tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6405695984439155072024-03-05T23:44:27.797-06:00Mommy Daze"Make it your ambition to live a quiet and simple life" 1Thess.4:11Holliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05045545027781003312noreply@blogger.comBlogger285125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640569598443915507.post-4208076069846180872014-05-31T22:45:00.003-05:002014-05-31T22:45:50.800-05:00A new addition to the farm<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Her name is Alli.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And we are having SO much fun with her!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh034v3THx1sNc5PHq5ttASqrlw-g8SfwSnbt9UDGnEZyz8_HxUaJ8jIb8oPJ_mMthROiKEGDtcK8pIazq33QH8RjEDBogiF3bOpkrAUz9SykfpeTKq01yzSeP7JLkYYd6Gw_DEVNlMMQ4M/s1600/DSC_6471.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh034v3THx1sNc5PHq5ttASqrlw-g8SfwSnbt9UDGnEZyz8_HxUaJ8jIb8oPJ_mMthROiKEGDtcK8pIazq33QH8RjEDBogiF3bOpkrAUz9SykfpeTKq01yzSeP7JLkYYd6Gw_DEVNlMMQ4M/s1600/DSC_6471.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRd7oONJu0W7QifR7KQ-VR77VWR1O69QfgFqg8zggWcRN8qQS9dl_8-6HYrbZlREtnn51h1wPslmGFRNxj5fzxq6tqHp18W8iqUC4g738fy6fQ7xLeooFfbk70Onr-czjKXjXehiWuTE6n/s1600/DSC_6504.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRd7oONJu0W7QifR7KQ-VR77VWR1O69QfgFqg8zggWcRN8qQS9dl_8-6HYrbZlREtnn51h1wPslmGFRNxj5fzxq6tqHp18W8iqUC4g738fy6fQ7xLeooFfbk70Onr-czjKXjXehiWuTE6n/s1600/DSC_6504.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Langston summed up our new addition like this:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"We are just like REAL farmers now! Except for the farm part."</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I couldn't have said it better myself.</div>
Holliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05045545027781003312noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640569598443915507.post-10853251913654310852014-03-27T17:27:00.001-05:002014-03-27T17:27:32.721-05:00Homeschooling with a wee one, again<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But just for a day.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I know what you were thinking.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMi4h6EHmFlfbry6jjSuS4y_dYnYU8fxZJ6HVv4uQaCzh9nz2KYee7cQjXgA7n1hXbJnTLxDbvWSGfemNQS7cMns4GOVMl-y8f8K9YdzX5r7VamD_F1pR1qiuP5rgxVDSi02OSO4xRNKPE/s1600/DSC_6304.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMi4h6EHmFlfbry6jjSuS4y_dYnYU8fxZJ6HVv4uQaCzh9nz2KYee7cQjXgA7n1hXbJnTLxDbvWSGfemNQS7cMns4GOVMl-y8f8K9YdzX5r7VamD_F1pR1qiuP5rgxVDSi02OSO4xRNKPE/s1600/DSC_6304.JPG" height="263" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
We had a guest visit our all-boys' school yesterday and it was a ton of fun.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Our table work was completed on the floor in the midst of Little People-</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and I had a good time of remembering when this was normal for us.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks, baby James, for a fun day!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We hope you come back soon.</div>
Holliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05045545027781003312noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640569598443915507.post-4211637760503265302014-03-21T17:14:00.002-05:002014-03-22T19:25:11.792-05:00Spring Flowers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The first day of Spring was met with great shouts of joy and eager anticipation for planting.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Gardening season can begin at any time now.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It can stop freezing at night, I would be okay with that. Any time. Now.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Please.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Pu-leeeeez.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Pretty Please.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Yesterday I was met at our front door with signs of Spring blooming in our front planter.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My dear sons obviously have a green thumb - look at this large flower in full bloom in the planter.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm sure I didn't plant this one.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I believe this flower goes by its Latin name, </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<em><span style="font-size: large;">Machinus gunnas officianalis</span></em></div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm just glad to see something growing outside.</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<em></em> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdY7adBVe_Y41GUm7WZ8tXE6BIHkZJfUtBSpCLDIxzcMEGXHaTbOFFFSQAueACQWCngQM_LxxRD7K_LpAcffHM5srzTd-8AGdB74qQIdVL8WZrVUeDR-4Utdj2NY9rZJa2uzNA5ut0oHjK/s1600/DSC_6299.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdY7adBVe_Y41GUm7WZ8tXE6BIHkZJfUtBSpCLDIxzcMEGXHaTbOFFFSQAueACQWCngQM_LxxRD7K_LpAcffHM5srzTd-8AGdB74qQIdVL8WZrVUeDR-4Utdj2NY9rZJa2uzNA5ut0oHjK/s1600/DSC_6299.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
The plants in the greenhouse seem to be happy, happy, happy.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I can hardly wait to put them in the ground. Isn't this Johnny-jump up cheerful? </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjam-i4JsyI8JWviDwVu_zPmMoBouveOFRG-Ib4cB1UntDRzWQ3PCarNtcat-82zJpoDemP_nz_EZx1yIyMA9KpUmQTPCyzL5oj-hgKGgoF1iQ538BTqeDUb7WtKN4ToxHSBq6c53yg5QN2/s1600/DSC_6303.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjam-i4JsyI8JWviDwVu_zPmMoBouveOFRG-Ib4cB1UntDRzWQ3PCarNtcat-82zJpoDemP_nz_EZx1yIyMA9KpUmQTPCyzL5oj-hgKGgoF1iQ538BTqeDUb7WtKN4ToxHSBq6c53yg5QN2/s1600/DSC_6303.JPG" height="320" width="211" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Out of sheer curiosity, or boredom, I made a head count of the seedlings growing and taking over our home. We only have 1,080 baby plants growing in our dining room, great room, guest room and greenhouse these days. And I still want to plant more!</div>
<br />Holliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05045545027781003312noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640569598443915507.post-79988635070100662192014-03-14T13:29:00.002-05:002014-03-14T13:29:56.038-05:00Quietness<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
All is quiet in and around the house this lunch hour.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Moms of boys know that when you can't hear your sons you must find out what they are up to.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<em>Immediately.</em></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The quiet was peaceful for about 4-seconds, then I went running to the windows to see if I could spot the boys and see what they were up to.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Way out yonder, in a part of our neighbor's property we longingly call the 'back 40', I spotted them.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Shirts off.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Shovels and dirt flying.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Digging like mad on property not owned by us.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWDPxDTMme1BGzBPvLuxQaYxD1PrrhR-lRfTPyVAjjP9tdhIGHBvGqnmaGDZSTPHPxlELAnZMJZGNIbCfPUNO-iuBVYdby1ykYFoaZWIgQtRruiB_H9dM1qxx38M6iNs0WIZP7j-2-TAPq/s1600/6291+crop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWDPxDTMme1BGzBPvLuxQaYxD1PrrhR-lRfTPyVAjjP9tdhIGHBvGqnmaGDZSTPHPxlELAnZMJZGNIbCfPUNO-iuBVYdby1ykYFoaZWIgQtRruiB_H9dM1qxx38M6iNs0WIZP7j-2-TAPq/s1600/6291+crop.jpg" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Well, at least they don't look like they are getting into trouble or hurting themselves or each other. I'm not sure if this counts as destroying someone else's property or if that is a crime punishable by law. Since they are relatively safe and filling up on some early Spring Vitamin D I'm going to go enjoy the quietness.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOAoqCrPIuZkJi2R8GA1TzM5Qjq2cJmZuY0D2uBUhXLOGa4j_iAYP4XCmfclPgV7CO4HOGtdpjeF1cuws20QiXgsQrUizWdCZa-c9L0IGbpX9mTgl2CEBSSumyo8lSqVjtpJAmPV-CiKlx/s1600/6293+crop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOAoqCrPIuZkJi2R8GA1TzM5Qjq2cJmZuY0D2uBUhXLOGa4j_iAYP4XCmfclPgV7CO4HOGtdpjeF1cuws20QiXgsQrUizWdCZa-c9L0IGbpX9mTgl2CEBSSumyo8lSqVjtpJAmPV-CiKlx/s1600/6293+crop.jpg" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Actually, I'm going to go check on them again because they are probably going to try and bury a little brother. I know what registers as 'fun' for this crew.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So much for that hot cup of tea I was going to enjoy by myself.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Boys!!</div>
Holliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05045545027781003312noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640569598443915507.post-251300533156000912014-03-06T12:44:00.000-06:002014-03-06T12:44:40.646-06:00Tidbits from the past few weeks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here's a sampling of randomness from some ordinary moments around the home the past few weeks.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A good friend of ours agreed to mentor the boys in painting for four sessions.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I traded her a grow light for it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Guess who got the good part of the deal?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Anna has gone above and beyond what I was even hoping for and my boys have eagerly completed their homework for the next session, even though it's not due for another seven days.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
That's huge.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Yay!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHaVIyyLpWmjPOxCTlN93kqT0ejC7KB74w3Cp-6EEDxZ2uv8PZQD9W5XbZJuBSe6k5NTA2l0sLk_135fUFJVpyd1ZmxQf50IvAhv_4_AaDyZ9DigobHpDBQo15x9FxGtCHV1b9rsHG23Fh/s1600/DSC_6235.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHaVIyyLpWmjPOxCTlN93kqT0ejC7KB74w3Cp-6EEDxZ2uv8PZQD9W5XbZJuBSe6k5NTA2l0sLk_135fUFJVpyd1ZmxQf50IvAhv_4_AaDyZ9DigobHpDBQo15x9FxGtCHV1b9rsHG23Fh/s1600/DSC_6235.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
If you know Anna, you know what love and attention to detail my boys are receiving from her.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
She's wonderful.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5d3bkbThU7Qx80wMcwH988ezytoltMpLU1OTFYyHPHgD-SSg6gAYVb_hkv0uLokYMO1aiHpiYXt9kbUf4TB5RxBdf0rNv_CnRDxQZ_xBzWTg-arpJDx15BUEJScp5Ak26NHpOuVh4vU4u/s1600/DSC_6242.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5d3bkbThU7Qx80wMcwH988ezytoltMpLU1OTFYyHPHgD-SSg6gAYVb_hkv0uLokYMO1aiHpiYXt9kbUf4TB5RxBdf0rNv_CnRDxQZ_xBzWTg-arpJDx15BUEJScp5Ak26NHpOuVh4vU4u/s1600/DSC_6242.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
We've been blessed by some amazing works of art at sunset this last week. Whenever I see a sight like this my mind always thinks of how the Heavens declare the glory of the Lord.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Amen.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOrr-NSwccimqHtoAgVFNpcHBYyJ5u3kgwduwFGP4ZLtyKA2kb0lhLBDTpbvHSZJHksx9TmLMFi0zX4eUUvo-C1JB6rL5h8a6j0BFdI1uMCsWozgknFwHBgdpUtY2ZfdFdD2cqdCmQYRaj/s1600/DSC_6245.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOrr-NSwccimqHtoAgVFNpcHBYyJ5u3kgwduwFGP4ZLtyKA2kb0lhLBDTpbvHSZJHksx9TmLMFi0zX4eUUvo-C1JB6rL5h8a6j0BFdI1uMCsWozgknFwHBgdpUtY2ZfdFdD2cqdCmQYRaj/s1600/DSC_6245.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Not only did I manage to give four boys haircuts in the last week but my onions needed a trim, too.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Aren't they unruly? I'm happy to report after their haircut they are standing tall and proud and growing strong again. AND, we have our first recordable harvest to file under 'onions' for the year.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<em><strong></strong></em> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<em><strong>1/20th of a pound</strong></em>.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
When one works so hard to provide their own food every single harvest counts.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We enjoyed minced baby onion tops over our soup last night. Divine.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And I only have 999 and 19/20ths pounds to harvest from our garden to reach my goal of 1000#s!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWagpCRPbQroA7cWiz6NyXRujnJfvn6XxlIcyvPOl_AByv_KoVxlzYVB5w0q4M8Ijdku7eJqEOCDfdg3NLnloLuatmfxed-UaBydBSMuEMTkMA_WyJeRl_6JMEKxfxKSuI4hkc_KdJvliK/s1600/DSC_6257.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWagpCRPbQroA7cWiz6NyXRujnJfvn6XxlIcyvPOl_AByv_KoVxlzYVB5w0q4M8Ijdku7eJqEOCDfdg3NLnloLuatmfxed-UaBydBSMuEMTkMA_WyJeRl_6JMEKxfxKSuI4hkc_KdJvliK/s1600/DSC_6257.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I've been experimenting with sourdough this winter by catching my own starter and feeding him {it?} faithfully. He's taken on a personality of his {its?} own on our counter and is affectionately referred to as Mr. Bubbles. The boys are quite sure I have lost my marbles at this point, but that's okay. It's good to keep them on their toes and wondering what Mom will do next.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmYBHTWincPzgs_ZtDC5rUG04Nqafxwy4blmLHFU5yqSEs0FsgP7RGq6JVQmw8z1TTcofL602g3PT4Lss5hQljDyS7CWhP-8EU4vHgT6l1Aohnu55-Spf0dLa3JUybwJkGF3VQrYqABozX/s1600/DSC_6254.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmYBHTWincPzgs_ZtDC5rUG04Nqafxwy4blmLHFU5yqSEs0FsgP7RGq6JVQmw8z1TTcofL602g3PT4Lss5hQljDyS7CWhP-8EU4vHgT6l1Aohnu55-Spf0dLa3JUybwJkGF3VQrYqABozX/s1600/DSC_6254.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Despite being an extremely busy stay-at-home-homeschooling-homesteading-home-doctoring kind of person, I still have time for a slumber party every now and then. Apparently last night I had a slumber party with Luke Skywalker and Jenga Fett. A little secret here on boys and love languages- if your little man feels you are worthy to sleep with his favorite Lego minifigs that is just like receiving a four page love note from said child. Girls might make a beautiful picture with markers and bubble letters and lots and lots of hearts singing the praises of their mothers...boys will trust you with their most precious Lego pieces and that means the world to them and to me. It was an honor to wake up and see these guys sparring at my feet at 6 o'clock this morning. I truly felt loved!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1hBhAhC9do4qYNEp17MLQEFOIjZIHcunId7n8UsguIuP25Fhbdwy_wuvlP-hkjY13zbpI8jK6yWrjDRfOBGIC-gRLZJq0g6A7_6OvMtKgS_gcUizXrGFian1r1gXmvdKdQC_cgG4pcDI7/s1600/DSC_6259.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1hBhAhC9do4qYNEp17MLQEFOIjZIHcunId7n8UsguIuP25Fhbdwy_wuvlP-hkjY13zbpI8jK6yWrjDRfOBGIC-gRLZJq0g6A7_6OvMtKgS_gcUizXrGFian1r1gXmvdKdQC_cgG4pcDI7/s1600/DSC_6259.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Keeping with the Star Wars theme-- which is at epidemic levels in our home right now and please come soon Spring so we can concentrate on bike crashes and hiking in muddy creeks -- I found some Ewok puppets playing in the onions this morning as well. I was told that our guest room makes the best forest in our home, and it's no wonder because...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrXBjJcipolBUnMs_q-e4xFXBTwXwQGnG1mL3o4b9hzTR395pJg2osN8d7XY24FmM9zUhyC29r6-6PLZxD3Ue5XkGO4vIp1CK_QaayMoWQ5-Tq86026baMgFcst9SET6_kuQKD23xAk3Uw/s1600/DSC_6260.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrXBjJcipolBUnMs_q-e4xFXBTwXwQGnG1mL3o4b9hzTR395pJg2osN8d7XY24FmM9zUhyC29r6-6PLZxD3Ue5XkGO4vIp1CK_QaayMoWQ5-Tq86026baMgFcst9SET6_kuQKD23xAk3Uw/s1600/DSC_6260.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDV9VMvkkhTdXnhMpNnHbn7BBa2G3yvRTYd0Vl87qzfHDhBSF0bcGVfDOKGerBbpmtmVn00ZZznqzFgI-v9W3VkEZdWltClOPZ9Z-7nya1_Cg9KGO2MRmrXqe5mbQ-Nvt15nCleJcb2tzs/s1600/DSC_6262.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDV9VMvkkhTdXnhMpNnHbn7BBa2G3yvRTYd0Vl87qzfHDhBSF0bcGVfDOKGerBbpmtmVn00ZZznqzFgI-v9W3VkEZdWltClOPZ9Z-7nya1_Cg9KGO2MRmrXqe5mbQ-Nvt15nCleJcb2tzs/s1600/DSC_6262.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tarver-made Ewoks for Ry and Langston</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am the proud mother of over 500 seedlings right now.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The air quality in our guest room is amazing.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtywE6aC1n7TKowJxceVzcJTw_PFdhf_CQiQTgL6US4dgwFfpgnO7lWzn-lgegGvHV2qNzxOUwkrNjMmK0Hanr3vvJqCAL63PKiM3j5jiDzO27KHlknQztBD1jayg4VnH4KQdRKVNLGfyl/s1600/DSC_6261.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtywE6aC1n7TKowJxceVzcJTw_PFdhf_CQiQTgL6US4dgwFfpgnO7lWzn-lgegGvHV2qNzxOUwkrNjMmK0Hanr3vvJqCAL63PKiM3j5jiDzO27KHlknQztBD1jayg4VnH4KQdRKVNLGfyl/s1600/DSC_6261.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And with all that typed and saved, I must return to the needs of my family. A few young men need to be read to this afternoon, there is still vacuuming and laundry to finish up. Chicken Noodle soup to start for this evening's meal. Mr. Bubbles to feed and make fresh bread from. A boy who has sheep to tend to at a farm not near enough to our home. And a few plants to water, too.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
By the way, am I the only wondering why I didn't get issued that maid servant at the birth of our first child? I've always wondered about that ...</div>
<br />Holliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05045545027781003312noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640569598443915507.post-72142657202513968952014-03-03T14:59:00.000-06:002014-03-03T14:59:45.592-06:00Conversation from O'dark-thirty<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit_8D_xHGQfgIiAB-aIdxz9mFLIylMiYigXKOkHiD4JuMTzh1wCqjhx-QaAAWcpsdXe65n7MDdCt8MUQaqOPLtK1oUgIlbR4YC4FOnt5wy-yA5_QztjmtGuOc6Jk9Y5bP8s1RRj66YqDwy/s1600/DSC_6066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit_8D_xHGQfgIiAB-aIdxz9mFLIylMiYigXKOkHiD4JuMTzh1wCqjhx-QaAAWcpsdXe65n7MDdCt8MUQaqOPLtK1oUgIlbR4YC4FOnt5wy-yA5_QztjmtGuOc6Jk9Y5bP8s1RRj66YqDwy/s1600/DSC_6066.JPG" height="400" width="263" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From an afternoon at the park, when it used to be warmer in these parts</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We have an early riser in our home - but I am not complaining because it is one-on-one time and I get a special peek at the window in this little heart. Here's a snippet of a conversation that happened this morning, at O'dark-thirty {before the coffee was brewing anyway...}<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><em>"Mom, was I born yet in 2002?"</em></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><em></em></strong> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><em>"No, not yet."</em></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><em></em></strong> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><em>"Was I in your tummy then?"</em></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><em></em></strong> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><em>"No, not even that yet."</em></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><em></em></strong> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><em>"Oh, so I didn't even exist. I was just a requested prayer at that time."</em></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><em></em></strong> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><em>"Yes, love, that's what you were. And now you are answered and I am so thankful for that!"</em></strong></div>
Holliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05045545027781003312noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640569598443915507.post-32937961053444090052014-02-17T20:20:00.000-06:002014-02-18T10:52:02.548-06:00Valentine Date Night<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgESeS4XCxUgBbrQSn5B3PrLO7v6owsi2XyfmmO2zQLx4OGXdhLVAU6YVYN1HRzSu9dZuhld0eHHcR6fgb0smCVILNy-k5fEw3eDIERHeB2IOpz4USg6ZU9ClvH52bRcq3X3fMZJqoc-NLE/s1600/Feickert+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgESeS4XCxUgBbrQSn5B3PrLO7v6owsi2XyfmmO2zQLx4OGXdhLVAU6YVYN1HRzSu9dZuhld0eHHcR6fgb0smCVILNy-k5fEw3eDIERHeB2IOpz4USg6ZU9ClvH52bRcq3X3fMZJqoc-NLE/s1600/Feickert+2.jpg" height="263" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
This.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
*This*</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is what happens when you spend the majority of your waking and sleeping hours in a house full of males.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You forget all about dressing up for date night. Hours and hours of fussing over your hair replaced by an Alpine ski hat. Accessorizing with a mustache. Letting <em>him</em> wear the pink heart glasses. <br />
Selfless, sacrificial and fashionable love, that's how we do things in our marriage.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Bob & Hollie</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Valentine Sweethearts circa 2014</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
First B Valentine Fellowship Party</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A date which will go down in infamy.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
{Thanks for the fun night, love! xo xo xo - Can I have the glasses back now please?}</div>
Holliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05045545027781003312noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640569598443915507.post-58581301977283618662014-02-12T15:04:00.001-06:002014-02-12T15:04:03.740-06:00Season Opener and Numbers From Last Season<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><em>Gardening Season begins in January on our little farm</em></span>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I always think this is the most exciting point of the season - where the garden is full of hopes and dreams and void of insects, hail, drought and the other realities that make gardening such a hard task.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihGV_qFUQyhgu-UeICS3PRmjAFNeayCDu-Q5ULZEsWrQgBSVGV4DXVDg0owEgVuGHw9ycKVHJq2VGZ1rp0bKX856p3kZmXTBF-NnCbE_bJh08Au8nQc9Oc8JUxPoAJQoo_ikags78zkSHs/s1600/DSC_6094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihGV_qFUQyhgu-UeICS3PRmjAFNeayCDu-Q5ULZEsWrQgBSVGV4DXVDg0owEgVuGHw9ycKVHJq2VGZ1rp0bKX856p3kZmXTBF-NnCbE_bJh08Au8nQc9Oc8JUxPoAJQoo_ikags78zkSHs/s1600/DSC_6094.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Johnny Jump-Ups from Seed Savers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Normally, at this point in the season I am so desperate for anything to be growing somewhere that I tend to start too early and plant too much. Thankfully, I am slowly maturing {it takes a while} and am learning the lessons of patience. I'm still trying to figure out how to not over-plant! The little seedlings are just *so cute* when they first poke through the dirt!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I've only planted our 'cool season' seeds thus far, but this weekend it will be time to put the pepper seeds in and we are just a few weeks out for tomatoes and flowers.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
{HOORAY!}</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1r-eIvMbblN5OfCeBgokN17MXWcUz2Q_2mgOfEaySX4nuDwvkaIFDOu1OFdehISh20akchh7S9v_EYu35pGCP_SgwjaXRuYr5TU86vrrS_O359JHvn2QoXXSht6eurPznMVZ3_OKld7Ak/s1600/DSC_6096.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1r-eIvMbblN5OfCeBgokN17MXWcUz2Q_2mgOfEaySX4nuDwvkaIFDOu1OFdehISh20akchh7S9v_EYu35pGCP_SgwjaXRuYr5TU86vrrS_O359JHvn2QoXXSht6eurPznMVZ3_OKld7Ak/s1600/DSC_6096.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ailsa Craig and Red Wethersfield will be our onions this season</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My husband is eternally patient with my zealousness. He always has a little twinkle in his eye when asking how many 'babies' I planted this time. And he's always so kind to not laugh too hard when I tell him maybe we DO have room for 341 tomato plants this year ... maybe? They just start out so small and cute to begin with- they hardly seems like anything cumbersome until May and then I am usually forcing plants on my friends who have anything resembling dirt in their yard.</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqPTXqLLQxs1F-EBLhfg8VRSwNJdT44xdhnY2IM3xmKE6ZeUL-bmPPeBqp6GMOPYswBlgEkukx-om06v1IRf0VB7XIzJz3r6OIIZ2cblDGAbk2ruHAWMmlkcovbGEEqZ3Wb4zPL_pE4x6n/s1600/DSC_6101.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqPTXqLLQxs1F-EBLhfg8VRSwNJdT44xdhnY2IM3xmKE6ZeUL-bmPPeBqp6GMOPYswBlgEkukx-om06v1IRf0VB7XIzJz3r6OIIZ2cblDGAbk2ruHAWMmlkcovbGEEqZ3Wb4zPL_pE4x6n/s1600/DSC_6101.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gruner Krauser Kale<br />
<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We saved a lot of our own seed from our garden last year - which is a wonderful project {and necessary, if I might say so myself!} to do with the boys. Because we did this I was able to try out a few new crops for this coming year and still we have only spent $60 on new seed/supplies for our anticipated gardening needs. I'm anxious to see how celery and fennel do in our garden. Of course, we'll need to till up a bit more of our back yard which means I need to get busy baking some chocolate chip cookies for my most excellent and wonderful tiller operator. {Thank you, Love!}</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I have finally put all the numbers together from our <strong><u>2013 garden and orchard</u></strong> - how blessed we feel to have harvested <strong><u>745.46 pounds</u></strong>!! I'm quietly hoping to break the 1000# mark in 2014 but we never know what the weather will bring or how helpful the work force will be. It seems like we have a ton of help in the garden during raspberry harvest (somehow those raspberries never quite make it to the scale ... :-) )</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Have you started thinking about your garden? I'd love to send you some seed from our 2013 harvest. Leave a comment and a way for me to get in touch with you. The boys and I will go through the comments and send some seed to a lucky commenter {or two!}</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
P.S. Georgia, I already have some Yellow Pear Tomato seeds with your name on them.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><em>'He who works his land will have plenty of bread</em></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><em>but he who follows worthless pursuits will come to poverty.'</em></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><em>Proverbs 12:11</em></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<em><span style="font-size: large;"></span></em> </div>
Holliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05045545027781003312noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640569598443915507.post-43541278613526565972014-02-03T12:31:00.001-06:002014-02-03T12:31:41.446-06:00Fair Weather {Nebraska Football} Fans<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi70pVqKpPMw12urYpiFOngi6qSDOJFRau3p9EJ5h7PbHxzpUcvOAn7nWRCq7Y8u5QWLYqLbr7V7zDwBGLuCR7PZ9GB0oh-Fmm690eEQKNJsQLUysukUXl-efNW43F_Gcc43qU9KqSeFwl1/s1600/DSC_6086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi70pVqKpPMw12urYpiFOngi6qSDOJFRau3p9EJ5h7PbHxzpUcvOAn7nWRCq7Y8u5QWLYqLbr7V7zDwBGLuCR7PZ9GB0oh-Fmm690eEQKNJsQLUysukUXl-efNW43F_Gcc43qU9KqSeFwl1/s1600/DSC_6086.JPG" height="263" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yay Seahawks!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
We have a new family tradition of watching football games only when the Seahawks are in the Superbowl. Last night was the second football game we've watched in eight years - since the Hawks played Pittsburgh in '06. It has more to do with the fact that we can't stand to sit still for four hours in front of the t.v. than a reflection of how well {or not} the team is doing. I guess you can still classify us as fair weather fans. It's pretty exciting that the Seahawks have finally WON a Superbowl!<br />
<br />
Yay Hawks!Holliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05045545027781003312noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640569598443915507.post-60217651158156669572014-01-14T14:48:00.000-06:002014-01-14T14:48:17.494-06:00Knowing the difference...{looking for answers}<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;">A question has been consuming me for the last several weeks.<br />
I'm hoping my theologically-minded friends {those grounded in the Word of God} can help give me new food to chew on and pray over.<br />
<br />
How does one know the difference between<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><em><strong> stepping out in faith</strong></em></span> <br />
and <br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><em><strong>waiting on the Lord?</strong></em></span><br />
<strong><em><span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span></em></strong><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdSq4cqqVXxoXT4CDp17snTaZIVLn2OFTCSOYfHX-7vmqiZZXGZHS2AjoERUvCmCC3OOdfyvSyPjtl3QX9TUs1H-_5ftENFkCNZXq_gNnV45jy65MR4XV5rzO_s1MNgQIShMa1O0p-nNyu/s1600/DSC_6035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdSq4cqqVXxoXT4CDp17snTaZIVLn2OFTCSOYfHX-7vmqiZZXGZHS2AjoERUvCmCC3OOdfyvSyPjtl3QX9TUs1H-_5ftENFkCNZXq_gNnV45jy65MR4XV5rzO_s1MNgQIShMa1O0p-nNyu/s400/DSC_6035.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Farm down the road from a possible acreage at sunset</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Something we have been praying about for years has availed itself of becoming a reality.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This <em>something</em> we have been praying about is a vision for our family which we believe the</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Lord has <em><strong>pressed</strong></em> into our hearts.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We've been watching and waiting. For years.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It gets a little muddled in the fact that to jump on this opportunity we would be taking a financial risk in the form of debt. We are crystal clear what the Word says about debt. We have worked very hard, with the help of the Lord, to be free from the entanglement of debt. So, does one continue to wait until the numbers say 'go for it' and we feel as though we wouldn't be infringing on the Lord's provision by not accumulating debt...or does one say 'we've been praying about this for years, the Lord will provide'?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I will tell you there is no peace in moving forward without closing the doors of this home behind us. Who knows if this is our lack of faith or the answer to our prayer?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
If you have wisdom to share we'd sure be grateful to hear it. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
For now I'm back to painting in the hopes of hanging a</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
'For Sale' sign in front of our beloved little farm-in-the-city.</div>
Holliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05045545027781003312noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640569598443915507.post-54464042705599632882014-01-08T12:11:00.002-06:002014-01-08T12:11:35.676-06:00Surprise<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKjaw-tuI9rcJFPBpkFGjL9n5ztNkRkUjcstQmMLMHeeCqa86kXmfRWd1YWdoxxGJ025g6xujVlWlH_k2e4EcGoqYfr1vCQ9WG0lNt8ddwmV95bHQzk8IUY8EuBalBHa4olUPlDwsVBbfQ/s1600/DSC_5988.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKjaw-tuI9rcJFPBpkFGjL9n5ztNkRkUjcstQmMLMHeeCqa86kXmfRWd1YWdoxxGJ025g6xujVlWlH_k2e4EcGoqYfr1vCQ9WG0lNt8ddwmV95bHQzk8IUY8EuBalBHa4olUPlDwsVBbfQ/s1600/DSC_5988.JPG" height="640" width="422" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I got a free lizard with the new table I ordered! </div>
Holliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05045545027781003312noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640569598443915507.post-55460015499847169532013-12-27T15:58:00.000-06:002013-12-27T15:58:19.620-06:00Christmas Tree Campout<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<em>Earlier this week we held the annual 'Christmas Tree Campout'</em></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<em>whereas the boys all camped overnight in the living under the tree and stayed up late playing board games and such.</em></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<em>{And by 'such' I mean things like wrestling, telling scary stories and piling blankets and pillows on top of each other to prove that we really don't need that much oxygen to survive. It was a peaceful night, of sorts.}</em></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD4MqYQ5pCWNyfOw2JP9IM4DFVEAjNBd3pWetMOHrQPyx5wkRawrk1abLk5NdVLxUEqtMy0jUTPabVLYbE5XIOaPAXFD79dH6-FLPebgBfC-ONP7N0jsV_mxuze_eoOyh7P31aOdY-uYdy/s1600/DSC_5793.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD4MqYQ5pCWNyfOw2JP9IM4DFVEAjNBd3pWetMOHrQPyx5wkRawrk1abLk5NdVLxUEqtMy0jUTPabVLYbE5XIOaPAXFD79dH6-FLPebgBfC-ONP7N0jsV_mxuze_eoOyh7P31aOdY-uYdy/s400/DSC_5793.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqqIYoEM2FxAmfpsIkhphFIT_l8aK0IROtTlKpk2RlkfAZidYqFFyCP9rJUVqt_QHCX-Q0u5b5Jg4lSLthRmJ9BL8lt2fZ7Sc42jxfU7AyD9ENvII6TEG8maFQdHLYFNydC5uWoewCkNxr/s1600/DSC_5794.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqqIYoEM2FxAmfpsIkhphFIT_l8aK0IROtTlKpk2RlkfAZidYqFFyCP9rJUVqt_QHCX-Q0u5b5Jg4lSLthRmJ9BL8lt2fZ7Sc42jxfU7AyD9ENvII6TEG8maFQdHLYFNydC5uWoewCkNxr/s400/DSC_5794.JPG" width="263" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<em>In the morning we served a brunch of yummy Gingerbread Waffles topped with fresh cream and Christmas sprinkles, expertly arranged by our resident 5-year old.</em></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikfj-PN9o4anlGxy49mmxURPZmJtp7IKqLiZvMgsK_PCUeQBcSvpVYx7sr1Yz_sbQAV3dU38mfwreXZp0BK2HY6CIXu1pRfZcdvY1y9YTzf7QHIX0LftaZlvxb4WcY7lWIRM5BjVcbLwZj/s1600/DSC_5796.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikfj-PN9o4anlGxy49mmxURPZmJtp7IKqLiZvMgsK_PCUeQBcSvpVYx7sr1Yz_sbQAV3dU38mfwreXZp0BK2HY6CIXu1pRfZcdvY1y9YTzf7QHIX0LftaZlvxb4WcY7lWIRM5BjVcbLwZj/s400/DSC_5796.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Holliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05045545027781003312noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640569598443915507.post-37252344458647806042013-12-16T11:33:00.000-06:002013-12-16T11:33:14.392-06:00Surgery<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE34W8psdTDfsx9hFoOFBU4c8UIO3uDLjHdKhyphenhypheneFpe4x5s-qJv4OSmnsBcz_lIDHrjYUXlQCDwjfnHUqFV-4Y9vDoF4Ow-zzackcKsNMvqiN_A6rQ8T9ftwR5Ck7CQOFUPA7aDUzrXFonH/s1600/DSC_5754.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE34W8psdTDfsx9hFoOFBU4c8UIO3uDLjHdKhyphenhypheneFpe4x5s-qJv4OSmnsBcz_lIDHrjYUXlQCDwjfnHUqFV-4Y9vDoF4Ow-zzackcKsNMvqiN_A6rQ8T9ftwR5Ck7CQOFUPA7aDUzrXFonH/s400/DSC_5754.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thankfully all is well.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It only took two nurses, one Mom and a very strong doctor to remove the lump on the side of his neck.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And a few threats about needing to call Dad and maybe some minor bribing with DVDs from the library and his choice of *anything* for supper. {Dr. recommended chocolate cake, good grief!}</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Now that it is all said and done he is happily enjoying the victory of 'having my bump amputated!' and bragging rights about getting stitches.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
{I'm bragging about wrestling with a bull this morning as that is what it felt like!}</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Enjoying a Star Wars DVD marathon today and Valentino's pizza - <em>no peppers.</em></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<em></em> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<em>And thankful. The doctor didn't seemed concerned at all with what was taken out. So thankful.</em></div>
Holliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05045545027781003312noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640569598443915507.post-72057069258183354402013-11-22T18:51:00.001-06:002013-11-22T18:51:31.980-06:00Introducing ...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Fritz.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Fritz-y.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Fritz-william.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The Fritz-carleton.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Walter's little brother.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My sixth son.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Rabbit killer.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
New farm kitty.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Or just Fritz, for short.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7c8VjWmlz5czdEzV5sCGsc-kJ1469e_81NJHO6tKbAeqjqB1PxNV5dkRfkYQdEcOq_O75MchbEy4qFBSM2GlR_FjOCW3G-ZNvA28id2ncfTjkYYyrMNwRJtZdKhZT0tZgF44_YFR_8fqK/s1600/DSC_5618.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7c8VjWmlz5czdEzV5sCGsc-kJ1469e_81NJHO6tKbAeqjqB1PxNV5dkRfkYQdEcOq_O75MchbEy4qFBSM2GlR_FjOCW3G-ZNvA28id2ncfTjkYYyrMNwRJtZdKhZT0tZgF44_YFR_8fqK/s320/DSC_5618.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSkFOn0dykckSRBjr3QZRRraZWXXegB_UQdqgGisz7AFIze3G0tfyRnbIwN_dKDR7FjRPordrYdMlLrO_AyhDUX76c1xFKQgzFYW5Lf9Yz1HwRLmUvIG8Qe8Pmg6DrtwhfIcm4oCIv5GvF/s1600/DSC_5625.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSkFOn0dykckSRBjr3QZRRraZWXXegB_UQdqgGisz7AFIze3G0tfyRnbIwN_dKDR7FjRPordrYdMlLrO_AyhDUX76c1xFKQgzFYW5Lf9Yz1HwRLmUvIG8Qe8Pmg6DrtwhfIcm4oCIv5GvF/s320/DSC_5625.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
It's so much fun to have a little one around again! It will be even nicer when the weather warms enough for him to live outdoors permanently and guard our garden from the naughty, naughty rabbits.Holliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05045545027781003312noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640569598443915507.post-81012946664496513832013-11-13T21:41:00.000-06:002013-11-13T21:41:26.990-06:00Extreme Cuteness<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Ry-man is pretty much getting away with everything these days since his Mom has a thing for gappy-little-boy-smiles.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thankfully, he is using his special powers for the good of all around him </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
{with exception of his weak Mom}</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Overheard just today, "Hey, Ryland ... go ask Mom if I can have a cookie. She can't say no to you these days."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Brothers.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3bIu-a_lljhaa9GOy8A7x_M6MM201YEsnN8VoYIXldfFhqYBWVw2dCtNx-_yBSnjXvQpdsINn2kB9mHlvScSFowSSYjXBTHIk9isr5RGSLCQYb-T7GuB4-3iVifDmE0q9VJga-xbR0Jqe/s1600/DSC_5345.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3bIu-a_lljhaa9GOy8A7x_M6MM201YEsnN8VoYIXldfFhqYBWVw2dCtNx-_yBSnjXvQpdsINn2kB9mHlvScSFowSSYjXBTHIk9isr5RGSLCQYb-T7GuB4-3iVifDmE0q9VJga-xbR0Jqe/s400/DSC_5345.JPG" width="263" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Also overheard today, though it relates in no way to being front-toothless:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
"Ryland, if we keep practicing surgery on paper people maybe Mom will let us have a real body to practice on."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I don't have a picture to go with this conversation as I was listening to what they were doing on the sly. Imagine hand drawn people on copy paper with diseased organs in need of surgery. Enter 5 and 7-year old boys using scissors and tape as stitches. Then imagine hearing them long for a real body to practice on. Being a Mom is scary at times, folks.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Holliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05045545027781003312noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640569598443915507.post-58831274297969317242013-11-02T09:51:00.000-05:002013-11-02T09:51:40.446-05:00Look Both Ways<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A quick peek out the front windows of our little-farm-in-the-city might reward you with a glimpse of our city-chick, Little Red. She prefers pavement over dirt and grass these days.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Poor Tarver, he's had to herd her numerous times away from the neighbor's front porch to her unexciting little chicken yard.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht2XL-et5ccwDIuCfFkTIoRT8GAplbRZbzDhu892q-xeeRWmrxFCAflU2Rl8MoIG5lKtVGTecoTQi57LtJIvSZ1-0DWjRasmB37BRTBvJfFaEgR0weyc1THcFLUf8qjlVxaQL1Be0ARUUV/s1600/DSC_5277.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht2XL-et5ccwDIuCfFkTIoRT8GAplbRZbzDhu892q-xeeRWmrxFCAflU2Rl8MoIG5lKtVGTecoTQi57LtJIvSZ1-0DWjRasmB37BRTBvJfFaEgR0weyc1THcFLUf8qjlVxaQL1Be0ARUUV/s400/DSC_5277.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv8_kTdn9DRD54P8eXQbmyY3HwqeKwdPueUp1rhFHCsNWIp1B2T0MOs0cdOrNMeWS9mCOEt52CuPWyr5HsnI8ceMqLhUdunE5Oq-G6iM8FN0jmNM81mhsuGse12LEs36TWwBVxaEvZ3hLv/s1600/DSC_5280.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv8_kTdn9DRD54P8eXQbmyY3HwqeKwdPueUp1rhFHCsNWIp1B2T0MOs0cdOrNMeWS9mCOEt52CuPWyr5HsnI8ceMqLhUdunE5Oq-G6iM8FN0jmNM81mhsuGse12LEs36TWwBVxaEvZ3hLv/s400/DSC_5280.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Turning your head to the back windows you breath might be swept away at views such as this.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I keep wondering how we can be so blessed to enjoy this tapestry of Creation colors from the comfort of our own home? And I also wonder why Little Red would want to leave the backyard when this is her view. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjStEYoCElgAtxnE2MSgYPMvhyphenhypheniZbUoNfy8KNLhyphenhyphenHujG7QoEbCjUVRMO3mcX3AJUF2wlKRTSnzn3Fc0x0KvxlwSGgaMSCJ_WPGDxHo8Y6bGhubdbhzwklXS5bOfZ3wsTugAOiiqXPOKClHk/s1600/DSC_5275.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjStEYoCElgAtxnE2MSgYPMvhyphenhypheniZbUoNfy8KNLhyphenhyphenHujG7QoEbCjUVRMO3mcX3AJUF2wlKRTSnzn3Fc0x0KvxlwSGgaMSCJ_WPGDxHo8Y6bGhubdbhzwklXS5bOfZ3wsTugAOiiqXPOKClHk/s400/DSC_5275.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Chickens don't appreciate much, do they?</div>
Holliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05045545027781003312noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640569598443915507.post-28022346935393560412013-11-01T22:06:00.001-05:002013-11-01T22:06:12.132-05:00Brothers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The Fall colors were beckoning for a photo shoot today ...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA2SeU1mZCxfK9DqSarjOICSVT0g_u_db4cXYn5yhXhjbXMk4FOZA6WSwavC60lTuDgXRDAUsoODy91TeseHAoHiu2WVxAuZ6zpzbeh9v62sldruEPbEl2NTZfQrP7govx-ELBrL8nOfgT/s1600/5291+a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA2SeU1mZCxfK9DqSarjOICSVT0g_u_db4cXYn5yhXhjbXMk4FOZA6WSwavC60lTuDgXRDAUsoODy91TeseHAoHiu2WVxAuZ6zpzbeh9v62sldruEPbEl2NTZfQrP7govx-ELBrL8nOfgT/s400/5291+a.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3zKz4wJrlARs3rH3KAppg-DzMKtL4-2xTSb_VN_zx2X5yX-GEwVI3pdO-o82W79pJS4EnYzPKuiHAyydVsUahrh_FchjL_YfrzWrkdq7uFvXjoiZFhGmbUbnlEaHFRZ9cuDBnY-jQw0N3/s1600/5293+a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3zKz4wJrlARs3rH3KAppg-DzMKtL4-2xTSb_VN_zx2X5yX-GEwVI3pdO-o82W79pJS4EnYzPKuiHAyydVsUahrh_FchjL_YfrzWrkdq7uFvXjoiZFhGmbUbnlEaHFRZ9cuDBnY-jQw0N3/s400/5293+a.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Holliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05045545027781003312noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640569598443915507.post-76538619114998808282013-10-21T18:07:00.001-05:002013-10-21T18:07:20.278-05:00Love Notes 101<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My Ry-man.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He's so good to me that my heart almost bursts at times.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I found this love note at my breakfast spot this morning.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiih57U7Ewp-8IUxtc4C-MS6UCVXEvfDENHfbpiVHsxCcgdD9G3Fw_arNQvene8GshRJMz41m0sOfrhLDOYJuGOnKd-xQnf0HIFfnczG6WRd6Zr-uRb7JsaiHiyQQ7YomWK_9z68iGv2Vy0/s1600/DSC_5162.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiih57U7Ewp-8IUxtc4C-MS6UCVXEvfDENHfbpiVHsxCcgdD9G3Fw_arNQvene8GshRJMz41m0sOfrhLDOYJuGOnKd-xQnf0HIFfnczG6WRd6Zr-uRb7JsaiHiyQQ7YomWK_9z68iGv2Vy0/s320/DSC_5162.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<em>Translation: Mom, you do not know when I love you. I would if you were a bear. </em></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's good to know almost unconditional love.</div>
Holliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05045545027781003312noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640569598443915507.post-8275234838184859012013-10-21T10:52:00.002-05:002013-10-21T10:52:44.262-05:00Trying out new things<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Like sticking a knife in your nose,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
just to see what would happen.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
{So thankful for older brothers who are not afraid of blood.}</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnlUnueP4SKQ9hUzbdMKqOz5dST3hQw6RPP9RQCTshSVGDt_LR5UjtqqzCnUFnNOkpehEo_WY1wGiPkDAO2qShzGPpvLCy8fow12V9Hl21N5cF45gGN5YzEsz42EMcqy2Xd3TPQG-qu4Gt/s1600/DSC_4932.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnlUnueP4SKQ9hUzbdMKqOz5dST3hQw6RPP9RQCTshSVGDt_LR5UjtqqzCnUFnNOkpehEo_WY1wGiPkDAO2qShzGPpvLCy8fow12V9Hl21N5cF45gGN5YzEsz42EMcqy2Xd3TPQG-qu4Gt/s320/DSC_4932.JPG" width="211" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6fjNvbKZCIGts8Jcf3pFxhMUMiY_zhA0cLhK3Y3_LPF2d-ecyPw4pgPQxgFb-H2yiKrGr7JJH1Rg_-OA8QW2sDcYkL7gnlGUmkvrmdIxkD_5g1_NsUsRV9-ki_wUOdm99a6u1ghPWhH67/s1600/DSC_4933.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6fjNvbKZCIGts8Jcf3pFxhMUMiY_zhA0cLhK3Y3_LPF2d-ecyPw4pgPQxgFb-H2yiKrGr7JJH1Rg_-OA8QW2sDcYkL7gnlGUmkvrmdIxkD_5g1_NsUsRV9-ki_wUOdm99a6u1ghPWhH67/s320/DSC_4933.JPG" width="211" /></a></div>
<br />Holliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05045545027781003312noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640569598443915507.post-18957019194379644362013-10-05T11:00:00.000-05:002013-10-05T11:00:16.228-05:00The Boys<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A recent photo shoot of our boys yielded these images -</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
your paper prints are on their way, Grandparents!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMLSaKzhTf5MepPNRlqEqy4T4nG4buz_fPyT3IXMnD7zkhmWa7nuknJDDcSWCuskK8RZm05st7DRI_ST-N-XXx4U_03jO7UgQbEOxlsBjHfYuz8vNlepptESUT3RkLp-EfryMg4_Tneoag/s1600/4880+a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMLSaKzhTf5MepPNRlqEqy4T4nG4buz_fPyT3IXMnD7zkhmWa7nuknJDDcSWCuskK8RZm05st7DRI_ST-N-XXx4U_03jO7UgQbEOxlsBjHfYuz8vNlepptESUT3RkLp-EfryMg4_Tneoag/s320/4880+a.jpg" width="211" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Langston</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNQBVPyRbRJdMHlF6cyQDx3NMqSDIe1UEzVZUpXgJAqPr6XDTU08izrfp5iDjWVS7j7hJai7cqonLo9WQglHy5jPFUNj88XxCI9DFZm1sW_2VvD7YxWlq4VxGkmSHnddNqy44JSJtF5YpN/s1600/4890+a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNQBVPyRbRJdMHlF6cyQDx3NMqSDIe1UEzVZUpXgJAqPr6XDTU08izrfp5iDjWVS7j7hJai7cqonLo9WQglHy5jPFUNj88XxCI9DFZm1sW_2VvD7YxWlq4VxGkmSHnddNqy44JSJtF5YpN/s320/4890+a.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tarver</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxKyYxenZmGBE9mDuXdwrvK_lI3S2FyBkYLnWBlfBJhInaHbhDUeAwS7n-kUM5W4ADsybpTnB3oqI4qRbck7p8iPdsbOoQB9AuJUkg1uIng8SRTRAVYzRiO-ff-xVLLJ288VyKJBGme-yl/s1600/4903+a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxKyYxenZmGBE9mDuXdwrvK_lI3S2FyBkYLnWBlfBJhInaHbhDUeAwS7n-kUM5W4ADsybpTnB3oqI4qRbck7p8iPdsbOoQB9AuJUkg1uIng8SRTRAVYzRiO-ff-xVLLJ288VyKJBGme-yl/s320/4903+a.jpg" width="211" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ry-man</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8nh0Y-8MjMNQcJXGQRP57YP_lib54AgF2hRqk6MY63VJiSQ1HEVnWKmNY5n-10x35096uGJbrxQ6X0vUIei_olMd_6G-4sCj7bX8SqA6OHO4K77pWwnqnDeafuQ84pQtup_Bqd1jiE2PG/s1600/4931+a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8nh0Y-8MjMNQcJXGQRP57YP_lib54AgF2hRqk6MY63VJiSQ1HEVnWKmNY5n-10x35096uGJbrxQ6X0vUIei_olMd_6G-4sCj7bX8SqA6OHO4K77pWwnqnDeafuQ84pQtup_Bqd1jiE2PG/s320/4931+a.jpg" width="211" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Braden</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq4iQ_4PC6xfruWVFWMhYbOkBbMRMXgnhwqugsDGgljXu6hu8XTb32IoTAnOKggepNhteQNUZoP4yxdtIwbaxu2buo8VElBl_ghWAMJycns2kgwEmLHzpAs3Y_P5HCfGZcahht5XFW3GAj/s1600/3648+a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq4iQ_4PC6xfruWVFWMhYbOkBbMRMXgnhwqugsDGgljXu6hu8XTb32IoTAnOKggepNhteQNUZoP4yxdtIwbaxu2buo8VElBl_ghWAMJycns2kgwEmLHzpAs3Y_P5HCfGZcahht5XFW3GAj/s320/3648+a.jpg" width="211" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ridiculous. Somebody slap me.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Holliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05045545027781003312noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640569598443915507.post-70460848778919663352013-09-27T12:34:00.000-05:002013-09-27T12:34:31.800-05:00Smarty Pants<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQhDOQkrj5xYEa-xg7rAE5W_B1DJvr9lBQPWsbOzX7FJXygWbYUhf1fyvNgWWSLORBwsswTOu-qHnhcqQ41K_1jrw_Eah2CxcqURBc2S0-X5SWvVkx5gMNVhkq9nI0URYNwJVFu_h3cOxH/s1600/DSC_4450.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQhDOQkrj5xYEa-xg7rAE5W_B1DJvr9lBQPWsbOzX7FJXygWbYUhf1fyvNgWWSLORBwsswTOu-qHnhcqQ41K_1jrw_Eah2CxcqURBc2S0-X5SWvVkx5gMNVhkq9nI0URYNwJVFu_h3cOxH/s400/DSC_4450.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You just have to understand the personality of my second born to get a hoot out of the question:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<em>Using numerals 1-3, arrange them chronologically</em>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Apparently we need to hit home a bit better on pronouns so he knows that 'them' in this case is referring to the Stone, Bronze and Iron Ages and not 'numerals'.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hearing the roar of laughter after he handed in this paper made me definitely aware that he was just trying to get a rise out of his teacher.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This teacher has the capability of withholding peanut butter cookies and therefore gets the last laugh.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
{smile}</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Holliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05045545027781003312noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640569598443915507.post-80711189642130513772013-09-17T19:42:00.001-05:002013-09-17T19:42:25.923-05:00Potato Harvest<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We are tremendously blessed to have a farmer friend who allows us to help out at certain times of the year. Last night it was time to harvest potatoes - a good time was had by all.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
{especially the young men who got free tractor rides!}</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlyaKSZf-wulrhdnbsLPyXnPdQZUnBXlC5M2DE49iSFA6BHBvDwBMbBUp8k88ZL3OWAsjDD9zpJghVPlYG8NOf8CS2zFd9YEU_lGwgqfbMhthceWYbbAlYVJmR0l0O9r7LvTHUxjojdboH/s1600/DSC_4399.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlyaKSZf-wulrhdnbsLPyXnPdQZUnBXlC5M2DE49iSFA6BHBvDwBMbBUp8k88ZL3OWAsjDD9zpJghVPlYG8NOf8CS2zFd9YEU_lGwgqfbMhthceWYbbAlYVJmR0l0O9r7LvTHUxjojdboH/s320/DSC_4399.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh0KmCCxTSDyrXwZIaG9lj5itftfGIVnnjYyfSin3KtpozM7qqS09JVMNVdZSUfesRDp76RtHgsAQ07c4JVKXUTY2oa26Hg7Uy9uV8LMn0FpiaY064miLsUAsHVGhqTubhdNvBrRNMgWDc/s1600/DSC_4408.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh0KmCCxTSDyrXwZIaG9lj5itftfGIVnnjYyfSin3KtpozM7qqS09JVMNVdZSUfesRDp76RtHgsAQ07c4JVKXUTY2oa26Hg7Uy9uV8LMn0FpiaY064miLsUAsHVGhqTubhdNvBrRNMgWDc/s320/DSC_4408.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2RXcs75AlGp0Abs7KdcACkXQ2fNp5Aat4mmkjL4ZMgGSRu0pW8B5G3J3OR6Dkxnv1mWIDEdKXF8UgwPT4JSDJljz3ckXiPR_rG3njW3zKQblKDsZDX6WD9OfeTf0zvQNRgy6gjhmI6ylz/s1600/DSC_4411.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2RXcs75AlGp0Abs7KdcACkXQ2fNp5Aat4mmkjL4ZMgGSRu0pW8B5G3J3OR6Dkxnv1mWIDEdKXF8UgwPT4JSDJljz3ckXiPR_rG3njW3zKQblKDsZDX6WD9OfeTf0zvQNRgy6gjhmI6ylz/s320/DSC_4411.JPG" width="211" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtb_zEsH8LGveOMi80ysu1RS8BJ_6y1htVGzaEQO6Y_nRcvVDsxm5vKzuE2lv06owRHLPJSAyyEcv0aW4_Aw2hWZ4a8DbbZ6n41v9Hv7IJ-aiNTUREP8tmA9pmEscCRzavYJ9XhPpajLGV/s1600/DSC_4430.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtb_zEsH8LGveOMi80ysu1RS8BJ_6y1htVGzaEQO6Y_nRcvVDsxm5vKzuE2lv06owRHLPJSAyyEcv0aW4_Aw2hWZ4a8DbbZ6n41v9Hv7IJ-aiNTUREP8tmA9pmEscCRzavYJ9XhPpajLGV/s320/DSC_4430.JPG" width="211" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVgZJQBxUB2Lk-NCVUu27RB1gZzXrToE3l03JGgoM6XtvZMXgJzDthkCaL6fwQR7_7BfpDxwVozfX28N1TTTp5GwwB8j7FYo-wC6F-yJlI4ePIbGM4591OFM3J3K60lqOfv_I_PFPo6FfO/s1600/DSC_4417.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVgZJQBxUB2Lk-NCVUu27RB1gZzXrToE3l03JGgoM6XtvZMXgJzDthkCaL6fwQR7_7BfpDxwVozfX28N1TTTp5GwwB8j7FYo-wC6F-yJlI4ePIbGM4591OFM3J3K60lqOfv_I_PFPo6FfO/s320/DSC_4417.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Holliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05045545027781003312noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640569598443915507.post-49761535754382652942013-09-10T20:53:00.002-05:002013-09-10T20:53:27.920-05:00Dynamic Learning Activity - Another Tooth Extraction<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimkD8qyTSTM0r2K_vWoJM5PJVAZrkmuTIap5tPdmvVdgJMtw9mNpvogMe9UiJLr3td7b4nmaykvzptDP2vjrtZMwlZaH0cF-Kgx7kIhaVeogB_fy7aFuT-aZaYJRoLHb0rOzYx_v97cpRn/s1600/DSC_3874.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimkD8qyTSTM0r2K_vWoJM5PJVAZrkmuTIap5tPdmvVdgJMtw9mNpvogMe9UiJLr3td7b4nmaykvzptDP2vjrtZMwlZaH0cF-Kgx7kIhaVeogB_fy7aFuT-aZaYJRoLHb0rOzYx_v97cpRn/s320/DSC_3874.JPG" width="211" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
How many Kindergartners actually get to pull their first tooth out during math? We call it 'tooth extraction subtraction'. Perhaps it's not quite as exciting as hooking up a remote controlled Jeep to the tooth, but this kiddo was beyond thrilled. And in his mind, tooth subtraction really adds up since he found some change under his pillow the next morning. Don't you all wish you were homeschooled so you could tie these milestones into a dynamic learning activity and count it for school hours?</div>
Holliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05045545027781003312noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640569598443915507.post-59645981683747931182013-09-10T20:47:00.002-05:002013-09-10T20:47:38.532-05:00Storage Solutions for Boys<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj54FjpP-sxh8ZH7oDB1QJlQ8IsgI50XPAXAg6yvcBMNCDKSwuMi6bI2VjJsSmtJi2c8_kqaG2o8BaQ5bgXcrJ8VGMdig48TefgYLJOXsZTRQWIzr-9Xj-_EolXggzWifRBI21A3kDFP2e_/s1600/DSC_3879.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj54FjpP-sxh8ZH7oDB1QJlQ8IsgI50XPAXAg6yvcBMNCDKSwuMi6bI2VjJsSmtJi2c8_kqaG2o8BaQ5bgXcrJ8VGMdig48TefgYLJOXsZTRQWIzr-9Xj-_EolXggzWifRBI21A3kDFP2e_/s320/DSC_3879.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
What's a Mom to do with her collection of boys?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Display them on some heftily built shelves, I suppose.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
{Thank you, love, for finishing this basement project! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Looks like your helpers might be sleeping on the job, though.}</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And for the record - no, we don't really keep our boys on shelves. We do have a swing set and fort in the wilderness, silly.</div>
Holliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05045545027781003312noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-640569598443915507.post-20958050012142185712013-09-05T21:10:00.001-05:002013-09-05T21:10:39.589-05:00August Harvest<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivwbYIzMSiW4aIjz_H2j0E4UzmSq9RM-2wijh2hBJc-l-n9XB98sOtvkubuZGXdME7ZKUqetuJ2eKJZIqwR5ZO61jASYwC0Fv3aybWDSc_oWUbfxjvuN9IoQvbMDnH0IJqb1xUuAhgGngm/s1600/DSC_3285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivwbYIzMSiW4aIjz_H2j0E4UzmSq9RM-2wijh2hBJc-l-n9XB98sOtvkubuZGXdME7ZKUqetuJ2eKJZIqwR5ZO61jASYwC0Fv3aybWDSc_oWUbfxjvuN9IoQvbMDnH0IJqb1xUuAhgGngm/s400/DSC_3285.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
~388.25 pounds~</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Every canning jar has been filled.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
{and then some}</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So thankful. So, so thankful. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Canned pears will be a delight come January when the winter winds are howling!</div>
Holliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05045545027781003312noreply@blogger.com2