Christmas

I asked the kids:


Favorite Christmas Song:

S - "Happy Birthday Jesus" (3-5 yr olds were supposed to sing in church on 12/21)

R - "Christmas Bells" (also going to be sung on 12/21) and "Joy to the World"

N - "Santa Claus is Coming to Town" and "Joy to the World"


My Favorite Things:

N - "You" (Mom) Awww

R - Tea Parties

N - Playing with my friends

Mom - snow on the pine trees

S - Making a snowman

N - "Dad"

R- I like sledding on the sled

S - Drawing pictures

M - 2 hour delays and snow days!

N - lasagna

R - I like pizza!

M - Decorating sugar cookies with the kids

S - Hanging ornaments on the tree!

M - Aaron's big grins!


We're having a good time doing fun, Christmasy things - decorating cookies, moving the wisemen closer to the manger each day, wrapping presents (M & D), touching/shaking/poking the wrapped presents (N, R, S), attempting to unwrap the presents (Aaron), playing in the large quantity of snow (Dad + 3), writing & sending our Christmas letter, enduring the Alpine traffic just to buy a gift for Mom (Dad), singing along with all the Christmas songs (love the variety on 105.7!), etc.

There is much snow, and it does make driving concerning, but personally I enjoy 'hunkering in' and making soup, playing games, and having home be warm, cozy, fun, and safe. Isn't it crazy we need the snow as a reason to stay home? I am also glad the kids are old enough to send outside (after at least 17 minutes of preparing to go outside) to play and "burn off some steam," as my Mom used to say. :) This year I've told them I'm setting the timer for 20 minutes and they need to play until the timer goes off. Last year the record was set at 3.3 minutes for heading out and wanting to come back in.

We look forward to special family times - Christmas Eve with the Vanderwests (including the Belmont's from PA!), Christmas Day gift opening at the crack of dawn with our crew, then off to Grandpa Richards' for brunch, gifts, and fun, then to Kalkaska (i.e. "The Wintry North") Fri-Mon to celebrate my wonderful in-laws and their 50th anniversary!!! The entire immediate family (30+) is getting together at a ranch for a weekend together playing, honoring, eating, and just being together. It's a tricky thing getting families from Peru, PA, MI, college students, and all with busy lives/jobs/ministries away for a few days - and to be all together but not overwhelming one home will be awesome! We pray the weather will get us safely there and back again.

Oh, and here is a little humor for your Christmas weekend:
What if, instead of God sending three wise men at our Savior's birth, He had sent three wise women?
1. They would have stopped to ask for directions.
2. They would have been on time.
3. They would have prepared the stable.
4. They would have helped deliver the baby.
5. They would have made a casserole.
6. And they would have brought diapers as a gift rather than perfume.

"But the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord'" (Luke 2:10,11). Amen!!! Rejoice in HIS birth today!

Parenting

This past Sunday was Baby Dedication in our church, and this poem was read during the service. It was read by one of the fathers. It was hung in his parents' home, and now his family has a copy in his home. I appreciate the heartfelt words, genuineness, and practicality of it and would like to display a copy in my home. The last line is especially convicting...that word imitate...

Parent’s Prayer

O Heavenly Father, make me a better parent. Teach me to understand my children, to listen patiently to what they have to say, and to answer all their questions kindly. Keep me from interrupting them or contradicting them. Make me as courteous to them as I would have them be to me. Forbid that I should ever laugh at their mistakes, or resort to shame or ridicule when they displease me. May I never punish them for my own selfish satisfaction or to show my power. Let me not tempt my child to lie or steal. And guide me hour by hour that I may demonstrate by all I say and do that honesty produces happiness. Reduce, I pray, the meanness in me. And when I am out of sorts, help me, O Lord, to hold my tongue. May I ever be mindful that my children are children and I should not expect of them the judgment of adults. Let me not rob them of the opportunity to wait on themselves and to make decisions. Bless me with the bigness to grant them all their reasonable requests and the courage to deny them privileges I know will do them harm. Make me fair and just and kind. And fit me, O Lord, to be loved and respected and imitated by my children. Amen.

- Anonymous poem passed down from Joe Clements’ parents

A Survey!

Something just for fun -

Stolen from Sadie . . . with my own commentary.

Bold the ones you have done.

1. Started your own blog - this is the one!
2. Slept under the stars - at camp - I remember waking up and it was SO wet everywhere from the dew!
3. Played in a band - more than I can count - of many varieties & instruments
4. Visited Hawaii - hope to someday
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity - but it's better to give than receive
7. Been to Disneyland - Disney World was a favorite childhood vacation
8. Climbed a mountain - do dunes count?
9. Held a praying mantis
10. Sang a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea - we would park by the breakwater at Pere Marquette and the waves would splash over our car
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown your own vegetables - we are prolific pumpkin producers
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitch hiked - the THOUGHT scares me!
23. Taken a sick day when you're not ill - a mental health day or I might become ill
24. Built a snow fort - many with my brothers!!
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping - privately, of course!
27. Run a Marathon - does a 5K count?
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset - Lake MI has the best sunsets, Grand Canyon had an incredible sunrise
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community - interesting and enjoyable
36. Taught yourself a new language - attempted a few words...
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied - God is faithful and has always taken care of us
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing - at the pier
40. Seen Michelangelo's David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance - a harrowing experience as a 20 year old
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud - loved making mud pies as a youngster!
54. Gone to a drive-in theater - No, but can't get this to not be bold. I'd fall asleep if I went.
55. Been in a movie - (of the homemade variety)
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business - teaching private lessons for gas & grocery $ in college 58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Received flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check 68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy - would have liked this, but I think my Mom sold them all at garage sales
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job - quit a few, but not fired
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone - in my hand
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle - not sure it was speeding, but felt fast to me!
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person - Amazing!!! Hope to take the kids there someday.
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating - did not kill, but prepared a venison roast today.
88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone's life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby - x4!
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee
100. Read an entire book in one day - many, many

Are We Related?

We were at Cedarville for Ken's 15 year reunion - went on a walk to see the Gorge in a nearby park. Look at these blondies!
Blue eyes! Love that look in Seth's eyes. :)
Searching for treasures in Cedar Lake at the 'Ville.
One of my all-time favorites. Nathan took this picture during our camping trip to Silver Lake in July. Now, Aaron is cruisin' next to furniture! Always has a smile.
A favorite of Daddy's as a boy - climbin' trees - again, at the 'Ville.
We are SIBLINGS and we sure like each other!!
Our gang and some of the the Richards' cousins. Even more blondies on the Vanderwest side.

p.s. My next post will not be pictures of charming children, but of a large brown creature...My Hunter Gathered Food For His Family. :)

Good article

I had the opportunity to give a devotional at a bridal shower today. How do you wrap up the most vital aspects of a happy marriage in 5-7 minutes? One of Ken & my favorite books is Love and Respect by Emerson Eggerichs. It's the best - for both husband and wife - marriage book we've read. So, I thought that would be a good route to go. Unfortunately, it appears we've loaned our copy of the book, so I searched on the internet for "how to respect your husband." I know how important it is, yet continually need reminders how to display that respect to my good man. Came across this article and thought you might appreciate it. Click here for some good, Biblically-based thoughts. Here's to building stronger marriages in a world where too many marriages are crumbling.

Sweet P's

FALL = hunting, leaves, pumpkin pie, and for me, SWEET POTATOES! I love all things sweet potatoes! Long ago, my Mom cut out a recipe from the Muskegon Chronicle for sweet potato casserole...with a yummy pecan topping. I've tried to lighten it up some and always make it for holiday gatherings. Today hamburgers on the grill sounded good for dinner, and sweet potato fries popped into my mind to go along with the burgers. The internet is always a good bet for finding recipes. Guess how many hits one gets by typing 'sweet potato fries' into Google?

According to Google, 'about 424,000!!!' What on earth?! But I think I found a great recipe for something yummy and healthy. S.P. are often on sale during Nov. and Dec., so perhaps you'd like to try these, too?

A bit about sweet potatoes before I fork over the recipe. According to World’s Healthiest Foods, sweet potatoes are rich in vitamin A and vitamin C - both powerful antioxidants. It also is considered an anti-diabetic food, which means that it can stabilize blood sugar and lower insulin resistance.

Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries
serves 4-6

1 - 1 1/2 lb sweet potatoes
1/4 cup olive oil
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp paprika
1/4 tsp cinnamon

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil (preferably the easy release kind) or use a baking stone.

Peel the sweet potatoes. Cut into strips (or thin slices) that are about 1/2 inch wide on each side. (Note: I did not peel them first and they tasted great plus more fiber that way.)

Place the sweet potatoes into a sealable plastic bag. Add oil, salt, paprika and cinnamon. Seal the bag and shake well to thoroughly coat the fries (didn't do this, either - just put 'em on the pan & sprinkled oil and spices). Spread the potatoes out onto the baking sheet in a single layer.

Cook for 20-25 minutes, turning every 10 minutes. Transfer immediately to a paper towel lined plate and serve warm.

Our family enjoyed these very much - and always a bonus when veggies are a hit with the kids!

A Howlin' Good Halloween

What were some things you liked about Halloween?
R - "Getting Treats!"
N - "Sorting my candy!"
S - "TREATS!"

What were you for Halloween?
S - "A dog with a sombrero hat." (Mexican Dog)
N - "A COWBOY!"
R - "Ummm - Sleeping Beauty and Sleeping Beauty is right here on this book!"

What was your favorite candy that you were given?
S - "I like the banana thingies and the strawberry thingies." (i.e. Laffy Taffy)
N - "Hershey Bar"
R - "Tootsie Rolls and popcorn."
S - "And I like Tootsie Rolls, too. They're kind of chewy! I like, um, Smarties and the Sweet Tarts, too, because they have all kind of ones. Do you like ALL my treats?"
M - "I do! Do you like all your treats?"
S - "Yeah! They're yummy! My treat bag is getting lower and lower every day!" (Really?!)

How many pieces of candy did you get?
N - "76"
S - "60." (I think he had more than that)
R - "I can't remember."

What else do you think?
N - "I liked going to school and having a parade."
S - "I liked getting all kind of treats that I liked." (are you sensing a theme here?)
R - "I liked having the Fisher's over and go around in the parade."

Mom - "You guys sure are sweet! Can I eat you for a TREAT?"
All - "NO!!!"

p.s. Our mouse was rather quiet and just took it all in!

A trip to the store

Nathan and I ventured out, just the two of us, to Sparta last Tuesday night. We needed some accessories for his costume, so he was willing to take part in this expedition. Normally Robyn (a shopper like her mom) and Seth (always up for any adventure) are my eager shoppers/errand-doers. So, to the dollar stores we headed...Dollar & More (yes, we went there first, Joanie!), Dollar General, and then Rite Aid. There's good stuff in Sparta! Here's how the trip went:

Nathan pushes the cart and follows me all around. Of course, we don't just hit the costume/accessory area, we check out all the aisles for some deals. He cracked me up as we shopped...chattering away to himself, such as, "Now we're looking at the picture frames. There are lots of different picture frames and when are we going to get out of this aisle?!" We eventually found the hat area and found a snazzy black cowboy hat. A true smile from him! We checked out, and off to the next dollar store down the road. In this store, again quiet chattering about all the items we saw, then, "Mom, you're a buyer! You like to look at everything AND buy things!" How true is that?! :) Our expedition over, on the way home I asked him, "What did you think of your shopping trip with Mom?"
"Well, it was fine."
"What could have made it better?"
"If we would have gone somewhere more interesting, like a bookstore!"

Ahhhhhh...do you think he's related to his father? Once Ken's sister Valerie threw his book on the roof of their home because she was tired of him reading so much! :)

I do love to read, but I do tend to love ALL stores!

I went on errands yesterday morning. Seth was my eager-beaver helper!

Pics of a good-looking cowboy (with his black hat!) to come.

A Story to Share

Want to read a true, funny, and 'ewww' story? This was published in the Advance newspaper this week by columnist Mike Taylor, who has won "Best Humor Awards" from the Michigan Press Association. It made me laugh out loud, picturing what "Clarence" went through. I plan to share it with my students in the coming week. Click here to read.

What did you think?

Fall Tidbits

Thoughts from the Homefront:

• Wow, have the standards changed! Aaron and I were in the kitchen this afternoon and he discovered that exciting kitchen "toy" - the dog's water! Of course it was immediately turned over (thankfully only 1/4 full). My response? I ran for the towel and when I came back, watched him happily patting and slapping the floor and having a grand time with the water. My next response? Let him enjoy himself as I sat and watched him soak himself and listened to him 'chatter' away.


• New fitness workout routine discovered! If you're in need of a varied, active, interesting fitness routine, I suggest . . . volunteering in a kindergarten classroom! I did this for 1.5 hours this morning in Robyn's classroom and it was a happening place. They were doing learning labs, including art, science, math, writing, ABC, and muscle strength labs. They do one lab each time it is learning lab time. Robyn was assigned to art lab today and she cut out a white pumpkin and then tore small parts of green (stem) and orange (pumpkin) paper and glued them on her paper. She enjoyed it and did a nice job. I asked Mrs. Taylor if I could call her if I needed a workout and could come volunteer. :) She had everything so organized and the children knew what they were to do. It was eye-opening what a range of student abilities are present in kindergarten. The best part of the volunteering (I'm scheduled once per month) was Robyn's quiet smiles whenever ours eyes caught each other during my time there. She's been asking when I get to come to her class. It was fun to give her a little hug when I was near her and to sit next to her at lunchtime in the lunch room. She has adjusted to the schedule of kindergarten and often tells us interesting things Mrs. T. taught them. She rather adores Mrs. T., which I think is a special thing for a little girl and her first year in school.


• Bought a bushel of 'seconds' - Courtland & Paula Red varieties. Borrowed a strainer (is that what it's called?) and plan to make & freeze applesauce. My Grandma Richards made a wonderful chunky applesauce, which I made last year. I loved it, but Nathan told me he preferred the 'smooth kind' so we'll try that this year.


• We were able to go on a date Saturday and saw the new movie Fireproof. We knew it featured Kirk Cameron (ooh - a heart-throb of mine during my adolescent years!) and that it was a Christian movie. We weren't sure what to expect as far as the quality of the movie...and we were pleasantly surprised. It had an engaging story line, believable characters, moments of humor in a serious plot, and shared God's love and message clearly. The actors weren't professionals, and that was obvious in spots, but all in all it was impacting - for a marriage in any state, whether strong or suffering - and I highly recommend seeing it. Apparently, even though it is a 'low-budget' film, it has had very high ratings among theatre-goers! Both Ken & I and the couple we went with were touched by the movie's themes. I think anyone who has ever been through troubled times during any relationship can relate to this storyline....I know we all did. Go check it out if you have the chance! It will make you smile, cry (at one poignant spot toward the end of the movie, you could hear sniffling all over our theatre), and think about your relationships with those around you....the real deal.


• Ahh - the weather has been gorgeous here in Kent City/West MI this past week! Love the warm temps and the vibrant fall colors, which seemed to have popped the past few days! Whether driving up our driveway or standing on the deck looking out at the woods, the fall foliage surrounding our home is stunning to me. I can't believe we have so many trees around us - so pretty! We took a family walk on Sunday to our favorite Howard Christiansen Nature Center and wow - the smell of fall was pervasive, the paths crackled with our footsteps, and we were all reminded of what a Master Artist God is.


• Cubbies is Wednesday night - Seth LOVES attending and is proud that he remembers his verse each week. Last week on the 3 mile route to church, he repeated his verse over and over again. Mom: "Seth, do you think you could stop repeating it, please?" "But I don't want to forget it!" Do you know how many times a 3 year old can repeat John 3:33 in 3 miles? Approximately 17. :) And then I thought more about his words - he kept repeating because he didn't want to forget God's Word and Promises. Hmmm - from the mouths of babes.

Ken reminded me that he thinks people enjoy reading short blog entries. Is that true for you? I responded that since my readers weren't my students, they could choose whether to read or not. Being concise is not a skill I possess, but one I should work on...

Enjoy God's artistry today! :)

Precious

Isn't he precious? It has been such a joy to watch each member of our family shower his/her love on Aaron. (yes, sometimes a bit too much, but I suppose that's to be expected). Each of the kids has their own ways of sharing friendship with him - and it's very sweet to watch. He interacts so much these days - grabbing for all toys (and anything else within reach), giggling at his siblings, following us with his baby blues all around the room, loving being played with, giving big smiles to all. I've enjoyed the cooler days and putting various overalls on him....there's something so cute about little boys in overalls! He's experiencing his first cold this week - and no teeth yet, but everything immediately goes to his mouth to be sucked on. He likes to reach out for Mama and always gives a grin to Daddy when he comes home from work. I think he's going to be a mover and a shaker...on the go - rolling or moving backwards or somehow able to get from one end to the other. Why is it that with the first child or two we were eager to have them crawl and get to the next developmental stage and with my fourth I think, "Oh! Let's just sit right here and play with toys! No need to move anywhere else!" :)

He is a precious blessing. What a joyful, splendid addition he has been to our home!

And yes, I will try to blog more consistently. Thanks for sticking with me in my absence. And thanks to Amy for the great pics. I am falling in love with that setting on her camera where the person is clear and the background is a touch blurry. She's such a good photographer!

Ahhh, Good Times....

...were had a few weeks ago in Mackinaw City. After a busy first two weeks of school and all, these pictures remind me of our relaxing, fun week together - away from it all. The Mill Creek Campground was great - shaded sites, ours was a quick walk to the lake and across from the playground, bath house, and heated pool! We all could have stayed longer! We were more experienced campers this time - and the weather was beautiful, so no mud to worry about - and it was truly relaxing and soothing to the soul. We hung around the campground some, enjoyed the beach, the pool, the mini-golf course, the incredible views of water and MI's #1 bridge. We also trekked around a bit - to Fort Michilimackinac in M. City one day (definitely recommend this) and into the UP another - to Tahquamenon's Upper and Lower Falls and the Oswald Bear Ranch.

Highlights included:

• Aaron and I enjoying a gorgeous afternoon in the shade (while Ken & the 3 older kids swam), gazing at Lake Huron and reading a book. This was our view:

• Enjoying S'mores with the Watson family while watching the sun set over the bridge.
The kids being so happy just to be with us, doing simple things!


• Aaron smiling at everyone.


• Getting our picture taken with a real bear cub at the bear ranch. (Yes, Dad, it was safe.)


• Taking the Sunday evening Vespers Cruise and going under THE bridge at sunset. Gorgeous!
• Curling up in the pop-up camper on the cool evenings.


• Ken & Nathan buying a kite from the original Mackinaw Kite Company and flying it on the shore of Lake Huron.
• Watching the kids collect rocks, sand, etc., on the shore.
• Attending the craft fair at the Paradise Festival in Paradise, MI.


• Seeing a doe with 3 fawns walk across the Tahquamenon River just upstream while we were at the Upper Falls!


• Being away from the responsibilities of life, except for enjoying and building into our sweet family.

p.s. Can you guess how many hours we were there before we ran into people from KCBC? Two! Each day over the 5 days we were gone we ran into Kent City folks - either from church or school. :) It's always fun to run into people you know in a place far from home.

I know there's many pictures on this entry; I hope that's not too frustrating for you dial-up folks. I leave you with one of my favorites:

There She Goes...

We're ready to roll!!They sure like each other...Nathan's been telling her lots of the good things about school lately & they were eager to go this morning.
. . . not just a walkin' down the street, because we don't live down from the school any longer. Instead, she, Daddy, and Nathan piled into the truck this morning, and she headed off to kindergarten. She was excited and cute, with her big smile, jean skirt with polka dots (aren't polka dots on little girls the cutest thing?!) and bright pink shirt with a flower on the front. She is a sweet girl. Lord, please keep her sweet and help her teacher, classmates, and others to be kind to her. Keep her safe - emotionally and physically. Help her cultivate a love of learning! Please keep her heart tender and loving. Maximize the positive influences and minimize the negative. May she show others she loves You! Above all, please help her learning and interactions mold her into a godly little girl and young lady. Thank you for Mrs. Taylor, her nurturing, Christian teacher.

My mother's heart is happy for her (she has been looking forward to this for some time) as well as a bit wistful & sad. There's something about seeing your little girl head off into the big world that catches in the throat.

(I know this is blurry, but so "Robyn" -)

I wrote all the above this morning; now I write the following (10 pm):

She was happy when she left; she was happy afterwards! Big smiles & hugs, joy oozing out of her, and wow what a difference in how much she shares! Things from strategies how Mrs. Taylor gets their attention (a clapping repetition they repeat) to how they sit (criss-cross-applesauce) to where she puts her lunch bag to how hot it was at recess "so we had quiet time afterwards - but not rest time, Mom" (i.e. no sleeping)! Very cute to hear it all and Ken smiled as he knows I crave to hear from Nathan what's happening but he's a boy of fewer words. My heart is grateful and light for her now and I know she is in our Father's Hands! At dinner we asked everyone to share something they liked about their day. Robyn: "Recess and lunch!" Nathan: "Lunch and Recess." "Math, too." and Seth: "Playing at Mrs. Rivard's." Seth was sad to see his sister and brother head off to school and I'm glad he had something fun to do, too.

Here's to a great first day! Let's remember to pray for our kids & grandkids who are in school.

A Favorite Shot

Just love this one - this is a 'normal' look for our precious boy - now 5 months old!

Camping Take Two!

We're heading out again! The pop-up was great last time, so we're trying it again. This time we're headed up to Mackinaw City to a nice campground recommended by a friend. I looked online for a few recipe ideas (things you can cook in foil over the fire). As I looked, I found some good ideas - and also a link for 'Make Your Own Baby Food While Camping.' Aaron's not eating solid food yet, but that one cracked me up!! As if this mom of four would want directions for making my own baby food WHILE CAMPING (remember my mom in law's quote? "All the work of home with none of the conveniences." :) I'm ready for the dirt and all this time!!

Thought that was a good one! We're all eager to go on this trip - it will be nice to be further from home, and we'll do some hanging out at the campground enjoying the view, the beach, and the heated pool, and we'll also do some sightseeing - a day trip to Tahquamenon's Upper and Lower Falls, etc.

Back to packing! My enthusiastic helper Robyn keeps asking me, "Now what food?" as I write this and then she scurries around the kitchen getting the items! Ken told me this morning he'd like to leave by 8:00 AM Thursday Yikes! :)

p.s. I added pics of our Maxine's experience - look at previous post.

Goin' Local

Dancin' to the Folk Tunes!
The Mill Creek Band - they were good! They perform every Wed. night. - and it's not overwhelming (noise wise), just pleasant.
Happy Audience Members
We survived the church directory picture - it went better than any family picture we've taken in a long time! The only one who didn't smile was Aaron...I think he was enthralled by the bright lights of the photographer. And he's usually so smiley! Do you think the promise of ice cream later for anyone who cooperated at the picture helped the children?!

So, we left the pictures at 5:45 and headed for the closest restaurant to our home. Do you locals know which one that is?

If you said Maxine's, you're right! This is the little hometown place in Sparta where the pastors head once a week for breakfast and meeting. It's got more decorations than you can count, and one wall is devoted to pictures of local soldiers present and past in their military uniforms. Little did we know it was our lucky night...The Mill Creek Band performs there live on Wed. nights! I cannot remember the last time I was in a restaurant with a live band (3 different guitars, two of them sang)! They were great - slight country, golden oldies (the majority of the crowd was past 60), and our Robyn enjoyed it so much she began dancing! It was so fun. Ken reminded me that if we were in Boston, this is the type of restaurant I would ask for - good food with local flare. Ken said his dinner was as good as one he would have at a Chili's or Brann's. Go Local! :)

(And then we headed home to treat the oldest five members to ice cream, since we were all cooperative during the picture!)

I'll get some pics posted of Robyn dancin' and the band playin.'

Sad News

I heard the sad news today that Randy Paush, the Carnegie Mellon professor who became famous through his talk entitled, "The Last Lecture," lost his battle with pancreatic cancer today. I watched his lecture on You Tube (viewed now by 8+ million), read his book (both his speech and book were for his three young children when they are older - and have been following his health/life on his website. He was truly inspiring (rather humorous, too!) and was an outstanding example of how to truly LIVE life. If you haven't viewed it, it's really worth the watch: The Last Lecture and the book (by the same title) is well worth the read.

His story and personal blog: here

Tidbits

My latest edition of Good Housekeeping had some interesting facts:

• "Running a full dishwasher uses half the water and energy-or less-of washing the same dishes by hand. Another water saver: Don't rinse before loading." (are you compulsed to rinse before loading? I was, too, until I met my new dishwasher - no rinsing=squeaky clean and less water used!)
• "The more sodium kids consume, the more liquid they drink - too often, calorie-heavy soda that packs on pounds, researchers discovered. 'More than 50 percent of children's fluid intake is soft drinks.'" (!)
• "Since over 20 percent of kids' calories come from snacks, they should be a nutritious part of your child's diet." (our favorite healthy snack is a banana milkshake - bananas, ice cubes, milk, vanilla in blender-of course served with a straw).
• "The period from two to five is such a critical time in child development and you can really set good eating habits," says Deanna Pagnini, the author of the report. (this one was from a different article)

Interesting.

What do you do to help your kids and family be healthy?

Rollin' and Campin'!

He's on the move! A couple of days ago the five of us watched eagerly as Aaron, with a great amount of effort, rolled from back to tummy! We all cheered for him and it was so cute to see him look up with a surprised look at first and then a big grin! I often call our boy "Happiness and Joy" - he is precious and his big smiles light a room.

Well! We made it through the camping excursion! Someone told me later I was brave for going. After a day Rhonda realized that camping = dirt, and that's the way it is! The last time we camped was in a tent when Nathan was one, and I had not remembered how much dirt there was!

And my question for you: Is it really camping when you can use your wireless internet from inside the pop-up camper? We could connect to the ranger station from our site on our laptop. We really didn't use it much - I promise! :) My brother, who enjoys rustic campgrounds with his young children (i.e. porta potties, no showers) called me a "Pampered Princess." I call him crazy.

I will share with you the email exchange my good friend, Melanie (mother of five) had:
Melanie: (written as I was preparing to go) "Did you know I went camping last spring and vowed not to do it again until Jacob is five years old? Think of it as working towards many wonderful happy memories for your children."

Rhonda: (written after we'd been camping for half a day) "Ken said this morning, “You let me know when it’s the part of camping that you like, ok?” We’re at the campground – I had FORGOTTEN how much mud/dirt there is – ewww! But I’m not going to stress out about it…I decided that I didn’t want my kids to remember camping as “mom stressed about the dirt."

And now a current update from me: "We had a great time and all enjoyed ourselves very much - from fun Jellystone activities for the kids to the awesome dune rides to reading a book to just being together." Will I go camping again? Happily - but I don't think tents and our family would get along. The pop-up was great, and I think we're going to head out again in August.

Highlights:
Robyn saying the day we got back, "Can we go camping again sometime?"
Seth's prayer the first day: "Thank you, God, for this happy day. I like camping!"
Tie-dying t-shirts with the kids. I'll have to get a picture of them for you.
The kiddie pool and big pool at the campground! All 3 do well on their own in the water - Nathan with no noodle, Robyn with one noodle, Seth with two noodles.
Finding a cove where Silver Lake meets Lake Michigan. The tidal basin had shallow water that we all played in.
NO Schedule! (well, except for being aware of what time it was so the kids could hit the various kids' activities!)
Watching Nathan ride all over on his bike (two wheels only)
Reading aloud Kate DiCamillo's The Tale of Despereaux each day to the kids.
From Ken - sitting and reading The Hobbit
Eating sticky s'mores by the campfire - mmm!
The gorgeous mixture of azure sky, sugar sand dunes, Lake MI views, and going up, down, and all around the sand dunes with our fun driver, "Weazy," on the Dune Rides.
Driving through beautiful Pentwater, with its picturesque boats and calm waters, on the way home.
Eating a tasty meal at Bob Evans on the way home. I sure like their food - especially after eating campground food for a week!

Will post pics soon.

Summer Snapshots -

Aaron - almost 4 months - such big blue eyes he has!
We sure like each other!

Snoozin' in my Hawaiian garb...
A typical Aaron look - he loves to grin!
Backyard camping
I got CHOCOLATE for my birthday!
Opening a birthday present

More pics to come after our week of camping!

How long does it take the Vanderwests...

...to pack for 4-5 days of camping? Quite a while!! We're getting organized to head up to Silver Lake Monday-Friday. I remember my mom-in-law (mother of six) saying, "Camping - all the work of home with none of the conveniences!" :) She has a valid point! But, we're really looking forward to some time away - just hangin' out with each other. The kids are very excited - have been counting the number of 'sleeps' for a couple of weeks now. We had a great 4th up north at the cabin - we were with our parents and the Panaggios are back in town from Peru (kids ages 14-21) - our kids adore their older cousins. It was great to be with some other family from out of state, too - such nice people! (uncles, aunts, etc.)

Back to packing - Yogi Bear here we come! If you think of anything we must remember, let me know!

I Scream, You Scream...

...we all scream for ICE CREAM, of course! BUT, perhaps like me, you are conscious of the many calories/high fat content the delicacy includes. We have discovered a solution! Tonight Ken scooped out some Chocolate Moose Tracks ice cream - wow, yum! I even went and scooped out a little more, it was so good. It was then I noticed it was Light Ice Cream. I've had light in the past (and passed on it after that - it just didn't cut it), but this was great! To think that Ken had purchased a light version was a bit shocking...when he said it was quite good, I asked if he knew it was light...no, he did not - he inadvertantly purchased it! So, we're just going to have to try some of the other flavors. Watch for a sale on Country Fresh and give it a try - it's the Country Churn type.
Smooth and Silky, says the package - 55% less fat, 38% fewer calories. Mmmmm...

Of course, if I have two helpings, does that defeat the 'lightness' of it?!

Let me know if you try another tasty flavor!

Note to Self...

When your three year old says, "My throat hurts," remember that to him the throat is in the vicinity of the stomach and you'd better grab a bucket-fast!!!

OR - you may just have to clean yourself, your son, all clothes from both of you, your couch cushion, and your kitchen floor VERY THOROUGHLY.

That was our Thursday morning.

Thankfully, the kitchen floor needed mopping and it had been on my to-do list for a few days. Thank you, Ray, for disinfecting and cleaning that cushion. The kitchen floor has never been so clean. Without going into detail, let's just say that the smell of that stuff almost makes me do it myself.....

Poor Seth. He usually is bouncing with energy, and he was pretty lethargic that day.

Oh - other variations from a three-year-old may include: "My tummy is high," "My tummy is hot," "My tummy is rumbly," and other variations on that theme. Once stomach is settled, introduce other foods very slowly, or you may have a recurrence (we know this from experience, too)

When my kids are sick, it always reminds me of how grateful I must be that they are healthy; that there are children who suffer from illnesses or diseases. A friend just told me about a 16 MONTH old who she saw who has no hair - she talked with the mom and the little guy has cancer and is undergoing treatment. Wow - no complaining. We are blessed - you, too?

They're Over!

Garage Sales 2008...DONE! Yes, that is 'sales' plural at our old house - had one at the end of May scheduled for Thurs and Fri. Thursday went great (i.e. sold lots of stuff, made lots of money), and then we woke Friday to a deluge (i.e. torrential rains). The stuff was quickly packed in boxes and tables shoved into the garage. SO, we didn't want to leave it there forever, so Saturday had a one day only sale with our friends Ben and Kristy. With young children, having a sale with a friend or two is the way to do it. Sat. was also a success...lots of stuff gone, lots of deals made! The best feeling was when Kristy's huge (22 cubic feet) chest freezer sold. We also sold some other big items and Ken had hauled some miscellaneous items from the old church over.


Two sales in one season is a bit much for me...I'm calling it quits for garage sales this year.

Of course, only in the SELLING category! :) It's becoming a tradition for the kids and I to head to a sale or two or four most Thursday mornings...maybe I'll see you at one?!

Celebrations!

Father's Day & Ken's Birthday were on the same day this year! It was a weekend of celebrations...wedding Friday night, Lifewalk for Alpha Family Center Sat AM (we love walking in this each year - they raised almost $20K for this valuable ministry in our area), then we enjoyed having Dad & Mom Vanderwest over on Saturday night for dinner...Ken's request was steak kabobs - mmmm! I marinade them for many hours in a honey/soy sauce/garlic/spices mixture, add the veggies, and YUM! The dessert was not for Ken, but for his Dad - strawberry shortcake with lots of whipped cream.

On Sunday afternoon Ken opted to stay home with Seth & Aaron to nap with them. N, R, and I headed to an open house for Gideon. In addition to Bertha's wonderful food, Gideon gave a classical guitar recital outdoors. It was a charming setting - him up on the deck, chairs set up under a massive shade tree, flower beds, their black cat swaying in and out of the people, etc. They had a sound system to hear his beautiful musical well. He is SO very talented - it was soothing to the soul to listen! After that we went home and all took naps. Later we said goodbye to our friends the Gregg's at an open house for them at church. A bittersweet time - happy for them, sad to see them go. Carolyn is an awesome singer and we have had lots of sweet music memories together over the years - church praise band, offertorys, weddings, funerals, etc. They are special people and we will miss them as they 'Go Light Their World' in Nevada. We then zipped home and the Southwell's (our good friends who are living in our 'old' house for the year while they are on furlough) came over for GHIRADELLI brownies and ice cream. This was Ken's choice of dessert! :) Whew...a busy but good weekend.

This week ad next the kids (3 oldest) are taking swimming lessons at the high school pool. They are eager to go and Mom is glad they can all go at the same time! Monday night was a celebration with the Richards' side. A little basketball, soccer, banter, delicious charcoal-grilled burgers, cute nieces and nephews, chatting, etc...a fun time for all. We are eager for June 25 to come - when Bronya (sister-in-law) will give birth to our newest nephew!

Happy Father's Day to:

The Father of My Four Children - You are fun, involved, patient, godly, and admired by all of us. You are the Dad I dreamed of for our children and are my best friend.

My Dad - You motivate us to do things well, have a relationship with Christ, are full of life and fun, and we all love being with you. How grateful to have YOU as our Dad and Grandpa!

My Dad by marriage - Thank you for being so friendly (do you know half of Muskegon?), laidback, teaching us by your example, working hard for your family, enjoying life, and most of all for raising a wonderful son and father and loving all of us!

Thank you, God, for being My Heavenly Father and giving me these three wonderful men in my life!

Isn't it good to have Hallmark Holidays? They give us reasons to give cards and tributes to those who are so important to us.

Field Day Fun

And he's off! Good form, Nathan!

Leap Frog, Anyone?
A parachute + kids = FUN! That's his wonderful teacher, Mrs. Vanderlaan, behind him.
Cool picture, Dad! Katelyn & Nathan share a laugh.
Friends Dolan & ClarkThe BOYS of Nathan's 1st grade class. Our son is the one advertising the local funeral home (his soccer shirt :)
Best Buds Anna & Katelyn

Nathan had Field Day last week - a fun day for all! I was scheduled to help with the obstacle course. A little later, I looked around the track and there was Ken! He came over and asked for the camera and said, "I was at church and I just couldn't miss Field Day!" Hearing the kids' laughter, cheers, and watching them enjoy the activities was great. I was amazed at the variety of sizes of the children - height, weight, and all. Nathan said he enjoyed the races the best of the 'field' events. The schedule for the day included an hour of field day activities, an hour of bounce party (inflatables) activities, culminated with a pizza lunch at the local park. He had a wonderful first grade year, but on Monday at breakfast he thanked God that "summer vacation is finally here." (we all are!) I'm glad he's home & we're looking forward to a great summer together.