Where my treasure is

Berry Spinach Smoothie

2012-02-08T11:23:00.000-08:00

I love smoothies and have made them for years. My kids have had smoothies since they could drink milk from a cup. I love that I can hide foods in them, and my kids don't even know it! I like to add whey protein powder, spinach leaves, and avocado to any fruit and yogurt smoothie. I've heard adding ginger is good, but I haven't tried it yet. I never remember to get ginger when I am at the store! I never do avocado and spinach together because the smoothie turns out more green -- which is fine for me, but not my kids. I usually do one or the other - and if you add enough berries - the smoothie still stays purplish!

I have the Bella Rocket blender. It's like the Magic Bullet but cheaper and works just as well.
I also use this to grind my coffee, and it works great!

Here is a recipe that we use ALL the time. I probably make this 2-3 times a week for us. It usually ends up being breakfast or a big part of our lunch.

This recipe page made with Smilebox

Try a smoothie once and a while if you are sick of making the same old breakfast or lunch for your kids!

Thursday Family Night

2012-02-03T07:19:00.000-08:00

Anna chose what to do for family night this week, and she chose painting. She has always loved to paint, and I usually don't let her paint much unless it's watercolor or something easy and quick like painting in a coloring book or on a plain piece of paper. She loves to paint rocks or anything wooden!

This past fall David and her made a little birdhouse out of some scrap wood, and she finally got to do the finishing touches!

Owen and I went to Michael's after our Elm Creek outing, and he picked a rocket to paint. I thought it would be perfect for him since his little Woody and Buzz (and Ham and Slinky Dog) could fit into the hole. Already this morning he is flying them around!

I loved watching David watch the kids paint. Anna had her birdhouse with a plain green roof, orange sides, and a pink front and back (it looked really nice, simple)-- then she added polka dots and stripes -- that was really hard for David. I told her I love polka dots and stripes! So away she painted as David cringed.

As Owen started painting, David was talking to him about what parts of the rocket should be blue, what parts should be green and orange. Well, the minute Owen got the paint brush in his hand there was NO help from Dad. This was his project - not Dad's. I think it looks better all crazy with paint anyway!!! Dad ended up doing a good job letting the kids do their thing!

Spring Weather in the Winter

2012-02-02T15:27:00.000-08:00

Since the weather has been staying warm, I decided to just think that it's spring. Whenever it's nice, I am going to take Owen to Elm Creek Park (which is right by Anna's school). So, today we played "baseball" and Owen went running A LOT! No, I did not run. I never run when I am pregnant -- it hurts too much. Not that I run much when I am not pregnant.

I have been exhausted lately and whenever Anna is in school I just feel like taking a nap. So not fun for Owen. So, I think the nice fresh air will help as I endure these last few weeks.

Mini Oil Lamp

2012-01-28T11:14:00.000-08:00

I love surprises -- but only when they are complete surprises. I don't like when someone says, "You'll see. It's going to be a surprise!" Because then I want to know, and it kind of wrecks it anyways.

This morning at breakfast, David walked up the stairs with something behind his back. I just knew I heard the lathe going bright and early this morning, but who would know what he would be working on. David always has so many different projects going.

But today, he surprised me with something.

A mini oil lamp made from a maple burl. I think the wood and finish looks really cool! Thanks Honey! You're the best. You know I would take something made out of wood over flowers any day!

Thursday Family Night (with cousins)

2012-01-21T21:54:00.000-08:00

We had John and Naomi (and kids) over on Thursday night for dinner, and Elizabeth and Rachel spent the night. All four kids started out in Anna's room. It went pretty well until Rachel and Owen started complaining about Elizabeth and Anna talking too much and keeping them awake! So, I asked Owen if he would like to sleep on the floor in Mom and Dad's room. He quickly said "yes" to that. Soon after, the girls were asleep.

It was pretty cute seeing Rachel come up to my room in the middle of the night because she had lost her pink blanket. She also came up in the morning because she was the first one to wake up. So, I was able to spend some time just with her. Elizabeth woke up a little after Rachel and of course asked me right away to read books! Well, in our house, the coffee pot comes on before anything happens (for the most part). So, I decided to make the girls hot cocoa (while I made my coffee). Then, we happily read books together! It was fun sitting on the couch with my nieces in the morning with hot drinks in our hands.

Thursday Family Night

2012-01-12T18:37:00.000-08:00

This fall we always had a weekly family night where we planned something that we usually don't do - something OTHER THAN reading, doing puzzles, playing games or playing with some set of toys. Then, December came around and it was CRAZY busy with Christmas stuff, etc. So, now we are back on track with our normal weekly schedule. Those of you who know me, know that I LOVE to keep a schedule (or maybe HAVE to). My kids seem to work best with routine. Sometimes I feel like I have a schedule for everything - a dinner schedule, a cleaning schedule, a homework schedule, a bible memory verse schedule, a tv schedule, a reading schedule, a family night schedule, - that's all I can think of. :)

So tonight we made homemade playdough which we haven't made for a long time. Owen made orange and Anna made pink (a very light pink that looks like strawberry yogurt!). I think they had just as much fun making it as they did playing with it.

Caneday Christmas Fun

2012-01-03T11:05:00.000-08:00

We spent a couple days with Grandma and Grandpa Caneday for Christmas. The kids had so much fun doing the fishing pond and acting out the nativity story (not to mention opening stockings, presents, and playing games)! I think my kids' favorite time in life is being with their grandma and grandpa's. That was always one of my favorite times growing up too - that's probably why we spend the night even when they only live 12 miles away.

Winter Fun

2012-01-03T10:44:00.000-08:00

Anna tried ice skating for the first time this year. She did a pretty good job with only a couple falls (although she was going pretty slow!). The ice on the lake is really smooth and dark this year - most of the little kiddos fell down just wearing their boots.

Owen went ice fishing with Dad. He sure loved when a fish was caught! It's kind of a tradition to make our two year old's kiss their fish they catch! We really just do this because it's funny - they are too young to know that that is gross (at least I think it is). :) Owen walked all the way back to the house to find Mom. He looked so small on the ice - and so far away.

Extra Christmas Gifts

2011-12-16T06:39:00.000-08:00

Anna and Owen have already opened up their Christmas gifts this year. We usually have our little family Christmas the day before we leave to go out of town, but I remembered this year that that day is usually crazy and busy with baths, packing, cleaning, etc. So, we planned a special day earlier this year.

My sister let me know that she was planning on bringing either a stocking or a couple gifts for Christmas morning for her kids to open -- and I thought, shoot, we already opened all of our gifts. So, last night, I made a couple. One is for Anna's Doll "Ruthie" and the other one is for Owen's special bear.

I am making quilts for Anna and Owen's bed (I posted this a while back), and I had some left over fabric. I hope they both like theirs.

Boy/Girl?

2011-11-14T14:49:00.001-08:00

Boy or Girl - What's your guess?

Of course, I know the Lord knows what is best for our family. He could bless Anna and Owen with a little brother, or he could bless them with a little sister.

I see positives with either:

If it's a boy:
Owen would have a little brother to play with while Anna is at school.
Owen's clothes and toys would easily be passed down to the next (not such a large age gap).
Continue to pass on the Caneday name (I put this in for David).
Less emotional.

If it's a girl:
I have another GIRL to go out for coffee with/shop with/talk with, etc. (and you all know I love that!)
Anna will have a little sister (to go out for coffee with/shop with/talk with, etc.) (and you all know she would love that!)
As the girls get older, I think they would always include Owen.
Less physical.

Really - it doesn't matter and that is why we didn't find out at the ultrasound. Either would be perfect. I don't have a say in it anyway! :)

So - what is your guess?

Ultrasound

2011-11-09T06:27:00.000-08:00

David and I had our 20 week ultrasound yesterday for baby #3. We DID NOT find out the sex of the baby - although it was difficult knowing that the technician knew and we didn't. I almost wanted to find out, but I know the surprise will be worth it. It was so fun to finally see the baby. It was moving a lot and almost seemed to be bothered by all the poking around! He/she wasn't always cooperating for all the measurements, so I had to get up four different times. The technician wasn't able to get one of the measurements that they need for the heart, so I get to go back and see the baby again next month!!!! The heart looked great - but she couldn't see the inflow/outflow of the heart because the baby was upside down a lot. I think we will bring Anna and Owen for that ultrasound so they can see the baby too. So far the baby seems to be healthy and big (well, not BIG, but I am measuring 5 days earlier). This means that I could have my C-section on Friday the 23rd instead of the Monday the 26th. This is really just 1 week and 1 day before my actual due date - otherwise only 3 days before my "measured" due date.

The technician let us see the baby in 4D. We have never been able to see that before. This clinic just got a new machine in the last year and a half. It was really neat being able to see the nose, eyes, lips, etc. more clearly. How precious! I love watching David's face at ultrasounds because I feel like it really becomes real for the dad that day. He always seems so happy to finally see and believe that the baby is actually in there! :) He thinks it's the coolest thing.

It's hard to believe that this will be our last baby - unless some crazy miracle happens later. I have really enjoyed this pregnancy (even through some unexpected difficult family times). I can't wait to hold and kiss the baby in March, but I also have loved being pregnant and don't want it to end - although at 37 weeks I might change my mind. :) Sleeping and turning a HUGE belly just gets uncomfortable!

I will post pictures in December after our next ultrasound - if I can figure out our scanner. I should say - when David scan's the pictures for me! :) What would I do without him?

The Parnassus Columns

2011-11-03T18:57:00.000-07:00

It's report card day! Anna got all A's and one B. The first quarter is over already. How time flies!

We also received "The Parnassus Columns" today. I am always interested in reading what Mrs. Ford (Executive Director) has to say. In this issue she answered a few questions that have been raised (and that I have wondered about). Here are a couple of them. I didn't answer them all in full.

Does Parnassus have classroom parties such as holiday parties?

Parnassus does not hold parties in the classrooms as one often sees in traditional schools. ...with a goal of making every educational minute matter, we want to assure you that when your children are at Parnassus they are learning and focusing on serious scholarship....

How does the school plan to prepare students to live in a highly technological world?

Our Classical Trivium (grammar, logic, rhetoric) is intended to provide a foundation for further, more specialized, subject study as students complete their specialized studies at Parnassus. In an age of increasing technological specialization, it is even more important to provide a strong base of common knowledge as well as the tools of learning so students will have the capacity to think across these divisions. Often the discussion of "preparing for a technological world" comes down to introducing expensive and quickly outdated technological devices into schools. Even in a world with technology and a plethora of information at student's fingertips, students must still possess a strong body of knowledge, based on teacher led instruction. That, in combination with learning to read widely, will give students the tools they need to be lifelong scholars. We tend to assume that technology has not altered human nature in any fundamental way: children learn mostly from teachers, who do at times use some technological tools to help them teach. That is not to say, however, that our students will not have access to computers from time to time in the upper levels of the School of Grammar and the Schools of Logic and Rhetoric. Students will use computers for research and presentations and will have a general understanding of basic computer programs such as Word, PowerPoint, etc.

Why does Parnassus focus on formality?

...our formality underscores and supports our emphasis on structure, discipline, and excellence. It is evident in our students' uniforms which have specific guidelines that are strictly adhered to. Our staff members represent our school well as they dress in business attire each day.... When you visit our classrooms your will notice students standing when they address their teachers as a sign of respect and also to teach them to speak in front of others with good posture, strong voices, poise and a command of speech....

Also in the column this month was info on what is served at lunch and also what students are allowed to bring for snack during the day. Only healthy food is served (nothing high in sugar and only whole grains) and only healthy food is allowed for snacks. No fruit snacks, fruit roll-ups, desserts, candy, chips of any kind, high sugar foods, carbonated drinks, etc. Next year Anna will be able to eat hot lunch (if she doesn't pack one) - it's just nice knowing that the food she will be getting is not what is normally served at schools.

As you can see just from these few comments, this school is DIFFERENT! My kindergartener has homework EVERY night. Work is sent back home if it is sloppy at all or not completed, etc. Parent volunteering in mandatory! LOTS and LOTS of reading is required every day in every grade. So far, David and I feel like this school is a little crazy - strict - but really, would I want Anna at any other school? No! I know I wouldn't be content with her just learning her colors, shapes, and letter sounds in kindergarten. This is a great school. I am amazed at how smoothly things have been going at Parnassus being that it's it's first year.

For those interested, registration for next year starts next month!

Cabin 2011

2011-10-31T11:19:00.000-07:00

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We were able to go to cabin again this fall. It is always such a great time. So beautiful, quiet, remote. Wish we could stay for a month. We heard wolves calling and owls hooting, and saw nine beautiful swans on the lake. Anna says that being out in the woods is her absolute favorite thing. I love when I see her outdoor - adventurous side because usually we see her girly - fancy side! Owen loved his freedom to run all around. It is nice seeing so many stars at night and having a fire right down by the lake (evening and morning). I would have to say - nothing is better than having coffee by a campfire in the early morning with your family.

Applesauce

2011-10-05T21:52:00.000-07:00

For some reason my kids do not like store-bought applesauce. Maybe it's because I buy the 'no sugar added' kind??? I don't know??? But whenever they are offered the good stuff - the homemade stuff - they love it. Anna probably eats it because the shade of the applesauce usually resembles PINK. So after going to the apple orchard and getting apples from my mom's apple tree, I decided to make some applesauce that Anna and Owen will actually eat! A friend of mine lent me her Roma Food Strainer and Sauce Maker -- yeah -- definitely the way to make applesauce (and many other sauces or jams)! No peeling, no coring -- only quartering!! It was so fast and easy. I will be putting one of these on my Christmas list this year.

I made about 12 quarts, which was more than I thought I would get. We paid $11 dollars for our "pick your own" bag of apples - and of course, my mom's were free -- and we have had a couple desserts out of that bag of apples too. A pretty good deal for a good healthy snack!

Anna's Joke of the Day

2011-09-30T03:46:00.000-07:00

I thought Anna was pretty creative coming up with this joke the other day in the car. "What did one muffin say to the other muffin?" ---Quit buttering me up!

California Vacation

2011-09-26T11:26:00.000-07:00

We were blessed to go on a family vacation/business trip out to Southern California for nine days. We spent most of our days in Cypress when David had to work. On the days that he didn't have to go to the office, we went to San Diego, Laguna Beach, and Disneyland. We flew in on a Saturday and settled into our hotel, etc. On Sunday we headed down to San Diego (about an hour and a half from Cypress). We were planning on going to the famous San Diego Zoo, but was told from a friend that it is VERY hilly for little kids -- even adventurous ones. So, we skipped that, but took her advice on going to Coronado Island, Gaslamp Quarter, La Jolla Beach, and we also spent a lot of time in Balboa Park. I was glad we didn't spend the money to go to the zoo because the beach at Coronado Island was amazing! We walked pretty far to get to the beach -- parking was a nightmare! When we got to the beach and saw people swimming, we hiked right back to our car and threw our suits on! The kids loved swimming in the ocean! David and I took turns going way out into the waves. We were careful! :) I had the camera at Coronado - and had it on a strange setting - oops. So, the pictures are kind of blue. We did get good video though of us swimming! Thanks to our waterproof video camera. :)

Balboa Park was fun to take the kids to. There were lots of museums, little restaurants, gardens and live music playing. Of course being in San Diego, the weather was perfect - sunny and warm, but not too warm.

Gaslamp Quarter

La Jolla Beach - We walked the shoreline for a long time. It has a neat rocky terrain that feels like sand. Not sure if it's sandstone or what, but it was fun to take the kids on.

Of course we had to stop at In-N-Out Burger! We had never been there before. They only sell burgers and fries! Their burgers were great -- fries, not so much.

This was our hotel pool. I will never forget it because Anna learned to swim here. She took off her floaties and decided to be brave and swim under the water, tread water, float on her back, and jump into the deep end of the pool (all by herself). We canceled her swimming lessons this fall which she doesn't need right now anyway. It's more fun to teach your own child how to swim than someone else! :) --and of course, you save money!

Laguna Beach was definitely my favorite place. It's a quaint artsy little town right on the ocean. The beach is beautiful, and the evening we were there the tide was really high. It was fun to see crashing waves and to watch the sun go down! We ate at a restaurant right on the beach.

...and some other beaches...sunset beach, long beach.... I stopped at a dollar store and found some sand buckets for the kids. They were missing their shovels, so I got them for .50 cents and bought some big kitchen spoons to use as shovels. They actually worked better! :) A and O really needed something to use in the sand. (Thanks for the tip Joan!)

I think Disneyland will be another post!!!! We took a lot of pictures there! :) Oh yeah, and Anna and Owen each had little shot glass necklaces to carry their shells in. (Not that they knew they were shot glasses!)

Apple Orchard

2011-09-26T08:09:00.000-07:00

It's kind of a tradition to go to an apple orchard with Eric and Gretchen. We love to pick our own apples, go on hay rides, eat, and mostly just let the kids run wild!

There they are - running wild!

Crazy September

2011-09-20T21:01:00.000-07:00

I haven't blogged for almost a month. September has been a such a roller coaster for us (ok for me). As soon as we got back from our California trip, we jumped right into our fall schedule. This is definitely the craziest fall I have had since having children. The pregnancy hormones have not helped at all. I've been on the verge of crying every day (or have cried), and if you know me, you know that that is not normal -- as an everyday thing for me to do! :) Seriously at church the other day, we opened our hymnals to sing a hymn - which I love, but you should have seen me crying - not crying for the Lord (or praising the Lord kind of crying), but simply crying because we opened our hymnals. What is my problem?

Well, part of my problem is that Anna is in Kindergarten (the other part other than being pregnant). But the real part of the problem isn't Kindergarten -- it's first grade. It's all day - everyday school that I fear. Why am I already thinking about next year? Again, what is my problem? This 3 hour/half day thing is doable, kind of no big deal, but all day everyday? My cute little chubby cheeked dimpled tiny small little (did I say little already) girl will be away from ME (her one and only mom) ALL DAY!!!! Hmm? I don't know how I feel about this, and I don't know how other moms feel about this. Do you just get used to it? I don't know if I want to get used to it. I guess we will take it a year at a time. At least we have freedom to choose our child's education, but how in the world do you choose when you see the positives and negatives in ALL situations. Ignorance is bliss isn't it? Sometimes I wish I just didn't have a clue - didn't have a care - never thought twice - just went with the flow - like a cameleon! No, I know, that would be bad. But you know those people right? What an easy life. But I don't believe we are called to live like that.

Enough about school (hormones really coming through in that paragraph)! Anyway...with class Tuesday nights, Awana Wednesday nights, MOMS group every other Tuesday, Small group every other Friday, Moms-in-Touch school prayer group every Friday, keeping the house clean (aka doing Motivated Moms), preparing meals, driving Anna to and from school, and all the other daily things you do as a mom -- I might never see or talk to any of you who might be reading this blog unless you are in one of the above mentioned groups! :) Now I know that this kind of a life is normal. I realize this, and I realize that many moms are even busier than I am, and I think we are all just nuts!

Anna's K Schedule

2011-08-26T14:34:00.000-07:00

When I picked Anna up today she said, "Today we worked on estimations!"

I thought - awesome- I sure wouldn't have been working on that with her today! Then, she sang me a song in Spanish. I was shocked she had it memorized already. Then I thought again, I sure wouldn't have been teaching her Spanish today either. Glad she's going to a good school!

This is what her schedule is going to look like this year.

12:30 - Do it Now and Announcements
12:45 - Reading (Horizons Curriculum from Alpha Omega)
1:40 Music/P.E. (every other day)
2:00 Math (Singapore Curriculum)
2:30 History, Art, Science, Geography, Spelling (Core Knowledge)
3:00 Spanish
3:30 Dismissal

Anna is absolutely loving school. She says she loves it so much she can hardly stand it! That makes me smile.

Anna's First Day of Kindergarten!

2011-08-22T20:16:00.000-07:00

We started the morning off with, "When am I going to school?" "Now is it time to go to school?" Then, before we new it, it WAS time to go! Anna grabbed her backpack (Owen grabbed his too). We took a few snapshots of Anna in her new school uniform - the one outfit she has so far. If she had the jumper or the skirt, she would have been wearing that for sure. She was actually excited to get into any school clothes though. She said, "Now I look like Daddy going to work!"

I often tell Anna stories of this imaginary girl that we made up, and yesterday of course, I told the story of her first day of school. I tried to include as many things that I could think of that the teacher would do on the first day of school! This really did help Anna on her first day. She thought back to the story of our imaginary friend -- and realized she was doing much of the same things.

We pulled into the parking lot of the school and hand in hand walked to the doors. No tears yet. Then, well, of course, we had to stop for a potty break, and quickly headed for Ms. Loria's room. Anna said that she kind of remembered where it was. We walked in and found her desk (way up front in the corner). No tears yet. I didn't want to upset Anna right before I left! It was all so new and big and exciting for her. We said "hi" to a couple little girls we met at the open house, and met with her teacher to get Anna's name tag. Then we shared hugs and kisses - Owen too, and said our good-byes. Then there were tears -not Anna's - mine. I don't think she noticed, we quickly left the room. Even through the tears, I knew she was in good hands and that this was a good thing for her.

While Anna was in school for a few hours, Owen and I went to Elm Creek Park Reserve! Wow, the new playground is awesome. We played and walked around. Then Owen took a nap and we ran some errands, and before I knew it, it was time to pick up Anna.

We got Anna, and she told me all about her day. This was my favorite story of the day(It went something like this):
Mom: Did you have to tell everyone your name and something about yourself?
Anna: Oh yes. We went outside and stood in a big circle and then one person had to step in the circle and tell their name and something they liked to do.
Mom: What did you say?
Anna: I said, "Hi! I'm Anna, and I like to sit by a tree with my notepad."
Mom: What did some of the other kids say?
Anna: They just kept saying the same thing. "Hi my name is whatever and I like to jump or spin." The boys usually just said jump and the girls would say spin. I got so sick of jump/spin jump/spin jump/spin that I had to same something different. But not ALL of them said the same thing just some of them, but I wanted to say something different.
Mom: Well that's good Anna!

Her favorite part of the day was music. She also liked tracing her hand and drawing a picture of her family.

So everything seemed so great until about 7pm! Then, she finally told me with tears in her eyes, "Mom, I really missed you, and I think the battery on the clock must have been broken because it seemed like forever." Now this was the worst part of my day. Then she said, "Can I bring something to school that reminds me of you?" I told her that of course she can. So, tomorrow she is bringing a family photo for in her desk, and I told her that every day I can write her a special little not to have in her pocket. This seemed to help.

The night ended with Owen sleeping in her bed. He has never done that before!

Parnassus Preparatory School

2011-08-20T08:51:00.000-07:00

"The Greek place Mount Parnassus in literature typically refers to its distinction as the home of poetry, literature, music and learning. The name reflects the founders belief that Parnassus will provide a classical academic program that will produce students who are critical thinkers, coherent writers, confident speakers, thoughtful leaders and responsible members of their community."

I can't begin to tell you how thankful I am to the Lord for answering our prayers regarding our school decision for Anna (and the rest of the family)! I was told about Parnassus about a week ago. I contacted the principal to see if there were any kindergarten openings. He said yes. I dismissed it because we always thought we would send Anna to kindergarten when she turned 6. We thought it would be nice for her to be one of the oldest in her class, but the Lord had other plans. A week went by, and I emailed the principal again (and met with him personally) to see if there were still any spots left. There was one! We took it! Nervous, sad, scared, but grateful, thankful, and excited at the same time.

I have been waiting for a classical school to open in the northwest! I would not have been ready to open enroll Anna in a school last winter. I wouldn't have thought she would have been ready -- or had a clue as to what we would be doing. But I didn't have to open enroll her and deal with a lottery system!!!!! The Lord took care of us! My consuming thoughts (for the past two years) regarding education are gone!

David and I went to Anna's open house yesterday. I was amazed at all the familiar faces I knew from Bethlehem, Bethel, Northwestern, and ANCF. The parents were all so friendly. The staff was so professional and prepared! The school is small, clean, organized, new!!!! And Anna's teacher -- I get teary-eyed just thinking about her working with Anna -- she is SO sweet and energetic and professional. This is a perfect fit for Anna! David and I walked out of the open house with smiles on our faces because we knew we had made the right decision! Words just can't express.

Our little girl is growing up! I couldn't ask for a better school or better families to work with!

Anna's 5th Birthday!

2011-08-18T12:08:00.000-07:00

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It is hard to believe that Little Anna is 5. She celebrated her birthday with her friend Lexi, who turned 6 the day before Anna's birthday. It was fun having an outdoor birthday party at a park with a fun wading pool for the kids to cool off in and a big playground to play at. A sweet day for a sweet little girl!

Honey For A Child's Heart

2011-08-14T19:38:00.000-07:00

This is a great book that I just ordered and have really been enjoying reading! It is a guide for parents who want to find good books for their children at appropriate ages. It lists picture book classics, children's first books, classic children's novels, read a-louds,historical and fantasy novels, poetry for pleasure, and even books to nourish your child's spiritual life. In part one of Hunt's book, she briefly discusses what makes a good book, fantasy and realism, the importance of words, fairy tales, etc.

I love what Gladys Hunt wrote in her section on fairy tales, "At our house we have wondered if the silvery, dewy spiderwebs sparkling in the early morning sun had been part of the decorations for a ball the fairies held the night before, especially if orange toadstools have sprung up in the same area. We discussed it as if it were true, but it was like sharing a special secret. We all knew it was make-believe. There is nothing unspiritual about an active imagination, a token of the liberty of childhood." I love fairy tales and always have. I see nothing wrong with using your imagination and pretending that things are real (even Santa Claus and the Tooth Fairy or elves!). Make-believe is great! I don't think that children have any problem distinguishing between what is true and what is false - at least Anna doesn't!

I recommend this book to any parent who is willing to take the time to read daily to their children -- and not to just read any old book, but to read GOOD books!

Anne of Green Gables

2011-07-27T20:02:00.000-07:00

It is always fun to have something to watch while I'm walking on my treadmill (not that I've been walking very often), so that I don't always have to listen to music. I don't understand how some people can read while walking -- but I really wish that I could! Anyway, a friend of mine lent me her 5-disc collector's edition of Anne of Green Gables! I think I will be asking for this for my birthday! There are a lot of extra's in this edition including Megan Follows original audition, missing scenes and lost footage. If you are a fan, I highly recommend this. I can't wait until Anna is older -- so we can watch these together. I know she will love them.

Owie or Owie!

2011-07-15T07:48:00.000-07:00

I definitely have a two year old who is ALL boy! Yesterday he managed to fall really hard into the corner of a door frame giving him a huge bruised goose egg on his forehead. And earlier he had taken a pair of kid scissors and cut himself on his mouth. I was organizing my craft area. Anna was painting, and I kind of remembered seeing Owen grab the scissors but didn't think much of it because he has used them before -- the right way! Then, I must have gotten distracted because I totally forgot that he was playing with them. Later, I saw these red lines near his mouth -- thinking it was food or drink that needed to be wiped off. Nope, scissor cuts -- not really cuts but sore red marks. Then in the evening, I was clearing the supper table, David was helping Anna with something, and Owen managed to climb up onto the table and burned his knee on a hot pan! Awesome huh? Poor kid looks abused. Today, however, he looks much better!

Flyin' By

2011-07-12T14:55:00.000-07:00

This summer seems to be flying by. I had all these ideas of what I would do with Anna and Owen this summer -- start a math workbook with Anna, have her continue to read more, work on kind of "preschoolish" things with Owen, etc. Yeah, none of these things have happened. All we have done is played! Seriously. Our days are spent at the park, at the pool or lake, riding bikes, at birthday parties, at friend's houses, at Grandma and Grandpa's houses, or on vacation somewhere! We've squeezed in book reading because, well, you can't leave that out, but really play time is all we have done.

I thought of what I did growing up in the summers and all I remember is playing. O.K. swimming and playing in the yard with all my siblings-- and making forts in the woods with ferns!!! You know, we all turned out just great. I try and remind myself that I have a 4 year old and a 2 year old - and this is the time to play and be with friends and family -- not to do school work or memorize things or be pushed to read. They are LITTLE, and LITTLE is good! School will come before I know it, and before I want it to! :) I guess summer playtime is the best thing for my two right now.

Strawberry Pickin'

2011-06-26T15:20:00.001-07:00

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Caneday Family Vacation

2011-06-26T06:57:00.001-07:00

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Rag Quilts

2011-06-11T15:32:00.000-07:00

I decided to make Anna and Owen twin size rag quilts for their beds. I ordered my fabric online at fabrics.com (which is awesome) and got everything really fast! Fabric stores really overwhelm me, so shopping online made it a lot more fun for me. Anna's fabric choices were easy because I used Amy Butler's love flannel -- which, I think, is made to be used together. Owen's was a little bit more time consuming, but I found that I liked a lot of Michael Miller's fabric and then used some of Amy Butler's fabric to kind of match Anna's quilt.

I was so excited when all the fabric came - I started that night. I have all of the flannel squares cut! Now I have to cut 330 batting squares!

Here is a picture of the flannel squares I cut. Owen's is on the left - Anna's on the right.

This is a picture I found online of a rag quilt. The quilts I will be making will be similar to this.

Hopefully they will turn out alright. I've heard rag quilts are the easiest kind of quilts to make - and also very soft - PERFECT for me!

Wild River State Park Camping

2011-06-06T07:23:00.000-07:00

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It was really nice for David and I to take our kids camping -- just the four of us. I have so many memories of camping as a child that it's fun for Owen and Anna to start making similiar memories!

Anna's 1st Dance Recital

2011-06-02T21:56:00.003-07:00

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Memorial Weekend

2011-05-30T19:27:00.000-07:00

My Dad turned 60 last week, so we surprised him this weekend with a party! His parents even came for the special day, and he had no idea they were coming. How blessed my dad is to have his parents both be there on his 60th birthday. God is good.

The weather was quite strange most of the weekend. We had rain, wind, sun, warmth, you name it! As you can see in the pictures, the kids were playing in the sand down at the water, fishing while in rain gear, and t.v. watching when it was too cold and rainy to go outside.

We had a wonderful weekend with the entire family home. It was so fun to watch all the cousins play together.

Baby Quilts

2011-05-24T09:12:00.001-07:00

My sister-in-law made Anna and Owen matching little baby quilts -- and I never really had a place for them. Last night I was sitting out in my front porch and looked over at the "naked" bench and thought, "You need some blankets." What a perfect place to display these! That's what front porches are for- right?

Twin Cities Medtronic Kids Run

2011-05-24T08:44:00.000-07:00

Anna watched David run the TC Medtronic 1 mile race a couple weeks ago and really wanted to run one herself. So, I found a 1/2 mile kids race for her. I thought maybe it would be a little long, but she did a great job. She took one walking-breather in the middle (because her heart hurt) and then ran the rest of the way! I think she felt like she really accomplished something big -- so that was fun to see.

This is one perk about living in a big city -- there are always opportunities to let your kids try fun new things. As you can see, I am always trying to find the positive things about living in the city (since I naturally view the negatives). I might as well take advantage of the good things!

Apple Cream Coffee Cake

2011-05-20T09:35:00.000-07:00

David is working from home today, so the kids and I got up early to make breakfast while Daddy was still in bed -- something other than oatmeal or cream-of-wheat! Yummy treat with my coffee this morning on a rainy day!

Apple Cream Coffee Cake

1/2 c. butter
1c. sugar
2 eggs
1c. sour cream
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. pure vanilla
1 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
2c. flour
2 apples, peeled and chopped

Cream butter and sugar together. Add eggs and beat well. Mix in vanilla. Sift dry ingredients together and add sour cream. Fold in apples. Put into a greased and floured bundt pan. Sprinkle with 1/2c. brown sugar, 1 tsp. cinnamon, and dabs of butter (about 2-3 TBS. total). Bake for 40-45 min. at 375 degrees.

Owen at the Park

2011-05-20T09:06:00.000-07:00

We had a night with just Owen last night. These nights are few, but very precious when we get the chance. We took him to the park at Lake Johanna, not too far from our house. He enjoyed getting some special attention from Mom and Dad.

Tee Ball

2011-05-19T09:50:00.000-07:00

Owen has been practicing his baseball swing everyday this week. It will be exciting to watch him play tee ball when he's older and take him to baseball games. I love having a little boy!

The Yardwork Begins

2011-05-17T18:44:00.000-07:00

Look at this lawn! I know it is small, but it is dandelion FREE! All day today, I pulled dandelions - ok not really all day, but it seemed like the whole day.

Front and Back - dandelion free.

David sharpened the blades on the mower today before I mowed the lawn. I love that I mowed the lawn while David gave the kids a bath this evening! :)

If you have a two year old, I highly recommend this water play table. Owen will stand at this table and play for hours. This table keeps him in OUR yard.

I also finished planting the garden today. We planted beets, onions, carrots, tomatoes, potatoes, green peppers, banana peppers, cilantro, green beans and lettuce. This is my first time planting lettuce. We will see how it turns out. I also tried the upside down tomato planter thing -- again -- we will see how it turns out. Anna helped plant this year. Owen helped water, and it seems that he will be our official garden "waterer".

We have a lot more on our list of things to do in the yard this summer -- some big projects. I hope at least one of them can get done!

Montana Pictures

2011-05-11T14:37:00.001-07:00

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Awana Award Night

2011-05-11T13:40:00.000-07:00

Anna really enjoyed Awana this past year! I have to say, she did a very good job memorizing her verses each week. Anna was proud of her award -- and her Cubbie bear. Next year, Owen will be a Puggle! They are both getting so big!

Family Running

2011-05-11T10:25:00.000-07:00

Anna loves to run with David (I am sure I have posted this before, but new pictures)! :) Owen has quickly learned this spring that we get to "run" together when Daddy finishes his run. He's learned that when we see Daddy come running up the path, then he can get out of his stroller - BUT NOT UNTIL WE SEE DADDY!!!

On the way to meet Daddy after his run, the kids run around at the "municipal lawn" - that's what we call it! This is a nice place right by our house since our yard is so small. We usually play kick ball here or sometimes have picnics.

Oatmeal Pancakes

2011-05-10T13:14:00.000-07:00

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Most of you know that I love my traditional buttermilk pancake recipe, but for some reason, I decided to try oatmeal pancakes today! We all loved them. Anna and Owen and I actually had them for lunch today -- let's just say -- the kids WILL NOT be asking for a snack before supper! They are a filling hearty dish. Anna and Owen really liked theirs served with honey. Maybe we will have the usual maple syrup with the "usual" pancakes. Next on the pancake list - German Apple Pancakes.

Easter

2011-05-03T21:00:00.001-07:00

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Owen's 2nd Birthday!

2011-05-03T20:39:00.000-07:00

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Bins Bins and More Bins

2011-04-04T19:16:00.000-07:00

I recently bought a 9-cube storage cubby for our bedroom - because we actually can't even fit a second dresser in it. It's tiny!!! So...I of course had to buy 9 canvas bins to fill the cubbies.

Then, we went to IKEA and The Container store and bought another 9 bins for the basement! Plastic ones however!

So...I went around the rest of the house -- thinking -- I really like these bins - helps keep things organized (and hidden). I realized that the changing table in the kids room could hold 6 canvas bins perfectly! I can't believe that it took me over 4 years to do this! Now we don't need a second dresser in their room.

Tempted to buy more but I don't want my entire house to look like a big storage closet! Besides, they get expensive when you need to buy 9 at a time!

Anna's Quote of the Day

2011-04-01T13:05:00.000-07:00

"Daddy gave me Ib-potion for my knee."

This is a joke Anna made-up on the way to the farm last weekend, "What do you call a phone with mud on it? A dirty wordy!"

Anna told me the other night before bed that Owen is a light sleeper and that she is a dark sleeper!

Ahhh - 4 year olds say cute things!

Herbed Onion Twists

2011-03-14T09:31:00.000-07:00

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I forgot to post this over the weekend. The bread (more like bread sticks) were really good dipped in soup! :)

Stuff

2011-03-11T09:41:00.000-08:00

A few things -- updates...

David is working from home today -- more like working on the lathe today.
Madeline is over here playing with Anna and Owen, and I am... well... not sure what to do with this wonderful downtime. I guess I will try a new bread recipe, get some soup made, blog a little, and... maybe read part of a book in the middle of the day!

Anna and I are going to be taking a couple trips together. We are going to my Grandparent's farm at the end of the month, and then will be flying out to Montana the first weekend in May to visit my new little niece that will be born at the end of April. Sandwiched between those trips -- I have to plan for Owen's 2nd birthday (and David's birthday!). I can't believe he is going to be two. I'm trying to decide what theme or kind of cake to make. Maybe a train, maybe a dinosaur...

The basement! We are finally going to begin working on the basement. It's not just talk anymore -- it's real. We are going to start with two walls. One wall for overflow kitchen/food storage and another wall for books, games, kids stuff, etc. David is going to build in shelves along an entire wall. No more boxes of books and boxes of things laying around -- or just things out of boxes laying around! We have other thoughts/plans for after these two walls are complete, but we aren't going to think or talk about those plans for now-- so I'm not going to blog about them yet until the two walls are complete! It's fun to begin another project!

I'm excited to begin a 50 day spiritual adventure with our church and small group. As a church we will be going through a journal called, "Promises Worth Keeping: Resolving to Live What We say We Believe" and a book called "People of Promise: How to be an Authentic Believer". I love when churches decide to do something all together. Two years ago we read through the chronological bible together as our pastor preached through it for an entire year. I really enjoyed that and hope to learn something new through this study as well.

If the bread turns out and everyone likes it...I will make a smilebox for it...next post!

Floor Puzzles

2011-03-10T18:27:00.000-08:00

Anna and Owen love big floor puzzles, and I was lucky enough to get a bunch of Melissa and Doug ones for a steal a month or two ago. As you can see they have their favorites. Owen loves the dinosaur puzzle, and Anna loves the circular one of people from around the world. For some reason, every time they finish their puzzle, they have to lay down on it. I have no idea why, but they get the biggest kick out of doing it!

Charles Swindoll - Finding Worth as a Woman

2011-03-08T11:26:00.000-08:00

I grew up listening to Charles Swindoll on Insight for Living and have also read many of his books. He is such a great pastor/speaker who is able to communicate so clearly the truths of scripture. I have always been very encouraged by his words on the radio, so I have continued to read his books. I just finished reading, "Releasing Worry and Finding Worth as a Woman" (a book I think every woman should read). Here are a few quotes from him:

"Perhaps you have noticed a rather bold implication in my comments. The word balance . In my opinion, this is one of the clearest marks of maturity a Christian woman can demonstrate today...living apart from either extreme and fully alive; functioning to her maximum capacity; free to be who she is and carrying out God's purpose for her. If married, she doesn't chafe at being a help and an encouragement to her husband. She has few frustrations (aside from those normal to all humanity!) connected with her lot in life or her contributions to her world, which is broader, by the way, than the fence surrounding her place of residence."

"God created each woman with a unique combination of temperament, interests, abilities, and style that form the basis of relationship with Him and others. You're included on that list. And no one can take your place. God designed you to be unique, distinct, significant person unlike any other individual on the face of the earth throughout the vast expanse of time. In your case, as in the case of every other human being, the mold was broken, never to be used again."

I have talked with one of my sisters recently about how so many women (moms in particular) try to do what other moms do or compare themselves to other moms. The list is HUGE (here are some "examples"):

You put your kids in activities - I should put my kids in activities.
You go to a moms group - I should go to a moms group.
You don't let your kids eat Doritos - I shouldn't let my kids eat Doritos.
You're sending your kid to a private school - I should send mine to a private school.
You're homeschooling your kids - I should home school my kids.
You're using that curriculum - I should use that curriculum.
You don't let your kids watch TV - I shouldn't let my kids watch TV.
You go to the library twice a month - I should go to the library twice a month.
You only give your kid watered down juice - I should only give my kid watered down juice.
You save $500 a month - I should save $500 a month.
You have 5 kids - I should have 5 kids.
You don't buy anything new - I shouldn't buy anything new.

You get the idea. I have to admit, I USED TO get caught up in the whole, "I'm the best mom in the world - look what I do for my kids" lie, but I have learned (and am still learning) how to be content in my life, in my circumstances, in my mothering, and in my marriage, to be the woman that GOD wants me to be - not to be the mom that some other mom thinks I should be.

This issue has been on my heart for quite a while now, and I can't help but blog about it. I love when I meet a confident mom whose identity is in Christ and in Christ alone. Swindoll also writes about how our appearance, admiration, performance, accomplishments, status, and recognition are not what make a whole person. "The only equation that truly adds up is God + Me = A Whole Person. In other words, my belongingness is secured and reaffirmed by my love for God my Father and validated by His love for me. My worthiness is secured and reaffirmed by my love for Jesus Christ His Son and validated by His love for me. My competence is secured and reaffirmed in daily situations...through the ministry and love of the Holy Spirit as He uses the Word of God to instruct, correct, and reassure me; my competence is validated as I live by the Word of God."

So women/moms out there who are feeling so burdened and heavy from trying to be like other moms, or comparing what you do with what other moms do, let it go. Be the mom that God has called you to be. Seek Him daily, and He will show you the truth and what is best for you kids, your family.

Owen's Quote of the Day

2011-03-02T18:42:00.000-08:00

At the library a couple weeks ago, we checked out a "Winnie the Pooh" video. Owen had never seen Winnie the Pooh before, so the other day, I asked them what they would like to watch and Anna and Owen both agreed on this Winnie the Pooh video (for a second time). Obviously they liked it! As I was pushing play, Owen tilted his head, put a big smile on his face and said, "Oh Pooh." That is a pretty big deal for a boy who doesn't talk very much.

Later, I was telling my mom this story, and I realized of course Owen likes Pooh. He's a teddy bear! Owen loves teddy bears! I love Pooh too. How can you not?

Anna's Quote of the Day

2011-03-02T12:38:00.000-08:00

Me: Hey Anna, do you want to help me make some Angel Crisp Cookies? We haven't made them before.

Anna: Sure, but first I need to sing a few songs to Owen while he lays on his bed. He was just putting his shoulder on me like a sweet little baby. He's so tired.

Me: Oh ok. That is so sweet of you.

Anna: Owen do you want some water first? Do you need to go potty? (While Anna walks back into the living room she says to me again, "He's just so tired."

I had to quickly edit this post because as I am typing. I hear her take his diaper off in the bathroom and help him on the potty! Now she is washing his hands. Big smile on Mom's face right now! Who says a 4 year old can't be a mom?

P.S. Still waiting for the day when I can have "Owen's Quote of the Day."

Wooden Magnets

2011-03-02T12:16:00.001-08:00

David has been making these wooden magnets on his lathe in the evenings. They are so great because they never fall off the refrigerator, or get knocked off the refrigerator from just simply walking by (this happened quite often with our old weak magnets). They also hold up A LOT of paper! Definitely needed when you have little kids art work up or stacks of coupons that are to be used! :)

Two nights ago he realized that the lathe does not wake Owen up at night! We knew it wouldn't wake Anna up. That girl NEVER wakes up! So now, he is so excited that he can work while the kids are sleeping. He made me a ring last night while I was at class. It's pretty sweet. Wonder what he will make next? I love him!

Sleeping in a Cart

2011-02-18T20:26:00.000-08:00

I did something today that I have always thought about doing in the past but never have. After leaving a friend's house this afternoon, we had to stop and get some groceries for small group this evening. So, just before I pulled into the Target parking lot Owen fell asleep! That's how it always goes. I carefully took Owen out of his car seat, held him until we got into Target, and then laid him oh so gently into the cart -- the big part of the cart. HE DID NOT WAKE UP! Anna and I shopped for over an hour just because Owen was sleeping, and it was a peaceful shopping trip! I wish I had had my camera because by the time we were at the checkout, Owen was surrounded by groceries!

Anna Wants Owen to Talk

2011-02-14T18:12:00.000-08:00

I am in my bedroom right now, which is close to Anna and Owen's room. Anna and Owen are both in their beds -- They're supposed to be sleeping! I hear Anna saying to Owen, "Can you say yellow? What did you say? Lellow? Can you say cradle? Can you say crayon? Can you say Papa? Can you say puppy?"

So, we all want Owen to start talking soon. I love that his big sister tries to coach him. I look forward to the day when Anna and Owen can actually have a conversation. I think I will just love listening to them.

Be Interested in Others

2011-02-10T14:19:00.000-08:00

"...consider others better than yourselves. Each of us should look not only to your own interests but also to the interests of others." Philippians 2:3-4

Do people genuinely care for others? Do people really want to get to know others better and put an effort into REALLY getting to know each other. Or do you think most people are just comfortable peeling one layer?

How do we get to know people better? By spending time with them, by asking them questions, by having deeper conversations with them, by joining in on what they do, by TAKING A GENUINE INTEREST IN THEM! Why are some people afraid of this? What are we here on this earth for? It's all about relationships and fellowship.

We need to consider others better than ourselves. Don't be confused; this doesn't mean compare yourself with this person and be jealous of what they do. Or...compare yourself with what they don't do. Be yourself. Be happy with the decisions that you make and with what you choose to do. Learn from others, but enjoy the life that YOU live. Don't worry about what others think. Pray about things that you think you need to change. Be content with who you are in Christ, and the life that you live in Christ.

New Windows

2011-02-07T20:12:00.000-08:00

We finally got new windows in our living room. They are so nice to have, and so clean! Now I feel that I can actually roll up our Roman shades and look out during the day. I even saw a beautiful sunrise the other morning.

Planning Systems for Busy Moms

2011-01-20T13:40:00.000-08:00

My dear friend Gretchen showed me her new cleaning system that she downloaded from motivatedmoms! I think it is a great idea -- I am starting tomorrow! A couple moms put a lot of planning and time into working out a great system that keeps your house clean throughout the year with added daily chores - and if you would like, an added Bible reading schedule to help you read through the entire Bible in one year. The goal for these moms is to give you more time with your family and for yourself instead of ALWAYS cleaning! So check it out Moms, or Moms-to-be or Moms-who-want-to-be!

www.motivatedmoms.com

Another "planning/organizing" site that I found a while back is http://www.mommytracked.com/downloads
This is a great site that has free downloads for helping you "conquer the chaos." The one that we like to use most is the blue "weekly family calendar" because it has everything on one sheet - menus, to do, kids activities, daily activities, notes... all in one!

David and I have found that if we don't take an hour out of our week and sit down and schedule "our lives" for that week, our days end up kind of crazy -- with a messy house, a not so yummy meal on the table, crabbier people because nothing has been planned or communicated well, and important things get missed or put aside.

I just encourage you to take an hour with your husband (maybe on a Sunday night when the kids are in bed) to sit down -- have some hot cocoa or tea -- and simply plan your meals and daily activities for the week ahead. Build in time to go to the grocery store, running other errands, family game or reading time in the evening, church activities, work schedules, individual time (if there is something that one of you needs to do), appointments, etc. Communication is very important in a marriage -- even more so when you have kids, so take the time to talk and plan and pray about your week. I think you will see a difference in your days.

Happy 8th Anniversary David!

2011-01-17T19:23:00.001-08:00

David and I celebrated our 8th Anniversary on Sunday. His parents graciously watched Anna and Owen for us -- overnight! We went out for dinner, and then went to the Guthrie to see "Comedy of Errors" by Shakespeare. It was a great play to watch. We really enjoyed its humor. We thought we would do something a little different from just dinner and a movie (although we still went out for dinner and a movie!). The show was over by 8:45, so we had to take advantage of our time without kids! Night owls right? We decided to see "The Kings Speech." It was excellent! It kept me awake past midnight! I do really like Colin Firth, however, so -- that helped!

We hope to do something memorable each anniversary that we have together. Someone recently told me to make it a big deal -- because it should be. We hope to do something that we don't usually do on a regular date. I'm not saying that we are going to take a cruise to the Bahamas every year... well, maybe some year, but to at least do something that will easily stick out in our minds about how we celebrated.

David, thanks for 8 great years. We are soooo different, but we sure go well together. It often boggles my mind. I know, I know, opposites attract. Milk and cookies, I guess. Love you.

Sponsor a Child Today

2011-01-13T06:23:00.000-08:00

Sponsor a Child Today

Conversation ESL Class

2011-01-13T05:43:00.000-08:00

I got a call from the Community Ed. Department of a school downtown Minneapolis about a month ago asking me to teach a Conversation ESL class to the parent's of that school. I was hesitant because I really wasn't looking for any more work, but after they accommodated to my schedule, I said yes.

I teach a class downtown Minneapolis at North Central University on Tuesday nights, so I scheduled this ESL class right before that one since the schools are so close to each other -- and I already had to leave home on Tuesday nights anyways.

I had my first class this past Tuesday night. All of my students (parents) are Spanish speaking and none of them know any English. They have all been in the United States for at least 9 years. They all work at restaurants. None of them have ever taken any English classes or even tried studying English on their own. I know some Spanish, and I understand it much better than I can speak it. This class will be quite a challenge, but a great one!

On my way home from this class, I was thinking about how I love being home with my kids, but how I would be missing something in my life if I were not able to give to the community in some way. Believe me, I didn't take this job for the pay, but to bless some parents lives and to meet a need.

My plan is to maybe stick with this school, but get my students from NCU to volunteer their time during after school hours to teach some of the parents. They really need help more than one day a week.

This class will be a great way for me to step outside of "my bubble" and do something that I really don't want to do, but that I really need to do.

Christmas Traditions

2010-12-22T10:17:00.000-08:00

We started a couple Christmas traditions this year. David and I both really love traditions -- they are very important to both of us. Here are a few that we have started. I'm sure more will be added in years to come as the kids get older and can do and understand even more about the birth of Jesus.

Earlier this fall, I attended a Stampin' Up party and bought these adorable Advent boxes. I filled them with lots of fun little things for A and O this year. They still have a couple more boxes to open. I put a lot of family coupons in them such as "Singing Christmas Carols by the Christmas Tree" or "Have root beer floats with Daddy," etc. They were so excited to open them each day after we read through our Advent Christmas book.

I love collecting Christmas books -- we have many already and I hope to continue to collect them. We have been reading a lot of stories about Christmas - from Jesus to Reindeer!

Since, the kids are so young, we are going to sing "Happy Birthday to Jesus" before we open gifts along with reading scripture on the birth of Christ. I want our kids to fully understand the true meaning of why we celebrate Christmas, and I want that to be fun for them. So, we may bake a small cake and have them decorate it just how they want to.

I am not against "pretending" that Santa has brought us some gifts. I grew up knowing that Santa was not real, but we still pretended that he was real. Fairy tales and using your imagination are great things for kids -- so why leave Santa out of the picture? And yes, we go see Santa at the mall. Why not? I'm not a scrooge! And..I'm not less of a Christian for having a little Santa fun!

We also have a Christmas journal that David and I have filled out since our first Christmas together. This has been a really fun book to look at every Christmas. We have our Christmas picture in it, holiday recipes, gifts given and received, fun holiday memories, highlights from the past year, etc.

We haven't started any food traditions yet, maybe next year!

I love the holiday season. I love spending time with my family (all my family). I love giving gifts to people. I love eating yummy food. I love singing and listening to Christmas Carols. I love candy canes and hot cocoa.

Merry Christmas everyone!

Cozy Home

2010-12-14T14:06:00.000-08:00

Lately we have had many days where we have not gotten out of our pajamas or even stepped out the back door. This doesn't happen in the summer or fall, but in the winter, it seems to happen a lot. I love it, and it seems that Owen and Anna really like it too. After breakfast today, the kids just kept playing together and completely ignored me. THIS doesn't happen very often. They played Hide-n-Go Seek (forever), house (which is really funny to watch), Mr. Potato Head, and played "toy pile up" on Owen. I took full advantage! I just kept cooking!

It is fun to watch siblings play together even if they are over 2 and a half years a part. I used to have to entertain Anna all the time; Anna entertains Owen for me! Parents of twins have a challenge, but how fun to have two siblings the same age playing together. Although sometimes a larger age spread might not cause as much quarreling! Who knows?

After all the playing...clean up. :(

Girls in My Circle

2010-12-06T09:07:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine sent this to me the other day in an email. I think it is so true about how friendships are and are supposed to be. Ladies in my life, you are all very important to me in different ways and for different reasons. I have been blessed with so many great woman and girls in my life -- a daughter, lots of sisters, mothers, grandmothers, cousins, aunts, and of course friends.

GIRLS IN MY CIRCLE

When I was little,
I used to believe in the concept of one best friend,
And then I started to become a woman.
And then I found out that if you allow your heart to open up,
God would show you the best in many friends.

One friend is needed when you're going through things with your man.
Another friend is needed when you're going through things with your mom.
Another will sit beside you in the bleachers as you delight in your children and their activities.
Another when you want to shop, share, heal, hurt, joke, or just be.
One friend will say, 'Let's cry together,'
Another , 'Let's fight together,'
Another , 'Let's walk away together.'

One friend will meet your spiritual need,
Another your shoe fetish,
Another your love for movies,
Another will be with you in your season of confusion,
Another will be your clarifier,
Another the wind beneath your wings.

But whatever their assignment in your life,
On whatever the occasion,
On whatever the day,
Or wherever you need them to meet you with their gym shoes on and hair pulled back,
Or to hold you back from making a complete fool of yourself ..
Those are your best friends.

It may all be wrapped up in one woman,

but for many, it's wrapped up in several..
One from 7th grade,
One from high school,
Several from the college years,
A couple from old jobs,
On some days your mother,
On some days your neighbor,
On others, your sisters,
And on some days, your daughters.

What Anna is Thankful for this Holiday Season

2010-11-29T09:45:00.001-08:00

Anna is thankful for...

"Jesus, Christmas trees, polar bears, jingle bells and reindeer and books - that's what I'm thankful for. And snowmen. My family and flowers and spring and Easter eggs. That's what I'm thankful for."

Well, that just about covers it!

Anna's Quote of the Day

2010-11-10T19:27:00.000-08:00

"I'm at the perfect age for princess and glitter stuff."

That's exactly how I feel ladies! :)

Fall Harvest Day

2010-11-10T12:54:00.001-08:00

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Cabin

2010-10-24T20:15:00.000-07:00

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Playing Games

2010-10-21T12:39:00.000-07:00

Since Anna is getting older, we are able to play real games. Lately, we have been playing Memory and Connect 4 a lot. It is kind of fun because it brings me back to my childhood. I clearly remember playing Memory with my brother Ryan. He dominated this game. He always set it up in perfect rows - 6 rows! I was always amazed at how he would remember where every match was. Anna also remembers where every match is!!!

In 4th grade, I played Connect 4 everyday with a friend during "choice time". Do you remember "choice time"? One of my favorite times of the day during school. David and I still play Connect 4 together sometimes. I know, nerds!

A Prayer for Baby (Owen)

2010-10-18T18:49:00.000-07:00

I found this letter/prayer for our second baby. It seemed like forever before we finally got pregnant with our second. I kept seeing that one pink line. I hate that one pink line! But, I was able to spend some extra time praying for our little one (Owen). What a joy and blessing he is. David and I always say, "He was worth the wait!"

April 25, 2008 (For you Owen, before you were even conceived)

Hi Little Baby soon to be- I am eagerly awaiting you. The rain is falling gently on the rooftop; Anna is sleeping, so I have some time to think and pray for you. I wonder what you will look like, if you will be a boy or a girl? If your eyes will be blue or green, if you will look like your dad or like me, if you will be spunky or mellow or a mix of the two, whatever you look like and whatever you do – Daddy and I will love you through and through.

I am excited for you to teach you new things and watch you grow. Stay safe in my tummy - my little baby soon to be. The Lord will protect you, and He will send His angels to watch over you. My prayer for you each day is that “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious. The Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.”

Lord I give this baby to you. I pray for a strong and healthy baby. I pray that he or she will come to know you and serve you and love you with all of their heart. I pray that this baby will be your instrument, your worker, your clay to mold. Help David and I to be godly parents and to instruct our children to obey You and Your Word. I thank you for the wonderful gift of children. How amazing they are! What a gift and a joy to have! Thank you Lord – Thank you! Amen

The love that the Lord puts into parents' hearts for their children is indescribable. God is the only one who can give us that much love, and I am daily amazed by that. The bond is so strong and so unique. It doesn't compare to anything else. Above all, love.

Chocolate Zucchini Bread

2010-10-10T11:56:00.001-07:00

Customize your own free recipe card

Updates in the Caneday Household

2010-10-07T11:03:00.000-07:00

Some of you have asked me to update my blog more about what we are doing...so here goes...

I love when summer comes to an end which is usually the opposite for most people. You all know that I love fall and yes, fall is a busy time for us and for most families. I guess I kind of like that. Anna and Owen are in Musikgarten this semester. It has been a great little activity that both of them can be involved in. The CD that they give us (that we payed for) plays over and over again at home! Kids can really learn a lot through songs and poems and repetition! I highly recommend Musikgarten for your little ones. I think it is just birth to age 5, but I could be wrong.

Anna is also in Awana this year. She received her Awana vest yesterday, and she was so proud of herself. The look on her face was priceless. She is doing a really good job memorizing her verses every week! It is fun to see that, yes, she will be ready for school soon. Anna loves being with people; she's a social butterfly and she has really thrived on being in these social activities.

Owen is really in the "mommy mommy" stage. He is having a hard time being in the nursery at MOMS group and basically anytime I leave to go anywhere. Although when he is at grandma and grandpa's house- he never complains! He still makes us laugh and is goofy. He is learning to listen more and understanding consequences! Finally! Believe it or not, that naughty little boy is beginning to be quite obedient lately!

David, well, he is just awesome! He ran his 10 mile race last Sunday. I could never do that! He is still working on the phone table (almost complete)! Hmmm, what else, basically he works, runs, and works in his workshop! :)

As for me, I am teaching at North Central still on Tuesday nights. The Lord has really blessed us with great opportunities for me to make extra money for our family. I am also supervising some Northwestern student teachers. This is a sweet little job that the Lord gave me in His perfect timing as always! I now know why I got a masters degree when I did. It wasn't for more pay while teaching in the public schools (I only benefited from that for one year), no, it was for sweet jobs like this, while still being able to be home (almost full-time) with A and O. God is amazing!
Other than work, I have been cooking a lot, baking a lot, cleaning a lot, but not much else (no scrapbooking, knitting, sewing (although I am not very good but sometimes I try), or card making, etc.). I kind of put all of that on hold because I have decided that I don't really like to do those things that much. Ok. knitting I do like, but I like to do this when there is snow on the ground. I really like to cook, bake, read, walk and do little projects with Anna and Owen. That is about as crafty as I get or I guess want to get.

We took a trip up to Superior Shores. It was lovely and relaxing, and we purposefully didn't take a single picture!!! We swam a lot, ordered pizza, through rocks in the lake and basically chilled out in the condo together. A and O love being in a little space with the whole family.

Sarah and Jeremy are coming in November, so we are really excited to spend some time with them. We need to find them a job so they can move back home. I told Sarah she needs to love family more than mountains! :) That was a joke, but kind of true too!

That about sums it up for now. Hope that fills your updating needs!!! :)

Anna's Quote of the Day

2010-09-23T17:55:00.000-07:00

Owen was saying over and over again, "Bama, Bampa, Bama, Bampa (Grandma, Grandpa)." Anna said, "Hey, he's saying Obama our president."

Prayer For Home

2010-09-16T10:43:00.000-07:00

Prayer for Home (Fernando Ortega)

Grant them peace, most precious gift of all
Keep the worried world far away and small
When they return, may quiet fill their souls,
Dearest Lord, keep them safe within it's walls.

May the stone be cool beneath their feet.
The canyon breezes circle soft and sweet
When darkness falls, the stars and opal moon
Find them wrapped in each other, ever warm.

Chorus:
May it be a refuge for their love,
A harbor for their deepest prayer.
May they come to flourish in the grove,
Grow ever nearer to You there.

Many a burdened friend in their company rises,
A heavy heart is soon released to fly.
May their table be blessed with laughter and with grace
And by the comfort of kinship be surprised.

May the cold wind blow far from their front door
May the winter rains never bring them harm
May their hearthfires burn throughout the night
Grant them peace until morning's perfect light.

Chorus

I love this song, and I always will. I was just listening to it this morning and thought of our wedding day just over seven and a half years ago.

Thank you Lord for a home that is a refuge for our love and a place to grow nearer to you. Thank you for surprised kinship and laughter at our table. Thank you for peace within these walls. Thank you for keeping us together - wrapped in each other, ever warm.

Anna's Quote of the Day

2010-09-14T20:11:00.000-07:00

"I just prayed to Jesus, but he must be busy or something because he didn't say anything."

Making Scones with Grandpa

2010-09-11T18:56:00.000-07:00

Anna loves Grandpa's scones. She assumes that Grandpa will make them if she is coming for breakfast or staying the night. Here are a couple pictures of the two of them making them together.

Soccer

2010-09-09T20:57:00.001-07:00

Anna was able to chose between dance, gymnastics and soccer for the fall. She chose soccer so Owen and Daddy could come and watch her. So far she has only had one "practice," but it was a lot of fun to watch her listen to a coach and do what the coach says -- someone other than her own mom! When she had to kick the ball around the cones, she took her time so that she wouldn't mess up and kick the ball too far away. She really listened and tried her best with each "skill". It was nice to see that.

Owen Update

2010-09-09T20:31:00.001-07:00

Owen is finally starting to communicate! He is saying so many more words lately. The newest one is "thank you"! He also says, grandpa, boo, uh-oh, book, water, milk, ball, bye-bye, and maybe a few more that I can't think of. It has been nice to intentionally work with him more on his words. Anna has been a good helper too.

He really makes us laugh. His silly goofy side is really starting to show. I love it! It is fun to have one serious kid and one silly kid. What I think is really funny, is that Owen makes himself laugh. I haven't met very many 16 month olds that do that.

Lately Owen loves doing puzzles, reading (ALL THE TIME), playing strawberry shortcake and polly pocket (yep..and he is actually really good at it and does well with the little pieces). He is obsessed with cars, motorcycles, trucks, really anything that is loud and moves. He also loves to throw a ball and "play" baseball. Oh and I love how he sets his dinosaurs up and stuffed animals and actually makes voices for them. He watches Anna a lot if you can't tell!

He feeds himself. He only feeds himself. The floor is a mess. His face is a mess. His hands are a mess, but he feeds himself. He will have it no other way.

HE LOVES HIS NUK!!!! I asked him if we should throw it in the garbage, and he took it out of his mouth, cupped it in his hands (so there was nothing showing) and shook his head no. Then he began to laugh as if to say that I was joking.

He still loves to hug. Loves to give kisses. Loves to laugh.

15 Week Journey

2010-09-03T11:30:00.000-07:00

Well, today was the final weigh in of our 15 week weight loss journey. I did end up winning by a couple pounds. Gretchen did such a great job also. We both ended up really close to our goal weight. Both of us are going to keep working at it to get to the weight that we would like to maintain.

I really enjoyed disciplining myself and sticking with a plan these past few months. I am giving myself a little bit of a break (for about 5 days or so), and then I am back at it! I have found that it is really not that hard to lose weight if you really want to, but I have also found that losing weight with a friend is a great way to help you stay motivated and to not give up. I also noticed (learned), that in order to see real results, you need to be PATIENT and keep going even when it gets tough and you want to give up!

This is what has helped me these past few weeks in dropping these last 10 pounds- you have all heard this before, but here it is: PROTEIN, PROTEIN, PROTEIN, WATER, WATER, WATER, EXERCISE, EXERCISE, EXERCISE!!!!! Chicken and eggs are your friends! And of course fruits and vegetables, but to keep you from getting hungry - chicken and eggs- chicken and eggs! Did I mention chicken and eggs!

Good luck to anyone out there who is determined to get healthier, lose weight and overall just feel better! You can do it!

Owen Update

2010-08-23T06:58:00.001-07:00

Owen had his 15 month check up last week along with shots. :( He did fine though. He went from the 25th percentile in height to the 83rd percentile. In weight he went from the 75th percentile to the 25th percentile. He actually lost weight from his 12 month check up. My doctor asked if he had been sick. I said, "No, he just NEVER stops moving."

This past weekend we were camping up near North Dakota with my family and he said "Bampa" to my dad - for Grandpa! Finally, another word!!!! That was exciting!

Not much going on on the potty these days, but he will get it eventually!

He now loves to read books, but I think he enjoys stickers even more. Stickers keep him busy for a very long time.

Tea Party

2010-08-23T06:46:00.000-07:00

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Anna is Turning 4!

2010-08-10T11:57:00.000-07:00

Four just seems like such a big number to me. I know I am going to have to get used to this because obviously Anna and Owen are just going to keep getting older. I wish I could keep her small, but then I remember that I can enjoy this new stage too! Four is pretty exciting! Anna will be in preschool and Awana this year, and David and I are going to start teaching her how to read. She has been asking and asking. She loves books, so why not! Today, Anna and I bought "Teach Your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons" by Siegfried Engelmann. I have always wanted to teach my children to read, so I am actually pretty excited to begin. Anna just seems ready. This fall will be very different for our family, but new adventures are always fun. I am a little nervous about having a more rigid schedule, but at the same time, I function better with a schedule and more things actually get accomplished.

Tomorrow is Anna's birthday. We are having a strawberry shortcake birthday party with her friends in the afternoon. Then, as a family, we are going to the Mall of America to go on rides at Nickelodeon Universe. David is taking the day off, so he will be able to be with Anna all day! She would be so sad if Dad went to work on her birthday. She is very sentimental which brings me to another piece of this post...Anna...

As I have mentioned before, I LOVE having a daughter! The Lord knew what He was doing when He blessed us with her. She's our little pal. Our little ray of sunshine. She's my feminine, spunky, sweet, sensitive, little girl. I love her energy, her ability to do things, her brightness, her love for people, her conversations, her love for Jesus, her eagerness to learn new things, and I love how much she loves to be with her family! She always wants us all together. She always has and probably always will. We are so thankful for 4 years with Anna. We pray for many many more and that the Lord will continue to bless her, and that she will grow to love Him even more.

Happy Birthday Anna. We love you!

Laundry Let Down

2010-07-29T07:27:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I did a lot of laundry! I brought a stack of clothes to the kids room and set them on the changing table and thought, I will put them away later. So, this morning, I went into their room and found that the stack had disappeared. NO WAY- David put the clothes away. I looked around the room to see if I could find this nicely stacked pile of clothes. I couldn't find them. I kept thinking - NO WAY- David put them away. AMAZING! Then...the let down happened. I found the pile of clothes under a bunch of blankets in Owen's crib. NOT FOLDED ANYMORE. Sad. I unrealistically thought for one moment, David had actually done something (relating to laundry), and I didn't even need to ask him.

Ladies! Do your husbands do laundry? Wash, dry, fold, put away -- and put away where things are supposed to go? Do you need to ask them for help?

I actually like doing laundry, but I do not like putting clothes away for four people!!! Washing, folding, fine -- but putting away -- drag. How about you?

Random Updates

2010-07-27T20:17:00.000-07:00

1. My Grandma and Grandpa are celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary Aug. 22!

2. David and I have been saying lately that Owen really needs a haircut, and today Anna said, "Owen has a bush on his head!" That made me laugh!

3. I found the best dessert blog (more than just desserts, but her desserts look awesome- or maybe I am just hungry!)Her name is Annie and she is absolutely adorable and "normal"! I have read a few too many crazy blogs! I have vowed not to go to those anymore! http://annies-eats.com

4. I am getting rid of 7 pairs of pants! My workouts are kicking my butt lately!

5. Anna is going to preschool...prayed about it...thought about it...decided! Finally! I think she will really enjoy it.

6. Today I took two of my favorite videos of A and O. Soon to be on my blog!

7. Oh, just to let you all know, David is out in the garage right now. Shocker? Didn't think so. The phone table is looking great!

8. I was in 4H in high school. Yes - high school. That is right. I "showed' a pig at the Cambridge-Isanti Fair and actually won a ribbon. You should have seen my jeans and boots! Sometimes I just like to remind myself of this because it is sooooo not me- and kind of hilarious! Like the time that I handed out samples at Cub. Yep- that's right - handed out samples.

9. I really want to see the movie "Inception"(with David)- so if anyone wants to come and hang out while A and O are sleeping - that would be awesome!

10. Ok- one more funny Anna quote - We were in the car, and I was showing David a scar on my leg. Anna said, "Do I have a scar?" I said, "You have one by your eye from an infected mosquito bite." And Anna said, "Well, good thing it is by my eye then I can't see it" - and she started laughing!

PB Banana Oat Muffins

2010-07-26T10:42:00.000-07:00

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Shop Talk

2010-07-25T21:48:00.000-07:00

These are the words that I often hear David repeat in his shop (this is while I am on the treadmill!): dado, rabbet, mortise and tenon, grain, raw, flecks, growth rings, stain, quarter-sawn, plain-sawn, joint, test cut, scrap, arts and crafts--that's all I can think of right now.

Ok, so normally this is when I am asking questions about what he is doing. So really he has to repeat himself because this is all new to me, but the phone table is coming along! I could never do what he does. I mean, he does - test cuts!!!! Test cuts! I like to skip steps, which is why I could never be a woodworker! But I don't need to be. Go David!

The Original Cuppycake Video

2010-07-14T18:09:00.000-07:00

This is the cutest little song. Anna wants to memorize it this week - of course!

Our First Attempt at Canning!

2010-07-12T21:11:00.001-07:00

Sunday night David and I canned 5 quarts of green beans from our garden. This took a lot longer than we thought because it was our first time. Next time will be much easier because now we know what we are doing (I think)! The good thing is...it worked! The lids are sealed! They will not spoil!

My next attempt - something with tomatoes - after that - some kind of fruit. We will see how that all goes!

Oven Baked Rice Pilaf

2010-07-12T20:53:00.001-07:00

Another printable recipe card by Smilebox

4th of July

2010-07-10T18:46:00.000-07:00

Customize your own free picture slideshow

Slip 'n Slide

2010-07-09T21:05:00.001-07:00

Another free picture collage by Smilebox

Kari Jobe - We Cry Out

2010-07-07T19:41:00.000-07:00

Anna's Quote of the Day

2010-07-07T13:44:00.001-07:00

"It's raining. Lets go drink hot cocoa and make a pie!"

Oh, I love her! :)

Owen's Quote of the Day

2010-07-07T13:43:00.000-07:00

"aaaaaawwwwwwwww"

Two of My Favorite Poems

2010-06-28T11:45:00.000-07:00

Loveliest of Trees

Loveliest of trees, the cherry now
Is hung with bloom along the bough,
And stands about the woodland ride
Wearing white for Eastertide.

Now, of my threescore years and ten,
Twenty will not come again.
And take from seventy springs a score,
It only leaves me fifty more.

And since to look at things in bloom
Fifty springs are little room,
About the woodlands I will go
To see the cherry hung with snow.

A.E. Housman

Pied Beauty

Glory be to God for dappled things-
For skies of couple-colour as a brinded cow;
For rose-moles all in stipple upon trout that swim;
Fresh-firecoal chestnut-falls; finches' wings;
Landscape plotted and pieced- fold, fallow, and plough;
And all trades, their gear and tackle and trim.

All things counter, original, spare, strange;
Whatever is fickle, freckled (who knows how?)
With swift, slow; sweet, sour; adazzle, dim;
He fathers-forth whose beauty is past change:
Praise Him.

Gerard Manley Hopkins

Cove Point 2010

2010-06-24T13:49:00.001-07:00

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Anna's Quote of the Day

2010-06-24T13:17:00.000-07:00

We went to go and pick some raspberries from the yard today and Anna said, "I can't believe God made these good raspberries already. He must have a really good kitchen!"

Grandpa

2010-06-21T06:39:00.000-07:00

We spent some time at the Farm this spring. I really enjoyed watching my grandpa with Anna and Owen and the other great grand-kids. He is getting older, but he sure has his same spirit. He has always been such a wonderful grandpa - always so good with little kids, and he still is even with his great grandchildren. We hope and pray he is here with us for many more years. We love you Grandpa!

Scripture Memory

2010-06-09T18:00:00.000-07:00

Anna's verse of the week:

"You are worthy, our Lord our God, to receive glory and honor and power. For You created all things, and by Your will they existed and were created."
Revelations 4:11

An old friend from college has a website with some really good resources for memorizing scripture. Check it out if you are interested in digging deeper into the Word and daily meditating on scripture.
http://equipthepeople.com/walking-with-god-resources/

Madison

2010-06-07T18:09:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, Anna and I spent a weekend in Madison with my lovely friends. The drive to Madison is absolutely beautiful. I say that every time I head east on 94. We had a nice relaxing girls weekend. We finally got to meet Trisha's son Tanner. He is all smiles! You can't help but smile when you look at him.

David was gracious to let me go and leave Owen home with him. Although, he was with his parents most of the weekend, so I think he had a lot of help!

Since June is dairy month, Wisconsin has many festivals and activities going on. We decided to go to a dairy farm and have a dairy breakfast. They expected around 3,000 people; we stood in a very long line, but the kids did a great job! Here are some pics: