McMenamins

Christmas vacation has yielded a lot of movie watching. One day we headed to McMenamins in Centralia for a showing of Polar Express. The kids and I had a blast! If you've never visited, it's a wonderful old renovated building frosted with character out its ears. I love it!

The theater shows adult movies in the evening and kid friendly shows during the day. Your bum rests in mini sofas or chairs and you can order food in the theater.

Check it out!
http://www.mcmenamins.com/451-olympic-club-home

a fart machine and 2 flamingos

I love to laugh. I, like some I suspect, am willing to go the extra mile to bring a laugh to my own face as well as others. When I recently heard of a couple who had fallen victim to a fart machine while staying in the guest room of some friends, well, I had to get myself a remote control fart machine. After all, my mom and step dad were coming for Christmas.

We planted the fart machine under their aerobed, a few nights into their stay. You know, we wanted them to feel comfortable and homey so we wouldn't be immediate suspects. Late at night and from our bedroom we pressed the remote repeatedly. The farting device has 2 settings I like to call oops and oh my goodness. We pushed both buttons a lot. We heard whispers, but no one came out. In the early morning, before our guests woke, I pushed it a few more times. All woke and nothing was said.

We ventured to Mt. Rainier for some sledding that day. In the car, my mom explained that she needed to tell me about some odd going ons during the night. She preceded to explain and describe the unknown sounds from their bedroom. Her husband thought maybe the bed was filled with too much air so he tweaked it again and then again. My mom said it was an unusual coincidence to when I gave her a wool blanket for her feet, "that's when the noises began" she said. She went on and I was smiling the whole time almost peeing my pants. She then shared that she prayed a hedge of protection around their bed and the noises stopped. "It was like there was someone in bed with us." she said.

When we returned home from the Mt. the kids were put to bed and the adults stayed up to watch a movie. I re-planted the device under the couch. I pressed the button. Ted was on the couch and the rest of us in the kitchen. Ted said, "excuse me". My mom looked at me and said that was the noise from last night. Maybe it was Ted! I filled her with a cover of him not feeling well and needing the plunger the night before. She replied, "poor thing". Ted glared at me from the couch and I gave a couple extra hits for good measure.

We sat to watch the movie and I hit the oh my goodness button repeatedly. They sat wide eyed as we about peed our pants in gasping explanation. Then, when we calmed we explained and all of us had a good laugh. We got 'em!

My mom and stepdad left for the airport Wednesday night. They drove themselves and on departure Ted and I stood on the porch waving our goodbyes. You know, like good adult children. Once we got inside, they (unknown to us) drove on back and stuck 2 plastic flamingos in our driveway. I didn't make the discovery until the next evening. Oh goodness did I laugh. My mom has always LOVED plastic flamingos. As a young teen, she got a set from my aunt. I paid the neighbor kid 5 bucks to make them disappear, and he took the job. I confessed, as an adult of course, to my mom. So, those plastic pink birds always bring a chuckle and ironically, now I have my own set.

Christmas envelopes

My daughter Natalie wanted to decorate Christmas card envelopes this year and I thought that was a great idea. I love the result. Now, I should preface that every single envelope may not have Natalie B. art work gracing it. We did lots of cards this year. But let me give you a sampling of what I found on the envelopes after she went to bed. (She did about 45 tonight!)

A purple unicorn, a musk ox, a hot dog, plankton, the aurora lights (I asked her to tell me this one), igloo, lots of penguins, a shark eating a fish and many other delightful creations that are simply one-of-a-kind.

As she worked she explained "This is a big job. I hope the little kids sleep in so we can all get our rest after all this work." I love it, but it would be a Christmas miracle if those bundles of blessing slepped in!

I LOVE this season! Merry Christmas

Sledding at Mt. Rainier

We love sledding. It's in our blood. I am from the great state of ND and my sweetie is from Minnesota. Growing up in the Midwest instills a love for playing in the snow.

On this particular day in WA, 7 families we know came out to sled together. It was a perfect day but it did begin a bit rocky. As we drove to The Mountain, which in WA refers to Rainier, there were down trees and power lines frequently, but the lane we traveled in was always clear. Upon entrance to the park, a gigantic orange sign read Paradise closed. NO SLEDDING all season. What?!?!?! We had researched this and today was supposed to be the first open day. Others were coming, what were we going to tell them? Ted remained calm and asked the ranger what the 411 was. She explained the road would most likely be cleared and that if it was, sledding could happen and they would take the sign down. Back in business!!! We drove to Longmire where we met up with the other families. We put our chains on and then the gate opened. Hallelujah! We traveled to Paradise and spent 4 hours sledding plus an hour break for Coco in the middle.

My kids were super sledders! Our youngest, 4, was carried up the hill only twice. Otherwise, she hoofed it like the rest of us. She preferred to ride solo. Our other 2 walked all on their own and had so much fun sledding with friends. Ted and I got lots of runs in too. One of our friends brought giant inner tubes (tractor tire tubes) and those seemed to work best. We decided we need to contact my farming uncle and see if he can hook us up with some tubes! So fun! We will remember this day with family and friends always.

Handels Messiah

Last night Natalie and I attended a free sing-along of Handel's Messiah performed by SOGO at the Washington Center. I don't know that I have the words to describe how amazing this was. The music truly took my breath away and as I followed along in my score, the words brought tears. Natalie was mesmerized. She had never seen a live orchestra performance. We sat together and her hands mimicked that of the conductor's. I will forever remember this night with you Natalie!

Ornaments

Three special ornaments, each and every year.

In our family we have a tradition of giving each of our kids an ornament that in some way represents something about them for the year.

This year, Natalie received an ornament that is made from the sheet music of Good King Wenceslas. This will remind us all of her first year of piano and her very first recital.

William's ornament this year was a Lego bi-plane which he had to put together. We thought this very appropriate since this is the year William really discovered a passion for Legos and building.

Lydia's ornament this year is an image of angels surrounding the baby Jesus. It was made from a postcard produced in the early 1900's. It is beautiful and has special significance. Earlier this month, Lydia had a seizure, although it wasn't apparent at the time that was what it was. We had to call 911 and were seconds from performing CPR on her. It was traumatic for all of us. We believe that God sent down his angels to protect her and make her well again. This ornament will remind us each year of the blessing of Lydia.

When we decorate the tree, it is all excitement from the family. It's also a precious time of story telling as each child wants to hear why they were given that particular ornament. Often, they tell the stories and share their memories. Unwrapping each treasure is like discovering an old friend for me. I love it. I love traditions. I really believe they are glue in a family.

This year, each child received their own ornament box to house their ornaments. Someday, these will move on with them. Until then, I enjoy a tree adorned with many ornaments. I think back to my first year married and how piddly our tree looked with a few glass bulbs freshly purchased from Target. And yet, the tree we have today couldn't have been created any other way. It has taken time and in that time memories are made and that is what I cherish. For each ornament represents a memory.

Giving!

Christmas is such a great opportunity to love on others and show your appreciation. My oldest is in lots of classes and so we've been baking and making up a storm to show our appreciation and affection to many great teachers. These women pour into my daughter and I love the opportunity to say Merry Christmas and Thank you! With that, I understand budgets can be tight, so here are a few ideas for giving to others, despite your bank account.

Custom decorated cookies. Taking piano lessons? Cut out a piano and music note in cookie dough and ice them something fancy. Wrap in Saran wrap and tie with a bow. You could also wrap them in Saran wrap and then use sheet music as wrapping paper. Found at Goodwill, you can pick some up for very little.

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Hand make a coupon for a night of babysitting. Follow up with the couple a week or so after Christmas to set the date. So often I have offered to watch kids, but haven't initiated getting the date to the calendar. Go the extra step to insure it happens and the gift can be enjoyed.

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Dig into the depths of that craft closet! What could be created with what you have? I recently went on a soap making frenzy and have been joyfully blessing people with bars of handmade soap.
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Button rings! http://ayearwithchickens.blogspot.com/2010/10/buttons.html
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Dollar store frames are inexpensive and make a great base for attaching crafty things. Glue music paper on the wood frame for a music teacher, bird seed or small shells for the nature lover in your life. Use what you have and don't be afraid to experiment! If you have a glue gun, there is no limit to your crafting power!

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Use craft paper and custom make stationary or cards. Assemble cards into a set of 6 or 8 and tie with a bow.
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Homemade delicacies are always appreciated. If you make a mean loaf of banana bread, then share it! Do you love your grandma's pie recipe? Pie up your kitchen and give away for others to enjoy. Did you can 500 pounds of peaches from a trip to Yakima ? Grace a jar with a ribbon and give!
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Create a on-of-a-kind piece of artwork for a friend. Pencil sketch a sweet memory for a friend. Outline in black felt tip marker. "Matte" with colored paper and place in a small frame.

Be a GIVER and have a very Merry Christmas!

Piano Recital

Natalie did AMAZING at her first piano recital. I would estimate about 100 people in the audience and upon walking in, MY tummy began a full on Olympic gymnastic routine! Natalie, however, was calm as a cucumber. Her choice, she sat in the front row with the other students before and after her song. She was third in line to play. As she walked on the stage she was all business and any nerves she may have had were invisible. She played Good King Wencelas beautifully. I was amazed by her! In front of my very eyes, Natalie grew up. I am one proud Mama!

lefse

Lefse is a family tradition at Thanksgiving and Christmas. My Grandma, Lorraine, made it from scratch when I was a child growing up in the great state of ND. Although I have never made it myself, I very much enjoy eating it. Lefse is a Norwegian delight. It is made from potatoes, milk, and flour. The dough is put out on a lefse griddle and turned with long sticks. A spike rolling pin is also used to flatten and texture the lefse. I eat lefse by spreading a thin layer of butter and then sprinkling sugar on it. Next, I roll it up and my taste buds then have a party. I have found good lefse is hard to find in WA. Thankfully, my dad mails it to me each year. He includes enough for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Today, my kids and husband await that package as eagerly as I do.

wrapping paper

I am anti gift bags. Now if you have ever, or ever do give me a gift in a gift bag let me assure you, NOT TO WORRY! My LOVE for gifts far surpasses my lack of fond affection for gift bags.

I love wrapping paper. It doesn’t have to be out of control unique, although that can be fun. I just think the very nature of tape and paper adds an element of anticipation and surprise that is unmatched by the gift bag experience.

Recently, I went on an excursion with a friend. Upon entering her car she handed me a present. This was completely unexpected. I literally squealed aloud. And although squealing comes natural to many females, it does not to me. Not only was it a present, it was wrapped and a to/from graced the top. My endorphins began a pool party. Then, I started opening it and guess what? Hold your breath, the paper was double sided. A pure nirvana state was entered upon for my mind. Seriously, why is ALL wrapping paper not double sided? It is just way too delightful I tell you. And did I mention the Christmas design was on the inside? The outside was solid red. A double unexpected treat. Well, all this joy and the box wasn’t even opened yet! What was inside? An ADORABLE owl ornament. I have a thing for owls and ornaments. I also have a thing for buttons and felt, the very materials this lil guys was made of. What an unbelievable start to a fun day with my friend.

Double sided wrapping paper, I love you.

piano recital

My oldest is going to be in a piano recital this month, her first. Her nerves have tried to get her over the last several weeks and I am empathetic to those feelings. She is nervous about people watching her, walking up stairs onto a stage, performing a song in front of an audience and other things I would be nervous about too. I thought knowing her song well would bring some needed confidence along with a fancy new recital dress, and it has. She sat down recently to practice Good King Wenceslas and upon completion she jumped to her feet and declared, "That was freaking awesome!'" I stood there trying to not let my jaw hit the ground too hard. I assured her she had played it perfectly, but asked where she had heard that phrase. Concerned she asked, "Did I say something bad?" I explained that our family didn't use the word freaking because it wasn't a very positive word. (How in the world to explain this?!?!) She felt bad and I explained that she didn't know and now she did and it was all ok. She said, "Well that's what they said in the movie last night (Night at the Museum) and I thought it was a cool thing to say. I won't say it anymore mom." And there you have it. Why yes, Ben Stiller does say freaking awesome in that movie and my 6 year old's ears heard it, recalled it and used it in context. So, maybe we didn't earn a gold star for parenting on that day, but thankfully there's always tomorrow.

on writing

I day dream of writing children's books. Its a dream that's stuck for a long while. For the past several months, I have been in professional level writers block. Well, more project block to be exact. I've lacked direction and passion and questioned what in the world I could or should be working on.

This past Saturday I headed for one of my favorite spots to write. Atmosphere is a warm cup of tea for writing to me and a peppermint coco can help as well. In my head, I knew where I was going, but as in the nature of writing, a new direction was taken. You see, I recently got a fabulous idea for a children's book which for now I will keep a hush about. As I sat to start writing that, a whole different voice emerged from my pen. Rather than a kids book, it was an adult book. I fought it, as I've been wrestling that for quite some time really and finally decided to give in and see where it takes me. What happened was I formulated a few sentences I fell instantly in love with, but the voice was all wrong for toddlers. It was even too old for teenagers. So, the words were for adults, scary as that may be, I loved the words and couldn't scratch them out.

I have great trepidation writing for adults. I can't possibly imagine myself having enough words in me to write a complete book, but I will give it a go, knowing perhaps this may be the next step. And in the end, I will at the least, which is far enough for me, have a wordy essay of the unbelievable adventure leading up to and being the last 18 months of the Bailey's life, A Year With Chickens.

It is evident the picture book I eagerly want to write must come caboose to the book that has been knocking on my heart. I'm opening the door and excited to entertain what's behind it. So long project block, I've got a doozy ahead of me.

Thanksgiving

Part of my sweet North Dakota family was here for Thanksgiving this year. My dad, Chet, and my step mom, Kim, drove over 1,000 miles to be with us. It was wonderful to have family together. Grandparents are a precious blessing and my kids adored having them for 7 whole days. They arrived the Saturday before turkey day and from Sunday until Wednesday we had snow! In my 12 years in WA, we have NEVER had snow before Turkey day. It was an unexpected treat. Now Ted and I have roots in snow so it is only natural our 3 lively off spring would have instinctive fondness for it as well. It blessed my heart to see them making their own snow memories similar to those from my childhood.
For turkey day this year we tried turducken. It was interesting and although I am glad we did it, I personally don't know that I would do it again. In case you don't know, turducken is a boneless chicken inside of a boneless duck inside of a boneless turkey with layers of stuffing between each. For a girl who tried her first raw blueberry on purpose just this past summer, turducken was quite adventurous! (As a side note, blueberries are not tasty.) Our other dishes were more traditional in nature, my favorite being praline sweet potatoes. Yummy!

The morning of Thanksgiving we crafted a paper tree and decorated it with colored leaves. Each leaf shared something we were thankful for. This simple, fun, family project got our hearts right for the day. I am grateful for more things than I can name in a post. But I will share one, my Savior and King Jesus Christ for without Him I don't know where or who I'd be. My cup overfloweth!

glass milk bottle

I recently bought milk from Twin Brook Creamery at Top Foods in Oly. www.twinbrookcreamery.com Honestly, it was the packaging that got me. Milk in a thick glass bottle like once upon a time? Oh my word I was sold. We usually do the organic route, but I needed milk and the bottles were too irresistible. I later read a bit on this family farm and their venture was inspiring. The milk tastes differently too, it is given from Jersey cows, some of the cutest cows ever in my humble opinion. Look at those adorable faces! Anyway, I think it's important to note that by tasting different I mean different as in more delicious. I am not certain where to return the bottle and receive my deposit back (probably the store where I purchased it?), but I think I will forgo the few bucks and keep the glass jugs. I've been using them for cold water in the fridge and they make me nostalgic for things I don't have memories for, as I don't recall my family ever buying glass jar milk. And yet, there's a pull towards them.

As a side note, on the issue of different, I would rather be different than ordinary, wouldn't you? I recall when I worked as a nanny I told the youngest she was unique. She did not like this. She said by unique you mean different Robin and different is weird. I explained that being ordinary was far less fun and it really was a compliment. She was 8 or 9 at the time, and had a hard time understanding. Hopefully my actions and other choice of words showed how much I loved and admired the one-of-a-kind kid she was. After all, my eldest was named after her.

A bakers dozen on what I've learned from our chickens

• If you want something, go for it.
• Regardless of how you feel, there is a job to be done every day.
• It’s good to be in fellowship.
• You can't let a little, or a lot, of rain stop a life from living.
• Play in the dirt.
• Take naps.
• Get excited when a familiar face comes home.
• My kids know how to work hard.
• Discovering an egg is magical, even if it's the 312th egg discovered.
• Every egg varies in size, shape, color and texture.
• You can get attached to poultry.
• Chickens can run fast, especially when you need to catch them.
• A hen can fall in love with a little girl and a little girl a hen.

lamp light

It's a good day. A smile was found in the simplest of things. I moved a lamp from one room to my dining room where it now makes home on my buffet table. All the other lights are off and although it is daytime, this is WA so evening is not needed for lamp light ambiance. I don't know what it is about lamp light, but the warm glow has always made me smile. Somehow the light has slowed down my pace today and I like it.

I tri'd

I was in my 4th or 5th tri in September and this one was different than any of the others. It was by far the most difficult one mentally and physically. I was in a valley mentally and on top of it I had barely worked out, a very tough combination. But I was committed. My sister Tracy was traveling from MN with her whole family to do this with me. She had exercised her sneakers off. There was no turning back, no throwing in the towel no maybe next year instead. Regardless of where I was at, it was going to be done.

The previous Aug., I was registered for a different Seattle tri. My sis had her baby that weekend and Briggs was born with downs and a hole in his heart. It was unknown if he would survive. I left race morning at the crack of dawn to be with my sister. I needed to see her. Hug her. Reassure her that everything was going to be ok. Not for one second did I feel sad about missing the race. This past spring I thought it would be a fun workout goal and a blast to do a tri with my sis. When I asked her, she said yes. She wrote an essay to the Trekk folks dedicating the race to me, her sister. So, you see there was no giving up on this one. We both had to compete and finish, together. (By the way, Briggs is healthy and well!)

Tracy had a hard time with the swim. I love the water and was there to encourage her along. I was SO proud of her as we exited the water. A swim at the lake near our house 2 days prior made me worry if she would be able to complete it. She had panicked in the water and it shook us both up. But in Lake Washington in September, she did it. I am so proud of her! We biked and that part was a breeze, really. Then came the run. My sister rocked it and this time it was my turn to be in despair. I begged her to leave me and go on and she refused, like I had in the water. This race we were doing together. It was such a rush of emotion crossing the finish line. To complete something that felt bigger than myself was overwhelming.

Tracy, I love you. I am so blessed to have YOU as my sister. I always give my medals to the kids to play with, but this one is staying with me. I will remember that day in cold, rainy Seattle always.

The Great Potato Harvest

It was an exciting morning last week when my eldest declared we should harvest potatoes. As suspected, the event was delightful so it is with first hand knowledge I repeat the recommendation that all should grow potatoes, regardless of age!The kids were bursting as we unearthed the purple and brown spuds and honestly, I was too. Each turn of the soil brought happy kid chatterings and eager hand digging. It was a fun, dirty finger nail morning! We are saving the potatoes in a cool place to enjoy for our Thanksgiving feast. We had a small crop, as some potatoes revealed the chickens had been enjoying the bounty as well!! I had thought the hens simply liked the cool shade of the plants, unaware of the happy munchings they were partaking in. Thankfully they only ate those close to the surface and there were plenty deeper down for us to enjoy too. While we dug, all 13 hens gathered around watching us, surprised by the goodness they had missed perhaps.

hands down the best dad ever

So, 2 nights ago something comical happened. Natalie had built a fort of cardboard boxes and various garage things outside near the chicken coop. She was tucked inside and peeked out to say, "I want to sleep out here tonight." I laughed and told her she'd get too cold. She persisted. Now, as a stay at home mom I sometimes feel like the bad parent, meaning the one getting the lions share of saying 'no'. So, I decided she should ask her dad. After all this was a no brainer 'no', right? I proceeded inside and made dinner, did laundry and other domestic glamorous things. I glanced out the window and noticed Ted setting up our back packing tent in the back yard. I thought uh-oh. Backfire big time. I casually called out, "Hey, what are you guys up to?" Ted replied that Will and Natalie were going to spend the night outside in the tent. Nat had mentioned I told her to ask him and he thought it was a great idea. "Ok" I said in shock. Ted came in and we discussed it. He assured me they would be fine. He exclaimed that our kids were amazing and the fact that they wanted to do this was something we needed to encourage. He was stoked and I was nauseous. The kids outside alone?!?! I hoped their plans would waver as darkness and cold set in, but the opposite occurred. Immediately following dinner they said goodnight mom and dad we're going to bed. And off they went, outside. Lydia slept in an inside fort in the toy room with her caterpillar. When all were sleeping I told Ted we had to carry them all back to their beds but he insisted they stay. He told me not to worry because he would go out and sleep in the tent too. "On a work night!" I exclaimed. He laughed and at 10:30 off he went in his mummy bag. They had a grand adventure. They made memories that will last forever. I am grateful for my husband who has the super power of playing like a kid. I love it.

fertilization

Tuesday was a spectacular fall day. I took the kids to Tumwater Falls for a hike, in hopes of spotting the caboose of salmon journeying up stream. We were able to spot a few stragglers that sadly will most likely not make it to their destination.

Each year we visit this park and others and witness what is in my mind nothing short of a miracle. The journey salmon make to their home water where they were born is incredible. As a side note, if you live in WA check out McLane Creek in November.

This year, Natalie was particularly interested in what the salmon were up to and what would come of them. I explained the life cycle several times emphasizing the circle of life. (Go ahead, break out your Lion King soundtrack.) Natalie asked me, "Do only the female salmon swim up stream to lay the eggs?" I replied, "No, males and females make the journey." She said, "You mean in salmon the male and females lay eggs?" "No, only the females." I said. "Then why do the males swim up stream?" she innocently asked. "Because they are needed to fertilize the eggs. With out them, there would be no hatching of the eggs." I said. "When I was an egg did Daddy have to fertilize me?" She said. "Yes." I cautiously replied. With a puzzled look she asked, "Well, how did Daddy fertilize me?!?!" And there it was. The birds and the bees question posed by my 6 1/2 year old in a way that was her own and all Natalie. "How did daddy fertilize me when I was an egg?"

My response, "Well, God made a special way for that to happen and it is something you and I can talk about when you get a little older." "Ok" she replied. Needless to say, I breathed a sigh of relief.

Buttons

I don't know what it is about buttons, vintage ones especially, but I just love them. I bought a large tin of old buttons a while back on craigslist. Yes, a random item to search for, but I did and found them!

I've used the buttons to dress up cards, added them to clothing and even made button rings. (Pictured) Other times, I just need creative inspiration or a smile so I'll rummage the tin and there I often find a new idea and a grin. Buttons, you are delightful!

BUTTON RING HOW TO

Materials:
Buttons
Embroidery Thread
Needle
Elastic

What to do:
Cut a length of elastic that fits around the button owners finger snug, but not cut off circulation snug.

Sew the end of the elastic together, forming a circular ring.

Choose your buttons. This is the fun part! You can stack multiples or grace the elastic with a single button.

Next. Using embroidery thread, hand sew the button to the elastic.

Put on and enjoy!

Button rings are guaranteed to bring a smile to your melon.

golfing memories

I was on the golf team in high school. I don't usually share this because first it rarely comes up in normal conversation and second, people assume I must be really good, which I am not. I joined the team to learn the sport and be with my BFF Tanya. Golf was a blast. We would hit buckets and buckets and buckets of range balls and then go collect them by hand and do it again. We'd practice chipping for what seemed like forever and then go golf 9 or 18. My first home course tournament began with me driving the ball into an old farm silo to the right of the fairway. The silo was roofless and my lucky shot landed right inside. I crawled in the silo to shoot it out a 3 foot by 2 foot hole. This opening drive provides perfect imagery for my golfing career. As my mom still declares, I have a beautiful swing, but as I like to point out everything else came with great effort.

What I love about golf. I LOVE walking the course. I am not the golfer that rents a cart. I so enjoy golfing in the early morning when the grass is wet and dewed up. I never had a golf glove or golfing shoes. Not because I didn't want them, rather I felt one needed to be to a certain level to wear that kind of attire. I never arrived there. I golfed 2 times this past summer with Ted. We had a blast, but it wasn't pretty. In fact, one hole I was so frustrated I put myself on a time out for the next hole. After that I decided to not count the strokes, whiffs, penalties and so on. I am thankful to my high school gold coach Mr. Gadd. I tell you that man had patients like a Saint! I am thankful to know a game that I can enjoy today and in my future blue hair days as well. One last memory, I once got hit by my own golf ball in a tournament. The ball left indents in my forehead. I had forgotten to yell fore.

My whirligig is on the HUTCH blog!

I am so excited!!! Here is where I took the whirligig workshop. My self proclaimed master piece is pictured on the lower left. It makes me SMILE! 3 cheers for HUTCH!

http://hutchstudio.blogspot.com/2010/10/latest-whirlygig-workshop.html

Pet Peeve

Robin, "Oh, what an adorable daughter you have. How old is she?" Unnamed mother, "Oh thanks, Sally is 38 1/2 months old. I can't believe how big she's getting!"

Please pause while I scream and rip my hair out.

Baldless Robin, "That's a fun age. Have a good day." In my head, "Ahhhhhhhhhhh... You mean just over 3!?! Yes, your baby is getting big and so the need to express her age in months is no more."

Why do parents feel the need to communicate their child's age in months? I really don't understand and it does annoy me. Picture this, "Hey Robin how old are you?" and I respond "I'm 422 months." Doesn't that make you want to vomit?

So, how old is too old in my mind and my world? Well, I think if they are UNDER 1 year, month it out. Savor it up saying 11 months because then you should be done. I know this might seem harsh, but that's my thought.

When my kids were let's say 17 months old, I just rounded it to a year and half when answering people. When they were 2 months from being 3 I just said he'll be 3 in a couple months. What is hilarious to me is so many people don't like this. I often had people convert their ages to months for me. For example, someone would ask me how old Lydia was and I would say a year a half. They would respond with, "Oh, she's tall for 18 months." To which I would reply, "Well aren't you the mathematican now?" Just kiddding, I never said that. I just smiled and nodded. I also yanked out some hair and sighed internally.

10 Years

Ted and I celebrated 1o years of marriage in September. We had a beautiful day together. He arranged for childcare and we spent the afternoon at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, kidless. Following the zoo, we went shopping and to dinner at Stanley and Seaforts in Tacoma. Yum-O! I highly recommend the lobster bisque, it's excellent. Why the zoo? The night Ted proposed he brought me to dinner at Stanley's and then to Zoo lights. He was recreating and the intentionality of his plans touched me deeply.

Ted and I met in college and began dating our sophomore year in. We dated 5 years before tying the knot. As we reflect back on the last 10 years of marriage, we are overwhelmed by the goodness of God. Marriage isn't always easy, and ours has been no exception. BUT, God has been faithful to restore us again and again. We have 3 amazing kids together and they are our delight. We both tear up when we talk about them and adore living life as a family of 5. I am so in love with this man. I am so passionate about growing old with him.

Anniversary day was filled with surprises, probably my favorite being some diamonds at home around my neck. I LOVE diamonds. I do. I'm not always the most girly girl, but do melt like butter from those rocks. Beautiful, just beautiful. I can't wait to see what is unveiled in the next 10 years.

artist within

There's an artist hiding within me and I've always known it. In kindergarten a picture of a bunny was sent to the state fair by my teacher, and it won a ribbon. I remember seeing it behind a glass case at school and being sad that the eyes weren't the same size. Oh, did I mention this artist within has a perfectionist nature that's out? In 4th grade a scratch painting of a bug went to state fair, again sent not by me but by my teacher. I won another ribbon and a few dollars this time. The same scenario went down in 5th grade for a collage fish. I won 2 other art competitions in elementary school. 1 through Red Owl where my Grandpa worked and the second from NW Bell where my mom worked. That one landed my in a safety calendar. Don't leave toys at the bottom of stairs! Someone could fall and get hurt. Wisdom beyond my years, I know.

Well, I'm not sure what happened in Jr. High and High school. I never pursued drawing or painting. I did take lots of pottery, which I still love. I took 1 art class in college for my El. Ed. degree and it was torturous. I was nervous and convinced incapable of producing anything that even remotely resembled art. Where did this hesitancy come from?

Today, I just LOVE the process of creating. It lights me up and gets me excited unlike anything else. I like to explore all sorts of mediums so am really a master of none of them, YET. :)

This past spring/summer, I did some contract writing for a Nature Center out of San Diego, CA. Most of the money went to pay off important things which will only digress if gone into detail, but a portion I reserved for an art class. The class was in La Conner, WA at a wonderful studio called HUTCH studio. There, I took a whirligig class. Pictured is my first whirligig. I loved the process and the outcome. It is quirky and blows beautifully in the wind. It graces my fence post and I can't wait to make more! I will note this was really my first experience with a drill. I was a virgin driller. It wasn't always pretty and I learned how to patch metal. Patching metal also is not pretty.

As I've gotten older, I'm more cautious and self conscious to go for it in art and life sometimes. I think back to cliff jumping in Duluth, MN and shiver wondering how and why I ever did that. Yet, there's a part of me that desperately wants to go for life like that again. The truth is life can be so routine sometimes and that can be well... boring. I desperately desire to return a sense of adventure to this 35 year olds grind. So, I am going to make a plan to do that. Not sure what that means, but I KNOW this will be the winter to try some snowboarding. :) Anyone want to join me?

Will's Perspective

We went camping at Fort Stevens in OR a couple weeks ago. I brought Will to the bathroom and he said, "I don't want to use the girl's bathroom mom." I said, "No worries bud we'll use this one for girls and boys." He replied, "and 4-wheelers mom".

Moving to WA 12 years ago

Let me begin by saying I know now that I didn't have a clue. And yes, as you read this I am a college graduate.


Why WA? Well, Ted (My college boyfriend) and I looked at an atlas one day and started crossing off the states we would or wouldn't want to live in. I hope to find that atlas someday with its big X on California and the entire east coast. Well, WA seemed perfect because it had mountains which Ted loved and the ocean which I love. So, WA it was. Just like that. No home or jobs lined up, but with college degrees in hand, the world was ours! Excuse me while I laugh some more....


I wanted to move because I was sick of winter and the adventure too good to pass up. I can tell funny stories about being late to class because I was warming up my car for 45 min. and digging it out of snow. Then when I went up the road it was too icy so I had to slide backwards for blocks and blocks and then try an alternate route. This was not a one time occurrence, this was winter in Duluth, MN . Duluth has spectacular beauty, unmatched and untouched in many ways, but harsh winters. I was ready for a more mild climate. With no job and student loans to start paying, I figured I could start out anywhere. Why not WA?


I moved to WA in Sept. of 1998. My college friend Stephanie made the drive with me and then she flew back to MN. I recall driving out and reaching Eastern WA. I was shocked. I had been to the Seattle area 4 months prior, my first time ever to WA, and everything was so green. I really did wonder what in the world happened and was I really going to live in this dessert like environment. A few hours later, we crossed the mts. and there was the WA I was looking for.


I found an apartment in Port Orchard, WA. I had seen an add online. First months rent was 1/2 off and I was to get a new color television. It sounded perfect so I signed up.

Before Stephanie left, we visited the ocean beaches. Ted, Stephanie and myself greeted the ocean with swimsuits and beach towels. We were prepared for a nice ocean swim. The waves and temperature were a complete surprise to us. The ocean isn't warm here? Who knew?!?!

12 years later and this has become home. I am always amazed by the beauty of this awesome state. There is a never ending list of places to hike and see for the first time, and I love that. WA to my kids is home. They were born here and it's all they know. Deep in my heart, I am a prairie girl from the great state of North Dakota, but have had grand adventures becoming an evergreen state woman.

13 hens

We are chicken sitting 9 hens!

9 + 4 = 13 hens which equals FRESH EGGS GALORE!

If you read my blog you may be wondering who in the world would let us chicken sit? Well, we didn't have to submit a resume, but know we did disclose our parental mishaps in chicken care. We are on the straight and narrow when it comes to cooping up at night and so chicken vanishings are no more.

On a recent camping trip we needed to collect and lock up all 13 before we left. As I had predicted, this is an Olympic event. It took all 5 Bailey's 1 full hour, some tears and a lot of sweat to accomplish the task. Although we eventually did get them all penned up, we declared the chickens victorious. It was fun to see the personalities of each family member during the hour. Fun? Well, fun looking back. Natalie was motivated and then would cry thinking surely we'd never catch them, leave for camping and they'd get eaten. I was queen of frustration. You know those grunting weight lifter men at the gym? That was me! Ted was our hopeful optimist and Will and Lydia gave up and went in the van waiting and watching us do the impossible. Once the 13th was finally in, it was high 5's all around! We all agreed next time we leave before dark, the chickens will just stay in for the day. (They pen themselves at night, usually around 8.)

toilet seat covers

When I first moved to WA in September of 1998 I don't know that I had ever even seen toilet seat covers before, but they were everywhere here. The trend had not yet moved east maybe. My friend Stephanie and I road tripped from Fargo, ND to WA. I had no place to live, but not a worry about it. No job, but that too was not a concern. It was a grand adventure.

I recall using a bathroom at an ocean beach gas station. It was in the back which was quite frightful. Steph and I were glad to be together. The bathroom was ferocious. The door warped so it didn't close and standing water made home on the floor. We treaded slowly in our flip flops hoping the wet wouldn't touch our toes. Just the thought gave us the shivers. As we reviewed our self defense skills, sure we might make the news, we noticed the sink was coming off the wall and neighboring walls had holes and stains on them. It was the worst public restroom I have ever been in. And low and behold, no toilet paper. BUT, there were toilet seat covers in a dispenser overhead. We laughed so hard we nearly wet our pants. 12 years later, I have grown accustomed to those covers. On a recent camping trip I even missed them.

9 new visitors

We have 9 hens that joined our brood on Sunday. We will be watching these 9 hens while some friends build their new home. They are beautiful. Truly. The hen owners built an addition to our coop so there is room for all the hens to stretch their wings. Introductions left only a few feathers plucked. Crossing my beak they accept one another.

Potato Farmer

I am a potato farmer this year and I am ok with that.

It seems this year that is the only successful plant story being written in my garden. The snap peas were not properly managed. It seems I forgot their climbing ladder. The spinach was harvested by poultry at sprouting. (Twice!!) The tomatoes would need sun until Christmas to yield any fruit and the cabbage is well, dying.

Back to the potatoes. I planted 2 types. One purple and the second a brown fingerling. You may recall the chickens were continually digging these back up and I replanting them yet they've persevered and are thriving. If you've never planted and grown potatoes, I think it's a must for everyone at some point and know that you are never too old to experience it. This is my first summer planting them, but I have great memories of my grandpa digging them up in the fall with his pitch fork. I remember being shocked that the potatoes were hidden just below the surface. It's fun to make garden discoveries and I can't wait to share this one with my kids.

library fines

My local library adopted a library fine system several months ago and I am a strong contributor.

When my kids were younger, "we" frequently damaged books and paid to replace them. I was/am against the whole taping it up and pretending it didn't happen bit. Just a personal conviction for me. Anyway, I remember one occasion complaining to a friend about this taped up, simple, poorly written picture book that I now owned for like $28.00. She smiled and said, so what it's $28.00 bucks, at least you use your library. This completely changed my lenses and I am thankful for her insight into a situation I was sulky over.

Yesterday, I paid my most recent late fees and they totaled $35.10. I wasn't doing cartwheels over writing that check, but I also wasn't complaining. The library system has consequences for late returns and I obviously have discipline issues in regards to those guidelines. :) The financial support I give the library, by way of fines or damaged books, is a picture of my families use of our local library. I LOVE reading to my kids and am grateful to have access to great books. So, Timberland Regional Library System, I shall continue to strive to return books and CD's on time. Until then, I hope this fine system keeps your doors open a long time.

1/2 way to 70

My birthday...

Well, honestly now I had the blues a bit this year. 35 seems mature and it was difficult to not focus on those dreams and things not yet done. Ted, the kids and my amazing family and friends did a dynamite job of loving on me. From gifts to phone calls they sure poured joy my way. Thank you my sweet circle of homo sapiens. :) You are the ribbons on the gift of life.

My van DID get detailed, a couple days early actually, and it WAS bliss! Thank you Ted for blessing me in the expected and unexpected ways that day. Thanks for digging the smile out of me when I was feeling blue. You are an amazing husband and I am blessed to journey this life with you.

big news in a lil package

On Monday we were delighted, all be it shocked, to discover our first egg! It is tiny and so precious. The kids and I broke into celebration. Good thing we don't have close neighbors, they may have thought we'd lost it! It was a great day. With the recent stress the hens had experienced I really didn't think we'd get eggs until the faint sound of silver bells could be heard. Completely unexpected, the discovery was made. Tueday we had a second egg. This egg was long and cone shaped and I had to wonder if it was painful to lay. The first eggs are often humorous in size and shape. The hens body is getting used to passing an egg, or at least that's my theory. :) Although I've been blessed with 3 babies, I can't imagine birthing one every day. I'm thankful to be a human.

Who laid the egg? We beleive it was Chicka Chicka Boom Boom (Lydia's hen) because the color is a perfect match to the eggs Harriet used to lay. The hen boxes are checked thoroughly throughout the day now. Future egg reports to come.

feathers missing

Well, in less than a week our brood of hens has gone from 8 to 4. There are feathers missing....

On July 3rd we headed to a fireworks display and the chickens weren't cooped up yet as it gets dark so late these wonderful summer days. (They coop themselves when it gets dark. Catching all 8 is an Olympic Event we have yet to qualify for, although we have attempted several trials.) When we arrived home, around 11:00, we locked up the coop and headed to bed, unaware that Orangie was missing. In the morning, we noticed our white feathered Orangie was not in the bunch. We searched, but not a trace was found. Will took the news well. "Mom, my chicken's gone. I bet a coyote got her."

Thursday morning, 3 more hens were missing. Tulip, my sweet hen mama Natalie's bird, Lilac and Daisy. I woke early that morning and headed to the store about 6 am. When I went outside I saw 3 hens on the back patio and 1 was hiding in the aquarium the kids use for snake catching. I knew instantly something wasn't right. They seemed shaken and on edge. I looked around the yard, not finding any other hens and I knew something had happened.

As I drove down our driveway, I started seeing clumps of Lilac's feathers. Then, a trail leading down the drive and across the road. Guilt set in... The night before was Ted's birthday and by late evening we were exhausted. I asked Ted if he had locked up the coop and he said I'm pretty sure I did. Know this unfortunate incident was not Ted's fault. When I asked him, I instantly had a check in my spirit to go check the door, but I chose to ignore it because I was tired and thought it would be fine.

I read a question in a devo the next morning that said: "Pain is a natural consequence of poor decisions. Think of an example from your life. Who suffered pain because of a poor decision you made?"

I caused not only myself pain from a poor decision made on Wednesday night, but my entire family and especially Natalie. Thursday morning was difficult. Ted and I shared the news with the kids. Will and Lydia weren't emotionally saddened rather matter of fact about the news. Natalie, however, broke into tears and was absolutely crushed. Questions of how and why streamed as she struggled to wrap her mind and heart around the loss. Her heart ached as she listened to what happened, comprehending that it was parental error versus a natural means. Ted and I told her how sorry we were that we hadn't done our part. We asked for her forgiveness which she immediately and willingly gave. (Children are so like Jesus when it comes to forgiveness.)

We searched outside and found the fourth hen on the front porch, alive and well. Natalie spent her morning studying the lumps of feathers and deducing the way it may have all gone down. We found raccoon scat on the sidewalk leading to the front porch and believe coons were the predator. We miss the 4. Although they were just chickens, there is a loss felt and a sadness for how it happened. Sadly, Lilly has lost her buddy and Dahlia hers. (Buddy meaning the chick they grew with and looked like.) Harriet, amazingly, is 1 of the 4 remaining. She has survived 2 sets of disappearances now. The stories she could tell. With the recent stressful events, I am certain we may not have eggs until Christmas.

As Ted and I reflected yesterday, we realized we both actually heard it all happen. In our deep sleep, we assumed it a dream. It occurred around dawn, before the sunrise. We don't know if the raccoon that took Lilac also took the other 2 or a bird of prey, but we do know that we've asked forgiveness from God and our kids for not caring for whats been given to us. We are all recommitted to being better hen owners. This means the door will be closed each night, exhausted parents or not.

a thankful heart

In January, Ted and I went on a mission trip to Cambodia. When we heard that Living Water would be sending a team in January of 2011 Ted instantly wanted to go. We prayed and his heart was to help lead a team. A few days later, our Pastor asked Ted to help lead one of the teams. We are very thankful for direct confirmation!

With the decision made, its time to walk out our faith believing that we can raise the $2500 needed to get Ted to Cambodia. One theme on both our hearts has been the issue of work. God has blessed Ted with strength and physical stamina to do manual labor. He loves it! As an engineer at a desk and computer, he welcomes opportunity to use his muscles and get dirty. Yesterday, he had the privilege of helping on a demo job and was blessed with $300. He's working 10 hour days the 4 days this week to get his regular engineering hours in and putting the demo money towards Cambodia. I am so proud of you babe!

Then, tonight at church he was given an envelope with $200 in it. We don't know who gave it, but we are grateful and humbled by this generous gift. I can't wait to see how God provides the remaining $2,000 and then to see how He will use Ted in Cambodia. I know He is faithful to keep His promises and complete a good work and I know my husbands heart to go serve the Cambodian people. Thank you anonymous giver and thank you Lord!

I promise to write on Cambodia soon. It changed my life in many ways. I haven't known where to begin, but I will just choose a starting point and put pencil to paper or fingers to the keypad. :)

birthday wishes

My birthday is only 17 days away! Ahhhhhh I'm a wee bit excited, can you tell? I love my birthday.

I told Ted several weeks ago that my ultimate gift would be him having my van professionally detailed. He looked at me with a skeptical expression, thinking I was tricking him. He replied, "That's a blender gift". (Father of the Bride analogy) I assured him it wasn't to me. So, that is truly what I would love more than anything this year and it seems as if I'm going to get it. If you had told me at 16, or even 26 that on my 35th B-day all I'd want was my mini van detailed, I would've cried myself to sleep. First for the thought of wanting such a gift and second at the realization that in my 30's I'd be driving a mini van. However, at this mature age of 34, at the brink of 35, it is honestly what I want. How life experience opens the eyes to new perspective.

So, back to my van being detailed.... In my mind it will be nothing short of a miracle to get my van looking new again. I'm thinking Ted may have to pay some extra surcharge for its condition. In the same way that a man pedicure costs $5 extra. There will be an 'oh, you have 3 young children who eat in this van and miss their mouths frequently' fee. For those of you that have seen inside with your own eyes, you know what I'm talkin about!

The question beckoning a response.... Will the Bailey's ever eat in the van again? Yes!! Of course we will. However, we will wait the self mandated 2 weekish period in which only water will be allowed.

Ah... thoughts of a clean van. Birthday bliss I tell you. Pure bliss.

5 random things i love

writing with a freshly sharpened pencil

the feeling of my bare feet on a plush rug

the smell of rain and freshly mowed grass

lilacs

laughing until my cheeks hurt

Hootenanny Pancakes

At the Bailey house, this is a family favorite. It is quite beautiful when baked and elicits a gasp from guests followed by curious questions of what it is? Very fun.

Bon appetit!

1/2 cup butter

6 fresh eggs

1 cup milk

1 cup flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

Begin by melting the butter in a 9 by 13 inch glass pan in a 425 degree oven.

Then, beat eggs and milk together, slowly adding the flour and salt. Do not overbeat. Pour into the glass pan.

Bake for 25 - 30 minutes. Lightly dust with confectioner's sugar. Serve with maple syrup, jam or fruit.

Serves 6

oatmeal

We enter week 4 of oatmeal for breakfast and I am happy to report there are no signs of a revolution.

William has always enjoyed oatmeal, his sisters (like their mama) have never cared for such mushy healthiness. With the cost and sugar content of so called healthy dry cereals, I decided that change was necessary. Frankly, I wasn't sure the switch would work but I pumped myself up and decided this would be breakfast, period. From the first day, the girls ate it. They had uncertain expressions gracing their faces, but they ate it and it stayed down. By day 3, all kids were proclaiming their love of oatmeal. It's been that easy.

Here's the ways we eat it.... Oatmeal with frozen blueberries mixed in, oatmeal with cinnamon and apple sauce and oatmeal with a dollop of maple syrup. I really underestimated my kids and am blessed by a seamless transition to a breakfast that sticks (literally!), is healthy, affordable and easy to make.

Hats off to oatmeal!

on the line

Today is a beautiful day in Olympia. The sun is shining and one can't help but smile.

I have hung the laundry and am happy to report this is already our 3rd load of the season. My goal is 100 by fall's end. Is there anything as delicious as the smell of line dried sheets? It reminds me of my Grandma Lorraine and thoughts of her always warm my heart.

Line dried clothes are also a very green way to go and I'm pro-green. Mmmm.... thankful for simple pleasures found in ordinary things.

only 6 1/2......

So, the neighbor boy asked Natalie who she would rather marry. Him or his cousin, both of which were over playing. Natalie replied, "Your both my friends. God is going to decide who I'm going to marry when I'm a grown up."

Can I get a Hallelujah chorus?!?! That's my girl!

Anticipation

I am giddy inside as my imagination plays house almost daily now. We have been renting for a year, on 43 acres. It has been a wonderful experience and one I thank God for often. We really love having land as it has brought great adventure to our kids lives and chickens to our coop. I recall when we first moved in the kids weren't sure what to do with themselves and thankfully that is no longer an issue! We don't know what's next. So, we wait. We wait for God's direction and in the waiting my anticipation is growing. Will we live in town or in the country? Will we live on land or next to a park? Will our home be a newer one or old home with character? What color will I paint the walls? And it goes on and on.... I know the stirring of my heart for a home is from God and I am thankful He has graced me with patience and joy in the waiting. I don't know how long this wait season will be, but it's ok because He does.

success!

The kids and I ventured to a sampling of garage sales this morning. I'm not often a buyer, but always a lookey lou. Today, however, I found something different that I wanted to purchase. It is a knitting container, which appears to be hand made. The top has a hole for yarn to exit and the body is blanketed in a fun fabric. Inside, lies a knitting magazine from 1959 and the beginnings of what looks to me to be a black sweater. Although I have an untrained eye as having only been the maker of 2 hats in my lifetime and a few scarves. Oh yes, and there was a wash cloth or 2..... These things count to a novice knitter.

Anyway, the find is delightful to me. I wonder what stories lie within this canister. Who started this sweater? Who was it being made for? For now, it sits on my buffet table, giving away a smile. This winter when I pick up the wooden needles again, maybe I will use it to house my own unfinished masterpiece.

My Best Friend

8 chickens and no eggs....

Our 7 littlest ladies are 1 - 2 months from laying eggs of their own and "senior" hen Harriet has mysteriously discontinued laying eggs. I believe she's willed herself to stop laying. We have made havoc of her hen house. Her 2 story, 2 nest box and roomy yard "condo" got 8 times more crowded. I think she's withholding eggs in exchange for more real estate. What else could the reason be? Maybe like Farmer Brown, I will get a note on my door. (If you don't know what I am talking about, you must read Click Clack Moo Cows That Type - it's a picture book, of cousre.)