Transitions

We have a Godson!

2010-05-27T15:08:00.003-04:00

On May 16th, we became Godparents. We were very happy to do so. It is a commitment to pray for the child throughout our lives and to give guidance when needed. There are several things need for the sacrament of Baptism and Chrismation: olive oil, white towels, soap, a cross, decorated candle, and icon. These things serve duty for anointing, baptizing, representing the new man in Christ, the newly illumined soul, and the icon of course, to teach the child of the body of Christ, most specificly, its namesake. Our James' s parents chose James the Brother of Christ as his Saint's name, so we got him this icon.

It was a wonderful service, and is the same throughout the Orthodox service. I highly recommend all believers of any denomination witness this historical sacrament. The prayers and petitions and commitments are just so heartfelt and moving. Who can say that tradition is dead? It is living, breathing, just as much as the Church itself is alive. Tradition holds to what is true and is not swayed by changing times an opinions.

After a wonderful service, through which James cried and fussed, we came back here to our home and celebrated. It was a fun day, encouraging and overall great blessing. May God grant you many years, dear James! We love you!

2010-05-27T14:44:00.002-04:00

Insert prayer of my heart early in the morning, and bring forth righteousness throughout the coming day;

"Grant unto me, my Lord,
that with peace in mind I may face all that this new day is to bring.
Grant unto me grace to surrender myself completely to Thy holy will. Instruct and
prepare me in all things for every hour of the day. Whatsoever tidings I may
receive during the day, teach me to accept them calmly, in the firm conviction
that all eventualities fulfill Thy holy will. Govern my thoughts and feelings in
all I do and say. When things unforseen occur, let me not forget that all comes
down from Thee. Teach me to behave sincerely and reasonably toward every member
of my family and all other human beings, that I may not cause confusion and
sorrow to anyone. Bestow upon me, my Lord, strength to endure the fatigue of the
day and to bear my share in all its passing events. Guide my will and teach me
to pray, to believe, to hope, to suffer, to forgive, and to love. Amen. "

It is truly good to bless the Lord. And indeed it is good to restrain our passions, focusing our eyes on Christ once more. Lord, as we celebrate the gift of your Holy Spirit this week, we are also preparing to enter a season of fasting. We remember your command to go into all the world, make disciples of them and baptizing them in the Name of the of the Father, and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Give us the courage to follow this command, be it at the grocery store, in our neighborhoods, at our churches, in the streets or in our families. Your Holy Spirit empowers us to wisely use our time and efforts for the glory of your kingdom; help us to listen and obey. Have mercy upon us and save us oh Mighty God. May your love shine to all people through us, your servants, Amen.

Month of May...

2010-05-27T14:10:00.006-04:00

... is nearly over. I can hardly believe it! May is one of my favorite months, as flowers and trees fully bloom into summer, the end of the school year approaches and the anticipation of a new season keeps me motivated to get things done. I am happy to say that there is only 2 weeks left of school before the kids are done! Then they will be home with me. I am excited!

I will start putting together my project ideas for summer activites this week. We're gonna learn about the ten commandments, Albania, work on handwriting, math facts, telling time, learn to ride bikes (yeah, they're behind), and Nathaniel has to learn phone numbers and address, 911, fire drills, and of course all the fun stuff like gathering friends numbers for playdates and planning Ariel's birthday party. She's gonna be 8 in less than 3 weeks! It'll be her first sleepover and she is so excited! I'm limiting it to 3 guests and I think that'll be enough excitement for her. Playing hostess can be a hard thing to do, and I don't want to overwhelm her. I just got her list together for that and we have to make up invitations and party favors, activities, dinner, breakfast, etc. Fun stuff!

Let's see what I've missed blogging about this past month. Well, most notably, Silas ran away. It was a couple weeks ago- Dustan and I were staying up late, fiddling around on our computers. I was sitting here on the couch, and he in his big chair. The cats were playing chase with the moths that had gotten in the house. I was musing that "we never stay up this late, we should go to bed", and then all of a sudden Dustan turns around and exclaims, "Floyd is outside!" "WHAT?" How could that happen? Well, the sliding door had been open as it was a great night out, but the screen WAS closed-- aparently not well enough.

By the time I got outside, Floyd was at the corner of the house with Silas underneath of him. He had that happy, playful look on his face. In my stern voice I said, "floyd, COME HERE!" At which point he pounced the cat instead. I caught him at the front of the house, Dustan came out with the leash and I took him back inside... however Silas ran off and would not come. This behavior is actually quite normal for him- he does NOT like to be approached at all, but I thought that maybe with flashlights we could catch his eyes gleaming in the light and find him. Nope. The only thing we accomplished was scaring the neighbor lady and losing our kitty.

The kids are saddened, though not as bad as they could have been. Chester seems to be a little lost, but now that it's 3 weeks today since Silas left, Chester has gotten into a new swing of things and is settling down little. He's definately more friendly and even picks fights with the dog again for some entertainment.

Other things I have worked on throughout the month... planning Ariel's room project and my landscaping project (well, that technically will never be done- as a true gardener, I can't commit to anything and love just about everything! lol). I just can't decide what to put out front under the windows, and so I had to plan out the whole yard to determine what would go with the tress I want, etc, and now I have to go price everything to see what I will actually get, even though I'm not getting it til next spring. The thing is my birthday present 2 yrs ago was that my in-laws were going to buy whatever I wanted to put under the windows, and my mother-in-law has been on me to choose. :P So, I thought I'd get my list together, and I like whats on my list, but I have to see it in person before I commit to what I want to place where and if I can afford my selections or not-- some of them are more rare (which is half the draw), and therefore more expensive.

I have put homeschool research on hold for the past couple of weeks, excepting to say that we ARE homeschooling next year! And we decided that we need to do it as free as possible-- it's just too late in the year to adjust the budget. However, many people do it free, and with all the homeschoolers at our church and several teachers with lots of resources, and the library, we should be good! I will be picking up my homeschool research next week as we have a couple of meetings with friends that are helping us, so all is rolling along nicely.

I think that sums up the month of May for this year... we are looking forward to this Memorial Day weekend; we shall see what it brings! And oh yeah, here's the kids new haircuts!

Who needs sleep?

2010-04-17T06:31:00.004-04:00

It smells like Grandma's house. Every morning this spring I have walked out of my bedroom and into the hall, and that is the frst thought that flashes thru my mind. I don't know why it reminds me of Grandma-- it's not like we have the smells of coffee, hairspray and cremes floating through very often. Maybe it's because we sleep with the windows open at night, and that somehow coming out from the fresh air into the enclosed air somehow traps a timeless, comforting smell of home. Who knows?

But, this being Saturday and I have a busy day ahead of me, I cannot sleep any longer. I woke up about an hour ago, and finally gave it up to sleep anymore. So, I left the room so as to let Dustan sleep in. He deserves it. He's a hard worker and doesn't rest enough.

I have had Ariel's room on my brain for a few days now, working on putting ideas together for decorating it, as I had promised to do so for her 8th birthday that is coming up. We wanted a story book atmosphere, conducive for play-acting, writing and reading books-- an all around fun room. That meant I wanted vintage classic, and she wanted bright, fun patterns and colors. So we are blending the two together. I found this pattern online, which she really likes. I am trying to incorporate other fabrics, something similar to these. I just have to find something local, as the prices are better- so far anyway. Looking at all these patterns makes me wish I was savvy on the sewing machine. Ariel is adorable in about everything she wears, it's just now coming up with appropriate clothing for her age. It can be a hard thing to come by. Maybe I'll just get Aunty Monica to do it for me. Yeah, that's a good plan!

Be Thou My Vision

2010-04-06T16:12:00.004-04:00

Be thou my vision, O Lord of my heart,
be all else but naught to me, save that thou art;
be thou my best thought in the day and the night,
both waking and sleeping, thy presence my light.

Be thou my wisdom, be thou my true word,
be thou ever with me, and I with thee Lord;
be thou my great Father, and I thy true son;
be thou in me dwelling, and I with thee one.

Be thou my breastplate, my sword for the fight;
be thou my whole armor, be thou my true might;
be thou my soul's shelter, be thou my strong tower:
O raise thou me heavenward, great Power of my power.

Riches I heed not, nor man's empty praise:
be thou mine inheritance now and always;
be thou and thou only the first in my heart;
O Sovereign of heaven, my treasure thou art.

High King of heaven, thou heaven's bright sun,
O grant me its joys after victory is won;
great Heart of my own heart, whatever befall,
still be thou my vision, O Ruler of all.

To hear the hymn sung by Fernando Ortega, click here.

Important Ramblings

2010-04-06T14:16:00.008-04:00

So, I was just sitting here thinking that maybe I should ramble. I mean, I do it often enough to my mom and certain friends; so why not do it here too? I was just eating my lunch of bratwurst, mac-n-cheese and cheetos, thinking of all things that I COULD be doing, or SHOULD be doing, or HAVE to do in the upcoming month (yeah, nothing beats not having a deadline, so I've got to make ones up for myself). As a healthy distraction, I facebooked my lunchtime away, while my dog begged for my lunch and the cat jumped off the stairs, throwing up promptly on the floor in the hallway, and in one swift movement had jumped into the next room, where who knows what he continued to do. That was 20 minutes ago. I have yet to get up and take care of it, and the dog is waiting patiently for me to do so, as I've already warned him to leave it alone! These are the things that take up my time in a normal day... the things I don't really recount when asked what I've done today, but somehow are the very same unimportant things that really is the bulk of my time spent.

Then there are times (such as Lent we've just completed), that I analyze my life and wonder how I'm going to get to the next stage; how all the things I've wanted to do with my life in some ways have been fulfilled and in other ways are steadily elusive, and the path is confusing to try to mentally configure the future. I suppose that is why we are told to trust in the Lord in Proverbs 3:5-6. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight."

"The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and He delights in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down; For the LORD upholds him with His hand. " Ps. 37:23-24

So, I suppose the goal here is to be found the good man in His sight. What constitutes a good or righteous man? Well, a lover of good, a person after God's own heart; someone who embodies the beatitudes, who obeys Christ's commandment to love God and to love your neighbor as yourself. There are some who have spent a lifetime accomplishing this, and all I can tell is that I am sure that they struggled, as I, to become truly as Christ is. But their success was acheived only a day at a time; no, more like a moment at a time, a decision at a time. I am finding that I am more painfully aware of every word that proceeds from my mouth.

For those of you who know me well, you are aware of what a biting tongue I truly posses. But that is the key -- it is mine to control, mine to be responsible for, and mine to be accountable to Christ on that dreadfully anticipated last day, as well as the condition of my heart, wherefrom my tongue speaks its evil. The day that we face Christ and He asks, "Why was it more important for you to facebook than to be reading the Scriptures, or better yet, helping someone in need?" That will be the terrible day indeed, when I am shown for what I really am. These types of questions have been haunting me daily, and I have grown quite restless this past year. I have been lonely for the lack of children running under my feet. I have been disorganized, and indecisive. I have become more honest with myself, and therefore more honest in my presentation of myself to Christ, and each day more aware of how much I truly do need Him. I must continually come humbly before to ask for forgiveness, and Lord, PLEASE help me actually DO what is right in your sight!

Then there is another biggie- how I've used the blessings He's given to me and let them become more important than Himself. I cannot allow things or even people to take the place of Christ. Finding the balance between God, the all-consuming fire, and my everyday life is found in this; Let God be Who He Is-- He is the all-consuming fire. And He in me will reach out His love, using my hands to reach those who have no other hand to help them along life's journey. That is the purpose of this life-- to find Christ, to become part of the body of Christ, and to function as the body of Christ- as Saint Patrick so perfectly put in his Breastplate;

I arise today Through a mighty strength, the invocation of the Trinity, Through the belief in the threeness, Through confession of the oneness Of the Creator of Creation. I arise today Through the strength of Christ's birth with his baptism, Through the strength of his crucifixion with his burial, Through the strength of his resurrection with his ascension, Through the strength of his descent for the judgment of Doom. I arise today Through the strength of the love of Cherubim, In obedience of angels, In the service of archangels, In hope of resurrection to meet with reward, In prayers of patriarchs, In predictions of prophets, In preaching of apostles, In faith of confessors, In innocence of holy virgins, In deeds of righteous men. I arise today Through the strength of heaven: Light of sun, Radiance of moon, Splendor of fire, Speed of lightning, Swiftness of wind, Depth of sea, Stability of earth, Firmness of rock. I arise today Through God's strength to pilot me: God's might to uphold me, God's wisdom to guide me, God's eye to look before me, God's ear to hear me, God's word to speak for me, God's hand to guard me, God's way to lie before me, God's shield to protect me, God's host to save me From snares of devils, From temptations of vices, From everyone who shall wish me ill, Afar and anear, Alone and in multitude. I summon today all these powers between me and those evils, Against every cruel merciless power that may oppose my body and soul, Against incantations of false prophets, Against black laws of pagandom Against false laws of heretics, Against craft of idolatry, Against spells of witches and smiths and wizards, Against every knowledge that corrupts man's body and soul. Christ to shield me today Against poison, against burning, Against drowning, against wounding, So that there may come to me abundance of reward.

Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me, Christ in me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me, Christ on my right, Christ on my left, Christ when I lie down, Christ when I sit down, Christ when I arise, Christ in the heart of every man who thinks of me, Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me, Christ in every eye that sees me, Christ in every ear that hears me.

I arise today Through a mighty strength, the invocation of the Trinity, Through belief in the threeness, Through confession of the oneness, Of the Creator of Creation.
In essense, every breath that I take, be it as Christ breathes, every word I speak, may it only be what Christ would speak to another. Not laying up my treasures here on earth, but looking toward heaven, and working towards the goal of eternal life with my Savior. This is the prayer of my heart today, and I pray that it might be so everyday til my dying breath.

Christ's Tomb

2010-04-01T14:01:00.004-04:00

I took the idea of making a scene of Christ's tomb from another blogger. It was a great idea. It gave the kids something fun to do, made them conscious of the story of Christ's burial, and will help give a concrete image to the story of Christ's resurrection. The evergreen heather and suculants remind us of everlasting love of God and the eternal life we will have with Him. We planted forget-me-not seeds in it too, to remind us of our beloved Savior, and of our new life in Him as a Christian.

Nathaniel made the guard for the tomb, and Ariel has made an angel, in preparation of Sunday's miracle. And I must say a thankyou to my mother-in-law for helping us put the project together. This has been a fun way to mark the days of Holy Week!

Lazurus Saturday

2010-03-25T11:49:00.004-04:00

This Saturday is Lazarus Saturday. This day marks the end of Lent and the beginning of Holy Week. Lazarus was a personal friend of Jesus, and the miracle of his resurrection was a foretaste of Christ's own resurrection. It is a promise to us all that there is life after death! The story of Lazarus is as follows;

John 11
The Death of Lazarus
1 Now a certain man was sick, Lazarus of Bethany, the town of Mary and her sister Martha. 2 It was that Mary who anointed the Lord with fragrant oil and wiped His feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick. 3 Therefore the sisters sent to Him, saying, “Lord, behold, he whom You love is sick.”
4 When Jesus heard that, He said, “This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God may be glorified through it.”
5 Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. 6 So, when He heard that he was sick, He stayed two more days in the place where He was. 7 Then after this He said to the disciples, “Let us go to Judea again.”
8 The disciples said to Him, “Rabbi, lately the Jews sought to stone You, and are You going there again?”
9 Jesus answered, “Are there not twelve hours in the day? If anyone walks in the day, he does not stumble, because he sees the light of this world. 10 But if one walks in the night, he stumbles, because the light is not in him.” 11 These things He said, and after that He said to them, “Our friend Lazarus sleeps, but I go that I may wake him up.”
12 Then His disciples said, “Lord, if he sleeps he will get well.” 13 However, Jesus spoke of his death, but they thought that He was speaking about taking rest in sleep.
14 Then Jesus said to them plainly, “Lazarus is dead. 15 And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, that you may believe. Nevertheless let us go to him.”
16 Then Thomas, who is called the Twin, said to his fellow disciples, “Let us also go, that we may die with Him.”
I Am the Resurrection and the Life

17 So when Jesus came, He found that he had already been in the tomb four days. 18 Now Bethany was near Jerusalem, about two miles[a] away. 19 And many of the Jews had joined the women around Martha and Mary, to comfort them concerning their brother.
20 Now Martha, as soon as she heard that Jesus was coming, went and met Him, but Mary was sitting in the house. 21 Now Martha said to Jesus, “Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died. 22 But even now I know that whatever You ask of God, God will give You.”
23 Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise again.”
24 Martha said to Him, “I know that he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day.”
25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. 26 And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?”
27 She said to Him, “Yes, Lord, I believe that You are the Christ, the Son of God, who is to come into the world.”
Jesus and Death, the Last Enemy

28 And when she had said these things, she went her way and secretly called Mary her sister, saying, “The Teacher has come and is calling for you.” 29 As soon as she heard that, she arose quickly and came to Him. 30 Now Jesus had not yet come into the town, but was[b] in the place where Martha met Him. 31 Then the Jews who were with her in the house, and comforting her, when they saw that Mary rose up quickly and went out, followed her, saying, “She is going to the tomb to weep there.”[c]
32 Then, when Mary came where Jesus was, and saw Him, she fell down at His feet, saying to Him, “Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died.”
33 Therefore, when Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who came with her weeping, He groaned in the spirit and was troubled. 34 And He said, “Where have you laid him?”
They said to Him, “Lord, come and see.”
35 Jesus wept. 36 Then the Jews said, “See how He loved him!”
37 And some of them said, “Could not this Man, who opened the eyes of the blind, also have kept this man from dying?”
Lazarus Raised from the Dead

38 Then Jesus, again groaning in Himself, came to the tomb. It was a cave, and a stone lay against it. 39 Jesus said, “Take away the stone.”
Martha, the sister of him who was dead, said to Him, “Lord, by this time there is a stench, for he has been dead four days.”
40 Jesus said to her, “Did I not say to you that if you would believe you would see the glory of God?” 41 Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead man was lying.[d] And Jesus lifted up His eyes and said, “Father, I thank You that You have heard Me. 42 And I know that You always hear Me, but because of the people who are standing by I said this, that they may believe that You sent Me.” 43 Now when He had said these things, He cried with a loud voice, “Lazarus, come forth!” 44 And he who had died came out bound hand and foot with graveclothes, and his face was wrapped with a cloth. Jesus said to them, “Loose him, and let him go.”
The Plot to Kill Jesus

45 Then many of the Jews who had come to Mary, and had seen the things Jesus did, believed in Him. 46 But some of them went away to the Pharisees and told them the things Jesus did. 47 Then the chief priests and the Pharisees gathered a council and said, “What shall we do? For this Man works many signs. 48 If we let Him alone like this, everyone will believe in Him, and the Romans will come and take away both our place and nation.”
49 And one of them, Caiaphas, being high priest that year, said to them, “You know nothing at all, 50 nor do you consider that it is expedient for us[e] that one man should die for the people, and not that the whole nation should perish.” 51 Now this he did not say on his own authority; but being high priest that year he prophesied that Jesus would die for the nation, 52 and not for that nation only, but also that He would gather together in one the children of God who were scattered abroad.
53 Then, from that day on, they plotted to put Him to death. 54 Therefore Jesus no longer walked openly among the Jews, but went from there into the country near the wilderness, to a city called Ephraim, and there remained with His disciples.
55 And the Passover of the Jews was near, and many went from the country up to Jerusalem before the Passover, to purify themselves. 56 Then they sought Jesus, and spoke among themselves as they stood in the temple, “What do you think—that He will not come to the feast?” 57 Now both the chief priests and the Pharisees had given a command, that if anyone knew where He was, he should report it, that they might seize Him.

There is a song that is chanted regarding this event. Great and powerful words! (Read it here.) The video is moving too. Hearing it has such a different effect than only reading it.

Looking toward Pascha

2010-03-25T11:37:00.006-04:00

While Lent is a time for remorse, repenting, striving anew to become the person God would have us to be, we are always hopeful for Christ has given us hope- he has paved the way for forgiveness of sins and of life everlasting. Christ has conquered death by death! So, while the journey to the celebration is humbling and painful, we cling to Christ, our hope and joy! Here is a fun Pascha video celebrating Christ's resurrection! Enjoy!

Preparing for Pascha

2010-03-25T11:11:00.003-04:00

This month has been busy with a variety of work; spring cleaning, taxes, exercising, vacation planning, and last on the list but foremost in our minds and most importantly, preparing for PASCHA! This Lent has been interesting, and I have learned a few things, as one should. Details surrounding the story of the resurrection have been refreshed and relearned. Adding to that more church history to the traditions, such as Mary Magdalene's testimony to the Emperor of Christ's Resurrection, the study of the Myrrh-bearing Women (one of which I took her name as my saint's name- Salome. She is the step-sister of Christ, mother of James and John), and celebrating the Annuniciation.

I have found an encouraging blog that I have added to my list at the side there, and encourage you to check her out too. Filled with lots of ideas and information, encouraging journeys and helpful links, she is most helpful to me, that's for sure! I love her latest idea for Pascha and Holy Week... I will have to assemble them over the course of the year to be ready for next year's celebration!

This Sunday will be Palm Sunday. I always look forward to this joyful celebration! Even though the week that follows is solemn and heartbreaking, it points the way to the King and the Life we will have with Him!

Tuesday's Blizzard

2010-02-15T22:04:00.005-05:00

A picture says a thousand words... well, in this picture, this was the second time Dustan went out to snowblow that day... fun stuff!!

Snow!!

2010-02-15T16:19:00.006-05:00

Okay, so I am behind the times in the blogging world, but at least for memory's sake, it is worth posting about. Last weekend we had a record snow of 26" here. Saturday's big stack just wasn't enough, so another storm came last Tuesday, and we got another 20 inches! Today, being Presidents Day, means the kids and Dustan had a day scheduled "off". This is supposed to end the long weekend of 6 days, but it has started snowing yet again this afternoon, with 3-6 inches in the forecast. So, I guess we'll see what we end up with and if there'll actually be school tomorrow or not. The whole of the East coast has broken every record this year for snow accumulation. That just meant lots of exercise and no school for us!

The picture of the nearly 22" was taken from the first storm, at around 10 AM. The snow didn't stop coming down until above 5pm, but then the winds picked up and drifting problems started. The whole storm qualified as a blizzard, and they even shut down city streets. Tuesday's storm was a blizzard too, and they shut down the highway! That is VERY unusual for this area.

Here's Ariel with the second storm on Tuesday.

February!

2010-02-02T14:13:00.002-05:00

I love February. Mostly because January is SO depressing! February always brings us closer to spring, and there's always something fun to do. People are in a happy mood and some are getting ready to celebrate Valentine's Day. Then there is Nathaniel's birthday- a great thing to party about in my opinion. And, now that we are Orthodox, we have been made aware of the importance of Great Lent and all that it entails. So, while most people may dread the coming of this season, we look forward to it; the season of repentance and forgiveness, of self-sacrificing, conciously disciplining ourselves so that we can separate ourselves from the things of this earth, looking towards heaven and our Master; setting our hands to do His work more fully. These things we should be doing all year, but this season is set aside to ensure that we make time to do these all-important tasks. We're looking forward to celebrating Christ's conquering of death, and of our promise of resurrection to be with the Most High King.

Giving me the run around....

2010-01-10T22:00:00.007-05:00

...literally- the kiddos were being cute today, so I wanted to capture a picture of them, and yes, it is asking too much. They started running like crazy people, trying to get away. It was funny for a few minutes, and then when I made them sit, Nathaniel had a pouting session. Ah, well, I got a good shot of their backsides anyway.

2010-01-10T21:51:00.002-05:00

I just love milestone photos, and though I don't actually do many of them, I thought it would be nice to get one of the kids in front of the door of our house, marking the passage of time. So here's the first picture, in what I hope to be a series in years to come, of Ariel & Nathaniel at home, ages almost 6 and almost 8.

Christmas

2009-12-31T21:59:00.003-05:00

Happy Birthday Jesus is what Ariel wrote on the back of her beautiful picture she made and had put under the tree with all the gifts for Jesus on Christmas. Isn't she sweet? Well, I never did get any Christmas pictures, so I took one tonight, on this the 7th day of Christmas. The kids were playing so nice together and in such a good mood, and I thought it was a great time to do it. Well, Nathaniel didn't think so at all, as you can certainly tell! He was standing there very much against his will!

We had a great time celebrating Christmas this year. We spent Christmas Eve baking and cleaning, and then going to church. Christmas day was lots of fun with smiling faces and surprises. Even Floyd was more than happy to find a new doggie bed under the tree and his stocking full of raw hide bones.

The kids got a variety of clothes, Legos, snack foods, icons, ornaments, movies, candy, balloons, and Ariel even got a down comforter, which she was very happy about! I got a crockpot (2 in fact), a Belgium waffle maker and some Pringles. I was more than pleased! (It doesn't take much) Dustan got some clothes, the Greek Bible and the Greek New Testament on CD. He was excited over that one! We also were happy to get a wine cellar and we put that to use already. It fits well under the desk in the kitchen.

After the morning's activities, we packed up our bags and the car and went to my in-laws for family funtime. : ) We got to see so many friendly faces and enjoyed being altogether. What a merry Christmas we had!

Christmas Vacation

2009-12-31T21:30:00.003-05:00

This year Christmas vacation has been loads of fun. I've missed having my kiddos around the house all day, and now am enjoying it! We've been busy. We had a great snow fall of 14inches, and we had tremendous fun romping around in that! It was hysterical watching Floyd run through it. He wasn't too happy about pooping in it though, and he was quite constipated by the second day!

This past week we have had some friends over, including Allen & Denise & Sarah, and also Amanda and the boys. It was so great seeing them all! It's been since the summer since we had a chance to see them. We certainly enjoyed our visits.

Today we spent cleaning the house, and I had to run to the store. Uh, yeah, after about 3 inches of snow falling this morning, shoveling the driveway and sidewalks, baking a pie, cleaning house, and the shopping on New Year's Eve... well... I was starting to get irritated. I managed to get everything put away, dinner started, the mopping done and refereeing the kids until Dustan came up from working downstairs at 5pm. Then Dominic and Gwendolyn came over, and they're here for a sleepover.

Currently, I can hear fireworks going off somewhere, and I am reminded again of our blessed time in Germany and the great celebration of bringing in the New Year. We always enjoy a quiet evening at home, and I always get sappy about the year ending, and tears inevitably roll. I don't know why, but there is always something that invisibly attaches you to the events of the year, and losing some we've loved, and rejoicing over the many blessings we've received... regretting choices we have made or dreams not accomplished... many hopes for the new year... it all becomes so overwhelming- just for a little while- on New Year's Eve. I really AM a sap!

Well, here's to all the good and the bad, the lessons learned, and many smiles we've made over even the smallest things, the memory of those who have been lost, and to all that God has in store for us in the New Year that is ever fast approching. May we all heed His voice and obey it, to His glory and our betterment. Many blessings to you all!

Baptism Discussion

2009-12-31T21:01:00.005-05:00

"...not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing or regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit." Titus 3:5

Mark 16:16 "He that believeth and is baptised shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall not be saved..."

I thought I'd share on here the background to the motivation for getting our children baptised. The link will take you to a note written on Facebook on November 17, 2009.

This past year we have been studying Orthodoxy, and have decided to become Orthodox. We have found that it is truly what we believe, what we've been searching for a church to teach for the 10 years we've been married. In doing so, we were Christmated and the children were baptised in November. What a HAPPY day! It came as a surprise to many of our friends and family, but rest assured, more of you are Orthodox than you think! All it takes is some reading and you will find it is exactly what you've been trying to put the Christian faith into words for all your life!

Snowfall

2009-12-14T20:05:00.002-05:00

So, we got our first snowfall on the 5th of the month, and that's when we happened to get our Christmas tree too. The kids didn't get to play in it until the next day after church, and by then it was mostly gone, even though we had gotten 3 inches of the stuff. But on the north side of the house, they found enough snow to make a miniature snowman- and I do mean miniature.

Christmas Ambiance

2009-12-11T18:01:00.001-05:00

Jobs

2009-12-11T17:46:00.007-05:00

So, the other day (or was it 2 weeks ago?) Nathaniel came up to me in the kitchen and starting telling me all of the jobs that he was big enough to do. "I am going to be just like Ariel!"

His list of things he was already responsible for was pretty short- mostly to put his dirty laundry away everyday, not make a mess in the bathroom and to pick up the dirty towels and socks around the main floor of the house every night and take them up to the laundry pile. So, it was pretty easy to add to that list- since he volunteered anyway. Now he has a 5 o'clock job of turning the outside lights on for Daddy to come home, and he's learning to wash dishes. He did a fair job of listening to directions on the best way to wash certain items, and he managed to do a whole sink full of them. But since then, he's not volunteered again. ; )

As you can see, Ariel was very excited that she got to rinse instead of having to wash. She really likes this part of the deal!

2009-12-03T20:43:00.002-05:00

The kids got a haircut! If you know us, you know that we don't do that very often... They got it done the weekend before Thanksgiving, and they both love the results. Ariel's been wanting her hair to be short for a long while (since the past spring methinks), and so I finally let her get it done. She loved it so much that when we were out shopping afterwards, she kept pausing at every mirror she saw and said, "I could just look at myself all day long! I am so cute! Mom, am I beautiful?" Of course she's is and I told her so, but I think maybe her name should be Narcissus instead!

1999-2009

2009-12-03T18:59:00.006-05:00

This year we celebrated our 10th anniversary. It was a memorable milestone. Hard to believe that it's already been here and gone. Time is progressively moving faster to say the least!

Dustan took the day off of work and we got some time to relax while the kids were at school. Then Romona came over to pick up the kids for the night. We went down to Baltimore (my first time in the city) and went to Morton's Steakhouse for dinner. Dustan had gotten a gift certificate from work for the place, and we're so glad we went! It was really a relaxed and pristine atmosphere, great food and fantastic service. We're very happy with our experience there and perhaps someday we'll make it back!

Oh, and did I mention the flowers? Not from Dustan, but I did get some from my parents, some friends at church AND I had pruned my rosebush out front, so my house was full of blooms. That always makes me happy!

Halloween & Family Time

2009-12-03T18:46:00.006-05:00

We had a nice little get together here at our house on Halloween. Ariel dressed up as Ariel the Mermaid, Nathaniel was a pilot, and Dominic was Mario. They had a lot of fun roaming the neighbor and made out pretty well.

A few days later, I a got this pic of lounging around the house. Guess who's hiding under the blanket? Yup. Tater.

Emily & Wayne say "I do"

2009-12-02T20:54:00.012-05:00

Emily & Wayne can now finally be referred to as the Zimmermans! Yeah! About time! TThey officially tied the knot on the 10th of October. The ceremony was held at a tiny mountain church and the reception place was at Ski Roundtop. It was a gorgeous day out and the ceremony was really amusing. The pastor kept referring to Emily as Debbie. Too funny!

The directions to the church were horrible - poor Aunt Lori missed the ceremony- and the parking left a lot to be desired.

The music was wonderful, (thankyou Uncle Tom, Aunt Susan and David!) everyone cried at the service, pictures were sweet, moods swung as usual, I got tagged with the kiddos and no food to give them... not the fun part.... all in all it turned out nice. And the best part is, now we have another nice guy in the family!

Violin Recital

2009-12-02T20:31:00.007-05:00

I can't believe it's been so long since Ariel had her recital! But we had it on September 7th at my in-law's house. Monica had been her teacher over the summer, as an introduction the the violin, and she did great! She did not like practicing, and there were tears over the commitment some days, but she was so proud of herself and loved being able to play songs!

She was really excited about being able to perform her first recital for the family. There were a couple mistakes, but mostly from the accompaniment messing her up a bit. ; ) There was also one mistake that she caused because she was going her own pace instead of playing together with the piano. It can be a hard skill to develop in little ones, but at any rate, she was REALLY great! She loved it, even though she was quite nervous after she messed up, but everyone was encouraging her to keep going. Then of course, she got an award and some flowers and that made her smile.

But at the end of the ordeal, she decided that even though she loved playing and performing, she didn't want to put in the effort of practicing and learning new skills on it (It can be quite daunting when you're so young). Maybe next summer we'll give it another go or try out a different instrument. She's an automatic charmer when performing, that's for sure!

TOOTH

2009-11-27T21:02:00.005-05:00

I have been behind on updating the blog, as the adapter fo the laptop broke and today we finally got one! Yeah! So, as I meant to post about Nathaniel's first tooth falling out, here goes...

In September, he was sitting at his lego table playing, and there were two pieces that wouldn't come apart. He had a habit of using his teeth to get them apart, and I had warned him several times that he shouldn't do that, 'cause he'd hurt himself. Sure enough, he starts screaming and ran into the kitchen where I was cooking... there was blood pouring out of his mouth and he was freaking out! I grabbed a paper towel - I thought he'd cut his gum or gave himself a bloody lip. As we cleared up the blood, I looked, and as it turns out, he made his tooth fall out!

We went back to the toy room to find it, and looked everywhere it would logically be. No where. Where could it have gone? I was assuming it would be bloody, and against the white carpet, easy to see. Well, it WAS easy to see, but it took us awhile to find it cause it was across the room.

I could only assume that it would be there because of the pressure it was under. But Nathaniel said he dropped it on the way to the kitchen. Either way, it was amusing to us, painful to him, and quite the memory!

Emily's Bridal Shower

2009-10-06T19:37:00.009-04:00

Emily's bridal shower was a nice little event, held at Blair Mountain B&B, which of course, is run by Aunt Tracie & Uncle Johnnie. Aside from certain persons getting lost, and still the most important person being AN HOUR late... it was a nice time. The food was plentiful & yummy, and the company enjoyable.

The girls did a good job organizing the games and whatnot. The most amusing of them was the 20 questions quiz in which Em had to guess the answers to about Wayne. She ended with almost a full pack of real Bubble Gum. She was drooling and could hardly talk too. Funny and gross at the same time. Ha!

The other game, to which I have a photo, was that we took turns being blindfolded and had to apply makeup to Emily's face. Too funny! It was nerve wracking to do, especially as I had the EYELINER to do (me, who doesn't do makeup in the first place to do someone else, blindly? Are you crazy?) So, I purposefully found her cheek and made my mark there. We were going for the clown effect anyway, right? Good times, yup, good times.

Floyd

2009-10-06T19:21:00.005-04:00

Floyd is now part of our family. He has been for awhile now- in fact since the middle of August. He had some anxiety to get over since moving here, and some new rules to learn too. But, within 3 days he was good to go. Now it's just the children (still) learning the rules of behaving with the dog.

Floyd is a good dog, and very laid back, although happy and a bit peppy. When I had Gwendolyn over, she was having a heyday climbing all over him. He was a little annoyed, but tolerated the "attention" very well! It's nice to have a good dog around the house.

Kindergarten!

2009-09-24T20:45:00.008-04:00

I can't believe that it's been more than a month since Nathaniel started Kindergarten! It is a full day program here, and honestly, I had a lot of anxiety about it. He is a homebody, and admitedly a Momma's boy. He loves to play with other kids- but not for hours on end. He really does love his alone time, and will literally push others away when bothered too much. But regardless of our nervousness over this new adventure, he was a great sport!

He was so happy when he got off the bus! He told me all about his day and friends he made... he was good to go- that is until the next morning. While eating breakfast, he said, "Mommy, I'll stay home today to eat lunch with you." Aw, isn't he sweet? That was his way of saying he didn't want to go to school. So, I sent him on his way, and he was not happy about it, until we walked to the bus stop with our neighbors. By the time the bus came, he was ready to go. What a relief! Now there are still a couple days when he'd rather stay home and have lunch with me, but usually he's very excited to go to school and learn something new!

First Day of Second Grade

2009-08-26T12:40:00.005-04:00

I can still hardly believe that today was the start of a new school year, and that Ariel is now a second grader. There was so much excitement at our house this morning. She absolutely loves school. She could hardly wait to get out the door and to the bus stop!

We went out last night to get her new sneakers, and her excitement just overtook her. She wanted them to be just so, and she was not happy that Mommy wouldn't let her get whichever she picked. They had to have flexible soles and no elastic tabs, no loose fitting heels, etc. We finally agreed on a pair, and she just beamed!

This morning she was happy to show them off, and since today's special was gym, she'll break them in good, I'm sure. I'm looking forward to her report on the day's activities and who is in her classroom this year.

Binder Park Zoo

2009-08-06T09:55:00.006-04:00

The trip to the zoo was a nice little adventure that my mom and I took the kids on. It's been YEARS since I've been to the zoo back home, and this year they're celebrating the 10yr anniversary of Wild Africa. This is the first time I've seen the Wild Africa exhibit, and it was nice. They had a short trolley ride to get there, and then they had an outdoor museum type thing set up to make you feel like you might actually be in an African-European settlement. They had drums for the kids to play on, and a view of the field with deer and zebras and birds of all sorts.

We followed the path and found the giraffes- quite the hysterical thing. They were going crazy trying to get the lettuce that everyone was feeding them. I bought some lettuce so that the kids could feed the giraffes. They thought it was fun and so gross! lol

The rest of the hike had various activities to keep you interested thru the hike and I especially liked the bird sanctuary with exotic birds. After we were done there, we took the trolley back to the main part of the zoo and the kids rode on the carousel. Nathaniel picked a Panda, and Ariel chose the Red Panda. All in all we had a nice time visiting the zoo!

South Haven

2009-08-04T13:00:00.004-04:00

While in Michigan, we went to South Haven to enjoy the beach on Lake Michigan. We went to South Beach this time and it was just lovely. It was the kids' first time going to a beach, and they just loved it! The sand, the waves, the weather... everything was perfect and went well. The expressions on their faces were priceless and worth the time to get there. They were so happy! I don't have any pictures of them on the beach, as I didn't want to get my camera ruined with sand, damaged by heat or water or stolen. But their happy faces and little giggles are close to my heart!

After swimming, we had fun changing in the car, and then we walked the quaint little town, trying to decide where to eat. We met up with my parents for dinner and then afterwards had some good ice cream. The kids gots Blue Moon and loved it. Then it was a long drive back to my parents' house for bedtime. Gotta love summer days like these!

Michigan

2009-08-04T12:43:00.004-04:00

Michigan. Ah, yes. It's far away in a land of bugs and strange people, water that smells and a mixed-up place all around. But it is where the family is, and so we went there to visit once again. It has been 2.5 yrs since we last had ventured there, and the kids didn't really remember going, let alone the effort it takes to get there. They were NOT happy to discover that when Mommy said that it'd take all day to get there, that it would actually take all day to get there!

We had a fun time visiting with family and friends. The kids were happy to discover that legos do exist there, and that the bazillion cousins they have are lots of fun to play with. They also enjoyed playing with Maddy the dog and Coonie the cat. Driving the tractor was loads of fun too, but they were not convinced about playing outside all day, especially with the bugs. The mosquitos were atrocious, and the result was a hundred itching spots on us all. I do not miss that in the least! Unfortunately, Ariel had an allergic reaction to them all, and her spots turned to blisters! Poor baby!

Warning! Beware the picture!

2009-07-21T23:30:00.004-04:00

So, the whole reason why I'm even up right now blogging is because I'm doing laundry. Specifically, my bedding. I don't ever wait until this late at night to do my sheets, 'cause you know, I LIKE to sleep when it's dark out and the kids are sleeping too.

But, it just so happens that even though I washed them yesterday, they needed it even more badly today. And not because I'm a gross person. No. Can't even blame Dustan for this one, as he's outta town. Nope. It's our furry friend's fault.

You see, yesterday we went to Monica's house for Ariel's violin lesson and also decided to bring Floyd home for a couple of days. We're planning on adopting him from Monica next month, and since he seems to have a bit of a high anxiety problem, we thought that transitioning him over time would help him, as well as the kids to learn the rules about being with him, and the cats to adjust also.

Well, Chester seems to have at least taken an interest in Floyd- he tends to stalk him so he can give him a stare down so Floyd knows his place. It's so funny 'cause Floyd HATES being stared at. He gets all nervous and has to hide his head. lol

On the other hand, Dustan had taught Floyd to chase Silas last time he was here, and Silas, being already a nervous cat, was not too happy about it at all. In fact, he is literally sick over Floyd coming back over for so long. So much so (I can only assume it is him), that when I got into bed tonight I stretche out my legs and thought, "Oh! That's a mighty cold spot! ... and wet spot... and what in the world???" So I turned on the lights, pulled back my sheets and found a wet spot indeed, but that was all. So, being a mom, yes, I smelled it. Hmmm... kinda smelled sweet and sour like baby poo... diarrhea... you know... not fun bodily functions. But there was no mess. So, I was ripping the sheets off my bed and I thought, "That's weird. There's one tiny spot of poo on my carpet. Great." SO I cleaned it, and then pulled my white down duvet back (it had been ruffled on the floor), and yup! I found it! Disgusting! Ugh!

Now you know why I'm up doing laundry at midnight on a night I should be sleeping before I have to pack 3 people for a vacation. Well, I can only hope to sleep good tomorrow, right? After all, a 10 hour trip with a sleepy driver can really not be good!

Politics

2009-07-21T23:07:00.002-04:00

Okay, so I don't usually write on this topic, but today I saw this interesting, sad and frustrating story about a military family. I have held views against federalizing health care, mainly on the point of state rights and the fact the feds are beyond extremely mismanaged and inefficient system. Here is a sad story that absolutely ignites my passions against the system. Yes, I know you can find stories supporting both pros and cons to a topic, especially political, but it certainly seems to me a no brainer to continue to stand against federal health care. It is worth mentioning too that I don't agree with the suing approach, but can assume they feel the need to in order to compensate his loss of income over the matter.

http://cbs11tv.com/local/medical.mistake.military.2.1091010.html

In case this link gets cut in the future, here is the story below. You can watch the video interview at the link though.

Jul 17, 2009 10:44 pm US/Central

Military Medical Mistake Disfigures Local Airman

Jessica Read is still stunned about what happened to her husband. "It's very hard for us to understand."Last week, 20-year-old Colton Read, who grew up in Arlington and who's now in the U. S. Air Force, went to have laparoscopic surgery to remove his gall-bladder at David Grant Medical Center at Travis Air Force Base near Sacramento.

His mother, Shelly Read-Miller says he wasn't worried. "He said 'Mom, this is routine, it's no big deal.'"

But what happened during surgery turned out to be a very big deal.

Jessica Read says around 10 a.m., about an hour into the procedure, "A nurse runs out, 'We need blood now,' and she rounds the corner and my gut feelings is, 'Oh my God, is that my husband?'"

She says his Air Force general surgeon mistakenly cut her husband's aortic artery, but waited hours to transport him to a state hospital which has a vascular surgeon. "It took them until 5:30 to get him to UC Davis. I don't understand."

Because Read lost so much blood during that time, doctors had to amputate both legs. His mother sobbed, "I watched him take his first steps, and now his legs are gone."

Read is still in intensive care, and doctors can't remove his gall bladder for fear of infection.

Now, his wife says they must keep his spirits up because he knows what happened to him. "When we've been in there he'll say, 'They're gone,' and we say, 'It's okay though. You made it through the surgery we have your life, thank God.'"

In a statement, Lt. Holly Hess, chief of public affairs at Travis Air Force Base says, "We are conducting an exhaustive review with experts from outside David Grant Medical Center, as well as an internal investigation with the goal of ensuring patient safety and quality care at the center."

Read's wife says the doctor admitted it was human error. "All my husband ever wanted to do was to deploy, all my husband ever wanted to do was serve his country. He used to tell me when we had flyovers and they played the national anthem, the chills he would get from the pride that he felt from being an American airman, and this is something an Air Force doctor has taken from him."

But because of an old federal law called the Feres Doctrine, Read, his wife, and his family members can't sue the military over what happened to him.

Until last November, retired Lt. Colonel Colby Vokey served in the U. S. Marine Corps for 21 years, the past 11 as a judge advocate, or attorney. "To me, it's disgraceful."

Vokey says the original thought behind the law was, "The military would make someone whole. That if you're hurt in the line of duty, hurt in battle, the military would take care of their own. That's certainly not the case, and certainly not the case with this young man."

A bill is pending in congress that would end this law.

For now, Read's wife says the military may place him on medical retirement, in which he'll likely receive less than half his $1600 monthly salary. "I can't understand why they won't help him when they did this to him."

Friends who serve with Read at the Ninth Intelligence Squadron at nearby Beale Air Force Base have sent him a get well card. Read's family members say his friends at the base and commanders there have provided much emotional and financial support.

Jessica says she knows she must keep it altogether. "I've made up my mind. I can cry later, because right now he needs me. He needs me to be strong."

What's that in the box?

2009-07-09T20:30:00.003-04:00

A couple weeks ago, my mother-in-law gave a box to Dustan, saying it just showed up at her house. It was addressed to him and was from a bird seed company. That's weird. She's the one who's into birds and orders stuff online for them, etc, so we thought that perhaps names got mixed up on an order. I should've known something was up, 'cause she just insisted that he open it right then and there. And so he did. And much to our amusement, he found the biggest rice krispie treat we've ever seen. It was three batches of it all smashed into a cube. It was so funny! Dustan had been saying how he wanted to have rice krispie treats 3 inches thick for dessert at the family gathering. Well, he certainly and gladly got more than he asked for!

Morning Mystery

2009-06-26T06:39:00.003-04:00

This morning Dustan walked back into our room, holding something orange and said "What's this?" sarcastically. What? How do I know? I've been sleeping and I don't have my contacts in... He says,"It's a fish!"

"What? Harvey? Where was he?"

Dustan seemed to like the fact that the thing was completely dehydrated and had been lying on Nathaniel's floor, stiff as a board. After the boys flushed him away, we went to Nat's room to figure out how this happened. We thought perhaps the cats were guilty. But the stuff on the top of the dresser was undisturbed. Then we thought maybe Dominic had gotten him out, so we asked him. He fervently nodded his head yes. But we thought that was weird too as there wasn't water all over and that he couldn'tve (how do you actually write a double contraction??) reached it anyway, because Nathaniel can just reach it himself, and he's a solid 8 inches taller than him.

But Dustan said that Harvey was on the floor, and where he pointed was pretty far away (unless the boys had moved him from the original spot or something.) But just exactly how did Harvey Mr. Hungry Yergo get out of his bowl? The water wasn't high, and I can't imagine him jumping that far. So I suppose that it shall remain a mystery. So long fishy! This marks the first goodbye the kids will have to make to their pets. And so far, it went over just fine.

Balloon Fest

2009-06-20T08:13:00.014-04:00

Last night was the first night of the balloon festival at John Rudy County Park, which is behind our house. So, we had invited over the Yergo side of the family for a barbeque. We had grilled chicken (best ever! mmmm....), cheeseburgers, corn on the cob, salad, pasta salad, coleslaw, pudding salad, pretzel salad, rice pudding and smores.

We had a great time visiting and balloon watching, eating and relaxing. When it got dark, some of us walked down to the park to watch the firework display. It started a little late, but it was nice. The kids were totally thrilled with it, and even Dominic thought they were alright by the end of the show. This being his real first experience with it- he just wasn't so sure about it at first! All in all, the evening was a hit, and perhaps this will become a family tradition.

The Grandparents

2009-06-17T10:14:00.006-04:00

The first picture was from Sunday, getting ready to go to church. Nathaniel refused to get in the photo. The next one is of this morning- I didn't give him a choice about getting in the picture, and he was mad! He ran to his room afterwards, crying and generally beside himself. He hates change, and he especially hates people making decisions for him. Oh well. Such is life. And oh yeah, I took my curtains down to waash them and to fix the hem. They'll be done by Friday (they have to be for the family get-together we're hosting!). And oh yeah- notice the haircuts?

Ariel turns 7

2009-06-17T09:50:00.008-04:00

On Saturday we had a pool party to celebrate Ariel turning a whole 7 years old. She is so big and such a little lady! We had lots of fun with our family. She got some new clothes and a scooter, a music stand and a metronome (because she's starting violin lessons next week!). We had lots of issues with the cake that day. It had bubbled a little bit while it cooked, making it a bit high for the lid to be on, and this is what it did to it. So, we just stuck the candles in the chocolate "lake" and made do. It was still good!

And then the cupcakes... we had made cupcakes because there was so many people- but Nathaniel stepped on half of them while he was in the car! Complete mush! And then to boot, the extras that weren't eaten were brought home and put in the oven (that's where we store extra food), and in the morning, Dustan turned the oven on to make cinnamon rolls and voila! Crispy cupcakes! And into the trash I threw them. Ah well, it's not like we needed to eat them!

Grandpa

2009-06-12T21:44:00.007-04:00

The kids have been having fun being very silly with Grandpa. They are just eating up all the extra attention from the grandparents! Here's a couple photos from yesterday. Two peas in a pod didn't want their pictures taken, and then Ariel started picking on them too. I did manage to get a good one of them, and as you can see, Nathaniel looks like his Grandpa. Finally, some family resemblence.

Summertime

2009-06-12T21:20:00.008-04:00

It's here! School's out! In celebration of the end of the year, we made chocolate chip cookies with M&Ms for Ariel's class and we went strawberry picking. Yummy! Nathaniel also was living it up in his new swim trunks and had fun playing in the sprinkler while Ariel was at school. Wednesday was her last day, and it was also the day my parents got into town to visit. It's been a whole year since we've seen them already (again), and the kids were real excited. The picture of Ariel and the bus is the moment she saw Grandma and started running to get her.

So far, we've only managed to shop for food, watch movies and play games. Lots of time talking and playing. Today we made Ariel's birthday cake for tomorrow's pool party for her celebration. We're looking forward to our first dip in the pool of the year. We'll be dodging thunderstorms, but I'm sure we'll have fun!

Tball Game

2009-05-31T17:10:00.002-04:00

Today was another Phillies' game. Sounds like we've been going to a whole series of them, but actually this is only the second game we've made it to, as we've been rained out and scheduling conflicts have occurred. We were excited to go again and see how the team has improved in the last month. They did pretty well, and the day was perfect for Tball. Nathaniel had more fun than last time, and I caught lots of smiles in photographs. Although he'd had enough of it by the end of the game and refused to bat last, it was a good game and a good time. Ariel did great too; paying much more attention than the other kids to the game.

Ariel's Recital

2009-05-30T20:55:00.012-04:00

Ariel's recital on Saturday was adorable. The classes were rather big, and the stage was consumed with little girls dancing. They had loads of fun! Nathaniel was watching from the back row thru his "spyglass" to see better. I took lots of pics, but not many turned out at all, seeing as they were dancing around...

MawMaw & PawPaw came, as well as the Stumps. She was so happy we were there to watch her. But she has aquired a cough recently, so her dancing was riddled with some coughing moments here and there. But she did very well and was as focused as could be, which could not be said of all the girls. Great job Ariel!

Babysitting

2009-05-26T11:25:00.004-04:00

Today I have Dominic and Gwendolyn over to play. Gwen was just getting a little fussy from being sleepy, so I wrapped her up in her blanket, held her close and within 30 seconds she was sound alseep. I love it when that happens! Isn't she so sweet?

The boys are running around being REALLY silly, and having lots of fun. Lots and lots of giggles! Here they're having fun smashing each other. Definately boys alright!

This Summer

2009-05-25T07:05:00.004-04:00

Nathaniel is really starting to bloom concerning creativity. The other day he was having a hard time falling asleep, and he was playing in my bed with his bear. That night when I went to bed myself, this is what I found.

Apparently the bear needed to be in jail since he wouldn't sleep. What a punishment!

On Friday he brought a picture home from school. The theme they had drawn about was what they were going to do this summer. Well, as you can see, he knows exactly what is gonna happen. First, can you tell who or what the center object is? The one with the red spots. Yeah, it is a self portrait. Too funny! You see, the red spots are his pimples he has on his belly, and of course he has great big blue eyes & brown hair.

Now, the rest of the picture is interpreted like this; It is a hot, sunny day. There is a dragonfly (the thing with many wings), and to make the day perfect, he has a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, and the grill. I have to admit, I couldn't decipher this picture myself- he had to explain it to me, because I thought that it was an owl with a bug of some sort walking about, and a ball and an ice cream cone or something. But after he told me, it made sense. ; ) And he's decided, that for you, it's best viewed upside down.

Lititz

2009-05-17T21:10:00.007-04:00

Yesterday we finally had a free day in which the weather was also decent, so we set out to have a mini adventure in a little town called Lititz. It is a quaint old town, being established by those displaced from the religious persecutions in Europe in the 1700s. For more pictures from another blog, click here.

We arrived after 10, looking first for the Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery. After looping around for a parking space, we entered a time capsule for a short tour of the bakery. We heard the story of the invention of the pretzel, and one might be surprised to find that this yummy creation began as a reward for children learning their prayers, 1400yrs ago. The three holes in the pretzels symbolize the Trinity, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Notably also, is the fact that the pretzel was given/ sold hanging opposite than what it is today. Again, indicating the Trinity. It was an interesting little place.

Next, we adventured down the street to see what we could find. Within a few minutes, we discovered a little toy shop, stopping to investigate, and then followed the sidewalk further to see what lay ahead. We found easily the Lititz Springs Park, which we took a break in, and then walked next door to the Wilbur Chocolate Factory. After stopping for lunch, we got some homemade ice cream at Greco's. YUM!

All in all, it was a great day and a lovely town. Two thumbs up!

SuperHero

2009-05-16T14:57:00.010-04:00

Nathaniel loves to be a superhero. Especially when his little cousin, Dom is over to play with. They are a riot. Nathaniel loves to be chased, and Dominic loves to be part of the big kids' games.

Nat also like checking out his new green springy yard that is like a little enchanted forest now that the leaves have come in. And though I think the froggy rainboots are cute, I don't know what's with wearing the hat on the outside of the hood. But he thought it was best. (And those rocks you see are not our yard- it's our neighbors. It's extra green over there because they have a dog. ; ) Yes, our yards are tiny! But that is no different than Germany, and it's really much easier to stay on top of yard care!)

2009-04-22T21:09:00.007-04:00

These are some photos from March that I didn't get around to posting 'til now. Note in the first one that Nathaniel is innately a Yergo- he's using his waistband as a pocket while he sleeps. Next thing you know, he'll be holding his arm straight up in the air too...

Spring Concert

2009-04-22T20:43:00.003-04:00

Monday was Ariel's first school concert ever and it was a choral performance. The theme was 'take me out to the ballgame'. Only the Kindergarteners and the First Graders performed, as they split up the grades and rotate performance schedules, trading between Christmas and Spring concerts.

Well, Ariel was one of the first kids in to line up on stage for the first graders, and we immediately spotted her. MawMaw, PawPaw and our friends from church, the Stumps, were there with us to watch. We all stood up and waved and she started waving and jumping up and down. She was so excited. But apparently, not quite as excited as the kid next to her. He kept jostling himself around, and when the music started, he started dancing and doing weird moves with his arms, perhaps trying to do some kind of ghetto dance. It was hysterical!

The kids did a decent job, though it was a little hard to hear over the canned music playing thru the speakers. I will have to say that the sound system was 100% better quality than the ones we had in school! Anyway, it was a fun little event, and a memorable first one at that!

2009-04-22T19:24:00.006-04:00

I just had to post a couple of pictures of our sweet babies. They're getting so big!

2009-04-22T18:35:00.005-04:00

Yesterday apparently was Super Lamb's birthday. Did you know that? Yup. He was 9 and now he's 10. Nathaniel informed me of this on Monday night. He was talking about the pretend cake he was gonna make and everything, and then Daddy overheard. "What about a real cake? Oh, I know which cake Super Lamb likes!" Of course, everyone knows he's referring to Rainbow Chip. Nathaniel was so excited at the idea and proclaimed, "That's Super Lamb's favorite!" And so, we made birthday cupcakes for Super Lamb's 10th celebration. I don't know why he's turning 10, as in reality the kids got it from my mom about 4 yrs ago. But, that's beside the point.

We sang Happy Birthday to Super Lamb, and then a second round for Grandma and Aunt Kim's birthdays, which are also this week. Dustan just sat shaking his head in disbelief that I was actually doing it. Too funny. Nathaniel was so happy. He even made Super Lamb a card. How adorable is that? Can't say that it's cute, because he has informed me that he's not cute anymore. Yup, right from is own lips. He told me this week that, "When I was a baby I was cute. Now I'm just cool." It was hysterical!

I didn't get any photos of the cupcakes, but I did of Nat and Super Lamb after the party. And yes, Super Lamb was busy using the computer. That's how he learns! Now, who's coming over to help us eat the cupcakes?

2009-04-14T13:24:00.002-04:00

Yesterday was the aftermath of holiday celebrations. The kids had a hard time falling asleep the night before, and then to get up and ready for school - well, it started ok, but by the time 7:30am rolled around, they were already picking at each other and whining... this lead eventually to a complete meltdown by Miss Ariel when she couldn't find her shoes for school, and she completely lost it. She was sent to her room and missed the bus, all because she hadn't taken care of her shoes on Saturday. Well, she did settle down eventually, but was almost late to school. So, I warned her about her behavior at school that day, and anticipated perhaps some problems by the end of the day.

So, fast forward 3 hours and it was still hectic around here, and the school calls. It's her principal. Uh.... ok... so, I am waiting for the worst after the morning I'd had, and then he starts in.

"Mrs. Yergo, we had a meeting with the teachers and it's been decided that Ariel is one of our shining students here at Orendorf." What? Then he goes on to say that she is a great role model, very well behaved, does her work like she should, participates and helps in class, and has greatly improved on her reading. And then he brought up the fact that she had brought a book in to read to her teachers a little while ago, and how she read it so beautifully and with feeling, and it made them cry. I had to smile about that, 'cause I knew that when she had asked to take it, that her teacher would either love it or ignore it. It was the Grateful, Grateful book with Art Garfunkel music. Being grateful for what God gives you is a major thing around here, and so I am glad she likes the book and made it a point to share it on her own accord.

Anyway, it just goes to show you that even though bad moods happen, and frustrations, your kids do listen to what you teach them, and it can easily affect others. Always trying to do the right thing, even when others don't seem to be watching, is extremely important because God always uses the unexpected. ; )

Western Easter

2009-04-14T12:11:00.002-04:00

This year was a little confusing for the kids, because we celebrated Western Easter which happens to be the same as Orthodox Palm Sunday, and then this weekend will be Orthodox Easter (Pascha). But they learned the story and enjoyed the service. And then we went to MawMaw's for dinner and the egg hunt. Very exciting stuff. We had a fun time, though truly, even though the family is all "Christian" no one really takes it to heart and actually lives in a dedicated way, so I never feel like it is a true celebration of Christ, but only the secular observation of the holiday. But as our Priest said, "It's not a matter of putting Christ in or taking Him out of something, it's a matter of putting ourselves in Christ. "

In any case, here are the photos of the day.

TBall

2009-04-09T21:30:00.002-04:00

Well, tonight was our first evening of juggling kids' schedules. Thursdays have been, since January, Ariel's ballet class. Today we added TBall to that. The practice follows ballet just a half hour later, which doesn't give us much time to get changed and drive 20 minutes to get there. But it is just enough- unless you don't know where the field is and then show up at the wrong one. (whoops) But in the end, we made it, just about 15 minutes late, and Ariel had great fun. She is one of two girls on the team, and she was excited to see her classmate Tyler was playing on her team too.

What makes this particular day even more special than to mark the baseball season and the fact that our kids are now playing team sports (I am getting older), is Nathaniel. We all know that he tends to be quite the sensitive thing, but today his normal drama was compounded by his weariness from staying up late last night and by the fact that Mommy *gasp* made him wear his sneakers. yup. That was the problem that started the craziness tonight.

What used to be the coolest, fastest sneakers ever, are now "stupid shoes, Mommy. I hate them!" Yeah. So, I asked,"What is wrong with them?" And what do you know, it is because he can't get them fastened the way he likes them to be. (I knew this for at least a month, but he changes his mind on things so often, you can never tell what the problem will be on any given day)

Mind you, they are velcro, and you would think that it would be fairly easy to put them on and go. But with him, he has this need for tightly secured shoes. He wants them so tight that they actually create wounds on his feet. Yeah. Blisters, bruises, even gaping holes and broken toenails, bloody messes because he just HAS to have them tight! What is that all about? I have no idea. I think maybe there is something wrong with the nerves in his feet or something, because he doesn't complain about the sores that show up on his feet- except when I clean them with peroxide and put ointment on them so they don't get infected. Good grief. At that point, you can hear him screaming down the street. ; )

Soooo, the drama of the sneakers. Yes. I forced him into the car and buckled him up because he just wouldn't move on his own accord. Then Ariel started yelling at him for screaming, and crying that her ears hurt 'cause he's too loud... then the Mommy wrath came out and they settled down. ; ) Within 2 minutes Nathaniel was asleep. Thank God.

Well, fast forward thru a fun ballet class- Nathaniel still sleeping in the car- Ariel gets changed in the car, and he slowly wakes up. Then I am attempting to find the field with no address or map, and hoping Ariel doesn't start complaining about getting carsick, as we were on country roads, and it felt like a rollercoaster. Finally we found the field- hooray. Nat throws another fit about the shoes. Grrrrr. I am losing my patience... I drag him, crying, to the field, looking around to figure out which guy is the coach... after a few minutes, he showed up. Asked him if he was the Phillies coach. Nope. The Braves. What???? So he called the guy with the teams schedule. Uh, yeah. We're supposed to be at the highschool field. Ok then.

After getting to the right field, again with the dragging of my son, switching between trying to entice him with the idea of making new friends, which he loves, and threatening to set him alone until he was quiet (he is such a Momma's boy, that he of course clung even more to me so that I was tripping over him, and he was begging me to carry him), we met the right coach. Nice. Then since Nathaniel refused to play, we watched Ariel practice batting and she's pretty good. Yes, the coach was pitching the ball. They didn't introduce the stand tonight. Don't know why, but whatever. But the last pitch she hit bounced off towards the bottom of the bat near her hands, and it jumped back up and hit her in the eye/brow. "Great," I thought. "And just in time for Easter and pictures." She had a bright red spot for awhile, but she didn't complain. She is a tough cookie. Guess I'll check it out in the morning.

So, after all the crying and hub-bub, Dustan showed up near the end of practice, and tried to get Nathaniel to play ball. Didn't work. He just turned the waterworks on again, and he has a runny nose right now, so having snot everywhere was not helping. Nat just couldn't be convinced.

Later when we got home and had a snack, we went for a walk to the playground. By this time, he was in a great mood, and was talking big about Tball, and how he loves to play and he'll be so fast, and hit the ball far and.... good grief. Let's hope he sustains some of his newly found enthusiasm for the next practice on Tuesday. Let's really hope!

Tricky Tricky

2009-04-07T20:52:00.003-04:00

So, I am attempting to figure out these confounded backgrounds and coding issues to get the stinkin' advertising or error buttons off the screen. Please bear with me as I try to get it right. Hmmmm... in the meanwhile, I do like the background. Ah, here I am again wasting time on things that really aren't important, when I could be blogging some more stories or reading or spending time with my Sweetie who is sighing next to me. Think that's my cue to go relax for the night. ; )

Writing, writing, writing

2009-04-07T20:09:00.002-04:00

The thing about blogging is, you're supposed to write something. So, yeah. It's been a little while since I've written, but not necessarily because I didn't have anything to write about. It has been an interesting journey, this past month. This is the first year have have participated in Great Lent. So, I've been *trying* to do some reading up on it, along with books about Orthodoxy, devotionals and being in a Bible Study. So, a lot of meditating on religious matters, and just a lot of everyday things going on, along with a not-so-motivated me, has meant a drawn out process that didn't really accomplish a whole lot. But, sometimes learning new things slowly helps you think about what is important in life and helps the morphing into a new creature a little easier on self as compared to going cold turkey or "biting off more than I can chew"....

In any case, I have learned some things about church history and tradition, a lot of which I have always wondered about, and now know why certain things in the church I grew up in always bothered me- it's because those things were not the way it's supposed to be. Things such as how often to take communion and what that exactly means in the first place. Other things like worship, holiness, being set apart from the world, not building up treasures here on earth, the honor in martyrdom (though in some cases I think even this was a matter of pride for some), confession, the commandment to forgive, church government that does not sway in the face of societal changes... the list goes on in more and more detail as I learn more and ask more and so, I am satisfied that I am growing on this journey, be it irritating at times and dissatisfying at others; I know that even the 'boring' parts of life are needed foundations on which to measure other things. There is always something to learn. So I am happy.

This year we will be attending Pascha at the church we've been attending, the name of which is St. John Chrysostom Antiochian Orthodox Church We are getting excited about celebrating it this year. You can look here to read what Pascha is. This year Pascha falls a week after the western church's schedule, so we get to celebrate 2 weeks in a row. It has been an interesting adventure so far, and we are looking forward for this most blessed and holyday to arrive this year!

Happy 5th Bday!!

2009-03-10T14:27:00.002-04:00

Nathaniel turned the big number 5 this year! I can hardly believe it! It seems we just celebrated Ariel's 5th yesterday. But time slips away so quickly when you blink! This year, the 28th was a Saturday, so that worked out nice for us. We had a fun family birthday party here at home. The kids helped to make the cake and decorate. Aunt Monica made the party hats and we all had a great time.

Hey Hey Hey!

2009-02-25T21:31:00.002-05:00

It's Fat Albert! Whoa! Maybe not. But maybe so. I am pathetically out of shape and out of clothes that fit right. I am especially out of patience with not being comfortable and with people asking if I'm prego. Just 'cause I LOOK 6 months pregnant, doesn't mean I am! *ah* tricky, I know. If you can't trust your eyes, what can you trust? Well, you can trust me when I say, NO! It ain't happenin'.

New routines are not hard to design. Now, finding one that you can stick with is another story. I have currently been working on getting my spring cleaning done- somedays much better than others- but, I have yet to add exercising back on the list. Until I do, I am afraid that unwelcome questions will still come my way. It doesn't get on my nerves so much as the power of suggestion makes me think about our decision to stop at 2 kiddos...

I am sure that the questions will never really stop, because even 'back in the day' when I weighed a whooping 105 lbs people asked me if I was prego. It all comes with the apple body shape. Ah well, there are worse things in life by far, so it's time I stop obsessing over it and just get back into shape. Maybe I would do it faster if I had someone to kick my butt. I'm up for a fight- just not against myself.

Things Lost

2009-02-15T22:23:00.003-05:00

Among things lost in this house: a sock to my new pair, now gone. The fresh smell of laundry gives way to the freshly used cat litter now floating its' fragrance down the hall. All humidity and soft skin has given way to bloody noses and alligator skin for the winter. And last, but most importantly (to me anyway) is the fact that Germany is no longer a living part of my children's memory. It has gone the way of the inevitable of such young minds... a simple believable fact that Mommy and Daddy tell them about, but of no substance or reality. They still remember Aidan. Ariel still remembers Sebastian. Nathaniel still is lonely for Amelie and Elias. Sometimes Christine too, which he thinks is the best teacher ever.

But gone are the memories of the streets, the food, the smells, the neighbors' smiles and comments, the language altogether, and even Irena. I could not believe that Ariel did not remember Irena. In just under a year, all is lost, except for what we tell them of it. Just last month Ariel could tell me who was who in her picture book, but not anymore. It was just a strange and saddening moment to me to hear her say she didn't know who Irena was. It was like at that second Germany became an illusive dream that didn't really happen. Like all things, it was already lost to time. Sometimes time gives healing, other times joy, but this time sadness.

Gwendolyn Elyse

2009-01-18T22:44:00.010-05:00

She's here!

Gwendolyn made her debut last night at 8pm. We had the privilege of watching big brother, Dominic, at our house so the kids could play and have fun. They sure had fun, but Dom was still wondering where his parents could be. At bedtime, he got to see a pic of his new sister, but it made him cry to see mommy on the phone.

Today we made two trips to the hospital to visit and meet his new little sister. He was excited to see Mommy and Daddy, but he was not cool with the baby and having to stay in the room. So, when we went back the second time, Ariel and Nathaniel came with us and they were oogling over the baby, which made Dominic more interested in her. We refer to Gwendolyn as Dominic's baby, so he will feel involved and protective... it worked for a minute anyway. He shoved Nathaniel away from her, and was trying to get her out of Ariel's arms. It was cute. Rebecca will definately have her hands full next week when Daniel goes back to work!

Gwendolyn arrived after about 16 hours of labor, and weighed in at 8lbs, 2oz & 21 in long. A 14 inch head proved that she was much easier to push out than Dominic, who's radius was nearly 16 inches. He still has a big head. : ) She has lots of black hair, as you can see, and a cowlick in the front, just like Uncle Jonathan. Tomorrow they will be released from the hospital, and more visits will ensue, which will sure be fun! The kids have the day off from school tomorrow, so it will be a great family day.

POliceman at my Door

2009-01-15T12:52:00.002-05:00

So, about 45 minutes ago the doorbell rang. It was the Northeastern Regional Police. Hmmmm... I was thinking that the fundraisers are usually at the end of the year, then I opened the door and I saw he was rather serious and didn't have any peraphernalia with him. So, I thought maybe something had happened to Dustan... then he asked if eveything was alright, as he'd received a 911 call for this address.

I ask what time they'd gotten it, and he said right about noon. I told him, no, I hadn't even used the phone this morning, but that I'd check with my 4 yr old. He took my name and that was it. He sat in his car on the road for about 5 minutes doing paperwork before he left. Very strange.

So, I checked my phone to see if it was off the hook. It wasn't. I talked to Nathaniel and no, he didn't use the phone. We haven't taught him how to use it at all and haven't explained 911 to him yet. So, I don't know how someone called and had it connected with this address. The only other option would be that the police officer didn't take the number down right, or maybe is dyslexic or something, and just ended up being the wrong house. And so now I am concerned that one of my neighbors needs help and they aren't going to get it. Argh!

Easy Bake Time

2009-01-14T18:23:00.004-05:00

On Saturday Aunt Monica and Crystal came over to play with us. For the special occasion, we got out the Easy Bake that Monica had given Ariel for Christmas, and gave it a go. Ariel wanted to make the yellow cake first, followed by smores. So, we opened the box, got out everything, and Hmmmm.... we need a clear 100W light bulb. So, I ran upstairs to see what we had. Nothing but soft lights. So, 100W soft light it was. We're thinking that may have had something to do with the quality of the food that came out. But in any case, we all had fun, and Ariel loved it, which was the primary goal, so that's that.

Nathaniel's Playtime

2009-01-07T18:27:00.009-05:00

Nathaniel spends hours playing by himself while Ariel is at school. And sometimes he does something he's especially proud of or silly that he wants a picture of. Well, for three consecutive days he has done such. Not that it was anything spectacular, but to him it was great fun.

.

Life in all its' Wonder

2009-01-06T22:01:00.004-05:00

Life is an interesting journey, even for the dullest of lives. I know. Sounds like an oxymoron. But really, to take notice of the smallest details; the drip of the faucet; the fan running on the computer; the purring of the cat. All are minute parts of the day, generally not noticed; that is- until they are gone. And such are our lives. Here one minute, gone the next, it seems only those next to us would notice for just a moment that we ceased to be on this earth. Even grieving fades with time; eventually all is lost to time in this world. That is why we are told by the scriptures to lay up our treasures in heaven where things will not be destroyed.

The reason I am on this taking 'notice of things' trail is because yesterday we found out that one of Dustan's friends said goodbye to this world this past weekend. He died on Saturday, January 3. Not much can be said about this but much is felt. To me it is strange how much is felt, as I have learned in my life to be a bit of a hard, unfeeling person, out of a necessity to survive, and it is a hard switch to turn off. But at unexpected moments, I feel completely unguarded and pounded against the wall with waves of emotions that I honestly ignore most times- things like empathy, compassion, grief, unconditional love. Yes, unconditional love. I'm sure that if you really thought about the word unconditional, it would be something you'd find hard pressed to show to those other than your children. Especially to those who have hurt you countless times.

Rabbit trailing again... so, as I was saying, we are but dust in the wind. Do what matters most in life- put your footprint of love, compassion, kindness in someone else's path today. It will make a better world for today and perhaps even an impact on more people you can imagine. You'd probably be surprised at the difference you simply being alive makes to people you've only met once. Everyone matters whether they know it or not, whether or not they're treated like it... when life is lost, it simply cannot be replaced.

2009-01-04T21:53:00.002-05:00

Our celebrations of the New Year here were very laidback and limited. The kids watched Peanuts' New Year and Rudolph's New Year, and then went to bed at 9pm. We then proceeded to stay awake until all of 10:30. Didn't even try to stay up. It always makes me cry, thinking of the things lost during the year, of the people we said goodbye to, the hopes that weren't achieved, and this year, I was sad that I could not celebrate the New Year with our friends and neighbors in good ole Nussloch. They bring out the fireworks and really let it fly. They fill up the valley with shouting, singing, laughing and the rumbling of rockets flying thru the night air. What a great way to start the new year.

Here in America, you have to go to a big city to see something like that, instead of being in the comfort of your own home. But at any rate, we are thankful that we are here in America and looking back over the year, it was rough and irritating in so many ways, but we are still blessed further than we'd hoped, and have nothing lacking. We hope you all find this year filled with hope and see the countless way which God provides for all of us. Happy New Year!

Snuggling with Silas

2008-12-30T16:57:00.003-05:00

Today, while I was talking with my dad on the phone, Ariel was upstairs playing with the kitties. After I while I noticed she was terribly quiet so I went to check on her and sure enough, she was sound asleep with Silas purring near her. I'm glad he's getting used to her. He tends to be nervous with everyone, but especially the kids. He's fine if you're sitting or laying, but if you're walking around, he scats fast. So, happy for the snuggling progress we've witnessed today, but the results of which will be a little girl who wants to stay up late tonight. Guess we'll make a night of it.

2008-12-26T21:27:00.001-05:00

Kitties for Christmas

2008-12-25T23:06:00.008-05:00

We had a great Christmas this year. Santa brought us some kitty cats! Ariel was the first to spy them, and boy oh boy, did we hear about it! She raced up the stairs and was jumping up and down next to my bed saying, "Mommy, Mommy! We got some cats! We got some cats! Santa brought us kitty cats!" We quickly got up and dressed and ran downstairs to see. How adorable they were! The kids were SO good, and very gentle and calm with them. Dustan let the cats out of the cages and they snooped around. They did pretty well, although the orange one is distinctly shy. He preferred to stay put between the boxes upstairs in the hall.

It took us all day to decide names for them. I think we've settled on naming the brown tabby Chester, and the orange one Silas. They are lovers and not nervous with the kids, and we are so very happy with them.

2008-12-24T18:24:00.004-05:00

Today we made a gingerbread house. It was our first one, and we cheated- I bought a prepackaged kit, and just had to squeeze the frosting on how we wanted it and add the candy.

You can see we even had a landslide- or some snowmelt- depending on how dramatic you want to describe it. At any rate, the giant children ate it. It was a lot of sticky fun!

Starting New Traditions

2008-12-24T08:21:00.003-05:00

Last night we decided to start a new tradition at our house. Sleeping under the Christmas tree always seemed to me so magical, so exciting. And so, my kids got a chance to do just that, and they did great. They got to stay up late, have popcorn and watch a Christmas show (this year they chose Frosty the Snowman), and thus the tradtion has started. It will only be for the night before Christmas Eve, as we all know that Santa requires all children to be in their beds sleeping... Ah, the magical moments this season brings!

2008-12-23T16:32:00.000-05:00

Goofing Off

2008-12-23T15:30:00.002-05:00

Yesterday the kids were being silly and wanted to have their pictures taken. So, here is one that I doctored up. They think it's hysterical!

Saturday

2008-12-23T15:16:00.005-05:00

On Saturday we had all Dustan's siblings and parents over for some family time. Jonathan couldn't make it, but we all had a great time anyway. We decorated cookies, had some yummy food and enjoyed hanging out. Here is some photos of the cookie monsters~

Ariel, Dominic (my nephew), and Nathaniel.

Snuggle Time With Daddy

2008-12-23T15:06:00.003-05:00

The kids were being especially snuggly with Dustan the other day, so I had to get a pic of it. They love their daddy!

Cardinals

2008-12-23T14:53:00.004-05:00

So, I had noticed that we have 2 pair of cardinals living in the brush behind our treeline. But, they surprised me the other day when I looked, there was a full fledged flock of them. I think I counted 9 males and each had a female. Then there were a few flying back and forth that I wasn't quite sure what they were 'cause they were a little more jittery than the others. But it does make me so happy to see them. They are winter's most cheerful birdy (in my opinion), and they are more than welcome to stay. I have laid out breadcrumbs along the railing on the deck to encourage them to stay. Today there were 2 pair right next to my glass door, checking out the house. They're gorgeous!

In the photo, you can see 7 pairs, I think. And yes, it is color adjusted so you can see them better. Our grass is really not THAT green! Don't forget that you can click the picture to enlarge it. Can you see the bird in flight? You can just make out its' head, but the rest is a blur that blends into the background.

Hunting Christmas Trees

2008-12-06T20:57:00.003-05:00

On the hunt for that perfect Christmas tree, we soon discovered we wouldn't be so lucky as to find it at the first place we tried. We had stopped at the local tree farm, Brown's, to spy the lucky specimen for the right price. We deemed that the average going rate of $45 was too much for our pockets, and was at least trying to stay under $40, and be one that was fresh cut- not sitting there for a week or more.

So, down the street we drove to the next nearest place, Shiloh's Nursery. Much to our dismay, the gate was closed- we had missed entry by just 15 minutes. Sigh. Think. Think. Think. Where would they be selling fresh cut trees on a snowy Saturday- after 5pm? Hmmm.... the only places I could think of were in Dover, where we used to live. Dustan grumbled a few times, "I don't want to drive that far," as if 15 minutes was a long time for a person who drives an hour each way to work. But neither one of us could think of places here on our side of town, so we headed that way.

I encouraged him to go back to the nursery, "at that one intersection we used to drive by all the time- you go down that one road with the Rutters on-- you know!!!" But he swore he didn't know what I was talking about. He drove that way anyway, and soon he remembered. They were open. That's a plus. But after browsing their selection, that was a definate no go for us. Frasiers. And Douglas Firs. That's all they had. Now, I've always wanted a Frasier tree. I love them, with the compact branches and the blue tinted underside. But, as popular as they have become, they still are not exactly affordable, and so, this year I am without again. Ah. The small things in life, right?

Piling the kids back in the van the third time was not going so well. They wanted to go home and sit in front of the fireplace and watch a movie. Eat dinner was getting up there on the priority list too, as it was now going on 6pm.

Dustan started driving again. The wrong way. This was definately not the way home- but he insisted it was. Obviously he had thought of something else to check out, but why do men have a problem just saying so, instead of skirting the issue. They always avoid saying, I think this and such. They always have to KNOW what they're doing. But not like the way women have to KNOW-- you know what I mean??? I think the ladies definately do!

So next we stopped by Stauffers in Dover. Ah, still open. We walk in, Nathaniel being threatened and dragged at this point. Ariel was trekking thru the fresh falling snow, trying to keep up with me, and run in circles at the same time. Nice selection. A few possibilities. But wait, what did they just say? "Attention Customers. It is now 5:55. The store will be closing in 5 minutes. Please bring your selections to the register. Thankyou." Now the pressure's on. I'm getting hit with snowballs, giggles from behind me... where is Dustan? Where is our tree??? I yell for him. He shows up around the corner. Sigh. He doesn't like the one I found. It's a frasier, but for only $20. You know what that means- yup. It's not fresh cut. So, it's a no go for us 'cause we don't want a dead tree on Christmas.

Back into the van we go, and now we've agreed that we'll just go to a cut your own tree place tomorrow after lunch. But I'm thinking he doesn't REALLY want to cut down a tree.... He drives on... and oh, hey, there's Hakes' where they sell trees. Do they have any this year (peering through the darkness and thru foggy windows)? Yup!

This time I told him to go browse while I stayed with the kids in the car. If he found anything he liked, he'd come get me. Well, about 5 minutes later he did. And so the munchkins *gasp* stayed in the (not running and locked) car, while I went to see. And yes, hooray for us, we found a satisfactory specimen! Aren't you excited? We were! And tomorrow we get to wrestle the tree into the perfect spot in our home. Ah, the hunt for the Christmas tree was just as long, cold and torturous as I remember!

Mystery bug

2008-12-02T10:16:00.004-05:00

Back in October, I spied this strange looking bug on the maple tree at my in-law's. Romona had never seen one of these before either. It seems perhaps to be a moth, but it was translucent and this beautiful bluish- green-yellow color. Does anyone know what this might be?

Halloween

2008-12-02T10:01:00.003-05:00

Yes, I realize I am behind in a few things, including blogging. So, I just would like to mention that Halloween was fun this year. It was the same night that we were to have the walk thru in our new house, so we decided to come down to our new neighborhood to trick or treat. Rebecca met us here with Dominic, and we made the rounds. He was so cute, all dressed in mobster get up. Ariel, was of course, a Renaissance princess and Nathaniel was a pirate.

We were quite impressed with one little princess, who even was riding her pony. The pony was sweet and calm as can be, and the kids loved it. We finished the evening with a walk thru of our house, which was not ready yet for us. But, we still had a good time with the kids and we still got to move in the next day, so all was well.

SCHNEE!!!

2008-11-21T23:11:00.004-05:00

Yes, we have had a couple of dustings this week, but Ariel woke me up this morning and urges me to hustle downstairs. And what should I find? But about an inch of snow plastering the ground, and more coming down. How lovely. She was so happy, she wanted a picture. They had a blast running thru it on the walk to the bus stop, and though it was good packing snow, we didn't make it outside to build a snowman. Maybe tomorrow. But meanwhile the roads are icy, and I am tired and going to bed. Goodnight!

I'm so proud...

2008-11-21T22:59:00.005-05:00

aren't you? I hate filing, and I finally got (most of) it done. I have to admit, there are still a few piles to organize on my desk, but it's things that Dustan and I have to do together and decide on. It took me 3 whole days, but I got it done! These are the before and after photos:

It was two file boxes full, 2 bags full and a box. And yes, there is still a pile of papers in a suitcase in my bedroom to finish up, besides what was left on my desk. But now that I've got the bulk of it done, and the framework for the rest of it to be finished; I am so happy! (And for you observant readers, yes that is snow that you see out the window!)

Toofers Missin'

2008-11-10T16:58:00.004-05:00

Ariel just lost another tooth. This time it was the on bottom right side. This makes 3 gaps in her smile. She is so happy! Hopefully the toothfairy won't give her any problems tonight! Wish her luck. lol

Happy 9th Anniversary

2008-11-08T13:37:00.002-05:00

It was our 9th anniversary on Thursday. It seems strange that so much time has gone by already. But it has been a full life, exciting and memorable to say the least. We have been thru hard times and fantastic adventures, including bringing our two wonderful wiggleworms into the world, and living abroad. We have a lot to be thankful for, proud of, and even more to work on and improve, but we have hope, trust in our God, and each other to lean on, so I am thinking that the best is yet to come.

To celebrate, my in-laws graciously said they'd have the kids over for a sleepover, and we got to go out to dinner and enjoy adult time. Today we tackled Nathaniel's room, painting it Versailles blue by Valspar. Soon it will be time for football and a rest, and then we'll be joining family for dinner at the in-laws. It has been a nice time. Of course, it's always nice to be able to spend time with my Sweetie!

That Confounded ToothFairy

2008-11-06T17:55:00.005-05:00

Ariel had been working on losing her fourth tooth ever since #3 came out. It was slowly cooperating with her, and last week she came home off the bus and showed me how far she could push it with her tongue. Gross. Within a few minutes she decided she had the nerve to try to pull it out on her own, and sure enough, she did on the first try! It bled, of course, and so tissues came to the rescue. Now she can sing the famous American Christmas diddy with her whole heart, "All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth". lol

As exciting as this event was for her, it was more amusing for the adults in the events that followed. She forgot to put her tooth under her pillow the first night. No toothfairy. This was confusing for her since the toothfairy came last time with no tooth (it being in her belly and all). So, she immediately put the tooth under her pillow at MawMaw's house. The only problem was that she didn't sleep there that night, as it was our first night in our new home. So, she woke up again disappointed. The look of utter shock was funny, and then dismay at the realization that she had forgotten to bring it. She thought maybe the toothfairy might have left it there, but much to her shagrin, she didn't. (The toothfairy is a girl, right? But that's questionable after watching the Santa Claus movies.)

We happened to visit MawMaw's house that day (being Sunday), as the kids had forgotten their all- important sleeping toys and it had been rough getting to sleep the night before- especially in a new house. MawMaw made the off-handed suggestion that she write a note to the toothfairy and ask for 2 dollars, as her normal rate was $1. Ariel, not understanding sarcasm much yet, took it to be a great idea, and so wrote a note to the toothfairy as follows;

"Giv me two dollrs under my pillow please tooth fairy

please

please."

On the back was "To the tooth fairy, From Ariel"

She stuck this note with the tooth under her pillow that night with great hopes. In the morning she checked to see what the results of her efforts might be, and again, so sad the tooth fairy was a no show. This time she thought perhaps the toothfairy didn't like what the note had to say, as Mommy did warn her the day before not to be greedy... so she took the note out and threw it away, and put the tooth back under her pillow for safe keeping. Sure enough, on the 4th night after losing her tooth, the toothfairy was good enough to show up, give her a dollar and even let her keep her tooth as a present. How do you like that? She thought that it was great, but in the end threw the tooth away, and put her dollar in the bank to save for something special.

Ariel's 2nd First Day of 1st grade

2008-11-04T17:14:00.002-05:00

She had a great day at school and enjoyed making friends, despite the fact that we did miss the bus this morning. The bus stop is down the street and around the corner, about a 2 minute walk from our house. We were told the pickup time was 8:18, but when we got there at 8:14, no one was there, so I knocked on the door to the neighbor's house on the corner and asked about the morning details. He said that the second bus (Ariel's) comes about 8:05am. Well, that certainly is earlier than 8:18. So, we had a nice little drive to school, which worked out well in the long run, because I got to meet her teacher, Mrs. Quickel.

When she got home today she was happy to see us at the bus stop (Daddy was there too, as he took a day off of work to help at the polls). Both the kids are very happy to be at home, and whenever we go somewhere, they immediately want to go back home. Of course, it's like Christmas here, with so many toys they haven't seen for 8 months. They are loving it!

Tomorrow

2008-10-31T07:51:00.002-04:00

The big moving day is tomorrow! Hooray!! Yesterday I wasn't too motivated, but I did manage to get most of my and the kids things packed. Today I must go through whatever is in the loft and make sure it's alright to move, and pack up Dustan's things as well. Of course, there is a thousand last minute things to pack in the morning.

As my day will be busy packing and running errands, Ariel's will be busy as well. It is her last day of school at Monroe, and she's excited so far- hasn't shown any sadness yet. They are having a fall festival this afternoon, and then tonight we're trick or treating in our new neighborhood. It's going to a fun day!

We are all so ready to get settled in our new place!

Counting Down Yet Again

2008-10-28T22:11:00.002-04:00

It seems life is full of count downs in the life of a parent. As adults we've learned to take (most) things in stride, and understand that life is a pattern of changing seasons, each to never be repeated in the same way, though the basic circumstance might be the same. Case in point, moving. The children are now facing the third move of their short lives that they remember. For them, time slips away in a different motion than for some of us more experienced participants in life. We can grasp the concept of time and measurement, having felt the pulsing of life beat against us for so long... one cannot escape it. But they are just learning the wonders of the world, how the sun marks the day and the moon the night hours, how the clock ticks aways the seconds of our lives, bringing adventure just around the next click of the chime being set in motion.

Okay, enough with the obssession of literary expressionism. The kids know that this weekend we are moving (finally) into our own house and they are looking forward to doing so. There is a lot to be done between now and then and they like to hear the details - at least the ones involving them. They are happy to hear that they get to have special time with PawPaw and MawMaw whilst the rest of the family helps to move us in. They are looking forward to their last night's sleepover here and then being able to go home on Sunday. Nathaniel is especially excited that this means he can finally go to preschool and have friends again. He has been terribly lonely.

And so today the countdown leaves us at 4 more days til we wake up to an exciting day of family, work, pizza and trying to keep white carpets clean while hauling things in and out. Yipee!

Traffic!!!

2008-10-24T18:34:00.002-04:00

Can I just scream??? I guess I could, but luckily I had company with me and we tried to laugh it off. It has a little hard to do because I was so hungry that I was lightheaded driving a rental car and my dear friend was pregnant and carsick. Not a good combination to get stuck in traffic for nearly 3 hours.

Here's the story; Crystal and I decided that we'd like to go hiking. I had to register Ariel for school down in York, so we chose to go there to hike. I left Nathaniel here at the house with Romona, as he hadn't slept well the night before and it was a bit wet and chilly out and I knew he'd never last. So, Crystal brought her dog instead to join us.

No problems so far. Well, we had a nice time chatting and hiking and snacking and it go to be 3ish, which every good commuter knows it's time to hit the highway before evening traffic kicks in (especially being Friday). So, off we went. As we passed the Newberrytown exit heading North, I thought that perhaps I should take the back way thru the country and avoid the town traffic. But I chose otherwise, assuming that I could get back to the parking lot where Crystal left her car faster on the highway. Well, we didn't get much further for a bit past Yocumtown exit, when we saw the cars slowing down. Within a minute, we were inching along. We tuned into the emergency station to hear what was going on. They had closed HWY 83 Northbound AND 581 E- both of which we needed to use. And there was at least 5-8 miles of traffic ahead of us that was trying to get the same direction we were going. Grrrrr....

At this point, I promptly got off the next exit, at Lewisberry and went back to where we would have been had I gotten off the highway 2 exits before, but I would've missed a whole lot of traffic! We crept along for 2 hours before we got to Crystal's car, which normally would have taken 20 minutes from where we were.

So, what caused the closure? People want someone to blame! Well, there seems to have been crazed people driving around shooting at the police and they were having a grand chase along the highway! I don't know what the outcome to the chase was, but there were MANY angry people because of it, including Dustan (who would've guessed?).

He seemed to have missed the bulk of trouble from the closure, but it also seems that he was a testimony to God's grace this same hour. He was coming home down the back way, and apparently, a garbage truck was driving the opposite direction, too fast, and as the truck came over a hill, he jumped it and ran the thing off the road, into a tree. This knocked the tree over into the road, hitting 3 cars passing by the same time. Right in front of Dustan.

So, his civil duty came into action here, and he started guiding traffic after calling it in. And here he was for quite a while.

It was a crazy afternoon, the result of which was hungry bellies and thankfulness that nothing worse had befallen us today.

Mile Club

2008-10-23T21:14:00.002-04:00

I just have to say that I am so proud of Ariel! She has achieved something I can hardly say I did myself- at any time. In gym class a few weeks ago the kids had to run a mile without stopping in order to join the mile club. And Ariel did it! Yeah! She got a little pink foot charm that goes on your shoe lace as a reward. She was very excited and proud of herself. We were proud too!

Frost!

2008-10-21T14:49:00.005-04:00

Jack Frost has finally started teasing us here in Central PA. Two nights ago he sabotaged the nicest of the coleus. Left some crystals in the grass. Then last night he created gorgeous patterns on all our car windows, I think as a peace offering for killing the plants, and although it's beautiful, I don't really like having to scrape it off in order to get places I need to go in the morning. Doesn't he know that? lol I just can hardly believe that autumn is truly here and winter is knocking on the door. I feel like I've missed out on something this summer... maybe I left it in Germany. Yeah, that's got to be it.

Lake Tobias

2008-10-21T14:48:00.019-04:00

On Sunday we went to Lake Tobias. It is an animal park that offers a petting zoo and a 'safari' ride. They have all different kinds of things from miniature horses, sheep, camels and goats in the petting zoo to lions, tigers and bears in cages. They have alpacas, cougars, baboons, monkeys of various kinds, alligators, chickens, geese, white and black swans, and zebras. The animals observed on the safari tour included emus, ostriches, buffalo, turkeys, zedonks, elk, deer, cows, and water buffalo. Oh yeah, and checkout the world's largest rat. It's bigger than a dog. It gets to 80 pounds. You can see it in the photo next to the pond. Gross...

To the kids greatest pleasure, there was a playground too, so we stopped to play a bit on our way out.

The Party

2008-10-21T14:47:00.011-04:00

Ok, so I am a little behind in the things I was going to write about, but haven't found the time. Let's begin by recapping what happened after I was the decoy.

I had just made arrangements with Monica that I would be showing up at the township building with Lori in 15 minutes. This way, they would all know when to have everyone inside and ready for the surprise. As soon as I hung up the phone with her, Lori called and said she was outside waiting. I was like 'crap'. It's only less than 5 minutes to the building. So, I told Lori I had to do something upstairs, when really I didn't. I just finished cleaning up the kitchen and sat in a chair for a few minutes. After 10 minutes were up, I didn't press my luck any longer and went out to the car. There I found Lori driving her car with Ben, Sara, and Shane packed in the backseat like sardines. They were waiting patiently, nbut I found the need to state what was taking so long, so I said I was just getting something out of my room and then my mom called and was talking.... yadda, yadda, yadda...

Soon we arrived, and Lori just kept talking my ear off. She kept talking while we walked, and we let her be the first through the door. She was trying to tell me something and kept looking back over her shoulder, not really paying much attention, and then she saw the stage full of people, and they shouted, "Surprise!" She looked at them, looked at me and Sara, and then she realized she had been set up. She was really surprised!

The rest of the evening was fun. She was more than busy, so Ariel was a bit put out at not being able to dance with Aunt Lori, but Aunt Pat and I danced with her instead. She wasn't quite satisfied, but what can you do? One can't always have what they want in life.

The cakes turned out great, and the candles I had found were really cool on the cake. 50 candles really lights it up! We all had a fun time. Happy Birthday, Aunt Lori!

Being the Decoy

2008-10-11T14:09:00.002-04:00

Why is it that no one really wants this job? I don't know... I think it's kinda fun and nerve-wracking to know that at any moment you might have flubbed and given away the surprise. Like, at this very moment I could be walked in on and this post seen and be immediately suspected of some secret undertakings. And yes, I would be guilty. I am waiting for Aunti Lori to come over, under the guise of seeing Ariel before her show at the Octoberfest this afternoon. But alas, 'tis truly a 50th birthday party for her. Wish me luck not to spoil the surprise! (If no one has beat me to it.)

From Longwood Gardens on Friday

2008-09-23T08:57:00.000-04:00

Longwood Gardens in the Autumn

2008-09-21T20:11:00.010-04:00

As you know, we are garden passholders at Longwood Gardens in Philadelphia, and so on Friday we decided to go see the autumn fest as Ariel had off of school that day. It was a perfect day out, and we really wanted to see the idea garden as we hadn't managed to get to see it on our other trips there. We found that they had built a display of a miniature Longwood Gardens, with trains, waterfall, pond, and models of the buildings on the property. It was really cool.

In the idea garden itself we saw some things we've never seen before and found out a couple of names that we've wanted to know. There were some combinations of things that I will definately want to do in my own garden eventually! We had a fun day despite the kids being a little tired, and we're so glad we went. I got some fantastic photos of flowers too, so that's always a plus for me.

New Roads

2008-09-19T21:18:00.010-04:00

On our way to Longwood Gardens today we adventured new roads and byways. First because we had to stop in York for Ariel's booster shot at the pediatrician's, but more so because I like to investigate. We took a route that none of us had ever been on, and we were rewarded with lovely farmland views, true Americana miniscule towns and lovely sights of nature. One impressive and unusual looking view we came across was while travelling a high bridge over - well, I don't know what over. Must be the Susquehanna. It was in the area of Lake Aldred, and there was a dam, but upon reading a little bit about it, it could be one of three that exist, as I do not know eactly where we were. But the photos show a decent telling of what was, excepting the colors are washed out a bit due to the glare from the sun.

Then, since we were in Amish country, we saw a couple of buggies and I got a pic of the traffic these people face, and how deadly it can quickly turn. The old ways do not mesh well with the new. And though i have GREAT respect of the old traditions, find extremely high value in keeping the knowledge of these things and witnessing it is romantic to me, I hurt for the danger these things pose when mixed with today's advances, attitudes and ignorance.

If looks could kill...

2008-09-19T21:15:00.003-04:00

Rebecca would be the last person on earth. Or at least on the East Coast. Good grief.

Fun with Auntie Lori

2008-09-19T21:12:00.002-04:00

It's always fun when Aunt Lori comes to visit! It puts a smile on our faces!

Two of a kind

2008-09-19T21:08:00.002-04:00

Notice the teeth???

No other words are necessary.