little irish

peppy

2012-01-27T16:05:00.000-08:00

The other day, I was walking along, and my gait was different. It felt odd at first. A little bouncy I dare say. I surmised my shoes were doing something funny to the way I was walking. I tried to change my steps so the bouncing would stop. It didn't help. And, then I thought to myself, "Is this what it feels like to have pep in your step?"

By golly! I've gone all peppy and stuff!!

Hold up!! Before you go rolling your eyes and muttering about what a windbag I am, hear me out.

My mother told me when we boarded that airplane bound for Costa Rica that "this place will change you." And, like you, I brushed it off.

She warned there was something, not exactly sure what, but something about the community, the air, the rain forest, the animals, that seeps into your soul and mixes it up a bit. For every person, the effect is slightly different. For some, they become grouchy and difficult, but for others it's downright cathartic.

Luckily, I fell into the latter category.

However, I didn't really realize the full extent of Costa Rica's grasp until I was back in my hometown, back to doing all the normal, routine things I had done before. Back to doing laundry, organizing play dates, filling the dishwasher and schlepping kids to and fro. In fact, it was an early morning eye appointment with Miss Divine one week later when the realization started to sprout. The eye doctor was going on about vision prescriptions, patching weak eyes and listing off way too many numbers when she stopped what she was saying mid sentence, gave her full attention my way and asked what was different about me. Without skipping a beat, Miss Divine blurted "She cut her hair and just got back from Costa Rica!" My eight year old's blunt perception of my new psyche was more or less hushed because how perceptive can an eight year old be after all.

Skip ahead a few days, as I tried to time my stride to a rhythm that wasn't so bouncy, when it hit me. Pow! My aha! moment (as Oprah would say). Miss Divine was right! My eight year old, in her funny little eight year old way, actually nailed it. It wasn't my physical appearance that was so different, it was my inner self that was shining through. All those things that weighed me down before visiting the most magical place on earth, had disappeared and is no longer really all that important. And, dang, don't I feel good about it!

dancing girl

2012-01-26T10:21:00.000-08:00

Petite Artiste is in her third year of dance classes. She loves everything about it!

Parents aren't usually allowed to sit and watch. It's distracting to the kids and makes teaching harder for the teacher. Every session of classes, however, there is an observation day. The parents/families/friends get to sit in on a class and see how their little dancers have progressed.

Miss Petite seems to glow in everything she puts her mind to. Dance is no exception. She hangs on her teacher's every word and follows her new steps as best she can. It's very cute to watch.

Another parent wrote me a note about a recent art project she helped with in Miss Petite's kindergarten class. Mentioning how much my girl "needed" glitter.

My reply: "this girl was born with glitter in her veins."

From her head to her toes....

I really believe that is true.

She is one sparkly kid!

faces of costa rica

2012-01-24T08:54:00.000-08:00

One of the things I noticed most about my time in Costa Rica is just how beautiful the people are. Not so much their outside appearance, although who can argue, 'these be a pretty bunch of people!'

I was mostly taken aback at how beautiful they are inside. Costa Ricans are so loving, genuine, and caring. They smile all the time. They kid around with everyone. They hug at every greeting. I've never truly felt like a community had each other's back like I did when I was surrounded by these people. A third world country so poor in things, but so rich in life.

I now wish I had taken more pictures of the many faces that came into my view.

Cendry

Chito

Ronald

Debbie

Jose

father and son

Juan Jose

grandpa and granddaughter

fishing

Enrique and his wife

climate shock

2012-01-23T11:21:00.000-08:00

As soon as I stepped off the plane from ten days in Costa Rica, I was greeted with cold and snow. Talk about a climate shock. Warm rainforest to freezing white stuff. It was hard to be motivated to get out bed even. Then, we lost power and the whole town shut down. School was cancelled and heat was elusive. I was not a happy camper. The kids loved it until around hour eight without power. They got bored and I wouldn't let them go out to play in the snow, because we didn't have a way to get warm again. In the end, we survived. The power cam back on and kids went back to school. I'm getting myself up and begrudgingly have started chores around the house. Coming home after vacation is great, unless four people and two dogs continue to live in your house while you are gone. I'm a clean up crew of one today. Sigh.

(Petite Artiste doing the happy dance)

costa rica

2012-01-21T16:59:00.000-08:00

A world traveler I am not. I can literally count the states I've visited on one hand. So when the thought of visiting Costa Rica came my way, I doubted the possibility a bit. Affording it was the main factor. I'm a stay at home mother after all. Whisking myself away to some tropical local seemed as far fetched as winning the lottery. I wasn't even in possession of a passport. Not to mention the limited amount of Spanish I absorbed in my adult years came from Dora the Explorer. However, I knew, in the back of my mind, there was a good possibility I might just make it there even if it seemed like things might be stacked up against me.

Long story, short. My mom is a natural horsewoman and a major advocate for barefoot trimming. Her business had taken her to Costa Rica once before just a mere eleven months ago. You can read about her first visit here.To her surprise the opportunity had presented itself again. Amazingly, she was able to take me along for which I am grateful.

What seems like forever ago, I put myself to work obtaining my first passport and working out schedules for my family. A few speed bumps occurred, but as usual, all things that are meant to be, sort themselves out. And, before I knew it, I was boarding a plane to Costa Rica.

We took the red-eye from Denver CO on a Saturday night and landed in San Jose Sunday morning at six o'clock in the morning. Sleeping on a plane in the middle of the night proved to be mostly unattainable, although I managed to squeak in a few winks. I woke up to the sun rising over the wing of the plane and shortly after, we hit the road running in a world where I didn't speak the language.

I felt disoriented, but at the same time, strangely at peace as if I just arrived at home. Oh sure, communication was a barrier but it quickly worked itself out. Every chance I got to speak to a non-English speaker was a welcomed challenge. Conversations became largely animated sign-language affairs with lots of head bobbing and laughing. From a far, we might have looked like we were playing a game of charades.

Because we spent majority of our time as non-tourists, I feel like I was making friends which was pretty terrific. The people of Costa Rica are truly some of the nicest people I've met. They hug and kiss at every greeting. They are genuine, welcoming, and funny. Oh so funny. Their love for one another was truly touching. Even though I was new to their community, I never felt like I was an outcast or lonely. And, all I could think about was one day bringing my family to meet all my new friends.

Although, we did take part in some tourist activities. Ziplining was probably the most fun! I'm totally hooked. We hopped on a pontoon boat for a river tour and was able to witness some of the very cool animal life. And, because we were so close to the Arenal volcano, we enjoyed an evening at the hot springs. We also were lucky enough to take in the landscape of Costa Rica via trail rides. And, let me tell you, when you hop off your horse after a trail ride in Costa Rica, you feel so invigorated. These trails are not like any other. The terrain is rough and amazing all at the same time. At moments you fear you won't come out on other end, but when you do, you feel like you can conquer the world. It is life changing! (If that sounds too corny to you, then I challenge you to take part in just one of those trail rides and not feel the same.)

Of course, it wasn't all play. However, even the work felt like play. We spent a few days helping at a Parelli clinic with David Lichman. And, mom worked with the horses of Leaves and Lizards too. Coupled with meeting and eating majority of our meals family style with the other guests of Leaves and Lizards it made for one awesome time. The time spent in Costa Rica went way too fast and I'm eager to go back. Hopefully, sooner than later.

costa rica : day four

2012-01-11T20:28:00.000-08:00

Today was spent on a pontoon boat on the Rio Frio river, just shy of Nicaragua. Being able to see animals and birds of Costa Rica up close was really fascinating.

Last night I had some connection difficulties and wasn't able to upload pictures. Day 3 will have to wait.

costa rica : day two

2012-01-09T21:52:00.000-08:00

Today's adventures didn't involving planes or traveling, thank goodness! Instead, breakfast was enjoyed with this little friend. And, let me just say two words about the food here. Finger Licking!! Everything I've put in my mouth has been delicioso!!

We spent the better part of the day at the bull riding arena in Monterrey. David Lichman is the presenter of a natural horsemanship clinic here in Costa Rica. One of the reasons we are here. I tried to keep out of the way best I could while playing with my Christmas present (camera).

David is pictured with Debbie Legg, owner of Leaves and Lizards. I mentioned her in the last post, but I didn't give credit where credit is due. She is responsible for hosting the clinic and getting us here as well. Thank you Debbie!

We took a mini walk to the little grocery store.

I snapped a few pictures of the area. I'm hoping to get more tomorrow.

Until then, Buenas noches.

costa rica : day one

2012-01-08T21:08:00.000-08:00

We boarded a plane on Saturday evening and woke up at 6am on Sunday to the sun rising over Costa Rica.

Once we landed, we hit the road running. Meeting with the very kind woman whom is hosting us this week. Her cabin retreat is really great!

The three hour drive to get here from the airport is brutal when you've barely slept the night before.

The open air restaurant overlooking the Arenal Volcano totally makes up for it though.

And, the weather is downright super. Just what I needed after freezing my tail end off for the last nine months. Spending the afternoon in a t-shirt was heaven!!

Three hours seems to be the theme for just about anything around here. We were due to go on a trail ride but it took three hours to get it organized and on way. And, the ride itself? You guessed, it was three hours long. That's about three hours longer than I've spent on the back of a horse since 1998 but I have to say, it really is like riding a bike. My good boy took care of me and did everything I asked even if he really didn't want to. The terrain is extremely rough around these parts which made for ouchy horse toes.

We saw lots of these along the way. Plus one three toed sloth that hung upside down in a tree for us all to see. I'm looking forward to seeing more wildlife.

Now I have to tuck myself in because I am wiped. Not having slept in an actual bed for forty-eight hours can really wear a sister out!

december

2012-01-04T13:27:00.001-08:00

ch-ch-ch-changes

2012-01-04T08:43:00.000-08:00

Every time a brand new Pottery Barn Kids catalog comes through my mailbox, I get an itch to decorate my childrens' spaces. I thumbed through the newest version and then I found myself in Petite Artiste's room around six pm last night rearranging her furniture. That is right. The last night of winter vacation, when everyone was due to return back to school and work the next day. I'm knee deep in dress-up clothes and toys. It's a sickness. To my defense, however, her bedroom walls were painted over the break and I had yet to hang her pictures up or move her things around to perfectly suit her needs. It takes me a while to find that balance of function and cuteness. I tend to move things around three or four times before I like it.

This brings me to the reason for this post. This very first post of 2012. The new year. Which I dragged my feet on writing because I was feeling a little off about putting anything down in black and white. For fear it would be a major snore fest. Should I start with the obvious? Do I write about resolutions? How we wrapped up 2011? My plans for life? My opinions of the presidential candidates? Oh the pressure!

The new year always feels like a fresh start. A reset if you will. Want to know a secret? I sort of loathe making a commitment to resolve anything. Truth is, what I dislike most about making resolutions for myself is the let down of not succeeding. But, like the furniture in my home, I'm always changing it up. Playing around with what works better for that time or place. I strive towards goals of simplifying, organizing and happiness pretty much all the time.

So! Dear new year. I hope we see you through and you don't end like Nostradamus predicted (har har!). And, for the first time, in I don't know how my years, I am NOT striving to lose weight. Which feels pretty fantastic!! I'm expecting 2012 to be a super year full of new challenges and adventures.

happy christmas

2011-12-25T15:54:00.000-08:00

Hope your holiday has been merry and bright!

Ours started around 3:30 am this morning, but so far no one is complaining. Everyone is very happy and content. I was a gifted a new camera. A fancy new camera I'm learning how to use. Here are some of my favorite shots of the morning.

Peace!

these are a few of my favorite things

2011-12-23T16:12:00.000-08:00

In the spirit of the season, here are a few of my favorite things in no particular order.

Jurlique skin care. A few years ago I received a gift certificate for a facial at a fancy spa. The esthetician was using Jurlique products and I fell hard. I love these rebalance kits and my fave is the Sensitive.

One of my favorite treats this time of year is at Starbucks. I love the peppermint mochas. Yum-yum!

A new discovery: Physicians Formula eye booster liquid eyeliner. The idea is that you get that fancy eyelash growth good stuff while using your eyeliner. I've mentioned before that I love to get my lashes and eyebrows tinted. But, that whole tinting thing fades, so in between I like to wear a little eyeliner and mascara. It's a little cheat. However, I now know I need liquid eyeliner lessons stat!

Scottish Terriers. I LOVE dogs, all of them, really. However, I've always had a soft spot for scotties. That profile kills me and I literally melt when I see that beard and arched neck. All my life, the dogs that have shared my home have been rescues and believe me, they've all been super pets. But a few years ago, Mr. Hawthorne and I decided to get a puppy and the search for a scottie started. Angus (pictured) was our first. He was such a good boy! Now we have Franklin and Mavis, and although they are crazy, we couldn't imagine our family without them. I love me some scottie!!

Framed words. Little sentiments that say so much. Although, I'm not a fan of words painted on the actual walls of my home, but I do enjoy some framed and hung. Currently, my favorite words are "C'est la Vie" and you bet your bottom dollar I have that framed and hung on a wall in my house.

Vintage Airstream campers. Swoon! My dream is to own a fully restored and remodeled tin can baby one day.

Santa pictures! And, this one is truly my favorite of all time. El Fuego was about fifteen months old and wanted nothing to do with that guy in red. I crack up every time I see it.

I hope the end of 2011 finds you all in the company of your favorite things! Merry Christmas to you and yours!

snowflake lane

2011-12-21T10:24:00.000-08:00

We took the kids to Snowflake Lane last night, braving the cold and the crowds. We've lived in the area for about nine years now and this was our first visit. It's good though. The kids are at a super age for it where it all seems magical, but they are old enough that I don't worry as much.

It was reminiscent of Disneyland with the loud, upbeat music being pumped in. The bright costumes and cheery make-up. The dancing entertainers. And, the snow. Oh how Petite Artiste LOVED the snow!!

Afterwards, we flooded into the mall with the rest of the crowd mostly to warm our toes but to allow the traffic to die down too. We hit up the Christmas store while we waited. The kids picked out their annual ornament for their trees. We hadn't done that yet this year and we managed to hit up a 60% sale which I was very happy about. Then we circled around to Cinnabon for a snack before heading out.

This might just be a new family tradition!!

hair today ...

2011-12-14T13:12:00.000-08:00

... gone tomorrow!

More fitting is:

Gone today, let's see if I can style it tomorrow!!

Anyhow, there you have it. I have been inching my way to a short hair cut for months now. And, I'm not sure if I'm done yet. I kept asking my stylist to cut more off and with every snip, I liked it even more. I've always wanted a cute pixie style. I decided to go with this length for now. Let it grow on me before I go even shorter....if I decide to go shorter. Which really depends if this cut is easy for me to style in the morning. I base all hair cuts by how I can work with it. I am inept at doing hair, so if it's somewhat easy for me to style, then I deem it a good hair cut.

Now onto shocking my children at the bus stop and waiting for Mr. Hawthorne's reaction.

reentry

2011-12-13T14:52:00.000-08:00

Mr. Hawthorne and I had ourselves one heck of a super duper weekend. Crashing back into the week was hard! Like HARD. Picture me on the floor kicking and refusing to get dressed for school hard. It's taken me a couple days to come back down from the cloud I was living in. Back to mommy duties and homework hassles.

I can't lie though. I'm still smiling over my new BFF.

A right fine entertainer, with the whitest teeth I have ever seen.

Mr. CeeLo Green.

Yes, that's right, the man behind "F U" and host on The Voice.

I saw him.

In person.

Doing his thang!

And, I was this close!!!

YES!! For realsies!! I actually took this picture (with my cell phone because Mr. Hawthorne wouldn't let me take my camera.) And, I LOVED EVERY SINGLE MINUTE OF IT. Except for the ten minutes or so when the uber drunk woman tried to squeeze in front of me and when I wouldn't let her, she decided to dance, obnoxiously, next to me while jabbing her elbows into my shoulders. We managed to run her off though to the great relief of everyone around us.

After CeeLo, we hung with friends and pretended we didn't have kids, living the young people life.

And, that was just Friday night!!!!

Since the kidlets were down on the farm for the weekend. Mr. Hawthorne and I spent most of Saturday shopping and dining. We were smart too. We made our dinner reservations before we started shopping, so we didn't have to wait when we got hungry. I'm never on top of it like that.

Dinner itself was rather uneventful. We enjoyed broccoli beef and lettuce wraps. Yum! However, just when were about to leave and continue shopping, a stack of (cleanthankgoodness) plates came raining down on me, spilling drinks into my lap. I sat stunned while my pants soaked up most of the liquid. It wasn't left unnoticed by the manager who paid for our dinner, gave us a gift card and offered to pay for dry cleaning. Like I have anything dry cleaning anymore. And, since more shopping was on our schedule, I took my wet butt to the nearest sale rack to buy a new pair of jeans. So it wasn't all bad. We actually closed the mall down too. Haven't done that since I was a teen.

We slept in on Sunday!

That alone needs to be in a sentence all by itself. I mean, when was the last time we really got to sleep in like that? I don't remember so the act alone was pretty significant.

After sleeping in, we sipped on peppermint coffee and wrapped Christmas gifts. Which means, we are completely on top of it this year. Shopping is done. Wrapping is finished. Stocking stuffers are waiting to be stuffed. I feel so on top of it this year. It is really creeping me out!!

Then Sunday afternoon, we picked the kids up. They were worn out and a little on the crappy side. Reentry hasn't been easy for them either. Especially the oldest one. He now thinks staying up until ten o'clock is his new modus operandi. We've somewhat started to hit our stride today. All seems to be running smoothly without any major hiccups. Phew!

After this week, we are on official winter break. The holiday is right around the corner. I'm hoping to enjoy every minute of this vacation with lots of hot chocolate, new toys and quiet days. Wish me luck!

just when i thought....

2011-12-09T13:25:00.000-08:00

.....I had everything under control, more or less, I show up to school to be confronted by "that" teacher face. You know the one, that look that things aren't so hot on Mount Peerland. I could feel my smile fade and I got that feeling in the pit of my stomach as I uttered the words "uh oh, what happened?" Surprisingly, or maybe not so surprisingly, I never wonder to myself what might have happened "TO" El Fuego because I know it is always something El Fuego has done. For the most part, I am about eighty-nine percent correct in my thinking at any given chitty chats with thee educational units. Oh to be a red headed, ten year old boy!

Didn't I just say two posts back how my son is a mixed bag of charisma and wit coupled with a mischievous spirit? And, how I have to work my backside off to be a step or two ahead of him? And, how frickin' exhausting that is?! Yes, yes I did.

Well, there it is. Just when I thought I was cruising along and things were peachy-keen I was told my devilish son with a heart of gold pantsed a boy at recess. You read that right. Pulled another kid's pants down. Oh the hilarity of it all!!!

(help me!)

Luckily, El Fuego's teacher really is the best ever. And, having two boys herself seems to show pity on me. For which I am grateful. She seems to take everything in stride. Having been at this only ten years myself, I've learned to roll with it.

Up next?

Swirlies?!?!

Oh gawd! Looking forward to that conversation.

Not!

rambles

2011-12-09T09:52:00.000-08:00

I opened my comments up (meaning no security hoops to jump through) to make it easier for readers, bystanders, passerbys to leave a note or say hi when they stop in. But instead of getting hellos, I get tons of spam from gobblity-gook threads to click on link for your free pair of Jimmy Choos. It's annoying!

Baby, it's friggin' cold outside!! I am always so cold, it almost hurts. Once I traveled to Michigan to see my long time, bestie friend in the month of February. She told me it would be really cold and to dress warm. Her warnings could not prepare me (at all) for when we walked out of the airport and that kick of freezing air hit me. I have never been so cold, so fast, in all of my life. Except for now. This cold snap reminds me very much of that Michigan February.

Tonight is Mr. Hawthrone's company party. And, guess who is scheduled to entertain and delight the working folk and spouses alike?? CeeLo Green! For reals!! I'm super excited to hear the man in person.

And because of the party tonight, my mom is driving up to take the kiddos back to farm today. I've asked if they can stay through the weekend so Mr. Hawthorne and I can do some holiday shopping. She agreed. Thank you Mom!

Did I mention our little birdie was finally crowned a name? After much thought and many suggestions from the kids like "Greeny" and "Chirpy" and "Larry", Mr. Hawthrone decided on Ozzy. And, it fits him. As he moves around his cage like he is a little bit drunk, he is a very messy eater and we can't understand a word he says. So Ozzy is quite fitting indeed.

Our halls have officially been decked. Christmas tree is up, holiday cards sent, house is tidied, furniture has been rearranged (thank you Lisa!) and decorations are aplenty. I have this creepy feeling that I am really on top of it this year, like mostly prepared. And, I didn't even start in July. I decided a while back I was going to be mellow and not stress over what I might think is expected of me. My goal is to make the season cheery and bright for my little family. Everything else just doesn't matter. This attitude suits me well. And, I like it.

I had my first chiropractor appointment the other day. I was a tad nervous. It really seems like people have super strong opinions about ye olde back doctors. Some swear by them while other debunk their methods as myth. I'm of neither opinion right now. All I do know, is that my neck locked up something awful this last summer where I couldn't move for about a week. Since then, I have had troubles with my movement (read I don't really have full range of movement at all) and I'm sore most of the time. The stiffness comes and goes in waves. But since raising my right arm over my head has proven painful, I decided I had had enough and I needed to try something. I haven't been adjusted yet but all the xrays and scans say I'm wacked. So I'm eager to get this show on the road and see if some back cracking fixes me right up.

My constant quest to organize and declutter my homestead continues. You will know where I've been by the piles of 'I-have-no-idea-what-do-with' have been left about like a trail of breadcrumbs. My work is mostly powered by peppermint coffee and brief intermissions of facebook for comedy relief. I have some really funny friends which I love!

A while back I might have mentioned I applied (and was awarded) my very first passport at the age of thirty-cough-something. I know, a world traveler I am not. However, I believe I am going to start the new year off right with a trip to Costa Rica. Si! That's a good place to start my world traveler status methinks. My mom is going on a business trip and I am tagging along so it won't be the beach resort most might picture. Mom works with horses so we are traveling to farms and site seeing will include the jungle and volcano. The gal that hires my mother calls it 'the real Costa Rica' so I'm rather excited to witness this in person. Plus, Costa Rica is warm!

That's about all the rambling I can think of to ramble on about. Until we meet again my cyber friends, enjoy your holiday season. Make is cheery and chill!

parenting is hard yo!

2011-12-05T19:11:00.000-08:00

I got a note from El Fuego's teacher about some homework he was supposed to do. He had turned up at school the next day without it finished. (In fact, he didn't even start it.) At first, I felt super guilty for not following through and making sure he was up to par. Like I schluffed on my duties as a parent. I did tell him to get his homework out. And, he did sit at the table for about forty-five minutes with his work in front of him. Then he cleaned it all up, put it away in his backpack and went about his business. I assumed he did his work. What he was doing actually, I have no idea. I never went through his backpack to check. If I'm being honest, I really just forgot to check because like every night, the night time routines are crazy busy.

Then I shook some sense into myself. I am NOT here to micro-manage my children. What valuable lessons do they learn if I'm the one always dotting i's and crossing t's? A helicopter parent that hovers over every little task is so not me. Life Under the Big Top has been talking about "free range parenting" and this book. I've since found Lenore Skenazy's blog. Good stuff people!

Sort of unconsciously and sort of on purpose, I had been stepping back from El Fuego's school work responsibilities. Leaving him to lean on himself rather than me. He is in fourth grade after all. Study habits and organizational skills have been put in place last year. As bad as this might sound, I've been waiting for him to fail more or less. I really want my ten year old to learn that when he doesn't put his best effort forward, then he doesn't succeed. My hope is not succeeding will feel bad to him therefor he will put forth more thought and effort the next time. Learning lessons the hard way is the best way! And, I want him to learn these very valuable lessons now when the cost is cheaper.

So I wrote his teacher back explaining my reasoning. I let her in on the arguments El Fuego and I have had over his lack of applying himself. And, how I have been actively trying to find something that motivates him without hovering over him.

His teacher wrote me back stating "YOU are awesome!" Yes, with capitalization and everything. Which put her right up there in the fabulous teacher category in my book not only because she thinks 'I'm awesome', but because she agrees with me when it comes to these lessons of learning. She also wrote: I'm confident he will figure out that "If he puts in the honest effort, Then he will succeed." Three cheers for great teachers!! And, three cheers for being on the same page with great teachers!!

Finding motivation for El Fuego has always been difficult. He has never been a 'regular' kid per say. He is gregarious and precocious and mischievous and filled to the rim with charisma. I find these traits of his inspiring and frustrating all at the very same time. He is a difficult kid that keeps me having to be two steps ahead of the game at any given moment. Frankly, it's exhausting!

I'm testing a new motivation out. Money. Cold hard cash! My reasoning is this: In life, adults work. If they apply themselves and do a good job then they get paid. In dollars. I thought about what amount of money would sound like a lot to a ten year old. So, I told El Fuego if he earned himself all 4's in academic subjects on a report card, I would pay him one hundred dollars no strings attached. All 4's equals straight A's. His rebuttal was "you are just saying that because you know I won't get all 4's". Which made me feel a little sad. I told him I KNEW he could do it and how it might not be easy but that I had confidence in his abilities. He is a savvy kid after all. I'm holding my ground, staying true to my word and not hovering. We shook on it even. I believe he can do it.

All he needs is to believe in himself....

Sometimes that is the hardest lesson to learn of all.

reindeer festival 2011

2011-12-04T18:39:00.000-08:00

We braved the cold and took the kids to the reindeer festival to see Santa Claus and his reindeer. This is probably our one family tradition that we do every year. The festival is at a little local zoo and we like to show our support by taking part in the festivities.

Santa was pretty magical this year!

After their conversation with the big guy in red, we headed down to the workshop to write thank you notes and get face paint.

Only the girls wanted face paint this year. El Fuego refused, but was patient during the process.

Cougar for Miss Petite.

Reindeer for Miss Divine.

The zoo has sleds aplenty for picture ops.

We couldn't pass up a crazy ride in Santa's sleigh.

Miss Petite trying to sneak a peek...

christmas tree 2011

2011-12-04T10:35:00.000-08:00

We did something new this year on our adventure to the tree farm. We took the dogs with us. They, of course, LOVED it! El Fuego was one happy camper because of this too. However, because we were on dog patrol throughout the farm, I didn't get as many pictures as I normally do. That said, I got enough to order our Christmas cards with so it all worked out in the end.

november

2011-12-02T16:12:00.000-08:00

surprise!

2011-11-30T15:13:00.000-08:00

The big surprise for Mr. Hawthorne

was his very first parakeet!

Meet the newest addition to our zoo. This little guy has yet to find a name perfect for himself. We've tossed around Packer (as in Green Bay Packers) because of his coloring. And, Larry for Larry Byrd. Funny right. Currently, since I've been at home with him, I call him Chirpie or Birdie because that's just what comes out of my mouth when addressing the fellow.

I found some fun parakeet informational videos on Youtube today. The sounds of other budgies had our guy going crazy. I felt bad for getting him all worked up, but it seemed to snap him out of his funk. He had been a ball of nerves and not eating. But after Youtube, our guy has flown around in his cage, chirped for his video friends and ate. All good signs.

The kids are ga ga for the chirpinator. I'm afraid the lot of them are going to scare the poor bird to death. I can't imagine what three crazy, loud kids and two dogs are doing to this bird's heart.

Wish us luck because we might just need it!

happy birthday

2011-11-29T16:12:00.000-08:00

Today is Mr. Hawthorne's birthday!

The kids are bursting at the seams to give him his gift. We've been planning this gift for a couple weeks. And, let me tell you, kids keeping secrets, especially secrets they are very excited about, is no easy task. I've done a lot of side stepping and making loud noises when I hear certain topics spill out of little mouths.

Some time in the wee hours of last night, Miss Petite snuck into bed and snuggled next to me. She whispered to me about her thoughts on Mr. Hawthorne's gift. Luckily, he was sleeping and didn't hear.

When they got off the bus this afternoon, all three, in unison, asked about "the gift" and ran to the house to see.

It's all very sweet.

I can't tell you what the gift is just yet because Mr. Hawthorne will read this here blog and the surprise would be ruined. But I can tell you, that we are waiting in anticipation for his arrival home this evening. We have dinner and dessert planned and, of course, the GIFT!!

Happy Birthday to my handy hubby, Mr. Hawthorne!

We love you bunches!

grind

2011-11-28T20:57:00.000-08:00

After four days off, we were back to the grind today. Humph!

Mr. Hawthorne had the entire week off. It was nice having the handy husband around to paint bedrooms and fix electrical outlets. We now have light in the dining room again and Miss Petite's sleeping space is cotton candy pink!! I organized bedrooms removing trash and clutter. When I get in the groove of purging, I love it but it is tough motivating myself to do the job because in cleaning, I end up creating huge piles elsewhere. I'm happy to announce I managed to remove bags of donations and junk out of all three kid rooms though. The week had been very productive. So having everyone go back to school and work this morning was tough. I really wanted to just roll over pretending we were still on holiday. No such luck. Life has a way of marching on.

Good news though, the Thanksgiving holiday was simple and sweet. We spent it with my parents down on the farm. The turkey meal was delish and the mood was low-key, just the way I like it. Mr. Hawthorne and I debated hitting up some Black Friday sales due to start Thursday evening but then thought better and avoided the chaos all together. Which in the end turned out to be a good call.

By Friday morning, the two day monsoon of torrential rainfall had finally stopped. Out went the boys heading up the job of de-tangling lights and decorating the front yard. Currently, a very large, blow-up Santa stands guard, candy canes light the pathway, and multi colored lights adorn the rooftop. Very festive!

The inside of my house, on the other hand, (quoting my neighbor...Hi Patti) "looks like Santa Claus threw up all over it". The statement itself made me laugh, but the visual is even funnier. Well, if it was to really happen, Santa coming down the chimney and throwing sugar cookies up all over the living room that is, wouldn't be so funny I guess. But, my house currently resembles a ghoulish scene none the less.

With only two days left of November, I found myself at the kids' school doing my monthly job. I'm in charge of updating the large, bulletin board calendar in the school courtyard. Before I headed out to freeze my back-side off painting lines and stapling die-cut numbers, the secretary informed me of my kindergartner's recent actions. I might have mentioned before she has earned her fair share of yellow cards for being a chatty Kathy. Obeying the class rules of order and quiet is not her strong suit but she is getting the hang of it three months in. Her newest act of defiance, however, has been getting off the bus, going to the office and waiting until the bell rings. After which, she fills herself out a tardy slip and heads to her classroom. Three cheers for the responsibility of my five year old. Big thumbs down for her stinkerness!! You see, she should never be late to class because she rides the bus!! And, I'm pretty sure the bus is never late to school. The kindergartners have a special place they line up and they are walked to class by older students every morning. Every Morning! Miss Petite has been skipping this routine completely, making her way to the office to "hang out" and fill out tardy slips. I have no idea why this is so fantastic to her. El Fuego kept me on my toes (and still does) at this age, but this girl is giving me a run for my money.

I wrapped up the rest of the day by defrosting at home, Cyber Monday shopping, wrangling kids into doing their homework and making dinner. The sun's disappearance around 4 pm makes for short days. But, at least I feel less guilt for being in my jammies by 4:25 when it's dark and cold outside.

gobble and other ramblings

2011-11-21T16:23:00.000-08:00

Hello my fantastic friends!

It is Thanksgiving week around these parts!!

Yippee!

Here are three reasons I'm so happy it's Thanksgiving week.

1. Mr. Hawthorne is on vacation.

2. Painting and projects are being completed here at casa de little irish.

And, 3. I am not cooking a Thanksgiving meal.

Yahoo!!

Truth be told, I got limited sleep last night and I'm feeling the drain. It's not like anything terrible was happening for the lack of REM hours. I just stayed up too late. And, I wasn't even watching good TV or movies. I was just dinking around. I guess I was just happy Mr. Hawthorne wasn't going to work, that I felt like I could burn the midnight oil. In spite of my good spirits I am feeling pooped and knowing the kidlets will be arriving home soon is exhausting to think about.

However, I did manage to get a huge task completed. I cleaned and organized El Fuego's bedroom. It only took me three days but I finally finished the job. Phew! I tend to go in about once or twice a year to do a MAJOR overhaul on my boy's sleeping space. It never fails to amaze me how gross his bedroom is. Garbage, food wrappers, unidentifiable objects, broken pieces, little doo-dads that don't make sense, outside trash, dusty what-nots....I swear it breeds in the dead of the night and multiplies. Together we filled a huge black garbage bag of junk, and today, I took out another kitchen sized trash bag. I feel great about the decluttering, removing outgrown toys and all the cleanliness organization that is going on in that bedroom as I type. Crossing my fingers it stays that way. Heck, you can cross your fingers too, because I'm pretty sure we'll need it.

The weather isn't helping my energy level. Woke up to a down pour this very gray and dark day. It's currently working its way to complete darkness and it's not even dinner time yet. But, Mr. Hawthorne is painting Miss Petite's bedroom in a bright bumble gum pink much to Miss Petite's delight. I'm hoping it cheers up the environment somewhat.

**********************************************

What are your Thanksgiving dinner plans?

movies and more

2011-11-19T10:11:00.000-08:00

Alright, I will admit it, I'm a sucker for the Twilight Saga movies. I've read the books, I've been to Forks WA, rode on the Twilight tour and I buy the DVDs (in blue-ray even). And, when a new movie comes out on the big screen, I might, might!, have bought my tickets a month in advance. Maybe! I'm not openly admitting to that one.

Am I a Twihard? Did I pick a team? No, I'm not that crazy. Geez! I do love the hype. I enjoyed the books. And, I could have been standing in line on a Friday morning waiting to get good seats at the movie theater. It's all in good fun though. I swear! Boy, am I ever glad we decided to forgo the crazy midnight showing of the latest installment. We went while all the teenybobbers were in school and it was only the crazy adults who took time off work and SHAMs. Plus, we got discount tickets. Woot!

I happened to be browsing a favorite shopping haunt with all their fun Christmas decorations out, and I stumbled across some super fun peacocks. Miss Divine has decided peacocks to be the theme of her ninth birthday party. (In June....yes, I know.) So I bought this cute table decoration and some adorable, glittery peacock ornaments on the cheap for cute party favors. This same store is also always abundant with Scottie dog treasures, which Miss Petite thinks she wants as the theme of her soiree. I love it when things are easy.

With my rearranged guts, there are some medical precautions I have to take into consideration. Although I'm not a big jewelry wearer, I have been trying my best to wear my newest piece of jewelry every day. I love these medical bracelets because it just looks like you have a pretty bracelet on. And, people don't ask me what is wrong with me because they hardly ever notice the medical ID tag. But, I have peace of mind that if I pass out or get hurt, medical staff would see it. I love lauren's HOPE!

My handy hubby is on vacation this week and he has promised me he would paint at least one bedroom. I'm very excited. The walls in this house probably haven't been painted for a decade. The wear and tear are showing. The smudges are too much. Since moving in three years ago, he has painted a majority of the walls downstairs, but I've been itching to paint the kids' rooms and decorate. I think Miss Petite's room will the first since hers is the easiest to do.

I'm very happy to announce that my washer and dryer are officially back in business. Some might remember they were both in various degrees of breaking down not too long ago. The dryer gave up the ghost completely in the midst of our flu pandemic of 2011 so I was hanging bed linens and various items of clothes about the house to dry. When kids are throwing up, one can easily forget to appreciate their washers and dryers. I, for one, am very thankful I have a set that are in full operating status again.

That pretty much wraps up the news from here. Not all that entertaining I know, but I'm trying to be better at posting regularly again. I'm debating a drastic hair cut and I have a pending eye appointment so stay tuned for all that excitement!! (wink, wink) Until then, hope you are enjoying your weekend!

i spy

2011-11-17T15:57:00.000-08:00

I have this hidden talent I don't really share with many. It's a little gem I keep to myself mostly. I don't mean to brag, but I can find retail store security officers anytime, anyplace. And, not the uniformed security because that's just too easy my friends. It's the, quote/unquote, undercover security officers I've got an eye for. I've mastered the skill so well that if one should pass by me in aisle per chance, I'm almost always 86.7 percent sure they are on the payroll. No, really. I am that good.

My mad skillz all started way back when I took on a little retail associates job when I was in college. We always had someone in the store, wearing street clothes, bobbing around the floor looking for shoplifters. We would have secret names, like Mrs. Jones, we could call over the P.A. system when we suspected culprits. It would always go a little something like this: "Mrs. Jones, please come to sportswear. Mrs. Jones to sportswear." About two minutes later you would see your undercover agent looming behind a rack of Koret pants and in return, you would pretend to put things away as you told "Mrs. Jones" about the possible thievery. For a 19 year old, I always felt pretty cool about calling the ole Jonester. Oh, and just to keep those hooligans on their toes, sometimes the security office would switch up the code name to things like "Miss Morgan" or "Mrs. Clark". Pure genius I tell you.

To make things even cooler, the store I worked at had an employee program for thieves and no-good-doers. Well, not for the thieves themselves but for the "star" employees that ratted them out when they did something wrong. Wrong meaning stealing or short-changing the store. Now, I don't mean to toot my own horn but I actually took part in that very reward program. Yup, I did.

You see, this is how it went down. I had been working just shy of about a year and I was moved into a new department. In all the shuffling of employees, they had also hired a few newbies. One of which started in in the department I was just assigned to. It was nice having a gal about my age to chat and work with so I was happy for the company. About two or three months into her employment, she started retagging clothes at cheaper prices before she bought them. Paired with her employee discount, she was getting clothes dirt cheap. She might have gotten away with it, but the big dummy told me what she was doing. And, not only did she tell me, but she also showed me her tricks. As she walked me through her new found skill, step by step, I played along and pretended she was the most brilliant person on the planet. We had a little giggle about it and she made me swear I wouldn't tell anybody.

The problem is, what she was doing didn't sit well with me. It gnawed at the pit of my stomach and I felt terrible. Truth is, she probably felt pretty terrible about it too otherwise she wouldn't have had fessed up to me.

What did I do about it? Well, during my next shift, I took one of the store managers aside and told them what she was doing. And, of course, they informed the store security. They put a sting operation into place and only kept me in the loop on a "need to know" basis. I was to keep my cool, not tell her what was up, and encourage her to go on with her plans as usual. And, she did without any encouragement from me I might add. She took her retagged items up to the office one afternoon to purchase them and they got her. I don't know how it all went down for sure, but I do know that was her last day as an employee, she got to ride in the backseat of an actual police car, and I was rewarded a percentage of the recovered money she was stealing plus a reward. I'll be the first to admit, the extra moola in my check that month was neat, but I always felt a little sad about the whole situation. She put me in a tight spot and I hated being the one to call her out.

Long story, short. After four years of working side by side with uncover agents (I like to call them), I have honed my ability and carry it around with me in my back pocket. Which brings me to today while I was shopping in Target.

As I was browsing the men's jeans, I noticed a younger guy out of the corner of my eye examining a plaid shirt a little too close and for a little too long. Not appreciating the price of said jeans, I turned my cart around and moved on to the dvds and books section of the store browsing for my copy of the new Harry Potter movie. Once again, I spied that same plaid shirt examining guy. This time he was pretending to read the back of The Sisterhood of Traveling Pants book and missing that most important shirt he couldn't stop looking at just two minutes before. Instantly, I knew I was under watch and for the life of me I had no idea why. This made my blood start to heat up. What was it about me that looked suspicious? I'm a thirty-something woman doing some Christmas shopping. I wasn't carrying a large backpack or wearing a big baggy jacket or ducking in between racks or shifting my eyes. All classic signs of a shoplifter I might add. No, I was going about my business and only talking to myself minimally when I couldn't remember what I was looking for. Was it that I kept taking my phone out of my pocket to check the time and keep tabs on my Facebook status? "Important things this mother has to keep track of, Mr. Store Security! Important!"

I grabbed Harry and shuffled off to the land of Petshops, Webkinz and Zhu Zhu pets to once again be greeted by my shopping partner without his plaid shirt or his copy of Sisterhood of Traveling Pants. It was too much. Once, twice, I could ignore. But three times?! Now I'm P to the O'd!! This idiot isn't very good at his job if he can't tell I'm just a mom enjoying some free time without children. And, yeah, so what if I talked to myself once or twice. This new found brain space I've recently acquired when I'm not being talked at by the younger set is brand new to me. It doesn't prove I'm crazy or up to no good.

So what I did do to lose this sucker? Well, I sighed a great, big, audible sigh. Threw my head back in disbelief. And, stared the son-of-a-nutcracker down. HARD!

He tried to dodge my line of site and avoided making eye contact once he realized he had been found out. Rookie! I kept staring, shifting my weight from one hip to the other. And, it's very possible I might have eked out a tsk as if I was oh so very ashamed of him.

This game of chicken wasn't one he wanted to take on, so he did a little quick step and high tailed it out of the toy section as fast as his legs would go. Victory was mine.

"This is one mother you don't want to mess with Target security. I've got your number!"

sweet spot

2011-11-15T10:27:00.000-08:00

Ages ago when I started this little irish blog, I would think about what my next post would be about almost every day. What pictures I would post. What something I would write about. And, how I could make it interesting or funny. I worried about getting my opinions heard without offending others. However, sometimes I was so mad, in the heat of the moment, I did want to offend. Mostly, though, I just wanted to share my pictures and little doo-dads as of late.

Did I succeed? Not really sure. I think the people out there who know me in real life, might have understood my ramblings, forgave my typos and maybe, just maybe, might have chuckled a time or two.

Now that my kids aren't so little anymore, I find myself more busy with other stuff and less occupied about what to write about on this here little blog. Busy with what you might ask. Not really sure to be honest. Life, I guess. As in MY life. It seems like the less time I spend hauling small children around from different schools and activities the more streamlined my existence became.

And, let's be real here, no one is really interested in how I organized a closet or when I got my hair cut or how many times I let the dogs out or what I had for lunch. Besides, that's what facebook is for!! (wink, wink)

When I was knee deep in diapers, tae kwon do, bottles, nap times, preschools, strollers, carpools, dance class, baby food, and playdates....I spent no time really thinking about myself. In fact, I avoided thinking about myself because I didn't like how I felt or looked. So blogging was a creative outlet more or less. It allowed me to step out of my crazed, sleepless world of spit up stains, scraped knees and strained peas. Gave me something to focus on.

Now that I have less of that and more free time, I find myself blogging less and "doing me" more.

All that swirling madness of the last ten years led me to here. This magical place. The mommy sweet spot!

I was just thinking yesterday, if I could freeze time in which my children stayed the ages of 10, 8 and 5, I would. (Although eight year old girls are rough man!) But, no, really I would!! I have this little tickle deep down in my gut that feels like sand dripping through an hourglass and there is nothing I can do to stop it. There is a little something I love about each of the kids' ages right now. If I could soak up all the goodness, squeeze out every last drop of adorableness for the next three to four years I would be happy. It would fill me up and, I would feel better about eking out another year. Letting the kids move onto 11, 9 and 6.

As I was sitting on my youngster's bed this morning, watching her get dressed (without any assistance from me), knowing that my middle child was downstairs getting her breakfast and my oldest was packing up all his needed supplies for his new duties at school, I was reminded, again, what a perfect time of my life I was living. The kids are old enough to be independent but young enough to still be sweet. They are old enough that they all go to the same school but young enough to still be my "little" kids. 11, 9 and 6 just feels too old. Too mature. A loss of innocence perhaps.

And, when we were walking to the bus stop my youngest and oldest took part in an impromptu race while my middle stayed back, walking with me, declaring "big boys and little girls are crazy!", I thought to myself. Will a six year old still wave and smile at me from the bus window with pure excitement and joy? Will a nine year old still want to hold my hand and ask for kisses goodbye? Will an eleven year old still think I know all the answers and want to play boardgames with his mother?

What I miss from ten year old, I get from five year old. What my five year old is too young for, I can share with my eight year old. Etcetera, Etcetera, Etcetera! A perfect recipe for the mommy sweet spot if you ask me.

So what is the point of this post? It sort of started out as an apology for not blogging, but I don't really want to apologize for getting my groove back. Do I? No, not really. It's an explanation I suppose. But it's not like I have "fans" out there waiting, with bated breath, for my next entry either. It's just a post with nothing exciting to report but a check in more or less. If you are still with me at the end of all this rambling, I give you your prize. A great big "thank you!" for hanging in there with me. And I hope you are enjoying some sweet spot of your very own (which sounds sort of dirty, but whatever!!).

cause for celebration

2011-11-07T09:34:00.000-08:00

Two major things are cause for celebration in my household on this fine day. First, I actually got a shower while everyone was still in the house mind you. And, second, all three kids loaded the bus for the school.

Yes, that's right, the flu came, conquered and went. The house looks like it might have been involved in some sort of war zone with piles of this and that strewn about, as not only did we get hit with a nasty bug causing upset tummies, fevers and throw up....but the washer and dryer decided they had had enough and yelled "strike". However, this I know. The house is disinfected. That I'm sure. Every possible surface was bleached or sprayed with Lysol. I never handed or accepted any object without a paper towel between me and the virus. And, while I haven't gotten sick, my hands are so dry I could probably sand your table for you.

In other exciting news, I will be boarding a plane to Costa Rica after the holidays. I'm very excited to experience the jungle life! I'm hoping to post many pictures and updates so stay tuned.

Until then, I must get on with it. There is talk about rain coming our way so I better go enjoy some dry weather while I can. So I guess, if you are counting, that is actually four things to celebrate....

Hip Hip Hooray!

Hip Hip Hooray!

Hip Hip Hooray!

Hip Hip Hooray!

:)

shields up, the flu has invaded

2011-11-03T13:50:00.000-07:00

My dryer decided to stop blowing hot air. Again. I discovered this right after I washed a load of dark clothes. Dark clothes including the only two pair of jeans that currently fit and don't make my hiney look flat and saggy. Major bugger. So, for two days I've had my laundry hung over heater vents around the house.

Then last night my youngest threw up in her sleep. As you might imagine, but I won't go into the gory details, it was a right fine mess. What a time for the dryer to give up the ghost huh. The upside about this situation is the bedding hung up around the living room makes for a clean fresh smell that totally beats the smells of sickness.

My weapons of mass destruction on this day include bleach and Lysol. I refuse to get sick yo! My Kung Fu is strong and I've been disinfecting every surface possible. I haven't been out of the house for two days if you don't count that quick trip to the drugstore for children's Tylenol.

Which by the way, did you hear children's chewable Tylenol had a recall? I had no idea. I went looking for chewable and there wasn't any on the shelf. They still have liquid children's acetaminophen available which I purchased. However, when I went looking for information online about the recall, I couldn't find anything current. Just some articles from almost a year ago. Odd.

Before the tragic flu epidemic started to infiltrate my homestead, I started the week off with a trip to the local salon. I've been chatting about getting my hair cut off for a few months now. One down side about losing weight so quickly (and a side effect of surgery) is hair loss. Luckily I had some to spare. But the annoyance of the hair always falling out was really getting on my nerves. I wasn't brave enough to get it all chopped off though. I went as short I was comfortable with (chin length) and I'm pretty happy with it. I needed a hair reset big time. And this new short (thinner) do takes no time to style. Bonus!

Here's what I'm super excited about: daylight savings. An extra hour of sleep is going to do me just fine. Dragging my bones out of bed this last month has been a challenge and a half. Trying to get three sleepy people out their beds hasn't been the most fun either.

Until then, here's hoping you soak up as many sun rays as you can.

And, don't forget to set your clocks back this Sunday!!

Happy Thursday!

october mornings

2011-11-02T10:51:00.000-07:00

This post has been brought to you from my phone camera.

happy halloween

2011-10-31T09:05:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a fun filled day. We sort of crammed everything Halloween into one Sunday afternoon. We did have our pumpkins for about a month but finally got enough gumption to carve them. I helped scoop out pumpkin guts and then lazed on the couch until it was done. (Which by the way, I loved!)

Then we got ourselves all dressed up for a Halloween Party Spooktacular.

Miss Petite was a princess, The Divine Miss O was a kitty cat (she's standing like that so you can see her tail), and El Fuego has enlisted in the army at the ripe ole age of ten complete with a nerf gun.

Mr Hawthorne and I dressed as airline employees which was fun.

The party peeps! The children are running around eating candy somewhere.

My co-worker and partner in crime.

Here's wishing you and your family a funtastic holiday with very little spooks and a whole lot of ghoul fun!

a look at costumes past

2011-10-16T17:10:00.000-07:00

Olivia

Jack

Kitty Cat

Cheerleader

Fancy Nancy

Minnie Mouse

Ghost

Secret Agent

Velma, Fred, Daphne

(Mystery Inc Gang)

pickin' pumpkins

2011-10-08T17:45:00.000-07:00

We hit up the patch on this beautiful autumn day. I've said before that October is truly one of my all time favorite months. I love the start of the Fall traditions!! And, the pumpkin patch is a favorite tradition by far.

The weather couldn't have been better. The patch was dry and the pumpkins were prime for picking.

The hay ride is a must.

We did something new this year too. We tried our navigating skills and ventured into the corn maze. Somehow we got out but I don't think it was the spot we were supposed to come out. We ended up in the strawberry field. Oops.

Then we headed up the farm store and picked out two pies, freezer jam and peach salsa. Yum-O!

A right perfect day if I do say so myself.

i heart fall

2011-10-04T09:06:00.000-07:00

I love this time of year. I love September and October. I love Fall!

And in keeping with the Fall spirit, the kids and I made mini apple pies after school. We are on a conference schedule so the teachers send the little people home at 11:30am. Leaving the parents to figure out what to do for the rest of the day.

We started the fire, turned on a Halloween movie, and made apple pies. My inspiration came from The Farm Chicks. Although I did not follow her recipe. I basically was just winging it which is more my style anyway.

And to my surprise, these wee apple pot pie goodness turned out pretty yummy if I do say so myself.

YUM!

have you boo'd your neighbors?

2011-10-03T09:06:00.000-07:00

In years past we've been boo'd unexpectedly and been caught off guard. The kids would throw together paper concoctions haphazardly that resembled baskets and we would throw some miscellaneous candy inside and head out to boo back. But I always felt lame at our attempt to take part in this booing ritual.

So this year I took the devil by the horns (Did you like my play on Halloween words just there. Clever. No?), did a little web research on cute boo-ness, bought some yummy holiday goodies and set forth in getting this neighborhood tradition going.

What is booing you ask? It's a lot like a Secret Santa with a Ding dong Ditch twist. You leave treats on the door step of your neighbors, ring the doorbell and run away. Then that neighbor does the same, and so on. After you've boo'd, you can put a sign on your door saying you've already been boo'd so the neighbors can sneak around the hood trying to find houses that haven't already been hit. It is tremendously fun!

I found super cute printables from Skip to my Lou. I printed this poem and made bags to hold spooky goodies. Feel like baking? This a super cute treat for more booing fun.

Want more on how to start the "Boo" in your neighborhood? Skip to my Lou is a great place to start.

It's fun!!

september mornings

2011-09-30T08:58:00.000-07:00

Day One

Day Three

Day Four

Day Six

Day Seven

Day Eight

Day Nine

Day Ten

Day Eleven

Day Twelve

Day Thirteen

Day Fifteen

Day Sixteen

Day Seventeen

Day Eighteen

Day Nineteen

the good and the bad

2011-09-27T15:51:00.000-07:00

Ok, wait....wait....I should reword that. It should read the bad and the good. End with a positive. Makes me feel better at least. So let me tell you friends. I did really, pretty much, nothing, all day long. I did take a shower, so that is something I guess. I'm feeling slightly guilty however. Today was not the most productive, and here's why.

the bad: Skype didn't work this morning. The sound was completely gone. No matter what I tried, I couldn't figure it out which was very annoying. I spent the better part of the morning rebooting, installing updates and clicking on every darn button I could think of to get the sound to work.

the good: I was able to see my bestie bff. She lives in Michigan. And wouldn't you know, even without sound, we could still get each other's jokes and crack ourselves up until potty breaks needed to be taken. It was like a silent humorous film. You know before talkies were created. What is the capital of Ohio you ask? Why "O" of course!! *snicker*

the bad: I spent all day waiting on a craigslister. She emailed, she called, she was later than she said. I was stuck at home. Waiting the day away.

the good: The bed I have been posting and reposting is finally not living in my living room anymore. She didn't even dicker with me on price. She (finally) came, she looked, and she loaded that baby up.

the bad: The doggie groomer shaved my dogs' scottie skirts off per my request and I'm not so sure I like how they look.

the good: The doggies are clean and smell good again even though they look like little piggies with beards.

the bad: It seems to be I don't have any clothes that ever really fit. Oh sure, I did just buy those jeans two days ago but today, they are baggy. And, that fave sweatshirt that I wore last week, now looks super sloppy. Oh, and my raincoat feels like I'm wearing a tent.

the good: I'm down 75 pounds.

the bad: People think my new TOMS shoes are ugly.

the good: The purchase of my new TOMS shoes helped put a pair of shoes on a shoeless child somewhere in the world. Plus, they are super comfy. What's so bad about that??

the bad: The weather has turned sour. Rainy, cold and gray.

the good: My children stay inside the house so I don't have to worry about them getting into trouble around the neighborhood.

the bad: The weather has turned sour. Fall is here.

the good: I LOVE Fall!!!

hello monday

2011-09-26T12:39:00.000-07:00

So our Indian Summer was very short lived and we are back to the rain of the Pacific Northwest. No surprise there. And, how very boring of my to start out a post with the weather. Yawn! I sort of love today though. It is mellow and the house feels cozy and the kids are all at school. That right there is cause for a celebration.

Oh you know I'm teasing.

Mondays are really my favorite though. They weren't always. I used to loath Mondays when I had to get up early for school or work or some other task I really didn't want to do. Mondays used to be about moaning and mourning over the lost weekends. But no more. Those days are gone. For now anyway.

Sure, sticking my feet out from under my warm covers and greeting the day before the sun is up is a little tricky during these dark Fall and Winter months. However, I find peace in knowing that very soon, my family will be off to their adventures in learning and computer programming. And, I will be left with peace and silence. Right now, I love that about my life.

Every weekday provides me with this same love affair of solitude except for Wednesday afternoons when the kids get out of school early. Yes, every Wednesday. I'm not a fan of Wednesday afternoons. Nope, those days are not my fave. The other four days make up for Wednesday afternoons though so it's okay.

friday fumblings

2011-09-23T10:32:00.000-07:00

My dog is sick. Like diarrhea all over the house sick. How's that for a way to start the day? We are not strangers to the fact Franklin has a sensitive tum-tum, but boy oh boy, this was not how I wanted to spend my Friday morning. I finally managed to get some medicine down his throat, so I'm crossing my fingers this afternoon is less messy.

What did I have planned for today you ask. Well, I wanted to have a garage sale in my driveway but opted out due to doggie messes and I have a cold, leaving my head in a sort of fog. Oh sure, it would have been easy to just walk all my wares out in front my house but I wasn't feeling it. Maybe tomorrow when Mr. Hawthorne can help with signage and dickering. I'm just not in the mood today.

What am I in the mood for you ask. Well, I have a need to get everything organized and under control. But I'm lacking energy probably because of this stupid cold. Which sucks. Maybe I should go get a B12 shot. Have you ever had one? I've gotten one twice before and it does help. I think.

I'm really digging this autumn weather we have here in the Northwest. Except yesterday. Yesterday was muggy and humid like we were in the middle of the jungle. Which is why I like my house. It's always cool. It literally feels like we have air conditioning, which we don't. But today is lovely. Sunny and crisp. My favorite.

This post is so random. Sorry folks. I keep getting interrupted by cleaning tasks so my thoughts are very shattered. I wanted to throw something out there, but I'm afraid I might be boring you to death. Which is why I probably shouldn't have my very own reality show. The ratings would go down the drain.

Speaking of reality TV. I'm slightly addicted. I know, I know. It's junk and I'm probably rotting my brain with every minute I subject myself to it. But I can't help it. I don't enjoy all the cop shows and the one liner zings of the half hour comedies tend to bore me after a while. So I'm left with the lives of manic, rich people fighting with each other over silly things. A friend on facebook posted a funny little tid-bit that read "a book commits suicide every time you watch Jersey Shore". That made me giggle.

Happy first day of fall!! Hope you all enjoy your weekend!

kid tested, mother approved

2011-09-21T17:31:00.000-07:00

El Fuego had the best time at his friend's birthday party last weekend. If you've never been skydiving, this is a super fun way to try. You basically get suited up and walk into a wind tunnel with an instructor. No jumping off sides of cliffs required to feel the same rush of 90 miles per hour air blow your cheeks up into perma-grins.

iFlyseattle

the story of saturday night

2011-09-18T11:46:00.000-07:00

Nine years ago, Mr. Hawthorne and I, with our first baby in tow, walked onto the Kia car lot and purchased a brand-new, first year model minivan. Because it was a first year model, the price was good. And, although my handy hubby was reluctant at the thought of purchasing any minivan, he agreed to my whims of brand new motherhood.

The main reasons I wanted a minivan was simply because it drove like a car, but had room for strollers and diaper bags and groceries and dogs. Plus, because of the bucket seats you are required to drive your infants around in, the sliding side doors made the ease of loading and unloading those said seats much easier. Not to mention when obnoxious people parked their vehicles too close for comfort, those same sliding doors came in very handy, allowing entrance into the minivan still possible.

Suffice to say, I did love my minivan for many reasons especially after adding two more kids, many more groceries and a double stroller to the mix. We drove that minivan to it's demise, however, and eventually parked it on the side of the driveway. We cleaned it out, stopped paying insurance on it and paid homage to it every now and again. It was a good car and a symbol of the survival of our young family.

Which brings me to last night.

Around seven o'clock, a young man rang the doorbell. I opened the door and he told me he was looking for a minivan in our area that was for sale, but was having a hard time finding it. Then he bluntly asked if we were selling ours. I told him we had planned on selling it, but hadn't done anything yet. I could see my answer set the wheels in his head on fire and he was ready for some wheeling and dealing. I sent Mr. Hawthorne outside with the keys and about fifteen minutes later, they drove away for a test drive.

Don't get me wrong, this very odd situation made me extremely nervous and I couldn't help thinking it was some sort of scam. Although the man fed us a line that he was up here looking for a car for his wife and four kids, his cell phone was dead and he didn't bring the address of the car he was up here to originally purchase, I wasn't buying it. His Nordstrom attire and slicked hair told me otherwise. When the test drive was in operation, I went outside and took note of his information from the car he was driving.

He worked out a deal with Mr. Hawthorne. Paid us cash and while charging his cell phone in our minivan, called a tow truck company he happened to have on speed dial. The conclusion I arrived at was he had a private car lot. He buys cars cheap, fixes them up somewhat and sells them to the next dope looking for a deal.

In a matter of an hour an half, the minivan we drove our sleeping babies around in, that parked quietly on the side of driveway, was man-handled by the somewhat con-man, loaded up on the back of a tow truck and hauled away for a new life.

It was truly the most random, oddest single happening I've ever experienced.

peter iredale

2011-09-12T14:07:00.000-07:00

On the eve of our last night of our super duper glamping trip, we headed for the beach near the 1906 shipwreck of Peter Iredale.

What I loved most about this summers trip, right before the start of school, was all the hands on learning we crammed in. Sort of by accident and sort of on purpose. Especially since El Fuego's year will be jammed packed with a lot of the things we saw in person which makes the learning even more relevant.

I could never ever be a home schooling parent with my own children. Even though I was a kindergarten teacher back in the day. I would way suck at it!! I know this about me. But, every now and again I get faint little glimpses of home schooling and learning. And, it makes me feel good. My only wish is that it makes the kids feel good too.

After examining the abandoned bones of the Peter Iredale ship, we played in the freezing cold water until sun down. Then we warmed our toes by the campfire, eating s'mores.

All the kids feel asleep in their camp chairs while watching the fire glow shortly after.

And, I made up a story about the Opossum that visited our glamp site.

It was a sweet ending to summer vacation!

my new motto

2011-09-08T14:19:00.000-07:00

I read somewhere, somewhere I've long forgotten, a cute line: "When life gives you dressers, find room in the garage."

I won't lie. As soon as my eyes skimmed that little nugget of wisdom, I've taken it to heart. Luckily, my handy husband actively participates in this dresser obsession. It's not just any dresser though. It's the cheapest, most forgotten dresser we can find. Free is the best. But sometimes you find sad, dirty pieces at garage sales. Which is where Mr. Hawthorne found this one for ten smack-a-roos. To which he texted me about purchasing. And, I quickly responded "YES!"

Let me tell you, this dresser was in sad shape. It was dirty, missing a knob, had an old bra and a pair of pantyhose stuck behind one drawer, inhabited by a spider and had these horrible labels plastered on each drawer. Yuck!

Mr. Hawthorne cleaned and fixed her right up.

However, this post isn't so much about taking an ugly dresser and giving it a new life. It's more about the inside.

I happened to come across a fun way of using fabric as drawer liners a while back, but since then lost the link. When I searched for it I couldn't find it, but I did find

Infarrantly Creative and her post on this very topic.

I followed her instruction and got myself some Fabric Mod Podge which I'm so glad I did. It did make a difference in cutting and placing the fabric. The only thing I wasn't sure about from her tutorial was if she put the Fabric Mod Podge on the front or back of her fabric. I used mine on the back.

Then with a pattern cut out of wax paper I lined all the drawers in fabric and regular Mod Podge. It worked like a charm.

Before.

After.

Cute!

rootin tootin birthday

2011-09-07T09:38:00.000-07:00

Last week I had myself a birthday so we drove on down to the rodeo to celebrate. Yeehaw!!

first day of new adventures

2011-09-06T17:47:00.000-07:00

The kids spent the day as the newest 4th grader, 2nd grader and kindergartner. It was exciting. Mostly for me. Having all three kids hop on the bus and ride off to the same school was pure awesome-ness. Although I must admit I had some first day jitters hoping all the kids were having good days and safe. It will take me about a week to settle into the routine I'm sure.

fourth grade

second grade

kindergarten

(Coming off the bus this afternoon during our "hair" edition. Oh la la!)

I'm happy to report all three kids made it home happy and tuckered out. The most difficult part of the day was not allowing them to eat any of the "school snacks" this afternoon. Oh dear me....the whining!!! I'm sure bedtime will go super smooth tonight. Wink, wink!

Fort Clatsop

2011-09-06T10:37:00.000-07:00

One of my most favorite stops during our glamping trip was at Fort Clatsop. Which is a replication of the winter encampment of the Corps of discovery led by Lewis and Clark. I loved the fort and all the people walking around in period clothing. It was fun and educational all wrapped up in one. I ate it up!

The kids got pulled in during this fun reenactment. They had a ball.

At the end our tour of the camp and surrounding National park, the kids were sworn in as Jr Rangers to which they beamed over the rest of the day.

glamping

2011-09-05T10:52:00.000-07:00

Our last summer adventure was at Fort Stevens State Park. This was the first time we reserved a cabin...so it was more like glamping than camping. We didn't pitch a tent, or sleep on the ground. We didn't pack a cooler or bring a cook top. In fact, we shopped at the local grocery store to fill the refrigerator. That's right, a refrigerator!!! This was my kind of roughing it!

We even had a TV. Yes, a TV. A few DVDs played made for happy kids.

A separate bedroom for the kiddos. Sweet peace!!

And here is the very BEST part.

Wait for it....

A BATHROOM!!!! Complete with running water, a shower, and a potty.

I owe everything to this bathroom for my morale during this entire camping trip. To be clean and warm and not having to hike to the communal restrooms was pure magic.

I will go as far as saying this was the best....yes, THE BEST camping trip we've been on thus far.

Fort Stevens is a great state park and the activities near by was quite enjoyable.

We had lots to do everyday.

And much fun was had by all.

It was a great way to end the summer!

still here

2011-08-27T19:24:00.000-07:00

Hello friends!

I'm still here. Been neglecting the ole blog and with what (?) I can't even really say. Feels like we've been busy with a whole lot of nothing these days. But we've been busy going and coming.

In between all that, I've been getting the kids ready for the first day of school. All three kids will be going to the same school with the same schedule. Which, by the way, I am so excited about!

When you feel the earth move under your feet on the morning of September 6th. Never fear, it's just me doing the happy dance!! Don't get me wrong peoples....I love my wee chicklets with all my heart, but all this kid time (24/7) has made for a very weary mommy.

weekend wrap up :: in pictures

2011-08-22T09:37:00.000-07:00

We had ourselves a fabulous time this weekend. The girls were at Grandma's house for pony camp so that left us with some free time and some new found freedom we don't usually have with three kids.

El Fuego and I drove to the Seattle Aquarium and enjoyed the Seattle Pier one day. Lunch, site seeing and the lovely weather was had.

We were also invited to join some friends on their boat. We had a blast being towed around the lake.

It was a great weekend!!

thirteen years

2011-08-12T11:16:00.000-07:00

Eighteen years ago, I met this kid!

Of course, he looked a bit different than this. He was taller and wiser but just as cute.

In fact this photo was taken the year I was born.
(cough)

We met my first year of college. I was fresh out of high school. He was six years older and had made his way back to school. I always knew when he had recently walked the halls of the old building because I could smell a faint trace of his cologne.

(I hope that doesn't sound creepy.)

Long story, short: We started dating. All that mushy stuff followed suit.

But seriously, how could we deny our mutual love of Schwinn bicycles.

It was meant to be.

Thirteen years ago, this Sunday, we were married, outside, with the sound of bag pipes in the background on the hottest day of that year. Five houses, three kids, and several animals later....here we are.

****************************

Dear Mr. Hawthorne,

Happy Anniversary!

Here's to thirteen more. I love you!

thank yous

2011-08-10T13:11:00.000-07:00

So I've been a little behind my A-game recently. Birthday season is officially over. All the parties have been planned and celebrated.

I plopped my tushie on the couch and had myself some R&R.

However, I decided I couldn't go another day without getting El Fuego's thank you cards sent out.

With some black (blank) cards and envelopes, white shipping labels and my laptop, this is what we came up with. They turned out cute in spite of the amount of times I cursed at my office word program.

We used a photo from El Fuego's skate party of the kids hangin' on their scooters at the skate park. Added some text and clip art. And, voila! Easy Peasy!!

Inside we created some fill in the blank notes also printed out on the white shipping labels. Then El Fuego filled in the names and fabulous presents he received. This is a win win for both of us. He only has to write the information that is different and I don't have to fight with him to write out his thank you cards. You see, my boy is not fond of handwriting anything. Sigh.

5k run

2011-08-08T16:20:00.000-07:00

What does a boy do on his very first day of being ten years old you ask.

He rises out of bed at six o'clock.

A.M. that is.

And, joins his dad to run a 5K!

Then he wins a $50 dollar gift certificate as a prize winner.

Woo! Woot!

sk8er boy

2011-08-08T16:15:00.000-07:00

El Fuego celebrated his tenth birthday on Saturday. We started out the day picking out party treats at his requested destination.

Then we hit the local skate park and set up camp waiting for the party guests.

Once the crew arrived, skating and fun ensued.

Because El Fuego requested donuts over cupcakes/cake, "Happy Birthday" was sung over a chocolate bar. He didn't seem to mind and 'dare to be different' is what I always say anyway.

Then my super secret surprise arrived. I hired the ice cream truck to do a drive by which was perfect because by the time she arrived, I had a few sweaty bodies on my hands.

Some cold relief was much needed.

Every kiddo this birthday season has asked to open gifts at their parties with their friends. El Fuego was no exception. Even being at the skate park didn't deter this kid. So we pulled up a park bench and opened presents.

This group of aged kids are pleasant to be around. They are mellow and witty.

I enjoyed their company very much.

Happy 10th Birthday!!

summer swim

2011-08-03T17:49:00.000-07:00

The kids have been taking swim lessons this summer. The girls LOVE it! Miss Petite isn't a fan of jumping into the water from the side without help though. Which is why I gave her a wee push this afternoon. Lovingly, of course.

El Fuego is more cautious but today showed much improvement. At the last lesson, he pulled "I have a stomach ache" routine and did a bunch of whining about how he was telling the truth. My biggest pet peeve is when my children do that horrible whiny noise and refuse to listen to my words. So, El Fuego was given a few stern words of encouragement this afternoon. Lovingly, of course.

Miss Divine doesn't seem to have that fear receptor in her brain. She tends to just go for it. She is perfecting her back stroke and is looking pretty good. Miss Divine also likes to tell you how great she is at it too. Which is why I told her not to brag. Lovingly, of course.

treasures

2011-08-01T10:18:00.000-07:00

I scored myself some treasures this weekend. And the best part? They were all FREE!! Gotta love that.

This chair was spotted at my mother-in-law's house.

I had just visited a very over priced ~~junky~~ Antique store near my home town. I had driven past it a million times and I finally found myself with the ability to stop in. It was a little disappointing. The prices were high and the value of "stuff" was buried.

So I left empty handed and drove off to visit my in-laws. And that is when I spied the lovely aqua color in the corner of the kitchen. They were happy to load it up in my car and it now sits in Miss Petite's room. Perfectly!

My handy husband, Mr. Hawthorne, browses Craigslist now and then and came upon a twin bed frame and this dresser. We jumped. And, luckily scored these free treasures. They both need some TLC but are both in great shape. The dresser is adorable. It just needs some new knobs and a nice coat of paint. It will most likely find a new home in one of the girls' bedrooms. I'm so excited!!

The headboard will get a new life too. It is really cute as well. Just needs a good paint job.

Love, love, love!

junkin'

2011-07-31T12:43:00.000-07:00

New to me, but probably not to you, fantastic blogs about one of my all time faves....turning something forgotten into something new!! Check 'em out:

Barn House

Seabold Vintage Market

worthy goods

Monticello Antique Marketplace

Today's Country Store

two!

2011-07-30T14:55:00.000-07:00

I didn't mention at all, in the midst of all our summer comings and goings, that our pups celebrated their second birthday last Saturday. But they did. Franklin and Mavis are officially two years old. They have mellowed much, do all their bathroom business outside (like good dogs), LOVE to run, hate to get baths, enjoy licking faces, chasing animals smaller than them and knocking down unsuspecting children. In order to the keep the peace with the neighbors, however, Mavis is unfortunately learning she can not bark all the live long day. Hence, the red bark collar. They've spent their week being two at the dog park and the farm getting dirty, wet and meeting lots of new friends of the four and two leg variety.

Happy Birthday Mavis and Franklin!

Love your people.

water works

2011-07-30T14:44:00.000-07:00

Well folks, we finally got some weather that not only stuck around, but warranted dragging out the old kiddie pool and slip 'n slide. The kids are over the moon! I'm currently listening to them squeal in delight and bicker over nothing....and everything. This is the stuff memories are made from.

touch base tuesday

2011-07-26T13:13:00.000-07:00

So as it seems the rest of the country is having a major heat wave, my little corner of the world is not. It's been chilly. It's been rainy. It's been dreary. And, it's been gray. Oh sure, we've had a few brushes with sunshine here and there. The temps would actually climb into the high 70s. Even touch the 80s. Everyone would rejoice, claiming "summer had finally arrived", only to be disappointed the next day when we plummeted back into the 60s.

We've managed to keep ourselves busy anyway. El Fuego had his turn at Camp Grandma last week. And, Miss Divine returned for pony camp at the end of the week. They both had a blast and came back dirty and tan.

In the big kids' absence, Miss Petite and I had a big yard sale with the neighbors in our driveway. Miss P enjoyed selling lemonade with the lemonade stand she got for her birthday. She racked in some bucks too, although I'm not quite sure how she did it. I wasn't paying much attention to her sales so it came to a big surprise to me when I saw her loot.

The kids started swim lessons yesterday. It's an outdoor pool and of course it was raining. They loved swimming in the 92 degree water while it was drizzling on their heads. They thought it was the best thing ever in fact. The girls can not wait until tomorrow for their second lesson. El Fuego is a little more cautious about it all. He is still warming up to the whole idea.

Speaking of El Fuego, he is about two weeks away from his 10th birthday. I can hardly believe it. I mean, ten!! TEN! Not only that, today Miss Petite has a doctor appointment for her pending entry into kindergarten. When did my babies start growing up?? Although, if you happen to be in my neck of the woods that fabulous day in September, when all three kids pile onto the bus leaving for the SAME school with the SAME schedule....you might just witness me doing the happy dance.

Another reason for happy dances? School supplies! I do love the smell of school supplies. Last night I snuck out and got all three kids stocked up for the year. I'm so relieved to have it done and separated per kid. We just need to label everything and pack it up. Yippee!

Things not so happy dance worthy? My dryer died. I haven't washed a load of clothes since last week. It's starting to get a little desperate in the undergarment department. Luckily my handy husband has the fix under control. The part is due to arrive soon and we'll be up and running again shortly.

Well folks, I'm thinking that about wraps up Touch Base Tuesday. I think I've dripped on long enough. If you got this far, I now proclaim you a saint full of patience and kindness. If you stopped reading half way through, well, I don't blame you. Not the most exciting post is it. And, no pictures?? What gives?!

Hope you are enjoying your Tuesday!

loves

2011-07-18T16:58:00.000-07:00

I'm lovin' Duck Tape!!

Not just any duck tape but color, printed duck tape that I can do this

and this!

It's never been so easy to pull a birthday party together.

I'm lovin' Brett Dennen!

Seriously this kid can sing and his words speak to my soul. Not to mention we are a tad biased to red hair around these parts.

I'm lovin' robins!!

Ever since our Bird Project, we've been ga-ga over these birds.

Truth is, I've been smitten with robins since I was young. We had one as a pet. No joke! See:

Let me introduce you to Robbie. My mother rescued this baby bird when it had a broken leg (or wing, I can't remember which) and nursed him back to health. He lived with us for a good while. After he healed, he would fly during the day and come home at night....until one evening he didn't come home. I'm thinking he found a mate and raised a little family of his own.

I'm lovin' Daisy Fuentes favorite tees!!

I have two. Black and gray. Now that I weigh the same as my wedding day (60 pounds down), I could wear one every day, ya know, if it wasn't for that stinky, having to wash clothes thing.

I'm lovin' cherries!!

We hit up the local farmer's market last week and scored five pounds of cherries for five bucks. We've been eating cherries with every meal and snack since. They are most delicious.

I'm lovin' Plants vs Zombies!

I recently bought the app/game for my phone. El Fuego and I have been hooked ever since. It's seriously entertaining even though battery charging happens frequently.

I'm lovin' Skype!

Free online video chatting with my bestie in Michigan is a blasty blast!

It's like we are in each other's living rooms. What could be better? Well, actually being in a living room together I suppose. But this is the next best thing so I say "Yay Skype!!"

the bird project :: and then there was none

2011-07-16T14:22:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, by pure accident, I happened to video a brief moment of one of the Robin parents feeding the babes. Little did I know this would be one of the last times, we would see all three together. A few nights back, Ms. Redbreast stopped sleeping in the nest with the babies. Or stopped sleeping on their heads rather. However, the two parents would spend their entire days flying back to the nest for meal times.

Today I stepped up to a snap a picture because two of the babies had been very active. I wanted to score a photo before they started leaving the nest. I knew the pending flights would be soon.....I just didn't expect it to be TODAY!

Which makes me wonder. Is this how it's going to feel when my own children leave the nest?? I don't think I will survive if it is.

(Taken through window)

Bird number one about to jump ship.

Bird number two quickly followed suit.

And, then about an hour later, baby number three decided to take a leap of faith. I took a video of our last baby birdie about to fly off on its newest journey. It takes a while for it to decide to go but it is a momentous moment. Well to us anyway.

We can see the babies out and about, dodging into bushes and exploring their new world. The parents will continue to stay close feeding them and protecting them. The babies will practice their flying skills and learn how to feed themselves. Then in a few days they will fly off to find their own mates and own territories. For this is their parents' territory.

It's exciting and oh so very sad at the same time. We've grown accustom to greeting our birds every morning and saying goodnight before we turn off the porch light every night.

So with a slightly heavy heart, on this day, the sixteenth of July, I announce The Bird Project complete.

turning ten

2011-07-15T11:36:00.000-07:00

El Fuego is on the cusp of turning into a tween. The big one, zero is upon us. That's right double digits from here on out.

We've known what theme we wanted for his tenth party for a while now. We just didn't really have our heads wrapped around the logistics. We decided we would meet up at the local skate park and have friends bring their scooters, skateboards, or bikes for a fun time.

Tiny Prints supplied us with these awesome and oh so perfect invitations.

This week, El Fuego and I did some party shopping. We found these boxes at the Paper Zone for different and fun favors. Our plan is to fill the boxes up with a water bottle, a bag of chips (or snack) and a toy perhaps. El Fuego found the cute flags at the local party store. And the checkered tape was at Michaels.

Since we will be at the skate park, we haven't decided on food yet. I'm thinking maybe donuts in place of a cake for the kids. Still working out all that out. Stay tuned!

be still my heart

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

While away on our camping trip, the weather the first day was less than desirable. It was a teeny tiny bit miserable actually. So we decided to drive into the town of Westport WA to check out the sites and spend the day out of the chilly, drizzly, beach weather. On the way out, we drove past this darling Antique store and decided to stop. Instant mood picker upper it was!!! I loved every inch of this place. And, the prices were at least half of what I would expect. If the car wasn't loaded with camping gear, this would be a very dangerous place for me to visit.

My photos don't do the shop justice, but it gives a little sampling at least. Enjoy!

the bird project :: part two

2011-07-11T10:40:00.000-07:00

While on vacation last week our little Bird Project doubled in size and changed dramatically. I checked on the babies before we left and they were still fuzzy and pink and tiny. Nothing had really changed since they hatched.

But four days later, we returned home to birds that actually resemble birds. They are darker and feathers have filled in. They open their eyes and sleep all the time.

Ms. Redbreast spends her day patrolling for meals. She flies back and fourth all day long. And, when she finally settles down for the night, there isn't room for her in the nest she built. So she sits on her babies' heads.

It is a sight to see at night....

Mama perched on top of her nest and little beaks sticking out from under her belly.

It seems to be our house has become a bit of a bird sanctuary. Not only did we return home to find our robin Bird Project bigger and stronger, but we found a Chickadee had built herself a nest inside the eaves. It's high up and we can't see anything but the Chickadee flying in and out.

grayland beach state park

2011-07-10T13:25:00.000-07:00

Oh man, I left you hanging with that visit to the zoo didn't I?! Truth is, this last week has been so full of fun activities and even 'funner' people. Mr. Hawthorne has been on vacation so we've been living it up! So, I've been away from computer. I was thinking about you all though!! (wink, wink)

Our big adventure for the month of July was a camping trip to Grayland Beach State Park. We reserved a yurt, which happens to be my new favorite way to camp. Tent camping is just too Blair-Witchy for me. I feel exposed and cold and I don't sleep causing me to be a crabby camper. Yurts are awesome because you are still roughing it but you have a locking door, beds off the floor and heat!

And, let me tell you, heat came in very handy this camping trip because we left the 80 degree weather in our city and was welcomed to a balmy 50ish degree beach weather. My hair was not happy about that and neither was my body. It was freezing! And, I was sort of second guessing this trip the beach. (Shhh, don't tell Mr. Hawthorne!)

Luckily, our first night was the worse, weather wise, and besides forgetting to pack socks for Miss Divine our camping trip was a huge success.

The sun came out to warm us up. Our camp site was cool too! The kids spent oodles of time climbing trees, building a fairy village, riding scooters and making friends with the kids next to us.

The next day, we drove into Westport WA to see the sites. Our first stop was at the most charming antique shop. I was in heaven!! (more about that later).

Much like our trip to Cape Disappointment last year, we enjoy scoping the land for lighthouses. We visited the tallest lighthouse in Washington state where all five of us climbed 135 steps to get to the top.

I love that my brood enjoys the amazing lighthouses as much as I do. It's rewarding and downright awesome! Unlike last year, Miss Petite was able to go to the top too. She was delighted!

Hands-on learning environments rock! My most favorite part me thinks!

Certificates were rewarded once we reached the ground again. All three kids were beaming!! It was made extra special by the volunteer (an ex-school principal) which made me extra happy.

It wasn't all learning and exploring though. We threw in some good ole fashion fun too. We had El Fuego at go-kart! That kid is made for speed and he loved every minute of it.

Even Miss Petite was able to drive with some daddy help. You could hear her yelling "go faster!" and "bump him!"

We spent a great deal on the beach too in spite of the chilly temps. Wave chasing, kite flying, jelly fish finding, and sand castle building was had by all five of us.

Of course, s'mores were made every night too. Games of hide and seek were played in the sand dune area in the middle of the camp sites with the neighboring kids as well.

We warmed ourselves up with campfires and enjoyed being outside.

We stayed up late and tuckered ourselves out.

De-sanding a certain five year old a regular basis was the biggest challenge.

The kids loved every minute of it.

Per usual, all good things must come to end and we are home now. Resting up and cleaning the beach and campfire smell out of everything. Mr. Hawthorne goes back to work tomorrow (sniff).

Back to life...

we're goin' to the zoo

2011-07-04T15:22:00.000-07:00

In the spur of the moment we took the kids to the zoo yesterday afternoon. It was lovely!! Afternoon is a really great time to go to the zoo because you miss the early morning crowds and the animals seem to be more active when being fed their dinner. Now that's what I call a win-win!

El Fuego had the camera for most of our tour of the zoo. For the most part, he took better pictures than I did.

Gone is the butterfly exhibit. Which is replaced with the dinos! The kids had a blast getting sprayed by two of the dinosaurs. Very funny!

Feeding the birds is our favorite! So much fun!!

they hatched!

2011-07-03T11:06:00.000-07:00

The Bird Project was due to hatch any day, but this morning Ms. Redbreast surprised us! We knew robins incubate their eggs for about 12 to 14 days after they are laid. So I was anticipating hatching to happen this week. However, I assumed tomorrow would be the day I needed to watch for eggs cracking.

As I sat at my computer this morning watching Ms. Redbreast collect worms from the front yard and taking many trips back to her nest, I had a feeling something was up. Our mama robin surprised us again!! I waited for Ms. Redbreast to fly off searching for breakfast and I climbed up, camera in hand, to take a gander.

The blue eggs are gone and have been replaced with a cluster of brand new fuzzy feathers and pink skin. The teeny mass of pink and white moves A LOT and if you are very quiet, wee chirps and peeps can be heard.

The "nestlings" remain in the nest for 14 to 16 days before fledgling. Which means more waiting for us, but the baby birds means more work for Ms. Redbreast. Her days of waiting are over.

hello july!

2011-07-01T10:12:00.000-07:00

Happy July 1st!! (Where the heck did June go?) I'm so happy to wake up to this month that already seems more cheerful than last month filled with it's grey skies and sprinkles and chilly temperatures. July has greeted us with sunshine and fluffy white clouds. Gotta love a start like that.

Other causes for happiness:

Mr. Hawthorne is on vacation next week

Summer break hasn't been terrible with the kiddos (granted only seven days in)

The house is clean

Lots of friends in town to visit and see

53 pound weight loss (1/2 way to goal)

Shopping trips planned to my favorite antique district

Celebrating 13 years of marriage

The Bird Project

Camping trips in yurts and cabins (I'm so not a tent camper)

and summer birthday parties

summer vacation

2011-06-28T16:58:00.000-07:00

Hello folks! Summer break has officially started around these parts. We are four days in. But whose counting? Last Wednesday, Miss Petite and I met the big kids at the bus stop with "last day" treats. She was very excited about passing out surprises to each kid that came off the bus.

Then we congratulated the newest second grader...

...and fourth grader.

Yikes!!! Next year I will have a 4th grader, a 2nd grader and a kindergartner. *blink, blink, blink!*

We have been getting to know our newest family member. And, yes, I've accepted her as one of our family even though our introduction to each other was a little rocky. I allowed her nest to stay and she has kindly not pooped all over my front porch. A compromise? I think so.

She's surprised us with "The Bird Project" which we've enjoyed immensely. At last report, there were only two eggs, but shortly after a third appeared. We read robins typically lay four eggs but between 3 and 5 is normal. Our Ms. Redbreast has decided her clutch is three strong much like my little irish family. Which makes me like her even more.

Now we wait. According to our online searches on egg hatching of robins, we have about a week to wait. Ms. Redbreast dutifully sits upon her clutch and waits as well.

Last night a few friends came to visit to kick off the summer vacation right! We had our first sleep over in this house as our friends came to us from California. Kids in every nook and cranny giggling, reading, and playing. A few tears were shed about going to sleep and we are all a little loopy from the lack of, but it's all in good fun.

We spent the morning eating breakfast at the local cafe, playing games and climbing trees. What's better than that?!

Today actually felt like summer for the first time. Although the sun hasn't been terribly sunshiny, the weather is delightful. I've enjoyed the windows being open and filling the house with that delish summer smell. We said goodbye to our friends this afternoon and then the house was suddenly quiet.

We occupied the rest of the day with watermelon jolly ranchers and being lazy. There were lots of things I thought about doing but in the end decided I was too tired to do any of it. The summer has just started, we've got lots of time, right?!