ahousefullofboys

Too Busy to Blog

2012-01-08T11:38:00.000-08:00

I never thought I would be too busy to blog. I have so many words stored up for you all.
Bwhahahaah.( Evil laugh)
So many things have taken place since JUNE 2010. I am baffled at how fast time goes by when you are getting through life one day at a time.
I won't bore you all with the details since it has been a whole year and a half.
I will sum it up to say many wonderful blessings have come out a very heavy, life changing moments that go along with that.
The boys are all giants now. Why do they keep growing? If they must grow can they just do it a little slower?
We are now currently serving a Highschool freshman ( I use the FRESH MAN term loosly) a 6th grader ( he still lets me think I am smarter than he is ) a 4th grader (favorite saying "Yeah I know") our 2nd grader (still the cautious, organized, pleaser) and last our wee one is 3. Everyone will be turning another year older and wiser(haha) in the next few months.
I never had the fear of a teenager driver before the IDEA of having one of my own HIT HOME this year. He hasn't requested it until this month and now the plans are being made to get his permit.
I have been under some mystery health issues over the last year and am currently in the process of elimating the long line of things it IS NOT! This has taken my humor for a ride. I am not as quick with the wit and laughter. I hope that 2012 will bring this back. I have realized that I don't have a very large group of friends when I am not feeling my best, yet another reason to look forward to 2012. Change for the better.
Still at the top of my list is more knitting, journaling (so I don't forget the stuff that is going on around here while going through all this crud) and FAMILY, FRIENDS, FUN.
You don't realize how life stress can impact life until you start to come out of it a bit.
NO MORE FUN SUCKING ALLOWED. My only resolution this year is to enjoy things more and seek to have more fun.
Life is too short.
I am looking forward to blogging again. What have you all been up to? I hope that this year finds you all looking expectantly to what is to come...
Hugs,
Destiny

Glimpse of Summer

2010-06-22T13:21:00.000-07:00

Funny how you look forward to something (like summer) and now only officially under 2 weeks into it we are not sure what to do with our selves.. hahahah. Gotta love the endless days and the fighting banter that reminds you vividly why school was such a good idea. Here are a few pictures of the brood!

Sandlot Style Ball! Seems to be the new summer favorite. So glad we don't have picky kids when it comes to places to hang out.

Strike a pose! hahah. Alex and those blasted freckles make me wanna kiss his face. He is always soooo serious. I hope he lightens up a bit this summer. He's only six.

Drum solo Master Landon at your service. He is available for your next summer BBQ.

Austyn is practicing to be the next action stunt double. For whom we are not quite sure. But he may just reach the sky if he doesn't stop growing soon. Little brother is becoming a grand escape artist. Or at least that is is the story we are given by who ever is in charge of watching him when they all go out at once.. I am very suspicious that he isn't being watched with a very close eye.

Basketball is just a little too distracting for a group of boys.

Happy summer folks. More updates soon. I hope to have a post of the fabulous, lyric composer in our home.

School's Out for Summer!

2010-06-09T20:07:00.000-07:00

Extra, Extra, Read All About It!

Our house full of boys have been off and running this year. We have been doing much of the same just one taxi driver at a time. So my free time has been limited to required work schedule and necessary bathroom maintenance for myself.
You will be relieved to know that I get at least one shower a day! As for the necessary maintenance (shaving) that has been most often this season one leg at a time and not always on the same day. Does any other mother suffer from this? Please share. I feel I may be forming some sort of disorder.

School is officially over at noon tomorrow! I have never looked forward to summer more than I have this year. In many waves this year I have struggled with what is motivating my parenting struggles. Most of it comes down to a lack of consistent time to regroup as a family and make sure we are all on the same page about where we are headed together on this crazy season of life. They are growing up so fast and the less control I have in their daily schedule the more I feel like we are on separate planets. I know this is a good thing for their growth as young men. But boy does it take it's toll on a mom.

I have been so thankful that I HAVE to work at Knot Another Hat a few times a month to stay motivated and inspired to keep knitting. It has been a frenzy of knitting this last year. I did not take pictures like I should have. I am making notes in my knitting journal and keeping track of these finished projects I hope to be able to get pictures from the recipients of the gifts and post them. A few of these lovely creations are on display at the shop so be sure to stop in a take a look. "WIN" vest is my Olympics project that was finally finished up after a month of Chicken Pox and other forms of sickness.

My little Alex has graduated from kindergarten. I am going to miss his teacher so much she has been so awesome. He LOVES TO READ! Yes, finally one of my boys can't stop reading. I almost cried the day he said mom can I stay up and finish this book...

Way to go buddy! You have had an exciting year of learning. I am so proud of you.

Keep up the good work. I know you will continue to wow our socks off. My mom is here visiting for a couple weeks and she helped me whip up 20 or so yarn lei's for this years graduation extravaganza. We had some big girls graduate high school this year too.

Not much more to report right now. This post has been long over due. I plan to post more often and then get stuck in busy-ness of life and don't seem to get it done. So for now I leave you with this update.

Welcome 2010

2010-01-07T09:05:00.000-08:00

Hello All,
We have been in the throws of growing children at Whitaker Central. We are fast approaching having 2 kids in the the double digits thankfully not both TEENAGERS but double digits bring on a whole new world. hahaha. The rest (except the little man) are in school all day.
I hope all of you had a fabulous holiday and spent time enjoying family and friends, doing the things that make you feel wonderfully connected and ready for the New Year/Decade.
In my attempt to bring in the New Year right. I have been going through one room at a time and getting rid of anything that does not bring me GREAT JOY. At times my husband has wondered if he and the kids will be the next to go.. I assured him that they all bring me great joy! (giggle).
My 2009 has been filled with lots of trying moments that have led to trying circumstances. There have been many things that I won't be able to share with you here. But for those of you who have been there for us and come along side to support us with your friendship, prayers, extra hands, and encouragement. We are extremely greatful and want to thank you for all you done.
During this I have discovered I have not been the BEST friend I could be to some of you and I apologize for that. But my being a better wife and mother this year has forced my focus to be a little more one sided for now. Please know that I so appreciate your friendship and hope you all understand that life has gotten in the way of my free time for now but I am getting back out there and hope to spend lots of time with you all this coming year. Forgive me if you feel displaced or ignored by us this last year.

If I had sent out the standard Christmas Letter to all of you this Holiday Season it would have read something like this.....

Dear Friends,
Reflecting back on our year filled with bull and other non pleasant things. We have decided to postpone the holidays until I feel more like celebrating.
Austyn is in full mode of teenger-dom. He is busy filling his day with things that revolve around him, planning what he will fill his never full belly and legs. I swear feeding a teenager will take another job.
He has been filling the remaining free time he enjoys each day doing odd jobs for bits of money to entertain himself and slave labor for us to keep the peace. The ever constant tapping of the ball bouncing off the bedroom wall is his calling card.
Rick and I are going to enroll ourselves in a brand new language program this winter. The add reads..
---Parents do you want to understand your teen ?Join us in this fascinating 2-3 year program that will change your life. Do you find yourself asking them to speak up? Texting in code words and letters that you don't understand? Do you wonder what they said even when you can hear them? Join us in a loud/ music filled room once a week to explore this fascinating langauge designed to help you BOND with your teen.----
I hope you know I am kidding but this is something we think will be coming soon. He is respectful and is growing at least a foot a week. We can't keep up with him. Eeeeeeek.
We continue to discover we have average kids doing exceptionally well at being average. They challenge us daily with questions and non stop talking that make us long for the grunts and one word responses of their teenage brother.. ahhaha..
The thing I discovered I miss most about homeschooling is the paitence I had with my kids. I am continually amazed at the lack of paitence I have with them when I only have a few hours with them each day.
Austyn is in the 7th grade and skates by doing as little as he can but seems to be squeaking out a GPA that keeps him on the honor roll and the current sports line up and that makes everyone happy. He has discovered girls, or they have discovered him. I don't know exactly what order it happend but I am not looking forward to this venture..
Makoa is in 4th grade and is being misunderstood. His rough and aggressive playground/sports actions makes most people view him that way. But he is a gentle spirit that cares about people and he see's and hear's WAY more than we care for him to take in.. hahaha. He continues to remind us that we are not treating eachother nicely or we need to make up.
For Cole 2nd grade is bringing on a serious dislike of all things educational. He just wants to play. If anyone has a great carrer option for him that requires no schooling and he can make a good living please email me. At this point he has made HUGE progress in getting over his bad attitude about everything that doesn't go his way and we look forward to another year.
Alex the ever present Lawyer of the bunch. He is a rapid fire kindergartener. Everything Mrs. Kingrey says and does is amazing and creative so he feels compelled to share his growing knowledge with us. I am shocked at all he is learning this year. It is fun to see him reading everything he sees. But I will be sending out a bulk email to every grocery store in America to remove the magazines from the check out lines. Having my 5 year old sound out words like BETTER SEX ALL YEAR, while you are loading you groceries is enough to send any mother into a red faced shock. What do you say? Great job reading Alex. At those moments we have the slowest checker in the history of the store working, ANNND it is a stock up shopping trip with a two basket minimum.
Landon, Landon, Landon. I can't really put all the things we are learning about him this year. It would bore everyone to tears and some would send you to the Personal Care isle for some Depends undergarments. His new best friend is the refridgerator. All the items in there make a huge mess and fantastic noises when you drop them on the ground in large quantities. Eggs,I have discovered crack with amazing ease in the hands of an almost 2 year old. The laughter that wells up in him when he get 10 plus on the ground at once is a priceless sound. Have you seen how much eggs cost these days?
Anything we tell him not to do HE MUST DO. So I am working on a stratagie to tackle that. Nothing makes my heart happier than seeing my little guy walking around the house in underware and cowboy boots. That is his favorite outfit of all time.
Hope your holiday is filled with the joy the season brings to your house. Happy New Year!
Merry Christmas,
Rick and Destiny and our Housefullofboys.

Rick didn't approve this letter but I wanted to post it anyway. We are looking forward to a better year in 2010.

A Test of the Emergency Broadcast System

2009-09-18T12:54:00.000-07:00

WHAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!! WHAAAAAAAAAA!!!
This is a test, only a test of the emergency whining out loud system. If this becomes an actual emergency you will all be notified by my husband or other family member (because they will have knocked me out and hidden my body). Hahah. We all know it would be difficult to actually HIDE my body but I think that my husband may be putting a lock on the outside of our bedroom door to keep me in there for my whiny timeout.

It is once again Family Camp weekend. The faithful few blog lurkers know well my distaste for this event.I just can't get excited about it. I promised I would not whine in front of the kids this year so HERE I GO!! (they are at school right now).

The packing and gathering of all the necessary items is never my favorite project. I am so tired from the night before of cleaning and washing load after load of laundry, I am just too tired to pack and get it all in the car with the tired, whiny kids the school sends home to me at the end of a long week of school. Hygiene is most important on a weekend like this because we are in a dorm style cabin with 5 boys and 1 man with me as the only girl. I don't want to have the scent o' smelly feet as my camp perfume.

Note: We really should have this camp in the summer or at the END of the school year. Then it doesn't seem like we are cramming all this activity into the first full week of school. Oh well. Wah, wah, wah. It was just so much more fun when I packed my own things as a teenager and went with my family then. The other end of it is just too much work.

Okay so now that we have that out of the way. I will leave you with the promise to TRY to ENJOY the experience. I just hope to have less mud, sand, dirt, soggy clothes, shoes, scraps, smelly treasures and mounds of clothes they can't wear the rest of the weekend because they have gone through the entire contents of the suitcase the first day (because they were wet mom)...

I am taking my knitting no matter the protest from my spouse and am secretly charging the Zen so I can listen to audio books while I knit. (hahah. He said no books either.) and smuggling in the portable DVD player to watch movies. Yeah, I said it. I am going to watch movies and play with Landon in the cabin and hide out while the BIG boys explore the great outdoors.

I look forward to Sunday and my own bed. Whoo hoo.

No Cure for the Summer Time Blues

2009-09-17T12:42:00.000-07:00

Here are the end of summer photos for all to enjoy. The top two pictures are the day of the broken leg discovery for Wee Whitaker. He was most tramatized by the rectal themometor than the actual splint. I too would be a little SURPRISED by that if I was 18 months old.

He was not slowed down at all and brought many folks laughter when he hobbled around. Don't think he didn't get his share of "Aw, poor things too." Overall he was a trooper.

The boys got in some official swim lessons this summer and did beautifully. Alex has come such a long way the last couple of years, but this season he was swimming (on purpose) not just splashing around half drowning. It was marvelous. The other kids now swim with a bit more "form" I am pretty sure the life guards never knew for sure if they were drowning or playing. But now they look like they know what they are doing. Whoo hoo! Landon absolutely loved every minute in the water and when his lessons ended he was more than a little upset. Can't wait to get them back in the water soon.

As you can see he is not afraid to pose for the camera. Thanks to Auntie Shari he is a professional CHEESER.
The sprinkler pictures don't do justice to the amount of laughter we all had watching Landon chase after the big boys with no hesitation or lack of coordination. Jumping into a fan of moving water is as easy as he makes it look. hahaha.

Last but not least my cousin's adorable daughter modeling her summer knit by Auntie DD. It was so fun to knit for her. She has been well trainded in the art of receiving gifts. I was well complimented all week long. She is a great little model too.

I will post the first day of school photos soon.

End of the Summer Knits Pictures

2009-09-05T17:06:00.000-07:00

This summer has not been completely unproductive. I have unfortunately not taken photos of all the items knit up since school dismissed:(

My goal this coming year is to catalog and journal more diligently in several areas of life but top priority is to get my yarn stash and multi project piles under control and get some of my patterns written up and maybe sell them. Yeah!

Then maybe I will start that book I joke about all the time. Hahahha. Well I need to at least get these stories written down for scrapbook purposes. Time is going by so fast and I really need to get Alex's album started. He keeps asking if I remembered he was born. Did you take pictures mom? Well, yes I did and still do but can't seem to get them printed from the Land of Digital. Uggh.

Getting ready for school next week is proving more challenging every year. I am amazed at the amount of THINGS that are considered SUPPLIES these days. I don't remember ever having to buy post it notes, expo markers, and highlighters for kindergarten or fourth grade when I was in school.

Does anyone have fantastic sack lunch ideas? Our school has not been able to complete the cafeteria yet so that means days and days of mom made lunches. Last year sandwiches were making me gag. I can't imagine how bored the kids were. So if you have any suggestions post a comment, I would love to hear them.

Along those lines any fabulous work from home ideas to generate some extra income would be great too!

I thought I would share with you how good Alex has become at communication this summer. We have been diligently working on a way to cut down on the amount of tattling and angry outburst going on around here. One thing we implemented was a talk to the person your upset with FIRST, resolve it if you can forgive each other and play on! Well, that hasn't exactly been working for A man. So he has come up with an opening phrase before pleading his case.

“Uh mom I have something to tell you. I'm not tattling I'm telling you the truth." It is hard to argue with him on that but it still isn't accomplishing our goal.

In my attempt to lead by example, I too have had an angry outburst here and there this summer (not a proud mommy moment, but I think all moms’ can extend a bit of grace and maybe even relate). The outburst part is not the example point. hehehe. After a more trying day with schedules and a lack of cooperation from the troops I felt myself getting upset. Fast forwarding through the less interesting events of the day. We still had not finished our chores for the day. I would love to say that I laughed and played with my boys and relished in the smell of dirty socks and shoes strewn about the house and ingnored the piles of unfolded laundry waiting to be put away. First we needed to FIND the floor to walk into each room. Blah, blah, blah.... Enter my ANGRY OUTBURST. I will spare you the exact words used during this time, but immediately following my monologue was the silence of my kids, their stunned glazes and then laughter. My third born angel looks and me and says “Mom, your face got so red it looks like you have a sunburn.” I was not finding the humor in it. So I left the room to sign each one up for military school.

The “quiet time” that followed scared them more than my many words flying about in loud volumes. They cleaned ever square inch of their bedrooms and wanted to make my lunch, a snack, get me a drink, anything that would get a response. I just shook my head and continued on with my day (I was thinking the entire time what a horrible person I was to have been so mad), after all the chores had been done. I sat them all down and apologized for what I said and how I behaved and asked them to forgive me. Here is what happened.

“Mom, you don’t need to say sorry to us. You just need to be nice and stop being angry.” (ALEX)

So now mom is working on this and they are storing up more events in the “Therapy Vault” for a future day. Ughhhh.

Sorting through the mountain of school supplies is not exactly how I imagined spending our Labor Day weekend. But I am working on not being ANGRY.. hahahaha.

Happy Back to School Week.

Gotta Say Goodbye to the Summer

2009-09-03T22:11:00.000-07:00

Summer has come and gone. I can hardly believe that it is time for school to start again. I have shared with a few close, non-judging friends that I have been seriously thinking about homeschooling again this year. We have had the kids in a local private school the last couple of years and they have loved it. My mom heart feels we may need to bring them home for a bit and reevaluate how important their relationships with each other are. That is one of the major things I regret about our decision to quit homeschooling when we did. The brother connections and problem solving skills go out the window and peer groups and activities replace it. So we may have more interesting posts if they are home all day with me again. Right now the plan is to start the year at private school again and see how it goes, more to come in the schooling adventures of Troop Whitaker. As for summer we had so many little things I don't know if I can list them all in a way that keeps your attention. We set out on our summer break to keep things unplanned and therefore stress free. NOT!

Our first broken bone ever started out the summer with a bang. Boy number 4 had his cast on until the end of June so swimming and water play was a difficult activity. He did find a way to enjoy all the activities of a friend’s birthday party and was very clever in trying to keep his cast dry.

My cousin sent her two younger kids to spend some quality time with her parents. This gave the boys a great few weeks of cousin time. I remember summers with my cousins and how fun it was just to be together. They did so great and I played the role of camp director (aka Camp Auntie DD). Our first ever tye dye project (well my first attempt with the kids + cousins), playdough, water fights, sprinklers, park lunches and more.
Later I was informed we should have friends/family over all the time, I am way more fun when other people are watching.. I love their honestyJ

The rest of this summer has been a blur. Lots of growing, eating, more growing, fighting, complaining, laughing and misc outburst have taken place too! There is an entire blog post waiting to be written on the EATING portion of the summer.

I did take pictures but I can’t seem to add a photo to the blog. This is so annoying.

In other news we had our first broken leg and second broken bone in Whitaker history. Wee Whit got his leg stuck in the spindle back chair. It is a long story I will not retell here. Let me just say. If you think that something may be wrong with your child go with your gut. He is doing great and is not slowed down by his splint at all.

This summer has taught me a lot as a person too. I may find a way to share those thoughts as well.

Chow for now.

Summer What?

2009-08-18T11:50:00.001-07:00

Adventures in Summer

2009-06-19T13:59:00.001-07:00

Okay, well it has been way too long since my last post. I find that is becoming a regular opening line to this blog lately.

We are still alive. Since the last post we have had four bday's, 2 school programs, 1 doctors visit and our first broken bone. That is just a few of the big things anyway.

Austyn turned 13! Yikes, we are parents of a teenager. I am so glad he is our first. His personality and over all disposition is a joy. We are glad to have him as the "test dummy".

We had a Fear Factor themed party for our new teen. It was an eye opener. Teen boys will do alot for bragging rights. Our lone girl Sam stepped up the girl power and did all the challenges and showed the boys how it was done! Go Sam. Makoa was the dark horse of the party. He put some of the big boys to shame with his brave face and choked down some of the nasty food concoctions. Rick was a brave soul and took the crew of boys camping for the night. I am so glad I got to stay in my comfy bed. Thanks honey! Austyn had a great time and thanks Lisa for letting us invade your house with all our goo and boys.

Landon turned 1 in March and we think that he will be a cake LOVER. This is his first reaction to dig in! He attempted to poke his finger in the middle but it did not deliver the same results. I have to hand it to him. We were very amused.

Not a very good shot of Alex's cast but he likes this picture alot. That is Liz one of our favorite babysitters. She is graduated now :( Alex thinks he will be ready to ask her dad if they can get married when he turns 6, we'll see how that works out. She may find a man her own age before he is brave enough to chat with Mr.T but if she isn't married before he graduates he has his eye on her.

I will update you all hopefully with pictures soon, our boys have been putting on daily performances for each other and it is pretty funny what they are coming up with.

My final input for this post was from Alex..

"Hey mom, what is does whitty mean? Is that like a short name for Whitaker?"

Cole says " NOoooooo Alex, it is a rapper name duh!"

Oh my gotta love them.

So.. Yeah..Okay

2009-03-11T13:24:00.000-07:00

Well, I feel like I am just not as interesting without my children home with me all day.

Since we have the kids in school, not homeschooling at the moment, my days are just as busy, but much less time to have the I can't believe he did that moments to occur.

I was reflecting on all that has been accomplished since they are gone 8 plus hours a day. Sadly nothing more is getting done. We still have the same piles, chores and regular household maintenance going on.

Today I was excited to sit down and knit. Having a very active wee little man around the house has made all mommy time a CHALLENGE. He thinks he should sit on my lap and type too. All the while chattering in his baby-ese language no one but Alex understands. But some how he manages to express loudly his dislikes.

Back to the knitting. I had set my knitting bag on the back seat in the car. Not realizing that my baby was with in arms reach of my knitting treasures. Praise God for the project bag inventors.

I heard him gag a little as we pulled up to the house but he was fine. We have named him Choke-a-hontas. He eats everything then promptly shoves his fingers in his mouth and gags it back up. Laughing proudly at his accomplishment. He did however manage to get the one lone post it note that was marking and cataloging essential information for the baby Roo afghan I have been working on. Well note to self. Don't assume that he must have only torn up the post it. No, no, no.. As sad as loosing the information is for me right now ( I have to go back and re write the info in my NOTEBOOK... I know I was working my way there, I just hadn't made it that far yet)

to my utter shock, the before naptime diaper revealed, post it notes, when digested quickly following a mexican lunch have a strange thing in common with corn. It comes out the way it goes in... Tiny little neon green pieces of paper were staring back at me. Oooohhh my heck. Landon laughed the biggest belly laugh I have ever heard. I must have had the most entertaining expression on my face.

Anyway all that to say I have yet to knit a stitch today and would have taken a photo to share but upon further thought decided, somethings I know you can imagine.. hehehe.. Landon is sporting his new top down sweater I started and finished for him in a week. Very fast Knitting Pure and Simple Bulky Sweater.. The other is a rare shot of all the big boys standing still long enough to get a picture..

2009

2009-01-14T10:19:00.000-08:00

Wow! I can't believe this year has gone by so quickly. We are in the middle of so many things at the Whitaker house right now. Some good and some, well, not so much. I hope that the not so good is just about behind us.

We enjoyed a nice quiet Christmas. Our crazy weather conditions here in the Gorge made traveling back and forth even in town a little sketchy. So we stayed home Grandparents came to our house. The kids got to play with the things they received and we chilled out. It was so refreshing to be home. To have less and to enjoy our kids.

The only draw back to our Christmas is the family addiction to the Wii. Fun as it is, we find ourselves drawn to the challenge of beating our last score. My fascination with it is wearing off. But I too was sucked in.

I am sad to report that with all the frenzy of the stormy weather. The limitations to shopping and lack of funds this holiday spurred on the obsessive holiday knitting, out of pure necessity. But not many pictures were taken before gifting. My goal is to get the items on the giftee and share away. But at last count December knitting included.......

(1) adult pair of mittens

(8) pairs of fingerless mitts

(5) Hang Ups ornaments (knotanotherhat.com)

(3) kid hats

(1) pair tot mittens

(2) adult hats

The sewing machine produced (8) stockings with hand embroidered names. I have to say that in spite of the shoulder pain it was a rewarding handmade Christmas.

I will leave you with a few pictures of the troops. I hope all of you had a wonderful holiday season and enjoy a fullfilling and Happy New Year.

Holiday Reflections

2008-12-02T10:31:00.001-08:00

Does anyone else ever get completely overwhelmed by the day to day? I have found lately that just trying to get the next thing done, can be almost paralyzing. Gggrrr...

In my attempt to take better care of my emotional self. I set out to make a little time for me, something that was not directly benefiting anyone else. Hahaha. Is that even possible with 5 kids, a husband, and the current sports schedule? Well that is what I have been trying to find out.

It has become crystal clear to me that I don't know how to do that. Can you expect to much from yourself? Can you be so involved in doing the next thing that nothing is fulfilling anymore? My hobbies are important to my mental health so I am resolving to get with it and continue to make time for the things that I love to do.

Reflecting on a few things some people have "shared" recently about my kids (that connects with my parenting) made me really angry. I do not let my kids get away with much. They are good kids, with kind hearts, and lots and lots of energy. That is not bad, or disruptive. It is the nature of boys. Why do I let people get to me? Why do I care what they think?

Negative input from people have been a blow to my psyche and heart many times. In an effort to change their minds I have slowly changed. My kids are my life right now. Where is the grace that comes with being in the trenches of parenting together? It is a tough job for all of us. I don't expect nor would I want anyone else to do this job for me. No one will love my kids like I will or can. They are mine! So I am committing to thinking of my kids in a positive way as much as possible. Well I will end that soap box moment with a little insight a friend shared with me yesterday.

"They will remember that you LOVED them." Gulp. It sparked something in my core.

Wow I was really mad about that. Hehehha. Let's move on.

My pictures don't seem to be downloading to share with you all right now I will try again this afternoon. I hope you all had a good Thanksgiving.

We enjoyed a relaxing afternoon here at our house. The kids had a very good time too. They ate played and watched a movie. Holiday's have not been that simple in a long time. Yeah!! I hope Christmas is as pleasant.

Speaking of Christmas, I decided not to knit anything for Christmas this year.... Nothing.. Not one item... WELL THAT IS A LOAD OF... YEAH RIGHT... This little statement has now produced two pairs of commissioned ankle socks, a girl hat, a pair of fingerless mitts (more to follow) and the ideas keep coming. Not that I will get all of them accomplished before the big day but I will write them down and get to them as soon as I can (crawling, active, baby not included, some restrictions apply).

Then there is the afghan, oh the treasured, heirloom afghan. I am going to get caught up on that as soon as I can too. I can't put it off any longer. I must finish.

Well I should close for now. My little man thinks it is lunch time already. Happy December!!

Photo Update

2008-11-12T10:28:00.000-08:00

Landon the day before school started. He just loves boxes as playpens. He has truly completed our family. On the few days he is naughty (very few) he is a joy to everyone the rest of the time. I am waiting to see if he will show us a different side of himself as he grows. But I will take it!!

Wow!!

2008-11-11T20:16:00.000-08:00

I can't begin to explain why I have not been writing. Most of it seems to be the kids again! Hmmm, funny how that always seems to get in the way of things that I feel are important.

I don't know if anyone still reads this or not but I purpose to be a better blogger this year. I missed it so much.

I have been knitting, just not really finishing much. I did a couple of scarves for Knot Another Hat. Realizing quickly that I would not be inspired to knit scarves for all my Christmas gifts (smirk,chuckle,laugh).

Okay so the boys are in school again this year. Most of them are loving it. I will refrain from any long ranting here. Just in case I have any school folks reading this. We have one challenge person in our midst and I have committed to praying for said person, because the alternative is not, well very nice. heheheh.

After a few months of discovering mean people in my life. I quickly decided, mean people suck. Really there is nothing I can say that would make that statement untrue.
So I am weeding out those that take to much out of me and take me away from the things that matter in my life. FAMILY, FRIENDS, KNITTING...ETC.

Alex has been so over the moon with his classroom and his new teachers and friends. He is so funny. The stories he is coming home with are challenging me as a parent to figure some things out.

The boys are all doing a round of soccer and Makoa can't wait to get a turn. Basketball and wrestling are just around the corner for him. Can I just say if any care dealer/manufacturer would like to donate a 10 passenger van or Suburban to this crazy, busy mom of 5 active boys we are glad to have you email us. heheheh. We are living in the car. Homework is just not as fun if you are elbowed by your bony knee, pointy arm brother, who can't sit still for anything. Not to mention the light are not made for homework/reading.

I will post photos after I drop off the kids tomorrow. Mr. Landon is getting so big. I can't believe he will be 8 months already. Time just seems to have taken a lofe of its own this year.

If anyone still reads this and is interested in the rantings of this busy mom. Shoot a little comment and I will share some stories with you soon.

Eyelicker

2008-07-23T08:42:00.000-07:00

Okay, sadly this post is only about a month over due. I can't believe it takes me so long to blog these days. Wee little Whitaker seems to know when I sit down at the computer, he is hungry or poops just about every time. Heheheh..

So, on to the story. It isn't really as big of a deal now a month later, but the day it happened well, you tell me what you think.

I have been trying to find ways to discipline the troops in a more creative way. Our old stand by methods are just not working for the bigger boys. They require a bit more than "Because Mommy said so."

In honor of that, my boys were on a quest that morning to give me several opportunities to work on my creative correcting. Funny how that works. The day you decide to put some new plan into action they find new ways to wow and amaze us. I don't even have to say anything they just KNOW mom is up to something so they should be.

On my way into town we had to stop a couple of times to remind a couple boys who's names have been changed for their protection. Dex and Joel (hmm can you guess). How to behave in the car. Absolutely no throwing balls, jacks, or cards at anyone. We had to be reminded that yelling in the car is not okay and that our made up swear words would no longer be acceptable. Dex replies "You never told me that before
'' "Sorry mom". I am figuring out that boys need to be told what is expected they don't ever just KNOW that something is unacceptable. Go figure.

So we continued on to the store for a few more EPD (embarrassing public displays).
Just the usual things we all deal with when shopping with children. I am determined to make shopping for things necessary for our survival a pleasant experience. If I don't we may all starve to death.

After that was a quick stop to drop off a coffee drink to a friend at work. The boys were reminded that they didn't need to get out of the car for any reason I would be in and out. I could see them from the door and all that fun stuff. Well, another thing with boys is it doesn't matter how short the time frame is they find ways to AMAZE me. I was gone for maybe a minute at the most two. I open the door to my van and hear all of them in unison tell me "He licked Landon's eye." It took a me a few seconds to register what the heck they were talking about. I decided finger pointing can be used as a weapon when you have three brothers pointing at you all at once.

"WHY! WOULD YOU DO THAT!" I asked. Any mother would be curious I think. Really? Why would you think, Hmmm.. I should lick my poor, helpless, car seat bound, infant brother in his eye while mom is away. Sure, why not? Hello!!!!
" I don't know " was the response (note to self I don't know is not an answer). How do you take care of that? I was in shock that he would even think about that. I got into the car informed the troops to buckle up and I drove on in SILENCE. Our next stop was HAIRCUTS! Once we arrived my friend Maria noticed I was a little tense and says "What happened?" . Then the silence was broken. Sharing with her the events of the last few moments she look at the suspected individual and said. "Did it taste good?"
"NO"
"I think that is hilarious" she says. " I did that to my husband once just to annoy him" hahahhahha.. What? Seriously I would never think let's lick someone in the eye. What ever call me closed minded and sheltered. That is crazy. So I did what any good mother would do. I told him "Wait until your father gets home."

See not as big of a deal now that I think about it. My poor little Landon will have several more interesting boy moments before he understands his brothers I am sure. Well that is all for that story.

I have been knitting a few things and I do have pictures to share I just need to download again. I got a new diaper bag friendly camera and I am still learning how to use it.

Check out knotanotherhat.com for all the new yummy yarn choices and fun stuff they have been getting in. I am working a project for the shop right now using Alpaca with a Twist PUNCH.. Oh what yummy softness. The color choices are wonderful & bright.
I miss all my knitting pals a lot right now! Can't wait for a day off to go and hang out for the whole day.

Well more from my housefullofboys soon.

Summer Break?

2008-06-21T14:29:00.001-07:00

Oh boy have we been in full swing since school has been out. I had a wonderful visit with my mom. She has not been to visit us in 7 yrs. I have gone to Hawaii a couple of times with Alex to see her. But there is just something comforting about seeing YOUR MOM in your own space.

My boys are home! Summer!! Summer Break!! Hahahahhaha. That is proving to be a bit of an oxymoron around here. I have not adjusted to all the troops being home as quickly as I had hoped. Funny how spending 8 hours a day away from your kids makes you forget the little things they do to make you laugh,cry and utterly frustrated.

For example.... Here we go the stuff I know you all sit around and wait to hear.

My #4 seems to have developed (rather successfully) the knack for getting in the LAST WORD(S). I was in a bit of a dilemma the other day and was not able to respond properly until I could finish feeding WEE LITTLE ONE.. So after a minute or FIVE of debating(arguing) with my 4 yr old (I am still the parent)(grrr).. I told him to go to his room and think about his attitude until I could take care of it.
*** " No mom, I don't think so. I am fine!"
"Go sit in your room please until I can talk to you about your attitude."
*** " I don't have an attitude mom. You have a problem with it not me." Alex says, with raised eyebrows and his signature hands on hips.
"Now don't say anything else please go to your room."
** "But, mom if you hear me.."
" I said go now with out saying anything else.."
As he is walking down the hall to his room, he mumbles...
" I told you once I don't need to think about it. I am good."

What is a mom to do? I was half irritated and half entertained by this display of LOVE from my child. It always amazes me to see how his vocabulary/reasoning is growing in his quest to annoy me. hehehehhahaha..
Ok so back to the RESOLUTION.

"Alex are you ready to listen to mom?"
"Yeah, do you feel better yet?" (ALEX)
"What do you mean do I feel better yet?"(ME)
"You're being bossy and we aren't suppose to boss people."(ALEX)

Again what do you say?

I have an eye licking story to share along with some update photos in the next post.. Bet you can't wait for that.. hehee..

Where Have All the Hours Gone?

2008-05-26T16:49:00.000-07:00

Hello All.. I have had an extremely busy time with our new wee one. He required a little more feeding attention in the beginning. We are so greatful he seems to have turned the corner and is gaining well just Breastfeeding now. What a job it is to feed your little one. I will never assume that breastfeeding or any other NORMAL/NATURAL baby care method will just happen. Every baby is different as is each need for that baby.

I have been knitting a bit and sewing too. Also I have repainted and sewn new curtains for the living room. It was a real life home make over... It was not as quick as the 24 hours shows but I think 3 days from start to finish with 2 people and a nursing newborn isn't too shaby.

My mom is visiting us this week. Her first visit in 7 years. We have been catching up on my sewing PILE/projects. I promised she could eat and sleep when we were done.. Not a moment sooner. Hahahha.. I can be such a slave driver. Just kidding we are feeding her and she likes to craft like I do. So that has been a fun time.

We just spent the last 24 hours visiting with family at my great Aunt's celebration of life memorial service. She was nearly 80 yrs old and had such a zest for life. She was strong and determined. She was such an example in that respect. Her knitted christmas stockings she had done for each grandchild were displayed at her services. What a legacy... I am so glad that she instilled in me a desire to learn to knit. Thanks Aunt Hazel. You will be greatly missed.

I will follow up with the KAH baby shower for Mr.Landon when my mom returns to Hawaii. Until then... Happy MONDAY

Photo Session!

2008-03-30T19:19:00.000-07:00

Ok so I can't see what picture is what so I will list as many Thank You's as I can. It has come to my attention that Landon is blessed with lots of talented Aunties. He has quite a hand knit/handmade gift collection going already.

The quilted blanket is curtosey of Auntie Cheryl (aka Dreamtime Blankies) I will post more info as her new business takes off. This is lined with satin and has the ohhh soooooooo soft minky squares in it too. I love it! It will be hard to share. hehehee.

The little blue giraffe was a test knit for Nichole at knotanotherhat.com. I discovered that I am not the best test knitter. I sort of forget half way through the project that I am testing a pattern and start to do my own thing. I have to say that this pattern went pretty quickly considering it was completely made up as she went. Love the finsihed product. This will be one of the stuffed he MUST TREASURE FOREVER. The pattern is carried at knot another hat.

Then the ultimate baby blanket. The Knot Another Hat Aunties whipped up this surprise for Wee Whitaker. I can't express what this meant to me. I have discovered so many things about friendship over the past 2 years. One of them being Knitters are among the most giving people I have come to know. These ladies have become more and more like family over the last couple of years. This blanket is a testimony to that. Thanks Sarah, Nichole, Jill, Yvonne, Clair, Stacy, Shannon. I hope I did not forget anyone. You truly surprised me. I had know idea.

Landon is also sporting a pair of the smallest socks I have ever seen. Knit up courtsey of Sarah. Because my Wee little man has the longest little feet I have seen on a baby they will not fit him for long. So he is wearing them every chance he gets until he out grows them. hehehee.. Thanks Sarah.

The top picture is a bad picture of the dishcloth pattern blanket from Auntie Wendy. I love the color combo in this blanket it is just so happy.
Also from auntie Wendy was the yarn to make this little newborn hat. Of all the hats we knit up before he arrived none were small enough to fit him so I started and finished this in one sleepless evening. Love the Cascade Pima Tencel yarn it is so soft knit up.

Well that is all for today. I will get some photos of my sock busting obession that has taken root this month. I do believe at last count as of Feb 29th-Today I have completed 3 ankelets pairs, 2 pairs of pedicure socks , 1 pair of regular socks, 3 pairs of kid socks and have 1 pair of socks for me in process and a replacement pair 1/2 done for Cole. His original pair felted a bit in the wash and no longer fit.

Wee Whitaker

2008-03-30T18:51:00.000-07:00

Hello Blog Land! I am back for now. Hhehehe.. We would like to introduce our Wee Whitaker..
Landon Cooper Po'okela Whitaker joined our crew on March 19th. He weighed in at 7 lbs 11.6oz, 20 inches long.

It looks like we are to remain AHOUSEFULLOFBOYS!

I have to say he has been a very laid back baby for the most part. If we can adjust a few things during the day for him. Mommy might actually get some sleep at night.

The boys have been loving on him as much as they can. Visitors have limited some of the holding time for them, but they are looking forward to him eating better and being awake a bit more so they can hold him and play with him.

After a brief update from people at their school it seems our trip to the hospital was well narrated. I consider myself a pretty open person. I just am not sure how comfortable I am with the fact that 3 kids went yelling down the halls "SHE BROKE WATER" "NOW WE ARE JUST WAITING". One of the 5th grade moms shared her daughters play by play of my labor progress. Oh boy do I love my boys. They just have to tell it like it is.

I have more pictures to share I just have to transfer them to the blog. So I hope to have a little photo session later tonight or tomorrow after the kiddos are off to school.

That is all for now.

Still Waiting

2008-03-12T08:05:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to throw out a quick update. We are still pregnant. Still waiting. Baby is still a couple weeks from EDD. Monday morning we had a little test run to the hospital, thinking maybe we were in labor. It turned out that we were having contractions but not anything to stick around the hospital for.

I came home and it has all been about the same since then. If anything new happens I will update.

In the meantime I am breaking the washer (to many loads). Knitting and getting my final sewing projects finished up. I have 2 pairs of socks on the needles and 2 finished pairs to photograph and post. I gifted the 2 pairs of pedicure socks! They were a huge hit. I hope to have the second sock of one of the in progress pairs done today. That would make 3 pairs of socks completed since Feb 28th. My sock yarn stash may just start to look UNDER CONTROL. hehehe..

TROOP NEWS! Well not much to report they all seem to be excited to have the baby out too. Alex has cleaned up his colorful vocabulary for the time being. THANK GOD!
He also informed me yesterday that all I have to do to get the baby out.....is to squeeze my belly like a zit and pop it out. Then the lady will catch it.
Oh if only....

They are all looking forward to spring break and Easter parties. It will be good for all of them to have a little break.

Well I will close for now with a BIG HAPPY BDAY to my husband. He is REALLY old now. That is what the kids are saying anyway. When did 33 get to be OOOOOOOOOOOOOLLLLLLLLDDDD. heheheh'

More Pictures!

2008-02-12T11:55:00.001-08:00

Thanks to Sarah I am able to post the latest FO's for you all. Whoot, Whoot!..

Picture Time!

2008-02-12T11:44:00.000-08:00

My first crochet hat. Can't wait to tackle the next HOOKER PROJECT.

Here is my MOMMY & ME matching hat for my sister in law and niece Lily.

This was out of the One Skein Wonder book. Made with the super yummy Cascade Leisure. I love how it turned out. It is just so happy. Now to find buttons.

Another Wee Whitaker hat. Organic Cotton Hat so soft.

Roo Design Tractor Sweater. I love all the sweater patterns Knot Another Hat has in stock of this designer. Just to cute for words.

My original left over baby hat design. I still need to write up the pattern. Love the end results.

Welcome Home Wee Whit Hat and socks. One ball of Cascade fixation with left overs for baby ankle socks. Stay tuned for updates.
Okay that is all for this post I will get the other photos up today too.

Oh Mylanta!!!

2008-02-07T11:33:00.001-08:00

Well all those who still read this blog. I am still around. My goal was to figure out what was wrong with my picture software. This would enable me to blog a bit more inspiring posts. Alas I have failed to figure it out. So this weekend I am going to look up more on the Picasa site and see if I can't work my way around that. Wish me luck.

Also with the kids in REAL SCHOOL (hahaha) (outsider comments make me laugh). I have has less blog material to work with. With just one at home he tends to be better behaved and lacks the ENCOURAGEMENT to boldly go where no 3 (oops) 4 year old should go.

Since I have started working at Knot Another Hat I have been discovering, as well as reminded by my CONCERNED co-workers that I may have a habit, addiction, problem.. Whatever you want to call it. Hehemm.. We knitters can only justify our stash habits to a point and staging an intervention can be hard. Especially if those involved may have similar stashing habits.. I love them all.. So my committment to de-stashing this year is being revisited.

Christmas was a good starting point. I feel great about all I accomplished for gifts this year. Also I am happy to report that ALL HANDKNIT ITEMS were recieved with great affection..

I finished up a big project for the shop. Again no photos I will have to have Sarah snap a picture so I can post it. It is the Ripple Afghan Kit she has for sale at the shop. I started it and set it aside for the holiday's but it was fast and rewarding when I picked it back up and got to work on it.. Love the color choices too..

So far this month I have finished a few items.

Team Spirit Hat aka Sarah's Scallop Hat Pattern: For sale at Knot Another Hat.
1-Organic Cotton baby hat for Wee Whitaker
1-Baby Cascade Fixation Socks (color KOI) TOO CUTE.
1-Cascade Fixation baby Hat (Koi leftovers)
1-Freakin Adorable baby Giraffe (Nichole Pattern for sale soon at Knot Another Hat.)
1-Roo Design's Tractor Sweater (Wee Whitaker Toddler Collection.. Heheh)
1-One Skein Wonder Baby Sweater (Cascade Leisure/Lily Pond Colorway) Can I just say yummy to the yarn and the pattern was so fast. This was a great way to pass the last half of the Super Bowl Game.
1-Pair of Sock Monkey Inspired baby socks. LOVE THEM!!! Fast to knit and so cute finished.
1-pair of Magic Slipper's (Ravelry Pattern Find) So cute and great way to use up sock yarn remnants.

With all the doctor appointments and waiting in line to pick up the troops I have had lots of on the go knitting time. I love the sense of accomplishment this gives me. The laundry is even starting to become a little more caught up.

As for the pregnancy progress.. Things are going well. Baby is growing and all the blood sugar concerns seem to be undercontrol as well. Thank God we haven't had to do any drugs to keep it that way. Another plus is weighing less at 34 weeks pregnant than pre-pregnancy!! I am determined to keep it up after wee Whitaker arrives.

Well that is all for now. I should feed the hungry preschooler now.

The Day After, After Christmas

2007-12-27T10:28:00.000-08:00

It was the day after, after Christmas!!
I am happy to report that we had a nice quiet Christmas Day. Well, if you can call a house full of boys and a husband quiet. Add to that the new toy DAD received and the whole quiet concept may not even apply. hehehe.
We were able to just stay home this year and do a very simple Christmas. The in-laws came here for a morning of presents and breakfast and then dashed up to spend the afternoon with the other grand kids.
Then we busted out the new video game ROCK BAND. It was so funny to watch all my boys try to be rock stars.. Not exactly the most user friendly game for this crew. But they have had a great time figuring it out.
I have to toot my own rock star persona... I was rocking for about 1/2 of "SLOW RIDE" hehehe.. Ahh the things I will try to fit in with my boys. Crash and bomb MOM.. That's me.

This Christmas knitting marathon went on successfully and mostly without photos. My camera is still full from the first half of the year photos. I will be taking care of that tonight. Transferring pics and videos so I can reveal the FINISHED HUBBY SWEATER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Blog land does not give many options for adding enthusiasm to your posts. This is a monumental moment. I finished weaving in the ends on Christmas Eve. I had to force the dear man to wear it home. He had a long sleeve shirt on and it was hot in the car.. But it fit. I need to block it but I can happily and guilt free move on to another project.

Christmas Knitting-
I finished (7) Keep it Simple Knitted Hats in various colors- Love that it is knit on size 17 needles with Lana Grande yarn. It maybe took 30 mins per hat.

(1) Ann Norling Spiral Rib Hat- on size 10 needles with Cascade Pastaza in Black and Nashua Ivy held together. This is a fun pattern once it gets going. I had a little trouble trusting the pattern.

(2) Earflap Hats- Out of Alpaca Grande. These were for a friend but I heart the feel of the Alpaca Grand it was soooooooooooooo soft.

(2) Ann Norling Head Huggers- For my boys.. Out of Teseo of course.
(1) Adult pair of felted slippers
(1) Kid pair of felted slippers.
(1) Hubby Sweater
(1) Custom pattern earflap hat. (photo coming soon)
(1) Sewing cowboy project (photo to come)
(1) project bag (sewn)
(3) pairs of fixation socks (1 was finished by Thanksgiving)
(1) cabled headband
(2) pairs of fingerless mits

Dozens of batches of jam and cookies topped off our holiday madness. I have to say it would be much easier if I started all of this earlier. But not a bad month of work I suppose.

Hope you all had a great holiday and many New Years Blessings to all of you. I think I have discovered what a group of great friends can add to life this past year.. I hope to be a better friend to all of them this coming year..

Christmas Knitting!

2007-12-06T17:43:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays to all you faithful blog followers. As soon as I figure out why my PC won't let me download my photos I will post pictures. This will be alot to catch up on.

I have been a a knitting fool. I am always amazed how much I can get done waiting in the doctor's office. Unfortunately I have had too many visits to the doctor this pregnancy and most require me to wait for long periods of time. Annoying for my time management... Great for the knitting mojo..

Completed this last 3 weeks... 4 Teacher gifts, 3 boy hats, 2 fingerless mits and one cabled hat just for me. Not exactly your 12 days of christmas format but you get the idea.
I have finished a couple cutie projects for Knot Another Hat this last month as well. One major project still underway. It needed to be put down so I could get the holiday knitting done.

Believe it or not the HUBBY SWEATER is almost complete. Only about 5 inches of one sleeve to go. Plus the neck.. There is light at the end of the tunnel.

Baby news- All seems well on the baby front. We have had everything undercontrol and the doctor is pleased. Whew!! For those of you waiting to hear the gender news I will let Sarah at the shop know in the next couple of days. HUBBY DOES NOT WANT TO KNOW!!! So it needs to stay a secret for him.

Well I will close for now and get the troops loaded into the van for the first of the christmas concert marathon. Uggh..

Has it Been That Long?

2007-10-29T06:58:00.000-07:00

Boy oh boy. I didn't realize how long it had been since I updated. With the troops in school this year my material is just not there. hehehe.

I have to say that not much has been going on these days. Nothing really.. Except working, running the kids to and from, working, general housekeeping (not very well), trying to get the food plan in place for this pregnancy. Then there is the knitting (of course). I even scrap booked a page. (yes Julie, gasp I did a page)

Off the sticks and recently gifted were prayer project gifts. I knit the shawls and scarf for the kids' teacher's and they prayed for them and gifted these lovely items. The teacher wore them all day. They really know the way to a kids heart. The boys could not stop talking about how much the teacher liked them because... " She wore it all day mom." Oh to be a kid again just for a day or two.

The changes of the new school thing is going well. Now if I could just find the laundry fairy's phone number I would be all set.

In the middle of all this running around. We decided to switch doctor's. Talk about a year of change.

I have been enjoying the yarn shop. I feel a little bit like a fish out of water. Learning all the yarn specifics. It is a whole different ball game when someone else needs help with yarn.

Well I should go eat something before I take the kids to school this morning. Can't wait for that extra hour of sleep this weekend.. Yeah!!!

Good Morning Everybody!

2007-10-01T18:43:00.000-07:00

Well I have no real excuses for not getting a post up for a bit. I guess I am getting a little tired of the picture-less posts. My USB cord has been located, the picture program on the other hand is not cooperating. So I am trying to get the Picasa thing down and the pictures will ready. Yeah!!

I have officially been training to work part time at our local yarn shop at Knot Another Hat. I feel slightly guilty getting a paycheck to hang out in a room full of yarn and knit in my free time. Talk about lucky. It will be a fun venture.

In knitting news.. I have had to frog a couple projects and they have been knit up into other creations. One project comes with alot of giggles as I imagine my kindergartener's face as he gifts it to his teacher. He had asked me to knit something for his teacher. My thought at first was........(She is nice and because I've known her for a while, seemed worthy of such a treasure) then I began to wonder why she was already so special to him, he would want something HANDKNIT for her. After about a 30 min scene in my head, complete with the judge awarding her (the teacher) custody of her new little boy. I came to my senses and started a Stole which became a prayer shawl instead. As I was working on it. My little guy began to take extra care in the way he dressed (dress shirt and tie). This is not his normal attire so I told him he didn't NEED to dress up for school. To which I get.
"Moooomm! It's okay I want to." At this point my interest was beyond piqued. When we arrived at school to find another little guy all spiffed up I knew this teacher must be something special.
The only problem was the other little guy had a candied filled mug as a token of his affection. This was followed by a little stomping from my little man accompanied by hands on his hips, looking at me over his glasses with raised eyebrows. "When are you going to finish that shawl for my teacher." I was a bit afraid of the clenched teeth. hehehehehe. Oh got to love kindergarten. Well all that to say it is BLOCKING now.

I have to do something for the other 2 teachers too. So I will be starting those this week.

The kids are loving school and the field trips are starting. After turning in my packet of information to VOLUNTEER at the school I will be able to help in their classrooms. So I will be able to see them a bit during their day.

That is about all for now.

Is It Possible?

2007-09-18T09:12:00.000-07:00

I believe I have accomplished even less with my kids in school than I was when they were all home. Is this really possible?
With all the extra running around I feel like I have had know time for the important things. Like, knitting, talking on the phone for leisure (bill paying is not included), scrapbooking and reading. I have become a slave to the household to do list. Humffff.. Oh the joys...

We did just arrive home Sunday afternoon from the annual church family camp. I have realized that as much fun as it can be for the whole family. Some times spending three days and 2 sleepless nights with other people is not always fun. hehhee. Details in person later. I don't want to offend anyone. Ahheemmmm..

Alex has officially become the one line singing extravaganza. If I hear another Disney Movie chorus I could jump out of my moving vehicle. He is always wanting me to sing along. I don't really enjoy the Chicken Little Songs OVER AND OVER.. Sooooo.. "DON'T GO BREAKIN MY HEART, DON'T GO BREAKIN MY, DON'T GO BREAKING MY HEART" rerun again and again can make a person temporarily insane.
Add to that the "WHY CAN'T WE BE FRIENDS, WHY CAN'T WE BE FRIENDS." with varying degrees of vibrato (of course) finishing off his chorus medley with "IF YOU WANNA BE MY LOVER GOTTA GET WITH MY FRIENDS." it is a full day before we get the breakfast dishes done. Oh the joys of my little boy.

It has been a wonderful experience for the troops. I have had lots of encouraging comments from others who have had my kiddos throughout the day and they all say what wonderful, respectful, helpers they are. Is it bad for me to be a tiny bit bitter that they are at school HELPING when they could be home picking up the toys and misc. clothes tossed about?
I will refrain from any negative thoughts about the lack of helping at home. At least they are behaving in public and being a general blessing to others.. My biggest school room fears have been avoided.

Top Ten List of School Fears

10. The bathroom announcement with details as to which number (1 or 2)
9. Raising their hand just so they CAN talk.
8. Not participating in school activities because they are to big for them. (this is a big one for our 5 year old.)
7. Attempting to burp the ABC song or worse for the older ones their spelling words. (boys find this very entertaining)
6. Trying to convince the choir teacher that the armpit really is a musical instrument. (just give my boys a few minutes of your time.)
5. Pushing their way to the head of the line because they want to be first.
4. Taking off their clothes because they are just too hot.
3. Admitting to FARTING in class with complete confidence
2. Using their SPECIAL made up swear words in every day life. I won't post for those that keep it g rated
1. Revealing the secrets of our household to the general classroom population.
Our mom watched NETFLIX movies (Ugly Betty, Dr. House while we practice our spelling words.)
Don't judge me on the last one. We only have 2 more discs I will be more responsible. You would do it too. Maybe you just can't admit it. hehehehe. I have tried to consider this part of multi-tasking but it doesn't really fit.

If any of you would like to enable me to purchase my spinning wheel at OFFF this weekend please leave your encouraging comments and I will print them off for my hubby. HE JUST DOESN'T SEE THE FINANCIAL INVESTMENT LIKE I DO.. hehehe..

Doctors Office Visit

2007-09-07T18:30:00.000-07:00

WARNING!! THIS POST CONTAINS MATERIAL THAT MIGHT NOT BE SUITABLE FOR ANYONE WHO IS NOT A WOMEN. OR IS UNFAMILIAR WITH BEING A WOMAN..

So today was my official prenatal visit. We have been blessed to have our last 3 babies at home and intend to do it with this baby too. I was thinking that I was going in to the office to do all the customary blood work and listen to the baby's heart beat. Our Dr. is our back up doctor so we see him when we have to. Our midwives are much more in tune with making you feel comfortable before they zap you with words like pap smear and OVERWEIGHT. It is really necessary to point out to the fat girl that she is overweight. Therefore risks for this and that are higher. I have not exactly been average weight since having kids nothing has changed. Do I not know I am overweight. Hello... I think I am aware of that. Seriously! This happened.

He wanted to do the routine exam. Breast exam, pap the whole nine yards. I should appreciate the thoroughness. I don't appreciate the procedures. What do you say after that? Thank you. Have a nice day. See you next time. Let's have coffee. I don't think so..

Part 2: The Lab. I know the lab lady so that was a giggle fest. Until she flashed the bottle of ORANGE liquid at me. Yes the lovely glucose test. So I put on my party hat and chug...chug...chugged that baby down. As I was drinking it, I realized with startling reality why I hate ORANGE SODA. It taste exactly like this stuff. YUCK!! After the liquid yuck was down. I continued to catch up with the gal at the lab. Laughing is not the best thing to do with a full bladder. But it was a good transition from the dreaded exam.

Part 3: The Plan. The original plan for the day included a quick trip into Costco for some essentials and lunch items. Well that had to be re-planned (or rather scrapped completely) do to the extended doctors appointment. At this point it had been almost 2 full hours. So plan B was to spend a few hours at the Local Yarn Shop... Oh yes. What better way to kill the thoughts of the morning completely. So off we went. My friend, Alex and her 3 little ones. I know crazy as it sounds the kids did amazingly well. Thanks Nichole for tolerating the "WHEELS ON THE BUS GO ROUND AND ROUND" over and over and over.

Anyway enough of that. A girl can only take so much the first week of school. Without her children. Really, do I need to be this flexible? On to the kid news...
I promise I am almost done BORING you all with my saga.

We could not have asked for kinder, more caring individuals to have with our troops all day at school. Kindergarten has opened my eyes to the crazy life of a K-5 teacher. Here are the highlights.

***Cole was so excited to be a construction worker and parade around the halls of the school. He got to go to the Principals office and he spilled chocolate pudding on his stark white button up shirt. Clarification on the principals office. We were thinking oh great 3rd day and already in trouble. Truth was they went on a tour of the school and got to see the principal's office. WHEW!!

***Makoa(2nd grade) He was worried that mom would be sad without him home. He asked me on day 2 if it would be okay if he tried school again tomorrow. He assurred me his teacher was really nice and he was going to trade some of his lunch at school the next day so he should be there. Well of course I wouldn't want to waste all my hard work preparing that meal for my child. Sure sweety, you go ahead and go to school again. Forget the education.. Let the trading begin.

*** Austyn(5th grade) No I am not smarter than a 5th grader. After the parents met the teacher and toured the classrooms. I do not desire redoing 5th grade.. His teacher is young and super sweet. She came up to us and said " Austyn is such a joy to have in class.etc.etc." He is a great help. It was nice to hear that. I wanted to stick around and see if she said this to all the parents. I left quickly and kept thinking HEY MAYBE WE ARE DOING SOMETHING RIGHT... Yeah!!

So, I have survived the first week of school. Also, my sitter (currently a senior at their school) even offered to bring them home from school. Who could ask for a better wrap up? Thanks for the kind words and well wishes this week.

The First Day

2007-09-05T13:19:00.000-07:00

Who knew that sending your kids to school for the first time could cause a person to sweat profusely. Yes SWEAT... I was doing pretty well with the idea of everything until I loaded them all into the car and was halfway to school.

They were chattering with Alex letting him know he would have so much fun with mom.
Alex was a bit disgusted that he was not able to go to school too. They were so sweet comforting him.

Our morning started with Dad's cheesy potatoe breakfast. Usually a crowd pleaser. They were too excited to eat. Followed by each child clearing their plates (without being asked) putting them in the dishwasher and promptly getting ready for the day.

This all seemed so strange the banter, cooperation, kind words about their apperance. They aren't normally mean to each other it was just one of those quiet calm moments that make you wonder what is coming.

Anyway back to the story. I was getting all the bags of school supplies out of the van and into the proper childs hands. All of them started to talk at the same time. Will the kids tease us? Is Alex going to get a smoothy? He said you are buying icecream? Are you getting us or is dad coming to get us? It was then I noticed the armpit rings in the side mirror of the van. Thank God I had my sweat shirt in the car. I don't believe this was the original design feature of the sweat shirt but I put it on real quick and ran the kids inside.
Ausytn was happy to be able to be the first helper to arrive in class.
Cole was just a little confused as to why the teacher was calling him Justin. Instead of Cole (His whole name is Joshua Cole). That is what happens when you call your child by his middle name his whole life. Ooopps..
Makoa was a little bit more appropriate with his reaction. He was a little worried but hugged me and went to meet his teacher.

I am so proud of them. They did such a good job with everything. The sweat just kept pouring. Is this a normal reaction to stress? I don't know.
By the time I filled out the paper work I was soaked through my t-shirt. I couldn't tell if I wanted to cry because I was sweating so bad or because I had just dropped my kids off for the first time.

Alex the whole time was chattering on and on and on. Hehehee..

So after a quick stop for a hot cocoa and OJ break with a friend at Shari's. I came home to shower and cry. It only lasted as long as the shower did. I felt 10 times better after that.
The kids survived and so did mom. They all wanted to try it again today.

Rick has taken on official breakfast cook duty so I am down with that. The only other adjustment is the snacks and lunches for all of them. But the big boys will do their own lunched next week.(Another great dad idea)..

Well I should wrap this up for now and warn you that my blog content may lack it's usual I can't believe he did that moments. But I will share anyway.

Labor Day!

2007-09-03T09:46:00.000-07:00

Well I have been putting off an update until I had all my stuff together. Again that did not happen. hehheeh.. So I will post another photo free blog post. Sorry.

We have had a few new developements at housefullofboys (AKA the Whitaker house).
A few weeks ago after our hawaii family visted I was feeling a bit under the weather lots of headaches that turned into migraines. Headaches have been a part of my life for a while now. So I didn't think much of it. But when I started the extreme sleepy, nausea and vomiting. I began to suspect it was more than a month long hang over..

With a busy house of boys. I tend to get a little overwhelmed with daily household responsibilities. So I figured stress. Hahahahhaha.
After being forced into the bathroom with a home pregnancy test (yes forced, by my hubby). I waited a few extra minutes. I truly was shocked that the test was POSITIVE.... When my husband started knocking on the door saying WELLLLLLLLLLL!! What does it say? I just opened the door handed him the test and sat down to finish knitting the bday gift socks I had been working on.

He is so excited to be adding a new little one to the crew. We are not sure exact due dates yet but we are thinking by mid-march baby number 5 should be on scene.
Funny how things have a way of sneaking up on you...

This news was followed by the news that Austyn's homeschool turtoring group ( he adored) was not going to financially be able to stay open. That completely changed out school plans. We had intended to send Austyn full time this year so I would only have 2 at home full time homeschooling. Soooooooo.. To make a long story short we have decided to put the 3 kids into a local private school for the year.

Note to anyone: Don't make a life changing school decision the weekend before school starts. Top three reasons..
1. You have to shop WITH the kids.
2. The stores are out of half the items you need anyway.
3. It costs a whole lot more all at once.. hehhee

After a sugar induced adventure to Walmart at 5pm at night. We spent our first investment for the year. Ughhh.. Came home to double check the lists and had to return yesterday for the essentials like TP, toothpaste, bread, milk and cereal.

It hit me yesterday that the one downside to not homeschooling was that I have to wake up and make breakfast at 6:30am instead of 8am. We will be adjusting for the next couple weeks.

I will post tomorrow. I would take a picture of my crying mommy moment, but how do ask someone to photograph that.. heheheh..

So highlights of the summer to follow. Stay tuned for more baby info..

August Update

2007-08-15T08:53:00.000-07:00

Okay! I am beginning to hate blogger.. Everytime I write up a post lately I am having to redo it.. GRRRRR...

So second time is a charm. Nothing new to report in the land of knitting.
I am working away on the hubby sweater and I discovered I have 6 inches left before the ribbing on the bottom. Not 4 in.. like I thought. AHHHH!! Then it will be time for the sleeves. I am hoping to have it done before September. That is when it was originally started.

I have FO photos and will post today or tomorrow..

Hope you are all enjoying the end of your summer. We are gearing up for the new school year. YIKES!!!..

Blog Lifting Again

2007-08-03T13:08:00.001-07:00

Your Life Path Number is 6

Your purpose in life is to help others

You are very compassionate, and you offer comfort to those around you.
It pains you to see other people hurting, and you do all in your power to help them.
You take on responsibility, and don't mind personal sacrifice. You are the ultimate giver.

In love, you offer warmth and protection to your partner.

You often give too much of yourself, and you rarely put your own needs first.
Emotions tend to rule your decisions too much, especially when it comes to love.
And while taking care of people is great, make sure to give them room to grow on their own.

http://www.blogthings.com/whatisyourlifepathnumberquiz/">What Is Your Life Path Number?

Blog'a'versary

2007-07-28T08:05:00.000-07:00

Today is my blogoversary. I can hardly believe it has been a year already. Or that you all have read what I have to say for that long. heheh. I have made some wonderful blog pals doing this too.
Not to mention it is a good way to catalog what I have been up to. I tend to forget from week to week what has gone on in my little world.

The bamboozle Sugar & Spice top will be gifted today I hope. That will conclude this round of baby gifts from Aunty DD.

In all of my knitting madness this last year I have only done 2 pairs of socks for myself and the Great American Afghan (3 of 20) complete. Hmmm.. Not great progress. So, I was thinking that in honor of my one year of blogging, I will cast on a project just for me. I have been kind of sad to miss out on the secret pal/sockapalooza exchanges. For a minute, a flash of a sock swap went through my mind. Hahahah. That would require a little more than I know how to pull off at this time. So if you hear of another knit swap starting soon drop a note..

On the sticks right now is the hubby sweater, Afghan square #4 is going to be cast on today. The log cabin (Mason Dixon) blanket (2 square around then I will be done), and lastly the cherry pattern baby hat I am trying out. Stay tuned for more. For those of you who knew me when I was and addicted SCRAPBOOK-A-HOLIC.. I have not completely lost interest. I have started power layout for Mr. Alex's baby book again. I am almost to the point I can print off pictures for the last couple years.. YIKES!! That scares me a bit. My goal is to be caught up with his book and the big boys by Christmas. YEAH!!!

Thanks to all who have been reading my babbling thoughts. It has really been more therapy than you realize. Looking forward to another year of bloggin..

FO Picture Day

2007-07-27T09:40:00.000-07:00

This is the cute little goldfish hat I will be listing on etsy as soon as I get it together and have a free moment.

Thanks Nichole for helping me figure out the FISH. My brain just wasn't envisioning it. Rock on!!

The red fish. blue fish hat was not exactly how I wanted it. I am redoing it in a roll up brim too.

Then of course the Just Peachy Polka Dots are for the fruit season. I am working on a little cherry hat and a hat with apples and pears too.

I did two more rounds on the hubby sweater and have been working on finishing up the log cabin blanket too. This has been a little bit like spring cleaning in the WIP pile.

Hubby took one of the troops to work with him today so I am making it a work day for the others and we are going to whip this place into shape before the weekend.

Any suggestions on how to tame the laundry pile would be greatly appreciated. I would love it more if it were a game.

Well just a quick picture update to show you all I have been busy.. Not lazy.. hehehe..

Have a great end of summer.

Busy Bee

2007-07-19T14:06:00.000-07:00

Hello All,
I have been up to a lot this last week. After a couple weeks of family visiting from Hawaii. I decided to start selling some of my crafting projects. This is partially due to the fact that I have to admit it is a HABIT. hehehehe.. Apparently we all like a little elbow room. Plus the funds to continue to enjoy the finer things in life (food) (boy's sports, etc.). Are in shorter supply as the troops EAT more. Yikes!! They are still a few years away from being teens too. GULP..

My hubby is fully supportive (pushy) and eagerly awaits. He thinks we should be able to put CLOTHES in the CLOSET. What? Who heard of such a thing? I have always thought of them more as STASH collectors. This is something I never thought my hubby would notice. He is so laid back that he RARELY looks in the closets at all.. What could this mean? uhhhh hemmm..
With that said I am excited to get busy on some project busting crafts that I will be putting in my Etsy shop in the next couple of days.
I do have a Nursing Cover up now for all you nursing moms out there. If you have a mommy expecting anytime these make awesome gifts. Check them out and let me know what you all think.
Due to the number of new little ones to my circle, I am on a bit of a baby item kick right now. I will be doing some fun stuff for the rest of us. Stay tuned for photos and updates in the next couple of days.
The boys have enjoyed a full week of vacation bible school this week.. Can I just say what an amazing program (free childcare) for three hours is such a gift to moms with many little ones. My guys have had the best time and I am getting so much free time. Hahahhahhaha. Not really free time but I am getting errands run allot faster.
Well just wanted to say I have been on a FO kick as well and in the last three days have knocked out some cuties. Now I need to bust out the Afghan squares.. For those who have been bored to tears with the MAN SWEATER project FYI, it has been resurrected and is being diligently worked in to the project list again.. Go, Go, Go... Ra, Ra, Ra..

The Great Name Search

2007-07-11T08:46:00.001-07:00

So I may venture into selling some of my craft overflow. Hard to imagine I know. I face the challenge of finding the perfect name. So here are a couple ideas. What do you all think.
I thought that some how using my name Destiny would be easy. Nope apparently not...
1. Darn Crafty............ 2.Crafty D.

Those are the first choices. Hmmmm.. I just don't know. What a decision.
I will post some pictures of the D'scret Nursing Covers that I have whipped up for some little sweeties. I am thinking of lots of ways to use up my material stash. That will please my hubby. heheheh.. Funny how craft habits develope a need for places to hide.

Let me know what your thoughts are.

Hello Birthday!

2007-07-03T22:44:00.000-07:00

Well ,today has concluded yet another official birthday for me. We celebrated in the park with a handful of family and friends. Being that it was completely last minute and arranged by my sweet hubby on his way to work this morning it was a small affair. That was more than fine by me.
Thank you Chris and Cheryl for supplying the flames for the burgers and bringing your troops to entertain mine so we could have some grown up conversation! Chris, is also starting up a new photography studio here in Hood River. If you are looking for someone to capture more than just the posed/standard photo HE IS THE MAN. Check out the side bar and link on over to take a look, you won't be disappointed. My troops are in the childrens section, the ALL BOY photos (yes the 4 boys). Our family photo has made grandma cry, and made me wonder when my boys grew up. He caught all of my boys being themselves with very little effort. Thanks Chris. The only thing left is the choosing what photos we want. If he can make us look good.. Well, enough said.
Okay back to the bday details. hehhehe. We had many eventful moments this evening. None of which I can mention on the blog. Those that were there are informed and that is enough.
I do believe I am half way funded for the spinning wheel now and I can't wait to hit up my hubby for the rest of the dough. heheehhe..
Well hope everyone has a wonderful 4th of July. I will post some FO pictures and shots of the troops enjoying the rays tomorrow.......

Birthday Goodies

2007-07-02T08:03:00.000-07:00

Hello All...

Well I have to say a big THANK YOU to Yvonne for the early bday treasures. The Silkie Socks That Rock in the Fire on the Mountain colorway is so fun and I can't wait to see it all knit up.

Then the Woodland Woolworks catalogs complete with contribution to the Spinning Wheel fund... Yeah!! I can't wait. Thanks again Yvonne you are the best.

I have to say that birthdays have never been a big deal in my life. Very low key. Most of that, I believe is because it is the day before a major BBQ/family gathering holiday (July 3). That always meant preperation and travel for the big event/camping on the 4th. Over the last couple of years I have become friends with some BIRTHDAY EVENT people. Your big day could easily extend into a three day event.. hehehehhehe.

Plus they are the best gift givers. They know me well enough that even the simplest things are PERFECT. It is hard for me to except gifts and attention. Hey guys thanks so much for being my friends that is the best gift of all. You have become more like family than you know.

Tonight I am going to get a pedicure and have dinner with a couple of them. How fun is that?

These are the friends who make you laugh until you pee. Always adding a little bit of a surprise to things. hehehehe..

Thanks for being my friends. I have to say that is truly the best gift ever. I feel I should further comment on the gals I have met since I started knitting. Knitters are so generous too. I have been blessed.

2007-06-30T10:36:00.000-07:00

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY LOVE MUFFIN!!

Today is my 12 th wedding anniversary. Since I have become the most unoriginal person on the planet. I am blog lifting Yvonne's Tribute. hehehehe. This made me realize a few things reading through her blog. I do not think about most of these things often enough.

I do have to say that my hubby made a very grand gesture this year for our big day. He is not one to shop (ever) let alone in a mall. I don't love to shop that much either but I HEART, HEART, HEART bookstores. It is almost a support group situation. This is why we do not go to Portland without a mission. hehehe.

He went into Portland with a friend and went into the mall and Barnes and Noble.... He was so excited to give me his purchased treasures that he almost gave me the gifts the night he shopped (thank you sweety).. Above is the only photo I have of my hubby (laughing).. Then the book ( Yes it is a knitting book ), Lastly meet Love Muffin from Build A Bear. I have to say that I am not much of a stuffed animal girl but this is by far the sweetest gift my hubby has given me. Good JOB babe. Not to mention he went through all the stations and put a voice in it. Heheheh. I would have loved photos of that.

Thank you for 12 years honey. I know it has not been easy being married to both my personalities. hehehe..

2 things you compliment your husband on while in his presence:

1. His eyes. I love how they change colors with his MOOD.. or what he is wearing.
2. He is great with people. He doesn't know a stranger. heheheh.

2 compliments you give about your husband to others:

1. He is always ready to help other people out. No matter what.
2. How he has always been such a hard worker. Also that he is not afraid to have fun in public. ( this is not something I do well so I admire that he is so good at it)

2 Traits you married him for:

1. He gave me such a feeling of security. I just knew I could count on him. (not something I grew up knowing). I love that about him.
2. There was just something so comfortable about being with him. He made me laugh and he put up with my family. (that is HUGE)...hehhe

2 days you cherished most being together with your husband:

1. Our wedding- We had quite a time with the wedding plans a week before the big day and he was AMAZING. He was not going to let anything stand in the way....
2. The birth of each of out kids. (this counts as one day, since the combined total of my labor with all 4 is less than 16 hours.) He just knew when to step in and when to step back.

2 Material things you would give your husband if you inherited a fortune:

1. A new truck with all the bells and whistles. ( his dream)
2. A house that has a place he can be a guy in, with a big garage (shop) with all the boy toys he and the kids could share and chill with.

2 things you would miss most if he left for 2 weeks

1. How quiet the house is. There is just something irritating and soothing about his snoring. I don't sleep well when he is gone.
2. The way he can step in and take the kids if I am having a moment of insanity.

2 places you have lived with your husband:

1. Hood River, Oregon
2. Vancouver, Washington

It's Sunday

2007-06-24T21:58:00.000-07:00

Well I have to say Happy Sunday! I have been knitting, doing laundry and knitting and doing more laundry. Seems like I just get a little caught up and it is time to change the bedding.
I did finish up a couple fantastic little baby gifts. It has been raining little people in my world and there are just so many fabulously cute things to make for them.

I will post pictures of the finished projects as soon as I get them into the computer. My sewing machine has been getting some action too. I know, I know.. I should be planning meals and spring cleaning. What fun is that?

I know few lurk here on a regular basis but I would love to hear what you all have planned for summer. As for us we plan to attempt enjoying our summer close to home. My cousin and 2 of her kids will be here for the next couple of weeks. They are visiting from Maui and I will probably not be knittin much. Hmm that may not be at all exceptable but I do plan to take full Aunty privilages of squeezing some love into her kiddo's. They are sooooooooooooooooo adorable how can I resist.

Take care and stay tuned for FO photo's

Date Your Mate

2007-06-14T21:51:00.000-07:00

Well I just wanted to know if it is okay to share a date night with another hot guy and gal.
My hubby and I went to see Tim McGraw and Faith Hill in concert last night! I have to say I was more than a little distracted by the hunky Mr. McGraw. Guilt was about to set in for the thoughts running through my head. hehhehe. When I noticed my hubby noticing Ms. Faith Hill too. I don't know if it was her showman ship, or the fact that when she waived to the crowd she has no flab anywhere I could see. That kept his attention. heheheh.. Thanks honey for arranging a sitter and everything...

We had some friends who got tickets at the last minute invited us to go with them. I have to say. I have not sat for almost 3 hours in a row since my flight to Hawaii over a year ago. It was worth every bit of rear end numbness associated with the sitting. (SMIRK :b )..

So, I had to get that out and say that my cell phone takes terrible photos. I did not have my camera. I forgot it in all of the last minute excitement. I mean really it was TIM....
My secret dream to become the next fiddler for a country music MAJOR was rekindled as well. I have not informed my family that I will need to enroll in a 10yr summer fiddle camp to come close to accomplishing junior fiddle competition level. Do you think they would miss me? It is a dream after all. hehehe.

The latest knitted baby gifts are off to their new homes I can't wait for the photos to follow.

Whoopsy Daisy Hat?

2007-06-13T13:21:00.001-07:00

I chose the kitty buttons for the polka dot cutie. Then whipped up the little upside down daisy hat from Itty Bitty Hats (Susan B. Anderson). This was too cute, and what a great way to use up the stash. Last but not least the completed baby PRAYER cap. I am still trying to decide if I cast on enough stitched on the little socks. Hmmmm. The little gray cap is made out of the yummy soft Nashua Organic Cotton. Makes me want to make a big one for me.

Can't wait to see all these cute items on the adorable little ones they were knit for.

We have been unusally NOT busy but seem to replace time with important things like laundry, meals and showers. hehehe..

Happy Wednesday to all.

Block Off!

2007-06-11T09:37:00.000-07:00

I have never been so relieved to be finished with an object in my entire year of knitting.

This square is not overly technical it just seemed to be one of those things I couldn't get through smoothly. But I am happy to report that around 10:30 pm last night. My thrid installment to the afghan is complete. That would be the tan colored square. The log cabin is just to display the progress. I was side tracked with a migraine most of the weekend so I was not able to get very far with it.

Believe it of not I have actually scrapbooked a couple pages too. Yeah!!

My new challenge is to find lots of short activities for my troops this summer. When discussing our summer plans my hubby thinks the kids need to take a month long break from their regular school schedules soooooo that leaves me to do a little creative planning.. Hmm.. Any suggestions?

Well, I guess I should go see why my son is so upset about his brother LOOKING AT HIM..

I may even post the finished baby hat I am knitting up for my friend who is in labor today. I love the baby thing they are so easy to knit for. Small. Tiny. Cute little baby things.

This I believe will be my new way of praying for the babies and mommies while they do all the work. I think I will work out a little poem to accompany the little gift too. Well off to see what the troops are up to. They are getting quiet.

Let's Polka Dot!

2007-06-06T19:10:00.001-07:00

This little Polka Dot number was super fun and oh so cute. I was not especially fond of the weaving of the polka dot ends but it was worth it in the end.
I hope my sister in law loves it as much as I do.
This is my first attempt at a baby blanket. I have been discouraged from knitting a baby blanket in the past. I believe that the rows and rows of garter stitch can become a bit boring. So I think this little log cabin style blanket will be the happy medium on this project.
Home schooling can be sooooooo interesting. Austyn was suppose to be keeping an eye on the little boys for me. This is what I walked in on. Alex (table climber) was inspecting the contents of the SILVER BOWL. Cole (stirring the pot) is explaining to Alex that it is hard to cut up the cupcake batter. It's on the sides he tells him. Just eat that side before we have to share with Makoa too. Guess I better be doing another lesson on being kind to your brother.

"See that is my part." Cole insists. Alex just kind of wondering why his side is already gone. Oh my.

Just wanted to give a little update. I have been busy the last week. My buddy Sarah and another friend had their babies so I have been making meals and oh-ing and aw-ing over pictures and babies. Just waiting to see when the last 2 babies will arrive on scene. YEAH!! Babies are such a reminder of all that is untainted in our world. They are so sweet and cuddly.

Where Does the Time Go?

2007-05-29T08:51:00.000-07:00

These are the last installment of the Mother's Day fixation socks. I thought they turned out pretty well.
The Fancy Pants on the block. I am having a little with drawl from them. Do you think it is unreasonable to ask for joint custody of a hand knit item? hehehe.
Here is the hand dyed yarn almost dry. I love it all wound up. It is so pretty. Can't wait to knit it up into something fantastic.
The shop model of the Baby Cardigan in the oh so soft Bamboozle yarn with the Breeze cuffs and button band.
Happy Birthday Austyn!!
Hey Bud,
I can not believe it has already been eleven years. It seems like just yesterday you were the only little boy in our lives. Now you lead the pack. I know it has not been easy living with parents like us.
Let me tell you how very proud we are to see you grow into a patient, caring individual, who truly cares about those around you. We can see, that no matter how frustrated you get with your brother's at times. The way you encourage them to try again or admire another drawing, guessing accurately what they have created. Makes me see that we could learn a thing or two from you. Whatever it is we pray that you will continue to show your heart and kindness to others. We can't wait to see what this year brings for you.
Hope you have a wonderful birthday. We love you BIG..

New Projects

2007-05-28T09:17:00.000-07:00

Well we are off to town to get the materials to finish the work in the yard. I can't stand the lack of a nice looking yard any longer.
I have almost completed the bottom of the polka dot cardigan for my sister in laws soon to be little one. I is so adorable. I hope it comes out looking like the pattern.. hehhee..
I am 1/3 finished with the socks for my mother in law and can finish up the cute friend bday socks that are going to be about 2 weeks past due.. Oh well.. Life happens.
Just wanted to do a quick update and say hi to everyone.
Plus it is a holiday weekend so happy Memorial Day.

What We Do For Friendship

2007-05-22T12:39:00.001-07:00

I will post photos with my next post. I can't find the camera cord AGAIN. Plus I need to get a couple more photos together, this will give you the full experience of the FO'S.

Last night the Fair Isle Fancy Pants (aka baby Keller project # 2) made its glorious debut. I was on my way to a yarn dyeing workshop and FORGOT them. I know, can you believe it?
My hubby graciously (or rather was forced to) was able to drop it by for me. This project caught my eye a month ago and has been loads of fun to work on. Add to that, the fact that it is for my friend Sarah's new arrival. Made this a project of a lifetime. I hope that Baby Keller will be warm this winter and looking ooooooooohhhhhhh so adorable.I do have to say that I think I did weave in at least 50-75 little ends for all it's fair isle glory. During this whole process I have caught the fair isle bug. I am excited to start my next project.

I gifted the last mother's day gift on Sunday. She was gone and I was still fringing the Entralac Scarf. It was sooooo pretty. I am going to get her to strike a pose and post the finished photo soon. As for the works in progress. I have cast on 2 more pairs of the fabulous fixation anklet socks. They are so quick you have to do ALL the colors.

Last project entry is the Fantastic Dye Workshop we did last night with Yvonne hosted at Sarah's. Who thought that hanging out with nine ladies eating, drinking and dying yarn could be so fun.. (OK is that sort of an oxy-moron) heheh but you get the idea. Yet another gateway to addiction. I will take pics of the drying yarn and post soon.

I have to thank McDonald's and the makers of Shrek for partnering up. The happy meal toys have now made me the laughing stock of our local Walmart. One character in particular has me baffled. Why? PUSS and boots.This is what the shoppers got to experience. Brought to you by my network of little men following me happily through the store. COLE: Mom look I got Puss. ALEX: No! I GOT PUSS!.. Makoa: Guys we all got puss. Don't complain or we can't go back. What the heck were they thinking. Certainly, no attention was given to this social situation. Further more embarrassed by the lady at the end of the isle listening to this, in all it's conversational glory. LADY: Is it a non-school day for you boy's? MY BOYS: (in unison) No, we home school. My fear, is that she did not SEE the actual happy meal treasures. My hope is that she did know what they were talking about or was hearing impaired enough to not hear what was being said. Uggghhh.. Got to love being a mom.. I feel I should remind you I DO NOT MAKE THIS STUFF UP IT REALLY IS THE JOY OF MY PARENTING CAREER.. hehhehe

Midnight Snack with Alex

2007-05-15T22:29:00.000-07:00

Maybe not a midnight snack. He is only 3 so it was more like a 10:30p.m snack. I was loading the dishwasher when we got home tonight and I hear the little feet of my youngest.
He peers around the doorway to the kitchen and says to me. "Mommy my tummy is hurting" "Peanut butter, jelly will make it happy."
I reply with it's to late for peanut butter and jelly. Maybe you should have an apple.
" Maybe that's good" he says."With some milk too."
We are used to Alex roaming the cupboards after the big boys are asleep. Although he is instantly put back to bed most of the time. Anyway back to the conversation..
How is your apple buddy.
"MMM, pretty good" he replies with a raised eyebrow/head nod. This is fast becoming his trade mark.
"Mommy you can have some bites too. With me. Okay."
Well okay! So I sit down and start to eat with him. Not something I would normally do.
"How come daddy's snore?" "Why is this apple red?" "Is the milk from cows?"
Daddy's are really tired from work so sometimes they snore.
"Loud like daddy?" Yep they can.
Some kinds of apples are red. "Yea I know"
Milk does come from cows " Baby milk comes from booby milk mom."
Thanks to my good buddy Cheryl for having a baby recently. I won't share the other things he feels free to share with her. Being around her, for Alex it is like some sort of tell the embarrassing truth serum.. Oh my..
Anyway,after the question/answer portion of our evening,he proclaimed,he was done. Finished his milk. Threw his cup in the sink. Went off down the hall.
Hey bud where are you going? " I'm going to brush my teeth"
He said thanks for the mommy/Alex time. I like apples and milk.
I have absolutely know idea why I am sharing this. Except for the fact that I have had a rough couple of mommy days lately and this is just a little glimpse of WHY it is nice to be a mom.
The funny thing is maybe I should do this with all of the troops once in a while then if they all react like he did tonight. No more bed time fights.

A Mother's Day Poem

2007-05-13T20:56:00.001-07:00

This is a poem I wrote a few years ago. Thought I would share it with you all since I have misplaced my USB cord to show you the last of the Mother's Day gifts.

A Mother's Heart

A mom once wondered of her worth

Is this all my life will be?

The laundry baskets overflow, the dishes never done.

She stopped to wonder once again

Am I the only one?

In the middle of the piles and noise, the mother stopped to look,

The laughter of her children was exactly what it took.

It made her look beyond the toys, to see what mattered most.

The music in their laughter, is what fills this cluttered space.

Nothing at all compares to the joy upon their face.

When mommy stops her "busy stuff", and takes the time to play.

She knows the dishes will get done, the laundry put away.

My kids will only be small once.

They will not always want to play.

Taking in these moments now, will do a mom's heart good.

Much more than a clean house ever could.

This was my attempt to be inspired to write poems again after a 10 year vacation. It was a very rude individual in my life (no longer a part of my bubble) who told me that I should spend time doing something a bit more useful with my time. Oh... Well.. It isn't great but who cares.

My boys woke me up at 6:15am. They were to excited to share their Mother's Day surprise with me. ugh...That was a little to early but.... You gotta do what you gotta do. They got mommy a movie and DOVE chocolate. How can you stay mad? heheheh

After a bit of running around dropping off the rest of the gifts. We came home where my little gentlemen waited on me hand and foot and let me knit and read all afternoon. What a WONDERFUL change for this mom. I think we need to start a bi-monthly mommy's day club and be treated like queens (or at least get a day off). hehehe.

To all mother's......I hope you had a truly enjoyable day with your families. What an awesome job we all have. I honestly can say this is the hardest job I have ever had. But it is times like today when I realize the REWARDS of it.

I will post photo soon. Maybe I will have a couple more FO's too.

2007-05-09T14:21:00.000-07:00

Thinking Blogger Award! silver version
I was nominated for a thinking blogger award by http://lavendersheep.blogspot.com (make sure to check out her blog ). According to The Rules, I now need to nominate five more bloggers for the thinking blogger award:
1. http://lavendersheep.blogspot.com She nominated me first so I have to mention her (hehe). Besides I absolutely heart her yarn. The colors make me happy. She has also become a great friend.
2. Knot Another Hat she make me want to knit. Not just a little bit but mounds and mounds of knitting. I considered myself a non-peer presure sort of gal. Until I met Sarah, and now I am just a big FAT copy cat. Plus, she sees the yarn purchases I make and NEVER EVER judges me.. (hehe) As well as becoming a very good friend in the short time I have known her.
3. http://www.inthemidstofit.blogspot.com/, This blog was a real blessing to me when I first started to lurk in blog land. She has a very inspiring way of writing about her life as a mom. We also share our beliefs. I always end up thinking about life a bit differently when I finish reading her blog.
4. http://a-friend-to-knit-with.blogspot.com/, I love her creative projects. I have only started lurking on her blog recently but the things she has posted just make me smile. The aprons and baking she does makes me want to wear aprons and bake all day.
5. http://callapidderdays.blogspot.com/ is totally inspires me to read, read, read. Did I mention it makes me want to read. My first love has always been books. I wish for all my boys that they would love to read. She has so many lists and little challenges. It is a well written blog too.
The participation rules are simple:1. If you get tagged, write a post with links to 5 blogs that make you think,2. Link back to this post so that people can easily find the exact origin of the meme,3. Optional: Proudly display the 'Thinking Blogger Award' with a link to the post that you wrote (here is an alternative silver version if gold doesn't fit your blog).

Mother's Day Marathon Gifts Continue

2007-05-08T21:56:00.000-07:00

Hello All,
Just a quick update on the Mother's Day Knit-a-Thon. Gift #3 was gifted tonight. Another happy recipient. I am always so excited to see the reaction on someones face when they receive their hand knit item. It is a pleasant change to the few non-reaction to handmade gifts (given in the past). I just get such a joy in giving a gift that is accepted with the same spirit it was given.

I have one big thing to whip up and two more little items which I hope to knit up by Thursday. Then it will be time to finish up the last two partially knitted projects. Finally, duh- duh-duh. Did you hear the JAWS theme there?

You may remember the ONE looming project I have on the sticks. Yes! The Hubby sweater. I feel that with the amount of LOUD COMMENTING my hubby has been making about this one little project. I may need to pick it up again and only work on it until it's completion.
Not even our local softballs games are safe from his "COMMENTS". Thanks Cindy for the comment and the giggles I got from my husband and myself as I read that out loud. The conversation went something like this. Me: Oh my gosh Rick did you really say something to Cindy about the sweater. Come on seriously you are crazy... RICK: What? No.. Well maybe it came up....ME: (raised eyebrows) HOW? RICK: I don't know she was just asking about the knitting and I may have mentioned it... ME: Well that is the last game you umpire without me checking to see who the coaches are..hehehhehe..
He has been following me around as I pass my Mother's Day treasures off to their new owners. As they open the little treasure.......
"Oh, Honey is that another pair of socks? I see another knitted item. IS THAT MY SWEATER?"

I love my dear husband don't get me wrong. But really this is becoming a little bit embarrassing in the spirit of Mother's Day, I am going to have to leave him home until I get all the goodies out the door. Do you think if I work on his beloved sweater "while he is watching" that would tide him over?

Well nothing new to report on the troops. I have arrived home from the coast a few projects lighter and will leave the rest of the details alone. heheheh

Hope everyone is well and enjoying the burst of spring/summer weather we are experiencing.

The Land of Blog

2007-05-03T08:37:00.000-07:00

These are the first Mother's Day installment. They have already been gifted to my good buddy Ronni. She loved them and they fit perfectly. I love this pattern. These little beauties knitted up in no time at all.
Above are the big/lil sister socks I did for my friend Cheryl's girls. Syndey and Margo are just too cute anyway. So this was a few hours of knitted bliss.
These little Dale of Norway trousers have been eating up most of my spare time..hehhee. I have been hard at work on this project for my good buddy Sarah's baby shower. Which was this past Sunday. They were half of a gift I will post pictures of the other knitted cutie soon or check out her blog for the shower details. knot another hat.

The entralac'n fun is almost done. This I do believe will be my second Mother's Day gift marathon project. I "HEART" the the Noro Silk Garden yarn. Love the colors. I am still toying with the idea of giving it away. I just don't know.
The elongated cable socks for me are 1/2 way done. I am 2/3 into the leg of sock #2. I will get a better picture of the detail when I finish it's partner..

Well I really have been up to something. Or should I say SOMETHINGS... I don't know if I have photos of all of the projects I have been working on but I will post them soon. Still in the works is afghan square #3 as well as a couple secret Mother's Day gifts.

As I mentioned before Yvonne and I did up a little "Baby " shower fun for Sarah and I do believe a good time was had by all. There were so many adorable little girl things going around. It almost made me want to try for a little girl. But knowing how the Whitaker genes run... We may have twin boys. hehehe..

I am off to a Ladies Retreat this weekend and hope to kick off my shoes and knit up a storm in my free time. The Mother's Day knit-a-thon continues. I am thinking of including a note with the gifts that say no need to get my a gift this Mother's Day just put your CASH donation in this enclosed envelope. Proceeds will be generously donated to the SPINNING WHEEL FUND.. hehheeh. That may be a bit much huh?

Well off to educated the troops and send them out to enjoy the nice bit of sunshine we are having this morning. I LOVE THE SUN....

Hope all are doing well and have not been experiencing any with drawl symptoms from my lack of posting..

The Nashua Projects for Knot Another Hat

2007-04-17T12:52:00.000-07:00

I heart this little pink sweater. I sort of bullied Sarah into letting me knit something for the shop. She was kind enough to indulge my need to knit something tiny cute and pink. With boys, there is just no accepting PINK in the wardrobe.
Plus, it just made me plain "HAPPY" while I was knitting it up. I am glad to have a couple more reasons to do more girl items. My sister in laws is expecting her first baby,in June. This is the ONLY granddaughter on my husbands side to be born so far.
Boys run strong in the Whitaker blood. There are 6 boys total ranging from 10-3yrs old. For that matter on my side we have only grandsons too my 4,my brother has 2 and my sister has 1, yes all boys.

Also, making it's appearance is the Rainbow Cardigan out of the Cotton Twist from KNOT ANOTHER HAT. I love how bright the colors are. It made me want to eat Skittles while I was working on it.

I hope Sarah likes the finished product. I feel a bit nervous for the FINAL INSPECTION. It was so fast and fun to knit up. I do have to say the Cotton Twist is a bit hard to work with but I was much more comfortable with it by the end of the project.

As for the troops all is well. Seems to be strangely quiet around here this afternoon.

I do have an "I CAN'T BELIEVE HE DID THAT" entry.

My number 3 little man Cole (who just turned 5 on Sunday) sees himself as a big boy now. Not that age has ever determined how BIG my boys have felt. They all mimic each other anyway. This is quickly becoming a trait I do not enjoy. So on with the story.
He decided he was hungry (again that hour). I tell him to wait a few minutes and I would start lunch. While I was putting away the laundry, I hear the boys yelling at Cole for starting a fire. My heart was in my throat. I rush in to find the cup of noodles (with no water in it) melting in the Styrofoam container in the microwave. Cole looks at me and asks "Am I in trouble?" The boys are all to excited to answer for me on this one "YEAH YOU ARE!" I sent him to his room to think about why it would be bad if he does this again. He came back with a really short answer. "I'm sorry I burned the microwave. It is bad if I do it again. I will get a spanking." Oh boy what am I going to do with them. I think it is time for my firefighter volunteer hubby to give them the FIRE TALK..

Slacker by any other name would be Destiny!

2007-04-11T11:02:00.000-07:00

So I will start with a picture of the completed lavendersheep socks for me... I am so excited that they are finished and they are all MINE!! This is the first project I have made for me that has actually managed to stay mine. They are oh so comfortable. I HEART them..Here is the picture of the Mobius bag too. Not the best photo of the bag, but....Brisa is so cute..
The second bit of info is that I finished and gifted a pair of "WORSHIP SOCKS"-(I totally knit-lifted the idea from Mokihana's Garden blog. But in my zealous efforts to project bust, I didn't get a photo of them..) I am so "SPECIAL" sometimes..
I will post a photo, as soon as I track her down and beg for a picture of just her feet in the socks.. Seems funny to plan a photo shoot with you knitted projects...
I also whipped up a cute little Nashua Cardigan for my buddy Sarah at Knot Another Hat. Again, did not get a picture. Why have a beautiful camera if I am not going to use it for good?
As for the stash busting... Well I am sort of in a stall for now. But I will overcome!!!
**I Can't Believe He Did That Moment: I have to say the bathroom has been many things to me over my mothering career. A place of quiet refuge- you can read in there and nobody wonders why it is taking mommy so long to come out. A place to REGROUP before I impart a nugget of wisdom to my misbehaving troops. It has also been a HIDEOUT for the mommy only snacks that I buy just for me... I know some of you reading, may be thinking I am a selfish individual. Trust me this is not a regular routine but sometimes you just don't want to share AGAIN!!!
Any way all that to say it has now become a perfect place for my little CHERUB Alex (3yrs) to have "SCHOOL". Yes, that is what he said when I asked what he was doing in the bathroom. In a house full of boys that is not something I necessarily enjoy hearing.. hehehe.. So I ask him " Why did you smear the toothpaste on the mirror?"
"Because mom" Alex replies with raised eyebrows and one hand on his hip.
"It has dirty teeth." (Head now bobs back and forth to the same rhythm of his hand.)
"Mirrors don't have teeth." I clue him in. To which he climbs up and looks at himself as he smiles. "Yes huh, See." He took his tooth brush and brushed the mirror in all the places he was smiling... I was not happy at all about the clean up.. But what am I suppose to do with that one. How did my three year old get so smart. I am going to start calling him a little SMART ALEX... Grrrrrrrrrr.. Well that is all I will torture you with for now. I send happy spring like thoughts to you all.

Who Ya Gonna Call?

2007-03-25T18:32:00.000-07:00

PROJECT BUSTERS... Hehhe. My pretty socks for me, done in my yummy 'lavendarsheep dark chocolate truffle' are DONE!! I will post pictures soon.

Felt That Mobi

2007-03-21T09:20:00.000-07:00

Today is the day I am going to finally felt the MOBIUS BAG!! Another project busted.
I do have to wait on the hot water (morning showers-need I say more). I will post more pictures later. I am almost to the heal flap on the second Lavendar Sheep sock for me! I love it. If you haven't already you should check out her yarn at lavendarsheep.com she rocks.

Dishes, Laundry & Finished Objects Oh My!

2007-03-20T08:53:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of the latest FINISHED OBJECTS! I finally got the computer to play nice with my camera. Now that they are getting along I hope to be able to post more photos in a timely fashion.. hehehehe.
We were hit hard last week by the great tummy bug of 2007. Let's just say, I don't look forward to ever being that sick again. I was down for 3 days, moving like a slug the next couple days. Now, I am upright and tackling the massive amounts of laundry that piled up while I was sick. Funny how no one else can manage to do chores when mom is sick.
It is getting done. The biggest complaint I have about chores is that it takes away form the other things I would rather be doing.. hehehe. Scrap booking, knitting,
sewing. You know what I mean.
I am scoring big points with the troops today. Since breakfast was cereal and pop-sickles. Don't judge me for my progressive parenting stand.. hahahah.. Sometimes you just gotta do what-cha gotta do.
I have a couple projects to finish up and then my project buster will be complete.. YEAH!! I heart finished objects.

TGIF!!

2007-03-02T09:42:00.000-08:00

This week has been full of strange interruptions. You know, the kind that make you wonder if there is a NORMAL. Let's just say I am glad that it is Friday. The weekend holds more chores than I care to acknowledge at this moment, but I get to sleep in.
I have been in a little bit of a blogger block. Nothing really new to report. My little men have been unusually loud but rather compliant this last week, so no current "I CAN"T BELIEVE HE DID THAT MOMENTS"..
The latest drama included time out (for an undisclosed amount of time) of all the toys they own. This was a shock to them, that I would take all the toys out of the house and suggest that they have to earn them back... Shocking, I know. This was necessary for my mental health. They were getting lazy about cleaning them up and I was tired of doing it for them. Sooooooooooooo we are sticking to our plan. So far they have met and exceeded our expectations...
I am still having problems getting my pictures to transfer to my PC. Anybody have a suggestion on what else I could be doing wrong?
My goal lately has been to not say anything to anyone if it will be negative or nagging (mostly to my hubby) I am finding that I do not say MUCH.. GULP!!!! He hasn't noticed either. Is this a good or bad thing.. YIKES!! We will see how long this can go on. I have been challenged that more gets done when I am nice about it. Seems that I can request that certain things be done BEFORE I get to the end of my rope. Who knew? This provides more knitting and crafting time too. Maybe this isn't a bad thing after all. hehhehe..
Hope everyone is doing well...................

Hip to be Square!

2007-02-21T22:56:00.000-08:00

I would love to post pictures soon! My PC is not wanting to accept my photos with a good attitude. So I am going to back up all my pictures tomorrow and will tackle this issue head on. I can't take it anymore. Further complicating the situation is, I was gifted a BEAUTIFUL new digital camera for Valentines and have only been able to shoot pictures, not share them. What a terrible waste, I KNOW!!!

I have finished my first afghan square. I don't know if I heart the finished results. Seeing how my good buddy Sarah TOOK HER SQUARE APART!!! YIKES!! I am afraid to share it online. This will be a great opportunity for me to FIX the PC while I debate weather I can handle the human mistakes I made along the way.

As for the rest of my projects I have one completed sock for ME!! I am almost finished with one sock for an upcoming bday. This is making my hubby suspicious that the HUBBY SWEATER may not be getting the proper attention it needs. Sorry Sweetie.I really am going to work on it..

I am so excited to knit up some baby things for a friend due any day.
*****BELIEVE IT folks! I have scrapbooked 4 pages too. What has come over me you ask? Well, I think it is my lack of progress made on the laundry and dusting around here. Seems like there should be something to show for what I do all day..

Well the thought of sleep is really looking good right now. I don't know how my kids can all love the EARLY MORNING HOURS. I just can't learn to appreciate that.. So that being said. I will close for now. Thanks to the faithful blog readers. I am still alive and staying busy.

She's Alive!

2007-02-12T16:10:00.000-08:00

To those who view this little blog on occasion I am sorry to be so behind in blog-land.
I have no real excuse (homeschooling, chores, appointments and of course KNITTING,rearranging my entire scrapbook area too.) Like I said no good reason to be out of the loop.
Part of my problem was I got behind on my blog-lurking,low and behold my regular reads have been blogging fools. So I had to catch up,then I was inspired to do all the projects they have been working on. That was followed by a short period of depression (after realizing I have to do one thing at a time). Then the sun came out for a few days I had to enjoy that for a little while.
On to the update. The kids have had a bad round of colds, followed by the grumpy laziness that accompanies feeling crumby for that many days in a row. Not to mention the fact that our very new washer quit, leaving me to go to laundry mat with 6 baskets of laundry. That being said, I am so glad to finally be done with all that and on to better things.
I have, believe it or not, finished some projects and faithfully started others. My goal is to knit from my stash for a while. That is, if I can stay out of Knot Another Hat. hehehe.
I will post picture of the new craft area soon. I am awaiting my new valentine gift (new camera) thanks to my very generous cousin..
Also finished, with promised photos from those who got these wonderful knitted projects. A cute little pair of toddler socks for my friend's little girl. Two pairs of knitted cable mittens, finished for a super duper YVONNE instructed class at KAH.
Almost done with my first sock (FOR ME) made out of the yummy Lavender Sheep yarn.
Details to follow. I am at the second repeat in my afghan square and feel like I may actually finish it before class on Saturday.. Oh the things that make me happy.
My scrapbook obsession has taken a little vacation but now will be full force again with the new SPACE. Can't wait to get going on that again.
Well, I should get back to my non-profit job and earn my keep.Hehehe.. Oh boy. I have learned this past week that just when you think you are immune to the embarrassing things your kids could say to someone. THEY surprise me with another do oozy. Details later.

Another One Bites the Dust

2007-01-23T22:12:00.000-08:00

Well I have just finished my mitten class. Which was not as hard as I thought it would be. The ladies were a hoot and Yvonne the instructor was so great. I am glad she has the tolerance for the roudy bunch of us. I have to say I have a little bit of mitten fever now. I am currently trying to get my stuff sorted out to make the trip to Celebrate Portland (scrapbooking marathon.

This is another photoless blog because my camera is malfunctioning. SURPRISE, SURPRISE... Let's keep the theme going. I am glad that we are currently recovering from all the sick bugs this is a help with the sanity...

My stocking is almost done as well. I am still a little bummed that it has taken so long to get to this point but the light at the end of the tunnel gives me hope.

The boys are still trucking along with all their school work. Some days are more productive thatn others but I will take what I can get...

I am off to finish the dishes and cast on the toddler socks. I am having sock withdrawl and can't wait to get the quickie sock done..

For all who lurk about.. Happy WEDNESDAY. My youngest turned years old today! Amazing how time flies when they are making a crazy mess and tormenting each other.

Blog Land Is Acting Up

2007-01-19T08:13:00.000-08:00

Hello All-
I have been experiencing technical difficulties with everything in my bubble recently. This dishwasher is almost working again. The broken glass top stove is finally repaired. Our dryer is now drying clothes (it's new). The washer is making a hideous sound on the wash cycle and we feel as if we may visit the Wizard in Oz when it hits the spin cycle. That, will need to just cooperate until the money tree grows in the back yard (maybe in the spring).. hehe..

I was dealing with the added sassy talk of my 2 year old yesterday. He has been having a marvelous last 6 months with potty training. Yesterday (keeping with the theme of malfunctioning items) he picked several times during the day to pee in various locations in our home. Being the kind, patient mother that I am.. (heheh) I banished him to the highest tower to be guarded by a fire breathing dragon. (mommy) Until he could change his baditude (bad attitude).
At which he barks. I don't like it. I hate my bed. I'm hungry. You are so mean..
This doesn't not penetrate the resolve of this kind mommy. Who was joyfully singing as she mopped up pee spot after pee spot. I was mulling over the types of punishment that would fit the crime, not able to muster anything more creative than rubbing his nose in it like a puppy. Or making him clean it up I opted for the time out to continue. It took about 45 minutes for him to come out and say MOMMY I AM HAPPY NOW. DO YOU FORGIVE ME? Big accomplishment. I am always amazed at how they answer my questions about bad behaviour. I ask hey bud why are you peeing on the floor. To which he gleefully responds. Cause I want too. What do you say to that.
Anyway that concludes this weeks-- I can't believe he did that moment..
I am off to bake and plan a very last minute bday celebration for two of my boys. Being five years age difference between the youngest and the second born I am glad that they don't mind sharing party time for now..
I will update the knitting with photos later today. Off to save the world by feeding the troops.. heheheh

Monday's Should Have a Different Name

2007-01-15T19:50:00.001-08:00

Well I just wanted to update with a quick I am still alive. I have been on a mission to complete my post Christmas projects. I have 4 things that I need to finish before I can start anything new. Hahahah.. My hubby thinks he can limit this. I am trying to be a submissive wife. This is very challenging for me at times in other areas. SOoooooooo knitting is sorta one of those things he has not BOTHERED me with.. Well I think his motivation for telling me to finish is so he can wear the sweater I started in October for him..

What Have I Done This Year?

2007-01-01T10:46:00.000-08:00

Look! Pictures on a actual posting day.....Here are the projects I did this week. They still need to be blocked but I am so excited to be done with them..
I was reflecting on my year. I don't do this very often, it can be down right depressing. Knowing nothing really changes EVER at our house. Some may find comfort in the steadiness of this kind of thing. I just kind of get claustrophobic. My changes come in rearranging furniture and moving books that have been read and replacing them with books that NEED to be read. Don't get me wrong I LOVE that...

So, Did I make any discoveries? Did I contribute anything of value to the world? Did I do anything exciting or fun? Did I accomplish anything? Did I make a difference?

Well the answer to these things did not immediately enlighten me. I was reading some journal entries from this past year ( yes I do have a journal, Not a DEAR DIARY, more like a place to write down information I can blackmail my kids with later..)

I did make a discovery- cooking oil and maple syrup in the hands of a 4 year old and his 2 year old brother are weapons of mass destruction. My advice- do not make this CHORE a lesson. Clean it up yourself it is not worth the art work they create on the appliances while they are "cleaning".... You will have to clean it up anyway.

Did I contribute anything of value- A friend shared that their son (who has down syndrome) shared he was thankful for my oldest son Austyn. They shared how sweet my boys are to Josh. They fight with him like any other sibling or friend in their lives. My son Makoa rushes out to open the door for any LADY we know just to be a GENTLEMAN. My four year old Cole says the sweetest things to people. Like "I love you big." "You are my most strong friend"- When I tuck him in at night he says "Mom you are the best and dad is the best." This is a rare treat but he means it from the bottom of his heart.. Alex has an amazing ability to make people laugh...
So I look at this as raising young men who may make a difference...

Did I do anything fun or exciting-- I LEARNED TO KNIT.. AND MADE SOME NEW FRIENDS.. The meeting new people thing for me is a huge challenge. I love to stay at home and be in my comfort zone.. I have discovered I like MOMMY TIME away from the kids, chores and my house..

Did I accomplish anything- Well in the knitting arena. I made 6 felted bags, 4 baby hats, 3 adult hats, 2 pairs of felted baby booties, 4 pairs of adult socks, 3 pairs of kids socks, 1 toddler tank top, 1 baby vest, 1 baby tee, 1 pair of baby booties, 2 dishcloths, 1 headband, 2 pairs of felted slippers. That is all I can remember right now. This is a pretty great accomplishment for me considering I started knitting about April of 2006.

The jury is still out on weather or not I made a difference. But this year my resolution is simply to LAUGH more and not take life so seriously. Just ENJOY what is my LIFE-- MORE....
Happy New Year to all of you who have made me find my laugh again. A very special Happy New Year to those of you who ENABLE me to purchase things I HEART without looking at me like I have completely lost my mind.. Heheheh. You know who you are.

Tagged! Aggh!!

2007-01-01T09:52:00.002-08:00

Hmmm. This is the first tag I have ever received. Do I know 6 things about me? Let alone 6 interesting or unusual things? hehee. Very funny Vonnie, Very funny.
Well here goes....

1. I was born on July 3rd, 1976. This isn't really that unusual. But how many new mom's get a fantastic view of the fireworks show 5 hours after giving birth to their first child?

2. I have a sort of sick obsession with ANYTHING organizational. I secretly look at the Storage/Organize it all type magazines, while shopping in the store. If I bought them and brought them home, my hubby would never let me hear the end of it. It just makes me happy.

3. My first born was born in 1996, and my second born is six years old. Again not very interesting.. hehehe. Four boys and a husband make our little family SIZE 6.

4. I always wanted 10 kids with 6 boys (until I had four boys in a row)..

5. Until this year. I have really only ever had 6 close friends. Not including family members. This is weird for me.

6. I would love to write children's books and poetry and get paid for it when I GROW UP! But for now I will just be content 1. Homeschool my 4 boys 2. Read as much as I can 3. Continue to find new ways to get out of doing the laundry (felting is a great excuse) 4.Knit 5. Scrapbook 6. Blog

Good Tidings We Bring to You and Your Friends

2006-12-26T13:34:00.000-08:00

Twas the day after Christmas and all through the house.
Scattered paper and boxes, the dirty socks of my spouse.
The stockings were flung by the new underwear.
In hopes that our mother would not give a care.
The children, were tired and begged to be fed.
While visions of a housekeeper danced in my head.
I vaguely recall papa snoring away.
I scurried about storing food from the day.
The boys were all busy hording their loot.
Legos, pirate ships and things that you shoot.
My hubby was nestled all snug in his bed.
I opted to check out my stash instead.
My stocking was filled with girl stuff you see.
Stuff that was put there especially for me.
A rare gift indeed, I did not have to share.
The Reeses Peanut Butter Trees were unwrapped with care.
I reread the certificate for scrapbooking fun.
The joy, that was bubbling, had just begun.
One, thin little gift sat under the tree.
It was from hubby, what could it be?
I tore open the paper and threw off the sash.
I clapped and I giggled, I thought it was cash.
But to my surprise! It was the best gift of all.
Knitting for me winter,spring, summer and fall.
We had a blessed holiday season. Thanks to family and friends.
Best wishes to you as your New year begins......

At the time of this post the camera was buried somewhere in the piles of wrapping paper and boxes.. Or possibly in the cushions of the couch. Not surprising to the faithful few who lurk about. I will have to post picture later... hehehehe..

The Gifts Go On!

2006-12-23T22:20:00.000-08:00

Well here are the last of the LAST MINUTE gifts. Just drying up the felted slippers. I hope that they are a huge hit.
I just wanted to wish the faithful few readers of my blog. A very MERRY CHRISTMAS. I hope that you new year is filled with many joyful times. I know I am looking forward to a fresh start after the HOLIDAY.
If I was the resolution type I think I would have to resolve to just be still and go to sleep. More sleep is what I truly want for Christmas.....

The Stockings Were Hung...

2006-12-18T22:41:00.000-08:00

Here are the last of this years stockings. All sewn up. I don't like a few things on them but oh well. They are checked off the list. If they are not whole-heartedly received as they were lovingly made, then people are just not deserving of this kind of effort next year.

The Christmas tree is finally up! With decorations too. I can't believe it actually got done. This year has just not been a decking OUR halls kind of year. Sad but true.
Thanks to the crew at KNOT ANOTHER HAT for all you laughter vacations away from the " What the HE-- was I thinking project mania".

Well I will be finishing a couple more things for the next family and then I am only down to a couple must finish items the rest will be wrapped up on the needles and become January's AFTER CHRISTMAS projects. That is fine with me.. Then I will not be so overloaded and we can actually comsume a REAL MEAL. Without paper on it and veggies.. hmmmm.

Just wanted to update you all that tomorrow is the dreaded annual posing for a Christmas Photo insert in the gift cards.. ehehheehhehe.. This is always a tearfully ended event. Were I am unconsoleable and swearing I will never do it again. EVER!!!!! But some how I am sucked back in each year by the tree, my kids in the morning (after they are fed) are sooooo cute and the christmas music just mix and I have to get them around the tree for a photo.. More on that later. I must run off to sleep for a few hours and get up and do it all again tomorrow..
Merry Christmas to you faithful few.

Fa la la la la!

2006-12-11T08:12:00.000-08:00

Pictures are FINALLY working again! My camera is still taking photos really slowly. I can't see through the screen very well either. Oh well... The stocking are completed.
I finished the sewing projects for my mom and sister's family in Hawaii. I am even going to mail them TODAY. This will be the first year in like 5 years, we've gotten stuff to them BEFORE Christmas.
The boys are about to pop with excitement about decorating. We have been the traveling Christmas decorators. Helping a few of the folks in our chruch. It has been fun but we are a little unmotivated to decorate our own home.
I am crusing along on my other holiday projects but still feel a little pressure to get them finished with the deadline approaching. I am at a loss for a few people and others just don't appreciate homemade gifts enough to INSPIRE me to whip something up for them.
Well I need to get off the computer and get on with our school day. The troops are eating and I am going to savor the quiet for a few minutes.
Hope all of you faithful few have a happy holiday week and a MERRY CHIRSTMAS..

Mean Mom RETURNS!!

2006-11-28T09:09:00.000-08:00

Hello to the faithful few. I am a terrible mother today.. Or so my kids have informed me of that. They have been chomping at the bit to rush out into the snow. I on the other hand have not staged the dry off zone. Is it toooooooo much to ask for a little paitence in this? I mean seriously, a few more minutes will not crush the spirit of snow playing children across america. I said be thankful you live in an area where there is snow. Some kids have never seen snow. They started laughing at me and telling me I need to go get some sleep. WHATEVER!! Just passing on tidbits of knowledge. hehehehe
So on to knitting news-- My hubby sweater I was knitting away on is now a whole size smaller than it should be. Need to figure out what I am going to do about that... Grrrr... Then I finally finished the two socks at once project they are blocking now I will post about 30 photos when I finally get them all taken.. hehehahah..
I have started another baby cutie tanky shirt. Also almost done with the first sock for one of my boys for christmas.. So I am staying busy.
I will also be going crazy with my christmas sewing projects. Then on to the baking and goodie baskets.
Well that is all for now. We have all recooperated from the Thanksgiving food-fest.. Ughhhh!! Hope all of you enjoyed your Thanksgiving.
One thing I am thankful for this year are the new poeple I have met and the laughs we have shared this year. I am looking forward to getting to know you all better this year.
The "I CAN"T BELIEVE HE DID THAT MOMENT" are few and far between this month. Is that good or bad? What will I write about if my kids start to become NORMAL?
My advice to those of you who go to church. Don't let your kids spin in the back row and jam out to the WORSHIP TEAM practice, with out a helmet. My lovely little 2 year old was jammin his heart out and whacked smack dab into the pew arm. (wooden pew arm) with his eye. He looked like a Rocky movie. Poor GUY...

She Lives

2006-11-20T07:45:00.000-08:00

I can't really tell you what has been going on for the last two weeks. That is a long time for me not to blog.
Life has definitely taken on a rhythm of its own this past month. With plans for Thanksgiving being finalized that has taken lots of time.
The boys are all about the same. Busy, busy, busy. Makoa has decided he LOVES swim lessons. This is great considering the last swim lesson teacher probably still has scars from the claw marks the left in her neck, while clinging on for dear life.
I will be finishing up the first of the Christmas gifts soon. I finished a cute little baby vest for a lady who wanted it for a shower gift. I hope the recipient appreciates it.
Well I really should run my errands and clean some toilets today. So that we don't get turned into the county for a suspicious odor....

A New Day

2006-11-07T07:58:00.000-08:00

Mom Log: Calendar Date- November 7th, 2006.
Today started with strange life forms, visiting from another planet.
The boys woke up unusually pleasant for my morning people. This is a good thing. I am praying that it stays so nice.
To those who had concern for my troops. They ended the afternoon in the well behaved and cooperative manner, I know they are capable of.
Good News may be just around the corner. The dryer may be okay. We have an electrician friend who came by last night to peek at it and he thinks the dryer may only need a new cord.
This is a plus... Cause I soooooo don't want to have to spend the money on a new dryer. I have soooo many worthy things I could invest in.. CHUCKLE, CHUCKLE.. I have some friends on the inside who know what I'm talking about..
In other news-- My friend Miss. Vonnie from lavendersheep is whipping me up some DESTINY sock yarns. I can't wait to see the finished product.
You have to check out my side bar and check out her blog. She has a cool ETSY store there and you can see all her cool creations.
Her yarn is so fun. I wanna be a spinner/dyer like her when I grow up..
She is just a nice person too. So of course I HEART NICE PEOPLE!! Thanks Vonnie....
I will post some pictures when I get it..
Until then off to feed the ailens maybe food is the key to their happiness.

"Is she crying or laughing?"

2006-11-06T14:32:00.000-08:00

This is what I heard as I was in tears in my bathroom after returning from 3 hours at the laundry mat with all four boys at 7 in the morning..
"Is mom in the bathroom?". "Yeah, why?" ,"Is she crying or laughing?".
I was crusing along finishing up my projects yesterday and was on a mission to track down a FUNNY SMELL. It was sort of a burning rubber or nasty meat grease. I was not sure. All day I smelled it. SOOO last night I switch the laundry and was loading the dishwasher when I hear a huge POP! Not to alarming, if the power hadn't went out.
So I am scrambling down the hallway to switch the breaker, and the smell is really bad now.
The dryer is fried. GGGGGGGGGGGGGRR. I don't know if it is worth the repair man coming to look at it for $50-100. That is just to come out and let me know if it is fixable. hmmmm.
Well, I had two wet loads and the washer would not spin out the water. Soooo, I think what ever happend with the electricity last night has now killed both my washer and my dryer.. This is not what a mom with 4 boys wants to realize with 5 over flowing baskets waiting for her. Fast forward from 1am (going to bed) to 5:30ish (waking up for the day). I need to get the laundry done.
Well, off we went to the little laundry mat at 7ish this morning. My kids were acting like DEAF-MONKEYS. What is up with that? I could not get one of them to CALM DOWN. So I came home and cried in the bathroom at the love and obedience they showed their mother in public and have gotten absolutely nothing else done.
Just thought I would give you all a quick up date- Also to say don't worry if I am a little slow in posting. I may be on vacation to my white-jacket spa. I will let you all know when I return. hehehe..
Chow for now.

Hello All

2006-11-02T07:22:00.000-08:00

Well to the faithful few. I am finally updating my blog. I have had family in from Hawaii and we have had a full couple weeks of running and site seeing. Followed by pumpkin carving and coloring.
Swim lessons have started for the troops so that has pretty much taken over my life for the past week or so. We should be in a bit of a slow down mode now that the Hawaii crew is safely home in much warmer weather.
How will I recover from the lack of sleep and now the RAINY weather? Hmmm...
KNITTING and SCRAPBOOKING of course. hehehe..
The photo below is proof that we had some wild fun with the cousins... The litte red tank was partnered up with a white turtle neck. Because of the COLD weather we were having. Not exactly the right conditions for a tank top. I am going to request a better shot now that they are back home in the sun..
STAY TUNED..
Believe it or not. We have had a lull in the I CAN'T BELIEVE HE DID THAT MOMENTS too..
I HEART that bunches... I am still working on the Hubby sweater and finishing up the two socks at once. I will post photos soon of all the finished projects.

Don't they boys look so angelic.. heheheh.. hmmm.

I did it !!

2006-10-23T08:30:00.000-07:00

I finished the cute red tank top for my little niece. She looked so cute in it. I am awaiting a copy of the fashion shoot. hehhe. I will post them when I get em..
This weekend while driving to the coast for another RETREAT I completed the first pair of socks for Socktoberfest. YEAH!!! They are also a bday gift for my cousin. How great is that two tasks completed. I am still trying to catch up on the sweater for the sweater class. I heart progress.

Almost ready to finish up the two socks at once. This has not been a project that I want to be friends with. I am trying to love it I just don't know about that.

Well I will posting again soon with pictures..

Are we There Yet?

2006-10-16T18:49:00.000-07:00

Well to the faithful 3 or 5 readers here is my post update!
I was able to finally firm my babysitter for the Friday departure to the coast scrapbook getaway. In spite of my GLASS BEING HALF EMPTY attitude leading up to this. I was on my way Friday after noon for a weekend. Yeah, you heard it a WEEKEND of scrapping and relaxing.
Motivated by my deep desire to sleep in past 6:30 am, not having to share my dinner and a chance to finish my dreaded childhood album. This, spurred on by the phone ringing, several times, reminding me that I was indeed just a few moments from the boy noise around me.. hehehe

We went to Pacific City and the weather was pleasant, cool, misty, cloudy coast weather. I love the coast when it is stormy. Crazy, I know.. I had no guilt for not walking on the beach everyday and just enjoying the chatter of other ladies. Not only did I complete my album project, finish my first book of the fall into reading and finish (minus the side seaming) the cute red tank. I enjoyed just hanging out.

Gasp!!! I found I enjoy other things besides laundry, cleaning and dishes..

I made a new friend. Can you believe it. I have someone else to annoy with my I CAN'T BELIEVE HE DID THAT moments.

Well I will close with a few highlights from the weekend:
We were given a forced tour of the Tillamook Cheese Factory.. Inside jokes flew with this event.. Anyway after a rather disgusting video of how the cheese is strung into spaghetti like strands. We were fascinated by the cutting and wrapping of the cheese. Ending our tour with the tasting of the squeaky cheese. Cheese curds are something else. I don't think I will love them like some people I know..

We arrived at the beach house in time to enjoy a full evening of scrapping and reading. Of course a little bit of KNITTING.

After a nice relaxing weekend and reuniting one of the scrappers with her family we were blessed with a 5 1/2 hour trip home.. I am not sure if this is a completely accurate time frame but we hit every traffic issue between Lincoln City and Troutdale. I will leave out all the other details to painful to recall, like the potty stop at a local McDonalds. This was the only downer of our trip. If it were not for the leg cramps and bladder problems. It may have been more enjoyable.

That said I am actually looking forward to the possibility of NEXT YEAR!!!

2006-10-10T12:47:00.000-07:00

Here are some of the pictures. Not exactly the best photos ever. I hope you can see the details of the first finished sock of the Socktoberfest..

Here is the lovely hat I made for my cousin, she will be here from Hawaii in a week.

Another shot of the Di.Ve' yarn hat.

Here is a better photo of the unblocked sock for Socktoberfest and cousin gift..

Today's I CAN'T BELIEVE HE DID THAT moment brought to you by ALEX (again)
As he was running after his older brother, in a rage to get his toy back. He ran smack dab into the living room bookshelf. The whole time he was screaming. "I want my toy! He stole it from me" " Give it to me!". Remember he is screaming and carring on about the toy. He now has a lovely bruise in a line down the side of his eye. He got the toy back and that was alllllllll that mattered. Oh my!

What's That Under the Bed!

2006-10-09T15:57:00.000-07:00

I promise the following is true, names have not been changed to protect the person involved. I need a little giggle.
I do not make these stories up. They REALLY happen. To often during my day, my boys will bless me with yet another, I CAN'T BELIEVE HE DID THAT moment. Here is today's event.

We have a sleep walker. He comes into our room and climbs into bed with us. I have never permitted my kids to do this unless they are sick. But our YOUNGEST is persistent in everything he does. Why should this be any different? Anyway back to the story.....

It was the usual 2:30 - 3:00 A.M. attempt to climb in and snuggle up, on mom's side of the bed (of course). I usually shoosh him back to his own bed. Except this morning I felt the 3 blanky pile beside me and wonder where he went. I am not a morning person (I may have mentioned that before) SOOOOOOO I was a litte in between awake and delirious. When I hear a muffled cry. I thought, OH NO I am squishing my 2 year old. I started to wake up (ABRUPTLY). Looking all over for him, in our king size bed it didn't take to long, it seemed like a long 10-15 seconds, realizing he was not in our bed! The sound WAS still in our room.. Hmmm.

After assessing our rather small bedroom, I see two little feet sticking out from under our bed. YES! Under the bed. He must have crawled around looking for a spot to bunker down and didn't realize he was UNDER the bed not IN it..
I am telling you reality. This is a day in the life of a householdofboys. heheheh

On to other news:
I have gotten about 3/4 through the cute toddler tank top
2 Socks at a time is into the finished gusset
Socktoberfest sock one is a toe shaping away from completing the 1st sock
and I am down to the last decrease rows of the hat I am making for my cousin (bday)
I will post pictures soon. The batteries have finally made it to the charger.

Happy Monday!!!

Progress, Love Progress

2006-10-03T13:25:00.000-07:00

I have been trucking along, only to come to a scccccccreaching halt on the two socks at once thing. I noticed, about 5 rows down, a runner.. Grrr. I dropped another stitch. My bad word vocabulary is not available for use because my kids are listening. But BAD WORD, BAD WORD.. Picking up stitches is not something I am very good at, so I have finished up a little baby hat for my nephew, and am working on a pair of socks, for the sock of the month. Still need to read up on the requirements of that.

I can say,being almost ready to do the heel flap on the first sock in just a few hours of work. Makes me feel like one sock at a time is just fine with me..

I am still sewing up a few gifts and am almost finished with my add on book to the Fall into Reading challenge..

Like I said. I lllllllllllloooove progress. And I am still doing laundry through it all. Nice...Very NICE.

Bring it on Friday

2006-09-29T11:32:00.000-07:00

Can I just say.. "SO long, Farewell Friday's finally here."

Not that I have anything exciting planned for the weekend. I just have had one of those weeks that never end. Yeah for FRIDAYS.

I am making progress on my 2 socks at one time project. Although a little embarrassed that I am struggling so much with the home stretch of the socks. This will not get the better of me. It is just YARN and NEEDLES. I am the one with the brain, right? Why does it feel like they (the needles) are conspiring against me. hmmmm.

Anyway the cute little tank top is coming along too. I'm afraid I may need a little help with clarifying the directions but am staying with it.

Those who are following the FALL INTO READING BIT.. I had to add more fiction to the mix. I am a FICTION junkie. Try as I do to love non-fiction and other genres, I fall off the wagon and scoop up a mindless fiction book. I can't help it. It makes me happy. Ahhhhh! Confessing is so freeing. heheh. So KAREN KINGSBURY- FOUND has been added to the list. Can we do that add books to the list?

Well off to do something productive so I can justify all the laziness this weekend has to offer.

Do Over

2006-09-26T09:03:00.000-07:00

Okay, does anyone else have those days, when you just want to go back to bed and YELL "DO OVER!". This has been one of those weeks. It's only Tuesday. GULP!
If this is a sign of what is to come. I don't want to wake up for the rest of the week.
My problem is I just don't find the age appropriate things, my dear children do these days at all amusing. Is that bad?
The WWF wrestling matches in the living room. Followed by the Championship boxing matches. Topped off with the ultimate fighting competitions. Just not funny at all..
So all that to say.. AHHH!! Thank you for listening to me vent. Details I am sure will creep in as the blogs roll on.
Off to educate the troops..

Another Project!! All Done :)

2006-09-22T19:02:00.000-07:00

This is my little butterfly cutie purse. It still needs a bit of tweaking to make the handles more secure, but it makes me smile :)

Just want you to have plenty of viewing points to enjoy. I am toying with the idea of selling these. hmmm.

I believe I have become addicted to blogging too. Oh no. The support groups will recruiting me in no time.

I READ too!!

2006-09-22T12:48:00.000-07:00

I can't figure out how to transfer the cool little Icon everyone else has but here goes.
FALL INTO READING.
Katrina at http://callapidderday.blogspot.com. I Heart books. I love them. Rows and Rows of books make me bubbly inside. I joined this little accountability circle of sorts. I am going to finish up the books in process and read the must reads. Grrr. This is my second attempt at this so I hope this posts.

Finishing:
Making Children Mind without Losing Yours, Dr.Kevin Leman
Captivating, John & Stasi Eldredge
Leota's Garden, Francine Rivers
Boundries with Kids, Dr.Henry Cloud-Dr.John Townsend
Changes that Heal, Dr.Henry Cloud
Love & Respect, Emmerson Eggerichs
Knitting Rules, Stephanie Pearl-McPhee aka (Yarn Harlot)

With the Troops
Nate Saint, Janet & Geoff Benge
Little House Series Laura Engalls Wilder (This is in an attempt to get a much needed break from LOTR) Not really working but I will persevere.

Lots of little books too for the mini-men too. Just not listing them here.

Do I have a problem?

2006-09-20T13:02:00.001-07:00

I would take a picture but fear my kids may be taken away.
I love lists. Yes! I do. Just the thought of the check mark next to a finished task, gives me a little thrill.
Today was one of those purging days, out with the old, broken and forgotten items. It is really just a way for me to store more yarn, fabric and scrapbooking items.
My mentor friends would frown if I asked my dear hubby to move his dresser and man stuff to storage;0)
Anyway, I was looking for my TO DO list. When I came across my CHORE list and then the kids CHORE list. Which was by the REWARDS lists. Yes you read it right it is PLURAL. Gulp.. This is starting to feel like I am writing my own committment letter to the RECOVERING LIST MAKERS CENTER.
As I was saying, I was searching for my list. Like looking around the house would not be incentive enough for me to get started. The list, I NEED the LIST!!. While searching for this and finding all these other lists. You know the long term goals, short term projects, christmas gifts/cards, the need to order scrapbook supply list.
Do you see where I am going with this? For the few who lurk about a comment or two on how to can this list making obsession would be wonderful.

My urge is to go to STAPLES and pick out some cute little spiral bound notebook to consolidate them all in one location. They could keep each other company. Not to mention I may have a thing for pretty paper, pens, and notebooks. OOOOOOOO!! A new binder with pretty color coded page protectors for all my knitting patterns.
Off to make another list. THINGS TO PICK UP AT THE STATIONERY STORE.

Life in the Jungle

2006-09-20T08:22:00.000-07:00

My jungle, even scares the wild animals!!

In the knitting areana- For those two or three readers who care.. hehe
Two pairs of these babies have been knitted up and gifted to the cutest 2 and 3 year olds.

These felted high tops for my cousins little man, made me smile. Aww!! How cute are tiny baby feet.

The kid version of my first pair knitted socks. Are now complete. Yeah I just love finishing things. This is what I did after the tank top demolition. I grieved well and fast. I am about half way through the bottom of the tank again. Soooo.. I hope to finish that soon.

Well, after returning from camp. I have had no energy to clean my house or my children.. Heheh. As you can tell by the pictures the new hair do at our house is BED HEAD. On days like today I am so greatful to have boys. They don't care what they wear (except one). If they don't have to brush their hair, I am the greatest mom in the world.

I am a little guilted out that I let them eat icecream sandwhiches with their cereal this morning. Sometimes you just gotta do whatcha gotta do. No whining at our table for that meal.

Today Austyn (oldest son) is off to expand his mind with the homeschool group. Probably a good thing since my brain seems to be on vacation. I completely spaced out on how to check a division problem. grr. I hate it when I have a pre-senior moment. We have figured it out, now moving on to bigger more complicated items..
I am so glad he is not stuck to the knowledge in my brain alone. He will be forced to use his own mind.

As for the rest of the troops today is a field trip day. We are tackling the school work quickly this morning. I love pre-school and first grade! Not sure if the laundry mat is exactly field trip material.. But after that I will take them to the library. We have to wash the boys smell out of the sleeping bags.

Off to knit the 2 socks at a time so I won't be to behind for class tonight....

Camping 2006

2006-09-18T14:18:00.000-07:00

Well I have decided the annual family camp trip, is getting easier as the kids get bigger. It is fun that Alex is big enough to run around with the big kids.

The things I am still aquiring a good attitude about are as follows. (Not necessarily in order) ')0

1. The packing before and unpacking after.
2. Sand and rocks in the pockets of all the clothes they wore while camping.
3. The runny noses and coughs they come home with.
4. The whinning that accompanies the colds they returned with
5. My compromised (cheery disposition) because bunks at family camp are never 4 star. (By the way does anyone know what 4 star is like.) heheh
6. Last but not least the smell that follows us home (not the fresh pine tree smell)
until all the laundry is caught up again.

The good things were... The boys had a blast, slept very little and actually slept in until 7:45am today. That is a whole hour longer than normal.
My very social husband got to spend a whole weekend visiting with people who actually know what he is taking about. When he mention what tackle he used to fish with as well as the hunting lingo that goes with all that stuff too.

I was able to knit a bit. With out interruption. I even got to go to the GIRLS BATHROOM by myself on more than one occasion.
Yeah another year until we do it all again.....

I figured it out

2006-09-14T08:49:00.000-07:00

Yeah! I just wanted to let the two or three people who may read this blog, that I FINALLY remembered my log in information.. I have know idea what my brain was doing. I hope you will rest easy knowing that I have not completely lost it.

Just a little update on my adorable little bundles of testosterone (sp?). Alex the tank top bandit is still with us. I did not exile him to a far off island. Just his bedroom. I think it is clear to him that we don't HELP mommy knit. He now has his own ball and needles. WHEW!

I have discovered a trick, for all the mom's out there who are sick of watching the same Disney movie over and over and over and over. Have the kids watch it in another language. My boys think watching Madagascar in spanish,is so funny. Mommy tip for the day.

So I have started knitting the tank top again. I knitted a couple of little projects, to get out of the funk when the last attempt was destroyed. So I am boldly digging into it again.

Also I started two socks at a time! Sounds ambitious, I know but I think it is kind of like shopping with my boys. You just jump in and try it. If you think about it to long you chicken out. hehe..

Well I will post more ramblings of a workd deprived mom later. Off to educate the troops. Todays lesson: BE KIND TO YOUR BROTHERS! Biting is not and extra curricular activity. Our school year is off to a bumpy start. I just can't seem to get motivated to do all the house work and school. Maybe I will just quit cleaning this year and just do school!? This week has been a tad smoother. We look forward to what comes next.

A Fairy Tale

2006-08-10T08:52:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time in land far, far away there lived a beautiful queen.
She was surrounded by her loyal subjects. They were an affectionate bunch. Full of kindness. Their zest for the fullness of all life has to offer, clearly seen in their eyes. (Then I was suddenly jarred back to reality with this next statements).

"I'm telling mom!" "No I had it before you did!"...... When shouted at the top of boy lungs,not a very pleasant way to be summoned from a dreamy slumber.

I am seeing that the Lord has such a sense of humor,putting five very CHEERFUL, loud,active morning people in the same house, with a very strong NIGHT OWL momma.
How is this possible? You would think odds would be in my favor to have at least one of my four boys NOT be a morning person. Can you believe they all love breakfast too? Not just a bowl of nutrious 'Fruit Loops' or 'Captin Cruch'. No a full breakfast complete with the pancakes, sausage and eggs. This seems like a cruel joke to those of us who consider breakfast time leaning closer to 10:00 in the morning.

My guys do keep me on my toes.......... They make me laugh occassionally when I am not fearful they will break a bone or kill each other.. hehehehe. This ,I am finding is life with BOYS.. I think I will appreciate it so much more when they move on to the next phase. Right now my judgement is a little clouded with the SMELL of boys, mixed with the mess they generate by just walking through a room. My prayer has been, that I will be paitient in this season of their lives, and learn to CHEERFULLY wake up earlier than they do one weekend. Quietly sneak into the kitchen for the pots and a spoon and run into their bedrooms, banging and wildly singing some crazy song.

Then they will all chat about how wierd mom is and go back to bed. That would be my luck to give them a jolt of reality. Then they would sleep in..hhehehe..
Oh well. I will post some pictures of my little GEMS as soon as I get it figured out.
For now I am off to knit,craft,teach you know inspire my little troops to greatness.. Hahahhaha.. That is so funny.

I love my son.. I love my son.. AH!!!!

2006-08-01T07:48:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to take a moment to share a moment of insanity.
I was working on my first Toddler tank top. It was so cute. Basic. But cute.
I thought it would be safe, tucked away in it's basket waiting for me. Apparently I took to long shaving my legs in my selfish attempt to shower.
I emerge from my shower eager to feed the troops and start on finishing the front side of the OH SO CUTE TANK. When I saw the red ball (or should I say balls of yarn)
spread out in the KNITTING CORNER. If I hadn't been so sad, mad, irritated,& crushed. I might have taken a picture of my 2 1/2 yr old cherub. GRRR!!!
He had taken out the needles and unraveled the entire project. So after 2 hours of re-rolling all my yarn and untangling it. I am almost ready to start again. I am still grieving the loss of my little project.

My children were probably wondering why mom kept mummbling. "WHY!! WHY!! WHY!!" Okay maybe it was more of a LOUD moaning sound, you might hear when something is dying. It was kind of one of those out of body experiences. Like you are watching something in slow motion, wondering if it is really happening.

That is all for now. I will post some pictures when I figure out how to do it.
TTFN--

Figuring out the blog thing

2006-07-28T11:02:00.000-07:00

Well here goes. The first of my online therapy. LOL. This is the start of my find your voice voyage.

With four boys in our home. We have one volume LOUD. They are such gems. But I can only take it for so long. Then the voices start to take over and before you know it. Mom has locked herself in the bathroom for some quiet time..

So I hope that you find a bit of humor in the ramblings of the mom.