himself! (Okay they knew it was one of his helpers, but still.) Too bad the picture didn't turn out very well. I was hoping to use it on our Christmas card...

I'm not exactly sire why they wrote letters to him after having talked to him, but they sure thought it was fun. Here's what they asked for. Which is not necessarily what they got.

It was a fun, albeit early, morning.

Christmas Lights

2010-12-14T20:03:00.009-05:00

Craig put the Christmas lights up a couple of weeks before Thanksgiving when the weather was still nice, but we didn't turn them on until November 26th. It's Logan's job to plug them in at night, but sometimes he forgets so Bergen or I end up doing it. I'm just glad we're one of those families who decorates their house with Christmas lights. I love looking at them!

Christmas Lights Tradition

2010-11-30T23:58:00.000-05:00

Every Christmas season (which we all know begins the weekend after Thanksgiving) we spend some time on Sunday evenings going out to see various Christmas lights. One of the places we always go is Rossville. There's a farmer out there who does up his whole yard and you can see the glow from far, far away!

The kids were already ready for bed when Craig suggested we go the other night. So we had them put their coats on and we headed out the door. I wouldn't normally let them leave the house in such great looking outfits, but hey, it was dark - who was going to see them? And by the way, they thought it was great!

They are such funny kids! Bergen was stylin' in her crocks over footies. And I know Logan's pajamas are too small (he has lots that fit), but we can't seem to get him to let go of these...

Here are the beautiful lights. Which I'm sure we'll be seeing again this year. Santa doesn't come out with the candy canes until next week!

Thanksgiving Fun

2010-11-29T23:04:00.001-05:00

I neglected to mention that the kids wanted to do "a project" on Thanksgiving. My kids are always asking to do a project! I was glad I had something prepared for them.

They made Indian headdresses and bows with arrows! Then things got crazy. We had four wild Indians running around and never got to making any pilgrim hats...

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Giving Thanks

2010-11-29T22:14:00.004-05:00

We've had a serious bug at our house. So serious that we had to postpone Thanksgiving...

Someone has been ill at our house for at least the last two weeks. We keep passing around whatever it is and can't seem to get a break. Logan even missed school for the first time since starting kindergarten!

So on Thursday we had a nice breakfast of scrambled eggs, bacon, fruit, caramel pull-apart rolls, and orange juice. Then we settled in for a day of watching movies and football, and napping in comfort. (No dressing up here.)

I was a little bummed at first, but remembering back to last Thanksgiving when we all got sick afterward because someone was sick on Thanksgiving, I decided it wasn't a big deal. And really, it was kind of nice to stay home and not have to go anywhere.

We did have Craig's side of the family over for dinner on Saturday and we were happy to be able to do that. Craig told me later that it felt more like a Sunday dinner than Thanksgiving, but we're both glad that everyone felt up to coming. It was good to spend time with family.

Here we are about ready to start in on our feast. And boy, was it yummy!

I was glad to have had some time to myself this Thanksgiving. It gave me a chance to think back and reflect on things without all the hub-bub for a change. I am grateful for the blessings we have received and for the miracles that I have seen so clearly in the lives of my immediate family members over the past year.

I am thankful that we are together. I am thankful that we love each other. And I am thankful that we are stronger than I thought we were. For me, it is definitely a time for giving thanks.

Say Hello to Mario and Luigi

2010-11-26T23:01:00.003-05:00

Logan and Bergen are so funny. They're always up to something. Logan has always liked to dress up, but now he has Bergen doing it too. Today they were Mario and Luigi!

Pretty clever if you ask me. And very cute!

Chicken Noodle Soup

2010-11-21T23:28:00.000-05:00

Do you ever have a craving that won't be satisfied until you do something about it? And do yo do it?

I have been craving Chicken Noodle Soup. I don't know why. I just have. So I made some. Another first attempt. (I recently posted about making a chicken pot pie for the first time.)

Oh my, it was yummy stuff. I'm happy to have some recipes to call my own and will be making this again.

A Random, but Common Occurrence

2010-11-20T22:52:00.007-05:00

Logan and Bergen were at the computer when I got home from a baptism today. This is how I found them so I quickly took a picture. Obviously I didn't wait for the camera to focus all the way. The reason: I didn't want to disturb them and I didn't want to miss the shot. (They didn't know I was home yet.)

My children are so sweet. They truly are nice to each other most of the time. Seeing them like this melts my heart and makes me proud to be their mom.

I love them.

Thought for the Day

2010-11-15T12:06:00.005-05:00

I just came across a thought and want to remember it, so am posting it for myself. I sure wish I knew where it came from...

Following the path of least resistance makes rivers and men crooked.

What a Sight

2010-11-07T23:50:00.002-05:00

This is the image Craig comes home to a couple of nights a week. It's me... working.

I really enjoy it. Thanks to Zebra - and Andy and Tracy.

A Recipe of My Very Own

2010-11-02T00:29:00.013-04:00

I have been really hungry for Chicken Pot Pie, so I bought a rotisserie chicken and made one.

Here's the recipe:

Heat in a sauce pan: 2 - 3 cans Campbell's Chicken Gravy with sage and black pepper, 2 - 3 C rotisserie chicken (diced), 2 - 3 C frozen mixed vegetables (thawed and drained) plus two boiled potatoes (peeled and cubed), 2 TBS flour, and about 1 C milk. Put in pie crust lined pie plate (crust can be homemade or not - I admit it, I used Pillsbury and I'll use it again.) and top with a second crust. Cut slits in top and bake at 425* for 30 to 35 minutes. Let stand 5 minutes and cut into wedges to serve.

I made quite a few changes to a recipe I found online so this one is all mine! And boy oh boy is it good! So good that I didn't share a single piece with my family. Not that they cared; not one of them wanted any. And I must tell you, even if I have to say so myself, they missed out.

Sewing and Halloween Costumes

2010-11-01T23:53:00.030-04:00

Why do I continually think I can sew without a pattern? And when will I learn how to use one?

Bergen has been acting like a "puppy" since her birthday last January. So to be a puppy for Halloween was an obvious choice for her. She settled on what she wanted to be months ago; and I should have gone to work.

I decided to make her costume with material I already had. It was perfect - brown corduroy! Only I procrastinated doing it and she didn't have it to wear to a birthday party last weekend. (Oh well, she made a super cute chef in her apron and hat! Too bad I didn't get a picture of her that day.)

I did finally make her costume. I measured, I cut, and I sewed. It ended up too long in the body, too narrow in the legs, and too wide in the shoulders, but I worked it out with a little unpicking, cutting, and resewing. It's the first time I've ever done sleeves (remember I'm doing this without a pattern) and although the shoulders are still a little wide, I think they'll be fine with a couple of tucks in them. *Yes, I know Halloween is over, but the girl is going to want to wear this thing for as long as she can, so it might as well fit!

Here's Bergen in the final product (without the make-up, gloves, and shoes). I think the collar and tag make the outfit - even if you can't see the tag here. That and the fact that she's happy with it!

Logan's costume was easier. He wanted to be a mad scientist. I wanted to find a lab coat so I didn't have to attempt to sew one. Lucky for me, the Factory Card and Party Outlet had one in his size! We had the glasses so only needed to add test tubes and a clamp, rubber gloves, and white spray paint for his hair to the mix. Imagine that!

I loved his look! Several people commented on his hair (wondering if it was real), and many didn't recognize him. A neighbor even mentioned that she thought he would be a handsome man when he was older. (Way older!)

So (or should that be "sew"), in my opinion we have accomplished another year of Halloween costume success. I love coming up with ideas and seeing them through in my sewing. I'll be sad when I can't do it for Halloween anymore.

And just so I have a record for myself, here are the other costumes I've made:

2004: Logan's first Halloween - Scarecrow.

2005: His second - Mummy.

2006: His third - Cowboy.

2007: Bergen's first - An Ear of Indiana Corn...

and Logan's fourth - Farmer.

Then I went on a bit of a costume sewing hiatus, but not necessarily because I wanted to. ( I had knee surgery in October of 2008 and the kids wanted to dress up in costumes we already had in 2009.) Here are a few that I didn't make:

2008: Bergen's second - Bumble Bee,
and Logan's fifth - Bumblebee.

2009: Bergen's third - Tiger,
and Logan's sixth - Indiana Jones.

I love this part of Halloween! And I love these two kids!

Trunk-or-Treat

2010-10-31T23:47:00.000-04:00

We went to the church Trunk-or-Treat again this year. There are times I'd rather take the kids trick-or-treating in our neighborhood, but it doesn't have many kids in it and they love seeing their friends and all the fun costumes, so it's just become something that we do.

Logan and Bergen were excited to dress up (as usual) and stop to see a few neighbors and friends before heading out. He was a mad scientist this year, and she was a puppy, and both of them portrayed their characters well.

I obviously wasn't taking pictures while they were filling their bags with candy, but I did get a few afterward.

Here is an unhappy Logan after dropping and breaking one of his precious test tubes. Poor guy. He wanted to go to the store right then and get a new one!

And here's Bergen being playful in the leaves.

Of course the night wouldn't have been complete if we hadn't run into our cousins! It was their first time at Trunk-or-Treat.

I let the kids run around some before heading home. One of the reasons was so I could take some pictures. Isn't that something all moms do? These two sure are loving toward each other. I love taking pictures of them together.

We topped the evening off by stopping at McDonald's for french fries on the way home. Then after baths and pajamas we counted up all the loot.

What a fun night!

Pumpkins

2010-10-31T23:34:00.006-04:00

Craig is our resident pumpkin carver.

We usually go to a pumpkin farm in Benton County and take a hayride out to a patch where we get to pick our pumpkins, carry them back to the trailer, bring them home, set them outside the front door, and think about what we want to do with them.

When the kids decide what they want carved, Craig takes the lead. One year he carved a face that Logan drew, another time he carved Yoda. We've had vampires, werewolves, jack-o-lanterns, and all kinds of things... This year we went with a ghostly theme.

I had to laugh as Craig cut open and got the pumpkins ready to clean. Logan wouldn't have anything to do with pulling stuff out of them, but Bergen put her hands right inside! She was there every step of the way. (Very impressive.)

Logan and Bergen have been into "Ghostbusters" for a while now, so it really shouldn't have been a surprise that the Ghostbusters logo is what ended up on one of the pumpkins. What was surprising was that it took Logan so long to come up with it! He changed his mind I don't know how many times! (Bergen had even chosen her design before it dawned on him to use it.)

I think they turned out pretty cool!

Happy Halloweeeeeen!

Good Advice

2010-10-29T21:47:00.003-04:00

Not too long ago I saw this on a blog I read occasionally.
The question "What piece of advice do you want to share with your children?" was asked, and this was one of the answers:

Know yourself.
Be yourself.
Like yourself.

I agree wholeheartedly and hope to pass the message on to my children.

"Pumpkin Patch"

2010-10-20T22:58:00.000-04:00

This year our trip to the "pumpkin patch" was as different as it's ever been. Our Saturdays were full and we didn't have time to go on our usual hay ride up in Benton County, so the kids and I went to the Congress Street Church after school one day instead. It was a quick trip, but I think they had as much fun as could be expected.

We wandered around the parking lot until we found just the right pumpkins, and then

we loaded them onto a wagon and took them to our car so we could take them home!

Logan and Bergen were really good sports and are looking forward to having Craig help them carve their pumpkins.

Did I mention that we got a little treat on the way home? I think an outing is always more fun when it includes a treat!

Fun with Food

2010-10-14T16:33:00.010-04:00

The kids and I were in the cracker aisle at the grocery store when they both spotted the Scrabble Junior Spooky Spell Cheez-Its and HAD to have them! Cheese flavored crackers were on my list anyway, so I splurged and bought them. I'm always up for having "fun" food; ask Craig.

Anyway, we came home and I put them away thinking the kids would have some as a snack another day. Silly me. My dear hoosband (who likes to have something to eat after work) got into them. Then he and Bergen shared some while Logan was at school the next day. I had some tonight. And Logan? I don't know if he got more than a handful.

He was excited to see what I left on the counter for him this morning, but sad to learn they were all that were left. He was even thoughtful when eating them. He only ate the letters in his name that weren't part of the other names because he wanted Bergen to see them too.

That boy of mine ate a whopping three crackers - L, O, and A - although he wanted more. So I'm going back to the store and buying another box. They're not even that good (I much prefer the Whales from Stouffer's), but Logan is going to have fun with them...

Another New Adventure

2010-10-05T22:55:00.009-04:00

I've been working out at the Y for a few weeks now. I've been meeting my sister-in-law Nicole, and I like working out with her, but our schedules don't always coincide so it isn't really ideal.

We're both committed to working out and we want to keep going together, I just don't know how we can. I need to work out in the morning and she needs to workout in the afternoon. So today I tried something new.

Really new.

After dropping Bergen off at preschool I went and I worked out with (wait for it...)

Craig.

After almost 10 1/2 years of marriage we've finally found something out-of-the-ordinary to do together - and I couldn't be more excited! Okay, I know that working out together isn't that big a deal, but for us it's HUGE!

Craig is a cyclist and I can't keep up with him so riding together isn't fun. He's a good sport though, and humors me when we go together by riding in circles around me. The thing about going to the gym though, is that we can workout together but do our own things!

I still want to meet Nicole and workout together when we can, but I'm happy to have Craig to go with me too. Here's to a whole new adventure...

My little "BIG" Girl

2010-09-29T23:20:00.001-04:00

Poor Bergen. She left her tricycle behind the Durango late last fall and I backed into it. I knew what it was the moment I bumped it and I was heartsick. I'd picked it out as a birthday gift and had wanted her to have it since before she was born! (Logan got a bicycle instead of a tricycle for his third birthday and I felt gypped. Shouldn't every child start out with a tricycle? I thought so.)

Of course we weren't about to go out and buy a new Radio Flyer... Well, I was, but my plan was overruled. So that sweet little girl has been tooling around on Logan's "Rocket" and has been pretty content with it.

Look at her! What a proud little thing. She's getting to be such a big girl!

I'm glad Bergen had a bike to ride this summer. But I'm hoping she'll have something a bit more girly next year.

Venting about Routine

2010-09-25T23:49:00.011-04:00

Things seem to have become more than a bit routine since school started. And its not the routine I imagined it would be. I feel like I

Get up
Get Logan to and from school Monday through Friday
Get Bergen to and from school Tuesday and Thursday
Work some
Workout some
Have lunch?
Stress out about all I'm not getting done
Make sure homework gets done after school
Put together some kind of makeshift dinner
Read with the kids
And put them to bed

I'm glad I have Craig here to do all he does. He's the one who takes the kids to school and he gets Logan ready in the morning. Okay, I take Bergen to school and pick her up sometimes, but he takes Logan and picks him up all the time. (It's their time together.) He takes care of Bergen's lunch when he remembers because I'm not always home at lunchtime. And best of all, he takes care of making sure Bergen gets her bath and Logan gets his shower.

I know I really can't ask for more... but I am.

I want a little time to myself. And I don't want it to be night time after the kids are asleep. I want time during the day to do something I don't have to do, and time at night with my hoosband (even though I know he has to work). Maybe even an evening to myself now and then that I don't have to worry about finding a sitter for.
What a concept!

I know I shouldn't be complaining. Things are a lot more "normal" now than they were last year at this time. I just really want to see some things change. Again.

I'd better get on it!

Yum.

2010-09-23T22:57:00.013-04:00

We make homemade pizza once a month or so. It's a Ream family tradition. And our kids love it!

While I was working around the house today I decided that tonight would be a pizza night. Easy dinner is what I was really thinking. So I got some pizza dough out of the freezer. (Okay, so maybe everything isn't perfectly homemade, but close enough. Thank you Sam's Club.)

The kids had their usuals: a pepperoni calzone for Logan and a cheese pizza for Bergen. After I made them their personal sized portions there was enough dough left for another small pizza and maybe a half. So to finish things off I made a pepperoni pizza because I knew Logan would still be hungry and even if he ate until he was full there would be some left for Craig, and a little specialty pizza for myself... which is where the yum comes in.

I wasn't in the mood for anything heavy so Iooked in the fridge, spied some of those sweet peppers I like so much, and decided to try them.

Oh my goodness! Yum. Yum. My pizza was delicious and I will definitely be making it again.

This is SO me!

2010-09-21T23:22:00.001-04:00

I read an article recently that made me think to myself, "they're talking about me!" I've known for a long time that I have this paralyzing problem. I'm glad to know there's a light at the end of the tunnel. I just hope I can find that tunnel...

I've changed some things to make this information apply to myself, but here's most of the original article:

I've never thought of myself as a perfectionist. One would only have to peer into my office to understand why.

My "spaces" have the appearance of chaos, confusion and disorder. "Appearance" is the operative word. I find the chaos to be completely functional. I rely on my own, unique organizational theory: It's better occasionally to waste time searching for items than regularly to take time keeping the place tidy with everything meticulously filed.

I know what you're thinking. My mother didn't agree with my theory either.

I admit that I struggle with procrastination. But me, a perfectionist? Hardly. A perfectionist is someone who does everything perfectly. I only think about doing things perfectly.

Not long ago, the person who wrote the article had the opportunity to hear what Rick Warren, pastor of Saddleback Church in Southern California, had to say on this subject. A procrastinator, says Warren, is nothing more than a frustrated perfectionist.

A perfectionist is convinced she must prove her worth by being perfect. A perfectionist craves approval. Warren contends it's the fear of not being able to perform perfectly that leads to procrastination. And procrastination eventually leads to paralysis.

There are times I can go over something for hours on end without completing anything. Even though I have a great idea, a clear-cut objective, and a plan to get there. Until I know I can do it perfectly, I'm paralyzed.

Have you ever felt paralyzed by your procrastination? Perhaps perfectionism is at the root of the problem.

Could it be that you're so worried about making a mistake, you find yourself paralyzed? Are you holding yourself to an unattainable standard of perfection? That could be what's keeping you stuck right where you are.

Perfectionism can keep us from moving forward, but it doesn't have to be that way. There are antidotes for perfectionism.

1. Believe that no one is perfect. You will liberate yourself when you lower your expectations from perfect to realistic. Don't be afraid to make a mistake. You don't have to be perfect to be happy.

2. Let go and let God handle things. It takes a lot of faith to let go of those things over which we have no control.

3. Learn contentment. Life must be lived in less than perfect circumstances. Accept that. Love the moment, and enjoy the journey. Dump the pressure that says you must be perfect to be accepted.

It's time to break out of my prison of perfectionism. I must identify what I need to do and take the first step. Even if I fall flat on my face, I will have gained at least five feet. Then take the second step, and the third. Before I know it, I will be making terrific progress. Not perfection, but progress!

©Copyright 2010 Mary Hunt
Everyday Cheapskate is a Registered Trademark

I truly admire people who say they are going to do something or think about doing something and do it! What I want to know is how they do it. I want to figure out how to do things right now; without hesitation. Because one day I'm going to be like that.

Dinner with Dad

2010-09-10T22:36:00.007-04:00

Today was Craig's birthday, so tonight the kids and I joined him for dinner.

As soon as Craig left for work I started making cupcakes. Then the kids and I ran to the store. We had to get a few last minute things for our party.

At 7:20pm we picked up a pizza and headed to CAT. Craig called while I was driving over from Pizza Hut. He was waiting for us just inside the door and came out to the parking lot as soon as we got there. (CAT employees technically has a 20 minute lunch, but apparently everybody takes 30. Craig was in the car with us for exactly 20 minutes!)

The kids couldn't wait to give Craig his cards. Bergen made one this morning and she and Logan chose one together at the store this afternoon. I think it made him happy that they were so excited to give them to him. He wasn't even in the car before they started singing!

So we all enjoyed our pizza with some root beer; which was a must for Logan who had been planning for it all week. Seriously, he asked about the root beer every time we talked about our plans for having dinner with dad.

After dinner we had dessert. Craig had no idea we were bringing cupcakes. And a candle... Surprise!

When his time was up Craig returned to work and the kids and I set out to make his birthday even more memorable. We found his Jeep and decorated it! Logan and Bergen colored on the papers and I taped them to the windshield. Of course Berg had to climb up and help me! Then we headed home.

I had to laugh when Craig got home from work and told me his Jeep had been decorated. I had completely forgotten about it! I thought it might be fun for someone to see him get in it and realize it was his birthday, but no one did. Oh well, maybe a driver somewhere saw the sign he missed on the back tire while he was driving home...

It said "Happy Birthday!" And I think that's what he did.

Hula Lessons and More

2010-09-09T21:20:00.006-04:00

My friend Laurianne invited the kids to learn the hula. Laurianne grew up in Hawaii and danced for the Polynesian Cultural Center. She is an amazing dancer and will be teaching dance classes at the Morton Center this fall. In preparation, she taught a group of children The Hukilau so they could perform it at Global Fest last weekend.

I was thrilled to have Logan and Bergen be among those invited to participate. They were excited too. They enjoyed the practices and had fun playing with the other kids afterward. In fact, they're still asking when we're going to have a play date with John! (I'm going to have to get on that.)

Unfortunately, when I put the performance on the calendar, the date didn't register. A few weeks into practice though, I realized things weren't going to work out.

Craig and Logan have a tradition that can't be broken. They've been going to the US Nationals every year for the last three years and will continue going for ever. Since they have their day, Bergen and I have established a girls day out for that same time each year. This year it was September 4th. Labor Day weekend. It's always Labor Day weekend.

Why didn't I look at the calendar more closely? I felt like a heel.

I spoke to Craig and we decided to let Logan choose what he wanted to do. We both knew the answer before we asked the question. He wanted to go to the nationals. I had made plans to go to Chicago and for a minute I seriously considered the possibility of not going. I even thought if I left super early I might be able to get home in time for Bergen to perform in the evening. Then I found out that the dancing was going to take place during the middle of the day.

I felt sick. I didn't want to let anyone down. I also didn't want to miss going to IKEA! This was my chance and there were things I needed to get! So I made my decision and told Laurianne neither of my children would be performing with the group. I didn't even take them to the last practice because I didn't think it would be fair for her to go through a dress rehearsal with kids who weren't going to be there for the real thing. And because I didn't have the heart to tell Berg she wouldn't be performing...

So Saturday came and we set off on our adventures. Craig called me once and left a message at Logan's request. They had a great day! Bergen and me, not so much. Not that it was awful; it just wasn't what I expected.

Maren came over on time and we left late as usual. Then Google Maps took us on a detour near Gary. A big one. It took us much longer than it should have to arrive at our desired destination. We were tired and hungry and it was lunchtime when we got to Schaumburg so we ate at The Cheesecake Factory (yum) before going shopping. I had a plan for my trip. There were things I wanted, and things I needed, and I was going to find them. I only found one thing on my list. Maren found a few more.

Long story short, we stopped at The Rack to look for shoes after leaving IKEA. Shoes were on my list, but no shoes were found and the place was crowded and stinky and the line was so long that I wouldn't have had the patience to stand in it if I had found the shoes of my dreams anyway. I was glad there was a McDonald's nearby so we could get a beverage before heading home.

Now that I've had time to mull things over I'm wondering if I should just have stayed home and let Bergen perform the hula. It most certainly would have made for a nicer day. Not that I didn't have fun with you Maren.

And in case you're wondering, Bergen was perfect in the car all the way to Chicago - and all the way back!

A Project!

2010-09-02T11:37:00.006-04:00

I haven't sewn in a long time and I miss it! I've been to busy to sew over the summer, but today I had a project to do and that project couldn't wait! Since Logan lost his first tooth this morning I needed to prepare a place for it. We talked about how the tooth fairy would come and get it and he was adamant that it needed to be left under his pillow. So...

I made a pouch for Logan to stat using tonight and one for Bergen to use in the future. Bergen and I went to the fabric store to look for a toothy design, but we couldn't find anything, so we settled on stripes for Logan and circles for her. (Oh she would rather have had puppies on her fabric, but I think she may outgrow them before she loses all of her teeth and I wanted something that would last.)

Each pouch is about 4" square and has a ribbon drawstring.

Logan attached a note to his and was thrilled to put his under his pillow with the drawstring sticking out just a little bit. Good call Logan! The tooth fairy didn't have to search or wake you up to leave you your reward!

This was a fun and easy project. And now my sewing machine is ready to go again. Next up - baby blankets.

The Tale of the Missing Tooth

2010-08-31T09:03:00.007-04:00

Logan lost his first tooth this morning!

He's had a couple of wiggly ones for a while, but nothing has happened with them. I even gave him an apple the other day hoping it would help loosen things up. Nothing happened with the top tooth, but it worked its magic on a bottom one. It's been super wiggly for a few days now, but Logan hasn't wanted to pull it. He hasn't even wanted to wiggle it much.

Then he told me it was bothering him during breakfast this morning. So I took matters into my own hands. I asked him if I could "look" at it and proceeded to wiggle and pull it forward until it popped out. I felt the pop. It was icky. Then he started to cry and it started to bleed and I felt like a mean mom.

Craig thought I should have waited until Logan had finished his breakfast, but I wasn't thinking. I was in a hurry. I just wanted to get it out of there so he could finish getting ready for school. Of course removing it made things drag out a little longer...

The bleeding stopped after a few minutes of holding a wet washcloth on the spot where the tooth had been. A couple of teaspoons of Ibuprofen and Logan was fine, albeit a little upset with me. He finished getting ready for school and I was surprised when he let me brush his teeth. He wouldn't let Craig do it for him. Then after some coaxing and tears he let me take a couple of pictures.

Look at that boy. He's growing up. Too fast.

I'm going to make a little pouch today so Logan can put his tooth in it tonight. That way the Tooth Fairy won't have to search under his pillow and possibly miss finding the tooth. Because that would be tragic! Almost as tragic as having your mom pull your tooth during breakfast.

Bergen and the Butterfly

2010-08-26T23:23:00.004-04:00

Bergen is fascinated by butterflies. We've had one living in the garage for a few days and she gets excited to see it every time she goes out and finds it there. (Personally I think there's something wrong with it or that it just doesn't know to fly away.)

When we got home from school today she found it on the sidewalk just outside the garage.

She squatted down to take a closer look and let it climb onto her finger. I was surprised that she remained so calm while it was there.

It was sweet to watch.

Preschool!

2010-08-24T21:04:00.006-04:00

Bergen started preschool today. She's been wanting to go for a long time and was very excited about it.

It's hard to believe this little girlie was only seven months old when Logan started preschool. Boy has she grown!

Have a great year Boogie! I love you!

Back to School

2010-08-24T13:49:00.015-04:00

Logan was pretty excited to go back to school today. Not because he's looking forward to learning in first grade, but because he gets to see his friends from kindergarten! He's in the Challenge Program, so unless he gets kicked out (ha ha) he'll be in the same class with a lot of the same kids for the duration of his elementary education.

Logan made some good friends last year. He even saw some of them over the summer. And now he gets to see them again - every day.

Look at that sweet 6 year old ready to go...

When did he get so big?

And will I be able to keep up with him?

I hope so.

Have a great year Logan!

Memories in the Making

2010-08-21T11:44:00.005-04:00

I remember what a treat it was to get to lick the beaters when I was a kid. My mom would often make something tasty and let us get messy afterward.

Well my kids like to do the same thing. A few days ago they enjoyed some chocolate frosting!

Here's to memories to make and remember!

Getting Ready for School - Haircuts

2010-08-16T23:31:00.020-04:00

Logan, Bergen and I were in serious need of haircuts. So today we got them.

Logan wanted to let his hair grow this summer so he could be a "surfer dude" and Craig and I thought it would be fun for him! Too bad his coarse curls wouldn't allow him to try out the mo-hawk and other styles he wanted. Also, I don't make hair appointments for myself anymore, I make them for Logan and tag along. Because of this Bergen and I have been growing our hair out too... The three of us haven't had our hair cut all summer long!!

Look at that mop! The boy got his summer wish and he loved it.

I was a little sad to see it go, but we all knew it was time...

Bergen's hair is fine, but it grows fast. It ended up getting really long and was beautiful this summer, but it tangled a lot! (On a sde note: It's hard to grow your bangs out when you're three, you don't want to wear a barrette, and you will only wear a pony tail on occasion. Silly girl.)

So we had it cut short for the first time. Not too short, but short for us. She got a shoulder level A-line.

Now that we're all presentable again the new school year can begin!

Summer Hair

2010-08-15T19:15:00.015-04:00

We really enjoyed ourselves this summer and looking back I've made some interesting observations. One in particular I want to remember.

We let a lot of things go - including our hair!

Logan loved being at the pool and ended up looking like quite a "surfer dude" by the end of summer. His hair got lighter and longer and he loved it!

He was Mr. Happy and Carefree.

I think he looks like one of those guys from a Gidget movie with this "do"!

Bergen's hair got blonder and her skin got browner as we spent time at the pool. She couldn't get enough of it!

She also decided she wanted to let her bangs grow, so we went with it.

She looked like a "California Girl" by the time August rolled around.

It was F-U-N fun!

Celebrity Sighting

2010-08-13T22:45:00.008-04:00

Guess who we saw today?

Herbie!!

I'd heard he was around here somewhere... My friend Michelle told me she'd seen him a few weeks before Logan's birthday and I didn't tell anyone (except Craig), but I really tried to find him. I thought it would be so cool to talk to the owner and see if she'd bring him by the day of Logan's party. But I never found either of them. And I've looked since.

Guess who spotted Herbie today? Logan. And he was thrilled!, as was Bergen.

We were getting ready to head east on State Road 26 after picking up some dinner from Pizza Hut, but we quickly changed our minds and turned west. We made it into the flow of traffic alright, but a PT Loser wouldn't let us change lanes and we couldn't catch up (Big dummy!), so I took this picture through the windshield as Herbie got away from us through the intersection on 26 and 52.

I hope we find him again, but just in case we don't, we have proof that Herbie is alive and well in Lafayette!

Fun Friday: Tropicanoe Cove

2010-08-13T22:08:00.016-04:00

Since today was technically our last Fun Friday of the summer, we did something as a family! The original plan was to go to the Legoland Discovery Center in Schaumburg Illinois, but we just couldn't do it. I didn't plan well enough and Craig started working 2nd shift on Monday.

It was a good thing the kids didn't know about the plan because they would never have forgiven us for not taking them. Things worked out though. They've been wanting to go to Tropicanoe Cove and were especially excited to get to go with their dad!

We thought Logan would be all over the water slides when he found out he was tall enough to go on them, but No. The pipes and fountains on the kid side of the pool were the favorite place to be. Craig coaxed Logan to get him to venture into deeper water, and he did, but not for long. Maybe because the water was so cold. (Can you say shiver?) I didn't want to go deeper either! Bergen can never get enough of the water and enjoyed splashing around and going down the dolphin slide. Of course Craig and I had fun watching them both.

Neither of the kids have been fans of the lazy river in the past, but today they l-o-v-e-d it! I don't know how many times we went around! Next year I'll get pictures of that.

Finally, although it wasn't my favorite, Logan and Bergen played in the sand area. And that's where they were when Craig left to go home and get ready for work. A quick goodbye and he was off. We were to see him go, but we did stay and play a little longer before heading home ourselves. Those silly kids had to get back in the water to get all the sand off!

It goes without saying that we stopped at redbox on the way home... Another Friday, another movie. Logan and Bergen were excited to watch it, but I wasn't surprised when they were both asleep before the end. Ahhhh - you know it's been a good day when you're worn out at the end of it!

We had fun in the sun today and can't wait to do it all again next summer!

Pie

2010-08-09T19:22:00.007-04:00

Craig and I have a little inside joke about the UPS commercials from a few years ago. The "Brown said have some pie. No, Brown didn't say that." ones. So not only do I think of the commercials, I laugh inside whenever I hear the word "pie". (I know.) My brother works for UPS too, so there's even more to the story.

I made my first ever peach pie tonight. And it was yummy!

If Brown had been here, he'd have told you to have some.

Fun Friday: Pudding Pops

2010-08-06T23:56:00.006-04:00

The kids and I haven't been to the pool all week, so rather than do something else for Fun Friday they chose to go swimming. Of course it didn't hurt that our friends the Black's were going to be there too! (We have been having SO much fun with them.)

I did think of something we could do beforehand though. We made pudding pops so they'd be ready to eat when we got home!

Logan and Bergen both did a great job pouring the milk in the bowls and stirring, but I think their favorite part was filling up the cups!

They put chocolate and vanilla pudding in the cups and swirled it a little. Then we covered them with Saran Wrap, stuck a Popsicle stick in them, and I put them in the freezer.

Yum!

*Note to self: Buy more Dixie Cups!

"Peachy"

2010-08-05T23:23:00.013-04:00

Indiana is a wonderful place to live if you like fresh produce. And we do!

I've been thinking about picking peaches since seeing that they would be available at a local orchard. We've just been waiting for them to ripen. Then rather than try to pick them ourselves I decided to go with the ones that were already picked for us. The price was close to the same either way and I thought that getting the pre-picked would save us some time (as well as the hassle of having the kids try to reach them in the trees.) This was also our first experience with peaches. So...

I called my sister-in-law Nicole and we headed out to Annie's Orchard. (The same place we picked our strawberries.) We drove fast because it was after noon and we wanted to get there before the orchard closed at 1:00pm. Unfortunately in our haste we missed the turnoff and went pretty far past our destination. We stopped, turned around and went back to where we needed to turn in the first place, questioned ourselves, turned around and headed out a little too far again, rethought things and stopped once more. Then I wised up and made a phone call to ask a friend for help. (Thanks Sarah.)

We arrived at the orchard with five minutes to spare, but the peaches they had for sale were few and far between - a couple of half bushel boxes about one third full were all that was left. I was disheartened, but figured we'd just go back and get some another day. What happened next surprised me... I don't know if it was because we weren't the only customers (another family pulled up right behind us) or if it was what she would normally do, but after asking some questions the wonderful owner sent her crew out to pick for us... The kids hardly had a chance to run around, because a mere fifteen minutes later we were on our way again; with a bushel full of peaches each!

Thank you to the people at Annie's Orchard!

Look at these things! I just wanted to breathe in their scent all the way home! And yes, I took that picture and it is of my peaches.

Bergen was the first to devour a fresh peach and she loved it so much that she had a second right after the first! We had fresh peach shakes after dinner tonight and I plan on making peach freezer jam tomorrow. Of course I'll also be slicing and freezing some on their own. Yum!

I'm already thinking this will become another must each summer. Oh yeah.

In the Spotlight!

2010-08-03T23:24:00.014-04:00

I remember Logan telling me that he and Bergen had gotten out the Little People Christmas sets, but thought nothing of it until later when I was doing something on the computer and realized I was hearing "Away in a Manger" over and over and over again. When I turned around to see what was happening I found Bergen like this:

She was shining a spotlight on an angel!

Apparently she and Logan had been putting on some kind of "show" and she decided to continue it with her Little People when they were through. She'd made a stage and was having them perform on it!

She'd lined the figures up in three groups according to type. (She told me they were away from the stage so they couldn't watch each other.) Then she went through the lines one at a time placing each figure on the stage to perform. When they were finished they were placed in another line so they could watch the rest of the show. It was kind of like an assembly line (and reminded me of ballet recitals when I was little.)

I loved watching my sweet daughter give everyone a turn in the spotlight! (She didn't like me distracting her so I could take her picture in the middle of the performance.)

She how she's shining the light on the camel? She did that with every single little person and I heard that song play at least 25 times.

Bergen was happy to explain everything when I asked questions about what she was doing. I was happy to have captured it all on camera.

And you know what? I think the Little People were happy too.

Sleeping Out

2010-08-01T22:37:00.002-04:00

Logan and Bergen love to sleep in their sleeping bags on the floor in the living room. I don't know why, but they ask to do it all. the. time.

Since school will be starting soon Craig and I decided to indulge them once more before they have to start going to bed earlier than they have been all summer long. They were so tired tonight that in no time at all they were completely out!

These two are so precious to me. I love watching them sleep.

Fun Friday: McDonald's and a Movie

2010-07-31T03:55:00.011-04:00

Today Logan, Bergen and I had what I think was our best Fun Friday yet! We went to McDonald's for lunch and then to see the movie Ramona and Beezuz with friends.

Holly and Abigail are so much fun! We went to their house for lunch yesterday and had plans to go to the pool afterward, but the kids were having such a good time we just stayed and played. While we were there Holly and I decided we'd go to the pool today instead, but the weather didn't cooperate, so our plans changed again and a movie it was.

The kids had just the right amount of time to eat and play in the Play Place before we headed to the movie and I was pleasantly surprised when both of mine came right away when I called them. No giving them 'five more minutes' or anything!

The movie was great! I remember reading about Beverly Cleary's Ramona when I was little and she was a character. I liked it so much would even venture to say that I will buy it when it comes out on DVD. I think it's one Logan and Bergen will enjoy watching over and over again. (And one that I won't mind listening to over and over again when I'm doing something other than watching it with them.)

The kids were back to being their rambunctious selves after the movie was over. I didn't get any pictures of them running around, but here they are climbing under the benches in the lobby. I have to say they were very well behaved during the show (which made for a proud mom moment) so I didn't mind them getting their wiggles out afterward.

What a fun day!

*I realized after we got home from our adventure that "Fun Friday" will be coming to an end soon. School will be starting in just over three weeks! I am SO glad we've been able to do this. It may become a tradition!

Are you ready for some football?

2010-07-29T23:42:00.011-04:00

Logan and Bergen LOVE it when Craig is awake in the evening. They wait for it all day! It's their time with him. Tonight they went out in the backyard and played football.

I liked listening as Craig coached Logan saying things like, "When Peyton Manning does this..."

Look out Peyton - Logan's throw is improving!

Bergen wanted to get in on the action after a while too.

She had previously been lounging and then decided to take the truck for a spin.

We're thinking about signing Logan up for football this fall. He hasn't played team sports yet and although it can be rough, we think he's well suited for it.

Bergen might be able to give him a run for his money though. Look at that girl catch the ball!

We're ready for some football!

Stuffed Shells

2010-07-26T23:28:00.005-04:00

I tried a new recipe for dinner tonight. Its one I've wanted to try for a while, so when I saw that Ricotta cheese was on sale last week I decided to buy some and make it.

Here it is before going into the oven.

And here it is after having served some up for the kids.

It was Mmmm, Mmmm, good. It ranks right up there with the Creamy Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas I made not long ago that tasted like they were from a restaurant!

I love good food. I also love it when my family likes good food. Logan was skeptical at first, but ended up complimenting me on it and had two helpings, plus garlic bread. This is definitely another one for the make-it-again recipe book!

*The recipe made 30 shells. I baked 20 and froze 10. We're looking forward to having them again!

The Relief Society Garden

2010-07-26T23:25:00.009-04:00

The kids and I stopped off at the Relief Society garden on the way home from the pool this evening. (Our ward has rented four garden plots at the Tippecanoe County Extension Office not far from our home. I've been there a couple of times, but this was my first visit with the kids.) And they loved it!

First stop: the children's garden where they got check out the frog pond pump.

Then a quick look and photo at the calendar. We wandered around a little looking at different plants, but I was too busy with the kids to take pictures. It was fun to see how interested they were in everything.

I hadn't intended to water, but after thinking about the relief society emails telling how dry the garden has been, and Logan begging to do it, we did. He is such a hands-on kind of guy. Always wanting to be involved. It makes me happy and I hope he'll always be that way.

Bergen was pretty excited when I told her we could pick a couple of cucumbers. She carried them all the way around the garden and home without putting them down once!

The garden is amazing to me. I wish I had this much room to grow vegetables in my own backyard. And the know-how!

By the way, we put one of the cucumbers in our dinner salad tonight and it was delicious! Mmmm. Mmmm. Mmmm.

More Fun in the Sun

2010-07-26T23:20:00.011-04:00

The kids and I went to the pool again today. We average about twice a week, but sometimes go more often. I took a few pictures just to try out the new camera, and I love it! I love the subject matter too, but that goes without saying.

Bergen is still a fish and as happy as can be in the water. I love the Twinkie cream on the corner of her mouth.

Logan has learned to swim on his own, but likes wearing a life jacket (just for fun).

Logan wanted to take a walk around the pool before going home. So of course Bergen joined him...

I live for days like this.

Pioneer Day!

2010-07-26T23:06:00.006-04:00

Our ward had a Pioneer Day get-together complete with food, friends, and fun! We're not normally big ward activity goers, but Craig suggested that the kids might like this one. Of course they did!

Here they are in the back seat on the way to the park. Look at their bleach-blond (badly in need of a haircut) summer hair!

Logan was thrilled to play kick ball and other games with his friends -- especially Ben and Luke who have been in California for the last year.

It was fun to watch him play and to see how much he got into the game.

Bergen also enjoyed herself. She spent time playing in a little school bus and hanging out by the water fountain. That girl can find water anywhere!

She liked the food too!

I'm glad we went. It was fun to visit with friends despite the heat and humidity. We even got to catch up with some who have moved and happened to be passing through again.

Who says the 24th of July isn't celebrated any place other than Utah? I'm proud of my pioneer heritage!