My New Kitchen "Help"

:)

Daybook: Second Week of School

I can't believe how quickly the time is flying by now. We are just starting our second week of school for all of the kids, even the homeschooled ones. Little Dude is walking, and I'm able to be away from him for a few hours at a time now, if need be. And the weather has finally turned. Finally. More on all of this throughout my daybook. 


Outside my window~

Sunshine. Blue skies. COOL temps. High of only 84 today... yes, only. We went from 100's to 80's in 2 days.  Lows at night in the 60's. Fall is here!!


I am listening to~

My two homeschoolers fighting. Oy. It's snack time, and apparently making the lemonade is sending them over the edge.


I am wearing~

Khaki shorts and long sleeve melon-colored v-neck shirt. Bare feet. Of course.

(on the ferry heading up the Georgia Strait)


I am so grateful for~

Cooler weather. After over 65 days straight of triple digits, the cooler breezes seem miraculous. Indeed, they are. I am SO grateful.


I am pondering~

The balance of homemaking.  Specifically, a home that is kid-friendly, but neat. Our house will never be Pottery-Barn perfect. Our furniture is mostly hand-me-downs... and when I have toddlers running through it hither and yon, I'm glad for that. I can let go of my worry about our things and focus on our company.  However, I also know that children love beauty and order. How to balance both. How to not obsess but be organized. It may seem like a no-brainer, but this is hard for me.


I am reading~

Just finished The Help for book club.  Highly. Recommend.  My goodness, what an amazing read. 
I'm now reading Innocent Blood for book club, and The Children's Homer for the Lit class I teach.


I am thinking~

About my school kids. All day I think about them, checking their schedules, seeing what class they are in, and I pray for them.  They are doing so well at school. I can hardly believe it. 

(excuse the early-morning, Papa-in-a-hurry shot)


I am creating~

New bedrooms. DH and I, side-by-side. Boo and Love's room is finished.  We painted the boys' room yesterday. DH is building lofts. It's slow, but we are making progress. What a crazy time. 


On my iPod~

Lots of painting music.  :)

(view from our bedroom at the beach house... sigh)



Towards a real education~

Our co-op is going really well. Little Dear's classes are more challenging this year, but not overwhelming. It's a good balance. We went on a nature walk this morning. It was glorious. I think we need to do that a bit more this Fall. 


Towards rhythm and beauty~

Less kids at home mean less mess. It's really true. But it also means less hands to help if I need it. Little Dude is so much happier now that he's more mobile. I can get some chores done! And also? I can write more. How I've missed it!

(Little Dude at the beach house)



I am hoping and praying~

For Suzanne, and Charlotte, and many other intentions. 


In the garden~

Need to re-plant. I can't wait until this weekend when I can go and buy fall blooms!!


Around the house~

The smell of paint and wood stain. How fun!

(missing our family in Canada... right Little Boo?)


From the kitchen~

I've been baking. :)  Apple pie and carrot cake, for starters. The promise of fall brings out the domestic side of me.



One of my favorite things~

Yummy kitchen smells. :)




A few plans for the week~

Our calendar is starting to fill up. Soccer practices, Irish step dance, Night out for mom, soccer tournament this weekend, a coffee get-together... it's nice to get back into socializing again!



A picture thought~

(from our trip to the Sunshine Coast, British Columbia, Canada)


:)

Summer Doldrums?

It's almost July, and I am still waiting for it.  Waiting for the time I look at our days and realize that the routine is so... routine, that I feel like I'm in some sort of cruel Chinese Water Torturing chamber.

Not. Happening.

Our days have been so busy and varied that I fear I will never just plop down and organize the home school room closet just for something to do.

(guess who we went to see play?)

Y'all know that we spend most of our summer days here in the south... inside.  I know, it sounds horrific.  But when the temps climb, the only sound outside is the hum of the air conditioners and cicadas.  Unless you've been blessed with a pool, the neighborhoods are eerily silent.

(Little Boo's fashion show)

We pack it off to the pool about every other day.  Little Dude reacts to this trek by fussing and falling asleep once we get there.  He... endures the pool.  No enjoyment whatsoever. 

I think he got stuck with the wrong family.

:P

Since school ended waaayyyy back in May, we've been recuperating.  At least, I've been.  Homeschooling and writing and teaching made my life insane and I just wanted to kick back for awhile.  Each week, though, brought one thing after another.. all fun, mind you.... but lordy, busy! Besides the fact that my kids still need to eat and have clean clothing.  It seems that life hasn't slowed down much at all.

(Auntie Lil Sis babysits... and does make-overs!)

I'm thinking that this is the new normal.  That this is why it all goes by so quickly.  6 kids under one roof, the oldest a teenager.  Holding my breath, and suddenly he'll be driving... whisking himself and friends and siblings hither and yon.  Poof.  It will be so soon. I really thought that the pattern of our summer days would be slower at least for a few more years.  But with summer soccer practice and camps and water park swim days and sleepovers and more camps and math and impending treks across the western U.S. and Canada.... not to mention DH's crazy work schedule (he's headed to Germany, for heaven's sake... not saying when)

It's been a bit insane.

(Yes, we saw him twice)   :)

As a result, I will have to impose the summer doldrums on myself.  In between trips to the pool and soccer camp, I will pretend to be bored. I will toss aside the books I haven't 've read a million times, and sit with my feet up.  I will call that friend I haven't heard from in ages, I will wipe some door frames and do some extra baking. 

Just so I can believe that it is truly summer.


:)

Daybook: Easter Week

Outside my window~
A gray, muggy day.  Our spring storms are in full swing.  Our weather forecast for the next week is the same.  Scattered storms, 30% chance of rain.  All that means is hot and muggy, with severe storms.  We were under a tornado watch for most of the evening yesterday.  Nothing says Happy Easter quite like making sure the "tornado closet" is available for quick entry.  :P


I am listening to~
The kids play the wii.  We're taking the day off.  A recoup day after the day of festivities yesterday.  We're recuperating our minds, bodies, and bellies.  It was a great day, and I need to rest.  Maybe a nap later?

I am wearing~
Tan cargo pants, heather blue tank top and white flip flops.  My hair in a low pony tail.  Thank goodness for pony tails.  It's been my styling savior for 6 months now.  I hope to get my hair cut next week.  At least it will be styled for a few days then.  No promises after that.  :P

I am so grateful for~
Yummy recipes online. A clean house. Helping hands. Whiffle ball in the backyard. Abundance and plenty.

I'm pondering~
The enigma that is my newborns. My babies never drift peacefully off to sleep.  Is this normal?  They nurse and squirm and kick and wail... then suddenly, poof, they are asleep.  I am sitting there, exhausted and dripping as I gently lay them in their crib and tip toe away.  Or I collapse with them in bed, depending on the hour.  Do they make babies who get tired and actually go to sleep on their own?  I am somewhat serious here.

I am reading~
Library trip today! Thank goodness our local library doesn't charge late fees. We'd have to take out a loan to pay 'em.  I need to get The Host for book club....

I am thinking~
About college graduation parties. Lil Sis graduates in almost 3 weeks. What an amazing time it's been, journeying with her.  She will live with us for one last summer and then move out for good.  I'm excited for summer, and for the time we'll have with her. I'm excited for all she is allowing God to do in her life right now.  She is praying and trusting like never before. Given what she's been through (and it's been so rough for her) I'm inspired by her Faith and Hope.  She knows like never before that God is faithful.  And she is stepping out, with arms wide open, to receive what He will give.  And I know it will be abundant.  She is an amazing person, and  there is so much good in store for her.

I am creating~
Menu plans for graduation weekend.  We'll have at least two families celebrating with us.  Plus whomever else gets invited at the last minute.  :D  I want it all to be fun and yummy and not stressful. Yesterday was fun, yummy and not stressful... so can I triplicate that for 3 days in a row?  We'll see.

Towards a real education~
Well, it's official.  The boys will be at private school next year.  It's a wonderful, Catholic, (non-diocesan) private school.  It's a family-oriented place where certain tv shows, movies and music artists are banned.  It's a place filled with faithful Catholics and classical learning.  Where sports and family intermingle.  I am so excited for the boys.  And I am so certain that this is what God wants for them right now. And yes, I am extremely nervous, but firmly committed.  We'll do what it takes to make it work.  Praise God for this option in our lives!

To live the liturgy~
Little Dude is really good at hanging out in the baby bjorn,(sleeping and awake) so I think it's time to reinstate friday mass.  It would be a long stretch, since we have to be on campus (the local Catholic college has noon mass) later that afternoon for the girls' Irish step-dancing class, but it would be a wonderful way to spend a friday afternoon.

I am hoping and praying~
For many intentions, all virtual, but so very real.  I am also praying for family members, for health and peace.

In the garden~
The tomatoes are in, and coming along nicely!  We've had a ton of rain the past few days, which gives us great hope for an abundant harvest.  My pansies out front have to go... a trip to the farmer's market for more blooms has to happen soon. Shucks darn, eh?  :)


Around the house~
Order.  I need to create seamless order.  I'm tired of the chaos, the mess, and the clutter.  My babymoon has been a long one, and it's time to buckle down.  The kids helped a ton this past weekend, and I'm inspired to continue the massive clean up.  I think they are inspired too.

From the kitchen~
Leftovers!  Slow-cooked pork shoulder roast, pasta salad, boston cream pie.  It was an awesome feast, with lots leftover.  Yum.

One of my favorite things~
Tulips that don't follow the rules.

:)

Another "Rejected by Employer" Poem...

I should note that this one was "rejected" because it was deemed too complex for 5th graders.  Given the ones my 1st grader has to memorize, I disagree.  I'm not holding the purse-strings, however.....
:P

HOPPITY-HO

Peter the Rabbit is showing his skin

His cousin did once realize.

He served him tomatoes

And day-old potatoes

But couldn’t increase his size.

To the garden we go, hoppity-ho!

But his mother shivered and shook,

"No! No! If you do,

They’ll turn you to stew

For the wife, she's a fiery cook!"

The cousin did scoff, as he said in reply,

"Dear Auntie, you must worry so.

That silly old farmer

Though not quite the charmer,

Is hopelessly feeble and slow."

So Cousin and Peter did set off in haste

To fool the Farmer just so.

What they failed to consider

Was that he’s just no quitter

And he’d learned to jump: hoppity-ho!

:)

Daybook: Updating

I'm not going to apologize for the silence. I've learned in the past that silence can be golden. Especially internet silence.  Especially when you can revisit your original reasons for blogging and re-prioritize a bit. But most especially for a reason like this one:

Little Dude has been keeping me busy, of course.  But more on him throughout the course of this Daybook.....


Outside my window~
Sun.  Blue skies and sun.  We went to the park today, and I got 2 hours of in-your-face sun time.  It felt glorious, and even Little Dude's cheeks are a tad bit pink.

I am listening to~
My girls play nintendo and my boys play poker with a friend.  The hours of outside fun this morning has made them content to sit and relax this afternoon.  It's Spring Break. We all feel content.

I am wearing~
My comfy (and very well-loved) jeans, t-shirt and crocs.  Hair in a messy bun.  I've promised myself that I will actually style my hair tomorrow.  I think.  :P

I am so grateful for~
Friends who organize park outings.  I never would have gone, never would have organized it... just would have feebly attempted laundry or writing while refereeing fights and putting off endless requests for playdates.  It was a lovely, refreshing change.

I'm pondering~
Schedules.  More on that in a bit.

I'm reading~
The Roots of Obama's Rage by Dinesh D'Souza.  My pick for bookclub next week.Very interesting.

I am thinking~
That Little Dude needs to get in some semblance of a groove any day now.  He is the king of the castle, and I never can plan anything!  Lol.


I am creating~
A new Nut House normal.  Our sports schedule this season requires that we be away from home at dinnertime 4 out of the 5 weeknights. So, we'll be eating dinner at 4:30 on those nights.  DH and I have it coordinated so we know who needs to be where, and when.  On the nights he works late, I'll be flying solo, but it's doable.  Texting one evening with a long-distance kindred spirit while waiting at Sports Fan's practice, I decided.... no complaining.  We chose this. 3 kids on 4 teams. 2 girls in dance. It's crazy, but we homeschool after all.  We are together all day, every day.  We can eat earlier.  We can regroup after practice and showers and pray the rosary.  If there is any time in our lives this can work, it's now.

On my iPod~
Nothing new, except maybe more old radio shows for Action Man.  Tales of the Texas Rangers, anyone?

Towards a real education~
Oh dear. 'Tis that discerning time of year again.  We've always said that we take homeschooling one year at s time.  We mean that literally.  Oy, this time of year is always hard.  :)

Towards rhythm and beauty~
Trying out the new schedule this week.  Still recuperating from my solo weekend... still grateful for energetic sisters who swoop in and whisk children off to games in the freezing windy conditions.  Still trying to re-vamp chore charts....  Still a work in progress.

To live the liturgy~
Lent snuck up on me this year, I admit.  I found our good deeds jar, got some dried beans, chatted with the kids about our sacrifices and hauled them off to mass on Wednesday.  But more needs to be done.  The boys had a friend over yesterday who told them that he was giving up TV for Lent.  The boys' jaw hit the floor as Action Man said, "Dude, that's hard!"  And the friend looked at them and said, "Yeah.  Isn't that the point?"

I am hoping and praying~
For our schooling decisions, and for many many other intentions that have come to my attention this week.  So much heartbreak and sadness out there.  Keeps my worries in perspective.

In the garden~
Tomato plants go in this weekend.  My red pansies out front look glorious... and looks like spring is here for good!

Around the house~
Chaos.  We emptied out the girls' rooms thinking that we would be hosting our friends from Wisconsin for the week.  They got the flu, however, and turned around before they even got to us.  Very sad. And the toys are everywhere.  This weekend will necessitate a huge clean up.

From the kitchen~
Lenten meals, coupled with soccer practice means quesadillas on the go.  :P  The kids have homeschool gym class at a park this afternoon, minutes away from Sports Fan's practice. So tempting to pack a picnic and stay... we'll see.

One of my favorite things~
Little Dude's ears.

:P

MIA

That's me.  The completely uncommitted blogger.  Not that anyone's noticed, of course.  Oh, wait.  Lil Sis said something to me the other day about getting tired of opening my blog and seeing "Gemma These Days" all the time...  and I did get a lovely Facebook note from this wonderful gal.  (We met through blogging and she knows my younger sisters...hence the FB friendship)  So nice to know that someone misses me!

LOL

It's been a whirlwind of a time over here, folks.  I don't blame anyone for not noticing... in fact, I hardly have time to notice myself.  And judging by the way I look these days, it's high time someone took notice.  Good heavens.

;P

Ok, so on to updates.

My biggest excuse for my lack of communication these days I can blame completely on the smallest member of the Nut House... Little Dude.  Just as he was starting to pull out of his unsleepy-neediness, he went and contracted RSV.  And then, just for kicks, decided to wake up Valentine's Day morning unable to breathe very well.  Nothing says I love you like a frantic trip to the ER with the man you pledged to spend the rest of your life with and sohelpmeifwegetintoanaccidentIwillkillyou... love and cherish forever.
Yes, it was scary.  No, Little Dude did not require any interventions once we got there, thank goodness.  By the time we saw the ER doc, he was smiling and cooing up a storm.  But DH and I?  We acquired a ton of gray hair.  And I don't think my complexion has returned to normal yet.

So, Little Dude and I have been getting to know the wonders of nasal spray, aspirators, and nebulizers.  3 months old seems a little young for this knowledge in my humble opinion, but with this blasted weather and the pollen count skyrocketing, it's necessary... Besides, I'm not up for any more romantic ER trips any time soon.

:P

On a completely different note... I've been gainfully re-employed to spin my tiny tales of fiction for a state testing website.  It's so much fun, but also pretty stressful, to try to make happy tales at the 11th grade level under 525 words and ask questions regarding hyperbole and theme.  No sarcasm allowed, no religion either.  So I'll have to use the blog as therapy.  (Who doesn't, I'd like to know?)


Little Boo started her insane soccer schedule this week.  3 evenings of practice, games on Sundays, soon to be Saturday's too.  I'm happy to report that she is like a brick wall on defense and totally made her mark at her very first game.  Since playing club soccer is much more competitive, I fully expected her to sit out at least part of the game, but no... her new coaches are just as appreciative of her skill at this level.  And I am hopelessly proud.  I couldn't go to her first game, so I shared my feeling of being tortured by texting DH every other second asking how she was doing.

ACTUAL TEXT:
Me: Is she still on?  And playing well?
DH: Yes and yes
Me: You are a plethora of information. Maybe you could do a play by play for me?
DH: Be still woman.  It's so sunny I can barely see my phone.

Aren't you glad you're not married to me?

So, we are plugging away over here.  Little Dude is on the mend.  My foray into the world of fiction has been a nice distraction, and I am unabashedly living vicariously through my 8 year old.  :)

What have y'all been up to?
:)

Telling

We've had to implement a new rule at the Nut House these days. 


#11.  No fighting over the baby.



:P

Not The Brightest Apple....

Mama (yelling):  Ok, everybody... time to get our school work finished!  Up and at 'em!  Let's go!
(I wander off to check my e-mail... and notice that I am being gmail "chatted" by my own son.)

SPORTS FAN!!!!  Get down here!
(he comes waltzing downstairs....)

Why are you on the computer??  Didn't you hear what I said?

Sports Fan(incredulously):  How did you know??


:P

A Family Christmas Tradition

(aka... Nutmeg hits the "Big Time")

:P

I participated in my very first podcast yesterday morning!  It was a wonderful experience, to talk about a subject that I absolutely love... food, and family tradition.

If you've ever wondered what Christmas Eve is all about in a traditional Polish household, this is a must-hear.  And even if it all seems overwhelming, remember... while I am half Polish, I am taking baby steps and still fully letting my own Mother take the helm when it comes to this meal.

But it is such a fantastic and richly-symbolic celebration of the most joyous of feasts!

You can listen here.

And Michelle has a nice write up (with recipes!) here.

:)

Daybook: Fall Arrives

This morning dawned cool and crisp.... lows in the 50's.  We've had the windows open every night, and the cool breezes are so welcomed by this body who has it's own internal heating element.  Poor DH!  Canadian though he is, I've been insisting on fans blowing and no covers.. all night long.  I haven't slept this well in months.


Outside My Window...

Cobalt blue skies and sun, and a brisk wind.  Now, brisk for us is 70 degrees.... so take it with a grain of salt, y'all.  I'm just thrilled to be able to watch my kids play soccer without melting!!

I Am Listening To...

Silence.  And the occasional door slam.   The little girls have a friend over, and my boys are oscillating between the basketball hoop, the hockey net and airsoft target practice.  It's as if they don't know what to do first!  Fall means outdoor play here, and the bikes and scooters and balls are in constant motion after 5 months of lying dormant.

I Am Wearing...

Maternity jean shorts and a white maternity tank top, silver hoop earrings, hair in a pony tail.  It's almost time to take Sports Fan to practice, and it will be warm sitting in the sun chatting with the other moms. Earlier today, I had on flared pants and a long-sleeved gray gap shirt. (maternity as well)  We have two wardrobes going these days.  But I don't mind a bit.


I Am So Grateful For...

Dear friends who celebrate this new birth with so much enthusiasm... as evidenced by the wondrous spread they put on for my baby shower yesterday.  It was exquisite.  And re-connecting with some of my local friends that I don't get to see very often (you know how busy we moms can get) warmed my heart. I am very blessed.

I Am Pondering...

Mostly school stuff.  I know, boring.  :P  But since I teach American History for our co-op, I am constantly searching through resources to come up with ways to bring history to life.  The kids are delightful and eager to learn and participate.  I am exhausted, but in a good way.


I Am Reading...

In Conversation With God.  I really want to participate in my bookclub this month, so I need to find Miss Pettigrew Lives For A Day.  And I am always reading this.


I Am Thinking...

About this blog, this space.  I am out of practice in writing out these days.  My words tumble all mish-mash and nothing flows.  I've been distracted for far too long.  Can I find my way back?  Can I reclaim my voice?  How will it be... once Little Dude is on the scene?  I am hopeful that I will find the time and the words again.  This may be my last chance to capture these baby years...

I Am Creating.....

Order. And lists.  3 weeks and a bit until my world turns upside down and inside out.  I wish I could just focus on this new life that is coming, but practicality has to kick in here.  There are 5 other children to think of, my classes to cover and plan for the substitute, a meal and weekly plan for my parents to navigate, and many other considerations since I will be unavailable for quite some time.  C-sections are not my preferred modus operandi. Yet, much as I hate them, I need to face it and make accommodations.

On my iPod....

Lots of old western radio shows.  Which is why I don't seem to have an iPod anymore.... maybe I should say "On Action Man's iPod"...  ;P


Towards a Real Education...

Our homeschool co-op is AWESOME.  Coupled with our cd-rom based Math, we are cruising.  My kids love seeing their good friends, and I love that they have to answer to someone! else!  But, I still get to have them home all week.  And! I'm teaching again!  It's so fun.  I didn't realize how much I missed formal classroom teaching.  And being with these students is a real joy.

Towards Rhythm and Beauty...

We are in preparation mode.  I am slowly assimilating the kids into their new roles, as the need for me to step back and step down increases.  Laundry, dishes, vacuuming, cooking... all of these chores are doable by my older children, and I need to let go and let them help.  So far, they are responding... usually without too much complaining. I know it's good for them.  They need to understand and appreciate the hard work that is family life.  And hopefully, see the joy in it all as well.
:)

To Live the Liturgy...

Religion classes have spawned many interesting dinner discussions, and with All Saints Day around the corner, I expect we will delve even deeper into the mysteries of the faith.  It's wonderful to see even Little Love sharing her new-found knowledge with the family.

I Am Hoping and Praying...

For this Little One.  For the upcoming surgery.  Less understanding forums call it "birth by scalpel"... and while I cannot argue with the accuracy of the statement, I cry out against the implications.  That somehow I have chosen the easy, less natural way, and that I, and my baby, are lesser people for it.  If they only knew how much I abhor this surgery, how much I wish things could happen differently, and how I have been dreading it since that day when two pink lines announced the reality of this newest soul.  It's the bitter pill I must swallow, the dark cloud that has surrounded my thoughts constantly... the mountain of pain and fear and worry I must climb in order to see and hold my bundle of joy. Yes, I need lots of prayers... thank you!
:)

In The Garden....

I am sorry to say that our landscaping neighbors have moved, and I, and my black thumb, are completely on our own.  I do have an e-mail address, and a basic understanding of which flowers should be planted when.  I have been told to stay away from the big box stores, and, armed with this scant knowledge, I will be attempting to keep our front bed looking spiffy.  Right now, the stuff* out there looks great, and I hope it will last through the birth and recovery of Little Dude. (*yeah... don't even ask... have no clue what I planted)

From the Kitchen...

Not much.  Dinner, most nights.  I have a ton of carrots and the makings for carrot cake... we'll see if it gets accomplished.  My plans are for quick, easy meals, and lots of water and diluted juice for me.  I'm combating the last weeks of soreness and swollen ankles.  It's a race to the finish, and I feel like the tortoise in that famous fable.  But I know I will get there.  And that's a huge consolation!

One of my Favorite Things...

The lake in the fall.  I had planned to go last week.  We got everything and everyone loaded into the car, I turned the key, and... nothing.  Now that we have a new battery for the van and the promise of continued gorgeous weather, we will hopefully go this week.  A little respite is needed before this baby comes to rock our world.

A Few Plans for the Rest of the Week...

This week will be fairly quiet. A hair appointment for me (aka... operation hide-the-grays)  soccer practices, and an orthodontist appointment for Action Man.  Next week is the doozy with my parents coming for a full-blown fun soccer weekend, dry runs with our crazy schedule, and dentist and doctor visits for me.  I have a feeling the next 3 weeks are going to fly.

A Picture Thought....

I and my beautiful, thoughtful friends who worked together to put on an amazing baby shower for me Sunday afternoon.
(p.s.  I'm the one with the belly....)

:P

Welcome Fall!!

Tomorrow

 

Forecast:

 

 

Sunny 

 

Temperature:  76°

Chance of Precip:  0%

 

Wind: N at 9 mph

:)

Lights, Camera.... *fizzle*

When I was in High School, I was in an acting troupe.  Our "Youth Group" would travel around upstate NY and put on plays for other youth groups.  My first play was a bit of a disaster.... there were no tryouts, and I was cast in some measly role that just did NOT display my awesome talent. Or, so I thought at the oh-so-experienced age of 13.

;P

At my high school, I acted in the musicals, and my junior year was given one of the lead! roles!  So very exciting.  I was the Queen in Roger's and Hammerstein's Cinderella.  

My time in the limelight was short-lived, however, as I attended a college that did not, as yet, have an acting troupe.  (They do now, of course...)

Enter life-after college.  After exhausting all of my resources trying to look for a job in Canada... yeah, they didn't take too kindly to the illegal-immigrant status I was sporting.... I signed up with a talent agency and did one. little. nothing. photo shoot for a bank.  Yay.  I spent the next year tutoring ESL and making good money.  So much for life in the fast lane.

And then.  When Little Love turned 5 last year, I realized that, perhaps, I could try it once more.  Figuring that I had learned a few things about the lingo of the business, I responded to a few innocuous craigslist ads, and found myself with a couple of appointments.  After chatting on the phone and threatening to walk out of the shoot if it was anything other than what I was hearing... (I am so compliant that way) I showed up to the first studio with Lil Sis in tow. (She's an awesome bodyguard)  I met the director, did some yoga poses, got paid, and left.  Easy Peasy.

Since that first foray, I've done a hair spot and an evening of "extra" work on the new cable show "The Good Guys" starring Colin Hanks.  (Yes, I saw him... no, I didn't talk to him... although it was totally cool to watch a take of a shooting car chase being filmed in downtown Dallas!)  My part?  I walked past a store.  Tons of talent needed there, let me tell you.

:P

And then.  I found out I was pregnant.  Nausea and fatigue are simply not conducive to happy-smiley camera work.  Lol.  And so, my amazing career as a part-time "extra" for commercials or print or any acting whatsoever is on hold. Indefinitely. 

Here's how it ended:

(phone ringing) The Call: Meegan? (yes, that's how they pronounced my name) This is Louie. (I kid you not!  Isn't that hilarious???) How are you looking for a commercial audition this weekend?

Me: (thoroughly snickering) Well, I'm looking about 6 months pregnant.

*crickets*

Me: Yeah.  Maybe get back to me in about a year.

Louie:  Oh, right!  Hey, congratulations!


I can hear the delete button being pushed on my profile....

And you know what?  I am totally ok with that.  Totally.

:)

Seven Quick Takes... Vol I

No, I've never ever in my blogging years have done this quick takes thingy before.  But my brain is fried and my house is a mess and we are all still wishing we were in Colorado at my parents house sipping hot tea in the freezing cold mornings and watching the deer nibble on the grass outside.

~1~

Yes, we took one last summer trip to the Rocky Mountains to terrorize see my parents last week.   13 hours there, 12 hours back.  And 8 glorious days in humane temperatures.  We warned the kids that there would be no. special. trips. once we got there.  Only unlimited outdoor playtime.  The first day was a bit rough, with sleep deprivation and the whole not-used-to-playing-outside thing... but after that, they made full use of the woods, tree house, and hot tub... along with movies and board games and coloring and playing with Grandma's stash of kid toys. I got a lot of school planning done, and it was just simply heavenly all around.

~2~

Oh! But we did take them places... never fear.  My mom and I drove 2 hours with the kids to the Hot Springs to spend the day in the spring-fed river, pools, and water slide.  It was awesome.  The kids had a blast, and I loved the unlimited water/sun-minus-humidity combo. A stop at the ice cream store on the way home was the cherry on top. The next day, my folks took all the kids out so DH and I could go get lunch by ourselves.  That, too, was amazing.  And much-needed.
:)

~3~

As much fun as it was, we may never go away again.  :P  Upon arriving home, we noticed that our cat was covered in "dirt"... which was quickly ascertained to be dried blood... which was quickly traced to his tongue... which had been cut on his cat food can... which we had told the neighbor to just open for him every day.  Well, apparently by the end of the week, he had somehow attacked the can with a vengeance and split his tongue.  Off to the vet DH went (after driving 12 hours that day) to shell out a small fortune to have the cat put under general anesthesia so his tongue could be stitched up.  Antibiotics and 2 days later, he re-opened the wound and we'll just have to leave it.  Totally worth the original $500 we plunked down, dontcha think?  Ugh.

~4~

The second day we were home, the upstairs bathroom had a bit of an overflow problem.  I got the phone call from an oh-so-calm Sports Fan as I ran errands around town.  The first words out of his mouth when I answered my cell phone were:

OHMYGOSH MOMCOMEHOMEQUICKTHE  (mumble mumble)WATERPOURING (mumble)CEILING(mumble) HOMESCHOOLROOM(mumble)FLOODING!!!!!

Yes.

That was just what I wanted to hear.

~5~

DH's initial reaction to this incident is not blog-approved.  However, by the time he came home from work, he actually hugged the offending party and assured the person that it was fixable, not to worry.  Then he stood there with his hands on his head staring up at the ceiling for a long time.  Which made Little Boo pronounce him to be in a "bad mood" so no one should talk to him.
:P

~6~

Soccer season is upon us!  Little Boo had her first practice yesterday, after watching Lil Sis' first game.  Sports Fan is also playing this year (different team, different field, different organization altogether... sigh) But the two of them have been practicing together non-stop.  I am constantly yelling at them to pick up their cleats and shin guards and will they please put their socks in the wash?  But I do love this time of year... it means Fall is on the way!  And who doesn't love Fall?

~7~

Which leads me to my final "take."  Little Dude is set to make his appearance (via c-section) Oct 29th. He's growing well (and so am I, thankyouverymuch).  There are still times I look down at my stomach and can't believe I'm pregnant. (I know, my grasp on reality is stellar) But it's more of a joyous disbelief.  I still worry, believe it or not... and I know I will, until we both come out of surgery with clean bills of health.  If you think of it, between now and then, would you mind offering a prayer up for us?  I really really hate this surgery... and this will be my fourth time going through it.  I need peace.. in my heart and mind... that all will be well.
Thank you, friends!


Go visit Jen at Conversion Diary for more Quick Takes.

:)

LOVE This Guy...

He just totally makes me laugh.





:P

Snapshot

Currently Watching:  Nothing.  Nada.  We do have The Blind Side from Netflix sitting in our living room... looking forward to a movie night with DH!

State of the House: Clean!  I rallied the kids last night while DH was at work and we vacuumed and mopped and put everything in it's place.  So nice for him to come home and see how much we appreciate his hard work.

State of the Laundry:  Washed, dried and put away.  Two more loads to do for tomorrow. 

State of my Mind:  Very content.  Very happy.  Very joyful.  When someone you are close to, is on the brink of the possibility of a beautiful thing, you can't help but be happy for them.  Lots of prayers, and lots of chats.  I can't wait to see what God has in store!

Enjoying:  Summer.  A bit too much, I'm afraid.  Can you believe it's July 30th?  JULY 30TH, Y'ALL!! Why is my home school room still a mess? Why aren't my books for next year ordered?  What is the plan, anyway???? 
oookay... back to my regularly scheduled pool day....  :P

Readying For:  A trip north? Another day at the lake?  Not too sure.  We are in the midst of birthday month here... so it's presents and cake and ice cream every week.  Not such a bad thing!  :)

Realizing:  That it's hard to let go.  Big things, small things... it's hard to just pray and trust that what is meant to be, will be.  If only we let Him take over.

Grateful:  For my life.  For what DH and I have worked so hard to build together.  For the inspiration that he is.  And for what is to come.


:)

Some Bling

This cute and sassy award was given to me by Patty.   Have you met her yet?  She's new to the blog-o-sphere.  Mom to many, Catholic, and the best part?  A Texan.

Can't have too many Texans out here on the open range of the internet!
:)

Here are the rules for this award:

1. Thank the person who gave you this award...  Thanks, Patty!

2.  List 6 things people may not know about you.

~I'm a huge procrastinator.  Always have been.  But I can usually deliver the goods.
~Ice cream and cake are my main downfalls.
~My multi-tasking skills are borderline supernatural.
~I hate the new blogger feature that doesn't allow you to hit "enter" when you finish typing a line.
~Freckles melt my heart.
~I'm a bit of a control freak... however, I do love a bit of spontaneity.

3. Pass it on to other bloggers who deserve this award.

The definition of versatile is: capable of, or adapted for turning easily from one to another of various tasks, fields of endeavor, etc.

There are so many bloggers that fit this bill.   They are women of many dimensions, and they are not afraid to let each side shine forth. They make me laugh, cry, and ponder.  It is truly a joy to be in their circle of knowing~

Margaret at Minnesota Mom

Michelle at Rosetta Stone

Elizabeth at In the Heart of my Home

Aimee at Mother Load

Barbara at Praying for Grace

Danielle at Danielle Bean

No pressure to pass this on, gals.  But feel free if you so choose!  Just know that I value and cherish your willingness to share your thoughts and post both your tribulations and your triumphs.  You are true inspirations to me.

:)

Daybook: A Tease of Springtime

This weekend was glorious. So glorious, I was able to read whilst sitting in the sun and am sporting a bit o' pink on my cheeks. Spring is on the way!

:)


Outside My Window...

Rain. And lots of it today. I'm okay with it, as long as it's not an all-week thing.



I Am Listening To...

The coffee pot brewing it's magic.



I Am Wearing...

Jeans, crocs, and a big olive green comfy sweater. The hair will be curly today. ;P



I Am Thankful For...

Home school co-ops. Little Boo starts her new one today. One morning a week filled with Science, History, Art, Grammar, and Bible stories. Lots of hands-on activities for all of it. Awesome kids to learn with as well.





I Am Pondering...

What will it be like when all the beauty, all the goodness, all the wonder of God is poured into this poor earthenware vessel that I am, that all of us are? Then I will understand the words of the Apostle, "Eye has not seen, nor ear heard..." It is worthwhile my children, it is worthwhile.
~J. Escriva


I Am Reading...

In Conversation With God.



From The Kitchen...

Fully stocked and ready to go! Follow me on my cooking blog and you'll see what's in store.
:)



I Am Thinking...

That I am not the greatest cook in the world, and yet I'm having so much fun sharing my go-to recipes. It really is all in fun. Hope you'll join me!



I Am Creating...

A meal plan. I have a meal to cook for a friend, and lots of activities that begin at 6pm this week. Luckily I'm home all day, every day! :)



Towards A Real Education...

Still tweaking. Here's a question. Does a home school mom ever stop tweaking? Yeah. Didn't think so. :P



Towards Rhythm and Beauty...

Less time online translates into a more orderly home. A less distracted Mama means the kids are being held more accountable in their schooling. A certain rhythm is slowly taking shape. I'm liking it very much.



To Live The Liturgy...

I've been making more time for my own personal prayer, but now it's time to extend that to more family prayer time. Now that the Olympics are over, we should be able to use that time in the evening for reflection.



I Am Hoping and Praying...

For many intentions.



In The Garden...

Just got my latest copy of Southern Living. How I double-heart that magazine! It "gets" the seasons down here. We are in planting zone 8. Apparently it's almost time to put in tomatoes. Yeehaw! :)



Around The House...

Tea, and lots of it. Every child brews his or her own cup and settles on the couch to read. It's how they gear up for the day. I wouldn't change it for anything.



On Keeping Home...

Laundry. Lots of sports mean lots of laundry. Back to back games means Mama has to get her groove on. I am by no means perfect, just ask Sports Fan who had to wear the same spandex and underthings 2 days in a row for hockey. I'll get better. Promise.



One of My Favorite Things...

The early morning cat snuggles afforded to me by Ben the Cat. There is nothing like meditating on your spiritual reading with a purring feline in your lap.



A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...

Soccer practices and games. Hockey games as well. Scouts and a baby shower. One day at a time. One moment at a time.




A Picture Thought I Am Sharing...

How about two? Here's Little Love, getting into the spirit of things...








































We have hockey on our minds, can you tell?

:)

Friday Funny

All of my little peanuts are having a blast acting this scene out...

... ad nauseam.


Although, I have to admit, I can't get enough of it done in 5 year-old lispy speak compliments of my Little Love.





:)

Introducing....

My new cooking blog: The Nutty Family Kitchen

I hope you'll soon join me over there to see what's cookin'!


:)