For all my up-north family and friends...

spring is on its way!  What a difference a sunny afternoon made!  There is a haze of green across the trees now...after today's warmth...the leaves will be even more pronounced.  Birds, worms, daffodils, tulips, forsythias, flowering trees, grilling, walks, patio furniture...

I think this is the last project of the year...?

 I hope this is the last project of the year!  We went to turn them in today...someone didn't follow all my directions and will have a little more work after school.  I took the pic and as I snapped it I said, "I can't read your words, Alisa!"  They took all the information and made their graphs...by themselves...till Ashlynn told me "she forgot her compass and protractor".   We got as close as we could...and if you figure in cutting variances and obviously gluing inconsistencies...um, it is 5th and 6th grade arithmetic.  Oi!  As I look at the numbers...Ashlynn interviewed 120 people...she based her circle on 100%...I'm thinking that isn't right...it adds up to 120%.  Double Oi!

We worked off a plan on Saturday and Ashlynn found out that things don't have to take as long as she thinks...or as long as she draws them out.  It finally hit me...she looks at the whole thing and falls apart.  Ted showed us how to break things down.  "How do you eat an elephant?" Huh?!  I never ate one!  "We use that saying at work all the time!   You eat an elephant one bite at a time."  Huh? Oh!  (I was still trying to recover from our conversation switching to eating an elephant...gross!  We went from talking time management...to large animal consumption.  Ick!  Sometimes...I have trouble keeping up.)  I printed a special paper for Ashlynn to use...but I really think she is going to be grossed out by the thought too...but she needs to learn to break things down into smaller time chunks (and I now have a tightening in my throat at those words...Yuck!). 

We seem to have an infestation of bugs again!

On the silverware...after the table has been set for meals.  In the microwave...in our bed...in a cupboard...

The lawn boy's first cut!

 With all the rain and warmer weather, our yard needed a little cut this weekend!  We had to laugh since up north is just getting rid of their snow this past week.

I have friends in Second grade now!

It was so quiet as they worked on their seatwork...I just had to take a picture!  I love this idea...office walls!  Worked much better than the old cover sheets I always used...and now...all the fun duct tape...the possibilities are endless!  These kiddos have beautiful handwriting!  I love how one little boy said the word animal..."am-min-al".  There were other cute things said...but I can't remember anything now.  Maybe they will let me come back again...?!
A nice ending to my week...a guy, a giftcard, and a stop for an after dinner DD coffee.  And tomorrow...no alarm clocks...office walls...or lunches to pack...because it is Saturday...in comfortable clothes!

Thursday's child...

 was not full of grace!  I looked down as I went to walk out the door to take the kiddos to school.  I did it again...did not dress to be seen in public.  We have about a 4 mile drive to school every day...with other commuters and semi-trucks who are often in a very big hurry.  The gal in front of us the other day was applying make-up on her way down the Trail...tap-tapping her brakes.  We ask the Lord for safety each day...but with other drivers on the road...their choices may affect us sooner or later...and some days...I am not dressed in a non-embarrassing way!  Thursday...I really didn't feel good...so I didn't really care...but reality is...I should...every. single. day.  Some days are harder than others to get moving and stay moving...so comfort often trumps fashion!  Oi!

Poor, blessed guy!

Teddy was reading the girls "the riot act" this morning about their care and use of the tube of toothpaste in their bathroom.  "You guys are just gross.  I'm not brushing my teeth in this bathroom anymore.  You don't squeeze it in the middle."  I asked him to say it again with the same look and actions...he couldn't do it.  He looks pained here...the first look and stance was funnier, but don't tell him I said that because he was very serious.  I just walked in the bathroom to look and see what was so gross...there is nothing wrong or gross with the tube of toothpaste.  I was expecting to see it squeezed out all over the counter and cap missing...

This is what I saw.  Huh?!  Other than a missing hand towel and empty kleenex box...I failed to see what was gross!  This is clean and pretty orderly for the three of them...and the toilet is flushed!!!  I am thinking our boy was just annoyed with our two girls...which is not out of the norm some days.  He has definite grounds...believe me!

 These kiddos of ours keep growing and growing!  I looked at the girls this morning after both of them asked if I had a "sweater they could wear that matched their outfit".  We are all about layering these days as winter keeps deciding if it will leave...and spring...if it will come to stay.  I see the "mini-me" in both girls.

 We are working hard to keep on top of these growing pains.  I am encouraged every night as we sit down as a family...they are getting it, but it is a constant shepherding...protecting, nourishing, and guiding of their hearts...especially now.  Every night, we set aside time to spend time in His Word together, to talk, and to pray before we pillow our heads.  This week, Ted brought an added dimension...or twist to our time together.
We have shared personal prayer requests...things we (individuals) are struggling with...and together, as family members, we are praying for each other out loud in front of each other.  When Ted presented this the other night, there were looks of "What?! You want me to admit an area that I am weak in...out loud...to all of you?  And you all are going to pray for me?"  It has been a lesson in humility, but as Ted pointed out, "We all live together.  We all know the weaknesses of each other, in fact, we could probably make the list for each other.  But I want you to give one area that you want us to pray for you."  My heart was squeezed and challenged as I put into words one (of many) area that my family could pray for me...because the reality is...they know my actions already!  I am so thankful for Ted's understanding and leadership in what our family needs are.  Our prayer time together has gone far beyond asking for what is "good", "helped", and "blessed".  What a privilege we have to pray for each other...all throughout the day...whenever God brings someone to your mind!
What a wonderful blessing this has been!  
Our pastor asked, "If we don't pray for our children, as parents, who will?"
Our heart's desire is that our children will know more than how to just put up with their family members and conform to Dad and Mom's rules.  What do we want for our children?  Tender, transformed hearts toward God and His Word...which gives them a love and a desire to serve their Lord and others.  They won't know our heart's desire for them, if we don't tell them and show them!
If we don't pray with our children, who will?

We met a new doctor.

 Someone enjoyed the extra time this morning!  It didn't make sense to take her to school for an hour, plus, she had worked ahead and got much of her work finished!  We left about 9:20am and arrived at 10:06am.  I planned some extra time for the "trip to a new place and paper work".

 We went to one of the satellite offices...and waited about an hour to be seen.  I knew it would be rough when we walked into a waiting room no bigger than the girls' room and six other families were sitting there.

The time went fast...Alisa bowled, practiced her spelling lesson on SpellingCity, and then learned a  new game.  The nurse practitioner came in for history, and then we talked with the doctor.  He checked Alisa's strength and reflexes...both are very good!  Her right foot is tighter than her left.  We chatted and he ordered the MRI.  We will know the date for that in the next seven to ten business days as they work to schedule us.  We are thankful for a good report and successful trip.

We have a date this morning...

to go meet a new pediatric neurosurgeon.  It is time for a check-up!  We have gone a year...last April 25th we went to see Dr. Frim.  This morning, we meet a new doctor, and only have to drive 23 miles...so mapquest tells me...and we will miss the morning rush hour madness!  Right off...those are two huge blessings!  I know Alisa is not overly-excited about what meeting a new doctor means, but we want to keep up with the check-ups as she continues to grow.  We have not had any troubles.  We do know there are some things that aggravate her back/leg/foot...jump-roping is one of them.

A new week...

and the sun is shining!  Tried a new sort of grilled cheese for a coffee break this morning...saw on pinterest the other day.  I used a little cream cheese and fresh strawberries.  Yum!  I will try the blueberry version too.  I think our kiddos would like this for an after school treat.  Our kiddos are counting down the days to the end of school...a month left!

Happy third day of rehab, Mom!

Dad sent this to me on Wednesday while Mom was busy on one of the cardio machines.  I got all teary...again!  I know this is hard work and wears her out, but it is all for her good.  I hear the strength returning in her voice.  I see her color has returned.  I know that her endurance will continue to increase!  The rehab specialists monitor her the whole time she is working out...and I know that gives Mom peace of mind.  Praying for you today, Dad and Mom!  We sure do love you!

Thursday night's piano recital

  Our fourth chair filler...sometimes sits on a piano bench!

 "Mom, I don't need my book.  I have it memorized.  I am not supposed to use my book!"  Oh!  Wow!  Ok!  Daddy spoke up and said, "Why don't you play it for me!?"  She did...flawlessly.  I ceased to be nervous for her.  Dad raised his eyebrows...he was impressed.

 We are so thankful for the girls that our girls get to spend time with each day.  They enjoy many of the same things...we know this...by the excessive amounts of giggling when they are together!

 I laughed...our kiddos spotted the last statement in the program..."Please join us for a cake reception following..." like that was more important than the piano and voice student's preparation.

 I loved how she kept looking over and smiling as she waited for her turn.

 She didn't seem nervous.

  Her piece is called "Western Skies".

The pond of the shining waters...

at the end of our street!  I couldn't help but take a picture this morning...it is so pretty.  The grass is greening up, sun shining, birds singing, temp climbing to high 50s, and Ted is starting to sneeze and sniffle...

Spring!

A shopping date with our number three chair filler...

Another big event for school called for some help from the families, so Ash and I went out shopping to fill our donation.  We went in search of golf themed items...which is very funny to me since we don't golf and we are females!  I think we did a good job.  We stopped off for a cold treat and girl talk.  When we got home, Ted asked her where his treat was, "We didn't bring anything for you, just the receipt and ourselves."  She has a good sense of humor and says the funniest things to her Dad sometimes.  "Wow, I see how I rate around here!"  Poor Dad...we owe him a treat next time, Ash!

April showers...

bring out big, fat worms!  It is funny to watch the kiddos watch where they are walking as they enter school.  "What would happen if we step on them?"  Uh, you could slip and fall.  You will track worm guts all over the school...and that is nasty!

Happy first day of rehab, Mom!

I'm sending a little spring up Dad and Mom's way.  They were getting ice/snow last night, and this morning still feels like winter to them!  We have sun and temps in the 40-50s while the birds are singing merrily.  My heart is full of thankfulness for the good report Mom got on Friday.  Dad and Mom went to Rochester for her check-up with the surgeon.  They are pleased with how she is healing.  They still shook their heads about her pre-surgery condition.  We know God was caring for Mom!!!  We are thankful that He holds our lives in His hands.  We are thankful He has a purpose and plan for each of us.  We are thankful that He hears our requests and answers according to His perfect will.  Continue to pray for Dad and Mom as they go for rehab three times a week.  Mom thinks she will be released to drive after another week.  We continue to pray for grace as they continue to navigate through the healing process and the emotional release that comes with big events like this.  We are thankful for the strength God gives during and in our weaknesses.  Philippians 4:6-7

A neat way to spend a Saturday!

 Our church hosted a 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament.  Ted reffed for the 7-9 grade teams, and I helped with registration and kitchen.

 Over 50 players came to participate...many from area schools where a couple guys from church attend...Several volunteers from our ministry...Many spectators from various religions...and all heard a clear Gospel message!  

The competition was good.  Attitudes stayed good.  It was a good day!  What a neat opportunity!

I learned...

that when you sub in the school office...and it is a staff member's birthday...you get a treat!  What a nice addition to Friday afternoon!

It was occupation night for the Wednesday night kid's program...

 and our kiddos wanted to do something "fun, not serious, this time."  Teddy wanted to be a super hero of some sort.  Caden and Ainsley were SuperKids 2 and 3...we know this because their moms wrote it on their shirts.  Too funny...these kiddos of ours!

 Well...doesn't this just about say everything!  She was trying to be a princess in pink...even did her own nails pink.  I guess we have a little more refining to do.  Ha!

This silly girl decided to be the tooth fairy.  "Did you know...I had to explain who I was to somebody?  Did they not see the tooth stuff?"  Thankful for the fun themes that are sprinkled over our days...and nights!

It has been a rough week...

for all the little furry animals who live off the "Trail".  It makes me sad to see the rabbits, opossum, and raccoons that apparently weren't quite awake from their winter slumbers to make it across the Trail.  Ted would say I wouldn't have made it this morning!  I'm thankful for a comfy couch to sit on in the morning, and a husband that makes the world's best cup of coffee!

Saw these pansies this morning...

and thought about Mom!  

Update:  Dad and Mom had a date to meet with their new rehab friends today.  Rehab begins on Monday, April 15th at 9:00am!  A long walk and Culvers earned Mom a good nap.  To quote Dad, "Good for Mom to get out!"  One of the things Mom wondered out loud about before her surgery...gardening!  Mom, I think, you will be strong enough to baby all your pretty flowers...once the snow is gone!  The vegetable garden...could prove to be a little much...unless I can ship some kiddos up to take care of all the hard work.

Monday's menu

 This week is Missions Conference.  Five different families are spending some time with us during the Sunday through Wednesday time period, and they need to eat lunch.  Today, I dodged the raindrops to bring lasagna, salad, bread, and dessert.  It is such a neat opportunity to get to listen to and talk with these dear people!

Tonight's presentation, music, and challenge from God's Word ministered to my heart.  What a wonderful privilege to have a small part in sending these missionaries out...some on deputation and some on furlough!

Fejoida time

 There were many "last minute" things to do on Sunday, so I offered my hands again.  Mrs. F instructed me on how to measure out and mix the vinaigrette...we would call it salsa.  It is so yummy!

 The fejoida was on to boil...the rice was on cook.  They used the propane burner and cooked the rice the "old fashioned way".  I asked how long they cooked it...it wasn't sticky like I always end up with.  "I...uh...don't know...till it looks like...this!"

 Collard greens...with bacon, onion, garlic, cilantro...I tried it, but I didn't care for it.  Ted refused to even consider it.  He was right..."it looks like something that I clean out of the lawn mower and smells like it too."

 The fejoida...mmm, smelled good...to me!

 This was sprinkled over the top...yucca flour cooked with oil, bacon, garlic, onion.  Looked like the consistency of parmesean cheese and tasted almost like a flavored bread crumb.

 Everything was cooked on the stoves and then put into the warming trays and roasters to keep hot.

 So much time and thought went into this meal!

 Mr. F and Luis instructed those serving how to fix the plate the "correct, Brazilian way.  Now, Mawdi (Mari) and Kadi (Kari), you try this.  Tell me if you like it.  Kadi, you have before, no?"

"You like?"  It was delicious!  Mari has had this a couple times already.  There were many of us who experienced it for the first time.  We all huddled around this plate with our forks....in our hair nets and aprons  Four of us shared this plate as we tried each part for the first time...which made us laugh!  How is that for being careful food service handlers?
There were many people who came to eat.  Some tried it and liked it.  Others tried it and didn't like it.  And others wouldn't try it...so they came to see Ted and I.  We were manning the American hot dogs!

Update from Mom

She laughed as we talked and didn't groan out in pain!  I didn't mean to make her laugh...I was just telling her about my day in first grade.  Mom is doing well.  She did a little exercise...dusting the floors!  "It needed to be done.  I used my arms and walked."  The cardiac rehab lady showed us some of the stretching type things Mom could do...with a towel.  The movements of holding the dust mop accomplished the same thing.  She said she was very tired this afternoon!  Dad will drive Mom to her rehab appointment on Monday.  She will meet her new friends and be introduced to her work and schedule ahead!  Every time I talk to Dad and Mom, I am reminded of God's goodness. 
"We love you, Grammy!  We love you, Grampy!  We will be cheering you on as you begin the physical rehab part of your recovery!!!"

A Saturday date night

Ted and I went on a short adventure. "Where would you like to go to eat?  We will get off at the Novi Road exit."  I was hungry for something...and then I remembered...BDs Mongolian Grill!  We beat the supper rush!

 I saw the dessert menu...deep fried Oreos?!  Really?  "Can we please do dessert?!"  I saved part of my meal so I wouldn't be too full!  Our waiter said we would really like them!

Ohhhhh...we did!  Sweets with my sweet!