When the kids were little we used to joke that it took all day to open the Christmas gits and when it was over we had a room full of toys and the kids were playing with the boxes. That (first world) problem has gotten exponentially better as they got older, but I'm always looking for ways to make Christmas about, well, Christmas, not about the gifts. A few weeks before Christmas, I saw a blog (or a meme, or something) that suggested that kids (and I suggest everyone) should get 4 gifts (and only 4 gifts, although we didn't hit that goal this year). The suggestions for the four gifts were one of each of these: toy, clothes, something they need, something they want. I added "and a book" to the list this year, and by working closely with Santa and the grandparents was able to make sure all these bases were covered. I don't want to speak for Santa, but I know the list made me much more thoughtful when choosing gifts. Finding a toy for a 14 year old girl was challenging, as was finding something that either child needed. Stockings were still free game--lots of "stuff", but the stocking rule is "cheap", so it isn't really an issue. Here's what the kids ended up with for gits from Mom and Dad and Santa:
Girl Boy
Need phone charger dress socks with R2D2 and storm troopers on them
Want lamp Legos
Clothes sweatshirt pajamas in a size that fits
Toy spinning Minion Micromachines (Star Wars)
(it is awesome...)
Book Adulting: How to Q and A a Day for Kids: A Three Year Journal
Become an Adult in
468 Easy(ish) Steps (highly recommended
by one of my recently graduated seniors)
I'm happy with how it turned out this year...I'm thinking of trying to institute the rule for Mr IM next year, too. I like the idea that you are never too old to receive a toy and that you receive something you need, something you want and a book...
We had a nice Christmas, it was just the four of us this year. Had a tasty prime rib that made the best stew ever and there are a couple pieces left for sandwiches today. We're spending a lot of time this break hanging out with Morrison (and Liberty)...right now Morrison is passed out under my feet while I type! The New Year's Eve plan is to watch some movies and probably make chilli.
Happy New Year!
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Thursday, December 31, 2015
Sunday, December 27, 2015
Tigger's Christmas Letter 2015
Greetings from the (Sub)urban ranch!
I've heard through the grapevine that many people are disappointed that did not write a Christmas letter last year...let me assure you that I am alive and well...I am, however, no longer able to leap to the top of the desk in a single bound, so my computer time is quite limited these days.
Mr IMs continues to work at his own law practice. He keeps busy with work but takes some time off occasionally to hang out with the family--today he is skiing with the Girl, while the Boy attends snowboarding team. He is currently planning how to finish the side yard of the house to keep my new "friend" out of trouble (more on her later). This summer he got a new engine for his Subaru and a new hood--the auto shop at Mrs. Ranch's school was excited to get the old hood!
.
Mrs. Ranch started how her 14th year at her current high school and her 23rd year of teaching this year. She keeps busy with blogging and driving the children around...throwing in a few minutes of reading most nights. This fall she participated in her first yarn crawl and can't wait to do it again this year!
The Girl is a Freshman in High School. After several high school visits and some debate, she ended up at a school about half way between home and The Boy's school. She played volleyball on the undefeated Freshman team this year and joined a club team as a practice player. Last summer she went to Italy with Mr. IM's mom for a pilgrimage and returned with lots of great stories. She's not playing drums anymore, so the set has been dismantled and the futon returned to the bonus room...giving me a fantastic place to sleep.
The Boy is a 5th grader this year. He continues guitar lessons this year and even got a new acoustic guitar from Grandude this year. He continues to spend every Saturday from Thanksgiving to Easter snowboarding on a team--last summer he went to snowboarding camp and had a lot of fun. He enjoyed telling the family about all the late night tv he watched in his dorm room.
The people tell me that I'll be 18 in the spring. I still keep busy, making sure the people are up every day at 5. Some days they shout, "Dude, its the weekend!", but I think they are delusional...I don't know what a weekend is, but I do know I need a glass of water and fresh food every day at 5! Alice the Cat is 7 in the spring. She likes to hide these days and has taken over MJ's pillow on the adult's bed--drooling her way to sleep. Liberty, is probably 5 this year. She is enjoying being the "older dog", most days welcoming, Morrison, the Saint Huskimo puppy, born on September 11 and joining our family Thanksgiving weekend. Morrison's favorite activities are eating everything chasing everything and trying to get everyone to play with her.
The people's extended families are all well, Mrs Ranch's parents are busier in retirement than they were before they retired. Her younger brother and his family keep busy, her nephew will be five in the spring and provides the Ranch with lots of videos and photos to make us laugh. Mr. Ranch's dad retired this year and is job hunting in the Denver area. Mr. Ranch's mom also retired this year and moved into an adult living community where she keeps busy with all kinds of community and church activities. The infamous Mrs. Pretzel (IM"s sister) welcomed another boy to the family this October, bringing the people's nephew total to 3.
We hope this letter finds you all well and wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from our (Sub)urban Ranch!
Love,
Tigger (and family)
I've heard through the grapevine that many people are disappointed that did not write a Christmas letter last year...let me assure you that I am alive and well...I am, however, no longer able to leap to the top of the desk in a single bound, so my computer time is quite limited these days.
Mr IMs continues to work at his own law practice. He keeps busy with work but takes some time off occasionally to hang out with the family--today he is skiing with the Girl, while the Boy attends snowboarding team. He is currently planning how to finish the side yard of the house to keep my new "friend" out of trouble (more on her later). This summer he got a new engine for his Subaru and a new hood--the auto shop at Mrs. Ranch's school was excited to get the old hood!
.
Mrs. Ranch started how her 14th year at her current high school and her 23rd year of teaching this year. She keeps busy with blogging and driving the children around...throwing in a few minutes of reading most nights. This fall she participated in her first yarn crawl and can't wait to do it again this year!
The Girl is a Freshman in High School. After several high school visits and some debate, she ended up at a school about half way between home and The Boy's school. She played volleyball on the undefeated Freshman team this year and joined a club team as a practice player. Last summer she went to Italy with Mr. IM's mom for a pilgrimage and returned with lots of great stories. She's not playing drums anymore, so the set has been dismantled and the futon returned to the bonus room...giving me a fantastic place to sleep.
The Boy is a 5th grader this year. He continues guitar lessons this year and even got a new acoustic guitar from Grandude this year. He continues to spend every Saturday from Thanksgiving to Easter snowboarding on a team--last summer he went to snowboarding camp and had a lot of fun. He enjoyed telling the family about all the late night tv he watched in his dorm room.
The people tell me that I'll be 18 in the spring. I still keep busy, making sure the people are up every day at 5. Some days they shout, "Dude, its the weekend!", but I think they are delusional...I don't know what a weekend is, but I do know I need a glass of water and fresh food every day at 5! Alice the Cat is 7 in the spring. She likes to hide these days and has taken over MJ's pillow on the adult's bed--drooling her way to sleep. Liberty, is probably 5 this year. She is enjoying being the "older dog", most days welcoming, Morrison, the Saint Huskimo puppy, born on September 11 and joining our family Thanksgiving weekend. Morrison's favorite activities are eating everything chasing everything and trying to get everyone to play with her.
The people's extended families are all well, Mrs Ranch's parents are busier in retirement than they were before they retired. Her younger brother and his family keep busy, her nephew will be five in the spring and provides the Ranch with lots of videos and photos to make us laugh. Mr. Ranch's dad retired this year and is job hunting in the Denver area. Mr. Ranch's mom also retired this year and moved into an adult living community where she keeps busy with all kinds of community and church activities. The infamous Mrs. Pretzel (IM"s sister) welcomed another boy to the family this October, bringing the people's nephew total to 3.
We hope this letter finds you all well and wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from our (Sub)urban Ranch!
Love,
Tigger (and family)
Saturday, December 26, 2015
Christmastide Readings
According to Wikipedia, the period between Christmas and Epiphany is known as "Christmastide". This is a time when we remember that the message of Christmas is not just for one day.
Saturday, December 26, 2015
Saint Stephen's Day
Matthew 5:44-45 But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who perscute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven.
Saint Sephen was born in 907 AD near Prague. He was educated as a Christian. When he became king, he tried to rule with justice and mercy. Some people didn't like this and attacked and killed him. Before he died, Saint Stephen asked for forgiveness for those who hurt and killed him. Prayer: God, help us to remember to forgive people who hurt us.
Sunday, December 27, 2015
2 Peter 1:2 Grace and peace be yours in abundance through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord.
This season, and especially this week, are often very busy and not very peaceful. What are some ways we an keep ourselves peaceful in this busy time? Prayer: Thank you, God, for your grace and for the excitement of this season. Please help us feel your peace and help us share it with others.
Monday, December 28, 2015
Matthew 19:14 Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."
Today is the Feast of the Holy Innocents. We remember that King Herod ordered all baby boys in Bethlehem killed because he was afraid Jesus would take his kingdom. Today is an opportunity ot bless children and should also remind us of the persecution that Christians still face today. Prayer: Thank you, God, for children. Bless and care for the children in our lives.
Tuesday, December 29, 2015
Matthew 7:19 Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.
By now, some of our Christmas presents may not seem as exciting as they did a few days ago. Jesus reminds us that our treasures should be in heaven, not here on earth. What treasures are we storing in heaven? Prayer: Thank you, God, for all the treasures we will have in heaven.
Wednesday, December 30, 2015
\John 14:1 Do not let your heart be troubled. Trust in God and also in me.
The New Year often causes people to wonder what will happen in the future. We know that no matter what happens, God will be with us. Prayer: Thank you, God, for always being with us.
Thursday, December 31, 2015
Luke 1:46 And Mary said, "My soul praises the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.
This week has been full of celebrations and excitement for many of us. This coming week, we will return to our "regular lives", back to work and to school. As we return, we should try to remember the excitement we felt this week about Jesus's birth and share that excitement with others. Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for this wondrous week that began with Christmas. Bless our family this evening and all families everywhere. Open us to the coming New Year and fill it with your presence and love. Amen.
Friday, January 1, 2016
Matthew 5:16 In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.
What were the best things about this past year? How has God been good to our family? What are we looking forward to in this New Year? Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for this past year. Thank you for all the blessings and for the lessons we have learned. Help us be your light to people in darkness. Bless this coming year, Lord. Amen.
Saturday, January 2, 2016
1 Corinthians 13:13 And now these three remain, faith, hope, and love, but the greatest of these is love.
God tells us that love is greater than even faith and hope. How do we show love for the people around us? How can we show love for even more people, even those we don't get along with? Prayer: God, help us to love the people around us.
Sunday, January 3, 2016
Galatians 5:13 You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom in indulging the sinful nature, rather, serve one another in love.
Sometimes it is hard to show love after the holidays. We are sometimes tired from all the excitement. It is hard to remember to serve others. God reminds us that we are free people and that we should use our freedom to serve. Prayer: Help us remember to serve others. Give us the energy we need to start this new year with your directions in mind.
Monday, January 4, 2016
Ephesians 1:16 I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.
We may have spent time with friends and family this season. It is sometimes easy to remember those we spend time with, but who else are we thankful for? Prayer: Thank you, God, for all the people in our lives.
Tuesday, January 5, 2016
Matthew 28: 19-20 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I will be with you always, to the very end of the age.
Jesus reminds us in this verse that our job is to spread the word about his love, He also reminds us that He is always with us. Prayer: Thank you, God, for Jesus.
Wednesday, January 6, 2016
Matthew 2:11 On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother, Mary, and they bowed down and worshipped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, and of incense, and of myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route.
The Christmas season ends with the Feast of the Epiphany. As we take down our Christmas decorations and continue our return to "real life, we celebrate again Christ's birth and remember the visits of the wise men and the shepherds. Some families bless their homes on Epiphany and then take down the holiday decorations. In Germany, children go from house to house, collecting offerings for children's ministries and blessing the homes of givers. How can we keep joy of Christmas in our hearts and keep Jesus's message in our hearts all year? Prayer: We shoult for joy, we praise you, oh, God, with hearts filled with gladness! Emmanuel has come, our Savior, Christ the Lord. In this New Year, help our family to sing your praises through words and deeds. Amen.
Saturday, December 26, 2015
Saint Stephen's Day
Matthew 5:44-45 But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who perscute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven.
Saint Sephen was born in 907 AD near Prague. He was educated as a Christian. When he became king, he tried to rule with justice and mercy. Some people didn't like this and attacked and killed him. Before he died, Saint Stephen asked for forgiveness for those who hurt and killed him. Prayer: God, help us to remember to forgive people who hurt us.
Sunday, December 27, 2015
2 Peter 1:2 Grace and peace be yours in abundance through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord.
This season, and especially this week, are often very busy and not very peaceful. What are some ways we an keep ourselves peaceful in this busy time? Prayer: Thank you, God, for your grace and for the excitement of this season. Please help us feel your peace and help us share it with others.
Monday, December 28, 2015
Matthew 19:14 Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."
Today is the Feast of the Holy Innocents. We remember that King Herod ordered all baby boys in Bethlehem killed because he was afraid Jesus would take his kingdom. Today is an opportunity ot bless children and should also remind us of the persecution that Christians still face today. Prayer: Thank you, God, for children. Bless and care for the children in our lives.
Tuesday, December 29, 2015
Matthew 7:19 Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.
By now, some of our Christmas presents may not seem as exciting as they did a few days ago. Jesus reminds us that our treasures should be in heaven, not here on earth. What treasures are we storing in heaven? Prayer: Thank you, God, for all the treasures we will have in heaven.
Wednesday, December 30, 2015
\John 14:1 Do not let your heart be troubled. Trust in God and also in me.
The New Year often causes people to wonder what will happen in the future. We know that no matter what happens, God will be with us. Prayer: Thank you, God, for always being with us.
Thursday, December 31, 2015
Luke 1:46 And Mary said, "My soul praises the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.
This week has been full of celebrations and excitement for many of us. This coming week, we will return to our "regular lives", back to work and to school. As we return, we should try to remember the excitement we felt this week about Jesus's birth and share that excitement with others. Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for this wondrous week that began with Christmas. Bless our family this evening and all families everywhere. Open us to the coming New Year and fill it with your presence and love. Amen.
Friday, January 1, 2016
Matthew 5:16 In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.
What were the best things about this past year? How has God been good to our family? What are we looking forward to in this New Year? Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for this past year. Thank you for all the blessings and for the lessons we have learned. Help us be your light to people in darkness. Bless this coming year, Lord. Amen.
Saturday, January 2, 2016
1 Corinthians 13:13 And now these three remain, faith, hope, and love, but the greatest of these is love.
God tells us that love is greater than even faith and hope. How do we show love for the people around us? How can we show love for even more people, even those we don't get along with? Prayer: God, help us to love the people around us.
Sunday, January 3, 2016
Galatians 5:13 You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom in indulging the sinful nature, rather, serve one another in love.
Sometimes it is hard to show love after the holidays. We are sometimes tired from all the excitement. It is hard to remember to serve others. God reminds us that we are free people and that we should use our freedom to serve. Prayer: Help us remember to serve others. Give us the energy we need to start this new year with your directions in mind.
Monday, January 4, 2016
Ephesians 1:16 I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.
We may have spent time with friends and family this season. It is sometimes easy to remember those we spend time with, but who else are we thankful for? Prayer: Thank you, God, for all the people in our lives.
Tuesday, January 5, 2016
Matthew 28: 19-20 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I will be with you always, to the very end of the age.
Jesus reminds us in this verse that our job is to spread the word about his love, He also reminds us that He is always with us. Prayer: Thank you, God, for Jesus.
Wednesday, January 6, 2016
Matthew 2:11 On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother, Mary, and they bowed down and worshipped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, and of incense, and of myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route.
The Christmas season ends with the Feast of the Epiphany. As we take down our Christmas decorations and continue our return to "real life, we celebrate again Christ's birth and remember the visits of the wise men and the shepherds. Some families bless their homes on Epiphany and then take down the holiday decorations. In Germany, children go from house to house, collecting offerings for children's ministries and blessing the homes of givers. How can we keep joy of Christmas in our hearts and keep Jesus's message in our hearts all year? Prayer: We shoult for joy, we praise you, oh, God, with hearts filled with gladness! Emmanuel has come, our Savior, Christ the Lord. In this New Year, help our family to sing your praises through words and deeds. Amen.
Thursday, December 24, 2015
Christmas Readings 2015
Thursday, December 24, 2015
Christmas Eve:
Light all four colored candles and the large white candle.
Luke 2:11 A Savior has been born to you; He is Christ the Lord.
Read your family's favorite version or translation of Jesus's birth together tonight. Prayer: Christ is born for us! Come, let us adore Him. Lord Jesus, in the peace of this season our spirits rejoice with the animals and the angels, with the shepherds and the stars, with Mary and Joseph, we sing God's praise. By your coming, may the hungry be filled with good things, and may our table and home be blessed. Glory to God in the highest and peace to God's people on earth!
Friday, December 25, 2015
Christmas--Light all four colored candles and the large white candle.
Luke 1:68 Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, because he has come and has redeemed his people.
Christmas is finally here! Today we light the white candle in t he middle of our wreath to symbolize the purity of Christ. We should enjoy this day and give thanks to the Lord for giving us the Christ Child. Prayer: Thank you, God, for the gift of Jesus. Thank you for the gifts we receive today, for the phone calls and visits of those we love, and for the memories of friends and family who are not with us today.
Tuesday, December 22, 2015
Sunday, December 20, 2015
Advent week 4, 2015
Sunday, December 20, 2015
Fourth Sunday. This candle is sometimes called the candle of love. It symbolizes that God loves us so much He sent His Son to save us. (Light all four candles). Read one of your family's favorite versions or translations of Jesus's birth. Prayer: Now Jesus's birthday is very near. May his birthday bring joy and happiness to all of us as we try to be more like Jesus. Help us to show love for others.
Monday, December 21, 2015
Luke 2:19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.
This season is a time for memories and reflection. Mary ,the mother of Jesus, might have felt pleased at all the fuss made over her special child. She knew that her child was the Son of God, but rejoiced in knowing so many other people heard the same message from God's angels.What memories Mary would have all her life of this special time! Prayers: Thank you, God, for our memories of special times. Please be with people who are lonely this season and help their memories bring them comfort.
Tuesday, December 22, 2015
1 Corinthians 10:31 So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.
One of the most popular holiday traditions if to bake and decorate cookies. A long time ago, these treats were hung on Christmas trees. Now people make them for parties and to share with friends and family. When we make these treats, we should thrink about the people who we will share them with. How can we glorify God, even in our simple cookie making? Prayer: God, help us to use our holiday treats to spread your love to other people.
Wednesday, December 23, 2015
Matthew 25:40 The King will reply, "I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine you did for me"
The tradition of giving gifts on Christmas is very old. The ancient Romans exchanged gifts on New Year's Day. When the apostles brought the Gospels to Rome, the Romans learned about the Wise Men's gifts to Jesus. As Christianity spread, the gift giving custom changed to imitate the Three Wise Men and gifts were given on Christmas instead of New Year's. Sometimes we become so focused on giving perfect gifts that we forget why we give them. What gifts can we give that don't cost money? Prayer? God, thank you for the best gift of all, Your Son, Jesus. Help us give gifts that show our love for others.
Sunday, December 13, 2015
Advent week 3, 2015
Sunday, December 13, 2015
Third Sunday: The Third Sunday of Advent is soetimes known as the cndle of Joy. This pink candle also reminds us that we have reached the mid-point of the Advent Season. Christmas is coming soon! Light three candles, two purple and one pink. Read one of your family's favorite versions or translations of Jesus's birth. Prayer: Now Jesus's birthday is nearer. As we choose gifts for our family and friends, we stop to say: "Thank you, God, for Jesus, your gift that brings joy to us.".
Monday, December 14, 2015
Luke 2:30, 32: For my eyes have seen your salvation,...the light for reveelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people, Israel.
Typically the Christmas story ends with the visit of the wise men from the East. But the story of Christ continues through the New Testament. When we read the Bible, especially Luke 2, we can learn about people other than the wise men who had waited a long time to see Jesus. Simeon and Anna were two of these people who spend most of their lives praying for the Christ Child's coming. When they met him, they praised God. Prayer: Thank you, God, for sending us Jesus. Help us to remember the real reason for Christmas during this busy season.
Tuesday, December 15, 2015
Luke 2:20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for al the things they had heard and seen"
Imagine the excitement the shepherds felt when the entire sky lit up with angels. The shepherds were probably scared, but an angel told them wonderful news--Christ has been born! The shpherds immediatley jumped up and went to find the baby Jesus. What a happy occasion--the long-awaited King had finally arrived! Christmas is a wonderful time to tell others about Christ. Prayer: Thank you, God, for your gift of Jesus.
Wednesday, December 16, 2015
Acts 20:35: Lord Jesus himself said, "It is more blessed to give than to receive"
During this season we can become focused on giving and receiving gifts. We can also become more aware of people in need. Not everyone lives in a warm house with three meals a day. During this busy season we should take time to share what we have with others. What are some ways we can do this? Prayer: Thank you, God, for all the comforts we have. Help us to be a comfort to others.
Thursday, December 17, 2015
Matthew 2:2 We saw his star in the East and have come to worship him.
There has been lots of confusion about the men who came to visit Jesus. Were they kings? Wise Scholarly men? Did they visit Jesus on the night he was born or when he was a toddler? We do know that they watched the night skies and a new star appeared when Christ was born. This star led them to Jesus. They worshipped Jesus, and then went home by a different path to protect him from King Herod. Prayer: Thank you, God, for the example of the Wise Men. Help us choose gifts for Jesus and for others that are meaningful.
Friday, December 18, 2015
Matthew 2:11 Then they opened their trasures and presented him with gifts of gold and of incense and myrrh.
Do you ever think that the gifts that the Wise Men brought to Jesus were strange gifts for a child? What gifts would you bring ot Jesus? The gifts remind us that Jsus was a king, even when he was a tiny baby. Prayer: Thank you, God, for sending Jesus to live like us. Help us remember to be thankful for gifts we receive.
Saturday, December 19, 2015
Song of Songs 2:12 Flowers appear on the earth, the season of singing has come.
Most Christmas decorations have meaning behind them. For example, legend has it that when a poor family couldn't affort to decorate their tree a spider came to spin beautful webs on the trees to remind the family of the miracle of Christ's birth. Today was use tinsel to remember the legend. According to another legend, a boy and his sister had nothing to give Jesus for his birthday. On the way to church on Christmas Eve, they picked some weeds to place on the manager as a gift. As they prayed at church, the green leaves near the top of the weeds turned to bright red petals, we call this a poinsettia today. Prayer: Thank you, God, for all the wonderful reminders of your love for us.
Thursday, December 10, 2015
Happy Birthday to the Boy!
Today is The Boy's 11th Birthday! He is kind of bummed, because his school Christmas program is today, interfering with his plan to eat out at Hibachi...Don't worry, kid, we'll make sure you get to go this weekend!
In honor of throw back Thursday...here are some earlier Boy Birthday posts!
2014
2013 culmulative
In honor of throw back Thursday...here are some earlier Boy Birthday posts!
2014
2013 culmulative
Sunday, December 6, 2015
Advent Week 2, 2015
The outdoor lights have been up for a week--most of the indoor decorations is out...We continue through Advent, looking ahead to an elementary school program this week.
Sunday, December 6, 2015
Second Sunday of Advent. Today is the second Sunday of Advent and Saint Nicholas Day. The second Sunday of Advent is a continued time of preparation. This second purple candle is sometimes called the candle of preparation.(Light two purple candles). Today, on Saint Nicholas Day, we remember that he is the saint of travelers. We remember that Mary and Joseph were travelers, far from home. Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for our warm, safe house. As we decorate and prepare our home for Christmas help us to remember and care for people who need shelter today.
Monday, December 7, 2015
Luke 2:7 "....there was no room for them in the inn".
It would have been a long trip between nazareth and Bethlehem. It would have taken them about 10 days to travel the 90 miles. Think about a time when your family took a long trip. How did you feel at the end of the long journey? Were you tired? Hungry? Cold? Mary and Joseph were probably all of these when they reached Bethlehem. They may have felt scared, too, since Mary was about to have a baby and they couldn't find a place to stay. So many people had traveled to Bethlehem for the census that there was no room for them. They must have been thankful when they found a place to stay in the stable. Prayer: Dear God, help us to show love and kindness to each other as we prepare to celebrate Christmas
Tuesday, December 8, 2015
Feast of the Immaculate Conception
Isaiah 9:6 For to us a child is born...
The Feast of the Immaculate Conception honors Mary's life. She was chosen to be the Mother of God before she was born--What an amazing thought! We are reminded that God has a plan for all of us, just like he did for Mary. We may not always know or understand God's plan, but if we listen carefully to his directions, we can do what he wants us to do. Dear God, help us to listen to you and follow your plan for us. Thank you for your guidance.
Wednesday, December 9, 2015
Proverbs 8:30-31 I was filled with delight day after day, rejoicing always in his presence, rejoicing in his whole world and delighting in mankind.
During this season we remember that God sent His Son because He loves everyone in the world. This is a time of year when we try to think of others, both family and friends and others around the world. It is a time to rejoice, but also to be thankful and to share what we can.
Prayer: Thank you, God, for sending Jesus. Help us to be generous and kind during this season.
Thursday, December 10, 2015
Luke 2:7 She ....placed him in a manger.
After their long journey and search for a place to stay, finally Mary and Joseph had a dy shelter. There were no beds, no clean sheets, and no blankets to keep them warm, probably only straw. Cows and donkeys, and maybe sheep shared the stable with them. Not much of a place for a baby to be born, was it? When Jesus was born, Mary wrapped him in strips of cloth to keep him warm and dry. Prayer: God, thank you for our beds, our blankets, and that we have a safe, warm place to sleep. Please be with those tonight who do not have these things.
Friday, December 11, 2015.
Luke 2:12 You will find a baby wrapped in clothes and lying in a manger.
Nativity scenes are an important tradition for many of us during Advent. They remind us that Jesus's beginnings were very humble. Each of the characters has an important part in the story. They each teach us something and remind us of the meaning of Christmas. Who are some of the characters in our nativity set? What can we learn from them? Prayer: Thank you, God for reminding us of the real reason for Christmas. Help us to remember while we prepare.
Saturday, December 12, 2015
Luke 2:8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.
Sheep need a lot of care. The Bible says, "the shepherds were watching over their sheep.". Why would the shepherds need to stay in their fields at night to watch the sheep? Jesus sometimes calls himself a shepherd. Just like shepherds take care of their sheep, Jesus takes care of us. Shepherds use staffs to guide and protect their sheep. Candy canes are a symbol to help us remember this. The shape of candy canes reminds us of a shepherd's staff and that Jesus is our shepherd. When we hold a candy cane upside down, it looks like a "J" for "Jesus". The red color reminds us of Christ's sacrifice and the white symbolizes His holiness and purity. Prayer. Dear God, help us to remember that you are taking care of us. Thank you for being our shepherd.
Sunday, December 6, 2015
Second Sunday of Advent. Today is the second Sunday of Advent and Saint Nicholas Day. The second Sunday of Advent is a continued time of preparation. This second purple candle is sometimes called the candle of preparation.(Light two purple candles). Today, on Saint Nicholas Day, we remember that he is the saint of travelers. We remember that Mary and Joseph were travelers, far from home. Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for our warm, safe house. As we decorate and prepare our home for Christmas help us to remember and care for people who need shelter today.
Monday, December 7, 2015
Luke 2:7 "....there was no room for them in the inn".
It would have been a long trip between nazareth and Bethlehem. It would have taken them about 10 days to travel the 90 miles. Think about a time when your family took a long trip. How did you feel at the end of the long journey? Were you tired? Hungry? Cold? Mary and Joseph were probably all of these when they reached Bethlehem. They may have felt scared, too, since Mary was about to have a baby and they couldn't find a place to stay. So many people had traveled to Bethlehem for the census that there was no room for them. They must have been thankful when they found a place to stay in the stable. Prayer: Dear God, help us to show love and kindness to each other as we prepare to celebrate Christmas
Tuesday, December 8, 2015
Feast of the Immaculate Conception
Isaiah 9:6 For to us a child is born...
The Feast of the Immaculate Conception honors Mary's life. She was chosen to be the Mother of God before she was born--What an amazing thought! We are reminded that God has a plan for all of us, just like he did for Mary. We may not always know or understand God's plan, but if we listen carefully to his directions, we can do what he wants us to do. Dear God, help us to listen to you and follow your plan for us. Thank you for your guidance.
Wednesday, December 9, 2015
Proverbs 8:30-31 I was filled with delight day after day, rejoicing always in his presence, rejoicing in his whole world and delighting in mankind.
During this season we remember that God sent His Son because He loves everyone in the world. This is a time of year when we try to think of others, both family and friends and others around the world. It is a time to rejoice, but also to be thankful and to share what we can.
Prayer: Thank you, God, for sending Jesus. Help us to be generous and kind during this season.
Thursday, December 10, 2015
Luke 2:7 She ....placed him in a manger.
After their long journey and search for a place to stay, finally Mary and Joseph had a dy shelter. There were no beds, no clean sheets, and no blankets to keep them warm, probably only straw. Cows and donkeys, and maybe sheep shared the stable with them. Not much of a place for a baby to be born, was it? When Jesus was born, Mary wrapped him in strips of cloth to keep him warm and dry. Prayer: God, thank you for our beds, our blankets, and that we have a safe, warm place to sleep. Please be with those tonight who do not have these things.
Friday, December 11, 2015.
Luke 2:12 You will find a baby wrapped in clothes and lying in a manger.
Nativity scenes are an important tradition for many of us during Advent. They remind us that Jesus's beginnings were very humble. Each of the characters has an important part in the story. They each teach us something and remind us of the meaning of Christmas. Who are some of the characters in our nativity set? What can we learn from them? Prayer: Thank you, God for reminding us of the real reason for Christmas. Help us to remember while we prepare.
Saturday, December 12, 2015
Luke 2:8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.
Sheep need a lot of care. The Bible says, "the shepherds were watching over their sheep.". Why would the shepherds need to stay in their fields at night to watch the sheep? Jesus sometimes calls himself a shepherd. Just like shepherds take care of their sheep, Jesus takes care of us. Shepherds use staffs to guide and protect their sheep. Candy canes are a symbol to help us remember this. The shape of candy canes reminds us of a shepherd's staff and that Jesus is our shepherd. When we hold a candy cane upside down, it looks like a "J" for "Jesus". The red color reminds us of Christ's sacrifice and the white symbolizes His holiness and purity. Prayer. Dear God, help us to remember that you are taking care of us. Thank you for being our shepherd.
Thursday, December 3, 2015
What I read in November 2015
November might have been some kind of record...five books, all by the same author--I might be addicted...
1. A Leaf on the Wind of All Hallows (Diana Gabaldon)
2. The Space Between (Diana Gabaldon)
3. In the Custom of the Army (Diana Gabaldon)
4. Drums of Autumn (Diana Gabaldon)
5. The Fiery Cross (Diana Gabaldon)
I'm still enjoying Gabaldon's stories--they are entertaining. The new Robert Galbraith book did come into the library, so it is first on my December list (almost finished with it--very good so far!)
I'm still enjoying Gabaldon's stories--they are entertaining. The new Robert Galbraith book did come into the library, so it is first on my December list (almost finished with it--very good so far!)
Officially the first three were Novellas, but Gabaldon's novellas seems extra long, so I'm counting them as books.
Oh wait, The Boy and I did listen to The Lost Hero (Rick Riordan) in the car--it was good as only Rick Riordan books are...
The new puppy seems to be cutting into my book reading time...perhaps I'll read to her :)
Oh wait, The Boy and I did listen to The Lost Hero (Rick Riordan) in the car--it was good as only Rick Riordan books are...
The new puppy seems to be cutting into my book reading time...perhaps I'll read to her :)
Tuesday, December 1, 2015
The art of finding (or not) lost things
For 30 years I've kept a protractor in the top drawer of my desk. Have I used it in the last 25? Um, no. But I swear it has been there. Until tonight, when the boy forgot his at school and it is missing. (Luckily, the girl keeps a protractor in her top desk drawer, so,we're good). I did find some treasures while digging...let's see what we have here....
(in the interest of full disclosure, this is not a desk drawer, but rather a beer box, because my drawer was too full. This is technically the "extra" stuff...but the protractor should have been in the actual desk drawer...): A whole bunch of name tags...um, were we having a party and didn't use them? A really old cell phone, a pick (hmm, I've been wondering for 10 years where that is)...10,000 pens and pencils , giant eraser, recipe box that used to hold addresses
A Pirates of the Caribbean "journal", acidity test strips (no, I have no idea why or from when or, why...), silly putty, bar of soap, really old camera,
No protractor...d' oh...Maybe I should clean out the drawer more often...
A Pirates of the Caribbean "journal", acidity test strips (no, I have no idea why or from when or, why...), silly putty, bar of soap, really old camera,
No protractor...d' oh...Maybe I should clean out the drawer more often...
Saturday, November 28, 2015
Advent 2015, week 1
When I was a kid we had an Advent book that we read nightly--I honestly can't remember much about it--maybe it was just Daily Guideposts--but I remember that it was always special and meaningful to read and light the candles together. When the kids were little, we started reading our own books--several different ones, but never just one that I loved. I spent time every night picking the reading that would work best for us from several choices, leaving a pile of books on the table. When they were little, Mr. IM or I read, but the last several years we've had to create a complicated system of which child gets to read each night and who lights the candle(s) and so forth... (or doesn't have to, depending on mood...)
In 2008 I spent weeks (yes, weeks) putting together our own family Advent readings--cross referencing calendars to set it up for all of Advent (not just December 1-25) and Epiphany from 2008 through 2020....egads. I also made sure that there was a reading for every day for every year--since Advent is a different number of days each year... It was several computers ago, so the digital file is "gone" I think. I made copies of the book for many family members, I'm curious if anyone else still has theirs and/or uses it. It includes photos of the kids and art by them. I pulled ideas, readings, and partial daily activities from our favorite books and resources--mostly so we wouldn't have to grab the stack and decide which one we like best--here are my sources--I definitely want to note that this is a compilation, I didn't write this, I just put it all together...
*An Advent of Ideas: Chistmas Sharing, Product concept, Inc. Printed in Mexico (out of print?)
*Advent Christmas and Epiphany in the Domestic Church: Activities to celebrate Catholic Liturgical Seasons. Catherine and Peter Fournier. Ignatius Press: San Francisco. 2001 ISBN 0-90870-859-1 Revised and reprinted 2013 (our version seems to be out of print)
*"Celebrate Advent!" By L'Tishia Suk. Focus on the Family Magazine. December 2000 (not available on the internet that I can find...but cited by several others)
Pamphlet. Copyright 1998, Archdiocese of Chicago: Liturgy Training Publicans, 1800 North Hermitage Avenue, Chicago IL 60622-1101; 1-800-933-1800 website www.ltp.org Design by Roslyn Broder. (Looks like they are still in business, but I can't find the pamphlet we have on their site)
*Holy Bible, New International Version, 1983
Now that the kids are older, we're adding a new book this year (in addition to our family one)--Not Yet Christmas: It's Time for Advent by J.D. Walt. I bought both the Kindle and paperback editions--I like holding the paperback.
Anyway, because tomorrow is the first day of Advent, here are this week's readings, in case anyone is interested!
Sunday, November 29, 2015
First Sunday of Advent: Today Advent begins. It is a time of preparation and waiting, just as God's people waited for Jesus, the Messiah. Our Advent wreath has three purple candles, one pink candle, and a white candle in the middle. The three purple candles symbolize royalty and remind us that Jesus is the King of Kings. Today we light the first purple candle. The first candle is often called the candle of hope. we have hope because God is faithful and will keep His promises to us. (Light one purple candle. If you would like to, read a favorite version or translation of the Christmas story or another meaningful Christmas story). Prayer: Dear God, bless this wreath. Help our family to remember that Advent is a time of hope. Help us prepare for your coming. Thank you for your faithfulness ot our family. Amen.
Monday, November 30, 2015
Isaiah 40:1-5: Comfort, comfort, my people says your God. Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and proclaim to her that her hard service has been completed, that her sin has been paid for, that she has received from the Lord's hand double for all her sins.
Advent is a time to prepare for Jesus's birthday. What are some ways our family prepares for Christmas? What are some ways we can prepare and help others in our community prepare? (discuss) Advent is also a time to remember that Jesus paid for our sins and that we are forgiven. What a wonderful way for God to show his love to us! Prayer: Thank you, God, for giving us Advent as a time to remember your love and to prepare for Christmas.
Tuesday, December 1, 2015
Read Micah 5:2: But you, Bethlehem,...out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel..
Bethlehem was a small town. Even though it was the home city of King David, people in the region probably didn't expect greatness to come from there. God chose Bethlehem to remind us that Jesus was a person, just like us, but without sin. His choice to come to earth as a baby reminds us that we don't have to be big or powerful to make big changes in the world. Prayer: Thank you, God, for letting even the smallest of us give great gifts.
Wednesday, December 2, 2015
Isaiah 52:7-10: How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, "Your God reigns! Listen! you watchmen lift up your voices, together they shout for joy!"
During the Christmas season we sing special songs about the birth of Jesus. Christmas songs glorify God and remind us of Jesus's birth. What is your favorite Christmas song? What does it tell us about Jesus's birth? For the prayer, choose your favorite song about Jesus's birth and sing it together.
Thursday, December 3, 2015
John 8:12 Jesus...said, "I am the light of the world".
We use many symbols during Advent to remember special things about God. We remember that Jesus is the light of the world by decorating with candles and lights. The lights also remind us to be a light of God, to share his good news with others. Prayer: Thank you, God, for sending Jesus to be our light. Help us to be lights for others.
Friday, December 4, 2015
Psalm 132:11 The Lord swore an oath to David, a sure oath that he will not revoke: One of your own descendants I will place on your throne.
Jesus was born a king! The Bible says that Jesus was born into the house of King David, showing that Christ came from a long line of kings. The first chapter of matthew lists Jesus's genealogy proving he was born a king. This was important because it fulfilled God's promise that a descendent of David would return to the throne. Even though Christ was born a king, he didn't act like one. Jesus didn't take advantage of his power to get what he wanted, only to help others. Prayer: God, thank you for keeping your promises. Help us to use our gifts and powers to help others.
Saturday, December 5, 2015
Matthew 2:1-2 After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, "Where is the one who has been born King of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him".
Tomorrow is Saint Nicholas Day. Saint Nicholas is the patron saint of seafarers, scholars, bankers, pawnbrokers, jurists, brewers, coopers, travelers, perfumers, unmarried girls, brides, schoolboys, and robbers. (a list worth discussing and pondering) He is most famous for being the special patron of children. St. Nicholas was probably a native of Patara , in Lycia, in Asia Minor. There are many legends about his good deeds. His best known virtue was love and charity for the poor. In Holland and other places around the world (including our house), children leave their wooden (or other) shoes outside their door on December 5, in hopes of receiving a small gift of candy, cookies, apples, or nuts from Saint Nicholas. When Saint Nicholas leaves these gifts, we are reminded of his kindness and of the Wise Men's visit and gifts to Jesus. Prayer: Thank you God for your gifts to us. Help us show kindness to the people around us and to share what we are given freely.
In 2008 I spent weeks (yes, weeks) putting together our own family Advent readings--cross referencing calendars to set it up for all of Advent (not just December 1-25) and Epiphany from 2008 through 2020....egads. I also made sure that there was a reading for every day for every year--since Advent is a different number of days each year... It was several computers ago, so the digital file is "gone" I think. I made copies of the book for many family members, I'm curious if anyone else still has theirs and/or uses it. It includes photos of the kids and art by them. I pulled ideas, readings, and partial daily activities from our favorite books and resources--mostly so we wouldn't have to grab the stack and decide which one we like best--here are my sources--I definitely want to note that this is a compilation, I didn't write this, I just put it all together...
*An Advent of Ideas: Chistmas Sharing, Product concept, Inc. Printed in Mexico (out of print?)
*Advent Christmas and Epiphany in the Domestic Church: Activities to celebrate Catholic Liturgical Seasons. Catherine and Peter Fournier. Ignatius Press: San Francisco. 2001 ISBN 0-90870-859-1 Revised and reprinted 2013 (our version seems to be out of print)
*"Celebrate Advent!" By L'Tishia Suk. Focus on the Family Magazine. December 2000 (not available on the internet that I can find...but cited by several others)
Pamphlet. Copyright 1998, Archdiocese of Chicago: Liturgy Training Publicans, 1800 North Hermitage Avenue, Chicago IL 60622-1101; 1-800-933-1800 website www.ltp.org Design by Roslyn Broder. (Looks like they are still in business, but I can't find the pamphlet we have on their site)
*Holy Bible, New International Version, 1983
Now that the kids are older, we're adding a new book this year (in addition to our family one)--Not Yet Christmas: It's Time for Advent by J.D. Walt. I bought both the Kindle and paperback editions--I like holding the paperback.
Anyway, because tomorrow is the first day of Advent, here are this week's readings, in case anyone is interested!
Sunday, November 29, 2015
First Sunday of Advent: Today Advent begins. It is a time of preparation and waiting, just as God's people waited for Jesus, the Messiah. Our Advent wreath has three purple candles, one pink candle, and a white candle in the middle. The three purple candles symbolize royalty and remind us that Jesus is the King of Kings. Today we light the first purple candle. The first candle is often called the candle of hope. we have hope because God is faithful and will keep His promises to us. (Light one purple candle. If you would like to, read a favorite version or translation of the Christmas story or another meaningful Christmas story). Prayer: Dear God, bless this wreath. Help our family to remember that Advent is a time of hope. Help us prepare for your coming. Thank you for your faithfulness ot our family. Amen.
Monday, November 30, 2015
Isaiah 40:1-5: Comfort, comfort, my people says your God. Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and proclaim to her that her hard service has been completed, that her sin has been paid for, that she has received from the Lord's hand double for all her sins.
Advent is a time to prepare for Jesus's birthday. What are some ways our family prepares for Christmas? What are some ways we can prepare and help others in our community prepare? (discuss) Advent is also a time to remember that Jesus paid for our sins and that we are forgiven. What a wonderful way for God to show his love to us! Prayer: Thank you, God, for giving us Advent as a time to remember your love and to prepare for Christmas.
Tuesday, December 1, 2015
Read Micah 5:2: But you, Bethlehem,...out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel..
Bethlehem was a small town. Even though it was the home city of King David, people in the region probably didn't expect greatness to come from there. God chose Bethlehem to remind us that Jesus was a person, just like us, but without sin. His choice to come to earth as a baby reminds us that we don't have to be big or powerful to make big changes in the world. Prayer: Thank you, God, for letting even the smallest of us give great gifts.
Wednesday, December 2, 2015
Isaiah 52:7-10: How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, "Your God reigns! Listen! you watchmen lift up your voices, together they shout for joy!"
During the Christmas season we sing special songs about the birth of Jesus. Christmas songs glorify God and remind us of Jesus's birth. What is your favorite Christmas song? What does it tell us about Jesus's birth? For the prayer, choose your favorite song about Jesus's birth and sing it together.
Thursday, December 3, 2015
John 8:12 Jesus...said, "I am the light of the world".
We use many symbols during Advent to remember special things about God. We remember that Jesus is the light of the world by decorating with candles and lights. The lights also remind us to be a light of God, to share his good news with others. Prayer: Thank you, God, for sending Jesus to be our light. Help us to be lights for others.
Friday, December 4, 2015
Psalm 132:11 The Lord swore an oath to David, a sure oath that he will not revoke: One of your own descendants I will place on your throne.
Jesus was born a king! The Bible says that Jesus was born into the house of King David, showing that Christ came from a long line of kings. The first chapter of matthew lists Jesus's genealogy proving he was born a king. This was important because it fulfilled God's promise that a descendent of David would return to the throne. Even though Christ was born a king, he didn't act like one. Jesus didn't take advantage of his power to get what he wanted, only to help others. Prayer: God, thank you for keeping your promises. Help us to use our gifts and powers to help others.
Saturday, December 5, 2015
Matthew 2:1-2 After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, "Where is the one who has been born King of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him".
Tomorrow is Saint Nicholas Day. Saint Nicholas is the patron saint of seafarers, scholars, bankers, pawnbrokers, jurists, brewers, coopers, travelers, perfumers, unmarried girls, brides, schoolboys, and robbers. (a list worth discussing and pondering) He is most famous for being the special patron of children. St. Nicholas was probably a native of Patara , in Lycia, in Asia Minor. There are many legends about his good deeds. His best known virtue was love and charity for the poor. In Holland and other places around the world (including our house), children leave their wooden (or other) shoes outside their door on December 5, in hopes of receiving a small gift of candy, cookies, apples, or nuts from Saint Nicholas. When Saint Nicholas leaves these gifts, we are reminded of his kindness and of the Wise Men's visit and gifts to Jesus. Prayer: Thank you God for your gifts to us. Help us show kindness to the people around us and to share what we are given freely.
Sunday, November 22, 2015
Welcome to the family, Morrison!
I kept telling the Saint Bernard Rescue folks that if a Cattle Dog puppy came into rescue, we might be interested....well, she's not a Cattle Dog (50% Saint, 25% Siberian Husky, 25% American Eskimo)....but we have a new family member...meet Morrison!
She was born on September 11 and came home yesterday, a day after she turned 10 weeks old. She missed her 6 sisters and brother last night (her mom went to as new home a couple weeks ago), snd has been busy running with Liberty and visiting Maggie (and The Boy) today. Last night she slept in her crate in The Girls room, but i suspect she will end up in our room tonight ( she slept almost 10 hours, but woke up a few times and whined). Stay tuned, I'm sure we're going to have some adventures...and naps!
She was born on September 11 and came home yesterday, a day after she turned 10 weeks old. She missed her 6 sisters and brother last night (her mom went to as new home a couple weeks ago), snd has been busy running with Liberty and visiting Maggie (and The Boy) today. Last night she slept in her crate in The Girls room, but i suspect she will end up in our room tonight ( she slept almost 10 hours, but woke up a few times and whined). Stay tuned, I'm sure we're going to have some adventures...and naps!
Wednesday, November 4, 2015
What I read in October 2015
In my defense, two of these books were really, really, long...
1. Dragonfly in Amber (Diana Gabaldon)--Continues the story of Claire, the time traveling doctor, and her family. I liked it more than Outlander--as you might remember, I wasn't too fired up to read this (the 2nd) book in the series, but didn't have anything else and it was "in" at the library--I enjoyed it and I think I'm hooked--
2. Voyager (Diana Gabaldon)--Book 3 of the series--I have book 4 on the "hold" list a the library, waiting for it to come in.
3. Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard: The Sword of Summer (Rick Riordan)--I enjoyed the original Percy Jackson series and the "Heros series" that came after, but never got into the "Egyptian" series by Riordan. I think I read 2 or 3 of the series, hoping they'd get better and wasn't ever excited. The Boy asked me to put this book on hold for him and when he was done reading it I thought, "gee, it's fall break, a quick read, I might as well...". It doesn't make my top 10 list (I don't think) but it was entertaining, much more like the Percy books than the Egyptian books. I'd recommend it if you have a couple extra hours and want to read something quick.
4. Come Rain or Come Shine (Jan Karon)--As always, it was sweet, not very exciting, a couple plot "twists" that could almost been seen coming. I enjoyed it--it was nice to "see" Dooley get married and visit Mitford
5. The Outlandish Companion (Diana Gabaldon)--like most "companion" books, I'm not really reading this one cover to cover--it is interesting, and I'll admit I'm not quite done with it now (writing on Oct 30), but I feel like I'll be "done" with it before midnight on October 31...so I'm including it.
I'm on the wait list for a couple books at the library, book 4 of the Outlander series of course, book 21 (22?) of the Stephanie Plum series, and book 3 of the Robert Galbraith (JK Rawlings) book. There is also allegedly another Psalm 23 Mystery coming out Oct 31...so we'll see what I end up reading in November!
1. Dragonfly in Amber (Diana Gabaldon)--Continues the story of Claire, the time traveling doctor, and her family. I liked it more than Outlander--as you might remember, I wasn't too fired up to read this (the 2nd) book in the series, but didn't have anything else and it was "in" at the library--I enjoyed it and I think I'm hooked--
2. Voyager (Diana Gabaldon)--Book 3 of the series--I have book 4 on the "hold" list a the library, waiting for it to come in.
3. Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard: The Sword of Summer (Rick Riordan)--I enjoyed the original Percy Jackson series and the "Heros series" that came after, but never got into the "Egyptian" series by Riordan. I think I read 2 or 3 of the series, hoping they'd get better and wasn't ever excited. The Boy asked me to put this book on hold for him and when he was done reading it I thought, "gee, it's fall break, a quick read, I might as well...". It doesn't make my top 10 list (I don't think) but it was entertaining, much more like the Percy books than the Egyptian books. I'd recommend it if you have a couple extra hours and want to read something quick.
4. Come Rain or Come Shine (Jan Karon)--As always, it was sweet, not very exciting, a couple plot "twists" that could almost been seen coming. I enjoyed it--it was nice to "see" Dooley get married and visit Mitford
5. The Outlandish Companion (Diana Gabaldon)--like most "companion" books, I'm not really reading this one cover to cover--it is interesting, and I'll admit I'm not quite done with it now (writing on Oct 30), but I feel like I'll be "done" with it before midnight on October 31...so I'm including it.
I'm on the wait list for a couple books at the library, book 4 of the Outlander series of course, book 21 (22?) of the Stephanie Plum series, and book 3 of the Robert Galbraith (JK Rawlings) book. There is also allegedly another Psalm 23 Mystery coming out Oct 31...so we'll see what I end up reading in November!
Saturday, October 31, 2015
Happy Halloween!
Halloween is like the last "hurrah" before winter sets in...even though some years it has already snowed feet in Colorado before Halloween...this year, the weather has been relatively mild--woke up on Wednesday to 31 degrees and was glad that I moved those last two pepper plants inside. Plans this year include watching Purdue and Nebraska, visiting our puppy at her foster home, and a little trick or treating. Here are some links to Halloweens of the past:
2014
Decorating, 2013
2013
Memory Lane
And Bonus--photos from 2013 and 2014, not pictured in Memory Lane!
As well as what appear to be 1993 and 1994 (or maybe two from the same year...who knows)
and one last from 2010--professionally done, with the donation of two cans of food per child...
2014
Decorating, 2013
2013
Memory Lane
And Bonus--photos from 2013 and 2014, not pictured in Memory Lane!
 |
| 2013--A minion in a really short skirt and Captain Jack Sparrow (I didn't know Minons wore skirts..) |
 |
| Twins, 2014 |
 |
| Wolverine, 2014 |
and one last from 2010--professionally done, with the donation of two cans of food per child...
Wednesday, October 28, 2015
What I did on my Fall Break
Ok, you caught me...we're only halfway through fall break...but this is a catch all of what I've been up to and what I hope to finish before going back to school on Monday!
Monday: Cleaning, hauling stuff to Goodwill drop off, picking up The Boy, Guitar lesson, grocery store, Target, Dentist appointment. The good news is that we have a guest "room" again--bad news is that The Boy has moved into it while we are dog sitting, so he and the dog can bond.
Tuesday: More cleaning and hauling, watch two episodes of "Outlander" (it was ok...not worth $1.99 for more episodes though...I'll wait for it from the library), playing with dogs, pick up food to feed 15 freshman volleyball players, pick up The Boy, watch some volleyball, feed 15 volleyball plays, concession stand stint, home to watch Roanoke on the History Channel (meh, it was ok)
Wednesday: Finish Roanoke while making 4 lasagnas (3 to freeze, one for tonight). Talk to water heater people about scheduling permit inspection for heater that was installed a couple weeks ago. Prep to make chicken and rice casseroles for freezer, entertain visiting dog while waiting for her owner to pick her up. Later today, pick up The Boy at chess club and watch some more volleyball. And pick up some more carbon monoxide detectors, since the inspection requires more than we have.
Thursday plan: 8:00 am coffee with principal at The Boy's School (not just me, grade 3-5 parents), lunch with a friend at 11, COSTO run, pick up The Boy...somewhere in there hopefully run to the post office to mail gifts to my newest nephew and his brother.
Friday plan: Wait at house for water heater inspection. Maybe get work done in yard, more laundry (of course). Pick up The Boy--trick or treat downtown for a few minutes? Pick up the Girl...run to grocery store to get stuff for Saturdays' adventures
Saturday plan: Visit puppy at 11, go to friends house to watch Purdue get creamed by Nebraska, drop The Girl off at a friends house to help friend supervise younger sibling trick or treating, take Boy trick or treating with friends.
Sunday plan: Church and collapse...I need a vacation from my vacation...geez.
Other items on the "to do list" (let's see how far I really get: clean yard and prep for winter, dispose of dead dorm fridge, change smoke detector batteries and clocks, work on school work, and the usual....laundry, dishes, bills..egads)
Monday: Cleaning, hauling stuff to Goodwill drop off, picking up The Boy, Guitar lesson, grocery store, Target, Dentist appointment. The good news is that we have a guest "room" again--bad news is that The Boy has moved into it while we are dog sitting, so he and the dog can bond.
Tuesday: More cleaning and hauling, watch two episodes of "Outlander" (it was ok...not worth $1.99 for more episodes though...I'll wait for it from the library), playing with dogs, pick up food to feed 15 freshman volleyball players, pick up The Boy, watch some volleyball, feed 15 volleyball plays, concession stand stint, home to watch Roanoke on the History Channel (meh, it was ok)
Wednesday: Finish Roanoke while making 4 lasagnas (3 to freeze, one for tonight). Talk to water heater people about scheduling permit inspection for heater that was installed a couple weeks ago. Prep to make chicken and rice casseroles for freezer, entertain visiting dog while waiting for her owner to pick her up. Later today, pick up The Boy at chess club and watch some more volleyball. And pick up some more carbon monoxide detectors, since the inspection requires more than we have.
Thursday plan: 8:00 am coffee with principal at The Boy's School (not just me, grade 3-5 parents), lunch with a friend at 11, COSTO run, pick up The Boy...somewhere in there hopefully run to the post office to mail gifts to my newest nephew and his brother.
Friday plan: Wait at house for water heater inspection. Maybe get work done in yard, more laundry (of course). Pick up The Boy--trick or treat downtown for a few minutes? Pick up the Girl...run to grocery store to get stuff for Saturdays' adventures
Saturday plan: Visit puppy at 11, go to friends house to watch Purdue get creamed by Nebraska, drop The Girl off at a friends house to help friend supervise younger sibling trick or treating, take Boy trick or treating with friends.
Sunday plan: Church and collapse...I need a vacation from my vacation...geez.
Other items on the "to do list" (let's see how far I really get: clean yard and prep for winter, dispose of dead dorm fridge, change smoke detector batteries and clocks, work on school work, and the usual....laundry, dishes, bills..egads)
Saturday, October 24, 2015
Ups and Downs of Teaching
Tuesday and Thursday were parent conferences at my school this week, nice bookends to a day of testing (Wednesday) and our "last hurrah" before fall break. It isn't super busy around here tonight--quite a few parents, but no lines that I can see from my little Special Ed corner. Needless to say, we do a lot of chatting amongst ourselves on these nights, grade some papers, work on IEP's, check email...and so on.
One of the discussions tonight has made me very thoughtful. Apparently, one of our former students was arrested last weekend in an incident that was just big enough to make a local small town paper Now, I'll preface this with the statement that I work with good people. But...some of the reactions to the arrest make me sick, for lack of an alternative description.
There was a picture included and the young person looks nothing like they did when they attended my school. They look worn out beyond their 18 years. The student's hair was messy, clearly the result of a tussle. The reaction by some of my co-workers has been to laugh and to joke that "well, we did good work there". Here's the problem...I think we did do good work. Yes, this young person is responsible for their choices, and clearly poor choices have been made...but if I rejoice in my students' success, how can I not grieve for their failures?
Since I was in a pensive mood, I did something I do about every six months...I looked up one of my favorite former students (I'm not joking, he was one of my favorites) on the State Corrections Website to see if he had a successful parole hearing this time. Turns out he did, and a quick google search turned up his facebook page (no, I didn't friend him), stating that he is working as a nurse's aide and filled with notes about his activities with his church. While all is certainly not right with the world...this certainly makes me feel a little better about the seeds I planted there and makes me hopeful that the recently arrested student will also turn things around someday.
One of the discussions tonight has made me very thoughtful. Apparently, one of our former students was arrested last weekend in an incident that was just big enough to make a local small town paper Now, I'll preface this with the statement that I work with good people. But...some of the reactions to the arrest make me sick, for lack of an alternative description.
There was a picture included and the young person looks nothing like they did when they attended my school. They look worn out beyond their 18 years. The student's hair was messy, clearly the result of a tussle. The reaction by some of my co-workers has been to laugh and to joke that "well, we did good work there". Here's the problem...I think we did do good work. Yes, this young person is responsible for their choices, and clearly poor choices have been made...but if I rejoice in my students' success, how can I not grieve for their failures?
Since I was in a pensive mood, I did something I do about every six months...I looked up one of my favorite former students (I'm not joking, he was one of my favorites) on the State Corrections Website to see if he had a successful parole hearing this time. Turns out he did, and a quick google search turned up his facebook page (no, I didn't friend him), stating that he is working as a nurse's aide and filled with notes about his activities with his church. While all is certainly not right with the world...this certainly makes me feel a little better about the seeds I planted there and makes me hopeful that the recently arrested student will also turn things around someday.
Wednesday, October 21, 2015
What's for dinner?
As you may recall, we had three lovely (small) butternut squash from the garden this year. Unfortunately, Alice the Cat decided she likes to attack the butternut squash, so storing them long term seemed like a bad choice. Luckily, today was cold and rainy, a perfect day for squash soup. Here's the recipe I started with with notes of the changes we made...
Cut up, added a tiny bit of water, cooked in microwave for about 5 minutes, until all soft:
4 little onions from the garden, chopped
And here is what I actually did:
Last night I baked the butternut squash, cut in half, in a little water for about an hour at 350 degrees, until soft, scooped out of shell and refrigerated.
3 carrots,
peeled and sliced
4 little turnips (from CSA basket), peeled and chopped
2 small gala apples that were bruised and the children refused to eat, peeled and chopped4 little onions from the garden, chopped
While the other veggies were cooking, put squash and a can of beef broth in the blender and blend until smooth. Transfer to pot.
Put other veggies in blender with another can of beef broth, add to pot.
Season with cumin, curry, chilli pwd, and paprika.
It had the seal of approval from the whole family...so yay!
Saturday, October 17, 2015
What I read in September 2015
At Mother-Son bowling for The Boy's school, another mom, who also has a 9th grade girl, and I were chatting about how we kind of think we've lost our minds because we can't "get our acts together" this school year--the business never seems to stop. Fall break for The Girl was this week, which gave us a little break and my fall break is 6 days away...maybe then we'll have time to take a breath. In the meantime, most of my reading is done while doing my 5 minutes of tooth brushing every night and about 15 minutes after I fall into bed. Even then, I managed to read (or listen to) 8 books in September--here they are...
1. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire--on CD in the car
2. Go Set a Watchman (Harper Lee). Against my will, I liked this book. I'm not sure I loved it...but I didn't even like To Kill a Mockingbird the first time I read it, so I'll read it again and someday and see what I think. It was interesting--I'm not convinced that it was a lost manuscript" though--there were too many issues in it that seemed very current and relevant. I think it stands alone well, but I'm not sure it is a good companion or sequel to Mockingbird.
3. The Rosie Project (Graeme Simsion)--Fiction book written from the point of view of a man with autism who is looking for a wife. It was interesting and cute--a good read.
4. The Rosie Effect (Graeme Simsion)--Sequel to Rosie Project--again, interesting point of view and cute story.
5. Shooting Kabul (N.H. Senzai)--One of the Battle of the Books choices for our local library's middle school program. It was interesting--about a family that escapes from Afghanistan. The teenage son is a photographer.
6. Kensuke's Kingdom (Michael Morpurgo)--Another Battle of the books book--about a boy shipwrecked on an island and finds someone else already lives there. It was a fairly recent publication, but I feel like I read the story before--it was a lot like Hatchet and Island of the Blue Dolphins ,I guess. In any case, a very quick read.
7. Searching for Sunday (Rachel Held Evans)--Nonfiction, about the author's relationship with God and her experiences with church over the years. As with all of the author's books, there were parts I loved, parts I identified with, parts that made me uncomfortable, and parts that I disagreed with. A good read, very thought provoking.
8. Demigod Diaries (Rick Riordan)-on CD in the car--can you tell I've been riding with The Boy only a lot?
October is off to an equally slow start--partially because I'm back to reading Diana Gabaldan's 1000 page books....
Saturday, October 3, 2015
Progress?
When we moved into the Ranch in 2007, there was very little built between our house and the interstate--about 3 miles of lovely prairie and rolling hills. It was such a large area, that instead of mowing, horses were hired to keep the grass down. In the almost 8 years since, we've watched neighborhoods and a few businesses move in. The last piece of (fairly) uninterrupted prairie (other than the frequent and permanent open spaces) suddenly has orange fencing around it. The horses have moved on and the parking lots are creeping up.... I'm feeling more than a little sad about losing this. I'm not sure that trading horses running is worth a Costco. Sigh.
Wednesday, September 30, 2015
Good bye 2015 garden....
Between the month of rain, the Japanese Beetle invasion, an apparent bunny infestation, and the 90+ temps in September...the garden was pretty disappointing this year. My organic pest control worked when I did it well--insecticidal soap and cayenne pepper are just a couple of my methods--but I wasn't very good at keeping up. I'm a lousy homesteader, what can I say. We had a few tomatoes, some beans and peas (not enough for a meal), a few cucumbers (not enough to pickle, just enough for eating) and some peppers--oh and two okra. We may still have a few more tomatoes and peppers, but it looks like everything else is done (as evidenced by the dying vines and plants). Here's the final "big" harvest.
Now here is the success story of the summer, ironically. You may remember the previous "potatoes in a bucket" projects. (See here, here, and here). Partially due to the rain, I didn't start the potatoes when I should have. Sometime in June, I cleaned the refrigerator---like take out all the drawers and shelves and scrub every surface cleaned--and found...wait for it...two little potatoes growing legs. So I chopped them up, threw them in a plate of water overnight and threw them in some dirt. I did add more dirt a couple times., but nothing else. Over the weekend I realized all the potato stems were dead, so I dumped them out, expecting, well, nothing, like the past two years...but...surprise--from my two pieces of potato I harvested 4-6 reasonably sized potatoes and a bunch of little ones. Hmm. This is an idea for next summer perhaps.Saturday, September 26, 2015
Recipe of the weekend: Banana Muffins
One of my friends posted on facebook that they found a "green light lamp" to teach their two year old when it was ok to wake up mom and dad. We could have used one of those when The Boy was younger. These days we get a slow start on a lot of Saturdays.
We were all up fairly early this morning--The Girl had to "work" at a JV volleyball tourney--The Boy and I slept in until about 7, while Mr IM took The Girl to school. I was drinking coffee and making a grocery list when The Boy appeared, with grand plans to cook breakfast. He was slightly miffed when I told him that his "ingredient of the week" was the brown bananas on the counter (he wanted more apple cinnamon waffles, using last week's ingredient, the brown apples...) We visited AllRecipes.com and again found something that would work. Because I didn't want my phone or computer slimed by our cooking efforts, I copied the outline of the recipe onto a piece of scrap paper, shown here after we spilled on it...So without further ado...Banana Muffins...
1 1/2 cups mashed bananas (we used a little more, there were a lot of brown bananas...)2/3 cup sunflower seed oil (I didn't find any in the pantry, so I used plain old veggie oil. I did consider using coconut, but in the end went with veggie) 1 egg, beaten
And finally the finished product--they must have been good, because this is all that is left (original recipe made 24 mini muffins and 9 big muffins)
I intended these for snacks this week, but it looks like we'll be having cheez-its again.....but these were yummy!
We were all up fairly early this morning--The Girl had to "work" at a JV volleyball tourney--The Boy and I slept in until about 7, while Mr IM took The Girl to school. I was drinking coffee and making a grocery list when The Boy appeared, with grand plans to cook breakfast. He was slightly miffed when I told him that his "ingredient of the week" was the brown bananas on the counter (he wanted more apple cinnamon waffles, using last week's ingredient, the brown apples...) We visited AllRecipes.com and again found something that would work. Because I didn't want my phone or computer slimed by our cooking efforts, I copied the outline of the recipe onto a piece of scrap paper, shown here after we spilled on it...So without further ado...Banana Muffins...
1 1/2 cups mashed bananas (we used a little more, there were a lot of brown bananas...)2/3 cup sunflower seed oil (I didn't find any in the pantry, so I used plain old veggie oil. I did consider using coconut, but in the end went with veggie) 1 egg, beaten
1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
2 C flour
1/2 C sugar (we used a little less)
2T unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking powderr
1/2 tsp salt
1C semisweet chocolate chips (we used white chocolate chips)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin.
- In a medium bowl blend the banana, oil, egg and vanilla together.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa, baking powder and salt. Stir in the banana mixture until just blended. Fold in the chocolate chips. Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling 3/4 full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes. Remove muffins to a wire rack to cool completely. (We cooked the mini muffins for about 10 minutes and they were perfect)
And finally the finished product--they must have been good, because this is all that is left (original recipe made 24 mini muffins and 9 big muffins)
I intended these for snacks this week, but it looks like we'll be having cheez-its again.....but these were yummy!
Wednesday, September 16, 2015
Old School Blogging --ABC's of Me!
One of my favorite blogs to read when I have time is About 100%--Andrea makes me smile! She is doing an old-school blog along with Elaine from Misselaineouslife that actually gets me motivated enough to write a blog--well, at least gives me a framework. You don't get photos like they did though, because, well, it is 9:45 on a school night (see "C")
A- Age: Umm 28? No? Ok, 44.
B- Biggest Fear: Can I say spiders? Heights? Maybe spiders while at a height--why I cannot change the lightbulb at the top of the stairs.
C- Current Time: 9:51
D- Drink you last had: Water. Really. I was grading US History assignments...and realized I hadn't water all day. Blech.
E- Easiest Person To Talk to: My friend, J, who although she moved far, far, away still understands exactly what I'm talking about when I text...
F- Favorite Song: Right now--Wiz Khalifa's "See You Again". I may have an obsession with Fast and Furious
G- Grossest Memory: I was taking our cat to the vet for some minor health issue and let her sit on my lap on the way home because she was traumatized. She peed on my lap. We were both traumatized. Luckily I had leather seats....I wished I had leather pants.
H- Hometown: Flora, Indiana.
I- In love with: Caramel anything at the moment--very fall-ish
J- Jealous Of: People who sleep in
K- Killed Someone? With kindness? Ummm...no.
L- Longest Relationship: Other than family--my friend, P. She'll tell you we weren't really friends until high school (maybe middle school?), but it says relationship, not friendship, so I'm going with it.
M- Middle Name: Elizabeth, same as my grandma and my daughter
N- Number of Siblings: 1 brother
O- One Wish: That I get to sleep in until daylight on Saturday
P- Person who you last called: Someone at school--I can't remember who--another teacher to check on a student perhaps
Q- Question you’re always asked: Did you have to work today? (Ummmm...yeah. Public School teacher, it's September...ummm, huh?)
R- Reason to smile: Kittens
S- Song you last sang: Blessed Be the Name in the car, alone, during that longish drive to work.
T- Time you woke up: 4:50 am. There's an episode of Downton Abbey where Anna says she dreams of sleeping as long as she wants. I'm with you Anna...
U- Underwear Color: purple cotton, exciting
V- Vacation Destination: Dream or reality? Reality next summer includes Alaska, hopefully South Dakota, and hopefully Michianna....Dream? St. Thomas again....Middle of the road? A quiet B and B
W- Worst Habit: Chewing on my fingernails and cuticles.
X- X-rays you’ve had: Mouth, foot, hip, arm
Y- Your favorite food: Caramel currently (what kind of a deficiency creates a caramel craving?)
Z- Zodiac Sign: Capricorn--stubborn...yep.
So if you just found me through the link, nice to meet you! And "hello" to the rest of you who've I've neglected....
Wednesday, September 9, 2015
I would starve as a real homesteader
I feel like I've said this before and it's undoubtedly true. This has been a rough year for the garden so far--I didn't do a good job of planting and then the beetles came. The photo here isn't mine, it came from an exterminator's website, but the leaves look just like all of mine. Yuck. I haven't seen too many beetles, but their damage is evident. I've invested in insecticidal soap, and had some limited success, but it also appears that there are slugs/grubs/something blechy eating the plant roots as well. Ugh. Oh ,well, it's just a hobby, right?
Recently the topic of chickens has come up again. On the plus side, if they survived the dog and the coyotes, (and the bears, and the cougars, and the cold), they might eat the beetles (score!)....but on the negative side, well, they're chickens. I think I'd rather get another dog and buy eggs at the store like always. I kind of like the idea of chickens, but I really don't like actual chickens much...they are prickly and require attention and care.
We harvested the sunflower heads tonight--because of the ongoing bug and mouse and bird infestations, the sunflower heads are in paper bags on the patio covered in cheesecloth for a few days--hopefully by the time you read this they will be ready to detach the seeds!
Hopefully in the next few weeks I'll see if there are any carrots and potatoes...I'm waiting for it to get cold!
Sunday, September 6, 2015
Books I read in August
Only 5...what can I say, school started....
1. The Astronaut Wives Club (Lily Koppel)--Interesting book. I've loved the tv mini-series and still need to watch the final episode. Much more detail than the series could have, entertaining, fairly realistic I think. There were a lot of things I wanted to know about, but they probably were more about the astronauts, so they weren't in these books. I also would have liked more photos and more "where are they now". Or rather, what happened after the time period the book is set in, most of the wives have passed away (except of course, Annie Glenn and Betty Grissom...)
2. Plum Lucky (Janet Evanovich)--Realized I missed this one somehow during July. It was entertaining and pretty mindless.
3. Some Luck (Jane Smiley)-My book club read this and I missed the meeting we discussed it. I would have liked to know what other people thought. It was interesting, I suppose I would say it is good. There is a sequel though, and it ended in a way that made me not really care about the sequel. The story follows a family for 30 years--nothing terribly exciting happens, just normal family marriages, births, deaths. None of them were particularly likable or dislikeable either, so that probably affected my view of the book.
4. The Dressmaker of Khair Khana (Gayle Tzemach Lemmon)--Another book recommended by a member of my book club. Again, it was ok. About a young woman in Afghanistan who starts her own business under the nose of the Taliban. I loved the story but wasn't impressed with the writing. I don't know if that is due to the actual writing or if I somehow got ahold of an abridged version. There were just some odd portions. Great story, though.
5. A Fall of Marigolds (Susan Meissner)--Mr IM always says that I complain too much about the endings of books when they aren't perfect. This one is a perfect example (no pun intended?). I really liked the book--it is a history buff's dream--partially set in 1911 Ellis Island and partially set in 2011 New York it follows two women who both lost someone---the 1911 character to the Triangle Shirtwaist Fire and the 2011 character to the 9/11 disasters. The weird part (at the end) was that throughout the whole book the author wove the two characters together and at the end (spoiler?) they weren't really tied together at all. Which, I guess says something about coincidence and not having a neat ending, but was a little odd. Still might make my top 10--it was really engaging and interesting, as well as entertaining.
So far this month (September) I've already finished a couple books, including Go Set a Watchman, which might get its own post. Or might not...depends on how much I neglect my grading...
1. The Astronaut Wives Club (Lily Koppel)--Interesting book. I've loved the tv mini-series and still need to watch the final episode. Much more detail than the series could have, entertaining, fairly realistic I think. There were a lot of things I wanted to know about, but they probably were more about the astronauts, so they weren't in these books. I also would have liked more photos and more "where are they now". Or rather, what happened after the time period the book is set in, most of the wives have passed away (except of course, Annie Glenn and Betty Grissom...)
2. Plum Lucky (Janet Evanovich)--Realized I missed this one somehow during July. It was entertaining and pretty mindless.
3. Some Luck (Jane Smiley)-My book club read this and I missed the meeting we discussed it. I would have liked to know what other people thought. It was interesting, I suppose I would say it is good. There is a sequel though, and it ended in a way that made me not really care about the sequel. The story follows a family for 30 years--nothing terribly exciting happens, just normal family marriages, births, deaths. None of them were particularly likable or dislikeable either, so that probably affected my view of the book.
4. The Dressmaker of Khair Khana (Gayle Tzemach Lemmon)--Another book recommended by a member of my book club. Again, it was ok. About a young woman in Afghanistan who starts her own business under the nose of the Taliban. I loved the story but wasn't impressed with the writing. I don't know if that is due to the actual writing or if I somehow got ahold of an abridged version. There were just some odd portions. Great story, though.
5. A Fall of Marigolds (Susan Meissner)--Mr IM always says that I complain too much about the endings of books when they aren't perfect. This one is a perfect example (no pun intended?). I really liked the book--it is a history buff's dream--partially set in 1911 Ellis Island and partially set in 2011 New York it follows two women who both lost someone---the 1911 character to the Triangle Shirtwaist Fire and the 2011 character to the 9/11 disasters. The weird part (at the end) was that throughout the whole book the author wove the two characters together and at the end (spoiler?) they weren't really tied together at all. Which, I guess says something about coincidence and not having a neat ending, but was a little odd. Still might make my top 10--it was really engaging and interesting, as well as entertaining.
So far this month (September) I've already finished a couple books, including Go Set a Watchman, which might get its own post. Or might not...depends on how much I neglect my grading...
Tuesday, September 1, 2015
Back to school ramblings
In case you hadn't figured it out, school started. If you follow me over on Facebook, I'm sure you saw the first day pictures (sorry, none of me...just the kids). No pictures for this edition--I'll fill you in quick and get back to The Pile (of papers to grade, IEPs to check, lesson plans to write, dishes to wash, clothes to fold....)
Since the Girl and I went back to school on August 10 and 7 respectively, The Boy spent almost 3 weeks Home Alone. Yes, the capitals are intentional...you've all seen the movies, right? I called him one day at about 3 and said something like "ok, I'm headed home and then we need to leave for x...have you had lunch yet?" His answer? (and there was evidence to support it) "Well, I've only had two cans of soup, a box of crackers, three apples, and two individual servings of mac and cheese....what's for dinner?"
School is going well for all of us--I have two teamed classes (half students with an IEP, half without an IEP, two teachers), two foundations classes (all students have an IEP and struggle with reading and writing), a freshman orientation class, and an advisory class. Oh, and 28 ish kids on my caseload (seems to change daily, as they float in and out...Stand Still! Eesh!)
The Girl loves her classes--all the usual (Algebra, English 9, Earth Science, World Geography, Spanish 1), plus Athletic Training and Theatre. A boy from theatre class asked her to go to homecoming with him and she agreed to meet him there. We're in uncharted territory here, folks. Volleyball is all consuming--practices, study hall, and tomorrow their first real game (scrimmage last weekend went well).
The Boy seems to be adjusting to 5th grade. I'm sure we'll hear more at back to school night next week, but there seems to have been a slight philosophical switch, 5th grade is even more like Middle School than it was when The Girl went through. They switch for all their classes and get to participate in sports (hello, cross country...we have missed you?). It seems to be a good switch (for us)--last night both kids sat in the dining room for several minutes without punching each other.
We are all looking forward to the long weekend--I see some housecleaning and napping in my future!
I also "owe" you'all a "What I read in August" post...although I'm not sure I finished anything...eek...I'll have to look later!
Since the Girl and I went back to school on August 10 and 7 respectively, The Boy spent almost 3 weeks Home Alone. Yes, the capitals are intentional...you've all seen the movies, right? I called him one day at about 3 and said something like "ok, I'm headed home and then we need to leave for x...have you had lunch yet?" His answer? (and there was evidence to support it) "Well, I've only had two cans of soup, a box of crackers, three apples, and two individual servings of mac and cheese....what's for dinner?"
School is going well for all of us--I have two teamed classes (half students with an IEP, half without an IEP, two teachers), two foundations classes (all students have an IEP and struggle with reading and writing), a freshman orientation class, and an advisory class. Oh, and 28 ish kids on my caseload (seems to change daily, as they float in and out...Stand Still! Eesh!)
The Girl loves her classes--all the usual (Algebra, English 9, Earth Science, World Geography, Spanish 1), plus Athletic Training and Theatre. A boy from theatre class asked her to go to homecoming with him and she agreed to meet him there. We're in uncharted territory here, folks. Volleyball is all consuming--practices, study hall, and tomorrow their first real game (scrimmage last weekend went well).
The Boy seems to be adjusting to 5th grade. I'm sure we'll hear more at back to school night next week, but there seems to have been a slight philosophical switch, 5th grade is even more like Middle School than it was when The Girl went through. They switch for all their classes and get to participate in sports (hello, cross country...we have missed you?). It seems to be a good switch (for us)--last night both kids sat in the dining room for several minutes without punching each other.
We are all looking forward to the long weekend--I see some housecleaning and napping in my future!
I also "owe" you'all a "What I read in August" post...although I'm not sure I finished anything...eek...I'll have to look later!
Wednesday, August 19, 2015
My day so far in pictures...
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| School Supplies |
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| Still dark when I leave the house |
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| Supplies for the day |
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| College spirit day |
Saturday, August 15, 2015
Books I read in July
I haven't counted yet, but I may have averaged a book a day in July. Due to a combination of reading fluff and reading while waiting for people in the car, I read a lot...I did other things, too, though--I should take a picture of how clean my refrigerator is, it may never be this clean again (at least not until next summer....). I also was driven (no pun intended?) to finish the Stephanie Plum series...just so I'm ready when the new book comes out in November. Of course I'm #179 on the list at the library, so maybe I'll just buy it for myself for Christmas. In other news, I'm number 54 for Jan Karon's new book, also due out in October. AND there is a new Robert Galbraith (J.K. Rowlings) book in October as well. Not to mention the Psalm 23 book that was supposed to come out in early July....Maybe I'll use some sick days and read...hmm...
1. Hot Six (Janet Evanovich)--All of these are from the same series--I've fallen in love with the main characters--they are funny. Not very smart sometimes, and the plot is sometimes silly, but good summer reading. I'm looking forward to her next book, coming out in November, so I can read it over Thanksgiving Break.
2. Four Seasons in Rome (Anthony Doerr)-Recommended by a book club member, about the writer's "study abroad" in Rome the year his twins turned one. Good story about parenthood and adapting to a different culture.
3. The History and Haunting of the Stanley Hotel (Rebecca F. Pittman) Fun, fun, fun read...but a little dumb...perfect before my trip to Estes Park.
4. Seven Up (Janet Evanovich)
5. Hard Eight (Janet Evanovich)
6. Visions of Sugar Plums (Janet Evanovich)
7. Candy Bomber: The Story of the Berlin Airlift's Chocolate Pilot (Michael O Tunnell) Nice short read about a true story. I intended to read the longer version and ended up with the young readers edition, which was fine, it was a nice book.
8. A Life Intercepted (Charles Martin) Another awesome book by Charles Martin. I actually had no idea how it was going to end--I love that about his books. The premise of the story is that the night he is drafted by the NFL, a young football player is accused of a crime and goes to jail for twelve years. His wife never visits and basically disappears. The day he gets out, he goes to his hometown and discovers the next great quarterback. Loved it...didn't want it to end. Probably will make my top ten this year!
9. To the Nines (Janet Evanovich)
10. Ten Big Ones (Janet Evanovich)
11. Eleven on Top (Janet Evanovich)
12. Twelve Sharp (Janet Evanovich)
13. Plum Lovin (Janet Evanovich)
14. Lean Mean Thirteen (Janet Evanovich)
15. Fearless Fourteen (Janet Evanovich)
16. Bossy Pants (Tina Fey)-I don't always agree with her politics, but Tina Fey is hilarious. I listened to her read it herself...so even more hilarious. Might also make my top 10.
17. Plum Spooky (Janet Evanovich)
18. Finger Lickin Fifteen (Janet Evanovich)
19. Sizzlin Sixteen (Janet Evanovich)
20. Smokin' Seventeen (Janet Evanovich)
21. Explosive Eighteen (Janet Evanovich)
22. Notorious Nineteen (Janet Evanovich)
23. Takedown Twenty (Janet Evanovich)
24. Top Secret Twenty-One (Janet Evanovich)
25. In the Unlikely Event (Judy Bloom)-Based on a true story about Judy Bloom's childhood, this is about a three month time period in the 50's when three planes crashed in a small town. It was unbelievable that it was based on truth and well written in classic Judy Bloom style.
26. Elizabeth is Missing (Emma Healey)- I can't decide if I liked this book or not. It is about a woman with dementia. It is kind of written from her point of view, but that's not always totally clear, so half the time I thought that all the people around her were jerks. There is also a 50 year old mystery, which isn't clear until almost the end, that it really is a mystery. I didn't want to put it down, but it was disturbing.
27. A Soft Place to Land (Susan Rebecca White)--About sisters whose parents die in a plane crash. It is a "Chic Lit" kind of book--no real mystery or conflict...just two sister's lives. It was good-nice summer read.
So "only" 27...not quite one a day...
1. Hot Six (Janet Evanovich)--All of these are from the same series--I've fallen in love with the main characters--they are funny. Not very smart sometimes, and the plot is sometimes silly, but good summer reading. I'm looking forward to her next book, coming out in November, so I can read it over Thanksgiving Break.
2. Four Seasons in Rome (Anthony Doerr)-Recommended by a book club member, about the writer's "study abroad" in Rome the year his twins turned one. Good story about parenthood and adapting to a different culture.
3. The History and Haunting of the Stanley Hotel (Rebecca F. Pittman) Fun, fun, fun read...but a little dumb...perfect before my trip to Estes Park.
4. Seven Up (Janet Evanovich)
5. Hard Eight (Janet Evanovich)
6. Visions of Sugar Plums (Janet Evanovich)
7. Candy Bomber: The Story of the Berlin Airlift's Chocolate Pilot (Michael O Tunnell) Nice short read about a true story. I intended to read the longer version and ended up with the young readers edition, which was fine, it was a nice book.
8. A Life Intercepted (Charles Martin) Another awesome book by Charles Martin. I actually had no idea how it was going to end--I love that about his books. The premise of the story is that the night he is drafted by the NFL, a young football player is accused of a crime and goes to jail for twelve years. His wife never visits and basically disappears. The day he gets out, he goes to his hometown and discovers the next great quarterback. Loved it...didn't want it to end. Probably will make my top ten this year!
9. To the Nines (Janet Evanovich)
10. Ten Big Ones (Janet Evanovich)
11. Eleven on Top (Janet Evanovich)
12. Twelve Sharp (Janet Evanovich)
13. Plum Lovin (Janet Evanovich)
14. Lean Mean Thirteen (Janet Evanovich)
15. Fearless Fourteen (Janet Evanovich)
16. Bossy Pants (Tina Fey)-I don't always agree with her politics, but Tina Fey is hilarious. I listened to her read it herself...so even more hilarious. Might also make my top 10.
17. Plum Spooky (Janet Evanovich)
18. Finger Lickin Fifteen (Janet Evanovich)
19. Sizzlin Sixteen (Janet Evanovich)
20. Smokin' Seventeen (Janet Evanovich)
21. Explosive Eighteen (Janet Evanovich)
22. Notorious Nineteen (Janet Evanovich)
23. Takedown Twenty (Janet Evanovich)
24. Top Secret Twenty-One (Janet Evanovich)
25. In the Unlikely Event (Judy Bloom)-Based on a true story about Judy Bloom's childhood, this is about a three month time period in the 50's when three planes crashed in a small town. It was unbelievable that it was based on truth and well written in classic Judy Bloom style.
26. Elizabeth is Missing (Emma Healey)- I can't decide if I liked this book or not. It is about a woman with dementia. It is kind of written from her point of view, but that's not always totally clear, so half the time I thought that all the people around her were jerks. There is also a 50 year old mystery, which isn't clear until almost the end, that it really is a mystery. I didn't want to put it down, but it was disturbing.
27. A Soft Place to Land (Susan Rebecca White)--About sisters whose parents die in a plane crash. It is a "Chic Lit" kind of book--no real mystery or conflict...just two sister's lives. It was good-nice summer read.
So "only" 27...not quite one a day...
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