adventures in learning

December in review

2012-01-15T19:23:00.000-06:00

Had fun making a gingerbread house!

We joined a local church, where we feel absolutely loved!

Kids got to sing in the choir and finish the first semester of Awana's here.(Hoping to get #3 more comfortable in both these realms now. My schedule has changed so I can check out class with him for a bit.)

Were able to eat lots of yummy food with lots of different family.

We were flooded with love from our community in so many ways.

As you can see we were very spoiled for Christmas.

The kids eyes when they saw this was priceless!

We learned how to swing from trees.

We learned how to play in the snow.

Excited to see what God has in store for us in 2012 and beyond.

One day at a time, one step at a time, surrounded by love from 5 beautiful, crazy, silly kids and HIS peace.

An Early Morning Hello

2011-12-25T07:37:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas from us to you!

Rules for gift opening

2011-12-21T21:42:00.000-06:00

I was informed today by #3 that we must wear our PJ's to open gifts. Well, yes, this is something we usually do. Open up a gift on Christmas Eve(Pajama's) and wear it that night to bed, open gifts in the morning before changing. Easy, peasy, no? I suppose a difference this year is that we live near family and we will be opening gifts at more than one house. So I was told we had to wear our Pajamas to grandma's house(of course I don't think he calculated in the fact that by the time we are done with that it will in fact be bedtime again. Nor did I mention we won't be going to the other grandparents house until the next day. But I suppose it would save on packing space if we just wore the same thing the whole visit!) He insists that part of the fun is opening presents in Pajama's.
I'm thinking I'll have extra pj's clean this weekend so he can be known as pajama boy.
I also love knowing what parts of the day are special to him.

cheese

2011-12-10T21:17:00.000-06:00

I thought I could get a nice shot with my two oldest before choir. But this picture is the before mom's ready shot(and notice the arms folded-yeah, she doesn't like getting her picture taken anymore).

And this would be the silly shot. Somehow the nice picture didn't make it to the camera, what's up with that?!

At least the cousins took a pretty nice picture(#4 is great at the fake smile!).

Home school ways

2011-12-08T20:48:00.000-06:00

I had two tents set up in my house today. Although I really don't like the clutter; they loved having school under the tents.

My favorite part was listening to the two little ones "reading" to each other. Although neither one can truly read, they had picked out their favorite books-you know the ones I have read about a billion times and they have memorized by heart. Love it!

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I'm not the only one that loves snowmen. He was taking care of his babies

#4 in the spot light

2011-12-04T20:23:00.000-06:00

This picture was taken by a child when my camera was 'borrowed'. I am always clued in on the fact that the camera was used when there are pictures of the wall or someones hand or a ton of close ups. So glad we are in the digital age now and can easily delete!

On our way to church this morning #4 saw someone pulled over by the police and was excited that the police "scooted them over".

My sister took the kids to choir practice Saturday and said #4 refused to go on stage. Today the older 2 had practice for 2 hours(in which me and the others had to busy ourselves on campus) and the Preschool choir had a little performance after that. He stayed on stage! He was quite the character! Very interested in seeing himself on the big screen and head bonked the girl next to him. I asked him later about the head butting. He said, she was my friend and wanted me to. I laughed about the was my friend part. I'll see if they archive that video later, I know they do a live feed.

Overruled:

2011-11-17T23:00:00.000-06:00

What are your parental rights? Do you have any? Take some time to watch this video and be aware of what is going on in our country today.

"I'm not sleepy Mom"

2011-11-12T20:02:00.001-06:00

Yes, that's why you fell asleep on the floor after you got tired of emptying stuff. Apparently he has decided the noon nap is over but he will fall asleep around 4pm if he hasn't napped. Hope we figure out his new schedule soon because regardless of if he is sleepy or not I am! :-)

2011-11-06T20:26:00.000-06:00

Warms my heart to see these two playing together so nicely. #3 knows more about chess then I do but not quite sure if he's teaching his younger brother the correct way or his way(I was just happy they were quiet during rest time!!). The kids often play games by the rules but then have just as much fun making up different rules and playing it that way for months at a time too!

Was reading someone else's blog this week and what struck me was they too played with a different game piece. Here, you'll notice we have to sub in a Sorry game piece. A sign of kids!

Dusting

2011-11-06T20:10:00.000-06:00

We got one of these in the mail last week. Because I'm a vocal point member, they send me samples to try once in awhile.

This one got out of the shower and saw it and just had to try it. Apparently having a duster as opposed to a dust rag is a big hit with the kiddos. They scramble to use it first...wondering how long this happy dusting will last!

This happens if he doesn't get to the duster first.....or any other little things that he thinks should happen that doesn't happen. Yes, a little drama he shows.

A week in review

2011-10-29T22:36:00.001-05:00

These two are plotting. They started getting measuring spoons and peelers out then decided they needed a recipe. Who needs a cookbook, not these boys! #4 grabbed a pen and paper and was "writing" down what they were deciding to make.

My 3 older boys at the science center.

Watching the cars below.

Really intent on watching the cars below.

#3 made a canoe for school. Realized we were out of construction paper but had this very bright, unrealistic in color, printer paper so we made do;)

Hamming it up for his shot. He wanted to make a butterfly.

#3 made a plane and wrote a sweet note. I like this shot but asked him if we could try again because he looked sad.

Love his freckles and his beautiful eyes!

Favorties this week

2011-10-24T23:22:00.000-05:00

You know those chain letters that always come around in email or on facebook these days? With lists of things for you to fill in the blank of what you like? Yep, only once in a blue moon have I filled those out and passed them on. Figure if you really wanna know you should just ask me ;) But thought I'd share 2 of my favorite things from this week(hmm, is it a blue moon?).
One I've been thinking about since I've moved here and started drying things outside. In Hawaii we didn't have the area to dry outside, I had a really small space I'd dry diapers but nothing bigger than that. But I have decided I really, really like it when I crawl into bed and the sheets have spent the day outside. They smell sooooooo good!
Then Saturday I made Orange Chicken. A little secret around here is we love Panda Express. Panda Express is not in the budget right now but I have this book called Family Feast for $75 a week by Mary Ostyn.(I give the book a thumbs up). She has a recipe that she claimed was like Panda Express Orange Chicken. We agree. We will be adding this to our regular line up. In fact we loved it so much that the little bit of leftovers I had disappeared before lunch the next day. I warmed the pan up but when eating I discovered that some child(apparently it was the elusive "not me") picked off all the chicken, so I was left with veggies and rice in orange sauce(which was still yummy but had me laughing). I will admit I didn't follow her recipe to a "T" as I had to sub an ingredient or two and maybe next time I'll actually measure so I can share:)

What are your favorite smells or tastes? And yes these can change depending on your day, mood or memory!

Gratituesday-children

2011-10-18T15:13:00.000-05:00

It's Gratituesday again. Woke up to a cold rainy day today. #2 wanted to bake cinnamon rolls and make hot chocolate. Since it is fall break this sounded like a fine idea to me. So today I am thankful for these moments with my children. Time spent baking in the kitchen with my kids and drinking hot chocolate while taking in a movie. I'm so blessed!

Fall Break

2011-10-17T21:51:00.000-05:00

It's fall break for the kids, not for me. For me I think it translates to add more work to my schedule!

Today we went to Mastodon State Park. Had a great tour guide named Mike. #1 was really into everything and the others drifted in and out. We were the only ones in our group and it added a special touch to the day(although when the little ones were done with everything I was wishing we could get lost in the crowd! A certain child of my who shall remain nameless *cough #4 cough* started rolling on the ramp inside and opening the back door to the building, fun times I keep telling myself...) It is a small museum but when you have a guide they add so much interesting additional information! Had nice little hike in the park after the inside stuff to allow some boys(and girl) to get some energy out.

Plan to share more of our adventures(or misadventures) as they unfold this week.

Gratituesday

2011-10-05T11:32:00.001-05:00

I've been thinking(!) of all the blessings in my life. Sometimes they get overlooked by the unpleasant things. Since we should feed what we want to grow my thought was I need to link up with The Heavenly Homemaker and join her(and others) on Gratituesday as we can all share the positive things going on in our lives.

This week I am thankful for nice weather. I have to admit, it is chillier than I prefer but it is just right for drying the laundry outside. You see I have no dryer and no way to change this right now so I am so happy to be able to easily dry the laundry at home and as a bonus have that nice outdoor fresh smell! There's also that thankfulness of having all the kids that have all the clothes to get dirty:)

ps shh I know it's Wednesday, I'm a work in process!

You might live in Missouri if....

2011-10-03T12:50:00.000-05:00

Overheard at the park yesterday:

Two men talking.
Guy one: We got an invitation to so&so's wedding, it's on the opening day of deer season.

Guy two: Well you aren't going of course....

Guy one: We have to go(it's some sort of close relation to him).

Guy two: I can't believe they would schedule a wedding for the opening day(tone of voice has me shaking with laughter).

Guy one: I might be able to go hunting after the wedding...

I can tell you I never heard conversations like this in Hawaii! Nor did I grow up in a hunting family so I would not have know to schedule my wedding date around these things LOL!

Peeks of Home

2011-10-01T16:37:00.000-05:00

The Boys cleaning the house because they had thrown mud on it. But take a closer look at their feet! Not sure how helpful their cleaning was!

We have been saying the Pledge of Allegiance when school starts. Everyone likes a turn holding the flag:)

We were able to celebrate sweet #2's birthday in the new house. I've got two in double digits now!

Enjoying a beautiful day. Kids have been playing outside with the neighbors all day(the neighbors have the nerf dart guns, which seems to be a huge hit with all the kids). We also got a lawn mower-the reel kind. I love it! Mowed the back yard myself and the older three all took turns testing it out in the front. I now know where all the troublesome spots will be, because the yard isn't completely flat but enjoy watching the grass fly by girl power(or kid power as the case may be).

Fire cup

2011-09-20T12:57:00.000-05:00

I was holding my sweet little #5 today and we were walking about the room. He points to something on the mantle and with a big grin says "fire cup". Very descriptive words for a candle. Love it!

The Power of Touch

2011-09-19T13:17:00.000-05:00

We talk a lot about touch in school(massage therapy program), even heard it talked about at a retreat I went to this weekend. Touch is such an important part of our lives, and as people spend more time alone(think about our older generation) or at the computer/games(think about our younger generation) there is so much that they are losing out on. People need to be touched to survive.
So before I get on a tangent. I was studying for a test I have today. My kids have been willing participants as I practice different massage techniques or draw invisible lines on them where bones and muscles are that I'm learning.(yes, the love of touch-go hug your kids!) Anyway as I was studying I was touching my leg while repeating the names of the muscles. My should-have-been-sleeping two year old starts jabbering at me and sticking his foot in my face. After staring at him and wondering what he was doing I realized he was saying "no, my foot". The sweet love wanted in on some touch therapy. I was happy to oblige him; gotta love the sweet cuddle time when they aren't into everything!

We did it!

2011-09-15T13:04:00.000-05:00

We are all moved in our new home! Still arranging and trying to find pieces to things. Trying to remember to breathe and not stress about the responsibility of it all. Had many hands help us move things-so thankful! Also had a ton of furniture given to us or on loan to us, again so blessed!

Was going through some books and found a folder, I think from PWOC, and the first thing in it was this poem worth sharing.

I Made Her Because I Love Her

I made her . . . She is different

She is unique

With love I formed her in her mother's womb.

I fashioned her with great joy.

I remember, with great pleasure,

the day I created her.

(Psalm 139:13-16)

I love her smile.

I love her ways.

I love to hear her laugh.

And the silly things she says and does.

She brings Me great pleasure.

This is how I made her.

(Psalm 139:17 Zephaniah 3:17)

I made her pretty and not beautiful,

Because I knew her heart,

And knew she would be vain . . .

I wanted her to search out her heart,

And to learn that it would be

Me in her

That would make her beautiful . . .

And it would be Me in her

That would draw friends to her.

(1 Peter 3:3-5)

I made her in such a way,

That she would need Me.

I made her a little more lonesome

than she would like to be . . .

Only because I need for her

to lean and depend on Me . . .

I know her heart,

I know if I had not made her like this,

She would go her own chosen way

And forget Me . . . her Creator.

(Psalm 62:5-8)

I have given her

many good and happy things

Because I love her.

(Psalm 84:11, Romans 8:23 & 37-39)

Because I love her,

I have seen her broken heart . . .

And the tears she cried alone.

I have cried with her,

And had a broken heart, too.

(Psalm 56:8 Psalm 34:18)

Many times she has stumbled

and fallen alone

Only because she would not hold

My Hand,

So many lessons she's learned

the hard way.

Because she would not listen

to My voice . . .

(Isaiah 53:6)

So many times I have set back

And sadly watched her go

her merry way alone.

Only to watch her return to

My Arms, sad and broken.

(Luke 15:7)

And now she is Mine again . . .

I made her, and then I bought her . . .

Because I love her.

(Romans 5:8)

I have to reshape her and remold her . . .

To renew her

to what I had planned for her to be.

It has not been easy for her

or for Me.

(Jeremiah 29:11)

I want her to be conformed

to My image . . .

This is the high goal I have set for her,

Because I love her.

(2 Corinthians 2:14)

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"God hath from the beginning chosen you."

2 Thessalonians 2:13

God thought of you even before He made the World,

even before He made you!

He loves you and longs to have the deepest

and closest relationship possible with you!

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When passing this item on to others, please include the following information:

Thank you!

Posted on: http://www.angelfire.com/wa3/shout4joy

It hit the right note with me today, hope it does with you too.

You know you have grown up in Hawaii when....

2011-08-31T15:26:00.000-05:00

#1 says "I know when cousin "S" can come and visit us, on furlough Friday!"
Sorry son, they don't have furlough Fridays in Missouri.

*****
#2 found some sand to play in at granny & papa's. She said she felt like she was home again sinking her feet in the sand.

Courageous

2011-08-26T13:49:00.000-05:00

I heard this song twice yesterday and thought I had to share it with you!

While looking for the song I found this 2 minute video from the lead singer of Casting Crowns sharing some of his thoughts about the song.

Looking forward to seeing the movie sometime after it comes out in September.

What are you doing that is courageous?

Moving time

2011-08-22T12:49:00.001-05:00

Look! The Carroll's are moving!!

Yes, we've had a huge prayer answered and the kids and I have found a new place to call home.

Can't wait to settle in and meet the neighbors.

The kids will be able to 'deer hunt' from our own backyard.

Excited to see what God has in store for us in this new adventure! Please keep us in your prayers as we settle into a new community. Also for many helping hands as we move our things over the holiday weekend.

We are so excited!!

In the Word

2011-08-18T12:17:00.000-05:00

Psalm 52:8-9

But I am like an olive tree flourishing in the house of God;
I trust in God's unfailing love for ever and ever.
I will praise you forever for what you have done;
in your name I will hope, for your name is good.
I will praise you in the presence of saints.

Have you ever inserted your name in God's word. His promises are to you, make them personal!
Love the image of flourishing in God's house in this verse and reminder that His Love is forever. He will never stop loving us no matter what we do. Just like we are with our children, sometimes we don't like what they do or their behavior but we still love them just not the action or behavior.

This song keeps coming to me.

Casting Crowns: Praise You in this Storm

Spring pictures

2011-08-14T16:38:00.001-05:00

Love #4's expression in this one. Taken in April of 2011.

Easter 2011

This one kinda cracked me up, poor #2 is already getting her head cut off in pictures because of her height ;) I'm impressed they are all looking at the camera!

Cousins Easter 2011

A Night at the Ball Park

2011-08-14T13:21:00.000-05:00

Not sure when I've seen so many people with matching clothes! My sister and her husband were out of town so they gave me and the oldest tickets to Saturday's game. So I told the boy to get in the car yesterday afternoon, he didn't know where we were going yet. Was pretty excited to see where we ended up!

What my sister didn't know is that it was Christian night at the ball park. That meant several players shared their testimonies after the game. This is(r-l) Seth from the Rockies, with Cardinals McClellan, and Pujols

l-r Holiday, forgot name but #12!, and Shumaker

The main speaker of the night, Wainwright

It was great to hear men talk about their faith in God!

#1 did grow a little bored, Cards only scored one run. He was disappointed in this! But he was very happy and thankful he got to go :-)

School Days

2011-07-29T22:02:00.000-05:00

My school days are about to begin again. I plan to be adding a new title to my resume: LMT or Licensed Massage Therapist. My first day of school is next Monday and I'll be attending about 3 nights a week over this next year. Excited to see how this new adventure goes. The school I selected has a holistic approach which I love; although at the same time I feel some things are not in line with what I believe so need to have on the 'full armor of God"(Ephesians 6:11) at all times(We should always have it on).
"We are all fearfully and wonderfully made"(Psalm 139:14) and I can't wait to learn more about how to help others through touch therapy.

The kids school days are fast approaching too. I haven't decided on the exact date of their first 'real' day of school but have had the older two review math this week and those lessons will be starting up in full swing next week for the older 3. Trying to get a computer set up for oldest, as his is mostly computer based this year. Still debating on some things for 2 & 3.

Had a good birthday week. My oldest is now 11 and my youngest is now 2. Love them all to pieces!
Being a parent takes a lot of seeing the humorous side of things and involves a lot of repetition ;-)

A resource to share

2011-06-29T22:31:00.000-05:00

I am started to piece together next years curriculum. I have a computer based program for my oldest to try next year(SOS). The next 2 & 1/2 kids will be doing unit studies. In case you were wondering what the 1/2 is, he is in preK so he will join in on some things but I don't really consider it school. But they like to do school at this age and keeping them busy is important so they don't get in (as much) mischief ; ) I believe their curriculum will have more of a shoestring budget. I know I have something in storage(My Father's World-I have a 2nd grade version) that should work with some add-ons. I am currently research websites with printable materials to enrich the basic idea. Plus the library is always a huge resource!
All this to say I wanted to share this site I just came across. I've been looking around it a bit and it looks like a good resource if you have a special needs child whether you are home educating or not. Hope of the Christian Kind an online support of ADHD, Autism and more. Looks like a lot of resources too. Let me know what you think, I've just been poking around the site a little tonight and wanted to share before I forgot!

Book Giveaway

2011-06-29T12:29:00.000-05:00

Go over to Sally Clarkson's blog at I Take Joy and enter to win her(and her sweet husbands) updated book Educating the WholeHearted Child. Click the book link to see some reviews. I have yet to read the book but have skimmed through a friends copy and it is on my wish list!

June Birtdays

2011-06-27T08:06:00.003-05:00

So sorry its been almost a month since I've been by! I blame the unsettledness of life. Still looking for someplace to rent and in the meantime staying with 2 sets of wonderful grandparents who have welcomed us into their homes.
Summer birthday season has started and I now have a 7 year old and 5 year old!! We celebrated first with a batman cake and then bug boy wanted star wars so we plopped some lego star wars on top of his cake and called it good. Everyone is getting bikes so we can try to enjoy family bike rides. The 7 year old finally 'got it' and can now ride without training wheels! Good job #3!
The 5 year old or #4, got a special treat and his cousin took him out to the movies for his birthday and he got to see the new Cars movie. That was really strange to have my bug boy gone to the movies!! He had a great time-Thanks for thinking of him Cuz!
I've decided #1 is my go to guy to take to concerts. We've been to two so far this summer and he really gets into it. The other older two are just like, why are we here?? Though they do get excited when they know a song but for the most part they'd rather just listen on the radio ;-)
I can see the end of the light for ball season. The kids have had a great time! Will work on getting some pictures up soon!

I will leave you with a song today. Blessings!

Perseverance-late night ramblings

2011-06-03T21:09:00.007-05:00

Romans5:1 Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God thorough our Lord Jesus Christ.....
Romans 5:3 -4 Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.

Ever have one of those days where nothing seems to go right? Yeah, my morning was going that way. You could possibly even say it started the night before with my oldest getting hit twice in baseball which was then followed by a sleepless night for me.
It was a rough morning as well. Just the little things that add up. I left the kids with my parents and drove up to the city to finalize my school plans. I wasn't twenty minutes up the road and my mom sends me a picture of my youngest. If you are on facebook then you know what I saw. He had some major road rash on his face, concrete isn't too kind to the skin as he fell off his trike. I wondered if I should turn around then it hit me. All this stuff going on was attacks. I was under attack. Here am I, trying my best to stay strong for my kids, myself and remain faithful to my Lord. It's not an easy time in our lives but at the same time we have been blessed in many ways.
Guess what, the enemy doesn't like that. Doesn't like it when you remain faithful, especially when all you know is changing and you feel like your life is falling apart. Remember Job of the bible? Remember all he the lost? What do you remember of his faith? Do you remember how he was blessed in the end? Maybe it is a time in your life when you should go re-read the book of Job. See what lessons he has to share with you. Remain faithful in good times and especially in the bad! He is the same God and has the same truths no matter what you are going through.
After I realized what was going on I prayed. Prayed for the safety of my family, for myself during this trip. Does that mean everything went swimmingly after I prayed. Why no, in fact, it doesn't. In fact things didn't go as planned at all. I would later joke that I should have also prayed for my father-in-law to have a winch(one thing was a car break down). You see, not everything continued as I would have like but I was able to laugh at things as they happened instead of cry because it was all in the Lord's hands. I'd given it to him. In fact, I know he did take care of me because the things that happened really were just speed bumps, slowing me down for a minute instead of road blocks, completely stopping me.
A change in perspective, a change in attitude and a willingness to run the race.

clean your face

2011-06-01T08:33:00.003-05:00

Sometime in March I ran out of the usual facial cleaner I used and didn't see it in this new area I'm in. I had come across this recipe and thought I'd give it a try. I can't give credit to whom I got it from because I can't remember! I know it was in a comment on someones blog, the recipe was simple enough for me to remember-which is saying something for my scattered brain these days!

Facial cleaner for normal skin.

3 Tablespoons Olive Oil
3 Tablespoons Castor Oil

Mix and place in a small container. Rub gently on face and rinse off. Great for removing makeup, although I tend to use in the morning shower.
If you have dry skin use another Tablespoon of Olive Oil.
If have oily skin use another Tablespoon of Castor Oil.

I sometimes use this on my legs as well, helps make them more silky smooth :-)

If you are looking for something new, less expensive or more do-it yourself-give it a try and let me know how it works for you!

jelly bean flavor of the day

2011-05-19T21:39:00.003-05:00

"Mom I smell a jelly bean!" said #3
"Oh you do? What flavor is it?" I ask(a little afraid of what the answer could be)
"It's coffee flavored!" said #3
"No, silly that's not a jelly bean, that is my coffee." I say
"No Mom, it isn't your coffee it is a jelly bean!" said #3 He was very insistent on the fact this didn't smell like my usual cup of coffee.
"Hmm, well I do have creamer in my coffee this time. I guess you think coffee flavored jelly beans taste like hazelnut coffee smells!" I said

ps I got the creamer for free for being a vocal point member. If you haven't signed up with them you should-it's always fun to try free things! The creamer was very yummy! A nice little treat at the end of the day for me:)

week in review

2011-05-17T09:21:00.005-05:00

`Mothers Day. Had a baby dedication for sweet baby boy. Though he didn't smell so sweet at the time! Nothing like filling a diaper right before you have to stand in front of everyone! Such a wiggly boy he was too, but with so many baby's being dedicated it did take a while. He has the distinction of being dedicate at the church his mother grew up in. We did this with the older two at our church in Maine with Pastor George. He had a lovely wife and I believe six children. My first real life introduction to homeschooling was there. Then the two middle boys were dedicated at our church in Hawaii,two different pastors and a lot of O'hanna! I pray that the pictures, letter etc from these events just add on to what they experience in daily life. That they know they are loved, thatthey have a family heritage that have the Lord in their lives and that they too chose to give there lives to Him.
~Ball season has started around here, with the older 3 being involved. Looks like we might be lucky if there is a day of the week someone doesn't have practice! #3 got to his first practice and then changed his mind about going-a hard time with change he has! But we were able to calm him down and he ended having a great time!

~This past Sunday we visited a new church in the town we are looking for something to rent. When we got inside #3 says "Is this an airport?" Silly boy! Yes, it is a huge church, but no airplanes around:) They all enjoyed there classes and would like to visit again. One thing is for sure, I will get a work out dropping/picking up kids in the different areas there!

~Accident prone #4 managed to cause a 'log' to fall on his hand. Sliced part of a (gag) wart off. Lots of blood and crying but all is well now. He had been playing on a freshly cut pine tree and was completely covered in tree sap. No, he was not suppose to be there but it was too resistible for him!
****edited to add****no sooner did I post this today and #4 came into the house with black hands and dripping blood. Well, he stayed away from the newly fallen trees; this time he hurt the other hand digging for worms! *sigh* he does keep things interesting :-)

Book Club

2011-05-13T14:43:00.003-05:00

If you note the new picture to the right I am very excited to start the summer book club/bible study with the Good Morning Girls! It's not too late to join up with us-next Monday we will start the week getting to know our groups and the next we start the book Ministry of Motherhood by Sally Clarkson. Looking forward to getting to know some wonderful ladies as we study Gods word!

What would you do?

2011-05-03T20:35:00.003-05:00

If you to eat this big, fat worm I'll give you ten dollars.

Will YOU take the challenge?

I would not.

But guess which kid took Grandpa up on this offer (much to his dismay!)

Do you know? I bet the Longfellow family knows the answer to this, maybe you do to.

Yes, it was ...................................................................

The Girl!!!

eeeeeewwwwwwwww!

Another pop quiz, this time not slimy.

What kind of bird is a hammock bird?

Clue: They are small, fast and hum.

Answer: hammock bird is #5 speak for humming bird.

Summer study

2011-04-26T21:56:00.004-05:00

`So far we have managed to not float away in all this rain. Geesh! we go through rainy season on the island(ok, admittedly not bad this year) and then come to a super duper rainy season in the midwest-we must be nuts!
`I am hoping to toss any leftover Easter candy tomorrow because sugary kids stuck indoors does drive a momma a little batty! We did get to see the sun all day-I was so happy!! But once night fell, so did the rain again:)
Anyway, the true reason for the post: I wanted to share a link for some summer reading. I had been seriously thinking about this book already then came across a post from a blog I visit.
Would you like to join the Good Morning Girls in a summer study? If you'd like to you'll have to grab a book as the giveaway is over(sorry for my slowness in sharing!) Email me if you'd like to be in a study group with me, but feel free to join the group or do the study on your own!
Click on the link to find out more information but the book is Sally Clarkson's Ministry of Motherhood!

What came first? The chicken or the Grandpa?

2011-04-06T14:06:00.002-05:00

Not sure if it's the slowness of the Internet connection or the slowness of the laptop or the combination of the two; but I haven't been able to post any pictures on the blog. Since I'm not the world's greatest writer I hate to post without a cute picture or two to distract from the poor writing!! For pictures you'll just have to be a facebook friend for now and suffer through iphone pics.
Of course I thought the following story was too cute not to share.

There is a lot of work to be done at the Grandparent's home and the kids have been helping here and there.(and of course we all understand that when kids help it usually makes your job at least twice as long!) The biggest project around these parts has been building the chicken coop. Yesterday #4 came inside and had lunch, the rest had been inside working on school work. As soon as he was done he told the kids "I better go let Grandpa out" We all looked at each other wondering what he meant. #4 said, "I locked Grandpa in the chicken coop!" He had such a devilish grin on his face as he said this! Grandpa came in before #4 went out saying yes it was true, luckily for the little squirt Grandpa hadn't finished all sides of the fencing so he was able to get out! Of course the kids have enjoyed being 'locked' in the chicken house, so it's no wonder where #4 got the idea!
I'm thinking I am going to have to make sure Grandpa is safe after all the kids come in from now on....
P.S. Grandpa wasn't actually locked in the building but the outside run which he was fencing at the time of this incidence.

**************
Was talking about rescue remedy with someone and remembered one of the kids was on Larch(another Bach flower) for awhile. So I was looking it up to see what it was. Just thought I'd share the link

The Carroll's have landed

2011-03-23T21:42:00.004-05:00

The kids and I safely arrived in the Heartland. The plane ride was a hard one physically and emotionally but we were also blessed with many kindhearted people that helped us along the way.
Grandparents & Aunts & Uncles surround. Talk and action on planting gardens and building chicken coops. Tree swings and horses. Some spring-like days and some days cold winds blow about. Starting school again with the kids-wondering how long it'll be before that groove gets set. Wondering what is in store for the future; where we will settle & much more. Thankful for much that is being provided.

Saying goodbye

2011-03-04T00:26:00.003-06:00

A visit to the windy Pali lookout. #2 Doesn't always appear like a giant compared to the rest. #3 goofy expression. Oh and #2 has been taking here American Girl doll everywhere, that's not #5 hidden:)

Visiting our duck pond for the last time.

#5 ready to get packing. Next weekend we fly away from our home in paradise.

Monday

2011-02-17T19:37:00.003-06:00

I made a pretty table for my valentines to wake up to(hey, for me this is creative!). Gifts include a little box of candy, a baby apple that they've been wanting to try and an electric toothbrush they've also been asking for.
We decorated the table with flowers and a 'love mat'. The kids have hearts of all colors they cut out hanging around the house as well. We all wore a red shirt with huge intentions of grabbing a matching picture but no pictures were taken after this early morning shot.

So since I don't have a group picture of my sweethearts to share I'll give you this of the two youngest. #4 put together the drums and then let the little guy help him play or make racket, same thing!

Road Trip

2011-02-12T23:59:00.003-06:00

No, road trip and living on an island is not an oxymoron. Grab your water, grab your snack and hop in the car and we'll see where we end up.
Highlights from the day:
*As soon as we got about half way to the north shore the skies turned gray and the rain drops started falling. We played with the rain today. Rain would fall down and we'd roll the windows up. Rain would stop and the windows would come down. Yes, it's kinda like the game you play with the sun. Sunglasses on; sun hides behind the cloud. Sunglasses off; sun is bright.
*Tried out the(a) shrimp shack today. Wasn't overly impressed. Plus only 2 of the 6 of us ate. Not sure what the aversion to shrimp was today I do occasionally make it at home and all partake.
*Saw some awesome surf.
*Admired some well made surfers. :P
*Kids counted 50 horses. It's fun to see the western wear out here!
*Saw many, many awesome waterfalls!! The best time to drive through the mountains, such a wonderful, beautiful site!!!
*Went through H-3 in downpour on one side. As we were nearing the end of the tunnel the kids said. " I can see the light at the end of the tunnel". Goofy kids!! But they thought it was pretty cool that it could rain on one side of the mountain and be dry on the other. No worries the gray skies did find us again before we got home.
*Enjoyed some yummy treats from Costco food court.
* Just danced our yummy treats off.

Road trips are fun! #3 was worried that we wouldn't have enough gas to finish our trip. Please note we filled the van up before we left. I assured him we hadn't been driving nearly long enough to use up a full tank of gas......but it seemed like ages to him! What a surprise he is in for when we really have space to drive!

P.S.
Had the camera but upon trying to take the first picture discovered battery was dead. Am currently charging the battery so it will be ready for our next adventure!!

USS Missouri

2011-02-06T23:47:00.004-06:00

We were able to visit the USS Missouri last week. They were offering a day for military & locals to visit free of charge so we took advantage of that!

#1 was looking for the Missouri flag, did he find it?

A view of the Arizona Memorial from the deck of the Missouri.

I recruited James to go with us. He was a very helpful guide for all the questions the kids had about the ship.

The guns were a big hit with the boys, go figure!

After we were done with the tour of the ship everyone went to find the Carroll from the Oklahoma memorial. Have no idea if it is a relative or not. Parents, do you know?
All in all a beautiful day in Hawaii nei.

Friends

2011-02-02T23:39:00.003-06:00

Group shot. Well, the part of the group that is sharing the love.

I will have to look at this photo often to remember that they can be kind to one another.

Friend has #2 in a tight bear hug......must be revenge for the first picture when it was reversed;)

Who needs wide open spaces? Just give us a fence to hang on!

What are those kids up to?

2011-01-24T23:50:00.003-06:00

Nothing beats some cotton candy........

and some shave ice after a trolley ride. It sure made our day!!

Of course maybe that's why this one is missing so many teeth?!?

Nah, not really.

Went to see a movie over the weekend. Love the base theater, about the only place you can pay to see a movie with 5 people & each get your own snack for $20 total(ok, it was really $21.50)

Love the promise

Some friends we played with this week

2011-01-17T00:58:00.005-06:00

Lunch after a busy morning. Only picture of #1 this day. He doesn't stay in camera range very much.

This kid! He looks very sweet-and he is! But he's also one that keeps you very, very busy:)
and doesn't that face just say heart breaker? I know he has many wrapped around his finger!

#5 likes to randomly lay down in the middle of the floor to rest when he's had enough. That's what he was doing prior to this picture and Uncle B was rubbing his back. It was really sweet, gotta get quicker on the camera!

#3 Sledding in Hawaii's Discovery Center with Auntie/Miss/Gram E(the lady of many names!) looking on. They had coats, hats, gloves and scarves to wear while sledding. My daughter had to put on the full gear to participate!

Fire Fighter play

What does the future hold for #4?

Love #5 sharing his thumb with Miss A

Brothers.......minus one. Hey, it's hard to get everyone together!

Busy Boys

2011-01-10T11:40:00.003-06:00

Do any of you have a busy boy(or girl) in your life? I've got some, one in particular has trouble harnessing his energy(this is the 4 year old). Had an interesting day in Church yesterday. I've been keeping him upstairs about half the service and then letting him go 'help' his brother in the nursery the rest of the time. Due to a few factors which were mainly nursery didn't seem to care if he were there and two I could still hear half the service because if he was with me I'd was generally too distracted. Yesterday he stayed upstairs the whole time. I told him he did a great job staying upstairs for the service but talked about how he is going to have to work on being more still. He sat with some friends(adult friends not children) and came and visited me a few times. But did many laps around the sanctuary. Like I said lots of energy! The thing is, do you realize many people learn this way? Towards the end of service the Pastor is giving a side story and I guess #4 asks a question. I hear Pastor say "no that's ok, go ahead with your questions." So #4 proceeds to ask and it is directly related to what Pastor had been talking about! and Pastor repeats it and answers it for all to hear. I was just overjoyed thinking well he may be running around(and I realize that can be very distracting) but at least he is listening to the message!
So if you have a busy child, do you have any tips for helping them to be still in public venues? At home we can do jumping jacks and recite math facts or stand on our head and recite poetry but what how do you handle when you are out and about?

********
Two thoughts from Our Daily Bread today.

A life of obedience may not be easy, but it will be blessed(Luke 11:28) ~Julie Ackerman Link

You don't need to know where you're going if you know God is leading.

Camping too

2011-01-05T01:59:00.004-06:00

Bike time! My kids love bikes, probably because we don't own any! Yes, I'm the mean mom that says since we have no garage(storage) and live on a mountain(steep hill) we can not have bikes at this time. Sorry kids, I might let you hang from trees but coasting down a steep hill on a busy road is where I draw the line! So the kids were thrilled that we rented bikes one day. #1 & #2 have picked up bike riding skill from borrowing strangers bikes at the park(no one is a stranger long around my kids-have no idea where they got that gene from!) #3 has only ever ridden a bike with training wheels but we rented one for him as well. He did pretty well, going on his own for a bits at a time. #1 must have been super fast on his bike since I wasn't able to capture him on film!

If the kids stopped #5 would run up to them. He wanted to ride too and would throw a fit if they left without him. #2 would pick him up on the bike and bring him to the cabin if I wasn't watching close enough!

The one who started it all. Can you tell by the stance how much attitude she has? Strike a pose, there's nothing to it

And this one, can you see the swagger in his walk? Yes, I know he's standing still but the way he's standing, does it suggest swagger in his walk or am I just use to how he walks? Notice he is wearing his rain jacket so he won't get wet but he couldn't resist the puddles and his shorts are wet from jumping in them!

#3 wanted in on the action as well. Here he is in the 'take me as I am' pose.

Group shot after tee time

Camping

2011-01-04T23:48:00.008-06:00

The little mister here. Mom, can you find me? Cheeeeeeese.

We spent a few days camping after Christmas. I had the fore site to rent a cabin which was although a little harder on the pocket book was a wise choice with the rain. The rain did not stop our fun but rain in a tent might have stopped my fun!

Having fun in the sand one fine morning.

Having a little game of tag after breakfast.

Oh, look they are all in the picture........and how did I make it underline?

Looking at these pictures made me a little sad. We are going to miss our home here.

Announcement

2011-01-03T23:36:00.005-06:00

A girl and her doll. She was so very happy to find this waiting for her on Christmas day!

#4 wasn't sure what to think of the glasses one of his siblings got for him!

Love this boys smile! He still has one more loose tooth to go:)

The big news around here is that we are moving! The kids and I are headed to the Show-Me State in a couple short weeks. Yes, back to the land of winter. What O What will we do? Kids are really looking forward to this new adventure. Hoping they will enjoy the cold as much as they think they will;) In the meantime I'm trying to prepare our stuff to move. Little one thinks all this 'moving cleaning' is great fun.

end of the day or part 3

2010-12-30T00:43:00.003-06:00

We went to a friend's home for Christmas dinner. While there #5 spotted these lovely Lightening McQueen slippers and did not easily let them go. He has a love for shoes these days and car shoes are apparently even better!
You can see #3 and part of a blue object. That is a blue tub and all the kiddos took turns playing in and rolling around in it. It is usually used to hold toys in that house but if you are looking for a good gift for children 6 and under I would say a large tub would be a big hit!

As soon as we arrived #2 very happily took over baby care for a bit. She was quite smitten with baby L!

Thanks for having us over! It was good to see you again:)

Christmas Day Part 2

2010-12-28T21:35:00.009-06:00

What a beautiful, sunny day. As per our tradition out here we have to spend some time at the beach!

We had some swim play.

Played with the sunscreen bottles.

Told Grammy 'Merry Christmas!' and applied sunscreen. Gotta keep up on our multitasking skills!

And played a little football(or at least catch with the football).

A wonderful way to spend the day!

How we spent our Christmas, Part 1

2010-12-26T01:23:00.004-06:00

After things were opened there was much lego making to be done. #3 was taking a break to dig into his stocking for some treats(we got fruit and chocolate as it's all about balance, no?) Like #1's head band? His sister got it for him along with matching wrist bands which he wore ALL day. Who woulda thought that would be a hit? My kids spoiled me, due to such a wonderful Awana store where they spent their hard earned awana bucks on gifts for their family. I received 2 sets of earrings, a necklace, notepads, a pen, a beautiful slice of rock that I have setting in my window sill now and probably something I'm forgetting. They were very thoughtful in the gifts they picked out for each other too. Always nice to see that they are thinking good thoughts toward each other.

Of course the best gift is always the unexpected. Like say the box things come in!
and just because I like this silly expression.

#4 would open a gift and say with such sweetness "It's what I always wanted" That is until I tried to capture this on film. But while I can't share with you his sweet 4 year old voice sounding so thankful and sweet I did get one of his brother that's almost as good.

Don't you love the happiness in his voice and the smile over pencils?

Highlights from the week

2010-12-25T01:02:00.003-06:00

I love this picture because #5 climbed right up on #1's lap. Not sure if I've seen that before. Sweet brotherly love:)

A blurry picture of a treat for the neighbor. Cinnamon ornament and chocolate pretzels.

#3 Lost another tooth..currently has 2 gone and 2 more loose. Love his smile. Here is the note he wrote for me; I guess he thinks I'm forgetful or something because he makes these signs for the table and they usually have the pipe cleaners standing straight up to catch my attention. It says"Mom dont frgot my tooth" and the tooth is taped on it.

Work Party

2010-12-18T02:32:00.005-06:00

I was asked out on a date...... to go to James' Christmas party for work. No prizes were won by us but did have a good night visiting with some friends. Couldn't decide which picture I liked best and thought it be fun to post a few:)

love the laughter

there is a flower peeking out from behind me

and can I just say how much fun I'm having borrowing clothes and jewelry and stuff from my ladies out here! This happens to be my dress but most of the jewels(and I realize you can't see most in these pictures) are borrowed.....and I have many things in my closet that are on loan. It's so fun being a woman!! :D

Finding Joy

2010-12-17T14:43:00.004-06:00

A friend was watching my children yesterday and when I picked them up she says, "I'd forgotten how this age(17 months) get excited about everything." What a lesson to us, to find Joy in the little things!

We had some yogurt and berries this morning. Little guy found a lot of Joy in the berries!

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

My daughter and I went to a Christmas Party last night. What a great time!

before the party

Mom-eeee

2010-12-07T16:11:00.003-06:00

Yes that is what my youngest says over and over and over again. Some new words would be nice ;)
Oh, but I will be careful what I wish for.
I was cooking supper yesterday and he reaches up like he wants a drink so I hand him his cup. He looks at it and hands it back to me with a look on his face. I call him silly then realize what is going on. I was making Broccoli Soup. It was at the point that I had it in the blender to puree it. But to #5, well he is most familiar with me making fruit smoothies in the blender so that was why he was reaching up for the cup-thought he was getting a smoothie! Love that kid and he made me laugh! He did eat his soup and didn't seem the least bit disgruntled that it wasn't a smoothie :D

Romans & Snow??

2010-12-06T19:16:00.003-06:00

We had a Roman Feast as we finished up our study of that time. A quick blur to capture that time. By this time of the evening I had redone everyone's attire about a zillion times and most had abandoned there togos;) #4 decided he was emperor and wore the red robe and a crown for most of the night.

Winter Wonderland 5 at church; kids had a blast. Didn't really take too many pictures because I was too busy talking story. At church Sunday they said they gave 350 bags out to children-what a turn out!!

"Hey, this stuff is pretty cool!" He loved standing on the edge and moving the snow around.

#3 working hard at creating a cookie Christmas tree.

#5 on snow

#5 touching snow

2010-11-28T22:46:00.004-06:00

Thanksgiving morning we spent cooking and rocking the house. Our youngest rocker got a little sleepy...fyi it's a little hard to drum and having baby hanging on leg, sitting in lap etc. So the dad tried an old trick. At first it didn't look like it would work because little bit decided he wanted to try to play too.

But within minutes the little guy fell right asleep!

And I was even able to transfer him right to bed without him waking:)

We spent the morning dancing today. The first song felt like a total flop; yikes guess the Lord felt we(I) needed to be a little humbled.
#4 decided to come out after the song was over and walk in with us. OK not a big deal. I didn't dance the second song but #2 did. Beautiful! The last song I was out there again. Gave baby and #4 a snack thinking they'd be fine while I danced. Hmm, not too far into the song #4 comes out and is hugging my legs saying "mom I need a kiss". Luckily I wasn't too distracted by this as it is often I how practice-with someone around my legs or on my back(Mom's are persistent!) Not sure how long he was out there but did he wander off after a bit. Someone in the audience told me after that they loved that my child was pulling on my skirt in the middle of things.....just keeping it real I guess.:) Though I'm thinking I will make sure I have a mother's helper with me next time we dance there:D

Guess it's back to the regular schedule this week. Though I'm wondering if that's like saying you are normal? What is normal? What is regular? It is an appointment filled week! Should keep things busy and crazy which I suppose is the norm around here. Hope you and yours had a wonderful Thanksgiving!

When Bedlam Strikes, You Have a Choice…

2010-11-23T20:26:00.001-06:00

I found myself nodding along to this post. I think we can all relate:)

When Bedlam Strikes, You Have a Choice…

2010-11-23T13:53:00.005-06:00

It's been a bit of a break. I took a little trip to the mainland and had a great time in Dallas with my girls. Over 1300 military wives(probably some active duty ladies too-don't want to leave them out!) came together for an international conference. All of us are involved in a bible study called PWOC or Protestant Women of the Chapel(If you are near a military base call the chapel and see if they have a group!). Priscilla Shirer was the main speaker and Kari Jobe the worship leader. Great ladies, bringing God's truth forward. Many workshops to go to(Point of Grace held one and had a concert too!) and different Chaplains spoke over the weekend and just some great girl time. Reconnecting with ladies that have moved to other posts and strengthening friendships. I heard from many ladies how their husbands had greater appreciation for what they do after having to do it themselves while the wives were away. Bonus!
Maybe I'll dive into somethings I learned over the weekend but for now I am diving back into life. Kids missed me bunches, they are so sweet! Trying to get back into our school routine here. Which is always a challenge after a change of pace but add sick kids in the mix and well, I've decided to just change the schedule up a bit and not worry about sticking to Plan A.

#2 Danced "Give Thanks" on Sunday. I complimented her because she had a great big smile the whole time she danced. She said. "That's because Daddy came and he smiled at me the whole time and it made it easy for me to smile."
Awwww

A new hat from the trip. Each kid wears it a different way-that's what makes them unique!

#4 wanted his picture too.

Sadly I once again have the old camera. It takes a few ok pictures but then goes back to the hazy glow:( Guess a new camera is on my wish list:D

This and That

2010-11-08T15:38:00.004-06:00

Kids

#3 comes up to me. "Mom my tooth is really loose. I didn't pull on #4 pants(with my mouth) to make my tooth loose."
Hmm, won't of guessed that's how it got looser if you hadn't mentioned it. LOL

*updated to add-he pulled said tooth out at nap time and has written a huge note to remind me his tooth is on the counter tonight.

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I am going to a conference this week. So excited! It's for PWOCI, click on the link and you can find out who the keynote speaker is and a bit more. Last week we signed up for some workshops and I do know I got into one that was a first choice. Received an email today telling the name of the song we'd be learning. Guesses on what I'll be doing? Shouldn't be too hard to figure out. Yes, I am going to a dance class. The name of the class is Worship Our King Through Dance. I really enjoy the Praise & Worship Hula out here and thought it'd be fun to see how others worship through dance too. Name of the song we'll be learning is The Motions by Matthew West.

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Oh fashion guru I am not. I also live in sandals out here. Don't even have any tennis shoes since my last pair bit the dust. So here I am going to the cold mainland in slippers. A friend talked me into getting some boots. So I went out got some awesome black boots with heels that zip of the side.....
Well tried them on today with a long blue jean skirt and just wasn't feeling it. Called my daughter in to see what she thought and she didn't like the look either.
So ladies I will need your help this week. Not sure if the look is just off or it's just me not use to the look on myself;) I'll play around with some other combinations as time permits...otherwise it'll just be me and my cold toesies this week!

Dancing for Him

2010-11-01T10:51:00.004-05:00

or Hula no ke Akua

My oldest was on photo duty yesterday. It was a job he took on with relish; though I have to admit I was afraid he'd run the battery out before he got any shots of us dancing!

This one gives you an idea of some of the conditions of our surroundings. When we dance here we have people on all sides of us and some standing on hotel balconies to watch. It's really rather odd...

This was when we were running through "Salt and Light". It's always different to dance in the sand and bright sun, the balance is totally different. As you can tell by the expressions one of the guys that runs the service here was talking to us and totally distracting us! The actual performance went much smoother;)

The boy took several candid shots. It cracked me up to see what he took.
But seriously don't these haiku's make us look a bit like sheep dogs with the hidden eyes? :D Actually now that I look at it my head piece looks a little low in the back too :P

Dancing "I Can Sing of Your Love Forever"

The ladies and keiki of the halau who danced today.

Luau time

2010-10-26T19:53:00.005-05:00

The kids and I went the Hale Koa Luau last night.
My favorite luau is still the PCC-better food and better seating in my opinion. I had to stand to see the show at the Hale Koa but a bonus of the show last night was the boys who had a lot of energy could run on the grass and play and not distract others.

With all their creations.

My kung fu fighter;)

Trying their hand at some activities.

Outdoors

2010-10-25T16:04:00.002-05:00

We visited one of our favorite places a few weeks ago. Ho'omaluhia Botanical Gardens.

Just a few pictures to share.

The oldest found something to sketch in his nature journal.

#3 was impressed with the size of this leaf.

#2 thought it made a great umbrella.

I have been missing lately as I can't decide whether to keep up with the blog or not. Things around the home are going a little crazy which has me undecided. But I was at a conference this weekend and one of the workshops I took was about blogging...which has me interested once again;) So time to reevaluate!

Air show out takes

2010-10-04T01:25:00.004-05:00

A week or two ago we went to an airshow. The kids had a great time until I made them sit on the Hot, Sunny, Black top to watch my favorite part : The Blue Angels!

Our little pilots.....

If we don't fly this one we could ride in the back.

Going for a ride with Civil Air Patrol?

The first plane we took a picture of because #3 loved the little plane!

I guess the little one lucked out with not one picture of him.....we will have to remedy that soon!

Birthday girl at the beach

2010-09-26T01:12:00.004-05:00

From Thursday:

Our lovely birthday girl at the end of the day! Like the sun kissed eyes?

Proof that I was actually there...and that I leave the house in things that don't match!

Love this!

It's crab hunting time!!

Just a link to share

2010-09-21T22:05:00.003-05:00

Celebrating the man's birthday today. Working on a yummy dinner of Parmesan Chicken on a bed of noodles and green beans(decided it was too hot today to bake french bread to go with). The kids helped me make German Chocolate Cake last night and we have French Vanilla ice cream to go with. A good eating day here!

Now on to the post to share. A Marriage Post on Women Living Well Blog. All her points are excellent verses to live by. They have definitely been on my heart/mind often.

CPO in the house

2010-09-20T13:25:00.006-05:00

Last week James stepped up the ladder a bit and got promoted. We are so happy for him!
We had our first Khaki Ball to go to over the weekend.

We had our pictures taken there. I think the cameraman actually got him to smile so can't wait to get those pictures and see! ;)

They had the newbies sing their favorite song Anchor's Aweigh.

You really felt a sense of kinship in the room as all stood and they sang with pride.

sick humor

2010-09-10T12:29:00.004-05:00

or humor that only parents that have btdt can understand. You all know how kids will come to your room in the middle of the night and ask if they can go potty...even though the bathroom is right next to their door. Well for the first time last night I had a kid come to my room to tell me he had to barf. Sweet thing walked all the way around my room to my side of the bed and preceded to tell me by emptying the contents of his stomach. Of course he did manage to partially hit a barf bucket that one of the kids had brought to me a few days ago when I wasn't feeling well(they also made me the sweetest get well cards all on their own!) So maybe his thoughts were only on 'must get to the bucket'. Regardless of the fact that a toilet was much closer to his room. Ah, yes the joys of motherhood....really you can only laugh...

Making your own cold cereal

2010-09-10T00:29:00.003-05:00

Thought of making your own cold cereal? here is part one and part two from the healthy home economist. Very interesting!

We've been playing pass around the sickness here-not as much fun as it sounds! Hoping the sick days will stay behind us for awhile:)

Learning how to use the pu'ili in my hula class. This will truly test my coordination abilities!! We are dancing with the pu'ili to this song.

blocks, shoes & a recipe

2010-08-28T01:18:00.005-05:00

This one has been building blocks and trains most of the week and asked me to capture his towers. #3 is loving school, although I think that's about to slow down a bit as we are starting to tackle long vowels. A bit more tricky for him with all the rules.

His first sneakers! He is getting in several molars in right now. Poor boy-it's not an easy thing!

I have been trying to make my own salad dressing for awhile. The hardest thing about it is remembering to make it before I want to use it because they are better after being mixed up for awhile. The latest flavor is French Dressing. It receives a big thumbs up from us!

School days 2010-2011

2010-08-10T15:48:00.005-05:00

August 9 was our first day of school for the year. What a start it was! Can't have an ordinary quiet day around here. Nope, we'll start our first day off with a visit to the dentist-that counts as a field trip right?
Well, it was a scheduled visit and I was rather happy that we made it to our appointment on time. Have had trouble leaving the house on time lately. Here's a preview of how the day started. I consider myself a pretty low maintenance kinda gal and the kids give me plenty of reason to stay that way! I had warmed my curling iron up and when I went in to fix the hair I was followed by the younger three boys. Older two of that crew found an extra curling iron and hair dryer and decided they made good weapons and were shooting each other. The youngest we were all doing our best to keep out of the toilet and not tear all the toilet paper up-fun times! :) All the while I'm wondering if my iron is broken because it isn't getting hot; in fact it's getting cooler. Strange, but it is old so maybe it's time is up? Then I receive a flash of insight. We have a fuse box in the bathroom and #3 had open it and ran his hand across the switches when we first got in. Now since the light hadn't gone out I didn't think he actually flipped anything but the lights and outlet aren't on the same switch. Yes- that is exactly what he has done. Of course by the time I figure this out my time in the bathroom is over so hair is done, though not exactly curled.
On to the dentist we go. Overall a great visit. Myself and 4 kids all got our teeth cleaned and no one turned into a wild animal.
Now for some reason they took like 20 pictures(x-rays) of my teeth. I heard blah blah xrays ok? Apparently the blah blah was telling me they were going to take more then usual, why I don't know and didn't ask because my mind is one getting in and out. Though when the dentist talked to my later she was telling me how good & healthy my teeth were so maybe it was because they were sure there had to be a problem somewhere, LOL. Hope most of the kids teeth have the healthy teeth gene, straight teeth aren't in our vocabulary :D
Anyway after the pictures it is time for teeth cleaning, which went well if you don't mind water all over your face. The hygienist completely sprayed my face, guess he was trying to wake me up :P (It was cool and refreshing!) He was apologetic about it and dried me off, I was actually laughing on the inside thinking this only happens to me and I'm so happy I'm not dripping make up right now :D
After the dentist we decided to go home(had planned to take the kids out to a park after the dentist to get rid of some energy but they were excited for school). All I can say after the first day is this is a challenge;)

First Day of School. 5th Grade, 3rd Grade and Kindergarten. 4 and 1 Years old

After this they all took turns being goofy.

We have already had meltdowns. Of course one of those meltdowns, then begged to do more school. Make up your mind! He didn't want to put the tail on a lowercase a, but is so eager to be in school. So we will have to balance the fine motor skills with lots of other stuff he loves. Now the older one was melting down before school even started-talk about a challenge! But lots of fun between all of the challenges. Yesterday I dressed up as a Roman tutor, which the kids thought was a riot. (We are studying Rome to Reformation this year)

Today #3 & 4 made some clay pots. (We had been talking about how scrolls were kept in them)
Sometimes flour happens...and this was after they deemed it cleaned up.

Phase one of the pots. They made lids for them and #4 made his into a pizza...inedible of course.

#2 pretending to work hard.

#1, yep he certainly looks serious at work.

#4 has really been into painting lately. He abandoned this work of art to join us in the clay making.

#5 took a great morning nap today. Very helpful for our school day!

weekend bits

2010-08-08T02:25:00.004-05:00

What do you do when it's sweltering hot outside(and thus inside)? Make alien blood of course! They also made some glow dough. This was #1's idea but it looks a bit like it got taken over by someone else.

Today we stopped by a Mango festival thing(the name escapes me). The kids were impressed by this edible display......explaining that we weren't to eat it was over some of there heads, so had to distract by quickly going down the hall.

A snack break in the shade brought some relief to the hot day.

Sleepy time

2010-08-04T12:03:00.004-05:00

After a weekend of camping we came home Monday a little off schedule. Someone didn't want to take a morning nap. So we are eating lunch(leftover waffle for him). I was in the kitchen working on some bread for dinner when #4 comes in "Mommy #5 is asleep" so I go out to take a peek and why yes he was! Never had such an easy time of getting him to sleep :) When I was getting him out of the chair to put to bed I laughed even harder as I realized he had fallen asleep while chewing food-had to pull that out of his mouth. So it wasn't even that he had finished eating then decided to snooze, no he really fell asleep while eating! LOL

Here is a picture of the bright eyed wonder from the camping weekend.

The July brothers

2010-07-28T00:14:00.006-05:00

Some of #1's birthday activities included some game playing.

Dropping parachute men from the deck.

and of course some birthday cake! Following the June birthday brothers he asked for ice cream cake too. This time we made it ourselves-very yummy!

*Now prepare yourself for some red eye*

We went to check out some dinosaurs today. They still made #4 a little nervous but he didn't bury his head in my arms this time!

The July birthday boys with their momma.

#5 checking out his new ride.

Now onto some baby cake pictures.

Not sure what happened to his candle here.

Wasn't all that interested in the cupcake. Played with the frosting and started decorating his tray. Then would pick pieces of cake off and hand them to his sister.

Just look at this face!

This is his brother's cake. #5 really liked the ice cream cake; maybe we should have made him one too! :)

kids say

2010-07-21T16:19:00.004-05:00

Two of the funny things the kids have said since they got back from a summer visiting the grandparnets.

1. Right after they got home. "When can we go to the library?" I heart my booking loving kids.

2. The incredible expression on my daughter's face as she asked. "How did you clean the whole house by yourself?" Very hard not to laugh out loud as she tried to wrap that idea around her brain. Yes my dear I did...and yes now that everyone's home they will pitch in again.

Wonderful to have my chick-a-dee's home again:)

songs

2010-07-16T15:36:00.002-05:00

Two songs our halau is learning now.

I Could Sing of Your Love Forever

and

Only You by Natalie Grant

*note I couldn't find a version by Natalie Grant on you tube so here are the lyrics

Only You could string a strand of stars.
Like dewdrops in the sand.
Only You could bring my Heart to life,
With just a touch of Your hand!
Only You could be the flame that puts,
The lovelight in my eyes.
You can take the wrong in me,
And somehow make it right!

You're the Light that I live by,
You're the space where my soul flies.
You're the breath that I breathe.
You're the dream that sets me free!
So much more than I imagined,
Your love has made me see,
Only You could be the miracle in me!

Only You could make Your promise new,
With every day that You give.
Only You could make me love You more,
With every day that I live.
Only You possess the gentleness,
That brings me to my knees.
Your love is the melody,
That my heart longs to sing!

You're the Light that I live by,
You're the space where my soul flies.
You're the breath that I breathe.
You're the dream that sets me free!
So much more than I imagined,
Your love has made me see,
Only You could be the miracle in me!

You're the Soul in my heart's cry!
You're the dawn in my dark eyes!
Every beat of my heart,
You are the end,
You're the start!

You're the Light that I live by,
You're the space where my soul flies.
You're the breath that I breathe.
You're the dream that sets me free!
So much more than I imagined,
Your love has made me see,
Only You could be the miracle in me!

July 4th

2010-07-05T12:14:00.004-05:00

Some of the ships in the harbor for RIM/PAC. This is about the area we viewed the fireworks. Little bit fell asleep right before the fireworks started and managed to sleep right through them!

A few shots from the car show.

Cars from the 'rust bucket' club. So fun to see!

*cough* Here is my choice of car.

A familiar car to us. So interesting to see and hear the comments others have about your ride. Fun to watch (unless of course they were *gasp* touching the car!)

He entertained us. He'd stand up and pretend to try to walk but just fall down(laughing all the while). It was all fun and games until he fell to close to the wall. Yep, he wasn't too happy about that one.

Doing the bear crawl.

There was a baby

2010-07-01T14:38:00.007-05:00

who was so cute...ok, ok I'm totally bias but we do often get told we make gorgeous babies and how like Gerber babies they are etc and so forth ;)

Our baby will turn one towards the end of next month.`Yes people, they do grow so fast!

A new trick he learned on vacation. Standing!

Since we got back home he's been practicing walking. Taking a few steps here and there when you are least likely to guess.

Today we have a 4 year old!

2010-06-25T11:36:00.009-05:00

June & July and September are big birthday months around here. Today we celebrate #4's Birthday and he turns 4! He is away with grandparents today, was asking me if I could come for cake later. Didn't quite understand why I couldn't get on the plane and be there for cake! Ok, tear my heart a little! But I know he'll have a fun day regardless of my being there.

Fishing

Just swinging

Snake skin (can you tell he LOVES this shirt?)

Happy Birthday my sweet, bug loving boy!

Our six year old

2010-06-24T21:13:00.005-05:00

He turned six on June 6th. A fun day spent with most of the family.

Riding his cousins bike.

Checking out a train.

Fun at the creek.

2010-05-28T20:15:00.002-05:00

We've been busy as a bee this week! We finished up school last week and I thought we'd have a little calm before we head to vacation but alas, that was not the case. Oh well I guess we got through it and are looking forward to the long, fun-filled weekend! Started off with a work picnic today. I think the kids managed to jump(bounce house) the whole time we were there! James played some ball and joined me in the stitches department; I'm sure he wouldn't recommend catching the ball with your knee ;) He started playing softball again a few weeks ago and the kids talk about it all-the-time. So I talked to my parents and they've made arrangements for the older 3 to play ball this summer. The older 4 are going to spend much of the summer in grandparent land-they are so looking forward to it!!

Yesterday we came home to the trees being trimmed around the house. I couldn't have planned it any better. They had finished trimming the tree limbs close to the house, so the kids were able sit on the back deck and watch the action. It kept them entertained for quite awhile. I mean climbing trees and cutting limbs, moving buckets on trucks...what more could a boy ask for?

I leave you with 2 blog links today.

Raw milk. What do you know about it? I've never had it but read alot about it. Find it crazy that it's illegal to sell in some states. Here's a recent thing going on in court about raw milk. This line should get you going: "Plaintiffs do not have a fundamental right to obtain any food they wish" Really, the government is going there.

25 Marriage tips ;)

Pictures of our crew

2010-05-10T21:22:00.002-05:00

It has taken me all day to gather these pictures together. Want to get them up before I lose them. Hope everyone had a great weekend!

Freedom to Parent

2010-05-07T11:37:00.005-05:00

Yesterday was the National Day of Prayer, which is of itself a topic as it's there are people trying to say that it is unconstitutional. My point in bringing it up is that it is a time for Americans to come together and pray for our country. Something we should be doing everyday(Pray without ceasing. 1 Thessalonians 5:17) What to pray about? Just look at our world, there are so many things! Our government is one of them, something that effects our daily lives. Pray about/for our elected officials and became involved, voice your opinion! In alot of ways we, as a country seem to be leaving our roots. This is not a good thing. We need to look at other countries and see what is happening to them. Is this really where we want to go as well?
Take a look at this case in Sweden for example. Police 'nab' a 7 year old homeschooler
What? You don't home school? That's not the point. What gives the government the right to decide how you parent? I am not talking about abusive situations here, that is a whole other ball game. I am talking about loving parents who are doing what they believe is best for their child. Are we raising our children or is the government? Who has the best interest of the child in mind? One of the articles I read today talked about creating a "cookie cutter child". 'Robots' are easier to control then free spirited thinkers. Do we want to live in a country where we have no free will to think and dream? Think it couldn't happen here? Oh, but if I only had time to link cases that have happened here, on our own soil! Open your eyes and make sure your voice is heard(& do everything with/in prayer!). Don't assume that everyone has your best interest at heart. Other articles about this family: This one has a video at the end with more more information to help them. Again, more info on when the case will be heard and more info to help the family.

Parental Rights

2010-05-04T11:59:00.003-05:00

If this is a topic that you don't agree with, feel free to skip this post. Though I pray you will change your mind.

I received an email from Parental Rights Org today and imagine my surprise when I opened up the video and saw someone I know! Well, I know his parents a bit better then this young man as he as been off to college most of the time I have known his family. I thought it was quite funny how you never know who you'll run into! ;)

I hope you'll watch this video and think about what he says.

Cookie Time

2010-05-03T22:04:00.004-05:00

I had a craving for cookies, couldn't decide what kind. Outta chocolate so thought I'd look in a recipe book for some inspiration. Ended up making some from a cook book my grandma gave me for my birthday the year I graduated high school. I was looking at the front of the book right before I started to post this and noticed my grandma got the book the year I was born. So it's been around awhile ;)

From The Cookie Jar

Pineapple-Raisin Cookies

1 cup firmly packed golden brown sugar
1/2 cup soft butter
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup raisins
3/4 cup canned crushed pineapple, undrained
2 cups flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped walnuts(optional)

1. Combine brown sugar, butter, egg and vanilla extract in mixing bowl Beat until fluffy.
2. Add raisins and pineapple; mix thoroughly.
2. Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; add to the creamed mixture and mix well. Stir in nuts.
4. Drop the mixture by spoonfuls 2 inches apart on greased cookie sheets.
5. Bake at 375F 12-15 minutes.
makes about 4 dozen cookies

We made 2 batches today-both yummy. The first batch was nice and fluffy the second one not so much. Though that was probably due to human error as by the second batch things get kind of crazy around here with babies fussy and kids impatient to try out the cookies-LOL!
Also I probably made mine bigger than the recipe called for so had to cook them a little longer.

It's a nice day for a drive

2010-04-17T17:25:00.002-05:00

Enjoying the nice countryside.

Mountain view with lots of light.

mountain view with grumpy old man. :p

Fun country drive!

*all pictures and driving were from last weekend*

Randomness from the house
Two boys got hair cuts this week. They asked to be bald. They were mistaken for twins at the store yesterday. #3 thinks he still has too much hair and asked me to cut some more. We will have to get pictures this week of the bald blondies.

#5 now has 5 teeth, yes he will be 9 months old on the 27th and looks like he may have 6 teeth by then. Some days we call him Sir Drools a lot.

#2 is very determined to buy an ipod. She is saving her money, the kids get $4 a month(when I remember!) but she has declared no more foolish spending-she has a goal in mind!
I wonder how it is that I teach my kids English when I write a sentence like that above. How many commas and dash marks and such are really legal?
Just got our testing scores back and they did well as usual. I find it rather ironic that the subjects that I feel we spend the least time in are the subjects they do best in. Maybe a lesson is to be learned here?

#2

2010-04-10T16:14:00.006-05:00

Last Sunday on my birthday and Easter #2 publicly declared her acceptance of Jesus as her personal Lord and Savior and was baptised.

Here she is with her Dad and Pastor Peter.

and coming up from being dunked.....

(Here's where I would love to place an after picture-unfortunately it seems none were taken the rest of the day!)
We're so happy for you #2!

2010-04-06T22:46:00.003-05:00

Happy Easter Morning to you! (shh, I'm not behind at all!)

It was a windy and rainy day...the wind picked up for this shot.

Don't you love the selection of footwear!

Easter, as Described by Screwtape (C.S. Lewis)

2010-04-04T01:51:00.001-05:00

Easter, as Described by Screwtape (C.S. Lewis)

Posted using ShareThis

2010-04-01T12:12:00.004-05:00

A friend of mine start a blog! I'm so excited so thought I'd share

Another kid funny. The older kids and I have talked about fasting lately in relation to Easter. I overheard a conversation between them the other day. They were talking about different things they were fasting from and giving ideas to each other. Then I heard my daughter say 'I wish we could fast from school.' LOL! Yeah, nice try kiddo!

Pony Rides

2010-03-22T22:30:00.002-05:00

Our church puts on a big Easter celebration for the community every year. The only pictures I took were of the pony ride. All the kids were thrilled to ride the ponies and told everyone that their Grammy had horses that they'd get to see this summer.

stand up

2010-03-16T01:43:00.002-05:00

Our little guy is pulling himself up on everything these days. He also has another tooth coming in. 7 1/2 months is how long he's been with us.

Our day at the 'circus'

2010-03-13T12:37:00.004-06:00

A circus exhibit at the museum. Kids were pretty wild about it.

High wire act. #1 didn't find his balance as easily as he thought.

Little miss flew up and down the wire.

#1 did many flips on this.

Took #2 a few tries to figure out how to flip

All wanted a picture with mr. stone man

menu plans

2010-03-08T21:17:00.003-06:00

I don't know about you but I love to look at other peoples ideas about what to eat. I'm big on stocking up(the few trips the better!) and making ahead. Last week I browned up all the ground meat I'll need for the next month. Today and tomorrow are baking days-made a batch of butterhorn rolls and 2 loaves of french bread today. Tomorrow making hamburger buns and pumpkin bread. I usually try to premake a couple meals that I can pull out on busy day too. This helps us eat better(not so tempting to fast food and is healthier for us!) and helps my sanity in trying to get a meal together with a little more speed.

Anyway since my mom had asked for meal ideas for when we visit next thought I'd go ahead and post what's on the menu for the next 2 weeks.

Breakfast
Steel cut oats
Quinoa
Brown Rice (all three of these are served with milk and fruit)
pancakes/waffles with bacon and juice
muffins or pumpkin bread with yogurt
Egg casserole with fruit

Lunch- not big on lunch planning usually leftovers or PB & J
leftovers
pb & j or lunch meat sandwich with veggies
humus and veggies
guacamole with chips and fruit smoothie
salmon turnovers and fruit or veggie
mac & cheese with hot dogs/sausage

Dinner
Roast, potatoes, carrots, green beans, apple sauce and rolls

Taco salad

Chicken soup and rolls

Chicken & rice casserole, apple sauce

Chili Mac and Peas

Pizza with salad or fruit(usually have this on Friday nights)

Pasta with white sauce, veggie and bread

Grill burgers, coleslaw and potato salad

Beef Stroganoff with peas and apple sauce

Tamale pie with salad and fruit

Taco soup

Snacks - don't always have but options are:
chips and salsa
smoothie
popcorn
string cheese
homemade cookies(love to eat but not often inspired to bake!)

creative writing

2010-03-02T13:20:00.006-06:00

Fridays are usually days that the older two write letters to whom ever their heart desires. This past week we have been reading some Psalms so instead of our usual letter writing they were asked to write their own Psalm. So I have my daughters to share. Would be happy to share my son's as well but he has misplaced it. I try my best to organize the boy and I have hopes that all my hard work will some day pay off in that area.....until then.

Oh thank you Lord
that we have games

Oh thank you Lord
that I have a family

Oh thank you Lord
that I have four brothers

Oh thank you Lord
that I have a Bible

Oh thank you Lord
that I have you!!!

by #2
age 8
2/26/10

Here is a song I wanted to add....it's been stuck in my head all week.

painting wars

2010-02-28T01:02:00.005-06:00

Left with the warning "only paint on the paper" I looked up from helping the older kids with something to see the paint brushes flying at each other.
I guess they were using some restraint as they only got each others back. #4 was a disaster when finished as he ended up painting with his hand. But they had fun and the paint didn't end up on anything inside so all is good.

A beautiful visitor we had today.

picture fun

2010-02-23T18:09:00.006-06:00

James brought home a new camera so I took a closer look at it today.

#1 took some time from a good book to smile for us.

First pictures I took.....love the blue eyes and lips and teeth and thighs! Baby's are so sweet!

Some that James took on Saturday.

The Busy Boy

The Cuddle Boy

The Drool Boy

Goofy Girl

news from the homefront

2010-02-23T08:57:00.005-06:00

Biggest news is Daddy's home!! Friday was a long day with the question 'Can we go get Dad now?' popping up constantly. Kinda like the kids asking 'are we there yet' as soon as you leave the driveway. But we made it through the day and he actually arrived an 1/2 hour early!!
Had a nice weekend getting reacquainted and a lovely Sunday afternoon at the beach. Ah, just going to the beach and soaking up the sun, the blue waves and white sand......soooooo relaxing.

Alas, the man had sad news about the computer...it is truly toast. Computer shopping is in the works.

Planning to do some baking with the little kids today. Have to work on keeping them fully engaged. Yesterday they were playing nicely downstairs, or so I thought. When I checked on them they had water in every play kitchen item that they could find. #4 and the carpet were soaked! Not sure if they were trying to have tea or create a water park;)