3trikes

singing and dancing and praying....

2010-05-14T15:01:00.004-05:00

For Mohamed.

He is 13.

He is from Sierra Leon.

He lives here as a refugee in a home with many many children.

He is in the process of becoming my nephew.

Pray for my sister in law Cindy and her family as they wade through the legalities to transferring guardianship and becoming parents to a BOY!

We are jumping for happiness and love for him already!

things we will miss about Kenora. #3

2010-04-26T07:27:00.003-05:00

The Chip Truck.

Every time we had the pleasure of having company from home, we tried to visit the legendary tourist spot... Ye Olde Chip Truck with them.

Watching them press the potatoes in the old fashioned french fry press and douse them with more than necessary vinegar and salt... yum. A meal of 2lbs of potatoes in every tub.

Things we will miss about Kenora. #2

2010-04-20T09:03:00.003-05:00

The View.

We have had the privilege of staying in a magical spot on Lake of the Woods. Right where the lake meets Winnipeg River. The current is so crazy here that the lake stays open all winter in front of the house and there are a few crazy ducks that stay for the winter instead of going south. We were amazed to spot them in February and when we inquired about our sighting to a local, we were informed that indeed they spend the winter here. Silly birds, but I can't really blame them, it's quiet, beautiful, and they get to stake their claim on the best nesting site when the others return.

At any time during the day, we sit for a breather and gaze out the windows, spotting bald eagles, loons, canada geese, a variety of ducks, seagulls, deer, muskrat. Inspecting wildlife through the binoculars, trying to take photos to capture the moment. Or as a family have crafted what we see...

We have tracked and played unreal close to the family of three deer that are regular visitors to our yard. They watch us as peacefully as we watch them through the trees.

We will miss the view and the wildlife adventures each day of the last 4 months has brought us.

Things we will miss about Kenora. #1

2010-04-14T11:32:00.005-05:00

Above all else, we will miss the friends we have made.

Our second day here, back in January, I hunted down the local homeschooling group and went to a meeting, sitting next to me was Jill. When she described her relaxed method of schooling and her children's ages and interests, and that her husband is a builder, I knew we had some things in common and suggested we get our families together to play sometime.

Fast forward a few weeks... I was engrossed (and slightly overwhelmed) in my busy new life cooking for the crew, shopping huge shops several times a week (I will not miss that) and taking kids to lessons, I ran into Jill in the parking lot at the library and was reminded of my initial attraction to her as a possible friend. We promised to really really get together and finally did.

Our first few visits were full of winter fun, tobogganing and hiking and sharing meals together. Even Lenny gets some good friends to romp with. Mike and Mark have loads to chat about and Jill and I share a love for homemade and traditional crafts. She makes the most amazing rag hook rugs. They are gorgeous!

The kids are a natural fit.

Now it is down to our last few weeks here and we are trying to cram in as much face time as we can.

They have so much lovely space and the view is amazing, not to mention the bird feeder out the living room window... hours of entertainment. Here E is making felt veggies, while his mom Jill works on a baby mobile, she and I are making together. (the ear muffs were necessary as the other kids were playing with plastic power tools next to us in the living room)

Phin had a nap on Jill's lovely quilt. It is the reason I took the picture of Phin sleeping.

I am near tears thinking of leaving this beautiful family behind when we go home... any chance you guys will move to Manitoba? Our time here has been very blessed by knowing you. You will be missed most of all.

April Fool

2010-04-06T09:43:00.004-05:00

We were pretty pumped to play a prank on the crew this year. Unfortunately we were traveling on April 1st and did not see the results of our hard work and planning.

Jacks brainchild... the mastermind behind the prank, came to him while eating snack. The last 4/5 portions of yogurt. His eyes got big with wild wonderful genius and he delegated jobs immediately.

one to wash, one to fill, notes written by each, one to glue... the plan is set into motion.

insert evil laugh. Only one of the yogurts we left in the fridge for the guys lunches is really yogurt. heehee.

Gotcha Shane! (aka Bubbles -Phin calls him "bubbles", I think he means "buddy") The story goes -Shane sat down to lunch with his two yogurts and a banana for dipping and opened his yogurt and dropped his head... duped. Lucky Geoff got the real yogurt. Serves Shane right. We hear lots of stories of how Shane throws Geoff's lunch up on the roof of the trailer and other such pranks. Our prank went to the right guy for so many reasons! (plus he is a good sport and appreciates our kids)

for my sisters

2010-03-30T17:54:00.006-05:00

my sisters have posted cute and unusual wonders of the world for each other on their blogs. I want to share in the funny photo posting so this is for you Tiffany and Aleksa, it celebrates new weird and wonderful life... spring awe. some. ness.

Put in my place.

2010-03-29T17:16:00.002-05:00

Last night I complained to Mike about my feeling chubby. And he huffed that he was tired of hearing me say things like that. I was stunned. I didn't think I said it as much as I do, I guess.

So then I tried to defend myself by saying I don't have time or motivation to exercise and that I don't know how to take care of myself. "Pft" was his response. " yes you need to be motivated. but you make time for things you want to do and you learn things you want to learn. You didn't know how to sew and now you sell things you sew. If you want to change, do it."

Hmph.

I guess I shouldn't be complaining about my weight or my need to be active... I guess I need to start doing something about it.

Wish me luck.

Step one taken to improve my self image and health.

I am already overwhelmed and doing bad self-talk... I am calling myself a failure and a sloth without much effort taken to be otherwise. sigh. This is going to be hard.

therapy session 2 : SCORE!

2010-03-29T12:56:00.007-05:00

I scored at Value Village on Saturday.

I went there in a bit of a "woe is me" funk, having found myself with kidfree / time alone and nobody answering their phone to spend it with me, so into the dirty dingy value village to look for treasure I went.

I always spend time searching the stapled up bags at the ends of rows... I get our school supplies that way, craft stuff, kitchen stuff and in this case... 2 brand new G diaper covers (along with a few disney princess training panties-which I have no use for)

The make up of the g-diaper is an ultra cute g-pant with a plastic pants snap-in insert, into which you can put a flushable, biodegradable liner into... I have looked into those as travel options or, in the mean-time...

My sewing therapy this weekend has been to make some re-usable/washable cloth liners for them and start using them now! Using this site as a guide line, I constructed a few liners, which will also work nicely with the flannel pocket diapers I made a while back.

Here is a gdiaper in action. Yikes, He is CUTE! My liners are constructed out of super absorbent microfiber t-towels, cotton flannel and a soft fleecy outer layer.

Also... while searching the Gdiaper site, I linked to this amazing chart. I had to share it with my cloth diapering friends... We are always looking for the best way to launder those lovely things.

I have been *gasp* using throw away diapers since we moved to Kenora, while waiting for the house to get some laundering facilities, now that we are outfitted for "back to cloth", I need to make another trip into the city to grab Phin's diaper stash.

I am working myself up to trying this.

1st therapy session, 2:1 (hit and miss)

2010-03-09T09:43:00.006-06:00

I attempted the 90 minute shirt

-My first try was a miss (and a mess)

My mistakes included not being realistic in the sleeve size... and so wasting a nice chunk of the awesome shirt so I needed to adjust by making it into a t shirt, then after sewing it all up and shaking it out, I realized another mistake in making the pattern.

I "eyeballed" it, as I didn't have something to take apart and copy. and OOPS!

sigh.

The arm holes were too low and now we have a true "envelop" shirt. A disappointment, as I loved the retro look of the shirt. (I will have to try to salvage it somehow.)

-Second try... better. (the sleeves are still a wee bit tight)

-Third try... even better still with the addition of pants made from the sleeves. (with the exception of the added bum piece)

I am most pleased with Phin's P.Js. I will certainly try this pattern again. I just need to hit another thrift store for some good repurposing stash. Mike will not appreciate all his shirts disappearing.

Thanks for the crafting therapy encouragement... I must add that after a full day sewing at the kitchen table, the boys in our "borrowed" house moved a big desk from the garage into an unused portion of the living room. (set up for the birthday of one of the crew)

I now have an honest to goodness crafting space... if only I could keep the cat off my serger!

My next project may have to be one of these. This one at Sew Mama Sew looks cute and simplish, and over at Stacy Sews there is a cute example.

Crafting therapy.

2010-03-01T12:18:00.003-06:00

After a crummy, emotionally unstable week, I took the idea of a close friend and made a project for myself to drag me back into a cheerful place.

It started with a trip home to get the essentials (my sewing machine and serger)

Then I went "thrifting" at the same place she goes (since it's been proven a treasure trove)

I had to avoid the teacup area because another shopper was chewing her gum in an aggressive, annoying way and my mood was not ready to not make a scene telling her to stop chewing like a farm animal -never a good way to make a friend - so I moved on. (at least I had that much self-control)

I did come out with many items to transform, projects I have been itching to start.

I have been stalking the MADE site with all its boy themed tutorials during the month of February and have bookmarked several that I need to try. and discovered other incredible sites through that one, like noodleheads... with even MORE ideas to steal... erm make for my boys and friends!

Stay tuned as I climb out of this slump and start creating happy again. I will share my progress, as soon as I find where I hid the batteries for my camera! (sigh)

excited for fall HBO series.

2010-02-07T13:04:00.002-06:00

At 57 seconds in, that beautiful lady is the reason why I am anxiously waiting to hook up cable in the fall. Looking good Aleksa!!!

OH BABY!

2010-02-03T16:26:00.003-06:00

This baby gets into everything!!!

He is the first of my kids to be so mischievous... yes Ephraim is sneaky, and Jack is impulsive, and Solomon is "fair"... but this kid disappears silently and is found in very unusual places... regularly. It happens in a blink of an eye...

Tyler's cat, Abu, has been a happy addition to our lives here in Kenora. He comes with a sandbox, that Tyler inconsiderately leaves in his closet that is out of bounds. 9 a.m. bath #1.

After dinner, the house is full and I take a minute to relax with my book while the dishes do themselves and the kids are entertained... Geoff came to find me and said "your baby is in the toilet, what should I do?" I handed him the camera and turned the page... 7 p.m. bath #2.

One day in the life of Phinehas.

fun, enjoying winter.

2010-01-05T10:44:00.002-06:00

the snow boys from kyle thomas on Vimeo.

A video by Uncle Kyle (AKA The Governor) Thanks Uncle Kyle! We love the movies you make of the kids. What a great memory!

a new look for everyone.

2009-12-23T09:49:00.006-06:00

Aside from being really tired (and looking really tired) and having no make-up and having my first coffee of the morning... I really like my new hair cut. Even the bed head version is exciting... I had to tame the "betty paige" bangs a little this morning.

I was inspired by these cuts and decided I was NOT too old to be trendy.

Mike has done work (construction) to most of Tod's house (Tod the Stylist -not to be confused with Todd the Miner -whom Mike has also done work for over the years) over the last 4 years and at some point an unspoken agreement to cut all our hair for free was made... wow.

Tod is the most generous thoughtful man.

On top of doing all our hair (for free) this week he gave the kids huge candy canes (think barber pole made of sugar) and some stocking stuffers. He also sent home with us a huge supply of yummy yummy samosa!

Seriously this man is an angel with clippers in his kitchen.

I will forgive him for giving Ephraim a mullet in the summer (chock that one up to allowing creative genius to not line up with my own sensibility) It was an Era thing really. I was so not into my son looking like Scott Baio.

My sister and I have discussed the Era thing quite a bit. I have a strong reaction to/against anything from my teen years. The 80's social craze... please don't make me go there. The tights under your clothes... really? do I have to buy stirrup pants to be cool?

Even the music associations (dumb, sappy rock ballads at disturbing school gym sock hops) has made me shut down to listening to certain things. (sorry Sting... I am slowly coming around, I can listen to your Christmas album in small doses...)

anyway I digress...

We all look amazing for the holidays. Thank you Tod.

a glimpse

2009-12-22T08:03:00.005-06:00

I have not posted regularly lately. sorry.
I have got into the bad habit of leaving my camera in my bag when we do fun things, and I have a terrible inability to post without photos. In an effort to keep you in the loop, here is a glimpse of a few of the things we have done this week.

Jack and Solomon had their "winter program" at school. They go to a small school (aprox. 130 kids) so the program was just long enough not to get unbearable. The funny part was the boys had been singing their songs all week (month) leading up to the program, then when faced with the 300-some crowd Solomon stood clamped mouth for every song. (He is so like me... I wonder if he hummed?)

Mike had a craving. We pulled out the candy thermometer and made some sponge candy (or crunchy bar)

The boys took dreidels to our Winkler Christmas family gathering. Fun gambling game. They used pennies from Nana's purse. I suggested the candy tray... there is always loads of sweets at those gatherings.

We took the boys to skate in St. Andrews. Even Phin wore skates. He could walk on them on the ground, but the ice? Not so much. He had a perma-grin under the falling-over-his-face helmet, getting shuffled around the ice by Daddy.

Someone special arrived at free skate...

SANTA!

Lunch at his favorite restaurant to celebrate turning 6. We invited some cousins to join us after skating for pizza. Good times!

Hope you all have a fantastic week leading to spending time with loved ones at Christmas.

Look what the boys are getting in their stockings...

2009-12-21T14:25:00.003-06:00

My amazingly talented friend Jill made the boys these amazing dolls in their likeness for Christmas... they are so awesome... My list of things the kids are "in to" translated into these so so cute family treasures!
EVERY boy (and girl) needs a doll from Jill! She does custom orders from her etsy shop.

Christmas de-stress...

2009-12-15T19:22:00.003-06:00

I am having some Christmas Prep stress. But this video and song is making me peaceful and happy... so I thought I would share. (it somehow reminds me of my sister- I think she would appreciate the little heart cheeks as much as I do) Hugs to you this december... wish you were in my arms.

I am excited for Christmas. Christmas with kids is alway magical, and this year being at the lake for my birthday (the 27th) I am looking forward to peacefulness and calm, reading by the fireplace, watching kids in the snow, from the toasty indoors.

Trying to get things done in a timely fashion is proving difficult as I am waiting for some post. (something special coming in the mail that will enable me to get more done) I am hoping it gets here this week, next week will make everything quite a scramble.

And then after all the holiday joyfulness there will be adventure for the clan as we head east to Kenora for a few months.

we love elf yourself.

2009-12-01T10:16:00.002-06:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

It is becoming a family tradition to elf ourselves during the countdown to Christmas. It is so much fun. We laugh and laugh, try out the different genres of elf dances, choose our photos and who of our 6 will be represented (as it only lets 5 photos)
This year we picked the kids... including Lenny. Hip hop was a must.

enjoy.

win you some swag...

2009-11-25T08:33:00.002-06:00

this is especially for my fabric loving readers... go sign up to win some fantastic fabric, and autographed book and so much more, just in time for Christmas (for you)

happy -happy -hope someone I know wins!

flu

2009-11-21T10:26:00.003-06:00

My girlfriend at little quiver posted some valuable information about natural ways we can stay healthy during the flu season, her posted flu preventatives are interesting, I believe they originated here.

Though all the suggestions follow what I have read in many sources.

The main ones: avoiding sugar and getting sleep, being diligent with vitamins and cleanliness.

The stranger ones being coconut oil ... which I have and never use, and feeding kids a mixture of onion and garlic and hot peppers (yeah right)

It all requires a bit of change to your general approach to daily life and planning ahead.

I am willing to try it.

you?

A birthday wish.

2009-10-21T15:59:00.006-05:00

Looking past the goof in the foreground you will see a lovely, winsome, beautiful vision of feminine charm and grace. A woman who is gentle in spirit, friendly to all, caring, talented, thoughtful and generous. I love her. She is my little sister, my friend. It is her birthday today. Happy birthday Tiffany.

Also celebrating her special day is our Grandma. The centre of our family, energetic, a lover of entertaining friends and family. This woman is an inspiration. She does so much for others, tireless in helping where she can and defying (and not admitting) her age by keeping active and positive through everything. Happy Birthday to you too Grandma. I love you.

Maybe it's just me...

2009-10-19T16:48:00.002-05:00

I am getting goosebumps from this song....

don't ask why I am listening to christmas music on october 19.

It is far from typical for me...

But it is DAVID BOWIE (and Bing) Such a sweet song, and I am excited for the holidays because of it.

Hope it puts you in a jump start to the holidays too.

in training...

2009-09-29T20:44:00.002-05:00

More reasons to support Mike's habit.

If Mike has more than 7 bikes (of his own that is not including the trikes or my ONE mtn. bike) in our house now -can you imagine how many we will have in 10 years?

It was SO fun and SO exciting to see two of our kids racing with their dad this weekend.

Especially special also because Uncle Kyle "the Governor" raced, and famous Uncle Loren and cousins, Emma and Callie did too!

check out more photo details of the races and results here...

thanks for taking pictures, Governor.

family fun

2009-09-16T16:56:00.007-05:00

Don't look too close, Mike is NOT teaching them Strip Poker. He is protecting his owies, the worst road rash ever! They played go fish and old maid. The kids have discovered their Dad can do card tricks and he has amazed them all with his tricksies.

I think Jack has the old maid...

WINNER!

this boy is getting SO BIG, SO FAST.

2009-09-11T12:24:00.006-05:00

Sol lost his first tooth on Sept 7 and 3 days later (on his first day of grade one) he lost the second. Gaps in a boys mouth just seem to imply wisdom gained; a special passage into boyhood, out of toddlerhood. I am sad to see the baby go. But this boy gives me great joy and entertainment. (hey... look at that, the same shirt -3 day rotation)

Today while he was at school I made him a lunch bag. Using this tutorial and lining it with an old vinyl (poison poison) table cloth. (I justify my material choice with... it was free and will not be in direct contact with his food)

It is pretty thick, my poor machine had to work pretty hard to get through all those layers at times. I did Jacks only in the vinyl, making it more lightweight than Solomons. Jack also asked for a different design, this is the one he preferred. Personally, I like these but I am not this talented or confident yet, nor do I need a bagged lunch very often. (but my sister does, and she likes vintage pillowcases, I am sure)

I may make adjustments to both these designs but for now, this is it. After the lunch sacks are done I plan to make matchy matchy sandwich and snack bags.

Yes Tiffany, you can come sew with me and we can make you some too. Oh and Judi when are your quilting parties starting up?

Mixed Emotions.

2009-09-10T12:11:00.004-05:00

I know I know... I have a homeschooling blog, I believe in homeschooling, I know I am a good teacher, I am a homeschooling mama.... I am. But today I sent my oldest and second baby off to public school. And I believe I am doing the right thing, for now.
I know it is temporary and I know it is good.
It sounds like I am trying to convince myself doesn't it? But really, I am at peace.

Our day started before 6 with Solomon up before the sun, bouncing off the walls with excitement. Then Jack up at about 7 ready to go -I was pleasantly surprised (usually we are dragging our feet to get anywhere on time) "We have more than an hour before we have to go guys"

-thankful for their enthusiasm as it made it much easier on me.
So with lunches packed, gym shoes and art smocks tucked away, we marched off, three blocks to school.

As we approached the already bustling playground our steps got slower. I asked if anyone was feeling butterflies, nervousness now. I got the Solemn Solomon (patent pending) head nod, the one with the chin dropped to the chest... that didn't lift until they were out of sight following their new teacher into the school. We had lots of hugs, no tears (until I had a tap on my shoulder and MY mom was there to support this "mumma's first day of school" That got the tears flowing)

So here I am. Researching handmade sandwich bags for eco-friendly lunches without waste or chemical plastic coating leaching into food... mylar lining or nylon? zipper or velcro closures? maybe elastic or simple foldover...

Waiting to walk back and collect my boys -with the promised box of Tim Bits in hand.

wool dreams

2009-09-08T10:26:00.006-05:00

My New Bed... one day.

I am Daydreaming about my future bed, with the help of shepherd's dream.

Mike and I bought a new mattress and box spring about 7 years ago. We recently turfed the box spring as it caused the bed to sag on Mike's side of the bed, giving us both a cramped and uncomfortable sleep. So now we sleep with the mattress on the floor. (primitive- I know) But we are in agreement that we are in need of a new bed, a bigger bed (for all those nights we are joined by one or more of our children), a bed worthy of our new digs in the country....

In researching my "other" dream, of one day owning sheep, I came across the healthy properties of wool bedding. I am already a convert of wool diaper covers, so this is not a far stretch for me... It might be a harder sell for Mike, so I need to do LOTS of research and plan my arguement well.

But who wouldn't sleep better on a sheepy, wooly, soft and natural bed!?

Perhaps one day I will be sunning my own wool in preparation for making you a mattress...

Musical Genius

2009-09-03T09:47:00.002-05:00

Phinehas has taken to playing the guitar like a stand-up bass, he listens carefully to music playing and plays along... freakishly on tune. And sings too.

I love when he plays.

Ephraim thought I was taking a picture so he kept crowding in to be in the shot... annoying the musician (and the film documenter) so this ended up being a short session for me to enjoy.

YAY MOM!

2009-09-01T09:14:00.001-05:00

and the winner of the Duckyhouse

prize is.... Yay! I am planning to get her to enter some more on my behalf!

August was...

2009-08-31T13:08:00.011-05:00

Besides entering on-line contests... and NOT winning anything. August was...

1. learning to ride on two wheels, and getting a new bike and helmet (no pictures of the new bike as it defies shutter speed.)

2. baking crazy beer bread, among other basic daily baking...

3. Discovering musical genius,

4. Haircuts at Todd's,

5. Visiting friends from far-away places (Asia (photo), from Victoria and her Dad, Patrick from Australia. And, Savannah and her mom Marnie, from the UK)

6. Looking for trees and playing Marco-Polo at the property in Cook's Creek,

7. Visiting baby Ella Faith (and sewing a boobie hider for her mommy)

8. Beaching with Vieira's,

And now we are getting back into school mode...

Solomon's project is a quick dry clay model of a cat to go along with our Wild Cat theme. And Ephraim is working on numbers with Acorns. We are going today to collect Acorns at the park and plan to do some crafty things with them in the coming days. stay tuned!

The Pod Swaddler Pattern GUEST GIVEAWAY!!!!

2009-08-25T22:37:00.000-05:00

The Pod Swaddler Pattern GUEST GIVEAWAY!!!!

yikes these giveaways are so what I am into right now, with the breastfeeding cover, to the swaddling, to the kid aprons... this blog has all the goodies! link me up baby!

Kookles Nursing Cover GUEST GIVEAWAY!!!!

2009-08-25T22:32:00.000-05:00

Kookles Nursing Cover GUEST GIVEAWAY!!!!

Everyday May Childrens Toolbelt GUEST GIVEAWAY!!!!

2009-08-25T22:27:00.000-05:00

Everyday May Childrens Toolbelt GUEST GIVEAWAY!!!!

generous and talented...

2009-08-24T14:53:00.002-05:00

Duckyhouse is hosting a giveaway this week... you all WANT this prize. I know I DO!

Go enter... OR DON"T -increase my odds.

Tam, you amaze me!

three days of summer

2009-08-20T15:48:00.006-05:00

Post inspired by our dear FUN friends over at Ducky House,

who have posted about being at the lake with us.

A huge thank you to my dad who graciously opened the door of their cabin to the two Tam(-i)(-my)'s and their 8 kids for the day. We all had a delicious time frolicking in the water, paddling in the boat, eating hotdogs and watermelon.

Our three days of summer were well spent... two of them with the ducky house clan.

My own photo record is of the day before the lake, when we braved the crowded Birds Hill Beach together...

Mumma Duck, dolling out the sugar.

Beach Baby (aka giant baby sand ogre)

Twin Ducklings (A and J) working on the fortress that afore mentioned sand ogre destroyed at every chance... therefor the fortress never was built to completion. sigh. But he was a cute beach ogre.

And yes we have had (insert pessimistic sigh here) three sunny summer days in Winnipeg this summer. Each one spent in the water, eating frozen treats, slathering on the bountious amounts of sunscreen that will expire in 2 months... here's hoping september is a hot and sunny month, for us homeschool parents who plan to take advantage of the vacated beaches once school is in...

boosting my odds.

2009-08-18T10:29:00.004-05:00

There is a giveaway for an awesome stack of material to make an alphabet book... my kids need an alphabet book don't you think?

Go here to enter yourself, and while you are there peruse the rest of the blog, she has some cute ideas and great links to other sites... like this one I am going to make that apron! Which led me to this one, heidi and seek... she is also having a give away to win handmade pads... so enter there too!

Okay so thats it for this morning... have a better day than me. I am going to the doctor tomorrow because I have been having severe abdominal pains for three days now. I am thinking the worst... like we do when something isn't right... crossing my fingers it isn't ulcers... or blocked intestines or some crazy stomach disease.... Like my sister-in-law suggested -lets pray I just need some metamucil!

tree swing = joy

2009-08-12T08:13:00.007-05:00

Several years ago Great Grandpa installed a simple and wonderful tree swing. 3 of my kids learned to pump on that swing. One of them has outgrown it, but still enjoys sitting (too close to the ground) or standing on it.

Not quite figuring it out, but wanting desperately to join in the allure of the tree swing.

One swing. Four boys.

If you can find it unoccupied... SCORE!
If you have an awesome big brother... double score!

More joyful swing images (I couldn't leave any out)

camera found, photos to share.

2009-08-08T11:45:00.001-05:00

The Canada Day Dragonfly.

silly me.

2009-07-31T09:57:00.004-05:00

This week I switched up my car stroller, from the light weight, good for malls and smooth surface travel to the all terrain, hiking, chariot variety. Upon reaching our destination (in the rain) I pulled out the big old stroller and began setting it up for our day's adventures dodging raindrops at Fort Whyte.

Low and behold. There in the back of our stroller sits my lost CAMERA! Alas the batteries are dead -so there are no photos of our adventures for the day, nor can I show you the dragonfly I spotted on Canada day... yet. But callooh callay a frabjous day none the less and I am back in business sharing our doings and goings about very soon -with VISUALS.

And none too soon, really, as we prepare to embark on a family reunion of sorts at Dorothy Lake. Where to meet all the Church brother's and their families (read: baby Brennan) for what may be the last whole family gathering at this location (as the great grandpa and grandma of this establishment is planning the unthinkable... to sell and move on to the west coast!)

A sad day indeed.

Photo's to follow - have a great long weekend all!

Miracles never cease.

2009-07-23T22:09:00.002-05:00

I arrived in Macoun at my brother Ryan's house at 2 a.m on wednesday, after a quick quiet greeting and tour of bathroom and couch, I bedded down for a fitful short sleep, anticipating my trip to Weyburn later in the day. I woke early and gazed silently at the beauty I had missed driving in in the dark the night before... soon stirring in the rest of the house and I was joined by Beth and baby Hudson (who is a week younger than Phin) They gave me a tour of the yard and animals and I sized up the lambs to see how many I could stuff into the mini van to take home with me.

after a wonderful visit and meal, I headed in to see grandma.

I arrived at the Home to find she was "indisposed" ( surprise! OUT OF BED!!!) being bathroomed with the help of a hydraulic old person lifter. I was quickly briefed by Aunt Judy that today she had eaten some lunch and been "up" quite a bit was tired but so much stronger than anyone predicted! I waited for her to get settled and then sat on her bed and silently looked at her waiting for recognition...

she said... "WENDY?"

I started to cry. and said "yes I am Tami jo. Wendy's daughter. I am so glad to see you grandma, and that you are getting stronger." Judy left us to visit alone.

I stayed for several hours visiting between her naps. She told me I was beautiful.

I told her she had gentleness in her eyes and a peace that made me feel... and she filled in my blank with "home, you feel at home"

I said "yeah, I do."

and she said "good! that's what I want"

I went back today and she was dressed and in her wheel chair looking bright and strong.

She wanted into her bed for a sleep and she had been told no. She unbuckled her own seatbelt with fierce determination and seemed ready to spring out of her seat on her own. I told her I was worried she would hurt herself and she said "well you better get someone to help then."

I did. no arguing with grandma.

I left feeling confident that I will be seeing her again.

on this side of heaven!

Prayers of thankfulness for her miraculous turn about... from death bed to cheeky spirited grandma, sweet and full of love for her family.

Making plans to take my mom and the boys to see her next time. I think she will be overjoyed, I believe she has a spot in her heart reserved for her "Wendy."

Thank you all for your kind prayers and thoughts as I left on my journey, believing it was the last time I would see that special lady.

It's Hard to say Goodbye.

2009-07-21T07:29:00.002-05:00

I am leaving today for a solo trip to saskatchewan to say goodbye to my grandma, Myrtle Branvold. I got a message yesterday saying that they are not expecting her to live past the end of the week. Her heart is weak, and she has pneumonia, she has lost her will to fight and seems like she is ready to be done in this life.

Not sure if I am ready for the emotions of this trip. It feels like I only just met her and I haven't had enough time to know her.

I am profoundly sad.

It's hard to post without pictures.

2009-07-16T20:40:00.004-05:00

I didn't fall off the planet... I lost my camera.

Last seen on Canada Day.

Last photo taken: a cool dragonfly on a wrought iron fence. And I know it was a dragon fly because I learned it here... at the magnifying glass (NO NO -I knew it before that post, but it's a neat site to visit anyway....) Sure wish I could show you the cool pictures I took. I know Aleksa, for one, would be petting her computer screen, as dragonflies are one of the most pettable insects I know.

So, sorry for my absence. I will try to think of more words to share while my camera is off taking wonderful photos somewhere other than here...

Funny... reflecting on why it's so hard to post without photos... it must have something to do with the type of books I read lately. Finding myself only interested in beautifully illustrated picture books from the J section at the library...

We picked up this cute one the other day... by Ellen Stoll Walsh

(there! I was able to include a visual!) Truthfully I am also drawn to books that include the names of my children. That makes reading them so much more personal. Like Ellen Stoll Walsh, revisiting places I went as a kid (in a book) has been an exciting journey to take together with the boys. We just finished the Fudge books by Judy Blume (a favourite, if not THE favourite, author from my early reading days) They were a nice end to our first money theme unit at boys school as Double Fudge deals with a five year old's unhealthy attachment to money and some strange misconceptions that kids that age (my kids ages) have!

Anyway, all that to say I lost my camera. And that sucks.

Beautiful Ladies

2009-07-08T21:25:00.004-05:00

My mom, sister and I went to have our mother/daughter portraits done at Eve Studios for a mother's day gift to my Mom... this is a sneak peak at the beautiful work by Rod Braun.

scooter rides

2009-07-06T09:08:00.003-05:00

Despite dirty looks from the neighbours, the boys enjoyed several laps of the block with Mandy Star, on her girly scooter. after the 7th or so lap, the neighbours began to wonder what was up with the lost crazy girl and her miniature date. Thanks for thrills Mandy! Come again!

Visiting people we love.

2009-06-23T08:53:00.006-05:00

This week we went to Wawota, Saskatchewan to visit the Branvolds. We had such a relaxed and great time. Grandpa Ron and Grandma Sherrie are so gracious and generous. They love the kids and spend such a great deal of time playing and exploring with them. We enjoy being there so much. Not to mention the property they rent is amazing. Hilly, green, treed, full of animals and tractors... a boys wonderland.

This is Grandpa Ron with Trevor's dog, Jack. We spent a lot of time at Trevor and Cheryl's farm also. The trampoline and the sandbox were a hit and of course the kittens (Solomon named this one Oreo and Jack name a grey stripy one Twister) and cows!

Playing with cousins Brett (5) and Carter (2), That is Legacy -the stud bull in the background, he is huge and handsomely endowed... if you know what I mean. Trevor and Cheryl dispelled the myth that bulls are vicious and we went into that field and could have touched him if we had been brave enough. Trevor showed us he was a really gentle animal. Jack kept my hand tightly in his and we took Trevors word for it. We got quite the schooling on cows this weekend.

Jack helped feed them, and I helped sort out a few that were getting ready for a voyage to Regina to get impregnated. Trevor breeds full blooded Angus cattle (invitro style) It is quite an interesting process.

We sampled some beef roast for dinner. We took home half a cow in a freezer strapped into my truck! I am excited for our year supply of meat raised by my brother!

Cheryl took the boys on pony rides with Silver. "High Ho, Silver, Away!" She was such a great teacher. She explained how horses are plains prey animals and about their field of vision and defenses. She taught the boys how to approach Silver and how to talk gently, that horses don't like their faces touched but their necks were okay...

That is Grandma Sherrie playing with the boys on the trampoline. I am not sure what they stopped to watch though, something interesting it seems...

Back to Ron and Sherrie's farm. And more cousins. It rained quite a bit over the time we were there but only as random huge dumps of rain, it didn't hamper our outdoor activities at all... in fact it enhanced it. Leslie and Aaron's kids, Jody (10) and Jordan (12) skipped school on friday to come play in the mud with the boys. They also brought along scads of hand-me-downs YAY! These boys were plenty dirty after playing in the mud.

We celebrated Ephraim's 4th birthday there and Aunty Trishia tried to fuel a feud with Mike by making Ephraim a Rough Rider's fan... Lucky we aren't too hard core into our football or Mike might have burned that jersey when we got home... Go Rider's go! (we will get Trishia a Bombers jersey for her birthday)

Our visit ended on a sad note. We were making plans to come back in August and pick up a puppy from grandma Sherrie's pomeranian, Chelsea, who was due in July, but the morning we were getting ready to leave, Chelsea gave birth to four 3 week premature pups who had no chance to survive. It was a very sad morning. We were sad to be a part of that tough life lesson, and witness a devastating delivery as Chelsea tried to revive her pups. They gave Chelsea some time with them then moved them into a pretty tin box to bury. I know it is just something that happens sometimes but it was hard not to think we had stressed her out somehow, causing her loss. But the boys were so gentle and loving to her and excited that we may have been able to take one home at the end of the summer. It was heartbreaking.

Plans are in the works to meet Trevor, Cheryl, Ryan, Beth and families for a camping weekend sometime later in the summer. I am excited to spend some more time with them. I really enjoyed getting to know Cheryl better this week and I think camping with them will be really fun!

house guests.

2009-06-16T15:26:00.006-05:00

Danica has entrusted her beloved "Kermit" to us while she and her family are on holiday.

I was apprehensive at first (I have a justified fear of killing pets while people are away... we had a japanese fighting fish death when we house sat in Point Roberts 2 years ago and I haven't recovered from the trauma yet)

However I am completely taken with our house guest. (NOT his stinky cricket food)

We have thoroughly enjoyed watching him climb up his holiday abode, and attack his unsuspecting food.

Cindy, Danica's mom, tried to find room to pack her lovely rose bush that was on the verge of bursting it's buds as they readied to leave. It was in all seriousness that Vic begged me to take pictures everyday when he came to drop off our charges for the week, so that Cindy could enjoy them despite not being here for the unfolding beauty... We are in awe.

I hope you have a wonderful family vacation!

See you soon.

tree update

2009-06-15T12:32:00.004-05:00

We went to check on our trees this weekend.

Most of our little marker flags have blown away, but we were able to spot new growth on most of our 1200 little trees. It is also dry enough to get the tiller to work. A late start on our country garden but it will be nice to get some things planted!

We also spotted some life in the creek. I searched for bird nests along the banks, as there were several squawky birds keeping us at bay.

(I patted a few bugs for Aleksa too -who thinks there is a lack of petting/appreciation in the insect world -I am afraid there were a few varieties that got "pet" a little too rough) Mike and I both entered the tick competition with one a piece, Jack and Lenny are winning.

Icky leaches of varying sizes... dead crawfish, many gelly egg masses, insect nymphs...

This little piece of reed was walking... It was home to somebody, but I didn't get a good enough look to see who. (you can see a little of him at the top of the reed) I am looking forward to the daily discoveries this creek will provide!

Happy Birthday Devon

2009-06-11T06:00:00.001-05:00

I Love You.

seasonal coiffing

2009-06-09T15:55:00.003-05:00

BEFORE:

AFTER:

Tricycle

2009-06-06T13:16:00.006-05:00

I got a beautiful gem to add to my collection, from a photographer friend, Rod Braun. The story goes, his elderly neighbour had this tricycle from when he was a child and gave it to Rod and his wife Sonia.
A few years later he meets this art teacher at a dance/arts studio who has a tricycle tattoo on her back and he thinks "I am going to give her that trike."

Fast forward about 7 years and the same photographer is photographing a dancers wedding and the sister of the bride is that same art teacher, now 6 months pregnant with her 4th child and he remembers the tricycle is in his garage somewhere.

A couple months later, as a project to get certified as a art nudes photographer, she finds herself having her portrait taken and a few nice ones of her tattoo (which looks a lot smaller than it did when she first got it... about 45 lbs ago.)

And Now.... I am the proud, excited new owner of a tricycle with a lot of history... It is BEAUTIFUL!

Thank You Rod!

SEw CrAZy!!!

2009-06-04T15:34:00.003-05:00

I am in process. Creating.

I am participating in a sale this weekend with some other crafty talented girls at my table. We will be the only table of 15 that has a kid focus, so I think it may do well for us. Featured at our table will be diaper bags, bibs, change pads, slings, wind bonnets, rice bags, play houses, sundresses, diapers, dolls, crayon rolls, blankies -to name... well... most of what we have...

I am happily sewing with my newly serviced serger and my brand spankin' new sewing machine.

Scenes from my dining room table...

happy birthday kyle

2009-06-03T17:21:00.003-05:00

from the boyz...

Jack and Mike's Dance Recital

2009-06-02T12:23:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday Daniel!

2009-05-24T06:00:00.002-05:00

I Love you Dan!

For those who know Dan, you will remember his preschool fascination with this poem. My university friends were amazed at my 4 year old brother reciting Lewis Carrol, now he is 22 and I am told he still recites poetry, though I don't get to hear it as much.

I am proud of you Daniel, you are a thoughtful and gentle boy. I love to see your focus and drive toward ever changing goals. I love the care you put into your relationships and into your earth, your passion for gardening is inspiring. I love that you surround yourself in loving and encouraging company (read "I love you too Andi") That you are adventurous yet grounded too -seems you are able to try new things but have stability in who you are now.

love your big big sister, TJ

Welcome Back

2009-05-22T08:17:00.003-05:00

I missed out on going to get my mom from the airport yesterday -because my household is sick again, this time I am at the head of the ranks with a wicked head cold.... with all the typical terrible symptoms.

But despite that -What I missed out on most was hugging her at the airport. Finding out highlights of Mom's trip (and lowlights) being the first to hear of her experiences. By the time I get to talk to her, she may have told some stories a thousand times and forget to tell me... thinking she already has.

Mostly I just wanted to be there for her.

I hoped this trip would be insightful and relaxing, I hoped she would come home strong and decisive, I hoped she would have clarity from the ocean air and beauty of the east coast...

I offer you this as a welcome home Mom, the "you're most loved" symbol of Motherhood... Wish I had been there to give it to you in person.

Painted Daisies

2009-05-21T13:48:00.004-05:00

On Monday we took out some paint and some board, to paint a still life of the daisies Mike brought home for me on the weekend.

Ephraim spent a great deal of time observing and delicately painting petals.

While Solomon's was more a study of colour. Interestingly Solomon observed more by touching, and finding the insides of the flowers to be very tickle-y.

Shhh... don't tell Uncle Daniel, these Beautiful Masterpieces are for his birthday!

encouraging

2009-05-21T07:39:00.001-05:00

and amazing....

enjoy

our family portraits -By Bethanie Louden

2009-05-14T07:10:00.007-05:00

Last weekend we spent a good deal of time on the property planting 1,200 trees... well, they were sticks and twigs with roots.

I have long admired the photography of a friend I met at Homeschooling co-op, and I invited her to come take photo's of us enjoying some quality time together.

Her photos of the day are up on her blog and as usual - I am impressed.
I am stealing a couple of my favorites to post here for you but you really MUST go look at the rest, because her work is stunning and you will want her to take pictures of your family too!

Seriously this one is great...a real... family portrait... I am so glad it doesn't look like any of these!I love the Photos and I am so glad Bethanie took the challenge of questionable weather, full sunlight and her clean, dry children mingling with the Hoodlums in the creek... (drainage ditch) We had a lot of fun!

What really happened...

2009-05-12T15:17:00.003-05:00

Mother's Day.... that's what I get for having expectations... neglect.

I woke up with baby at 6, and started some dough for my own cinnamon buns as I was informed the night before that the grocery shop had not happened for my breakfast in bed menu....

Once everyone was up, Mike made coffee and left for his bike race without us. (He flatted after the first lap and DNFed) We call that divine retribution.

My sister bought me one of the books on my list with her employee discount, because I whined to her that I didn't so much as get a construction paper heart....

the next day however....

a belated breakfast in bed, prepared and served by Jack and Solomon, complete with a half cup of coffee, black with loads of sugar...

And a construction paper heart.

Okay, they do appreciate me... and who doesn't crave carrots and olives with a side of grapes and banana at 7 a.m. the day after Mother's day?

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-08T14:32:00.006-05:00

This post about motherhood made me crack up! Seriously when do I have time to do anything just for me. Even if I do get a moment to escape the house sans kids.... there is always an errand to do, something to pick up at the post office, a dog to walk, milk to pick up. If I can squeeze in a visit with a friend ("can you hang out with me at scoop and save for an hour?") or coffee with my mom or some sort of face time with my sister (checking out the gift wares at her work because I have to get something for so-and-so) I have covered some of the important people I crave to spend more time with and got myself out for a spell... wearing my stained t-shirt and sweats that are too short.... wink.

For this mother's day, I am planning to be awarded a rushed breakfast in bed (I am hoping for cinnamon buns, fresh fruit, brie cheese and espresso- with flowers, yes?) followed by supporting my husband in his passion, freezing our tails off at the park and screaming "allez allez allez! faster daddy!" If we happen to spot him in the passing like the wind Peloton, while keeping my children from running into the road getting squished by speeding bicycles and keeping the dog from jumping on them and licking their faces that may or may not still have breakfast on them... next heading to the property to finish or continue the job of planting 1200 trees and prepping a garden space, finishing the day by hanging out at my inlaws where we (the mommies) will leave the kids and the daddies and take our movie theatre deprived mother-in-law to a good current flick... have a good cry (depending on what's available for girly flicks) and go back to our haggard "thank goodness you're back" husbands, pack up the children and go home to fall into bed after remembering to call my own mom to wish her a happy mother's day and a safe, restful trip to the east coast (wish I could come)

... breathe. Then back to the routine of motherhood madness... hopefully with one or two of these on the bookshelf, should they happen to be wrapped up for the awesome mommy in the house... cross fingers (now you know why I am posting... Mike, call my sister to get books)

for emma

2009-05-08T13:53:00.002-05:00

My niece is a flutist.... can you do this emma?

Narcisse Snake Dens

2009-05-07T09:54:00.006-05:00

We had a wonderful visit with the snakes of Narcisse yesterday.

It was highly anticipated that we would be able to hold a snake. They are typically a little sluggish in the spring, hungry and preoccupied in their mating desires. If you happen upon one on the path or along the fence it is fairly easy to gently grab hold. (if you are brave enough)
Our snake charmer was not so charmed it seemed, and after an hour or two of patiently waiting by the fence and switching up tactics, he was one disappointed snake catcher.

So we changed focus for a while, had a picnic lunch and searched the bush for other creatures... easier to capture...

It was just the break needed to rejuvenate the snake man, ready for another hunt -for an unsuspecting wayward redsided garter snake.
SUCCESS!!

We highly recommend the snake dens as a day trip. Have fun! (and gloves were a good idea, they assist in bravery)

T.V Dinner.

2009-04-30T13:25:00.004-05:00

On nights when Jack has dance, I try to feed him early and then when he gets back, we have Pizza and Movie Night as a family... but his early meal before dance is usually a snack with me in front of the Ellen DeGeneres show.

He Loves Ellen. I can see why she appeals to him, she dances, she's spunky, she's funny. As a rule we don't watch daytime television but once a week we make the exception and have a T.V. dinner in front of the tube.

our first trip to the dentist.

2009-04-24T16:02:00.004-05:00

Yay! What a happy, fun trip to the dentist... no nerves, no fears, just expecting to have fun.... and we did.
Jack and Solomon had x-rays of their teeth, Solomon was amazed to see his adult teeth under his baby teeth.
Jack thought the spit sucker was hilarious. Ephraim was SO cool in his glasses and he loved the bubblegum toothpaste and tickle brush.
shhh don't tell the dentist what our pre-dentist games were...

We did a bunch of teeth, dental health and dentist activities... the best one was the math game. Using marshmallows for teeth, we filled an adult mouth with (32) teeth using dice, we took turns filling our mouths. -then we ate the marshmallows... probably not on the tooth healthy snack list and not the best snack for the morning before our dentist visit... but it was a FUN COUNTING GAME!

playing "God".

2009-04-22T11:31:00.002-05:00

Oh My... what an amazing bread making video... I am doing it all wrong, I am missing the experience of creating life... woe is me with my bread machine!

I need to go make bread....
part 2 so you can do it with me to completion...

how do I measure up?

2009-04-21T10:39:00.007-05:00

Learning many different ways to measure the length of things, using our feet, tape measures, rulers, string, paper clips, we spent the day estimating and measuring around our house and yard.

FYI
our tub is 7 Jack feet long.
our book shelf is 7 solomon feet high.
our kitchen stools are 3 1/2 ephraim feet high.
Jacks arm span is as tall as he is -50 inches, while Solomon's arm span is longer than his height.

We used this mini book print out for one of our activities... and found some other resources here and here.
We used some activities from this too.

do over

2009-04-21T10:03:00.003-05:00

a "sexy" pita sandwich...

making pita bread

2009-04-20T12:19:00.006-05:00

Here is one of the sites I use to search and adapt bread recipes...
I wanted to try some pita today... because we have some yummy cucumbers and hummus... and I will make some pilaf or couscous later.
Using my bread machine on the dough setting, I used the bookmarked recipe (with some experimenting with types of flour combinations) and let the first rise happen inside the machine, forming the balls and setting them to rest for a half hour before shaping them into patties.

I totally burned the last couple pita's due to chatting to Patty-Jean on the phone and not staying focused... but look at the lovely pocket... amidst the darkened edges...

They do look good don't they?

Sadly they are inedible. When Jack made his bread this morning he mistakenly put the salt and sugar lids (that are labelled) on the wrong containers... so I, trusting that they were what they said they were, put way too much salt in my pita dough!!!
They are like eating dried playdough!

try again.

let the bird watching begin!

2009-04-18T09:59:00.003-05:00

Mike has been gifted a good pair of binoculars for his birthday... I was somewhat shocked by the range of possibilities for what one can spend on a pair of binoculars!
However they have come into the family none too soon.
We have a amateur eye to the sky every time we are out, and Jack has already spotted a couple bald eagles IN THE CITY! and we have a red tail hawk living close to the property, Mike spotted a merlin falcon (we could be wrong with our identifications) and I am a bigger fan of spotting the little song birds and ducks...

I am so excited about this spring time family activity! We will keep you posted when we find something interesting!

my friends write books... I read them... when I can find time.

2009-04-16T13:42:00.004-05:00

I went to college with a dynamic, fun loving, insightful man. Who, as I remember, had a very large iguana in a very large cage in his basement...

He went on to be a pastor at Dalhousie Community Church near Calgary (if you are there -go see him speak one sunday) He self-published a book, that I have read snips from on his blog and facebook over the last month or so.
I have an opportunity to hold one in my hands by telling you about his book, Finding Home and sharing some of the reviews it has had... and showing you where you can get your own copy... It would make good discussion material for your small group. "It invites you to rethink your old assumptions about faith and kingdom life."

Pick one up for yourself, gift a friend or order a few for your church library!

AND watch some hilarious home videos that Brad made with his kids (he replaced the lizard with some very adorable mini versions of himself and Shauna) They make me remember good times in college with good friends.

(this makes me cringe a little, as my kids watch over my shoulder. I am glad my discipline problems have not escalated to ambushing and theatrical punch throwing... yet)

Oh Brad... you make me laugh.

Deep

2009-04-13T08:45:00.003-05:00

I just read a powerful post at one of my regular read stops...
I think I am in for a thoughtful week. I am touched by the wisdom of children and the power of spring around me. As we watch the return of life in our yard and I personally strain to see past the grit and ickyness of my least favourite season, and instead the wonder of observation and the excitement that the kids have as they spot a new bird or bud in the trees, the newness, the growth and discovery...
I am looking forward to a deep in thought kind of week.
And I just wanted to share my sweet easter boy... officially a preferring to walk baby.

A Good Good Friday.

2009-04-11T11:17:00.004-05:00

Yesterday I had a "day off". A day to do whatever I wanted without any kid or house responsibilities. I started by taking Solomon to tim hortons and picking up a snack and beverages to take to Cory and Amanda's. I got a tour of their "new" house that I haven't visited yet. (very cute and perfectly decorated) Then I dropped off the boy at his grandparents to go to the lake with them. I was treated to gourmet omelets at my sister and brother-in-laws home and then had the opportunity to share in the making of the needle felted penguin kit that Aleksa gifted Tiffany for Christmas...

I gotta say I am probably addicted to a new and wonderfully satisfying craft! I see so many possibilities for gifts, toys, sculptural artistic expression, school props and extensions of theme units... not to mention my desire to tell everyone who will listen what a fantastic feeling it is to needle felt a penguin! or anything...

I finished off my day with a girly movie with my BFF, Belinda. It was a fantastic day.
Have a happy easter everyone... and if you get a chance, hop out and get some roving and a felting needle, you WILL fall in love.

word of the day... Coincidence.

2009-04-07T11:11:00.005-05:00

After Jack's RODEO poem last week, we were at the library yesterday and found this book by Jon Scieszka... Cowboy and Octopus. It is about best friends. It was so great to know Jack and Jon think alike... We have enjoyed Jon Scieszka's humour for bedtime stories with favourites like the stinky cheese man for years...

"unfortunately Tami"

2009-04-01T13:19:00.002-05:00

This is a game I saw on a favourite blog stop of mine... visit allsorts to see how Jenny came through her google search...
then play with your name too.

In quotations google search "unfortunately _________" (filling in the blank with your name.)
A funny list of unfortunate events will come up, some may give you a laugh. A nice break in your day and interesting way to waste some more time with google...

my top 8 results... there were some repeats and some not nice ones....

1. Unfortunately, Tami has recently died as a result of "hardware disease". (WHAT!)

2. Unfortunately, Tami was the trainer’s only student, and there were only three horse shows in a 75-mile radius that offered any jumping classes.
3. Unfortunately, Tami was recently the unlucky recipient of a hefty fine for using her phone while driving.
4. Unfortunately, Tami and I missed the first night due to our jobs, so we regrettably missed Magic Lamp and Violet, two of the bands I wanted to see most
5. Unfortunately, Tami went on vacation recently and we will have to wait for her further comment.
6. HEY! No special plans this wknd unfortunately! tami and Brandon said they wanted to hang out..so maybe I'll see ya around!
7. Unfortunately, Tami was terrified! It was a nice thought, anyway – and she did later decide that Santa was pretty cool, after all. (one reason I have not subjected my children to sitting on Santa's lap!)
8. The meeting this month will be April 28th at 6:30 pm - unfortunately Tami didn't say where!!!!! Give Tami a call (951-698-4302) for location!

Happy April Fools Day!

2009-04-01T10:22:00.008-05:00

Here's Mother Nature's joke on us Winnipeggers...

Pretty funny hey!?
I love a fluffy snow storm followed by a calm warm day to play!
Despite wanting it to be spring, I must confess I am not sad to see clean beautiful snow, I prefer it over dirty puddle muddy spring... if it could switch to growing green over night I would be happy.
(skip the melty mess and grey raininess of spring)
Unfortunately I am alone in my love for a snow storm in April, my fellow friends in Winnipeg are cursing this morning... Joke is on them I guess.

heeheehee
I pulled one over on my mother in law this morning (wink) I called her at 8 asking why she wasn't here, that I had to be at work by 8:30. (I arranged for her to babysit the kids tomorrow for a casual day job I have) She said (in a confused and just woke up voice) -No, it's tomorrow... and I put on my best panic voice and told her no it's today, you must have made a mistake. She looked at her calendar and said "I have it written down for tomorrow, Oh no!" then before she jumped in her car to rush in to babysit, I informed her it was April fools! heehee.. first gag a success!

The kids informed me they needed to go to the dentist!

HAHAHAHA! (truth is they DO!) Again... Joke's on them!

My turn... I gave them a special treat at breakfast... Koolaid. (I know- that doesn't help our dentist dilemma)

We don't drink much juice around here, so they were excited I was making it this morning while they were eating their cereal...
But I switch-a-rooed Solomon's cup with one I prepared last night, so while everyone else was drinking juice... he said "What the!"

Heeheehee!

Heres my secret....

Jack submitted this poem for his school work today... he was giggling the whole time I was reading it...
punch line at the end...

Incase you need it translated...
Rodeo Riding
One cowboy can win
Danger
Everyone Watches
Octopus

Very good joke Jack!

We have a few more tricks up our sleeves for later. We have a tradition to buy gags from the joke/magic store for April Fool's Day... past tricks have included the plastic poop on the floor when one of the boys was potty training, that was another one on my mother-in-law!

and bugs in ice-cubes... we have bug-phobic friends who fell natural into that one and gave very satisfying reactions the boys love pulling off a good prank.

This year they bought a squirting piece of chocolate that they are eager to share with Daddy when he gets home... I hope he plays along!

preparing for a favorite tradition.

2009-03-31T13:31:00.002-05:00

To prepare for tomorrow we are getting in the mood with some fun April fools pranks...

and planning our shopping list.... see you tomorrow.

So many visitors... and would-be-sisters!

2009-03-30T11:28:00.004-05:00

Thank you all who stopped by this weekend to see my Unity contribution and for all the encouraging comments! I am reeling with my instant popularity and hope you will stop in again for glimpses of our lives.

I cannot guarantee craftiness on a regular basis, but I will have plenty to show you about my life with boys, homeschooling trials and joys, and loads of boasting about the amazing people I share my life with. I look forward to you being a part of that, and also to exploring the many talented and inspiring blogs I saw over the weekend!

Unfortunately for those of you wishing to be my sister, I have no more eligible brothers to give you....

Hip Hop Extravaganza!

2009-03-28T21:00:00.001-05:00

What a rush to be involved in such a colossal event...

If you are visiting my blog because that's what you do on a daily basis (namely my mom and sisters...)
Check out the marathon Hip-Hop-A-Blog-Hop I am part of today, by starting at Unity's blog and following the links... all along the way there are opportunities to win stuff when you make comments AND you get to see amazing, inspiring, creative projects that people are doing with Unity Stamps, which is a company my sister-in-law, Tanis, has done some designs for (YAY TANIS!!!)

Here is my latest crafty craft that I made using Unity's "dream tree"

I made it for my brother's girlfriend, Andi. We participate in a monthly crafty swap between the "sisters" in my family. I stamped the image onto my scrap material and embroidered (in my amateur fashion) and then used it as a "patch" on a small pillow that I made. It fit for this hop as a Unity project and for our sister swap theme... Peaceful Spring. It was fun to use my stamps in a unique way also... I love the dream tree image!

Now you can skip on over to see Eva at the next blog on your journey... and what a journey it is!
and I leave you with this little quote...

"Little by little, one travels far."
-J. R. R. Tolkien

aptly named...

2009-03-25T09:22:00.007-05:00

My son, Duke.

He is the most likely to embrace anything Rodeo... or Daring and Dangerous.

Here is another reason for the cowboy allure... I like. Clint.

celebrating a birthday

2009-03-24T13:10:00.007-05:00

Today is Phinehas' first birthday, and given the recent cowboy craze around here, I pulled out the old wooden horse and washed him up for Phin's gift. He was pleased with his ride.

Here are some memories from last year at this time...

Truth be told though -There is not much celebrating happening, Phin is under the weather AGAIN and Mike took the oldest 2 away so this could be a sleeping house today. I NEED that big time today, my patience and function are very low right now.

One Part Cowboy.

2009-03-23T09:42:00.007-05:00

I had an offer to take some tickets for the PBR this weekend. My heart raced inexplicably at the chance to see bull riding... what can this mean?

On the one hand the lure to watch somewhat good looking, fit cowboys risk their lives for my entertainment (and for a sizable winners purse) and the people/fashion watching opportunity at a full house MTS centre event...

On the other hand the questionable treatment of animals bred and conditioned to roughhouse with said cute cowboys... and what do those straps actually do to make a sweet little boy bovine act so violently! I am not impressed with that aspect of the "sport" at all.

What an internal battle I have had this weekend...

But the cowboy part won out the activist part, and Jack and I are both in the market for a good cowboy hat. (and a rifle...Oh and chaps... definitely chaps!)

Jack is not keen on being a bull rider, but he figures learning to rope would be fun. THANK YOU!

I guess it all boils down to preparing us for "Farm living" though our chickens will be hard to ride... maybe we will need some other animals after all!

tis the season to begin dreaming dirt...

2009-03-17T09:31:00.003-05:00

I am researching cucumber arbours... and planning my country garden, while the kids are watching t.v. and the dog is chewing a rawhide bone the size of her...
how cool would this be in my garden?

a cool little trail to wander through and pick my cukes standing instead of crawling around brushing huge leaves aside... I intend to make pickles this year... anyone coming to help me?

I wonder what else I can make tunnels with?
tomatoes?
peas?
beans?
wow... I am inspired.

Though I do want to try to grow my tomatoes upside down from the second story patio by the kitchen (deter the deer and bunnies)

My pea teepee didn't work so good last year, but I will give the bean/pea fort another go at the farm... cross my fingers.

Also Rusty Keeler (my facebook friend LOL) has a great book that My mom was so kind to lend me, all about making creative wild spaces for kids. I really hope my garden will be a welcoming place for the kids (and their friends) to explore and enjoy working in... or just play close by.

Lots of dreaming today... it must be the green
(Happy St. Patrick's Day!)

The Boys have a SISTER.

2009-03-15T20:25:00.008-05:00

Meet Lenny.

We went to Winkler to check out what was left for puppies at Grosmama's farm. We arrived and there were only two left. Seems a bunch of them hobo-ed off in the night and two came back today.
We were introduced to Duke, the lead male of the litter and the one Grosmama is fond of, and the fuzzy little female, who stayed her distance for a while taking us in, we tried out the name we had picked for our puppy "Dodge" but it didn't seem right. We continued to call her Dodge while we were there but knew we would need to find a more suitable name.

She was a great traveller with a quiet little howl and squirm now and then before settling to sleep on my lap.
We were listening to my i-pod on the way home and some Lenny Kravitz came on a few times and Mike suggested Lenny. She seemed to approve, and Ephraim's version "Lemon" also works...
Once we got home she made herself at home in her makeshift doggy pen on the deck like she belongs. She seems the perfect pooch for us! Can't wait to get her a leash and take her around to show off!

ouchies

2009-03-13T18:35:00.004-05:00

my baby had his first nail clipper trim tonight. It ended badly...
I cried.

Local Law Enforcement

2009-03-12T16:21:00.003-05:00

(officer Solomon lost his badge... thus the sad face.)

*note* the job description in Jack's Job Journal... police: "put pepl en jeul" and "ptect pepl" with "basbl bat" (I corrected that after he told me police use the bats to hit bad guys on the head.) (?) Officer Campbell, if you are reading this, maybe you should stop by and correct my child's misconceptions of what you do... and show us some real life police equipment.

We also learned today that Jack shares his birthday with Canada's first Prime Minister, John A. McDonald, born January 11, 1815.

seeing green.

2009-03-12T13:08:00.003-05:00

My good friend Tamara made me ... well Phin, the most adorable pants... longies really. That means they double as adorable butt covers. They are wool wonderfulness and beautiful! Great, lovely, functional, soft, vibrant, yay! I am so excited! (maybe you can tell)

I love gifts, I love hand made, I love cloth diapers with wool covers... this was a perfectly perfect gift!
Thank you for your thoughtfulness and generosity and the time it took to make this such a special handmade gift Tamara... and thanks also for the other goodies that have been hid away to appear again in a few weeks... when the easter baskets are brought out! I am so appreciative to be a receiver of Ducky House lovelies. The rest of you should be so lucky... (*PST I know Tamara does swaps when she has time to create and is inspired to do them...)

an outing with my niece.

2009-03-11T20:30:00.005-05:00

Lindsay and I went out today one way... and came back another.

Lindsay has been growing her hair for about 4 years with the intention of donating it to a local wig making place that makes wigs for kids with cancer or hair loss from a variety of medical interventions.
I decided to join her.

Today we did it. The last month or so has been a time of wavering with our decision for both of us (that's a lot of hair to part with!) Today the drive to the salon was one with loads of deep breathing and positive self talk and encouraging each other!
Even though we both knew we were going to do it and that it was a good good thing, It really was a hard thing to do.

She went first and it was exciting to see her take the plunge, even with her hesitations... we were both blown away with how light our heads felt!

Then it was my turn...

And then we went out for a hot chocolate at Starbucks to celebrate and show off our new looks... such pretty girls.

help

2009-03-11T08:40:00.004-05:00

I have a new dishwasher...
He thinks he is being so helpful, but it makes emptying the dishwasher a stressful experience, remembering my little sister knocking teeth black falling onto the open dishwasher (in less graceful days) always flashes into mind when Phin starts climbing in to help.
ON the other hand my son Jack is an amazing help when it comes to emptying the dishwasher. It is a job he can complete start to finish with out much distress. He has also started to bake bread by himself with the bread maker. I posted a basic recipe on the wall by the machine and he can measure all the ingredients and start the machine solo. YAY!

And now for the weather... It is still winter. FUN! But I DID see buds on the tree in our backyard, so never fear. spring is on it's way!
Thanks for the photos Cristina!

Guest blog poster!; Cristina

2009-03-04T14:41:00.005-06:00

Hello, Tami's blog readers! This is Cristina...I'm hanging out and stamping and checking out blogs (Tami calls it 'stalking'...silly girl *rolleyes*) and came across this blog with a pay it forward challenge.

Here's how this game works-the first person to leave a comment on this post will receive, at some point during the next couple of months, a handmade gift from Tami & Cristina. What it will be and when it will arrive is a total surprise! The catch is that you must participate as well. Before you leave your comment, write up a pay it forward post on your blog to keep the fun going (or be lazy and copy and paste like we did). Then come back, let me know you're going to play (comment) and sit back and anticipate the arrival of your gift! Remember, only the first person gets a gift, so you have to be super fast!

More Magic

2009-03-03T13:02:00.007-06:00

A Colourful Day with the Giesbrecht Boys...
You could say I was jealous of my friends who have girls...

or you could say I felt left out of a whole realm of craftiness...

or you could say I was reaching for my inner norwegian or scottish faerie...

or maybe I was reinforcing that colours are for everyone and encouraging my boys to be sure of who they are and develop good character...

to enjoy all the finer things of life...

that which is colour...
that which is grace...
that which is nature...
that which is creative...
that which is movement...
that which is fun.

This is what a rainbow tutu does to my house...

Doesn't it look like BOY-FUN?!

March, month of magic

2009-03-02T08:56:00.009-06:00

March 24 is Harry Houdini's birthday... and it is Phinehas' Birthday too... hmmm...

Our sister swap theme this month is peace/spring. I am going for the extra points for including an element of Houdini in my craftiness for the sisters... However my first attempt has broken and now I am at deadline and have nothing to show for my efforts.
I will share my initial idea and you (my dear and understanding and forgiving sisters) will be sent something completely different, my defeated crafty catch-up...late.

Houdini, besides being the master of escape, (Tiffany points out 'chains' does not mesh with the peace theme whatsoever) also was known for blowing the cover of supposedly gifted mediums by exposing their fraud publicly. One of the things he exposed was the use of finger prints to "prove a deceased person was present" in a seance, Houdini showed how a mold could be made of a dead persons hand and the fingerprint then transfered fraudulently to scam people out of inheritance and stuff...
they called them spirit hands.
My idea was to make a "spirit hand" of my children to send for our swap.

What is Springy/Peace about that?

Well, we are also learning baby ASL with Phin, all the boys are picking up some simple phrases to ask for water, more, bath, bedtime, mom, dad... those kind of easy use everyday signs. We learned the signs for peace, spring, grow... and tried to use those symbols in our spirit hands...

Here is Ephraim's lazy peace out ...

And here are the rest of the failed spring spirit hands!

And so you see, my expensive little craft was a lesson in disappointment and now I am back to the drawing board. I will post my new idea once they have made it to the sisters. I blew the surprise by posting a "spoiler" on my flickr last month and will not again!

Having a desire to continue our little Houdini history lessons...
I want this book Harry Houdini for kids to supplement our magic of March and help lead up to our April Fools traditions.

Ahh... but the budget has been blown!

Music videos

2009-02-21T11:19:00.003-06:00

making me cry today...

2009-02-17T14:00:00.001-06:00

trees trees trees

2009-02-17T09:16:00.007-06:00

Standing on Satan's Creek that passes through our yard... we will re-name this stretch of the creek, any ideas?

We are in the "doing something" phase of our country living plans... late in fall Mike had a "walk and talk" with a guy from Manitoba Forestry Association, to assess the current state of our lot, and develop a plan for the future potential of it.
It was amazing to receive his report and wonder at his identification of the trees already inhabiting our lot. He saw a huge amount of trees, shrub, illness, pests, wildlife and gave us loads of ideas to get us started down a road of developing our property to best suit desires for the Ultimate Giesbrecht Guy (and mommy) Get Away/ Everyday Living Space

Some of the things we would like to see there are a water feature, for those of you familiar with my parents cabin...
think the bay on the east side... IN THE MIDDLE OF A FIELD. If you were thinking water feature as in... a nice rock waterfall into a flower garden koi pond.
OH NO-This Water Feature will potentially house our geo-thermal-heating and our kayaks, fishing rods for the trout we will stock it with and the tire swing that transports children into the depths, a full size hockey rink in the winter...

And all the displaced dirt?

-picture a couple Giesbrecht children on dirt bikes
(borrowed/stolen images- to give illustration to my nightmare))
in the summer and snowboards in the winter
... a city mothers nightmare...

We have been poring over the tree list and recommendations for a shelter belt, decorative yard trees and forestation of the back end of the property for wildlife... and a peaceful path and quiet sitting spots for the less rambunctious of the property dwellers, and in the winter... a sheltered cross country ski trail.
This week our order goes in to MFA and by spring we will have a crew of tree planters plunking those baby maple, willow, raspberry, poplar, pine trees (etc) into our yard... Our 40 acre... Country yard... somebody pinch me.

Here also is a sampling of the phase one building project... think smaller though this "garage" is HUGE! Our hope is to build a garage with living quarters above to move into while the house is being (well... financed somehow, and) built and then sell our city house to pay off debt and start figuring the timeline and cost of the "BIG HOUSE" (also smaller than this version but these are the starting ground, inspiration for what will actually and eventually become our HOME.... YAY!)

Once that is done... the garage suite will be available... just saying.

Happy Louis Riel Day!

2009-02-16T17:57:00.005-06:00

In celebration of Louis Riel Day Solomon made bannock for lunch.

Love...

2009-02-14T21:41:00.004-06:00

a sweet handmade valentine give away is being offered here

Handmade is such a lovely way to show love!
It has been a lovely handmade love day, even without Mike here to spend it with this weekend. From fresh buns and chicken soup from scratch at Tanis', to time with my mom doing good for our bodies and remembering who loves you and "made you".
Wishing you all time to create for your loved ones! Or a reminder that you are loved by the handmade around you!

Love Love Love!

math for lunch

2009-02-12T12:21:00.004-06:00

* if you have 4 smiles and mommy gives you two more how many will you have?
* if mommy made 25 smiles and there are 4 people eating lunch how many should each person get?

* and Phin gets 1

tiki volcano erupts and causes woman to lose her mind...

2009-02-11T14:29:00.004-06:00

It was a grand plan... but after two failed attempts, I have decided to leave volcano making to paper mache and baking soda... sigh...

But never fear! Out of the lava pits of despair comes very fertile ground for string bean man... "Beano" as Solomon has named him, He is getting ready for a journey to Boston, leaving icy winter behind and hoping for spring...

Don't go Beano! ... (also a visual for why I have had such a hard time accomplishing ANYTHING this month... never mind creating volcanos!) I may still attempt the tiki guys... they are fun looking! Maybe for a summer sister swap...

eye candy-blog candy

2009-02-11T13:45:00.003-06:00

there is a contest for some sweet treats with the requirement being... share a photo of your honey to be entered. I chose this shot of Mike riding in france. He is happy on his bike, and who will argue lycra on your man isn't eye candy...er...

Domestic Monday

2009-02-09T13:33:00.004-06:00

A few weeks ago I found some adorable dinosaur flannel that I immediately wanted to make pocket diapers with, after purchasing the fabric and making a dozen diapers, I went back for the rest of the roll! If you want some simple flannel pocket diapers let me know! I use the snappi method to close but I can add velcro if you prefer.

After sending Ephraim out in the icy street for an egg from Drew, he expertly managed to fall several times on the ice and NOT break the egg, enabling us to make honey muffins... we also made homemade pizza dough for lunch, too bad Mike chose to eat out today! yummy!