The Dahl Sons Chronicles

2011-09-15T23:03:00.000-07:00

A few brother to brother comparisons.... Yes, we do make mini clones. :)

More to come as my time allows.

2011-09-15T09:00:00.000-07:00

Here's the run down:

Jockey's b0day: Pizza with Grandparents Dahl and GG, Jockey got the much to be thrilled about "wheely" shoes. He's in love.
Day of birthday, the family went to Red Robbin for the free meal for Jockey. And to the fair for free admission day.
Friday 8/27, we went to the fair for the cost of canned food... about $4.00 for the family! Another great hot day. Rode the rides. Jockey was tall enough for about 1/2 WITH adult...
Saturday 8/28, the boys went crabbing after being bribed away from the parade with dollar store candy.
More days few past... then Grandma Bishop came into town 9/5. She got to be here for the boys' first days of school, and boy was that a God send. I had to do some class switching gymnastics for Jockey and it would have been extremely stressful and chaotic had Grandma not been able to watch little Nathan.
Nathan's nick names: Boo-boo face (if not now, it will be reality later), and Nat-O. Mike calls him other things.
Jockey came down with a fever on Monday, but the doctor couldn't find anything wrong... it spiked up to 102.4 on Tuesday, so no school on his SECOND day of school. :(
Awana started 9/14, the same day that Grandma Bishop went home. The boys both learned 3-4 verses that very night, Jockey earned his vest for saying his!
MOPS starts soon, Nat-O eats ALL THE TIME and is an irregular napper at best, I'm working, the boys have chores and homework and try to squeeze in fun ANYWHERE they can.... their favorite is the boy down the street and playing in a "fort" in the blackberries accross the street. I'm hoping things will calm down into a routine after this week...
That's the fast flash news.

2011-08-20T21:39:00.000-07:00

Of all the places in the world, I'm so glad that we live next door to a park! It's become like an extension of our backyard... without dog *** and mean neighbors who won't return balls/frisbees from over the fence. Also, Caleb has made friends with a little boy three houses down, and a girl from his 1st grade class (and Kindergarten & 2nd). So he is getting socialization. He is using his "heely" shoes to the most fun possible over on the concrete, which is better than my living room floor. Jockey gets to go with, but not alone. That is the divide of age-related responsiblity/proviledge relationship. I can see the park from the front windows of our house and I can check up on them and make sure they are behaving without them knowing.

This week has been park, park, park, tennis, tennis, library, grocery shopping, and more park. Next week is VBS at the preschool that Jockey attended. It is soccer themed and should be very attention capturing, and energy draining. Yipee.

Nathan is definately standing on his own! He is working hard at it, he practically holds his breathe. But he gets the most adorable look on his face like he is so proud of himself. He is just now, today, seeing a brief beauty of the tummy time he's receiving. He has taken just two decent naps this week, each at 3 hours each... on different days. Other than that, he is the 20 minute cat-nap expert with a difficulty winding down at the end of the day because he is soooo tired by 10pm and fighting sleep hard! He is still running hot and living in onesies rather than cute outfits. And he is cute while grocery/coupon shopping. And (*TMI warning) he had his first big, major diaper blow out... and was a complete rockstar by being happy and smiling NOT crying! He only cries for food, in which case he can go from zero to hungry in about 5 seconds! Literally. He loves being talked to and will hand out smiles constantly. He brings such joy when you arrive at his bassinet and say "hi Baby Nathan" and he lights up with a huge grin. He's also starting a little type of laugh, like an amused "Hmmm". Cute. Mostly it's the responsiveness that is so fun. The CJ Brothers (Caleb&Jockey Brothers) really like it when they can get a reaction out of Nathan, and they are so eager to interact with him. Caleb does really well, although I have to draw the line at carrying Nathan while wearing his Heely/wheel shoes... too slippery. Jockey is still a little too rough and untrained in the appropriateness of his affection.

Jockey expressed the need for his own attention from me this week. So he and I spent time learning the camera functions, and craft type things in the office. He really likes to "do craft projects" while I'm in the office. Which was a benefit today because I had to spend a significant amount of time working on MOPS decor in the office. Lots of left over scrapbook paper for Jockey to play with. And I let him help me a little with my things too.

So, it is off to salvage a slight bit of the remaining part of the day and plan my couponing. I fully intend to get a full supply of peanut butter stocked and Capri Sun for the next couple months (for school lunch). Of course, for a great price! Until next time..... Good night!

2011-08-13T17:18:00.001-07:00

I find the boys in the garage looking at stuff 9"the stockpile" and talking.
"Guys, what are you doing?"
They say: "Shopping."

I love it!!! (Except when I get multiple opened packages at a time...)

Scored big on hamburger/tuna and all varieties "helpers". ELEVEN that's .11 cents a box. And for a non-gourmet cooking... wonderful! Especially since I have lots of tuna.

2011-08-11T14:41:00.000-07:00

It might be too early to call this.... but... I think we might have another early walker!8 WEEKS OLD TOMORROW!

2011-08-05T20:52:00.000-07:00

So Monday we spent 3 hours at two different parks, including a new skate park.

Tuesday was get errands done day. But we also got bike rides and walks in.

Wednesday was Movie day as we trekked up to Everett and saw "Gulliver's Travels". I was a bit nervous about how Nathan would handle it all. He woke up to poo, fed, and I had to bouce/hold and jostle him a bit and let him suck on my finger a while, change him again and then he finally fell asleep. Good thing it wasn't a first run movie in a packed theater filled with people not wanting to miss a glimpse of the film because I got up and down alot... But we made it!
I did an errand in Everett, Toy'r'us for MOPS. And I have to say that with adamant warning not to ask for toys, the boys did great at following that direction. They rode the line by saying this is so cool or that would be nice to have or I wish I could have... but no hounding and begging or asking to get or tears! So, I felt good going to play "Free" bowling with them next. Another good time with them.

Thursday I worked, Mike watched the boys until he left at 2. We just kept close to home that night with the help of a backyard campfire including marshmallows!

Today was a bit of errands and school clothes shopping. Thank goodness I had worked and gotten some $ because Kohl's had awesome clearance! Can you believe 6 shirts would have cost $105.34, SIX shirts only, luckily.... I got about 83% off that! And the boys are thrilled with their "Tony Hawk" shirts since they are fascinated with skate parks now. Then it was home to rest a while (feed Nathan AGAIN) and they skated, biked and walked the rest of the day away. Now they are on to "movie night" here at home, a tradition that began with Grammy Bishop.

The boys are having a great time, but they are now under the impression it is my sole job (to the exclusion of everything else) to keep them entertained from one activity to the next. It's not by the way, and I'm exhausted by the last couple weeks. My next response to "what are we going to do?" is either going to be NAP or Read a BOOK!

Thank goodness next week is VBS in the mornings and that will keep them busy for 3 hours a day! During one of the days I will be teaching a friend where to start with couponing! I'm kind of excited. I like being useful and needed in an area that I love (crafts, coupons, scrapbooking, bible study all at the top of the list). I hope to be helpful and make a realy impact on their family by planting the small seed of "how to coupon". And even better both her and my "big boys" will be at VBS, so we will get pseudo-undivided attention to the subject!

Until then...
Wedding Saturday for as long or in whatever manner Nathan allows for.
And the boys/Mike are crabbing Sunday. I SINCERELY hope to get 2 Fair-worthy, new baby themed scrapbook pages completed... and a nap, and grocery shopping done, and and and... but who knows.
Ok, off to make really really cheap but yummy popcorn for the boys' movie night!

2011-08-01T19:50:00.000-07:00

This weekend, Saturday, we drove up to Camano Island and dug for clams. It was nice to take the kids on an adventure, but they took the adventure to heart... meaning they explored the beach WAY more than they actually dug/retreived clams. It was tough to keep them on task with the tiny crabs and various cool rocks and starfish to look at. I held, changed and fed Nathan... and took pictures, which are to follow at a later time.

Yesterday, Sunday, I scored some great coupon deals/shopping, and took a nap with Nathan. Mike watched the NFL network and napped.

Later in the evening, it was off to the skate park.

Today, Monday....
I worked briefly, then it was off to the splash park about 2 miles off of HWY 9. Then I told the boys I had a surprise for them. Of course, on the way there, I had to drive by the library and say "we're here" about their surprise to tease them. Then I drove the two blocks to the Snohomish Skate Park that they had never been to before and didn't even know exsisted. They had a good time. Nathan slept when he wasn't eating, and then it was my turn to eat. Picnic in the park. Nice.
Then it was home for a bit of a rest, then bike riding, cleaning the house. When the housework was done... I created with the boys Balloon rockets (toilet paper rolls with balloons on top that shuttle back and forth on a string.)

Tomorrow, I don't know for sure. Last week it was a lot of Skate Park and bowling, I don't know if we'll keep that up, or if we'll try going to a 10 am (YAWN and tough getting out of the house on time) movie. We'll see. I try to get the boys out of the house to 1) burn their energy and 2) prevent the house from becoming a disaster.... Well, #2 is only half effective since things still go on while I'm gone. I take them away from 9:30 AM to 3PM and it is still messy when I get home. sigh. I still keep trying though.

ok. Pictures to follow soon.

2011-07-29T21:57:00.000-07:00

Lifting his head! Brudder love!

Caleb holds Nathan for his first Big TUB bath (just like he held Jockey).

Bad picture, great smile!

Just a good pic (if I had edited the red-eye)

Children's Museum

Nathan at the Children's Museum

Nathan in the Boppy, in the car, at the skate park!!!

2011-07-29T21:39:00.000-07:00

So a little catch up is in order. ...

Grandma Bishop went home 7/12. Her doggies missed her, but now that she's gone we all miss her too. The boys asked when she was coming again... September guys.

I went to the doctor, my check up says things are ok...
We've gone to the park a couple times.
The boys went camping in Toppenish with Grandma and Grandpa Dahl... That was very fun for the boys and a great way to allow me to focus on just Nathan and house for a few days. And I was fortunate enough to get out and play bingo! Ahh the luxuries of a baby who actually (my first) takes a bottle!
I passed a measurably sized kidney stone 7/19.
7/19-7/21 The boys attended VBS in the evening. They were so happy I found a program they could attend. It was very strange however that the first night Jockey suffered Brother-separation-anxiety because they were in different classes... which then made him cling (literally) to my leg have the night. But eventually he got over it and had a great time.
I started back to work 7/21.
The boys have tried their hand at Crabbing a few times. Twice they've had less than productive results, but once we did dine on crab that night! Mike has also gone clamming up at Camano with my Dad (aka Papa Bill) and brought home a small banquet. The boys might go up this Saturday (7/30) and try again for clams.

This week has been chocked full and I'm at the bottom of my tank...
Monday. It rained and the 3 boys and I dared 3 grocery stores! Headache, need nap...

Tuesday, we were going to go to a movie, and we even had 5 minutes to spare to get seats but the theater turned out not to participate in the $1 movie Summer promo, so we ended up BOWLING! I had signed up for free bowling for the kids and took advantage of it for the first time Tuesday... The boys had a good time, but it was over too quick in their minds. Each boy won one game, so all was fair and fun. Then it was home for a little out of the carseat time for Nathan. But then we spent 2 hours at the skate park playing on the scooters.

Wednesday... Children's museum where we met church friends, bowling, and then another 2 hours at the skate park.

Thursday. I worked, then about 3 we went AGAIN to the skate park for a couple hours.

Friday. The whole family shopped for MOPS projects, wedding attending attire, Christmas presents since Target has their imfamous toy clearance going on (scored!!!), and back to the Skate park after dinner for MORE fun for boys! Then a quick errand for more baby anti-gas drops... a must have in Nathan's world!

So that's a run down of what we've been up to. I'll have to think back and try to remember all the silly things the boys have done or said. Honestly it's been alot of sibling stuff and not so fun, but there are still gems out there to be recorded... if I can remember with this "baby brain" going on.

2011-07-08T22:23:00.000-07:00

For July 4th, we drove up to Lake Connor (in Lake Stevens) to Grandpa Bill's property/campsite for a visit. The weather was nice. The distinct campfire smell was wonderful and almost relaxing. Grandpa Bill held little Nathan while I indulged in lunch prepared by Grandma Judy. Then the boys went swimming in the pool inside the campground. Grandma Judy took the boys for a spin in the new cart. They had a great time going for the ride. It won't be long before they beg to drive (I hope we can wait on that one!) As I've told other Grandparents, if the boys don't listen while on 2 feet, then they won't listen (hence be safe) when on 4 wheels. The boys played at the little park adjacent to the pool, and then it was off the head home.
Later, we watched the neighborhood fireworks from lawn chairs placed in the front yard. It was quite a sight, large, bright, close. Our next door neighbor (fellow Mops mom etc) came out and chatted for a bit. Then all of a sudden the neighbor two houses over had a firework backfire and slam into my direct neighbor's house. I ran over to stomp out anything that might have ignited, but fortunately it all fizzled out before anything caught fire. It's events like this that make me want to stay home and watch over the house on this day of each year. We also watched the fairgrounds' display, but this was from the boy's bedrooms... Jockey even sat on the dresser for the best view possible. Caleb disappeared from sight before it was over, and turns out he curled up in my bed with Daddy and fell asleep! He might have hit the hay early, but Nathan sure didn't... that crazy was still tossing, grunting, eating and stuff 'till 2:30AM.

Other events this week:
Grandma Bishop and I created a scavenger hunt for the boys in the backyard. They had to find eggs with exercise commands and clues to the final treasure... which was a piece of chocolate, a plain washer for decorating and making a necklace and a dollar for the DollarStore to choose anything they wanted. It was a great activity that they had a blast doing... even if it took an hour to prepare and they had to scooter and play at the park while they waited!

I took the boys to the splash park. It was the first outing I'd taken all three boys on BY MY SELF! It took us an hour longer than I anticipated to even get out of the house, but we did get out and arrive at the intended destination... while it was still sunny enough to enjoy the water portion of the park. We met one of Jockey's friends, which of course made the day "the best" for Jockey. Nathan did ok while I was there, mostly due to the Boppy that I brought for him to lay upon... since he really doesn't like his car seat. So there he lay, upon the Boppy, upon the picnic table in the shade while his brothers ran around the splash park in the sun. And a huge coincidence... we ran into my brother, Uncle Jeff! So Uncle Jeff, Aunt Danene, and Cousin Kyler got their first peek at new Nathan. We talked briefly as they were on their way out, but it was a a perfect coincidence to introduce a new little guy to family.

Nathan has spent the last two nights getting me up every 1.25 to 2 hours for eating and grunting, snorting, choking and other random noises in between feedings. So I'm tired and dragging the last two days. Nathan is getting very spoiled and has decided that he only wants to sleep when he is being held; the moment that I put him down he wakes up or starts in on the fussing (aka grunting/farting/pooping). He is really not a fusser, just a gas mover really, and voraciously hungry always!
Speaking of hungry, Nathan went to the doctor yesterday for a weight check. In the last 8 days he has gained 10 ounces... two more than they said was good/expected/average. So he is above the goals and healthy as can be. Even if he is outputting as quick and I input (or so it seems).
Today he had his second bath in the little sink. And he really liked it. As long as I kept a good grip and let him feel stable, he really liked the floating and the feeling. I love the fluffiness of his hair now that it is fresh and clean.
Saturday, I don't know what the plans are for Grandma, Nathan and myself, but Mike is taking the big boys out on the Livingston boat in the sound in the hopes of getting crab. They will do so again on Sunday, but in Grandpa Dahl's boat that day.

Things are getting a bit easier getting a load of laundry done per day, making the boys help put away their clothes each day, and picking up after themselves (I hadn't realized how MUCH I was acting like their maid). I still can't get out of the house with any predictable time, especially in the mornings... especially if I have to "sleep" late attempting to sleep in between constant feedings. I'm still not up to standing, cooking, and cleaning up from it all (thank you to all my supportive friends that have brought meals, it has truly been a blessing), and all the other household chores... but I'm doing better in getting the kids to help and just laundry. My mom has been a huge help in getting the boys retrained to be household participants not just hotel guests getting hand & foot service; she watches them while I try to catch up on sleep; she holds Nathan while I get other things done since that is his favorite position..being held. Moral support is intangible but priceless, just knowing someone is on your side and wants and works for what ever is best for you even if you are struggling or failing at the moment due to pain, exhaustion or post partum hormones gone crazy. Thanks Mom!

The boys are acting like their usual hyper active selves with humorous things to say all the time... my next challenge and fervent desire is to try to get them out of the house more often and give them opportunities to burn off all the excess energy. I still won't be able to leave the house on time, but if I leave and get them out successfully for an energy burn, it would be worth it! I have plans the get to the Children's museum eventually, bowling for which I have free coupons, and free movie days... Big plans, I just have to match with scrounging around for energy to follow through on.
In the meantime, the boys are enjoying nearly nightly "movie nights" with Grandma and the anticipated campfire tomorrow night and perhaps the crabbing with Dad too.

So that's the update. Nutshell: Good times, Healthy/Hungry Nathan, Tired/discombomulated Mom, Helpful Grandma (although tired too), Hyperactive Boys, Working Dad.
More pictures coming soon.

2011-07-03T21:42:00.001-07:00

Bullet points of this last week:

As I termed on facebook: "I have faced the Mortality of my Capabilities"... Feeling overwhelmed, not on my feet, a bit hopeless, without a way to get back in the game of life as usual with chores/housework/bills/life details, TIRED, emotional (completely a-typical for me), despondent,... bottom line post-partum... And because of this Grandma Bishop stayed on to help me out because I just needed more help and more time to recover physically so that I can even attempt to take on the normal routine tasks... and I can't do it if I've had just 3-4 (broken up, non-consecutive) hours of sleep each night without naps to recover in the day. Or that extra pair of hands to hold baby while I get something done, or to get something done while I hold/feed/change baby.

Thursday was "Belly Button Day". Jockey was very excited to finally see Nathan's brand newly revealed belly button. He was so excited he tried to wake up Daddy and Caleb to share the news!

Splash week concluded with certificates from the instructor. Caleb was proud (even if they spelled his name wrong), and Jockey... well his is a bit damp. But they can't wait to use the month long guest pass at the Y for the big slide they have in the pool that was closed all week during splash week!

The boys continue to LOVE "movie nights" with Grandma. We've cleaned the library out of their family movies, twice.

NATHAN LAUGHED!!!! Not just smile, but a psuedo-giggle/chuckle!!

Nathan is even MORE HUNGRY (was that even possible) ... I'm worn out!

Nathan had his 2-week check up, he has gain weight! He is now 8 pounds 4 oz! That is nearly a POUND in TEN DAYS! No wonder he's hundry.

I've had my two week check up and so far they say the incision is looking "good". Honestly, it feels like a very tight, pulling, itchy, 1/2 numb, painfully tingling, area suffering in a bit of discomfort... but at least THEY think it's good. It's hard to stand for longer than 10-15 minutes, lift baby in car seat, etc.

Most interesting:

Caleb asked sounding a bit forelorn "how long do we get to keep him?" Meaning how long do we get to keep Nathan. Then we asked if we get to keep him until he's not a baby. He actually thought that we were not going to keep Nathan! He'd been a bit standoffish with Nathan, and then suddenly clinging... holding him for solid 45 minute stretches just rubbing the soft baby hair. And all this time he thought that some day he was going to have to give up Nathan... (like in "Meet the Robinsons", an animated movie with a mother giving up her baby for adoption as one of the premises of the film to be built around a kid finding a great home and seeing how his futured turned out). I set Caleb straight the moment he asked that. He seems more resolved and happier now. I still can't believe that he came up with that.... but the nearest I can tell, is that I've not been able to hide post-partum well and perhaps he thought this was what was going to happen if I didn't "get well", a term he uses when he prays for me. Amazing.

Well, that's it for now. I'm currently battling a baby wishing to turn his nights and days around... so back to work!

2011-07-03T21:37:00.001-07:00

Jockey ready for his turn in diving in.
Lined up like little ducks at Splash Week, ready to plunge in!

Caleb!!! Doing great!

Mommy isn't the only one tired in our house!

Jockey, still loving to dress up in his "fancy clothes".... and now posing for pictures!

2011-07-03T21:03:00.000-07:00

Mom, Nathan and Jockey, learning the features of the camera (Jockey's newest fascination).

Already a smiler

Caleb's "Hug hold"

Jockey likes to feed Nathan

GG Dahl came to visit the newest little guy

GG had to wait a long time to get her turn because both boys wanted their shot at holding Nathan too.

2011-06-28T20:18:00.000-07:00

What's up now? How are things going?

First the boys entered "Splash Week" with the YMCA. A really neat, week long program that will keep them busy and tired! For cheap. The first day, we are suppose to guess at what class they are best suited, and then it is adjusted by the instructors for subsequent days. We walked up and the instructor looked as us (especially Jockey) with a skeptical eye. But by the end of the class, when asked if the boys were in the right class, "Oh yeah" was the response. So the boys must have impressed him enough to have that positive of a response. They had a good time, even if the pool felt a bit cold to them. Today, splash week time was followed by playing at the park with friends..... SO NEEDED. They were literally running across the room and throwing themselves crazily on the couch. They needed to burn energy! And they both came home and fell asleep before dinner!

Yesterday, Grandma Bishop took them to the theater to see Cars 2. That was a big huge deal, and they loved it. This and the other couple "movie nights" and the trip to McDonalds was the other highlights that the boys enjoyed with Grandma. The rest of the time during her visit Grandma has been helping with Nathan and the house! ALOT! She goes home Wednesday, and I don't know what I'm going to do without her. Seriously!

Nathan, is just a precious warm headed little buddy with blonde hair growing surprisingly fast. He's filling out a bit, so I know he's gaining weight. His dr. appt was post poned to Thursday, so we will get an official weigh in then. Nathan makes the cutest faces, and doesn't cry but briefly for very specific reasons which are quickly remedied. He likes to look around and just listen, especially at the trees outside. He is having a bit of a problem with congestion, especially at night.... which makes for long nights for me! He struggled from 2:30 to 4:30 last night, didn't fall asleep until after 12:45 AM, and was up again at 6:30 sounding like he was nearly choking after throwing up (not spit up) on the bed. Luckily he (and I) fell back asleep a bit in the morning, and again for a late afternoon nap. Without the naps, I know I'd be dead in the water suffering, as it is post-partum is trying to get the best of me and the only and best thing to do is to sleep it off. Nathan really is a good baby, with projectile p**, which Grandma fell victim of at one point. It is like a surprise attack, and loud. But I've had to learn NOT to change the diapers too quickly, or I'll be changing it again in 20 minutes.... and it is hard to let him sit there in it.
Jockey asks often to hold him often, but he has decided that he likes to be "hands free", which means Nathan lays on the bobby and Jockey has his hands free to play with the toes and fingers.
Caleb likes to "hug hold" Nathan, which is a great hold right now since it keeps Nathan vertical when he's congested. Nathan likes the play mat, and he still likes to sleep near me.
I'll have to select more pictures from the plethora I've taken in the last week. Next time.

2011-06-25T19:56:00.000-07:00

More Pictures: The amazing thing is how much he resembles Caleb.

2011-06-24T21:11:00.000-07:00

The first week with Nathan Kai...

First, the stat's/story of Baby Nathan...

He was born Friday, June 17th, 2011 at 8:54 AM via scheduled c-section at Evergreen Hospital. He weighed 7lbs, 12 ounces and was measured at 20 inches long (to compare: Caleb was 8lbs1oz 20 inches and Jockey 8lbs 7oz, 20.5 inches). He had healthy apgars at 9's. He peed on the doctor during delivery, and again the nurse just second's later as he was being wiped down and weighed. So he has already joined the FFAA... Future Fountains of America Association. He cried only when they started wiping him down, not immediately at delivery. He was quickly handed off to dad and then he waited patiently until mom was done with her part of surgery.

Within 3 hours of being born he had been visited by the on call hospital pediatrician and checked out as healthy with one item to watch: the frenulum, that little vertical piece of skin under the tongue which in Nathan's case was a little short/tight causing a mild "tongue tied" condition (often genetic, true in our case). After visits with 2 lactation consultants (because this affects both baby and mother for breastfeeding/nutrition) and a second pediatrician, on Day 2, we decided on having a frenulum-otomy. Just a snip of the skin. Grammy Dahl provided the amazing and necessary distraction to me during the "procedure", a beyond wonderful foot rub. The procedure was very quick, 3 drops of blood and very short crying protest (the circumcisions offered to boy babies these days are more traumatic than this was).

Nathan's first visitors: Of course, both Big Brothers, Caleb and Joshua. Then several grandparents, cousin and an Aunt. Tessa, Kristina, Grammy and Papa Dahl, Grandma Bishop and Papa Bill. Caleb looked briefly, but then moved on. On a return visit he showed dramatic interest and spent real time observing his littlest brother.

Jockey was enthralled from the first moments. He jumped right up on a chair and was peering over at this wrapped bundle and wanted to hold baby right away! He wanted to look at all the parts, toes etc. On his return visit, Jockey decided to show Nathan how to suck his thumb... meaning here Nathan, here is my thumb, suck on it!

Papa Bill returned later in the day with Grandma Judy. During his return visit he surprise and affected my heart with the offer and completion of a messy diaper change. It meant alot to me to see him so involved, especially given my bedridden condition.

Grandma Bishop also returned later to provide even more help and support to me, and the foot rub from her was soooo appreciated by my painfully swollen feet. That foot rub was worth the price of the plane ticket that got her up here! Two items of note for this monumentus day: It was wonderful to be able to share such a huge day in my life and the life of my growing family with both my Mom and Dad at the same time in the same place. All the pregnancy difficulties was worth this precious boy and that opportunity to share him with my parents. Second, it was a huge joy and surprise to be visited by a beloved mentor, Mary. Her simple presence and sharing in my joy of this little baby made me feel so cared for by her; I was really touched.

Saturday, in the hospital... a whirlwind of medical visitors, medication times, times requiring me to stand up, meals, vitals checked on me and baby, and more family/friend visitors. "Uncle" Brian and "Auntie" Brittany visited, as did her parents Pam and Jay. Other than that, it was the attempt to get all the diapers changed, feedings in, and deal with the discomforts.

Sunday, Happy Father's Day Mike!!! It's your first...with NATHAN!!! After a long, difficult and hiccupped process, we were released from the hospital and headed home with our new little guy. We visited the boys with Grammy and Papa Dahl and then made our way home. We napped. Then received our first non-family visitor at our house. My friend Holly brought by some baby gear and held a sleeping Nathan. It was great to share this wonderful baby with someone!

Monday, Nathan, Grandma Bishop and I stayed pretty close to home. We did notice Nathan start to be a bit yellow. This will be checked Tuesday. Later in the afternoon, Grammy Dahl picked up Caleb from school and brought him, Jockey and GG Dahl to the house for a visit. They were excited again and couldn't wait to hold him... actually making GG Dahl wait her turn funny enough. But she was excited, enthusiatic and proud of her new, handsome, blonde, healthy grandson. The last baby she was out visiting was baby rabbits, this scored a little higher on the charts I think.

Tuesday, we went to the post partum appointment. Yes, Nathan is jaundice, but at the score of 12, he is within tolerable levels (anything below 16 is passing). After weighing him and seeing how much volume he consumes with a feeding.... they are very pleased and not concerned in the least with this little guy. He had regained 4.9 ounces bringing him back up to 7lbs 5.9ounces. A great recovery. It's me they were a bit concerned on, but end of story is take it even more easy than I have been. Grandma Bishop and I picked up Jockey after the appointment and Caleb later in the day from school Caleb had made the comment that he wanted the family back together again, so I tried to comply and be sensitive to his needs. And my friend Holly stopped by with the blessing of dinner for my family. Nathan slept through her second visit.

Wednesday was Caleb's last of school, Grandma Bishop was his transport that day in my stead. This day, my friend Tara stopped by and brought her son Conner over to play with a stir crazy Jockey. This was great since I'm not able to do much, and Jockey had been really concerned that he would get to see any of his friends this summer. Nathan showed off his eyes for some of this visit. I can't get enough of his facial expressions and the eyes hve such personality.

Thursday was a productive day, by my will alone.... but in hindsight probably was not the greatest idea. We excursioned out to Lynnwood to get Caleb's annual portraits done that I had put off long enough. We even tossed Jockey and Nathan in for one shot too. It is an adorable first picutre of the three of them together, too be shared later. Mike and my mom insisted on me riding in a wheelchair, but even then I over did it. My wonderful neighbor brought over a meal for the family which we will indulge in tomorrow night, and a MOPS friend brought over a delicious Chicken Enchilada for this night. It was so good the boys scarffed it down and ate seconds voraciously the next day for lunch. Getting that recipe for sure! And it was wonderful to share a little boy that I am enthralled with myself.

To date, we have discovered Nathan is a huge cuddler... almost a must for him to sleep peaceful, and is a certainty for me to sleep. I think I have a bit of separation anxiety too in a way, he's been "with" me so long it is strange feeling not to have him near, especially when I want to give myself permission to relax into subconsciousness necessary to sleep...I'm probably just crazy.
Nathan is occassionally taking a bottle of formula, which is a favorite time of Jockey's because he wants to hold and feed Nathan. (side note: the hospital gave us some samples of liquid Similac to supplement the feedings so that I can get some sleep....Much to the blessing and infinite wisdom and provision by God, this happens to turn out to be exactly the poduct and variety of formula that I was able to stockpile for really cheap... 49 cents... regular price is 6.01...now we are able to blessedly use formula that I thought wouldn't come in handy until 6 months out!) Nathan takes some bottles!!! HUGE!!! This is different from the other boys, and exactly what I had prayed about, for the option of an occassional "break" for sleep or errands or work. Praise God! Nathan likes swaddling. I am having to learn to be LESS prompt in changing his diapers because then "it" all goes in ONE diaper not three; the problem is that you don't know if 10 minutes is long enough to wait or if 20 minutes is... And there are only a few times he lets his voice to be heard... one of which is the "i'm wet/dirty and I don't like it", the other is "give me food, I smell it and I think you're holding out on me", the last one is he does not like cold baby wipes. Other than these issues, he is quiet and if awake, VERY observant and just stares and looks and listens. Jockey and Caleb are learning the needs of a baby, and the new analogy of a "both sided" feeding from me is the "full sandwich" because they wouldn't want to eat just half and then eat again really soon, they would prefer the whole or full sandwich and not be hungry for a while, right guys? So the new baby has brought new explanations. They both are showing interest in learning all the nuances from bottle feeding without baby sucking air, to the supply and demand system of a mom's body. Lots of new conversations around here.

Ok, I'm tired and I'll just have to post pictures later. Not to mention that I should get to sleep since baby is now sleeping and I'd be a fool not to sleep now that he is sleeping.

2011-05-07T13:42:00.000-07:00

So here we are in May...

It's been far too long since an update on what is going on in life here in the Dahl-craziness.

First, Caleb had his parent-teacher conference. It went well, there are a couple areas he could brush up on, but overall he's at grade level and his teacher said (don't know if she says this about all the students) that he is one of her favorites.

The next big highlight.. Spring break. We made it down to the Pacific Science Center for the last Free Entrance Monday for the first 1,000 people. We got in for free after 50 minutes in line. The boys got to touch anything they wanted to, of course their favorites were somewhat predictable... the water current display, the touchable sea life water display and the ball/funnel display. But they gave suitable attention to the "Naked (now you see the attraction) Mole Rats", the Space shuttle capsule, and the sand with wind display. There were several other's that they tried, but these were the highlights. They also enjoying an attempt to play an oversized floor chess game. We were there for 5 hours and used all but 10 minutes of our expensive $10 parking time, which was a better choice than the street parking that still would have cost but would have made up leave multiple times to move the car and cost just as much or more. Still $10 for 3 people for 5 hours, not horrific if this was the perspective.

We visited their new doctor for well child appointments. It turned out that Jockey needed shots, although that wasn't the plan. 5 pokes, 4 vaccines later, he is vaccinated but pretty sure he never wants to go back there again! Even though the doctor has a brindle Cane Corso dog in the office as a distraction.

The weather doesn't always cooperate with us, but when we can we do get to the park. Often I end up with 3 coats/jackets/sweaters and a portable heating pad to stay warm so can watch them play.
We made it to the children's Museum, which is another favorite of theirs. And I'm so grateful to have found a deal that I will redeem in July... a 1 yr Family membership for $38 for Jockey's early birthday present that regularly would have cost $75! I intend to use this extensively during this coming school year when he has all Wednesdays/Fridays off of school and the weather turns for the wetter!

Jockey is spending Thursdays with Grammy and Grandpa Dahl for fun and tennis lessons, and then he comes home Friday morning for school. He likes having this special time, but often just relaxes.

While he is away, that leaves Caleb and I to take advantage of the time alone and do something special. Sometimes it is as simple as a slurpee, and other times it is letting him choose what we eat for dinner, or visiting the park or library or letting him choose what we do... and then on to chores like homework, feeding rabbits, etc. It recently came to my attention that this time means a whole lot more to Caleb than I had thought it meant. I guess it is something that needs to be kept up. His birthday is on a Thursday, so maybe we'll spurge and go "to a restaurant" which is his favorite activity!

We've gotten more into couponing than I thought was possible for our already frugal family. The boys are starting to get the hang of it. We visit the grocery store and they bring me the little blinkie coupons from the little shelf machines etc. And they are starting to understand that we don't buy anything without a coupon. So Jockey asks me one day "Mom, are you going to take your coupons to heaven? I think you should, because there might be something you want to pass less for there." And more recently, while watching the "extreme couponing" show with a woman going into a dumpster for coupons, Caleb asks if I would go into a dumpster for coupons. I told him that if I went into a dumpster right now, I wouldn't get out... He sweetly offered "Mom, after school everyday we can go to a dumpster and I'll jump in and get the coupons for you." We are getting quite a comforting stockpile built up at our house. Things I'm most comforted by: the homeopathic cold medication I was able to take while pregnant during a recent cold, the infant and Children's tylenols and ibprophens for Caleb's late night fevers that spike to 104 without blinking, the free Propel, Fuze, Snapple and Vitamin waters, the 5 Free gallons of milk, and the hard to believe how cheap they were diapers for the coming Nathan baby. Lots more, but those things are what are really comforting, the other things are useful and so convient to just get out of the garage when we run out of garbage bags, tp or detergents.

We visited the Monroe Friends of the Library sale. It was highly useful in getting numerous books for myself, the boys, and even one for Papa Dahl. They were thrilled to get some books, and I was grateful then entire sack only cost $5!

The boys are active, hyper and crazy as ever. We are trying to foster good morals, good actions, and learning (Awana verses, math and reading). We have good days and less than good days. But that is life. The boys are happy over all and liking the weather improving because that equals more days at the park or riding their bikes.

Mike is doing well at the EMT training. He is gone often it seems, but he is at the top of his class about 95% of the time! He studies hard and diligently. He's also back for another round on his seemingly rather successful diet. He works hard to eat as the diet prescribes for the optimal results, but that isn't always easy with 3 other people's eating habits/food requests surrounding him. But with every good day, there is a great result that will help him and the whole family going forward with some rather large goals we have ahead of us.

As for baby news...

As of 5/6 I'm a full 33 weeks. As of the writing of this update, I have 41 days to go until the day of the c-section on June 17th!!! Just 41 days, that seems so much shorter than 6 weeks! And just 41 nights to try to get good sleep before that isn't an option anymore! Baby is about 18 inches long, the majority of birth length, and about 3lbs with the sole task of just adding to that size over the next few weeks. He has fingernails, toenails, eye brows, can hear sound and sense light and dark. At the last check up, he was measuring right on target, with a healthy beat (although lower than usual for him, and explained as a sleeping heart rate.) I have passed my Glucose Tolerance test and praising God that I don't have to poke myself or have a restricted diet for the remaining times. My BP is a little higher at the appointments, but does show recovery during the appointment, so it hasn't been a concern yet to the doctors. I'm monitoring this as home so I can get a fuller picture of what it is overall in case they start waving red flags; bed rest is simply not an option! Lately, Nathan has become a late afternoon/early evening mover, which is way better than the 2AM mover Jockey was and still wanted to be after birth. I have another appointment on 5/17 and then go to weekly appointments after that, sigh. I better start keeping track of the gas/milage for taxes with all those trips. The other things in pregnancy: I've now passed 7 (yes SEVEN) kidney stones and some sand sized granuals. The biggest was 7mm and huge (the one I had surgically removed was 10mm, so not that far off). My doctor said I was brave doing it alone with out medicine... I told her it didn't feel brave crying in Fred Meyers but that I had fooled myself into thinking it was just 3rd trimester Braxton hicks and I should just buck up and get over it because hundreds of other women manage so I should too. Nathan also is sitting very high, which is causing daily heartburn which is not always solved by the OTC remedies that are allowed during pregnancy. And lastly, something that I've finally researched and stumbled upon today, I think that I have SPD, basically a pelvic joint dysfunction where ligaments relax enough to allow joint spreading too much/early and get "out of place" causing extreme, EXTREME pain. No remedy other than birth. But I'm relieved that what I'm experiencing is real (not in my head) and is significant enough it's been given a name. Of course, there's no remedy but birth and the hope that it is corrected after because there are cases where it doesn't go back... Prayer, that's all I can do. But at least I'm not crazy thinking this excuriating pain is "nothing, should be nothing, and just in my head" (coupled with passing stones repeatedly, it has been a very unpleasant few months.) Enough of the complain fest. Nathan is only a short time away. I should be enjoying the time I have without him that allows me time to type LONG blog updates and get caught up on scrapbooking and keep up with Bible study! 41 days! And oddly, that is just 2 days before Father's Day, I guess I just have "holiday" babies.

Hopefully, it won't be so long before another update, but with life as it is, no promises! TTFN

2011-03-12T10:47:00.001-08:00

So a little catch up is in order...

Mike made it through his surgery well. He spent the next week on crutches and returned to work on Monday, with a few rough worn out sore days. He is still achy and hurting, but is trying to exercise to get his knee in shape. He is suppose to see his doctor next Wednesday for a check up and determine whether a physical therapy program is required or if he is progressing adequately on his own.
He starts his EMT class March 23 and it will run Wednesday nights and Saturdays all day until June 29th. This will make a long set of months/weekends for both him, and myself left at home with the crazy boys.

Caleb came down sick last Wednesday, feverish. By Thursday, he was throwing up, Friday just a bit too. Consequently, he missed school Thursday and Friday. Josh also was warm on Friday morning, so he stayed home too.

Monday, we went to the zoo because the teachers were having an in-service day. We invited one of Jockey's school buddies. We had a good long, decent weathered day... and Caleb fell right asleep at 6 right when we got home.
Jockey had a playdate on Wednesday after school so that I could get to work and get to my doctor's appointment. And the boys had Awana on Wednesday night.

Baby is growing well. Heartbeat was a strong 160 at the appointment, measuring right on schedule. Kicking away, twirling inside enough to cause near seasickness, and he's starting to feeling heavy. The biggest item of information. We have set a final birthdate/surgery date: Friday, June 17th, 2011. That is the offical day, most likely in the morning. Mike will be there that day, but is expected to have to be at EMT class on the next day, Saturday. And I expect to be released to go home on Sunday morning. So it is finally determined. Josh is out of school by then. Caleb will probably have to miss that Friday, and Monday's school. It is what it is. And then we cruise into the summer.

The next school year is shaping up to look a little different than expected. Jockey will be attending 2 full kindergarten days a week and every other week 1/2 days on Mondays. Strange. But nothing I can change. We have to get all of his immunizations by then however, that is the next big step.

I have SEVERAL hours of work next week that I have to find a way to get it all accomplished, and MOPS with a craft to put on. Whew!

So that's the lastest.

2011-02-26T08:03:00.000-08:00

So last Wednesday, Grandma Bishop flew into town. The weather was nice the whole visit with the exception of a few minutes of spitting rain on Monday, and the snow falling on Tuesday the day she flew home. The boys thoroughly enjoyed the visit, and as always Caleb was very sad and almost tearful when I told him it was the last day. They did enjoy playing on her iphone all the games that she could find, playing games on the computer, having "movie nights", visiting for the first time the hispanic food/bakery store on main street in Monroe, the St. Vincent store where books were gathered for the reading times (as well as clothing for Nathan), going to the park where California Warm Grandma braved the brisk day and sunshine, and the Children's Musuem on their family free night. The boys did not have school Friday or Monday, so there was plenty of time together and we all wore each other out having fun.

Baby Update: 23 weeks as of 2/25. He is now about 11 1/4 inches and about 1 lb in weight. Kicking alot, but really he's turning into a night owl or late afternoon active guy. Caleb and Josh are just starting to be able to feel the kicking, but their trouble is a lack of patience... they don't hold still long enough to feel the difference between my breathing and heartbeat and the actual kicks because the kicks aren't strong enough to be undeniable (or later, visually seen). It's like waiting for lighting to strike and having your hand in the right place at the right time and waiting for it... they don't wait. I haven't been out walking with the weather and Grandma Bishop in town, but it's time to start getting back into the habit no matter how much or where it hurts. I'm tired alot, but if I walk in the mornings after dropping off the boys at school, I'm positively falling asleep in the middle of things by the afternoon. The boys keep asking when it is time, how much longer. And of course, the famous.... "is the baby naked inside?" I'm still only barely showing, most people I come in contact with don't know until I tell them, but being obviously pregnant is just around the corner I'm sure. Maybe then the new tube toppped pregnancy jeans won't just slide off my hips with an actual belly to keep them up. Next Doctor's appointment is 3/9.

This week, Josh only attended school on Wednesday. With the school delays 2 hours late for Thursday and Friday, Friday school was cancelled for Jockey. Caleb and Josh were sure that Wednesday would be a snow day, so they "camped" with blankets and sleeping bags on the floor at the end of our bed. But that was a normal day of school. Thursday, we slept in and still got Caleb to school. Friday, it was beautiful sunny and brilliant blue skies and DRY roads in the Fryelands... so we were a bit stunned to find that school was 2 hours late when we went to drop off Caleb at the normal time... it delayed out day a bit, but still a good day. (The boys were excited that that meant time to pick up "megamind" at Redbox, not so much the other errands I had to run with them.) Awana was also cancelled this week because of the expect snow fall Wednesday night. Honestly, when it was all said and done, I think the Fryelands (where our house is located) got the least of it like the eye of a storm... everyone else had 4-6 inches and we had a sparse covering that just melted off by 10Am. Oh well, too many snow days will delay Caleb's last day of school, which affects baby delivery/school drop off/pick up logistics.

Mike will be having knee surgery about 11:15ish (drop off/check in time) on Tuesday 3/1. They are presuming an orthoscopic surgery, but are prepared for a full incision if it look like they have to resculpt or dimple the bone or possible pin placement if the "micro facture" is bad enough. He is expecting to spend 48 hours off of it completely except the restroom runs, and then begin working on moving and strengthening it; they told him he'd be ready for "Strenuous" activity by 6 weeks out. This injury however, has pulled him out of the Fire Academy because of their physical requirements. However, we've landed on a back up plan, an EMT class begins March 23 and goes through June 29th. It will be WAY less strenuous (especially for the first couple "book work" weeks) and something he can work up to for the ride-alongs and ER service hours he'll have to put in. He will graduate having taking the State exam certifying him as an EMT, just a great skill and program to have completed and have in his bag of knowledge/tricks.

This weekend and coming week:
I expect to blessedly use a 40% off coupon at Ben Franklin on a coveted resin for projects I want to do, church, new coupon cycles, normal school days for the boys, two days of work for me, getting into the walking habit again, Mike's surgery and 48 hours of laying around, MOPS Friday, a trip to the huge consignment sale at the Fairgrounds next weekend, and maybe I'd pick up some treat for myself for my March 5th day.

That's all for now folks.

2011-02-10T16:58:00.000-08:00

Caleb and Jockey are just crusing along in school, pre-k, Awana, and life. They've made it to the park on nice days, and even met friends on occassion. For the Super Bowl, we all went over to our friend's house where they played the entire duration of the football game! Caleb went to Anacortes last weekend with Grammy and Papa Dahl, inspite of the weather. They even hit a few garage sales, places to eat, and did some homework reading. Jockey has been going to Grammy and Papa's house Thursday afternoons for tennis lessons and a stay overnight and being returned in time for School on Friday. It's a treasured time (and limited time, with him in 5-day Kindergarten next year). He comes home and "practices" his tennis by playing the Wii. He's silly, and surprisingly good... on the Wii. While he is gone, Caleb and I get time together. Today, we both did "homework"; Caleb read and I did my Bible study. Caleb's reading has now earned him minutes on the Wii... a new system of earn and reward to balance responsibility (homework) and play (Wii/TV/Friends/Park). I'm hoping to be consistent with him, at least long enough to get the point across and the lesson learned. Work before play, healthy food before dessert and the rest of those adages.

The "Big" day for us was Tuesday.... We had our 20 week ultrasound (techincally I was 20w+4). Healthy. GOOD sized at the 86th percentile, which per my doctor, means I'm on my way to having another 8 pounder. My response: good thing it's coming out the front then. The ultrasoundist looked for 2 hemispheres in the brain with both ventricles, 4 chamber heart, nose bones, the absence of a cleft palate, measured femurs and other arm bones, the insertion point for the umbilical cord, by turning on the "color" she could see the blood flow, looked at the spine checking for any gaps, 2 kidneys were found, and a bladder. The heart was beating at a healthy, normal 146 bpm. And it was a HE.....the long awaited, much prayed for, God foretold BOY. And thus the name Nathan Kai (Meaning gift of and messenger of God respectively). So being told ahead of time, and confirmed with "wait for the glory of God to be revealed" actually did reveal our intended and desired gender. And if you know about ultrasounds... parts are present= boy or the absence of parts =girl. We have a picture of parts. Again, like Caleb... sitting on the camera! We even came away with a DVD as the technician went through the exam. Little Nathan was ACTIVE, she was having a hard time catching him, and he kept facing my spine which made getting a traditional "profile" ultrasound shot impossible. But healthy. Weighed in at 14 ounces, and is approximately 7 3/4" long. He is kicking up a storm just about all the time, but I notice it went I finally hold still... or it's my bladder he's kicking. Last Friday, 3 people actually asked me if I had lost weight, a dozen other's (mostly pregnant themselves) complained that I wasn't or barely showing... all of which bely the 5lb gain(still below their curve of expected gains)... but I'm chalking that up to the 14 oz baby, fluid, placenta, and the doubling of my blood volume. And I have gone for 2 walks this week inspite of the below freezing temperatures! I'm going to kick and claw my way against gaining the quantities I did with the other two boys!

So that's the baby update. In other news, next Wednesday, Grandma Bishop flies into town for about a week. The boys have next Friday and the following Monday off of school which means they will be around for the majority of her visit. Jockey has a birthday party to attend on Saturday the 19th. Grandpa Bill's birthday is also coming up pretty darn quick, and GG Dahl too.
Mike goes in tomorrow for his MRI to confirm the actual condition of his knee and then the doctor will make a decision on a course of action. For the praying to God folks, all prayers are needed and appreciated for healing, miracles, best-case scenarios, quick scheduling in, quick recovery, and mercy/grace in the Fire Academy administrators that he isn't dismissed from the program... whatever you feel lead to pray, we thank you because it is only in our God's hands and power now!

2011-01-19T21:14:00.000-08:00

So it's been a couple of interesting weeks...

We had a snow day last Wednesday. It was fun to have a mid-week break, but Jockey missed a day of school, and when you only go 3 days a week 1/3 is big. And then again with Martin Luther King Jr Day off, again he missed 1/3 of his school week. Next time, snow day on a Thursday!

We got together yesterday, Jockey and I, for a play date at the park and braved the cold for the sake of a hour with his friend. It was good until he slipped in the mud and the rain started, luckily only 15 minutes apart from each other in occurrence. We came home and he warmed up with a grilled cheese sandwich.

Caleb was out sick today from school. He came down with a fever Tuesday night, and despite only have a tickly throat Wednesday morning... the rules still state that if it was within 24 hours then keep them home from school. He and I did errands today and had breakfast together. He did feel well enough to harrass and argue with Jockey.

However, Jockey was a little jealous that he didn't get to skip school and threw fits ALLLLLL day long. He had problems before school, to the point I had to tell him we were leaving in 5 minutes and if he wasn't wearing any clothes then that was how I was going to put in him the car and that was how he was going to go to school. Surprisingly, if I could just press Mute on the tears, he actually DID get dressed. But he had problems at school. He had problems with Caleb at home, He got a bad report from Awana tonight. And let the C-O-N-S-Q-EN-CES begin!!!! I hope he's learned something today, but I'm sick too and I can not repeat a day like this with my health tied behind my back and a bad kid too!

Baby #3 update... last week they called me and the official DUE (not birth) Date is 6/24/2011, which more than likely means a birth date of 6/15-6/17, but that will be decided in March generally speaking. That adjusts how far along I am. As of today (1/19), I am 17 weeks AND 5 days, so nearly completely through 18 weeks. Still having sporatic morning/evening etc sickness, but also an increase in appetite. (I really need to get out walking again, but hard with all this rain.) I haven't quite felt consistent identifiable movement, just occassionally when I'm holding still long enough to wait for a movement. And definately not feeling anything outside yet. Still not into pregnancy clothes, but those regular jeans are feeling snug, but it's more about the uncomfortable pressure sensation because they are still buttoning fine. The list of aches & pains is growing almost by the day, but I won't complain, bore you or provide Too-Much-Info (TMI) on them all. And lastly, the days are being counted down in this household and mind until Feb 8th when we find out the gender. The last times were desires, even strong desires one way or the other, but this time I feel even more passionate about what I want. I know there will be a huge mental adjustment if it isn't the Nathan we expect, the boys only refer to the pictures and baby as HE. But that's all in God's hands. Still, the much anticipated date is on countdown!

Mike starts his academy officially next Wednesday evening and it will go Wed's and Sat's (all day) through June! But it is a huge/difficult step for this path!

2011-01-11T20:04:00.000-08:00

School has started again. (I'm already ready for a snow day and sleeping in.)
Awana has started again. Caleb is going to recite the whole 23 psalms and earn a "green Jewel" this Wednesday. Jockey is still doing well on his verse and extra credit.
Bible Study has started again... I'm already loving it one session in, and Josh likes the socialization and the "mommy" food afterwards.

Funny saying of the day:

Caleb- "Mom, how did the dinosaurs die?"
Me- I think they froze to death. None of them have fur.
Jockey- "And they don't have FLUBBER either."
Me- You mean blubber, like whales.
Jockey- Yeah. That stuff too.

Doctor's appointment today.
1) healthy baby heart beat at 150
2) good BP for me
3) NO weight gain yet for me (Stressing the word YET!)
4) blood drawn to check Thyroid and for fetal spina bifida
5) Doc and the Maternal Fetal doc are going to debate their ultrasounds to determine a final due date... which matters in terms of correct, healthy day to C-section.
6) next appointment is Feb 8th, This is also the day we find out the gender.

Caleb is doing way better reading and doing so every day. Although reading has had to become the baragining chip to play wii, or punishment for bad behavior... which I dislike doing, but it IS a button for him and I have to use what works.
Jockey is the "Friend of the week" and is loving all the attention. He got to take in a favorite game, stuffed animal, toy, book, and pictures of himself from birth to now. AND it was sharing day too.

This last weekend we bought off of craigslist and GREAT, beautiful, STURDY bunkbed! It is completely reliably safe and is very attractive too. A great deal @ $450! The Bunk came with the mattress (easily $400 new), 6 sheet sets since they said they wouldn't have a twin bed in the house after the bunkbed was gone, 2 valances for the windows, 2 comforters, 2 matching large sized stuffed bears... all this in addition to the bunkbed (regular retail cost $749). We can't wait to show it off to the grandparents, especially those with a vested interest! Caleb came home from school saying he can't wait to see his bed. Of course in the two nights of using it, the boys switch who sleeps where, and often trying to end up in the same bed even though the other mattress is only 4 feet away! And since all lower bunks suffer from being a bit dark, I've strung some rice lights under the top bunk so Joshy bottom bunk is lit up and special feeling. He likes having the control of turning them on and off and to which ever setting he wants.

Well, we are looking forward to the "major snowfall" predicted for today.... but I'm seriously doubting it will amount to more than a bunch of hype. I WISH it was significant because I could use a sleep in snow day. Only God knows, I suppose I should pray for what we want if we want it.
That's all for now.

2010-12-31T14:46:00.000-08:00

In bullet points for the sake of brevity:

* The 12/14 doctor's visit and ultrasound (and follow up phone calls) indicate that we have very positive numbers, meaning low risks, of Downs or trisonmy 13 or 18 in the new baby. Praising God for that. Healthy! They could identify arms, legs, hands, briefly feet, bladder, stomach, brain, nose, and heart which was beating at a strong 167 bpm. We have a 15 minute DVD as a result.

* We made it to the Lights of Christmas at Stanwood/Warm Beach. It was so nice to see a concentrated dazzling of lights, even on a bit of drizzly night. The boys liked the pony rides, petting zoo, the Polar Express tractor towed "train", the fresh hot donuts, the lights and the toy making work shop. They weren't so sure about talking to the Bruce the Spruce. It was worth the trip, and the coupon deal was awesome.

* We made it to Leavenworth for their town lighting. The sledding is what drew the attention fo the boys the most. They just love zinging down that hill again and again and again. (Perhaps next year the tubing hill at Snoqualmie, just a thought.) The chestnuts were a special treat as we listened to the town crowd singing. One side note, Jockey had to go to the bathroom every 5 to 15 minutes and asked to go home before they even lit the lights... kind of a damper but it seems like a legitimate medical problem and just not feeling good.

*Jockey went to the doctor for the first time ever for an illness. Not bad in 5 years, however, he was completely shy and would not hold still for the doctor's exam. And for his specific complaint, using the restroom successfully would have been a help too. End game, no infection, still took the antibiotics, and we have to come back and see the doctor to find out WHY... unfortunately they said it isn't completely IMPOSSIBLE for him to have kidney stones. Sorry son, I'm at fault for this one if that's what you have.

* We made it to the zoo for a bit of a mid-week trip. Rather than get things done at the house, I elected not to let them get worse with crazy boys running around inside all day. We met Cousin Tessa and Auntie Kristina. And followed the zoo up with a visit at their house for a movie and fun.

* We met my nephew (the boys cousin) Kyler for the first time ever. He just turned one this month. He has been walking about 3 weeks at the time of our visit. He was sure active and expressive, and totally into balls. All boy. Caleb and Josh now have a face to go with the "you have a cousin" claim.

*Christmas Eve we attended church services where Caleb bravely sang on stage with the other kids. He was great, but highly motivated by the bribe of a present from the Children's Pastor. Afterwards, Grammy and Papa Dahl came back to our house for casual dinner of the traditional German wieners and herring salad. Some of us abstained and went with the alternatives.

* Christmas Morning was at our house. I actually had to wake the kids up to open their stockings. They are the only kids I know that have to be woken up on Christmas morning. It was a good morning of conversation and hot breakfast with Grammy, Papa Dahl, Grandma Judy, and Papa Bill. The big difference this year is that Caleb can read the names on the presents and Josh can at least identify the first letter of a name... which means he got confused only with Grandma Judy's gifts and his own. So because of the reading thing, they were sifting through the gifts under the tree on their own trying to read everything to dole out the gifts themselves. Their enthusiam to read almost outmatched the gifts themselves... except Mario for the Wii, and Mario Kart with steering wheels. The Hot Wheels were also a huge hit.

* Christmas Night was at Grammy and Papa Dahls house for dinner where we saw all the morning people but also the Surfaces and GG Dahl. The kids played outside for a bit, and the Wii alot. That was what made it quiet enough for a nap...for me at least.

* The kids are recovered from the excitement of Christmas and on to being wild and crazy again. We met some friends of theirs at a Burger King and let them play on the equipment for 3 hours... hey, at least it's not my house being messed up. And another day we had Emily and Brittany over to give them their presents. Emily was so interested in a new environment to explore.

We have no set plans for the rest of the week or New Years. Just birthday party for one of Jockey's buds on Sunday afternoon. But that is the catch up to start fresh for the new year.

2010-12-06T15:51:00.000-08:00

Ok... It's been a while, and I'm still exhausted so this will be brief.

Thanksgiving was great. Good food, kind of co-op prepared. The boys were well occupied with the Wii and didn't destroy Papa Bill's house.

Thanksgiving (take 2) was on Sunday at Papa and Grammy Dahls, add GG, and Surfaces. The boys like the wii there and Cousin Tessa... and re-arranging the Christmas tree ornaments. Jockey insists that the lamb is called Sheep. And later that our new toothpaste is green "like than green stuff on the sheep".

We had 2 snow days right before Thanksgiving. I thought it was great. The boys were playing the backyard or playing Wii... no middle ground. Although, Jockey at one point asked "do I have school?"... no. "Do I have Bible study (ie childcare)?"...no. To that he said "When is someone going to teach me something! I'm bored."

Lastly, officially annoucing the life altering news.... we are PREGNANT and expecting a little bundle in June 2011. Due date is 6/24, but we will be c-sectioned about a week earlier. As of November 17 when we visited the doctor... it is just one baby with a very healthy heart rate of 182 bpm. And on that day we were 8weeks 5 days.... which puts us not on December 6th to be 11 weeks 3 days. This is a long story and huge blessing, not that we knew God wanted this definitively, but we had been praying "Is this what you want for us?" since April/May. So I guess we have our answer and God has been in control and blessing us from the beginning... Just some examples: I went to the doctor in July to get Clomid (fertility med used to conceive the first two boys) and was given birth CONTROL; turns out July and August I laid hardwood floor to include smelly glue, painted walls & cabinets after TSP-ing, cut/installed molding and chair rail, NONE of which I could do if I was pregnant and sick, sensitive to chemicals or exhausted already. I went off the birth control after being sick and prayed that it was all in the Lord's hands. We NATURALLY (no clomid) conceived what seems so far to be a sucessful pregnancy... any other naturals we've lost. Per the ultrasound, if we had been "trying" and aiming for ovulation specific days... we would have missed it by a week! All the more proof that it wasn't in our timing/control but God's because usually a late conception is a "weak" and therefore unsuccessful conception. THEN, during the snow days before Christmas, I got a call (by the way, one week after getting the cost estimates on what this whole ball of wax is going to cost us) and it is from DSHS, turns out the boys now qualify for free medical (less than before) and now I qualify for Pregnancy Medical (since on the off chance I wrote in the margin of the income review form that we were expecting!) I just had to put my application in, and I just got off the phone to find out it was officially approved last FRIDAY! So between the private insurance (which I can drop for the next 8 months and save even more) and the DSHS... I shouldn't have any out of pocket expenses! A gigantic huge blessing to pay for the other blessing that God sent! THEN, the timing of the delivery will be in the last days of the boys' school, which gives me the whole summer to recover from surgery, get off pain meds, and get use to a demanding schedule before I have to get up every morning and get 4 people ready for school/dressed/fed etc; if it had been in "MY" timing I would be hitting the ground drugged and running kids to school with a new baby in MARCH/APRIL. So too many good things to be a coincidence, and it's all God.

We are hoping for a boy. It hadn't occurred to us that it would be a girl until everyone else brought it up. The boys are very excited and are already anxious to see their new brother, and I'm sure the excitement will grow and *I* do. We have a boy name picked out. We didn't even talk about girl names... in fact, we didn't talk about any other boy names other than the ONE we picked out and decided on. It means "gift of God", which fits perfectly all of what God has had us traverse in the past months. But we find out 2/8/2011 what gender for sure, assuming that he holds still and lets them take pictures!

So that's the news. We'll keep you posted.

2010-11-04T21:36:00.000-07:00

Last week was Parent/Teacher conferences.

Caleb is a "very hard worker, he works very hard on all of his papers" and "he is always willing to partner with other kids to work as teams for help them learn". These are great things to hear. He is reading at grade level, but will need to work are to continue to be there. He is doing great at math, especially addition and patterns. Subtraction and writing are the areas we are going to be working on, but overall the teacher had many positive things to say about Caleb.

Jockey is "quite a leader", of course it is making sure where he leads is appropriate and not on TOP of the playground's play house roof. He knows MOST of his letters and sounds, all shapes save a rectangle on the day of testing, and can write his name to include lower case letters. They are going out of their way to challenge him with Kindergarten papers occassionally to make sure he is learning and not bored. He is still squirly and has difficulty holding still, and giving other's a chance to talk at circle time, but they are working on it. Also, the school is very willing to do anything that will prepare Jockey for school, like practicing lining up and being quiet in line.

We went to Cascade Church' Harvest carnival on Friday night, but left at 7pm to make the "trunk 'n' treat" at Jockey's school because their buddies were there. Then Sunday night, we spent at our friend's church for their elaborate and vastly fun Trunk or Treat which the kids loved and dressed in their nearly authentic looking fireman costumes. They had a blast! And we have enough candy to keep a small army wired for awhile. It's hiding in the garage to be slowly doled out.

Saturday night the boys stayed at Grammy and Papa Dahl's house for the first time in their "new" house. They loved it. Especially the new downstairs with a tv and a bathroom on the same level. And their bunk beds are back!

This week, Jockey didn't have school Wednesday or Friday, so he has gotten lots of fun time at home. Holding rabbits, going to parks and having a play date, and going on walks. However, it was Jockey's first bee sting at the park yesterday, and we've learned that he has a bit (not fast or major) but in the course of 30-45 minutes his stung finger became a tight feeling, puffy hand. So Mike ran and got him Benedryl... which worked fine to include making him so sluggish he stayed home from Awana. He knew his verse, but he will still know it next week. It will be fine and we know more about the Jockey-bee combo than we did before.

No huge plans for this weekend. But next Wednesday, Grammy Bishop is in town, so the obvious house prep and getting Jockey's room ready is in order.
Well, that's it for now.

2010-10-21T14:55:00.000-07:00

Another one bites the dust.... ACTUALLY.... Biting is going to be a little more difficult for Caleb now. He was biting onto a towel and wrestling with Daddy and then Daddy pulled on the towel and pulled that tooth right out. Lots of blood and panic, but the reality is that it wouldn't have come out at all if it wasn't at all ready. Explaining that began the calm down process for Caleb, but now he is still self-conscious. I told him he is an excellent SHHH sound maker. He can say SHHH be quiet, SHort, SHape, Shoulder. That kind of helped him on the morning of his first day of school attending as a jack-o-lantern. I told him to look around an there will be other kids with missing teeth.

Jockey had his field trip to the pumpkin patch yesterday. What a great day, especially compared to the bitter cold or rainy days in the years past. He loved rolling in the corn bin, going down the tunnel slides, and RUNNING uncontrolably through the pumpkin patch. I finally pointed to the coming tractor and said that if he didn't have a pumpkin by the time the tractor stopped we were getting on without a pumpkin. THEN he got down the to business of picking out a pumpkin, which was completely different than the one he initially said he wanted to choose.
He was so wild and crazy that I couldn't take him home that way to tear up my house. We ended up at a Burger King letting him play while I worked on a bible study. It was sunny and beautiful, so when we picked up Caleb... we all headed off to the park to play and then walk around the lake. Back to the lesson of grass whistles... On this trip, Jockey's second attempt, he found decent success. This was Caleb's first trip and so I hope on his second trip he will find the same success Jockey did.

One more day of school this week, 3 jobs to work tomorrow and then we can all take a deep breath for the weekend. Mike works all day Saturday (IF he is feeling any better, he cancelled going to fire training today and is struggling to get to the regular job through nausea visits to the bathroom). It's suppose to be raining, so I suppose that will cut down on what we do, but I have hope that we will find fun things.

2010-10-15T03:00:00.001-07:00

In Loving Memory

5/30/1925- 10/15/2010

2010-10-12T21:40:00.000-07:00

Another quick update....

Caleb is doing AWESOME in school. He's bringing home completed and 100% correct math homework. His teacher tells me it is his own work and he received a 100% on his last math test. He received 100% on his spelling test too. He is reading his "decoder" pamphlets consistently and learning to count by tens etc.

Jockey is enjoying sharing day, although there are never enough sharing days for him. His teachers say they are trying to challenge him a bit more than most the other kids because he is ready for a little push. At home he is working on some sight words, patters, beginning and ending sounds. He can tell me 20 of the 26 sounds in the alphabet. He can count into the +3's so far.

A very good start for both this year with conferences coming up to confirm progress at the end of this month. Also, MOSTLY they are both excited and feeling positive about homework rather than a war each night. Much to my relief.

Awana continues and they are both learning their verses consistently.

This last Saturday we made it to the Monroe Fire Station for their Open house. The boys were able to get a hat, stickers, watch a video on fire alarms, eat popcorn, meet the fire sniffing dog, ride the fire truck, crawl through the "smoke house" trailer to practice getting out of a house, saw a car cut into pieces, spray water at traffic cones with the actual hoses, and lastly eat free pizza. It was a FULL day, and luckily 90% INSIDE on a rainy day. (Better than the alternative, which was a visit to "Bob's Corn Maze").

Caleb did not have school this Monday, but Jockey did... So he used the nice weather to scooter around quite a bit. When it was time to pick up Jockey (2.5 hours later)... he said "oh, good. I miss him. It's been like 10 minutes or 2 hours." I asked him what he wanted to do with his brother... "I don't know". Crazy.

For those of you who don't connect on Facebook... I'll share this funny story of Jockey's.
One day I waved good by to Caleb with an out of the ordinary finger-waggling wave. Jockey asked me what was I doing. I told him that I was waving good by. He promptly tells me that I was not waving.... UNLESS I was waving in CHINESE!

Last Tuesday, Papa Bill came down and spent time hanging out with Jockey while I had to work. They cruised on the scooters all around the extended neighborhood area. Jockey was on the foot pushed razor scooter, and Papa Bill was on a motorized scooter. Amazingly, Jockey did not take a nap that afternoon... we were figuring he would be wiped but no.

Last Friday, our family of 4 ate with Papa and Grammy Dahl and Auntie Kristina and Cousin Tessa at Grammy's "new" house. The kids are in LOVE with a "fort" (aka wrapped around under the stairs storage area). It is the only carpeted place in the whole house and they just play and play in there. Silly Grandparents... Forts are for kids, not storage!

Lesson learned.... These are boys. Aka Future Men. In listening to (and remembering back to when I read the book) an author being interviewed, it occurred to me that the primary way men feel love is to actually be respected. Well, I have future men that I'm trying to foster up right now and I had better build a foundation for the relationship between myself and them now so that it is a respectful one when they are teenagers and in a time of natural coming of age tension. And as one of my mentors pointed out to me today, these efforts will be building into them an expectation or establish a norm in their hearts of what a respectful mom/wife is so that when it comes time to marry this respect is something they will find and gravitate to in potential spouses. It's hard to understand "boy", but it's worth my effort if when they get to be teenagers and we get along and the still give their mom hugs (even if it's at home when no peers can tease).

Getting on to boy level today... I attempted to teach Jockey how to "whistle" with a blade of grass. Hey, it's noisy, odd, "fart-like" or shrill, did I mention loud.... all things boy. One of the still dear and precious things that I love and still cling to about Jockey are his soft and not all the way leaned out child hands... However, these are not the greatest for holding tightly a blade of grass and thus his success was about 2%. We found a compromise though where I held the grass and he blew to make the loud bird-call, fart like sounds. Fortunately we were on the other side of a lake and weren't near anyone to annoy.

I'll try to post pictures soon. Time seems to be a precious commodity, and hardly ever lined up with energy.

2010-09-20T21:31:00.000-07:00

So school has begun.... Awana has begun.... MOPS has begun... Bible Study has begun

Caleb is liking school. He thinks that the three recesses a day is the best thing about the entire 1st grade. He still sees his buddies on the playground, but gets to buckle down during class without those buddies he might be tempted to talk to. He is doing very well with all day school now. He isn't coming home exhausted, class weary or hungry. He's coming home ready to do just about anything, he runs to us when he sees us, he goes through the backpack right away to get out the papers, and he has remembered his sandwich holder EVERYDAY so far. I'm so proud of him for his smooth adjustment from summer play to the stiff school routine. I actually think Caleb flourishes with routine... not something I enjoy, but for the next 9 months... I can do it since it is good for him, as if I had a choice. ;0)

Jockey is loving school. Today was his first sharing day, and this first time he took his new birthday present Fire truck. It was kept a surprise under a towel until sharing time, and I'm told that it was a HUGE hit. Well, I'm glad that Jockey loved being "on". So far, the teacher has already told me that he is quite a leader. My concern is (after a big to do with a friend and her son in the same class with the school) that this class is truly Kindergarten PREP... aka Pre-K, not just a repeat of last year's preschool cirriculm. Not that I have many choices if I find I'm not satisfied with his class; really there is only one other school that we could afford... 15-20 minutes away, strict brand name lengthy supply list, $25 fees for just about any excuse possible. So, what that means is I choose to remove him from class and do work at home, or add work at home. The first option doesn't offer him intangible benefits like socialization, routines, following instructions (and selfishly, time for me to go to work). The latter option, I'm not a teacher and never claim to be, so I'm not sure if we could both survive the learning process. Although working with him this morning, he was already starting to understand a BASIC analog clock and digital read out. We'll see.

MOPS went smoothly the first meeting. The next one is the first craft... still working on the prep. But I'm confident we'll be ready.
Bible Study, good, lots of reading in the first week... but I think I'm finally caught up since I received my book late. Now I can pace myself and savor.

Awana. It's at a new place for Jockey (Caleb went to this church one year 3 years ago). Jockey's got two buddies in the class so I'm sure he'll acclimate quickly. And we were very happily surprised when Caleb found a familiar buddy in his class, so of course we are optimistic that he will have a great time too. They are both beginning to memorize verses and are showing promise. It's going to be a good year for them (and for Mom and Dad who will actually get 1.5 hours of alone, peaceful time TOGETHER once a week!!! Having our regular church cancel Awana and have to come to this one has GOT to be a blessing straight from heaven!)

I'll post pictures soon, I'm just too tired to search and post.
But hopefully soon.

2010-09-05T00:59:00.000-07:00

So a little catch up....

The boys have had the bouncy house up several times, they've enjoyed several campfires, and of course holding the baby bunnies. They have had a couple playdates too.

Grammy Bishop drove up from California for a visit. It went really well and the boys kept her really busy. She went to the fair, sat on the curb for the Fair Days Parade, and we cruised over to Leavenworth too for brats. The weather cooperated 80% of the time which was nice for someone not used to our kind of rain/gray. The boys cuddled around the campfires and had lots to say about everything. They were very excited to show her the bunnies and paint things to show her.

Jockey's birthday came and we had an informal party. With such a busy summer (remodel, house guests, fair, etc) the date just came upon us before we could blink. We ended up with 4 buddies over for a little bouncy house action, ice cream cake, mini pinatas, and a little craft. Jockey spied the craft and burst it open before I could prepare it. While it didn't go quiet as planned, at least I know my son's interest in art/creating. The other hiccup... the wind blew out the candles faster than Jockey could! The wind was helping him make a wish.

We've made it to the fair twice now... The boys had a day of rides and later a day of eating. We rode on the rides until I was sick, which is REALLY hard to do. (I had to accompany them so that Jockey "was tall enough" to go on). I'm so glad they had a good time and I could help bring it to them. Eating is Dad's favorite past time and they leapt into that too... alligator, seafood crepe, mini-corn dogs, pickles etc later.... We've DONE the fair. My scrapbook pages earn two common 1st place stickers, and one of them gone a Merit award. Not at good as last year, but more than the standard sticker. Better luck next year.

Grandma Bishop's birthday is today and I asked the boys what we should get her (I did ask earlier in the week)... Caleb said "we should get her a gigantic Giraffe"... Jockey said "Maybe a Platypus"... then Caleb said "or maybe a pretty plate or necklace". Wow, was a span of ideas.

With school so close, I have broken out the Kindergarten practice book for Jockey and the new 1st grade book (thanks Grammy Dahl) for Caleb. Jockey's excited, Caleb's grumbling as he pushes through. He does get distracted and inventive when he should be focusing; today, I caught myself saying "Caleb, stop drawing poo coming out of the animals."

Jockey woke up this morning with an unusual rash. I'd be really worried since it covers thickly, except it is only on the TOP half of his body... as if he didn't get an exposure while wearing pants. Thus, I'm thinking it's an allergy not a viral type of thing. We washed him up, popped a benedryl, and slathered hydrocortisone cream. Now we are just waiting and hoping for the best. It's not bothering him, but it does look disturbing.

Today, we attended a birthday party to one of my MOPS friend's little boy. He turned three today, and I can't express the relieve that they had rented a bouncy house and I didn't have to wrangle the boys INSIDE someone else's house all afternoon! One of Jockey's school/awana buddies came too. Jockey came away saying "That Curry(the birthday boy) is a nice boy". So I'm glad it was good day for the boys too.

Jockey is all set up to attend Little Doves again this year in a Pre-K class. MWF, in the AM. He will have classmates that he knows so it should be very fun! Caleb is going to be a big time, full-time, take my lunch with me, first grader! I should remember to call and find out the teacher and the classroom#... since Caleb can't remember at all from last year's pre-orientation. School starts for us this Wednesday.

We also got word that our church has lost so many leaders that they have suspended the Awana program. So as to not be idle, we have registered them for the Awana program at the church down the street, the First Baptist church..... the church Caleb FIRST attended Cubbies at. He has begged me to return and finally he will get his wish (we had wanted to find some continuity from Sunday AM class to Awana for peers until this point.) The good news is that it will be on a Wednesday night and Daddy will be home to help get the boys prepped and taken/picked up/parent help WITH me rather than being a Thursday formerly and it all came onto my plate. It was often hard to juggle their program and my other obligations to MOPS craft team leading. Now we will be able to walk as a family to this other church while the weather is good and it's light enough to see safely. Good family time, good God times, and good exercise. Starts the 15th.

MOPS starts the 17th, with a Leadership retreat on the 11th for me as the craft team leader. This will be an interesting year having to train not just lead since it will be my last year (I think) in MOPS due to graduating out. Mike has fire training on Thursdays (and Tuesdays) which has shifted my work hours often to Fridays... so it will be a fine line balancing act this year. Well, I'll cross that bridge when I come to it.

I'm not ready to say good bye to Summer, and neither are the kids. They still think every night is the perfect night to stay up and have a campfire. I guess when it is dark by 5:30pm, it will be a great time for campfire... and a blanket, and a hot cup of hot cocoa... Hmmm, I wonder if an electric blanket would work if I stretched out an extension cord. Well, in 20 years, I want them to remember the great times, not how cold it was for me.

We have just 7 baby rabbits left now. One found a home yesterday with the daughter (for her birthday) of one of our town's council members. It is possible that little "Streaks" as we had been calling her, will become a 4-H bunny! So 2 boys and 5 girls left.... However, 2 little girls will be going to one of Mike's co-workers on Tuesday. So really just 3 girls and 2 boys left. We are undecided if/how many of the girls to keep. And the boys change their mind nearly daily, I'm hoping for the same answer to "how's your favorite?" to occur two days in a row. They are adorable, soft, friendly, and getting to be near Rosie's size more than Shooter's this time around. Maybe summer bunnies eat more and grow faster. Either way... there is a special fondness for each regardless for who we keep.

There is just one thing I wanted to do this summer and it's not yet done... get Jockey to ride a bike without the training wheels... so that clock is ticking and I'll be squeezing that in, in the next week! And birthday pictures for Jockey, and maybe a zoo trip since last Thursday turned into "clean the whole house" day.

So that is the update. Sorry it has been so long. Somehow the time flies and there's never a great time to sit and just type especially with nice weather, guests, parties, bunnies, and a home remodel going on... ok, luckily that last one is done!
More again as it happens, and hopefully sooner than 3 weeks between posts!

2010-08-13T23:23:00.000-07:00

Just a few pictures:

A couple of the bunnies right now and their visitors

And the Cat who has adopted us... he still lives outside.. but we feed him and he sleeps on our front ledge and occassionally darts inside and finds a nice spot to curl up. No manners.

Our backyard campout:

The best way for a 4yr old to paint:

2010-08-05T09:05:00.000-07:00

We had a campout. At the campfire last night I came up with the idea of sleeping outside. Mike brought out the tent, and we all piled in with blankets and pillows. So we had our campfire, held our bunnies and slept outside. I read them a bed time book and it was lights out.

We woke up to the sound of birds and garbage trucks. But I leapt out of bed when Caleb cried "the rabbits are out"! One of the doors didn't get all the way latched last night in the dark... and 5 bunnies had jumped out of the hutch and tried to explore. We discovered 2 behind the couch (the backdoor had been left open to the house), 2 under the wagon next to the house, and the last (after looked for another 15-20 minutes) Tigger lead us to him ... he was behind the stack of firewood next to the house. So they were all rustled up this morning and put back because I'm sure they missed their water and mom-food. All safe and calming down now, and it's only 9 AM.

Still more painting today. Ran out of paint yesterday so today I have higher hopes. Unfortunately, once all the red is done.... I have all the ceiling to paint WHITE... sigh. But then REALLY, I'm done. oh, except the new moulding will have to be painted before being installed. And the rest of the kitchen subflooring will have to be ripped up so that the hardwood can get laid down on Saturday... and the last edges will have to get glued down since the pnuematic nailer won't reach those areas.... AND THEN, we have new lighting to install. It's alot. I'll be relieved when I no longer live in a construction zone, then I can actually have friends over who have smaller children.

2010-08-01T23:23:00.001-07:00

So a little update post "flooring weekend"...

We have 95% of the Living-Dining room completed. The area by the stairs, closet and all of the kitchen are what we have to work on next. Mike and I have a system... I measure and install/place the flooring, Mike cuts with the saws and runs power nailer gun. It's working out prettty good. And here is a mid-project picture of the room... and the boys. They have been mostly good while we work on this big project. They are so eager to help, despite there bing only a limited number of things that they actually can help with. But the bouncy house in the yard and the bunny rabbits for holding have been excellent distractions for them. It is just a blessing that things have worked out the way that they have.

And due to requests, despite still being in "mid-project" condition (so a little grace please as we are "project jugglers" right now) here is the kitchen in red (still needing 2 coats of paint, white cabinets, and new granite).

And of course, bunny bonding moments (including bunny holding at a playdate this last week):

So that's it for now. Have a good week.

2010-07-26T07:52:00.000-07:00

This morning the boys were awakened "early" to get ready for VBS. They have VBS all week. While both of them expressed being tired and Caleb says he doesn't want to go.... I know that this is a great time for them to see their friends. Our house is too torn up to have too many people over so a pre-arranged get together time is great.

It was so hot in the house last night that the boys ended up sleeping in our air conditioned bedroom on the floor. They were so cute this morning cuddled up at the end of the bed sleeping through the alarm clock, the shower and me walking around the bedroom. They are deep sleepers, which is advantage right now... we'll see about it when they are teenagers and have to get up to their own alarm clocks.

The bunny rabbits are adorable. The perfect size/age to watch them explore and discover. They are starting to eat "real" food, and they are loving the dandelions and Timothy hay. They are starting to show personality. We have some lickers in the bunch, which is what we were hoping for in this litter. They are still a bit young for an untrained person to be sure what gender they are, but we look forward to knowing. We've named them, although a couple of them we are not sure that's the final name... and the solids are hard to tell apart so the names rotate on which solid gets the name. Names are: Sparkler, Streak, Indy, Dash, Boom, Freedom, Bottle Rocket, Jet/Parade (see what I mean about the undecided names). We've had lots of warm evenings holding them in the backyard, a great summer activity.

We've also had more campfires in the last month that we would have in 1-2 seasons of camping. The boys are loving it. Roasted hot dogs and smores often... and lots of reasons to poke at the fire. The little pyros in training.

Mike is in his fire training twice a week at Index to become a volunteer. It's hard training, very physically challenging and there are also book tests. Lots to think about.

I've been working alot too. I work 8 hours over 3 days this week. I'm fortunate with that # of hours that the boys do have VBS so I can get the hours done.

The kitchen cabinets are 75% done, we have an experimental first coat of red paint on the walls in the kitchen, and the t-moldings etc arrive this Wednesday so the flooring will be laid this weekend. Lighting is due to arrive early next week. LOTS changing. Mike fought hard and finally got the faucet and sinks hooked up, which is great after a long week and a half without water in the kitchen.

So that's the latest.

2010-07-16T22:28:00.000-07:00

Summer feels as if it is flying by so quickly...

For the fourth, we attended a community party. Not ours. Caleb and Jockey loved the park and the natural areas to rummage and boy around in. They watched the early fireworks in the cul-de-sac. Later, we came home and sat on the curb out in front of our house and watched the huge fairgrounds display and our own neighboorhood's worthy attempt to exceed the display at the fairgrounds.

We've dragged the kids around a bit to the showrooms for flooring and granite. They've had their good times and their not-so good times in said places. It won't last forever.

We've taken them to parks a few times. One day, after walking to the park, Mike drove down bringing the swimsuits and the boys hit the water just before the afternoon turned cold. And they happened to have run into a few school buddies for a impromptu playdate.

We've had a campfire again. We've held baby rabbits OFTEN. They are at a perfect age for being held. Their eyes are just coming open. They sleep and hold still. Just today, Jockey and his bunny fell asleep together on the couch for a little nap. I didn't get a picture of that. :( But it was adorable. And Jockey is again proving his Bunny-Whisperer abilities. (Can he get a TV deal too?)

Caleb left this morning with Grandpa and Grammy Dahl on their excursion and adventure down to Newport, Oregon in the motorcoach. He has been talking and, yes, even dreaming of "Georgie's" restaurant. He's so excited, it sounds like a higher scale-seafood oriented- Mcdonalds because YES there are toys involved! Hence Caleb's facination. He returns on Monday (or Tuesday, I forget). He was equipped with clothes, swimsuit, bike with helment, $10 and 3 kinds of allergy medications (you'd have to know my son to really understand the NECESSITY of these) and the bidding of be obedient and have a good time. His excitement has been uncontainable for the last 3 days!

Kla-hi-ya Days are tomorrow in Snohomish, and we will be strolling around starting mid-morning to see what there is to see. Maybe Jockey can get some chalk art done.

So here are some current bunny pictures:

2010-07-07T13:37:00.000-07:00

Day Three of INDY DAY Bunnies.

They have their little teeth, little toe nails, peach fuzz/light silky coating of the fur indicators, their colors are showing. They are getting warm in all this heat and spreading out in the nesting area for their own space and cooling down. (Last litter they were a balled up heap for warmth). I put a fan out to move air around the hutch for Rosie-Mama. Absolutely, the count is at 8 babies, at this point they all should survive. We do a have one that is a bit smaller than the rest; it's about 1/2 the size of the largest, but there are all the sizes in between, so if it can just get a couple good solid feedings in there will be no worries. (This time the "pee-wee" is barely speckled/mostly white.) Caleb keeps calling these bunnies by the last litter's names. Jockey insists there is a Sparky and a Dash among them.

Well, off to get ready to close the house (paperwork on the refinance). The kids aren't all that excited because that means shopping for laminate flooring. But they are going for walks, getting to parks, wearing as little clothing as we let them get away with, and hello... we have baby bunnies.

2010-07-04T22:54:00.000-07:00

Bunny Birthday pics

Still unknow HOW many, we'll check tomorrow.

2010-07-04T11:41:00.000-07:00

Happy Fourth of July!!!!

Lots of news about California to tell, but the big news is...
WE HAVE BABY BUNNIES!

They were born early this morning, between 12:30 am and 6:24 am, so they are definately Independence Day bunnies. How cool is that! They are so new, I haven't been out to even count how many. Maybe a little later we'll count them. But I think this time we will leave them where Rosie built the nest for a few days. She built her nest this time in the built-in nesting box attached to the cage rather than on a towel on the wire like last time. So the babies are a bit more secure and warm this time.

It is exciting. Anyone want to come and see in about a week, or week & a half?

This makes the summer even more perfect. New, built in firepit, fresh home grown strawberries, warm evenings, breeze in the trees and soon little babies to hold or hop all around us. Just great.

As to the trip, more details later and pictures too. But overall a good trip. Grandma went with us nearly every where, and there were a lot of places we went. The boys were decent in their behavior; happy to see Grandma and her new "puppy" Otis; played a bunch in the pool Grandpa bought for the back yard, and excellently behaved when we saw "grammy's old lady friend Dyer" aka Great Grandma Dyer. Chuck E. Cheese, parks, movie to avoid the heat, bowling, new-to-Caleb bike, picking oranges, a fair, and more thats the highlights of the trip. Like I said, more later.

2010-06-15T17:15:00.000-07:00

Almost Wednesday which means almost Friday which means almost Fly Day.

The boys are counting down every day. Caleb has 2 more days of school, I have one day of work, Mike opens the club and then gets vaccines on Friday. We fly out aboutn 8PM that night. It will make for a long day, but it will be fun. And luckily, the weather forecast has come down out of the 90s for most of the trip and into the mid-oh so beautiful-80's! Very very pleasant, and comfortable to sleep in at night. The boys are talking about going in the hot tub already, and make sure I pack their goggles. They are talking about Chuck E. Cheese, McDonalds and the parks. I keep telling them there will be a new dog to play with too. We'll try to sneak in a visit with GG Dyer and Mr. Phineas too. We'll see all of what the trip entails once we are in the midst.

And the best part is that during all that fun, we will be distracted from the excitement and anticipation of the next batch of baby Bunnies! The trip will be a great way to keep the boys from asking where the bunnies are each day, multiple times a day.

So what else is new... Mike is officially, starting next Tuesday, a volunteer fire fighter! He begins next Tuesday to participate in the in-house training at the Index fire station that will make him able to volunteer at that station. It is expected that this training will take until mid-September at which time he'll offer 1 day a week for volunteer hours. Later (January) they are going to try to get him in to the Gold Bar official training that makes him state certifiable able (he still would have to go and take the test). This is great news and he feels excited to serve God by serving people especially when they will be facing critical times in their lives. We wish him the best of God's bless (as oppose to luck) and safety as well.

So the sun is out, time to go for a walk I think! Also, Tigger is better. He is eating, drinking, barking, following us room to room, drooling, and begging as per typical behavior. He is still very very scrawny, but we are trying to keep his exercise limited and pack the weight back on him. So he won't be going for this walk.
Have a good evening.

2010-06-08T16:04:00.000-07:00

Our Tigger is doing a bit better; we are still having to watch him closely.

After nearly 2 weeks of not eating on his own (only extremely minimal amounts when forced), he is just now starting to eat when food is put down. It truly is an answer to prayer and our own small miracle. We left for a walk last night after trying a last ditch, albeit strange, solution that Mike found obscurely on the internet. When we left on the walk he was near catatonic and unresponsive. We actually had it in the back of our minds that he was going to be gone when we returned home. These are pictures of Tigger this morning (AFTER he had eaten last night, and yes there was a difference.) It is hard to seen in his stripping and shiny coat, but all his ribs and hib bones are jutting out; he is thinner at the waist than Zuma, and his neck is the same size as Zuma. He's lost about 2 inches around the neck at least; his wrinkles use to roll over the collar.

Mike found information about a dog will vomit, then have a sensitive stomach lining, then not eat or drink, which dehydrates them and then they have waited so long to eat they are actually suffering from low blood sugar. The solution, maple syrup. OK. Well it was that or take him to the vet in the morning (if he survived the night) and pay between $600-700 for an exam, x-rays and fluids. SOO, we tried the syrup and went for the walk. When we came home (about two hours after the maple syrup was poured down his throat) he met us at the door. So right after the walk it was time to clean up the dinner dishes. Caleb had not finished all of his scalloped potatoes, so I asked him to offer it to Tigger.... he ate it. I had a left over baked potatoe from lunch, he ate that. I took a couple bites of the scalloped potatoes and gave the rest to Tigger... he ate that! And then a little water. This morning he ate 1/2 a can of wet food, at noon-1pm he had the second half and a couple cups of rice. We are slowly going to reintroduce solids to his system, but he is actually eating on his own volition. And now using the restroom (it had been days, but when nothing goes in, you can hardly expect something to come out.) So praise God, a little doggie miracle has happened here. Of course we are now going to have to work on getting him back up to weight. Slowly, but it will come!

2010-06-07T10:45:00.000-07:00

A little catch up...

We did go camping the second half of Memorial day weekend. We wandered up to Lake Connor park which was nice, except the rain kept coming down. We returned home in time to have the sun break open about an hour after unloading the trailer.

Last week was pretty much normal as usual. School, Bible study, work.
The only variences: Friday, Mike went to school to help Caleb build a birdhouse out of a juice carton.
Saturday, Mike attended a training class that got him certified as a Healthcare Provider CPR and Basic Life Support. I'm proud of him getting an extensive certificate as this. Tests are never easy to face.
While Mike was in class, I took the boys to a birthday party at the Children's Museum. The weather could not have been better! The roof top playground was open and it was perfect to sit out there and watch them have fun with all the kids.

The next two weeks are routine with School, Bible study, work, cleaning, cooking, etc.
The only variences coming up:
1-Caleb's last day of school is the 17th!
2-We've booked our trip to California, we will be gone 6/18 through 6/30. We were so blessed that at the last minute the airlines reduced the rates, and our mileage points were posted... 1 free ticket and and 2 at a sale rate! And we are going down before the average temp is over 100!
3- If all is going as planned, we are expecting baby bunnies on Fourth of July weekend! It was such a great experience with the last litter. I envision this summer two months full of family time, cuddling baby rabbits on warm evenings in the backyard at sunset and twilight, while having long chats listening to the wind in the trees and the frogs across the street serenading. The boys will love this summer, and I hope it will be something they will always remember.
4- Also, we are in the middle of refinancing our house, and if it goes through, we might be able to use a very modest about of $ to make capital/home improvements that will increase the value of our home, so in the eventuality of the next time we try to sell, we will get a better sale price.

So that's the news on the Dahl front.

2010-05-29T09:37:00.001-07:00

Happy Saturday.

A little catch up...

This week was Jockey's last week of school. He is officially out until next September. I don't think that he has fully grasped that idea, more that he was just sad that there wasn't any more "show-n-tell" days. We are just going to have to find some play date days to keep up with his friends over the summer.

Caleb had his official on the day birthday party at the pool on Wednesday. Again, he had a great time. Cousin Tessa was there, as well as my friends 7yr old twin daughters and some Grandma and Grandpas. He loves swimming and playing, so how could something like this go wrong.

Caleb did not have school this Friday, nor does he have school this Monday. We are planning to pack up the trailer to go up to Lake Connor park (Lake Stevens) for 2 nights at Papa Bill's campsite. It's nice that it is close and all, has parks and (Caleb is hoping it's open) a pool. I'm just hoping for a clear night and maybe a campfire, no kid bickering, and a good warm nights sleep. It looks like pretty rainy weather, so maybe there will be time to get some good reading in.
We were going to head up to Anacortes on Thursday, but that was going to be pricey AND Tigger got so sick that we didn't know if he'd make it. He didn't eat for nearly 3 days... luckily he is better and looks to have healed up (answer to lots of prayer). Mike is also recovered from his own illness too. So we are trying to salvage the remaining part of the weekend.

Though the weather is drizzly, the summer holiday is in sight! Yahoo!

2010-05-23T11:50:00.000-07:00

We survived the sleep over birthday party. We were blessed with 2 hours of clear weather and used that time to put up the bouncy house and wear the boys out. We made carmel apples (this was one boys' first time ever). We watched Astro Boy and there was a calm in the house. Then it was jammies and bed time. All the other kids had fallen asleep by 10:20, it was just our two boys that were fighting over who was touching whose sleeping bag and pillows and feet and whatever. I checked on them several times through out the night and then was up at just after seven making pancakes, bacon and eggs. We were blessed again with a bit of nice weather to put the bouncy house up again and fold it up in the clear weather. Caleb had a really really good time. He got to choose the chips he wanted (and I got a steal on the price, paid .89 for an enormous 3.89 bag of Bugles.) He received some very neat gifts, especially from Grandma Judy and Papa Bill. All the boys seemed to play well with each other despite the fact that they didn't know each other. No injuries. I think I could manage a similar event in the future. Really it was more of a big playdate than a birthday party, but Caleb had a great time and felt wonderful being surrounded by his friends.

Next Wednesday, his actual birthday, we are going to go swimming at the club and maybe have cake. And we'll for sure be making another trip to the Zoo in the future to use the zoo-pass-gift from Grammy and Papa Dahl. We have loved having that zoo pass and when we park on the street for free the cost is limited to gas. Great. I'm really looking forward to going down in the summer when all the roses are bloomed in the rose garden and seeing the beautiful colors and smelling all the different fragrances. But that is a selfish pursuit I know.

Only 2 more days of school for Jockey.
Awana is done.
Caleb goes through 6/18 or 6/19.
We are thinking of using some of the Christmas gift $ from Grammy and Papa Dahl and go to Anacortes camping this weekend (Thursday through Monday).

Mike attended Jockey's parent-teacher conference. He still is confusing his rectangles, but has excelled in many many other areas. His writing is now in a straight line and in the same size letters. He doesn't want to sing or join in with singing, but the teacher catches him singing by himself when he doesn't think anyone is watching. He is the dominant leader of the class without being aggressive. He has a protective streak when it comes to the girl in his class. He is at the top of his class academically, but still a little squirrely and has some defiant days. He would technically be a good candidate for the 4-day a week pre-K, but right now I think we are going to go with the 3-day, the teacher is looking into scholarships for the difference in cost. But the most wonderful thing is that Jockey appears to have an amazing understanding of God/Jesus, His nature/character, and has good demonstratable faith! If he did nothing else great but this, I would be happy. The faith and understanding in God is the long term, enduring, eternal purpose and is more important to me than if he can tell the difference between a square and a rectangle.

Caleb asked to go to the adult part of church today. I had been praying and wanting to show Caleb the more mature version of faith and relationship with God beyond that of Children's Sunday school. And it was upon his request today that he attended the adult services. It was great to let him observe and listen and quietly ask questions. I feel a new era of responsibility to Caleb in his area. It was great to see his willingness/readiness to move forward to greater depths of God. An answer to prayer.

So Sunday is the Sabbath and we are going to find something that relaxes us and refreshes us before the week of work begins...

2010-05-20T08:28:00.001-07:00

So life is just whipping past....

Caleb has lost (naturally) his second lower front tooth. He's got quite the odd smile lately, and yet he still asks for apples to eat. That is a really slow process.

Caleb heads to the zoo today with his class field trip.

And TOMORROW we are celebrating his birthday. We are praying for good weather for the afternoon all the way through to Saturday. That way we can put the up the bouncy house. We are having 3 other little boys come over and spend the night. We are just doing things low key... buy pizza & drinks. I think instead of a cake we'll do carmeled apples with choclate sprinkles as the special treat. Caleb's requested Bugles as the crunch snack. The Wii is working again and that should consume some time. There's games to play, toys to play with, a movie I'll rent etc etc. It's just 3 extra little boys... SHOULD be manageable.

I've been working lots, MOPS is winging down so lots to complete by Friday. Both boys have graduated through this year of Awana. Jockey's Parent teacher conference is tomorrow. He only has 2 more days of school and then the end of the year picnic. Caleb looks like he'll be in school until 6/19. whew.... So much going on and so quickly. Speaking of busy, time to go and pick up Caleb from school. More later if the computer lets me on to this site again.

2010-05-05T20:44:00.000-07:00

So a little catch up...

Caleb has graduated from literacy lab. He was the only one. He did really well at the the graduation activities according to Mike who attended that day. He is reading the Bob books quite well. His confidence will come with practice.

Today was Jockey's Preschool "Mother's Day Tea". He was cute, easy to love and yet a bit frustrating. I must have birthed genetically unable to hold still and sing boys. For the second of Jockey's (and nearly all of Caleb's) performances... he sang while spinning in circles and a step out of line. Still he gave me a delightful card... he both knows me (in my affection for MOPS) and doesn't know me (I like to cook, WHAT? And apparently I'm just 22 yrs old. Thanks buddy!)

Tomorrow is Jockey's Awards Night for Cubbies.
Next Thursday is Caleb's Award night.
School field trip to Zoo for Caleb.
Last 2 MOPS meetings this week.
Of course, Caleb's birthday is later this month and planning is in negotiations. Kids have different definitions of friendship than we do, that kid that you knew last year who isn't all that nice to you, but you know him... isn't a "friend". Right now we are toying with the idea of a sleep over.. MAYBE; I really have to gear up my mind for a wild pack and horde of potty humored whirlwinds. Gulp.

This is Jockey's last month of school, only about 10 days left! I can hardly believe it! I'm already getting dates for VBS, summer camps etc. WOW. Well, we'll see what we actually do as far as activites.

Well life is just clicking by with homework, verses to learn, end of the year activities, new bible study beginning, work, school and chauffering, pet care, home maintenance, getting new-to-us carpet in our upstairs. etc. etc. So that's the current nutshell.

2010-04-22T21:07:00.001-07:00

Sorry I haven't posted in a while... computer trouble...

So the biggest news... We have found homes for ALL the bunnies!

Friday of last week I received a call from a lady who lives here in Monroe. She ended up surprising her daughter ages (11-13) with a bunny. They chose little Shooter Jr and despite being a girl they were going to keep the name because it went with their dog's name.

THEN, as I was getting ready to take the boys to the Children's Museum another lady called and wanted Lone Star. Because she was in Marysville and we were headed to Everett, Lone Star (my favorite because he was the licker) took a car ride to meet his new owners. He cuddled with us in the car and said good bye.

So as we entered the Children's Museum, we only had two bunnies to find homes for.

Well Tuesday I had 4 calls/emails about the last 2. So I time stamped them and just went down the list. The people who came were from Echo Falls (between Monroe and Woodinville). They have two daughters one is between 2 and 3yrs and the other was turning 6 next Wednesday and the bunny was to be her birthday present. They ended up taking both Pee-Wee and Darko (the twins), and a list of spay/neuter locations that I printed out. By the time they left the little girl had renamed Pee-Wee to Sugar and Darko to Buttercup. Caleb was the first to point out when he came home, "But they can't eat butter cup!" The boys were able to say good bye before the tennis lessons which was a good thing because both bunnies were gone by the time they were back home.

The sad part is when the boys forget that we don't have bunnies and ask to hold them. I miss them too. They really had carved out a niche in our routines and hearts. We might have to do this again. It was a great experience, responsiblity, handling, procreation without the difficult questions... And let's face it. How many people actually get to experience baby-anything in their life. Even when you set out to get a puppy you get it at 8 weeks and miss the first 2 months of it's life. Not this time with bunnies. It was a very special time that I hope that Caleb and Josh remember and value when they are older.

So we've been to the Children's Musuem, Church, the Zoo and met Cousin Tessa and Auntie Kristina, school, work, Bible study, Awana. And we are headed into the weekend with limited plans. Perhaps the fishing derby at Tye Lake on Sunday will be a good thing to try...

We'll see. That's it for now. Thanks for checking in.

2010-04-15T14:52:00.000-07:00

Happy Tax Day, for those who have completed their forms... and who are getting a refund.

We are one day away from the weekend. Tomorrow we plan to go to the children's museum.

Yesterday, little "speckles" bunny was chosen by a family who lives in Carnation and renamed Taffy. They have two daughters ages 1 and 3. The 3 year old is handicapped and the bunny was selected as the perfect animal to be held and hop around her. Taffy was the name best pronouced by the 3 yr old. The family was delighted that these bunnies had such extensive experience being held by children. They thought that Speckles/Taffy had the most brillant pure white fur and was just so pretty they were attached almost at once.

Today, little "rosie jr/rusty/Lava boy" was selected for his new home. The family has 9 kids from 2 to teeanagers; all of which drove up from Shoreline to pick up their new family addition. They had had 7 other rabbits at various times, each living long lives. They saw the ad on craigslist and thought that Rosie Jr appeared to have an adventurous look. Ironically, Rosie jr actually DOES have a bit of an adventurous trait. It will be a great fit if they are looking for and expecting adventure and independence and that is exactly what he is.

This leaves just 4 bunnies: Darko-boy and PeeWee-girl both solid tortise colors, Lone Star-boy and Shooter jr-girl, broken tortises (color mixed with white).
For each departing rabbit, it is more and more difficult to see the next go. As the pack dwindles, both Caleb and Jockey are having increasing difficulties saying good bye. Caleb said good by to Rosie Jr before school just in case, and true enough, Rosie was gone when Caleb returned. Caleb had to be held for a couple minutes to comfort him because he was missing the bunny already. It makes it easier to know that they are going to good homes, but still a bit sad. With a smaller pack, we are getting a chance to get to know their personalities better and better. Lone Star is quite a licker, literally. He licks and shows affection that way. Darko nearly always has a plump tummy. PeeWee is basically the same size as the rest of the pack, no longer the runt. And Shooter Jr is a sweet cuddler.

Well, that's the tail of only 4 bunnies to go.

2010-04-11T19:06:00.000-07:00

Sunday, today the weather was beautiful. We used it to a great advantage....

Thank you Peter (aka Grandpa Dahl) for coming the second day in a row to work on installing carpet!

Also, the first bunny was picked up today and headed home. One of my MOPS/Bible Study friends came with her son today and picked out a rabbit. They had visited and thought he liked Speckles, but about half way through their visit today, Andrew decided that he would like to have Tawny. Tawny is Jockey's absolute favorite in the world. And the decision was made while Tawny was in Jockey's arms. Jockey's initial response was NO, but he said that once and I stopped and told him that they live near by and that we could visit any time. From there on out Jockey's behavior and maturity absolutely shocked and amazed me. This is a red letter day of motherhood pride. Jockey showed Andrew how to hold it, told him what Tawny liked to eat. Kissed Tawny good bye. He didn't cry, stomp, pout... NOTHING. I was so moved by his behavior. My friend was ready to say not to pick Tawny, but I explained to her that we would rather the favorite rabbit be near by to visit than go to a stranger far far away. She's also got 4 kids from ages 2 to 8, and Tawny was an excellent choice. Tawny has been well acclimated to being held by children and has been well prepared for a home with children.

So when they left. I took Jockey aside and told him how proud I was of him and how adult/"big boy" he had acted. I told him that Tawny would have a great home with the family of kids to hold/play with him and that Jockey had prepared that little rabbit for that perfect home through his care for Tawny. He said, "Yeah. I knew that he was gonna change his mind. I take good care of my rabbits because I'm the special Rabbit Man and I just love rabbits. Mommy, I love you." Jockey is amazing in the way he processed this whole experience. Again, I'm so very proud of him. And we look forward to visiting Tawny at his new home.

Still 6 for which to find homes. I pray that each rabbit departure is handled as maturely by the boys.

That's all for now, for some reason, I'm just worn out and the boys have lots of "mommy will you" and "mommy, can I"... I've got to go take care of some of those.

2010-04-05T21:34:00.000-07:00

Three Easter Egg Hunts.... What do to with all that candy (especially when the boys are benefactors of so much food coloring)?

Well, I wish I could say that I'm clever enough to come up with this idea, but as it is, I'll just take credit for seeing the potential and going with the flow. So the boys come down with 2 glasses filled with water and about 1/4 of their candy drowned and stuck in the bottom of the glass saying "Look Mom, a science experiment. You know colors and dissolving". Now I could have freaked out (especially about the wrappers littering the kitchen) and made them dump them out. However, I saw this for the blessing that it truly was. How else do you get two typical candy-crazy boys to be excited about getting rid of and not eating their food coloring bounty... a science experiment. So with the wisdom only God himself could have given, I said "oh, wow, it will take a while to dissolve though. You'll just have to set it down and check on it later." And later they moved on to another set of experiments and now most of their candy is gone. Yes, they did eat a fair share. Fair, not overboard insanity inducing quantities. Happy ending. And Caleb goes on record for saying that Easter is his most favorite day of the year to celebrate Jesus because he can have food color!

I overheard Caleb and Jockey talking the other day. Caleb was telling Jockey that "I have two names that you can call me. Caleb or Brudder (yes, pronounced that way), but I prefer Brudder." Just a cute kid-ism.
Another went something like this: "wow mom, I think I'm going to call you Fire Head. Or maybe Lava Girl"... After a recent hair make over. (BTW, I've gotten several less ambigous compliments.)

So Day One of Spring Break: Science Experiments, Rabbit holding, playing in the backyard, forts.
Day Two: pick up from day one, Tennis and spend the night with Grammy and Papa Dahl.
Day Three: get picked up by Mom and off to a playdate with a Literacy Lab buddy of Caleb's.
Day Thursday: Something with Dad, Mom works.
Day Friday... Don't know yet.

Easter: Church, grocery shopping, house pick up, Dinner with Grammy and Papa at our house.
Dentist: Filling date in May, Cleaning Date in June. Recommended extractions (possible implants later) and root canals on 3 others. Thank God for tranquilizers because if I could remember all of the appointment I'd be panicked right now. I think I'll go be an ostrich for a while.
Bunnies: 1 has a home planned, 6 to find for sure homes. Weaning planned for this week ending.

That's all for now.

2010-04-01T07:57:00.000-07:00

It's coming up Easter Weekend.

Jockey is learning about Christ's resurrection at school, and a variety of other Easter-y things Eggs, crafts etc. He loves to play with his friends, and having the extra time for him to play is really terrific. He is doing really well at school. He is a very smart cookie. And he is enjoying his at home school work (not assigned by the school, just something we have.) He surprises me with what he knows or can figure out. He's learning beginning sounds and rhyming.

Jockey-isms... After a baby rabbit scratched him..."The rabbit disciplined me", I can't get over how cute that one is. He's also saying "you are not making me have a good day" when things don't go exactly how he wants. I'm not too hung up on what he is saying, it's not my job to MAKE him have a good day... especially when the reason he's saying that is because we have to leave the playground to pick Caleb up from school. But nevertheless, Jockey is especially verbal in what is going on with him. His shoes don't feel "hard" aka tight enough.

Jockey is concerning me when he says his tummy hurts quite often. Although after his recent illness, he's decided that some medicine tastes good, and now it is hard to distinguish a problem from a fish for sweet medicine. But knowing Jockey as a Mom does, I tell him he needs to take time in the restroom to just sit and try. He tells me he likes to talk to himself in the bathroom (and it's true, he does). I also told him he could take the time to pray too. So that lead to a discussion of taking TIME to p**p and TIME to pray, and if he wanted to do both that was ok. (Heck, both are life skills.)

Caleb is pretty sad that we are going to try to find homes for all the bunnies. (Try, and then see what is left over.) He would like nothing more than to keep them all. His teacher is even considering one; they are hard to resist once you've seen them and we visited his class with a couple last Friday. It was a real good session of show-n-tell. Caleb of course had to explain a bit of the conception... Oh, yeah. A real learning session that day. Something about chasing and going behind a tv and shaking a bum even on the head. Uhm, yeah. That's enough Caleb. The kids really were interested, and I tried to provide true information, food, size, birth appearances. DAILY, multiple times a day I'm asked if they (the boys) can hold baby rabbits. Caleb just had a good time being the center of attention and "in control". Our first born really does have a control issue. Not quite sure if it is truly a problem to solve, or just an immature appearance of a character trait of his final personality.
Caleb is excelling in literacy lab. He's learned more in the last two months than ever before. Mike has taken over homework duties. (It became vastly apparent that I'm not it, from what I was told, too verbal for a visual boy.) Caleb had to read during last week's conference. That was the most reading he has ever done in front of me and the best he's done. I tried to provide huge praise so that he had the confidence to do that at home. He is on level with about have of things, and just on the borderline from getting all the other things. He really is quick at math, he gets it. I'm glad that there is an area of academics that is easier for him so that he is not discouraged by the whole school experience. Although, he still says that the only thing he likes about school is recess. But for such an active, competive, what-to-take charge boy... what could be better but sports.

Easter weekend... maybe find an Egg Hunt somewhere, go to the dentist (me), Easter Service on Sunday. Who knows what else. I like the holiday's meaning, but I'm not stoked into activity over it. It's been a hectic week and it's not over. The boys have Awana tonight, verses to learn today, I help in one of their classes, stay afterward to set up for MOPS tomorrow, then attend MOPS tomorrow and then pick Caleb up from school. It's a full set of days.

Well time to get Caleb off to school. TTFN

2010-03-29T21:01:00.000-07:00

These are a couple current pictures of the little bunnies:

Darko, Male
Rosie Jr, Male

All of these lucky little bunnies are being slathered with love and being held by the boys daily. We have gotten their litter box into the TV room and allow them to sniff and try it out. They enjoy the chance to stretch their legs and get a good "happy" hop run. They are eating rabbit food, hay and even dandilion greens galore. I think we will wean them mid to end of next week and try to get them ready for their new homes. (And the the boys ready to say good bye.)

2010-03-21T10:54:00.000-07:00

This last week, we had a visitors out to see the little honey buns (bunnies).Auntie Kristina, Uncle Ryan (not pictured) and Cousin Tessa

Auntie Kristina, all three bunnies actually crawled up into her lap.

Cousin Tessa pet little Shooter Jr into a sleep on his back.

The bunnies crawled into Jockey's lap here for a little snuggle. He's learned if you sit still they come to you.

Grammy Dahl and the biggest of the small ones Tawny.

GG Dahl with the smallest of the small ones Pee Wee.

So that was this week in a visual nutshell.

Children's Museum pics at another time.

2010-03-20T15:41:00.000-07:00

The book sale went well. The kids were astonishingly well behaved. They sat in a corner reading the kids books and selecting ones they wanted. 96% quiet, calm, no bickkering. And I purchased 16 books for 10.50 that have a regular retail value of $185 plus tax!

Auntie Kristina, Uncle Ryan and Cousin Tessa are on their way over as I type to visit the baby rabbits and us; in that order, if we are being completely honest. :) We plan to eat tacos here and call it good. The weather is awesome for an outside/inside visit. And this was perfect motivation to get the house clean.

That's the update.

2010-03-19T21:53:00.000-07:00

1 hour at the park this afternoon. For the Boys.
2.5 hours at the Children's museum on Free admission night. For the boys.

= 1 hour at the Friends of the Library book sale tomorrow for Mom. Not exactly an equal exchange rate, but one that for today/tomorrow I'll live with.

The boys said thank you as we drove off 8 minutes before 9pm from the Children's Museum. Of their own accord! I told them their are welcome, I hoped they had a good time. Then I explained that they had all this time tonight and earlier, so tomorrow mommy would like to do something and they will have to go with me just like I went with them and did what they wanted. I think they get it in thought... we'll see how patient they are with the actual action in the moment. I don't plan on spending huge amounts of time there, but I'd like a good chance to look. I've looked forward to this for nearly 6 months. Cheap prices, all the money supports Library... yeah! Finally, a cause I can get on board with.

The boys loved the museum. The rooftop was open and we went there first. From there it was a scatter of activities. We even made it downstairs to the construction areas. Jockey liked the art studio. Brittany and Emily went, a school mate/Awanas of Jockey's was there, and another MOPS mom also met up with us. Not exactly a chance to chat for the moms, but a huge benefit for the kiddos. Can't wait for next month. But oh boy and I glad that the boys are the ages that they are. Just a bit of independence so that I can ping pong between their areas, rather than attaching them to each other at the hip and have an arguement over what activity they are doing and crying over what they aren't getting to do.

In Rabbit news: I might have found 2 more homes. They are discussing it with the spouses and looking into care/hutches. But at least the two more prospects. And the one taken for sure... I'm feeling hopeful that we will find homes! The bunnies are just getting bigger and more of their under coats are coming in (until it is all in they are soft but shaggy). They are exploring the fresh air and back patio when we let them out. But really, they just want to climb up and be held. A couple of them are showing improved "coming when called" skills! Wonderful! And we are continuing to hold them multiple times daily to prepare them for homes with children. About a week away from getting the genders determined. (And for getting our new carpet in! Thanks Dad for the carpet, and Peter, in advance, for the help with install!)

So that's it for now. Have a great weekend.

2010-03-18T08:40:00.000-07:00

THURSDAY... And healthy.

Awana tonight. School and a Craft MOPS tomorrow. Perhaps the Children's Museum tomorrow night. We'll see if I'm feeling up to taking them by myself....

Baby rabbits, cute, hopping, cuddling, within another week we will know genders and start minimal solid food.

All's well in this pin prick size part of the world.

2010-03-14T16:44:00.000-07:00

Day 15 of baby rabbits.

They ALL have their eyes open, even PeeWee's last crusted eye. They are getting their undercoats and are getting even more soft if that was possible. They are getting a bounce in their step/crawl. They groom each other in and adorable way, and they stand on their back legs and do the proverbial rabbit face washing motion. They are getting distinct personalities, some of which is the instinctual rabbit, and others is unique to themselves. Darko and Pee wee have always been BIG cuddlers and are staying true. Rosie Jr is Jockey's "Adventure Rabbit" but is consistently returning to Jockey and literally climbing into his lap. We took them out onto the grass for the first time to see what they would do. After the initial discovery of this new texture on their feet, they starting exploring. A couple were even quite quick in their hop/scurry. They are too small for the wire Dog crate-cum-exercise pen, so we can't have them all out at once. They are so small in comparison to the backyard it is hard to explain. And I'm sure there are alot more spaces for them to escape where their parents could dream of squeezing through. So we are keeping a close eye on them as they learn about the world around them. I wish I could post video of them because that would truly describe it more than I could. (I've tried, and it's just been unsuccessful.*****EDITED TO ADD: VIDEO NOW VIEWABLE ON FACEBOOK.***) But until I can figure it out, regular pictures will have to suffice.

Mid hop, Rosie Jr.
Lone-Star just checking things out.

Rosie next to Jockey's boot.

Pee Wee next to jockey's boot.

Shooter Jr standing on his back legs.

Shooter Jr and Rosie Jr.

Shooter Jr and Mama Rosie.

So that was Rabbits in the late afternoon. Earlier this day we hiked on the Wallace Falls trail. Not all the way to the top, but at least out in nature and fresh air. Sorry, I forgot the camera on that trip.

2010-03-13T16:18:00.000-08:00

Day 14 of baby Rabbits.

Pee Wee is the only one that had a sealed eye, but we wetted the lid to loosed the crusty and shortly there after the eye peeked open. So officially the bunnies eyes are all open. They are mobile and crawling around. A couple are starting to get a bounce in their back end during their crawl, the beginning stages of a hop. They are curious and wander around. Jockey calls Rosie Jr. his adventure rabbit. He says he likes adventure rabbits. Pee Wee is a climb up and cuddle little guy. Darko is also a good cuddler. Many of them will come when I "call" them, if their curiousity doesn't get the better of them... or a small boy interrupt their path. Tawny liked curling up on Mike's chest in the sun after a little romp around the room. Speckles and Shooter Jr liked just being held because we visited them during nap time. The nesting box is just a bed now, because they can get in and out to explore at will. They kind of scatter when you approach the cage, but they'll eventually know visitors are good and frequent. They are getting there undercoats and are less cold outside, another reason why they aren't just laying in the nesting box in front of the lamp. Rosie Mama is very curious as to what they are doing. Although, sometimes it looks like she is looking at the little rascals with a bit of an overwhelmed look in her eye. There is a lot of movement in that area of the hutch. Rosie Mama is coming up to us each time we open the cage now, but that's because she's been conditioned to expect treats

at each visit. The bunnies are now grooming each other and taking care of each other like a little pack. They lick and pig pile for warmth. It was neat to see the instinctual nurturing and caring for one another. When they sleep, they still seek out each other, an arm or the side of something to nestle against for warmth and protection.

Here are pictures from day 14.

Pee Wee in the front, Rosie jr in back
Speckles and Rosie.

Rosie jr Grooming, licking Darko.

Pee Wee on left, Darko on right. Pee Wee has caught up quite a bit, but is still the smallest.

PeeWee's good side, the other side is the closed eye.

Boys and Bunnies.
Mike and Tawny

Mike and Darko. Darko kissing.
Jockey and Speckles.

2010-03-13T15:59:00.000-08:00

Day 13.

The bunnies eyes are open (MOSTLY) at least a squint. A couple still need to open, but the majority. They are a bit more mobile. They can jump/scatter out of the nesting box, but always return to the heat of the box and lamp. At first we were worried that they couldn't get back in, but that proved unfounded. They were able to be down on the floor for a while. They have the oddest clumsy gait. It's a crawl of sorts with their little legs that sprawl out like a little frog mid leap. It's cute to watch them begin to explore their new world. They stretch out their necks to check the world before they actually get there with their bodies. The really neat thing is that about half of them will come when you call with a certain noise. Good training, when they can have solid foods we'll reinforce the coming on command.

We also had the visitors/prospective owners come and see the babies. I think the little boy has chosen "Speckles", but until the last minute he can change his mind. It was neat that Speckles was one of the few that had the eyes totally open and wide awake. It was also nice that the bunnies get to explore but then are ready for a curl up and rest without moving in about 15 minutes. Perfect for a visit. And the family has four kids, so each got to hold one without fighting. A good day.

Pee Wee climbed up for a cuddle

Shooter Jr. Crawling

Pee Wee out on the town looking around.

Tawny in a crawl, see the crazy frog legs.

2010-03-12T08:34:00.001-08:00

Day 12 of rabbits.

About half of the bunnies have at least peeked out. There lids have separated and we can see the little dark eyes, but the lids are fully open. So they look a little hung over and it's early in the morning. Not wide open, bright eyed and bushy tailed. Still cute. They are stronger in their movements, and quite good at crawling. No hopping yet. Ears still lay flat and closed. I think their undercoat is starting to form because their fur is starting to thicken up and show cowlicks and can be brushed back and forth. (before they were just baby fine with one direction, hair so fine it could lift up.) Of all the rabbits, the Rex fur is the most dense, soft and easy to take care of too! I love the breed choice we've made.

Pictures:

2010-03-10T16:35:00.000-08:00

Day 11 of baby rabbits (and everything else.)

Everything else: Jockey's better, totally recovered. His school attended a puppet show today in Lake Stevens/Snohomish. Afterward we ate at BK with friends and then popped in on Grandpa Bill and Grandma Judy for a quick visit while they were still in residence in Lake Stevens (new house in Stanwood as of tomorrow). Caleb went to school, still healthy as could be desired. Mike still under the weather but picked Caleb up from school and drilled Caleb on his spelling. Caleb will be continuing on with the Literacy Lab Class until 4/30. It has helped him and we hope for more very needed improvement. He's excited about it, and it works out well for Jockey to get a couple minutes to play at his school before I do have to rush off for Caleb's pick up. (I'm beginning to wonder if we need to get him tested for dyslexia. We have concerns, but I'm just too tired to type out all the concerns now.)

Baby Rabbits.... Well, ONE has it's eyes open 75%. The rest, well, you can see the deep crease where the two lids are separated/separating, but they aren't open yet. Maybe tomorrow. Still crossing the fingers. By Friday, I expect the eyes to be open, which will be good for the little boy visiting the bunnies. The bunnies still are really sleepy, so even it the eyes could open, they would most likely be closed for sleeping anyway. The boys love to hold them. They get to pick each time, and fortunately they switch all the time and all of the bunnies get their fair share of holding. (Surprisingly, it's mommy and daddy that have their favorites.) The bunnies are staying warm, as is the rabbit parents. Shooter is actually charging from across the yard to visit us and almost trips us up to stop us and get his attention and fair petting time. Funny.

So a few scant pictures:

2010-03-09T14:14:00.000-08:00

Day Ten of Baby Rabbits.

Well, the eyes are not open yet. I was really hoping to see the peepers today, but also no. Perhaps tomorrow. They are getting thicker fur, their ears are more responsive although not up and open. Their toenails are even growing. (a couple scratches in the herd, but those heal). It's been so cold the last two nights that Rosie-mama has carved out a place next the the babies to sleep because the heat lamp is so near. They are cuddly, and I told the boys that they should enjoy the time now that the babies don't move around so much because soon they'll want to hop around and not be held as much.

It's cold, however, it is just a blessing that it is not raining and we can go in and out without too much wet/mud to visit them. The boys waited patiently until I got home from Bible study and errands to hold them. To rotate through all of the bunnies it takes a good 45 minutes at least. And I think it is important that we give each their fair time. (There was a study of hamsters, one group just fed, the other fed and held... the second group thrived while the first lost weight etc. So we want thriving bunnies here.) Tawny is definately the biggest, and has the pinkest ears. A couple of the others (Lone star and Speckles) will have a pink ear with dark edges around it like dad; Rosie Jr, still up in the air. Pee Wee and Darko, I expect darker ears. Why does this matter. Officially today, I got word that a family would like one for their son and his desire was a white bunny with pink ears. While these are solid white, they have white, pink ears and their fur is the softest out there. So 1 home found, a few homes to go.

The boys are beginning to be ok with that idea. But they still would like to keep one or some (preferrably the solids -darko, rosie jr, pee wee.) But we don't even know the genders right now and that makes a huge difference. 2 females can live in a hutch without problems, but 2 males in a hutch will fight, and we KNOW what opposite genders will do in a hutch. So I've made no promises what so ever, and so far the boys are accepting of that. This has been a great learning experience for the boys. They get to learn the how-to, what-fors, gentleness in handling, responsiblity of care and finding homes etc. It's just been a good bump in their childhood. One I hope they treasure the memories of until they are parents.

Pictures of today:

Baby Tawny

Speckles
Lone Star

2010-03-08T22:15:00.000-08:00

Just a quick update. Day 9 of Bunnies.

We brought a couple in for a quick visit today. I thought I saw one of them actually blink/sqeeze it's eyes shut or something similar. But the eyes were still closed/sealed this morning at the time of our visit. They are a delight to sit with and just pet. The boys will get better and better with the gentleness of their bunny handling (and prepare the bunnies for the possible future homes too.) We are going to watch them and make sure they stay warm in the forcasted cool streak that is suppose to be coming. Now would not be a good time to freeze. So we'll watch them, keep the heat lamp on etc.

Pictures:

Jockey is holding Rosie Jr and Tawny (the white/tanish one, Also THE BIGGEST in the litter!)
Rosie Jr.
Darko.

It will be interested when our temporary names no longer fit the gender of the bunny. We'll have a boy Rosie Jr or a girl Shooter Jr I'm sure. We'll just have to laugh and make up new names.

2010-03-07T11:25:00.000-08:00

Day eight of Baby Rabbits.... And Jockey is feeling better. He is well enough to go to the zoo apparently. Because that is the plan. We'll see if he is actually recovered enough or if we are just wearing him down enough to get sick again and have to miss school tomorrow. But Mike and Caleb are pumped to go to the zoo again. Here the zoo pics.

The baby rabbits are about the same although they are all sporting HUGE pot bellies. Like a little pygmy goat where the tummy is wider than their shoulders and hips by more than twice. So they are well fed. Speaking of feeding. We were treated to the rare sight of seeing Rosie nurse. Most mother rabbits wait until night time when it is quiet, calm and without fear of predators getting them. Caleb and I saw her last night while we were standing right there with the hutch door open, and I saw her again today. She stands right over them in a hover more or less and lets them attach from below. She will nuzzle/push them down under her with her chin if they get too far forward to find the good stuff. She is patient and now very interested in what we are doing with the babies. The babies are adorable, warm, fuzzy, wobbly. The biggest ones ears started to perk up on it's own, although they are still sealed. Like a human infant anything near their mouths triggers them to think food is coming. We took a moment to bring a few in at a time this evening and cuddled them on the couch. It was a great time and we could actually get to know them and start hypothesizing about personalities/health.

Here are pictures:

Rosie nursing.
Pee Wee is on the left, Darko is on the right. PeeWee is the runt, but TOTALLY Healthy.
This one was the lone bunny without a name= Lone Star
Caleb with DarkoMom with Rosie Jr.
Daddy with Darko.

So a few more days and we will have eyes and soon after that ears open! Can't wait!

2010-03-06T11:53:00.000-08:00

Jockey is a little better today, still would not qualify to attend school if today was a school day... but better none the less. He slept last night on the floor in front of the bathroom at his own choosing. But he only got up twice in the night. He did still have a fever last night, but it's not soaring. And this morning he asked for his pear, although it is unconfirmed as to whether he actually ate any of it. But he asked. And he got his own pants and boots on and wandered outside to meet us and to see the baby rabbits. He really likes them but only wants to hold the ones that won't pee on him. He really has a thing about having his hands clean and washed all the time (hard when you're and artist too and the paint gets everywhere.)

So he came out to see the baby rabbits and this is what we found on...

Day Seven of Babies rabbits:

It's a beautiful sunny day, and WARM as far as spring goes. So we could actually bring the babies into the sunlight rather than just hover over the nesting box. They have more fur/thicker coats. The three solid darker ones... well, one has a white tummy and is lighter than the other two... kind of has coloring like mama. (So for now, "rosie jr.") The other two (Darko and peewee) have dark tummies and I'm eager to see their full coats since they are not like either parent. The skin over the eyes is showing the line of indentation where the two lids are starting to form from solid skin. They actually look like "sleeping" eyes shut bunnies rather than deformed blind things. With the boys, we actually saw a baby move it's mouth like it wanted to eat. I was able to explain that motion to the boys, and what they are eating, and also show them the little teeth, feet, and their back legs (which are often all covered with fur on an adult and it's hard to get an idea of how big the back feet are in proportion). They got to hold quite a few of them. At this point, the boys need coaching on how to hold a baby rabbit over anything else. They think it is cute when the babies crawl up their arms while outstretched, but when the baby reached the elbows there is a great chance that it could fall and you won't have a free arm to catch. Jockey does good with the "baby chick" type of two hand hold, but the babies can still climb and stretch out of that one (and a high chance of getting a few wet fingers.) Basically, NO unsupervised baby visits! Especially when they have to stand on a bucket to even reach! Too far for anybody/thing to fall. Rosie was let loose in the yard today for a little leg stretch. I saw her nibble a bit and at least 3 "happy hops" and good runs. She does not want to be picked up right now (too sensitive a tummy) but it was worth it to get her out for 20-30 minutes. She is ever patient and will even lay in her relaxed on her side position when I reach in to pet her. She's a good mama and an even better rabbit. But F-A-T, full of food and milk. Rolie polie for sure. Overall, the babies look more like tiny bunnies than rats finally. 4 more days or so and we'll see eyes!

Pictures of today:

Jockey with a speckled one

Caleb with a speckled one.

Jockey with a speckled one

Caleb with a speckled one... see eye slits developing.

Caleb with PeeWee

Jockey with Darko

Mommy holding Shooter Jr.

2010-03-06T09:50:00.001-08:00

Day Six (posted late) of baby rabbits.

Not much has changed, just bigger, more fur, less fragile, more sure in their movements and a couple seem to be determined to be active while others sit calmly in my hand. The littlest baby is still smaller than the rest, but the little pee-wee is holding his own in still growing and getting his belly full. Surprisingly he is one of the more active ones. Rosie is becoming a new "Normal" of more calm and less afraid of us. She approaches us, she will sit and wait for our hand to pet her (rather than run from us until cornered). I try to bring her treats or something to "make friends" each time I go out to see the babies.

For now, names have been developed for a couple so that we can talk about them. We have Darko (curtesy of Caleb), Pee Wee the runt, and Shooter Jr because of the same coloring as daddy. And there was one that Caleb wanted to call dribbles (for obvious reasons) but I forget which one that was.

So pictures:

Shooter Jr.

Darko & Pee Wee just next to him. See the size difference.

Good shot of the teeth and foot with little toenails. Shooter jr is the one on top.

2010-03-04T11:45:00.000-08:00

Day Five of Baby rabbits and other.

First the other. Jockey has finally caught the stomache bug that has been going around. He was up every 45 minutes since 2AM and on through the morning. And perhaps TMI he's got it coming out both ends. The little guy has nothing left in him, and he's not really hungry. We are making water, broth and crackers available to him, but he's just not eating. Rather he is sleeping. We are on a second load of laundry today. I've told the boys to NOT share food or drinks etc in the hopes of preventing the spread, tried to keep washing my hands, and spray disinfecting the bathrooms and the air. I don't want a second boy tossing his cookies. And I can't afford to be sick until the 14th and even then only for 2 days. So it just doesn't work into my schedule. So we are doing all we can to prevent it. I'm pretty proud that my kids have taken this long to get it and that they haven't had anything else for quite a while. Keep Jockey in your prayers. He will be missing Awana and pretty sure he'll be missing school tomorrow too.

As for rabbit news. Ok, either both mike and I are awful counters, or the mass of wiggly things is just troublesome and a count shouldn't be attempted,... or mama canabalized one and we can't find the parts (I know, gruesome but it happens.) But I counted 7. That's it, 7. I'll check the rest of the box for whatever a bit later, but 7. 4 speckles/brokens and 3 darks. (**edited, we have 7, there were 8, don't know where/what happened but it's no longer present.) Still one of the darks is a small fella/gal, but oh boy was there a full round little pot belly on it this morning! It has chowed down. They look to be a little bit more at peace and even more so less fragile. A couple of them settle down and just rest in your hand, others fidget and pee (yes already.) They have more fur and are warm and fuzzy. It's amazing the "heat seeking" quality of them. They could be set down anywhere and they have an innate sense to burrow down and find their siblings for warmth. A good example of God's perfect programming.

Here's the family:

This is the littlest guy/gal:

This is the big brother/sister (this one loves to just sit calmly in the palm of my hand):

More later if anything's pertinent.

2010-03-03T13:42:00.000-08:00

Day four of baby rabbits.

Much like yesterday actually.

We have 3 dark ones and the rest are white/speckly mix (best observation). One of the dark ones truly is a runt and about a third to half in size than the others; at this point I don't know if that one will survive, but so far so good. They seem to be less fragile with each day passing. And of course eventually they will be used to being handled. I'm surprised that the boys haven't asked to hold them yet today, but that is a good thing today. Each passing day the babies are more resillient than the day before.

Pictures of today:

2010-03-02T14:29:00.001-08:00

Day three of baby rabbits.

We haven't lost any to exposure/lack of feeding etc. Rosie is still doing great and will even approach us while holding her babies. The babies are a little bigger, more sure in their movements though still jerky (especially when you uncover them in the nest so that they think food is coming and they are going for it), they are covered in peach fuzz now and you can start to see what their colorings will be. I think we have a couple like papa who are "broken tortise"(white and mottled/marbled brown) and a couple like mama (I think), but we'll have to wait another week and a half to be sure. They have bright nubs of TEETH, already! Well, they are rodents I suppose.

The boys are thrilled with the bunnies, but are doing really good at only going out once in a day to look and bother them. I'm sure when they are a bit bigger with their eyes open the boys will be out there all the time (another great reason for a gentle winter/early spring).

Caleb thinks we should keep at least four (my eyes roll), but I think I might have found 2 more homes... that's a total of 3 maybes. Not bad for 3 days of searching for homes.

So here are today's pictures:

(see the speckles mid-back, those will be brown... anything pink will be white.)

This will be dark/tortise (rosie colored).

Another dark one whom the boys call Darko for now.

This one is just a little mostly white some speckles precious. (held by Jockey)

2010-03-01T09:53:00.000-08:00

Day two of baby rabbits...

There are definately some larger and some bigger, although exact count is not possible because they would get too cold while we figure it out. Some have darker skin indicating a coming darker coat, some of them are speckly maybe meaning "broken" fur patterns. No guess yet as to what genders.

Jockey yesterday said "here brother pet this one, it's the cutest"... how does he determine which is the cutest when they are all basically the same and a quivering, flopping pig pile of bunnies. Go figure.

Here is the picture of one of them today.

2010-02-28T17:45:00.000-08:00

Moving into a new nexting box...

Yes these are jockey's fingers in comparison to their size. They are about 3" long.

All four of us has a part in building the nesting box, the boys even screwed in a few of the screws. Then we got it all ready and then transfered the babies to the new box. (They were at risk of wandering out of the old "nest" and getting too cold, getting hurt on the wire floor, or trampled into the wire mesh.)

So one by one we placed them into the nesting box. Yes, there are 8. So far to the untrained eye there aren't any obvious runts who won't survive, but time will tell. The boys are of course excited. Rosie seems to be doing just fine and is actually more mellow and friendly (nuzzling, greeting and eating out of our hands.)

2010-02-28T10:55:00.000-08:00

Rabbit is as Rabbits does...... Surprise Babies. I thought Mike was joking today when he says to come outside I've got to see something. But sure enough... best count 6 rosie red curled up bald things.

Want one???

edited to add: Yes, I know HOW these things happen, but I didn't know that it took less than a minute for rabbits. Seriously, less than a minute.

And added pictures:

Eyes open in 10 days. And the last count, although they move around alot and don't like up like hot dogs, is 8 babies.

2010-02-27T20:38:00.000-08:00

Caleb's birthday came early this year. Rather than a gift that we have to store... Grammy and Papa Dahl got Caleb a really awesome zoo membership (for the family& bring guests) that can be used unlimitedly for the next 10 months. We broke it in with a trip to the zoo today joined by Tessa, Grammy and Papa.

The rain broke about an hour into our excursion into the park. Which worked out fine since the first thing we did was visit the new penguin exhibit and then duck into the indoor Day/Night exhibit. The Day/Night exhibit is closed forever starting Monday, so it was a real blessing to visit it one last time before it's closed and the animals scattered. We also got to view the 9 month old snow leopard cubs. Caleb made Bug World a must see, and Jockey signed up for the kangaroos. (Caleb made the astute comparison today that Kangaroos are like T-rexes with little arms and big back legs.) We were at the zoo for about 4 hours and walked ourselves tired. Then it was bad to the club for a swim with Tessa. We are finally home and ready for a calm down.

That's all for now. I'm beat.

2010-02-26T14:51:00.000-08:00

So how's your week going?

We got into the swing of things here with school, school work, bible study. A call from the principal about "no toys at school" (yes, caleb's been sneeking toys to school). More school, work for me, Awana, more school and work. Caleb got additional stages today and Wednesday. We are just not figuring this out... oh, that would be until we talked through his entire day. 5 words.... M&M's, Jelly Beans, Popcorn (commercial type), Frosting cookies, and juice. Can we say Food Coloring? Not to mention the sugar. So I had to be the confrontive parent and shoot off and email (afternoon session is still going) to the teacher to get her back on our side of this issue.

We were blessed to get Caleb's Birthday present early this year. A zoo pass for the family. (Thank you Grammy and Grandpa Dahl.) So we are thinking of going there on Sunday if the weather remotely cooperates with us.

Unfortunately, I got the call today that my grandfather died today. It appears Great Grandpa Severson, 97, got up in the middle of the night and had an instantly fatal heart attack and was found this morning. Curiously, upon talking with my dad, we discovered that we were both awaken last night (he at 2:24 and myself at 2:22) for unknown reasons and unable to go back to sleep for quite a while. Maybe we were on the same 'wave length'. Grandpa lived a long life FULL of memories and leaves only one issue unresolved.... Dusty the cat will have to learn to like a dog to live at my Aunt Sandy's or go hungry because that is where the food bowl will be soon.

These were taken 2/6/2010. The 4 days before we went to California. Great Grandpa Severson was in good spirits, full of memories and things to say despite the increasing ailments. I'm glad the kids got to see him as near as possible to the end.

TTFN

2010-02-17T23:45:00.001-08:00

Again very brief:

We are home safe. Relatively unremarkable on time flight.
More park visiting, did go bowling (BTW, real bowling way different than Wii bowling.), did go to Chuck E. Cheese for a good time, watched a couple neat movies in the evenings, took Skeeter (Grandma's Basenji) for walks in the evenings. More hot tubbing, pizza night, another visit with Mr. Phineas who brought the boys cool RC cars which Grandma was happy to let them run in the garage after backing out her car (they were quite noisy in the family room). Picked fresh oranges in the backyard and boxed them up to be UPS'd home....hmmm. Painted tiles for fun and posterity.

So that's the rest of the trip in a nut shell. I will post pictures as soon as I have 1) time and 2) have reinstalled the camera picture software after getting my computer wiped clean and back from Staples....

We are all hitting the ground running. I have to work tomorrow for a brand new company (doing the same old tasks) and have to learn a new software application to report my work. Awana for the boys tomorrow and 2 verses to learn to catch up. MOPS craft and meeting on Friday to get ready for and etc etc etc for the weekend. Sigh.

Good Night. We are home safe.

2010-02-14T20:11:00.000-08:00

Ok, a mid-trip update.

Hot tubbed, check.
3 park visits (each over 2 hours), check.
2 walks with Skeeter, check.
new booster seat for Caleb, check.
1 visit for myself to dentist, check.
2 visits to McDonalds for playtime, check.
1 Caleb & Grandpa only outing for ice cream, check.
watched 2 movies (g-Force and Race to witch mountian), check.
Cartoons, check.
Playing individually and together on computer, check.
Renewed lice treatment, check. (Again, so soon, and totally unrelated to the last time? What are the chances?)
And my uncle has passed away.

Planning: Bowling tomorrow, maybe Chuck E. Cheese Tuesday. and who knows what else because the weather is great!

We are working together to turn the tide of Caleb's defiance, and Jockey trying to copy the model of definance. Some days are decent, others are rough. Jockey punched me in the rear and bit my finger yesterday, which resulted in staying home and thinking about this actions and napping while Caleb got to go out. Caleb had some defiant times and is the bad habit of talking back. We are trying to nip that all in the bud. Improvements, yes, even if slow.

And I feel good that even while on "vacation" and being out of our element, we have still been careful to stay away from food coloring, sodium benzoate and excessive sugars. Staying away from these help the boys not to have reasons (outside of childish immaturity) for poor behaviours. So the general wound up craziness is being kept to a minimum. And hours upon hours at the park are a good way to keep the worn out. They play while the adults talk and soak up the sun. Works out great.

One down side, I've been struggling with a tooth ache... so that's been my own challenge, and often it makes my patience short etc. I'll have to come home and see the dentist promptly it looks like. Could I please be hit on the head and left for the vultures instead????

Overall, a good trip, good talks, good cuddle times, good weather, lots of exercise. (even the dog is getting leaner, I've been calling her mini-keg.) More on the next update, have a great week.

2010-02-09T22:13:00.000-08:00

Just a brief, and I mean bried update.

We've attended Tessa's family birthday party at the pool. Good times.
We visited Great Grandpa Severson (age 96/97) on Sunday. He's old yet cheerful. And we learned he likes watching sting operations where they catch internet predators...and Msnbc News. Ok Grandpa.
Caleb likes his literacy lab, and I think he's actually learning more in that 25 minutes than in regular class.
We've spent a few days at the park using the unpredictable sunshine to the max.
I have started work at an additional company, that makes 3 employers for myself... tricky keeping which tasks report to which companies! Whew!
My desktop computer has been out of commission with viruses/worms/trojans etc since last Monday, so that's the reason for few postings. Crossing my fingers that Staples can have it ready to pick up tomorrow AM....

The boys are all excited:
We will be in California from late tomorrow afternoon 2/10 through WEDNESDAY night of next week 2/17. We'll hit the ground running with school, lit lab, Awana and work and MOPS with craft that week. Pray for a safe, on time flight and our luggage lands when and where we do!

In the meantime, the boys have "packed" their back packs to include far too many beanie babies. We have an abundance of them thanks to Grandma Judy paring down her collection. And the boys have been inseparable from them. Caleb sleeps in a small pool of them on his bed each night. Jockey takes them in the car EVERYWHERE, to show and tell, etc. The one great thing is that there are so many, there are few fights and never have we not been able to find one to go with us in the car!

So that's the quick low down, good night.

2010-01-27T08:24:00.000-08:00

What's the latest?

Caleb and I had a careful discussion when an opportunity came up. Bottom line: He has made the choice to attend a "literacy lab" program after school for 6 weeks. It is just an extra 25 minutes, so he will get out at noon. It has the purpose to expose him more to reading, phonics, sight words, word blends etc. It will probably have a different approach that I would use, and that is a good thing. No reminder needed that I did not go to college for elementary education (or patience training for that matter.) I am hopeful that he will make another leap in his abilities, provide a chance for focus. Right now he will just see the first letter or first number in the addition problem and guess. Guessing isn't knowing... and guessing isn't actually looking. I'm hoping he will improve.

Both the boys are in Tennis on Tuesdays. They love it. They also get a chance to swim and visit with Grammy and Grandpa, and GG Dahl too. And the come home tired.

Awana tomorrow night. I help. Again.

No big plans for the rest of the week. Might catch a day at the park if I can bundle up warm enough... we'll see.

More as it comes.

2010-01-20T13:54:00.001-08:00

A Rite of Passage for kids, though not one I'd sign up to celebrate, it could be worse...

Second only in communicablity to the common cold is... lice. Apparently, we were the only guests at the hotel this weekend.

Caleb called to me this morning and said his head itched and he saw white things. Not taking him at his word precisely, I performed my own examination fully expecting dandruff and a need for extra water or conditioner. I was a bit disturbed to find...lice. Being a born "nit-picker", I looked his entire head over and killed all live ones. Then I examined Jockey, and found a few more and killed those too. This determined the rest of my day. Despite the beautiful sunshine and park playing possibities... We had a new priority.

I now know at least 5 more facts about lice now, than I did yesterday.

1- The lice do not have wings... no flying.
2- The lice do not have back legs (like grasshoppers).... no jumping. (Thus takes direct contact with head or items that have touched the head)
3- The lice will die in 24 hours without human blood.
4- Lice do not live/feed on pets because the pets are not humans.
5- Lice lay 3-4 eggs a day.
6-Hot water and a Hot Dryer are good enough for washables.
7- A good vaccumming is good for non-washables.
8- Lastly and surprisingly, there is a debate on the effectiveness of all products, shampoos and sprays, other than the comb.

As for me and my house, pesticide shampoo is the way we went, because the little bugs can transfer or fall while being combed out and I'd rather them be dead if my older eyes miss one that falls prey to gravity.

So I have discovered, diagnosed, treated and combed each boy. Phew, the hardest part was making them hold still for 45-50 minutes for the meticulous combing process. And Thank GOD they are boys and have short hair!!!
Mike and I both check out as clear, but the washing, sterilizing, vaccuming ensues to make sure there are none to transfer to us or back to the boys.

The Lice War is not a difficult war (as yet), but a great many loads of laundry.

So onward... (and I'll be calling the hotel.)

2010-01-20T13:41:00.000-08:00

Just a little catch up.

We made it thorugh the busy-ness of last week. Leadership meetings, Awana, School, Mops, etc.

Then it was off for a 5+ hour drive Friday to Hayden, ID for a visit to an indoor water park at the Holiday Inn Express. They have an arcade with tokens and prizes, indoor play structure for the kids, mini golf and bowling (which we didn't do) and a "Raptor Reef" dino-themed indoor water park. Three slides, a wave pool with zero depth shore, and a kids play structure set in nearly a foot of water that has it's own slides, sprinklers, sprayers etc.

The kids were a little car weary, but they are quickly learning use every rest area we offer them. (Which I used nearly every one in the Eastern part of the state for my own reasons.) Every kid needs to learn to use the facilities when it's offered; I learned at the age of about 7 going through Arizona... long story. So we got there with time to eat dinner and hit the slides. Caleb was tall enough for one solo, and the other two with an adult, so both Mike and I got our sliding quota in... and Grandpa Dahl too. Jockey was a little left out of the slides... but you couldn't tell from the way he zipped around the kids area and dove through the waves.

Saturday was rainy, and although a beautiful walk and a really cool children's park were tempting in Couer D'alene, we were nevertheless rained out. We did hit a few thrift stores and found treasures in cheap books (me) and a couple stuffed animals for the boys. Then it was back into the pools for fun. Then dinner and back into the pools again. I treated the boys to a little $5 of arcade fun somewhere in there too.
Sunday was a wake up, breakfast, clean up the room and back into the pools type of day. We made a couple stops on the way home, most noteably at "guy mecca" aka CABELA's. Then onward home arriving late about 8:30pm.

Monday we did not have school, but finally having a break from the rain we spent a long, bundled up 4.5 hours at the park meeting friends from school... both by arrangement and by coincidence.

It's been a busy few days. But it's beautiful outside, almost like spring, especially when I saw the hydreangea starting it's new sprouts. Hmmmm. Did we skim through this winter without a trace of snow accumulation?

2010-01-07T11:51:00.000-08:00

The first week of the new year...

Caleb was VIP this week at school. What does this mean? He got to be line leader, choose helpers, make the runs to the office and library as needed. He had show and tell, he got to bring snacks. Lastly, he got to invite special guests and introduce them and talk about them and field questions from his classmates. Grammy Dahl and Papa Bill (the non-working local grandparents) were gracious enough to share time with 28 little kindergarteners. They were asked stuff like "what's your favorite cookie/lunch/animal" "what do you do with your grandparent" etc. I learned that Papa Bill and I both like Oatmeal raisin cookies. Grammy shared a very interesting bit of information about when she was in Kindergarten.... in her school the boys and girls did not play together, or even walk down the same hall way/ stairs. That was a bit of a brain warp for the kids. Hard to imagine, especially during their friendship week when they are assigned rotating people to befriend, play with and talk to during recess. MOST boys are asking to be with other boys by the way, but have come to terms that there is a majority (70-80%) of girls in the class and there just might be a time they are teamed up with a girl. ewww yuck.

So after visiting the Caleb's class, there was time to go and visit Jockey's class before it was time to actually take Caleb away from school. So we had nearly 30 minutes to see Jockey in action tearing up the playground and being a little leader. Everyone chased him or did what he did, even if that meant breaking the rules and throwing rocks... we're working on that. Good leaders have to set an example. Then it was off to chapel and a lengthy discussion about what color the robes of the angels might have been wearing when they visited the shepards in the fields the night Christ was born. There were many votes for light blue and light green, several other colors, and a surprisingly decided vote for Black... huh? We we ended with a quick prayer of repeating after the pastor, true to Lutheran form, and we were off to get Caleb. Papa Bill went to get burgers while we returned to the house. After a surprisingly in-our-seats lunch, the boys introduced Papa Bill to the Wii and got him to play bowling with him.

It was a great day of crisp sunny weather where we all enjoyed the outdoors. The boys lucked out with outside recess, we took Papa Bill to see the house we are thinking about if we actually sold this one, and then I took the boys to the park... I mean it was sunny after all. A non-rainy day should be used for maximum enjoyment. And we did just that.

No idea what our weekend plans are, but there is Sparks tonight. Cubbies has been cancelled for the night and might have to be for the rest of the year due to lack of leaders... I pray not. So that's the scoop.

Have a great rest of the week.

2010-01-02T19:00:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

We rang in the new year in a quiet sort of way. Sleeping or working on projects. Might as well start the new year true to personality.

We have taken down our tree now. It really was a great tree this year. I hope we have success next year at picking out another nice one. Everyone helped take it down. The boys especially found joy in helping, just as much as putting it up really.

The boys are now healthy (at least mostly). Jockey attended a birthday party today. It was at the fire station. It was actually a really great birthday party. They gave us a tour, let us ride in a fire truck, let the kids spray a hose that they had taken off the truck and hooked up, gave them goody bags and hats... it was really neat. Jockey has already asked if he could do this for his birthday; so don't be surprised if it happens.

School is just around the corner. I'm not sure I'm ready for it all to start back up again. But there's no choice for any of us. But it helps to have something to look forward to and that is a vacation to California in mid-February. Sun, warm... nice.

So that's our update. A slow and steady week and new year with the knowledge that life's going to kick into high gear any moment.
Hope you're having a great start to a new year too.

2009-12-26T12:37:00.000-08:00

We got an unexpected visit of a fever upon Jockey last night. About 12:45 AM he was using the restroom and coughed and sounded like he threw up. I went to check on him and he was burning up. The highest last night was 103.6. I iced him, cold washclothed him, Tylenol, Ibrophened and prayed. He was down to 101.9 at 6 Am when we finally went to sleep. He's spiked back up to 103 mid-morning before more medication was put into him. But he's handling it well. I was wondering for a moment if I was going to have to hold him down in a cold bath, but we made it through the night. He has a very very bad cough, but thanks to our Rite Aid deals in August, I have all the sore throat meds he could need. So despite the beautiful sunny crisp day, we are going to stick close to home. Where did he pick this up... probably the Children's Museum one week ago. He'll make it through. I just pray the rest of the family doesn't follow in his footsteps on this.
Thanks to every one for their generosity to our family this Christmas and your prayers for Jockey getting well.

2009-12-25T20:57:00.000-08:00

Our Christmas...

In SHORT, because We are all tired, and I'm beyond exhausted...So more pictures than words. The boys were blessed almost into the area of indulgence. But they are grateful and playing with everything in turn with sheer joy. The family was blessed with working/matching phones! Several great scrapbooking items/tool came my way, and Mike is enjoying his coffeemaker even as I type. And it appears that the handmade gifts were received with pleasure over... reluctance.

Crisp sunny day, very different than last year's foot of snow, but just as enjoyable. Casual and family, nothing better.

On to pictures. In reverse order of the day:

Dinner at Kristina, Ryan, and Cousin Tessa's.

Hugs after a fun morning.

Hugs and presents in the morning:

Stockings before breakfast:

That's our Christmas in a Photo-nutshell. On to sleeping and maybe a bit of compulsory tidying.

Merry Christmas.

2009-12-25T02:30:00.001-08:00

It's CHRISTMAS!!!

Merry Christmas and Happy Birthday Jesus.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GQyXWllz5Ao

Hope you and your families have a great day of joy and fun.

2009-12-22T09:11:00.000-08:00

Christmas is almost here!

This is such an enchanting time of the year. The general cheer is brought on by the meaning of the year, the lights, the beautiful decorations.

A week ago we attended Jockey's Christmas Program. Here is a picture of him proudly dressed in his "handsome clothes" as he's called them. Of course, he had to be unique for the program, and there is just one word to describe his performance: spinning. You can imagine what he did by himself two steps to the right of everyone else.

The boys like having the Christmas Vacation. Staying up a little later, sleeping in a bit too. We've done some fun things too. Last Friday we took them to the Children's museum in Everett. They love to run around and trying everything, although they do have their favorites. On Saturday, we bundled up and went to Leavenworth for the city lighting, songs and various munchies (chesnuts, cider, cocoa, brats, etc.) This year the kids were all about the sledding. They were blessed with receiving a sled from Papa Dahl and this year they just zoomed down the hill. They were a little better about watching out for others and now getting plowed into. Jockey still took a couple hits, and was almost done with the whole business until I told him I'd slide down with him. Finally he did say that he wanted to go look at stuff and eat things. It was surprising that he was so very interested in looking at all the things in the stores. It didn't matter if it was a soap store, a painting store, or what. He just wanted to look at everything. Of course, he would frequently land on the stuffed animals. Cats particularly. He has a fixation. Caleb tolerated the food and a couple stores, but really it was all about the sledding and he couldn't wait to get back to it.

So we've spent a couple days back at the house getting things done in preparation for the big

day(s). Projects, cleaning, laundry, walking around the neighborhood looking at lights etc.

The best thing is that I discovered free online Christmas shows/movies. The boys come into the office and choose something and sit with me as I work on projects. Before Christmas didn't seep into the office and I felt like I was missing the season while working so hard for it. That's changed now, the Christmas spirit and cheer has filled the office as we've watch the old favorites and new fun shows with the boys. The boys like choosing a show whenever they want rather than waiting for the tv programming to finally put it on, and I like them with me so I can keep an eye on them while getting things done! Still more work to do, and now it doesn't feel like such a dry task but a near budding Christmas tradition for us.

So the rest of the week: Nothing for the boys and they like it. I work briefly Wednesday and Thursday. Christmas Eve service on Thursday, with a small dinner afterwards at our house. Christmas morning mayhem of breakfast and gifts at our house with Papa & Grammy and Papa Bill and Grandma Judy. Then Christmas dinner with the Surfaces and others. And maybe, like last year, we'll visit Candy Cane lane on our way home from West Seattle. After than, who knows. Rest maybe, just maybe!

Merry Christmas.

2009-12-21T14:19:00.001-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DKk9rv2hUfA

A christmas favorite.

2009-12-21T09:48:00.000-08:00

Christmas happens for everyone around the world.

See how they decorate/celebrate:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jEdy4Cc5m5s

Thanks for looking.

2009-12-20T21:26:00.000-08:00

Another Christmas song with a bit more depth than a santa song...

To the loved ones we've lost or who are just away.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vvWTJ44Am4g&feature=related

2009-12-16T12:17:00.001-08:00

Each Christmas, the boys are older, we've all lived a little longer, experienced a bit more of life, view things a little big different or deepr. Being a mom has changed the scape of what christmas looks like. This song gets me every time as a mom.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MpkI7GW2V34

2009-12-14T09:18:00.000-08:00

Christmas blessings...

1- Despite Jockey microwaving a pancake for 6 minutes causing a microwave fire of 3-4" flames inside the microwave and smoke filling our main level.... No damage, just icky smell. The microwave is not going to come all the way clean, but it does still work. We are all safe.

2- I just got notice yesterday that the boys are now on the WA state medical coupon system!!! We were hoping for their highest tier qualification, but they gave us the mid-tier and therefore even cheaper premiums per month. We just saved 89% per month on the boys medical! Which is such a blessing because we had to cancel their medical due to strangling costs.

I'm a crazy one, hoping for snow this winter, so we are on Snow watch at our house. Should be a great Christmas season. Caleb says that Christmas is his favorite day of winter.

Jockey had a christmas program this Sunday, he still went up and sang despite having said "mommy, please don't sign me up for that". He wore his "handsome" clothes, a suit thing. He loves it, and has worn it several days in a row since Grammy got it for him.

On our way to school today I was giving Caleb warnings about the slippery icy ground, that even if he doesn't see it, it is still there. Jockey promptly asked if ice had super powers like a super hero because it was invisible.

Love to say more, but I have stuff to do.

2009-12-12T13:18:00.001-08:00

Enjoy...

http://www.nightingalecreations.com/MerryChristmas2009.html

Merry Christmas

2009-12-09T19:06:00.000-08:00

Christmas....

Why do we have to buy new??? Just a thought.

The boys are going to love their beanie babies, regardless of whether they are used or not.

2009-12-03T20:38:00.000-08:00

We're back safe from California.

On the plane Caleb said he missed Grammy Bishop. And every time they are down there, they say they don't want to leave and want to stay forever.
They were kept pretty busy in the sun and parks, the McDonalds, and the new toys at the house.

We hit the ground running with school, work, keeping the house picked up, Awana, and projects today. And it just keeps going and going. We might take a breath on Monday or Tuesday!

The Christmas season is upon us fast, and there is much prep to do.

We're still praying for the perfect buyers, the perfect house, the greatest interest rate, etc,etc. Feel free to pray too.

Thanks and good night.

2009-12-01T10:57:00.001-08:00

California update.

In the crisp and beautiful days we have taken the boys to the parks.
The boys have hot tubbed. They've played with new toys (legos, rc car, star wars learning laptop, bendaroos, color wonder painting set.) Grandpa Bishop built/set up a computer just for them to use and play their games on (a bit hit.) They've worn themselves out twice at McDonalds, to the point they asked to go home and nap! Grandma took us to the movie "planet 51" and it was really cute and good for a few grow-up laughs too.

On today's agenda , the Sacramento Railroad museum with Papa Bishop.

We've made Grandma Bishop's Christmas present, and the boys helped with that. They were really excited to be a part of the christmas making process.

Santa (aka firemen) drove around the neighborhoods last night and in a blaze of lights, wished everyone a merry christmas while giving out candy canes. The first truck gives the announcement and you have two minutes to rush outside. Grandpa heard that and got us rushing out. We all made it, but Caleb was sans shoes and Jockey sans jacket. But we at least made it.

We had out Thanksgiving feast Sunday afternoon and saw Mr. Phinas and Great Grandma Dyer, as well as a friend named Julie and her grandson Gregory. He, a big 9 year old, captured the attention of Jockey and Caleb for the afternoon. They built things with legos, build forts, watch a pig movie etc etc. They were really happy to have a friend visit them.

Tomorrow we return to Washington late in the evening. (9pm-ish) So we will probably have time to squeeze in some other activity tomorrow too. We'll see.

Jockey has impressed Grandma with his learning. Caleb can read but he's being shy in front of Grandma when it comes to this, but not when wrestling or in eating. Both of the boys decided that their previous shirts were no longer adequate, and with Grandma, they went through her laundry in search of new "yummy" "fluffies (aka shirts)". So now they are both running around/sleeping with the shirts of Grandma Bishop. Of course, last night the request was to tie them on their heads and add eye patches so that they could be Ninja Pirates. Jockey has also lived up to his reputation of wanting to be "handsome" and saying the word "perfect" often. Caleb has cuddled down with them in front of shows too. Caleb and Grandma have had some in depth conversations where Caleb's "been thinking and....". Funny.

So that's what's been up in sunny bright California with the "another grammy" and "another papa" in Jockey's words. More when we return.

2009-11-27T18:36:00.000-08:00

We have arrived safely in California.

Although, about 13 hours later than we thought. Apparently they cancelled the flight in early October and just sent an email which I never got.... we found out last night in the airport. Jockey bawled that he didn't get to go to California to see "another grammy". I convinced him we'd really get to go. Lynda drove back and picked us up and we returned to have a bite to eat with Mike and Peter.
Then it was home to bed and early to rise. Had to make the most of "Black Friday". We were at Fred Meyer just after 5AM (with the other insane people). We got some really good deals and were out of the store in 20 minutes. The boys were kept busy and didn't see anything either. We struck out at Walmart... in fact, we didn't even get in the door since it was too early, too dark and too cold to wait in the line that stretched around the outside of the building. Target, we got in the door, but none of the prices were better save on two items, but even those weren't worth waiting in the hour long line just to pay. On the bright side, we browsed Petsmart and had just a fun time looking at animals. (Jockey's idea.)
We were to the airport with plenty of time, rode the "train" for a few loops and the rest was smooth. We are here now and the boys are already settled in and at home using the hallway as a running track, using the special computer Papa Bishop set up, and playing with their belated birthday gifts. Plans for the trip... the railroad museum, Chuck E. Cheese and McDonalds with Papa.
So that's the first update from California.

2009-11-24T19:52:00.000-08:00

What would Jesus do????

A harmless question until tonight at dinner.

An incident occurred, regarding farting into the oven. The boys, being boys, thinks this is hilarious. Mommy, being mommy, does not think this is appropriate behavior and thinks we should discuss rudeness. I tried to introduce the guideline "What would Jesus do" as a standard for appropriate action. Did you ever think that you would have to say: "Do you think Jesus would fart into the oven?" Somethings you just can't say with a straight face, even when trying to teach a serious lesson.

2009-11-24T13:17:00.000-08:00

It's getting to be that time of year.
"Season of prohibition" on buying things for yourself (or others, if it isn't going to keep until Christmas.) It was a rule growing up, buy nothing between Thanksgiving and Christmas; one year we even waited until after Christmas clearance sales to get our Christmas gifts.
However, today I was at a crossroads. Jockey and I were in the store finishing grocery shopping. He requested to visit the toys, and I said we were just looking... in fact, only looking for brother. So he looked and looked and pointed and "I want this" and "Buy me that please". He was turned away with "I'll think about it", I'll talk to Dad about it, "I don't think so", you won't use that, too many small pieces. etc. EXCEPT for one toy. Of all the games, action figures, hot wheels etc, it was a stuff (beanie babie-esque) cat. A little gray and white striped off-brand cat. I told him it was not on sale, too much, wouldn't be fair if brother didn't get one, way way too much if brother was to get one too. 10 minutes to get him out of the department after "price scanning" it twice to show him the cost. He bawled from one side of the store to the other as if I had cut off his arm. That's all he wants, nothing for Christmas. I'm hurting his heart he says. None of his other toys at home are cute now. He doesn't want to live near me when he grows up now. By now I'm feeling like the worst mother, but a decent budget hold-out. ($7 each, too much for stuffed cats!) I call Mike to be reaffirmed that I'm not cruel and unusual.
In the end, after brilliant parallel parking and a visit to St. Vincent de Paul, and negotiation there.... two stuffed cats (one IS a beanie baby), 2 mini-beanie baby bears, 1 mini-beanie baby dino, and a stashed away beanie baby (WITH TAGS) for Christmas.... $1.63 with tax. 1 christmas gift, 2 happy boys, totally affordable, and a relieved mommy in a pear tree. Jockey said in the car, "Mommy, you made my heart happy". I did have to explain to him that waiting and seeing if Mommy can find a way sometime gets better/more than the thing he cries over right NOW NOW NOW about. He understood. Lesson hopefully learned, even if I was manipulated for $1.63.
A rough but successful mom-ing day.
After last week's MOPS speaker, I'm trying to be more "intentional" in my parenting. Finding what works/lights up my child in their minds and hearts and develope that; working on first time obedience (starting to see minor improvement already, although the frequency of "consequences" has increased). We were encouraged to ask "What did you want from your Mother?" (and I've tried to include father, and want Mike to ask both questions of himself to work from that perspective.) I decided that I would ask the boys that question. Caleb understood a little better (or maybe Jockey does understand, and I don't want to understand his answer.) Caleb said he wants me to take him to the park more and sit with him more, and got to the Children's museum more. OK, Can do. JOCKEY, on the other hand... When I said what do you want out of mommy more, what more do you want from Mommy? Answer: A baby, a baby brother. I'm just closing my eyes and shaking my head. This from the boy who said he wanted to hold his baby brother by the foot/leg upside down so that it won't bite him like the rabbits!

Ok, so that's todays points of interest. Hope it was worth a chuckle.

2009-11-23T15:39:00.000-08:00

We made it through last week. All the homework got completed, craft projects were don, school attended, MOPS attended, etc etc.

Now on to this week. Just 2 full days of "normal" until Thanksgiving craziness of packing, flying, driving, eating, Mike' working and whatever else. The boys and I fly out at 7:55 pm from Seatac. They might snag a swim at the club before we head to the airport, but other than that... I think we are going to chill at the house, pack the clothes, and eat McDonalds. I might even slurge for something that is NOT on the dollar menu to make it a "Big" meal that Thanksgiving is expected to be. And maybe a toy for the plane ride will be extra distracting from the 2 hours sitting in one plane seat without moving and (please, God) quiet! We will return Wednesday of next week, just in time to got to work and school the next day! Then MOPS and school on Friday. Christmas Bazaar on Saturday, Christmas Tree cutting on Sunday... whew, anyone exhausted yet.

Jockey is trying to learn to write his name. He's trying hard. He has J-O and E-Y. So he is a JOEY. He is suffering from an identity crisis. Joshua, Josh, Jockey, JOEY. How is he ever going to learn to write his name when he has so many! Something that he already needed to work on based on the conference with his teacher. He also has a small class party on Wednesday celebrating Thanksgiving.

Caleb had a "Celebration of Learning" today. (Does that seem Hyper (as in over the top) PC to anyone else?) I made it back from work in time to see him mumble words in front of all the parents. He really doesn't like singing in front of people. I'm wondering if I should even bother with the "around the world" (another PC terminology) December concert. He mumbled last year, and will probably do so again. I don't know whether we should go... I guess that decision is still to come. But Caleb was very happy to have someone come on his behalf.

So that's the update for now. Have a good Thanksgiving.

2009-11-10T08:59:00.001-08:00

And a new week begins....

We've started off strong this week.
Caleb's looking over a new-to-him LEGO magazine, and my hope is that he finds he really wants to know what is being written about the LEGOs. One of his chief complaints about school is that they teach boring things... "Who cares about the rat with a pack?!" He seemed to prize the magazine and so my hope is high right now. Unfortunately, that means this afternoon I will be having to read a LEGO magazine. But that's what moms do I suppose.

Jockey is doing well at school. A little girl named Carlee really likes him, and he's indulgent. He lets her chase him. In a dog pack it's the leader who is always chased, a leader never chases. I wonder if the same is true in children?

We toured another house last week. Mike's in love. I'm reserving emotion so that I don't feel the crash of disappointment if it doesn't work out. It would have to be a series of miracles and fulfilled "Ifs" to get it... fortunately, we know and talk with the Master of Miracles, God. It would be a dream because of the size of land and square footage, and neighborhood atmosphere, and schools (basically our choice) and bus service right at the corner of the lot I think. The boys LOVE the big trees, and it comes with a tinker toys style hardy swing set. It's decorated in 1990's... mauves, purples, a poster -style picture in a set of 3 metal tubed frames (found at any value village) would fit in PERFECTLY with this house. But nothing is broken or unsafe! It's all just comes down to personal preference, which means we change it when we can afford it, use it until then. It has 4 big bedrooms, plus a large bonus upstairs, plus an "alcove/library" with built in shelves and a cushionless window set that look out over the entire backyard. It has a goat/loafing shed plumbed with water, perfect to house the rabbits or any future animals we need to breed to eat. The lot is 2.65 acres, house is 3078 sqft, with a 3 car garage. Plenty of room to plant the fruit I want, and already comes with a producing apple tree and 4 plum trees. Two downsides. 1) the taxes on 2.65 acres is obviously higher than our .12 lot; meaning we'd have to look into negotiating with the county (based on the sale price) a lower assessed value. and 2) on the back half of the lot is powerlines; not great for resale...however, at the price we are looking at, we would NEVER lose money, in fact, we'd do very well for ourselves, so that is a moot point for us. Especially since we are thinking we'll be in this house until retirement (barring disasters). So right now we are praying that we will have clear guidance for or against this house. And we are waiting on getting more information from the listing agent.
By the way, the last house I mentioned, the "treehouse", we prayed about and it was a clear no.... and I'm grateful in the end because it really was a lot to bite off and try to fix. Would have been worth it in value, but probably more headache than we should take on. The answer to prayers sometimes is no, and still is a good thing.

The rest of the week we'll just plug along on laundry, work, homework, Awana, finding something to do on Veteran's day, and I'm probably going to go help a MOPS mom with some things at her house. No big plans otherwise.

More later as it occurs.

2009-11-02T08:19:00.000-08:00

November Already!

Fall is flying by. The boys and I experimented with dipping the beautifully colored leaves in wax to preserve them. Jockey was way more interested than Caleb. And it turned out well, the ones that were dipped in barely melted wax rather than really hot wax. I think they has just as much fun choosing leaves as doing something with them.

They are all still healthy. Me, my chest still feels like I've run a mile and hurts, and I have a deep cough. But I'm getting better.

We went to the Fall carnival at our church on Friday night for a little fun. We were there almost 2 hours. Caleb ran into his buddy Blake and they ran around with each other a bit. They both had a really good time and found success in the games that were available to play. It was fortunate that they were both in similar skill levels because then I could keep them together in each room rather than have to split them up or take turns on who gets to do things they like. The bouncy houses were of course huge fun. We ran into Emily and Brittany and Brian. Emily was just a bit too small for the bouncy houses, so I guess we'll have to make a point of inviting her over next summer for a bit of fun in our bouncy house.

Saturday we avoided the doorbell ringers by going to Maltby Assembly's Trunk-or-treat (aka, games in the back of trunks outside fun carnival). It was alot of fun. Trunks were set up as Nerf shooting galleries, fishing, hockey, shuffle board, ring toss, pin drop. The hit was a horse trailer converted to a hay maze. The boys spent over 30 minutes going in again and again. They also had a fire truck to go in and a cake walk. It was alot of fun, if a bit wet at times and cold. (not great for my cough, but they had so much fun). We ran into the boys "idol" of Wyatt and they followed him around a bit. It was a good evening and we got home late enough to only have one person to turn away from the door.

Last Thursday, Caleb had a Farm party. Everyone dressed as people or animals found on the farm. Caleb decided that he would be a cowboy. (ok.) He was very insistent that a cowboy had a brown vest with a star on it and of course a hat. So not owning this sort of outfit, he and I headed to the St. Vincents thrift store. I felt like a good mom that day when I turned a $2 girls brown shirt into a boy's cowboy vest through a little turning inside out, snipping of the arms and front, adding buttons and a star from my scrapbook stash. He was happy to be involved in the decision process and the fitting and star position deciding. He wore the outfit for 3 days!

We had conferences last week.
Caleb: Really settling in well. The first part of the year was an adjustment, but now he's in a groove. (I'm wondering if that coincided with the restriction on milk and sodium benzoate?) He's got a couple buddies he plays with, there are a lot of girls in the class though. He is "on grade" with everything, every cateogory. He is a mid to almost higher level in the reading. (WOW, great.) He is decent on number identification, but could use a little work. He is doing ok on drawing, but needs to be able to TRY to write what the pictures show. And Caleb show interest in math. That's Caleb's conference in a nutshell.

Jockey: Surprisingly good at cutting. Can identify 75% of his letters. 50% of his shapes. Plays well, talks well. Still a bit wiggly, but has certainly calmed down from last year. I suppose a class size of 5 (over last years 17) helps. He needs to get some crayon time and draw himself, maybe with hair or something more than sticks. Also, his first response is "I don't know how" or "I don't know/can't, I never learned that". He does it at home, it's a confidence thing because most of the time he can suceed in some degree if he tries. So getting him to try without doubting is a goal for us. And he is learning some sight words which is awesome and above grade for his preschool.

Now it's back into the routine of the week. Work, school etc. No parties, no "no school" days, no long school days, no conferences... Nice. I like a clean calendar. So back at it.

p.s. Mike is back from hunting. No Elk, just a wild hare which was apparently good eating especially since it loaned a break from the chili in the morning, noon and evening pattern. A nice elk-less guys camping weekend.