A window into our Homeschool classroom

Well, it's back-to-school time...back from Spring break that is. Speaking of which: we had both snow, and hail the size of marbles this weekend. I asked hubby to videotape the hail coming down because it was quite comical the way it was bouncing off the ground, similar to a bouncing rubber ball. And it came on so suddenly, I jumped when I heard the first volley of it pounding the roof. The snow was really big flakes, but it wasn't cold enough for any to stick for long. The calendar may say it's Spring, but I'm not buying it.

So I thought I'd let you have a peek into our homeschool classroom.

This is our awesome whiteboard that I picked up at Costco for $19.95. It was a great deal- it's really quite large (atleast for our classroom) and came with dry erase markers, eraser, and spray cleaner. And I'm starting to sound like an advertisement...The white 3-drawer dresser is for the kids to have somewhere to put their in-progress projects, crafts, ect. The large globe is probably my oldest son's favorite thing in our classroom; he has a definite love of maps.

Oh, and isn't that giant space book awesome? We watched the space shuttle Endeavour land the other night on the Nasa online site. I couldn't figure out why we would see it, and then it would change to darkness, then back again. My oldest told me that they were switching to the view from inside the shuttle; it's nice having him around for when the Teacher can't figure things out, LoL.

This is our project/game shelf. One of the great things about our local Goodwill thrift store is the fact that I find lots of learning and project kits there, often brand new. And at a much cheaper price than those wonderful teacher supply stores. Which really are wonderful; I feel like a kid in a candy store when I (rarely) go to one; and it's rarely because they're SO expensive.

And there are our tons of folders, because I have to have our worksheets very organized or they blend into the household and I can't keep track of them. The games are a mix of family games, as well as learning games. My oldest son loves the game Take Off, which is about World Geography. It really makes learning geography fun. I didn't even know some of those countries existed. I know...and I'm the Teacher. Geography was never my best subject;)


This is one of our bookshelves. If I had my way (and I will one day) I would have a room totally devoted to books. But for now I don't have the room. This shelf is a blend of our favorite books, as well as some school-subject oreinted books. I just picked up a book this weekend about a dog that went along with a family on the Oregon trail. It's written from his point of view- I thought that was kindof a cute idea.

The crayola colors storage thingy is for our assorted odds and ends craft-wise. This weekend I picked up $40.00 in Crayola Model Magic Fusion for $10.00 at the thrift store. Brand-new still in the package! That added up to 24 individual (different colored) packs. My 2 youngest kids love this, and it's a great way for them to be creative. If you're not familiar with it, it's very flexible, and not crumbly like playdough can be as it dries. When this clay dries, it pretty much turns to a hard foam. I had promised my middle son to buy some as soon as it went on sale at the craft store, but this was a much better deal.

And here is our curriculum shelf/music center. I usually play acappella or classical music when the kids do their schoolwork. Sometimes the louder instrument and singing music is too overwhelming for me during this time, it's a sensory thing I think.

And this is where they usually do their schoolwork. (Last picture at the bottom). I have to admit, when I first started homeschooling, I thought they should work at desks. Then I found out that many other homeschoolers do it anywhere from the kitchen table, to laying on their bed! While I can't handle the idea of propping up your feet or slouching while doing schoolwork, I have settled onto this middle ground. Though sometimes I do split them up on those days when they are just a little too much distraction to each other. In this picture they're playing a game of dominoes; think I could squeeze that in as Math?

So that's our homeschooling world. And I'm definitely not writing this as a blueprint for how to set up a homeschool classroom; it's more of a keeping of a record of it for myself.

Items on this weeks homeschool agenda:

• The 3 R's- My son says he's pretty sure one of these is Rrrr..Science. Nice try, kiddo.


• Music study: The composer George Handel. My personal favorite.


• History: World Explorers Unit study- I sidelined this earlier in favor of our Irish study. I can't wait to do the first project. You know I'll post pictures.


• Gym: I've decided to do a little workout each day with the kids. It'll stretch more muscle than just outside play does. And start a good habit of daily exercise. Someday they'll thank me:)


• Okay, okay...I think we can manage to throw in a Science experiment or two. Hope I don't regret that...after all, how much damage could mixing mentos with a 2-liter of soda pop do? I'll keep you posted...

So there you have it: our classroom within our home. Maybe not as fancy or well-stocked as some- but we like it:)

The Joy of Serving

I have mentioned before that Sunday is the busiest day at our house. While we do manage to stay quite busy with our homeschool activities during the week, that tends to be much more flexible.

Sunday is the day when I want my little brood (and the head Rooster) to look their best. I love dressing up for church. Not so sure my boys feel the same way about their suits and ties:) But my daughter sure enjoys it; especially all those accessories.

When we arrive at church, we literally go in all directions. Hubby to 2nd grade, Me to 1st, and the kids to assorted classes (my daughter is on the 3rd floor; our church is pretty big).

After that, the time just seems to fly by. And if I'm wearing high heels (a vanity, I suppose) I start regretting it about now...

About five years ago, after the birth of my youngest, I decided it was time for me to jump back into service at church. It wasn't that I was doing nothing; I was a nursery worker (an important job, though not very glamorous) and I helped out in another spot part-time. But I knew I could do more, especially on Sunday morning.

So I did what I normally do when I feel strongly about something: I plugged my nose and jumped in!

I teach a 1st grade sunday school class of about 10 girls, and we have a blast! We meet together with the 1st grade boys to start out, and sing songs and hear a Bible story. Then we split up, and my group goes to the second floor. Today I was a little late getting upstairs, and when I entered the classroom my girls starting cheering and applauding- silly things! But that's what I mean, we have fun. We talk about what we did during the week, take prayer requests, and try to slip in some talks on proper behavior, ect. I should say right here: I have absolutely no talent in any special area. Really, I'm not just putting myself down. Anyone could teach this class; okay, you might have to like kids a little bit. Other than that, it only takes listening to them, and loving on them. And since it's 10 to 1, the teacher is the big winner here (and I went home with 4 pictures today:)

When class is over, the kids head over to Junior Church. I say, with all prejudice, that we have the greatest Junior Church classes! Really; I go in and out of all of these classes during this time, and I enjoy observing the great things going on.

Now I want to say here: if you simply go to church and sit in the services, I'm not putting that down at all. We all need that to a certain extent. I have been going to church my entire life, and yet I need to be fed from God's word each week. After all, I've been eating all my life too, but you won't find me skipping meals:) Sorry...food has a way of creeping into all my posts...I think it's the diet thing...

I remember before I went back to serving full-time. We were in a young couples Sunday school class, which at our church is almost like a small church within a church. There is a closeness and fellowship there that I even now miss a little bit. And then there's the morning church service; we have 300+ people gathered together in a room to worship God. The wonderful music, the special days, and the words of God through our Pastor, who is one of the most caring people I have ever known. How could I not want to be a part of that?

What I am saying is this: Serving brings incredible rewards. And I don't mean the kind we get in heaven. I mean that when you care for and serve others, you start seeing that you can make a difference in their lives. In the choices they make, even in their eternal future. But even beyond that, the caring and love comes full circle. When a little bus kid that was in my sunday school class 3 years ago, comes up to me and gives me a huge hug every week, that makes my heart overflow. And I'm the one being blessed and cared about. Of course, I don't serve totally because of how it makes me feel, but what a bonus!

Another "job" I do during the morning church service, is talking to visiting children about Jesus and how they can have a home in heaven one day. I really enjoy doing this. Kids are so interesting to talk to, and some of them have very curious ideas in this area.

I remember two sisters that came on one of our church buses one Sunday. We were talking about heaven when one of them piped in and said "My mommy's going to hell." Well, needless to say, this startled me a little bit. As I paused for a moment, her sister said irately "NO, she's not." To which the other said back to her "Yes she is. That's where you go when you're in jail for Murder!" That conversation would have been comical, if it wasn't so heartbreaking.

There are so many people who need someone to care. And in coming to church, many people are doing just that: looking for someone to care about them.

I know it's difficult when you have little ones (especially babies) to be involved on a large scale. In fact, the church service may be your only time you get a break all week (or say it may seem:) But if you can do something even part-time to help carry the load, it will make a difference. To those already serving, and to yourself.

My daughter's children's church class has 50 kids between the ages of 4-6. The teachers rotate by teaching once a month. I don't think they could stand to do it every week- that might even drive me crazy;) Yet, not one of these people have a child in that department; there was a shortage of people willing to do that age (can you imagine) and they filled that spot. I make sure to thank them every week. I want them to know how important what they do is to me, and how much I appreciate it.

In God's eyes, we're all on even ground. No ones better than anyone else. We all mess up sometimes, we all need encouraged sometimes.

Every week when I come home from church, I feel refreshed and blessed, though I haven't been in an adult service. It's the joy and peace that comes from serving others; and being blessed yourself as a result.

Now I need to get my youngest down for a nap, so she'll be manageable during evening church. Which is MY turn to stay in the adult service.

I wish all of you a wonderful and blessed Day~

Girl Stuff

Could it be my little girl has arrived at that point where we can have a real girls-night-out together? It would seem so!

Last night hubby and the boys took off for another state. Really. Of course, that other state is only 30 minutes away:) He was going to help his brother with something, so that left me and my little five-year-old daughter to go out doing errands together.

Now I have adored my daughter since the day she was born. And we have wonderful times together; just most of those are not in public. Not that she throws fits or anything; she just...gets nature's call at every stop (have you noticed how many stores are doing away with public bathrooms? it's really true) gets very hungry and thirsty (multiple times) and is suddenly incredibly tired and unable to walk short distances (I wish she was tired like that at 10pm).

In fact, she acts like a tiny child!!! A child who is tired, hungry, and doesn't comprehend that running 6 places in 2 hours time is a neccessity for mommy sometimes.

Until now. Tonight she was as perfect as a little Princess can be. And received her first haircut...during which she made sure the hairdresser noticed that her hair was "red and curly just like my mommys". Followed by an occasional "Am I being a good girl Mommy?"

And please do not hurry to suggest different ways to get little ones to behave in public; much of that part of this post was meant tongue-in-cheek. My kids publicly behave better than many, and worse than some. The best-laid plans/behaviors can go astray, especially in public. I often remember this when I see a young mother trying to deal with a 2 or 3 year-old in public, worried that her reputation as a parent is going to be forever tainted by their behavior.

And I try to stifle a smile; yes, I remember what that feels like. Now the ones who don't care how their child is behaving...that could be another post.

So now I have someone along not fussing about basic neccessities of life, but oohing and ahhing over clothing, accessories, and other items the thrift store conjures up for my visit.

Having no mother or sisters with whom I can share outings like this, it really does open up a new chapter in our mother-daughter relationship.

Which is such an exciting thought.

So why am I feeling just a little sad about the end of that last chapter?

Maybe because I just want to hold every little moment to my heart; this mommy is in no hurry for her little one to grow up...she can take her time.

Can you imagine how I'll be at her wedding?

Announcing a New Addition to the Family!!!

HaHaHa- doesn't that title just grab you! And no, we are not adding another child to the W__ household (though we are thinking of getting a cat; too many mice!).

Just letting everyone know...I am starting another blog. In addition to this one, that is. But quite different. This will be my main one (somewhat) and that will be my....well, you can check it out if you like.

And my hope is that if it isn't to your liking or preference, you will still drop by here to see what's going on in our happy home.

So until I figure out how to do it otherwise, you can access it here The Proverbial Straw.

Serious Thoughts

Have I mentioned before that I am a mild-mannered mother-of-three? Okay, if so, you know I'm about ready to drop a bomb!

My window to the world is my computer. Sometimes I put the radio on while doing afternoon chores, but they basically tell you local news, along with repeating National news storys over and over and over...

So I stick to a few sites on the computer for my news. And no, I don't spend alot of time on this. I skim and give my brain a little out-of-the-normal-routine stimulation (for anyone who will feel the need to say I should be tending to the family during this time; I mean that sweetly:).

An article caught my eye. The Supreme Court of the state of Texas (where I have many relatives) overturned a stay of execution by President Bush. Now let me just say here: I pray for our President. And all the Bush-bashing people who say they want change would be much better off to do the same. But it would seem like slinging viscious words and disrespectful names (and I'm putting it mildly) is the easy way out. Regardless of who get's in the White House, it's your responsibility as a Christian to pray for your Leaders. Okay, sermon over.

So the stay of execution was overturned. So who is this man facing lethal injection?

He is a Mexican national who participated in the gang rape and murder of two Texas girls: ages 14 and 16. He was convicted of the crimes and sentenced to death.

So why should this be overturned? Has new evidence come to light questianing his conviction? Was he not read his rights? Was there a lack of evidence?

None of the above. It would seem that when someone comes to our country as a national of another country, they feel they should not be judged strictly by our laws; they should be allowed legal help from their country, and their country should have a say in how justice is carried out.

The Mexican government is claiming "violations of international law" and has filed an appeal against the United States with the International Court of Justice. Several human rights groups are also involved.

I am compelled to ask: Who is sticking up for the rights of 2 youngs girls who had their lives visciously taken away?

There are 43 other Mexican nationals awating execution who could be affected by this ruling.

And should you feel so inclined to claim some kind of prejudice on my part, don't bother. I don't care if you're black,white, yellow, brown, ect. When you commit a crime you should be punished. Remember that equality that get's talked about so much in speeches? Well, now it's staring you in the face. I could list my friends and relatives who are mexicans, but it wouldn't matter...the color of someones skin does not give them the right to take away someones life. Or to be punished any differently for doing so.

And if you feel more pity for this man than for these girls, there is something seriously wrong.

Maybe it would be wise for people to commit crimes in the country by which they would like to be judged.

Unfortunately, America is becoming a place that criminals from other countrys are often fleeing to to escape capture and punishment. And they often commit repeat crimes here because they basically don't exist. No name, No social security number. This is not just my opinion; there are statistics to back it up.

America may be the country of opportunity, but not that kind of opportunity.

10 things I'm Thankful for when Dieting:

1. That Angel food cake is fat-free.


2. That aerobic exercise actually cuts down my appetite; so why is that not enough incentive to do it faithfully?


3. That Skinny Cow ice cream sandwiches are so incredibly delicious!


4. That fruit is low-calorie and somewhat filling...quess I lucked out on that one Mrs.D:)


5. That eating right actually makes me feel better.


6. That tea is practically calorie free.


7. Baked potatoes chips- for when you just have to have some.


8. That having an occasional "cheat" meal usually stimulates your metabolism.


9. That really good feeling when you realize you need to go down a size in clothing!


10. That I have a friend also counting calories...which helps me to stay on track.

Probably just about everyone who comes to my site is already familiar with Mrs.Darling at Dishpan Dribble. She happens to be a real-life friend of mine, as well as my mentor in many areas. She recently started another blog called Dieting is not a piece of cake about her quest to lose 100 lbs! She is one of the most determined women I know; I have no doubt she'll lose that weight. But in the meantime, we get twice the serving of Mrs.Darling- what a treat!

So regardless of how much you want to lose (my goal is 20 lbs), doing it in league with other women really does help. We're all busy, and have a lot to juggle. But doing it (losing weight) later will only be harder (I speak from experience) ; so if you're interested, check this blog out and sign up!

Easter Happenings

Here are my three kidlets all ready for Easter morning services.

Hubby and I are both Sunday school teachers (different grades), so we also had separate parties in our classes that morning. Of course, that meant I had two parties to prepare for, LoL. So I made about 5 dozen cookies, a fruit tray (always a hit with the little kids) and many goody bags with assorted items of candy and toys-thank goodness for the dollar store!

I had planned to roast a turkey for Easter dinner (we're not big pork fans), but hubby surprised me with the decision to take the family out to eat- he said I had done enough work on other things, he wanted me just to relax- what woman would argue with that? It is such a rare occasion for us to go out to eat (I always think of all the groceries I could get with that money) so it really was a treat- and no kitchen to clean up afterwards!

Every year our church puts on an Easter performance, and this year my boys had a small part in one of the scenes. While it was a small part, they still had to be at rehearsals three evenings this past week, which wasn't easy to fit in the schedule. However, they were thrilled to be a part of it all. I look forward to this performance each year because it's totally centered on the true meaning of Easter, and in particular this year it focused on Heaven and what awaits us there (loved ones, ect). So I cried liked usual, and felt like my soul had been refreshed. I need that sometimes with all the other hustle and bustle going on. I suppose we all do.

Because the day was so packed with activities, we didn't get to our Easter egg hunt until after the Evening services. My kids were really good about this, considering they were really looking forward to it. If you live in the Northwest, you know this is still our rainy season, so we did our hunt in the house where it was nice and dry.

I was amazed when I went into several stores this year, Easter items are getting bigger and more expensive it seems. I had decided I wanted to keep ours low-budget, so it didn't end up becoming Christmas-in-a-basket! I picked up a few dollar toys, chocolate bunnies (a requirement) and a small amount of candy.

Of course, much of the fun was in the scavenger hunt anyway.

End result: they had alot of fun, and were quite content with their small amount of loot!

My daughter and I made these decoupage eggs together. She was fascinated with the whole process. We invited her brothers to join in, but they were immersed in the creation of a lego kingdom...can you imagine boys wanting to do that instead of decoupage?

I hope you all had a wonderful and blessed Easter~

Happy Easter

Hear the bells ringing,

They're singing that you can be born again.

Hear the bells ringing,

They're singing Christ is risen from the dead.

The angel up on the tombstone said He has risen just as He said.

Quickly now, go tell his disciples that Jesus Christ is no longer dead.

Joy to the word, He has risen, hallelujah

He's risen, hallelujah

He's risen, hallelujah

Finally ready to play Tag

Being a fairly new blogger, the idea of being "tagged" for something is a fun idea to me... I'm just not very good at getting to it right away. My first tag I missed completely, so please forgive me for my sometimes scatterbrained ways. Nikki from Nikki's Notes has tagged me, the rules follow:

"Here's how you play. Once you've been tagged you have to write a blog of
ten weird, random things, facts or habits about yourself. At the end, you choose
five people to be tagged, listing their names and why you chose them to be
tagged. Don't forget to leave them a comment saying "you're it" and to read your
blog. You can't tag the person who tagged you. Since you can't tag that person
back, let him or her know when you've posted your blog so he or she can read
your answers."

Here are my ten random facts:

1. I love mysteries; Agatha Christie is my favorite ( mystery) author.
2. I graduated from high school a year early- but really didn't want to (I loved School).
3. I HATE the taste of coffee, and LOVE Bigelow plantation mint tea.
4. I can't whistle; and yes, I've tried to learn how to many times
5. I've been a Sunday school teacher for 14 years.
6. I am a huge crime & punishment buff; crime library.com is one of my favorite sites.
7. I lost my last baby tooth when I was 25 years old.
8. I am a thrift-store-shopping addict!
9. My favorite music is a cappella.
10. I think folded chips taste better than...well, unfolded ones. Hubby says that qualifies as weird.

Now, since my blogging world is quite small, and some of my regular stops are already on board for this tag, I am only tagging four others: Kristy at Homemakers Cottage , and Carrie at Cup of Grace because I'd like to get to know them better. Minimalist Mommy, because her blog has great hints and ideas for being frugal and is worth a stop just for that (even though I'm still blushing because I missed your tag). And Mrs. Darling at Dishpan Dribble. Now I should clear this up right now: Mrs.Darling is not too crazy about "tags". Of course, she has so many people who stop by her blog that she could be doing the tag thing non-stop. HOWEVER, since she is the person who started me blogging...c'mon give a girl a break Mrs.Darling.

St.Patricks Day Happenings

Here are some pictures of our Saint Patrick's day activities :

While there was no leprechaun caught in our trap, it was quite obvious one had stopped by...

Our menu for the evening:

• Irish Salmon in Heavy Cream- My kids loved this- and it was a nice change from the usual corned beef.
• Herbed Cabbage and Potatoes
• Fresh Garlic Sourdough Loaf (after all, I'm not 100% Irish:)

My daughter absolutely loved helping me make these Lucky coin cakes, which we served with Leprecaun fizz.


Hubby trying to fool the boys with a little slight of hand.

Playing Lucky Bingo

Our little Irish Rose

After the food and festivities, we watched the Hallmark film The Magical Legend of the Leprecauns. The kids and I love this film, I'm not even going to try to quess how many times we've watched it!

Good night to all~

May the Luck of the Irish be with You

Last night the kids made a leprechaun trap. They had so much fun running around looking for various items that might "lure" one of the wee people to the trap, and hopefully catch him in the act. We used gold dollars and one of Mommy's sparkly bracelets, as well as one of my daughter's miniature tea cups with saucer. Then we camouflaged with small pine boughs.


Now my daughter is running around talking about how she is going to have a "pet" leprechaun, LoL.

We, of course, did discuss that being wily and sly little fellows, leprechauns are not at all easy to fool, let alone catch. But maybe we will atleast be able to tell he stopped by....

I plan to post pictures of our various St. Paddy's day activities later today, so until then:


Free Glitter Graphics

Time to slow down

As much as I wanted to stay on topic (St.Patricks day activities), it just wasn't meant to be.

Do you ever feel like life is just a big carnival ride, and you just wish it would stop long enough for you to get off?

And then throw in those wonderful female hormones- well, it makes for a crazy state of mind!

We took a family vacation last week- I know you'd think I'd be rested and rearing to go! Instead, I seem to be off-kilter ever since, atleast mentally. I've had terrible insomnia (you may have seen my 3am comments) and my memory is atrocious. I have no idea where my bank debit card is, it's been missing ever since the last time I went out (and I don't rightly remember when that was). I'm just foggy brained.

And then there is school. Our rainy weather has arrived and seems to have settled in. That dreary, continual rain. For one reason or another, we have not done co-op homeschool for about 3 weeks. The boys are having trouble focusing. And they both could listen to me read just about anything for long periods of time, but getting them to write anything beyond answers to basic questians is akin to pulling teeth. Please tell me it's because they're boys!

We're having a Missions Conference at our Church this week, which means a total of 5 services in 5 days. One of the main missionaries is a man who has lived 23 years in the Philipines, in a city even the Philipino people themselves are afraid to live in! 3 men have sworn to kill him.

The first time I heard him speak was 15 years ago at College, and I have admired him ever since. He's just an old country boy from West Virginia, but when he starts to preach, it's powerful. I enjoyed the first night so much, so why didn't I make it to the second night?

Well, seems like I was double-booked to be at a speech therapy appointment at about the same time- it slipped hubby's mind. Which is no wonder, since he is working lots of overtime, and taking a college class. So I had about 25 minutes warning to feed and clothe my 3 and an extra friend. I did get the kids there ( late) for their missions meeting, but took my bedraggled self off to home. This was not a time I wanted to walk into service halfway through the proceedings.

And I'm going to quess that at the root of my whole problem is the fact that at a certain time of the month, my body gets so screwed up by my hormones that I almost cannot think straight.
Which is why I have such difficult pregnancies (soaring hormones) and why I don't use anything that may try to adjust things in any way.

In a few days, I'll look at this post and say "What was I thinking?" And maybe hit delete.

As for tommorrow (which is now today) I've decided to present my kids with appointment cards directing them to come to mommy's room at a set time to spend some individual one-on-one together.

Some things are just more important than others.

5 days and counting...

Today was spent working on maps of Ireland, and making a mini-book about snakes. There is actually a tie-in there: legend has it that Saint Patrick himself drove the snakes out of Ireland. Makes me wish he had immigrated here!

And if the mention of snakes made you shudder, just wait...your turns coming Marva, Nikki & Kristy. The boy breed just naturally wants to learn about and handle the things! So I settle for the learning, and let them look at them through glass at the zoo, Lol.

Ireland is a beautiful country. I haven't been there myself, but my younger sister has. I thus far must settle for pictures. There are very few places I would step off of good ol' U.S. soil for, but Ireland is one of them. Maybe I'll shoot for our 25th wedding anniversary...so only 10 more years to go! If I save up all my pennies...

We made tentative plans for our St. Paddy's day party. As it is also the beginning of Spring Break (for those bound by such rules) we will be able to invite some of the kid's friends to it. Fingers are crossed for good weather...

And I am trying out some new recipes with a definite Irish twist to them. I just wish I had not tried that Dubliner cheese. It's absolutely delicious and full of fat calories...

My children are also copying Irish Proverbs for penmanship this week. So here are a few to consider:

• Shallow water makes great noise.


• Falling is easier than rising.


• Man talks, but God directs.

When Irish Eyes are Smiling

I am calling off all other posts (of mine that is) to dedicate the next week to all things Irish.

One of the few things I share with my birth mother, with whom I did not live while growing up, is a love of my Irish heritage. And I, of course, am not 100% Irish- but I quess you could say I'm just enough! And I have the hair to prove it. As did my mother and great-grandmother (and now my daughter).

I should maybe say up front that I am not Catholic, and St. Patrick's day is not about a Saint or religion to me, just about being Irish. And I won't drink a drop that day (well, maybe some Tea).

I love just about any holiday, even more so now that I have 3 children. While I know people who do not celebrate many holidays, for a variety of reasons, I always feel each holiday is what I make of it.

So I will leave you with my favorite Irish blessing:

May the road rise to meet you,

May the wind be ever at your back.

May the sun shine warm upon your face,

The rains fall soft upon your fields.

And until we meet again,

May God hold you in the hollow of his hand.

Showers of Blessings

There are many kinds of showers: the one I took this morning (and almost every morning; just thought I better clear that up!), the rainy kind that they keep predicting in our neck of the woods and is rarely appearing (no complaining here), and then there is the kind that God sends our way: the blessings!

We are part of a gleaners group located in a town about a 30 minutes drive from here (longer in rush-hour traffic). We pick-up once a week, and because of a variety of different reasons, my hubby is doing that after he gets off work on Monday (his only free evening right now). We pay about $11 per week (or $45 monthly) to be part of this group.

We never know what will be in a pick-up; so here is a list of what he brought home today:

1. 62 oz carton of fresh blueberries
2. 2 lbs zucchini
3. 3 lbs orange tomatoes (as in the kind meant to be orange- not unripe ones!)
4. 2 pint grape tomatoes
5. 3 Large Portabella Mushrooms
6. 2 bags Fresh Express Meditteranean express Salad Mixes
7. 2 18oz bags Romaine lettuce
8. 1.5 lbs oranges
9. 1.5 lbs granny smith apples
10. 6 pack of Yoplait raspberry yogurt
11. 2 boxes Yogo fruit snacks
12. 2 loaves organic sourdough sandwich bread
13. 2 Costco roasted garlic loaves
14. 3 lb jar of Walls Berry strawberry jam
15. 16 oz tofu ( I actually like the stuff- stir fried with soy sauce- yum!)
16. 2 boxes of Yoplait fizz go-gurt tubes
17. Box of Hersheys extra dark expresso cacao (I'm glad I don't like coffee; this would be too tempting otherwise)
18. Quaker multi-grain cinnamon rice cakes
19. 2 lb Pumpkin loaf from a real bakery (sticker on this was $11. - can you imagine paying that?- however, this is my temptation in this load)
20. Many bags of a variety of corn chips: corn, black bean, veggie, ect. (sometimes I wonder if they are using us as guinea pigs in this area, LoL)
21. 2 cans of S&W kidney beans
22. Pizza Hut pizza
23. Lg bag of cheese-stuffed pizza sticks
24. 4 capri-sun pouches/2 big snack bag Doritoes
25. glove box emergency medical kit
26. 1 lb hamburger patties (we don't usually get much meat in these pick-ups)

Why I am especially excited about this load is because it was so full of fresh fruits and veggies; these items are pretty expensive in our area stores. I stock-up on meat when it goes on sale,and even have frozen veggies stocked up, but it's not the same as fresh produce.

And I didn't include the yellow peppers, scallions, celery, ect. in the load that are kindof borderline in their use. After all, it is a gleaners program. But the blueberries were in better shape than some of the ones I see in the grocery store!

As I said before, we never know what we will get week-to-week. Sometimes we get very little produce, but loads of toilet paper, napkins, or shampoo. And it is usually items you need to use sooner rather than later (well, the toilet paper has a longer shelf life...).

But we always get the corn chips, Lol.

This program has been an incredible blessing to our family. God is so good!

Back from Vacation

WE'RE BAAACK! We arrived home late last night. I am slowly but surely getting everything back in it's proper place. It was absolutely wonderful coming home not only to a very clean house, but also a newly organized one.

So I'm going to do the proper thing to do when you get back from vacation- make everyone watch your slides! Lol

We had a simply wonderful time. We stayed at a resort that I had acquired a trial membership to- I can now add this to the list of smart things I've thought of (wish that list was longer than it is, Lol). Really though, it way exceeded our expectations. We had reserved a chalet, which is basically a cabin set apart by itself. It also had a deck with barbecue and hot tub. It was absolutely beautiful inside. It was made out of the most beautiful wood and looked so rustic. I am not into fancy or expensive luxury looks, so this was definitely to my taste. I took pictures, but there was no way to do this place justice. It was their slower time of year, so it was very private. They are on a huge piece of land, and you would occasionally see deer prancing by (or whatever deer do).

So, other than relaxing and hanging out together as a family, here is a list of the "big" activities we did:

The High Desert Museum is located in Bend Oregon. While this was a little expensive for us, I knew my kids would really enjoy going here. We didn't realize they closed at 5pm, and arrived around 3:30. When we went to pay, they said since we were starting later in the day, the kids could go free and my husband and I were given a discount. Which means we paid $14. instead of$56., is that an awesome deal or what? We still had plenty of time to view the inside and outside exhibits (in fact, they let us stay a little past closing). It was absolutely fascinating. If you enjoy early American History, this is a must to visit if you're ever in the area. They had life-size models of teepees, a mining camp, a saw mill, mining town, stagecoaches, cabins- I could just go on and on about this place. It would have been worth the full admission price!

The Mount Bachelor Resort is the 5th largest resort in the United States. My husband was raised in Oregon but had never been here himself, as it is a 5 hr drive from where we live. We decided to spend an afternoon at their Snowblast Park. It has 800 feet of rolling hill to sled down! I had decided beforehand that I would sit out the sledding, both to save the extra fee and to do some video recording of the event. But when I got a look at that huge slide, the child in me took over and I knew I had to join in the fun! Unfortunately, when I got at the top of the mountain, I came to my senses- I was terrified!!! I'm not kidding, my heart hasn't beat like that in a long time, I was just so scared! I decided I would go back down and video tape as planned; the only problem, the only way down was on a tube! Okay- so to make a long story short, I did it- and it was a blast!!! I have been talking about it ever since, more than anyone else in the family. We all agreed it has to be a yearly tradition now, and I can't wait til next year!

By the way, my little 5 year old daughter never skipped a beat, her only complaint was she had to go with us for the first slide! She definitely doesn't get her fearless streak from me!

The Peterson Rock Garden was the hands-down winner of the best attraction of our trip, atleast to my two boys. It was created by a Danish immigrant to the United States who settled around the Cascade Mountains around the turn of the century. After years of collecting a great variety of rocks and petrified wood (much of it from his own land), he began building miniature castles, monuments, towers, and bridges. It eventually spanned 4 acres of land including a farmhouse, museum, picnic area, and pond. They have a self-pay box on site; for our family of five it was a suggested donation of $7.50 total. While we were dashing around looking at all these creations, a woman stepped out of a building and volunteered to open the museum which was closed. They had the most incredible rocks. I know- rocks? God's natural creations far out-trump anything man-made! Each of the kids picked out an animal carved out of rock- what an awesome souvenier! Oh- they also had about 10-15 peacocks that let you come right up to them as they rotated 360 degrees showing off their beautiful plumage. The kids also were able to pet a 3 week old goat the owner had on site. It was a wonderful, invigorating visit. We are planning to attempt a small rock monument in our own front yard this summer after visiting here- the kids can't wait!

We also did light hiking, hide-n-seek, and were just plain lazy in-between!

One last confession: while I did not visit the many outlet stores located in a near-by town, I couldn't resist visiting the local Walmart. I found two matching comforters for my boys beds, original price $49.99 each, clearanced to $9.99! As well as some Easter shirts and ties for my boys, for some reason they only seem to have the better quality dress items around this time of year.

Oh, and I picked up a Looney Tunes Spotlight collection dvd set for $9.99- that meant almost 4 hrs of peace and quiet (not counting the many "What's up Doc?") while we drove home!

So we're all a little tired out, but have added some wonderful memories to the family log. As well as 250+ pictures!

Have a wonderful weekend- and don't forget to set your clock ahead if you live in the great NorthWest~

*While I was gone, my blogging friend Minimalist Mommy tagged me- which happens to be my first tag as a blogger! Which also means I'm not quite sure how it works, but I'm hoping I can still participate. So I plan to get to that soon.

Favorite Recipes

Since my head isn't clear enough to do a normal post (due to my continued clogged-up cranium) I thought I would post some favorite recipes instead. I am always looking for good deals on meat for my family of 5, which sometimes means purchasing those not-so-tender round steak cuts. But with this recipe, it's both tender and delicious!

YUMMY SLOW COOKER ROUND STEAK
3 large potatoes, peeled and quartered
1 onion, chopped
6 carrots, peeled and sliced into 1 inch pieces
2 pounds boneless round steak
1 (1 ounce) package dry onion soup mix
1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
3/4 cup water

Place the potatoes, onion, and carrots in slow cooker. Cut steak into six pieces, then place the meat on top of vegetables. In a mixing bowl, combine the soup mix, soup, and water; pour over beef.
Cover, and cook on Low for approx. 7-8 hours.

BUTTERMILK BISCUITS
1/2 cup of butter
2 1/2 Tbsp of Sugar
1 beaten egg
3/4 cup of buttermilk
1/4 cup club soda
1 tsp salt
5 cups Bisquick biscuit mix

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Combine all the ingredients. Knead the dough by hand until smooth.

After flouring hands, pat the dough flat to 3/4 inch thickness on wax paper, and punch out biscuits with a biscuit cutter. Bake on a greased baking pan for 12 minutes, or until golden brown. Makes 18.

This recipe originated from "Top Secret Recipes" and is a copy-cat of KFC's biscuits. Fast food restaurants have very little appeal for me (I think it's all the grease) but I have to admit that I love their biscuits!

I will end by wishing everyone a speedy recovery from all the sickness going around. Just think- only 19 more days until the first day of Spring!