deleise overcome

Happy birthday David!

2011-10-19T00:00:00.004-05:00

Happy birthday to my love, my best friend, and the leader of this family.We are so blessed to have you! We are who we are because of you. You mean everything to me and I love you more than words can ever express. I hope your birthday is amazing!

Cole is nine!

2011-09-03T00:54:00.010-05:00

My precious Cole. You bring so much joy to my life!

I love your excitement for everything.

I love how you are always wanting to encourage others and help people.

I love how you know more trivia than anyone I know.

I love how you are getting all "Mat Hoffman" with your bike jumps ever since you watched a documentary on him. And I don't blame you that you like to keep the blood smears on your skin after you crash. You deserve that badge of honor.

I love how you are always telling me things are "overrated."

"Shoes are overrated."

"Vitamins are overrated."

"Washing fruit is overrated."

"Shirts are overrated."

I love that your birthday wish list includes things like bubble wrap and beef jerky.

And I love that Norman Regional Hospital cafeteria was a serious contender for you when trying to decide where you wanted to eat for your special birthday dinner (although I also love that it lost).

I think you are one of the coolest and most delightful kids ever. I hope you have a very happy 9th birthday. I love you.

You are so not overrated.

Happy Birthday!

2011-07-27T00:45:00.006-05:00

Tyler,

Today you are a teenager. That is hard to believe!

I am so proud of who you are becoming. I love the little glimpses that God has given me lately. Under that fun and hilarious personality lies something big. You are destined for greatness and it's starting to peek through more and more as you mature and grow. Even though you are just starting your teen years, I can already see it. And I can't wait to see what God has in store for you.

Happy birthday Tyler. I love you so very much.

Our Beach Vacation 2011

2011-05-29T09:28:00.024-05:00

We just got home from our vacation in Destin Florida, on Okaloosa Island. The most amazing and beautiful beach and ocean I've ever seen! The sand was literally like sugar. Flawless and beautiful. And the water was a transparent turquoise that I couldn't quit staring at! None of these pictures have any color editing at all, but they still don't do it justice.

Our days were lazy and unplanned. We slept in, ate breakfast overlooking the ocean, then went down to the beach. We chose our next move whenever the mood struck! We're all kinda fans of the no-schedule thing!

We woke up every morning to this view from our balcony.
And Cole was usually right here in our room, watching the waves and waiting for everyone else to wake up!

A few times we watched dolphins play from our balcony. So fun.

Destin Commons, a fun shopping area.

Family photos

Beach volleyball

We all went parasailing. Now I know what it feels like to be a bird. Ahhhhh, so peaceful and amazing!

Riley and David going up
Me and Cole about 400 feet in the air

Garrett and Tyler getting dipped in the ocean
A dolphin swam right up to the boat

Beach fun

For some reason the only time I touch the volleyball is when I'm serving. It's hard to run in sand. That's what I'm going with.

Kayaking in front of our condo!

When Garrett and Tyler were out there was a dolphin swimming with them. They got about 10 feet away and were trying to keep up with it. It had its head out of the water talking! They also went over a group of stingrays.

Shopping on the bay
Our goal was to choose restaurants where we could eat outside by the water. So, lots of seafood. David got everyone but me to try raw oysters.

Playoffs! We wore a lot of Thunderwear and tried to catch most of the games. Tyler got the live band at this place to yell "Go Thunder!"More pics around the condo

In our bed watching coverage of either the Thunder or the Oklahoma tornados that were going on back home.
From our balcony. The sand looked like snow from a distance.
David, Riley and Cole on the balcony.

Go Karts!
Night time crab hunting
I think they're called "ghost crabs."

On the way home we stayed at a Marriot resort on the shore of Alabama. It had all kinds of activities and was so beautiful. Like a huge southern plantation.

So thankful for this time away with my very favorite people making memories that we will always cherish!

Happy Birthday Garrett

2011-04-13T23:28:00.004-05:00

Garrett, I can't believe it's been 16 years. What a blessing and inspiration you are to this family. I thank God for giving us such a gift! You are an amazing person and I can't wait to see what is in store for you.

16 Things I admire about you

1. Your discipline in running

2. Your work ethic

3. How you embrace doing hard things

4.The way you inspire me to do hard things, too

5. The way you let Riley hang on you

6. How you take charge without being asked when things need to be done

7. Your love for God

8. You let me hug you and punch you

9. Your hilarious sense of humor

10. Your amazing culinary skills

11. The way you figure out how to fix everything

12. You never whine and rarely complain, even when it's warranted

13. Your commitment to living up to a high standard

14. Your willingness to sacrifice for others

15. Your generosity

16. Your honor for your family

I love you so much, Garrett. Happy 16th birthday!

Double digits for Riley!

2011-02-26T09:07:00.003-06:00

Precious Riley.

I can' t believe I have had you in my life for 10 whole years. You are one of God's greatest gifts to me!

I love how funny you are.

I love how you are Garrett's personal cheerleader when he runs, running out to yell for him each time he passes our house.

I love how adventurous you are.

I love your heart for Jesus.

I love how you adore your daddy.

I love to watch you dance.

I love your concern for other people's feelings.

I love how much you love babies.

I love how sweet you are to your friends.

I love that you like to have coffee with me.

I love watching your beautiful heart mature.

I love that God let me have you as my daughter.

Happy birthday, sweet girl. I love you!

LA in pictures

2010-11-15T22:50:00.012-06:00

Rodeo Drive

Hollywood

The world's tallest man

Santa Monica Pier

Driving into Beverly Hills

Room Service pizza

Dinner on Sunset Boulevard

My Love

2010-10-19T00:30:00.003-05:00

Today is David's 40th birthday.

I love you David.

You are the reason I am who I am. You are the reason I laugh so hard. You are the reason I look forward to life on this earth.

Knowing you are mine makes everything in my world right.

Thank you for being so much more than I deserve.

Happy 40th birthday.

Oh Cole.

2010-09-02T22:56:00.005-05:00

Sweet Cole turns 8 today, September the 3rd.

Happy birthday my little guy. You are so precious and funny. You are so thoughtful and fun.

I love how excited you get about EVERYTHING. Especially other people's birthdays.

I love how much you admire your brothers and love your sister.

I love how tender your heart is.

I love how you make me feel so incredibly adored and loved.

I love how last night when you and I went out for a walk to see if there was a rainbow, you slipped your hand in mine as we walked down the street. Because you like me. You like being with me. And that makes me happier than you'll ever know.

I hope your day is everything you want it to be. :)

Tyler is 12!

2010-07-27T01:02:00.003-05:00

Happy birthday to one of my favorite guys in the world! You bless me so much, Tyler. Thank you for your love for our family, for your love for God and for keeping us all laughing all the time. I love you so very much.

Riley's new room!

2010-06-11T10:34:00.011-05:00

Riley has had a princess room for the last 5 years or so. She's nine now. So she thought it was time to move on.

I only cried for a little while.

And then the fun began.

I loved her room with it's castle that lit up...

It's sweet little table and chairs...
And the fairies on the wall... *sigh* Where does the time go?

It all started with a swimsuit. Riley loved this look. We knew black on the wall would be too much, so we went for black accents instead.

These pictures don't convey the whole story. I just couldn't capture the room. But you'll get the idea. Also the colors look a little off. They are teal, lime green and hot pink. So fun!

A place with a view for having snacks or doing art. My parents found this heavy wood table for $25. Score. It was old and scratched up and just needed some glossy black paint. Now it looks new!

My parents made these padded headboards and footboard for her "chaise" she wanted...

This dresser belonged to my great-grandmother. It has survived many generations and even more coats of paint. We haven't put our decor out just yet.

Sweet dreams, Princess.

Pictures from our vacation

2010-06-01T17:07:00.012-05:00

Dance contest....
Guess who won?
Still gloating over their trophy

Dinner
Tyler is impressed with his lobster.

Progresso, Mexico

Watching the ocean from our balcony.

Paradise Beach at Cozumel

This is my favorite picture from the whole trip. They are sitting on our balcony playing the new instruments they bought in Mexico.
Then they moved it inside by the elevators to try to make some money like the guys in Mexico. They made four dollars.
Towel pals!
They made good use of the 24 hour soft serve machine.

David and Tyler singing karaoke. They sang Don't Stop Believing. David even talked to the audience like they do in concerts. I am aware that does not surprise those of you who have ever seen him play Guitar Hero or sing karaoke.

Garrett's idea of "Cruise Attire." Lord help us all.

When we got back on land, we spend some time in New Orleans. We walked around the French Quarter.

And ate beignets at Cafe Du Monde.
Where the powdered sugar is overtaking the building...

It was a great trip!

Garrett

2010-04-13T23:02:00.004-05:00

He is 15 today. FIFTEEN.

Oh my word I love having this kid in my life.

He makes me laugh all day long.

The older he gets, the more I admire him. His personality, his abilities, his priorities, his brilliant mind.

Garrett, you bless me more than you can ever know. I love you so much.

Happy birthday. Thanks for being you.

New York City

2010-03-24T15:08:00.014-05:00

I've always been enamored by New York City. So I was more than a little excited when I got this card from David for my birthday.

And then even more excited when he called me and told me it was actually cheaper to fly home on a Monday, would I want to make the trip a day longer. Hmmm...let me think about that...

I greatly reduced my 250 photos to post just a glimpse!

People. Lots of people.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Monet!

And Van Gogh!

And chocolate tartlets!
The night life. Times Square.

Our hotel.

30 Rock

The Museum of Modern Art

My favorite! The Starry Night!
Jackson Pollock

Picasso

Andy Warhol
Kadinsky
Central Park

In our hotel room getting ready to go to dinner and the theater.

Lunch and shopping in SoHo

Serendipity. After we were seated we decided to google and see where John Cusack sat in the movie, and it was the table where we were seated!
A lil sundae.

And if you want to see the other 220 pictures, let me know! I have five days worth of lots of famous art and city pictures. :)

A new look

2010-03-07T19:54:00.006-06:00

I've been booooooored with my blog look for some time.

Today my talented friend Janna ~~offered~~ got roped into helping me change it up. She is amazing with the photoshop, I tell ya. We started with two of my favorite bags. My computer bag, and the case my mom made for my laptop. I love these colors, so we took our inspiration from them, especially the paisley case.

Janna worked while I sat on the couch next to her in my pjs and ate Lindt Dark Chocolate with a Touch of Sea Salt, and said,

"yes."

"NO!"

"yuck."

"beeeeee-utiful!"

and other helpful things like that.

And now I have a new look and a new lease on life. Do you like? And are the new black and white pictures on the sidebar teeny tiny, or is it just my monitor (the kids at the top, my profile pic, Garrett, and Tyler)?

Thanks Janna!

Happy Birthday sweet girl!

2010-02-26T00:41:00.004-06:00

Riley is nine years old today. It's so hard to believe.

My sweet baby girl, I am enjoying you more and more every year. Your beauty just continues to grow as you do. You are such an example to me in so many ways. Whether you are just giggling and enjoying life, or heartbroken and giving your own money to people in need, I learn so much from you.

I love your heart, Riley. Everyone who knows you is blessed by you. Thank you for being such a fun daughter. I love you more than you will ever know. Happy birthday!

Can't leave home. Wouldn't wanna if we could.

2010-01-29T15:44:00.024-06:00

Glory to God, my new boots arrived this week.

Throwing snowballs at me

David

Notice he is heading right for...
the pond.

Don't worry, I'm sure the water's not too cold.

Forty-eight hours ago they were playing in this boat in t-shirts and shorts.

Perfect warm-up

Ohhhhhh the possibilities...

2010-01-18T15:40:00.000-06:00

The Doll House

2010-01-08T16:33:00.006-06:00

Riley's doll house. It's been around since she was a preschooler.

I remember the Christmas she got it. Sweet little chubby hands gripping the fresh, unblemished plastic people and banging them in hopping motions all over the house.

She immediately named this one Garrett. And that's still his name today.

A lot has changed since those days.

That little family has been through more than a lifetime of events.

Celebrations, illnesses, holidays, and new babies.

There were seasons when we played out the same story over and over. Then we would move to another.

There were times when every single day was a birthday party.

We've made Christmas decorations and little clay food for the house.

There were times when I could hear David in Riley's room playing his role of "Crazy Granny." She was always on the roof.

There have been seasons when the house was closed up for a bit, and we didn't hear from the family. But they always beckon us back in.

Something about looking into a whole house and having complete control over everything in it. It's kind of comforting I guess.

It's cozy and cheerful in there.

And all the right things are happening. The things that make you feel peaceful. The things that make you sigh with contentment when they are happening in your own house.

The role playing has morphed into something different as she has grown older. It seems to be more contemplative now. We talk more about real-life stuff as we play. And there is a lot more care put into the interior design as we rearrange furniture and rooms and set up the stage of the family's life.

The little character voices are less frequent and often replaced with silence as we sit back and admire our scenes, deep in thought.

Sometimes maybe we're both imagining her future family. Her hopes and dreams.

Sometimes maybe we're just thinking of new ways to arrange the nursery.

Maybe when she's older and has her own family and home, she'll remember some of what we discussed as we reigned over this little family's world.

Maybe she'll just remember the warm feeling of being together.

I know I will.

And I will always cherish doll house time with my little girl.

My word of the year

2010-01-02T14:54:00.000-06:00

Over the past several years I have heard of people having a "word of the year." You know, one word you really need to focus on in your life. One that you keep reminding yourself of and working toward all year. I guess it always sounded a little too close to a resolution (aka: seed of failure) to me, so I never took the bait. But this year I feel different. This year I'm going to have a word.

My word?

Believe.

I love the Bible. I love reading it and looking for verses and stories that pertain to my life and guide me. I want all of my answers to come from there. I know that it is the only sure thing that is 100 percent accurate and real and true. But here is the weird part.

I don't always believe it for ME.

I'm not talking about belief in God or his word. I'm talking about belief that his promises are for me.

I easily and confidently claim promises for my children and other loved ones, never once doubting.

I can point a friend to a verse about how God promises to rescue her, or how his grace is sufficient, or how He came so we could have freedom, and I believe with my whole heart that is true.

But I'm finding that maybe I don't always believe it to be true as much for myself. Sure, that promise is for you, but for me? Maybe it's that I sometimes lack faith. Maybe on some level I'm trying to protect myself from possible disappointment or head off potential failure. Whatever it is, my heart and actions just don't always show belief.

Sounds simple to believe something you already believe, huh? It should be. But sometimes my mind takes over and wants to doubt what the Bible says about me. I'm free? I'm holy? I'm victorious? I'm accepted? I'm cherished? I'm healed? I'm chosen? I'm secure? It says this and so much more about me. Deleise. And sometimes I have a hard time grasping that. So this year my focus is to believe.

Believe what has been promised.

Believe what I already know is true.

Believe God.

Do you have a word for 2010?

Tennessee Road Trip

2009-12-31T12:53:00.009-06:00

Our children have been Tennessee Titans fans since the day they were born. Some may call it brainwashing. I really can't think of any other word for it myself. To say David is a crazed Titans fan is a gross understatement.

At dinner one night when we presented them each with an envelope containing a ticket to their first Tennessee Titans game, they were very excited. And the fun began.

David likes to make our life, and I quote, "like a movie," by "keeping the soundtrack accurate." This means that when we drive through Jackson, we listen to Johnny Cash's "Jackson." When we are in Colorado, we have a lot of "Rocky Mountain High" goin' on. When we first moved to the country, we heard a lot of "Mud on the Tires" when we were driving home at night. You get the idea.

So naturally, when we drove past Memphis, he blared U2's "Pride (in the name of love)." This song gave us a spontaneous idea. "Hey, lets make our soundtrack even more authentic by actually driving by the site of Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination if it doesn't inconvenience us too much!" So taptaptap on the phone and, what do ya know, we were 12 blocks away. So we pulled off the highway and boom, suddenly we were educating the youngins. Life is school, friends.

It was surreal to stand right next to the spot where he was assassinated. I am so glad we got to go.

Several hours later we arrived in Nashville and hit the streets. I LOVE downtown Nashville! The lights and music and people, it's so much fun. We took the kids to a place we had been before and knew they would love, The Wildhorse Saloon.

Because honestly, what good parents don't take their kids dancin' in the saloons? Exactly.

Downtown!
Riley gave a homeless man some money and he gave her this flower. She loved it so much. She put it in water and took care of it until we got home. She still has it.
Back to the hotel for very late night swimming!
And a testing of the mattresses...

We can seriously destroy a hotel room in minutes.
We woke up early on Sunday morning to get a start on our day! Tyler made this sign to try to get on TV.

Riley posing with some cheerleaders.
Riley had to get one last shot of the field before we left.
David is a veteran and knows all the cool spots. We went over to the players parking lot and got autographs.

One last night, then the hotel breakfast buffet, then the road home! It was one of my favorite family trips ever.
And we suspect that Tyler won't need to eat again for a while.

Oh the weather...

2009-12-24T22:20:00.009-06:00

Christmas Eve is my favorite. We always have a celebration at our house with my parents and my sister's family and it never disappoints. We have so many traditions. We do a gift exchange, watch the kids perform their awesome Christmas talents, read the Christmas story and the Polar Express, make cookies for Santa and throw food on the roof for the reindeer. It's just all kinds of fun.

So today when this started...

I was in denial. Because I like my traditions. And I like my family. And I did not like what was about to happen. But it happened. No one could make it to our house.

It's the first time ever.

EVER.

Seriously.

What usually looks like this...
Turned into this.

There was much disappointment. But it was what it was, so we bucked up and decided to make the most of it. We ended up having a wonderful Christmas Eve together, laughing and enjoying each other. We played, ate, and listened to Christmas music. It was very different, and that's okay.

But just for one year.

One tradition that stayed was the drinking of hot apple cider. Yum.

We REALLY like it around here.

Told ya we like it.

We decided to head outside to play and look at our lights in the snow.

Well, most of us anyway...

Cole's got the dessert under control.

We called my sister's family when David read our Christmas books so they could listen on speaker phone.

I'm thankful my loved ones are safe. Hope everyone has a great day tomorrow. Merry Christmas!

No, doctor, I can't think of any reasons why it's not healing as quickly as it should...

2009-11-14T13:20:00.002-06:00

Fly

2009-11-06T10:10:00.000-06:00

Don't be scared.

2009-11-02T13:34:00.002-06:00

We come in peace.

Acting your age

2009-10-28T13:41:00.006-05:00

Some people are pretty good at acting their age.

They like to be cautious and sit around doing nothing.

After all, it's good to play it safe.

To keep things low-key.

And very serious.

Because you are a grown-up. Right?

And it is important not to take risks. Because if you do, you might...

join your children and brother in a game of Run-Down-The-Hill-As-Fast-As-You-Can-No-Slowing-Down-Or-You're-A-Wimp and end up like this.

Then you will get lots of time to sit on the couch and re-evaluate your actions and think about...

how you can't wait to stop acting your age again.

Happy birthday David!

2009-10-19T09:31:00.002-05:00

Happy birthday, David. You are everything to me. Thank you for being our leader. Thank you for being selfless. Thank you for always working hard and for teaching that to our kids. Thank you for oozing integrity. Thank you for loving me the way you do. Thank you for acting like you are a kid. Even if that means you sometimes do things that cause you to need knee surgery on Thursday. I love you more than words can touch.

We interrupt this school day for some very important business

2009-10-13T12:52:00.006-05:00

And now.

Back to math.

Are you ready for some football?

2009-09-07T21:41:00.007-05:00

Tonight was fantasy football draft at the Klaassen home. We've had a family league for several years. I think it has something to do with all the testosterone around here. It's quite official. We have a website on ESPN. We are the KFFL. And we have a real live trophy.

I play along, because it's fun.

And there is food.

But I really don't know what I'm doing.

My team name, assigned to me by David when we first started, is "The Hot Mamas." Cole informed us tonight that he thinks my team is "kinda inappropriate."

I annoy the males in the house when I make my picks based on things they don't think are important. Like picking a player from the Giants because New York City is my most favoritest city in the wholewideworld. Or picking Calvin Johnson because think it'll be fun to call him "CalJo." And if you're a thug? Dream on if you think you're making my team.

Dream.

On.

Garrett doing some last minute research.

Cole breakin' out all the football memorabilia. It's all Titans stuff.

There was chocolate fondue. Chocolate fondue!

And other football delicacies.

You all might think we are just playing. But that would be only before you saw this next photo.

Official fantasy football cups. That's right.

Let the games and the (loving) trash talkin' begin.

Coley

2009-09-02T23:06:00.006-05:00

September the 3rd is Cole's 7th birthday. What? Wow. 7th.

Cole, when I held your tiny little body in my arms 7 years ago today, I had no idea how much joy you would bring this family. I couldn't have dreamed you up if I'd tried.

Here are 7 things I love about you.

1. You get so excited about simple things.

2. You wake up happy and smiling before you even open your eyes.

3. You never let me leave without a hug, kiss, and hug, and you run frantically for me like you think I'm going to disappear into thin air before I leave.

4. You are always thinking of ways to help others. Whether it's a radio station pledge drive or someone who just looks like they've had it rough, you instantly want to help.

5. You love your family. You think your brothers are the most amazing guys on the earth, and your sister is totally your BFF.

6. You love God and your Bible. You easily get emotional over spiritual things.

7. You are just who you are supposed to be. No pretense, no trying to be like someone else, you are your own little guy...And that is exactly how I love you.

Happy birthday Coley!

Happy 11th birthday, Tyler!

2009-07-27T00:52:00.001-05:00

Why does this kid bring such a smile to my face?

Maybe it's all of the words that he makes up.

Or how carefully he listens to God.

Maybe it's the creative stories he writes.

Or the way he leads and people follow.

Maybe it's his generosity.

Or how hard he plays sports and drums.

Or how he can make someone feel really good about themselves.

Maybe it's because he brings laughter to this house daily.

Maybe it's how he is maturing into a kid of great integrity.

Or maybe it's just because he is Tyler.

Happy birthday, Babe. I love you more than you will ever know.

A perfect evening on our country road

2009-07-22T23:36:00.006-05:00

Alright, who frightened my Philadelphia Roll???

2009-07-18T13:08:00.004-05:00

And as Mysteriously as They Appeared, They Were Gone

2009-07-10T09:58:00.005-05:00

Leaving behind only deafening silence, a few nails, and this...

Proving that the roofers/sombrero/scissors shenanigans my children claimed to witness was in fact, not an urban legend, but truth.

Adventures in roofing

2009-07-06T17:46:00.010-05:00

I knew the roofers were starting on our new roof today. I mentally prepared for a lot of noise.

And that's about all I prepared for.

What I didn't see coming was the loud Spanish singing and yelling as they joyfully pushed one another on our tree swing. Or the hour long nap one of them would take in our hammock. Or the game of football that would take place in our yard. All of this before. they began. the roof.

(these were taken from my bedroom window, so there are quality issues)

football game
swinging friends
Nighty night.

I was actually starting to feel bad that I wasn't outside in an apron mingling and setting up tables of drinks and hors d'œuvres . I like to be a generous hostess. And this was clearly a party.

We left for the pool exactly 4 hours after they arrived. No one had gotten on the roof yet. However all twelve of them were running around the yard yelling wildly as they tried to catch a little rat snake. I felt like they had things under control.

Don't get me wrong. They had some serious stuff done when we got home. And they are growing on me. I mean, they are brave, no doubt. Our roof is STEEP. I can appreciate that.

I also appreciate that they all got behind my car and pushed it out of a ditch so I could go on about my day. Also that they clapped enthusiastically for Tyler from outside the window while he practiced his drums inside. I even appreciate that one of them took a nap on my park bench, because no one ever uses that park bench anymore and I think it's a cryin' shame. I appreciate how polite they were when they rang my doorbell and asked me to flip the switch on the breaker that tripped.

And I even appreciate that they probably tripped it with the two (2) microwaves they have plugged in on my front porch.

Because I think we all can agree that cold sandwiches are so

totally

passé.

So. Party in the Klaassen yard. Tomorrow. 8 am. Who's in?

Why my floors are clean

2009-07-03T11:41:00.005-05:00

Ok. That was an exaggeration. They aren't clean. But if they were? It would be because my kids feet. are never. on. the ground.

I feel like I'm always looking up at them or ducking under them or dodging their flying legs.

Is your home a jungle gym?

Our Colorado vacation

2009-06-04T20:36:00.008-05:00

We spent a week in Colorado relaxing, hiking, fishing, and just hanging out together. Here are a few of the pictures from our vacation. Way more pictures than writing. Because my brain seems to be on writing hiatus.

Our cabin.

...wait...maybe it's not on hiatus, that was a really catchy caption.
A manly morning chat on the deck.

The view from our deck.

We took a 5 hour hike in the Pike National Forest one day. There was gold in this stream. Real gold! It was dust so it made the stream all blingy.

We hiked to the top of a mountain where the continental divide looked like a painted backdrop.

Playing in the Pike National Forest.

Two mornings we woke up to snow!

Breckenridge-ing.

We did some fishing, but didn't catch anything. But it was a perfect, peaceful, fun time anyway. And ew...what if we would have caught something?

Cole didn't take the fishing failure too well.

Although I'm sure he had NOTHING to do with the fact that the fish weren't biting.

We had lots of great cabin time at night. Games and snacks and fires in the fireplace...

S'mores!

And there was dancing. Lots of dancing.

Although this would appear to be two boys who have run into each other and crashed to the ground, it is actually some savvy breakdancing. Word.

And there was white water rafting. It was scary. Really scary. The water was 36 degrees.

See I told ya it was scary.

That's it! Thanks for playing and have a lovely evening.

Fleeting

2009-05-11T23:20:00.009-05:00

Bedtime at our house is usually David’s thing. I’ve gotten in snuggles and had valuable time with the kids during the day, and am running out of fuel 12 hours into the project. He hasn't gotten to see much of them and they love the extra time with him. It works.

Tonight David had been mowing and came in to take a shower around bedtime. Cole had just gotten out of the bath and was ready for his tuck-in. He was a little put out that David wasn’t ready for him.

“Will you lay with me?” he asks me.

“Honey, just go get in bed, Daddy will be there in just a little bit,” I respond without making eye contact. I’m already out of mommy-mode and have settled comfortably in Deleise’s-computer-time-mode.

His lack of response and sound of his little feet traipsing up the stairs snap me out of my screen trance. I tiptoe behind his trail and nestle myself next to him in his bed.

“Mommy, do you spell line L-I-N-E?” he asks me as I breathe in the smell of his freshly shampooed hair. “That’s right.” I confirm.

We stare out the window at the leaves blowing on the tree, his radio playing softly in the background. He tucks his body into a little ball and nuzzles against me letting out a content sigh. He feels tiny. His soft, damp curls touch my cheek. I can see his profile in the dim light and my heart flutters as I notice he looks just like he did when he was a baby. The sudden urgency of his fleeting smallness hits me like a train.

We snuggle in silence except for the occasional random thoughts he verbalizes.

The whole experience was uneventful, but somehow at the same time, completely profound.

And I can't believe I almost missed it.

Magic!

2009-05-09T21:55:00.008-05:00

I found out about Picnik from Anna Meadows and it is so much fun!

I took this picture with my phone of Riley and Cole playing in the yard today. Blech. Blah. Boring. Just a bad photo all around.

After a few minutes on Picnik, I made this!

Isn't that cool? Try it. It is really fun and easy!

I thought that if I started a post...

2009-05-04T21:45:00.020-05:00

maybe something coherent would come out. But... not... happen.

So until I can form an intelligible sentence, I thought I'd just spill some pictures from our last week-and-a-half-ish onto your screen. Thank you for still checking my blog. Both of you. And God bless America. Amen.

Lets see...

We did school (hey, we did) at the lake one day with our friends.

We went to the Arts Festival where we spent our entire life savings on some amazing art called Strawberries Newport, Baklava, snow cones, and banana pudding.

The kids got to go to The Lion King with their grandparents.

Here is what Cole looked like for the first 42 seconds of the night. Apparently he has an aversion to looking totally off-the-hook-fo-shizzle-awesome, so the tie, along with my hopes and dreams, died.

They stayed up until midnight, then got up at 5:30 a.m. to work the Devon waterstop at the marathon. But look at the happiness. Sleep Shmeep.

Oh, and word has it that the back of Cole's head at the marathon is now on a Devon billboard on Broadway extension. How 'bout that?

Then...

Cole decided to do school in the rain. I know. But let's try to focus on how cute he is.

We spent an alarming amount of time doing this...

We went here...

And touched a real moon rock...

Tyler made this...

And my mom made this...

Oh, and I got a new app on my phone that does this.

Aaaaaaand that's about all I've got. Tune in next time for an exciting discussion possibly on the weather, the recession, or the swine flu. See ya then.

14 years ago today...

2009-04-14T00:02:00.005-05:00

This amazing human being entered the world.
Instantly he filled an empty place in my heart that I never even knew I had.

My first baby.

It was the first time I had experienced part of me living in someone else. And I was in awe. I still am.

Garrett, I am completely nuts about you. I am thankful for your selflessness and your sense of humor. For how you lead your siblings, and put others before yourself. I’m thankful for how patient you are with me and my computer inadequacies. And for how seriously you take your role as a follower of Christ. You are a gift and a blessing. Happy birthday. I love you more than you can possibly imagine!

Looking past the deck

2009-04-07T17:14:00.006-05:00

This stray cat, that often peeks into our back windows, means something spiritual to me.
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Hang tight, you’ll get it.

Many of you know the story of our cat, Cutie. Two years ago she was left on our deck, abandoned by her mom, at 3 weeks old. She was a tiny ball of fur that could have been eaten in one bite by whatever animals eat tiny balls of fur in one bite. She was hungry, cold and completely helpless, and her life really had no hope. It was all over for her.
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But then we saw her.

We brought her in and fed her every 3 hours like a newborn baby. We fell in love with her and gave her a home. And now? She lives like a princess. She is constantly being smothered with kisses and carried around like a baby. She is fed whenever she makes a sound. She has her own room (kinda), her own toys, her own blankie, and her own pink and brown toille bed. Her responsibilities include choosing whether she should sleep on the running clothes dryer, or the heater vent. Also, choosing if she should lay on her blanket or her bed. Oh, and, should she sleep 20 hours today, or 22? You get the picture.

On the other hand….

We are pretty sure that the stray black cat is a sibling. We will not be taking her in and please don’t give me any reasons why you think we should. If we did, we would lose a very valuable husband and father.
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Anyway. .

Two years ago this is the cat that Cutie wanted to be. She had everything Cutie wanted and needed. One of the few that her mother decided to keep, to nurse, to warm, and to protect. And now? Well, her responsibilities include hunting for her own food, searching for her own warm places to sleep, being on constant alert for predators. You know, regular outside-cat duties. She’s fine, but she certainly isn’t livin’ the high life like her sis.

These two cats represent hope and perspective to me. They illustrate how sometimes when life seems to be giving you a bad deal, that it might not be so bad after all.
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They remind me that sometimes when things look hopeless, it is worth it to hold on.
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That in the midst of really rough times, you never know what kind of goodness God has waiting around the corner.
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Just for you.
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Hope.

Jeremiah 29:11
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

These kids.

2009-03-29T20:17:00.004-05:00

They bless me.

I was sitting here thinking about how I truly enjoy them and I decided to make a list of something each one did this week that made me smile. I would love to keep a journal doing just that at the end of each week. Wouldn't that be a great refocus?

I won't do it.

Just being honest.

Here is one thing for each of them.

Cole- I love that when he wears a shirt with graphics on the back, he purposely wears it backwards so he can see it. He is absolutely not dressing for anyone besides himself. Which is also evidenced by those snazzy size 3T pj bottoms he likes to sport.

Riley- I love that even though she was excited about getting a new car, she cried as our Expedition we've had since she was tiny, drove out of our driveway with the new owners behind the wheel.

Tyler- I love his quick witty responses. Well, usually. Like when he was driving me nuts drumming on the back of the car seat and I told him to STOP, he said in his famous street voice "But it's my drums-on-the go, yo!"

Garrett- I love that he is following in his father's footsteps in regards to how he treats me. He is a gentleman and he spoils me. He gets me stuff. He helps me. He offers me bites of his candy bar. And I like it. Someday, some lucky woman....nevermind. Don'twannatalkaboutit.

Your turn. Share something about your kids that makes you smile.

Aaaaand...GO!

Honk if you're...

2009-03-22T22:53:00.007-05:00

Yesterday afternoon I was in my room reading and Riley and Tyler got one of their ideas.

When I came out, they were busy printing signs they had made on the computer.

I may or may not have secretly hoped this idea would fizzle. But it didn't. It played out just as they had hoped. And I'm glad it did.

If you drove by our house yesterday evening, you saw this.

I hope you honked. I do care about your happiness.

No doubt some of the honks can be attributed to the stunning background show courtesy of The Amazing Shirtless Cole.

I made them come in when darkness fell.

The final count was 38 1/2 honks. The half was given for a wave from a slightly melancholy soul. Oh, also in the count? Two runners who said "honk, honk."

That's the kind of fun that electronics will never be able to top, folks.

Honk, honk, everyone.

The canvas

2009-03-19T16:31:00.011-05:00

It's done. It's hard to get the idea when you are not up close and in person because you can't see the details, but I'll try to explain it to you.

I used a texture medium called Gesso as my first layer. In the Gesso, I wrote about 60 different words describing who Jesus is. What He is to me. His role in my life. Then I let it dry for 423 years.

Then I painted over that with several layers of color.

I wanted these words in front of my face every day. I need to see them and be constantly reminded of His place . He is it, there is nothing else. And I tend to spend a lot of time trying to get the things He provides from other counterfeit sources.

That's just not a good use of time.

Here are some close-ups of a few of the words so you can see them better.

So there you have it. Finally.

I know hundreds of you have been waiting since my original "blank canvas post" to see it and have put off your grocery shopping or house cleaning, or getting married, or having babies or whatnot in anticipation, and so now you are free to go on about your life.

I sure hope it doesn't take you too long to get caught up.

Letting go

2009-03-09T21:51:00.009-05:00

I tend to have a hard time letting go.

When we first moved to this house, we were still in toddler and baby world and the thought of a pond in the backyard was not at all settling to me. It's big. And very deep. At the same time, I loved the pond and knew we were supposed to be here. I had a few rules, like any reasonable mom would,

“Do not go near the pond."

"Do not look at the pond."

"If you think of the pond, I will tie you to a chair."

"If you say the word 'pond', we are moving.”

You know, normal mom stuff.

We have had a blast over the last five years with a 1970s boat that had been my grandparent’s first fishing boat. David takes the kids and their friends out on it to fish, or just paddle around. Good times.

But today, the day came. Garrett and Tyler asked to take the boat out by themselves.

Gulp.

Instantly in my head, “think of all the things that could happen! They have only known how to swim for 10 years, they might forget! They could get crazy and tip the boat over! What if one of them hits his head and falls out, the other one might just ignore him and we’ll never see him again! What if there is a Pond Beast waiting to devour them!”

Again, normal mom stuff.

But I knew it was time.

So I let go.

And they were in heaven. They had a time. Being trusted with such a responsibility was fun. It was freeing. It was a new adventure. They literally were out there for hours. I could almost always see them from the windows of the house. When I couldn’t, I could open the door and hear the oars knocking against the boat and their voices and laughter.

And I knew I had done the right thing. Even though it made me feel a little insecure. And it made my mother gasp loudly on the phone.

It was right. And it was good.

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Tyler even did his reading on the boat today .

They may have run into a few docking mishaps.

But they solved them on their own.

And learned from them for next time.

Sigh. Letting go stinks.

But it’s kind of a good stink.

Things that actually matter

2009-03-01T22:34:00.005-06:00

My birthday card from Riley.

For real, is there anything better than notes from your kids?

In case you haven't heard, I sparkle with joy.

Happy Birthday Riley!

2009-02-26T00:03:00.005-06:00

I can not believe it‘s been 8 years. What a gift you are to this family. There are so many things I love about you and your sweet personality. You teach me so much every day.

I love that you have a Pringles can with the word “Homeless” written on it and you collect money for it from yourself and others regularly. You plan to change the world, and I believe you will.

I love that you think Cole’s smile is the cutest thing in the world and you don’t mind telling people how smitten you are with it. Sometimes I think you love him like he was your own child, even though he is only 18 months younger than you.

I love that you think teeny baby shoes are so adorable that you are almost in torture the whole time we are in a shoe store. I love sharing groans of adoration over tiny boots and running shoes with you. I think we are going to be dangerous together when you have babies of your own one day.

You are a dream come true, sweet girl. I cherish you more than you will ever comprehend. Happy 8th birthday!

I hate to brag, but...

2009-02-23T15:13:00.002-06:00

Some of us just happen to be blessed with talented kids, that's all.

Cole's schedule is pretty booked with gigs, but let me know if you want on the waiting list. He will work for food, as he clearly doesn't get much.

Dear Flarp

2009-02-16T10:05:00.010-06:00

Dear Flarp,

When I saw you sitting on the Walmart shelf, I knew you were trouble. I should have walked away before you began your charming antics and won over “fun mom” that “smart mom” was trying to suppress. But you are good at what you do. You hypnotized me and lured me in, and soon I had four of you in my basket.

I’ll admit our time together started out beautifully. You were the hit of the Valentine’s gift bags. Even the chocolate was pushed to the side, as all attention was directed toward you. And the fun. Oh the fun. We sat at the table forever laughing until the tears came over your versatility. The variety of sounds you provide is no doubt admirable. The commentary that followed each squish was just what you would have wanted.

But the honeymoon is over. You have turned my world upside down. You are stuck to Riley’s princess sheets. You are smeared on Cole’s bedroom floor. I loathe the day I laid eyes on you. Why did I pass up your brother, Whoopie Cushion? Your clean, uncomplicated, time-tested competition? Why? I will never know how my life would have been different. But I will always wonder. Always.

Sincerely,
Me

Broken

2009-02-09T00:07:00.002-06:00

Saturday night as we were leaving church Riley spotted one of those “to go” communion cups and grabbed it. “Can I have this?” she asked me. I shook my head no and motioned for her to put it back in the holder so we could scoot on out of the building. “Why not? I want one,” she insisted.

Although we had explained communion to her and she has been a Christian for a year, I still wasn’t sure if she completely grasped it. I nodded my head and told her she could take it with her and do it at home, fully expecting it to be forgotten as soon as something else caught her attention. I mean, really, she is a very young, immature Christian, right? Of course I want her to be introduced to these things, but I don’t expect a deep understanding too soon.

Shame on me.

The first thing she said when we got home is “Can I do this now?” So she and I went up to the quiet of her room and I led her through communion and reminded her what it was all about. I prayed with her, then told her I would leave her alone to pray if she wanted.

Some time later she walked into the family room in tears. She collapsed on my lap and buried her face on me. For a long time, I couldn’t figure out what in the world was going on. Then I found out.

She was completely overwhelmed that He died for her. That he went through all of that. For her. She was heartbroken. She was thankful. She was completely humbled.

But not as humbled as her mommy. When was the last time I responded that way to communion? How long had it been since I was completely heartbroken and overwhelmed and moved in the way that he intended for us to be when taking communion? You don’t want to know.

As I held this broken 7 year old on my lap and talked with her, I experienced communion in a way I hadn’t in a very long time. And I thanked God for sending me these children, who somehow continue to teach me way more than I can ever dream of teaching them.

A little canvas update...

2009-02-06T16:05:00.006-06:00

Many of you keep asking how my canvas is coming along, so I wanted to give you an update and let you see for yourself the progression.

Keep scrolling...

A little more...

I know.

But look!

Paints! I bought paints. That's something, right?

Baby steps, my friends. I am all about the baby steps.

The wall

2009-02-01T11:37:00.021-06:00

Ever feel like God is trying to tell you something? I put these letters on my entry windowsill. At the time, it was because I wanted our family to be reminded of God’s grace as we leave our home to go out into the world.

I didn’t realize that God was about to reveal that he was wanting a little more from me.

It caught me off guard when I walked through the house and noticed this on the wall.

Then I noticed I could also see it from the kitchen.

And when I came downstairs one night in the dark.

He’s God. He knows I’m hardheaded. He knows I have to slowly process. He was pulling me in. He was Evan Almighty-ing me.

After close to thirty years of Christianity, it wasn’t until a few years ago that I began to grasp the concept of grace. I knew what it was. But I didn’t accept it. Grace by definition is unmerited favor. The idea that I didn’t need to earn this unconditional acceptance from God was such a hard concept for me. To say my walk down this grace path has been life-changing would be an understatement.

Just as I began to accept God’s grace as a constant, He started digging into another area of grace in my life. My parenting.

Lately I’ve been getting hit with the grace concept everywhere I turn. In books I pick up. In conversations I have. In speakers I hear. I’ve started to realize that although I try to be easygoing and loving, I am often lacking in grace with my family.

I think it is so easy to get sucked into the overwhelming job of training our kids in the way they should go, and forget to grant them unmerited favor. Maybe it’s because we fear that they will think it is ok to screw up all the time. Or maybe we are afraid that they won’t be able to discern right from wrong. I’m not sure what the root of it is, or why we think nagging will ever in a million years produce good.

God spent years settling me into his comforting haven of grace, where when I rebel, I no longer feel that He is wagging his finger at me. Instead I feel him gently saying "Come on, get back up and try again and know that I am behind you no matter how long it takes you to get it right."

So I am now headed down a new path of grace.

The path of offering it fully.

And fully does not mean occasionally.

Yikes.

I don’t want to be the mom that falls into the trap of only being a coach and misses the relationships that grace can grow. I don’t want my children to ever change because of fear of condemnation. I want them to desire to get things right because they are being guided lovingly. I want them to always feel the truth, that I am behind them, supporting them and loving them no matter how long it takes them to get it. I want them to be in a safe place of grace, free to grow and become what God wants them to be.

I’m not changing my standards, but it’s time to make some changes to my approach sometimes. I mean, hello, He wrote it on my wall.

Here's the thing.

2009-01-29T23:26:00.014-06:00

If you head into the mall at 6:00 in the pm and it is still nice and slushy in the parking lot, and you end up spending a lot of time at said mall taking care of very important mall business, like eating Chinese-ish food and emailing yourself goofy pictures that you and your kids take while playing in the Apple Store, you may not notice that the temperature has dramatically dropped outside.

So you will head out of the mall around 9:00 blissfully unaware that conditions have changed. You will confidently and briskly walk into the parking lot, which has quietly frozen solid, and all of a sudden your life will turn into a cartoon.

It won’t be an elegant Dusty Tackle fall. No, oh no. Your arms and legs will be flailing. cue slow-mo You will hear your children's distorted screams of horror as you run in place, convulse in midair and crash to the ground. Your husband will drop to your aid on the asphalt and the people will gather and stare.

Your husband will then walk you to your car, holding your arm like you are his dear old granny, while your children nervously cheer you on and pray for traction. Your leg will hurt. Your ankle will hurt. Your hand will hurt. Your self-worth will hurt.

These are the things I have heard can happen if you head into a slushy mall and later leave a frozen mall.

It ain’t called black ice for nothin’, friends.

Outside...

2009-01-27T19:28:00.009-06:00

Inside...

Enjoy your snow-in, everyone.

A pop quiz

2009-01-26T12:36:00.005-06:00

What event transpires when your time at your grandparents' house coincides with the arrival of your grandpa's new hot water heater?

A. You reschedule your trip so he can spend his day working on his hot water heater.

B. You sit and watch your grandpa as he replaces his hot water heater.

C. You go sledding.

Hot water heater box + dry, grassy hill + crazy grandpa= YEEEEEHAWWWWW!!!!

It's hee-re.

2009-01-22T23:51:00.004-06:00

Today it hit our peaceful, happy, unsuspecting home. The stomach virus. The one that I bragged about to friends just last night that “we never get.” The second it showed up, Deleise vanished, and in her place appeared a super hero.

Fear not, citizens.

She is Sani-girl. Preventing the spread of illness by inhibiting the growth and action of microorganisms.

At the first sign of stomach virus, she instinctively jumps into action, wielding her disinfectant bottle and clearing the area of any potential contractors.

She fearlessly and mercilessly follows the victim around with Clorox wipes, swiping each doorknob and object he touches.

With her super-sensitive-germ-radar, she senses everything in the house that has had contact with the victim in the last 12 hours and saturates it in bleach, paying careful attention to surfaces such as keyboards and refrigerator handles that are often overlooked by rookies.

She threatens to bring harm to any living being who dares to go near the victim’s bathroom until it has been completely sanitized and decontaminated.

She flings open the windows of the house for adequate ventilation and release of the offending organisms she intends to destroy..

She prepares shot glasses of hand sanitizer for her other children to drink.

Not really. But the thought of it seems quite sensible to her.

She even cloroxes the Clorox bottle.

All of this while providing movies, drinks, sympathy (but not kisses), and plastic-bag lined trash cans for the victim.

Sure, she’s a little obsessive compulsive, and she tends to make the innocent victim feel a little like a leper, but she means well. And she produces good results, despite her possible need for counseling.

Beware viruses. You’ve met your match.

Sani-girl, OUT.

Hair bows

2009-01-20T00:27:00.006-06:00

Seasons change, and kids grow. Sometimes painfully catching us off guard, it seems our sweet babies morph into little humans with minds and tastes of their own.
.

I remember when this first started happening with Riley. It was hair bows. Oh, how we loved hair bows. We loved to buy them. Loved to match them to outfits. Loved to put them in her hair. Even though she barely had any hair.
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For years, hair bows were her thing.

Then one day it was over.

She was done with hair bows. And that stung me in some surprising ways. I was a little taken aback. Why did I care so much about hair bows? It was fabric and clips! What was going on with me? Then I realized. It represented more.
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It represented a shift in her mind. She was growing up. And I wasn’t ready.

I’ve had to come to grips with some things since my children began the process of becoming themselves. I’ve learned to embrace their individuality and expressions. To wait patiently and try to not react to the harmless style choices. And to know that it is not about what I like anymore.
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The truth is, I really never thought that I would pay real live U.S. dollars on boys’ jeans that someone had violently demolished and then folded and placed on the store shelf. Or that I would share my straight iron and hair bands with someone in this house that ISN'T RILEY. But I like it. I like it.

As long as your hearts are right, and you are truly being you, express away my sweet babies.

I am thankful that I came to this place before last weekend when Riley made a request to express.

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And I was able to grant it to her, with a smile.

I think years ago I would have thought it was weird and a little too out there for a sweet little girl. I probably would have discouraged it. But I‘ve grown.

Although I may not have chosen it for her, I think it’s fun (plus it fades away after a couple of washes). And she loves it. She thinks it looks awesome. After all, it’s not as if she is trying to portray herself as someone she isn’t. It doesn’t represent anything except that she is a girl who wants to express her pink.

The same girl whose heart is the purest of pure.

The same girl who loves Jesus and her family in the deepest possible way.
The same girl who is as tenderhearted as the days when she wore sweet little dresses with matching hair bows.

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Hair bows get packed away in boxes before we are ready, saved forever by mommies for reasons they cannot quite articulate.

Hair bows end.

But beautiful hearts live forever.

Clearing the crazy

2009-01-18T17:50:00.009-06:00

If you are like me, you can have you house sparkling one day and the next it looks like someone picked it up and shook it around like a snow globe, then placed it back on the foundation. Especially if you have a whole slew of kids hanging out in it all day.

And the thought of getting back the tidy? It’s overwhelming. And disheartening. And exhausting. Which is what led me to create zone cards for my house. Is “zones” a fly lady thing? I don’t do fly lady, but I’m thinking she uses the word zones.

ANYway.

Here is how it works. Once a day (ideally), I hand everyone a zone card. I have 4 cards, because I have 4 servants…I mean kids. Oh come on, they are the ones who made the mess, right?

Zone time is not about deep cleaning. It’s about getting the house to a level where I can be at peace. Where we can all function. It’s about clearing the clutter. Clearing the chaos. Which in turn, clears the mama of crazy. And I think we all know, when that happens, everyone wins.

I do this for downstairs only. The kids are all responsible for other chores and for keeping their own rooms and playroom clean upstairs, but the zone is about the family common areas.

I divided downstairs into 4 cards. Living room/Entry, dining room, family room, kitchen. On each card I write the tasks that need to be accomplished. They are quick, easy tasks. Just to get the room in order.

Here are my cards. As you can see I put a lot of time and creative thought into the design and aesthetics of these cards. You don’t have to make yours this fancy if you don’t want to.

Everyone has a “place” where their stuff belongs. If you find someone’s stuff in your zone, you take it to their place. My place is the office, each kids’ place is in the doorway of their room (so they’ll consider putting it away when they have to step over it)( yes, I said consider).

So, hand out cards, crank some music, GO! I kind of follow around and help where I am needed, especially the kitchen. And I kid you not, in about 10 minutes our house looks like we could have a party. Even less time if we don’t skip days.

As soon as we quit skipping days, I’ll let you know exactly how much less time. Please don’t hold your breath, that could be risky.

But I’m trying. That counts for something, right?

Creating

2009-01-14T16:49:00.003-06:00

I need to create.

It’s just something that is in me.

If I’m not creating, I’m antsy. It can be art, food, plans, whatever. I just need to be creating.

Yesterday I bought this canvas. And I am needing to create something meaningful. Not sure what. But I’ll let you know when I know.

Right now it is so big and blank. And it is glaring down at me, taunting me every time I walk by. Trying to intimidate me with its vast whiteness.

Maybe I should have bought one that was shorter than me.

Making memories

2009-01-11T22:49:00.005-06:00

I once saw a little plaque that caught my eye and pops into my mind often “You never know when you are making a memory,” When you really think about it, are your memories based on what was going on, or on how you felt?

Try it. Remember something from your childhood. I bet your memory is based on a feeling. Whether it is a memory from Disney World or from sitting on your front porch. You remember it because of how it made you feel.

Originally this plaque conjured up thoughts of my kids having sweet images of fun family vacations and cuddling on the couch reading as their memories. Then it hit me. You never know when you are making a memory can mean bad memories, too. I don’t get to pick and choose my kids’ memories. So now when things are getting a little ugly, I try to remember that my children may be making a memory. Do I want them to have memories of being guided lovingly and treated with respect and grace? Or psycho mommy memories? Cause psycho mommy doesn’t leave a case of the warm fuzzies tucked away in the ol' memory bank. Anyone? I fail miserably so often, but hopefully nice mommy outweighs psycho mommy in their minds.

One Christmas when I was growing up, my grandfather was in the hospital. We ended up spending Christmas day at the hospital with him and my grandma. You can imagine my unChristmasy feelings about this memory, huh? Well, my memories from that Christmas are really fun. My memories are of eating snacks and being silly and taking hilarious pictures of my dad being a goofball in the lobby. My memories are of going up and down elevators and getting drinks from the coke machines. Now the truth is, there is a chance that we sat in a depressing waiting room. That we were bored at some point. That we were a little sad. But if that was the case, I certainly don‘t remember that part of it. My parents knew the potential of spending Christmas at a hospital and they worked overtime to seemingly effortlessly execute a fun Christmas for me and my sister.

It comes down to this.

It is what we make it.

It takes effort.

And I think the effort is going to be worth it.

Forts just aren't what they used to be

2009-01-02T18:17:00.004-06:00

For some reason this year, it was the Christmas of weapons. Doesn't that sound dreamy? Like a Christmas card? Like a Norman Rockwell painting? Not by my choice, cause I'm not a huge fan, but apparently I am in the minority. This house has been overrun with nerf guns of all kinds. Automatic, Rambo-ish nerf guns.

Today the kids spent hours upstairs in the hall, building forts and having wars. They were divided into two teams. I just really wanted you to see these forts because they made me laugh.

First we have Garrett's team.

If you know Garrett, you are not surprised that he had a hidden camera and a monitor set up so his team could keep watch on the enemy without exposing themselves.

Next is Tyler's team.

If you know Tyler, you are not surprised that he had a small refrigerator as the bones of his fort, insuring adequate refreshment as his team fought the good fight.

Because honestly, what good is a fancy security system if you dehydrate while enjoying it?

More stocking fun

2008-12-30T23:11:00.008-06:00

I've had a couple of people ask me about my dad's fun stocking tradition that I posted from last year. If you missed the post, it was about how my dad hides money in our stockings every year. It lists some of his past hiding places, like the time he drilled out a chocolate, put the large bill inside, and rewrapped it. He works hard to make it extremely difficult to find. The hunt is a whole long event in which the adults rip through their stuff trying to figure out my dad's hiding places.

This year David's money was inside a sealed hard plastic package behind a key chain tool. It was sealed, I tell ya. Like that melted plastic sealed.

I can't remember my brother-in-law's, but my sisters was inside a stuffed Christmas door hanger. He had ripped the seam and stuck the money inside and hot glued it back together.

Mine was the hardest of all this year. After ripping open every package in my stocking and searching for probably 20 minutes or more, I was completely stumped. My dad handed Riley a little metal stick thingy and told her to give it to me and tell me to go fishing.

I finally figured out that it was inside a bottle of lotion, rolled tight and sealed in plastic with a magnet attached to the top so I could fish it out.

This was the most creative a difficult so far. I am scared for next year.

Those high IQ types just can't do anything the normal way.

I just need you to see this...

2008-12-25T23:40:00.005-06:00

Cole's cookie for Santa.

We would like to take this opportunity to apologize if he didn't seem hungry when he got to your house.

Can you hear it?

2008-12-25T23:08:00.006-06:00

Lord help me.

It seemed like an innocent enough gift. But it is after 11pm and Klaassen Guitar Hero World Tour is going strong. It's loud. They are upstairs in the playroom with the door shut, and it is still loud.

Those of you who don't know us well may think I am referring to my children. Those of you who know better know that I am also referring to my husband. He is on the mic. Yes, he is. Garrett is on the guitar, and Tyler on the drums.

They are all rock stars. Some more gifted than others, but all rock stars in the deepest depths of their hearts.

Oh, wait, I think I just heard "THANK-YOU-OK-LA-HO-MA-CI-TAY!!!!!"

Now if I can just make it through the encores.

Then I'll see if I can sneak backstage to flirt with the hot lead singer at the afterparty.

Aren't they a lovely couple?

2008-12-23T23:32:00.006-06:00

These little friends, too.

And this is a favorite...

And I also love this one...

Looks like someone else does too...

Uh, oh.

Santa?

Santa? Don't go.Oh...ok.

Sniff, sniff

Have a great Christmas, everyone!

They just grow up so fast...

2008-12-21T18:04:00.006-06:00

One day he is just a sweet little boy. The next day he casually enters the room sporting a chest full of curly brown hair, and not even a hint of a smile.
.
Believe me when I say to you: You just never know what you are going to get with this one.

Bakin' with Buddies

2008-12-18T10:06:00.007-06:00

What's more fun than a Christmas baking day with friends? That's what we did yesterday for school. It was...um...home ec. And...math, yeah-we doubled recipes. Oh, and socialization. Cause you know how unsocialized these homeschoolers are, good grief they never even see the light of day! They don't even know other children exist! Their only friends are the goats they milk to make their own yogurt! It's awful. Horrible I tell ya.
.

Here are some children who look like they know what they are doing. This is right before they accidentally left the lid off the blender and exploded crushed oreos all over the house.

We made pretzels with kisses and M and Ms on them...

And oreo balls...

And a very serious batch of chex mix...

And peanut butter cookies...

And Amy removed Cutie's stitches on the counter...what? You guys don't do that on baking day? You should. You really should.

Because he asked me to...

2008-12-15T14:23:00.004-06:00

and we are staying home for the rest of the day.

Stay tuned for body piercings.

Can anyone help me figure out why I can't get anything done around here?

Christmas fun

2008-12-08T12:12:00.005-06:00

During the few weeks before Christmas, we spend a good part of our days having fun doing Christmas activities. I don't feel bad at all for going a little light on the academics for a bit in the name of making Christmas memories with my kids. Don't worry, they are still doing math and writing, and I feel confident they ain't gonna lose all them smarts they been a learnin', kay?

Today I'm sharing how we made Kiss Countdowns on my other blog.

These are very easy. And fun because you get to eat a chocolate every day. And you don't have to keep answering the question "How many days till Christmas? I'm not asking because I want presents, Mommy, I know Christmas is about Jesus being born, but how many more days till we open presents?" I am certain you know the drill.

Every day I plan to post on Fireside about a Christmas activity we did that day. You guys let me know if you have any great ideas, too. That way we can all share and have a grand ol' time.

Christmas is fun. It's really fun.

Have you had them???

2008-12-03T22:17:00.003-06:00

Wasabi Peas.

They are a crunchy, spicy perfection from God.

And somehow they have slipped past me until today. For that I have deep regrets. But it's ok, I have my whole life ahead of me.

They sit on the second shelf of my cabinet and call my name as I walk by. "Deleise, come eat me. I have the salty crunch you desire. And I might even be healthy...we aren't sure."

And I run to them because who am I to argue with a pea that has Asian wisdom?

All I know is if these things are actually considered vegetables, my food pyramid is about to do some balancing out.

Feeling the pilgrims' pain

2008-11-26T09:01:00.005-06:00

Yesterday the kids and I were reading some books about the pilgrims and having some discussion on what life was like for them. We mulled over how horrible it was for them to not be able to worship the way they wanted. How much being able to worship must have meant to them for them to be willing to endure all that they went through on that rough trip over to begin a whole new life from scratch. All because they wanted to serve God in the way that they chose, without hiding.

We moved on to talk about how hard they worked, building homes and planting crops. I mentioned that they only worked Monday through Saturday, never on Sunday. I said "What do you think they used their Sundays for now?"

And Riley, with complete sincerity and seriousness, said...

"Probably for sleeping in."

Ah, the rewards of teaching your own kids. They are never ending.

Bibbidi Bobbidi Boo

2008-11-19T15:45:00.006-06:00

When we were at Disney World I mentioned that seeing Riley at Cinderella's breakfast reminded me of a scrapbook page I had done four years ago. I found it...

September 2004

Riley,
Today was one of those Mommy moments that you dream of. One of those times when if you could have created the perfect moment yourself, it would have been far inferior to the actual experience. This was the day I gave you your first princess dress.

You have really been getting into princesses lately, so I thought you would like the dress, but I had no idea of the magic the dress would create.

When I showed you the dress you giggled uncontrollably with excitement, but when you put it on...that's when the magic happened. You were suddenly in your own little world.

Despite your just-out-of-bed scraggly hair and the fact that you had a nightgown on under your dress, in your mind (and mine) you were the most beautiful princess ever to exist.

I watched you forever as you twirled in circles and floated up and down the stairs gazing at your dress with the most elated look on your face. I watched you stare in the mirror with delight at your reflection.

I was the Fairy Godmother. I got to watch you turn into a princess and I will never forget it.

May you always feel so beautiful, sweet little princess.

Love, Mommy

Do something to remind yourself that you are a princess today.

Yes, you.

Oh, yes, you are.

Running

2008-11-16T15:30:00.000-06:00

What are you running from?

Come on, we are all running from something. Maybe you are you running from a change you need to make. Maybe you are running from a relationship. Or from a challenge.

Raise your hand if you are running from God.

Hi. Me too.

A friend and I were discussing last week how we are both kind of running from Him instead of to Him and we don’t know why. It’s simply just a lack of being with Him like we should. No, I haven’t stopped enjoying church or spending time with Him, it’s just that the relationship is not where it could be, ya know?

For me there has been no big event or hard times, nothing dramatic, just a gradual drifting. Kind of like when you are in the lake on an inflatable raft and you shut your eyes for a few minutes. You look up and are amazed at the distance you have floated. It’s surprising because the whole time you were floating away, it kinda felt like you were staying in the same place. You get used to those waves and don’t realize where they are carrying you if you don‘t pay attention.

Other times you are on your raft and you peek out of one eye every few seconds. You realize you are drifting and you give yourself a little hand-paddle back in. The sooner you notice, the easier it is to get back to where you want to be.

Sometimes you can even get into a rhythm where you are just automatically waving your hand through the water, consistently keeping yourself in place.

It’s the same with our relationship with God. Sit idly for long, and you will get used to the waves of life and find yourself drifting away, even though you didn’t necessarily feel it happening. Catch it early and it’s easier to get back on track. Run to Him by staying in the Word and in intimate communication and you will find yourself in a rhythm that keeps you in place. Right where you want to be.

I’ve looked up and recognized the change in scenery and the need to paddle. Because make no mistake about it. If you aren’t running to Him, you are running from Him.

Even if you don’t mean to.

Pumpkin patch pictures

2008-11-10T09:07:00.004-06:00

These pictures need no words. Alright, that's not true, but I am feeling not an iota of writing creativity. Sorry. Here are some wordless pictures. We had fun. And there seemed to be an unusually large amount of hair flying around.

Have a great day everyone.

Further proof it's a Three-Ring-Circus over here

2008-11-04T08:34:00.005-06:00

Too bad they can't ice skate.

Trick or Treat!

2008-10-31T22:33:00.010-05:00

Halloween for us is just a family fun night. We always dress up and have dinner at my sister's, then head out to work it for some sugar. It's tradition and we love it. This year was another successful night of candy gathering for our children. My sister and I made costumes, and they were pretty funny, if we do say so ourselves.

When we went to the American Girl Place last March, Riley and Taryn put the boxes from their new dolls on their heads.

We laughed for an unusually long amount of time over this and the girls decided that they wanted to be life-size American Girl Dolls in boxes for Halloween. They never changed their minds, so we granted them their wish. Kind of like the fairy godmothers of Halloween.

Garrett, Tyler and Tristan wished to be pizza.

Granted.

You're welcome.

Which was kind of funny, because last year they were all bananas.

Oh the fun you can have with felt and hot glue, people.

................................last year

And Cole was Funky Kong from Mario Kart Wii. Even though he kept getting called "Pirate" and "Rapper," and "Cool Dude," he knew in his heart who he was.

Here's our big cousin group before we took off. Including Noah, a BFF's kid. Who is basically a cousin because it was only about a year ago that we discovered our kids actually thought his mom was our sister because, well, it just seems like she is.

Happy Halloween everyone!

Don't forget...

2008-10-29T11:46:00.007-05:00

To roast your pumpkin seeds!

We just had some for lunch. It's another great kid cooking activity that is so easy and muy deliciouso!

Cut off the top...

scoop out the goop...

throw it in a bowl...

rinse and let dry overnight on a cookie sheet...

Drizzle with oil and sprinkle with salt. Bake at 325 degrees for about 45 minutes. Stir them every 5 or 10 minutes.

Yum! Next time we are going to try some with cajun seasoning and some with cinnamon and sugar.

And with the leftover pumpkin...

Have fun!