The Fourth was grand around here. As predicted, we had plenty of food for 25 people. I love to cook (I love to eat out too though), and had prepared a few dishes. My avocado salad/salsa was a huge hit. I did not expect everyone to clean out the bowl! My roast potatoes were gone, too, but my normal baked taters were left for me to make hash browns the next day. Some years people like gourmet, and some years they like simple. I had wanted to concoct a blueberry and raspberry crisp, but my husband convinced me I should only do blueberry. I did, and it was eaten right up, alongside someone else's fruit pizza, patriotic cookies and raspberry pie. I chuckle, because Mike ended up NOT liking my blueberry crisp. I can't help but think adding raspberries to the crisp would have made it tarter and more yummy to his palate.
I didn't get to play volleyball, I was too busy helping my sis in love in the kitchen. They had just arrived back from a river rafting trip in Oregon and came pack to host the Fourth. Needless to say, she had to be a roll the entire time.
With tummies full, we pounded out a few patriotic tunes, prepared with sheet music and sound track by my husband's uncle. Grand fun.
We set off our fireworks along the road. Our church's youth group has a big fireworks stand every year, so we purchased from them. The ladybugs were adorable! And as tradition would have it, the sparklers were a favorite for my oldest daughter. They are always everyone's favorite. It would not be a Fourth of July in Washington without a little sprinkle, so right in the middle of things, it did just that. Just enough to cool everyone off, clear the air. Then it stopped and we continued with our light shows. There are a couple of gorgeous fireworks displays near the Lake Tapps area and from their home, we could see them clearly. Wonderful to wrap up in blanket and watch them from the comfort of their yard.
We clambered back in the house to watch some Carol Burnett episodes. Very hilarious. What a funny, brilliant woman. Never is a complete night without erupting laughter.
Our kids did pretty well staying up so late. Of course, Reese would not lay down to save her life, but Katie was able to get all cozy on the couch. On the way home, all three girls fell fast asleep, which is saying something because Brilla almost NEVER falls asleep in the car.
Our family continues to enjoy this four-day weekend. Yes, my husband actually has FOUR days off from work! We are relaxing, watching movies, playing at the park and just being together.
Happy Saturday!
Saturday, July 6, 2013
Wednesday, July 3, 2013
Freedom and Other Things I Take for Granted
Well, we have hit summer hard and I think I'm wearing us out. Almost every single day of summer vacation, we have been going somewhere, doing something! It has been a blast, but also goes to show how used to our school schedule we are...lots of lying low, nose in books. Yes, my girls like to play, but we have been REALLY been playing hard! Makes for great naps, and even better bed times. As an aside, this heat and activity has completely cleared up Brilla's cough. (It had held on for a couple months.)
We are proud owners of a trampoline and small pool now :) The girls have been wearing both of those out, as well as the sprinkler and slip n slide. All this water usage has served double purpose since its watering my flowers too. No having to sneak outside and do special watering.
I hope this weather doesn't disappear. I've been loving it. W don't have air conditioning but I don't mind. We just go somewhere that does, then come home for naps. If I blow in cold air during the morning, keep the windows and doors shut when the sun comes out, and close the curtains, it stays fairly cool.
Tonight I made some yummy salmon cakes. That is what happens when your salmon comes out too dry the night before. Paired with cool sauce, it makes for a great low-key dinner.
We can't wait for the Fourth of July celebration around here. Very excited for berry cobbler, roasted potatoes, avocado salsa, and other food goodness. Also happy for volleyball, water games, and gorgeous sunsets. I think often we take family for granted. We are fortunate to have both sides of the family nearby and in good relationships. What fun we have, what awesome memories can be made.
I do miss my brothers and wish they could be joining us. Some day, maybe they'll stay in Washington, who knows,
Most times, I am totally okay with my brothers being across the country. But during holidays or here and there when I least expect it, my heart wanders and I miss them. Kind of go down memory lane and think about the days we were all together and thinking it would forever be that way. I miss the girls not seeing their uncles. Thank goodness for Skype, Facebook and phone calls, but nothing can really replace real life. Time happens though. And God has perfect plans for each of us and they don't all have to occur in the Pacific Northwest. He is continuously working all things for the good of those who love Him. I need to trust in that.
Happy Independence Day!!! This is right up there with Christmas and Thanksgiving for me. The birth of our country, the beginning of freedom for America. So many fought hard to make it so. Poured out their lives. I am humbled by the sacrifice of our forefathers and presidents. Hoping to read the kids some stories tomorrow about it.
Celebrate freedom!
We are proud owners of a trampoline and small pool now :) The girls have been wearing both of those out, as well as the sprinkler and slip n slide. All this water usage has served double purpose since its watering my flowers too. No having to sneak outside and do special watering.
I hope this weather doesn't disappear. I've been loving it. W don't have air conditioning but I don't mind. We just go somewhere that does, then come home for naps. If I blow in cold air during the morning, keep the windows and doors shut when the sun comes out, and close the curtains, it stays fairly cool.
Tonight I made some yummy salmon cakes. That is what happens when your salmon comes out too dry the night before. Paired with cool sauce, it makes for a great low-key dinner.
We can't wait for the Fourth of July celebration around here. Very excited for berry cobbler, roasted potatoes, avocado salsa, and other food goodness. Also happy for volleyball, water games, and gorgeous sunsets. I think often we take family for granted. We are fortunate to have both sides of the family nearby and in good relationships. What fun we have, what awesome memories can be made.
I do miss my brothers and wish they could be joining us. Some day, maybe they'll stay in Washington, who knows,
Most times, I am totally okay with my brothers being across the country. But during holidays or here and there when I least expect it, my heart wanders and I miss them. Kind of go down memory lane and think about the days we were all together and thinking it would forever be that way. I miss the girls not seeing their uncles. Thank goodness for Skype, Facebook and phone calls, but nothing can really replace real life. Time happens though. And God has perfect plans for each of us and they don't all have to occur in the Pacific Northwest. He is continuously working all things for the good of those who love Him. I need to trust in that.
Happy Independence Day!!! This is right up there with Christmas and Thanksgiving for me. The birth of our country, the beginning of freedom for America. So many fought hard to make it so. Poured out their lives. I am humbled by the sacrifice of our forefathers and presidents. Hoping to read the kids some stories tomorrow about it.
Celebrate freedom!
Thursday, June 13, 2013
Who Are You Listening To?
This post is born out of my need to check myself - who am I listening to?
I'm not talking about actually listening to music or sermons. Mostly, what voices pop into my head when making a decision, when living life. The voice of fear "what if I fail", "what will others think of me"? The voice of default "it's always done this way, don't change it up"?, the voice of discouragement "you will never amount to anything", "you are not worth much"?
I think the greatest hindrance to obeying the Holy Spirit is not our inability to hear Him, but letting the other opinions (untruths) skew our path. For those who have followed Christ for a long time, it may be the opinion of other Christians you hold in high regard. For the new, it could be our past that does not let to easily, the voices that tell us we cannot change, you will not be able to break the cycle of sin. Praise God we can do NOTHING on our own, Christ already paid the debt, and He continually quickens us in His ways. So He not only initially saves, but redeems and sustains. He does not leave us as orphans. We have the Holy Spirit, always with us, speaking Gods Truth in our hearts.
And even as I write that, I know I don't always live on that Truth.
Instead, I think, what will others think of me? Will they look down on our family's choices? Will I look foolish? Will I appear a failure? Will I appear not committed? Sometimes it's like being a teenager all over again. The insecurity, the need for acceptance, the awkwardness of being different, or discomfort of maybe sticking out.
For me, this concerns a certain decision having to do with homeschooling. It's not a huge one, but it could be. Others could view my decision as something else, but I know it's a wise one. The Lord put it on my heart a while ago. And I need to follow through because its what's best for my kids, so thankful my husband is on board and he's my biggest supporter. So grateful he listens to me with ears wide open, no judgment, no condemnation.
It really helps to have someone like that in your life. Someone to lean on. Someone you know who is not easily swayed by what others think.
Next time you need to make a decision and you ask yourself "what will others think"...remember- what has God called you to? Can you not trust Him that He will see it through? He is big enough to handle it. And the purpose is to bring Him glory anyway, not maintain our 'good reputation'.
People are masters at making us feel weird for making a choice that goes against the flow, but they are wimps. Yes, it's dumb to make waves just to make a personal statement, but when we are doing it for the best cause ever, Jesus, there's not need to second guess.
I'm not talking about actually listening to music or sermons. Mostly, what voices pop into my head when making a decision, when living life. The voice of fear "what if I fail", "what will others think of me"? The voice of default "it's always done this way, don't change it up"?, the voice of discouragement "you will never amount to anything", "you are not worth much"?
I think the greatest hindrance to obeying the Holy Spirit is not our inability to hear Him, but letting the other opinions (untruths) skew our path. For those who have followed Christ for a long time, it may be the opinion of other Christians you hold in high regard. For the new, it could be our past that does not let to easily, the voices that tell us we cannot change, you will not be able to break the cycle of sin. Praise God we can do NOTHING on our own, Christ already paid the debt, and He continually quickens us in His ways. So He not only initially saves, but redeems and sustains. He does not leave us as orphans. We have the Holy Spirit, always with us, speaking Gods Truth in our hearts.
And even as I write that, I know I don't always live on that Truth.
Instead, I think, what will others think of me? Will they look down on our family's choices? Will I look foolish? Will I appear a failure? Will I appear not committed? Sometimes it's like being a teenager all over again. The insecurity, the need for acceptance, the awkwardness of being different, or discomfort of maybe sticking out.
For me, this concerns a certain decision having to do with homeschooling. It's not a huge one, but it could be. Others could view my decision as something else, but I know it's a wise one. The Lord put it on my heart a while ago. And I need to follow through because its what's best for my kids, so thankful my husband is on board and he's my biggest supporter. So grateful he listens to me with ears wide open, no judgment, no condemnation.
It really helps to have someone like that in your life. Someone to lean on. Someone you know who is not easily swayed by what others think.
Next time you need to make a decision and you ask yourself "what will others think"...remember- what has God called you to? Can you not trust Him that He will see it through? He is big enough to handle it. And the purpose is to bring Him glory anyway, not maintain our 'good reputation'.
People are masters at making us feel weird for making a choice that goes against the flow, but they are wimps. Yes, it's dumb to make waves just to make a personal statement, but when we are doing it for the best cause ever, Jesus, there's not need to second guess.
Thursday, June 6, 2013
5:30 was my wake up this morning. Amazingly, I felt very rested. So I got up and watered my lawn and flowers. What a beautiful morning. The birds chirping, the heat from yesterday still hanging in the air.
I am trying to decide what I'll do with my girls today. Of course, we must do school, but I am also thinking we will go get some more things for our yard. A pot, a bench, a bird bath. I also need some sunglasses, so we'll likely stop at Target. Hm. Maybe it will be just a casual outing after all. I may reward their patience during Mommy's shopping with a trip to the park.
Funny Brilla saying for the week: She told her friend as they entered our garage (aka "the pit", there is so much junk in there) "We have a lot of stuff in our garage, we're rich." Hahaha...love it.
Her friend wanted to know if we really were rich, hence how us moms both found out what Brilla said. Kids are fantastic.
I know where she's going with the whole "rich" thing. I know my daughters mind. Though she's only six, she is a deep thinker, and some times blows me away. After listening to Crazy Love (Francis Chan), we came to the conclusion that compared to a lot of people in poor countries, and even the USA, we are rich. We have a place to call home, we can afford the mortgage, heat, food and clothing. (Like, out of this world amounts of clothing.) We have always told Brilla we are very rich because God has given us everything we need, plus our wants from time to time. And that we should be so thankful for all He has given, we want to share all we have with others. Nothing is ours, it's all Gods, and He lends it to us for a time.
So, yes we ARE rich. We have beyond everything we could ask for or think up! As God as our ultimate Provider and gift-giver, we lack for nothing. Never have, never will.
I need to remember this when I am in a funk. Often it's our worldly mindset that gets us thinking we don't have enough or need what we don't. God is gracious, he doesn't slap us upside the head for that kind of thinking (well not usually). Instead He graciously reveals Himself, gently prods. He knocks until we open.
I need to remember the simple faith of my six-year-old.
I am trying to decide what I'll do with my girls today. Of course, we must do school, but I am also thinking we will go get some more things for our yard. A pot, a bench, a bird bath. I also need some sunglasses, so we'll likely stop at Target. Hm. Maybe it will be just a casual outing after all. I may reward their patience during Mommy's shopping with a trip to the park.
Funny Brilla saying for the week: She told her friend as they entered our garage (aka "the pit", there is so much junk in there) "We have a lot of stuff in our garage, we're rich." Hahaha...love it.
Her friend wanted to know if we really were rich, hence how us moms both found out what Brilla said. Kids are fantastic.
I know where she's going with the whole "rich" thing. I know my daughters mind. Though she's only six, she is a deep thinker, and some times blows me away. After listening to Crazy Love (Francis Chan), we came to the conclusion that compared to a lot of people in poor countries, and even the USA, we are rich. We have a place to call home, we can afford the mortgage, heat, food and clothing. (Like, out of this world amounts of clothing.) We have always told Brilla we are very rich because God has given us everything we need, plus our wants from time to time. And that we should be so thankful for all He has given, we want to share all we have with others. Nothing is ours, it's all Gods, and He lends it to us for a time.
So, yes we ARE rich. We have beyond everything we could ask for or think up! As God as our ultimate Provider and gift-giver, we lack for nothing. Never have, never will.
I need to remember this when I am in a funk. Often it's our worldly mindset that gets us thinking we don't have enough or need what we don't. God is gracious, he doesn't slap us upside the head for that kind of thinking (well not usually). Instead He graciously reveals Himself, gently prods. He knocks until we open.
I need to remember the simple faith of my six-year-old.
Saturday, June 1, 2013
This afternoon is lazy. These days are rare and I am soaking it up. The sun out gives extra reason to be happy.
Brilla is out playing with her friends and the littles are napping. And silence from Mike means he's catching winks too.
I got some gardening/yard work done earlier this morning. A friend also came over and offered to mow our lawn while Mike did some business-related things. Very kind.
Did I mention I have completed my yard?? Yes! All done. It took the average of four weeks, and I still have a few things I want to do, but it is mostly finished. I still want to purchase a couple pots, bench, and other foofy things, but all the weeding, topsoil, and bark processes are done, as well as flowers planted. It looks so nice that today I have been laying out on the grass, reading a book, enjoying it. In fact, just came in because I was getting too hot.
I have photos, but alas, I don't know how to connect them from my tablet. Hm, will have to work on that.
Brilla is out playing with her friends and the littles are napping. And silence from Mike means he's catching winks too.
I got some gardening/yard work done earlier this morning. A friend also came over and offered to mow our lawn while Mike did some business-related things. Very kind.
Did I mention I have completed my yard?? Yes! All done. It took the average of four weeks, and I still have a few things I want to do, but it is mostly finished. I still want to purchase a couple pots, bench, and other foofy things, but all the weeding, topsoil, and bark processes are done, as well as flowers planted. It looks so nice that today I have been laying out on the grass, reading a book, enjoying it. In fact, just came in because I was getting too hot.
I have photos, but alas, I don't know how to connect them from my tablet. Hm, will have to work on that.
I just got back from a trip down to sunny (and smoggy) Los Angeles. Give me sun, though, and I'm not a huge complainer. It was in the 70s with slight wind. Perfect. My cousin got married to the boy she's been dating since high school! Ten years of dating is a long time! They are a very cute couple and I wish them the best.
I didn't take a ton of photos. I was busy chatting with my cousins (I have 33) or catching up with my aunts and uncles.
The first day was wonderful. I got to fly without children! So nice to not have luggage too. I did make the mistake of sitting in front of a family with older kids. You don't expect the older ones to be loud (we are talking ages 10-14) but they were. They sounded like they were riding an amusement park ride. Several hoots and hollers throughout the trip!
I was grateful that my Uncle Gil invited me to his home for home-cooked fare because I was ravenous! He is an excellent chef. He made sea bass, Mongolian beef, cucumber and kale salad, and beef tenderloin steaks. All topped off with rice! The Filipino way :)
So thankful I have such hospitable family in Southern CA, not all families are like that. In fact, I'm finding it's rare.
I helped out with decorating the ballroom but did precious little in the grand scheme of things. The theme was Disney since both Nick & Steff love all things Disney. There was even Disney theme music throughout the reception. Loved it. Black and purple. Old Hollywood themed dresses and tuxes. Almost a rocker chick/stud look.
Dancing was fun, though I missed not having Mike to sway and be-bop with. Of course, we don't have great moves. But we still love dancing. If we could do it all over again, we would have had dancing at our wedding.
I tried champagne for the first time. I don't like it. It's bitter. Or maybe I'm just a novice and have to get used to the taste of alcohol. For what it's worth, I think I much prefer the taste of sparkling juice and will stick with that. I have a hard enough time watching my calories as it is. I did not grow up with my parents drinking wine or much alcohol on a regular basis. I did hear them having it while out on dates, but never in the home. Mike's parents did not have alcohol in the home ever, period. So before you think us prudes, we simply did not grow up around it and that is why we don't drink. We have made a personal decision to not casually drink, but not because we look down on others who do. We really are not interested in the stuff.
The older I grow, the more I realize how important relationships are. They were (are) important to Jesus, and I think it's inborn in each of us to want close relationships with others. Especially since we're made in God's image. I care deeply for my family and found simple happiness in catching up with each one of them. If I could sum up the best part of this trip to Nick & Steffie's wedding, it would be that. Getting to know those most closely connected with me.
As always, it feels grand to be home again. I enjoy getting back on schedule. I'm weird like that, just my personality. Though in another month or two, I will need another break :) Maybe that will be the time for us to go on a day trip.
I hear those in the Midwest are all done with school. Wish that was the m.o. on the West Coast. Nope, we have another couple weeks left. Really, we are home schooled and can finish anytime we please. Still have quite a few ends to tie, however. Brilla has a Science project presentation to give this Monday, and Latin continues until the end of the month. But we should be done with everything else by June 12.
I didn't take a ton of photos. I was busy chatting with my cousins (I have 33) or catching up with my aunts and uncles.
The first day was wonderful. I got to fly without children! So nice to not have luggage too. I did make the mistake of sitting in front of a family with older kids. You don't expect the older ones to be loud (we are talking ages 10-14) but they were. They sounded like they were riding an amusement park ride. Several hoots and hollers throughout the trip!
I was grateful that my Uncle Gil invited me to his home for home-cooked fare because I was ravenous! He is an excellent chef. He made sea bass, Mongolian beef, cucumber and kale salad, and beef tenderloin steaks. All topped off with rice! The Filipino way :)
So thankful I have such hospitable family in Southern CA, not all families are like that. In fact, I'm finding it's rare.
I helped out with decorating the ballroom but did precious little in the grand scheme of things. The theme was Disney since both Nick & Steff love all things Disney. There was even Disney theme music throughout the reception. Loved it. Black and purple. Old Hollywood themed dresses and tuxes. Almost a rocker chick/stud look.
Dancing was fun, though I missed not having Mike to sway and be-bop with. Of course, we don't have great moves. But we still love dancing. If we could do it all over again, we would have had dancing at our wedding.
I tried champagne for the first time. I don't like it. It's bitter. Or maybe I'm just a novice and have to get used to the taste of alcohol. For what it's worth, I think I much prefer the taste of sparkling juice and will stick with that. I have a hard enough time watching my calories as it is. I did not grow up with my parents drinking wine or much alcohol on a regular basis. I did hear them having it while out on dates, but never in the home. Mike's parents did not have alcohol in the home ever, period. So before you think us prudes, we simply did not grow up around it and that is why we don't drink. We have made a personal decision to not casually drink, but not because we look down on others who do. We really are not interested in the stuff.
The older I grow, the more I realize how important relationships are. They were (are) important to Jesus, and I think it's inborn in each of us to want close relationships with others. Especially since we're made in God's image. I care deeply for my family and found simple happiness in catching up with each one of them. If I could sum up the best part of this trip to Nick & Steffie's wedding, it would be that. Getting to know those most closely connected with me.
As always, it feels grand to be home again. I enjoy getting back on schedule. I'm weird like that, just my personality. Though in another month or two, I will need another break :) Maybe that will be the time for us to go on a day trip.
I hear those in the Midwest are all done with school. Wish that was the m.o. on the West Coast. Nope, we have another couple weeks left. Really, we are home schooled and can finish anytime we please. Still have quite a few ends to tie, however. Brilla has a Science project presentation to give this Monday, and Latin continues until the end of the month. But we should be done with everything else by June 12.
Monday, May 27, 2013
My heart is heavy to hear of the loss caused by the tornado in Oklahoma. It hurts to hear stories of children missing, or teachers who died, their bodies covering surviving children. And more.
Sometimes I wonder why we are so fortunate to go without major natural disasters here in the Pacific NW. Grateful yes, but empathetic for others' loss, also yes. I could send money, but in reality, I'd like to resurrect the dead. And erase the events that have occurred.
I m not good at discussing theology during wreckage from national disasters, so I will leave it to those who are.
My husband is finally back home. He had a great trip, a time well-spent with his parents and other relatives, and also attendance at his cousin's beautiful wedding. I am very glad to have him back. He's such a huge help and I just plain missed him :) The girls especially. You should have seen him at dinner. All three climbing into his lap, vying for his attention! He could barely eat!
Today was co-op day. Brilla goes to the church to study Latin, Science and Art. Today was watercolor painting. Her teacher is excellent. They collectively painted a bird (the name fails me) with yellow and black. Brilla made a mistake and was down on herself, but cheered her with the fact that it doesn't have to be perfect and we are allowed mistakes, and her painting is till gorgeous to boot. She seemed happy about that.
After the big morning/afternoon, I put the littlest ones down to nap while Brilla and I "played" in the yard. I got most of our plants potted, or planted in the ground. The only things waiting now are the groundcovers. Just waiting for the weed killer to take effect so I can cover with dirt, and plant. It is looking so pretty around here! But I tell you what, gardening is exhausting and can take weeks. I need t remind myself it's not a sprint, but a marathon.
Later we had yummy leftover salmon, pilaf and peas such a simple, but heathy, meal.
Sometimes I wonder why we are so fortunate to go without major natural disasters here in the Pacific NW. Grateful yes, but empathetic for others' loss, also yes. I could send money, but in reality, I'd like to resurrect the dead. And erase the events that have occurred.
I m not good at discussing theology during wreckage from national disasters, so I will leave it to those who are.
My husband is finally back home. He had a great trip, a time well-spent with his parents and other relatives, and also attendance at his cousin's beautiful wedding. I am very glad to have him back. He's such a huge help and I just plain missed him :) The girls especially. You should have seen him at dinner. All three climbing into his lap, vying for his attention! He could barely eat!
Today was co-op day. Brilla goes to the church to study Latin, Science and Art. Today was watercolor painting. Her teacher is excellent. They collectively painted a bird (the name fails me) with yellow and black. Brilla made a mistake and was down on herself, but cheered her with the fact that it doesn't have to be perfect and we are allowed mistakes, and her painting is till gorgeous to boot. She seemed happy about that.
After the big morning/afternoon, I put the littlest ones down to nap while Brilla and I "played" in the yard. I got most of our plants potted, or planted in the ground. The only things waiting now are the groundcovers. Just waiting for the weed killer to take effect so I can cover with dirt, and plant. It is looking so pretty around here! But I tell you what, gardening is exhausting and can take weeks. I need t remind myself it's not a sprint, but a marathon.
Later we had yummy leftover salmon, pilaf and peas such a simple, but heathy, meal.
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