...notes and observations from the farm

A little dust in the air!

2011-04-09T11:47:00.000-07:00

April 8

And so it begins!...It's nearly 5 weeks later than usual, but Dennis and Jon got some tractor time in today. Round Up application on the dryest field they could find marked the official start of spring work. Hopefully Mother Nature will get the memo and cooperate!

A Delayed April Fools?

2011-04-07T08:18:00.000-07:00

We awoke to a (forecasted) skiff of snow this morning. I love living in the Palouse beacuase we (usually!) get to experience and appreciate each of the four seasons, but winter seems to be hogging things this year!

My daffodils just worked up the courage to bloom in this cold weather, now they're regretting it, I'm sure!

My cold, cold bleeding heart!

The BBQ could now double as a cooler!

Ready to roll if the weather would cooperate!

It's not uncommon to be annoyed er--- awoken by a spray plane this time of year. What IS uncommon, are the snow-covered hills he's flying over! We are about a month behind on fieldwork, they haven't been able to get out there at all so when they can, it will be a 24/7 operation. Unfortunately, this recent storm is actually the calm before the storm!

Brothers

2011-04-06T21:01:00.000-07:00

At the end of a fun afternoon with friends, I thought I would blog about the laughs and the shopping at Hurd's~ we found some wonderful things, left with wish lists a mile long, and even found some inspration for projects we'd like to try ourselves. But, as I sat down with my laptop and looked across the room, I saw something that trumped it all...

Tyler is on the couch, sporting his usual evening attire of a t-shirt that he has cut the sleeves off of and a large pair of basketball shorts. His hair is still wet from the shower and he's periodically texting someone. Snuggled up beside him, under his arm, is his littlest brother. He's lovingly patting Kacy's arm and whispering to him about someting and Kacy is loving the attention. It's these moments that I cherish most. Having Kacy as a little brother isn't easy and the boys have each gone through different stages of accepting the reality, however, they have always loved him unconditionally. It makes me realize that being a brother is even better than being a superhero.

NaBloPoMo Prompt: What are you waiting for right now?

2011-04-05T10:40:00.000-07:00

There are a million ways I could answer this.... but I JUST ordered the cutest camera bag I've ever seen and so I will go with "Today, I'm waiting for my camera bag!"

Since getting my camera a couple of years ago, I've been searching for the "perfect bag". I've been keeping my eyes peeled for one that meets some very specific criteria:

It has to hold the camera, a lens or two, and my flash.
It has to be a cross-body bag or at least have that be an option.
It has to be able to hold more than just my camera and supplies-- at least my wallet, sunglasses, Blistex, and a small container of Tylenol.
It has to be cute!

This morning, while perusing some photography blogs, I accidentally stumbled across several bags that would fit the bill. Since the boys and I are heading to DC in June, I figured I may as well bite the bullet and go for it. So the winner is....

THE LOLA BAG BY EPIPHANIE!

Check this bag out-- how perfect is it?! I'm so excited! Can't wait for it to come! And yes, I got it in RED!

School Supply Shopping!

2011-04-04T17:47:00.000-07:00

I am a sucker for school and office supplies! It's probably part of the reason I became a teacher! Things have come a long way since the PeeChee, retractable 4-color ballpoint pens, and the Trapper Keeper! The rainbow of colors and patterns that tempt me seem to change every time I stop at Office Depot, Staples, or the office supply section of Wal-Mart! Today, I hit the motherload! I had a discount coupon to use and other than some gel pens for correcting papers, there wasn't much on my list! However, I wasn't very far beyond the automatic doors when I saw the dollar bins overflowing with pens, pencils, white-out tape, file folders, etc., etc.! I quickly grabbed a carry basket and limited myself to what I could fit in it. This late in the school year, I will likely not break the seal on most of these items, but I will be prepared for next year! Yes... it's an addiction. But there are worse things to be addicted to, right?!

A Rake, A Steak & A Cake

2011-04-03T21:32:00.000-07:00

Today was delightful! The sun was shining and everyone was healthy and happily enjoying day 2 of Spring Vacation! We started the day at church and enjoyed Pastor's sermon. Dennis, Brett & Uncle Jon made a trip to Central Ferry with some equipment we've sold and they brought back a load of fertilizer. If it ever dries out, they can use it! ha! (actually... that's not so funny!) Dennis and I ran to Pullman to buy new patio chairs for the BIG table he's making me (yay!) and I drove his new pick-up for the first time! Haven't driven a stick shift in about 10 years-- but I did fine! (Whew!)

The weather warmed up a bit this afternoon and allowed us to work in the yard for a couple of hours. I cheerfully announced to the boys, "Get dressed! It's family-yard-clean-up!" They didn't exactly jump for joy like they did when they were toddlers- but they realize now, that many hands make light work, and they participated willingly! Twigs, leaves and pinecones were raked up and hauled off to the burn pile. Their reward was our first BBQ steak of the spring and, mmm.... it was delicious! Angel food cake, fresh strawberries & whipped cream finished off the evening! It was the kind of afternoon that made us all long for summer~ and all it took was a rake, a steak, and a cake!

Eggstra Eggs!

2011-04-02T22:19:00.000-07:00

I made a trip to Costco today. The cupboards were so bare that the kids were eating cans of olives! My list was long because in addition to "the usuals," I was also picking up quite a few "extras." The boys are home this week, thanks to Spring Vacation, and that means there will be constant grazing between meals for the next 8 days. I love growing boys-- but they sure do eat A LOT! Anyway.... I was in the dairy section at Costco, debating over whether to pick up one or two cartons of 18-count eggs. I am planning on doing a lot of baking this week, hard-boiled eggs are a great high-protein, diet-friendly snack for myself and the boys, too, and if all goes according to plan- I will be serving up a hot breakfast each morning since we aren't rushing out the door to school. The decision consumed a good five minutes of my shopping experience, until I finally realized there was barely room in my cart to keep one carton safe, let alone two! It was a good decision because when I got home, Dennis greeted me at the door saying, "I hope you didn't buy eggs?" I assumed that he had found an extra carton or two in the garage fridge~ it's not uncommon for me to forget about the items I stash out there and this wouldn't be the first time I added an item to an abundant supply. But that's not what he was referring to. He'd been watching the hen house closely this week, and today, he was surprised to find the treasure of 21 eggs! We now have 39 eggs in our refrigerator with more on the way, of course! Looks like I'll be searching for "egg recipes" and in the meantime, baking angel food cakes, making omelets, scrambled eggs, poached eggs, creamed eggs....

WHAT ARE YOU READY TO LET GO OF?

2011-04-01T17:31:00.001-07:00

This is an easy prompt to answer and to start this blogging project.... THESE LAST 25 POUNDS!!! Yes-- I have a 20 year reunion and a trip to DC in June and I want to be 25 pounds lighter by that time! Over a year ago, I started dieting. I lost 40 but have gained back 10 and take complete ownership of those 10 pounds! I have thrown all self-discipline out the window, been in "survival mode" and am finally at the point I can get serious again! I'll do it, too-- just wait! :)

Welcome to NaBloPoMo!

2011-03-31T22:24:00.000-07:00

I'm failing miserably at meeting my resolution to blog on a weekly basis. SO... after following a friend who joined "NaBloPoMo" and posted everyday for an entire month (!!), I thought, "Ok... I should really give this a try!" So here I am. Oh- and by the way, "NaBloPoMo" stands for National Blog Posting Month... which really isn't a particular month~ it's every month! The best part is, they give me a PROMPT! And the prompt for April first is....

2011-01-20T16:48:00.000-08:00

Peace. It does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble, or hard work. It means to be in the midst of those things and still be calm in your heart.

... the view from my living room this evening. beautiful.

What to do when my best isn't good enough?

2011-01-18T23:34:00.001-08:00

As I've said... I just write what is on my mind. Tonight, my mind is tired. My heart is heavy. I feel overwhelmed. I'm writing to try and figure out for myself what to do when my best just isn't good enough?

This school year has kicked me in the rear. Honestly, I am not qualified to be teaching reading to 6,7 & 8 graders-- and I apoloigze to any parents of my students who may stumble across this. But it isn't a secret- my teaching qualifications are public knowledge. My certificates read: K-8 general education, K-12 special education, MA of curriculum and instruction, and "professional teacher." There is no reading endorsement anywhere. Thanks to the "highly qualified teacher" requirement put into place by our state government, however, I am considered "highly qualified" because I've taught this subject matter for enough years. Nevermind I have only taught 6th grade language arts for 5 years and nevermind the fact the 6th grade, 11 year old brain is much less developed than the 8th grade, 14 year old brain. (Ugh!) Therefore, I am engaged in a constant struggle to stay a half a step ahead of my seventh and eighth graders. I'm staying up past midnight and dragging myself out of bed at 4:45 and still getting to school late. I'm planning parts of my day on my drive to work each morning. When I focus on planning and preparing lessons, my weekly 150-300 papers get set aside. When I concentrate on grading those papers, my lesson planning and prep gets set aside. I have parents calling my principal complaining that I don't post enough grades and I need to post more frequently. Sad thing is, I get it. It's true. I should be grading more and posting more frequently. It's just that I'm doing the best I can and it's obvioulsy not enough. Honestly, I'm completely tapped out and we haven't even reached semester yet. I cannot imagine continuing this pace for 5 more months. And, on top of all this, I am lacking motivation, focus and inspiration. I'm just tired. So... I'm going to fess up to my principal tomorrow. I hate admitting weakness, but more so, I hate performing poorly-- so I think it's time. I don't know what I expect him to say- I'm not looking for a pep talk and I certainly don't have a "plan" for him to consider. I have no expectation other than sitting down and letting him know how I'm feeling, promising to continue to work hard, then leaving his office with my tail between my legs.

Tonight, I have an 8 year old who is sick but will love spending tomorrow with his grandma while I go to work and leave my heart at home with him. An 8 year old who needs more from me than I am able to give him-- I should be taking him swimming, taking him to additional therapy appointments. -Putting his needs before my job. I have an 11 year old who, I truly believe, suffers from bouts of depression. As much as I try not to have it be the case... he seems to feel like the "forgotten child"-- nestled between the big, strong, athletic first-born and the heart-stealing, attention demanding, disbled youngest brother. He even takes a back seat to his only girl cousin on the Kincaid side and be held in constant comparison to her older brother- who seems to always have the cards fall his direction. If I had a dollar for every tear he's shed over a bruised spirit... And my 12 year old, who is only 48 hours away from becomig a teenager, told me tonight he doesn't want to celebrate his 13th birthday with friends because he doesn't feel like he has any right now. He feels alienated. He feels alone. He is being treated poorly by those he once considered his best friends and he even wants to quit basketball. There's nothing I can say that is making his heart hurt less. My husband went to bed without me, again, because I had 65 worksheets with comprehension questions requiring "claim support" to correct and grade by tomorrow. Until these last few months, we would always turn in together and fall asleep to the 11 o'clock news. It's amazing how much just a few minutes at the end of a busy day can keep us remembering why we got married in the first place. It's a ritual we both miss, and the absense of it is taking a toll.

So, if you're still reading, know that I didn't post this hoping to recieve a bunch of inspirational, pat-on-the back comments or emails. I didn't post this to whine and complain. ...At least I don't think of "venting" as whining and complaining, necessarily. I mean, you're reading this by choice-- I'm not holding you captive on the phone or in the cereal aisle of the grocery store. This post was just for me to try and figure out what to do now. I can't say that it's instantly helped me to write it out, but it has calmed me down enough I may be able to sleep tonight. I know I need to pray, and I have been. I know I'm not alone in this. I know I should be thankful that my neice didn't just turn up dead in her dorm room or my husband die in an avalanche. I know all that. It's just that knowing it isn't helping me feel any more excited or prepared to face the 130+ students that will be coming through my classroom door tomorrow. I used to love my job. I want that back. Not too long ago, my "best" was good enough for me, for my students and their parents, for my children, and for my husband. But it's not anymore. Ugh. -So what does that mean for me now??

Chores....

2011-01-03T22:49:00.000-08:00

I just love this kid and I love this picture. The boys love going with their dad. They aren't afraid of work or chores, and today, Brett got a lesson on defrosting the chicken water. One is suppose to be able to plug it in and not worry about the risk of freezing, but the darn thing doesn't seem to work. So... our below freezing temps have made this particular chore advance from a once-a-day activity to a twice-a-day activity. He doesn't seem to mind!

My Inner Control Freak

2010-12-28T18:04:00.000-08:00

Working outside the home full time has required that I "let some things go," so to speak. It is simply impossible to maintain the kind of organization and tidiness that my heart desires when our schedule often requires that we zip out the door by 7:15 in the morning and return, most evenings, some time after 7. Dinner, laundry, homework, some amount of quality family time, my own job requirements... all that must come before acting on my urge to straighten the shoes that have been deserted on the door mat- I've trained those boys, but not well enough that they bother to straighten their kicked-aside shoes! It really is an uncontrollable urge that I have, there's no other way to describe it. I'm not ashamed to admit it, and I have taken a great deal of teasing and endured several cruel pranks because of it. No matter. It's a desire for orderliness that I have attempted to manage with medication, but after gaining 10 pounds and hosting a 4th of July party for 30 people and spacing-out on purchasing the required paper products... I decided chemical regulation wasn't worth it! OCD? I don't know. Maybe to a degree. But I really think it just comes from a desire to control something. When so much of my life spins out in the dust while I watch from the window (figuratively speaking ...for the most part!), I get a sense of calmness when what IS within my control, is controlled! Does that make sense? Ugh. Anyway, teaching full time, managing a busy family, and being married to a man who continues to work harder and longer as the years pass us by, has made it physically impossible for me to maintain much order in this house. Delegating the towel folding means they aren't all going to be folded and stacked exactly the same way and, therefore, will likely fall on the head of the person who opens the linen closet , delegating the dishwasher emptying means my spatulas might end up in the basket by the cooktop rather than their specific cubby in the drawer, delegating household chores means there will still be crumbs on the floor and dust on half of the television screen. However, it also means our time is managed more efficiently so we have time for the more important things. And... everyone learns to respect the "household" (and may even think twice before throwing that *clean* sweatshirt that is on the bedroom floor into the laundry basket if they realize they'll just be sorting, washing, folding and putting it away later). My husband graciously treats me to a housekeeper who cleans, shines, and polishes her way through the house on a weekly basis- and for this, I am eternally grateful! Christmas Vacation, however, is one time when I give my Inner Control Freak 2 days to go crazy. Broken toys are tossed and clothing and other items distributed to thrift shops. 20 Hefty bags flung into the back of a truck and 3 trips to Palouse Industries later.... my Inner Control Freak is satisfied and I am basking in the glow of the labelled bins with the appropriate contents, organized closets, and baskets of freshly "Lysol-ed and batteried" toys! Some of the organization will last all year, some will last until morning... but for now, I am a happy woman! Tomorrow, I'm back to work to prepare for the start of school on Monday... back to delegating the chores and smiling when I find my kitchen shears in the desk drawer!

Summer shoes are in the basement, winter shoes have taken their place in the closet!

50 pair of hand-me-down Wranglers, labeled with sizes and stored away!

Welcome home, spatulas!

"Broken down" machinery has been hauled away and everything is back in its respective "shed!"

All is right again in with my spice rack... Mustard BEFORE Nutmeg, of course!

...weathering the storm

2010-11-16T23:07:00.000-08:00

We had record winds in our area last night, so today, I am thankful we still have shingles on the roof and that the last of my leaves blew to Albion! At 60+ mph, the winds, rain, and lightening created quite a racket! Amazingly, the boys all slept peacefully through the storm. I can't say the same for Dennis, the dogs, and me-- we woke to what sounded like marbles hitting our windows-- so it was a short night in our house. With the sunrise we learned we had come through ok-- the buried trampoline remained intact, no big limbs (or trees) fell in our yard, or more importantly on our house!, and we stayed warm and "illuminated" since our power only flickered a few times. Our only signs of major damage are 2 ruined grain bins-- one that was ripped off its foundation and went airborne, landing in the ditch along the highway, and another that was blown over but still attached to the foundation. Thankfully, no one was hurt as the result of that incident, and Dennis learned his pickup can pull a sideways grain bin down the road! So today, we are thankful for weathering another storm! ...And thankful that we are experiencing much quieter conditions tonight!

...Monday

2010-11-16T23:04:00.000-08:00

Today's note of Thanksgiving is simple for me... I'm thankful there are Mondays so I can best appreciate Fridays! It was "one of those days" for me, and I'm not complaining-- but appreciating the fact that today is over and Friday is just 4 sleeps away!

...clean closets and drawers

2010-11-14T22:52:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for the simple fact that Tyler and Brett's closets and drawers are, for the moment, organized! I swear we just went through everything before school started! How is it that in 3 months, they generated 2 bags of clothes that will now find new homes thanks to Palouse Industries Thrift Shop?! They are both growing out of things faster than they are wearing them out. So for today, I'm thankful that they're drawers are closing easily, their shirts are hanging according to color and sleeve-length (yes, I'm weird about that!), and all holey underwear and socks have left the premises!

...to be a CoUg!

2010-11-14T15:10:00.000-08:00

Fight, fight, fight for Washington State!!...

Well, they did it. It was the "upset" of the day and what fans (coaches and players,too, I'm sure) have been waiting all season for. The Cougs beat Oregon State 31-14! Guess that's what happens when you show up to play from the first hike of the ball! To quote a newspaper article I read this morning, "our guys were on the right side of a butt-kicking, no luck involved!"

Woo Hoo!! I'm thankful to be a COUG!

...frienship

2010-11-13T15:16:00.000-08:00

Today, I am thankful for my friendships that weather the many storms of life! A people pleas er, I shy away from conflict, I will assume responsibility for my actions, and I am uncomfortable with the thought of disappointing people. However, I have learned that conflict has its place, I shouldn't always shoulder the blame or responsibility as it's okay to hold others up to the same standards I hold myself, and no matter what I do- I will disappoint people along the way, that's just the way the cookie crumbles. What I have also learned, tho, is that as long as I am true to myself and honest with those around me, those who love me best will never stray. I've lost some close friends over the years, particularly these last few years, and I am not even entirely sure what I did "wrong." What I do know, however, is that sometimes I have to accept that there is nothing I can do to change a person's opinion. Sometimes, I can't even defend myself because sometimes, others don't want to hear what I have to say.

I have the best friends a girl could ask for. Friends that understand that I'm tired on Friday nights, that I don't like leaving my kids with babysitters very often, that I can't leave Kacy with just "anyone," that my husband works harder than most anyone I know- and trying to balance a marriage, family life, and faith doesn't leave much room for socializing, and that when I get the chance to finally stay home-- that's my preference and it's pretty hard to talk myself into anything else. My friends understand this. I figured this out a few years back-- I will be the best friend I can be while trying to maintain a balance. My friends have to be the kind that know that I adore them -- even if it's been weeks or even months since we had time together. Picking up where we left off, without awkwardness or feeling resentful, is top priority! So through all the challenges, what God has been doing is allowing me to sift through my acquaintances and find the gems that I call my best friends. Girls-- I love ya'! Thanks for being the diamonds in my sky!

...Veteran's Day

2010-11-11T16:26:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for those who are braver than I and protect our freedoms! God bless you, Veterans, past and present.

...CMA Award Show!

2010-11-11T16:19:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for the CMA Award Show on television tonight. I am thankful that we have the most comfortable couch we could find sitting in our living room. I am thankful that after losing nearly 50 pounds over the course of a year, my favorite sweats still fit if I cinch the tie up real good. I am thankful for a chance to relax, be comfortable and be entertained! Take me away, Brad & Carrie!

...blindside

2010-11-10T21:33:00.000-08:00

Well.... just yesterday I was posting how thankful I was for this week of parent-teacher conferences. I was anticipating opportunities to reach parents and discuss concerns, hopes, goals, and have a purposeful exchange that would leave the parents and myself feeling positive about the direction in which we are headed. These conferences can be stressful and tense because sometimes you are telling parents things they don't want to hear. But usually, in my brief 6 years of experience, even stressful conferences end with positive thoughts and plans for working together for the benefit and success of the student.

I had 20 conferences in 2 days. 19 of them were productive, positive, and left me feeling like I was going to be able to really help some students who are struggling not only academically, but personally as well. But there was one BLINDSIDE...

I knew it was going to be an assassination when the parents walked into my room and kicked out the wooden block that holds the door open. Things unfolded at such a rapid rate, it was all I could do just to maintain composure. Thirty minutes later, the couple left. They had double-teamed me with accusations of unfair grading practices, doubting my qualifications, questioning my assignment choices, accussing me of refusing to meet and discuss a missing assignment with their child, and excusing their students' poor work as a direct result of being bored in my class. They were asking questions that caught me completely off guard and as I tried to remain calm and compose an answer, they would lose patience and at one time even said they "don't have time for me to explain as they have a babysitter who was about to turn into a pumpkin" (yeah, being "cute" wasn't cute at this point...). I was proud of myself for not crying, not buckling, not making excuses or admitting to making mistakes that I really didn't believe were mistakes. I was rattled, definitely. But I think what hurt the most, was that this was a couple who has gone out of their way to be friendly in the past. They've been supportive and encouraging. They are christians who make their christianity very public. So while my feelings were really hurt by all that they said and did, I was just as upset by the fact that they let me down. These parents that seem to care so much about humanity and make public displays of charity-- an unexpected element of their character showed through and I was extremely disappointed. What makes people like this become bullies? What makes people like this think it's okay to treat others the way that they did? There were so many other ways their concerns could have been addressed. Why did they feel the need to blindside me?

So, in spite of having a good cry after they left my classroom, not sleeping very well that night, and waking up the next morning hearing their words of frustration, anger, and accusations play over and over and over in my head... there were several things that came to mind as blessings. I am thankful for a supportive principal who explained to these parents that he has absolutely no concerns about my teaching ability, grading practices, or any instructional decisions I make in the classroom. I am thankful he didn't believe their accusation of my refusal to meet with their student. I am thankful for my assistant principal that told me I don't have to take that kind of treatment from parents and literally gave me the words to say if I ever find myself in that kind of situation again. I am thankful for my co-workers that reminded me of the fact in 6 years and hundreds and hundreds of students, this is the only set of parents that has felt I'm doing a poor job (or expressed it, anyway!). I am thankful for Mark & Lori Brown who had to follow that conference. I'm thankful for Lori's hug, their understading, and for giving me a minute to dry my eyes and regain some composure. I am thankful for Brett and the fact that I had to pull myself together to get to his student-led conference- at which he did such a good job sharing his progress, goals, and explaining what he's doing in fifth grade. I am thankful for Dennis and the hug I received, the supportive words he gave me, and the date he's taking me on Saturday night. I am thankful for my mother and the prayers she said for me after Dennis shared with her what had happened. I am thankful for my god who heals hearts that are hurting and egos that are bruised. Yes, thanks to the blindside, I have found new things for which to be thankful- things I didn't realize were there.

...conference week

2010-11-10T21:02:00.000-08:00

It's conference week!

I am thankful for the opporutnity to meet with so many of the parents that allow me the priviledge of teaching their children. This week provides insight, affords me so much understanding, and is an opportunity to connect with parents and learn more about my students. Frankly, you'd be amazed at how much we learn after a mere 20 minutes with the parents! In most cases, it really explains why kids are the way they are! This year, a big adjustment for me is having nearly 150 students walk through my door on a daily basis. As someone who tries to connect with each student each day, the increase in student numbers is challenging me! So I am thankful for the opportunities this conference week provides!

...the work we got done!

2010-11-07T13:32:00.000-08:00

We worked in the yard yesterday afternoon and well past sundown. As a matter of fact, the last hour and a half of leaf pick-up and mowing were done in the dark-- thank goodness John Deere had the sense to put working headlights on their lawn mowers! By 7:30, every leaf had been raked onto sheets, piled onto a trailer, hauled down the road and dumped into the burn pile. The grass had been trimmed to a neat 2.5 inches and we treated ourselves to New Garden! Upon waking this morning, we all groaned a bit as we noticed the scene that had "fallen" during the night. The rain and wind took a toll on the leaves that had been hanging onto those branches for dear life. Tyler even said, "Well, we finished in the dark-- maybe we really didn't get done what we thought we had!" Oh well... I can say I'm thankful we got done what we did when we did. It'll make next weekend's raking, mowing, and hauling less work, right?!

...a healthy family

2010-11-06T10:34:00.000-07:00

Saturday.... Ahh, what healing powers there are in a good night's sleep! Today, at this moment anyway, there are no hacking coughs, no runny noses, no barf, not even a headache, so I am thankful for a healthy family! The fireplace is on, Toy Story 3 is playing, and the sound of Brett & Kacy's laughter coming from the living room is music to my ears! Tyler is in the shop helping Dennis winterize equipment and prepare the combine for its annual overhaul next week. He loves days like this and he was up and going before Dennis had even crawled out of bed! ...I am enjoying this moment for reflection and letting the grading, laundry, and vaccuum rest for a bit. Thankful, so thankful, for healed bodies, spirits, and minds!

...my future sister-in-law

2010-11-06T10:29:00.000-07:00

Friday.... Today I am thankful for my future sister-in-law, Rina. She is beautiful inside and out! She brings so much to our family- and I continually learn from her and the down-to-earth perspective she brings to challenging situations. Love ya', Rina!

...the latte fairy

2010-11-06T10:22:00.000-07:00

Thursday... The latte fairy left me a surprise this morning! After a rocky start to the day and, I admit, getting to work a few minutes late- I was thrilled to find a latte waiting for me on my desk at school! Skinny vanilla-- my favorite! It provided me a few moments of bliss- which I will credit for getting me through my morning that was filled with dress code violators, potty-mouths, bullies, and late assignments. Thank you, Latte Fairy-- I owe ya'!

...the Methodist Turkey Dinner

2010-11-03T23:32:00.001-07:00

Well... I gobbled 'til I wobbled. The LaCrosse Methodist turkey dinner is an annual tradition that we all look forward to! Granny buys our tickets-- isn't that nice?! The only thing that would be better is if she felt up to joining us! We all but licked our plates clean-- Brett is feeling better so he enjoyed the gravy-drenched turkey and rolls (not a potato kid), Tyler ate his plate and most of Kacy's plate and cousin Ashtyn's turkey. Kacy discovered a fondess for pumpkin pie, Dennis was happy to have a real, home-cooked meal, and I didn't have to cook tonight! It was a fun evening with family and friends! So today I am thankful for the Methodist Church Turkey Dinner. Now excuse me... I believe the tryptophan is kicking in!

...my "real" job

2010-11-02T23:28:00.000-07:00

I had an unexpected day off today... an opportunity to do my "real" job, my favorite job-- that of a mother. Unfortunately, Brett has had the stomach flu, but fortunately, it gave us a day together- we watched "Shiloh" and some old "Veggie Tales" while snuggling on the couch (and occassionally running to the bathroom to be sick-- poor kid). But I AM THANKFUL FOR today, for the chance to "hold" my boy, take care of him, and forget about how much homework he was going to have and how much I have waiting for me after leaving students in the hands of a substitute teacher. Nope. Not going there right now. We will worry about that stuff tomorrow... right now, I'm going to lie down next to my boy and say a prayer that he has a restful night and wakes in the morning feeling better.

...early to bed

2010-11-02T00:11:00.000-07:00

Wow... here I am. Over a year later since I last posted. Blogger has changed their formatting manner since I last visited so in my attempts to "spruce up" the old blog, I've made a bit of an unsightly mess. I will save the adjusting for another night when the clock doesn't read "too long past my bedtime." Anyway... yes, I'm back. It's not that the events of the past year have been too mundane to record-- life has been filled with triumphs, dispair, frustrations, celebrations, and fortunately, only 1 hospital stay to fix, for a third time, Kacy's eyes. (Which seems to have worked, by the way! His eyes are working together better than they ever have! Yippee!) It's quite the opposite, really. This busy pace of life doesn't seem to be slowing, so I am making myself a promise. Each day this month, I will post a note of Thanksgiving- taking pause to reflect and refocus myself, for even a few minutes, on what blessings have been bestowed upon me from the hand of my creator. Tis the season for giving thanks...

Today, I am thankful that my children were safe and warm in their beds, sound asleep before 9 pm. I cannot remember the last time this happened! Due to afterschool activities, dinner is usually served around 8, followed by homework, showers and a bit of winding down before bed at 9:30 or 10:00-- much too late for growing boys! So what a blessing to have chores done, homework finished, stomachs full and resting peacefully! So thankful for a good night's rest! Now... my turn to get some zzz's...

2009-07-31T22:08:00.001-07:00

I can't believe it's August. While there's just over a month before school starts, the routine begins to establish itself this time of year. Football practice is scheduled to begin on the 13th, the same day as Kacy's 7th birthday. Harvest will fill each day of the month, God willing, and Fair preparations-- washing and working with the steers on a daily basis-- will begin. I'll start going into my classroom around the 18th, and the first day of school is September 2. I've promised the boys a trip to Splashdown in Spokane, a movie at the Imax, and a slip-n-slide party before summer vacation is over. Anticipating the busy weeks ahead make me want to crawl into my bed and pull the covers over my head, but I won't because life is good! Just 3 months ago, we were praying that our summer could be spent doing "normal" activities and not putting Tyler through any treatments for the tumor in his leg. Prayers were answered! God is good!

I do wish we had been able to fit in just one more camping trip. We visited Elk River a few weeks ago and had a great time riding four-wheelers and just being together!

Tyler, Brett & Kacy at the top of Elk Mountain.

Some of the terrain we crossed. The boys are way better drivers than I am!

Four-wheelin' is a diry hobby.

Dennis climbed the lookout tower.... we were happier on the ground!

Brettster

Nothing like a swim in the creek to wash off the day's dirt!

It was c-c-c-cold!

Kacy wanted to explore on our lunchbreak. He grabbed Ty by the hand and off they went!

Sammy, Kacy, and Brett heading out for a ride!

Taking a break at the campsite!

Music to My Ears

2009-06-27T10:28:00.000-07:00

Music to My Ears!

The darndest thing happened this morning. You see, Kacy has a very select group of toys that he chooses to play with. If it involves a ball rolling through a track, music playing, and/or lights flashing... he's all over it. The LeapFrog 'Fridge DJ is one of those toys for Kacy. He qualifies it as a favorite because it falls under the "lights and music" requirement. It plays maybe a dozen different songs depending on how you've got the dial turned. This toy goes to bed with him at night, and packs it out to the living room each morning when he wakes up--keeping it handy in case he feels like dancing to the music. This morning he was holding it while I was getting him dressed. He searched through the various songs until he found the Alphabet Song --you know what I'm talking about-- the traditional "A,B,C,D,E..." and so on. Well... this is the part that shocked me. He started making noises along with the song-- as if he were singing it. Obviously it wasn't the ABC's as we speak them, but he never made the same sound in a row; I am convinced he was intentionally "singing" along with the music. Of course, I tested him again after about 15 mintues. I found the song and handed him the toy-- he started "singing" again! He'll "sing" it all the way through. I've never seen him do that before, and while part of me is sad that he can't sing it properly, most of me is happy that he's learned to sing at all. Not that anyone else may pick up on it, but I hear it. And it sounds beautiful!

2009-06-07T20:12:00.000-07:00

Kacy's Last Day of Kinder!

Kacy was in a great mood this morning, I think he knew it was his last day of school!

Brett, Kacy, Tyler, and Sammy

Brett & Kacy--I love this picture!

ANOTHER MILESTONE MET

I remember dropping Kacy off on the first day of school. He was so confused and scared. It was terribly difficult to walk out of that room and leave him there, but there wasn't any other way to do it. Over the course of the year, his teary mornings became fewer and farther between, and by winter, he was happy to see the bus come up the driveway! When I would meet him in the hallway, instead of crying to go with me, he would give me a high five and keep walking! We felt so fortunate to have such great aides to help him get through the day--Candy, Marne, Heather, and Lisa made this year a successful one for Kacy, I don't know what we would have done without them. His brothers were also a saving grace~ getting him on the bus each morning and keeping an eye on him at recess, he had lots of people watching out for him. He finished the year happy~he loved riding the bus, he loved swimming with Candy on Mondays, he loved going to lunch and recess. He made many social gains and also learned to pedal a tricycle down the halls of Jennings! Kindergarten was a lot of work and a big adjustment, but he did it! Way to go, Kacy!

2009-05-18T20:39:00.000-07:00

I snapped these photos tonight as the thunder was booming and ping pong ball raindrops were starting to fall. My old camera doesn't do the clouds justice... they were vibrant! I'll be honest though, I don't care for storms, they scare me. I go into "red alert"-- I put fresh batteries in flashlights, gather candles, fill jugs with water, make sure the widows are locked and doors securely closed. Forget about sleeping, the pounding of my heart and my anxious nerves waiting for the next clap of thunder and flash of lightening won't let me relax. Dennis thinks I'm silly- but it's just what I do. I can't help it. You never know how long a storm will last or how severe it might be and I want to be prepared. I also don't want the kids to be scared, I want them to feel safe and secure no matter how freaked out I am.

It's strange to me how the times before and after storms can be some of the most beautiful. It's almost unfair to envelope something so frightening between such peace and calm. Beforehand, there's a perfect stillness and clouds are colorful and alive. Eerie light seems to creep over the hills and swallow the landscape. Afterwards, the sun shines brightly-- sometimes illuminating a yard filled with branches and debris which means lots of time will be spent cleaning up. And from time to time, the devastation is so severe that permanent scars remain. Most of the time, though, the light just sparkles like diamonds off shiny, rain-drenched vegetation and the smell of wet earth fills the air. Whatever the outcome, I am always filled with relief and glad another storm has passed.

Today was the end of another "life storm" for me. Our calm had been rudely interrupted by a vicious storm, then it ended as suddenly as it had begun. This afternoon I spoke with the surgeon who performed Tyler's bone biopsy. He said the results were benign, and Tyler likely has just a stress fracture that may have been caused by a small, benign tumor. He wasn't able to elaborate, but we will talk more about it when we see him next week. None the less, he's going to be just fine! Praise God! There are no storms to keep me awake tonight. He's going to be fine-- just fine!!

...Funny thing, I had kept Ty pretty much in the dark about the worries we had. It wasn't until the other day I shared with him how scared I had been. I gently explained "what could have been" and all he really said was "Oh. Why didn't you tell me that, I didn't know it could have been THAT bad!" So I guess I succeeded at keeping him safe and secure in that storm. I am so thankful for all the wonderful people who have been praying for him. I believe that prayer is powerful-- and there is no doubt in my mind that it made a difference here. We all made it through-- the earth is fresh and the flowers glistening! There's defintitely some debris to clean up, but nothing I can't handle. Tomorrow I'll get to work on that... tonight I'm going to sleep!

2009-05-17T07:39:00.000-07:00

Kids are amazing. So resilient. I was reminded of that several times yesterday. While I sat at the baseball jamboree and got sun burnt- Brett played on in his black uniform, he had to be hot, but he was all business the entire time. He didn't care about the heat, he was resilient and did a darn good job! On Thursday, Kacy received new braces for this feet. They are hopefully going to straighten out his ankles and improve his "gait." This is his second set and as before, breaking them in is the hard part. When we take them off, there are red marks on his feet where the most pressure has been applied. It has to be painful! But he, like his brothers, is resilient. He doesn't complain and they don't slow him down. Tyler is one of those kids who doesn't let the dust settle so his leg injury has been not only physically painful but emotionally difficult to deal with as well. Yesterday, when he unwrapped his leg to shower, he nearly fainted when he saw his four-inch incision. It took about a half hour for his color to return to normal. Throughout the day, he'd peek at it. The "shock" had warn off and he was intrigued by what he saw under the wrap. He has grown used to his crutches and can go just about anywhere now and at a rapid pace! He's resilient, also. I am so envious of all of them...what happens to that resiliency as we grow older?

I was on iTunes yesterday and found one of the the songs you should hear playing in the background. It's a duet by Brad Paisley and Sara Evans called "New Again." Brad Paisley sings his lyrics from Jesus' perspective and Sara Evan sings from Mary's perspecitve. It's beautiful and got me thinking about Mary. It is so difficult to see my children suffer with even a headache. I simply can't imagine how she must have felt watching her son be persucuted and nailed to a cross. The ache in her heart, through her whole body must have been suffocating at best. She had to have an amaing faith, I cannot even begin to comprehend her grief, her pain, her sorrow. But she got through it. Her faith brought her through it. She was resilient!!

I wanted to include the lyrics... I found them online and have printed them for myself to keep in my day planner. Thought I'd include them here, too. I also found a YouTube video that someone made using clips from "The Passion..." movie. I'm going to try and "embed" it on this blog. It brought the tears this morning, for I'm finding myself in an "exhausted mom" state. While it made me cry, it also brought me hope. A reminder of the sacrifice that was made for our salvation. I need to remind myself sometimes that I am only a visitor here, just passing through. Each day is a gift and I love my family and I love my life-- but there is a better one ahead. I just need to be resilient.

Mother - do not cry for me

All of this is exactly how it's supposed to be

I'm right here. Can you hear my voice?

My life, my love, my Lord....my baby boy

As they nail me to this tree

Just know my Father waits for me

God how can this be your will?

To have your son and my son killed?

Whatever happens...whatever you see...

Whatever your eyes tell you has become of me

This is not...Not the end...

I am making all things new again

I remember when you were born

In that manger where I first held you in my arms

So many miracles and lives you've changed

And this world repays you how?

With all this pain

Whatever happens...whatever you see...

Whatever your eyes tell you has become of me

This is not...Not the end...

I am making all things new again.

2009-05-15T16:54:00.000-07:00

Recovery.

The surgeon's autograph!

He's almost outgrown the couch!!!

Today I got to stay home from work and tend to Tyler. He's on a strict schedule of hydrocodone and Motrin to stay on top of the pain. From time to time he cries out in pain, it's intense-- he starts to sweat and cry. It seems to last 5-10 minutes, then it's gone. Strange. I'm glad it's short-lived and there seems to be longer stretches of time between the "attacks." Hoping for a restful night! Tomorrow he can shower which will be welcome--
notice his "Big Bird" leg??

2009-05-14T14:33:00.000-07:00

"God didn't promise days without pain, laughter without sorrow, sun without rain, but He did promise strength for the day, comfort for the tears and light for the way."

(author unknown)

We drove to Spokane this morning in sheets of rain. It was dreary and cold, mimicing how we were all feeling inside. We arrived at the hospital surgery center, signed more papers, got Ty weighed and measured again-- still 5'2" and 117#, and then he learned he got to wear a nice, faded blue gown that tied down the back. This did NOT thrill the boy-- he shot us all some attitude which was quickly squashed and into the gown he went. His mood improved when he was settled into a bed, covered with a warm blanket, and given the remote to control the tv--did you know "Sport Center" is on at 6:30 in the morning? For an hour, we answered repeated questions, asked a few ourselves, and wathced fleeting moments of ESPN. Soon it was time for him to go, we said our good lucks and love yous... and he was wheeled away--all of us wincing back tears.

The expected thirty minute procedure ended up being ninety. During those moments in the waiting room, Dennis and I experienced an array of emotion. As surgeons would come out to visit with other waiting parents, we heard good reports about successful tear duct surgery, ear tubes (Kacy has done that twice), and strabismus surgery (aligning the eyes, Kacy's done that one twice, too). We would have given anything to be one of those parents. I'm not disregarding their worry-- I've been there and it is never, ever easy to say goodbye to your child and leave them in the hands of strangers. But this time, waiting felt different. Our anxiety level was sky high--all we could think about was the fact that it was taking so long. It was difficult not to assume the worst. We were worried the doctor had found something in there that he had to remove immediately, and that is what was taking longer. Our fears increased when it wasn't the doctor that came to get us from the waiting room, but a nurse. We were certain this was a bad sign... thinking there must be something we need to be told that can't be said in front of a room full of anxious parents. Fortunately, when we saw Tyler, his color was good and he seemed to be coming out of the anesthesia just fine. When the doctor did speak with us, it was tears of relief that were shed. He said he felt optimistic that Tyler has a stress fracture. The reason the procedure took so much longer than anticipated was due to the decision to give Tyler a "nerve block" to help with the pain following surgery. Because this "block" will last several hours, we were able to take Tyler home and avoid a stay in the hospital.

It seems to be working out this time! We are overwhelmed with relief but will feel even better when the doctor calls about the results of the biopsies. As we exited the hospital, we all gasped at the surprise of the sunlight outside. After our dark and miserable morning, it was as if God was telling us, "see... I didn't leave you." Once again, we are thankful for those who have been supporting our family through prayer. I can't imagine doing all this without family and friends who keep us focussed on the truth, strong in our faith, and hopeful in His spirit. We are truly, truly blessed!

2009-05-13T20:57:00.000-07:00

Good luck wishes....

Over the past 6 years, we have met more doctors and specialists then we can remember the names and faces of. A few stick out in my mind and heart as memorable.

Kacy's first neurologist, Dr. LeFond, was an amazingly brilliant and caring woman who saw us through one of the most difficult times in Kacy's life. She worked tirelessly to find the right "cocktail" of seizure meds to get them under control. She finally did. We were heartbroken when she left Spokane for the East Coast.

Dr. Frostad, who has been practicing pediatric medicine for years and years and years is possibly one of my favorite people. He's a straight shooter, doesn't sugar-coat things, but truly cares about the kids. He's the kind of doctor who will call on the phone to check on his patients, and he talks to me like my dad--he uses a "tough love"approach. He recently had to be "firm" with me about getting Kacy into the Shriner's Hospital for an evaluation. I was suppose to do it a couple years ago, but didn't follow up when I learned we would be waiting 4 months for an appointment. He wasn't happy about that, and he let me know. I'm currently in the process of getting Kacy on their list again. He's right, and I know it. I appreciate the fact that he is pushing me to do the right thing.

Dr. Howlett may be the next doctor that leaves a distinct impression on us. Before meeting him, we were "warned" by one of his co-workers that he is a bad dresser and he's crazy! Eventhough we knew the comment was made to lessen Tyler's anxiety, it didn't actually have that effect initially. Turns out, he is a horrible dresser, but he is great with Tyler. At Tuesday's appointment, they discovered they have a lot in common--specifically hunting and a love for cattle. He's a bow hunter and he gave us a "private tour" of his personal office. It was filled with several trophy mounts from his hunting trips. Lodge pine shelves were filled with hunting photos and wildlife pictures. Tyler thought it was "awesome!" When the doctor got down to the subject at hand, though, his seriousness was hard to misinterpret. So... we're off to Sacred Heart tomorrow morning. His procedure is scheduled to begin at 8:00 AM and should only take a half hour. Because it will be painful, Tyler may need to stay in the hospital overnight for pain control. Once we have the results of the biopsy, we will decide what the next step will be.

Brett and Kacy are at Gramma Phyllis' for the night. They said their good-byes and good-lucks with tear-filled eyes, but they are strong-- no tears actually fell. I had to promise Brett a phone call tomorrow after lunch recess. And Kacy, well, Gramma is taking him to get his new braces for his feet tomorrow, so we'll be anxious to get home and see them on him!

On Monday, I recieved a card from a dear friend. It reads, "When you're stressed out, a nice warm bath usually helps. (inside) I've been in here since last Thursday, how about you?" --I think I'll go run myself a bath!

2009-05-11T22:27:00.000-07:00

EXPECTATIONS

Two numbers I never thought I'd have in my 'contacts' list on my cell phone are those of a neurologist and an oncologist. Now I've got them both, one right after another.

Tomorrow, bright and early, we are headed to Spokane with Tyler. He has had a pain in his leg for some time now, and after several x-rays, an MRI, and blood tests, doctors (three of them) cannot say with certainty that his pain is due to a stress fracture. So, we have been refrerred to an orthopedic oncologist who will guide us through another foreign land of terminology and testing. The important thing to remember here is we haven't yet been told to worry--- so we are tyring not to. It's hard, though, because the knot in my stomach and the dull pain behind my right eye are reminders that something serious really could be wrong. My head has to keep reminding my heart that the doctor said it could still be a stress fracture, an infection, or something benign.

I have no idea what to expect. Actually, to some extent, I do. We've been down this "specialist road" several times before, so I've got a general idea... The waiting room of the office will be nice- clean, tidy and well lit. A kind receptionist will check us in and hand me a clipboard filled with forms to complete. I'll sit down and try to remember the dosage of Ty's thyroid medication, his social security number, how old he was when he got his last vaccination, if anyone in his family has a history of seizures, migraines, or thyroid trouble. And so on. There willl likely be one of those water jugs in the corner-- you know the kind, it will say "Culligan" in scripty writing and have a nice little cup holder on the side of it. Ty will help himself to some water, not because he's thirsty but because he likes to see (and hear) the giant air bubble that is belched to the top of the jug when water is dispensed. Beside the fairly comfortable, vinyl-covered chairs, plenty of magazines will be scattered on nice wooden side tables. However, there won't be a single magazine capable of distracting any of us long enough to forget why we're there. When Tyler's name is called, he'll be measured and weighed. We'll then be led back to a tiny little room with smaller, more uncomfortable chairs, no magazines, and no courtesy water. -Only a computer monitor in "sleep mode" that will likely display "PROVIDENCE MEDICAL CENTER," and on the wall will be pictures of the inside of a knee or arm or ankle-- or perhaps the entire body. The posters will be courtesy of a drug company and bear that company's name in the lower right-hand corner. We'll obey the signs asking us to turn off our cell phones. Thirty minutes will seem like sixty, then in comes the man of the hour, the one we have all been waiting for, the doctor. Following the anticipated examination and what will seem like one hundered questions, I have no idea what comes next. This is where my experience stops.

So tonight, while the boys are sleeping soundly, Dennis is tossing and turning-trying to get some sleep since he'll be leaving for work at 4:30 tomorrow morning so he can go with us to the appointment. I find myself sitting in my dark living room, the only light coming from my laptop screen and the sound of the washing machine and dishwasher competing in the background. The clock on the wall is ticking away the minutes that are slowly turning into hours. It's weird because I don't feel tired. I don't feel scared, or anxious, or nervous... just "here." Is this peace? I'm not sure.

Tomorrow. Tomorrow I will take my son, my first baby, to an orthopedic oncologist. When I shower, dress, and drive to Spokane, I will pray constantly. I will pray like I did for Kacy when he was seizing, and like I did for Brett when he was crying in pain with his abdominal migraines. I will pray for the doctor, for Tyler, for Dennis, for my mom, for our families, for our children. I will pray for strength, health, healing, wisdom, guidance, and understanding. Experience has taught me that I can't do this alone, so I won't even try. I don't know why these trials keep finding us, but all I can do is trust in the lord and lean not on my own understanding. And one more thing, if you find yourself reading this on Tuesday morning, throw a prayer Tyler's way if you wouldn't mind. He's such a great kid-- too young for troubles like these.

2009-05-10T10:08:00.000-07:00

HaPpY mOtHeR's DaY!!!

On this day I am reminded that these children God has given me are the greatest gift I could ever receive! I love them all the most-- just the way they are. At times I wonder if God has confused me with someone else who is stronger, thinner, and more cabable of holding it all together, but not today. Today I am going to play in the dirt with them, laugh with them, and eat hot dogs and ice cream cones with them. Today, I will have no worries or concerns about their health or my waistline. Today I will be the kind of mom I want them to remember! Tomorrow, the worries may find their way back in, but not today. Not today!

2009-05-09T22:04:00.001-07:00

Spring has Sprung!

(Well, Eric! Here's the blog update you were razzing me about!)

Spring seems to have come with a vengence at the Kincaid household! Once Dennis could get going in the field, he was going, going, gone! The boys and I manage to continue work, chores, sports activities, etc. without him-- but it's always an adjustment for us all! Kacy, as expected, takes it the hardest. Four or five days can pass without him seeing his dad and then, once he finally gets the chance, he completely ignores Dennis as if to punish him for being absent for awhile. The big boys manage to keep Dad current on their lives via cell phone. And, I must admit that I am often too exhausted to stay awake until he returns home. I'll put his plate in the fridge, leave a sticky note on the counter with any important messages that need to be conveyed, and then I'm off to bed. Often, he is gone before I wake in the morning. If it weren't for the dirty clothes that seem to accumulate in front of the washer and the dirty dishes in the sink, I would wonder if he ever came home!

2009-02-21T21:47:00.000-08:00

Dennis had a great time visiting the John Deere tractor and combine factories in Moline and Waterloo, Illinois. It was a quick trip--only three days but he had a great time seeing the sights and talking farming the entire time! Wish I could describe the pics I posted here... but due to the fact he's still "recovering" from the trip, he's asleep on the couch at the moment!

2009-02-16T13:30:00.000-08:00

Basketball Fever!

Dennis had the opportunity to work with both boys' basketball teams this winter. He was an assistant coach for Tyler's 5th grade team, and he was the head (only) coach for Brett's third grade team. It was a fun and successful season for both boys! Now we are preparing for a few more weeks of AAU basketball with Tyler. Fun times!!

Time-out for the 5th graders.

Sideline coaching for the 3rd graders.

Dennis and the small-but-mighty third grade Bulldogs. They finished the season 5-2. (Much better than anticipated!)

Brett at point.

Stan Gfeller and Dennis with the 5th grade Bulldogs.

They went undefeated.

Tyler sets the screen.

2009-02-16T10:47:00.000-08:00

BRETT & TYLER'S BIRTHDAY BOWL 2009 Brett turned 9 on November 25, about a week after I had surgery. We had some friends in for pizza that night, but he agreed to hold off on his "friend party" until I was feeling better.
Tyler turned 11 on January 21. We decided to have a joint birthday party the Saturday before the Superbowl, January 31. Since the boys are HUGE football fans, it was the perfect theme!

Apparently this is the age where "bunny ears" and goofy grins are standard.

We had fourteen little boys in that day... one missed the picture!

Some pics from the party....

On the menu... sub sandwiches, chips, grapes, Gatorade,

white cake and chocolate ice cream for dessert!

Party favors...gatorade water bottles filled with goodies.

Bowling at Zeppoz...

2009-01-21T21:44:00.000-08:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, TYLER!

It's hard to believe that the 9 pound bundle of boy we brought home 11 years ago has grown into a 115 pound bundle of energy! Tyler celebrated his birthday today with nothing more than a few presents and pizza... that's what happens when you have basketball practice til 8:00 at night. I've promised him a friend party next weekend so I'm praying for snow so we can have a sledding party. Plan B is lazer tag in Spokane. Both options include a sleep over. Should be fun!!

We think he's a great kid... caring, kind, funny, strong, smart... It's strange to think we only have 7 years left with him under our roof. Where does the time go?

Some of his favorite things at this time include: Ladanian Tomlinson, football-- watching it and playing it, pizza, steak and baked potatoes, scrambled eggs and bacon, the Cougs, PE, Kenton (his best friend), Call of Duty and Madden 09 (video games), camping, motorcycle riding, driving anything, and his iPod.

2009-01-19T23:19:00.000-08:00

Long time- no post! Christmas has come and gone... another New Year is in the books.... school is back in session... basketball season is in full swing-- the activity level of our family has increased dramatically! I think my body is still used to it's post-op nap schedule as I am really dragging... it's taking me a while to get back into the swing of things!! The only reason I'm awake now is because I'm waiting on the washing machine. I really need to switch loads one more time before going to bed. ...Laundry, laundry go away, come again NEVER! : )

This weekend was fun filled. Dennis is now officially 40 and he had a great time celebrating with over sixty friends and family. We started the celebration with a prime rib dinner for our families and ended it with a party for everyone! I had many amazing friends help me with food-- there are so many good cooks around here and I appreciated the help so much! A highlight of the evening was a surprise cake delivery by Captain Reiber, our friend and neighbor. Check them out below... the combine and tractor were very accurate!

2008-12-31T08:16:00.000-08:00

Last night, while at a birthday dinner for Dennis' mom, we realized the WSU Cougar basketball team was in the same restaurant. Brett recognized Taylor Rochestie, his favorite player, walking by. He jumped up, said "Hi!" and then got a handshake from his idol. It didn't take long to discover the rest of the team eating and watching the UW game in the private dining room. Fortunately, on Tuesday night in Pullman, the "private" dining room really isn't that "private" and Brett and cousin Caleb were able to go back and get autographs and photos with the team. It was such a highlight!! The pictures are on Aunt Kim's camera and we don't have them yet... but had to post pics of Rochestie and Harmeling for Brett's sake. Not much is cooler for a 9 year old Cougar fan... I think he slept with the autograph sheet and now he's asked me to frame it for his wall!

2008-12-30T00:10:00.000-08:00

It's nearly tomorrow and I should be sleeping. Dennis is snoring softly in the chair and Jay Leno is entertaining me with a Tom Cruise interview. Late at night is my favorite time of day-- everyone is asleep, the chores and duties of the day complete, and it is my time to do whatever I please. Since getting a laptop computer and wireless router, I seem to spend my late nights on the internet. The minutes quickly turn to hours-- one site leads to another and I love having the world at my fingertips. Perhaps that comes from growing up in rural eastern Washington and leading a very simple life? Perhaps it comes from my love for shopping (!) and having little access to great stores? Perhaps a combination of both.

Today we took a family trip to Lewiston. It was time again for a Costco run-- we were nearly out of toilet paper, paper towels, kleen-x, and laundry soap and when we're running low on those things it's off to Costco we go! Plus, we're having a New Year's party and Dennis' 40th birthday party in a couple of weeks-- so we had lots of party supplies to stock up on. Dennis also had several stops to make in order to get everything he needs for more winter equipment overhauls and the cattle. So, we took the pick-up and had to pull the gooseneck trailer in order to get home with his 50 gallon barrel of oil, several 20' lengths of angle iron, and a bunch of other stuff from the Catepillar store. Because of the trailer, we had to park on the very outskirts of the Costco parking lot. The wind was gusting and as soon as both pickup doors were open, a blast of wind swept through the pickup and sent a receipt flying across the lot. Our ten-year-old son chased it into a small thicket of pine trees. He came back, without the slip, and a worried look on his face. Turns out he came upon a tent that had been set up by a homeless person. The tent was nestled in the trees, facing the Snake River. Dennis retrieved the receipt and we went on into the store. After eating lunch and shopping, we found ourselves bracing against frigid winds that met us outside of the store. Trekking across the expansive parking lot, we all made comments about how far we had to walk to get to the pickup. Poor us!! *sigh* Catching site of the tent, the blue nylon flapping against the wind in spite of the surrounding trees, we were humbled. I felt inclined to leave something-- I had a bag of oranges I could leave. I thought about it the entire time Dennis was loading the pickup and I don't know why- but I didn't go through with it. Maybe it was fear? I don't know. Now I'm ridden with guilt. We dont' know people's stories... we don't know what circumstances have occurred to lead them to where they are. My boys participated in our church Christmas program this year and it was a story about a poor cobbler who was waiting to meet Jesus. He waited all day-- answering his door expecting to meet the King of Kings, only to find common, impoverished people whom he helped by giving them food, shelter, and clothes. At the end of the day, the cobbler was sad thinking he had missed meeting the Lord. Then the lord spoke to the cobbler, telling him he had met with him several times that day, and how proud he was of the grace he had shown. I believe the lord comes to us in ways we don't expect. What if He was in that tent today? Hungry, cold, scared.
I wish I'd left the oranges.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

2008-12-28T00:18:00.000-08:00

We had a great Christmas with lots of time spent with family.

There was lots of great food, laughter, and plenty of presents!

Brett (9), Tyler (10), and Kacy (6)

Tyler with his new Nerf blaster!

Kacy on "Trigger!"

Brett sporting his new night-vision goggles!

Our 4 handsome nephews.

(Ben, Jordan, Justin, and Jake).

My sweet Granny and Trish (sister-in-law).

Dory (sister-in-law), Mom (Judy), and Patti (sister-in-law)

WINTER HAS ARRIVED!!!

2008-12-27T23:43:00.000-08:00

The snow started flying December 16. The heavy snowfall and winds created waves of snow everywhere-- it was beautiful! The boys had a ball playing in the snow until today... the rains started this morning and are supposed to continue through the night. Yuk.

Here are a few pictures of winter on the farm...