amongst friends #4

THE LETTER A

We decided to go with letters of the alphabet rather than themes for a while. This will broaden the opportunities and lessen limitations while still giving some guidance. Cori and Cali participated this week. They are 12 and 5 respectively. What would you choose to represent the letter A. Join us if you like, next week is the Letter B.

There is more info here.

The Simple Woman's Daybook 11-30

FOR TODAY 2009-11-30

Outside my window... It's Raining. Go figure. It was snowing most of the day. It's going to be treacherous tomorrow!

I am thinking...I am soooo tired but I want to catch up a few posts before I pass out!

I am thankful for...that our drive home from Anchorage went as smoothly as it did.

From the learning rooms...wish I could say more. Although Cassi taught Cali about syllables on our drive home. Now she can't stop...every word she hears-How many syllables is that? clap, clap clap!

From the kitchen...tonight's dinner was quick and simple. potstickers, eggrolls and brussell sprouts.

I am wearing...my jammies. I need to go to bed.

I am creating...not creating but wrapping. Book swaps and ornament swaps. I don't want to be late.

I am going...to get out the rest of the Christmas decorations tomorrow if it kills me!

I am reading...NOTHING! :(

I am hoping...that Scott makes it home for soccer this coming weekend, however completely understanding his feelings that he needs to stay and work more to pay for the really expensive braces that were put on Cori's teeth today.

I am hearing...the wind outside.

Around the house...it's quiet. It's late and the kids are all in bed!

One of my favorite things...my girls. Gracious, do I adore them!

A few plans for the rest of the week...DECORATIONS!

A photo for sharing...


This is the best of what we drove through to get home from the orthodontist in Anchorage today!

To read more daybook's take a look here.

Happy Holidays

Happy Thanksgiving

I am very THANKFUL today, for so many things. My Family, they are truly the best. I have a wonderful husband who provides for all of us and loves us so much and whom with out, I'd be only half of who I am. I am so much better with him!

I have 3 beautiful, funny, cute, adorable and quirky little girls. They are my life. Without them, I'd be lost.

I have a best friend, who means the world to me. I'd die for her tomorrow if I had to and I know she'd do the same for me.

I have some AMAZING friends in my life, all of whom make my life fabulous. They listen, they laugh and they just are.

My parents and siblings. I am very fortunate to have an incredible relationship with my Mom and Dad. They are more my friends at this point in my life however I truly feel I understand them and their role as my parents now more than ever and it makes me appreciate them and their unconditional love for me so much more. My siblings and I are close even though two of them are far apart in age from me. My oldest brother, lives far away, but is never far from my heart. My brother and sister, being so much younger than me, keep me young. I hope they always do.

My step-mom who is very much a friend; she is a beautiful lady, who loves and cares for all of us and it means so much to me.

My extended family and my husbands family who I have become better and better friends with. I am so thankful for the relationship I have with each of them. I talk to many of them often and would miss that if it were gone. They are a big part of my life for which I am very grateful.

I have my health, I have happiness, I have fun and most of all, I have true joy in my heart. It lights my way and I am so thankful for that.

I hope you all have a wonderfully fun Thanksgiving full of family gatherings, great food, laughter and the knowledge that wherever you are at this moment of your life, it's exactly where you are meant to be. Be grateful for all that the day brings and find joy in it.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Wordless Wednesday 11-25

*Must include explanation-Cori's 1st boyfriend.

It Shouldn't be Allowed

I think they better find new spirit days at school. I tell you, there is so much emphasis on all things being fair at school, right? So why in the heck do they have crazy hair days. I can't be the only hair challenged mom out there. And therefore, crazy hair day is simply NOT FAIR to those of us who are. I am not alone, am I?

Here is the best I could do. And the pictures stink to boot, because I forgot to charge my camera battery and it is dead. Not even a click when I turn the camera on. :(




It makes my attempts look even worse. Arggg! I like cowboy day, or pajama day, or hobo day, yeah, that one rocks. Who's with me?
*Edit-
A couple of better pictures.

"A" Little Gratefulness

I hope you will consider joining me in this gratefulness challenge. You can read more about it here.


Here goes it for this week:

"H"

holidays- I guess "H" just came at the right time didn't it. No really, I would hope that I'd remember to be thankful for holidays year 'round, because I truly love them. Inevitably it brings most folks together, whether it be with family or friends and I love that. I am a big fan of being of having everyone together and during the holidays we seem to do that more often. I am also grateful that I live in a place where I can celebrate my beliefs without ridicule. I am ever so grateful for that!

health- I try to remember everyday to be grateful for my health and I really try not to take it for granted. My family is well, I am well, my friends are well. And I hope that it remains so.

happiness- The wonderfulness that comes with being happy...I am grateful that I have the ability to let go of things weighing me down and just be happy. Laughter is immensely freeing, a smile uplifting. I am so glad I am happy and that my family is as well. It just makes our world a better place. :)

A Simple Solution

I NEVER post things here that I receive in an email. NEVER.
But I liked this and since it's my blog, well, here it is! :). And whether or not you you are a Christian, a believer or not, the message still rings true. Instead of complaining or sitting back watching things happen that you don't agree with or appreciate, do something; ANYTHING! Anything that makes a positive difference in the world; It all matters.

Letter from Jesus about Christmas --

It has come to my attention that many of you are upset that folks are
taking My name out of the season.


How I personally feel about this celebration can probably be most easily
understood by those of you who have been blessed with children of your
own. I don't care what you call the day. If you want to celebrate My
birth, just GET ALONG AND LOVE ONE ANOTHER.

Now, having said that let Me go on. If it bothers you that the town in
which you live doesn't allow a scene depicting My birth, then just get
rid of a couple of Santas and snowmen and put in a small Nativity scene
on your own front lawn If all My followers did that there wouldn't be any
need for such a scene on the town square because there would be many of
them all around town.

Stop worrying about the fact that people are calling the tree a holiday
tree, instead of a Christmas tree. It was I who made all trees. You can
remember Me anytime you see any tree. Decorate a grape vine if you wish:
I actually spoke of that one in a teaching, explaining who I am in
relation to you and what each of our tasks were. If you have forgotten
that one, look up John 15: 1 - 8.

If you want to give Me a present in remembrance of My birth here is my
wish list. Choose something from it:

1. Instead of writing protest letters objecting to the way My birthday is
being celebrated, write letters of love and hope to soldiers away from
home. They are terribly afraid and lonely this time of year. I know, they
tell Me all the time.

2.. Visit someone in a nursing home. You don't have to know them
personally. They just need to know that someone cares about them.

3. Instead of writing the President complaining about the wording on the
cards his staff sent out this year, why don't you write and tell him that
you'll be praying for him and his family this year. Then follow up.... It
will be nice hearing from you again.

4. Instead of giving your children a lot of gifts you can't afford and
they don't need, spend time with them. Tell them the story of My birth,
and why I came to live with you down here. Hold them in your arms and
remind them that I love them.

5 Pick someone that has hurt you in the past and forgive him or her.

6. Did you know that someone in your town will attempt to take their own
life this season because they feel so alone and hopeless? Since you
don't know who that person is, try giving everyone you meet a warm smile;
it could make the difference.

7. Instead of nit picking about what the retailer in your town calls the
holiday, be patient with the people who work there. Give them a warm
smile and a kind word.. Even if they aren't allowed to wish you a "Merry
Christmas" that doesn't keep you from wishing them one. Then stop
shopping there on Sunday. If the store didn't make so much money on that
day they'd close and let their employees spend the day at home with their
families

8. If you really want to make a difference, support a missionary--
especially one who takes My love and Good News to those who have never
heard My name.

9. Here's a good one. There are individuals and whole families in your
town who not only will have no "Christmas" tree, but neither will they
have any presents to give or receive. If you don't know them, buy some
food and a few gifts and give them to the Salvation Army or some other
charity which believes in Me and they will make the delivery for you.

10. Finally, if you want to make a statement about your belief in and
loyalty to Me, then behave like a Christian. Don't do things in secret
that you wouldn't do in My presence. Let people know by your actions that
you are one of mine.

Don't forget; I am God and can take care of Myself. Just love Me and do
what I have told you to do. I'll take care of all the rest. Check out the
list above and get to work; time is short. I'll help you, but the ball is
now in your court. And do have a most blessed Christmas with all those
whom you love and remember :


I LOVE YOU,

JESUS

Creativity, please flow my direction

I signed the girls up for the Holiday Ornament Swap again this year. We participated last year and enjoyed it a lot. The anticipation of looking each day for a padded envelope that was sure to house a sweet, delicate little handmade treasure brought many happy moments here.

This year there the theme is fairy tales. When we heard that, we were thrilled although we originally ready it as fairies still we thought fairy tales were great too. That was until we started to determine what we were making. Being a no-sew family, hmmm, we are struggling a bit.

Months ago, I had decided if we had the opportunity to participate again Cali would make salt-dough ornaments. I envisioned a cute little snowman...well, I can't find a snowman in any fairy tale I know.

I have perused the internet looking and looking. Today I decided to try this.

I still used salt dough but I had to make this guy. (Don't laugh at my skills- I am challenged, I know it!)
I kind of thought maybe Cali could paint them if I made them but I've since decided the older girls can use mine as a model and try their hand at these. Cori has enjoyed some clay projects lately so I am hoping she will take these on. I 'll keep you updated.

Seriously, can you at least tell what or who it is? Do you know the tale?

*Edit- here he is painted.

The Simple Woman's Daybook 11-23

FOR TODAY 2009-11-23

Outside my window... It is windy and wet. It is warm and things are melting. It's crazy weather 'round here for this time of year.

I am thinking...about the holidays and all the things I've got to get busy doing.

I am thankful for...that Cassi's friend was not seriously wounded yesterday when we went sledding.

From the learning rooms...not specifically educational but we are busy.

From the kitchen...isn't everyone bustling about getting ready for Thanksgiving?
At least here in the U.S. My contributions will include, sweet potato casserole, green bean casserole, apple-cranberry crisp with spiced Chantilly, strawberry-spinach salad, gooey butter and deviled eggs. YUM!

I am wearing...jeans and a hoodie. This kind of never changes for me, does it? Maybe I shouldn't be so predictable.

I am creating...ornament ideas for the girls. They are participating in a homemade ornament exchange for kids. We did it last year and it was so fun. We are excited by the fairy tale theme.

I am going...to the orthodontist. Cori is gearing up for braces. 1 week and counting.

I am reading...ha, ha, ha. I try to something inspirational every day. Other than that, reading time is limited.

I am hoping...that my husband's travels tomorrow are safe and smooth and uneventful.

I am hearing...my alarm reminding me Cor's ortho appointment.

Around the house...we are excited. Daddy is coming home tomorrow. Even though it was a short trip, we missed him. We always do; so MUCH!

One of my favorite things...looking for special holiday things. Like below.

A few plans for the rest of the week...homemade gifts. Time is short.

A photo for sharing...

Can you tell these are mini? I love all things tiny. I thought these were so stinkin' cute.

To read more daybook's take a look here.

amongst friends #3

Theme- WHITE

Christie-AK; Kelly-FL
Frank-AL; Jenny-AL

*Frank adds-Used everyday and underappreciated

Silent Saturday

Wordless Wednesday 11-18

So, I suppose I have to explain this week. The photos above are the first of my dancing snowflakes. I am making them for my trees by the pond. I saw the video below at RESURRECTION FERN. You can find her post about it HERE.
Here is the video she made which I adore. You want to make some too, don't you? Let me see yours if you do. I just love them!

My Cheer PRINCESSES

Cali had her first cheer competition this past weekend. Cassi also competed individually.

It was a family affair as always. We stayed with Holly and Barry. (Rocky and Wren were out of town) Holly was so sweet to take care of us the hectic morning of the competition. It was actually amazingly calm as compared to past competition mornings. So Holly, thank you. You know we love you sooo much!
Holly made everyone breakfast while the rest of us worked diligently on making competition necklaces. I'm not really sure that is what they are called but what ever we should call them, we couldn't have gone without them. Cali has been looking forward to them for a LONG time.


We worked on hair together too. Anastasia (I wish I had a picture for you- she is Barry's girlfriend) came to help with Cali and Cassi's hair. In case you didn't know, I am hair challenged but, I can wield a mean blow dryer though! :)



We even had time for a little pre-show improvisation.

These competitions are old-hat for Cassi but for Cali and the other little girls, it was a long day.


Still, you can tell, some of these girls will be cheering for a long time! :) They were in awe of some of the big kids! Truth be known, I am always in awe too.

Cassi and Cali's floor times were spread out a bit so in the middle we took a break to go get lunch. Food and treats make everyone feel better, right? Ice cream works wonders I tell you!



I took so many pictures of Cassi and Cali that I am afraid the blog may overload, so I'll give you only a couple more! ;)




It doesn't appear that we got video of Cali's group. If it turns out we did, I will post it but for now, only Cassi. Here she is...She's a ROCK STAR!

The Simple Woman's Daybook 11-16

FOR TODAY 2009-11-16

Outside my window... It is dark and cold. 12 below last time I checked! The day went so fast.

I am thinking...about Kelly. And our amongst friends pictures.

I am thankful for...my life. IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE! ;)

From the learning rooms...Cali has a new favorite game. We call it more than, less than or equal to. We roll dice.

From the kitchen...I have been craving good veggies! I have got to find a way to get through to my family. That said, I did get Cali to try egg drop soup today! WOW!

I am wearing...jeans and a hoodie. Did I mention how cold it is???

I am creating...I NEED to be creating turkey's for examples for Thursday's Family Fun Night.

I am going...to stay home tomorrow and make turkeys!

I am reading...blogs. I haven't read any in two days. The horror!

I am hoping...for warmer weather.

I am hearing...the crackle of the wood stove.

Around the house...we are still trying to clean up. I may never get to where I want to be. :(

One of my favorite things...the ice snowflake I made today. (pictures coming soon)

A few plans for the rest of the week...Remember...I told you, FAMILY FUN NIGHT on Thursday. Wish me luck!

A photo for sharing...
Doesn't it just look cold?

To read more daybook's take a look here.

amongst friends #2

Christie-AK; Jenny-AL

I am late posting this week. I was out of town and one friend has no picture to offer. I will edit if she gets to it! ;)

The theme was motion. To understand amongst friends, go here. Join us next week if you would like.

Theme for next week- WHITE.

Wordless Wednesday's 11-11

Man, have had some amazing sunsets lately. As I sped Cassi to cheer last night, we were blessed to see this unfold. I gave her the camera and told her to snap as we drove. This is what she came up with.

Homeschool Blogger of the Year

No, I don't homeschool but sometimes I wish I did. And if I ever grow up (and decide to homeschool) I wanna be just like Lisa at 5 Orange Potatoes. Her blog is amazing and wonderful and like a piping hot cup of coffee just when you need it most. It's comforting, exciting, fun and make you feel all warm and cozy inside.

She has been nominated for Best Unchooling Blog of the Year
and I think she deserves it. If you'd like, go check out her blog, go take a look at the nominees and vote. I know she would appreciate it!

*edit- she didn't ask me to write this- and I hope I am not breaking any rules for writing it. I just really like her and her blog.
Cheers!

Cori's FRIEND-ly Birthday Celebration...Finally.

We were unable to actually have a birthday party for Cori with her friends near her birthday. This past weekend we were finally able to make it happen.

We decided on pizza at a restaurant then a movie; A Christmas Carol.

Pizza was great. The girls sat at their end of the table; we did our best to stay out of their conversation. Grandpa and GiGi came to hang with me since Scott had to work.


I think the girls had a good time. They were quite silly.



I didn't make a birthday cake, she requested the infamous gooey-butter cake instead.
After blowing out the candles, which took a while since they couldn't wrap their heads around trick candles, I let them cut their own pieces of cake.


They wanted specific parts evidently. And this is what happens when you let them handle it themselves. :)

Her friends know her so well!


I absolutely love the fact that they are still down to earth enough to give homemade gifts. I truly LOVE it!

As we were loading up they found themselves chasing each other with the silly wormy things I'd given them. I thought they were pretty cute out there. They were so happy; giggling and laughing. It was contagious!
We didn't play there long; it was really cold and we weren't dressed for it.
I knew it was really cold when even Grandpa said something about it. Looking at all the red noses made it pretty obvious too.

The movie was all right, nothing spectacular. But being there with friends was awesome!

A couple of the girls had an evening commitment so they left straight from the movie. The rest of them came over to play games and do a little crafting. I think I took the last one home around 11:00. Alli stayed over night and hung with us most of Sunday too. Nicely enough, I think most of these girls are finally comfortable enough in our house to make themselves at home. I am glad. It makes everything so much easier for me. And it makes me happy for my kids. That we have a house that their friends like to visit!

It was fun. I think Cori was happy to finally have a group of kids over and celebrate. Now she is looking forward to a sledding party, just for fun, which I've promised her and Cassi both sometime over Christmas break, weather willing. :)