Autumn Glimpses

 

We've been doing all our Autumn activities here.  Last Friday, the kids and I enjoyed a picnic up under an apple tree in the pasture.  I packed up our lunch, and a thermos of coffee for me, some blankets and wandered up the hill to enjoy a sunshine filled day.
After an extremely hot, dry summer the Autumn rains were most welcome.  We had planned on a picnic several times, but were rained out.  We enjoyed our lunch and laughed and played all together.  We relaxed together and listened to crickets serenade us.  Talked about the leaves just starting to change and all sorts of delightful little things.
We've been doing school steady this month.  Between that and the three birthdays, there hasn't been much time to write.  At the moment, all three kids are playing happily and noisily upstairs.  I'm making Pumpkin Bread galore from the pumpkins in our garden.  I just pulled three pans of muffins out and put three loaves of bread in.  All I need now is a cuppa tea.
I worked hard in the garden the other day in preparation of a freeze that didn't happen.  That's the way it goes.  My counters are still loaded down with herbs and pumpkins, zucchinis and more.  Sweetheart mentioned the last of the pears need to be picked and that the apples are pretty much ready.
I'm working on my teas and salts in hopes of getting all those ready as soon as possible. 
I experimented with solid lotions and bath bombs the other day to sell as well.  I absolutely LOVE the lotion bars, but am rather ambivalent as to the bath bombs.  I've passed some samples out and am awaiting feedback.  And more time.  They can't wait, fresh produce can't.
I haven't really wanted to can this year, but I did three batches of peach jam the other day.  Most everything else is being dried or frozen. 
My Mom watched the kids last Friday night and they had a slumber party at her house.  It was the first time Sweetheart and I have ever been home alone here.  It was so quiet!  We read and marveled at the silence.  We enjoyed visiting and just hanging out together without interruption. 
I even got to sleep in as late as I wanted and had my breakfast in bed.  Pure luxury.  Here's to more slumber parties soon!  Thank you, Mom!
Well, I need to get back up and get moving.  There's lots more to be done.  I'm even helping with a wedding cake for next weekend and painting a big sign for the wedding arch.  The bride wants the Scripture verse from their invitations on a wooden sign( like these) to hang on the arch they're making out of bales of hay.  I'll be breaking out the brushes as soon as Sweetheart cuts the board.  Another neighbor baked the cakes, so I'll be fondanting them and decorating them with flowers.  Fondant is new to me, so pray.  Since the bride will be my nearest neighbor as of next weekend, I want to get it right!

Sweet Summer Days & Time Away

Barn Door

On Thursday mornings I sneak away. It's usually just for a couple of hours and I usually just go to the local coffee shop, but it is so nice. There are no more Bunco nights, Girls Night Outs, or even just dinner with Terri. Our little party of five is together twenty four hours a day, seven days a week and we are usually right here at home. I love it so much and I need to step away as well.

For the first few months here I was only scooting out at nap times and it was just to run to the local store, or the bank, or on quick errands. Never a break, never anything particularly fun. I got weary of it all. So, finally I told Sweetheart I needed time off and I needed to have it regularly and at least once a month.

It hasn't happened every Thursday, but it does more often than not. I feel so decadent and I know from a few comments, people here don't get it.  I know I didn't when a friend blogged about taking a day off each week.  I think it was mostly jealousy.

The coffee shop is the place to be here in town.  I've met all sorts of people from town natives to people considering moving here.  This morning I chatted with a wide range of folks.  Most of the other people are at least twenty years older and that seems normal.  In Denver, I mostly hung out with people in the same stage of life as me:  working women, newlyweds, young families, etc.  Now, I met a few moms of little ones here, but not a lot.  The change of perspectives is good.

Now, I know that I can ask around the coffee shop and find to almost anything I need to know.  It's a kick because everybodys' lives intersect  in one way or another.  Of course, the flip side is that everybody knows your business whether you like it, or not!

This morning my new neighbor dropped into the coffee shop as well.  She just moved in this weekend.  I pulled up a chair for her and introduced her around.  She and I had a few laughs together about being an outsider here.  She, too, is thrown by random people just dropping by with no warning and she knew I'd understand.  I do.  And we exchanged numbers so we can call each other before we drop by.   It all works out.

I just got back inside myself a few minutes ago.  A neighbor said he was done with the raspberries at his place so after the kids went down for naps, I grabbed my basket and went picking.  (Sweetheart is here whenever I'm not.  I'm not leaving the kids alone!)  I was able to pick a few pounds and will get making some jam in a few minutes.

I was able to put up almost nine quarts of cherries the other day from gleaning someone's trees and hope to get back for more before it's too late.  I'd like to dry some for winter baking and the cherry pie I baked yesterday had only one piece left when I got up this morning.  Guess Sweetheart liked it!

So, I'm going to rub some Healing Balm all over my scratches from berry picking and get canning.  It's an overcast day here and I was sprinkled on a bit walking back.  That's nice as it won't feel too hot in here.  The cherries ended up sugar-packed and frozen because it was just too hot the other day to want to run the canner.

What are you doing these August days?

Mothers Day

 

I have been blessed with the most wonderful Mother.  Wish I was spending the day celebrating with her.  I miss her.  It is funny that Sweetheart is with her today and I am here alone with the kiddos.  Holidays seem to work out sort of wonky for us.  And that's just fine.  Too many expectations simply lead to disappointments and we have so much fun celebrating the ordinary days that it really works out fine.

I am excited though that I will see my Mom later this week as she is flying out to visit.  We've all missed her so much!  It'll be nice to just hang out and show her our new world.

My heart is heavy today, not for my being alone here with the kids though.  Because I see the blessing in just being able to be a Mother.  It's hard work, don't get me wrong, and I don't think I'd do too well as a single mom or a military mom at all.  But it's not that.

It's my heart aching for dear friends who have tried and lost and been unable for whatever reason, and for no known reason, to have the children they desire.  While I am blessed with all my crazy littles running around, and I do know the loss of one born to heaven, I've been able to have these dear ones. 

 But I want to laugh and take silly pictures of my dear friend's belly swollen-with-life, as I wish it was.  Not emptied for the third time of life at the same point of the pregnancy.  She is grieving, I know.  I think of my friend, blessed with one, and she is a blessing, but years have passed since then and there has just been more loss.  For other friends, losing loved little ones at all stages of pregnancy.  And I can't even imagine the suffering of those who little loves die so young.  

We have the hope of heaven, my dear friends and I.  Don't know how one survives without that.

So in the midst of flowers and brunches, and breakfasts in bed, enjoy the day.  Enjoy it all!  Enjoy it even if everyone has forgotten what day it is.  And say a prayer for all those Mothers whose arms are empty.

Mom Heart Conference!!!

This is just a reminder about the Mom Heart Conference I wrote about a few weeks ago. I signed up then to attend Sally Clarkson's Mom Heart Conference here in Denver in January. Here is the link to register yourself for it as well. Today is the last day to register at the reduced rate.

Is anyone else planning on going? I know there are other Mission of Motherhood fans out there!

Sally Clarkson Conference

I am signing up today for the Sally Clarkson's "The Mom Heart Conference" here in Denver on January 22-23, 2010. I have read the Mission of Motherhood and am now working through The Ministry of Motherhood. The Mission of Motherhood really helped change my outlook on my life as a mom. In discussing the idea that the only things eternal are our souls, really puts into perspective the importance of being a mother and refocused my thoughts and actions.

What I teach and how I love my children matters so much more than any other activity or task I think I need to do. And yet she maintains a healthy balance reminding us that as important as our work as mothers is, our first priority must be our own relationship with Jesus.

There are so many wonderful and challenging chapters in these books! I have learned so much. I met with a small group of moms over the summer going through the Mission of Motherhood and loved that interaction so much that I am planning on going to the extra conference time on the first morning to learn about starting what she calls a Mom Heart group in my home. I am hoping it will help me to start up a group here in my neighborhood. I want to reach out to the other ladies in my neighborhood in a real and tangible way, not just all waving to one another as we drive by.


Here are some details:

THE MOM HEART CONFERENCE
Denver, CO ~ January 22-23, 2010

2010 Conference Theme: You...Renewed!
Renewing Your Mom Heart for a New Start

Denver Marriott South at Park Meadows
10345 Park Meadows Drive, Littleton, CO 80124

A two-day hotel conference and getaway designed especially for Christian mothers, now in its 12th year of ministering to moms. When the cultural ground is shifting, there's no better time to renew your heart for a new start with God. Sally will strengthen and encourage your heart to rise to the task of raising wholehearted children for Christ at home. Julie Hiramine and Sarah Clarkson will share heart-renewing messages, and a special Panel Discussion will discuss the Mom Heart Ministry vision. The conference includes practical workshops, inspirational worship, a seated banquet luncheon, book tables, and more.

Conference Schedule (subject to change)

FRIDAY
1:00-3:00 ~ registration and book table
3:00-5:15 ~ workshops (3:00, Sarah; 4:15, Julie)
7:00-9:30 ~Session 1 (Message, Sally)

SATURDAY
8:30-11:30 ~ Session 2 (Message, Sally; Message, Julie)
12:15-1:30 ~ Seated banquet lunch
2:00-4:30 ~ Session 3 (Panel discussion; Message, Sally)
5:00 ~ Conference ends

Here is the link for more conference information and registration. Here is a link for Sally's blog. How fun it would be to just sit and visit with here over a nice hot cup of tea!!! Maybe someday. I'll probably post again on this over the coming weeks to get the word out and to register for the drawings she's doing for free registration. Anyone else want to join me?

Hello Friends

We are on day three of no sunshine. This picture was obviously not taken this morning. On the up side, our home feels so cozy with the pumpkin spice candle burning. It really does cheer up the breakfast table.

I'm feeling a bit lost this morning as my plans changed. I was planning on having a friend over for the morning, but she had to cancel. I was going to fix us brunch with a ham quiche and a tomato with herb cream cheese tart.

Now that seems like a lot for just me. The boys are happily enjoying their toast with honey bear & yogurt with raspberries. They do like quiche though, too. It's become my default dinner when what I planned hasn't defrosted, or I've just run out of time.

Last evening found me outside covering up as much as I could in the garden and picking anything close to ripe. We're forecast for snow. The lows are listed as 34 degrees which is just too close to freezing for me. I'm hoping this will pass without a freeze and that the warm weather will kick back in. I've got a delicious pile of produce to work on today. One watermelon, a pile of pickling cucumbers-cause we need more pickles-our purple carrots, tomatoes both red and yellow, peas, zucchini and two okra pods. What do you do with two okra pods?

I have hundreds of tomatoes still out there too green to want to pick. The first of my yellow tomatoes were ripe and so I picked some of those. I was thinking they'd be beautiful layered with all the red tomatoes for a tart. Sprinkling a bit of chopped basil on top would be lovely as well. Hmm...maybe I'll make something up with them later today for dinner.

I had Bunco with my lady friends last night. It was fun. I won, so of course it was fun! Our group also does mini gifts for certain rolls and so I came home with money a some darling Autumn cookie cutters, as well as a ceramic coffee cup with lid and one of those things to keep from burning your hands. It looks like a Starbucks cup without the logo. The lid and sleeve thing are made from silicone.

The box says you can save the world by using this cup. Hah. There's only one way to save the world and a cup isn't it. It is however a nice fit. I'm not bothering with the lid and sleeve today, but those will be nice when I'm out. I've missed having a comfortable cup since I dropped my favorite one on the concrete a few months ago.

Maybe the boys and I'll will make some cookies this morning to test the new cookie cutters. I think we need to do something fun on this gloomy day. I'd never survive living in Seattle that's for sure. (Hi to Carrie in Seattle! I miss you!)

Well, the boys are done eating and it's time I start. Blessings to you all. Thanks for all your kind comments on the last post. The encouragement is so nice.

There are so many things on my heart and mind I want to write about, but I'm still trying to sort them all out. That's about impossible when the boys are up and about. I've been thinking a lot about friendships and mothering and life in general. Good things, but some of which leave more questions than answers.

Wishing you all a bit of sunshine no matter the weather!

Mothers Day

Yesterday, Sweetheart watched the boys so that my Mom

and I would be able to attend the Mothers Day Brunch at The Hudson Gardens.
We had a lovely time together,


though I missed all of my guys

so much.

The Day Off

The day started off with Pumpkin waking up at 6:48 and making sure I got up as well. I was up and in his room without thinking and not really awake. I took care of him and hopped into the shower and was on the road by 7:30. My first stop was the Devil's Food Bakery.


I was early enough to snag a table outside where I could enjoy the coolness of the morning as I drank my French Blend Tea, a black tea with Jasmine, Lavender, and Rose. You've got to love anyplace with a four page Tea Menu. This is the wall separating the outdoor eating area from the alley behind it.

I decided to order something for breakfast that I had never had before, nor was likely to cook at home. I ordered the eggs and trout. (I've had trout before, but never for breakfast, just to clarify.) It came with scrambled free-range eggs, real breakfast potatoes, nitrate-free bacon, fresh baked bread and pan-fried trout. It was a lot of food, but delicious.

I sat visiting with ladies at the other table by mine and writing for a long time. It was relaxing, peaceful, and so nice to not have to constantly get up and get something for someone else. I can't remember the last time I was served breakfast--must have been just after Dumpling was born. Even when I have my own breakfasts in bed, I am the one who makes everything.

As I was leaving I picked up a cup of coffee and a fruit tart to go.

I walked around the little street looking into the shop windows and checking times when things would open. I then headed over to Washington Park.

I walked for miles around the park, taking pictures, sketching, and just enjoying the day. The flower gardens are amazing and such fun to amble through. It was warming up fast. After a few hours I decided to sit on a bench in the shade and just read and write for awhile. I have no idea how long I sat, just watching everyone go by, but it was wonderful.

I sat under this tree in the shade just relaxing, reading, writing, and people-watching. I also ate that tart and let me tell you, it was as good as it looked. Yum!!

After a few hours at the park I walked back to the shopping area and wandered through the stores. I then headed to another little district nearby where I enjoyed their shops and Farmer's Market and picked up some baby bok choy and a pot of rosemary.

After awhile I drove over to the antique district where I wandered in a out of shops I can't get a stroller into and had a ball. I found an exquisite antique lace full petticoat that fits me. Miracle. The handwork on it is amazing. I'll get some pictures, eventually.

Then I headed to another area just a few miles north that had seemed sort of "up and coming" a few years ago when I had last stopped by. It was however, now rather "down and out". I went into a few shops, but couldn't shake the feeling that I wasn't too safe there, so I left.

I was on Broadway and Lincoln, so I drove through downtown. I got to see a few protesters there for the Democratic National Convention, but I think they were outnumbered by police and other security. After getting passed the crowds out for the Rockies game, I was finally back on the freeway and headed home.

I arrived at home at 3:30, just as the boys were getting up from naps. We played for awhile and I made calzones for dinner which we enjoyed while watching "Cranford". All in all, it was a wonderful day. Thank you, Sweetheart, for making it possible! I missed you!

A Whole Day to Yourself--What Would YOU Do?

Sweetheart is taking over tomorrow and I'll have the day to myself. What would you do? I've got a few ideas floating around, but would love suggestions...

I'll miss my boys, I know, but it is so refreshing to just have a day.

*****Edited to add later:

I'm thinking breakfast at the Devil's Food Bakery. Then spend a little time wandering around the neighborhood by the bakery. The Tended Thicket and Pome are two unique and delightful shops. There is also a large park, Wahington Park nearby.

I'm planning on bringing one of my Everything Books, my watercolor pencils, and the camera. This is also a fun place to browse, but completely on the other side of town. We'll see...

Laboring Verses

Here are the verses I wrote out on plain index cards to read during labor. I added little flower stickers to the cards as well to make them not so plain and flowers are relaxing to me. Since Dumpling arrived 12 days "late" I read the cards a lot during the waiting days. I did actually go over them a few times during labor. Now, most of them are on my vanity mirror. I think I may put them by my rocker so I can review them while nursing--one of the few moments I sit still in the day! Many of these verses were suggested by other readers. To those of you who left verses in the comments, thank you!

I hope these can encourage you wherever you are at today. Whether or not you'll be in labor anytime soon doesn't matter. These verses are some that can renew you during any challenging time and remind you to draw your strength from Him. I find myself repeating them throughout the days and nights, especially when everyone around me, and sometimes including me, is crying or needing something.

I especially like the promise that, "He gently leads those that have young," when I'm feeling swamped and unsure of what to do next with the boys. I ask/beg Him to lead me in that moment. And He does.

Isaiah 40:11

He tends his flock like a shepherd:

He gathers the lambs in his arms

and carries them close to his heart;

he gently leads those that have young.

Psalm 5:3

In the morning, O LORD,

you hear my voice;

in the morning

I lay my requests before you

and wait in expectation.

Phillipians 2:13

For it is God who works in you to will and to act

according to his good purpose.

Proverbs 3:5&6

Trust in the LORD with all your heart

and lean not on your own understanding;

Hebrews 13:5b-6

God has said,

"Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you."

So we say with confidence,

"The Lord is my helper;

I will not be afraid.

What can man do to me?"

Psalm 91:2

I will say of the LORD,

"He is my refuge and my fortress,

my God,

in whom I trust."

Psalm 33:20-22

We wait in hope for the LORD;

he is our help and our shield.

In him our hearts rejoice,

for we trust in his holy name.

May your unfailing love rest upon us,

O LORD, even as we put our hope in you.

Psalm 139: 13-16

For you created my inmost being;

you knit me together in my mother's womb.

I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;

your works are wonderful,

I know that full well.

My frame was not hidden from you

when I was made in the secret place.

When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,

your eyes saw my unformed body.

All the days ordained for me

were written in your book

before one of them came to be.

Psalm 46:10

Be still, and know that I am God;

I will be exalted among the nations,

I will be exalted in the earth.

Philippians 4:19

And my God will meet all your needs

according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.

Isaiah 26:3 (I really like and need this verse!)

You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast,

because he trusts in you.

Philippians 4:12-13

I know what it is to be in need,

and I know what it is to have plenty.

I have learned the secret of being content

in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry,

whether living in plenty or in want.

I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

Psalm 124:8

Our help is in the name of the LORD,

the Maker of heaven and earth.

Psalm 62:1-2

My soul finds rest in God alone;

my salvation comes from him.

He alone is my rock and my salvation;

he is my fortress,

I will never be shaken.

Isaiah 40:31

But those who hope in the LORD

will renew their strength.

They will soar on wings like eagles;

they will run and not grow weary,

they will walk and not be faint.

Fun Book

Mom's Almanac edited by Alice Wong & Lena Tabori

I found this treasure a few weeks ago in the Bargain Bin at Barnes and Noble. It is simply adorable! The illustration on the cover is a delightful preview to the many wonderful pictures and ideas inside. The website for the book gives more information. Here is just an excerpt:

"Part reference, advice, and resource guide, and part cookbook, keepsake, activity, and crafts book, this hard-working almanac is packed with information and fun. And it has been lovingly designed to showcase more than 300 pieces of vintage children’s illustrations from beloved artists such as Jessie Willcox Smith, Kate Greenway, and Maud Humphrey. "

Mom’s Almanac is organized into seven themed chapters: The Bare Essentials, Feeding Time, Having Fun, Stepping Out, Seasons and Holidays, Preserving Memories and The Best of Everything.

I was given the authors' Christmas Almanac several years ago as a gift. It, too, is filled with beautiful images and ideas. Apparently the authors have quite a few books, all of which seem to be well-reviewed.

***
I had my weekly midwife appointment this morning. All is well with both the baby and I. Pumpkin was right there, helping the whole time. He really likes the midwife and stands along side her as she measures and pokes my tummy. He is so intent watching everything she does and of course, keeping a close eye on me. He pats my tummy and blows kisses.

After the visit he and I went to explore the new hospital near by. It's where we will transport to if there is an emergency during or after labor. It's nice enough, but I sure hope I don't have to go there! It's a nice hospital, but still is obviously a hospital and looks like an uncomfortable place to have a baby to me. I'd much rather stay home and enjoy the comforts of my own home and bedroom.

Please continue to pray for us! We are much obliged to everyone.

Wife or Mother?

I found this article the other day and thought it was very interesting. It really made me think about how I view what I do each day as both a wife and a mother. I know I say that I'm a stay-at-home-mom more than I do that I am a wife. I think part of it is that I was a working wife for seven years before I stopped working outside the home. I think though, that Mrs. Jaynes raises some interesting points with some very serious repercussions. Here's most of the article:

First and Foremost Wife or Mom?

In Becoming the Woman of His Dreams, Sharon Jaynes recalls a time when "a wife who became a mother remained first and foremost a wife." When did we change "working wife" to "working mom"? When did "housewife" suddenly become less important than "stay-at-home mom"?

Mrs. Jaynes writes of this paradigm shift:

I think the change is more of a reflection of the culture's shift of importance from being a wife to being a mother. Our focus has shifted from a home that is centered on the marriage unit to one that is centered on the children.

She quotes Dr. John Roseman, who reflects in the Charlottee Observer:

"This shift came about largely because America's shifted to a self-esteem based child-rearing philosophy, and women became persuaded that the mother who paid the most attention to and did the most for her child was the best mom of them all."

Mrs. Jaynes makes a powerful point as she notes,

Unfortunately, many times this [shift] has occurred at the expense of the marriage. The wife becomes engrossed in her children's lives, and the husband becomes engrossed in his career. Twenty years later, they look up from their cereal bowls and say, "Who are you?"

A mother should never feel guilty for putting her husband before her children. Giving them the security of knowing that their parents love each other is one of the best gifts she can give them in the long run...

I believe the best mom of all is the one who loves her husband and gives her children the security of living within the protection of a rock-solid marriage, a marriage that exemplifies and models for them what God intended.

I know that I've definitely seen this emphasis placed on the children over the marriage time and time again. I am guilty of it as well at times. Because Sweetheart and I were married for so many years before having kids, we have a very strong relationship with one another. We are each other's best friend and closest companion. I want to maintain that!

As time goes on, more kids are born, and raising children demands more time and energy, I want to make sure that I do not neglect my relationship with Sweetheart. This article really has made me think more about this over the last few days. I don't want to end up married to a stranger, nor lose who I am as a person to being a mom. At the end of it all, I want to please Jesus, not try to be the Mother of the Year.

Sweet Thought

"The mother's heart is the child's schoolroom."
~Henry Ward Beecher

Image from All posters.com, Mary G. Smith artist