Gentle Home

"Fall"-ing into a Routine

2011-09-19T14:08:00.000-07:00

Now that Fall is practically here, we have started to settle into the routine of errands or appointments in the morning and school for Brookie in the afternoon. Small Fry has been attending speech therapy sessions two or three times a week and seems to enjoy the individualized attention and help.

For blog purposes, I will call the baby (who is now 9 months old - yikes!) "Minnow". Minnow looks a lot like those tiny fish, as she wiggles across the floor to get where she needs to go. She is a busy little soul whose happiest moments are in mama's arms or sucking on a teething biscuit while seated in the high chair.

The chickens do not seem to mind the extra time I take to let them out in their pen these past several chilly mornings. We are eagerly awaiting eggs; thinking that the first ones should appear in the next month. We did bid farewell to the rooster, for he was becoming a nuisance both in his noise and his abuse of the sweet flock. Peace seems to be restored, although I did have to shoo a couple of the girls out of the garden today. We still have a few tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants we hope to enjoy.

Big Fish has installed a tree stand up our back hill, so we are officially ready for hunting season. He is turning our children into bargain hunters, as he has been taking them along to a weekly flea market and any auctions that are in the area. They did come home with a cute, vintage "Fresh Eggs" sign a couple of weeks ago. Now we just need those eggs......

Boy is it chilly outside; the thermometer registers 59 degrees. Time for a hot dinner and maybe some post-dinner hot tea! Hope you are warm and cozy in your corner of creation!

Summer Updates

2011-07-11T05:02:00.000-07:00

We've been enjoying an unusually (for southwest PA) sunny summer! Everything is growing: the kids, the chickens, the garden, the weeds, etc! I look around the house and see lots of signs that summer is in full swing:

1. There is watermelon in the 'fridge and ice pops in the freezer.

2. Every day brings a new opportunity to pull weeds. My mom blessed us last week with the edging (by hand) of our sidewalk while I baked a cake.

3. Big Fish has been industriously watering our garden and even stringing hoses together to water the pumpkins and squash down our back hill.

4. My 4 basil plants in the garden are in desperate need of a picking. I've already made a pesto batch and pizza with basil and cheese.

5. Shhh! Don't tell my mom, but Small Fry is carrying around a mason jar with a baby ring snake in it. I must remind Big Fish to let the thing go tonight!

6. The honey bees seem to be expanding. I checked them on Saturday and actually placed a honey super on the top. The bees have been quite busy in their two hive body boxes, so to my inexperienced eye they looked like they needed more work space. Maybe we'll have a tiny bit of honey this year! I'm starting to read up on how to care for them through the fall and winter. Plans are being made for a second hive next year.

7. Hummingbirds have drained their feeder - need to fill that today before they get too angry!

8. The chickens are enjoying their "big girl" digs. The coop is ready for its first clean-out already! They come running when they see us because we usually have a slice of bread or some old lettuce for them. I did hear on the radio that homegrown eggs don't really taste any different than grocery store eggs. They do definitely look different, though. We'll have to test that ourselves in a few months!

9. Brookie spends large amounts of time on her swing. It's just a disc hung from a tree branch. Another favorite activity of hers is sidewalk chalk drawing on our driveway. We need a rain just to give her a clean slate!

10. A recipe for rhubarb custard bars will be posted this week, so see you back soon!

Enjoy some iced tea on the porch swing!

Kid-isms

2011-05-20T13:41:00.000-07:00

A couple of days ago I snipped a miniature rose and put it in a vase by Brookie's breakfast plate. She loves flowers! She was very pleased and buried her nose in it for a few seconds. "It smells like cookies and birds!" I smiled and tried to hide a laugh. She then elaborated that the rose's fragrance was that of "chocolate chip cookies and bluejays".

Just today we're doing some preparatory baking and cooking for tomorrow (an eventful day - mother-in-law is moving from our basement to her new house next door; also a visit from grandparents and newly-married brother of mine). We're hoping to make homemade ice cream. I'm making the custard today, and I told Brookie that we'll use the ice cream maker that's in the garage. She immediately asked me, "What's his name?". Clearly we need to use the ice cream maker more often, my friends!

Sunshine

2011-04-29T05:28:00.000-07:00

We have sunshine on our minds around here......we dash out between thunderstorms to clear a patch of weeds, plant some herbs, check the bees, or hammer a little on the new chicken pen!

This morning I was cuddling with Brookie and told her she is my sunshine. She told me no! She said that she is not my sunshine but rather her brother is. I asked why she is not my sunshine? She replied, "I'm your daughter!"

Get it? She is thinking son-shine!

Updates on the Projects

2011-03-23T12:31:00.000-07:00

We've been in a whirlwind lately!! I don't know what we're going to do when the weather actually warms enough that we can get outside and work on the garden. We're so busy already :) It's a wonderful busy though. Maybe some of the busy-ness is because of my personality; I have to get something right or I don't want to do it at all! Here's the latest:

1. Chickens - our family has gone 'round and 'round with where exactly to house the chickens! First we were going to build a coop (and by "we" I very possibly might mean my patient husband). Then, "we" decided to convert part of our existing shed into a henhouse. Finally, we (and I mean all of us here) found a cute coop for a reasonable price at our local AgWay. Now, we just have to get it transported to our house! I myself have gone 'round and 'round trying to track down the little chickies. What a process: most hatcheries need a minimum order of 15 or 25 chicks. We were hoping for 7 or 8! It's too cold to ship smaller amounts of babies without a much higher shipping rate I've discovered. Another twist is that I really, really want to have 4 kinds of chickens! I've researched a bunch, and my list includes Barred Rocks, Golden Comets, Araucanas, and Buff Orpingtons. So, our hope is that our local feed store will be stocking live chicks around Easter. We're not sure what breeds we will come away with, but we are prepared with our heat lamp and chick feeder!

2. Honey bees: a hive has been ordered, a jacket and veil are on their way, and my dear Big Fish has built a stand to accommodate the hive. I stopped by a local army surplus store and found some canvas-type pants to go over my jeans (for 10 bucks!).

3. Soap making: I've made 2 batches that are curing. No verdict yet as to how the bars have turned out, for I want to hand mill them and add some wonderful essential oils. I did provide some comic relief in my safety goggles, pink gloves, and apron when I was mixing in the lye!

4. Completely unrelated yet keeping it real (stop reading if you have a weak stomach): I smelled something earlier today - you know, the smell you smell when you step in "something" from the yard. Well, turns out my little dog seems to have some tummy troubles. I had to do a major cleanup of him including donning my latex gloves (I'm finding more and more uses for those things), giving him a cleanup and trim around his bottom, and also cutting the hair off his back feet. While in the middle of this project which I was doing in the bathroom, my daughter came in to use the potty. She told me she was having tummy trouble. Then, my son filled his diaper. In the space of about 20 minutes, I cleaned up poop from 3 sources. Yuck! I've said it before and I'll say it again: I can't wait to open the windows!

Off to check the baby's diaper....

The Week of Beginning Projects!

2011-03-14T07:41:00.000-07:00

Knowing that we did not have a lot of appointments or calendar items scheduled this week, I asked Big Fish on what kinds of projects I should focus here at home.

Here's the list: order chicks, gather supplies for our honeybees, and (if the weather cooperates) try a first batch of soap!

We are hoping to add some laying hens to our backyard. Through some research, we are almost positive that we want to try the Golden Comet variety. These chickens are supposed to be good layers and fairly calm birds (keeping the safety of the kids in mind). I just stumbled upon this blog last night - seems to have some good resources and advice in her chicken category.

We are awaiting news from a local bee supplier to see if he has any bees for us. If not we will order some online soon. We have been watching some DVD's and doing some reading in preparation for 2 hives.

Lastly, the soapmaking process has been all about collecting materials. I've found that the sodium hydroxide (lye) used in the "recipe" is not as readily available in local stores. I'm awaiting my shipment of a couple of pounds this week, but let me know if you have some great tips in this area!

So, you're here for the beginning, folks. Here is your opportunity to read this blog, shake your head, and wonder what in the world we're doing! Or, you could offer as much advice as you can! I would love to hear how you do it; where you find supplies; and anything else!

Here's to a fun spring!

A Few Things

2011-02-08T11:40:00.000-08:00

We woke up to another day of winter wonderland today! Even just a few inches of fresh snow really transform the trees in our forest. With a background of blue sky today the sight is just dazzling.

With all the snow we've been enjoying it's hard to believe that spring will eventually arrive! I know it will come though because Big Fish has ordered most of our garden seeds. I was especially thrilled to hear that he ordered all heirloom seeds - tomatoes here we come! We ordered our seeds from Annie's.

With Valentine's Day coming next week, Big Fish and I decided to be ultra romantic and give each other the gift of apple trees and blueberry bushes! I know you're thinking you will never beat our level of romantic gifts! Added to his mom's order of cherry trees, we'll hopefully have some yummy fruit as early as next year.

Lastly, I have decided to join the swag bandwagon. If you're curious (or would like to join yourself), click on the swagbucks link. I believe I receive credit if you join through my link - fun!

Enjoy some sunshine today!

Eureka Moment Today

2011-02-03T13:25:00.000-08:00

Well folks, I had my eureka moment of the day (week, month?). It just occurred to me in the midst of dinner preparation. Drumroll please....

Use latex gloves to mix the meatloaf by hand! I keep the gloves on hand for the rare occasion of seeding/slicing hot peppers (the pepper oil, it burns!). I was just about to scrub my hands in order to mix my ground beef, ground venison, egg, herbs, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper; and I thought again of how much I hate to touch raw meat! In the past after I've finished mixing everything; I've felt that my hand washing never completely got rid of the ickiness - especially under my fingernails. The idea just popped into my head to use the gloves. Meatloaf has now become such an easy dinner to prepare, and my attitude toward the construction process has greatly improved.

Now I'm sitting here typing with clean hands! All I had to do was toss the gloves in the trash. Even if you are allergic to latex, the plastic gloves would work just as well.

Here's to a good dinner with loved ones!

Wondering

2011-01-17T10:14:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I feel I have so many ideas running around in my head! Too bad there isn't an occupation in which I could just provide ideas. Any-hoo, here are some questions for you in no particular order:

1. When canning vegetables and fruit, do you prefer using a pressure cooker or a boiling water process?

2. Does anyone have a nice recipe for candied grapefruit peel?

3. Is it really worth it to cut bangs in my daughter's hair, or is this something I'll regret and wish I didn't have to keep up with them?

4. Why does snowcream have to be made with freshly fallen snow? Does day-old snow not work?

5. Does anyone have tips on helping a four year old and a two year old be kind to each other? Some days are really good, and some days are really bad!

Any help or advice you could provide, dear readers, would be much appreciated!

First Step....Admitting I Have a Problem

2011-01-10T06:06:00.000-08:00

Hello, my name is Sarah; and I am a knitter with a problem. I started a new project, and I can think of at least 5 projects that I already have on the needles! This is serious, people.

Take a look at this yarn and maybe (if you are into this sort of thing) you'll be able to sympathize! I have in my possession the "Queen Anne" colorway.

Must go tear myself away from the knitting; there are hungry children in this household!

Homemade Marshmallow Recipe!

2011-01-04T10:02:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! We've begun the New Year with both Big Fish and his mother returning to work (on Monday). My New Year's resolution is to survive with three kids at home now! Just kidding.....it is a joy as well as an adjustment. The only goal that I started on Jan. 1 is the attempt to read through the Bible in a year. I have some quiet time while feeding our newest addition (still coming up with a nickname for her on this blog), so I thought this might be a good time to try.

I have not been holding out on you with my marshmallow recipe; I promise! I must credit the source. The recipe is from an old Williams-Sonoma catalogue. They often print some interesting recipes to go along with their eye candy mailings.

Homemade Marshmallows

3 packets unflavored gelatin
1 cup cool water, divided
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 cup light corn syrup
1/8 tsp salt
1 T vanilla extract

Combine 1/2 cup cool water and the gelatin in the bowl of an electric mixture to soften. Fit the mixer with the whisk attachment.

In a small, heavy saucepan combine the other 1/2 cup of cool water, sugar, corn syrup and salt. Stir over medium heat while the sugar dissolves. Then raise the heat to high; cook the mixture (without stirring) until it reaches 240 degrees F on a candy thermometer. Take the pan off the heat.

Turn the mixer on low and pour the hot mixture over the gelatin mixture. Turn the speed up to high and whip for at least 10 minutes (you want the mixture to cool to about room temperature). Add the vanilla extract towards the end of the time.

Spread the mixture into a buttered 9X13 pan (glass is the best). Use wet hands to spread out evenly and sprinkle with powdered sugar. Let the marshmallows set overnight or so. Use a greased knife or cookie cutters.

Optional flavors: instead of the vanilla extract; go crazy! Use half a tsp of peppermint oil, or swirl with crushed peppermint candy, or a 1/2 tsp of espresso powder, etc.

Enjoy toasting over a fire or in some yummy cocoa.

A List

2010-12-15T06:08:00.000-08:00

I inherited the list writing gene from my mother. At any given point in the day I have a least 3 lists going; some are short term for the day, and some are more far-reaching (like what needs to be done before Christmas!).

Here is a list of the small and the great from our recent lives:

1. The top of the list is the life-changing event of my father's stroke. At the end of October, his 58-year-old self was changed by a blood clot that traveled to his brain.

2. After over a month of hospitalization in a neuro-intensive care unit, then a stroke ward, then and in-patient therapy facility, dad is now home! We praise God for His mercies.

3. My dad still has major paralysis of his left side, so therapy will continue for at least a year.

4. In two days (if not earlier), the baby inside me will be induced! Friday is two days earlier than her due date.

5. Small Fry was induced two WEEKS before his due date, and he was almost nine pounds!

6. Christmas baking is officially finished! The kids and I made cookies, candy, and Chex Mix. Pans of cinnamon rolls were also baked to gift Sunday School teachers and neighbors (and we're keeping some for us too).

7. Brookie and Small Fry enjoy a "light up the Christmas tree experience" every morning.

8. I don't think I'll stop saying the words "be gentle and kind" until the kids are at leasst teenagers!

9. With the amount of snow we have EACH DAY, the birds seems to be thankful for our feeder. Small Fry reports "Dee, dee, dee" when he notices the chickadees.

10. Big Fish has filled our freezer with his hunting expeditions in our backyard. Any good venison recipes out there?

The tea kettle is whistling; may you also enjoy a nice cup of something warm today!

Hot Chocolate

2010-10-28T11:36:00.000-07:00

One of the best things about weather that turns chilly or cold.....hands down....is the steaming mug of hot chocolate ready for sipping! My kids, ages 2 and 4, each have their own little mug. Their "hot" chocolate is half milk to cool it. They love our store brand of multi-colored marshmallows.

I prefer two large, regular marshmallows OR a square of my homemade marshmallows. To me, the marshmallow adds the perfect touch. Not only does it provide the sweetness and creaminess, but the marshmallow helps the hot chocolate remain hot! As it melts across the surface it seals in the steam and heat - perfection.

I hope you take time to enjoy a mug of hot chocolate soon!

Catching Up

2010-10-05T05:54:00.001-07:00

1. Small Fry had tummy issues for six and a half days! We ended up making a trip to the doctor and then sending a sample to the hospital only to find out nothing! We're still not sure what caused all this, but we're thankful he's better and that no one else in the house had the same problems!

2. Last weekend was a quick trip to my parents' house. We were able to attend their church picnic - a bonfire on a beautiful Saturday afternoon/evening. One of the highlights for the kids was picking up apples on the ground and sampling them. I do not remember what kind of apple tree it was, but I have a bagful ready for a little baking.

3. Cookie dough is chilling in the 'fridge ready to make some pumpkin cut-outs for us and maybe the neighbors. I'm experimenting with some new food coloring for the icing. This food coloring is all-natural with ingredients like strawberry juice!

4. We had our first fire in our fireplace two nights ago! I love it!

5. Our neighbor lady turned 94 yesterday! I hope to spend a little more time with her listening to how life was when she was a young girl. What a treasure trove her memories are; I remember a school assignment having us interview our grandparents.

6. My kids are learning to sleep in their new bunkbeds. We're trying to make this transistion before the new little baby girl arrives in December. They are doing very well at night, but naptimes are party time. Yesterday Small Fry joined Brookie in the top bunk before I went in to intervene.

7. We're studying the book of Joshua in a Bible study. Last night the discussion centered around the Jordan River crossing. What an awesome display of God's power this was!

8. We've been looking at plans for pig and chicken houses online. There are some creative options out there! I think I'm overwhelming Big Fish with the possibilities - poor guy. He was just hoping to put together some scrap wood, and here I come with these pictures of little barns and cottages!

9. The kids love to read books together; I wish my voice and throat could last longer!

10. Time to brew a cup of tea and figure out a little excursion to a nearby apple orchard/gift shop. I have some of my handmade things for sale at a couple of local markets, and I need to check in with them this week to see if the "stock" needs replenishing.

Stay warm!

How Does Your Garden Grow?

2010-09-09T04:53:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a big garden day. Not only did we pick two pumpkins from our garden and lots of tomatoes, I also did a drive-by one of our local farm stands. I came home with apples, end-of-season-peaches, and spaghetti squash. I also had a call from a friend with a big corn picking happening next week. We hope to get together to freeze some.

I know for the people who do a lot of canning that this is just a busy time of year! I'm hoping to ease into canning bit by bit. Maybe I'll find some equipment on sale soon to prepare for next year.

Yesterday I roasted my pumpkins and made puree that went in the freezer. I also toasted the seeds for a fun snack. I'm thankful yesterday was a cooler day, so the oven and stove didn't make it too hot! A pot of tomato dill soup was also made. I just kind of threw things together, and it was pretty tasty. You have to be a dill lover to appreciate this, but here's a rough sketch:

1. A couple of diced onions and garlic cloves - saute them in olive oil until pretty soft. I start adding salt and pepper with each step.

2. Add about 5 cups of chicken broth. Some recipes use vegetable stock. I like to have broth stocked in the freezer. I can usually make a couple of packages when I boil a whole chicken. I just add some veggies and salt and pepper to the water, and the broth is flavorful.

3. Dump in about 12 medium to large tomatoes that have been peeled, cored, and rough chopped. Dipping the tomatoes in boiling water for a minute really loosens the peel; it slides right off!

4. Add a tablespoon of chopped dill. I used fresh, but dried would be awesome. Salt and pepper go in again here.

5. Stir and simmer for a few hours to cook down the tomatoes (you can be very flexible here with time). I actually stuck my cheapy immersion blender in at the end of cooking time to chop everything smooth (note to self - buy a better immersion blender soon, you just melted your cheap one).

6. Taste at this point and decide if you need more dill, salt, and pepper.

7. Add about a cup of heavy cream! This is my favorite step. Make sure you don't let this bubble, for the cream will curdle. Serve hot from the stove or refrigerate for another time.

Notes: I think carrots would work well in this. Other spices could be substituted for the dill. In the future I might add a little chicken bouillion (sp?) to boost the flavor a little more. We enjoyed this soup with grilled cheese sandwiches last night!

MInistry of Reality

2010-08-27T07:04:00.000-07:00

Alternate Title: "Why Does it Smell so Bad in Here?"

A friend of mine came up with a great idea for blog posts. She writes about things without sugar coating. Reality, many times, is not for the fainthearted!

I immediately thought of this quick blog entry when the event of the morning subsided. Let me start from the beginning.

It all began two days ago, Wednesday, when I started noticing a faint odor. I only noticed it when I sat in my husband's seat at the table. Well, I forgot about it and went about daily tasks.

Yesterday, I noticed the smell again. I actually thought that something possibly had died and the smell was carrying in from outside. Our table is next to the door to the deck. I spent a little time looking around the immediate area of the seat and table.

I also thought that maybe the dogs had left a little scrap of food around or a large bug was decomposing somewhere that I could not see. I mean, the smell was bad; but it was not like a dead deer was laying nearby. The odor was enough to bother me but not anyone
else in the house. For the record, I have experienced dead animal smells; as I've gone running along many a country road.

So, today as the kids were finishing breakfast, I still noticed the smell! It was not getting better! I do not like bad smells! More action was needed. First, I needed to track down a flashlight for looking under furniture. Second, I needed to find another flashlight because the first one seems to have the lens broken. Third, I needed to find another flashlight because the second flashlight was out of battery power. "Properly" armed (the third flashlight was only the size of half a pencil) I was now ready to look under the cabinet and the bureau we use for linen storage.

Well, I looked under the bureau. I found from whence the smell cometh. I guess we had left a baited mousetrap under there. I say I guess because it has been several weeks if not months since we did this. Well, you guessed it, there was a little mouse trapped under there. I then used a couple plastic grocery bags to cover my hand to slide out the mouse and trap and dispose of everything.

I called my husband and asked how he could not have noticed that smell. His response? "Well, your dinners smell so good. I haven't smelled anything else." Hmpf. Nice save.

Moral of the story: do not forget about baited mouse traps.

"Quiet" Day at Home

2010-08-17T05:08:00.000-07:00

The kids and I are enjoying some homemade granola for breakfast today. I only wish that I had more honey on hand to make granola bars. Both are such money savers as well as yummy snacks!

We're thankful for a day at home, but we (namely, mama) have quite the to-do list! I'm sure you're all dying to know what it is:

1. Finish breakfast and clear the dishes.

2. Make toffee for book discussion group tonight. Dig out candy thermometer to make said toffee.

3. Fold a load of laundry and put another load in the dryer. We try to wash one load a day. We (mama, again) does well with the washing, but the folding and putting away cannot seem to cooperate with me as quickly. The kids are starting to be wonderful helpers with transferring the clothes into the machines and pressing the buttons!

4. Try not to torment Omma's dog too much. Omma has officially moved in last week, as she prepares to put a house in on the lot next door.

5. Make bread dough for tomorrow's dinner. We'll hopefully be having grilled pizzas!

6. Put chicken in crockpot for tonight's dinner. You can never go wrong with white wine and garlic.

7. Write a letter/color some pictures for Uncle in Africa.

8. Work on secret knitting and sewing projects - both are gifts for September birthdays.

9. Prepare peach cobbler to go in the oven while the potatoes are baking for tonight's dinner.

10. Water plants on the back deck. I'm surprised these plants are so forgiving because of how long it takes me to water them.

11. Check garden for the handful of cukes and tomatoes we get every day.

Well, that's the rough draft! We'll see what happens today. Hope your day is full of good things!

We Have to Start Somewhere!

2010-08-04T05:58:00.000-07:00

I noticed that the official first tomato of the season is ready to pick! It's a cherry tomato, so it will be interesting to cut it into three sections for our lunch - wink! It's funny how excited we are to see those green tomatoes turn to orange and then red. In a few weeks we'll be knocking on the neighbors' doors to hand them tomatoes, but today we'll savor the first-fruits from the garden.

By the way, does anyone want a cucumber?

Pork: It's What's for Dinner!

2010-07-30T12:02:00.000-07:00

All day my house has had the aroma of roasting pork. Not just any pork, mind you, but this recipe for spicy pork. This is one of my favorite dishes; I just eat and eat come dinner time! The tortillas, limes, cilantro, and sour cream are just waiting in the 'fridge to be welcome additions for dinner.

I have to say that our local meat market provided the perfect pork shoulder roast; previously I have bought the roast from the grocery store. I am particularly excited about the nice layer of fat (healthy much?) on one side that will crisp up in the last 20 minutes of roasting when I turn up the heat.

Go forth and make this for yourself!

In other news, the week has flown by. The kids and I explored a local used book store. I needed a Dicken's novel in cheap, paperback form for an upcoming book discussion. We came away with a bag full of treasures. I've always thought that I'd like to read the Harry Potter series but have never taken the time to do so. I came away with the first book from the store!

The kids enjoyed blowing bubbles on the front porch step today. Small Fry is still mastering the art of blowing into his bubble wand. He had some pretty hilarious attempts today; one he actually spit through the hole!

I hope you all have a sweet weekend in your parts of the world!

Normal, Busy Day

2010-07-22T07:33:00.000-07:00

A random list:

1. One of the items on my spring cleaning list was to clean my oven. Well, today it is officially scrubbed. I feel like my target heart rate was reached in doing that job.

2. Pandora radio is awesome. Today the kids and I are working to the tunes from my Johnny Cash station.

3. We used the first cucumbers from our garden (and my parents' garden) to make a huge jar of refrigerator pickles. They are yummy! Big Fish actually sliced all the cucumbers for me. The pickles taste even better because of that.

4. Why do my kids' fingernails and toenails grow so fast?

5. Every time Small Fry gets hurt he runs to the freezer and waits for me to put an ice cube in a baggie for him to carry around.

6. Baby vegetables are fascinating! The kids LOVE to do a daily garden check to look at the green tomatoes and tiny watermelons.

7. Brookie told me that the new little baby growing in by belly is a little sister named Molly.

8. I just can't believe how blessed we are; Big Fish's mother is moving in right next door. She'll be around when the new baby comes and everything. Actually she's moving up from FL in a few weeks. Wow!

9. So far we've had zucchini casserole, zucchini cake, and grilled zucchini. We love it.

10. Leftover chicken from last night is about to be made into cheesy biscuits and veggies for dinner!

Have a productive day!

Home Again, Home Again

2010-07-12T06:53:00.000-07:00

Hello, Monday morning! Wow do we have a lot to do to catch up! Hopefully, the laundry piles will diminish today as well as the weeds growing in the garden.

The kids and I must make the grocery run to pick up the week's supplies and then come home and continue with the catching up. I need to bake something; we seem to have apples and bananas that need to be used.

We were excited to see lots of baby cucumbers and yellow squash in the garden and baby green tomatoes too! We're a little disappointed in the state of our zucchini; we found two babies. That seems to be a little low for zucchini!

Our last few days of vacation were a whirlwind: we toured the zoo and the aquarium, visited the monuments, returned to Chinatown for more yumminess, watched a movie, swam in the pool, etc. Some great food included: sushi, coconut milk soup, soft shelled crab, Lebanese sandwiches, strawberry/dark chocolate crepe, apple/cinnamon crepe, our weight in fresh berries from the hotel's breakfast buffet as well as a mushroom strata, etc. Hmmm....now I have to figure out something to make for dinner!

Well, here's to starting the week with a bang!

Day One of Vacation is Through!

2010-07-08T18:43:00.000-07:00

Interesting night in the hotel with two kids in my bed - check
Museum of Natural History - check
Air and Space Museum - check
Near death experience on the metro rail - check
Chinatown - check
Evening swim at the hotel - check

What a fun and busy day! I'm sure glad that I'm only 15 or 16 weeks pregnant and not much more, for we've walked so much today.

The near death experience was due to the fact that we took our strollers on the escalator (the elevator was broken). I somehow got stuck at the bottom with Small Fry in his stroller. I had visions in those seconds of us being crushed - or at least my feet being amputated. Fortunately, I used my adrenaline rush to get us over that final step. We started going down the escalator facing forward; I excited with the stroller going backward!

We had an amazing dinner in Chinatown consisting of steamed dumpling, homemade noodles (the guy was making them in a window off the street), and Peking duck. Big Fish bemoaned the fact that our hotel fridge is miniscule; we would have done some damage to takeout food!

Tomorrow is living creature day - hoping to hit the zoo and the National Aquarium!

Here's to rests in the shade!

Vacation State of Mind

2010-07-06T10:26:00.000-07:00

Last week the kids and I traveled to VA. We wanted to visit our friends/church family, as it has been almost a year since we moved away. How wonderful it was to meet new babies, see new houses, and catch up with our buddies!

My children were wonderful on the trip! The only thing I'm changing in preparation for this week's journey is buying a sun visor for the back seat windows. Small Fry in particular cries when the sun is in his eyes. I also bought them some travel size etch-a-sketch boards, so those hopefully will be entertaining.

This week we are headed to DC for a tiny family vacation. I looked over last night at an email Big Fish was writing to himself. I assumed it was a little itinerary, so I immediately exclaimed at the amount of time he had us spending at the Air and Space Museum. He patiently explained that he was only writing the daily hours of a few points of interest. Silly me!

I have never, ever been to DC; so I am excited to do a little exploring. One of the most exciting things for Big Fish and I will be the different foods we will consume! We are making a list of top-rated ethnic restaurants to try, for out here in the country we only have the occasional pizza night! I have to admit that my mouth is watering already (I'm also very late in eating lunch today!).

Here's to family vacations!

You Never Know What Might be Needed

2010-06-21T12:26:00.000-07:00

Last week I was about to make a dinner for someone in our church. I had the bare bones of the dinner (the meat and the bread), but I needed a few more ingredients. I sat down to make out my list; I had to smile at the rather random things that I eventually put on paper.

1. Sour Cream
2. Fly swatter
3. Ritz crackers
4. glycerin
5. fresh vegetable
6. fruit fly trap
7. bananas
8. poppyseeds
9. cheddar cheese
10. disposable baking pan

The chicken casserole was quickly finished. The broccoli and cucumbers made some easy side dishes. My kids are enjoying their breakfast bananas.

I had the most difficult time tracking down the glycerin. The kids and I bought a large bubble wand that claims to make bubbles the size of beach balls. The homemade bubble solution directions suggest using a few drops of glycerin to help stabilize the bubbles. We haven't tried it out yet, but we now have all the ingredients!

I'm hoping the fruit fly trap works, as we keep a small bucket of veggie scraps under the sink. The bucket is lidded, and this is the transitional receptacle until I take it outside to our larger compost bin. I would like to save myself running out to the compost bin every time I peel an apple! I realize we live in the country, and it's normal to have a few bugs around. I'm just not comfortable with flies or fruit flies!

We actually have a couple stray lightning bugs in the house. Last night Big Fish was out in the yard with a Mason jar collecting about 15 of the buggies. He and Brookie concocted a plan to keep the jar in her room overnight! We had fun releasing them this morning "to go get their breakfasts". I wonder if they'll make this a nightly routine?

Happy summer to you!

Growing Like Weeds

2010-06-16T10:25:00.000-07:00

These kids of mine, boy, they are tall! We had Brookie's 4 year checkup today and Small Fry's 2 year checkup. I cannot believe that Brookie grew 5 inches in the last year!! Both of them are over the 90th percentile for their height and weight.

Other things that are growing around here: tomato plants, several baby peppers, and the watermelon vine grows a couple inches a day it seems! I was wondering if anyone could provide suggestions on how to deal with the tomato blight? I have a chemical fungicide, but I haven't used it yet. I'd love to know if you have any organic solutions?

Happy growing season to you!

Family Update

2010-06-14T11:29:00.000-07:00

We won't even think about how long it's been since my last post.....mmmm'kay?

Our family has been starting to spread the word about our latest news. We are expecting a new little one! Today was my first OB appointment, and it looks like we'll have a Christmas baby. The due date is December 22.

Needless to say, mama has been feeling kind of yuck-o. Hopefully, I'm coming out of that stage; the weirdest effect is that knitting makes me nauseous. It's the saddest thing! I'm thankful for a husband who does not complain over meals that are kind of thrown together and a house that's not the neatest!

Big Fish and I just celebrated our 10th anniversary, and Brookie and Small Fry BOTH had birthdays last weeks. We have just been one non-stop party.

Cheers for now!

Feeding the Masses

2010-04-26T06:46:00.001-07:00

Well, maybe we just had our monthly church fellowship lunch yesterday. I tried this recipe for Mexican lasagna; and judging by the small amount of leftovers, this is something to be made again! As stated in the recipe, there is definitely room for flexibility. For example, I didn't really have access to salsa verde at our country grocery store. I substituted mild salsa. I also added a few small cans of chopped green chilies. I hope this recipe can be used for a party at your house!

The kids and I are headed out in the rain to pick up groceries for the week. The woods are just sprouting leaves left and right; we're surrounded by green! Spring is just so refreshing; Saturday I was out driving and saw the sweetest foal with its mama. Both were striking black paints, and that little baby had the tiniest hooves!

My strawberries in pots are really getting established, and I'm trying to refrain from putting seeds in the ground. The nights are still too cool; we're still seeing patchy frost.

Ummm....a rather disturbing discovery

2010-04-18T20:43:00.000-07:00

Recently, I have come across a practice that makes me feel funny. My husband (Big Fish) has been "treating" our daughter (Brookie) to a special ritual before bed. Not only is she allowed some of his blue toothpaste (special because I try to stick with my organic formula), but she is using the toothpaste on MY TOOTHBRUSH. While I am certainly happy that they are practicing proper dental hygiene, I am a little concerned about the whole shared toothbrush concept. I understand that my toothbrush is big and that it is pink, but clearly I need to make a trip to the store to provide another big and pink toothbrush. At least, I hope that will solve the problem. I mean, I already understand that MY TOWEL is the go-to towel when other towels are unavailable. What's next? Maybe if we all ate off one plate and one fork we could save on dishwashing. I'm just kidding; well, yeah, I'm just kidding.

Help You, Help Me

2010-04-14T12:37:00.000-07:00

I am always interested in bargains (who isn't?)! I thought it would be fun to share some of the ways I have found discounts. Maybe you could help me with things that are working for you! Some of these things (if not all) on the list are probably already known, but I think they bear repeating.

1. Thrift stores and consignment stores: great for kids clothes! Kids grow so quickly that many donated items show little to no wear. I also love to find 100% wool sweaters for my craft projects. It's hard to find specific houseware items on each, but it can be helpful to keep a running list of things for which to browse the shelves. Currently, my mom is helping me keep an eye out for a large kettle in which I can dye wool.

2. Junk shops/Variety shops/Antique shops: worth popping in to glance around. Recently I have found a gold mine of sock yarn at a variety shop! Skeins and skeins of yarn were included in an estate, so now the shop owners need to move the merchandise. Score! On top of that, the shop owner is allergic to wool; so she doesn't even care for the yarn I'm using. We have found several kids' toys at antique shops. The toys were not antique - more along the lines of vintage. Antique stores generally will come down in the labeled price.

3. Auctions: Big Fish LOVES auctions. Last weekend he came home with golf clubs, a bucket of golf balls, and a box with at least 30 plastic horses for the kids. He paid $20. The golf stuff is for an upcoming work outing; we are glad he doesn't have to rent clubs! Auctions are listed in the newspaper or online for your area. Many times the event location will open early for previewing; you can decided if there is anything you would be interested in. We have bought furniture at auctions including an antique secretary we have in our living room.

4. Yard sales: 'tis the season (almost)!

5. There are many online options such as c*raigslist and f*reecycle that have all kinds of things for sale or free.

Well, these are just a few ideas that I hope can help you. My husband and I sure like to find bargains, so please share anything that works for you!

Garden Update

2010-04-07T04:13:00.000-07:00

We have been enjoying some record meeting (if not breaking) warm temperatures. There is nothing like sunshine and mild weather to make me want to dig and plant. I am trying to practice some restraint because I fear that cooler temperatures can still happen for the next month or so. A friend at church says she doesn't plant until Memorial Day. Groan.....that's a long way off!

We have seen all of our herbs sprout, and an order was placed for thyme and sage. There is space in one of the flower beds to put in herbs, and our goal is to fill that with perennial selections. Chives our already in residence, and sage and oregano should be going in this year.

We (let it be known that the term "we" is used quite loosely. I plant, and the kids try to eat the dirt.) also filled 2 1/2 strawberry pots; and those plants are starting to take root it seems. Lily of the valley have been planted as well, and two baby rosebushes are awaiting a couple of holes to be dug.

Hopefully, a knitting post will be up soon! I've started some fun projects including my first lace knitting attempt.

Today, my friends, we enjoy temperatures in the low 80's. Lunch with a friend shall hopefully take place on the deck! Hope you are seeing the sun where you live.

Things I'm Enjoying Right This Second

2010-03-25T12:20:00.000-07:00

1. Drinking a cup of coffee - I think I've mentioned before that I don't even drink coffee in the morning. An afternoon cup just makes my day!

2. Snuggling under a vintage quilt - my mom passed along a couple of quilts. I don't even know their history, but I love quilts!

3. Thinking of a comment from a lady at the library this morning - she was watching my son and said that "he is just one perpetual smile".

4. Looking at my little splurge from this a.m. - Liberty of London has a line they did for Target. I picked up some stationary and a few giftie bags.

5. Recalling how cute both kids were carrying their little bags of popcorn home from Target - the lady at the counter split a small bag for them. This and a diet Coke for Mama rang up for $1.59 - treats all around!

Waking up

2010-03-22T04:49:00.000-07:00

It's a Monday morning, and the rain is falling. Due to the clouds, my kids are still slowly waking. They tend to think it's still nighttime, and I feel they could use the rest. We squeezed in a whole winter of not being sick, but they both came down with sore throats and coughs on the first day of spring! Hopefully, the coughs are short-lived.

We've planted some herbs, and the seeds are waking up! We have baby oregano, cilantro, dill, lavender, and basil. Currently they reside on a tray that can be transported to the deck during the day. We have lots of sprouts waking in our flower beds too! The former house owners told us that there are lots of perennials in the beds, but we did not find out specifically what we have. It's a springtime surprise to identify the plants and flowers that will be developing.

I've set a new goal of an earlier bedtime because I'm having a hard time waking up at 6 a.m. With the time change, it's dark when I'm exercising! I want to stay in bed; hopefully getting some extra rest beforehand will help me re-adjust.

Driving our country roads I've spotted a sure sign of spring. Colt's Foot flowers are on several banks around our area. They look like dandelions only smaller. Have you seen any wildflowers? My mom mentioned she saw snowbells. Soon the kids and I will venture into the woods. Who knows, maybe we'll have some trillium in our own backyard forest? What signs of spring awakening have you seen?

Lily of the Valley

2010-03-09T05:12:00.000-08:00

Flowers are such a beautiful manifestation of God's creativity, aren't they? I have some favorites: from the humble sunflower to the fragrant rose, from the sweet zinnias to the delicate lily of the valley. Sidenote - I have all of these seeds/plants on order!

The lily of the valley always makes me think of Mina (her real name was Alice, but we called her Mina). She was my mom's mother. Alongside her brick house, she had this flower bed. It only contained two types of plants that I can remember. Lily of the valley and mint were grown there. The mint was dried and used in cups of hot tea; she would give us a supply in glass mason jars. The lily of the valley was just for decoration, and oh how I loved (and still love) to use one finger to gently examine the tiny bells of pure whiteness.

My plants should come in a few weeks. I believe we are in zone 5 for gardens (it might be 6, don't hold me to that). Lily of the valley do well in shade, so they will be perfect in our backyard. I hope to put them around the patio or maybe even at the edge of the woods.

Lily of the valley reminds me of my grandmother. Stepping right out of her kitchen, always bustling with some cooking or canning or socializing I would turn the corner and see her little bed of fragrant and lovely lily of the valley. I can't wait to grow some at our place!

List of Utterly Random Things

2010-03-03T11:37:00.000-08:00

*The kids and I enjoy watching a baby squirrel hang out under our bird feeder.

*A ham bone has been boiled down, fat skimmed, cabbage and onion added, ready to simmer for dinner tonight.

*I'm looking forward to spring, but I know I'll miss a fire in the fireplace soon!

*Both kids are down for a "nap", and both kids are currently singing (so cute).

*The icicles are dripping and melting.

*I think it's hilarious that Big Fish doesn't think we have a big enough crockpot for church dinners. Sitting on our porch right now is a delivery of the biggest cooker I have ever seen. Where in the world do I store this? It's still on the porch....

*Knitting a sock brings me great joy.

*Yesterday, the kids and I "talked" (using skype) to my brother living in Africa! It doesn't feel like he's that far away. Brookie demonstrated her ability to imitate a dead bug to him - we couldn't stop laughing. She lays on the floor and sticks her legs straight up in the air.

*My dog (all of 6 pounds) has claimed the back of the sofa as his bed.

The end.

Meeting a Goal Using Bread

2010-03-02T02:51:00.000-08:00

When we first moved in, one of my goals was to meet our neighbors. What better way to do this than to bring along a tin of cookies? Some fun things were discovered those wintry evenings: the neighbors below us were the "originals" (they've been here the longest and even owned the campground on our road at one point); the neighbors two doors down are the "originals'" son and daughter-in-law; and the neighbors above us are new to the neighborhood too. I'm hoping that warmer weather will give us more of an opportunity to see the people around us.

The neighbors right below us (the "originals") are an elderly couple; she is almost blind, and he takes such good care of her and their property. He is ALWAYS out shoveling his driveway before I get to ours! She takes the time to call about once a week - just to check on us. I've taken the kids in to meet them as well. She has lamented the fact that people are just "too busy" anymore to take the time to visit and help each other.

This "too busy" fact has long been something I've thought about. My goal (and I know a lot of you share this goal) is to move past the busy-ness of my life and really spend time meeting and learning more about other people. One book that has really helped me do this is "Artisan Bread in Five Minutes a Day"! It has wonderful recipes, and one of its big concepts is to allow the refigerator to do most of the work. I have just found out this morning that there is a sequel - "Healthy Bread in Five Minutes a Day".

These little loaves of bread are great for meals but also for sending along with friends and.....neighbors! I have a bucket of this dough going almost every week, and it's a continuing goal to bake it for other people. I want to move past the busy, everyday things that get in the way. Today, my house may not be clean (well, okay, maybe I'll do the bathroom); but lunchtime guests are invited!

Here's to good bread!

Gardening Update - March is Here!

2010-03-01T04:11:00.000-08:00

A few small packages have been arriving at our house containing tiny promises of Spring. My seed packets are here! Sidenote: "Things I Love in February" blog posts are so last month, but I do so enjoy how Brookie refers to our home as "our new house". She'll say things like: "When is Omma coming to our new house?" and "I'll take a nap in our new house!" and "Does God live at our new house or only at church?" Since we moved here in November, I feel we are settling in quite nicely, but I wonder how long she'll keep up her name.

My pots for my herb garden are set out, but I need a little more dirt before I can plant the seeds. During the move, a couple of my pots were broken. I've saved the shards to place in the bottom of my other pots; this really helps with drainage.

I have a few vegetable seeds to use in our small garden this year, and I think I'll purchase tomato plants and pepper plants locally. Big Fish and I are discussing what kinds of fruit bearing bushes we would love - red rasberries are at the top of my list; and he loves blueberries. I have two of those strawberry growing pots (the tall pots with several side pocket holes), so we might be able to have those growing on the deck.

I'll leave you with a tip: recycle your newspapers into plant pots! Start your seeds in little newspaper containers, and you can set them directly in the soil. Here's a mold I found to help make them.

How are your garden preparations coming along? Happy March to you!

Things I Love, February Edition

2010-02-19T05:06:00.000-08:00

I love the fact that it's Friday!! We have dinner plans with friends from church, so I get to do some baking today. The fact that I've been watching what I eat means that not so much baking has been taking place. I apologize for the awkwardness of that last sentence; my editing skills have not been turned on this early.

Anyhoo.....butter and cream cheese are softening on the counter. No recipe is EVER complete without butter. The baking plans include a cream cheese pound cake with sour cream vanilla sauce and some mocha shortbread. My mouth is watering. Good thing I already put in a 30 minute workout this morning!

Big Fish's birthday is SUNDAY! I'm almost done with his knitted gift. Yesterday he received a fun gift card in the mail from his mom. I'm pretty sure it will be used to buy something related to fishing. Oh yes, we now have a hand-carved trout on the wall! Remember when we had that discussion about the mounted deer head? Well, a bit of a compromise has been reached. It's all about priorities, people.

Oh, oh! Another exciting little package came in the mail yesterday. I received my herb seeds. I have some soil left over, so I'm hoping to start my kitchen-garden-in-pots this weekend. We've decided to start small this year, so our garden will be in pots on the deck and a few plants in the yard. We have almost decided to purchase one motion activated sprinkler to help with the wildlife issue. Rhubarb plants, carrots, peppers, and tomatoes will probably make up our garden this year. Rhubarb plants take a couple years to establish, so we need to get them started!

Stay warm! This is the first day this week that I don't have to perform some sort of snow removal operation, so we will be cozy inside.

Things I Love - February

2010-02-16T04:17:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Day has come and gone, and we had a special time. We were able to take a little weekend trip to my parents' house. We were able to spend time with them and also able to be part of a birthday celebration for my grandparents on my dad's side. My grandma turns 87 and my grandad turns 91 in February! We love them!

It was also fun to try some new recipes: oreo truffles and pink grapefruit gumdrops. I love candy; I have the most well-developed sweet tooth! Maybe this is also why I'm on a diet. Anyway, I also love baking; so making the candy was a fun way to spread a little Valentine happiness. I have no pictures of the candy, and the evidence has all been hidden away back at my parents' place. The only thing I can leave with is some additional info.

Here is the recipe for the oreo truffles. I doubled the recipe and dipped half in semi-sweet chocolate and the other half in white chocolate. I read a tip online that suggests freezing the shaped oreo candies before dipping to help them keep their shape. That seemed to really work! I never seem to have the melting discs on hand, so I just mixed a tablespoon of shortening with each package of chocolate/white chocolate chips before melting in the microwave. I did have to reheat the mixture about halfway through the dipping time.

The pink grapefruit candy recipe was from the February edition of Victoria magazine. Unfortunately there was a typo regarding the candy tempature, so I had to make a second batch after I realized what was happening! Let's just say the recipe should have read "213 degrees" instead of "113 degrees"! The second batch came out just fine; the flavor of honey with the pink grapefruit juice is a wonderful combination. Did I mention I love candy?

Things I Love - February Edition

2010-02-12T04:10:00.000-08:00

My preference usually leans toward silver - especially sterling! I just love these hair clips (bobby pins). I was browsing this shop - http://juliethefish.etsy.com for necklaces (see below) when I fell for these hair pins. Love!!

Wow...first you will notice how horrible I am at taking a picture of something in the mirror. I'm certainly not doing justice to the cuteness of the necklace here. Just go to Julie's shop, ok? Anyway, this necklace has my kids' names stamped on the disks. I haven't taken it off for about a month; I obviously love this necklace!!

Deal alert - if you become a fan of Juliethefish on facebook, I think there is free shipping this month! She always has some kind of special going on.

Things I love

2010-02-08T04:11:00.000-08:00

Continuing the love theme :) in February, my description is a simple one today. I love being up early, finishing my workout, and finding my girl sitting on the couch waiting for me. She's laying right now with her feet on my lap cuddled in a fleece blanket. Soon, she'll be bouncing around with enough energy for 10 people; but I'm going to go enjoy a few precious snuggles before baby brother wakes up!

xoxo

Things I Love

2010-02-04T15:26:00.000-08:00

My friend is doing this fun series for the month of February. I have some things in mind, and I'll start with something I use almost daily.

I first discovered the designer of these and other great products through another friend. When we moved into our new house, it was finally time to have an official spot for my keys.

These keyfobs are wonderful because they slip over the wrist. I am especially appreciative of this feature in the grocery store parking lot dealing with below freezing wind chill, 2 kids, and a cart full of groceries!

A Few Recommendations

2010-02-01T12:15:00.000-08:00

My friend has recently launched her own website! I am very excited for and proud of her. She makes wonderful soap, so here's her link www.oilandspicebath.com I am using the Bees Knees soap these days and enjoying it so much. I also love the almond coffee bar.
This book is wonderful - The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. Here's a link with some fun info: http://www.randomhouse.com/rhpg/guernsey/
I also have recently read this book: The Gentle Art of Domesticity. What beautiful pictures and information it shares! When I searched for a link to the book I came across Jane's (the author's) blog. Looks like I have some catching up to do! http://www.yarnstorm.blogs.com/

Happy Birthday Mom/Grandma!

2010-01-27T04:15:00.001-08:00

We are so glad to be living a bit closer to you! We hope you have a great day. We love you!

One of my Loves

2010-01-25T12:13:00.000-08:00

This is my favorite little girl wearing a dress that I had when I was a little girl!

I can't wait until she gets up from her nap, so I can cuddle with her. Today she told me it was one of her finger puppet's birthday. Then she asked me where the cake and ice cream were!

We're in the Country Now!

2010-01-19T07:16:00.000-08:00

Here are some clues we are definitely experiencing rural living:

1. The picture above is actually Brookie, playing with her barn and animals while I am writing this post!

2. Big Fish asked me to mail in our application for the Family Membership to the Boyers Sportsmen's Association.

3. I currently have a chart in my kitchen that tells how to measure grain in bins and ear corn in cribs.

4. Seed catalogues have been ordered.

5. The bird feeder must be refilled daily.

6. Trips to the grocery store are called "trips to town" and should only take place about once a week.

7. Mr. Tom at the local feed store/hardware store told me I should be shopping there once a week instead of the grocery store!

8. I had to shoo away a woodpecker from pecking on the logs of our house (two times now).

9. We ordered a quarter of a beef cow from church friends.

And the last reason we know we are in the country:

10. Our family has had actual discussion about hanging a mounted deer head in our living room.

How fun this adventure is! We are loving our country life; praise the Lord for His care.

Photo Trial

2010-01-14T12:38:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I have a card reader now that enables me to actually save pictures to the computer! I sure wish the computer would save them in the right size. Each picture has to be majorly shrunk to be able to be emailed or posted on my blog. Well, baby steps are what I can do! Speaking of baby steps....just look at that little guy trying to play basketball!

I try not to compare my blogs to other like, oh, say, The Pioneer Woman's! Her photography and all kinds of bells and whistles on the blog are just beautiful. The next thing I might start fiddling around with is maybe a little photo editing. We'll see!

Breather in the Form of Writing a Blog Entry

2010-01-11T12:58:00.000-08:00

The kids and I were out and about all morning and well into the afternoon. We had Small Fry's well-child 15 month checkup; we are so far behind on this since he is 19 months! He is off the charts for height and weight; but this is no surprise, as his sister is the same.

After the doctor's appointment, we tried a new grocery store over in Grove City. It's called County Market. I definitely did some damage there in filling my grocery cart, but I don't know if it's unique enough to deserve a special weekly trip. A friend of mine had mentioned that they carry chicken fresh from an Amish farm, but there was nothing else in the store that really grabbed my attention. I can't justify a 30 minute trip just for chicken!

So, the kids were put down for a super late nap; and I'm just beginning to look at my to-do list after getting the groceries put away and the refrigerator cleaned out a bit. Maybe I should make my list stretch for the whole week? I just crossed one item off the list a few minutes ago, as I ordered some yarn and a pattern book for some upcoming birthday gifts. I hope to get a hat and a pair of socks knitted with the new materials. The socks have a Fair Isle pattern, so that will be a new experience.

Anyway, if you are still awake to have made it through this post (!), I have a question for you. I'm interested in having my children use quiet time to listen to a Bible story on CD. Do you have any CD suggestions appropriate for pre-schoolers? I would love your advice.

Stay warm out there; I know our thermometer was reading in the teens all day!

Two Unrelated Links

2010-01-07T13:11:00.000-08:00

Having some extra time around the holidays, we have found some new enjoyable locations. One fun place to explore is the Strip District in Pittsburgh. The name sounds a little odd, but there is a "veritable smorgasboard" of shops to poke through. Today I'll provide the link to a great coffee/tea shop. I am experiencing several loose leaf teas thanks to them including a vanilla almond and a hibiscus selection. It's called Presto George.

We are looking forward this evening to a dinner at the Black Forest Restaurant. It supposed to have authentic German food - even German beer and wine. Hopefully, we'll have room for dessert.

There is a snowstorm predicted for this evening, so we might have to stay at the Black Forest! I'm really just praying for safety, as I take my father-in-law to the airport tomorrow afternoon.

Stay warm!

Fun Fabric Favorites

2010-01-04T18:46:00.000-08:00

Here's a list for you. It's part of a contest from True Up; you should check it out! Let's talk some fabric, specifically a few of my faves.

1. Favorite Trend (with Color) is blue! I love blue this year. This is a great example from Anna Maria Horner: Little Folks Voile, a Free Spirit fabric.

2. Favorite Holiday Fabric: Windham Fabrics, Merry Mushrooms. I just love the versatility of this one. It looks great with ribbons!

3. This is my wildcard entry - I love this design. It's My Mind's Eye: Just Dreamy, Riley Blake Designs.

4. One of my favorite motifs from the year are medallions. This one is a Free Spirit fabric. It's by Jennifer Paganelli - Sis Boom.

5. My favorite floral print (this was a toughie) is from Heather Bailey. This is from her Nicey Jane line from Westminster Fabrics.

6. My favorite quilting weight cotton collection is Nicey Jane. I just can't stop admiring it! Here's one of the examples from Heather Bailey.

7. The birdie on this fabric is the best! This is my favorite home decor weight fabric. Alexander Henry designed this - his fashion for home line.

8. This is my favorite novelty print. How cute are these ducks by Lizzy House? This is from Andover Fabrics - Lizzy's Red Letter Day line.

9. My favorite overall designer is Heather Bailey! I love her Nicey Jane, I've used so much of her Pop Garden and others. Check her out. She has a beautiful blog; the pictures are just to die for.

10. My fave fabric shop for prices has to be fabric.com. I also enjoy Glorious Color to check out my precious shot cottons.

http://www.trueup.net/?p=8500

Everything is New Again

2010-01-04T12:57:00.000-08:00

- new fallen snow is just beautiful.

- new cell phone numbers need to be given to those who might want to call us.

- new house needs a new garden to go with it! Seed catalogues are starting to be ordered.

- new cookies are baked to replace the lingering Christmas cookies.

- new blog post is about to be posted at the start of the new year.

- new week begins a sweet visit with my parents.

- new visitor to arrive tomorrow (Big Fish's dad).

- new 50 lb. bag of birdseed is opened to feed the birdies who tell me they're starving.

- new ideas for a couple of Valentine's projects for my etsy shop are brewing.

- Thanking the Lord for each new day.

Off to be a Good Little Consumer

2009-12-16T05:55:00.000-08:00

The kids and I are venturing out in the snow to add our stimulus to the economy. On the list today: pick up some wine for visiting house guests, find a pine wreath for the house, purchase a welcome mat on which to wipe muddy feet, buy groceries, etc.

One other thing I have to buy - a card reader for the computer. Due to the fact that we have a newer computer and an older camera, a simple cable is not doing the trick to get pictures up on this blog. I am so thankful Big Fish knows his way around technology! Someday, soon, dear blog readers I can show you some pictures of the house and our tree.

Since Brookie has decided that cleaning the windows involves licking her finger and rubbing it all over the glass, I must now go and introduce her to the finer points of housekeeping. Stay warm and cozy!

A Discussion on Firewood

2009-12-11T06:35:00.000-08:00

I had a chimney guy come out yesterday to put a lock-top damper on our fireplace chimney. Today we are supposed to get some firewood delivered. Hopefully, we'll be able to cut and stack our own wood in the future. In many situations the wood needs time to dry and season. We would like to use our fireplace now! I can't even imagine how much wood is required to heat a whole house all the time.

Our new house actually has a furnace system that not only uses oil but also has the capability to burn wood or coal. We are attracted to the wood burning idea (especially since it uses the ducts already in place throughout the house), but we'll have to stockpile more wood!

How do you heat your homes? And how do you keep the air from being too dry in your house if you do burn wood? Does a humidifier of some sort do the trick?

We did discover that energy efficient items like the lock-top damper qualify for a bit of a tax credit. I think it's about 30% of the bill that can be refunded. Make sure you are saving receipts for your energy efficient things - even the light bulbs!

In other news: the camera has been discovered and batteries charged. We are now missing the cable that enables us to download the pics to the computer. Someday we might get it together! In the meantime, we're going to bake cookies! I would like to make the batter for two kinds today: gullets and maybe giant nutmeg cookies. I'm a bit behind on baking, but I did go through ye olde cookbooks last night. I have about half a dozen varieties that I would like to get done. Then, I have two kinds of candy to make. I'm thinking a little tin of cookies would be a nice gift for the neighbors. Best to get busy!

To-Do List

2009-12-07T09:46:00.000-08:00

After a great weekend of spending time both with our own little family and my parents and brother, we are now hoping to get a lot done this week. Sunday was actually the last day to worship with and spend time with my brother - a missionary doctor in Uganda. It was a great time, and I am so thankful for him! I am older than him by exactly 11 months and 3 weeks. Isn't there a term for that, like Irish twins or something? I am very thankful for email and skype. Sometimes it sure doesn't seem like he's that far away. We can actually send instant messages and all!

Anyway, my list of things to do this week is at least 15 things long! It also seems that when I cross one thing off the list I think of more things to add. It's hard to cross things like "unpack" off the list. That is an ongoing adventure. Today I found one of my saddles in a box, the high school newspaper that I edited as a senior, and about 200 ink pens I've collected along the way! Where does one store that kind of stuff? I have been tossing bunches of stuff, and as Big Fish points out "we don't need to buy anything, ever" I guess we'll be saving money!

I'm close to using the camera again. I've narrowed its location to the bedroom closet. I'm off to make a pot of chili for dinner and then work on that list! Ta ta for now!

We're Home!

2009-12-03T12:09:00.001-08:00

Now.....if I could just find my camera to take a couple of pictures of the progress! We are officially in our new (to us) house and working on unpacking. We have a lot to be thankful for, and we are enjoying the views of the woods around us. This morning I saw some kind of woodpecker from the kitchen window. We've hung a bird feeder and suet feeder and have sighted some nuthatches, titmice, bluejays, etc. Yes, the pesky squirrels have shown up as well!

Exactly five days after moving in we hosted Thanksgiving dinner for my side of the family. Dinner was actually the Friday after Thanksgiving, and there were 21 people in attendance. It was so fun to show our place to my dad's parents and his three siblings. I've started a guestbook to coincide with the beginning of life in the new house.

Well, blog readers, I'm back to the world of unpacking. We just hooked up to the internet yesterday, so I'm looking forward to "getting back to the swing of things" - as the saying goes! Hopefully, I'll be starting some crafty type things soon! I have some Christmas baking - cookies especially - to hopefully share as well! Cheers for now!

Hopeful-New-House No Longer!

2009-11-20T12:01:00.001-08:00

We now own the house! I just got back to my parent's place after signing all the papers and unloading a pickup load of stuff. Busy times ahead as our belongings are scheduled to be delivered tomorrow.

The next post I write should be coming from our new place. Hopefully, we'll get the ol' internet hooked up soon.

Come on for a visit. The door is open!! Just don't pay any attention to the boxes.

House Update

2009-11-19T12:36:00.001-08:00

Well, we are in the final push! Tomorrow (Friday) at 10 a.m. is the scheduled closing on our hopeful-new-house! This past week has been a frantic scramble to get it all together. I think our mortgage broker has been doing most of the frantic scrambling!

Today I discovered I needed to take our down payment in the form of a cashier's check. Well, the bank with which we have our accounts does not have any branches in the area! We had to do some quick thinking and phone calling. It looks like Big Fish will be able to wire the money while he is in VA picking up our belongings with the moving company.

Did I mention that I had to get power of attorney to sign the papers for Big Fish and I? Just another detail we had to take care of this week. I can't wait for the big sigh of relief that will happen after the papers are signed!

As I told our mortgage broker, we sure do have a lot to be thankful for (even with our closing day being pushed around). As another friend in a very similar house situation described; we just have to realize that this is all part of God's plan!!

One wonderful event this week for which we are mightility thankful: the arrival of my brother! He landed in Philly yesterday from his job as a missionary doctor in Uganda. He'll be home for about 3 weeks; we'll get to see him next week! Brookie has been coloring lots of pictures in preparation for her uncle's visit!

Knitting News

2009-11-16T11:12:00.000-08:00

I'm having a love affair with the cable! In my very limited kniting experience it is one of the most fun stitches to do. Check out some pictures of my latest projects; one of which includes a wonderfully chunky cable running right up the center of the scarf.

The rust yarn on the single needle is the very beginning of a hat for Brookie. This pattern I am teaching myself how to do a picot edge. I think the yarn color is so rich and yummy!

The last couple of pictures show Small Fry modeling his new hat. On this project I learned how to use DPN's (double pointed needles). This was a cute little pattern available for free on Ravelry.

We have received news that our closing date for the new house is scheduled for this Wednesday afternoon. Yippee! Now I just want to scramble and get my mom's kitchen curtains done. I'm working on the valance for the last window.

Follow Me

2009-11-11T11:19:00.000-08:00

A new gadget (or widget) has been added to the right side of the blog. I don't really know the correct term; what is the difference between a gadget and a widget? You can follow me and stay on top of updates. Before I knew about following blogs, I manually clicked to each blog in which I was interested. This was a little bit of a time waster because often I was checking and re-checking blogs that did not have new entries. I love following blogs now, and I can really zip through and see who has something new. I hope it works for you!

Another area for my blog improvement is the banner. I would really like to make something personalized. This is a work in progress.

Today is a bank holiday (Veteran's Day), so we have no news on our closing date. Our mortgage broker is encouraging us with the idea that our closing should be early next week. We might be able to sleep in our new house next weekend!

Monday, Monday!

2009-11-09T10:54:00.000-08:00

This is what happens to us when daddy leaves for the work week! Small Fry has to sit in a box to read his book, and Brookie has pj's on that do not even come close to matching. In mama's defense, daddy loves to see what fashion extremes he can go to in the choice of pj's including last night!

We have had a bit of great news just now; the second appraisal on our hopeful-new-house just came in the email! This appraisal is higher than the first, so we're hoping for a quick closing. We are thankful!

Today is project day. I've started to make some kitchen curtains for my mom. They're to be her Christmas present if I can get them done. She knows about them. Actually, she picked this awesome fabric!

It's a great little pattern on an almost wheat colored background. I have two regular size windows - about 40 inches wide or so and then a valance in the third window to make. Curtains are fun.....just a lot of straight seams!

The Waiting Game and Fabric.

2009-11-05T16:09:00.000-08:00

Our family is waiting - learning patience - for the second appraisal on our hopeful-new house! We are supposed to hear something today, but the appraisal company is based out of CA. We east-coasters hope that we will hear something tonight. I've always wondered if people who travel a lot for work have problems with time changes!

I did something rather adventurous today: I took some of my handmade items to a local shop! (I know, I totally lacked a transition there.) Tapas, located in downtown Sewickley, takes artists' work on consignment. They took some of my things! I most appreciated the time the owner took with me. This really is my first time approaching a store, and she was most helpful with suggestions. I really, really need to find cheap fabric and I mean cheap prices.

I lament the fact that a certain large store (name begins with a W) no longer sells fabric. Any suggestions you might have for finding fabric would be much appreciated. Maybe my research will help you a little bit. This site has served me well. It has great sales, and free shipping is available on orders over $35. Etsy has produced some quality fabric from individual shops. It just takes a little time to find sales. I have even bought fabric on ebay!

I am hoping to find some fabric suppliers in the Amish country when we move a little more close to that area. Lastly, it's a great idea to make friends with your local fabric stores. Fabric does go on sale, and they might be able to help you locate and order specialty items. A local yarn store, actually, carries a line of Kaffe Fassett fabric that I love. I asked if they ever put the fabric on sale, and the owner said she could give me 15% off right there! It never hurts to ask........ Oh, one more place I found cute fabric on sale was IKEA.

Hopefully, this will help someone out there! And hopefully, we'll have a house update soon! And hopefully, all the links in this blog post work! Thanks, Amy, for your help in that area.

We've Got Nothin'...

2009-11-02T19:26:00.000-08:00

as far as Halloween costumes go! Check out all this great fun from other people:

In this post, I love how the whole family was involved. They look so great!
Have a glance at this amazing costume!
Amy did such a wonderful job with her little guy's getup.
This Curious George theme just killed me. Take a look!

So, what do we have? Here, this is what is on my camera from the weekend:

This, people, is a naked kid with 2 small pumpkins! His sister calls them "punkins".

Disclaimer - we actually had costumes that we actually put on the kids, but we didn't get pictures! I think I'll coin a new phrase for this situation: "parental error".
Enjoy your "punkins"!

Sweetness

2009-10-30T14:18:00.000-07:00

One of the best reasons about moving to our new area is the proximity to some of our family. Big Fish's new job happened to land us in an area about an hour away from my parents! Then, most of my aunt and uncles live about two hours away. We are so thankful; of all the places Big Fish was applying to end up in western PA!

Today we went to visit my grandparents - Brookie and Small Fry's great-grandparents. We are hoping to see them again in a few weeks for Thanksgiving. Which we are supposed to be hosting. In a house on which we haven't signed closing papers yet. Where did the time go?

Here, Brookie and her great-grandma are modeling the latest in designer necklaces. Brookie's necklace actually has a lobster on it.

Sidenote: the second appraisal on our hoped-for house is to be done on Monday. We are looking for some great news (well, great price to be exact).

So, my grandmother set out quite the spread for us today. She always does! Her way of showing love is to feed us! We had beef stew; mashed potatoes; homegrown corn, lima beans and onions; chicken fingers; homemade applesauce; apple AND peach pie; etc. Good thing we raked some leaves beforehand as a kind of pre-calorie workout!

My grandfather, who is 90, just returned from a hunting trip to Colorado. My grandmother called him the Energizer Bunny today! Here he is thrilling the kids with rides on his lawn tractor.

I've Been Fleeced!

2009-10-28T17:47:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a highlight of the week, knowledge-wise. I learned so much from a good friend. Barb has taught herself to spin; she knits beautiful sweaters and socks; she quilts amazing quilts; the list goes on and on.

A lovely afternoon was spent with Barb showing me some of her treasures. I saw some of her fleeces, some alpaca fiber, and some mohair. There was even a spinning lesson involved on her beautiful spinning wheel (I think she said it was a Baynes wheel). I was also able to take my fleece and begin to learn what to do with it!

The first thing we did was dump my fleece on her patio and go around the edges to remove the pieces of, well, poop. This is called "skirting" the fleece. We also tried to shake off the small pieces of wool called "seconds" that are a result of the shearer making a second cut to get close to the sheep's skin. The seconds are just too small and prickly to be made into yarn or anything else. Barb's dog, Rowan, thought the fleece smelled so interesting!

The next step was to actually wash the wool. I assumed that using hot water would felt the wool, but that is only part of it. Hot water is the best for cleaning the wool; you just have to be careful to not rub the fibers together much. We did 4 hot water baths of about 25 minutes each. It is not advisable to wash wool in your sink or laundry basin and let the water drain into your plumbing! The lanolin from the wool will just cause buildup. We used plastic dish basins and emptied the water in Barb's flower beds (great fertilizer!). The 2nd and 3rd hot water baths we used a gentle cleaner to help release the lanolin. Let me know if there is any interest in the product.

Next the wool needs to be hung in order to air dry completely. A drying rack or clothesline would be perfect. I washed a lot more wool today, and my parents' clothesline in the basement has been commandeered by wool!

There will still be a lot of "veggie matter" or "vm" in the wool. This would be bits of sticks or straw or hay. These can be removed by hand, as the wool is processed. I will be using some of the wool roving directly in my needle felting projects, and I hope to spin some of it into yarn. There will be further steps of carding and prepping the wool for spinning later on.

New (for us) House Update and Some Other Projects

2009-10-26T11:01:00.000-07:00

Well, we have made it to one of the more crucial steps in the home-buying process. Drumroll, please.....the appraisal! We have had one appraisal already last week which came in low. This is not good, BUT there were some errors on that report. I won't bore you with all the details, but one example on the report documents the house as having 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom. Believe me, we actually want to find a house with more bedrooms and bathrooms than the apartment we just came from. We are a family of 4, people.

So, we have asked for a re-appraisal hopefully to correct some of those errors. We get that news tomorrow. I'll keep you posted!

One project about which I am so excited is my fleece. Yes, I know a guy who had sheep! He sold me a whole fleece! For $5! He had Cheviot sheep, and the fibers seem to be sturdy and useable for a variety of projects.

I have had the fleece hanging in a bag in my parents' garage for a few weeks. It really needs to be cleaned, and I just happen to know another person who can help me. I'm supposed to take the fleece to her place tomorrow to start the cleaning process. I don't know a thing about this - I know we need some sunshine and soap and scissors. This is going to be fun; come along and learn with me. I already have ideas rattling around for dyeing the wool. I want to try some onion skins for yellow and some beets for purple! Pictures to follow.

Today I'm designing a pattern for a simple belt/scarf. Brookie and Small Fry are down for their naps, so I'll see what I can get cut.

Here is another recipe that was super enjoyable (and used up some more of the apples of which we had aplenty!). Oooohhh, I've always been so amazed with blogs on which people linked to websites by just clicking on the word. I hope this works. Enjoy!

Apple Crisp Recipe

2009-10-25T17:45:00.001-07:00

I asked my mom where she had found this recipe for her apple crisp. She said that a roommate of hers in college had baked it often. So, I have grown up eating this! The recipe is fairly simple, and it has a lot of wiggle room. Here is the recipe along with my adjustments:

Apple Crisp Recipe

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Butter a deep dish baking pan. Peel, core, and slice apples into the pan. I used 13 apples when I made this last week, and they were fairly large apples. The lady at the apple orchard provided me with Jonathan, Cortland, and Yellow Delicious apples. Remember that the apples cook down, so make a mound of them!

Pour about 1 cup of water over the apples, so they don't burn and stick to the bottom. Sprinkle at least 2 teaspoons of cinnamon all over the top of the apples.

Make the crumb topping by combining (with fingertips or a pastry blender or a food processor) 14 tablespoons of butter, 2 cups sugar and 1 1/2 cups flour. This is an area which I adjust. I probably make about 1 1/4 extra of this part of the recipe! What can I say, I'm a topping girl! Combine until crumbly. Sprinkle all over the apples - put it on thick!!

Bake at least 30 minutes. Make sure the apples are soft. For extra consumer enjoyment, serve with homemade whipped cream!!

Separation Anxiety

2009-10-23T05:36:00.000-07:00

I know a lot of people are thankful for Fridays; the weekend is often a time to relax or maybe do things around the house. Our little family is especially excited about Fridays because we are reunited with Big Fish! During our time of transition, while we are waiting to close on the house, the kids and I are able to stay with my parents. Big Fish travels up to work e-a-r-l-y Monday morning and stays at a place close to his employment until Friday afternoon. We have done this since mid-August.

Needless to say, when the weekend comes, we are quite happy. My parents only live about an hour and a half away from Big Fish's new job and where we hope to live, but we are trying to save a little on gas money - not to mention how tiring in would be to drive 3 hours a day. We sure have a whole new level of appreciation for people who have long commutes or are separated from the families for a lot longer time period.

Moving from Virginia, we are SO excited to be much closer to my parents. Little weekend visits will be such a breeze! I think Brookie and Small Fry are excited, too. They love their daddy!

Hopefully this weekend, I'll share some pictures of the apple crisp that was made yesterday. It is now almost gone, so it's a good thing I took some pictures already! I would love to share the recipe, too!

The Cast of Characters

2009-10-21T18:48:00.000-07:00

So, I think I've come up with a plan for how to name the members of my immediate family in this blog. For now, at least, I'll keep their "real" names private. Maybe this will change in the future, but for the beginning of this blog I'll give them nicknames (thanks Kathy for the suggestion!).

My husband is an outdoorsman to the enth degree, and he particularly enjoys fishing. He prefers trout fishing in cold mountain streams that he wades right up the middle to hunt out his prey. He is always trying to explain to me how peaceful, beautiful and blessed the whole experience is; and I certainly agree that this all works for him. (I, on the other hand, have an unhealthy fear of watersnakes; so the whole wading in the water and feeling peaceful thing just doesn't seem to work as well for me. That and trying not to fall in - anyway, where was I?) So, my husband, will now be referred to as "Big Fish".

I picked this nickname for him not only for his love of fishing and trying to catch the big fish, but also because I definitely caught the big fish when we were married. He is truly a gift from the Lord!

The kids' nicknames stem from the fishing theme as well. My daughter, who is 3, shall be referred to as "Brookie". One of her dad's favorite fish to catch is a brook trout, and she is one of my most favorite little people! My son, who is 1, will have the nickname of "Small Fry" for obvious reasons. Maybe, when he is a strapping teenager I might change that! Here they are enjoying some arts and crafts time at my parents' table.

How about you? What do you do on your blog to name people that you love? I'd be interested to hear!

Indian Summer in October

2009-10-20T12:06:00.000-07:00

We have been enjoying the sunshine today! I think it might be technically too late to be termed "Indian Summer", but it sure was nice to take a trip to the thrift store today and not have to warm up the car! I didn't even put on a jacket. Having lived in FL before, I certainly know that 60 degree weather would NEVER be classified as any kind of summer; but it sure feels better than 30 degrees.

Yesterday, my two kids and I went to another thrift store. Sidenote: I still don't know if I should use their names in my blog yet. The jury is still out on that one. We are on a mission, people. We are searching for 100% wool sweaters to use in my felt projects. The man of the house still doesn't understand how I can take "perfectly good" sweaters and shrink them beyond recognition and then cut them up!

Here are some of our finds - along with my first uploaded photo! These sweaters have all been felted and are awaiting the knife er scissors.

This sweater says on the label "vintage". I'm assuming that it's really not that old - how would the manufacturer know that? Anyway, the color of this sweater is awesome; it's a great pink; any suggestions or guesses for what it will be used?

I'll be posting a picture or two of some finished products soon!! I need to figure out how to link my etsy shop to this blog. I think it's up there, but other people's blogs have pictures with theirs. I have to figure that out!! I have a lot to learn. Thanks, Amy, for the font suggestions. I hope this is better - more readable. Let me know what else I can improve!

Here We Go!!

2009-10-19T18:42:00.000-07:00

Wow! What an exciting thing to be writing the first blog post of my life! I have read so many completely amazing blogs and have been inspired by many people to finally just jump in!

So much thought has been spent on thinking about what I would write on a blog if I ever had a blog that I just finally realized that I needed to start. There is so much to learn; so, blogworld, any tips or suggestions you have would be so much appreciated! One specific question I had: what is the protocol for adding blogs to my list of blogs I follow? I have so many good ones! Do I need to email everyone whose blog I read and ask if I can follow them on my blog?

Since our family is preparing to move into a new house - closing date in 3 weeks - this seemed like a good time to start documenting our lives and our adventures. Stay tuned for more on this later.

It's great to be here!