tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25787940096713548562024-03-12T18:48:36.621-06:00Borderline bonkersAnna-b-bonkershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11470379679830893275noreply@blogger.comBlogger226125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2578794009671354856.post-14078958447712162432011-05-27T17:29:00.001-06:002011-05-27T17:30:31.348-06:00Stalling, filling<div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">I am trying to get some photos up on flicker and it is taking a day or two so I am filling the time with a filler.</div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">First I want to thank everyone for the comments, messages, posts and e-mails in regards to my last blog post. I was kinda freaking out about posting what I was going through and had no idea that a lot of you were going through much of the same. Thank you!</div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">I want to share more, talk more, I wish I could talk to each one of you and mull stuff over but that will have to wait until some other day.</div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">At this moment I just want to say that my husband is awesome, all sort of awesomesauce!!</div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">He is my best friend, we can and do talk about everything, he is my hero and my lover.</div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;"><br />
</div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;"><img alt="DSC_0273" border="0" class="pc_img" height="159" id="yui_3_3_0_3_13065371862901070" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5104/5765832073_fb20e4d1b4_m.jpg" width="240" /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;"><img alt="DSC_0275" border="0" class="pc_img" height="159" id="yui_3_3_0_3_13065371862901175" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5030/5765836275_aabbb1b1ec_m.jpg" width="240" /></span><br />
<div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">And he bakes cookies with the kids.</div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;"><img alt="DSC_0267" border="0" class="pc_img" height="159" id="yui_3_3_0_3_13065371862901082" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2343/5766369052_5df05f9ced_m.jpg" width="240" /></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">He is strong and a great leader.<br />
<div><br />
</div><div><img alt="DSC_0278" border="0" class="pc_img" height="240" id="yui_3_3_0_3_13065371862901097" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3226/5765840273_bf6f8e1a2b_m.jpg" width="159" /><img alt="DSC_0281" border="0" class="pc_img" height="240" id="yui_3_3_0_3_13065371862901109" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3383/5765844961_f99a2c0992_m.jpg" width="159" /><img alt="DSC_0284" border="0" class="pc_img" height="240" id="yui_3_3_0_3_13065371862901131" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2639/5766396582_aeff26f0fd_m.jpg" width="159" /></div><div><br />
</div><div>He has faith.</div><div><br />
</div><div><img alt="DSC_0296" border="0" class="pc_img" height="159" id="yui_3_3_0_3_13065371862901044" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2704/5766449206_a90fbd274f_m.jpg" width="240" /><img alt="DSC_0295" border="0" class="pc_img" height="159" id="yui_3_3_0_3_13065371862901164" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2076/5765893731_e9ce0a1aff_m.jpg" width="240" /></div><div><br />
</div><div>He puts his family and our needs above his.</div><div><br />
</div><div><img alt="DSC_0291" border="0" class="pc_img" height="159" id="yui_3_3_0_3_13065371862901053" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3638/5765864337_e4e3d356ca_m.jpg" width="240" /><img alt="DSC_0290" border="0" class="pc_img" height="159" id="yui_3_3_0_3_13065371862901142" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2098/5766403740_d82d68e391_m.jpg" width="240" /></div><div><br />
</div><div>He provides for us.</div><div><br />
</div><div><img alt="DSC_0292" border="0" class="pc_img" height="159" id="yui_3_3_0_3_13065371862901150" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5186/5765875867_403dd764fe_m.jpg" width="240" /><img alt="DSC_0293" border="0" class="pc_img" height="159" id="yui_3_3_0_3_13065371862901190" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2523/5765886389_ccc96f6002_m.jpg" width="240" /></div><div><br />
</div></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">And loves us and supports us.</div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">I love him.</div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">And he does laundry. Seriously, he rocks at it!!</div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">Awesome.</div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">Thats it.</div>Anna-b-bonkershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11470379679830893275noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2578794009671354856.post-65116717514284181322011-05-11T13:59:00.006-06:002011-05-11T15:12:59.035-06:00I am going to expose myself....sorta.I have been at a loss for where to start with this post...for a few years. I kinda don't want to talk about it at all but at the same time I want to share because it has become who I am.<br />
<br />
You might hate me after this or think I am nuts. Well those of you who really know me think I am nuts anyway so what does it matter! If you still choose to be ok with me I am honored.<br />
<br />
I don't want to drive any of you away, I love you all but I think it is time I came out with it.....I am emotional saying this because I feel like I am opening a little window into a very fragile place.<br />
I guess it is a little soul bearing and it makes me feel really vulnerable. Like I want to shut down e-mail and comments and twitter and instagram and fb and no more texting either because I am afraid what people might say. I am so far from perfect and that is why. I am on a journey and keep failing and slipping and don't want everyone saying, "Look at you, you screw up, you are all talk, look at what you are doing!!" I know it, all the stinkin time, I guess it should keep me more humble the deeper the holes I dig.<br />
<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3069/5710529865_8f1e005194.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<br />
Anyway, I am going to share.<br />
I have been on a spiritual searching kind of trip for a couple years now. Asking myself questions, searching the scriptures. Figuring out what I really believe. I have done this before, well I thought I had but it is different this time.<br />
The first time around was 10 years ago. I was 20 and<s> was ok </s> thought I was ok to explore and check out everything around me. I wanted to get a feel for the world and a feel for God and wanted to figure out what I really wanted. I read the Bible and prayed and did the opposite too, complete opposite. I wish I hadn't, I still have hurts and experiences that haunt.<br />
In the end I decided to live for God and that was that, I felt empty and fake without Him there.<br />
<br />
Now it is different. I still believe in God but my soul has longed for a deeper connection. To know God. I started to read the Bible as if I had never seen it before. I pushed away all the quotes and teaching that I have learned over my life time. I wanted to really see what it said to me. I studied what went on around the time that the Bible was written and then the time that it was put together. I wanted to know what influences might have spurred on certain words in translation. Who where the people that translated it and the history behind them. I studied holidays, and customs and traditions. I have a really hard time with Christmas, Easter and everything in between. Christmas and all the stories that you hear of how it started, bawh!! Dig a little deeper! Will this change how I celebrate it. Yes, it has. I thought I could not celebrate it at all a couple years ago but we are working on what is ok or not for us still. that is a trip in itself!<br />
<br />
<br />
So I still have a ton of questions but the more I read and pray the more the Lord reveals to me. I have to be quiet and listen for His voice. I hear it, something I only dreamt of. I am pretty good at missing it too.<br />
<br />
The funny and strange thing about this journey is that it has made me less inclined to go to church or be a part of any group. I want to just be. I get discouraged going to church...I have for the last 15 years. I think that we don't hold each other accountable and hold God back. My questions have been swept under the carpet.<br />
I want to go for the fellowship and to encourage and be encouraged. I enjoy the time to worship God but also feel dragged down by those there. Not saying I am perfect, ha, I am sure I am the same way to those there. None of us are prefect so I can't expect anything more. I just feel like we all get a little fake when we go to church. Not raw.<br />
<br />
Then I started to question why I hung out with certain people, were they influencing me in any way? I also questioned Bible teachings.<br />
<br />
I became disappointed in institutions and people. I should never have looked up to them in the first place and maybe I didn't really but I still had expectations.<br />
<br />
Am I confusing you yet?<br />
<br />
I feel like I am talking in code to spare feelings and I probably make no sense.<br />
<br />
Anyway, I wonder about passover and keeping the sabbath. I wonder about the breaking of bread and how loosely it is interpreted by many. I wonder why more women don't cover their hair to pray...is it not also for the angels sake?...the hair is <u>not</u> a covering, reread the passage....it is a veil mentioned as a covering in the original translations. I wonder why some men don't cut their hair. I spent a year studying this passage and digging history on hair and coverings and then I wondered why paintings of Jesus always depict him as white with long hair. According to history he would have had a bowl cut as that was the custom then and of course he was a jew. Then I wonder if I need to get less vain and wear a covering all the time, we are to be praying without ceasing aren't we? Some people say that that was an issue from that time period....well then if we can say that expired then we can choose to disregard anything else in the Bible right?<br />
But that is neither here or there and my struggle with the issue is not anyone elses so I will move on. It does not affect our salvation and that is what matters the most. We also are no longer under the law so why do I get so trivial?!<br />
I wonder why we put so much emphasis on the cross when He was most likely crucified on a steak. Crosses in history were satanic. I question symbols that people hold onto. Every cross pendant or charm I have ever owned or been given has been lost or gone missing. I don't normally ever lose things. Just these seem to disappear. Does it become an idol or what is it for me, a place of pride? I thought it was a small proclamation of faith at one time but I don't know now.<br />
I wonder about the way pastors are lifted up in churches above other gifts. I wonder about true heart worship and the leading of the spirit. I wonder if we could have less tradition and worship from a deeper place within. I wonder why we don't get real with the Word.<br />
<br />
My dear husband has been on a journey too. He became a Christian after we met and has had a lot of soul searching too. For him with a fresher perspective he has struggled even more. To him Christianity is black or white, there is no room for grey. I have searched out the grey my whole life!<br />
But that grey area is also the most dangerous...it can also be lukewarm.<br />
<br />
So things have changed in our home. We no longer have TV, well no signal or cable. We have the actual TV but it is only for movies and they have to pass the test.<br />
Are they glorifying to God? Is His name being lifted up or cast down? Will I be encouraged or be dragged down? Does it show something that I would be embarrassed about if Jesus was in the room with me....He is in the room so I should think about this.<br />
I never realized how much the little things drag a person down until we cut ourselves off. I was so terrified of loosing TV and before we moved in January I watched as much as possible so the withdrawal wouldn't be so bad.<br />
Ha, dumb! I haven't missed it at all. And I feel lighter and more at peace and we were pretty careful about what we watched already. It was like we took a big chunk of the world out of our home. Weird. I am by no means saying that everyone needs to ditch their TV, this was an issue for us...it was one of our grey areas so it went. So did certain music and books. We still have a long ways to go though, we are always finding that we need to let something go to strengthen our walk and sometimes it is really hard. We still hold on to things that we know we need to let go of. And there are probably things that others might question that we haven't even thought of!<br />
<br />
So then we come to friendships. Everyone is on a different journey and going through different things. Some people are spiritual and some are not, what do we do?<br />
Are our other Christian friends dragging us down and discouraging our walk with the Lord? Our call to separation? It is easy to look on the outward appearance and forget that God looks on the heart...we don't know what might be going on below the surface. Sometimes it is easy to get wrapped up in other peoples problems or issues and what they are or aren't doing. Or are we encouraging and lifting up those around us?<br />
To be friends with the world is enmity with Christ. Where do you draw the line? Do you draw the line?What is your testimony...do you have a testimony? Do you love your neighbor as yourself and judge not lest ye be judged? It is sometimes easier to be friends with the world because it is clear where they stand. To be friends with God's people is a bigger challenge because we are stumbling blocks to each other more often than encouragers of the faith.<br />
Harder to say than do and it has been something that I have been learning for the last few years. Just to love and not judge......just love <u>love</u> love and shut up already! And you know what, after a bit it starts to stick and despite what you would want to normally think you just start to see things in a new light and see things just as they are and be ok with it. It is not my place to judge people, their actions might be something I don't agree with but I can still love the person and not the action. Christ loves us even when we are the most unlovable and wicked and dirty. He takes us in His arms and forgives us and cleanses us. I need to be the same. His light needs to shine through me.<br />
And you know what....I kinda suck at this. I forget that I am to love and not judge and say stupid stuff I wish I could shove back in my mouth. But then I remember and pray. I am learning. Slowly.<br />
<br />
Am I doing things for my approval, my friends, my family or co-workers....God?<br />
<br />
What about fashion? Modesty? What is modest and what isn't? What is socially acceptable and what is God acceptable?<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3250/5705811881_350bc05174.jpg" /><br />
<br />
I struggle with this....I really do. I believe I can be modest and still seductive so then it becomes a matter of how I act as well. Where people struggle is on different levels and I still want to please my husband and not be frumpy....we have been there before and he NEEDS me to be kicking it up a notch for him...and truthfully I find it fun to do so! But how do I do this without going overboard? Is this something we need to work on big time as a couple?<br />
<br />
At the same time I wonder if all these things that I wonder about could just be a big distraction. We live in the day of grace and what matters is the <u>salvation of souls. </u><br />
We can be distracted with a million things that take our focus off the Lord. Where should our gaze be? How do we refocus?<br />
<br />
The pleasure of dabbling in sin is short term and the consequences are often forever. Pain that can last a life time and into eternity if we don't get right with God. And what have I learned? That living for God actually feels better, I am happier! You might think I should be miserable, sin can be so fun right?! But I am more fulfilled and at peace than ever. I am surprised too....I can only imagine the deeper I get how much better it could be!<br />
<br />
I am finding that my faith demands more. But at the same time I feel like I am still at the beginning of a huge journey, like the Lord has so much more in store and I am holding him back by all the little things I let get in the way. I want to be more like Him but I know it takes time too. I am learning little by little as I go on.<br />
<br />
You might laugh when you read all this, you know how I am and might wonder why I even think all this stuff. Ya, I told you I have a long way to go!!<br />
<br />
And I fight myself on it too! I am rebellious by nature and want to do what is the opposite to what anyone thinks I should do. I find it hard to give in and submit yet at the same time care enough about what people think to also get held back. I am a conundrum!<br />
<br />
Now I am going to quite writing. You can see a glimps of what has been going on around here <s>lately</s> for a couple years. There is so much more still too. When I look around and it seems that most other Christians are fine with anything I think there might be something wrong with me. Have they been through this already and have come full circle and found out that everything is ok? Do I have a lot to learn or what?<br />
<br />
So far I am learning that my faith....<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3299/5709483680_5d3119be9b.jpg" /><br />
<br />
And I will leave it at that.<br />
<br />
<i>If you feel inclined to comment please remember this is just what I am going through. I know we all are on different journeys and wherever you are is fine with me.</i><br />
Peace.Anna-b-bonkershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11470379679830893275noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2578794009671354856.post-88687385875168998012011-04-13T23:33:00.002-06:002011-04-14T00:17:42.664-06:00The day after THAT day.Oy vey! It just took me three shots to log in! You know you haven't blogged for ages when you can't remember the correct username/password combination!<br />
Sheesh!<br />
Ok, so here are five more shots from my phone, hence the grain and then the rest are off my old handy dandy point and shoot which never seems to die and is so stinking handy since it fits in my pocket that I often use it over the big heavy duty good camera. I still love that lil ol thing. Anyway this post is not about phone or point and shoot photography or wannabe photography so I'll shut up about it now and get on with what I really wanted to say!<br />
<br />
Thanks everyone for the comments and fb messages about my last post, the one about one of THOSE days, you guys (gals) are awesome! I know we all have em and we get through them and then the next day, week, month feels like bliss and all is hunkey dorey again!<br />
<br />
Like one of you said, THOSE days are but hicups in life. And they are but they do make life sweeter in the end because they make you appreciate the good days even more.<br />
<br />
OK, now I have to admit that I wrote a post to follow up that last one and then forgot to post it!<br />
Obviously the days since THAT day have been a whole lot better, normal...whatever that is.<br />
So what you are about to read was written a month ago now. And I am going to now get to work on what is really going on now!<br />
...<br />
<br />
So here is how the next day went. We woke up early again but I knew that it was going to be fine. Still no hot water but this time I knew it already so I didn't even try to run a bath. Ha, steps ahead! Coffee, well I planned an outing so I didn't have to try to make it eventually either, rather I would get it while we where out, now I was already way ahead of the game!<br />
I washed my face and put mascara on, and felt like a million bucks! If I put that effort in, even to just put on a smidgin of make up I feel so much better. (Note to self, DO THIS MORE OFTEN!)<br />
Maybe lip gloss tomorrow, ooo, and looking at this (really grainy-makes my skin look funny)shot I think I should cut some bangs too, we'll see. I definitely need a tan!<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5252/5516344133_1ac5891a8d.jpg" /><br />
<br />
I think the fact that the sun was shining and the snow was melting might have helped a little too but truth was that I was in a different mind set. I had prayed and was settled and determined that we were going to have a better day. We would have an adventure, that is what life is right?!<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5220/5518582906_0b935c40a2.jpg" /><br />
<br />
We hit the road to a local town up the highway where my aunt works at the gas station coffee shop. We stopped in for coffee and met a few locals before venturing back out to check out the regional library.<br />
<br />
<img alt="photo" border="0" class="pc_img" height="240" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5218/5516933536_ecaf7503ce_m.jpg" width="240" /><img alt="photo" border="0" class="pc_img" height="240" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5018/5516933858_8b13ec4e0d_m.jpg" width="240" /><br />
<br />
It was funny, not in a ha ha way but just so different than the ones we were used to in the city. The kids were so excited until they saw it and then they asked to please go to the big central library downtown in the city next time. Can't say I blame them. Not that anything is wrong with the little library out in the small town but they like the toys and computers and activity boards in the city. It is just different.<br />
<br />
By the time we were done checking it out it was noon and the whole town shut down for an hour so we went home for lunch and then headed out to take advantage of the warm day.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5057/5516933000_8c32c301c5.jpg" /><br />
<br />
I thought a walk up or down the road, maybe around the village might be nice.<br />
We never made it past the driveway.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5219/5516416141_fbdcb552da.jpg" /><br />
<br />
And instead explored the yard.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5097/5516419047_30d6708e84.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5173/5516434423_5d2668236a_z.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5016/5516427363_899a1b99ed.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5095/5516420887_bfd4a44171.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5139/5517021926_734cda9f06.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5173/5516438361_858a4a180b.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5219/5516436995_d8d3f198e0.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5139/5518198400_d92291917f.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5176/5517018298_f3df0124e9.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5097/5517029660_f33b311e4c.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5255/5517031128_bba92bd106.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<br />
OK, now that was as far as I got with writing that night a month ago.<br />
<br />
Fast forward to tonight, posting night. Not sure where I was going with that now but hey, I was having a better day!<br />
Now I want to get back to editing and cruising photos for the post in my head!<br />
<br />
Here is to a great...super wet and flooded muddy spring!Anna-b-bonkershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11470379679830893275noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2578794009671354856.post-10793107411094801092011-03-10T01:13:00.003-06:002011-03-10T19:52:49.439-06:00One of THOSE days.<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5214/5513935142_92e88f20e9.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Yo, sup? <i>(I don't know why I just said that , I never say that!)</i> Really though, there is a lot up. Always is isn't there. And today was no exception.<br />
<br />
Ever had a stupidly rough day? Not bad rough, just stupid. The kind of day that starts with your kids getting up an hour earlier than normal. Hmm, not so bad you think, I can make coffee right. OK, so I planned to make coffee, that took a few hours but hey, it's not bad just slow so far. A bath would be great and then we will be back on track. So I ran a bath. Hmmm, cold. I am guessing the element in the water heater blew again, this happened last week so I am guessing that is what it is. Still a bath would be nice. So I boiled water and added it to the cold bath and had a very short luke warm bath. Not so awesome.<br />
<br />
But hey, the sun is shining and my kids are <s>running around nearly naked so I have less laundry to do</s> cheerful and awesome. The day is looking up!<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5291/5513937368_892c026423.jpg" /><br />
<br />
We are raising super heros you know!<br />
They will wear the full armor of God and be prepared to ward off the whiles of the devil when we are done with them. Or so I pray. That is my job right? To prepare these little people for the big adult world. That is what I signed up for without even thinking about it 5 years ago. I am growing and nurturing future citizens here. Educating and leading. Not babysitting and entertaining as some might think. It is a big job and one that I feel like I fail at on so many levels.<br />
<br />
Today I feel like the day kicked my butt. I set a few goals. Got half of one done, yip!<br />
We were going to do school in a timely fashion. But we unschooled today. De-schooled.....didn't school, whatever. We started to do a project on building robots and were going to learn about setting goals and planing and following through and then seeing the final product while at the same time honing some skill with cutting and folding and gluing and taping and coloring and counting and writing. Anyway that all got derailed when halfway through the project Hudson spilled his juice box all over the table and we had to set everything out on a towel in the sun to dry for a few hours. We never got back to it. Tomorrow.<br />
<br />
Some days we don't get to school until late.<br />
And it is for the better, we are out on adventures and then at the end of the day with all the energy worn off we sit down and calmly get it done. Not today. Not tonight though.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-LeigieWZCII/TXhZ30rcxBI/AAAAAAAAFyA/koD5R-LtFGs/s1600/DSC_0016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-LeigieWZCII/TXhZ30rcxBI/AAAAAAAAFyA/koD5R-LtFGs/s320/DSC_0016.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Today was a run for my sanity. Well one little monkey gave me a run for it. The first two kids have been pretty content and happy to be pretty obedient kids. They fight and do normal kid stuff once in a while but they have always listened after being disciplined .... or maybe I am blocking it out but I sure don't remember getting the go around that I am getting with Huds. He is the biggest charmer and flirt and also the mischief maker.<br />
<br />
Then again I never had a 1 1/2 year old with a half finished home and very tempting holes in the floors and walls. I have no idea how we will get all the toys out of the heat vent without taking all the pipes apart.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5180/5513935948_792b414825.jpg" /><br />
<br />
And the walls.<br />
Oh the poor beautiful walls.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-xqfZpdr2VY0/TXhZLREou-I/AAAAAAAAFx8/0IACTqAU3VU/s1600/DSC_0024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-xqfZpdr2VY0/TXhZLREou-I/AAAAAAAAFx8/0IACTqAU3VU/s320/DSC_0024.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Seriously. You are busted. Again. Every stinking day.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5296/5513341897_87c766e472.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Yes, I know why the Lord made you cute.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5294/5513340431_79e87d1d90.jpg" /><br />
<br />
It is a very redeeming quality but it doesn't change the trouble in his wake.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5292/5513938404_24f8d30971.jpg" /><br />
<br />
I am so glad that Ronin has yet to be any trouble but the guy is on the move.<br />
In no time flat now he goes from laying on his stomach to sitting up. <br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5217/5513937742_d757fb3ec3.jpg" /><br />
<br />
And is for the most part a happy camper, which I need since apparently I cannot turn my back for a moment or something happens. And if you are wondering about all the nearly naked pictures it is because it is so very hot in our house. Although it is frigid outside our furnace doesn't kick in all day with all the south window exposure. This guy was sweating up a storm.<br />
<br />
Anyway, as I was saying something always happens the moment I am not looking. Toys and shoes and clothes and books thrown in the bath. Or maybe like tonight, a box of crackers and a box of cereal dumped in two seconds flat.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5218/5513337185_e11ebf410b.jpg" /><br />
<br />
And I do think I should have been more in tune with what was happening behind my back but with Dave working late tonight I decided to let the kids watch a movie so I could get this painting done and shipped already. We would all be in the same room so I could watch them out the corner of my eye as I worked. However with no cupboard doors yet apparently the loot on the shelves is a little tempting.<br />
<br />
And with me taking way longer to get orders out lately than it should (or maybe not) I was trying to get something done and wasn't looking for a just a few minutes. Two minutes!<br />
After today I think that I really have to give up doing custom work for a while. I am behind and I have 10+ orders to get out in the next few weeks. I realize that this gives me some stress and I hate stress. I like that mellow non stress feeling all the time and when I am crunched with work I feel that icky tight stress ball creeping back. I rather like watching the kids pretend that the paint tubes are people and they play house as I do real house stuff. Then again this is just begging for an accident too isn't it.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5059/5513932822_efc85ae0d6.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Thing is that I love to do the work once I get started, I really love it and that is why I keep doing it. But isn't it true that sometimes you have to give up doing something you love to keep things going smoothly every where else. Something always has to give and it can't be the kids or the house or the meals. Of course now that they are in bed I can do some work and it is ok. I just CANNOT try to sneak moments of work in during the day again.<br />
<br />
<img alt="photo" border="0" class="pc_img" height="240" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5137/5513933878_1be6e93d3a_m.jpg" width="240" /><br />
<br />
And did you know that trying to vacuum crackers and cereal from a shag carpet is a huge pain. Of course I was not too pleased and was vacuuming rather vigorously trying to get it all out and ran over the corner of a blanket. It jammed the machine and when I pulled it out of the powerhead I lost power. No spin action. Grr. I fiddled and turned it on and off and unplugged it and tried again. Dead. What should I have expected?! It is my lucky day right.<br />
<br />
<img alt="photo" border="0" class="pc_img" height="240" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5217/5513338129_eae1876fce_m.jpg" width="240" /><br />
<br />
I was glad that Dave had left his shop vac in the play room and brought it to the rescue.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5175/5513338621_c6fcc57871_m.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img alt="photo" border="0" class="pc_img" height="240" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5175/5513338621_c6fcc57871_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
<br />
Only problem was that I had to use the nozzle. 35 mins later it was clean. That felt good.<br />
Something got done today!<br />
OK, so more than just that got done today but for some reason I just felt like I was 10 steps behind where I needed to be. I did figure out that there was a reset on the Dyson though after the fact. At least my vacuum isn't really fried after all!<br />
<br />
Time to brew a cuppa tea already! Hello that can't go wrong can it?!<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5175/5513936976_02783758fd.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Oh ya. Guess who just brewed a cup of black tea instead of green without thinking and is now totally wired!<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5177/5513339481_cb5a711838.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Yup. Seriously.<br />
I might as well paint now!<br />
But it is that weird kind of wired, when you can feel it in the pit of your stomach and you are kinda jittery. And I really need to <s>dance around and power clean my house</s> sleep. Weee........<br />
<br />
So anyway since my mind is spinning, wanna know something?<br />
Well maybe some of you know this already since you might have formal art training but I don't have any so I will share it with those of you who don't know.<br />
When I was a little kid we once visited this elderly woman in a town close to here and she took me into her basement to show me her art. She had (from what I can remember) some really stunning portraits and then she showed me how she painted them. Upside down.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5295/5514002504_5a3c2246b9.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">I have flipped paintings upside down ever since that one incident when I was maybe 10 or 11 years old.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">You see when you flip it you no longer see it as the same piece. Instead you see lines and shapes and color and math. You can see all the areas you were struggling with and know exactly how to fix them. (I have a lot of work to do on this one and I HAVE to get it shipped!) It gives you a whole new perspective. I still paint all my pieces right side up and only flip them to check them or make corrections but some people paint everything upside down. Cool huh!</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Alright I have to get off here. I have to get to sleep. Here's hoping that there is hot water in the morning and I can make the coffee before noon. I will be set! Cheers!</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><i>p.s. All the big square photos are off my phone so that is why they are kinda crummy.</i></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div>Anna-b-bonkershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11470379679830893275noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2578794009671354856.post-69945353623444197762011-02-23T02:41:00.001-06:002011-02-23T02:47:35.718-06:00Finally home.<div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5011/5470158910_775f1b6761.jpg" /></div><div><i>(I am sorry if there are mistakes in my post, it is late and I don't want to proof read, I want to go to bed, please forgive the errors, nightyo.)</i></div><div>So, we are here. Three years from the time we bought it. Two summers of it being a cottage. One and a half years of renovating. Now we are living our dream. A dream that changed and shrunk and was reworked and fine tooned to become what we have now.</div><div>It still feels surreal yet at the same time I feel so removed from our old house and way of life there that it feels like we have been here for years. In truth it has now been nearly a month but it still feels like a vacation. I cannot explain how awesome it is but we are loving it, every moment! I can hardly believe we lived in the city and that I was stressed out about the move and would I like it and would I miss the city and it's conveniences and yada yada. What a waste of stress. I feel hight on happy and sunlight. It is intoxicating.</div><div>We see the deer and squirrels, watch and listen to the birds and hear the occasional snowmobile in the distance.</div><div>And it is not like we are out in the booneys, well not really. We are in a village and we do have neighbors but for the most part it doesn't feel like it. It is a different pace out here.</div><div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5015/5470007116_5771599881.jpg" /></div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div>It is the kind of place where the men folk seem to find their way out onto the streets regularly to chitty chat and it is all casual and friendly, well so far. It is just different. </div><div>And I love it.</div><div><br />
</div><div>I was worried about the winters being lonely and cold. Maybe I will think that someday but I love the solitude so far. It is blissful and peaceful and pretty and calm. I watch the sun come up in the morning and the set over the lake at night, all I ever wanted was to have the light. Well and water. So I'm good.</div><div><br />
</div><div>I know things will be different come the summer though. The trees will fill in with foliage and we wont see the neighbors any more however we will hear parties on the weekends from seasonal cottagers and we will watch fire works nightly through July and August. It was a novelty for about the first two weeks a few summers back but the kids learned to sleep through the pops and bangs in the air. </div><div>But then in the summer we can sit out on the deck and watch boat lights shimmer on the lake, and have bon fires in the yard. I am excited.</div><div><br />
</div><div>So anyway, it has been a long time since I posted. I have meant to but we still are trying to get settled here and it is a lot of work. I feel like I am skipping 12 posts and a million photos on my computer but I want to get to where we are now and I have to show you all what this looks like or risk a few more nasty phone calls, texts and e-mails, ok, ok, here it is already! And your messages really aren't nasty just nagging and they are keeping me awake at night so here we are.</div><div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5100/5469406859_2e4d00f46f.jpg" /></div><div><br />
</div><div>Our mornings usually start out in this corner of the house. I sit with a coffee in my granny green chairs and watch the sun spread pink and peach across the horizon while the kids play and Dave goes for a nap or gets busy with chores. He has had the last two months off to get this place as up to as much speed as possible so he usually gets up with the two babies and lets me stay in bed an extra hour. So nice.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5053/5469431067_f2ca15d6a1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5053/5469431067_f2ca15d6a1.jpg" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div>Starting the morning like this sets my head to vacation mode immediately and then I don't want to get busy working. The sun is warm and filters throughout the house. The furnace doesn't kick in until the sun sets and it has been really cold the last few days. In the -20's and our house was +25 all day although we only had it set to 22. Now come summer this could be an issue but we are surrounded by big trees that fill in and give shade, and then if all else fails there are doors to open and windows to open and of course AC. But for now I am glad there is sun although we could almost wear shades. We need to get blinds, it can get a little squinty.</div><div><br />
</div><div>And squishy.</div><div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5291/5470029068_395ce39d66.jpg" /></div><div><br />
</div><div>Well for Ronin. Only cause he is so squishable.</div><div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5213/5469515279_4bff5a12fd.jpg" /></div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div>The kids are loving it. I was so worried about them liking it and missing our old house and there being many tears. But I am thinking that all that praying so many of you did (thank you btw!) worked wonders. There hasn't been one tear or word of missing it, just exclamations of gladness and joy. Of course they still fight and bicker but over normal stuff, not about hating the new house.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Ethan was the one I was most worried about (again, what a waste of worry, tight stomachs and tension for nothing) since he stressed for months about not wanting to sell the city house, right down to the day we drove out here to spend the first night. But after our first night out here I asked him if he liked it. He said, "Mom, uuuh, I changed my mind, we sell city house, teep tottage!" After that we went back to the city to clean the empty house and he was fine. He had turned the chapter. That easy. I almost cried.</div><div></div><div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5132/5469439455_201fc9da4a.jpg" /></div><div><br />
</div><div>Flowers. Love my man.</div><div><br />
</div><div>He is a goober though sometimes. You know how in decorating magazines they often have a blurred silhouette of a person walking in a room? It give it an extra dimension and some movement and life.</div><div>I wanted to do that since Dave was in the room so I told him to blur. OK, move!</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5099/5470175878_e4f96575b7.jpg" /></div><div><br />
</div><div>Faster, you're not blurring enough.</div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JvrWn_zxzX8/TWS2bFyw2eI/AAAAAAAAFxY/55p-5NtGDk0/s1600/DSC_0187.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JvrWn_zxzX8/TWS2bFyw2eI/AAAAAAAAFxY/55p-5NtGDk0/s400/DSC_0187.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div>OK, he fails as a magazine blurr model but I probably would fail too as the photographer, ok, ok, so it was all my fault for not changing the settings, whatever. </div><div>It was fun and this was the photo that Ethan decided was the coolest, cause daddy's flying.</div><div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5300/5469594481_42f6fa04ee.jpg" /></div><div><br />
</div><div>Anyway, this is the living room. We filter in and out all day and Dave winds up here in the evening to play NHL11. We decided not to get tv so we have a few movies but I haven't missed sitting down to a show once. I thought I would really miss it so I watched as much TV as possible in the few days before we packed up to move out here. But it has been an easy adjustment. I read instead. The kids have wanted to watch shows once in a while but they have some movies and that has filled the void. It's kinda nice.</div><div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5098/5469588153_f25bd0484c.jpg" /></div><div><br />
</div><div>We still have work to do in every corner of the house. The breakfast bar lights still haven't come in and I have yet to pick countertops.</div><div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5295/5469363757_3a78056140.jpg" /></div><div><br />
</div><div>There is art to paint, trim to get purchased, cut, painted and put up, blinds and curtains to get hung. It'll happen when it does. Some day.</div><div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5140/5469942342_0d88410f75.jpg" /></div><div><br />
</div><div>Around noon the kids wind up at the bar where they can watch lunch get prepared and then chow down.</div><div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5254/5469352991_a99734b1cd.jpg" /></div><div><br />
</div><div>Diner style. Order's up!</div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k3bRioQUKhk/TWSxDE-K2TI/AAAAAAAAFxU/xaPg-12GMCg/s1600/IMG_7330.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k3bRioQUKhk/TWSxDE-K2TI/AAAAAAAAFxU/xaPg-12GMCg/s400/IMG_7330.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div>Ronin. Food monster. He loves to eat.</div><div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5178/5469962336_d94eeb7630.jpg" /></div><div><br />
</div><div>We entertained for the first time on family day. It was neat to see how the place would handle a crowd.</div><div>It did. We figured out that we have seating for close to 30. We can paaaaartay! Not that we will but I like that the house has some space.</div><div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5096/5469380669_ddbf512737.jpg" /></div><div><br />
</div><div>In the evening the lights come down. Family time.</div><div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5292/5470111842_4a67ce8b42.jpg" /></div><div><br />
</div><div>And my chandelier which was a huge pain to order and have shipped but I am happy to have it. It is supposed to be a white coral finish but I think it might be more winter twiggy. Either way I think it goes out here. My gram wasn't so sure...she said it was interesting. I think that means it might not be so nice but I wasn't exactly aiming to please the masses.</div><div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5091/5469388613_c429341550.jpg" /></div><div><br />
</div><div>Ah, my kitchen. Extremely uncompleted. The kids school shelves are my temporary island and plywood makes up the counters. I have no doors on the cabinets nor is the hood vent hooked up. The carpenter says it should come together in about a month and a bit. So for now it is functional just not so pretty.</div><div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5093/5469481589_88523a5c4d.jpg" /></div><div><br />
</div><div>I do love my porcelain apron sink though. What a great bathtub.</div><div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5294/5469426269_49ae838d18.jpg" /></div><div><br />
</div><div>And I actually enjoy doing the dishes. I just look outside the whole time. It can be distracting though and I had to rewash a few things cause I forgot to look at what I was doing.</div><div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5256/5469572523_a47f3479b2.jpg" /></div><div><br />
</div><div>I am pretty happy.</div><div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5018/5469938820_9b296fb14c.jpg" /></div><div><br />
</div><div>This is my pantry and office area. There are no cabinet doors here yet either, not proper counter top and no upper cabinets. They will go across the whole wall.</div><div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5052/5469491067_ecfe8286f4.jpg" /></div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div>The bathroom. This has taken some work and it is coming slowly.</div><div>Dave got the tiles that go on the platform around the tub grouted tonight so this should mean we have a functioning tub tomorrow night. Yay! And thank to those of you who let us shower at your places over the last few weeks!</div><div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5056/5469391599_8cd355bb4c.jpg" /></div><div><br />
</div><div>The vanity is custom built from recycled barn board at a friends place. The floors are heated travertine and the rest is yet to come.</div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4KNsBBGBOTw/TWSnnJ5Fy4I/AAAAAAAAFxQ/b-JTXWOwKNg/s1600/bathroomwall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4KNsBBGBOTw/TWSnnJ5Fy4I/AAAAAAAAFxQ/b-JTXWOwKNg/s400/bathroomwall.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is a rendering of the idea I have for the tub surround walls. It is standing pebble tiles. I think it will look better than this photoshop rendition but I did this to get an idea of how it might look. It will be a few weeks before the pebbles arrive though so we will be having very careful baths.</div><div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5174/5469576425_d78ede6fbd.jpg" /></div><div><br />
</div><div>We have great helpers. We start the training young.</div><div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5059/5469400687_bae47d5078.jpg" /></div><div><br />
</div><div>Storage is key since the house is so much smaller than our last. Less than half the size.</div><div>The laundry had to get stacked and share the back entrance and play area. It is functional though and I actually do laundry, well we would all fall on our faces coming in the door if I didn't so I kinda have to now.</div><div><br />
</div><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5020/5470119590_bc7cd72215.jpg" /><br />
<div><br />
<br />
<div></div><div>And at the end of the night we wind down sitting and having quiet family time. We seem to all gravitate to different spaces but since the house is small we are all still together and close. It is different but I like it. I like that all our living spaces are connected. We end up being more connected too.</div><div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5014/5469990450_5b539a8115.jpg" /></div></div><div><br />
</div><div>That wraps it up for now. I would have uploaded more but our internet is slow out here. Not dial up but still slow. I can no longer watch videos on u-tube or facebook. Apps take a day or two to load. It's a different pace out here. </div><div>My speed though. I finally feel like we are home.</div><div><br />
</div>Anna-b-bonkershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11470379679830893275noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2578794009671354856.post-8028903317362607672011-01-07T12:07:00.003-06:002011-01-07T12:12:33.859-06:00Ch-ch-ch-changesI have been having a hard time over the last few weeks pulling things together. I am sure Christmas and New Year have had something to do with it but it just seems that we are all out of whack. Here I now sit with my coffee. It is 11:30 and we have just finished breakfast and are still in jammies. I have a lot to do today and here I am dragging my heels. Our schedule is totally off, kids are waking up at 10 and having late naps and therefore are not ready to sleep until later. Last night Ethan fell asleep at 7, too early but I thought it was ok and we might get back to some semblance of normal. Well, then of course he was awake again by 10 and up and out of bed until 2am. Everyone was up earlier today but we are still dragging. Maybe the fact that I am a little stressed has something to do with it. I don't know.<br />
<br />
But I am happy. In a bitter sweet kind of way.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5084/5329511244_c35b88ce44.jpg" /><br />
<br />
We have sold the house. That's cool. But now I need to pack, and haven't even started. What is our move date? Well I have three weeks to get this done. We turn over the keys on Feb 1st. I know I need a fire lit under my butt but it is hard to get my mind wrapped around the fact that we are moving when I don't have a place that is ready for me yet.<br />
The kids have been taking the idea of the move a little hard. We have had a few teary nights over leaving this house. I hope it is better once we get some stuff out at the lake and it feels more like a home.<br />
Transitioning is hard no matter what, for the good or bad it is still change and change is hard.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5249/5328901777_eddda9430f.jpg" /><br />
<br />
I get choked up looking around this house. Sure it is really old and has old house issues but it is full of great memories. Warm fuzzy memories. Packing up is closing that chapter and although I know great adventure and fun and newness awaits us it is tough to let the old go.<br />
<br />
<img alt="IMG_6472" border="0" class="pc_img" height="180" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5167/5329506822_5109cebc93_m.jpg" width="240" /><img alt="IMG_6471" border="0" class="pc_img" height="180" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5169/5328895545_85dcdefea1_m.jpg" width="240" /><br />
<br />
Dave is going to be working like mad over the next few weeks to get us out there. Floors are going in this weekend. Tile has to be picked and laid too. The kitchen is being built, appliances have been ordered. We have a toilet in a box somewhere and there is a tub in a warehouse waiting to be picked up.<br />
I would love to just get packed and move but it doesn't feel real when you don't even have a floor to put a box down on. This is going to be a long transition and I have a feeling it won't feel complete for a few months. I won't even have my kitchen island ordered until we get moved out there. It will be a process.<br />
For now I am feeling really torn between the two places. I have everyday things to do like dishes and cooking and schooling but I also need to pack and clean and yet at the same time I need to be out picking tile and faucets and a counter and sinks and doors and hmm, maybe a few blinds.<br />
Yesterday I wound up at the antique mall looking for storage solutions so I have a shelf or something other than a tote to throw stuff in once we are out there. I ended up buying three vintage light fixtures instead because my mind was just spinning and I couldn't remember what I was really supposed to be doing.<br />
Today my goal is to first decide which direction we are going to lay the flooring and then to write out an agenda. I need to create a list of things to be done and in what order and set goal dates so I can just reference it and not go out with my head spinning and wind up buying silly things like a huge funky clock instead of tile. I do want a huge funky clock but really, it can wait!<br />
<br />
I have to go get started on this, Kait is asking me when we are going to get going cause it is almost the night time. It is actually lunch time but close enough.Anna-b-bonkershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11470379679830893275noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2578794009671354856.post-33652801616326637102010-12-25T15:54:00.001-06:002010-12-25T15:56:09.588-06:00Merry Christmas!Where is He that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen His star in the east, and are come to worship Him. Matthew 2:2<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5283/5290854753_73f968c7ae.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Merry Christmas everyone!<br />
Not the way I wanted to do this but it has been a crazy few weeks for us so this is the best I can do at the moment. We have gifts to be made still, gifts to be sent, cards that never got penned and photos never taken.<br />
So I hope to send out happy new year cards and gifts....we'll see how it goes considering we accepted an offer on our house on the 23rd and if all goes well we are to be out before February!<br />
<br />
Anyway it is time munch munchies and then on to the bird so I am out!<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/sets/72157625671795288/">Here are a few photos</a> from this morning....more to come.<br />
Love to all!Anna-b-bonkershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11470379679830893275noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2578794009671354856.post-29155079554223913512010-12-20T10:49:00.000-06:002010-12-20T10:49:13.248-06:00Day two, oops.<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5125/5275821407_b47044102f.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Already messing up. I just couldn't catch a moment to sit and do this yesterday so this means two posts today, eek! Here goes one.<br />
Day two's theme was 'bright'. So I thought I would share this not so bright idea that I had that seemed bright at the moment.<br />
You would think I would have learned by now to stop asking for dumb things like...."I want to be blonde all over."<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5249/5275858883_497905602c.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Not such a bright idea.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5161/5275464309_6aea71086a.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Now I have an appointment for tomorrow to go and get some colour put back in. I seem to have issues with communicating with my hair stylists over colour. This is way too white!<br />
<br />
I might as well have some fun with it though while it lasts.....<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5210/5276452466_7efa0bc26a.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<br />
Just to creep you out a little :-)Anna-b-bonkershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11470379679830893275noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2578794009671354856.post-8361381837205596892010-12-18T23:00:00.000-06:002010-12-18T23:00:26.810-06:00Seven days, day 1<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5043/5272515729_71ee26e343.jpg" /><br />
<br />
As a challenge and for fun I decided to get back on the 'seven days' bandwagon!<br />
See you around for the next week...or at least I will try to be around.<br />
You can see what this is all about<a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/sevendays/"> here.</a>Anna-b-bonkershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11470379679830893275noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2578794009671354856.post-74416337274050498962010-12-14T10:10:00.004-06:002010-12-14T14:38:28.359-06:00November - MovermberWhat was with that anyway? Mustachios all around, moustaches, you know what I mean....we got in on that action a little, you'll see later.<br />
November.<br />
Another busy month.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5202/5248445902_143597fb23.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Not as crazy busy at the lake, things are going slower now that Dave is working in the city again and we are relying on outside help to get things done. The one thing that Dave didn't want to do was mud and tape and the guy that we hired...AMAZING!<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5170/5247855923_d554de5899.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5042/5247865781_e68119d9b5.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5249/5247868037_5645b708e1.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5088/5247873715_a2e7b84f1c.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5085/5248486760_4590f1d30a.jpg" /><br />
<br />
It started to really feel like a livable place! Well almost. A toilet would take it that much further in the right direction.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5203/5247881337_471ae7b01f.jpg" /><br />
<br />
So our visits out there were less frequent but that was ok. We were pretty busy in the city doing things like....turning 30!<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5049/5247901179_07b1b7d732.jpg" /><br />
<br />
I shouldn't say we, Dave turned 30 seven years ago so obviously it was my turn. That was a blur of a night, ha, ha, just kidding, it was a nice relaxing evening with a few girlfriends. But turning 30, whew, that crept up on me.<br />
I spent some time thinking about my life's journey to this point. I do feel 30 when it comes down to what I have been through and how my mind has changed. I still feel like the same giddy and energetic 20 year old that I used to be too though, but with less energy and more wisdom. I still have the same thought patterns, like the same food and struggle with distractions but it is like life has become broader and I am comfortable with who I am.<br />
In my 20's I stopped judging myself by what I though others might think of me and focused on what I thought and what God says. I learned a lot about sacrifice and forgiveness, both giving and getting. Love and acceptance and humility and humbleness. I learned not to judge others but to observe and make choices for myself based on what I saw and learned through others. Does that make sense?<br />
Just because I may do something differently than the next person doesn't mean either of us is wrong. What is right for me might just be different than what is right for that person and we can love each other anyway and also for those differences.<br />
By no means do I feel like I have it all figured out, goodness no! All of this is still in progress. I still struggle with listening and not talking all the time. My friends are very patient, I admire them. But I do feel like I am always growing and usually in a good way, if I am not feel free to prod me. That is another thing I am working on. Taking criticism or unsolicited advice and not just getting irritated and defensive but actually listening. Still hard.<br />
<br />
So 30 is not so bad. I thought I would be different when I look back. I was supposed to be more organized and for some reason I thought I would be taller. I am still short and have clutter issues. But I am happy, life has taken many turns in the last 10 years that I could not have ever anticipated and for the most part they have been good. All growing experiences.<br />
Anyway, there I go yapping away....<br />
<br />
Back to November!<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5128/5248515912_a8faed2500.jpg" /><br />
<br />
I have been really busy painting. I have to get busier too, I am forever behind...I am sorry to those who have ordered and are waiting...it is coming! And a massive thank you to all those who have been buying, it has brought some much needed extra money for us at this stage!<br />
A good excuse to get some painting done during the day is to host an art class. Not really used as an excuse to paint but an excuse to visit a<a href="http://www.milehomeschool.blogspot.com/"> good friend</a>. The house was clean and the art stuff was out, why not teach the technique I have been working in lately. I could do that more often, I just love to see how others, especially children interpret a medium for themselves!<br />
<br />
<img alt="DSC_0490" border="0" class="pc_img" height="240" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5005/5247923931_a3b7482c59_m.jpg" width="159" /><img alt="DSC_0485" border="0" class="pc_img" height="240" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5169/5247919417_e4d09db252_m.jpg" width="159" /><img alt="DSC_0484" border="0" class="pc_img" height="240" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5126/5247918221_c012d7857f_m.jpg" width="159" /><br />
<br />
Hudsy bear. Charmer and risk taker.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5009/5248524816_62587561bd.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Ethan the comedian. I did not see the humour in the spilled crackers... but apparently that is not what this was about since Hudson had dumped them and ran.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5207/5247927173_5a17616bc1.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Here is one of the pieces done in November...the rest are<a href="http://www.thelittleartistinme.blogspot.com/"> here.</a><br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5087/5248537410_0c6d991061.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Ronin. 3 months old and a smooshy chub-a-muffin! He still doesn't giggle much but does do a lot of chatting and cooing.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5043/5248542268_1dc3e3d8e6.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Uh, oh. This was just supposed to be November. But the next photo was taken on the last day of the month and I see there are more to come, hmmm.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5088/5248541522_afed5a5e33.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Grandma came to visit for a few days and helped out with so much. One morning the kids did a matchbook style school project with her and then in the afternoon she took Kait and Ethan on a field trip. Off to downtown they went on a city bus. A new experience and one they are still talking about, it was such a treat!<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5205/5248543002_575b1dab73.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Now I see we are in December, whoops. Oh well it was just the first.<br />
Out to the lake we went with Daves mom to show her how the place is coming along.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5010/5248545316_cd930ab439.jpg" /><br />
<br />
The walls were primed and the ceilings painted.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5161/5247944335_050a8761f7.jpg" /><br />
<br />
And this time it is not me that is doing it. It does feel weird to not be the painter but I just cannot get the amount if time needed put aside to to a job like that.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5203/5247945539_f585e42883.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Since doing our first house and tackling that massive paint undertaking we have had a few kids. Somehow I just can't do what I used to do without 500 interruptions so it just wasn't going to happen unless I had a few years to putz away at it.<br />
So we have hired that job out to one of my friends husbands. He is a pro and wow, does beautiful work!<br />
This week he is out with the paint colours that I have chosen and I am so nervous. The colours I chose are cooler than what I usually choose and are beachy themed. The opposite of the warm oranges and yellows that Dave loves. I hope I didn't make a mistake. In my minds eye it will all come together but my eye has been wrong before so here's hoping. That is the weird thing about hiring someone. When I paint I often tweak the paint colour as I go along if I don't quite like the hue. I grab my acrylics and pour in pigment until I get the colour I like. No tweaking this time, no control beyond what I have already done. However I know that the cut in lines will be perfect, that makes me happy!<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5130/5248549330_3c3704b492.jpg" /><br />
<br />
And then we are on to flooring! It has been chosen, ordered and picked up. Now Dave just needs the time and manpower to get it in.<br />
<br />
The kids are getting excited as it is coming together out there. Ethan has been the one that is the least reluctant to move. Once it happens (if it ever does, it feels like it will never happen!) the adjustment will be slow but I think it will be ok. He chose the paint colour for his room and that was big.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5250/5248550860_26468b156d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5250/5248550860_26468b156d.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5167/5248552496_7d80a513da.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Hudson has this habit of laying on the floor if he gets upset or when he falls he will roll around for a while. He likes attention and this is his way of trying to get it.<br />
At the lake house he got the attention. He was covered in drywall dust! Kinda hard to miss that he rolled around on the floor for a few moments in a fit. Not the type of behaviour I would normally photograph, but this time, I just had to, we were all cracking up so bad!<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5124/5248551974_29bf56841a.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5244/5248554314_43a706f1c9.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Kait is the one that is excited, she can see the vision for the place and we talk about where stuff will go, I hope the adjustment goes well for her.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5248/5247960123_f49b151dcb_m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="IMG_5707" border="0" class="pc_img" height="180" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5248/5247960123_f49b151dcb_m.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<img alt="IMG_5711" border="0" class="pc_img" height="180" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5004/5247960775_271303e546_m.jpg" width="240" /><br />
<br />
<br />
Ronin. November the 2nd he started rolling. Two and a half months old and on the move.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5049/5247962249_1ea7304171.jpg" /><br />
<br />
And maturing so quickly.<br />
<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5004/5248566616_b0a63213fa.jpg" /><br />
<br />
This was our tribute to Movember.<br />
<br />
<img alt="IMG_5728" border="0" class="pc_img" height="180" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5244/5247965437_4fcd04895a_m.jpg" width="240" /><br />
<br />
I make one ugly dude!<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5041/5248569196_c20aabf305.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Howdy!<br />
<br />
Handsome, no?<br />
And we are done with November!Anna-b-bonkershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11470379679830893275noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2578794009671354856.post-78133989703433405952010-12-10T17:31:00.003-06:002010-12-10T18:01:40.276-06:00Let's take a walk through OctoberSo much for the cool weather I had feared. October came with beautiful sunny days.<br />
Jackets came off and the lid of the sand box did too.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5288/5248194320_737e08970f.jpg" /><br />
<br />
We headed out as soon as we were up and took in October as if it were July!<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5247/5247591305_6dc312440a.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Dave had taken the whole month off to work out at the lake house so that gave us a great excuse to get out of the city.<br />
To the beach we went, of course!<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5244/5247602175_12780fbc65.jpg" /><br />
<br />
And there wasn't a better place to do school! The beach was barren with people back to work and school, perfect for us!<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5124/5248207270_19e4d66017.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Science experiments with sand and water and mud were carried out.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5089/5248209488_be1c118c4f.jpg" /><br />
<br />
We figured out how to make cement.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5125/5247607105_a2fc1019b0.jpg" /><br />
<br />
And found out why castles collapse.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5282/5247609315_4693bd7c73.jpg" /><br />
<br />
We watched the leaves fall and crunched them under our sandy feet.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5003/5247610385_9dc7e50e3e.jpg" /><br />
<br />
It felt so wrong for October, but I wasn't going to complain!<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5242/5247611909_7d547856e3.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5049/5247615587_f3dbe479a9.jpg" /><br />
<br />
And the weather kept lasting. More days in the yard, kids swinging, collecting bugs.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5208/5247652057_7d60779810.jpg" /><br />
<br />
So back out to the beach we went. This time the leaves had all fallen but it was still so warm.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5010/5247646591_3d11c72e93.jpg" /><br />
<br />
I loved how desolate and calm it was, like the calm before a storm. I knew winter was around the corner. Despite it being so warm there was that hint of a winter breeze. It was going to come.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5281/5247645595_29348a4205.jpg" /><br />
<br />
So we were determined to soak up every last summer ray.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5282/5248251470_85823808e0.jpg" /><br />
<br />
The kids found sea foam to decorate their castles.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5001/5247644601_1458a08cd9.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5130/5247657535_6fef96cc7e.jpg" /><br />
<br />
And waded in to the still warm water.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5170/5248247460_02f222c083.jpg" /><br />
<br />
I snuggled with our newest bundle.<br />
The beach is just the best place to be. It brings me an inner peace..gives me a sense of balance. Everything is all good when I am at the beach. Maybe this is why I am excited to move out there.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5244/5248260548_ca4903e509.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Dave took a break and came down to join us for a picnic and to push the stroller up the hill for me.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5003/5248240554_c48ab345b2.jpg" /><br />
<br />
We tried to stay out of his hair as much as possible but at the same time we were all excited to see how it was coming along at the house. Well, that is all of us except for Ethan. He doesn't want to sell the city house, this gives him some anxiety. Change is hard for him so we do a lot of talking.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5045/5247633277_eed96d8729.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5007/5248236212_dd2f12d07e.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Every few days we would go out and see how Dave was doing. We were so glad that the warm weather was lingering since our furnace installation wasn't booked until the later half of the month.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5006/5248264848_1a112550a7.jpg" /><br />
<br />
And wouldn't you know it, we ended up at the beach again. I was so happy.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5048/5248269766_287f4f4f4c.jpg" /><br />
<br />
This time the water was cooler so most of the time was spent playing in the sand and collecting cray fish claws. The winds were shifting and it was getting to be sweater time.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5204/5247669009_772010db82.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Back indoors we came as the days got windy. Still sunny but it was feeling like fall. Fall inspired schoolwork was brought out and a field trip planned.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5046/5247671295_d159e6b7ac.jpg" /><br />
<br />
We headed out on an eco ed trip to a local farm in the valley with a group of our homeschooling friends.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5241/5247673631_1deef98c65.jpg" /><br />
<br />
The kids hiked, collected leaves and made leaf rubbings for their lap books.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5170/5248278504_6c7e667be5.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5207/5247677587_281caea562.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5281/5247682133_c6605d7dab.jpg" /><br />
<br />
There was so much room to explore and run, I can only imagine living somewhere like that, it was so nice!<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5082/5247686981_684b1a99d4.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5288/5247688693_f8b433d1ab.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5124/5248295918_5345c749d3.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5121/5247692983_d8b755a771.jpg" /><br />
<br />
It was challenging too though. I had to take a stroller, there was no way around it and once there I wished I had taken the jogger rather than the tandem. However Sherry was there (she home schooled her oldest 18 years ago, back when I was home schooled and is still home schooling her younger ones) and she was a trooper and helped me out with the stroller.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5124/5248298322_7f2f8bb61b.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5008/5248299780_fab701eda9.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Back at the education room (converted garage) kids worked on their lap books.<br />
Field trips are fun but so much work. Naps get screwed up and bums still need to be changed, but thats just the kicks of having a toddler and baby along for the ride.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5009/5248304504_1a7e12ef1b.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5047/5248307434_0ef5ce6d26.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Evenings in October were hard. Dave would come home late and be wiped. This was often the image of our evenings. A sacrifice of our time for one month to get our future put together. I missed Dave so much but it was also a time for me realize once again how much he means to me and how much he is missed when he isn't around. He really is a strong support to me.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5043/5248316592_31408a40ef.jpg" /><br />
<br />
And Ronin....of course with only being a month and a half old a the time he still slept a lot and that was good. We seemed to be a a pretty good groove with him too, he is just the groovy type.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5087/5247724817_0e12316fe9.jpg" /><br />
<br />
And so loved. I really had thought that Kait would be the one to be smothering him with kisses all the time but it has turned out to be Hudson with Ethan right behind him.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5007/5248345550_10b9d68fea.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Kait loves him but is still praying for a baby sister to come along next. Ahhh........sigh.<br />
<br />
He is soooo munchable though!<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5129/5248351490_d4a2c545c1.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Oh yes, and then it snowed. Just a few days after being at the beach we woke up to a thick blanket of snow. Beautiful. I was caught off guard even though I knew it must come. We had to dig out winter stuff and I was a little sad inside.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5127/5248356676_d4a6b033ec.jpg" /><br />
<br />
But the furnace had just been installed and the insulation was sprayed in. Just in time.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5247/5248358208_e22f47b944.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5202/5247758157_11445b41e4.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Dave was out plugging away now working on the electrical..it was almost time for drywall!<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5205/5248366286_e874969a85.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5050/5248364458_163b0318fe.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Sean (Daves friend) came down for a weekend to put up all the board. I was surprised that he was only coming for the weekend, how would they ever get it all done in just a couple of days?!<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5204/5248370170_09c59c9bec.jpg" /><br />
<br />
I had to see it to believe it and headed out there after giving them just over an hours notice.<br />
The ceiling was going up!<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5050/5247772263_a924fbcb0a.jpg" /><br />
<br />
And voila, all in a weekends work!<br />
I was blown away, thankful to Sean and Dave. That guy was earning brownie points now!<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5281/5248380112_ef3475773f.jpg" /><br />
<br />
I love him....makes my heart warm.<br />
Well most days, we have our moments, believe me. I wish we didn't have moments, but I guess that is a part of being human. We get annoyed and irritated and snippy. I wish we could be all lovey and dovey all the time but we are like a roller coaster. There are just too many things going on all at once.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5163/5247775923_58c828d839.jpg" /><br />
<br />
As I munched baby toes the last of the drywall went up.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5088/5247778029_27da3c3ffc.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5008/5248381954_db49bbbc3e.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5046/5247779929_aa7e8867e7.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5243/5247781081_027f9c6659.jpg" /><br />
<br />
And then it was done!<br />
I was back in the city trying to get the house ready to hit the market. Doing all the last minute cleaning and fixing of things. Caulking and painting things that had been put off, but finally that was all done.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5281/5248389538_72f3ac4e16.jpg" /><br />
<br />
The house was clean and ready for for viewings.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5162/5247795007_f34e260b7f.jpg" /><br />
<br />
And then the snow started to melt, whoooot!<br />
It all melted and the sun came out and it was t-shirt weather again.<br />
Back to the beach!<br />
Just kidding.<br />
We did go out to the lake, it wasn't quite swim suit weather though.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5089/5248405306_c508a33c16.jpg" /><br />
<br />
We hung out in the yard instead.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5203/5247804921_0289cc6d83.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5290/5248412132_48fdc5f35a.jpg" /><br />
<br />
October was drawing to a close. It got cooler again and Dave had to wind up his work out there. He was to go back to work in November so everything that he could do had to get done.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5168/5247815171_7577031567.jpg" /><br />
<br />
We did workbooks in the evening in October.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5004/5248416718_a02a51ef6e.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5085/5248425608_4f6a458852.jpg" /><br />
<br />
It turned out to be an interesting time of the day for school. The goofy side of the kids would come out. Fun but not ideal. We are back to day time schooling now.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5203/5247824653_dbe52a28d6.jpg" /><br />
<br />
And then October came to a close.<br />
We forgot all about Halloween in all the business and that was fine with me. I am not so sure about that day. I ended up taking the kids to Sunday school and then heading over to my mom and dads for supper.<br />
My mom had bought a few bags of candy for the kids and any other kids that came by their place. As tradition is in my parents house Emily (my little sister) takes a brick of goat cheese to an elderly Norwegian neighbour in exchange for a few goodies. So the kids got dressed up and headed over to her place with the cheese. However they did not come back for quite some time and when they did they had loads of goodies....from most of the neighbours on the street.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5202/5248431844_354c0c4b96.jpg" /><br />
<br />
And then it snowed again.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5166/5248429096_b166b12607_m.jpg" /> <img alt="IMG_5396" border="0" class="pc_img" height="240" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5044/5247825539_9821bdc7f9_m.jpg" width="180" /><br />
<br />
This time for good. And I think that winds up October, whew!Anna-b-bonkershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11470379679830893275noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2578794009671354856.post-18287667265538832902010-12-10T13:54:00.002-06:002010-12-10T14:15:58.101-06:00Still in September and schooling<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5081/5247588991_31b0d9f851.jpg" /><br />
<br />
A few more from September here and more about our schooling. With Kaitlyn in Kindergarten and Ethan in Pre K (both at home) we have made this a year of discovery. We are tackling the basics of reading and arithmetic as well but putting a lot of focus on expanding the way way learn. I didn't want to just spend the year with our noses in books and I have to admit that not doing that is actually quite challenging.<br />
<br />
Outings have been important. Through the fall for one afternoon a week we have gotten together with other home schoolers for gym time and show and tell. Then we have gotten together to create or have fun one on one with families as well.<br />
However most of our learning happens at home.<br />
<br />
When a baby is sleeping it is the perfect time to tackle a project.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5046/5247573345_d2ce112e37.jpg" /><br />
<br />
This day we had been given a bag of baby cucumbers so we found a pickling recipe.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5250/5248173488_7a28281dc9.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Soon we were busy prepping. Learning measurements and how to use tools in the kitchen kept little brains (and mouths) busy.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5003/5247570599_aee8f4bec9.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5167/5247572481_9652b64717.jpg" /><br />
<br />
One and a half jars filled. Not much of a haul but a fun experience.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5129/5248170550_d17017cfd2.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Then on to a few work sheets or a lap book. I had dreamt of getting books of sheets done in days and experiments and activities done too but it seems that we usually just do a bit of both or a lot of one or the other from day to day. We take some days off and some days go full tilt, whatever happens happens. Most of the time it is fun but sometimes it is challenging to keep kids focused. This year is also about learning self control, patience and obedience. We have work to do but I am so glad that I am the one spending this time with them in these critical years of easy influencing. Do I think this is the be all end all of education?<br />
Not really, I don't believe that there is one be all end all system or once size fits all either. Every family has to evaluate and decide what is best for them. For now this is right for us. Maybe when they are older a few years from now we will do something different. I was public schooled, home schooled and private schooled and see value in each one. But for us right now we are just taking it one year at a time.Anna-b-bonkershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11470379679830893275noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2578794009671354856.post-16579523717552479252010-12-10T12:50:00.000-06:002010-12-10T12:50:04.527-06:00End of September, finally<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5284/5248138304_c5ea60c553.jpg" /><br />
<br />
At the end of September...I just found these pics, oops.....we were trying to get into the swing with school work. I was still really tired and recovering from the haemorrhaging but was feeling better. I wasn't yet up for big walks but up and down our street was fine so we took advantage of the nice weather. I was so afraid that it would be winter before we knew it and we hand't been out nearly enough throughout September, if I remember correctly it was a pretty crummy month weather wise.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5086/5247532819_e2375f067a.jpg" /><br />
<br />
So I would bundle up Ronin and we would go out and collect stuff for school projects. Dave came home early a few times or would stop by if he was working in our neighbourhood and hang out for a few minutes and take the kids on little nature outings.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5126/5247532001_c3ee10ff4a.jpg" /><br />
<br />
They surprised him one day with new looks. Goofballs, I am so glad they have each other!<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5090/5248140334_2008310b9c.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Then we would head in and get to work with what wed collected outside. Homeschooling = one great big adventure. More on that in the next post.<br />
Ha, this is so easy! I should always blog months after the fact, by this time I have forgotten anything of relevance and have nothing to say!<br />
On to the next.Anna-b-bonkershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11470379679830893275noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2578794009671354856.post-88276087136753674132010-12-10T10:41:00.000-06:002010-12-10T10:41:24.063-06:00I'll only sit for a minute......I cannot afford to sit for two.<br />
I have been trying to think about how I will get back into blogging, I am just so far behind I hardly know where to start so I am going to just go through archives and meander my way to the present.<br />
Here is post number one.<br />
Our house is on the market as you most likely know.<br />
Not the best time of year to be trying to sell a house so I really hope someone comes along that needs and loves it soon. Well, I hope they give me a days notice before they come first though. I am just way to distracted to keep it clean.<br />
<br />
For weeks leading up to the listing (in October) my mom and aunt and a few other relatives and friends spent countless hours over at our house helping me to purge and organize and clean.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5003/5248133678_1351a8a75d.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Thank you all, I owe you BIG time!!<br />
Now if only I could keep it as perfect as it was when we took the listing pictures, I am just so easily distracted by anything that appears to be more fun. Like school work, crafts, designing the lake house, painting....and today blogging. Hmmm, maybe this had better be a short post and I should break to do some dishes and laundry.<br />
<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5125/5248134934_0de0551ef8.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Ya, now that I look at his photo (below) and look around I had better get off my duff.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1192/5177274678_0fb5d75446.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Want to see the rest, you might never see it this clean again! <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/sets/72157625394074974/">Here</a> they are.<br />
I am going to do a few chores and then I will be back with the next post. Chow!Anna-b-bonkershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11470379679830893275noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2578794009671354856.post-23920466672406158752010-11-14T12:08:00.001-06:002010-11-14T12:09:25.028-06:00Confession time.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_IMIQKueljgA/TOAcpzNP_AI/AAAAAAAAFwc/yx8Kiai0K-c/s1600/IMG_5064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_IMIQKueljgA/TOAcpzNP_AI/AAAAAAAAFwc/yx8Kiai0K-c/s320/IMG_5064.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I realize it has been ages. So long that I am afraid of starting this up again. I have so much to say, so much that has happened and to be caught up on before life takes the next big turn and I forget about what has happened over the last two months.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But I have come here today to admit to something.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I have a confession.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I have been having an affair. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">With my house.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My poor children and husband and friends have been robbed of my attention as I go off galavanting with putty and paint.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I have danced the hours away with the broom, mop and vacuum. I get around. The whole house! I have been close and personal with walls, cupboards windows and fixtures. I have given them my all.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">For the last couple of months I have been consumed and I am coming forward to say...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Our house is on the market and spotless!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Please someone buy it soon so our 'normal' can resume!</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_IMIQKueljgA/TOAdD0c4UJI/AAAAAAAAFwo/r5IXWRWQMVk/s1600/IMG_5138.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_IMIQKueljgA/TOAdD0c4UJI/AAAAAAAAFwo/r5IXWRWQMVk/s320/IMG_5138.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The lake house is nearly ready. Drywall is up!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_IMIQKueljgA/TOAeb6kODdI/AAAAAAAAFw0/zXPef3sF-3k/s1600/IMG_5158.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_IMIQKueljgA/TOAeb6kODdI/AAAAAAAAFw0/zXPef3sF-3k/s320/IMG_5158.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Our foreman has been crazy busy on his phone setting up all the appointments and making sure things run as smoothly as possible. (and it has NOT been so smooth, maybe we won't leave that task up to a one year old next time!)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_IMIQKueljgA/TOAc579mopI/AAAAAAAAFwk/vNusXdn4ezg/s1600/IMG_5060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_IMIQKueljgA/TOAc579mopI/AAAAAAAAFwk/vNusXdn4ezg/s320/IMG_5060.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">There is gas and heat and A/C and the place has been spray foam insulated. Pot lights installed, a kitchen and bathroom are being constructed.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_IMIQKueljgA/TOAdhdtuTbI/AAAAAAAAFws/Vfs2zEUWokA/s1600/IMG_5139.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_IMIQKueljgA/TOAdhdtuTbI/AAAAAAAAFws/Vfs2zEUWokA/s320/IMG_5139.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Floors have been ordered and are waiting to be picked up.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The mudding and taping are happening now and I am on my way out to pick paint.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_IMIQKueljgA/TOAdpH-62cI/AAAAAAAAFww/7K6nHOIVPhc/s1600/IMG_5140.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_IMIQKueljgA/TOAdpH-62cI/AAAAAAAAFww/7K6nHOIVPhc/s320/IMG_5140.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Can you believe it?!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We went out there yesterday and just sat and imagined living there.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It made me feel a little ill, in a giddy and freaked out kind of way. The house there is less than half the size of our house in the city and I cannot imagine how I will make it really work. I know that major purging and organization will be essential but I am not sure how it will work when it seems that I hardly ever catch a free moment!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And being out of the city. Something I have dreamt of but being out there on a frosty and foggy day it just felt so desolate and quiet. I hope I love it but have a little twinge of fear that I will be lonely!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sounds silly doesn't it considering that I have four little ones that keep me busy every waking moment.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I guess it is just change. I love it and hate it all at the same time.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So that is a little of what has been going on here in a nutshell. I want to write about our trips to the beach and then the snow and then the sunny t-shirt days but those photos are sitting on the desk top and it is not set up anymore but sitting in a room in the basement staging it as an office.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Someday!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Anyway, I have now exhausted my few moments of stollen 'me time' and now I have to go vacuum a whole pack of crackers that got dumped on the living room floor by our little foreman while I wasn't looking. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I miss you guys. A lot. Someday I will be back full force. Once this transition is over. Funny how it is when life is the busiest that that is when I want to blog and share the most but it is also the time that I am completely unable to do it. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">OK, I am shutting up, crackers are getting stomped on by that little foreman now, gotta go!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Anna-b-bonkershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11470379679830893275noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2578794009671354856.post-83812719063781040302010-09-24T02:12:00.001-06:002010-09-24T02:13:27.320-06:00Hanging out<img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4126/5010786814_7fce5ee005_z.jpg" /><br />
<div><br />
</div><div>Hanging out. Something we are getting good at. I have found that being busy with these little ones is rearranging my life. I used to love going out and having play dates and being busy every other day or so out of the house. Not that I don't love play dates but they just wont happen as often anymore.</div><div>Now I am good with one outing a week, or less. I am sure I will get stir crazy eventually and want a night or two out, but I am good to go on those alone.<br />
<div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4154/5010988400_e4c436b25d_z.jpg" /></div><div><br />
</div><div>We are just so busy in our own little life at this stage that it would be crazy to go doing even more. I am sure that once reno's are done and packing is done and we are moved and settled things will change, time will tell.<br />
<div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4128/5010186155_90a3e7396f_z.jpg" /></div><div><br />
</div><div>I have realized that we have a lot on our shoulders with raising these little people. We are the ones instilling values and morals and shaping the will. Going out too much messes with that and then we take three steps back to unlearn garbage that they pick up. Oh yes, we can chalk it up to learning experiences, learning how not to behave or how not to talk or dress or whatever the example might be. </div><div>But also teaching them what is right takes a lot of time, we have stubborn natures by nature so it is interesting enough here at home. </div><div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4107/5010991448_e85760d897.jpg" /></div><div><br />
</div><div>I am not saying that we don't have good friends to hang out with, we have amazing friends, this is some of what I am learning by watching them. I value less stress and am learning that if I do less and focus on what is really important I have less stress. I might miss seeing friends really regularly but I don't love them any less, maybe more because those times spent visiting become more precious.</div><div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4113/5010778028_5047c0d60f_z.jpg" /></div><div><br />
</div><div>Getting to know these little guys that God has trusted us with is so cool. Watching their little minds churn and grow, awesome. </div><div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4131/5010189507_9de731a28c_z.jpg" /><br />
<div><br />
</div><div>Like Ethan and Kaitlyn when they play bakery. These kids love to watch cake shows, a few in particular and one is Cake Boss. Ethan likes to be Buddy, the main character and he puts on an accent, builds cakes out of pillows blankets and whatever else is laying around. He then gets Kaitlyn (She plays the sister Mary) to help him carry it down to his delivery truck which is made of stools and a fuzzy chair. They then deliver it and collect money and sever the cake. Suddenly Ethan turns into a transformer and is a boat or a robot and he is done with the cake making business. Kaitlyn starts up her own dialogue as if she is playing both parts and brings in a few babies and a bag of random things that she likes to carry around. </div><div>They are better than TV or a book any night.</div><div><br />
</div><div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4089/5010366389_d837710313.jpg" /><br />
<div><br />
</div><div>But then sometimes I feel like I am going to freak. Like I just want to scream, swear a lot, pull my hair out, eat chocolate and guzzle coffee. Like this afternoon. I had to take a few moments to breath and get centered. Pray a little, read a scripture or two, blog a little, tune out a little, twitter. I still wanted chocolate though, and had to put in a call for the husband to stop on the way home.</div><div>There was apple sauce spilled on the floor at the same moment that another child dumped a full bag of gold fish at the same moment that another child happened to start screaming and needed to be nursed while the supper dishes were on the stove and the husband wasn't going to be home until really late, oh and another child was somehow mysteriously naked. Oh and did I mention that we have been living (all our play time) in the living room since our basement flooded in the kids play area a few weeks ago. The 6 x 12 carpet in our living room is feeling rather small. </div><div><br />
<div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4147/5010969444_2c30789d31_z.jpg" /></div><div><br />
</div><div>I shouldn't complain though, I have not been given more than I can handle. It could be worse, heck it might be some day. I am ok with it 98% of the time, there are just these occasional moments that I just want to step outside, snap my fingers and have the place back in order. I secretly dream that I can be Mary Poppin's for a few moments. Especially after dinner. The kids love to cook. Ever stinking meal!</div><div>I try to hide the fact that I am cooking sometimes because I want to eat within an hour. However there is usually a chair pulled over to the counter within a few moments with excited little voices begging to help. So they do. They do all the cooking. This if fun though, for the most part it is actually really fun. However the mess. Oh, the mess.</div><div>I wish my mom could come over every morning to deal with what is left behind after supper.</div><div>I so wish for Mary Poppin's magic as I walk out!</div><div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4146/5010982642_28f4fd8209.jpg" /></div><div><br />
</div><div>And then I sit and smell my baby. Baby smell and kisses are intoxicating, they make you forget everything else. I look around and remember that this is a small phase in time and I release the stress and am content to deal with mess for now.</div><div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4150/5010973874_2a027966b1.jpg" /></div><div><br />
</div><div>Taking a moment here and there to breath, step back and drink in the situations gives me a different perspective. Suddenly everything going wrong at the same moment appears kinda funny. </div><div>Like a bad joke, but still funny. How I react in these moments is the key. Do I freak out over the accident or quietly clean it up and comfort the children.</div><div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4083/5010976836_5dc05f7a18.jpg" /></div><div><br />
</div><div>This balancing act is getting tougher all the time and I thought I would have it all figured out by now. Hello, I am almost 30!</div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4147/5010970720_b66ee54d0a_z.jpg" /><br />
<div><br />
</div><div>I was totally planning to have it all figured out by now!</div><div>(P.S. that is the garden above, all done, dug up and picked just days before the frost hit big time!)</div><div><br />
<div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4105/5010986476_46a5c6c175_z.jpg" /></div><div><br />
</div><div>Anyway I am learning that no matter how old I am I still feel like the same old me, I am just way more comfortable with being the same old me with more experiences and more patience.</div><div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4090/5010380219_00775a8d57.jpg" /></div><div><br />
</div><div>And more children.</div><div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4108/5010379363_9ec2db143f.jpg" /></div><div><br />
</div><div>And less me time.</div><div>I miss me time, but wouldn't trade it for anything right now. (I have my moments though, believe me!)</div><div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4107/5010990218_3172771ecc_z.jpg" /></div><div><br />
</div><div>But this is why God makes little kids and babies smell good and have skin so soft and so snuggly. So you can't help but love em and want to munch their little cheeks.</div><div><br />
</div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4105/5010383707_e56ba09940_z.jpg" /></div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div>I can't remember where I was going with this post now. Oops, I think I was going to talk about homeschooling and renovating two places at once and having a baby and then a basement flood and some other stuff. Hmmmm, next time I guess!</div><div><br />
</div><div>I am going to find that baby and snuggle his little rolls right now!</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Anna-b-bonkershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11470379679830893275noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2578794009671354856.post-84531637098771510112010-09-22T12:25:00.003-06:002010-09-22T12:53:58.597-06:00My faves in shades of b & w<div><br /></div><div>(One week old)</div><div> Post #2 for today. (Making up for the non posting of the past month.)</div><div><br /></div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4151/5014915667_98fe0164d3.jpg" /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4092/5010742462_d47578249e.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4132/5010122101_1c6a0361c0.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4111/5010737174_05c8e33368.jpg" /><br /><div><br /><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4151/5015505944_37e0606365.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4154/5010753742_90ec6bfb15.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4112/5010113505_aa771eea6d.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4144/5015579710_03b652bae1.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4132/5010102115_1304f0cee7.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4091/5010705720_3932d6534e.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div></div>Anna-b-bonkershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11470379679830893275noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2578794009671354856.post-31247172321963774342010-09-22T10:44:00.003-06:002010-09-22T12:01:29.858-06:00Week one...a month ago now!<div>It's been a month. I know. I am sorry. Sorta. I was tired. Really, really tired. I never knew that when you lost a lot of blood that there was such a recovery. I had good long naps whenever I could and then would fall asleep putting the children to bed. I needed sleep.</div><div><br /></div><div>Of course that is not all that has happened over the last month, my gosh, can you imagine if it was all about sleep, that would have been great if that was all I was reporting! However we have had a busy month so I will try now to get out a few posts to get caught up. Here are some shots from one afternoon a week after Ronin's birth.</div><div><br /></div><div>Oh and right off the bat did you notice that we changed his name?</div><div>From Roanin to Ronin. How we had it originally for the first two days of his life. People were pronouncing it all wrong so we hit up the vital statistics office when he was 5 days old and had it switched back. I never realized it would be so easy....and free!</div><div><br /></div><div>Anyway, here is our little photo shoot from that first week. I still have editing to do on the pic's but I am not getting around to that right this minute so you see them as they are so far. </div><div><br /></div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4149/5010701392_42743cfc39.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div>Five years old now and all charm and character. Just yesterday she wanted to play Cinderella and of course she wanted to be the evil stepmother. Why? So she could boss me around and tell me (I was Cinderella) to wash the floors, feed the children, get groceries and do her laundry. It was hilarious. She really does love when she can have control.</div><div> Kaitlyn is also learning the graces of a young woman and although she has her moments of displeasure with her brothers or situations she is blowing us away with her thirst for knowledge and urge to help. Her imagination and playing (in character) is forever entertaining. And then there is her style. Five going on fifteen and yet so full of joy.</div><div> </div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4090/5010101301_bfdc43bd8c.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4148/5010717144_acd7a355ce.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div>Ethan. Four now and witty to boot. We are still going to speech therapy and working on sentence structure and sounds and this is going well. There are still some behavior patterns that we don't quite get, like the order of how we get in and out of the truck and how important this order is to Ethan, but the charming puns and whit this kid has more than makes up for those moments. He is the guy that cracks us up. Don't ask him a serious question and expect a serious answer. He will find a way to sneak in something goofy instead.</div><div> </div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4107/5010115547_29b86e0170.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4085/5010148017_e657377a79.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div>Hudson. Hudsy bear. One and all mischief. He will raise an eye brow and do exactly what he has been told not to do. Then he will smile a crooked little smile and cock his head a little. All you want to do is swoop him up and smother him in kisses and snuggles rather than discipline him.</div><div>He is trouble and yet so adorable as he does it. Like when I have a bath and he creeps into the room with a toy car. He looks at me and then throws the car into the tub. I say "No, no cars in the tub." He walk off and comes back with another car. This time he stands by the door and looks at me with a sort of sad look. Then he takes a step forward. I tell him once again that there are no cars allowed in the tub. He takes another step and looks me in the eye and gives a little smile. Then he pitches the car into the tub and runs off with a giggle.</div><div>Trouble I tell ya!</div><div>But then he loves to love too. Kisses and pats and hugs all around. More trouble.</div><div><br /></div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4107/5010153733_24ee9795b8.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4131/5010743988_4633612164.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div>Ronin. The first baby that we have had that actually makes a peep. Not really fussy but not as content as the rest of em. He likes to suck non stop and is the first one that has taken a soother and loved it from the first moment. Who knew?! </div><div>He is a good sleeper and is chubby and soft and so insanely cuddly. Love him.</div><div><br /></div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4085/5010739498_9ff1a8e126.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4103/5010154819_91427af92e.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>And that is our crew. So much for getting a decent group shot, this was the only good one of oh, 20 or so before there were no kids left in the shot at all.</div><div><br /></div><div>I love you munchkins,</div><div><br /></div><div>your Mama.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Anna-b-bonkershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11470379679830893275noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2578794009671354856.post-10786167396771818742010-08-21T12:19:00.006-06:002010-08-21T12:46:17.397-06:00Home with baby! (the birth story)<span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div> I know a lot of you know what has been going on. My mom has been on the phone and on facebook getting the news out.<br />Now it is my turn.<br />This is the whole story, from what I remember anyway. </span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;">Warning:</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><i>Guys might not want to read it, I give details and you might get grossed out. Well maybe no one will want to read it and feel free to skip it and just look at the photo's. I just like to hear birth stories, so I share.</i><br /><br />As you might have guessed, if you didn’t know .... we had our baby!<br /><br />A boy!<br /><br />A big boy.<br /><br />10 lbs 13 oz.<br /><br />Named Roanin and born on August 18th at 5:27 am.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4912439716/" title="DSC_0170 by Anna-b-bonkers, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4122/4912439716_7d477a7935.jpg" width="500" height="332" alt="DSC_0170" /></a><br /><br />Here is his story so far.<br /><br />The last few weeks for me were kind of rough. I felt a lot of pressure in my pelvic region, an occasional jab of pain in my lower abdomen and lower back pain too. I spent nights listening to acupuncture music to release the pains. You might think this is hoaky but let me explain. The music is mellow, kinda spa-ish music with little random ‘ping’ noises. These noises seem to come from different directions and with different levels of intensity. If you sit or lay with your eyes closed and focus the ‘pings’ on the pain spots they release. This is good for all sorts of pain. After a little while you don’t have to focus them any more and just relax. The music seems to almost move all over your body to any problem spots, it is really neat. Sounds weird, I know, but it worked for me.<br /><br />Anyway, I spent a lot of nights listening and focusing and drifting away the pains.<br /><br />Then last Friday I started to have pink show. Just a little but I knew this meant that things should start happening eventually.<br /><br />Saturday was more of the same, a lot more. I was surprised at how much ‘show’ was showing without anything else happening. I had a few contractions but they were minor and not anywhere close to each other.<br /><br />Sunday. More of the same again. I was uncomfortable sitting and found my hips to be so loose that it took me a while to get standing upright. I hobbled and wobbled a bit and had more show. I started to wonder how I could have so much show and no water. Apparently the cervix can regrow the mucus over and over....that is what I have read anyway. Maybe that is what was happening, I don’t know.<br /><br />Monday, I felt a little crummy, some cramps but again it was more of the same randomness and mild.<br />I went out to a book party in the evening, and did some girl visiting. Held a newborn and hoped it might spark something.</span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4911864411/" title="DSC_0007 by Anna-b-bonkers, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4081/4911864411_058ee74d85.jpg" width="500" height="332" alt="DSC_0007" /></a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4911864411/" title="DSC_0007 by Anna-b-bonkers, on Flickr"></a><br />Tuesday. Still pregnant! Something was different though. My mucus was no longer pinkish but clear with little blood streaks. This lasted all day but I felt ok and since Dave had the day off we did some running around, shopping and work around the house. We stayed up late and finally I headed to bed. Dave joked that I had better get a little sleep and not wake him until 2am. As long as he got his 20 mins he was good.<br />At 3:30 am (now technically Wednesday of course) I woke up having the urge to go to the washroom. I did and felt better. I wondered if it might mean something but then I wondered that about 100 times over the last month so I went back to bed.<br /><br />At 4 am I woke up again with cramps and had to go to the washroom again. Then I had a contraction. Hmmm, maybe this is the start of something now. I decided to sit up in the rocker and see if there were more. 10 minutes passed and there was another. Super intense. Another one came 5 minutes later. I called my mom and told her that I thought it must be time and to come on over. A longer stretch again but they came strong when they did. At 4:30 am I woke Dave up and we got ready to go. I had a few more contractions but they seemed to be more of a steady hip and lower back cramp than anything. Still, this has to be it, even if it isn’t something I can really time.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"> I grabbed a scarf, put it behind my back, around my hips and gripped it hard in each hand then pulled hard. This was something I learned from a doula friend. Though the method she taught me involved head pads and two people I figured I could use a similar way to ease my surges too.<br />I pulled hard on the scarf and it pulled together the top part of my hips and put pressure on my back, ahhh, it felt good!<br /><br />Dave and I headed out to the truck and started for the hospital. We found a spot in the emergency lot and walked in. At 5:11 am we were checked in through emergency and headed down hallway after hallway, up an elevator and down more hallways to labour and delivery.<br />I was pulling hard on the scarf and listening to hypnobirthing affirmations on my ipod. These affirmations are just cues telling me to remember to breath dow peace and calm and to release the tensions. Really common sense stuff if you think about it. I breathed down and out the surges but this walking hall ways was killing me!<br />We got to labour and deliver and I was thinking it would have been easier to stay home already and have done the home birth but was starting to really dream of an epidural (which I really didn't want but once I was that close to drugs boy they were tempting!) and a nap!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br />We walked up to the desk and the lady directed us to sit and sign in. Dave got out the paperwork we had brought. I told him to put away the birth plan. Forget it, I wanted out!<br />I didn’t want to sit or talk, I had lost track of where I was with my calm and peaceful thoughts. The nurse then told us to go into a delivery room and she would check me before she got the epidural that I said I wanted so I could have my nap already. I was trying to be nice and patient but man everyone was acting as if they had all the time in the world, didn’t they know I was kinda tired and really crampy.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br />She got her gloves on and I climbed on the bed on all fours. She told me to lay down so she could check me. I felt an urge to push, there was so much pressure. My water broke. I got out of my clothes fast and grabbed a gown from another nurse and got one arm through as she checked me...the head was presenting and baby was on it’s way out. It was 5:22 am. She called for the Dr. The head came. I went down on my side and she coached me through was she was doing with the shoulders. I grabbed Dave’s neck hard and baby was born. It was 5:27.<br />No tearing or ripping. Nothing. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"> Praise the Lord!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br />I was kind of in shock. I was just going to get checked. The nurse (who happened to be the head nurse and a certified midwife) delivered the baby. No gowns, no drugs or prep.<br /><br />Then I started to bleed. A lot. I had heard the nurse say that there was a lot of blood for a delivery and it was still coming.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4912460952/" title="DSC_0071 by Anna-b-bonkers, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4081/4912460952_7013a0f916.jpg" width="500" height="418" alt="DSC_0071" /></a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4912460952/" title="DSC_0071 by Anna-b-bonkers, on Flickr"></a><br />I quickly held and nursed the baby and then they took him up onto the lamp table next to me.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4912462230/" title="DSC_0063 by Anna-b-bonkers, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4074/4912462230_4b720ecbb3.jpg" width="500" height="332" alt="DSC_0063" /></a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4912462230/" title="DSC_0063 by Anna-b-bonkers, on Flickr"></a><br />They were suctioning mucus out of him. At least 3 or 4 times they did this. They said it was because ha came so fast. He didn't sound too bad but there was a little gurgle. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4911857959/" title="DSC_0054 by Anna-b-bonkers, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4082/4911857959_7de039d6c0.jpg" width="500" height="332" alt="DSC_0054" /></a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4911857959/" title="DSC_0054 by Anna-b-bonkers, on Flickr"></a><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4911862433/" title="DSC_0023 by Anna-b-bonkers, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4123/4911862433_5d9a7f3b2c.jpg" width="500" height="332" alt="DSC_0023" /></a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4911862433/" title="DSC_0023 by Anna-b-bonkers, on Flickr"></a><br />More nurses were there now too and one of them came to deliver the placenta. She gave it a small tug to see if it would come, I got mad at her and told her not to tug it. She waited a bit but she said she really was worried about the blood loss. The placenta then came and clots. I was hemorrhaging. My Dr arrived in her PJ’s and with wild hair.<br />I got an IV and drugs. It didn’t help, next I got pills, that didn’t help either, I was getting weak and seeing double. I started to shake and was very cold. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4912460036/" title="DSC_0104 by Anna-b-bonkers, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4077/4912460036_17532637c3.jpg" width="332" height="500" alt="DSC_0104" /></a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4912460036/" title="DSC_0104 by Anna-b-bonkers, on Flickr"></a><br />I couldn’t hold the baby and he was cold too. Dave took off his shirt and held him close but he still didn't warm. It might have helped if Dave was warm but he was already freezing too. That delivery room was chilly! Roanin then had to go to NICU because his heart rate was now up. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4911860893/" title="DSC_0034 by Anna-b-bonkers, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4118/4911860893_9471dec12a.jpg" width="500" height="332" alt="DSC_0034" /></a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4911860893/" title="DSC_0034 by Anna-b-bonkers, on Flickr"></a><br />I closed my eyes, I was so tired, I asked Dave to pray, I prayed too. I got another med in the IV, the bleeding finally slowed. I had lost at least a liter of blood. I was so tired, so cold and so weak. A liter doesn't seem like much but it really affected me. The nurse brought warm blankets and a hot water bottle to warm me up while Dave rubbed my back. The afterbirth contractions were intense and I plugged back into the acupuncture music and rested.<br /><br />After a few hours I was feeling better and was able to get up to have a bath and take a wheel chair to recovery. I wanted to see my baby, it was all I could think about! He was in NICU, was he ok?<br /><br />We got to my room, left the bags there and Dave wheeled me to the NICU. We scrubbed and scrubbed so we could go in. It exhausted me. We went in and were met by a nurse.<br /><br />“Are you --Mr and Mrs so and so--”<br /><br />“yes”<br /><br />“Oh, I am just bringing you your baby, it turns out he was just cold. We kept him warm for you.”<br /><br />We went back and they brought the baby. He was so bruised, still is for that matter and that is why we had to stay an extra day.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4911853429/" title="DSC_0111 by Anna-b-bonkers, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4134/4911853429_fe0a9811e5.jpg" width="332" height="500" alt="DSC_0111" /></a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4911853429/" title="DSC_0111 by Anna-b-bonkers, on Flickr"></a><br />I am recovering well. The Dr says I will be weak for about a month as my blood grows back or whatever it does. I will take Iron drops and take it easy. I get tired quick so I don’t have a choice.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4912457474/" title="DSC_0114 by Anna-b-bonkers, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4120/4912457474_60e2762d3d.jpg" width="432" height="500" alt="DSC_0114" /></a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4912457474/" title="DSC_0114 by Anna-b-bonkers, on Flickr"></a>Roanin's face swelling has gone down now too, every day he looks better. But having it work out of his system has caused some jaundice so we are watching him.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4912456704/" title="DSC_0115 by Anna-b-bonkers, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4119/4912456704_135f116a06.jpg" width="332" height="500" alt="DSC_0115" /></a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4912456704/" title="DSC_0115 by Anna-b-bonkers, on Flickr"></a>My milk came in strong on the second day though and he is chugging away and showing signs of improvement in leaps and bounds.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4911845847/" title="DSC_0132 by Anna-b-bonkers, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4137/4911845847_cb5ca7df6c.jpg" width="500" height="332" alt="DSC_0132" /></a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4911845847/" title="DSC_0132 by Anna-b-bonkers, on Flickr"></a>And the kids. They are crazy about him. Kisses and pats and sweet words.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4911843231/" title="DSC_0136 by Anna-b-bonkers, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4120/4911843231_0597ed257f.jpg" width="500" height="332" alt="DSC_0136" /></a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4911843231/" title="DSC_0136 by Anna-b-bonkers, on Flickr"></a>We are all in love with this little man.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4912440996/" title="DSC_0158 by Anna-b-bonkers, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4099/4912440996_327e7c7eb9.jpg" width="500" height="332" alt="DSC_0158" /></a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4912440996/" title="DSC_0158 by Anna-b-bonkers, on Flickr"></a>However I am not in love with that hospital. I am glad it is there don't get me wrong. As much as I considered a home birth I am glad that Dave was so adamant that we were going to have a hospital birth. It didn't take much to convince me and I think it saved my life.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4911831159/" title="DSC_0178 by Anna-b-bonkers, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4137/4911831159_1f19c16d78.jpg" width="500" height="332" alt="DSC_0178" /></a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4911831159/" title="DSC_0178 by Anna-b-bonkers, on Flickr"></a>The room I got put up in was less than lovely but I am glad I got windows. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4912434016/" title="DSC_0206 by Anna-b-bonkers, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4076/4912434016_49f6f7c26f.jpg" width="332" height="500" alt="DSC_0206" /></a><br /><br />And now that we are home I am so happy. The kids love having a new baby, well I think they do. Hudson isn’t so sure and is learning what it means to be gentle. He is getting it although I am sure he would rather play rough.<br /><br />Roanin is content and quiet and a hearty nurser. I can’t stop looking at him and marveling at the miracle of this new life.<br /><br /><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4115/4911827481_e173f75314.jpg" width="332" height="500" alt="DSC_0220" /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">We are happy.<br /><br />I thank you all for your prayers and well wishes on this journey. The Lord has been so good to us!</span></span></div></div>Anna-b-bonkershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11470379679830893275noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2578794009671354856.post-50008041243150815252010-08-16T00:59:00.007-06:002010-08-16T01:51:27.758-06:00Blessed by friends<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4897068482/" title="IMG_3398 by Family McLean, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4073/4897068482_59e33f451c.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="IMG_3398" /></a><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4897068482/" title="IMG_3398 by Family McLean, on Flickr"></a>A few weeks ago now and already feeling ready to pop a few friends and family members came together and blessed me with a night of pampering and encouragement. </div><div><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4897067572/" title="IMG_3391 by Family McLean, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4081/4897067572_59069d467b.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="IMG_3391" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4897067572/" title="IMG_3391 by Family McLean, on Flickr"></a>They brought gifts, food, letters written to uplift me, candles and beads. </div><div>The beads were later put on a chain so I can cherish them.</div><div><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4896468775/" title="IMG_3337 by Family McLean, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4137/4896468775_ee9093e3bd.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="IMG_3337" /></a></div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4896468775/" title="IMG_3337 by Family McLean, on Flickr"></a><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4896467243/" title="DSC_0709 by Family McLean, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4139/4896467243_92404d6749.jpg" width="500" height="332" alt="DSC_0709" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4896467243/" title="DSC_0709 by Family McLean, on Flickr"></a>They also treated me to a belly cast. The lady who did the cast came to my home a few days earlier and did the cast. I then started painting it and then took it to have words written on it by each person who came to the celebration. <i>(thank you Monique for the suggestion and making that happen, and for hosting!)</i></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4897061526/" title="DSC_0703 by Family McLean, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4080/4897061526_63208b6863.jpg" width="332" height="500" alt="DSC_0703" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4897061526/" title="DSC_0703 by Family McLean, on Flickr"></a>Now I just have to fill in around the words and finish the painting process.</div><div><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4896464615/" title="DSC_0701 by Family McLean, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4076/4896464615_bab6ee4dc0.jpg" width="500" height="332" alt="DSC_0701" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4896464615/" title="DSC_0701 by Family McLean, on Flickr"></a>Thank you from the bottom of my heart all of you who made it and those who couldn't but wanted to be there. It was truly a blessing and an encouraging time.</div><div><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4897059282/" title="DSC_0691 by Family McLean, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4077/4897059282_d974b1bfcd.jpg" width="332" height="500" alt="DSC_0691" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4897059282/" title="DSC_0691 by Family McLean, on Flickr"></a>Being read words written from the heart was humbling and refreshing.</div><div>The love that poured out over words carefully chosen touched me. Warmed me.</div><div><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4896462411/" title="DSC_0685 by Family McLean, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4074/4896462411_7ccf9ed8be.jpg" width="500" height="332" alt="DSC_0685" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4896462411/" title="DSC_0685 by Family McLean, on Flickr"></a>I was spoiled. Every woman deserves this. </div><div>There are so many stages to life that go without any acknowledgment. There are times that we sometimes struggle with and having women around to share and support you is incredible. Not being alone and knowing that others go through the same experiences is empowering. I know we don't celebrate all the stages of life like some cultures do but just knowing that we all go through these stages is reason to reach out to each other.</div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4896460909/" title="DSC_0683 by Family McLean, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4143/4896460909_d5f22af8ec.jpg" width="500" height="332" alt="DSC_0683" /></a></div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4896460909/" title="DSC_0683 by Family McLean, on Flickr"></a><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/familymclean/4896457907/" title="DSC_0678 by Family McLean, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4134/4896457907_51825c560f.jpg" width="500" height="332" alt="DSC_0678" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Blessed. In so many ways. I am thankful.</div><div><br /></div>Anna-b-bonkershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11470379679830893275noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2578794009671354856.post-35403382295866628512010-08-01T22:58:00.002-06:002010-08-01T23:03:58.642-06:00Pregnancy photo shoot<div>Ooo, I just got a few photo's sent over from a friend of mine. We headed out a few days ago and she shot away and all I had to do was stand around with my belly hanging out. Thank you Monique for the fun morning and these memories, you are so talented!</div><div><br /></div><div><img src="http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a0d620b3127cce985482d1356400000035102AaMmTJs2cso" class="detail-img" style="display: block; " height="583" /><img src="http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a0d620b3127cce985482d6b45300000035102AaMmTJs2cso" class="detail-img" style="display: block; " width="778" /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><img src="http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a0d620b3127cce985482d5356000000035102AaMmTJs2cso" class="detail-img" style="display: block; " height="583" /><img src="http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a0d620b3127cce985482d2b45700000035102AaMmTJs2cso" class="detail-img" style="display: block; " width="778" /><img src="http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a0d620b3127cce985482d3356600000035102AaMmTJs2cso" class="detail-img" style="display: block; " height="583" /><img src="http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a0d620b3127cce985482eb355e00000035102AaMmTJs2cso" class="detail-img" style="display: block; " height="583" /><img src="http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a0d620b3127cce985482dab45f00000035102AaMmTJs2cso" class="detail-img" style="display: block; " width="778" /><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Anna-b-bonkershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11470379679830893275noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2578794009671354856.post-31924936278069278602010-07-31T00:12:00.004-06:002010-07-31T01:03:57.758-06:00Feeling it<img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4127/4845185817_5a00913143.jpg" /><div><br /></div><div>I am feeling huge. Tired too. This photo was taken just over a week ago and I measured 41 weeks. I have never been this big before and wow, there is a lot of pressure down there with this babe!</div><div>So I haven't been around to blog or tweet or facebook much and this has a little to do with it. I nap a few times a day now and when I am not I am helping or trying to help Dave with the reno's around here to get ready to list this house. I will get on that soon, the projects are winding up....sorta, I think. At least it is starting to look wound up.</div><div>Anyway, that is all I can muster tonight, I will be back with more, I just might have to be able to tolerate sitting on a chair a little longer.</div><div>Oh, and the kids are doing well. Hudson cut molars this week and Kaitlyn and Ethan are 'helping' with stuff around the house and soaking up summer. I should really post the pictures of them out with hula hoops and hopscotching and all.</div><div>OK, I have a lot to catch up on but I am done, good night!</div>Anna-b-bonkershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11470379679830893275noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2578794009671354856.post-68369327960774750742010-07-14T13:36:00.006-06:002010-07-14T16:13:31.530-06:00Topsy turvy<img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4093/4735138410_f3a49d8b85.jpg" /><div><br /></div><div>I wish I had a lot of wonderfulness to share with you all but truth is that I am wiped. Life is something ain't it? </div><div><br /></div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4096/4734497915_4056bfe472.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div>A few weeks ago we went to the bank to sign the paperwork for the money we need to complete our project at the lake. They had approved us weeks earlier but we kept waiting for the paper signing call. The few trades that we have to use were booked though and then finally they called us in.</div><div><br /></div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4080/4735134624_b49f0e962b.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div>It turns out that the girl that was dealing with our account screwed something up and we really only get a quarter of what we needed. What?</div><div>What about all our dreams and plans?</div><div>What can we do?</div><div>We will be able to get the pipes for plumbing done, wire for electricity run, maybe the windows installed and maybe insulation sprayed. That is it.</div><div><br /></div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4114/4735133526_15c2f663a2.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div>We were told that since we don't have a mortgage we could get one and that would free up our line of credit however since we wouldn't have the money for a down payment we would face a $10,000 charge. Ha!</div><div>And of course since Dave is a private contractor and I am an artist we just don't get loans and stuff like other people. </div><div><br /></div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4082/4734489075_c0733932ca.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div>So much for finishing the lake house and moving out there, then cleaning and staging the city house for sale. Now we are busting our butts to get the city house cleaned up, purged of stuff, fixed up and then staged so we can sell it to free up the $$ we need to finish out at the lake.</div><div><br /></div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4078/4734493401_e7da65a398.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div>We aren't sure where we will live once the city house sells since we don't even have a toilet out at the lake yet or walls or lights or anything else. We do have framing and window holes and a water heater though!</div><div>So maybe we will find a little cabin to rent or a camper to sleep in or maybe crash in on relatives, I don't know. According to some lady that walked by and her experiences the roof rack on our truck should work just fine! (she was a little loopy!)</div><div> We are living day to day and will cross that bridge when it comes. I am sure it will work out one way or another, heck pioneers did it right!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4077/4793782631_ccfea3ca36.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div>And of course in the midst of all this we are expecting a baby to come. I am not feeling as ready for either as I would like to be. I get tired and take naps instead of cleaning or packing. And then in the evening when I want to be practicing my hypnobirthing (breathing and visualization techniques) I am thinking about a million things that need to happen here to get us ready to sell. We are in the 35-36 week stage of pregnancy now though and time is ticking!</div><div><br /></div><div>So this is why I haven't been around, our world is a little topsy turvy at the moment. Don't stress though, the Lord is watching over us and we will pull through. We have had help here and there and more is to come. It is a very exciting and stressful and crazy time. I can't even express the feelings and emotions I am going through daily, it doesn't even feel real!</div><div><br /></div><div><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4075/4794414588_0a71796af2.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div>So, I hope to be back here and get up to date, but I am just a wee little bit busy.</div><div>"Muah!" (blowing kisses)</div><div><br /></div>Anna-b-bonkershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11470379679830893275noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2578794009671354856.post-4872608958941881442010-06-23T23:45:00.004-06:002010-06-24T00:02:55.491-06:00Day 4 and 5 of 7, Picture in picture days....<div>And I totally didn't intend to do it!</div><div><br /></div><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1381/4726694908_8207290ebd.jpg" /><div><br /></div><div>Day 4. The kids and I headed out to the lake to see how Dave was doing and to hopefully weed the garden. The weeding didn't happen and now I am going to have to hoe my butt off when I get out again.</div><div><br /><div><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1056/4729663944_4c599db9d8.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div>And today, day 5. These are the out takes. Out take 1.</div><div> I really wanted to get a few photos that are not in the truck. I am afraid that I might have been getting into a theme or something and that wasn't what I intended. Maybe I should have stuck to that though. Oh, but I just realized I am doing a theme and I will stick to it! Picture in picture!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1204/4729664664_27d4018ed7.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div>Out take 2.</div><div>Out with some girl friends tonight. Oooo, I have to share those photos soon. Must edit first though and I just got home! Here I was hanging out waiting for them to arrive.</div><div><br /></div><div><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1128/4729019353_e20b458b70.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div>Out take 3.</div><div>Of course we are all crazy about our cameras and taking photos so we spent the night doing just that. We aren't dorks or anything like that....really, promise. OK, ok, maybe a little, but we try to keep it hidden way deep down.</div><div><br /><div><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1409/4729020885_67caebff9b.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div></div></div><div>And this is my submission to <a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/sevendays/pool/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#3366FF;">the group</span></a> for the day. Picture in picture in picture in picture.</div><div>Cause why not and I am in it and I took it and that qualifies!</div><div><br /></div>Anna-b-bonkershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11470379679830893275noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2578794009671354856.post-90670582407157336382010-06-21T23:26:00.002-06:002010-06-21T23:29:22.360-06:00"No hugs, harumpf."<div><br /></div><div>"Mom, he won't let me hug him!"</div><div><br /></div><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1062/4723213276_1539688f1e.jpg" /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Me: "You can hug me."</div><div>Kaitlyn: "I want to hug him and he won't let me!"</div><div><br /></div><div>What do you do with this one?</div>Anna-b-bonkershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11470379679830893275noreply@blogger.com9