Abundantly Blessed

Princess Flora

2012-01-30T09:50:00.000-08:00

There once was a little princess who went by the name of Flora.

Even Princesses get scraped knees.

Princess Flora was 5 and her mama and daddy had been looking for a special bed for her for a while.

One day they found a headboard that just said " I am a bed for princess". But it had no frame or foot board.

That was not an issue since the Princess's Daddy was very handy with wood and tools.

Yesterday the bed was ready and the Princess Flora was a very happy indeed.

The End.

33

2012-01-29T13:36:00.000-08:00

Today is Aaron's birthday, we have really been spoiling Daddy all weekend long with getting his birthday present (birthday $ and from me) on Friday. A Remington 30.06. Those of you who are not familiar with guns, it's a hunting rifle. He had some fun with his dad Friday afternoon doing a little target practice.

Friday the kids went birthday shopping for Daddy. Clara knew what she wanted to get him. She even remembered were the gift was in Cabelas.

She got him a pair of pj pants. They are a redish color with black moose all over them.

Flora picked out a new coffee mug with moose on it (because it goes with his pants) and Andrew picked out a throw blanket. They all had a set amount they could spend,and I did have to guide away from a hideous orange plaid shirt that Flora had her eye on, but all in all a total success!. The kids had fun giving him their presents this morning and Aaron has tried out all three.

I made him cinnamon rolls and am making a stew for dinner. We are working this afternoon to get a couple projects DONE!

So, before I go, A birthday in the King family wouldnt be a true birthday if I did not say:

Happy Birthday Aaron! We love you so very much. Thanks for being the husband and Daddy you are! Love, Amber, Clara, Flora and Andrew

Library Day

2012-01-26T10:32:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the bad picture, but my phone is all I had on me, and it's not that great of a picture taker!

Upon prompting we checked out the big library in the town north of us. After our visit yesterday we have decided to make Wednesdays our fun school day. We are already in town for violin lessons for the girls, so why not add the library with story time each week. We got a special library book bag, and came home with 16 books and 2 dvd's. One is a Bill Nye the Science Guy all about storms! Sounded like a perfect thing to watch some time this week for science!

Photo A Day: Jan.23

2012-01-24T08:41:00.000-08:00

Something Old:

Millie is our old Basset Hound. She loves to sleep in the chair but kitty was on there, and he was NOT going to move, so Millie climbed up, very carefully turned around, and laid down. Charlie looks a little worried she was going to sit on him, and surprised that she actually got up. It was so funny to watch!

Sad News

2012-01-23T17:35:00.000-08:00

Just a note to anyone who might not know this....but a 1/2 a cup of coffee dumped over your camera is not a good thing..... I am charging my back up point a shoot camera, and will play catch up again on the photo a day. As soon as I get my Rebal back from the camera ER I will be a happy camper!

Photo A Day: Jan.20 and Some Snow Fun

2012-01-20T19:19:00.000-08:00

Someone You Love

I love this man, with my whole heart.

Snow Fun:

The on lookers. It is rather hard to sled when the herd wants to see what that funny looking thing you are carrying tastes like.

My wet, fluffy mare.

Ace "helping"

Eating snow.

Catching snow flakes!

Icy Rose hips

These pictures are from yesterday, and we had another fun day of snow play today. We are so enjoying some true winter weather after a long stretch of yucky bare ground! :)

Photo A Day: Jan.19

2012-01-19T20:02:00.000-08:00

Photo A Day Challenge: Sweet. What is sweeter then these three faces!

Photo A Day: Jan.18

2012-01-19T13:51:00.000-08:00

Yesterdays challenge was Something You Bought.

Now, I LOVE taking photos, and I love old things so the picture is of my ebay find. A 1920's Kodak No. 2A Folding Camera. It is not in working order, but everything is there and I am married to a very handy guy. I got it for a steal, so this will be the trial run to see if we can get it working again. I would be thrilled if I could actually use it. Apparently you can still get film in specialty camera shops. And even if I can't use it, it's fun to look at :)

Photo A Day: Jan.17

2012-01-17T18:52:00.000-08:00

Today's Photo A Day assignment is water, and while I would love to learn how to capture a drop of actual water, I do not have the proper lens or know how to do that.....SO, you all get some frozen crystals of water. Aka snow.

The town we live in gets wind like you would not believe at times, and today was no exception. We are in the middle of a winter storm warning, and while we have about 3-4 inches (with a foot or so coming), with the wind it causes much deeper drifts and then almost bare patches. I love how the snow blow off the tops of the bricks in this picture, while filling the cracks.

I took this picture with my phone, since my camera battery is deader then a door nail. Sorry for the picture quality.

Photo a Day: Playing Catch-Up

2012-01-16T11:53:00.000-08:00

Our weekend was rather busy, so I am playing catch up today.

You can see the list of challenges here: Photo A Day

Jan 15th, Happiness. Yesterday evening my husband brought me home skinny chocolate (working on keeping up the momentum I have going losing weight -15 lbs since Dec. 1) and 4 lovely primroses, on of my very favorite spring flowers. My marriage makes me happy. With out it, I would not have all I have been blessed with (3 sweet children being a huge one) . My best friend, lover and wonderful father to our sweet children truly makes me happy. There I go getting all sappy...but I am truly blessed!

Jan. 16th: Morning. This is not quite morning, but it was late one night when we went in to go to bed we found Sir Andrew just like this. Totally sweet and cute! :)

Jan. 13 and 14th: In your bag and something you are reading. My Bible. It was in my bag for Sabbath, and I ready it every day.

Six

2012-01-15T12:40:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was a big day. Yesterday we have been holding you in our arms for 6 years now. 6 wonderful, amazing, gifts from God. We can not put into works how proud of you we are. You are incredibly kind, sweet and have a deep love of learning. We are trilled to be seeing your understanding and love of God grow and develop. We are praying that the year 6 is one filled with fun, learning and joy for you! We love you! ~Mama and Daddy

Photo A Day: Jan.12

2012-01-12T09:37:00.000-08:00

Mr. Charlie Kitty Kitty is a keeper, he puts up with a camera in his face.

Today's photo challenge is up close. This was an easy one for me. I love taking close up pictures and am drooling over a macro lens for my camera.

This picture makes me laugh. The kids are used to me getting in their face and taking picture of what ever they are doing. I pointed the camera at Andrew while he was helping Daddy grind coffee and he said, " Not now Mom, not now"...being the sweet mom I am, I got the picture anyhow. He is scowling at me.

You can see the list here: Photo A Day

Making Candles

2012-01-11T18:33:00.000-08:00

The history book we are using with the kids right now is called Americans Kids in History: Colonial Days. In the book we follow a fictional family that would be typical of that time. The book is filled with not only facts about life back then, but also packed full of hands on activities for the kids (and adults) to do. This week we made candles.

Hand dipping 10 candles (two on each string) took about 4 hours. The kids did a far share of the dipping on their set of candles, with Mama and Daddy finishing them. 30-40 dips with about 60 seconds between dipping.

We ate dinner tonight by the light of the candles! And talked about what it would be like back then with no electricity and light from only candles or oil.

We used beeswax and colored it with a few broken crayons.

First six candles drying. The kids and us big ups sure had fun doing this. We also tried our hand at making candle holders, but they were a flop, thanks to not having clay, but fake molding stuff. We will try them again as soon as we get some air drying clay from in town.

Aaron and I really enjoyed making the candles and both would like to get a candle mold and make the candles we use. This was a fun project and we can not wait until next weeks history lesson!

Photo A Day: Jan.11

2012-01-11T13:31:00.000-08:00

Today's Photo A Day assignment is Where You Sleep.

You can find the list here: Photo A Day

I though about making my bed perfectly, with pretty lace edged pillow cases (even though I just changed all of the bed linens two days ago) but then decided to take a picture of it how it was right then. Rumpled after Miss F took a nap, all tucked in cozy.


My sister in law made us the duvet cover for a wedding gift and I just love it.

Ok ok, today is a two photo a day kinda day. I am an avid book reader and this is the pretty beads on the shade of my bed side lamp.

Photo A Day: Jan.10

2012-01-10T11:06:00.000-08:00

Today's challenge is childhood.

You can find the list here: Photo A Day

Something that is a must in our children's life right now...they are on a coloring spree :) So fun!

Photo A Day: Jan.9

2012-01-09T14:16:00.000-08:00

I have been in a slump with picture taking and blogging, and when I ran across a photo challenge

I decided to join in. :)

Today the challenge is Daily Routine

You can find the list here: Photo A Day

Coffee, in one form or another is a must!

Taking care of our critters is also another must. This is the kitten (well his foot) who adopted us today. He is young, shinny and HUNGRY) After a good worming, some good food and lots of love, he will fill out nicely. We have been talking about getting a cat. He just found us. The girls have named him Charlie.

School!

More coffee...we like our coffee.

Clara's First Spelling Test

2012-01-03T13:12:00.000-08:00

Today Clara had her first spelling test, she requested to do it on the chalk board, and thanks to technology, I can just take a picture to put in her records! :) Now, in Idaho state, we do not have to keep records, but we are choosing to do so. We will also be doing yearly testing.

When Clara saw me taking a picture she asked me to put it on here so all the important people(Nana, Grandma, Grandpa, Great grandparents etc) could see it.

Best Husband Ever

2011-12-19T14:01:00.000-08:00

I woke up to these early this morning. Aaron set them on my side of the bed so I would see them first thing. I feel so loved that even when he is gone all night on calls, he still is thinking about me. I feel so special and loved. I am thankful that after almost 7 years of marriage, my man is still wooing me :) Oh, he also got me chocolate to enjoy with my coffee this morning, if all of the above doesn't put a woman in a good mood, I am not sure what will.

Little Miss F is 5!

2011-12-18T11:11:00.000-08:00

Today you are 5. You are growing up so fast! Mommy and Daddy are so blessed to have you as our girl. We pray you have a wonderful time and totally enjoy being 5. We LOVE you sweet heart and your way of always thinking of others. Like today when you picked out your birthday cake. You picked the blue one, "Because Andrew would like it better" then the pretty one with flowers. Your giggles are infectious, we can not help but giggle with you. Here is to you Flora, praying for all the best!

We LOVE YOU,

Daddy and Mama

Daddy Update: Thursday and Friday

2011-12-16T17:20:00.000-08:00

I did not take too many pictures of Thursday, and today, but though you would enjoy the pictures of the deer we saw in town today. Munching on apples in a front yard.

We love you Aaron, and can not wait to hug and kiss you tomorrow!

Daddy Update: Wednesday

2011-12-15T11:31:00.000-08:00

We love and miss you Daddy!
We played with Tiny Bear.

Read some new books..

Watched part of a movie while Mama was busy.

Did a load of laundry, and draped it all over to dry.

Played with the Dogs

Finished a scarf.

Chopped and stacked some wood.

Played in Nana's awesome yard.

AND USED THE POTTY ALL ON HIS OWN! (Can you tell I am rather excited about this?)

After Nana got home, we headed up to the old house, and did some cleaning. Then went and got Panda Bear Express for dinner. Home and some stories and kids where tucked into bed.

Daddy Update: Tuesday

2011-12-14T11:33:00.000-08:00


Small part of the creek that is just yards away from the house. It's lovely and has Salmon in it right now! The kids have loved to see them.

While I was busy unpacking boxes, the kids enjoyed playing with LEGOs.

Yesterday in the day was rather boring, busy, but not too exciting for the kids. Then Nana came and picked us up, we went to the old house to get a couple items and take the garbage down to the road. Then we picked up the pile of flat boxes and headed into town. While Nana worked out, the kids and I ate dinner at Costco, and then did some "window" shopping. We did come away with a few books for the kids, and some wool socks for me. :) We love Costco.

It was rather late when we got home, but the kids got tucked into bed and were out like lights for the most part.

When I said smile, these were the faces given to me! :) So cute! I though you might be missing those smiles Daddy. WE LOVE YOU!

Daddy Update: Monday

2011-12-13T09:32:00.000-08:00

Aaron drove home Sunday, and the kids and I are going to be here at Nana's helping her get unpacked a bit until Saturday. During that time, I decided I would take a few pictures each day of something we did, and then post them for Daddy to see.

Yesterday after naps were over and a snack was enjoyed we took a walk down to the creek to see if there were any Salmon in it, and then around the small loops the drive way takes.

Front door.

Down the driveway

Pretty frost on fallen leaves.

Frost on sward ferns that are all over the place, and very lovely.

I am just realizing I did not include a picture of the creek. I will add a couple tomorrow.

Let the Craziest Two Weeks Begin....

2011-12-01T11:06:00.000-08:00

My mom found an amazing house....she is moving. Not far, but well, she is teaching, my sister is going to school full time, and so I am off to help pack the rest of the old house up (I can be working all day, while they are at work/school), and then Aaron will be over next week to help drive the truck and be the muscle man. I (+ 3 kids) will then staying another week to help mom get settled as she plugs away on report cards and other things that need to be done before she is off for winter break. I am bringing my computer and camera, so maybe I will have some time post some fun pictures. I guess there is a under the stairs fort, an out side fort, a creek and about 10 acres to plan on! :)

We would love prayers for safe travels for everyone!

Blessings,

Amber

EVERYONE LOOK!

2011-11-28T14:35:00.000-08:00

*note to Nana: Clara wanted to make sure you saw this TODAY! :)

There's Just Something About a Boy Book Review

2011-11-28T11:34:00.000-08:00

Reviewed by Amber:
I usually post my book reviews on a different page here on the blog, but I love this book a lot, and wanted to post it here. Any Mama who has a son (or sons) needs to read this sweet book. Even better, cuddle up with your boy and read it to them. :) Mine is three so is very willing to cuddle, if yours is in his 20's or so it might take a little bribery. Joking aside, you will need your tissues as it will bring joyful tears to your eyes. After all, there's just something about a boy.....

It is time for a FIRST Wild Card Tour book review! If you wish to join the FIRST blog alliance, just click the button. We are a group of reviewers who tour Christian books. A Wild Card post includes a brief bio of the author and a full chapter from each book toured. The reason it is called a FIRST Wild Card Tour is that you never know if the book will be fiction, non~fiction, for young, or for old...or for somewhere in between! Enjoy your free peek into the book!

You never know when I might play a wild card on you!

Today's Wild Card author is:

Jenny Lee Sulpizio

Illustrated by

Peg Lozier

and the book:

There's Just Something About a Boy

Isaac Publishing, Inc. (September 23, 2011)

***Special thanks to Jenny Lee Sulpizio for sending me a review copy.***

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Jenny Lee Sulpizio, M.S. is a wife, business owner, and mother of three residing in Boise, Idaho. She is an active member within her church and community, and enjoys tapping into her creative side whenever she gets the chance. There’s Just Something About a Boy is the second picture book released in a series that also includes Mommy Whispers, an ode to mothers and daughters everywhere.

Visit the author's website.

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR:

Peg Lozier is an award winning portrait painter and illustrator whose work is known for color, whimsy, and a sense of fun. Raised in Boulder, Colorado, she now lives with a plethora of pets in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Visit the illustrator's website.

SHORT BOOK DESCRIPTION:

There’s Just Something about a Boy is a children’s keepsake picture book celebrating the special bond between a mother and her newborn son as she anticipates the love, laughter, and unparalleled adventure that will surely come from raising a little boy.

Product Details:

List Price: $12.95
Paperback: 30 pages
Publisher: Isaac Publishing, Inc. (September 23, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1609200365
ISBN-13: 978-1609200367

AND NOW...THE FIRST PAGES (click illustrations to enlarge):

Recalling the moment, that special day
Your tiny image took my breath away.
A precious baby with nothing to hide,
My sweet, little son nestled inside.
There’s just something about a boy…

I prepared your nursery
since around month five,
Waiting for the day
you’d finally arrive.
Stuffed animals, blankies,
your daddy’s first glove--
They sat in your room,
awaiting your love.
There’s just something
about a boy…

Hats

2011-11-25T17:08:00.000-08:00

All of the kids needed new winter gear this year. Nothing form last year fit anyone (save coats), so we hit the stores. New boots, snow suits and gloves/mittens were gathered. After looking at the cheap feeling thin hats that were for sale, I was dropped off at the fabric store to get some yarn (I needed a Mommy Time Out...what better place to have one then the fabric store!)

Nothing but a hat and books....he just got out of the tub, and put his boots on right away...hat following that.

She Loves her hat. Purple with stripes with the fuzzy yarn.

Flora's is rather random and bring....very much like her personality.

They are supper thick, warm and about $3 less a hat then the cheap store ones! I got three done in 24 hours....it took me longer to get mine done.

Sorry!

2011-11-22T12:00:00.000-08:00

Please for give me for not posting much lately. Things have been a little crazy since the last Feast Post. My computer (with all the pictures etc) needed a repair and I was with out it for a good long while (felt like FOREVER!)

We are busy getting a daily schedule into place that includes school time with the kids. Moving bedrooms around and organizing, as well as Aaron being busy with his Job and Home remodeling projects.

I probally wont get many things posted this week with thanksgiving day after tomorrow, but plan on looking next week for the rest of the Feast pictures, a couple sewing/craft projects and the room changes! :)

I pray that you all have a blessed Thanksgiving!

Winter Fun

2011-11-19T20:20:00.000-08:00

Feast 2011: Wallace Days

2011-10-28T17:40:00.000-07:00

One of the days we (the whole group) went up to Wallace a nearby historic mining town for some fun. My amazing mother in law contacted a bunch of the local stores and set up a scavenger hunt for the kids and adults, as well as a treasure hunt for the little set and a lucky number prize at some of the shops. Everyone had a ton of fun, while the kids had lunch with Daddy and Aunt Larry, mom and I had tea at an antique store. It was lovely.

The old buildings are lovely, and everyone in Wallace was super nice!

This is the ceiling of the antique store that also had the tea. It used to be the hardware store. All of the old shelves, and even better, the tin ceiling and lovely columns where in tact. I now want tin on my kitchen and dinning room ceilings. :)

Antiques/Tea shop and the brewery next door, a win win for all. :)

The underneath of a lovely building. Such detail.

Leaded glass.

Add caption

Walking down the street with Aunt Larry.

Up next: Feast 2011: Silver Mt

*note; I just realized that none of these photos are the ones I edited and put my mark on...so if you are a picture thief, forget about it....this sight is copy righted. Everyone else: ENJOY! :)

Feast 2011: Family Day

2011-10-24T15:51:00.000-07:00

As we looked forward to the Feast, we kept glancing at the weather report. Leading up to the Feast the weather people were saying rain rain rain. We had sun sun sun. :) Perfect for a fun field day for the kids, both big and little.

Home Sweet Home

2011-10-21T11:38:00.000-07:00

After a wonderful Feast we are home. Busy getting things put away and laundry done. Tonight we get the pleasure of hosting some friends on their way home. 8 kids in our little cottage will be fun! :) I will post more pictures soon, but for now, these will have to hold you all over.

Enjoying Wallace with Aunt Larry

Family day with lots of fun games!

The Monkey named Boy

Making new friends.

2011-10-04T20:10:00.000-07:00

You called?

YIPPY!!!!! Treats!

Lucy's kind eyes

"Helping"

When you are Fjord, it's rather nice to have a plump rump.

Perfect Fall evening, Kids running and enjoying being out, Amie content we are there for a while, and me with my camera.

Pictures Of The Lap Book.

2011-10-04T10:09:00.000-07:00

Please excuse the poor picture quality, but I took the pictures with my phone, not my good camera. I can no find my cord to up load from the camera so these will have to do for now.

The lap book is done, and the girls are very pleased, as am I. Today we will let our live studies go. We sure have enjoyed doing this and are looking forward to doing more.

Clara's coloring page.

First age: Life cycle, Where in the World, Diet and Clara's drawing.

Second page: Hunting Strategy, Anatomy, Predators, and the small oval ones are what kinds of plants they like to live on.

Flora's coloring page.

2011-10-02T12:59:00.001-07:00

It will be a sad day for the children when they no
longer find great delight in learning what the boys
and girls of former days thought, felt, and did.
Something is wrong when little people cease to have
the keenest interest in the pastimes, occupations, apparel, and homes of the children of long ago and in all the details which made up their daily life. One of
the most efficient agencies in winning children to
simple and wholesome living may be the book that
records the story of childlife in earlier days in a way to enlist the sympathy of the reader. ~ Every Day Life in the Colonies (1905)

Discovering Lapbooking

2011-10-02T12:06:00.000-07:00

Last night Aaron had a call and came home with a treasure taped inside two paper cups. He found a Praying Mantis in the ambulance building and caught it for his bug loving girls.

He even spend time catching live flies to put in with it. This morning I jumped online and printed off the pages to do our first lapbook. Of course it was on Daddy's catch.

While the girls colored the cover pages I read the facts out loud. Then we put together the Diet, Antimony and Life Cycle sections of the lap book and while they told me what they remembered, we filled then in. All while studying our Praying Mantis.

Tomorrow we will finish the book and I will take some pictures. The girls and I have and a lot of fun learning something new. Like, Praying mantis' can be found on every continent except Antarctica and that they can be green, brown, white and even pink and purple in tropical regions!

For a while, we will be doing a weekly lap book thanks to this neat, free, resource.

http://www.homeschoolshare.com/Lapbooks_at_HSS.php

Pslams 92

2011-09-30T19:44:00.000-07:00

A Psalm or Song for the sabbath day.

It is a good thing to give thanks unto the LORD, and to sing praises unto thy name, O most High: To shew forth thy lovingkindness in the morning, and thy faithfulness every night, Upon an instrument of ten strings, and upon the psaltery; upon the harp with a solemn sound. For thou, LORD, hast made me glad through thy work: I will triumph in the works of thy hands. O LORD, how great are thy works! and thy thoughts are very deep. A brutish man knoweth not; neither doth a fool understand this. When the wicked spring as the grass, and when all the workers of iniquity do flourish; it is that they shall be destroyed for ever: But thou, LORD, art most high for evermore. For, lo, thine enemies, O LORD, for, lo, thine enemies shall perish; all the workers of iniquity shall be scattered. But my horn shalt thou exalt like the horn of an unicorn: I shall be anointed with fresh oil. Mine eye also shall see my desire on mine enemies, and mine ears shall hear my desire of the wicked that rise up against me. The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree: he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon. Those that be planted in the house of the LORD shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bring forth fruit in old age; they shall be fat and flourishing; To shew that the LORD is upright: he is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in him.

Signs Of Fall

2011-09-22T15:14:00.000-07:00

This afternoon I grabbed my camera and delighted in taking some pictures of the changing seasons.

Fall is upon us, even though the wind today is warm, we know it will be cold quickly.

Aaron is busy putting up insulation and yesterday we got our third truck load of fire wood. We will need much more then that, but it's a start.

Today I am tackling a project, that I will post pictures of tomorrow if all goes well and I get it done. Until then, you all get to enjoy the signs of Fall.

The kids have coined a new term in our house. One day last week Clara and Flora came running in from outside with a couple of leaves that where starting to change. They were so filled with excitement and yelled, " Mama, FEAST LEAVES!"

Park Fun

2011-09-20T14:18:00.000-07:00

What to do with your car when you are in need of two hands?

Look at me Mama!

Static makes for some messy haired kids! :)

"I am such a goof ball!"

Gettin' Saucy!

2011-09-16T15:05:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned in yesterday's post we picked apples. A neighbor has a tree that is packed full of sweet little apples that she says makes wonderful apples sauce. She told us to talk all we want, as she was not using any of it.

Small, but sweet, and bug free! Makes for MUCH easier sauce makin'. The kids help pick, and Clara was a HUGE helper. Picking almost 1/2 what I picked! She was going at the tree with both hands! She sure loves a challenge! Her reward, a cookie!

Smashin' the cooked apples.

Thick, sweet sauce. With no need to add any sugar! Throw in some cinnamon, put into qt bags and freeze! :)

What a blessing to have good food going into the freezer! By the way...the house smells SO good!

Today

2011-09-15T16:27:00.000-07:00

I broke (we think) my finger in June. Last night I joked that because it was achy, the weather must be changing. Haha on me. It did. Today has been delightfully cool and a perfect day for baking!

I got lunch stuff cleaned up and then whipped up a pan of bar choco chip cookies. While those were making I got two dozen blue berry muffins ready for their turn in the oven.

Both of those are done, and I then threw a chicken in to roast. We will eat that for dinner. Along with green beans, peas and carrots from the garden's picking.This afternoon we went to a neighbors to pick apples. We gathered the ones that were wormy for the chickens and the ones that were beat up for Amie and her pasture mates. While I work on a sewing project this evening, I am also going to be making apples butter with the good ones. Perfect thing to top oatmeal!

It feels like Fall today and I am so thrilled that my favorite season is here again!

Aaron has been plugging away at pealing off the layers on the inside of the walls to expose the beams, set new plugs/light switches and then insulate. It's coming along nicely. The kids have been enjoying a day of cooler temps and playing hide-and-seek.

Yesterday Aaron had another chiro apt and the doc is very happy with how well his back is staying in! Yahoo, and Thank God. My mom had a problem with her back when I was a child, and we have all hear horror storied of back problems. This scared me, and I am SO thankful that he is just fine.

I am off to start washing apples!

Progess Being Made

2011-09-12T18:35:00.000-07:00

Aaron has been back at it, and progress is being made. We found out that, even though the addition for the wood stove is 80x30, we have to have an permit. Since we also have the rest of the living and dining tore up, we decided to eliminate one project right now. Getting a permit takes time, and since fall is fast approaching, we don't have a lot of it. We plan to put in a temp place for the wood stove, then pick back up the project when the weather warms up again this spring.

Here is what we are going to be working on this winter.

Finish getting the walls and ceiling insulated (needs to happen before we put in the stove, and before it gets COLD) . This involves taking down the three layers of stuff on the remaining walls, and getting the electrical where we want it (or where code says we need to have it haha)
Put new window in the dinning room. Since the window is much larger then the old, that involved re framing the window frame and patching siding to make it water tight until we reside the whole thing)
Hang, tape, etc the drywall
Finish the beefy floor joices in the reading loft. Lay down the sub flooring up there and put the carpet down.
Built a railing for the loft.
Paint
Take up, and re lay the flooring in the dinning, stain and seal all of it.
Kitchen counters, toe kick, end plates and finishing touches, like open shelves around the window, and paint on the ceiling/walls.

This is not an any set order save the insulation. We are discovering that 1/3 to 1/2 of all the walls are NOT insulated! That would make the HUGE heating bills the previous winters understandable. I can not wait to see what all this work looks like in lower power bills! :)

While I am disappointed to be putting one project aside, I think everyone will agree that we have a LOT to do, and will be kept busy. I am no longer stressing about getting it all done before nasty weather (could be in a month for us, or shortly there after), and looking forward to having things in a finished place again, well, at least until we attach the bathroom and back entry way! haha

I will get some pictures up soon!

2011-09-09T12:34:00.000-07:00

Sorry that I have been awful with updating, but I just have not felt like getting on and doing so!

It's been an odd week but I thought I should at least up date you all on how Aaron's apt went. The Chiropractor is VERY pleased with how well things are staying in place, and saw even more improvement this week. He is off from doing the garbage pick up for the city for 3 months, but is more then able to keep working for the ambulance. We had a couple people ask about that so I thought i would clarify on that point.

We have been busy on the house (slowly busy) and I will get some pictures and up date on that soon. For now you all get to see a moth that Clara caught. She named it Cindy.

Nana, Clara prays that the Feast will come "tomorrow" (even though we have showed her on the Calendar) so she can sleep at Nana's! :)

Need a Laugh?

2011-09-06T17:57:00.000-07:00

Things Kids Say

2011-09-01T15:25:00.000-07:00

We watched a bit of a special on PBS about the Circus. Flora very seriously informed us that she wants to be in the Circus either as "on of those funny men who paint on their faces" or "on of the pretty girls that get to fly" . She was a little confused when Mamma and Daddy started laughing. Total Fit!

I was sitting on our bed doing stuffed animal surgery on a teddy bear and Andrew comes running into the room carrying/dragging two large trucks and yelling "wait up momma, wait up!" I did know what was more funny, him trying to "catch up" with his trucks or his since of urgency.

Clara is a smart cookie. We were driving into town yesterday and her sister said something about the gray clouds in the sky. Clara then gave her a very long lecture on what kind of cloud they were. To summarize they were rain clouds, not thunder and actually (tilt of the head hear) they were very far away, and we could not get any rain for a while. She was right, no rain for a couple of hours. Then when it started raining she was disappointed, even though there was no chance of playing out side.

After out long day in town yesterday, I jumped in the tub while the kids where finishing their dinner. Every few seconds on of them would run in and make sure I was "having a nice bath".

Just a couple of things that have made me smile this last few days!

Slowly

2011-09-01T09:40:00.000-07:00

Aaron when it for his longest Chiro appt yesterday. It was just a little over 2 hours with x-rays before and after his adjustment. The x-rays and the docs measurements showed that Aaron is tilting to the right. Eye level, Shoulders and hips all slumped to the right, all because of spine placement in his neck. One should also have a nice curve in the spin in the neck but Aaron's was almost perfectly strait. After the adjustment he was 50% better in all aspects. With the first adjustment like Aaron's the doc usually shoots for 30-40%, so this is very good. After a couple weeks he will be at 100%, then just making sure it stays their. Each visit from now on will be a lot shorter! We are thinking that when he is done working on Aaron, then it's my turn!

The Chiro also gave Aaron permission to slowly start back into the remodeling. So this is good as well. While Aaron's back is the most important aspect, getting projects done will be nice! :)

Blessings,

Amber

Slowed Down

2011-08-29T18:15:00.000-07:00

All day Friday Aaron cut down the tree, he got it almost all down, just some of the trunk left. Saturday morning he bent over and threw his back out. It was bad enough that he went to bed, was having a hard time breathing and needed some pain meds. It takes a LOT of knock Aaron down.

We found a chiropractor who would see him Saturday evening (only off until Wed, and there was no way he could respond to a call in that shape) and discovered his back has got some major problems (spine looks like an S going more towards the right), all coming from his neck and most likely his accident in April 2007. The chiro addressed the cause of pain (vertabra right in between his shoulder blades was out to the left) so that he was not in as much pain, then gave him a detailed plan to get the source of the problem taken care of. It will be 6-7 weeks of once a week visits to make sure the neck stays where it needs to be, basically retraining his muscles. Then just every 6-8 weeks to help keep things maintained.

So, for right now, Aaron is taking a break from heavy work, so that he will be able to keep doing it once his back is back to normal! We are thankful that it's a problem that can be addressed with non-invasive treatment and that we discovered how bad it was, before he needed something major like back surgery.

Please pray for speed healing and that he doesn't go too crazy, since this is the man who has a hard time sitting still and is always working on SOMETHING!

Guess Who's Three?

2011-08-25T09:31:00.000-07:00

Three years ago today we had been waiting for Andrew to make his entrance for over 2 weeks. I was achy and needing to get out of the house. So we went for a drive. We got back home and around 2 that afternoon I was starting to have contractions, and we got the birth kit out. He was born at 8:30 that night. We are so very thankful God blessed us with Andrew. Happy birthday son, Mama and Daddy love you SO much!

Long Time Friends

2011-08-24T08:30:00.000-07:00


Buddies since grade and middle school. All married now!		Eric, Ryan, Tony and Aaron

Ryan's adorable family

Bride and Groom: Erin and Tony dancing for the first time as husband and wife! It was a very special day! We are so blessed that we were able to go. Thanks Aunt Karen for letting us crash and steal your car and for picking us up and dropping us off at the airport. Thank you Mom and Dad for watching the kidos! They had a blast!

Downtown Seattle as seen from I-5

Space needle at sunset.

Fixing Fence and Pasture Mates

2011-08-15T18:30:00.000-07:00

This late morning and early afternoon we spent some time down at the pasture beefing up part of the fence. While Aaron pounded in the new posts, I went down the fence line with pliers and wire and attached the barbed wire to the new posts, and also re-attached any that needed it one old ones. The kids played, and ran and helped in turn.

Running through the weeds.

Playing with a cat tail.

BIG HELPER Flora...yes, that is a t-post she is carrying. She said " I am going to help daddy." And did. Such a strong little girl!

Playing in the little stream that runs through part of the pasture.

Here are a few of Amie's pasture mates:

Maria the Mule...she is rather a sweet thing when she wants to be.

"Loofy" is what Andrew calls Lucy, she is close to 17 hands, and before rescued was neglected and Abused. It is taking time for all of us to be able to touch her. She doesnt have a mean bone in her body, but is very scared. Isn't she just so pretty!

My Sweet Amie. Her registered name is Oscars Sweet Amie, and the sweet part fits! :) Clara is now addicted to riding her, she was the most shy to get up on her.

Missy the Mule

Charlie Horse and Amie playing with a stick.

Amie is very curious and likes to nibble on things...think time...the reflective strip on the back pockets of Aaron's work pants.

Lucy's very large nose....and Aaron feeding her a sugar cube. The girl likes her sugar!

2011-08-13T13:49:00.000-07:00

O give thanks unto the LORD; call upon his name: make known his deeds among the people.

Sing unto him, sing psalms unto him: talk ye of all his wondrous works.

Glory ye in his holy name: let the heart of them rejoice that seek the LORD.

Seek the LORD, and his strength: seek his face evermore.

Remember his marvelous works that he hath done; his wonders, and the judgments of his mouth;

Psalms 105:1-4

FOUND IT!

2011-08-12T09:33:00.000-07:00

I found the cord! :) Here are some pictures of delivery day and Aaron working on the loft and getting the ceiling insulated.

6 huge packages of insulation...

Moving the stuff into the yard...it was hot that day!

Keepers of the gate. They were very helpful! :)

3 pallets, 150 cinder blocks, 15 80lb bags of concrete and 15 60 lb bags of mortar.....hence the reason for Lowe's delivering!

30 sheets of dry wall and the sheets of OSB for the floor in the loft.

20 foot long 2x6's on top of our car.....we got some odd looks.

Attic access ladder that will be used to get into the loft.


Getting some of it up...with nothing at all for insulation, it was getting HOT. It's amazing that the layers of ceiling helped as much as it did...So excited about my valted ceilings and loft! :)

Lost Cord

2011-08-11T12:20:00.000-07:00

I am so frustrated. I can not fine my cord to load the pictures of the progress! AAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!

As soon as I do...I will post them! Sorry for the delay!

Until then....our sweet Amie. :) Sure love this horse!

Still Alive...Really!

2011-08-05T17:15:00.000-07:00

I have been awful about updating here this week. Sorry about that. I do have an excuse though. Life has been crazy. We have raspberries to pick, Amie's hooves to trim, my garden is starting to produce, it actually felt like Summer (hot...about 90 all week) and on Wed. Lowe's delivered the supplies for the Living Room/ Fire place projects.

Yesterday was a day of playing catch up. Catch up on laundry, watering, dishes, etc from having on odd day the day before. Today we are back at it full speed. Aaron has had 2 calls, and in between we picked more raspberries and dug up some hazelnut tree starts, Naps, Meals, I ordered a couple new shirts (can you say sale prices + free shipping+ 20% off!) and Andrew's birthday presents. Washing and putting said picked berries in the freezer. This evening we need to run to town and pick up something for my mom and sister. It will make for an odd evening, but Sabbath is right around the corner.

I am starting to think about what is needed for Feast Clothing. Each Feast we take a bit of the set aside $ and get new dress clothing as needed for the coming year. I have sewing planned and got to thinking about that as well. I might set up a table in our room so I can just work on it as needed, not having to put it away.

Well, I need to run and get a few more things done before we leave. Have a lovely evening!

Picking Fruit

2011-07-31T16:59:00.000-07:00

A sweet neighbor lady, after picked what she would use, gave us her raspberry patch for the rest of the season. We picked once and got a large bowl full. This morning we picked again, and got my largest soup pan full! What a blessing!

We also were given two pie cherry trees to pick. Some of them are too ripe, but there was still enough to get to large bowls today, and Aaron will go again early tomorrow to get the rest that are up high and need a ladder. I think he can already taste the pies! Andrew and the old farmer (who is rather hard of heading) where quite a pair. Andrew openly admired all his "big huge" machines and Andrew just chattered on, even though the farmer didn't hear most of it!

Aaron worked his hind end off Friday and got the last beam up and the ceiling fan wired and installed. All between 2 calls and needing to do things like eating and such. I am LOVING this. We pick up part of the needed supplies on Wed and I am hoping to get the rest delivered either this week or next.

Living Room

2011-07-29T16:10:00.000-07:00

Family Camp Out 2011

2011-07-26T17:25:00.000-07:00

It was that time of year again. Time to load up the tent, bedding, clothes and food and head out for the Family Camp Out. It is always great fun with good food and visiting (or playing depending on your age) had by all. Here are some pictures:

On about piece #8.....

Lorna

Sweet smiles from Corwin

Sheriff Cole

Dad, Granddad and some kids heads.

Chris, Aunt Kim and Grandad

Carmen, Uncle Lee and some more kids heads.

Having fun rolling down the hill.

Uncle Klayton and Aaron visiting..oh, and Miss Flora. She seems to get in every picture. Must be something to do with the fact that she is ALWAYS moving!

Grandma (Flora is named after her)

Can we get all 6 kids to hold still and look up at the cameras????

Nope! :) But still really cute!

Fun with some glow sticks.

We all can't wait until next year!

Gabby Mom's July Review.

2011-07-21T14:07:00.000-07:00

Just a note to start out my review. This is part one of a wonderful package available through Eternal Encouragement. I will be posting part two in Aug.

For July's Gabby Mom's Review I listened to and read the corresponding articles for Refresh and Rekindle.

Refresh: A Woman Who Kneels Before God Can Stand Before Anyone

I was challanged to give God my best time in prayer and study. I was reminded that to be a sucessful wife/mama/teacher, I need the time each morning to focus my day. That in my life, my priorities are God, Husband and then Kids. If I am not giving God my time, then everything else will be lacking as well. Now, this message really challanged me. I am NOT a morning person, but Mrs. Flem made a point that stuck out to me. We give God our first fruits in tithe. Before we pay the bills, buy the food, go out to eat, we tithe. Why do I not give God my First of the day, when I am at my best. Not after a day of work when I am tired, but the first part of my day.

My morning consist of forcing my self out of bed, getting a cup of coffee and slowly waking up. I check in on my facebook, e-mail and check on my blogs I follow. I usually so my personal Bible time in the evenings, when I take my nice hot bath. I am always tired in the evenings and like I said before...this message, while hard in a way for me to hear, challenged me.

“Remain in me, and I in will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself, it must remain in the vine; neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. I am the vine and you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If anyone does not remain in me he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers. Such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. If you remain in me and my words remain in you ask whatever you wish and it will be given to you.” (John 15: 4-7)

Rekindle: Red Hot is So Cool.

Now, my husband and I have a very good, strong, close marriage. We are together a lot more then others couples are and we talk all the time, and I was thinking that I would not get to much out of this message. I was wrong. I got a lot out of it, it was a well said/written message that is a great for all married couples. From ones just married, to married for 50 years (or more)!

Mrs. Flem reminds us that to have a strong marriage we need to be putting our men first ahead of our own, all too often selfish desires, we have all heard the " I have a headache" joke. She gives some very good tips on keeping the fire going. I will not post them here, for the sake of it being public blog, so you all will just have to listen to it your selves!

On of her points that I LOVE and one we have practiced is to NOT have a tv in your bedroom. She used this quote which I love:

Dr. Paul Pearshall said,
“TV addiction is one of the most detrimental influences on American marriages. It is a shared addiction, which is the worst type, because it sometimes covertly robs the relationship of available time for intimacy, while both partners take unknowing part in the theft.”

She also give a good acrmon for TIME that I though I would share:

T – Twenty minutes a day to talk alone. That means no children within earshot. We often do this on the phone during the day and most evenings we chat while Randy changes out of his suit.
I - In addition, one hour a week of this same private conversation. This is when we strategize over child training, homeschooling, etc. We usually find that extra time on the phone or while he is changing is enough. But if we only get the 20 minutes a day we find that it isn’t enough.
M – Monthly we purpose to set aside a few hours of a day to spend together having fun. I’m not saying it needs to be without your children, in fact, for 20 years Randy and I did this with the children. However, some people think that this needs to be time without them. It doesn’t even need to cost money. I will leave the particulars up to you.

E – Early bedtime one night a week. I don’t need to explain the purpose of that one! I will tell you that when you have a tradition you will have more passion than if you wait for it to spontaneously grow.

I am looking forward to listening and reading the other 3 of the 5 R's this next month and sharing them with you. I recieved this bundle for free in exchange for my review. All thoughts are mine. :)

Now for something exciting. Would you also like to be part of this program? Get free, wonderful materials to review for a year! You can!

Head here (http://www.thegabbymoms.com/get-involved/) and fill out an application! Easy as that! I have enjoyed this a ton! Maybe you will too!

Silly Silly Silly

2011-07-21T12:59:00.000-07:00

What do you do with three silly children...

Who are all wound up with excitement...

Waiting for the daddy......

So they can help him......

Clean out the car?

Yes! You did read that right, they were excited to CLEAN the car....they also love doing dishes.

Back to the question. What do you do> You set up the camera on a timer on the tripod and let them be goofy!

Only on of BIG BOY (he officially told me today he is a BIG BOY (said loudly)). He was the one manning the camera most of the time.

2011-07-19T12:16:00.000-07:00

Prayers Please

2011-07-18T18:53:00.000-07:00

Aaron has the kindest, sweetest bosses a guy could ask for. One of his bosses is in need of prayers. She went to see the eye doctor today because she was having problems seeing out of one of her eyes. She has a detached retina and is having surgery tomorrow. Her mother also passed away late last week. I can't imagine the stress she is going through. Would you all life her up in prayer this evening and tomorrow. Thank you.

Marble Creek

2011-07-18T12:28:00.000-07:00

A little while ago my wonderful husband mentioned that he was missing the mountains. So, this Sabbath we took a drive, to a place I knew he would love.Up the St Joe river , then up a state road into the mountains. High on either side of a lovely creek. Since we have had such a wet and cool spring/summer everything was SO green and the "creek" was more like a river. It's a lovely place, and Aaron was thrilled. We want to go camping up there some time this summer.

Right on the other side of the rocks we used as our picnic stop was a little creek and waterfall running into the large creek (or river since it is still running high!)

Clara is not crabby in the picture, she is feeling the whole where her tooth used to be. She looks like this a lot right now....pretty funny! :)

IOS speed set to 1600 on my camera

Same water/rock with the IOS speed set to 100. I LOVE playing with the different settings!

First Tooth

2011-07-15T09:48:00.000-07:00

Clara lost her first tooth this week! Yes, I am slow....I just figured that I can take a picture on the phone, send it to Facebook and then copy the picture here......yes...slow. She is very pleased with her new look!

Outside

2011-07-13T09:28:00.000-07:00

With the awfully long spring we had, Clara has gotten into a habit of saying, " It's a great day to play out side!".

I do not blame her, and today (yesterday), the kids and I were outside ALL day, in fact, I am typing this while the kids run around enjoying a last bit of play before time to get ready for bed. And then posting it this morning while listening to rain on the roof..it's lovely and refreshing!

We have been busy on the house again. Aaron very practically pointed out that we needed to get the rest of the DEMO stuff done, while the kids could be out and we can vent the house well.

SO, the ceiling is coming down in the living room in prep for adding in the wood stove and another plan I have up my sleeve. This being the reason we are out today....out of the way of the dust and mess. I hung up canvas drop clothes and sheets in the door ways (to keep the dust contained and it worked WELL!) and we moved everything out to make clean up easy.

We will focus on getting the things done that need to be done in the warmer weather, then do the finished stuff this fall/winter. I am very excited to be seeing more progress. Although..the unpractical side of me wants things finished. All in good time right?

And go figure....the one day the kids need to be out (or they get in Daddy's way) they wanted to be in where all the excitement is!! Haha...

Window Sneak Peak

2011-07-10T20:57:00.000-07:00

I snapped this rather dark picture of the wood (just stained) that makes up the window seal.

The window is right above the sink and adding the bead board back splash really made it very bright and clean feeling. I am loving more progress being made in here. Bit left do, but almost done!

2011-07-09T15:51:00.000-07:00

Twice a day we head over to the pasture to love on Amie. One of those time we bring her grain (and a treat for her pasture mates) and this is what happens:

She hears me call and started to make her way over...

Picks up speed....

Stops to see her boy....he is cuter then grain.

Then humors me as I take pictures while she munches.

After she was done, she made a bee line for the kids again to get some lovin'

Blogging

2011-07-09T12:41:00.000-07:00

I started blogging to keep family and friends updated on some of what's going on in our lives. I quickly became addicted to it!

Since I started blogging we have added two kids, moved, bought our house, and started remodeling, just to name a few of the big things. It has been so much fun to share things with all of you. I am always thinking, " I should put this on the blog." Or Aaron will say, " Did you blog about such and such"

This is become an outlet for me to post some of my pictures and review books, above and behold keeping my followers updated :)

This post is to say a big THANK YOU to those who read and comment....hint hint (I LOVE comments!)

Sweet Moments!

2011-07-05T20:40:00.000-07:00

Practicing with Aunty.

My lovely Mama.

Learning a bit from Aunty. LOVE this picture!

We so enjoyed Nana and Aunty's visit although all parties would say it was way too short.

We are settling back into the swing of things here and our place, although thing seem off today. It started this morning when we though Lyla ran off some time in the night. Two friends work at local post offices and started having people look for her. We drove all over the area, twice, calling her name. We figured that with the HUGE noise of all the fireworks last night, she got out and got scared. After we got home after trip #2, Aaron went into the hard, and thought to look under one side of the house. It would be a tight squeeze, but MAYBE she might be under there. Sure enough, happy as a clam (it was cool, she is fluffy and hot) was Lyla, stuck. All of us are thankful she was just stuck and not hit by a car or stolen!

After the stress of morning, we though it would be fun to eat lunch up at the fishing pond. I went to get the end of the hose to fill up the dog water and noticed that the compost bin was on fire. Odd....Aaron dumped in some old ashes, and with the sun right on them, must have had one that was still kinda warm and with the added heat, got hot enough to burn the wood. That was easily put out and from now on we will wet down the compost after throwing in ANY ash!

This afternoon was relaxing, I worked on a throw blanket while the kids payed and ran and Aaron fishes. We then headed to the pasture and filled up water for the critters and then picked up a bag of alpaca fleece. Home for tidying the house, music practice and dinner (chicken salad wraps and the above ice cream). Stories, teeth brushed and PJ's in place the kids are in bed. Aaron went to spend some quite moments fishing some more and I am off to keep up on my throw.

Night!

2011-07-04T09:03:00.000-07:00

IN CONGRESS, July 4, 1776.

The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America,
When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.--That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, --That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security.--Such has been the patient sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government. The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States. To prove this, let Facts be submitted to a candid world.

He has refused his Assent to Laws, the most wholesome and necessary for the public good.
He has forbidden his Governors to pass Laws of immediate and pressing importance, unless suspended in their operation till his Assent should be obtained; and when so suspended, he has utterly neglected to attend to them.
He has refused to pass other Laws for the accommodation of large districts of people, unless those people would relinquish the right of Representation in the Legislature, a right inestimable to them and formidable to tyrants only.
He has called together legislative bodies at places unusual, uncomfortable, and distant from the depository of their public Records, for the sole purpose of fatiguing them into compliance with his measures.
He has dissolved Representative Houses repeatedly, for opposing with manly firmness his invasions on the rights of the people.
He has refused for a long time, after such dissolutions, to cause others to be elected; whereby the Legislative powers, incapable of Annihilation, have returned to the People at large for their exercise; the State remaining in the mean time exposed to all the dangers of invasion from without, and convulsions within.
He has endeavoured to prevent the population of these States; for that purpose obstructing the Laws for Naturalization of Foreigners; refusing to pass others to encourage their migrations hither, and raising the conditions of new Appropriations of Lands.
He has obstructed the Administration of Justice, by refusing his Assent to Laws for establishing Judiciary powers.
He has made Judges dependent on his Will alone, for the tenure of their offices, and the amount and payment of their salaries.
He has erected a multitude of New Offices, and sent hither swarms of Officers to harrass our people, and eat out their substance.
He has kept among us, in times of peace, Standing Armies without the Consent of our legislatures.
He has affected to render the Military independent of and superior to the Civil power.
He has combined with others to subject us to a jurisdiction foreign to our constitution, and unacknowledged by our laws; giving his Assent to their Acts of pretended Legislation:
For Quartering large bodies of armed troops among us:
For protecting them, by a mock Trial, from punishment for any Murders which they should commit on the Inhabitants of these States:
For cutting off our Trade with all parts of the world:
For imposing Taxes on us without our Consent:
For depriving us in many cases, of the benefits of Trial by Jury:
For transporting us beyond Seas to be tried for pretended offences
For abolishing the free System of English Laws in a neighbouring Province, establishing therein an Arbitrary government, and enlarging its Boundaries so as to render it at once an example and fit instrument for introducing the same absolute rule into these Colonies:
For taking away our Charters, abolishing our most valuable Laws, and altering fundamentally the Forms of our Governments:
For suspending our own Legislatures, and declaring themselves invested with power to legislate for us in all cases whatsoever.
He has abdicated Government here, by declaring us out of his Protection and waging War against us.
He has plundered our seas, ravaged our Coasts, burnt our towns, and destroyed the lives of our people.
He is at this time transporting large Armies of foreign Mercenaries to compleat the works of death, desolation and tyranny, already begun with circumstances of Cruelty & perfidy scarcely paralleled in the most barbarous ages, and totally unworthy the Head of a civilized nation.
He has constrained our fellow Citizens taken Captive on the high Seas to bear Arms against their Country, to become the executioners of their friends and Brethren, or to fall themselves by their Hands.
He has excited domestic insurrections amongst us, and has endeavoured to bring on the inhabitants of our frontiers, the merciless Indian Savages, whose known rule of warfare, is an undistinguished destruction of all ages, sexes and conditions.

In every stage of these Oppressions We have Petitioned for Redress in the most humble terms: Our repeated Petitions have been answered only by repeated injury. A Prince whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a Tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free people.
Nor have We been wanting in attentions to our Brittish brethren. We have warned them from time to time of attempts by their legislature to extend an unwarrantable jurisdiction over us. We have reminded them of the circumstances of our emigration and settlement here. We have appealed to their native justice and magnanimity, and we have conjured them by the ties of our common kindred to disavow these usurpations, which, would inevitably interrupt our connections and correspondence. They too have been deaf to the voice of justice and of consanguinity. We must, therefore, acquiesce in the necessity, which denounces our Separation, and hold them, as we hold the rest of mankind, Enemies in War, in Peace Friends.
We, therefore, the Representatives of the united States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States; that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace, contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do. And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.

As we celibate this 4th of July, 235 years after the above was signed, we need to remember that freedom is not free. Thank you to the men who fought for our freedom back in 1776 (before and after the actual signing), and for those serving our country now. Stay safe everyone!

Best Daddy EVER!

2011-06-28T21:19:00.000-07:00

The fort Daddy is building out of branches.

Three raga-muffins playing in said fort.

Andrew up on Amie and Mama rode a bit.

Local fishing pond. This afternoon Aaron got a tribal license and we took the kids fishing. More splashing in the water was done then fishing...but fun and sun was had by all.

Miss Clara. Shirt inside out and backwards...shirt on and in her seat before I noticed...it was quickly changed.

Doodle Bug

Miss Clara again...shirt back on right!

Miss Flora

The Daddy

While they fished I walked around the pond and took some pictures.

Daddy and his three little fisher people

Right by the A is a little turtle...all you can see is it's head.

That's The Spot!

2011-06-28T08:48:00.000-07:00

Amie fits right in to our family, she is a goof ball. She has this one spot that she is down right pushy about having you scratch.

It does not matter what you are doing, she will run her body up the length of you until you are in a prefect position.....then turn her head and around and give you a look that says "Well, have at it!"

She just melts and makes the funniest faces!

No matter how long you scratch, like you hand might be cramping up and about read to fall off, it's never enough.

Until next time then.....

*Warning: Mushy Stuff and Bikers in the post!

2011-06-27T09:56:00.000-07:00

Mush: I am so totally in love with my husband. And am so very much blessed that I get to be with him more then the average couple. He is my best friend and is so easy to be with....and to look at! :) Throw in a chair saw and it's even better! :)

Bikers: Grandpa and Grandma stopped by for a surprise visit yesterday. It was so nice to see them. Since the rode the motorcycle, and Andrew is rather obsessed with anything that goes "voom", EVERYTHING has been making almost the exact pitch of Grandpa starting up the motorcycle, he is rather impressed!

Sabbath Afternoon Drive

2011-06-25T18:52:00.000-07:00

About 4 this evening we loaded up and went exploring on some of the farm roads. It was a lovely time enjoyed this beautiful day!

This is what happens at the end of the drive, when the basset hound knocks down the phone and then steps on it. Busted!

Fun in the Sun!

2011-06-24T15:42:00.000-07:00

Pictures from earlier today:

Tid-bits

2011-06-24T08:12:00.000-07:00

Discussion had with Miss Flora while she was cutting a pile of little pieces out of a scrap piece of paper.

Flora: "Mama?" "Does this look like a door?" (holding up a tiny little newly cut item that kinda looked like a door with some imagination)

Mama: "Why, yes it does! Good job!"

Flora (with a very important look on her face): "Yes, I am good at cutting doors" (pause) "I am going to cut a lot of them!" (giggle)

Mama: "Sounds like a good idea!" (chuckle)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Clara: "Daddy?" "What do thunder clouds looks like" (She is always asking the how, when, why questions for everything. I love hearing her learn and ask questions, we looked them up on the computer)

Clara: "I love playing my violin. Someday, maybe tomorrow, it will sound pretty!" (We are still in the rather squeaky stage, but getting better!)

Flora: " My eyes are blinking on and off!" (said while blinking very fast)

Andrew: "Me. WEE WOO WEE WOO" (said when ever get gets even the littlest ouchy)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~`~~~~~

Right now the girls are cutting snow flakes out of paper. It's June 24th. I know we have had a wet and cool spring....but snow flakes! :)

Tuesday we spent some time down at the pasture (about 4 blocks away across the railroad tracks or a bit bit farther by the road) trimming up the lower branches of a stickery tree. They do not bug the horses, but the lady who owns it also has lamas and they get stuck in the softer feet and get infected. We are trying to be as helpful as we can! She has been so sweet and kind and helpful!

She has a gelding named Charlie Horse. He is a fun horse with a lot of personality. While Aaron was done with his chain saw and set it aside. Charlie, wondering what it was, came over to sniff it. He started to nibble on the pull handle. Then stuck his foot on the rear of the chain saw. I so wish I had the camera! It looked like he was trying to start it! It was so funny!

SUNSHINE!

2011-06-20T16:08:00.000-07:00

Last Friday was cold. Cold enough for winter coats! Andrew has discovered that he can push this around....just like Daddy. But the little face while he is focusing on doing it...is all Aunty Roo!

What is that bright warm orb in the sky?

Could it be? Yes, I think it is. The sun is out! Outside we go!

Plant more garden space, pet and love on Amie, chase the chickens, clean up poo, ride bikes, trim up tree branches. Burning ant nests to cleaning and filling up fresh water for the critters. All things that were done today.

Watching Amie melt in the sunshine was so funny. She started by just standing still for a bit, then she rested one foot. Head started drooping, drooping even more. Oh, alright, give in a lay down. She dozed for a while.

ZZZZZzzzzzzz.....

It's sunny, warm, and very pleasent. Everyone, from Amie, down to Sir Strut ( the rooster) have enjoyed the warmth of the sun. The kids are splashing and playing in a bit of water in the pool.

Nap time is over....

Time for Lunch! Amie LOVES her food!

Yes, today is a beautiful day!

Father's Day

2011-06-19T12:18:00.000-07:00

I grew up with out a dad. He didn't want the responsibility of a family. My mommy worked very hard and gave my sister and me an amazing life. I am so very thankful for all the things she provided for us, and the times she said no. She is my hero.

I knew when I was looking (or not looking as the case would be) for a husband that I wanted someone, no, needed someone who was going to be a good daddy. Someone who was raised with a good daddy. God blessed me with Aaron and his Dad. His dad showed him how to be a man, to work with his hands and got him into hiking(just to name a few!). He is a wonderful man who is such a blessing to me.

Because of this influence, Aaron is the Daddy he is today. Kind, compassionate, FUN, God fearing.

So today on Father's Day, I want to say thank you to three people. My Mommy, My Father-in-Law and my husband.

Happy Day you guys. I love you!

Gabby Mom's June Review.

2011-06-17T13:40:00.000-07:00

This month I was given two MP3 down loads from Eternal Encouragement to listen to, enjoy, ponder and then review here. I was thrilled, What better then to listen to messages, for us ladies, and I can do it while doing dishes, cuddling a baby to sleep or just enjoying a cup of tea!

While both were excellent and I gleaned off of each, one stood out to me.

The first one was called Keys to a Queenly Castle, while I enjoyed it, the other, Attitude Adjustments was prefect timing for me, so I will talk about it here.

These last two weeks have been rather crazy at our place, and having JUST listened to this message I got to practice some of the A-Z tips for helping me chose and keep a cheerful, good attitude, even in bad traffic, missing music lessons, etc.

At the begining of the message Mrs. Flem talked about how attitudes are like germs. We are always spreading them. The Good, the Bad and the Ugly. Satan would like nothing better for us, the wives/mother of our families to spread a bad/nasty attitude. She went on to Philippians 2:1-5 which says what God wants from us:

Php 2:1 If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies,
Php 2:2 Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.
Php 2:3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.
Php 2:4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.
Php 2:5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
Php 2:6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:
Php 2:7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:
Php 2:8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

The Lord wants us to have an attitude like Christ has. Compassionate and spreading joy and hope!

She then went on to give 26 (A-Z) tips to help us ladies to keep a good attitude, and what do do when a bad one shows up. Here are my favorite ones:

A) Act Happy: smiling, laughing etc makes it very hard to get crabby!

C) Count your blessings!

E) Every Morning, set your town. This is the Day which the Lord has make. I will REJOICE and be glad in it!

N) Negative vs positive. Thoughts and questions and impact our mood. Instead of thinking about the negative have having a pile of laundry the size of a mountain, be thankful you have children to help make your day sparkle and shine!

O) Other's First. By putting away those thoughts of "woe is me" and we think of others, we will get joy from serving!

P) Prayer, probably the most important one!

W) Wiggle it. Get out and take a brisk 15 minute walk to clear your head and get your heart going!

Z) ZZZZzzzzz...make sure you are getting plenty of rest!

I am going to type these out on pretty paper, and post them in places I will see them often for reminders! I LOVED this message, and it really can pertain to anyone!

I really enjoyed these messages (this one being by far my favorite). You can win an MP3 of your choice by going to the Gabby Mom's site and following the rules! Happy Listening if you win!

To enter:
1. Go to EE link given to choose MP3 file you want to win

http://www.eternalencouragement.com/theshop/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=4_5
2. Go to The Gabby Moms blog where June's review links are posted and comment
a. which blog you read about the giveaway
b. name of MP3 file you want if chosen as winner
c. email contact info
3. Winner will be chosen on Saturday, June 18th via random.org.
4. Winner will be notified by email to contact info left in comments
5. Winner will have 48 hours to respond to claim prize or an alternate winner will be chosen.

Thanks for stopping by and reading my review!

Please Note that I received both of the MP3 for free in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are mine.

2011-06-17T11:22:00.000-07:00

KREM.com

Posted on June 17, 2011 at 9:06 AM

KOOTENAI COUNTY, Idaho—Officials in Kootenai and Benewah counties declared agricultural disasters this week.
The extra moisture in the air from recent weather has kept some farmers from planting their crops.
The Idaho Farm Service estimates almost 100,000 acres in the state are unplantable. One farmer said he couldn’t plant almost 750 acres of wheat this spring, but he is making the best of it.
“I chose this profession and I have no complaints or no regrets. So until mother nature proves me wrong, I am going to stay optimistic and hope for a good harvest,” said farmer Jeff Tee
The agricultural disaster declaration claim goes to the governor, then to the Secretary of Agriculture to be approved.
If approved, famers could get federal assistance by next year.

As Aaron was parsing the news this morning, he found the above news article. I though I would share it with you all here. We have had such a wet long spring!

Amie is Home

2011-06-16T12:17:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was quite a day! Aaron works for the city picking up the garbage on Wednesday mornings. He was also on call (Wed is usually a day off, from 6 am to 6 pm) until 11. The plan was to be ready to go when he got off at 11am. Where were we going. To pick up Sweet Amie.

The strip (dorsel strip) a Common thing in Fjords. All the way down the mane to the top of the tail. I am going trim up her mane soon, it should be standing up (think mohawk for a horse)

Grandma came down so we could use the truck. Then while Aaron and I drove the hour and 1/2 northwest to get her, she played with the kids. From what I was told, they made and flew kites, cleaned up their room and had a wonderful time.

Checking out the neighbors horses.

That's the spot!

While picker her up, loading ect went smoothly, the traffic was a pill. On the way up, we got stuck behind a very slow moving truck that paints the lines on the road. 8 miles an hour....for over 30 mins!

On the way home...we were detoured for road work. Another hours time extra. We also drove threw a rather large hail storm that Amie did not like. We stopped for a potty/coffee/grain break and she settled right back down.

checking out the canoe

After we got home, her unloaded, trailer parked and covered back up, it was after 5 by the time we got back home and actually in the house for a few. A lady came at about 6:30ish (I didnt look at the clock) to pick up a table. Dinner was breakfast burritos. Needless to say, we had to reschedule this weeks music lessons. There is a reason we did this yesterday and not Friday. Aaron is working!

love her ears! :)

She is settling in well and like I suspected, follows us around like a big over grown puppy. She rather enjoys sniffing the chickens, which in turns startles them (chickens). She is happily munching grass and enjoying a treat when we go out.

A Post Of Many Things

2011-06-13T15:12:00.000-07:00

Amie

2011-06-10T10:55:00.000-07:00

Meet Sweet Amie. She is an 8 year old, Norwegian Fjord mare who is going to be joining the King Family Pets. She is a sweet, well mannered horse who is well trained (ridding and halter shown). She loved the kids and was not at all worried about the noise of them playing with trucks on a gravel drive, a guy using a chop saw or anything. I think she would have followed the kids around like a big puppy if she was not on a lead. While not trained to drive, she will make a great driving horse as soon as I work with her. Fjords are my all time favorite horse and I am so excited for her to be ours! She is heading to the vet today for brand inspection, Coggins and a health check, if paper work is all ready, we pick her up next Friday! This next week will be finishing up the back yard pen (her part time home) getting hay etc. I am also going to dig out a picture of my first Fjord Pete to share with you.

The Norwegian Fjord Horse is one of the world's oldest and purest breeds. It is believed that the original Fjord Horse migrated to Norway and was domesticated over 4,000 years ago. Herds of wild Fjord Horses existed in Norway after the last ice age. Archaeological excavations at Viking burial sites indicate that the Fjord Horse has been selectively bred for at least 2,000 years.
One of their unique characteristics is that approximately 90% of all Fjord Horses are brown dun in color. The other 10% are either red dun, gray, white or "uls" dun, or yellow dun. The Fjord Horse retains the "wild" dun color of the original horse as well as the primitive markings which include zebra stripes on the legs and a dorsal stripe that runs from the forelock down the neck and back and into the tail. Dark stripes may also be seen over the withers. Red duns have reddish-brown stripes and body markings. Gray duns have black or very dark gray stripes and markings. The white or "uls" dun is a very light body color with black or gray stripe and markings. The yellow dun have a darker yellow stripe and markings, they may have a completely white forelock, mane and tail. The yellow dun is a very rare color in the breed.
Another unique characteristic of the Fjord Horse is the mane. The center hair of the mane is dark (usually black) while the outer hair is white. The mane is cut short so it will stand erect. It is trimmed in a characteristic crescent shape to emphasize the graceful curve of the neck The white outer hair is then trimmed slightly shorter than the dark inner hair to display the dramatic dark stripe.
The head and neck should present an appearance of elegance without coarseness. The head is medium sized and well defined with a broad, flat forehead and a straight or slightly dished face. The eyes are large. Ears are small and alert. The neck of the Fjord is well muscled and crested. The body is short coupled with good depth, large heart girth, and well developed muscles. The legs are powerful, with substantial bone and excellent feet which are black in color. Fjords generally range in size from 13.2 to 14.2 Hands and weigh between 900 and 1200 pounds at maturity, with a few individuals ranging outside these measurements.
~ Borrowed from the Norwegian Fjord Horse Registry

Sneek Peek

2011-06-09T09:40:00.000-07:00

Our Day In Pictures.

2011-06-07T11:47:00.000-07:00

As the big tree (below) comes down we are stacking up the wood to burn this coming winter.

Old Willow type tree getting turned into firewood. Aaron got three more big branches down yesterday. He is at a stand still now, until tomorrow when he gets a new chain saw chain.

One compost bin out of free pallets, as soon as we get two more, we will build another. These are at the back of the property and as you can see, we have started adding in all the waste. Bunny, chicken, etc! Looking forward to making good dirt for future use.

I took down the old fence around where we had the pool yesterday, and started the process to fence in the back yard. Posts pulled and moved, one gate in place. Now we just need a roll of fence. I did this while Aaron is plugging away at the critter shed.

While Flora was napping, Clara and Andrew played with the chickens. Clara has one of the younger ones in the pack on her back. Silly girl. Yes, she is wearing pjs, they have a big hole in one of the legs and have been demoted to play clothing.

My little man with one of the younger chickens. He got over his fear of chicken, it was rather short lived. I think once he noticed that the rooster he attacked and then was after him is no longer here, he decided they weren't all that bad.

We will be able to start eating salads soon! Yum. I tasted some and it was good!

Beets

Squash starts

Peeking through the lilac's

I really can't wait for these to fully bloom. I LOVE lilacs and they smell!

They Are Here

2011-06-06T13:24:00.000-07:00

This Wed the girls start violin lessons! They are so excited!

These are 1/4 size to fit their little arms. They are so cute!

Flora is very excited and keep bouncing and asking to play her Biolin. We keep telling her that she will start to learn out on Wednesday!

Thanks Nana and Aunty!

I Have A Thing...

2011-06-05T17:28:00.000-07:00

...for horses and good food.. I know odd combo for a blog post, but hey. It's my blog, AND I am remembering to post a requested recipe. If I don't do it know, I will likely forget forever or way after the fact. So humor me! :-)

A friends horse Charlie and my man. Until I get my own horse, I am enjoying taking pictures, and loving on the neighbors :)

Charlie is a goof ball, he has a lot of personality. He also has loose lips and like to eat everything!

Even like to nibble of Clara. She just started bossing him around and pushed him away. My girls has the same love of horses as me. How fun is this going to be!

Now: Good Food aka Requested Recipe that I am now going to have to make this week...Thanks Julianne!

Coffee Spiced Rubbed Grilled Roast:

Rub:

1/4 -1/3 cup finally ground coffee

1/4 cup chilli powder

2 tablespoons paprika

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 tablespoon dry mustard

1 tablespoon salt

1tablespoon black pepper

1 tablespoon dried oregano

1 tablespoon coriander

2 teaspoons ground ginger

Take thawed roast and trim fat if need be. Cut slits all over roast to stuff with garlic cloves, I like to add about 10 for a 3 lb roast, but we really like garlic. After garlic is stuffed into slits, rub the outside of the roast with oil so the coffee rub sticks nicely. Rub Roast all over with rub mixture (it might not take all of it, but give it a good coating). Let set in frig until grill is hot (or do it the day before for an even deeper flavor, just cover and set in frig.)

Grill roast on grill until med rare inside, let set for 10-20 minutes before slicing. The coffee run is rather strong, but the big ups in this house like it, we just scrape it off for the kids. You can also broil this easily.

Fun With The Cousins: Part 2

2011-06-02T16:44:00.000-07:00

Yesterday out house was a happening place. Taco's were had for lunch, kids got dirty playing outside and a good time was had by all.

The bigger kids played out side for a while. Some caught chickens with Uncle Aaron/Daddy. Some played on the swing set. All ran around screeching like "chickens" or rather dying chickens. Fun was had.

Only a couple of months apart and matching. These two are going to make a good team one day!

Couch full!

The trick was to get the all looking my way at once...It didn't work. I love this pictures!

A Tale of A Toe

2011-05-31T21:05:00.000-07:00

It all started one fateful evening when one Big Footed Boy

and his blond older sister went running through the house. Down the hall, back up the hall and through the dinning room and kitchen. They zoomed into the living room full of giggles and laughter and even after a warning from the Mama to stay away from her pile of stuff (she was decluttering) they decided to run through any how.

Screams erupted from The Big Footed Boy and scared the Blond One who ran to mama's chair. Big Footed Boy hobbled over to mama and asked to get up. The Mama picked him up and the Daddy was on hand with the box of fix it materials. The Mama and Daddy both saw a bit of blood on the Big Footed Boy's toe and though he might have scratched it, but on what they were not sure.

Apon investagation the Mama and Daddy saw a cut, not a scratch. A deep cut. Starting at the base of The Big Footed Boy's big toe where it was the deepest, and running clean up to the tip. There was no skin left on the path the unknown item left on said toe.

While Mama applied pressure to stop the flow of bleeding, the Daddy looked to see what caused it hurt on The Big Footed Boy. The culprit was found ( curtain rod) and the bleeding soon slowed. While the Mama cuddled, comforted and prayed, the Daddy gave a good cleaning of the deep cut, ointment and two band aids with a sock to keep it clean and tidy. The Big Footed Boy was ready once again to play. Only not so, he was been in pain, and since it's the underside of his toe, he rather hobbled around.

Now The Big Footed Boy is all tucked into bed, foot still hurting, but tomorrow is a new day and I am sure all you readers are thankful I did not post pictures of the little fat globs seen in the cut of The Big Footed Boy.

Awesome Day

2011-05-30T19:32:00.000-07:00

Today was a great day! Truly great.Many things to be thankful for.

First: It looks dark and foreboding this morning when we got up, and "they" said that it was going to be rainy, so we planned on a day in. Right after naps and lunch the sun broke though. So out we went!

Second, we were blessed with a good amount of lumber (2x4's mentioned in a previous post) and have the steal 2x4's from the house that we can get a good start on the critter shed! God is good! We will only need to buy siding to match the other out building and roofing! I knocked fown the frame for the small green house that we never used, as we planned on using the huge beams for the foundation of the critter building, and then Aaron got busy raising up the area (so it stays dry) and getting the foundation done!

Third: I got some flowers planted yesterday in the window boxes and misc pot I have around. I took some pictures today to show you all.

Forth: It was warm enough to play in the mud. Not me, although I was known to in my much younger days, but the kids. Grandad, this is a truly dirty Andrew:

One very dirty boy. He was doing the same thing the girls were, playing in a mud puddle, yet, he got 5 times dirtier! BOYS!

Slightly Less Dirty Flora

Clara even a little less dirty.

And last but not least. My sister is singing in New York, in Carnegie Hall tonight! She made it, is having fun and I can't wait to see pictures!

My flower's in the window. And a muddy coffee cup!

I got all my herbs planted into their new home. Chives (x2) Lemon Balm, mint, basil, oregano, comfery, yarrow, and lavender.