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Wednesday, December 19, 2012

Almost Christmas

Well, here we are, the week before Christmas!  What have I been doing with myself??  Well.  Let's see.

We finished up with our school books last week.  Now, we are doing a bunch of Christmas baking.  I might need to rethink for next year, and not cram it all into one week.  Monday was Sam's 12th birthday.  Yesterday was day one of making Christmas treats.  We made fudge, popcorn cake, pretzel treats.  I also made up for some candy molds, but it didn't set up right.  I figured it out today, that I doubled part of the recipe, but not the rest.  I need LOTS more powdered sugar.  I also made the dough for sugar cookies.



Today was day #2: we made: Carmelita bars, Home made Snicker bars, and the Sugar cookies.

 Sam's birthday was lots of fun.  He had Chunky Monkey pancakes for breakfast.  Then, Grandma and Grandpa came over, and then we had spaghetti for lunch.  After lunch, we went to pick up Jeremiah, and took Sam, Matthew, and Jeremiah to Eau Claire to see the "Cars" full sized Lightening McQueen and Mater.  We also got them Egg Nog shakes.  Came home, and had pizza, and then ran Jeremiah home. 






My doors still aren't done, and neither are the lights installed in my kitchen.  We bought track lights for the kitchen, the day before Thanksgiving.  They are still in their boxes.  Some day we will get them in.

We are expecting our 2nd big snow fall of this year.  We had one  December 9th, and got 13 inches.  I think we finally got that all cleared off in time for this next snow fall.  I'm not sure how much we are supposed to get.  But, it sure has been pretty!


 I love the frost on the trees!



On Sunday night, we had the Christmas Program.  It was really nice!





And, here is Elise!






Blessings!

Wednesday, November 14, 2012

Getting ready to head into the holidays

Well, here we are, just a little over a week away from Thanksgiving!  I am  looking forward to Thanksgiving, as I have some new ideas on how to fix the meal.  :)  I am going for ease of preparation.  LOL

We have had some mice in the house.  I.  don't.  do.  mice.  at all.  One night, hubby chased one around with a broom, but couldn't catch it.  We set out a ton of traps.  Well, not a ton, but how does 5 in my bedroom sound??  Be careful where you walk!!  No, just on the edges of the walls.  No, I don't have 5 walls, but some had a couple traps.  We didn't get any for a long time.  Began to think they went back outside.  Then one night we caught 2 mice, and another night, we caught 1 more.  Hope we are done with them.

Not much else has been going on in the construction department here.  I got tired of trying to get into things, so we finally moved some stuff around, just so I can access a few important cabinets.

This is inside the rec room. Still need a wall finished here.



This is outside the rec room.  The vacuum cleaner in front of the doors is to keep it closed.  
Something still isn't quite adjusted right.
 


I've been using the treadmill lately.  Well, yesterday and today.  I hope I can keep it up!

Rachel had the stomach flu starting early Sunday morning.  So far, no one else has gotten it.  I have been using the sanitize on my washing machine, and using the extra hot water and the sani-rinse on the dishwasher.  So far so good.

Speaking of the stomach flu.  :)  Last week, I had to take Sam in to get his thyroid tested, as he has hypothyroid (low thyroid).  While I am checking him in, a mom with an infant and a toddler come in, and stand next to me to get checked in.  Her toddler starts violently vomiting, twice on the carpet.  Then, she got her a garbage can and the little girl continued in that.  I was moving away.  We sure don't want it.  The hospitals/clinics really need to have a well patient check in area.  I mean, we were only coming in for a lab draw, and I sure hope we didn't bring home more than we went with!!!!

Yesterday, Becca watched the twin girls, with their brother.  Here they are:



Blessings!

Sunday, November 4, 2012

Disliking projects

I so dislike projects during a school year.  I don't mind them so much when it is summer, but it is hard during a school year.

We are in the process of taking out the pocket doors, and putting in french doors.  They are beautiful doors, but they were unfinished.  So, that has meant many trips to the garage to sand, stain, varnish, and repeat.  :) 

So, the doors were all set, now just to get them in.  Josh and Brittany came over last Saturday, to put them in.  He figured he would get both sets in really quick.  HA!  So, the one wall was um, not straight.  Not too fun to work with.  And, because the walls were hollow, and not much supporting them, and the new doors are solid wood and glass (read HEAVY!), the walls needed beefing up.  Josh's brother-in-law came over and helped him rip out walls, and beef up the walls.  Let's just say, these new walls aren't moving!!  So, I had to move everything away from 4 walls.  I have dry wall and everything all over the place.  We are now ready for the walls to be taped and have mud on them. Then, we get to do more sanding.  :)  Then, I get to paint!!  I would prefer to do that next summer, but I will need to get my two rooms straightened out soon.  I haven't decided what color(s) to paint the 2 new walls. 


Some of the mess to clean up.



 Here is after they removed part of the wall, to beef it up.  This is where
the pocket door went inside the wall.




Here is Josh and his brother-in-law building the new wall, and putting
up dry wall.




School has been going well.  We had a study on Germany, and made a German dinner.  We had cabbage rolls, mashed potatoes, soft pretzels, rye bread, and Black Forest Cake.   We also had some fun experiments with removing an egg shell, and seeing osmosis with water and corn syrup.  VERY interesting!!!




I went to my first professional football game.  That was an experience in itself!!  I do not do heights very well at all!  So, we were up in the second section, 17 rows up.  I was so nervous!  And, every time someone needs to go out, you have to stand up to let them out.  I was thinking they should just crawl over me.  :)  Also, I had a guy next to me, who drank at least 5 beers.  At least he wasn't mean or obnoxious!  He just liked to talk.  He was thrilled this was my first ever game.  Then, he asked why I didn't drink alcohol (he offered to buy me one at least 5 times).  I told him that the Bible has a lot to say about alcohol.  He asked what?  I said that when some imbibes, they usually do things that they normally wouldn't do.  He disagreed.  Then, after some talking, he said I was right, he does a lot of things that he normally wouldn't, when he drinks.  Then, he said, "What else?"  I said that the Bible says that it is addictive.  He said, "No, it's not!"  I replied, "Ok, then.  Quit."  After a long discussion, he said, "well, I have to concede, you are correct, it is addictive."  We talked for 3 quarters!  Then, we found out that some seats were open over by the rest of our group, and so we went to sit over by them.  That was a huge thing for me to do, going down the stairs, and around to the other side of the stadium.  I found that if I held Rick's shirt, and hung on to the rail, I could do it.  I hate being such a pansy, but I really get weak kneed when I see nothing but air, and a long drop.  Oh, the Vikings lost.

Blessings!

Monday, September 24, 2012

Catch Up

What a whirlwind! 

School.  Projects.  School.  Work.  Sleep.  :)

We've been enjoying school.  Our month long study, has been on "You are the salt of the earth."  We are learning what it means to be salt.  How to make our conversations "salty".  We've also been using some recipes that have lots of salt in--beef jerky (the salt is used in preserving), home made ice cream (the salt is used to make it colder). 

We've also been doing some projects.  Still cleaning up outside stuff.  I think we have 1 more time to mow.  Then, we can get the mower stuff put away.  Yesterday, Ben was home for the day, and we had 1 last time of using the fire pit.  We made s'mores, and used our campfire pie makers, and made blueberry pies.  It was a chilly day, and sitting around the fire pit was perfect.

Last week, it really cooled off!  I tried turning the furnace on one day last week, so that it would take the chill off, but wouldn't you know?  The furnace would run for less than a minute then shut off.  A man was going to come and fix it, but they had a tragedy strike (his mother-in-law was killed in a hit and run accident while going to get her mail).  So, he hasn't had time to fix it.  The temps continued to drop.  I did a lot of baking to try to heat the house up.  :)  We pulled in our electric fireplaces, so the bedrooms would get a bit warmer.  Today, it was just downright cold!!  I was up at 4 this morning (had some crazy dreams), and I checked the outside temp, and it was 29 degrees.  Well, Rick decided to try the furnace again this morning, and it started up, and got the house warm!!  PTL!!

Today was the funeral for the lady.  Then, tonight, we had a birthday party for Brittany at a local Pizza Hut.

As for projects, we are working on staining and varnishing our new French doors!!!!  They are going to be beautiful!!!  I usually bite off more than I can chew for a project.  I was hoping to get both sets of doors done (4 doors and frames).  I got one set with 1 coat on the whole top side.  It is slow going.  We also put in a new kitchen faucet, as the old faucet, the sprayer part broke.  We have recently put in a new shower head.  Now, I am a person that likes to kick back in a bath.  I took a shower in with the new shower head, and it was absolutely wonderful!!!!

We have had some funny stories about mice this week.  Jon had been to a fruit baseball party.  They throw rotten tomatoes at you, and you hit them with a baseball bat.  Then, I think it was a free for all, and they just started throwing the fruit at everybody.  So, he comes home loaded with tomato seeds.  I told him to change his clothes, and then toss the clothes outside, as I wanted it all sprayed off the clothes, so it wouldn't wreck my washing machine.  I went out there a couple days later, as the clothes hadn't been washed off, and picked up the clothes, and here was a baby mouse inside.  I dropped it and ran, screaming as I went.  I hate mice!  Then, yesterday, we were getting loaded up in the truck, and Sam comes to the truck, and he will NOT get in.  Come to find out--there was a dead baby mouse laying on the step to get into the truck.  This was not the same mouse, as hubby had buried the other one. 

We have also taken a dinner cruise with a bunch of family and friends (that was to make up for missing the Tim Hawkins tickets). After the dinner cruise, we went to an ice cream shop, and I have never seen an ice cream cone so HUGE!!!  We SHARED a child's size cone!!!!!  The child's size cone is $3.25, but it is absolutely huge.   We have also gone out to eat with Josh & Brittany, which was for our anniversary.

Well.  My brain is winding down.  I think I shall turn in.
Blessings!

Tuesday, September 4, 2012

Weekend work and start of school

This weekend was busy, getting summer stuff down, so we can head back into the school year.  So, we started on the pool.  Let's just say, the pool goes up much quicker than it comes down.  It took us 2 days to get it down.  Then, we cleaned it up, and got it stored.  We also picked up all the pool toys, goggles, floats, noodles.  Then, we got the tent folded up, and stored.

We also got the truck and car cleaned out, and did a very thorough job of it.  We even shampooed up some of the car seats.  The truck has leather, so we just washed that down.  Washed all the windows, Rick did all the dashboards, and doors.  Whew!

I cut 2 heads of hair, and still have more to do.  I just got too wore out, after all that work.  I think we collapsed into bed that night.

Sunday night, we didn't have church, so we took 3 vehicles to Stillwater to Nelson's ice cream store.  WOW!!!!!   What a huge ice cream cone, and what a blast!!!  Siah & Sarah & family went in one van, Josh and Brittany and Elise, and Rachel and Becca & Gracelyn took another van, and the rest of us followed in our truck.

Here is Gracelyn, after eating some of Rachel's cone!



These were the child size cones!!  They cost $3.25 each, and very well worth it.

Yesterday, we went with my parents to the National Eagle Center.  It was a lot of fun  They take in injured, and unable to fly eagles.  They had 4 bald eagles, and 1 golden eagle.  It was very informative, and lots of fun.


Today, I got my Zagg mate for my iPad!  I am so excited!!  Then, I found out I have to wait, as it wasn't charged. 

Thursday night, we were supposed to go see Tim Hawkins up in the cities.  We made a mistake, and didn't get tickets ordered in time.  So, instead, we are going on a river boat cruise, with a dinner of bbq'd ribs and herbed chicken.  YUM!!  And, I am talking people into going back to the ice cream shop!!  :)

Blessings!

Tuesday, August 28, 2012

Cleaning up

     I forgot to tell you that I did a bunch of cleaning, and even had Becca's graduation party!  That is all done!  I pushed hard to get my school planned for the year (my goal was to have it done by August 1st).  I finished it with 1 week to spare.  Then, I got busy, and cleaned for Becca's party.  For her party, she had a Mexican theme, so I made home made refried beans, tacos (we used 30 pounds of meat, and it was about 15 pounds too much--thankfully, it freezes well), chips, salsa, nacho dip and a cake.

     I also did some rearranging.  And, I found a fascination with glass canning jars.  So, I did internet searches, on how to use them.  I put all my spices (I buy in bulk), in canning jars, and then I used my Pump 'N Seal to keep them fresh.  I also put all my pasta, and do we have a lot!  in jars.  My mom had given me some 1/2 gallon sized jars, and you can fit a lot of pasta in those!    And, for my special, or unique jars, I put them on display on my open shelves. 

     Yesterday, I was weeding, out by the raspberry bed, and asparagus bed, and I jumped and screamed.  Enough to make the boys all hop off the 4 wheeler!!  They came running.  I saw a small snake, about the size of a pencil in width, and about 9 inches long.  I also saw something crawling through the grass.  I thought it was a mouse.  I don't do mice.  At all.  Well, I found a nest of baby bunnies.  I thought there were 5, but today, we found 6.  I left the weeding alone, hoping that the mother would move them.  She didn't.  They weren't in the nest, but still in the weeds, and when I started weeding, they hopped, and hit in the grass.  So, today, I had Matthew put some gloves on and move them into the way back, where they won't get hit by the lawn mower.  Ewww!  Not sure if you can see them, but there are 3 here in the nest. 


     On Sunday, it was Andrew's 14th birthday.  He had Monkey Bread for breakfast, Crock Pot style Gyros for lunch.  In the evening, we went to a Dallas Holm concert at our church, and treats afterwards.  I told him I would make his chicken pot pie on Monday, as it takes a bit of time.

     Boy--did it ever take a bit of time!!!  I thought I had some pie crusts in the fridge.  Well, they were bad, so I had to make my own pie crusts.  I do not make pie crusts!!  I had frustration upon frustration!  Finally got them in the pan, and they tasted good.  Didn't look the greatest, but they tasted good.

     When we were at the Dells, we stopped in to a place called Buffalo Phil's.  They have a separate section in their restaurant, for the family area, where the meals are delivered by a train!  It was a lot of fun.  Here is Sam getting the pop off the train.



And, a better picture with Sam and Matthew and the train.





It was a lot of fun!

     Siah and the children are coming tonight!  Haven't had them over in quite a while!  It will be fun, and Sam will be totally thrilled!!

Blessings!

Thursday, August 23, 2012

Enjoying the last few days of summer vacation

Well, here it is, August is almost done.  Here are some of the things we have been doing.

First--I got involved with Pinterest.  Not too much, but a little bit.  Still learning the ins and outs of it.  I was also trying to fix a chair, but I found out I bought the wrong zig zag springs for it.  I bought what "should" have been correct, as it was for the seat bottom, instead of the back of a chair, but with this chair, they had the lighter weight springs on the chair bottom.  So, that is ripped apart in my living room, still.

Hubby and I celebrated our 31st anniversary, on the 8th of this month.  Last year, Josh and Brittany gave us a gift certificate for a bed and breakfast, at the Ann Bean mansion in Stillwater, MN.  We stayed in the tower room, and it was very nice.  Breakfast, well, that's another story.  :)  We still aren't sure what we ate - LOL! 





It did have a poached egg, on the left, and the slab of rubbery stuff on the right, still not sure (we called it "Manna" - which was the Hebrew word for "what is it?") At first, I thought the green was spinach leaves, but they were basil.  Then, there was the chocolatey sauce, that also had some vinegar, or something tart in it.  This also had tomato slices on it, all on some very dry bread.  We thought it was Eggs with Hollandaise, but I don't think it was.

Then, there were the very dry, and totally not sweet blueberry muffins.  And, also the pears, with maybe a blueberry sauce, on a bed of sweetened sour cream.  If you know my hubby, you know he doesn't do sour cream, or cream cheese.  I did enjoy the pears. 




So, it was a very nice time away.

We also did a bunch of shopping.  We figured our bed at home, is way too hard.  The B&B bed was way too soft.  So, we did a bunch of searching to see what we could do.  We finally found a memory foam mattress topper, and we seem to like that so far.  We went to all kinds of stores, thrift stores, Bed, Bath & Beyond (where I saw towels for $70 each!!!).  We also went to a Trader Joe's.  I bought bananas, and a couple bags--one insulated, and one reuseable.  That was about all I could afford.  :)

Last week was Sports Camp.  Thankfully, this year, we had really nice weather!!  We had 41 children on most of the nights.  On the first night, Josh was able to lead a young boy to the Lord!  Josh was showing him the EvangeCube, and the little boy said, "They killed Him?  Why did He have to die?"  Well, Jesus died for our sins, so that we could go to Heaven.  Then, Josh asked him if he would like to ask Jesus into his heart, and the boy said yes!  So, they prayed the sinners prayer, and the boy had tears streaming down his face.  Later, the boy said, "why hasn't anyone ever told me this before?"  Yes, why?

We've also been doing a lot of ATV riding.  It has been so much fun!!  My parents also bought a UTV, and we have been going out with them a bit, too. 

This week, we have been on vacation.  We went to the Dells, and rode the Wild Thing jet boats (we would all do that again in a minute!), we also spent 1 day in a small theme park, and we did 36 holes of miniature golf, rode the roller coaster--even I rode it 1 time!! and we also rode the log flume multiple times.  They also had bumper boats that we road a few times.  Then, we also did a Jeremy Allen Grand Illusion.  What a disappointment!!  He called Matthew up to the front, and did an optical illusion (we watched a spinning disc, then turned and looked at Matthew's face, which then seemed to grow bigger).  Then, he told Matthew to sit in a chair, which he had hooked up to some battery cables.  He told Matthew to poke a doll with a pin, and it gave Matthew a jolt.  The guy said that it should have shot Matthew up out of the chair, as it will do that to adults!!!  Can you believe doing that to a child--who is trusting an adult not to harm them???  He then asked the audience if they wanted Matthew to do it again.  I almost (and really wish I had) said, "His mother says no!"  But, I was sitting there thinking, he can't be hurting him, it must be just a tingle.  He finally let Matthew come and sit with me, and Matthew started crying, and said it really hurt.  ARGH!!!

So, then we came home, and have been enjoying our time here - taking 4 wheeler rides, took the pedal boat and canoe out, and also made some home made rocky road ice cream. 

We are also in the process of taking down our pool.  It turned too cool for it.  Now, it will probably be a heat wave. 

Well, I should get back to the family, and go eat some of that ice cream.
Blessings!


Thursday, July 26, 2012

Last minute cleaning frenzy!

Well, I got my school year planned out, and all the school planning done!!!  I finished up Tuesday at 4 PM.  Then, Josiah and the children came over.

Wednesday, I did a bunch of cleaning!  I cleaned off the glass table, as that was being used as my project table.  I cleaned out the entry closet, and that is nicely organized!!  I had some boxes from my Bosch, as well as my Grain Master Whisper Mill.  The Grain Master had a "lifetime" warranty.  Which you think would be nice--but when the company closes, or sells out to another--you lose your lifetime warranty.  I then put baskets up on the shelf, one basket for light bulbs, one basket for gloves and hats, one basket for vacuum cleaner bags and belts, one basket for hubby's hats and also umbrellas.  Nice and clean!!

My mom had given me a bunch of canning jars, and I buy spices in bulk--so I cleaned up my spice shelf, and put my spices in the canning jars.  Mom also gave me 1/2 gallon sized jars, and I put pasta in those.  I found some older jars, and I will put some noodles, or beans in those, and put them out for display in the kitchen, on the open shelves.  The girls think it's weird, but I kind of like it.

I also took the boys' pictures.  I love 1 hour photo!!  I had them made into 8 x 10's to put on the wall.  It's been a few years since I did the pictures.

Here's Dan


And Andrew:


Sam:



Matthew

My new rose bush "Double Delight"


Well, I should get going and get some more cleaned.  Tomorrow, I will be cooking for the graduation party, and Saturday is the party!!

Blessings!

Tuesday, July 17, 2012

Freaky and Freakier!!

Yesterday, after Matthew got his cast off, I had 1/2 hour to hop in the pool.  So, then, hubby decides to come in the pool, too.  While we are relaxing, the children come running outside, to tell us there is something dead in our bathroom!!  How's that for relaxing???

So, Rick went inside to check it out, and it was a dead bat--in MY bathroom!!!!!  He got rid of it, but it has been bothering me, as to how this thing got in there.  That's the freaky part.

I think I finally figured it out today!!  I went in the bathroom, and put my swimsuit on.  Mine was hanging in the bathroom.  I left, and went into the pool.

Hubby decides to go swimming, but his swimsuit was hanging on the clothesline.  I think the bat was in his swimsuit, and it (thankfully!) fell out before he put it on.  That is the freakier part.  :)  Needless to say, hubby is really freaked out, as well as the children. 

So, there was something the people in the old west did, and that was to shake out your clothes, and shoes, before putting them on.  Good advice!!  Our friend Rex M. in California, can attest to that.  A few years ago, he had to get up early for work.  So, rather than disturb his wife, by getting out his clothes in the early morning, he got them out, and laid them on the bathroom floor.  Well, a scorpion crawled into his underwear, and yes, he got stung, and, yes, he did end up disturbing his wife's sleep the next morning. 

Matthew's cast is off now, and he does not need to do therapy.  He does have to work on touching his shoulder, as that movement is very limited.  The doctor said it could take months, or years, before he is able to do that, because of bone growth.

Last night, we had a meeting at the church, as we are contemplating new Sunday School curriculum.  Hubby and I took the 4 wheeler to church.  On the way home, I was looking at a burned area near the railroad tracks (that happened last week, and thankfully, the fire department got there before it got out of hand).  Well, I saw something further up from the burned area, so we went to look.  We found a gas can, with something sticking out of it.  We have now informed our town's maintenance man, and he is looking into it, as it may have been arson.

I am busy planning our next school year.  So, I am trying to get that done before August 1st.  I am hoping that the month of August will be a relaxing time for me, before I get into the next school year.  Yes, I know we have Sports Camp, but I don't want to have things hanging over my head.

Blessings!

Friday, July 13, 2012

How to put the cast back on

So, here is the next part, that shows how he puts the cast back on.

Here is the original cast, waiting to be put on.


Here is Matthew, ready to put it on.  :)




Here he is with half the cast on



 Here both parts are ready to be fastened:



And here is the final, all ready to go:




On Monday, Matthew goes in, to get it checked out.  We are hoping this is the last time in, and that he will not have another broken ANYTHING!!

Blessings!

Matthew's cast removal

I have had some requests to see how Matthew's cast works, now that it is removable.  So, I will show you how it comes off.

First, it is all the same, original cast.  Here is Matthew, with the cast on, when it wasn't removable.



Here he is getting it cut off.



Next, they pry the cast apart.


Then, they cut the padding.

And, finally they remove the arm, ever so gently.



The next post will show how it is removable.
Blessings!

Thursday, July 12, 2012

God is good!!

Yesterday was a very productive day!!  On top of fixing the bumper for the table, making a new hammock seat, I was also able to go through Andrew's clothes!!  So, I have all the boys' clothes cleaned out.  Woo hoo!  And--while supper was in the oven, I was even able to put in a new screen in the screen door--praise the Lord for the right tools!!  I have replaced other screens with just a screwdriver and a knife, and it took forever!!  Having a little tool, and a sharp utility knife, I had it in place in 1/2 hour or less!!  Then, we ate supper, and headed to church.

While I was at church, Jon called saying he broke down on the way home.  Or, he said, maybe he was out of gas.  I had to run home, grab the tow rope, a gas can, and my phone charger, as the phone was almost dead.  Stopped and got gas in the gas can.  I prayed all the way to pick him up--Lord, PLEASE let him just be out of gas--as I really don't want to have to tow him.  I found him on the road, and we started putting the gas in his tank, and while we did that, we prayed.  We quoted to Him, that where 2 or 3 are gathered together in His name, He is there in the midst of us.  Well, Lord, there are 2 of us here, and we need Your help.  Finished putting the gas in, and the car started up!!  Praise the Lord!! 

We figure someone might have siphoned his gas, as he had filled the car up recently (the gas gauge is broke).  So, we got home, he showered, and then we took off to the closest Wal-Mart.  Stopped in at Fleet Farm, and bought a locking gas cap.  Then, headed to Wal-Mart, as I needed to buy some bandages, as while Jon was at work, he got a nasty cut on his hand.  I bought butterfly bandages, some bandage tape, and super glue.  Came home, and fixed him up. 

You never know what a day will hold.

Today, we are planning  when to take some (much needed) time off.  I am also planning a menu, and going shopping.  :)

Blessings!

Wednesday, July 11, 2012

I'm on a roll! 2 projects finished in 1 day!

I really feel good about what I have accomplished today!  I finally finished the bumper for the table (which I started back in June).  But, I also started and finished sewing a hammock!  It feels nice to get something done, and to be able to cross it off the to do list!

First--here is the ripped hammock.  Pretty sad, huh?



Now, here it is all fresh and new!



Oh, and here is hubby with his new lawn tractor, with the lawn sweeper hooked up.


Blessings!

One project done!

Well, I finally go the bumper for the cog wheel done!

Here is a picture of just the cog wheel table:




And, here is the cog wheel table with the new bumper on it:


Off to the next project!

Blessings!

Projects, projects EVERYWHERE!!

We have so many projects going on--it is unbelievable!  And--what I totally dislike, is being in the middle of a project, and finding out you either have a wrong part, or need one.  Or, to be doing one project, only to see another one that needs attention.

Let's see if I can explain. I was working on the bumper for the cog wheel table.  I got down to the last bit--of sewing on the Velcro.  Only to find out, I needed Velcro.  Hubby had run into the store, but there were so many types of Velcro, he didn't know what I wanted.  He got a sticky back kind (actually, two kinds!), and I needed the sew on kind.  I finally got that straightened out, and I am really hoping to get that project checked off.

Yesterday, I cleaned out the 2 youngest boys' dressers.  Woo hoo!!!  Only to see their bed sagging.  Some of the bars under their mattress had come off, and so I hooked it up with a cable wire and u-bolts.  Ran to the store for u-bolts, as well as a locking bolt to fix the mop bucket.

We tried to return the mugs, and they would have, but I didn't have the church credit card with me, as it was paid with the church credit card.  I had Wal-Mart print off a photo, made from the same picture as the mugs, just to show them that my picture wasn't off.  So, we have to get the card tonight, and return the mugs tomorrow.  I just want that over and done with.  I am not sure I will place another order, as it is really nerve wracking.

I need to replace the cloth on our hammock.  On the 4th of July, hubby sat down to relax in his hammock, when all of a sudden, it crashed!!  Because it had been in the sun, the sun weakened the cloth, and he fell through!  Thankfully, he wasn't hurt, just escaped with a scraped and bruised arm.  I bought the cloth, and need to fix that.

I also need to fix the screen mesh for the patio door. 

And, we are still working on cleaning and rearranging the garage.

I sold the karate equipment we had!!  Slowly, but surely, we are getting rid of the extra stuff.  I also sold a portable baby high chair.  I also sold Ben's table and chairs.  He didn't want them, and they were taking up room in the garage.  I am still trying to sell the entertainment center, and a dog kennel.

Last night, we went to see a comedian/juggler.  He was really good!!  The library was sponsoring him, and it was scheduled at 5:30.  I was so pleased with myself--I made 2 pans of manicotti earlier, and had them in the oven on time bake, so when we got home, we could eat.  I didn't want to eat before, as we were planning on leaving at 4:45, and we would have had to have eaten at 4, and then the whole family would have been starving afterwards.  The juggler had appeared on America's Got Talent, and he did a nice job of entertaining.  Not many people showed up, and we also passed out a couple of Sports Camp postcards.  The juggler was a Christian, and was wearing a t-shirt talking about the Majesty of the Lord's name. 



Today, the men are pouring concrete, so they can get the shed moved onto the slab.  The church bought a used shed, and moved it to the church, and they are getting it prepped to put in place.

Blessings!

Monday, July 9, 2012

Monday

Well, if you are reading this, then you don't have internet problems from the Mal-Ware July 9th issue.  :)  So, here is my day so far:

It is a bit after 10 this morning, and I am keeping myself busy.  I skimmed out the pool, put a new filter in the pump, cleaned out the old filter, and put the solar cover back on the pool.  It's at the temp I want now, so we will keep it there.  I also made out an order for Sports Camp.  I was trying to get a hold of a lady all morning, and finally got through (someone told me she wanted stuff ordered, also).

I am hoping to work on going through the boys' clothes.  I had started it on Saturday, but then, we got the call saying we could come pick up a lawn sweeper.  That was on the other side of Eau Claire.  Because the Suburban is STILL broke, we had to get a 48" sweeper in the car!  That was fun to do!!

I also have some stuff listed, that people are going to come today to pick up!  Yeah!  My hubby will be so happy to be clearing this stuff out!!

I had such a wicked headache last night (migraine), I ended up staying home from church.  I could not handle lights or noise.  I am doing a bit better today, at least I can have some lights on.  It was probably the heat, but could also be stress.  I ordered the Living Last Supper mugs--21 of them!!!  Only to pick them up, and they are horrible!!!!  The men's faces are all red or orange.  So, that is another situation I need to handle.  ARGH!!!!

Blessings!

Friday, July 6, 2012

Mama's Please tell your boys. . .

I have warned my boys about using the great outdoors as a restroom.  Over and over again.  First, it's just plain lazy, if they can't run inside, and use the bathroom.  Also, it's an issue of modesty.  Maybe I'm old fashioned, but those are my rules.  Well, the neighbor boys taught my two youngest the "joys" of going to the bathroom outside.  Hmmm.  Until one young son started itching "down there".  :)  Do you see where this is going??  Well, at first he thought it was mosquito bites, but, then, when I saw the rash, I recognized it as poison ivy.   It was a pretty bad rash, and we took him into the doctor, and he confirmed it as poison ivy, and gave a strong steroid to clear it up.

So--mama's--warn your sons about using the great outdoors as a restroom.  And, while you're at it--show them what poison ivy looks like.  :)

And I know that my son is not the only one to do this.  LOL  My sister was over on the 4th of July, and she said that when one of her sons was little, he gave her a tour of the back yard, and said, "This is the climbing tree, and this is the potty tree, and this. . ."  She said, "POTTY TREE???"  So please, tell your sons about my son's painful lesson.  :)

Update on the gel packs.  I guess they didn't work too well today.  I think we will try to figure out how to get his cooler to stay colder.  And, maybe we will try freezing the gel packs.  Try again tomorrow.

Update on vacuuming the pool.  It did not go so well!!  We have a pool vacuum, that hooks to a garden hose (using water displacement).  Well, the debris goes into a pillowcase that is attached to the vacuum head.  Well, the whole pillowcase came off, and dumped all of the debris (read--years worth!!) into the pool.  Oh gross!!!  And I'm standing in the pool!!  I did get it reattached, and then vacuumed and skimmed.  The pool does look nice again, and the children have enjoyed it all this afternoon, and even now.

That's all for today.
Blessings!

Heat Wave!

My last post I made the remark that the pool didn't heat up, as the temps had been too cool.  Not so anymore!!  It has been in the 100's all this week (or nearly there--a lady at the checkouts yesterday said it was 106), and it hasn't been cooling down at night, at all!  And we have had high humidity, too.  Really draining on a person.  We are so thankful for a/c!!  The pool has been so warm--we had to remove the solar cover--it's been completely off the last 3 days, and we have been adding cold water to the pool!!  We have never had a pool so warm, and this is a much larger pool.

Monday, we spent working on Sports Camp--that time of year again.  Monday night we had our first meeting.

Tuesday, I did some more Sports Camp stuff, as in, I worked on the church's webpage, to get the Sports Camp stuff updated on there.  God helped me figure out how to put in a hyper link, so people can download a registration form.  That was so far above this totally un-tech savvy mama.  I asked God for the wisdom, and He gave it!!  Later that afternoon we hung out in the pool, and vacuumed it, which adds cooler water to the pool, as the vacuum hooks up to a garden hose.

Wednesday was the 4th of July, and we ended up having the family get together here.  It was supposed to be at my parents' house, but they don't have central air, and we didn't want their house to get all hot, so we did it here.  I told everyone if they didn't mind the mess here, they are welcome to come.  It turned out to be really nice.  We spent some time in the pool, and made a fruit pizza, and a veggie pizza, as we were having a "Pizza, Pizza, Pizza" party.  My mom brought the regular pizzas.  All the family was here, except for Ben, as he couldn't make it because of having to work the next day in Madison.  After eating, we went outside and shot off some fireworks, and I had the garden hose ready.  Oh, and did I mention that hubby and I got sunburned??

Yesterday, I did some online shopping--got my hubby a new laptop cord, and shopped around for some pool filters.  Then, we did our regular shopping.  We were going to head into Eau Claire, but the heat zapped us, and we decided to just make it a short trip.  Then, we came home, and hopped in the pool.  It really is nice to have one!

Last night, I made some "Gel Packs".  This is a great idea from my friend Katy B.!!!  She told me about them, and when I couldn't find the gel inside stuff, she got on the phone, and online, and helped me.  Anyway, you make a tube, and you put in some Soil Moist stuff--maybe about 1-2 teaspoons, for a tube that is 3" x 18" (after it is all sewed up).  I did make 3 compartments, plus some ties, to tie it around the neck.  I made 3 of these gel packs, and then you soak them in water and they swell up.  I made 3 gel packs, and got them all swollen, and then placed them in the fridge for Jon to take to work.  He has been working outside in this heat all week, and it's been making him sick.

Today is Josh's last day of work at Contour Plastics.  Next week, he starts in construction.

Today, I plan on vacuuming the pool again.  And I hope to finish up a project.  I've been trying to make a bumper to go around my Cog Wheel table.  I originally bought a twin comforter, and that turned into a mess.  Then, I saw that Rachel wasn't using the crib bumper pad I bought, so I am turning that into a bumper pad for the table.  I am turning the ends over, and putting in elastic.  Then, I will attach velcro to it, so it will be removable.  I want to protect the grandbabies heads.  If I get this all done, then maybe I will go through Sam and Matthew's clothes.  I hate that job!

Matthew is doing great with his removable cast.  His arm still isn't completely straight, but he is working on it.  The cast has been off, or removable for 9 days.  He goes back in on the 17th, and if it isn't completely straight, he will have to start physical therapy.

Blessings to you and yours!  (and I hope you are staying cool!)

Tuesday, June 26, 2012

Busy summer days

We have been busy.  We got a new pool, and we were shocked at how much bigger it is than our last one.  The last pool was a balloon type on the top, and it was 18' across.  But, that is at the bottom, and the sides slant up.  So, we still have an 18' pool by 48" deep.  It is nice!!  The children have been in it a couple times, but we really need a bit warmer weather.

I did some work out in the garden, pulled out the old fencing, along with the stakes.  Got it all weeded out.  This year, we only have asparagus, and a raspberry plant, and 2 strawberry plants (they are Matthew's).  The rhubarb didn't make it.  I should find the receipt and get my money back. 

We also moved a pole for the volleyball net, so it will be straighter. 

We are doing a bunch of cleaning, and trying to get things organized.  We did a bunch of work in the garage, and still have a bunch more to do.  We are trying to get things off the floor.  I have 12 metal chairs that are now hanging on the wall.  I am trying to get the flying turtles to be able to hang on a wall, as well, but I just got the proper hooks for those today.  Poor hubby took a tumble on a flying turtle.  He was carrying a ladder, and didn't see the flying turtle under him, and he went straight down.  We also bought another shelving unit to put together.  We tried to buy a peg board, and got it out to the car, but it wouldn't fit in the trunk, or in the car, so we had to return it.  We will wait until the truck is out of the shop.  We did buy a hanging unit, and got the trimmer, and trolling motor hanging on that.  It is nice to get it cleaned up.  But, we still have a ways to go.  I am trying to sell some of the furniture that Ben didn't want any more. 

Tomorrow, Matthew goes in to get the cast removed, and the pins taken out.  I'm not sure how they will work it, whether they put some kind of velcro on the original cast, so he can wear it when he goes outside, or if they give him a splint, or what.  We shall see.  He has a lot of signatures on it!

Josh told us today, that he is quitting his job, and going into construction with his brother-in-law.  We are so very happy for him, as his job wasn't being the nicest to him.

Jon is starting a job, soon, with waste management.  Changes all around!

Josiah and Jeremiah and Claire are coming over tonight.  So, I should get busy, and get supper started. 

Blessings!

Monday, June 18, 2012

Finally, Job writes

Well, I have been feeling a bit down, and a bit like Job lately.  So much has happened.

We went to the annual District Summit meetings.  While we were gone, Becca calls to tell us we have a major water leak in the house.  Oh, great!  We had her call one of the deacons, and he came over immediately and fixed it.  When we got back home, we wet vac'd the carpeting all up.  Then, we put dehumidifiers and fans on it.  Please understand, I had to remove everything in my closet 4 feet on down.  My house was a mess for 3 weeks (that is how long it took to dry it out!!!!)

I barely make it through that, and the washing machine broke!  We finally got one picked out, only to find out it would take a month to get in, as it was on backorder.  I really wanted that one, as it is a Samsung machine, and it is direct motor driven, and not belt driven like my other one.  Rick was such a blessing to me, as every day he went into the office, he would take 2-3 loads of clothes in, and wash them at the church.  It was a long wait.

In the meantime, a blessing was--Rick bought me a surprise!  He bought me a convection oven!!  I have really enjoyed that!  This oven can be very dangerous--as I can bake 36 cookies in 11 minutes!  :)  It also has a really nice feature of a "turbo boil", and that brings a huge pan of water to a very quick boil.  Ahhh!

Then, Matthew broke his arm.  That was 2 weeks ago.  We were getting the fire pit ready, as we were going to cook out some hot dogs and s'mores.  He was out on the jungle gym, playing on the rings, when he fell.  I ran to see, and immediately knew it was broke.  We got him to the emergency room, and they x-rayed it.  The lady took the first x-ray, and said that he was a very brave boy, as it was a very bad break, and he should be screaming in pain.  When we got back to the room, it was a flurry of activity.  Many nurses coming in to work on him--getting an IV hooked up, removing a deer tick, cutting off his shirt, splinting his arm, etc.  They told us he would be transported to Gillette Children's Hospital in St. Paul, as none of the bigger hospitals around us wanted to handle his case.  I cried.  They said he would have to have surgery on the arm, to get it back into place.  He had 3 shots of morphine from Menomonie to St. Paul. 

So, we had a stay in the hospital.  He arrived at 11 PM on Sunday night, and stayed until Tuesday morning when they released him.  I did not get much sleep, about 3 hours per night.  I was with him the whole time.  When we arrived, he was so hungry, but they wouldn't let him eat, because they didn't know when the surgery time would be.  Also, he had to go to the bathroom.  So, the nurse asked if he wanted to get up, or use a urinal.  He asked what a urinal was, so the nurse showed him, and his eyes got huge, and he said, "I will get up." 

Rick was so good, and he must have been so tired!  I went with Matthew in the ambulance.  Rick went home with a list of items we needed.  He stopped at home, picked them up, then came up to the hospital in the cities.  He got there about midnight, then turned around and went back home.  He came back up for the surgery the next morning.

Surgery was supposed to last 45 minutes, but it was about an hour and a half.  The doctor did not have to open up his arm, but used an x-ray to get better pictures, and then twist and turn to get it back into place.  They also put 2 pins in the arm.  His hand was swollen up HUGE!  And he started to spike a fever, so that is why they kept him overnight on Monday, as we were supposed to be discharged from the hospital after the surgery.  He cried when he found out he had to stay another night. 

The doctor that did the surgery, also works on Scoliosis patients, so we talked about Matthew's scoliosis with him.  The hospital, had therapy dogs come in his room, once in the afternoon, and once in the evening.  The one was a Corgi, and the other was a Samoyed. 

Even though this was a big ordeal, we felt rather humbled at how small his injury was--when you see others who have major physical disabilities. 

While we were there, they had a part in the hospital for a Ronald McDonald house.  We were able to use their facility to grab snacks, as well as an evening meal while he was there.  It was very nice!!  Not much food for snacks, but very nice.  The only meal I got to eat, was with Josh, and they had a taco bar, and a nice big fruit salad.  That really helps out financially, when you are in the hospital.

I was a bit overwhelmed when we got home, as he really couldn't do much.  His arm was in a HUGE splint!  I mean  very big!!!  I had to buy some new shirts, because we couldn't get his splinted arm in any of the short sleeved arm holes.  He was having troubles with getting his pants up and down, and he was on some pretty hefty meds, so that made him dizzy.  I was overwhelmed, and I cried.

My parents were so good to us, they brought over a meal!!  How nice, not to have to worry about that.

Then, my dishwasher door broke.  I thought it was just the spring, and when we replaced it, we found that when the spring broke, the door came crashing down, and cracked the inside of the door.  And did it leak!!!  So, off to buy a new dishwasher.  Got one I liked (the boys are all impressed with all the buttons and functions--not me--I chose it because of the way the tines are shaped--they are straight up and down, and not angled every which way).  Ordered the dishwasher, only to find, that too, was on backorder.  Wait 2 weeks.

Finally got that, on the day Matthew got his cast on.  He chose a red one.   And he goes around with 2 permanent markers for people to sign it.

When we carried in the brand new dishwasher, it was leaking a whole bunch of water!  Right out through the box!!  We called the company, only to get a run around.  We found out later that they test the machines, to make sure they don't leak.  I think they should put a stamp on the boxes they test, saying that if you have water leaking, not to worry, they just tested it.  I googled it, and it seems to be a thing of concern for a lot of people.  So, why not just alleviate the worries, and put a stamp on it?

Found out the new dishwasher didn't come with an electrical cord, so when I was trying to get the cord off the old one (at the company, because they will get rid of the junk ones for free), the man just came up and said he would help me, and yanked on the cord, and ending up stripping the ground wire about 4 inches.  Great.  Got home, to find that my wire stripper was missing.  Long story short--I had to take it to Dad's house, and he stripped the power cord for me.  Yeah, Dad!!

It took us almost all day on Saturday, to get the dishwasher installed.  When we went to hook up the water line, we found out that my old fitting wouldn't work on the new machine--it went from a 3/8" to a 3/4" (which looks like a garden hose!)  So, we called to see if they had it--sure enough!  Buy the "kit" for $22, and just use the 1 piece.  Grrr.  All I needed was that fitting. 

Finally got it installed at 4:30, and loaded it up.  Ran a load of dishes.  They came out perfectly clean!!!  I had a bowl of oatmeal, that was 2 days old (we were waiting to get the thing installed).  I just gave it a quick rinse in the sink, and it still was caked on.  Put it in, and it came out clean.  I think oatmeal, and eggs are the absolute worst for getting clean in a dishwasher.  My only problem was--there was water in the bottom of the dishwasher.  Oh, great!

I prayed, and asked the Lord to help me figure it out.  A thought popped into my mind, that I should check where it drains out to.  So, I had to undo the drain pipe, and stick my finger into the hole in the garbage disposal.  If you know me--I do NOT like to put my person into anything that I can't see what's in there!  I did, and found a plug.  Hmmm.  The old one must have drained elsewhere.  We found it under the sink, a separate drain, that is kind of like the drain on a washing machine.  Ran another load, and it works wonderfully!!

Today, we went strawberry picking.  Rick, Dan, Matthew and I.  Oh, did I mention that we've also been having vehicle problems??  When Matthew was in the hospital, Rick was on his way home, when our fairly new car died on the freeway.  $290 later, he was back on the road.  Then, we had problems with the Suburban.  That is still in the shop, and they mechanic isn't sure what is wrong with it.  So, that is why we didn't all go strawberry picking, because we can only fit 5 in the car.  So, off we went.

I wish I would have called to make sure they were picking today.  We got all the way out there, followed all the signs, only to get to the entrance and there is a sign, "All picked out.  See you in 2013 season".  Why didn't they take down the signs on the main highway??  So, we went into town, and were able to buy 2 buckets of already picked strawberries.  All I can say is YUCK!!  They never should have put most of those berries in those buckets.  They were all bruised, and mushy.  I wanted to call the farm, and tell them to inform their pickers, that if their finger goes through the strawberry, get rid of it.

Rick just ran into town, and bought a pool.  The children will be so happy!  Well, except for Matthew.  He is still in the cast.  He gets the cast off towards the end of this month, and then he will wear a removeable one, so that he can begin to exercise and move his arm when he is in the house, but if he goes outside, he needs to wear it for protection.

Oh, and I haven't told you of our night time visitor.  We have someone prowling around our house in the night, usually between 2 to 4:30 AM.  We set up an alarm, but usually animals set it off.  And, we put up a game camera, but haven't seen anything, yet.  I don't think it works if someone is walking quickly past it.  Even our neighbor has seen someone out there.  He came out with a gun.  I just want the person caught, and to have them quit this.

We also had a pair of badgers down the end of our road.  The town guy called DNR, but they said they wouldn't do anything, as we live in a small village, and this is their habitat, and when they ate up the gophers, they would probably move on.

So, here are all my ramblings of the past couple months.  I was bemoaning the fact of all the happenings around here, when a dear friend reminded me of the verse, "Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivereth them out of them all."  :)

Friday, April 6, 2012

A Shout out to Pepsi!! and other food issues

So, I've been drinking Pepsi, ever since the "Pepsi Challenge".  (Does that give away my age??)  Anyway, it's been over 30 years.  Never had any problems.  Well, back on February 29, Stockman's had a wonderful pop sale!  It was 3 cases for less than $5 per case.  So, we bought 3 cases of Wild Cherry Pepsi for me, and 3 cases of Mountain Dew for hubby. One of the cases of Pepsi was absolutely horrible!!!!  I have never tasted anything so nasty!!!  It was not drinkable, at all--as it was very bitter.  At first, I thought it was me, but hubby tried it, too, and said it was not palatable.  So, I wrote the company, explaining the situation, and even added that it was almost bad enough to make me switch to Coke.  LOL

They contacted me back, and said they were sorry for the problem, and they would send me a coupon to make it right. 

DID THEY EVER!!!!  Actually, they sent me 4 coupons for a free 12 pack of Pepsi products!!!  They MORE than made up for my loss of 24 cans!!  Still a Pepsi lover!!  And, now, even more committed.

On the downside of another company.  Because of the size of our family, if I buy canned veggies, I have to buy at least 2.  Well, I bought 2 cans of spinach.  One can was perfectly fine, and the other?  Well, it was almost all water!!  Maybe 2 Tablespoons of spinach.  At $1 per can, that was not a good deal!  I contacted the company, and all they did was send me a coupon for up to $1.99 off ONE item.

Whirling days!

Here we are in the middle of the very busy week of dramas.  Two more nights of the dramas, and then on Easter Sunday, one more drama, and I will be done.  Woo hoo!!

What a busy week!  On Monday night, I was making Snickerdoodles for the Living Last Supper play.  In the evening, Rick asked what we were going to do that night, and I said that we would probably be making cookies all night long, because I didn't have a convection oven.  He got this sweet grin on his face, and said, "I can't keep it a secret any longer!  I bought you a convection oven, and it will be here later this week!"  WOW!!!!!  How exciting!!

My washing machine broke 1 week ago.  We went to a store, and was overwhelmed at all the different types/models.  I was in overload, so we came home, and started up some research.  We finally decided on a Samsung front load.  We ordered it, and it won't be in until April 18th!  (which is better than a different store, as they couldn't get it in until May 5th).  So, how do I do laundry??  Very slowly now!  Thankfully, the church has a washer and dryer.  So, when hubby goes up to the church in the morning, he takes a load or two with him, and washes them there, and brings them home at lunch time, and I dry them.  Then, after lunch, he takes another load or two.  My Mom and Dad have also volunteered the use of their washer, too (plus, I would get a visit in, as an added bonus!).  But, this week has been so busy.

Rachel's car broke down this week.  She is in school (only has 1 more week left).  It is in Eau Claire.  Well, on Wednesday, on her way home, she broke down on the freeway.  Towing and "repairs" cost over $200.  Then, on Thursday, she was on her way home again, and it broke down again.  So much for the repairs!  Today, we will be dealing with getting her car towed, so she can get it fixed.  So, hubby has been taking her to school, and leaving at 5 AM.

Yesterday, I took Andrew to the doctor, as his ears have been giving him some problems.  They put him on a strong antibiotic, as well as Prednisone.  If it's not cleared up in 10-14 days, they will talk about putting in tubes, again (he had tubes in his ears when he was really little).

Why is it, when you are in a hurry, you just get more and more behind?  We were on a limited time schedule, as I had to be back for the Living Last Supper drama.  Everywhere we went, we were put behind.  The doc was 45 minutes late.  Pharmacy didn't get the prescriptions filled in time (in fact, I was standing in line for prescriptions at a little after 5, and told them I had to be at a play by 6, and I live a half hour away.)  I have a bit of set up before the drama actually begins, and needed to be to the church by 6.

My set up includes--getting water and ice in each of the 5 pitchers on the table for the men, as well as all their cups.  I also have to get water and ice for the music team.  I put a chunk of bread on each of the disciples' plates, as well as putting celery and baby carrots in big bowls for the guys to munch on.  I also have to get the knife out of the locked office, and check the Easter Lily's, as if one recently opened, I have to pull the stamens out of the plants, as I have 2 in my family who are very allergic to the Lily pollen.  And, most importantly, we gather to pray for the dramas.

So far, we have had 2 salvations, each night.  We have 2 nights left, and we figure there will be bigger crowds tonight and tomorrow night.  So far, a little over 100 people were in attendance, each night.

You know what irks me???  Someone giving an unwed mother a gift for her baby girl, that says something like, "Daddy's little girl."  Get real! 

Monday, March 26, 2012

Update on all the tests

Well, we got a call from the doctor's office, last Thursday, saying they wanted Matthew to come in for some x-rays, just to check his heart (for placement, and to make sure it wasn't enlarged).  So, he did those on Friday.

Today, we went to the Scoliosis doctor, to get the results.  But, we had already heard from our own family doctor, that everything was looking good!  So, we went to see the Scoliosis doctor, and he took some of our questions, as well as we got to see the MRI.  His kidneys are fine, so is his spinal column (well, ok, that is a mess, but the spinal cord isn't pinched).  And, the x-rays were just perfect.  So, now our lives should settle down to somewhat of a semblance of normal, I think.  He goes back to the Scoli doctor in September.  Then, I think it will taper off a bit, until he hits his big growth spurt.  Ahhh (that is me, breathing a sigh of relief).

Things are going well with the plays.  We had an hour long practice on "Watch the Lamb".  I now bought a stuffed animal, that I am hoping doesn't start playing "Jesus Loves Me", as the boys are holding it.  :)  I just can't get the knob off it.  We are still waiting for the cape to come from England.  We pray for it daily, to arrive in time.

Well, I am going to close, as I am very tired.