the always important little things……

Posted on November 16, 2015 by Shanda

Good morning and happy Monday, friends!

I made this wreath! About a month ago I went for a walk in the woods and came across a convenient grape vine to pull down. It was thin and pliable, not like the ones that grow so thick that the only part I can reach is as big around as a small tree with the rest of the vine grown far up into the tree tops. I pulled the little grapevine down and wound it up into a circle the best I could. And there it hang, back at home, outside on a nail for a month until I got ” a round tuit”, which was Saturday afternoon. I went outside with scissors and cut some evergreens (some still had tiny pinecones on them) and wild berries. I already had the dry grass (the tops look and feel as soft as down) in the house –I picked it from the side of the beaver pond. I used forest green yarn to tie everything together and a brown ribbon on the bottom, tied in a bow. I’m way too proud of it.

I also made a jello cake from my new favorite cookbook. It was amazing. In fact……

As soon as it was done, we ate it all. (after I took the picture, Ethan ate the last piece).

It wasn’t hard to eat it all in one go because we had a house FULL. In this picture there are 10 teenagers, 2 big dogs, and a small gray cat. There are two kids not in the picture, plus Rich and I.

Allie

Zak, Parker-the-dog, and Ethan

David made a Harry Potter wand all by himself out of a small tree he cut down in the woods. Then he carved it up and shellacked it. Sarah made turkeys out of her handprints. The Cook’s County cookbook is the one I got the jello cake from. Today I’m making a raspberry chiffon pie!

But mainly this post is about the love of my life-Richard Charles-who was gone all last week but is now home again and the part of my heart that needs *my husband around all the time* is at peace. From Monday-Wednesday he was in TX for work and then Thurs-through Saturday afternoon he was finishing up his coaching medical class that he was able to take so he can be the head coach for wrestling at our local HS this year. He was the assistant last year. He is going to LOVE coaching….he can’t wait to get started.

Well, I made him a nice “honey-do” list yesterday afternoon when he started hinting at going out for a run (which takes hours)…and he got right to work. So I thought I would show you some of the other little things we have done around the house lately……..

He put fresh lightbulbs in the ceiling fan on our cathedral ceiling.

While the ladder was out, Seth and Sarah decided to climb it.

(by the way, Seth trimmed his own bangs…he’s such a helpful child!)

Turns out Sarah is afraid of heights. I say this because she was only about two feet off the ground and beginning to shake like a leaf.

He changed out this outlet. It used to be a plain old outlet but it was loose in the wall and nothing would stay plugged into it, the cords would just fall out. It’s an important outlet because it’s on the wall at the end of the couch and we like to plug in the electric blanket and phones there. Consequently, while he was at it, he bought an outlet that has two slots for phone chargers, too. Very convenient. It’s amazing how such a small change can lift one’s spirits.

I bought this plastic bag holder a few months ago. It came with sticky strips on the top and bottom but the thing would NOT stay on the wall using just the strips. So it had to be put away until yesterday when I got Rich to hang it back up, using screws. (in the pantry)

This is our toilet paper dispenser. Rich actually hung these up a few weeks ago. We bought one for each the downstairs and upstairs bathrooms because the bathrooms are used so much that we were going through rolls and rolls of toilet paper and the rolls were all over the place. I love this dispenser because it’s clean, it’s locked, and it holds a large roll of paper. Half the kids thought it looked too “public bathroom” but I just don’t care…..I can’t tell you how many toilet paper holders have fallen off the walls, it’s nice to know this is here to stay. Michael says they were hung too low but he’s over 6 feet tall and we were thinking of our small kids at the time……

I love my new garbage can. We needed one for our dining room and this one is beautiful. It also has an open top (flip lids are an extra step) to “make baskets” into. Sarah can look right inside the top and see her papers from school that I throw away. Then she can get them right back out again.

Well, that’s about it as far as small home improvements. Rich also rehung the towel rack in our bathroom but I didn’t take a picture of that……(small mercies, right?)

These two little boys were stuck to their dad like glue yesterday watching everything he did and talking to him about football. It was precious to see.

“The small things of life were often so much bigger than the great things . . . the trivial pleasures like cooking, one’s home, little poems especially sad ones, solitary walks, funny things seen and overheard.” Barbara Pym

trust me :: you’re lovely

Posted on October 13, 2015 by Shanda

It was a long weekend and this will be a long post full of photos!

First of all, the colors this weekend were stunning. We had plenty of sunshine, which made them seem even brighter.

We went to Target.

And the next morning Sarah was on a leash….

My Mom and Dad said “you have to watch the Great British Baking show” so I finally turned it on Saturday morning–we ended up watching four episodes throughout the day. It’s included on amazon prime. The first episode was “cake” and my little ones got VERY inspired.

They came up with this on their own after watching it with me.

Seth got points for rolling his up, just like the people did with their swiss rolls on the show. After I took the pictures they got out the whipped cream, too.

They spilled so many bright white sprinkle balls on the floor that the kitten started chasing them around.

Rich and I took four of the children to a corn maze. I think it was the first time that we took 2 boys and 2 girls with us anywhere, an even match-up.

Two girls

There was a playground in a deep bed of feed corn.

two boys

There was a hay bale maze for little ones to run through (or over the top which is what our kids did).

And fun places to take goofy picture of your kids.

We went through the corn maze but didn’t complete it 100% of the way…it got too confusing. I don’t think we stopped laughing though.

There was a “pillow” to bounce on.

Before we left, we each picked out a pumpkin.

After a while he asked someone else to pull the wagon because his “legs were too tired.”

We got to the car and he said that I forgot his jacket so Rich had to go find it. Then, while we were waiting he said he had to go to the bathroom so Grace had to go take him. It’s amazing what you remember when you have to sit still.

On Sunday Rich went to church and I took the little boys to their game. Caleb is number 54. Both teams won. It was a great morning to spend outside. Rich and Grace were able to join me after a while. Ethan dropped them off after church and went on home by himself (he drives now and it was great when I ran out of creamer for my coffee the other day and I could just throw him the car keys).

I could sit and stare at this picture forever:

My man and my girl.

As soon as we got home I didn’t go inside…..I wandered around in the gorgeous outdoors.

I love the faded pinkish red leaves in the background in this picture of glowing yellow.

And how the fall colors blend and mix and stand out. I see the brown and gray of tree bark, plus several different shades of red, orange, yellow, and green.

I call Sam my halloween cat. She followed me around, begging to get her fur stroked.

The Osprey was in our dead tree again and this time it had a fish. I was able to lay down in the grass under the branch it sat upon, which was way up high above me. The bird held the fish in its feet and lowered its head down to twist pieces off it to eat. The twisting action was a quick back and forth motion, similar to a person testing a doorknob to see if the door is locked. It was fascinating to watch this interesting bird.

But Rich wasn’t very pleased with it eating HIS fish from HIS pond.

But luckily, David ran over to look with us, and the two of them used my camera to zoom in on the fish. They decided that it wasn’t from our pond, it was a trout.

(I found Dave’s “life is good” t shirt at the thrift store for 25 cents!)

Kids played football together on Sunday afternoon, until Emily had to go to work.

On Monday, Seth put clips all over his face!

Rich had to work but everyone else had no school or work, so a trip to Salem, MA was planned.

Michael, Jacob, Zak, Grace, and Emily went for the day. This picture was taken before they left to go get Emily.

Ethan stayed home because he wanted to visit with his friend Tessa, also he had soccer practice.

The funniest thing happened while I was taking the picture of Tessa and Ethan. We were at the bottom of the hill and our house sits at the top. Sarah was playing with the pumpkins on the front steps and let one go….all we heard was her little voice “Here comes a pumpkin” and it rolled all the way down, off the dock, into kersplash! into the pond!

Caleb waded into the cold water to get it after it floated close enough to the edge.

Thank you Caleb!

Caleb pointed out these mushrooms to me.

I’m going to dig up this little pink-leaved bush to put in my flower garden. It’s growing at the edge of the woods. I love how the leaves turned dark pink for fall. It’s beautiful!

Last but not least, I took a this photo this morning while Seth read me his assigned 1st grade reading. It was a variation of “Jack and Jill” that made me die of laughter…,,,,

bible study with a chicken!

Posted on October 8, 2015 by Shanda

As soon as the children left for school yesterday, and I had a good start on the household chores, I looked outside and thought, “What a gorgeous fall morning.”

I decided to go out in it and sit with the hens to have my Bible study time. As soon as I opened my Bible, my favorite chicken hopped up on my knee to join me. You might notice that I thought it was October 6th at first. “This all seems familiar,” I thought, and then realized it was now the 7th. Already!

Hi Chicken!

I had a notebook with me and a pencil stuck in my ponytail. The pencil didn’t stay there long, because very soon there were good things to scribble down to save and think about. The air was fresh and cool, the sounds of contented hens charming.

I want and long to read the Bible every day. I have found that for me, the best way to do this is to use a “One Year Bible”. (click here to see the one I use) In this Bible, there is a reading for each day of the year. I’ve used it for several years now. There are times when I miss a few days, maybe even a week or more, but I have found that if I try to catch up I get overwhelmed. So, I always skip those days because very soon (next year) I WILL get to those verses again. There is a portion of Old Testament, New Testament, Psalms, and Proverbs. Even though it is a structured, assigned portion of reading, there are ALWAYS words and truths that my heart and soul needed to hear again and again–never boring or dry. I usually keep paper nearby so that I can write down the verses that spoke to me that day. You see, the Bible is ALIVE for those who believe and love it. The words within it are useful in so many ways, and for Christians, it is like medicine for the soul. It’s like a food-craving you might get for, say, chocolate. You find yourself thinking about the Word during the day and wanting it. And when you get it, you are filled and satisfied.

Yesterday, I wrote these things down in my notebook (verses in quotes, my thoughts *not* in quotes)

~”An honest answer is like a kiss of friendship.”

Always be honest in your questions and answers. Don’t “play games”, don’t pretend. Be sincere. It’s a beautiful way to live–so beautiful that your honest, truthful ways are just like friendship’s kisses.

~”This is what the Lord says: Don’t let the wise boast in their wisdom, or the powerful boast in their power, or the rich boast in their riches. But those who wish to boast should boast in this alone: that they truly know me and understand that I am the Lord who demonstrates unfailing love and who brings justice and righteousness to the earth and that I delight in these things. I, the Lord, have spoken.”

~”Your real life is hidden with Christ in God.”

~”Don’t be greedy, for a greedy person is an idolater, worshipping the things of this world.”

Teach the children about greed.

Greed-intense and selfish desire for something, especially wealth, power, or food. A selfish and excessive desire for more of something than is needed.

~”Christ is all that matters and He lives in all of us.”
~”Since God chose you to be the holy people He loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all in perfect harmony. And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful. Let the message about Christ, in all richness, fill your lives.”

This is a wonderful set of verses to apply to my FAMILY.

~”Despite God’s wonders, they refused to trust Him.” —The next time you have some difficulty trusting God, think of as many of His wonders as you possibly can.

*****

I had no idea there was an app on my iPhone that shows all the steps I take in one day. I make sure I have it in my pocket now when I take my walks….it’s fun to see just how much I walk in a day as I go about my business. My mom does the same thing with her phone, and she is the one who taught me about the app. It came already installed on my phone and dummy me never knew it until last weekend.

I had it in my pocket when I went for a walk yesterday all alone because my children all go to school now (!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!)

I find myself MAKING REMARKS TO MYSELF OUT LOUD. I really need to stop because it’s starting to happen at the grocery store, too.

The birds are quite active at this time of year. This morning when I let out the dog I saw a cardinal and a blue jay right outside my house in the bushes. They were busy eating berries in the early morning sunshine. A blue jay scolded me yesterday from the treetops and I got this fun picture of it stretching to reach some food.

The colors of autumn dazzle the eye.

Adorable mushroom. I want to draw it. I like to imagine them slowly growing up through the sweet smelling leaves and eventually poking their heads up to the day.

Dappled sunlight in the woods.

Hickory nuts are dropping off the trees and oh how I wish I could get to them!! I want to climb and gather! But the tree is so very tall. I have an old schoolbook primer that has a story in it about a nutting party. (this blog post is similar) The neighborhood people would go gather nuts together. Why did that stop happening?? My mom and her family used to get nuts in the fall on their farm land. I need to ask her to tell me the stories again. I know of two hickory trees nearby. One is by the stream and one is up the road just a little ways on the right and it’s nuts drop on the edge of the street.

I walked toward the stream…..a golfball caught my eye so I went to pick it up and saw this sight-

“What in the world are they doing?”, I asked myself (out loud) and when I realized what was happening, I blushed deeply and hid my eyes.

A worm saw them and wriggled away fast.

Or was it me he was squirming from? Regardless, I once again spoke out loud, “That was a BIG worm!” I said.

I think I miss my children. I’m not used to having no one near.

It didn’t help that there were signs of them down by the stream.

I also found a sock.

This is not the sky, but a reflection of it in a still pool of water in the stream.

*****

Well, eventually the children DID come back home. I went for another little walk with David and Sarah. We collected acorns and more hickory nuts (just a couple). I wanted them all (greedy again?) David told me that HE could climb the tree. Humph.

I did all the talking I wanted to without feeling weird.

Soon it was time for Caleb and Seth to go to football practice. Grace had a variety show at the High School so we made an outing of it. Ethan, David, and Sarah came along as I dropped off the boys at the field. We had extra time so Ethan suggested the coffee shop downtown. Sarah had an apple juice and a bag of chips that she didn’t like (they had pepper on them.) David had a diet soda, Ethan and I had coffee. Ethan snap-chatted his friend who is a girl. (um)

We looked out the window and saw that in the park across the street a band was setting up. The concert was to start in 15 minutes and we still had time so Sarah and I went over to enjoy some great jazz music…

Is this quaint or what?? I loved every moment…there were people all around us, and more gathered in as time went on. I would love to go again with Rich. People had their lawn chairs, picnic foods, sweaters and blankets to keep warm, and a musical spirit…toe tapping, a little dancing, smiles on the faces…it was great.

The boys played down by the water and railroad tracks and could still hear all the songs.

We may not have nutting parties but we do have outdoor concerts!

After a quick trip to the library we headed to the HS. Grace was in the color guard Flag routine (she’s on the far left on the floor). She’s been twirling the flag for just a few months and did very well. It was fun to see all the kids do their various routines…dance, music, and what have you. Sarah ate two chocolate candy bars while she watched and we didn’t get home until 9:00pm.

It was a wonderful night being filled up with my children again after a lonesome-like afternoon.

Tonight Rich comes home. He’s been gone since Monday. It’s a long weekend for the kids–no school tomorrow or Monday!

rich’s special night

Posted on October 2, 2015 by Shanda

“I hope I shall possess firmness and virtue enough
to maintain what I consider the most enviable of all titles,
the character of an honest man.” –George Washington

On Tuesday, Rich was honored by the people in his office with a special dinner at a local restaurant. Very soon, he will be changing job positions and the people who have been working for him over the last several years wanted to have a chance to say “thank you” to him for all he has done. This was a very rewarding and satisfying night for my husband, who puts his hard work ethic, heart, and soul into his job. Everyone had such kind and respectful things to say.

When he was away on his latest business trip, one of the women called me to invite the children and I to attend the dinner. She requested that it be a complete surprise to Rich. I asked the older children to clear their schedules so that they could come along. Jacob was fine, Grace pushed back a little because she felt obligated to her music event after school that day, but after a discussion and a note written to her teacher, she was all set. Ethan refused to miss his soccer game so “fate” managed to make him cut his toe really bad and he was ~~able~~ forced to miss the game. All set! *whew*

I decided to go shopping and buy the kids all new clothes, which they needed anyway. (they really did!)

I thought it would be fun to dress each of the boys in a blue dress shirt because that is what Rich typically wears. He has always loved searching for the perfect blue dress shirts. I went to Old Navy for the purchases….new shirts for all the boys, plus new corduroys for the three younger boys, and a complete outfit for Sarah. Grace didn’t need anything, as I had taken her shopping the weekend we went to Stockbridge. I washed everything and ironed. I wanted everything perfect, which meant I did everything with just a tad touch of overzealousness. As for myself, I had a basic black dress already in my closet, but I did buy some new black pointed toe flats.

I drove the children to the restaurant and parked in an empty business lot next door so Rich wouldn’t see our car. When Ali texted me the “all clear” we drove over, parked, and walked inside. Ali met us at the hostess table and walked us to the room where everyone was waiting and chatting. Rich had his back turned away from us. Caleb reached him first, and tugged on his arm. Rich stopped his conversation and looked down and saw his son. It was such a special moment. I was beaming as I watched his eyes *bug out* in shock. He was so happy and it was such a surprise to see the two worlds he loves so much collide.

We were the center of attention. None of the people who worked for and with him had seen him surrounded by his all of his family at once. Everyone loved the children.

(Oh I forgot to say …. that morning as he was getting ready for work I was asleep in bed praying that he would choose a blue shirt that day…and he did!! )

As soon as we were there and the initial greetings were over, several people gave speeches in Rich’s honor, thanking him and telling funny stories. Of course Rich, who truly has a tender and sensitive heart, cried, and it was so good for the children and I to come to a better understanding of how much good Rich does for the company, and how much he is loved and appreciated. I was so proud to be standing by his side.

After the speeches there was a sweet slideshow and that was fun, too. The man who put it together gave me a copy to take home (on a flash drive). Rich was given a plaque and the whole family was given a nice wooden bench to put outside by our pond.

Then we ate dinner and socialized. The kids were great. The only embarrassing thing that happened was Seth drank and drank too many shirley temples and in a coughing fit at the table, he threw up a little. That was really embarrassing because I was talking to a nice lady with my back away from Seth and she was the one who alerted me to the problem. Oh and Sarah was kind of shy at first (would not make eye contact or speak) but she warmed up after a good dinner.

PICTURES:

Everyone you see in the pictures were part of the event…….

His picture was on the cake….

Caleb requested the piece with his Dad’s face. And he ate it, too!

Sarah made a connection with one of the ladies. Later one she offered to babysit Sarah if we ever needed one. 🙂

And this nice lady who is talking to Dave in the photo lives in the same town as the college Grace wants to attend in a couple years and offered to help her out at any time, and maybe even let her stay with her. (!!!!!!)

There were about 8 people in front of us, several of whom were taking photos. “Okay, you and your 80 children get ready for a picture” someone teased.

I love you, my husband and friend. I’m so glad the children and I were a part of your special night, as I know we are always a part of your life whether home or away. I’m happy to support you and share this busy but joyful journey of ups and downs with you. Always. Thank you for who you are and the work you do to support our family.

it’s the little things

Posted on September 29, 2015 by Shanda

Good morning friends of the blog,

Today is picture day at school for Sarah, Seth, and Caleb and boy do they look extra cute this morning.

Jacob is still asleep, and so is Mike who is not related by blood but has become a part of the family and spends almost every Sunday to Wednesday with us….

I’m still in my pajamas and just finished eating a lovely omelet made with 2 of our own chicken eggs, filled with mushrooms, onions, peppers, cheese, and spinach. I can’t start the day without a good breakfast, thanks to my mom and her good care of me growing up.

The temperature is up 15 degrees from the other day because it’s cloudy and going to rain. The colors are coming out in the leaves beautifully and I’m a touch sad because I love fall and know it will pass quickly.

My favorite thing to drink these days is hot apple cider.

Gentleman Gray adds such joy to our family with his little kitten ways. He has such a loud and ready purr. He’s actually on my shoulder purring and falling asleep as I type, and Parker the dog is on the floor by my bed sleeping (I’m in bed).

I like to go down to the chicken coop and watch the hens. Even if I’m in a hurry I find myself slowing down to enjoy them. Yesterday I sat cross legged in the grass and they all (23 of them) gathered around. Several tried to bite my toenails off, several used my corduroy pants to wipe their beaks, and several kept snooping in my lap at the three eggs I was trying hide from them. I held one my lap for a while and admired it’s feather-dress. Would anyone be interested in an entire blog post about the chickens?

honeybee on goldenrod (my favorite color yellow) I took some other fun close ups a few weeks ago that I have to post soon.

Guess what? We swapped out our big fabric sectional for a leather one! We only had the fabric couch for 6 years but it was a mess, the cushions were ripping, the edging was tearing off it, and because it was fabric it was filthy. At least, that’s how I felt. I kept it washed and vacuumed as much as I could but with the family and pets on it all day every day it was time to go. This is our first leather couch. It smells so good. My only complaint is that Seth can’t control himself on it….when I try to sit and read to him he slides all over the place….he can’t seem to help it. At one point he was upside down with his feet in the air while I was reading a book about cats to him. I think the feel of the leather is too much for him. 😉

As you can see, we have a row of black bookcases behind the couch. This is so convenient because 1. we always need more room for books 2. we can reach back and put things on the top of it while we are sitting. 3. I fold the laundry and make my row of piles on it while watching TV. and 4. during parties it becomes another table, the kids sit on stools behind it.

Rich was sold by the fact that the back cushions do not come off. Only the seat cushions can be removed. I don’t mind the children making forts with the couch cushions but it is a pet-peeve of his (and wisely, too, because that’s probably part of the reason our other one got old so quickly).

The last thing I want to show you today is my kindle has returned!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Remember I had lost it on vacation last month? Well, Rich made some phone calls and located it in one of the hotels and had them mail it back.

Happy Tuesday!!

a lovely family, part 2

Posted on September 10, 2015 by Shanda

Sarah went to school today so I was left alone again, back to those sad weird feelings of motherhood with nobody around because they are all at school. I left a note for Jacob and headed out. I had a doctor’s appointment at 10 so I went to the Bookstore until it was time and then after the appointment I had my oil changed and light replaced in my car. Then to Kohl’s to use my Kohl’s cash. I bought a Scarlet fiesta mug for 2.77. After that I went to Target to fill a prescription and use my coupons. I had Chickfila drive through for lunch and came home and watched part of a movie.

It’s actually raining!!!!!!! Soooooo happy. (Grace and I love to say that just like Audrey Hepburn in Roman Holiday).

David came home from school and threw a pink paper at me that has the schedule for open house tonight. It’s not something I’m looking forward to, but I’m going to do it because it’s my motherly duty. As an introvert, it is not fun for me to go to any school functions whatsoever.

David said that he told the assistant principal today about the girl who has been bullying him for almost 2 years. She’s been calling him a terrorist because he sometimes wears a black hooded zip up jacket. She is now accompanying her remarks with stabbing him in the neck with a pencil. Hmmmmm, wonder who the little terrorist is??? Dave wasn’t planning on this being the day he told someone about his woes with the girl, but as he was called down to the office he began to stare at a paper that said, “Have a problem? We will help you.” The assistant principal was meeting with all the students one by one to ask how they were enjoying seventh grade so far and noticed David’s fascination with the paper offering help, so she conscientiously talked to him.

“She said she was going to talk to the girl.” Dave told me. “I just hope when the girl finds out she doesn’t scream at me.”

“You do hate loud noises,” I agreed.

“Especially when they come from girls.” he said.

***

So after the family picnic Rich and I went to the mall with the kids. It was the very mall we went to all through our growing up years, teenage years, and early marriage and parenthood years. I hadn’t been there in a long time and the thing that struck me the most was the smell of cinnabons. It took me right back. Sarah had two dollars so I took her to the Hallmark store with Grace while the boys went off on their own. While we looked at the things Sarah said, “I need to go the bathroom!!” And when Sarah says she needs to go to the bathroom, you better listen…..so I grabbed her hand and took off running for JC Penny with Grace close behind. As we ran past the Verizon store, we saw James and Janice and the boys. (our dear dear friends) I couldn’t stop so Grace stayed behind and I called, “We’ll be right back!”

Eventually we all decided to eat at Ruby Tuesdays together and it was such fun, such a nice gift, especially since that very morning I had told Rich that I was thinking about Janice a lot.

Sunday morning we had a very lazy morning. Rich took the kids to breakfast and then to the pool. I had a hard time getting out of bed.

See the photo above Dave’s bed? That’s the building my Mom works in every day.

I asked the hotel if they had any copies of the picture but they didn’t. I would have loved one for my house.

Jacob was snoring so loud I asked E, “Doesn’t that bother you?” but he said “no”.

I met Rich and the kids downstairs and they said, “Didn’t you notice that this is fiestaware?” to me. And I hadn’t!

The hotel had cereal bowls, luncheon plates, and mugs, all in white.

Rich threatened to drive us all home that morning so I pushed aside my exhaustion and said that he just needed fresh air and exercise. So we went to the bookstore where Dave found some things that he would like for his birthday.

Jacob and Ethan went to my parent’s house. It was such a thrill for them to drive there all on their own, for the first time.

And the rest of us went to the park.

Grace did some sketching.

Rich and I rested on a blanket while the kids played on the big playground.

They threw things at a squirrel way up in a tree, and made up games with other children…….

Gracie

Grace took this one of the treetop.

After his nap, Rich went for a long run and then he felt much better about things. This is a man who needs to move around.

When he came back I was still in the same place. 🙂

Then I asked him if he would please please take me to Boscov’s and he agreed. This was another store that I remember my mom taking me to when I was a little girl. I just love going back home, we both do (Rich is from the same place).

I bought an egg plate what was on clearance, some silicone trivets, two bowls in lapis blue, and a poppy java mug.

AND THEN….we went to Humdingers ice cream for cones and slushies.

I had this ice cream sundae.

We got up early Monday morning and left for home. It was a very nice weekend even if Sarah did get sick that very night and was sick for the next two days, poor thing. She’s better now and will be getting home from school soon, along with Caleb and Seth. I have to leave in an hour and a half to take the boys to practice, pick up Grace, and go to the Middle school open house.

a loving family, part 1

Posted on September 9, 2015 by Shanda

***

Yesterday was a nonblogging day because I had some intestinal issues and debit card woes. I also had a little girl home from school with a fever and vomiting. I was also distracted by a new kitten. Also, Rich worked late. I had laundry to do, a kitchen to scrub, floors to vacuum, a book to read, seven children to take care of…..and so, the day passed away and before I knew it I was falling asleep and it was *today*.

Wednesday.

It will be another hot day here in New England, everything is dry, plants and humans alike. I’m so sick of keeping my hanging baskets alive. Consequently they are dead now and will be pitched into the trash. There are schools in part of Connecticut which are closing early because of the heat. Our school is not one of them and the boys still have football practice later. I’m all for it.

Before we left for our trip on Friday I took a selfie with my dog. He wasn’t too thrilled. He feels very uncomfortable with getting his photo taken.

Did I mention that Sarah is home from school again today? Her stomach is better but she still feels hot and has no energy. She’s leaning on my arm watching Aristocats as I type.

The first thing we do when we drive back home to New York is go straight to Grandes. My brother Dave, holding his motorcycle helmet, met us there.

Grace took this photo of the discussion Sarah and Uncle Dave were having about school.

Soon we were eating three large pizzas, the best pizza in the world as far as we are concerned.

After dinner we went to our hotel and the next morning was the family reunion for Rich’s side of the family.

I count my many blessings that I married into such a warm, down to earth, loving family. I’m forever thankful to be born into a wonderful family, and to be married into another one. Truly truly grateful.

It was the best day of letting the children run around with cousins as we sat and visited with everyone and ate good food, too.

Uncle Ed grilled hamburgers and hot dogs.

Mom Leslie brought her family favorite couscous salad.

We had baked beans, plums right off someone’s tree, all kinds of salads, watermelon, cake, all the good picnic foods.

Grace took this one, too.

We had the picnic at a beautiful quiet park.

Here is a nice picture of Dad with some of his many boys….son Jason, grandsons Ethan, Taevan, Noah, and Austin.

Dad’s sister Phyllis, (the quintessential aunt) with Sarah and me…..I think Sarah looks so much like her.

I didn’t get pictures of everyone. Uncle Bob and Aunt LouAnn were there, Roberta, Marcie, Uncle John and Aunt Edith, and so many others.

little nephew, Austin.

collecting acorns

Three of Jason and Mary’s four children. It’s a joy to see Rich’s brothers as family men….they married good women and are good husbands and fathers.

The kids had lots of fun on this slide all day long.

cousins

Aunt Phyllis had my iPhone and took about 35 pictures without ever being convinced she was doing it right. It was fun.

Rich’s Dad Willie and step-Mom Leslie (mom of our hearts) with their children….Rich, Dan, and Jason, daughters in law, and grandchildren.

The addition of Uncle Ed (in the hat) and Aunt Phyllis was made possible by a nice young lady that came over and offered to take a photo for us. I love how Aunt Phyllis and Dad are at each end…sister and brother…

I posted this picture on FB and caught Rich studying it for a long time and finally saying, “I really love this picture, Shan.”

It’s sometimes a pain to get everyone together for a portrait but it’s so worth it. Family is a treasure and each photo-reminder brings a softening to the heart with thankfulness to God for each adventure together.

Saying our farewells.

Until the next time!

God be with you.

***

The love in our family
flows strong and deep,
Leaving us memories
to treasure and keep.

dave gets hugged

Posted on August 26, 2015 by Shanda

This is another blog post dedicated to our vacation to Jekyll Island, Georgia.

These photos were all taken with my phone.

I had bought Crackerbarrel gift cards for Christmas presents for last Christmas…but never gave them out…so we used them ourselves for a nice breakfast. I do feel kind of bad about that.

There was a tiny baby at the Crackerbarrel sitting at the next table over. She was so little I wondered how she was going to sit with out falling forward and bumping the table. But she was strong and did great and was sooooooo cute. I watched her as she kept her eyes on the spoon her Dad was feeding her with. I ended up holding my own very big baby on my lap by the end of breakfast.

This is Caleb doing artwork and eating oreos during the trip.

Taking naps during the trip.

We finally arrived! Sarah was just so thrilled to be “in Georgia”.

This is me and my sister, with our girls Abbie and Grace.

Food at the Pier was amazing. It’s my favorite place to eat on Jekyll. I had the boiled shrimp and this is the plate of seafood that Jacob and David shared.

One morning I left the Sans Souci with just my little Seth (6 years old). We were the only ones awake out of my family. We snuck outdoors, holding hands, and went over to the main Jekyll Clubhouse to get my complimentary cup of coffee. On the way back we met Isaac and Cassandra about to go on a bike ride.

While all the men in our family went golfing, I took Caleb, Seth, and Sarah to the little shops by the Clubhouse. Seth quickly chose this dog puppet. He named it Jekyll. At the next shop, I had him sit on the bench outside and play my phone so I didn’t have to keep track of three small kids. Later I discovered that he had taken this picture of his new friend.

If you bought a soda you got free refills with your cup all day long. The kids all LOVED the Shirly Temples. We got them over and over. There is nothing like an ice cold soda on a hot day.

Amanda took this one of my mom and me walking with Cassandra and Maria.

Rich took Caleb, Seth, and Sarah biking.

Mom took Ethan and me to Brunswick to do a little shopping at some antique stores.

I took this picture for my son David because he collects Coke bottles. This purple one was purple, heavy and cost 40 dollars.

In Brunswick there was a park square every few blocks. Each one was named and had nice places to sit and relax next to flowers and fountains.

I took Grace to the shops. This is one of my favorite pictures. We were missing our own cats back at home and were happy to find and make friends with this nice big one outside of the bookstore.

My favorite stationary….curly girl design.

Grace lost her necklace on vacation. It was her favorite one, too. (she’s wearing it in the picture).

I lost my new kindle fire. (!!!!!!!!!!!) makes me ill.

On Friday night we played beach volleyball.

It’s amazing to have a family big enough to have a game, and it was so much fun.

When we hit it out of bounds someone would say “Look out for the alligators!” or, “Look out for the rattle snakes!”

I was supposed to be playing my position but still managed to get some good photos!

Sunset making the road look like it was on fire…….

On Saturday morning it was time to say our goodbyes and travel back home. I love this sister-pic of Maria, Cassandra, Melissa, Amanda, and Shanda (yours truly). I love how all our names end in “a”, the “uh” sound. I especially loved visiting with Maria and Melissa because I don’t get to see them as much as I would like. I’m so blessed to have the best sisters.

Aunt Amanda, Uncle Jason, Grandma, and Grandpa leaned into the van to say goodbye to the children.

But one was missing!

It was Dave.

He had ran over to the pool to try to find his flip-flops (another thing lost..ugh)

So Rich and I hopped in the van, ready to leave, and watched as the family gave Dave lots of hugs. And he’s the type that gets shy with too much public attention! It was the best little moment……

He’s in there! Surrounded by his adoring family.

Look at that face!

goodbye, goodbye!

God be with you ’til we meet again.

“You can kiss your family and friends goodbye and put miles between you, but at the same time you carry them with you in your heart, your mind, your stomach, because you do not just live in a world but a world lives in you.” Frederick Buechner

finding

Posted on August 23, 2015 by Shanda

And now we thank you, our God, and praise your glorious name. 1 Chronicles 29:13

They didn’t know I was taking a picture with my phone.

Dave could not find his shoes and had to wear his Dad’s big white size 13s into the store.

We stopped at Barnes and Noble at about 7:30, on our long-long drive home from Georgia.

Rich and I lined them up on the curb so we could give instructions and information to everyone at once, rather than 6 times (forgetting the seventh, which is typical–SOMEONE gets missed!oops).

The instructions were: 1. Everyone needed to use the bathroom. 2. Everyone may pick out something to read.

The news was: 1. We were driving all the way home without stopping at a hotel to sleep.

We arrived home early this morning at 4:30.

My favorite memory of traveling was at about 2 in the morning when they had taken little naps, gotten over the grumps, and had a second wind of cheer. Singing to the radio, telling funny stories to classical music, watching a video. At 2 a.m.!! Such good little travelers.

Rich singing every hymn he could think of to himself while flying down the highway in the fast lane……me half enjoying it and half plugging my ears so I could concentrate on my new cheap paperback. Hanging on and whispering prayers.

Rich, by the grace of God, is raising up some good young men. This is our Ethan. He loves Jesus, being active, sports. He doesn’t talk much. He can dance some cool moves. He is confident, respectful, honest, and doesn’t take any slack from his younger siblings. My favorite memories of Ethan from vacation are 1. When he pulled himself up over a high wall to retrieve the volleyball we had hit way out of bounds. and 2. When he walked out of McDonalds holding Seth’s hand on one side and Sarah’s on the other. Be still my heart.

My mom loved vacationing with all of her children and grandchildren, but she was itching to get back to her garden.

I’m just like her. My garden is much smaller but the first thing I did today after I woke up at 11am was go outside with my cup of coffee.

I knew where to find some treasures. Some were obvious, like the bright red tomatoes. But others, like the cucumbers and green beans, were hidden and had to be searched out.

For brunch I made a quiche.

chopped bacon fried with a section of minced onion and one green pepper

added to 8 beaten eggs, 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/2 cup milk

2/3 cup mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup cheddar

1/4 tsp pepper, a few nice healthy grinds of salt from salt-grinder

all leaves from the two beets I harvested (can substitute 3 cups chopped lightly packed fresh spinach)

fresh basil, chopped (about 1/3 cup)

about 1/3 cup tomato

Bake in the oven for about 25 minutes or until set.

I served it with the rest of the garden tomato, mixed with salt, olive oil, onion, and basil.

***

I almost shrieked when Tessa told me school started this Thursday. I thought I had one more solid week with the children. My heart aches because Sarah Joy is going off for her first day of Kindergarten. Mothers understand what I mean….I’m happy for her, I know she’s ready, but as a mom I feel that small sad-like feeling of letting go. Rich read Seth and Sarah letters from their teachers, which were in the mailbox when we got home from vacation. Their little faces were seriously listening to every word. They have homework to do, and a meet and greet on Wednesday. I don’t quite feel ready, but I’m thankful for this journey with my children and that little by little they grow up, not all at once. Thankful for Jesus and for my husband making it easier.

“I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.” John 14:27

“I love those who love me; And those who diligently seek me will find me.” Proverbs 8:17

gifts-peace-love-seeking and finding the greatest treasure–HIM