Because it's always fun to have a lot to do!

Need to buy a home?  Just kidding.  I know my readers don't, but here's the link to our home which is now For Sale By Owner.... no we're not crazy.  We love to be busy.  Know of anyone coming this way?  Send them over.

ERGO Carrier

Moms, who of you has this ERGO thing and what is your review of it?  pros and cons..

35 years tomorrow February 24

Let me tell you all that my best friend is turning another year older today.  Jake is my hero, let me clarify-- not only mine but the children's as well.  

We so wish we could shower you, Jake, with our love, affection, gifts, and favorite foods in person.  We so wish we could hug and kiss you on this day, put our hands on you and offer thanksgiving and prayer to God for you.  Glory be to God anyway!  We will pray and bless you none the less.  We are so proud of you, for your constant dedication to our God, to this family, to your work.  May you enjoy God's mercy for 35 more years and more on those and an Eternity after.  We love you darling!  Happy, Happy Birthday.

The eyes have it?

Libby seems to have 2 different color eyes.  On most days one of her eyes is blue and the other is green, there are some times that both appear blue, but only from a distance.  We constantly play with her about it.  Saying things like, "Libby why are your eyes 2 different colors?" or "Libby, point to your green eye".  She in turn will consistently point to the wrong one and we have to say, "No, Libby that's your blue eye, the other one is green". 

All of this attention has obviously caused some confusion as Louisa will sometimes ask, "What color is this eye, and what about this other one?"  We always affirm that both her eyes are the same color and that's how it is with 99% of people... 

Then there is confusion because when babies are born, their eyes are one color and as they grow their eyes eventual settle into a permanent color.  We've determined Silas will have green eyes, like Colby, Jackie, myself, and one of Libby's.  This has caused even more confusion, enough so that maybe we'll need to just quit talking eye color all together.  

While looking through some old pictures from Japan, Benjamin remarked, "Oh look, my eyes used to be red!"  

Unfortunately our older camera didn't have red eye reduction.  Poor Ben.  I just let it fly... No need to explain that one.

Really, It's been a merciful week

Having the stomach flu beginning early last Saturday morning had me on my back for a day and a half.  Of all the things it is the toughest common sickness for me to personally deal with.  After feeling better and breaking the fever I nervously waited to see who would be next, if at all.  Silas took his turn Tuesday and we all seem to fine now, 3 stomach issue free days.  

While I was sick I was able to rest, rest, rest.  The children were so helpful, kind, and concerned for me.  Rarely was there any quarreling and I dropped eaves on more than one family meeting going over various plans of action all led by Colby of course.  He is a natural leader and a servant when his heart is sparked.  I was served more saltine crackers than I could eat and ginger ale with plenty of water to boot.

What is it about harsh sickness that reminds us of our sweet hope of Christ.  Of being rid of this mortal, sick, earthly body.  I enjoyed my time of weakness knowing full well that God is Sovereign and my feeble, wretched body is fully in his hands.  

Praise the Lord for my time of rest and sweet reflection.

64 and Sunny

We had some terrific weather today.  I am no longer surprised that it can snow the same week that it's in the 60's.  The children romped around enjoying created worlds of imaginary play. The girls dressed as princess's and the boys dressed in their camouflage and baseball gear.  

Silas was the cutest to watch as he spent 45 minutes running to and fro armed with a stick.  At one point he caught Colby by surprise in a stick attack.  Eventually he dropped the stick and picked up a bag catcher.  That fun ended when he hung it up on one of the garden fences.  Libby, on the other hand, kept telling me she was going to be a princess and a Jedi.  

While they played hard I put together a savory Saturday meal and started some Shrimp Ceviche.  It's awesome being in this temporary season of everyone being old enough to play outside without me!

Sweet Week

My mom flew in this weekend past and stayed through Thursday.  She cooked dinner every night and made pancakes for lunch twice! (My kids may just have a new favorite in the kitchen-though they better not tell me;)  We played several games of Yahtzee and even watched a surprise snow shower one morning.  It was a sweet time and the house flow was one of ease.  

Thanks again for coming mom.  We love you