Richards of Sweet Home

Dancing with Chicks....Or something like that!

2012-02-09T21:24:00.000-08:00

We left off after our trip to LA....and the 1st weekend home was exciting, with Ryan attending his first formal dance. Formal in Sweet Home includes a tie, and no pajama's or jeans...at least blue ones! Ryan asked a good friend Judah to go with him, and he looked so nice before he left. He would not let me take any pictures, except the few I caught here at home.

Here he is getting ready...

Here he is with Judah....she's very pretty, and from what Ryan says, a very nice girl too. I guess I can't imagine him hanging out with anyone not worthy of his time. He's a good kid and is growing up way too fast!!

Bill received his diploma...yahoo Bill! We are proud of you. Now it's on the "Rock Solid" Adventures, and whatever else God has in store for him.

Bill has been busy cleaning, repairing, refurbishing, and prepping things for sale...along with dentist appointments for kids, running our trailer around, and helping out with things around home. It's been a busy time for both him & myself.

For those of you following the trailer saga....
We talked with the trailer repair place, and they suggested that a local frame shop fix it after our insurance was denied. Bill called, explained our situation (slide on ice sideways with trailer, and bent the frame..breaking things up pretty well, but that INSURANCE denied us due to rust on the frame??). Being that we questioned their decision, they told us that if we got someone to look at the frame and state the damage was not caused by the rust, but by the icy accident...that they would look at the trailer. This is how good God is. The frame guy said he would even go out to the trailer lot to look at our trailer. Not only did he inspect it, and deem that it was indeed force from sliding sideways, but he also said that he could repair it. Woohoo!! Claim reopened and approved!! Bill picked up the trailer today, and he said they did a great job! He took it back to the trailer repair place and they will install a new fridge, fix the piping that broke, and reseal the roof. When Bill talked with the guy at the trailer place...he said "You got the insurance to cover this?" (they knew we were denied), and Bill said "Yes"...The guy said "Man, you have had someone watching over you!" We feel very blessed, thankful and excited to see "What's next God?"!!

Kristin has been busy for a home schooler!! She has taken on a job with the neighbor lady who owns the 50 acres next to us. Carol, runs this farm herself, which include a chestnut orchard, 5 horses, 4 dogs, 2 goats and cattle on the way (next winter's beef for us--at least half of one of those cattle!). She called Kristin to come learn how to take care of all of her animals, as well as taking care of the things that need done on her farm, so that she can go away for a night or two. She has been unable to do this because of her farm responsibilities. Kristin will also help her do some minor chores (fence mending--poop shoveling--etc.) and the few hours Kristin has spent with her have been wonderful...she is learning so much, and loving her time with the animals. It is a job made in heaven for her, and she is loving every minute of it.

Yesterday, we also added a few new members to our family. 7 new chicks. Kristin made a big case on how it was easier to take care of chickens that you had hand raised rather than chickens that were pen raised. She told us how the first two chickens we had would follow us, come to us, and allow us to pick them up. The two newer ones do not allow this, and run the other way. So, we are back to allowing Kristin to do the chick phase, and they are cute. We did get them from the find young man that we got the last two from. He had 150 chicks when I went yesterday, and he raises bunches of them a year to sell when they are about 2 1/2 months old..and ready to go into the coop with other birds. He was kind enough to let us order whatever birds we wanted (he recommended some for us) and we ended up with 2 silver laced wyandottes, 2 dark Brahmas, 2 buff orpingtons and one New Hampshire Red. We chose profuse layers, and ones with good winter laying habits. Our three Rhode Island Reds have produced an egg a day all winter long. Last spring, we had 3 eggs every day, and only had two chicks....we're still baffled, but there would be two in the morning, and then one in the evening....profuse layer? I would say so!! We have four more Austrolops coming in a month...and David (our chicken guy) said that they will be our favorites...as they are not only pretty (black with green and purple sheen to them), but have a great temperament, and love to be with people! We are sure to have enough eggs for Kristin to sell late summer or early fall!

Leaving you with a few fun pictures....Kristin took these...

Rock Solid's First Long Haul

2012-01-19T21:17:00.000-08:00

Most of you know that Bill is starting his own business from home. He is buying government, school, and overstock items from auctions, and either repairing, refurbishing, or simply reselling equipment that is in demand. Right now he is focusing on commercial kitchen equipment, but he will expand once he gets a feel for things.

Between Christmas & New Years, Bill, Ryan & a friend went to Seattle, found a pizzeria that was going out of business and bought out a good portion of their equipment. A walk in refrigerator, several prep tables, a refrigerated pizza prep table, tables, shelving, pan racks, the list goes on. That purchase filled a 20 ft trailer....and currently is filling our garage and part of the barn!! The plan is to clean it all up, and get it out of here!!

Last week, Bill bid on some commercial ovens in Los Angeles. He won 3 out of 8...and the plan was to head to LA to pick them up last week...however, he didn't have the funds at the beginning of the week when his friend could go with him, and the latter part of the week, I couldn't get away. With the holiday on Monday (MLK), I told him I could take two vacation days (TUE & WED) and go with him. We got things ready, and on Monday morning at 5am we took off. We left Sweet Home with minor flurries, and when we hit outside of town, wow...there was SNOW & SLUSH!! We traveled about 40mph down Hwy 228, and got on to I-5, which was a sheet of ice. The farther South we got, the worse it was. We stopped in Cottage Grove for coffee...and it was a beautiful scene with the sun just coming up, the lights on the snow, and the blue skies behind.

An hour from home, and I was already kicking myself for not bringing my camera. Good thing i have one on my phone that does an OK job. Better than nothing! When we got to Roseburg, it was clear!! We had a few slushy spots through Canyon Creek Pass...but the Siskiyou pass that we expected to be icy, was beautiful....

We stopped at a roadside rest just over the CA border, and the sunshine felt SO wonderful. It was cold, but wonderful. Felt like those sunny winter days in MI, where it was sunny, but zero!! We knew it was cold when we stopped for fuel, and the windshield washer bucket was frozen!!

We drove all day, and arrived in LA around 11. We tried priceline bidding for the first time, and ended up at the Hilton for 70.00. Pretty nice! What we didn't know was they charge for parking...23.00 a spot..and of course our trailer took a second spot. However, for the price we would have paid for a room without priceline (Hilton was 230.00 per night, Red Lion Inn 149.00, and the Holiday Inn 159.00 per night), I felt we did pretty good, and we were parked right on front of the hotel...so we didn't need to worry.

We woke early, and were at the docks to pick up our treasures at 7am, and headed back out of LA by 8----the opposite direction of most of the traffic!
We missed the I-5 exit and ended up going through Hollywood...kind of a treat for me, since I'd never seen it. Don't know that I ever need to again, but it was cool to see the big Hollywood sign on the hill, (which I couldn't get a picture of!) and see Capitol Records, and Hollywood & Sunset Blvds.

The rest of the day was uneventful, sharing in the driving, enjoying the sunshine, even though it didn't get warm. It was neat to see all the fields of oranges, getting watered, and the water was freezing on the ground.....again, wish I'd had my camera...as my phone could not get the picture! We had put some ads on Craigslist, stating we would be in certain cities/towns on the way back. We also did some surfing, and found a guy that was going out of business...so we stopped and looked at his stuff...as he would not give us prices on the phone. It was awesome stuff, but he also wanted an awesome price for everything. We finished up there, and stopped in Redding for the night. It was past 6, and we were worried about ice in the passes...so got a room, and settled in for the night.

The next morning, we got up, and hit the road by 7....with only 5 1/2 hours to go, we figured we'd be home by 1-2 with stops, get unpacked, have a nap and/or relax. We hadn't traveled more than 5 miles when we saw the sign that I-5 was closed due to a bad accident...and it was indefinite when it would reopen. We pulled off, and talked with some truckers, who gave us an alternate route, but it required chains, and I was very uneasy about it. Further investigation showed the road did no recommend people with trailers....enough for me to say "Nope"!! We looked into the coastal range, but one of the legs was closed altogether, and another branch stated that the wind advisory at this time prohibited people towing, and chains were required as well. It got to the point where we looked at each other and said "We're not supposed to go home today"! We went back to Red Lion, checked into our room, and headed off to pick up a tarp to cover the ovens. The trip home was going to be messy, and the rains had started. Town was buzzing with the idea that it might snow. Thankfully, it never did...but we enjoyed a relaxing day bumming around Redding, and enjoying a nice dinner together.

We woke at 7:30 this morning, and checked the roads. All the passes were either rainy or just a bit slushy...so we got packed up and hit the road by 8:30. Needless to say....10 miles out of Redding we saw signs that stated they were doing chain checks....no worries, until we stopped, and they stated that we had to chain prior to the regular staging area....not good news for us!! In all the years we've lived here, we've never had to chain. Thankfully, the side of the road becomes a happy place, as it's almost like Christmas, when people are happy to help other people. We learned quickly how to chain, and chain the trailer as well. WE thought we wouldn't have to...but the 3rd chain check made us pull over and chain the trailer. Not sure if it was 30 or 40 miles we traveled with chains...stopping frequently, once in snow and slush to our knees (on the side of the road) to fix a loosened chain. Waterproof boots do no good when you stop on the side of the road, and the water and slush go over the top of your boots!

Sadly, we kept hearing a noise, and we thought it was just the chain hitting the mudflaps...but unfortunately, we couldnt stop because of where we were in the pass, so let it go until we pulled over, and found a chain had broken and we had beat up the wheel well and side of our truck...as well as the mudflaps on both sides. However, we got down off that pass safely, and other than being miserable, wet, and inexperienced, we did OK! 30 more miles after chain removal, and we are on the side of the road again to chain up to go over the siskiyous. A truck driver showed us how to use the broken chain, and the one on the trailer was too bad to use, so we only chained up the side that they inspect..and they flagged us through...phew!! We got to the summit, and heard a horrible noise...the mud flap that had gotten damaged, got flipped up and made a horrible noise as it flipped up on the tire, and rubbed against the chains. I knew when Bill asked for the tinsnips and a hammer we were in big trouble!! He cut the mudflap off....we finished down the other side of the mountain, pulled the chains off,and were thankful that was the last time for the day. We pulled into Medford 6 hours and 20 minutes after leaving Redding. The sad part is, other than stopping to chain, unchain, and chain again, check the chains, fix the chains, and take the chains off again, we didn't stop anywhere else!! Six hours for a 2 hour trip??!! We were mentally drained as we finally stopped for breakfast that we skipped trying to get on the road!!

The rest of the trip home was uneventful...and the road that had been closed due to flooding on this end had one lane open with flaggers, so we saved a 30-45 minute detour around...

I know that we were mighty happy to pull in the driveway 11 hours after we left this morning!! Imagine our surprise to come in and find a baby in our livingroom. It cries, eats, and is changed by our 16 year old...who when we left, had no children to our knowledge!! Thankfully, it is just a class project for his Child Development class. We've gotten a good laugh out of him tonight..especially when he went to bed early, because he knows it will be up hungry, and crying later!!

Thankful for all the prayers said for us, you have no idea how much that means to us. Also very thankful for God keeping us safe!! AMEN!

Christmas in Sweet Home

2011-12-25T18:43:00.000-08:00

Christmas is always a busy time at our house. When I didn't work outside the home it was busy...so for working full time, it's been 19 hour days and short nights! It's all for a great cause, as Christmas is pretty important to our kids. Ryan is at the age where he doesn't like to admit it, but he loves it deep down. I had more 'Lets get this done' comments this year...yet he was right in the thick of it!! Kristin has the same love for decorating that I do...and she did much of it herself this year. We did lots together, but she got the boxes out, and sorted through them....and we both agreed, it's like Christmas decorating, as we reminisce and marvel over the favorite decorations. We decorated over several nights and weekends. Kristin even decorated herself with the tree skirt and the poor dog!

Teh following weekend we picked up our tree. We always seem to get a great tree at the Teen Challenge lot...and it's a great cause. Ryan's best friend Hunter spent the weekend, and helped us put up the tree. Nothing like two tall teenage boys to do a great job on the top of the tree! It was a fun weekend and we enjoyed the decorating.

The following week Kristin & I made some of our Christmas gifts and got them in the mail. We got our cards and letters finished and in the mail as well. It was a great family event as we stuffed, folded, addressed and stamped as a family. What a help that was. Why didn't I suggest this many years ago??!! On Friday, I took a half a day of vacation, and we headed over to pick up Charlie. The day was beautiful and we made it over the pass and back with no events.

Christmas Eve we were blessed with a beautiful day, starting with an awesome sunrise.

It was a relaxed day, preparing some of the food for the following day. With Bill & Kristin unable to eat any sugar or sugar substitutes, and Bill unable to have any wheat, it's a challenge. I challenge you to find 2 cans or boxes of anything in your cupboard that does not have sugar, fructose, corn syrup, dextrose, maltodextrin, or any of those other sugar substitutes. Even Kidney beans and sour cream have sugar in them! At any rate, we made a pumpkin dessert with whipped cream and spices. Kristin is allowed Stevia and Bill is allowed in very small amounts. We made a rice flour crust, and they both loved it. We also made our own mayonnaise for seven layer salad. It's not quite the same, but Bill & Kristin were thrilled to have some regular food with us for dinner. All of this went into the fridge for tomorrow's dinner. We headed off to church after a very late lunch. It was a light crowd, and a wonderful service. We had dinner after we got home, eating late, and finishing well after 9:30. We did some finishing touches to Christmas dinner, and got the turkey on the smoker around 11.

Headed to bed around 11:30 and relaxed until after 12, knowing I needed to get to bed, since I had a daughter that was very excited, and I knew would be up early. We told her 7...however, her brother, who mind you is not excited about Christmas at all, came to me and said "Mom, she doesn't have too many more years to be this excited...you should let her get up whenever she wakes up"....hmmmm....wonder who really is excited??!! Needless to say, it was her brother who woke her at 6:45, and she came running into our room. We told her to wake Charlie...and off she ran, with a warning from her brother saying "Last time I tried to wake him, he chucked a pillow at me"...a chance she was willing to take, and off she went! When we came down, we found Charlie in the fetal position on the couch, not complaining, but not speaking either. Some coffee administered in IV fashion got him moving. (Just kidding of course). We made a quick check to the turkey that had smoked all night, and got to the gifts! As they all opened stockings, and got ready for gifts...we
looked out, and God blessed us with another beautiful sunrise.

Although it was a small Christmas for us, it seemed the lack of gifts and the "spendy" items didn't matter. We enjoyed each other, the thrill of thought that went into the gifts, and instead of unwrapping with no thought, it was a relaxed, wonderful morning. Kristin made me a beautiful apron, as well as a beautiful few sets of earrings, and two beautiful bracelets. Bill got a great transformer from the kids, Charlie got a new bible, Ryan two new hats and guitar strings, Kristin an awesome pink sweatshirt with a blingy keychain, and everyone felt blessed.
The kids got a multi game board from my folks....and both kids were so stoked when they found a crokinole board on the back--a game they learned in Canada and still love to this day.

We had a great breakfast of biscuits and gravy, and then a nap was in order! Dinner wasn't far behind the nap, and the fare was awesome! Of course we had turkey,smoked to perfection No traditional ham because we have been unable to find any ham without sugar cure. We had seven layer salad and Cream Cheese/Sour cream (all natural of course)Garlic potatoes topped off our dinner. First smoked turkey ever, and it was wonderful!!

This evening has been a lazy one. Some WII with Charlie made the kids thrilled. They have enjoyed having him home.
No one has gotten dressed today....hair has not been brushed..another slippers & coffee kind of day. Thank you Lord, for the gift of your son. For your blessings and for our wonderful family that has blessed us with a wonderful Christmas. You know who you are, and how much you helped. Love you all. Enjoy all the pictures below.

Charlie's Graduation Weekend

2011-11-28T21:08:00.000-08:00

Friday, we had a lazy day then did a bunch of running around Bend, checking out the pawn shop, the Christian Book Store, and of course Fred Meyer for a few groceries that we forgot. We got a late start, since we wanted to miss the early morning black Friday shoppers. We had a great day together, and headed back to hang out after supper. Ryan insisted on a fire, so we had a fire, sitting out in the balmy 35 degree weather. Our fire was short lived, and we were very thankful for the furnace!

Saturday, we woke to beautiful sunshine, and 50 degree weather!! We headed out to do some sight seeing. Our goal was Tumalo Falls, as well as Cline Falls. We got to a closed gate and found we had to hike in 2 1/2 miles through the snow (uphill both ways!) to get to the falls. The road is not plowed past the gate in the winter months. SO...being we weren't really snow hiking dressed, we decided we would save that hike for a summer day!

We headed back toward Sisters & Cline Falls. We took the long way and got some beautiful views of Sisters! Bill also wanted to check out Black Butte Ranch. It was NOTHING like we expected. It was a resort/gated community type place. We took a tour through and knew this was not our thing! We did learn though, that Cline falls was also in higher country, and the guy at the visitor center said we would be disappointed if we traveled the 15 miles there. SO..again, we opted to check it out another time. I've never been disappointed by any waterfall! We headed back to camp, enjoyed chili for dinner, a walk and a nice evening to sit out for a bit.

Sunday we woke to another beautiful day. I'd been a bit stressed worried about getting the trailer back over the pass...but it proved to be sunny and warmer than normal. Thank you Lord!! We had a great breakfast, tore down camp and headed into TC for Charlie's graduation. It was a great weekend together and we were so blessed to be able to have Charlie with us for the weekend.

We arrived at TC, visited with the guys...enjoyed a great ceremony, and were blessed to be there with Charlie. It was a long 8 months...but we are so proud of him! Kim & Terry were a big part of the piece for Charlie's success. We are so thankful that God brought all of us together at just the right time to make all of this happen for Charlie. It's an amazing story.

We headed home by 2:30...and got over the pass just fine. Not even any rain until Tombstone Pass....then the valley rain began. Home before 5, and still dark when we arrived!! Praising God for no snow, and safe travels. Thanks to all for your prayers.

Thanksgiving on the East Side of the Cascade Mountains

2011-11-25T11:52:00.000-08:00

Thursday morning….I woke well before the alarm, to see a beautiful sunrise….God’s way of saying to me “It’s OK to travel through the pass”….a peace had settled over us as we left at 8:30 in the morning to arrive in Bend by 10:30 or 11:00. We traveled about 30 miles before we hit snow. It was beautiful with the sun, still light snow on the road, but very passable towing the trailer. By the time we hit Santiam Junction, where Hwy 22, Hwy 126 and Hwy 20 meet together, it became a small skating rink. Little did I know it was ice until I saw the trailer coming out of the driver side mirror….toward us. A pretty scary sight. I said “BILL….” Like he was going to be able to do something from the passenger seat! In all my years driving in ice & snow in Michigan, it was 1.) on flat land, 2) Guard rails were anywhere you might go into a ditch, 3.) Salt kept you in the tire tracks. 4.) I never towed a trailer in the ice! SO…which way do I steer to pull this sliding truck & trailer back into the right lane??!! Thankfully, instinct and the Lord took over, and it seemed I knew what to do….what a blessing. The full bladder stayed intact, even though it was scary enough that it could have been a fearful sight!! The going was slow—30mph through the rest of the icy pass…One poor soul tried to pass us, and the trailer slipped again, and he decided it was safer behind us! We were thankful to see the east side of the pass where the sun had melted off the ice…and the rest of the drive down the east side of the mountain was uneventful. Very relieved to be on the other side of the hill…..and now praying to get back over safely on Sunday. If it’s snowy, we may take the long way home through Eugene, but that adds another two hours to our trip, but being safe is a priority. It will still be a trip over the mountain, but the grade into Eugene is much better than the steep 6% downgrade for 11 miles into Sweet Home.

We arrived at Tumalo State Park at 11, dropped the trailer, took care of our sick girl (Lexxi still getting car sick when we travel), got settled and headed over to Teen Challenge.

Charlie greeted us at the door, and there was food everywhere!! We had a great meal, cooked by Charlie, Kim, and a few other guys there.

SO good, and what a treat that we didn’t have to cook this year! We hung out for awhile, had a great dessert and then headed back to camp. Charlie is able to join us for the weekend!! Everyone crashed for a few hours, and at 8pm, we were still not ready to eat. We had tea, coffee, and just some great visiting.

We headed to bed by 10:30 and slept in until 8ish…it is a beautiful morning. We are headed into Sisters to the coffee shop to download a program, check our mail and upload the blog. We plan to head off today to check out some beautiful spots around here. Saturday will be more of the same, weather permitting, and Sunday is Charlie’s graduation. So proud of him! Probably won’t be back online until Sunday (unless I steal Bill’s phone)…so please be praying for no snow on Sunday afternoon, no ice, and a nice safe trip home.

From Zero to Sixteen in Minutes

2011-11-21T21:17:00.000-08:00

It seems like yesterday when we brought this little bundle home with us....

It seems like yesterday when he was running through the house with cowboy boots, a rifle, spurs, hat and neckerchief....

It seems like yesterday when he was a handsome ring bearer.....

It seems like yesterday, when he started high school...
Where he went from toy motorcycles and guns to holding footballs....

It seemed like yesterday when he turned 16....

Oh it was just last Wednesday (Nov 16th)....

Wow..how time flies. Those of you who know Ryan, know that he has been a miniature man since the day he was born. Grandma Eyie (AKA Baughman) has always called him the little man. This is true. At four he explained to me what the bulls in the field were doing....at eight, he explained that he had conversations with God, and knew his purpose. At 14 he told me he was going to go to school after being home schooled his whole life. At 16 he is turning into that fine young man he has always been. Those who know him, know him by his integrity, his honesty, his compassion and his humor. Yes, there is a bit of "TEENAGE" attitude...but we couldn't ask for a better son.

Happy Sixteenth Birthday Ryan, We Love You!

Catching up from October

2011-11-04T21:21:00.000-07:00

The 2nd half of October brought Charlie home for a long weekend. I was able to get off a few hours early on Thursday and Bill, Kristin & I headed to Bend. It was a beautiful fall day, and the colors (as much as they get here) in the pass were beautiful. Kristin & I were both anxious to get out and take pictures. We pulled over a few times, but Bill doesn't share our passion, and it was getting too dark to take some good shots...so we headed into Bend and picked up Charlie. He was as excited to see us as we were him. The best part....Ryan was playing his very last football game of the season in Sisters!

We took off from Bend, and arrives in Sisters (which is heading back West towards home) around 6pm, and got to there just at the beginning of the 2nd quarter. Ryan played in this game more than any of the others. It was so cool that Charlie was able to be there...and you could see that Ryan was proud to have his "big brother" there. The excitement had been building all week, and the night before Charlie came home, Ryan was bouncing off the walls. I picked him up from Youth group on Wednesday night, and I finally said "What is up with you". He said " I get to play football one more time tomorrow AND my Big Brother is coming home for the weekend". He was so stoked to have Charlie home. It was COLD over there, and by the end of the game we were all frozen! I will say this...Sweet Home is the most supportive football town there is. Sweet Home had more fans in the visitor stands than the home team did in the home stands....and we had a two hour drive there. Shame on those Sisters football parents!

After the game, we headed to get a bite to eat and then head back home. We then hung out at the high school until Ryan got back--as he had to ride the bus back. It was a late night, and I was so thankful I was off the next day! I offered to take Ryan to school the next morning, so he could sleep the extra hour, as he catches the bus just after 6, and rides for an hour.

Bill headed off to school around 10, and Charlie, Kristin & I hung out at home. Charlie caught up on his facebook & emails, while Kristin & I puttered around. After lunch we headed out and got a few things in the yard done. Charlie clipped back a bush, I hauled stuff to the burn pile and we put away some of the summer pots.It felt good to work in the yard.

We headed into town and met Bill at the new coffee shop that our church is preparing to open. Their main focus will be the high school as it right across the street. Ryan & Hunter started a bible study last year, and this will give them a place to go on their lunches. So cool.

Friday night the guys rented some "guy movies", Kristin headed to a birthday party, and I took the opportunity to work on some pictures.

Saturday took us to the coast. It was a beautiful day...and we had a great time bumming on the coast.

Before the day was out, we had some rain, but nothing major, and we were ready to head inside for great clam chowder at The Sea Hag anyway!

Sunday we headed to church, and then back over to Bend to drop Charlie off It was a great weekend, and it went all too fast.

Monday was Halloween and we had an appointment with Kristin at Bill's Dr. We had her tested and she too, is allergic to sugars...all sugars except the Stevia. No fruit, no honey, no natural sugars, no substitutes. Same as her Daddy. She however, is allowed Wheat.....which Bill is allergic to. She has been sugar free since Tuesday and is feeling much better. After our appointment, we took Bill to school and she & I had about an hour for shopping at her favorite place..Goodwill!! She had a big night planned...and had sported her famous Jennifer Lake T-shirt all day. She was dressing as a hippie for our harvest party later in the day, and had some of her "stuff" on, but other stuff packed away for the final 'hipster"!

We headed to Lebanon where the Harvest Party was. It was a busy afternoon, and while Bill & Kristin stayed, I headed in another direction to get Ryan. When we returned, Kristin was anxious to get dressed the rest of the way. She had leggings, headband, peace signs, and of course a peace sign wrap around. I am amazed at how she filled the part! She sported her Jennifer Lake t-shirt until it was time for the carnival...and she was worried about ruining it, so she changed into her original shirt of dark purple that wouldn't stain if she got something on it. Ryan of course, didn't dress up this year...this is as good as it gets!!

You can check the harvest party photos out (you'll recognize some of us in there!). Click HERE!

The rest of the week has been just as busy....I've managed 40 hours in 4 days...but it's been worthy to get caught up. Sometimes it doesn't pay to take time off. The weekend is full of plans to get some of the barn cleaned out for a future upcoming big project of Bills. Be praying for us!

Kristin's 13th Birthday & A Big Pile of Wood

2011-10-15T16:53:00.000-07:00

Kristin turned THIRTEEN yesterday. It's so hard to believe that we have a teenage girl in the house. With Ryan, it really didn't hit us...but with a girl...it surely hit home. I really don't recall my thirteenth birthday, but I do remember being a young teenager. She is so different from me. I was pretty boy focused, she is pretty centered on her friends, her books, and her walk with God. We are so proud of the young lady she is becoming. While there are still the typical things that go on in any teenagers life....we are very blessed as parents...and are very thankful that they are on a straight path.
Kristin had three longtime friends over last night. She invited Sydney, who we know from home school group, and Alexis & Tanya who have been around for a long time. These young ladies have been playing together through babies, barbies, and now it was pure "teenage girl" stuff. Music, nails, and giggling was the theme, and they had such a great time with each other. They started out with supper, and making mini pizzas. Kristin opened her gifts, and was so pleased with the gifts she got. She really felt her friends picked gifts that really suited her, and she said that is the most special gift...friends that really care. They danced, they did facials, they painted fingers and toes, and just had a great time being together. Bill & I headed to bed around 11, and we heard a few giggles after that, but they did great being quiet, and three staircases away was a good distance.

After breakfast, Bill, Ryan headed right out and got busy on the wood. Being the girls didn't get up until after 10, I stayed in and made breakfast for them, and then headed out. Ryan & Bill were cutting & splitting, so I hooked up the trailer on the tractor, and started loading wood. Being we got such a late start, I had to unload the cord that was left in the woodshed, so we could stack the new stuff behind it. I'm sure I pulled wood off the bottom back row that had to be 10 years old!!

We worked until almost 5, and then came in to get cleaned up. We are heading out to celebrate Kristin's birthday as a family. It's her pick for where to go. Not sure where yet, but we're off for a family fun adventure!!

Pictures

2011-10-09T16:24:00.000-07:00

Ryan's school pictures came back last week, along with his football pictures. Sad that there were no school pictures for Kristin this year, we decided to have a photo shoot on our own after church today. We headed out in yard, and enjoyed some time together....with Kristin's sassy sense of humor and her fun loving attitude, it was fun watching her goof around, and have fun. I did get quite a few of her personalities on "film" (THANK HEAVENS ITS NOT FILM, as we took over 300 pictures!!) Her brother even joined us....nice!

Here are a the ones we liked the best...including her dog!!

Football and Photography

2011-10-07T23:17:00.000-07:00

Thursday (Oct 6) was one of Ryan's football games, and also Kristin's first photography class through 4-H. I headed to the game, while Bill went to pick up Kristin.
I arrived at the field just as the guys were coming out of the locker room. Ryan was chosen to be one of the captains for this game. He was pretty proud. I had no idea until the end of the game, or I'd have been pretty proud right there up front with him!! Regardless....this was a great game. Ryan played all 4 quarters and the improvement he has made is awesome. I give him tons of credit. The only football he ever touched before this was a nerf, or when Evan our good friend would toss the ball around with him. Football has never been watched in our house, as Bill nor I are into sports. I remember Ryan calling "Uncle Al" when he was 4 to find out the rules to basketball that he was watching on TV!! For him to be out there playing and having fun is a great joy to me. I was there through most of the first quarter by myself, and not having anyone to visit with in the stands, and no camera, I really got to watch what was going on. It was neat to see improvement, and a sense of pride in Ryan as he walked off the field...always watching to make sure we were watching. So cool!!

Kristin & Bill arrived, and Kristin shared some of her class, but she wasn't feeling well, as well as Bill, so they headed home at halftime, and left me to play with my camera which they brought from home (I came to the field straight from work). I found that I really need to work on my night pictures as well as the speed with which I am trying to capture. Always has been my week spot in photography. Guess I'm going to learn! It was a great game for Ryan, lots of play time, lots of pictures for Mom, and yes, I held my composure, and even remained seated when he was on the BOTTOM of a huge pile of guys!! The won 66-16.

We headed home, and Kristin & Bill were watching some TV....and Kristin & I chatted about her class. She was feeling better after having eaten, and was a flurry of "we did this, we did that..." She is one of the few with a point & shoot digital, so I think that I may break down, swap out my lens and let her take my SLR camera to class. She has been all over the place the last few weeks, in preparation of class, and after class last night & today, working on some of her pictures. These next three are hers along with the flowers at the top:

It of course has spurred me to shoot with her, so we had fun tonight after work, especially when she came in the house with the biggest chicken egg I have ever seen. WOW...I felt sad for the poor chicken.

Bill of course took my camera, and did a few pictures of his own...some turned out pretty fun...but some were typical Bill. I'll let you decide!!

Last but not least---I am GUILTY by association. Bill got his AARP card, and guess what came with it...one for me!! OK, so they can't know how old I am...they can't even spell my name right.

As the weekend is here...I know we will get some things done around the house, and maybe Kristin & I can take our camera's out and play some more. Look for more pics, coming soon!

Catching up from September

2011-10-05T17:09:00.000-07:00

Mid September on Wednesday, Bill suggested we take off for the weekend. We already had plans to go to Bend to see Charlie and spend the day on Sunday, and Bill offered to get us ready to go, as he was headed back to school the following week. We figured there was no way that we would get into the State Park between Sisters & Bend, but we gave it a shot. There was one site remaining. This is a park that has half tent sites, and half RV sites, so I figured it was a tent site. Further investigation proved it was one of our favorite sites!! I booked it, and Bill & Kristin got us packed to go. Bill came to get me from work, and we headed out HWY 126--while it was beautiful and a good grade for pulling trailer, it took us 2 1/2 hours from Eugene. Usually 90 minutes for us up 11% grade of Hwy 20. Probably the same amount of fuel!!

We set up and enjoyed Friday night, and had a good 'sleep in' on Saturday. We headed into Bend, and hit the TC store, and got to see Charlie and some of the guys for a few minutes. We ran some errands and then hit Pilot Butte and had our famous tailgate lunch. Back to camp later for a fire, and dinner over the fire.

Sunday we joined up with the TC crew for church,enjoyed a great service with them, and then headed back to tear down camp, and join the guys for the afternoon at the center. It turned out to be a beautiful weekend camping, and a great visit with Charlie.

The following week brought a pig roast at church. So much fun! You can check out the story by clicking here, which will take you to our church blog. You'll notice Bill in lots of the photos, as he got into helping with the pig!

On Thursday, the 29th, Ryan had a game. We see improvement each game as he gets the hang of things! Way to go Ryan...keep working! His football pictures also came back...nice job!

On the 30th, Bill's cousin Kathy (also known as Crickett) & husband Al came for the weekend from Texas. They were celebrating their 30th anniversary, and blessed us with a visit. It was so nice, as we've not had this quality of a visit since Ryan was 7 months old when we went to visit them in Maine. We've had short visits over the years at different family functions, but never get more than "how are things"...you get the brief 10 minute story of the highlights over the last year! It was so nice to sit around, visit, laugh and enjoy some time together. On Saturday, we had a leisurely breakfast at home, then took a tour of Sweet Home, visited the local waterfalls, McDowell Creek Falls, did some hiking through there, and then hit the local winery on Marks Ridge for some wine tasting, and beautiful scenery. We followed this up with dinner, and more visiting. On Sunday, we headed to the coast, where we spent a rainy day. We did enjoy lunch at Rogue Ales Pub House. Good food, great atmosphere, and a walk down through old town on the bay afterward. Too bad it was so rainy. We drove down the coast a ways, and finally parted with Crickett and Al in Florence. We are so happy they finally made it, and we sure appreciated the time they spent with us.

The rest of this week has found me either laying around, or in front of the computer. I've been home sick with a yucky fall cold, and determined to take care of myself this time as I am so afraid of pushing through like I always do, and ending up with pneumonia again. It was not fun, and it taught me a lesson in taking care of myself. It's been a lonely week,as it always is after company leaves.

Sugar & Spice and Everything Nice. OH, and some Football too!

2011-09-07T20:52:00.001-07:00

Last Weekend was great. It was productive, but relaxing. Friday, we rented some movies, hung out with the kids...popcorn, and a late night. Saturday, we slept in, Bill & I had coffee out in the back under the tree and did our bible study. The kids slept in, and it was a beautiful morning by ourselves. We got some things done around the house, had a nap, and then decided it was time for a date night. Being low on funds...we returned bottles, did our grocery shopping, and shared a plate of nachos at our favorite Mexican Restaurant, Pueblo Viejo. A quick stop at Walmart to pick up a prescription and we headed home. Not our most romantic date, but a date on a budget no less--and time with just us.

On Sunday, we invited a few of our favorite little girls over to spend the night. They arrived around supper time, and after their parents left, we started with a movie, popcorn, sink baths (where you wash your dirty feet and hands), and settled down to sleep.

They wanted to paint nails, but I told them that was for the morning, so they told me "Well, we will need to get up and do it EARLY, but your husband can sleep in"! Hilarious! They actually made it until 8am, then the fun began. Painting fingers & toes, then breakfast of pancakes. We watched Tangled, and then came cookie baking. We had lots of fun shapes, floury girls, and lots of giggles. They did really well, considering baking can be disastrous with three little girls.

After baking, they dressed up, and came downstairs for a princess luncheon and tea party, complete with decorating their tea cakes that had just cooled. Kristin pulled out her good tea set, and we all had a great time. By 2pm, Kristin & I were beat! We packed up the girls, took them home, and Kristin & I both had a two hour nap! Can't wait to do it again sometime. It is so neat to be loved!

On Tuesday, Ryan had his first game. Ryan brought his gear home on Monday to clean it up, and change out his cleats. He humored his Mom and put on his uniform for me to get some shots. Missing the pads, but I like it this way anyway.

Jen, Brady & the kids came down to watch the game, Troy, Ryan's youth pastor as well as our neighbor Rex came. It was a good game, more exciting the 2nd half, and Sweet Home won 28-12.

Jen & Brady came home with us for supper, and then Jenni & Scott came for the night on their way back from California. We had a great visit, sat up until 1:30am....and it seemed so soon when the alarm went off at 5am!! We are fortunate to have them with us again tonight, as they are visiting friends in the area, and will take off from here for WA to Jenni's family in the morning. They were blessed today with news of another 4-6 week trip to Haiti to discuss becoming missionaries there. May God bless them with clearing the path for them to go!!

Ryan's First Game

2011-08-26T23:09:00.000-07:00

Ryan's first game was tonight. Well, it was actually a scrimmage between the whole team, and JV only had a few plays that they made, but it was neat to see what Ryan had learned, and to see the progress he has made.
For a scrimmage, this town is not short on support. The home stands were 75% full, and there is a feeling of pride there that I can't explain. It's just "small town"--one of the great things about living here.

While it was no big deal to the people there, and Ryan didn't do anything more than stand in line 4 times, and rush the other side, it was a proud moment for him to say "Hey, I'm here"...and for a Mom to have "Oh don't get hurt--but get in there and engage" feelings!! He's a big kid...but I saw way bigger kids out there. I pray he learns well, plays hard and if nothing else, gives his all. Check out the slide show. He is # 70.

Weekend in LaPine

2011-08-21T21:28:00.000-07:00

What a great week---followed by a wonderful weekend!!

I couldn't even begin to share with you the swelling of our hearts (and of course the spilling of tears from me by being so overwhelmed) and the fullness we've have felt in being so taken care of this week. Some call it luck---but you know we don't believe in coincidence, but only that everything that happens, happens for a reason, all according to God's plan....and boy did he bless us this past week, so much that we were feeling so undeserving.

It started last Saturday. We drove the 'big truck', which usually sits unless we are hauling or towing, neither of which we were doing. Regardless, on the way home, the truck died. Further investigation showed it was the Cam Sensor...and get this...there was a recall...it was FREE!!! Bill got the truck to the dealer in Albany, and the truck only died twice on the way there. Now, is running perfect. That was blessing #1 on Wednesday.

As most of you know, we also had a tire that a steel belt had broken. We were fretting over this, as one tire is 250.00....and our tires are at about 50%....so, do we replace 1, and have it worn by the time we replace the other three...do we replace four, and really soak the rest of our savings? At any rate, it had to be fixed before the weekend...so, Bill took the truck to Les Schwab, just after having the cam sensor repaired, and the guy tells Bill he can replace one, and they will pro-rate the tire, since it was still under warranty, or he could make Bill a deal, and put on a trade he had received earlier in the week, same style of tire. Bill asked how much...FREE again!! Blessing #2 on Wednesday.

The trailer had a problem with the slide not closing. Bill pulled the motor...totally frozen and rusted. Bill calls for a new motor...628.00....plus the new relay 125.00. We both felt crushed, since there was no way this was going to happen financially before the weekend coming up, which we had camping reservations for. Bill was determined, and sprayed the rust with WD40, and after lots of work, and his smart technique...got the motor working, and the brake released. The slide works beautifully, and the relay turned out to be just fine. Another blessing!!

There were a few other things that happened...but those were the big ones. We figured we saved over 1500.00--or should I say God blessed our pants off this week??!! Just another way that he takes care of those that Love Him.

Bill & the kids got the trailer ready to go...Bill fixing lots of little things that have needed tended to, and we've not had time. They were at work to pick me up at 3:30 on Friday, and we arrived at camp shortly after 6---set up, had a fire going and dinner by 7:30...it was so nice to relax and enjoy the 4 of us around the fire.

Saturday was a big day...as Charlie got his first 24 hour pass. We were able to pick him up at 9am, and then after hugs (it had been 8 weeks since we'd seen him) and throwing his stuff in the truck, we headed to the new Teen Challenge Thrift store, and got some real bargins....another blessing...a 42 in TV for 30.00. Some of you might not know, we've had no TV for awhile now...praying Bill can fix what the donor stated was just a bulb. I have no doubt that my fix it guy can "fix it"!

After our goodbyes and stashing the TV over at the TC center...we took off for a great afternoon of visiting, and enjoying the Cascade Lakes Scenic Drive. After, we headed back to camp, enjoyed stew over the fire, and a great night of fire, stories, and just catching up. We have had so much fun camping with Charlie in the past....and this was no exception. I can say this...we are SO proud of the leaps and bounds he has made in his walk, in his recovery, and it was so nice to have our Charlie back!!

This morning...Ryan put together a nice message for us...around the fire. It was better than any prepared message could have been, as we all talked for a long time afterward, sharing thoughts and discussing the message. We then shared a great over the fire bacon, potato, onion, pepper, and egg scramble....oh how we love cooking over the fire! Such a meaningful morning, we hated for it to end....but Charlie needed to get back....and there was a graduation today at TC. So we packed up, and headed back into Bend.

We ended the afternoon with lunch with the TC crew...met some new guys that had come in, and said "see you later" to some of the guys that graduated phase 3, and will be moving closer to us in Shedd...it's hard to see these guys go, as Ryan as well as us, have gotten acquainted with them, but we're wishing them the best, and praying for them as they get settled in a new environment to continue their walk with the Lord.

This & That

2011-08-07T09:15:00.000-07:00

As we wrap up July and head into the first week of August...there have been a few fun things.

Ryan headed off to camp....he had a great time, and was so filled. He came home and said he wished he could just stay there forever, as he said he'd never met with God like he did this last week.....never heard God speak to him, like he did there. I reminded him that God does speak to us...we just don't make the time, take the time, or think we need to listen. I'm sure its a lesson we all need to heed.

(Thanks Aubree for the great pictures!)

As you know, Ryan was baptized last Sunday (July 31) and what a proud day that was. We had a great BBQ at church and headed to Canby to Jason's 7th Birthday Party. WOW...seems like yesterday that I was fighting for snuggle with him as a baby.

We had a nice visit, and headed back to Sweet Home to visit with friends Pat, Ray, Robin & Jim. We sure wish they lived close. Always a nice visit visit with them, and a great ending to a very busy day. Sadly, I did not take one picture....not like me!!

This week Kristin has been getting things ready for camp...and Ryan is trying to plow through his room and organize before school starts. We need to take inventory of what clothes are needed!! On Friday a BOX showed up from Grandma R....seems there was one treasure of Papa Richards that Kristin wanted....nothing else. A coin counter that he had on his dresser. Grandma R fixed her up well and sent all the coin wrappers that Papa had stashed away....I don't think Ft Knox has this many coin wrappers!!! She won't run out for a long time!!

These next few weeks will be busy, at least for Ryan, who starts football practice, and by the latter part of the month will be practicing twice a day, and not doing much but eating & sleeping in between!! I am sure the grocery bill will be impacted!

Until next time.....blessings!!

Ryan's Baptism

2011-07-31T23:44:00.000-07:00

There is not much more that I can say, other than we are SO proud of Ryan.

About a year ago Ryan started asking if he could be re-baptized. We discussed it with him, wanting to know what made him think his first baptism wasn't "valid" and he simply said--"Because it was your choice--not mine. I want God to know it's my choice". You can't argue with that. A chat with Pastor Tom, and he confirmed to Ryan that it was A-OK to do this again! We didn't hear much more about it until several weeks ago. It was decided by Ryan that he wanted baptized when we returned from Michigan. His Youth pastor called, and said they hoped he wouldn't mind changing from the 24th to the 31st, since Sr Pastor Tom would be gone, and he wanted to be there. Ryan was fine, and this morning, he found out that Troy was doing music, and while a little disappointed, he said it really didn't matter...but was thrilled when it was Pastor Tom that baptized him, as that is the man that first spoke to Ryan's heard about the Lord. Troy played music and sang one of Ryan's favorite songs, and the two most important influences were part of his baptism today.

It filled my heart when one of Ryan's friends came forward as well, and from the back came Sam, who did not intend to come to church this morning, as he just got home from a mission trip, but when he saw Ryan was being baptized this morning, he came over...and was a huge support. Thanks Sam...it meant a lot to Ryan, and to this Mom especially, knowing that he has such great friends in the Lord to be with!

My heart is full, I am so Thankful....

Busy July

2011-07-30T21:46:00.000-07:00

The latter part of June, and the month of July have been a blur! It has been SO busy, it's hard to remember it all. I guess I'll break it down like before!

The end of June, Kristin and Tanya spent a few days painting the windows & doors of the new coop. Bill put them up, and it's starting to look pretty cool. We are trying to get it finished before we fly out on the 30th. The nesting boxes are complete, but not painted yet...but the girls have finally figured out where to lay. Bill also put a perch inside, but the chicks don't seem to like it, but maybe it takes time.

Ryan has been busy with fund raisers for church camp, and football. He's been a busy kid, and will no more than get out of school than we leave for vacation.

After the coop is fixed enough that it can be used, we then concentrated on fencing. We thought we had some figured out, but it sold before we got there. Oh well, better things in store, right. On Saturday, we got up and I checked Craigs list. We found some fencing for a great price, and the only problem, was that it was in Washington....just over the state line. It was a beautiful Saturday, so we called, and told them we were on our way. We work Kristin, dropped Ryan at the football car wash, and headed out. What was really neat, was it was in an area that Bill used to live in when he was in the service. So..he showed us where he was stationed while in dry dock. It turned out to be a productive day in getting fencing, and a fun day too!

The fencing goes up, and we head out on vacation 2 days later.

We head to Portland on Wednesday the 29th, and fly out on Thursday the 30th, arriving in Michigan at 12:30 AM on Friday. We get a good nights rest, and spend the day with Bill's mom and sisters, and of course, we hit Michaels favorite place, LEOS for breakfast and then head to Ohio to my folks lake property for a weekend of fun with my brother & sister, and their families. It's been many years since we've all been together. We get a great treat of fireworks...and Bowerstown puts on a good show for such a tiny town!

On the second day at the lake, the boys stay and play while a few of us adults, and the two girls run to town for some needed supplies, and of course, corn on the cob!! We had a nice evening and Jason brought out the fireworks...which turned out to be a smoke show. We still had fun!

On the Fourth of July we headed to Salem to Aunt Cece's and Uncle Rudy's to celebrate my Grandparent's 70th wedding anniversary. What an inspiration they are to all of us. It was a special treat for all of us to be together, and to visit with some very special people in our lives. The day is never long enough, although we got some awesome family pictures, and we were only missing two out of our family of 30!! Jason & Jeannine head home, and we talked them into leaving Natalie, if we promised to bring her home on Friday with us! The boys were already scheduled to be at the lake with our kids for the next two weeks.

The following day we spent a great day at the lake. It was so much fun playing with the kids in the water. They would all ask Bill to come out to swim, and they run and scream as they played "King of the raft". We also had a great visit with my Aunt Dolly & Uncle Dick...the man who introduced me to Uncle Wiggly! We also got to visit with Debbie their daughter (my cousin!). Lots of fun--visiting--laughing...catching up!

On Wednesday, we headed to Amish County and the cheese factory. It was a great day, and we were able to meet cousin Sarah and her kids there. Back to the cabin, and we share a last night with Tam & Eric, Nick & Erica before they head west on the vacation to Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, and all those beautiful places there, back & in between! We had a great day, and on the way home, stopped at an old mill....that really was still like it was in the day...very cool!!

The following day was sad and sulky for us, as Tam & Eric packed up and headed down the road with Nick & Erica. We tried to enjoy the relaxing day, but there was a lonely cloud as Kristin missed her only girl cousin there, and I of course missed my sister. The kids went fishing and swimming, and we spent our last evening enjoying the cool on the porch. It had been hot & sticky all week, and we certainly enjoyed the lake to cool off in.

On Friday, Bill,Natalie & I headed back to Michigan. It was very strange to have one child in the car, and a younger one at that!! She was SO quiet!! We dropped Natalie off, along with Jeannine's car that she was kind enough to let us borrow, and then headed back to Bill's Mom's to enjoy a visit from Todd and Erika, of course with Abby & Maddy. It was a great evening, again, always too short. I will forever remember dancing with the fireflies!

Saturday, Bill, Margaret & I spent the day in the basement, sorting through boxes of things that had not been unpacked yet. 90% of it were things from Bill's Dad, and 75% of that was tools. We made a big dent, and then we got cleaned up to head to Cracker Barrel...one of my favorite places when we hit back to the Detroit area. This trip, no chili dogs, no White Castle...a much healthier trip being that Bill's wheat & sugar allergies kept us in pretty good check!! We enjoyed a nice visit with Patti & Randy, Brooke, Karen & Jeff, Michael & Beth afterward, and the we headed to bed at a decent hour, since my flight was the next morning at 6:30AM.

I arrived in Portland at 10:30 AM on Sunday the 10th...and headed to the airport to pick up our car, and head home. It was a LONG two hours, having to stop, since I was SO sleepy from getting up so early!! Bill stayed in MI to help his Mom clean out some of his dad's things and get things ready for a garage sale. They made a major improvement in the basement, and Bill was able to sort through Dad's tools and has a stash to bring home....which translates into a trip home next summer!

Bill flies home on Sunday, and arrives at 10:30. We head home...have a nice nap, a nice dinner, and enjoy being back together after a week apart. You would think after 23 years..we'd enjoy a week off from each other...guess that's not the case!! Friday I took the day off, and I joined Bill in going to get the kids. We had a nice day together, and spent the weekend painting the chicken coop!! It was a good day, and on Sunday, it was nice to be back with our church family.

Monday, Ryan packs up to head to camp for the rest of the week....and so the summer continues!! Football starts again this next week, and tomorrow is a special day as Ryan is being baptized. Yes, he was infant baptized, but as he said...it wasn't his choice...this time it is. We are so proud of him!!

Until next time.....

Lots of Catching Up to Do!!

2011-06-18T21:21:00.000-07:00

Baby and Birthdays--April 29th & 30th
We were blessed to have the girls for a few hours on Friday night. I got my baby fix, and to top it off, an Audrie fix too!! It was fun to have the girls. Kristin was a great help, and really wanted to take care of Allie, so she had the practice. She did a great job. Zorro was very interested in Allie, but each time he came close she wanted to pet him, and he was unsure. When Allie took her bottle, he came up on the couch, and checked her out...then let her check him out when she was done. We took the girls home and tucked them in bed, and waited for Nate & Katie to get home. A great afternoon/evening with the girls!! ON Saturday, Audrie's 4th birthday party was at Papa's Pizza. Lots of people, so glad that we had the chance to spend some time with the girls the night before.

A few days later, we headed to see a Nutritional Specialist for Bill. We have a friend at church who highly recommended us to Dr Popp. He finds food allergies by Nutritional Testing, instead of prick testing. We had been to Bill's Dr in February, and she said she has done everything medically possible for him regarding the migraines. She told him he needed to seek natural methods, and change his lifestyle. Ironically enough, after this visit, Bill has. He found out he has a wheat AND a sugar allergy. TOUGH STUFF to deal with. He cannot even have natural sugars, fruits, honey, etc, and no substitutes. The only one he is not allergic to is Stevia, which is a sugar from a particular plant. So far, I have been unsuccessful baking with it. We have made a lot of adjustments, and just one week being off wheat and sugar, Bill was noticing a reduction in the severity of his headaches. After two weeks, he actually had NO headache. A first in Many,many months...as he suffers every day from some degree of headache. It has been about 6 weeks now, and he said had he not seen results, and felt so much better, he'd have thrown in the towel by now. He's pretty limited on foods, as we are finding sugar or sugar substitutes of all kinds in all foods. Kidney beans packed in water...sugar, really?? Potato Chips...sugar, you bet...some brands. Fritos Corn Chips are his only saving grace!! He has lost almost 20 lbs, and is more himself than he has been in a few years. It is so good to see him happy, goofing around, and wanting to do things again. I know that hurting for such a long time has been very depressing, let alone all the other things we've been through this last two years! Praising God for leading us here, and for helping Bill to stay on track!

New Chicks--May 24, 2011

Actually these chicks are 2 1/2 months old, and we decided to buy them from a kid who raises them from the chick stage, to the "put with other birds and not need chick feed and heat lamps" stage. I was quite impressed with this 13 year old who runs his own business, and was very professional. I'm thinking we will be getting chicks from him again. For one, he guarantees them to be female, and if there are any problems he will take them back. Yahoo!!

We brought them in the yard to meet our older girls, they looked at each other, and our older girls took off running away. The next meeting, they pecked the smaller ones...so we've kept them separated at night, and have had them getting used to each other during the day. Tonight (saturday 6-18) the smaller ones went into the coop, and we pushed the bigger ones in. There was a lot of cackling going on, but after a few minutes, it got quiet.

Trip to Bend to see Charlie 5-29-11

We headed out early Sunday morning to meet Charlie & the guys from TC at church. It's been kind of fun visiting different churches when we visit them. Some of them have become familiar to us, and we are getting to know them. It's much easier in a smaller environment than Shed, but we also weren't this closely tied in previously. We met Charlie at church, and caught up a bit before the services, then headed a back to the center to have lunch, and visit. We were able to play some cribbage, visit, watch a great movie, I Am Number Four (one I didn't think I'd like), and visit with some of the guys. Ryan has gotten to know some of them, and enjoys his time there with them as much as he does Charlie. He still thinks it's cool that they all call him Charlie's Little Brother.

We drove through Sisters, and it was perfect...I needed to take this for my Aunt Cece, as it's always seemed foggy or cloudy when she gets to go through here. Thought of you today Cec!!

We had a great visit with Charlie, and the time always flies. So good to see him happy again, and loving the Lord.

Birthday Weekend for Bill (although I reaped benefit too!) June 10-13

What a wonderful weekend away!! Bill & I got away for his 50th Birthday. He asked in January that I not plan a party as we have for every "Decade" birthday since we've been together, and asked that we get away for a quiet romantic weekend. Since our money situation is tight, I honored his request, and found a smoking deal in Medford. We usually love the coast, but the cost during the summer is way too high, and the heat of Medford gave us a chance to get a good deal!

We left on Friday morning. Bill had the laundry done when I got home from work on Thursday as he was finished with school on Wednesday. He had a lot ready to go, and we finished up, and woke early to take off before 9am. The kids stayed home, and did a great job here alone. We spent a lazy drive, stopping at places we always said "I wonder what that park is, or that museum or that scenic drive". It was great. We hit a detour with the GPS that took us on some very high logging roads, and 2 miles from where we were to get back onto the back scenic drive, was a gate. Oh well, 12 miles or more back, but a great drive, beautiful views and good company. We visited Jacksonville, a beautiful old town, although I was disappointed there weren't more shops...but there was an awesome kitchen store, and an incredible toy store...I could have bought half of it! A nice dinner at Red Lobster after checking into our hotel, followed by a nice walk, and a relaxing evening.

Saturday took us on a drive to some of the local Saturday markets. A great day, great weather, and again, we just enjoyed being "Shawnna & Bill". We were blessed to meet up with friends Lucy & Rick (and no, not Ricardo) for dinner. We had a great visit and headed back to their house to visit more...dinner wasn't enough!!

Sunday we woke sad to head home after such a great weekend. We did take the long way home, and stopped to see friends Flo and Harry for lunch. After a nice visit, we finished the trek home to join the kids in their fundraiser at church for camp. They each have 195.00 to make for camp. Ryan is 11.00 away from goal, and not sure on Kristin, as she has not has as many opportunities as Ryan. The kids did a great job of serving dinner, and working with the pie auction. It was a late night getting home after a long day,but well worth it.

Happy 50th Bill..hope you enjoyed that as much or more than a party!! You've now officially been with me more than half of your life!!

Play House to Chicken Coop in 2.5 hours!! June 16, 2011

An era has come to an end....at least in the Richard's yard. After 13-14 years of great use, our swing set/play house has come down. Kristin used the playhouse a little last year, mostly getting away to find someplace to write (we found an old diary hid in there!!), and she still swings when the weather is nice...she is the only kid I know that swings with chickens. She holds them, and they nuzzle their heads right into her neck/shoulder and seem as content as can be! At any rate, the chickens is what brought demise to the swing set. As you read in previous posts, we got two more chickens....and the wonderful coop we bought last just a short year ago, has fallen apart. Bill was discussing "rebuilding" it to a bigger better coop when he thought of the renovating the playhouse. With Kristins permission and excitement, they started planning. I came home from work on Monday to find the swingset part removed, the railings and slide removed, and the fencing around the house gone...it looked so sad down there. For so many years, it has been a focal point of that corner. I've spent lots of hours with various stages of swinging, from baby swings, to airplane swings, to regular swings. From being carried up to slide down, to standing on the ground "helping", to only being near to watch. It's been through a lot with us, and if it could talk, I'm sure would have lots of secrets and stories to share that we did not witness.

My sadness faded when I heard how excited both Kristin & Bill were to do this project...they discussed nesting boxes, Kristin did research on spacing, perches, square footage for birds, and she figures we can have 10 birds for 5 nesting boxes, but also have friends that have way more birds in less space, so we could have tons!! The work began, and by the end of the week, new nesting boxes were built, doors and window shutters (they were open before...no covers or closings), and plans for fencing and feeders were in place....now for the move!!

For the move, it required some equipment and some muscle...both we have in our good friend Nate. He brought his tractor, a sturdy trailer to put the house on, and of course his head....the most important part...as the house was on 4 Ft stilts, and the house stands 8 or more feet tall on its own. Bill had it worked out in his head earlier this week, but of course, needed to confer with Nate, as to how they could do this. Before long, they were lifting, supporting, and cutting down the supports. The trailer went under after the first two supports were cut...and then they worked on getting the other supports relief cut, so that they could support it and then push the house off the supports. It worked beautifully.

I was in awe when I saw Nate turn the trailer around in the field and back up the hill, next to the house & 5th wheel, between the fruit trees...."tons of room" to him has a different definition to me!! TONS of room is 50 feet clearance, not less than 2 ft!! After chopping a huge limb off our cherry tree, they made it to the back, and came part two...getting it off the trailer! A crane would have been handy, but three guys, a tractor and some straps worked just as well!Nate pulled the house off the trailer as far as he could with the tractor before hitting the back hill, then pulled the trailer forward, so that we had more room. It worked like a charm, except it wanted to come off sideways...two guys pushing against it to guide it and it came down without even a dent!! Thank you Nate for your expertise in trailer backing, tractor maneuvering, and thinking skills...how were Katie & I so lucky to find two of you so much alike??!!

Friday brought Bill cutting the side of the house, to install the nesting boxes, while Kristin & Tanya painted the doors & window shutters. They are nice & bright, while the rest of the house is faded. They were much easier to paint before Bill put them up...so now the rest needs a paint job, along with the nesting boxes. Hinges need installed on the door, as does a cable for pulling the door open & closed for night. Fencing is the last thing and only cost for this whole project...how blessed are we!!??

A Whirlwind Week

2011-04-08T22:55:00.000-07:00

The last week has been nothing but short of incredible, and a testimony to how God can pull it all together, and make something happen that we could have never orchestrated on our own...
As most of you are aware, Charlie, who used to live with us has been out of sight for some time. We've been worried about him, and were thankful to hear that he was OK through a friend. This friend did share with us that he was looking to go back to teen challenge to restoration. Of course, hearing this...we really began to worry. Not more than 10 days after I heard the news of Charlie, and after some long prayer sessions with the Lord, Charlie called!! He told us that he was thinking about restoration and I asked him where he wanted to go. Ten days prior, I had hooked up with Kim, from the Bend Teen Challenge, who originally got Charlie to the Teen Challenge in Shedd. She told me they had an open bed, and if I could get Charlie there, she & her husband would love the opportunity to work with him. I shared this with Charlie, and he asked to think about it. He also had to commit to Bend for a year program. This was something we weren't sure that Charlie would do. It was a long night of fret & worry, however, when morning came, Charlie talked with the Bend Teen Challenge, committed to the program, and asked us to come get him in Portland and take him to Bend. We were MORE than happy to do this.
Saturday morning, and we were ready to go...we drove to Portland and got there about 12:00. It was a great reunion, as it had been since September since we had seen him. Lots of hugs and then good bye to his uncle, and off we headed to Charlie's Mom's to pick up his clothes. We stopped for a quick bite and were on the road for the 3 1/2 hour trip to Bend. Sadly, I left my camera in the back, as the snow and sky were beautiful as we headed from Salem to Bend. We had a nice visit on the way...and lots of slushy snow, and whiteout conditions on the way to Bend. Thankfully, when we came off the mountain, it was beautiful and sunny again!

We stopped for coffee and a pit stop in Sisters, and then headed to Teen Challenge. Upon arriving, we went in, and had a tour. It felt like home right off. It was a much smaller environment than the Shedd facility, and of course, fewer guys. Charlie seemed to feel pretty comfortable, and after a tour, unpacking his things, and some goodbyes we were headed once again over the mountain for home. It was with mixed feelings, as we didn't know when we'd be able to see Charlie again, being his is now two hours away, and visits are on Sunday afternoons. Long drive for a few hour visit...but I'm sure we'll make it!

We headed again, out of sunshine, into snow....and then more snow, and more!! We forgot the chains, so we were thankful for new tires, and 4wheel drive! We stopped for some pictures, and then Bill took lots as we drove through the snow.

We spent a busy week and found out that the Teen Challenge Spring dinner was this last weekend. We knew it was a good opportunity to show support to TC and to Charlie. During the week we had some sad events....as Kristin lost both of her rats within 5 days of each other. Tommy, one of our Youth Pastors was here to borrow our truck, and blessed her by helping Ryan bury the first one, and having a short service. He & Ryan even made a cross. Our kids are so blessed by the adults in their lives!

Friday finally came, and we made a fun weekend out of it, and got a room on Saturday night so we didn't have to come through the pass late, and it was just a good excuse! We left Ryan at home because he had a Youth Group event....the VELCRO WALL!! Not sure it sounds too exciting to me to dress in the loop suit and hit the other side of the velcro, but then again, I'm not 15! Kristin enjoyed being an only child for two days!
We arrived in Bend around 2, and checked in to our hotel. It was very nice, and right on the river. We had a few hours, so we headed into town and found the coolest Christian Bookstore. We spent most of our time there, taking it all in! It had wonderful gifts, many books, t-shirts, etc. We finished up in town, headed back to the hotel to get dressed for dinner, and headed to Eagle Crest for the Teen Challenge Banquet.

We arrived, and saw Charlie as soon as we entered. He saw our name on the list, so our surprise was not a surprise. He seemed very happy to see us, and we enjoyed a very inspiring, fullfilling evening, and enjoyed our visit with Charlie. It turns out there was a baptism the next morning and a BBQ, so we checked to make sure we could attend, and planned our next day at the park.

We enjoyed a fun evening in the pool and spa at the hotel, and crashed in our room to be awakened by a pair of swans that thought the hotel residents should feed them breakfast. We went out on the deck, and the waddled up to below our deck, and waited....joined by a pair of ducks, and a pair of geese. This must happen daily for them! We had breakfast, headed to pick up a few things that Charlie needed, and headed to the BBQ for Teen Challenge.
It was incredible to watch 5 men give their lives to the Lord. Braving the icy Dechutes River was enough to make most back out! It was a great afternoon, and after we headed over the mountain and arrived home in time to unpack, and head to our leadership prayer night with our church.

Talk about exhausting. It was a mentally enriching and draining night and about 25 of us met for a few hours of sharing, worship and prayer. Both Bill & I were mentally drained when we got home. It was a weekend we were both so met by the Lord. What a few weeks this has been! God is good, and he shows his grace and mercy to us in so many ways. Thank You Lord!

Seeking prayers for our direction. God has provided for us so much since Bill has been laid off. His unemployment benefits are now exhausted as of April 3rd, and he will finish school this June, with one class to finish next fall. Please pray for a way for our financial needs to be met. God has been good, and we are trusting him. Prayers are greatly appreciated for guidance and peace.

A Few Days Off

2011-03-26T23:51:00.000-07:00

Our funny shot from today.....

Bill & Ryan were both off this last week for Spring Break. While we just had two weeks away from here, it was not a vacation by any means. So, while we spent the last few weeks catching up, we decided we still needed some down time. While I was scheduled to have the whole week off, we decided it best to cancel that idea, and just have a few days off.

Mon-Wed, Bill & Ryan worked on wood (the shed is empty!), while I worked. Even Kristin helped some. She was excited that she is finally big enough to keep the tractor running, so she could drive the loaded trailer full of wood to the shed, dump it, and head back for another!

Bill got his grades, and being off two weeks did hurt them, but not as bad as he feared. He still ended up with 3 B's and 2 A's....not bad for 18 credits, and two weeks off the week before finals. It was tough catching up, but we are all very proud of him for a job well done! Ryan too, had a lot to catch up on, and although he has one class to complete some work in, the teacher is being kind enough to allow him another week or two, and will change his grade for the class. It was a lot of work to catch up on in a week. We'll keep you posted there!

I took off Thursday & Friday...making it a long weekend. Thursday, we pondered what to do...we wanted to go to Sisters, but the forecast was snowy....and the coast forecast was rainy, so we headed to the pass, and took a drive back toward Eugene. There are some pretty waterfalls there, that have some great hiking trails. What we didn't realize, was the altitude was higher than we thought and there was WAY too much snow to hike. We'd have been better fitted with snow shoes or ski's.

However, the drive was beautiful, and we did get out in the fresh air, and enjoy the sun, snow, rain & hail that we had!! We rounded out the day with a trip to Dickijoe's for burgers & dogs, to help support our friend Nate, as they were doing a fund raiser. We headed back home the long way, and took an old logging road from Marcola to Sweet Home! Once home, we finished up our puzzle we started the night before, and called it a day...a good day!!

Friday we slept in, got a few jobs done, worked on the taxes, and enjoyed a lazy day. We anticipated rain again on Saturday, and woke at 7 to rain, so rolled over, woke later to sunshine. We showered and headed off for the coast. While we got plenty of rain, we also had plenty of sunshine, some pretty rainbows, and a lot of fun. We hit some favorite spots, hit the outlets, and got an early anniversary gift from Bill...an awesome flash, that is mount, or stand alone for additional light...it's incredible!!

We rounded out the day with dinner at the Sea Hag, and headed for home, taking some nice sunset pictures on the way with some new filters I got a few weeks ago. FUN!! Got home around 9, played with the new flash...and am VERY pleased with the lighting....awesome. Thanks Bill!

Check out the pictures from today...and Thursday!

March 3, 2011--Saying Goodbye with Friends

2011-03-25T10:16:00.000-07:00

Today, March 3rd, 2011--we said goodbye to Bob. There were more people at the church than I could possibly count, but while working on the thank you notes, there must have been more than 200 people. It was amazing to see the support that the family had, and we are so grateful for those prayers, hugs, cards, calls, emails, and the "just being there". Bill & I are especially grateful for those friends of ours who made the time to come out and support us. It means so much to us.

We enjoyed visiting with so many that we haven't seen since our wedding. Friends of Bill's that he hasn't seen since since before we got married. It was a beautiful service with a nice message from an old friend, and a teaching/sermon from Mom's pastor who did an awesome job of pulling all of "Bob" into the message. After, we gathered in the fellowship hall to enjoy some of Bob's favorite desserts.

Once the service was over, we headed back to Bill's Mom's to have dinner with the immediate family that was in town. While the reason to be together was sad, the evening was enjoyed by all of this family, who are more like friends, and enjoyed our short time together. Beth (Bill's oldest sister) made Dad's favorite cheese fondue and everyone had a toast to Bob. It was a great evening, and an opportunity to visit with those who we don't get to see often.

Unbelievable Week

2011-03-01T18:33:00.000-08:00

< If anyone told me last Monday that we would be traveling through many states to get to Michigan quickly, I would have told them they were crazy.

On Monday, Presidents day, we got a call from Bill's sister saying we had better head home. Bill's dad had fallen on Friday night/Saturday AM, and broken his hip. He was scheduled for surgery, but due to his potassium levels due to kidney function, it was delayed. However, sometime during the night on Sunday, he had a heart attack, and things headed from bad to worse. We tried to get a flight in on Monday, or at least Bill out on Monday, and due to the weather in Michigan, we were unable to get a flight until Thursday. Bill could have gotten out Wednesday night, but we didn't figure we would gain much. Long story short, we found flights on Expedia, and arrived Tuesday night, after taking three planes, and two airlines.

We went straight to the hospital, and were able to see Bob. Long story short, things were not good. We had a family meeting the next day, and it seemed that things were going in a positive direction, so we held onto hope. Thursday, Bob was breathing on his own, and we really had hope. Unfortunately, on Thursday night, things turned, and he was back on the respirator on Friday morning. The doctor stated that she would pull him off all pain and sedation meds to see if they could get any response. Unfortunately, by late afternoon, there was still no response. Bob had been on continuous dialysis for 5 days, along with the heart only functioning at 50%, and the respirator, things were not moving in a positive direction. The Dr then suggested that we meet with the Palliative team and decide what to do next. Bob's patient advocate stated that he did not want life support unless it was short term, and there was hope for recovery. The palliative team informed us that they had tried all forms of treatment, and that he was not responding. Being that this was against his wishes to continue keeping him alive by machinery and medication, the family honored his wishes and had all the "stuff" removed. Pastor Dave was with us, and all of the family was there, and after a few short hours, he drifted quietly off to sleep, and was finally at peace. It has been a few tough days, but we are thankful that we are all together.
The last few days have been busy with planning for the service on Thursday. We spent Saturday at the funeral home and florist, and Sunday, we stayed home, going through pictures and paperwork. Bill & I found a great photo of Dad that none of us had seen. It speaks volumes of Bob's character and it is now a favorite of ours.
Monday, Kristin & I snuck to Ohio for a few hours to visit with my grandparents. It was three hours and a smidge down, and about 4 hours back with a dinner stop....all worth it. It was a surprise for Grams & Gramps...and we stopped to get flowers for Grams, as her birthday is Thursday. It was a nice day, and Kristin got to see her Big Papa. Ryan & Bill stayed here and worked on some things for Thursday. We were able to change our tickets to fly back to Oregon on Sunday, and are so thankful for Jenny who is watching the house and all the animals for us.

Today we did some cleaning...some running around, and then spent a nice evening with some life long friends of Bill's. It was a nice change, and the place we met in Ann Arbor was full of character, and great food!

I have also posted a few pictures..I guess it's not all been a drag. Ryan is tired of shoveling snow....we did get some REAL chili dogs, and cribbage has been played with Grandma.

Off to bed, a few things to do before Thursday....and hoping to sleep in tomorrow!

Thanks to all for your prayers, your cards, your calls, your e-mails and your face book messages...it means so much to us.

Bittersweet?

2011-02-11T18:45:00.000-08:00

Today was a bittersweet day. It started off normal, heading to work, getting lots done before everyone showed up at 8:00---and by 10:00 am I was ready for my break, to walk with my good friend Katie. Not only are we walking a mile in less than 15 minutes, we get to visit too. It's a win, win thing!! We headed out, and not even one full lap around the building (which is 1/4 mile), I twisted my ankle, and down I went....VERY hard, right on my knee. After getting over the "Why am I on the ground" feeling, and the dizzy nausea that took over because of the pain, I had Katie help me back into the building, and proceeded to do a damage check. After sitting a few minutes, I headed to the bathroom, yep, skinned knee....thankful I was in jeans (we can wear them on Friday), and not in dress pants that would have been ripped. I bandaged up, and the girls in the office fixed me up with ice. After about 20 minutes, my adrenalin was slowing down, and the pain began, along with the throbbing. I wasn't sure which hurt more, my knee or my ankle. So, at the encouragement of my coworkers, I headed off to urgent care, praising God that I now had insurance! Needless to say, after an exam, x-rays and a few ace bandages, I was on my way home to ice and elevate. The doc told me that since nothing was broken, and only muscles in my foot were pulled and my knee very banged up, he suggested some weight on it tomorrow, but light walking for the next few days. No power walking! I'm hoping an easy weekend will have me back walking by Monday.

The reason it was so bittersweet today, was while I was out walking/falling...this following article was published at work via email. When I came into my office, everyone was chatting about it....and I was a mess having just fallen. Talk about a crushed ego!! The nurse told me today, he could fix my knee with bandaides and an ace, but the pride was all in my department! I just think this was one more way of God showing me how I need to be more humble. Here's the article....,

ROCKING AROUND THE

BLOCK

OCCU Beat Reporter, Ima

Gettinfit, caught up with Shawnna Richards on a stroll

around the Corporate Office Campus. Ima noticed Shawnna making her tour a couple of times a day and thought she would inquire:

Shawnna says that she began walking in an attempt to lose weight after her husband approached her with concerns for her health. She started hitting the sidewalks during her breaks and at lunch, and when Weight Watchers came to the Credit Union and PacificSource started offering a reimbursement for attending meetings, she signed up. She believes that the primary reason for losing over 30 pounds in four months is the fact that she joined this support group and was held accountable! She encourages others to do the same.

When Shawnna isn’t at work she spends time with her husband, of more than 20 years, and her two teenage children. She stays busy tending to her countryside property, her pets, and just trying to be outdoors as much as possible. She hopes to double her weight loss by the end of Spring, for the Summer Season!

Way to set an example Shawnna!

Written by: Ima Gettinfit (aka Josh Masterson)

January Events (and a few February too!)

2011-02-08T14:45:00.000-08:00

Has it really been a month since I've updated the blog. Goodness! Time flies when your life is upside down!

It's been a tough month. It seems that trials and tribulations have been all around us. Friends, family, friends that are family, and our church body has seemed to be under tremendous stress these last few months. Is it because we are growing in the Lord, and the devil is trying to sabotage us? I think so. I do know that lots of praying has been happening. We've started a bible study after dinner with our own family, in addition to Bill's & my morning study, in hopes to keep us strong through the week, to keep us focused, and keep our minds in the word, and not to be pulled down when the devil is on our shoulder. We keep praying for our family, as well as those around us. If you need prayer...tell us!!

NOW, back to the fun stuff. The month of January was pretty much work, eat, sleep, school, and church activities. Ryan is involved in two youth groups, plus school, and that keeps him on the go. Kristin has been busy with homeschool group, quilting with the ladies in town, and she too is involved with youth group. It seems we are always getting someone, somewhere, and are blessed when we can't that we have wonderful friends who get them there. (Thanks Dana, Troy, Dylan, Grandma Alice & Grandma Betty!)

The month started off with the kids doing a pancake breakfast as a fund raiser for youth trips that were coming up. We spent a lot of time running kids to & fro, Bill spent a lot of time in his books, as he has 18 credits this term (two math classes), and Kristin did get to head out on her youth camp over MLK weekend, which gave them three nights away.
It was quite an experience for her. She was touched by the spirit, and certainly brought home a lifelong memory.

We are all enjoying Bill's popcorn maker that he got for Christmas. I can't tell you how much better we like it rather than the greasy stuff from the bags. One tablespoon of oil, and 1/2 cup of kernels...makes for A LOT of pop corn! No butter needed...almost like the theater, without the goo on top! This is a typical sight while waiting for the popcorn to pop!!
It seems Bill has spent time at his desk after bible study and most free moments on the weekends for weeks now. He is overwhelmed with school right now...so prayer is welcomed!! On the positive side, he made the honor roll!!! Very proud of him! We had parent teacher conferences for Ryan, he is doing great...4 A's and a B--which is very close to an A.....we are very proud of him too!

In February, Shawnna will be a blip in a Healthy Matters article. Since late September I've been going to Weight Watchers, and up to Dec 20th, had officially lost 20 lbs. Being the group did not have enough to continue after the first of the year, I have still continued on with the program, but am not attending meetings. This last weekend, I hit an official 30 lbs.!! If feels good, and I've lost 6 inches from my waist, and gone down two pant sizes!! Yahoo! I will post the article when it is published...I believe it comes out this Friday.

This last weekend was packed with "stuff".

On Friday, The kids had a youth concert, featuring Benjiman and The New Divide (who we met at our seminar in September). It was a great evening, and filled with fun for the kids. The crowd was smaller, but we were all filled. If you want to see more...check out the full post by clicking HERE.

On Saturday Bill & I headed off to Eugene...dressed like we haven't been in a while!! It was a work function, dinner, dancing, etc. It was fun, but we've both become uncomfortable with that stuff...and didn't stay long. Thankfully, Nate & Katie were with us, and it made it more fun! These last few days have been low key for me, as I came home from work yesterday with a tummy bug of some kind, and have been down for two days. Feeling better tonight, and hoping to head to work tomorrow.

Will be back soon...hopefully, it won't be a month!!

Christmas Camping Trip

2011-01-07T22:18:00.001-08:00

It's been two years since we've been camping at Christmas. This work & school thing keep cramping our style!!

I was fortunate enough to get 4 days off between Christmas & New Years...just enough time for us to get out for a few days. Bill & kids did a great job getting us ready to go, while I was at work on Monday. The kids were giddy beyond description, as it had been almost 7 months since we'd been out camping. Tuesday morning came,and we finished getting ready, and piled in the truck and headed west then North, up the coast. We stopped at Tillamook Cheese Factory (of course we needed cheese) and found that we had a dog that did not travel so well. I neglected to think that Lexxi had not traveled with us yet. Poor girl lost her breakfast. So, while Kristin & I stayed behind to clean her & her kennel up, Ryan and Bill went inside to check things out. After getting Lexxi cleaned up and settled, we all headed in for our cheese/ice cream fix.

We continued North, and our destination was Ft Stevens, but it had rained all day,and was starting to get dark and we were tired....so, we stopped at Nehalem Bay State Park, another nice park. What was even nicer, unlike Ft Stevens, was that it was almost empty! We got set up and had a nice dinner, followed by a few rounds of scrabble before bed. It was POURING!

On Wednesday, we woke to rain, but headed out, stopping at the Seaside outlets, to make an exchange, and let Kristin have a field day in Claires. The bargain shopper she is, she got 47.00 worth of merchandise for 14.00!! She waits for the clearance stuff....and has a blast. Sorry for us...she has 11.00 left on her gift card, so that means another trip to Claires! We then headed to Astoria, where we hit an Old English restaurant for lunch. Kristin had Sheperds Pie, and Bill had a Meat Pasty, Ryan & I both had some great fish & chips. All was VERY yummy.

After lunch, we headed to the Astoria Column, and it was SO cold that they kids decided they didn't want to climb it, and Ryan & Bill didn't even get out of the truck!

From there, we headed downtown, to the Historic Flavel House. Mr. Flavel was a River Guide....who guided ships into the dangerous Columbia River from the Pacific Ocean. He built his wife a BEAUTIFUL retirement home, and only lived there a few years before he passed away. The kids and I had a great time exploring the grounds, the carriage house, and the main house. It had beautiful mahogany woodwork and doors, that we later found out was local douglas fir wood, but had been treated to look just like mahogany. It was an incredible old house, and we enjoyed the history, as well as having fun looking at it as it seemed like the perfect setting for a Nancy Drew Mystery! Both Ryan & Kristin found many "clues" and "puzzles" as we walked the garden and through the house. After a full day, we headed back to camp. It was a stew dinner inside...too wet for a campfire.

On Wednesday, we woke to a beautiful sunshiny day. It was cold, but pretty. Bill was not feeling well, so he stayed behind while we headed to Ft Clatsop, where Lewis & Clark spent the winter of 1802 on their trip to explore the Louisiana Purchase. On the way there, it was so pretty, we stopped at some of the scenic pull offs, and I had a chance to play with my new camera lens. After a few stops, we were off to Ft Clatsop. They were having some special things happening, as this was the time of the year Lewis & Clark were in Oregon. We watched a neat film, learned how to write with a quill and watched a gun be loaded, shot and learned a ton!! We enjoyed checking out the new fort (the old fort had burned down a few years ago, and had since been rebuilt.) It turned out that it was not arson as thought, but a spark from a fire. The Fort is unable to burn to this day because of that fire. The ranger told us that they were "close" to getting their burn permit back! We decided not to do the river walk with the ranger due to the ice on the ground down the hill, and the fact that we didn't have gloves or hats with us. It was a 45 minute walk, and we'd already done about an hour and a half of programs and hadn't done the visitor center yet.
It was a fun day at the Fort.

We headed back through town, stopped to pick up some things for dinner, and headed back to camp. On the way back down the coast, the sunset was SO beautiful, and of course, with a new lens, you have to try it out...so we stopped several times on the way back to camp.

Chili for supper, and it was decided that we should head home early. The weather was not the best...the kids really wanted to help with the pancake breakfast for their youth groups, and it simply was not one of the better trips we have had.

It was a blessing we came home when we did, as our breaker box in the house was having some issues. Bill found that we had a bad breaker, and all the lights were dimming, and the box was making some strange buzzing sounds. Very thankful for a husband who can troubleshoot & fix. We spent the night (New Years Eve) with out electricity, but were thankful to be safe! We headed to the pancake breakfast while Bill hit Home Depot (YES, they were open New Years Day). and he had us back up & running by 2ish. We did enjoy our time at the pancake breakfast, and the kids loved being a part of their group. Everyone was TIRED when we got home, but dinner with Nate, Katie & the girls agave us something to perk us up!

We spent the rest of the vacation just prepping to get back into the swing of things for the coming week. Back to the usual routine...hate the end of vacation time!!

Enjoy the pictures!

Christmas 2010

2010-12-25T19:52:00.000-08:00

The last few days have been full of giggling silly kids, as well as a husband who has spent some time right in there having fun with them. It's been tough getting up and going to work this week while everyone is on Christmas break having fun.

Bill & kids went shopping this last week to finish up some last minute items and get some things done around the house. It seemed it was a hat Christmas. Ryan bought himself a hat as well as Bill. Of course it only got sillier as the night went on....

Christmas Eve started off with a great ride to work with my good friend Katie. Being we work different hours, we can't ride together, but shorter hours on Christmas Eve permits us one ride a year to work together! The hour drive seemed like minutes while we caught up on the ride in. A short day at work, and then home early to finish up a few things, get a nap, and head to Christmas Eve Service.

Christmas Eve Service at Creekside has been great the last two years. While it's usually Silent Night that sends tears down my face, I was totally taken off guard while Pastor Tom was reading the Christmas Story. He related how Christ was born in a barn...among all the other sacrifices. Sheep, Cattle...what a lump I got in my throat, and my eyes filled up to spilling within seconds. It was a beautifully simple service, and I am ever so grateful for our Calvary family. It is always nice to slow down, and spend some time remembering the real reason for CHRISTmas.

After the services, we drove around to look at some Christmas lights, and then home to get settled and head to bed. It is the first time in the last 15 years that we have been to bed before Midnight! We also slept until 7:30 before Kristin was meandering through the hallway. I knew our kids were growing when they said "Mom & Dad, we want you to open your gifts to each other first". I quickly found their motive, when I opened up a beautiful new lens for my camera. Oh man was I happy!

We continued opening, and Kristin got her boots, and her comforter, as well as a manicure set and a foot bath, and a hat from her brother.

We surprised Ryan with all the accessories for the guitar he's been saving for.

Bill got the tabletop popcorn popper he's been looking at for awhile,as well as the family got a nice amish popper from my parents.After all was said and done, we had some happy kids. We watched a movie, had our traditional cinnamon rolls, and then we took a break to clean up and get dinner in the oven. Ryan went upstairs, and it appeared that Santa left his guitar in his room!!

For those of you that don't know, Ryan has been saving for his guitar since before his birthday. Many of you sent him checks for his birthday, and his dream is now complete. We kicked the rest in as his Christmas present, and got a great deal on the coast for the package set.

We got dinner in the oven, and Bill & I settled in for our Christmas nap! We woke to the wonderful smell of ham and cream cheese potatoes!

After a great dinner, Bill & I headed out to the trailer to take inventory for our upcoming trip. The kids & I are so excited to get out camping again....as school & full time work, have kept us home. June was our last trip out....and we are so anxious!

The rest of the evening has found Kristin painting with her new watercolor set, Ryan & Bill both reading (Ryan got the last three books in his favorite series), and I've had a blast with my new lens today, putting pictures online and blogging. I hope you enjoy the pictures! I've also shared my special gift from Kristin below the slide show.

Photo Shoot with Dani of Blind Faith Photography

2010-12-12T22:01:00.000-08:00

Saturday, we were blessed to be able to have family pictures taken by Dani, who also goes to church with us. She has her own business, Blind Faith Photography and was fun to work with. What is amazing about this gal, is she is legally blind!! Check out her facebook page which I linked above. We were squeezed into the end of the day, and fortunate to have been included in this all day shoot. These ladies (also our friend Brooke worked on this) were out at Creekside from 8:30 until 5:30--long day! We only wished we'd have gotten there during the day,as we saw some incredible shots from earlier in the day, but it was dark when we arrived...so all of our shots were inside. Some of us were less than happy to be there, but did oblige me, as they knew it was important to me. It's been 11 years since we've done a family photo! Kristin was 8 months old last time around!! The kids were cooperative, but very ready to go by the time we were done...as was Dad!

Thanks Dani & Brooke for sharing your day with all of us, for doing what you love for a good cause!

Birthday Weekend and Catching Up

2010-12-10T22:39:00.000-08:00

Incredible...
That sums up my birthday weekend to the coast with Bill.

I took off Friday from work, and Bill had a class until noon, so I headed to Salem with him, and dropped him at school. I headed to my favorite car wash/detail place and had the Suburban washed, inside and out. The do everything short of washing the carpets....all for $30.00. Amazing. And you know, clean cars drive better and get better gas mileage!! At any rate, it was a beautiful sunny morning, a bit cool, but a great day to be heading to the coast. I did some shopping, and then picked Bill up at Noon, and we headed West. We were in Lincoln City by 1:30, and decided to hit the outlets first. After some shopping there, we headed down the coast to our favorite place in Depot Bay, the Sea Hag. A wonderful dinner, a beautiful sunset, and overall a great day!

We headed to Newport and checked into our hotel. We spent the rest of the evening in, playing our favorite game, Nancy Drew Mysteries! (Exciting I know--but this is edited for prime time viewing). We woke on Saturday to a beautiful view off our balcony, sun on the Pacific.
We headed out for breakfast (one floor up--nice!) and enjoyed a leisurely morning. After a nice nap, we headed into town and picked up a few more Christmas items, and then headed to Old Town Newport for dinner at the Rogue Brewery. Another fine meal, and then a walk down through Old Town. We were pleasantly surprised to catch the Christmas Boat Parade through the Bay, and I was wishing that we had gotten the room on the Bay, as we would have been able to watch the whole thing from inside. As beautiful as it was, it was COLD on the water...so we didn't stay long. I was sad I didn't have my camera.

Sunday we headed out for Breakfast, then came back to pack up and head home. It seems we can never relax long on the day we head home, plus we wanted to get home and get the truck unloaded before Kids were snooping around in the bags we had! It was a wonderful weekend.

This week has brought lots of bustle around here. Kids in several directions, trying to get some sewing done for Christmas gifts, trying to get some decorating done, but was blessed yesterday when I came home from work early with a bad cough. Kristin had spent the morning making a Sugar Rub. She found all the ingredients at home, mixed them and put them in a pretty jar. She said "Mom--you're having a pedicure"...so after a short nap, I had the best pedicure ever! That sugar rub was awesome AND smelled SO yummy!! The best part was Kristin said "AND mom if you really want, everything in it is edible! Sugar, honey, olive oil, extracts--all good stuff!" Being it was designed for a foot rub, I couldn't bring myself to taste it!!

Today I called into work sick. While I don't feel bad, my cough is horrible, and its tough to do my job on the phones while coughing! I did get out to get more cold medicine while Bill worked on his final for his online class, and Kristin & I did get a tree. Thank heavens for Teen Challenge guys....we said "That one"....and it appeared on the top of our truck and home we went. It was an exhausting trip, and after some cough meds, it was into bed for a nap! Feeling better tonight, but still coughing like crazy. Prayers for the cough to go away would be wonderful!

As we enter the busy season of preparing for the holidays, we pray everyone stays healthy, stays focused on the reason for Christmas, and enjoys their family! Until next update....keep smiling!

Missing the Jenkins'

2010-11-28T00:44:00.001-08:00

The last two days were sad ones....yesterday was sad, because we knew today was coming. I woke up yesterday, feeling that weepy feeling I get when it's time for us to say "goodbye".

Thursday was great, spending the day together, and watching movies, just relaxing and enjoying each other.

Friday, the tone was different. Hustling to pack, ridding up the house, getting ready to leave. Since Tam & Eric's flight was at 6 AM...we decided to head to Portland the day before. So after all the packing, around Noon, we headed North, to Portland. We checked into the hotel, and headed off to check out Powell's Bookstore. While it was out of our comfort zone.....we had a great time there, and Kristin & Ryan both found books they couldn't live without. Kristin bought a whole series, and has almost burned through one book already! We then headed a few blocks over to check out a toy store that was on the "must see" sights of Portland...but parking was horrible!! We came to an area where police were marking off the road. I looked down the street and saw we were almost to Pioneer Square, where the annual Christmas Tree lighting was to take place. No wonder it was packed!! We decided to head on out of Portland, back over near the airport, get some dinner, and let the kids go swim in the pool.

We spent a fun evening together, and after the pool, spa and showers, we all piled into one room to watch some TV, and visit some more before the dreaded bedtime. Since they were taking the 4:30 shuttle to the airport, we called it a night around 10:45.

At 4:15 this morning...we were all again back in Tam & Eric's room, giving teary eyed goodbyes....boy did this week fly by. There was so much we didn't do because of weather and schedules, but all in all, it was a great week...and spending time together is what it was all about anyway.

After the shuttle left...we all crawled back into bed, and slept until almost 9am! We headed down for Breakfast, the kids hit the pool while I packed up, and we were off by around 10:30ish. We hit the outlets on the way home, and then stopped for lunch. We arrived here about 3:00. It was a mopey day for all of us.

As I headed downstairs tonight to refill my water bottle...I found this:
This note board was a huge game for Eric & Kristin. She had "Kristin loves Mom" on there when they arrived. Eric erased Mom and put Uncle Eric....Kristin would erase it, and put Mom back. It went on several times. Tonight when I went for water...I found this. UGH..heartbreaking. Guess we're all missing the Jenkins'.

Until next time....

We are missing you Tammy,Eric,Erica & Nick. We love you!

Thanksgiving 2010

2010-11-25T23:41:00.000-08:00

We are blessed beyond measure....especially this year, as my sister and family are here with us. It has been an incredible week, nothing much exciting, just blessed to be able to spend time together, laugh, enjoy the snow, enjoy the coast, enjoy the visiting.

Today was a "Kick Back" kind of day. While Tam & I puttered in the kitchen a lot, we still managed to have coffee, visit, eat, get a nap...it was a good morning and afternoon. The kids have enjoyed being downstairs in their own territory....playing WII together, just hanging out, and having fun. Instead of lunch...we had a veggie tray and some spinach dip....then it was off to nap land for an hour or so...probably more of the 'so'!! It's been great!!
We had a Catch Phrase game in the livingroom before dinner....it was tons of fun, and so funny to hear them all giggle and laugh.
We had dinner around 6, as our turkey wasn't frying as fast as it should....but turned out SOOOOO good!! We enjoyed turkey, potatoes (made skinny style...no one noticed!), gravy, sweet potatoes, spinach salad, Aunt Erma's pink stuff, green bean casserole, and rolls. Nick made us all laugh with how meticulous he is when buttering a roll...it has to have the RIGHT amount of butter, and all areas must be covered!!

Actually, in reflecting today, it's been wonderful. We are blessed with health, everything we need to meet our needs, great family, those that love us, but most importantly, Christ, who gave us purpose to live, and a reason to do what we do every day. Thank You Lord....for the gift of your son....and thank you that we know him!

A Day on the Coast

2010-11-25T10:33:00.000-08:00

Tuesday Night Movie....
You must be fashionable in Sweet Home to get the wood....
Devils Punchbowl near Otter Crest on the Oregon Coast....

We had a lazy morning at home...getting some things rid up...as 8 people in one house make a mess!! Everyone pitched in, and within a hour we were ready to head out to the coast.

Bill was late getting out of school...so we had lunch in Lebanon, and just as we were eating, he called and said he was on his way. We were pulling up to the light by the park & ride lot at the same time he was getting off the freeway....you can't get much better than that!!

We all piled in, and headed to the coast. We hit some slush on the highest hill on the way over, but other than that, it was a smooth and dry ride over, with even some sun breaks!! We arrived at the coast, and it was partly sunny, a little windy and very cold!

Devil's Punchbowl State Park

Tam, Nick, Eric & Erica
Bill, Kristin, Shawnna & Ryan
Bill found a Fox Hat

Whale Watching at the Whale Center in Depot Bay

A pretty sunset in Depot Bay

We managed to spend some time at some pretty sites, hit downtown Depot Bay, the Whale Watching center, and round it out with a great dinner at Gracie's Sea Hag....with the BEST clam chowder ever! The kids were treated to a song on the bottles!

We had a great waitress that really made it fun for us. After our fill of clam chowder, we piled into the Suburban, headed toward Newport, grabbed peppermint mochas and peppermint hot chocolate at Starbucks and headed home.

We stopped at Walmart to pick up a few things for Thanksgiving, and headed home to settle in to watch a movie. Great day...great company.

SNOW in SWEET HOME!

2010-11-23T13:21:00.000-08:00

Nick wanted to go to Michigan because of SNOW...but SNOW came to NICK!!
It started last night with icy pellets, which froze....and then we got snow on top of it. Bill headed off to school without even looking at the school web site...and when he called to say buses probably would not be running, I checked Chemeketa's site, and it showed closed....so I called Bill back, and had him turn around. He made it less than 7 miles in 25 minutes. He turned around and made it back in about 20...it usually takes us less than 10. Sweet Home also called off school. Everyone gets to be home today...YAHOO!!All four kids were up by 7ish...waiting for Tam & Eric to get up so they could head into the trailer to get winter gear for everyone. They watched a movie until then...anxious to get outside. Once all bundled up...out they went, excited, giggling, laughing, and just having a great time. Bill aired up all the inner tubes...and off they went. Lots of fun...some great times, and LOTS of memories.

We are on trip three outside, and in between this last trip...the girls made each other up....MiMi style!! Fun times.

Just enjoying each other, relaxing, and watching the snow as it is still falling...

The Jenkins' are in town!

2010-11-21T23:43:00.001-08:00

Ryan, Nick, Kristin & Erica in the snow.....

My sister Tammy & her family arrived yesterday morning. We have been apart almost two years....way too long! The forecast was calling for rain, but we were blessed with sunshine as soon as we got to the airport. We had a nice sunny drive home, and then it clouded over. Oh well, we enjoyed what we got!

We spent the afternoon visiting, and also enjoyed a visit from Nate & Katie, along with my favorite girls...Allie and Audrie. We even got the kids to hang home with Audrie, while we adults went out for dinner.

This morning, we headed to church, then headed home to awesome omelets, with fresh eggs! While we were making lunch, it started to snow! We got the kids out on the porch for a picture, and before long, it was snowing so hard that Sweet Home disappeared!! It wasn't long before I was "WHAPPED" with a slushy snowball by my loving son, and much giggling followed! He's hoping for a snow day tomorrow...but I doubt that is going to happen!

Off for a short nap, and then kids to Youth Group. They had a great time tonight, and were blessed beyond measure. Nothing huge these last two days....just enjoying being together! Kids having a great time, and have staked out the familyroom/basement as their own territory!!

Rock band....having a great time with cousins.

Tam & Eric

Watch for more updates all week!

Birthdays

2010-11-13T21:50:00.001-08:00

These last few weeks have been a blur. Weekends have been full, and of course weeks--we go from bedtime to work to dinner to bedtime to work to dinner to....you get the picture!! Several weeks ago, for part of Kristin's birthday gift, she requested a "Mommy-Daughter Day".....her goal was to get pedicures. SO...off we went for a day of shopping and pedicures. I must say, a pedicure was out of my comfort zone, but SO right down Kristin's alley. Thanks Tami for giving her a love of some girly stuff that I would have never shown her!! It was a great day, and even though some of the pretty has worn off, they still look pretty good!! Little girls get hands, feet and flowers for the same price as I got toes painted!! The soak and massage was great though!
Trick Or Treat was productive for Kristin...and she feels so strongly about her candy, that it is kept under lock & key!! What else would you use a cash box for? Nice trays for sorting, and a hidden compartment below for 100 grand bars!! Certainly not her money....that is HIDDEN!!Kristin spent some time outside with her camera...she got some nice fall shots. I think we need to take her East to see some REAL fall colors...although, I the East is all done with color! Enjoy her slide show!!

We celebrated both kids birthdays today. Ryan will be FIFTEEN, yes 15 on Tuesday. Kristin turned 12 October 14. Where has the time gone? Seems like yesterday we were watching Sesame Street, reading Big Bird at Bat, playing with Ugly Baby and tripping over dinosaurs. We offered the kids a "family day" somewhere in lieu of a party, and they both said "NO, we like to see our "family" and our birthday is the only time we seem to do it"...so party we did. We had a great visit with our family, and although some were missing...we enjoyed a nice evening, complete with a kid fix for me!! Although I missed Jenny tonight, I did not have to fight for baby time. Grandma Kathy had her time today before they got here, so she was very willing to share :) Make sure to check out the slide show below!

Halloween 2010

2010-10-29T21:05:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's not quite Halloween yet....but for those in business in small towns that are not open on Sunday, and/or those businesses that are not in operation on Sunday...Friday is the day to celebrate, and have some fun.The morning started off kind of "Punky"....Kristin had to give me the final approval before heading out the door. Being that I work in collections...our department was the Delinquent Loan Committee" and we had shirts made, and did wild things to our hair. Needless to say...this is the outcome for me!!
The Credit Union that I work for goes all out...check out some of the pictures. It's a lot of fun, and its a day where all from every department pulls together.

Around 2:30, Kristin called. She was bummed because I was not there to help her with her Halloween Costume. Down Town Sweet Home does some great things for the kids for Halloween...making a safe environment for the kids to trick or treat. Ryan was taking her downtown, but she was feeling low. I guess after 11 years of having me home, it was a big change for her. She was feeling low and said " I just really miss you at times like this---and you have to be at your silly job". Long story short...I felt bummed. My friend and coworker Connie said "You should go...we're slow, we're covered, and it would be fun to be there". SO, I called my friend Dana, who was bringing a friend to my work so I could bring her to tonight's party...and we met early, and we were headed home after my gracious boss let me loose early.

We arrived in town just in enough time to catch up with Ryan & Kristin...who were just coming out of Key bank. The lady asked her what she was...and she said "A collector!" The lady said "A candy collector"...and Kristin (I can see her rolling her eyes, thinking a bank of all places should know what a COLLECTOR is!) said, NO, a money collector! Not sure too many kids dress up as a collector...but I can say I was proud!

We got about an hour or so of trick or treating in...and it was time to head home for Kristin's Birthday Slumber Party....9 girls and lots of giggling. I have a feeling it's going to be a long night!!

What a Month (or simply a few weeks)!

2010-10-08T22:23:00.000-07:00

Its been a few weeks, and although things have been going on...I haven't had time to sit & blog. You know I'm busy when I don't get time to do my favorite thing! It seems since school started for Bill, that we've been going like crazy.
We were blessed at the end of September to head to Seattle with some great people of our church family to a leadership conference. Wow...what an inspiring few days. A humbling experience as you learn that being a leader is first about serving others. Funny how we've been given that example some 2000 years ago....and we still don't get the idea! Being a servant is a humbling experience, but also so fulfilling and we have so much to learn to fill those shoes. I can't even explain the feeling of this two day conference. They were very full days...from 9am to 9pm, but the fullness of our hearts was incredible. Brett Williams led worship the first day...what a blessing...as I LOVE his music--plus, he's a pretty darn nice guy! We had fun, we were filled-- plus, we got away without the kids, and were blessed by Jenny being able to stay with them.

As we headed to Seattle on the way through Portland, we thought it would be great if we could track down Charlie. We were concerned about him not wanting to be tracked down, so we dropped the subject. On Tuesday night, just as we were heading back into the conference after dinner, guess who called? Charlie!! He was up for us meeting for lunch. It made the drive home have a nice break as we spent a few hours visiting, catching up, and feeling blessed that we got to "see" that he was OK. I know I'm not his Mom, but he will always be a part of our family.Bill returned to school and I to work. On Saturday, I opened up the chicken coop and found FIVE eggs!!! Our girls had been laying. We had given up! One got very proud, and tried to cover it so Kristin couldn't take it, but she was happy to give her another the day after. We've collected 10 so far, so think they are only laying every other day....but for us...it's working just fine.

This last weekend was a flurry of catching up after being gone the weekend before. Zorro...our 15 lb cat, had an altercation, and would not let me cut this altercation from his hair...SO...into the bath he went. He did not like it, and scaled the tub ledge, and then the shower door. SOOOOO funny!!

Thursday was a sad day. Bill arrived from school, and went to get the mail. He met our neighbor in the driveway, and they were chatting. Sadie, their dog, ran into our yard to play with Lexxi, and Lexxi, being afraid, ran fast the other way. The game was on...so Sadie took a path she has taken a million times...but this time she clipped too close to the water spigot and caught the loose skin under her front arm. This peeled her skin back like a shirt sleeve torn from the shoulder seam. Bill & Kyle both realized it was bad news, and tried to calm her. After getting her calmed and into the dog kennel...Rex & Kyle left for the vet, and Bill started fixing the pipe that snapped off when she hit it so hard. Kristin was able to turn the water off....and now the task was to fix the water.

Being this pipe was never buried very far, it froze several years ago and broke, again, gushing water all over the yard. Bill decided since the pipe was in a poor spot, and was not used very often, he decided to just cap off the run. I stopped on the way home and picked up the parts....only to get home and find Bill up by the pump shed....working on the pipe where it "T'd" from the main line. Being the pipe was so far in the ground down below, he decided to dig up where the T was, and cap it from the top side, so that we didn't need to worry about any more issues with it. Unfortunately, the threaded fitting was GLUED. So when he went to loosen, it broke instead of unscrewing....OH NO...our main line...broken! Back to the hardware store in town.

In the meantime, our neighbor called, asking what had happened, since she was meeting her kid and her Dad at the vet. They were unable to reattach the skin, due to the blood supply, and how serious it was. The options they were given were not ones that Sadie would have dealt with well. She was a good dog, and it was sad that she was only 10. Adele and the boys said Goodbye to Sadie, and came home with our empty Kennel. A very sad ending, and one none of us expected. Please keep Adelle and her family in prayer as they heal from the loss of a family member.

As we left the hardware store the second time, it was with a coupling that would fit the span of the hole where the old T was. Bill and Ryan worked on that coupling for over 2 hours and could not get it lined up. The pipe coming from the shed was rigid in cement, and the pipe heading down toward the side of the house was coming out of the ground at about a 30 degree angle....no amount of pulling and prodding could get that coupling lined up. We got it connected the best we could, so that we could turn the water on shower and flush toilets! Bill decided that he would think about it, and bounce some ideas off people and find a solution. We headed in about 10:30...showered and got an email from Nate.

Nate suggested we use PEX because it is more pliable. SO...on Friday after class, Bill got the parts...got a piece of PEX from Nate,and headed home to get the job done because we had a "date"! Upon getting home, and taking the coupling off, the pipe that ran down under the deck, under the cement slab, and next to the house PULLED OUT when Bill was cutting the old fitting off. OH NO! This means digging under the porch. This means taking the deck boards off the deck, cutting the supports, and the taking a sledge to the 4x3 foot section of concrete that he needed to get under. Once he had it all dug out, he looked at the fitting and this PVC had NEVER been glued in. NOW we know why the basement wall is always damp, and why our pump runs more than we thought it should. SO...with parts list in hand, I headed to home depot on the way home. Thankfully he was down to waiting for parts when I got home...but OH NO, I got the wrong size. SO..back to Hoy's hardware in Sweet Home to see what we could figure out. It turned out they had what we needed, so back home we went. Now mind you...we have (or should I say Bill & Ryan have) about 10 hours into this now. Bill gets it all hooked up--even though the PEX flexed....when we turned the water on, the stress from the pipe not mating (there is almost a 3 ft drop between the pipe at the house, and the pipe at the pump house) caused a leak around every pex fitting. We were again at a ucky spot. Just about that time Sherry called to tell us what time Bill needed to meet the guys in the morning. I mentioned our frustration and asked for prayer, and we prayed right on the spot. She prayed that Bill realized just what he needed to do. We hung up and Bill & I once again tried to figure out what to do...then it hit me. Why were we trying to go straight when we could use two 90's to do the job. Bill loved the idea and off to Home Depot we went AGAIN! We made it there, through Home Depot, gas and back again in 90 minutes!! WOW....Bill hooked it all up...we turned the water back on...darn, one leak. BUT at a fitting that could be tightened. Bill used some teflon tape, and retightened the fitting, and YAHOO...we are in business! We are leaving the deck open, and the hole open for a few days to check for leaks or problems. Everyone was ready for a shower...and by 10pm...we have water!

Catching Up AGAIN!

2010-09-18T22:35:00.000-07:00

Well,the first thing you might notice (those of you on my mailing list for updates), is that I posted the church blog here instead of on the church post! OOPS...Good thing I looked....only sorry it was two hours later! I guess two hours is better than two days!

It's been a busy few weeks. (I'm beginning to wonder if there will ever be "SLOW" weeks!?!?) Ryan has settled into the school schedule, and is doing a great job at getting his homework finished, getting himself up for school, his lunch packed and making the bus on time. He's loving his teachers at school, and overall, I think its a great fit for him. Kristin is happy here at home. She is having a hard time getting back into school here at home, but think it will be better when Bill heads back to school on the 27th...and he has online classes, so they can "work" together!

Last weekend was full.....
Friday night was rehearsal dinner for Robert & Lindsay's wedding. With my work schedule, we ended up there late, but enjoyed dinner with everyone. Jen & Brady came down for the weekend and it was SO good to catch up. It is always so long between visits.
Jenny with a Kitty Tail Hair Extension!

Saturday morning we enjoyed breakfast, coffee and some visiting with Jen & Brad before we had to take off for the wedding.

We made a stop at Creekside for the meat, and got pretty close the site of the wedding and got a call that we had to turn around and retrieve some forgotten items. I was worried about the kids being late for their stations and the meat not being ready...however, I was worried for nothing!

We arrived, all got to our posts (Kristin Guestbook--Ryan programs--Bill grill--Shawnna pictures) only to find out that the bride's dad was speeding out of the driveway.....someone forgot the rings! It was only later that the rings were found...on the premises, but then we had to wait for Dad to get back! Just as Dad arrived back...we discovered that the matron of honor had a horrible migraine and needed to go to the emergency room. As we all prayed for her to feel better, Lindsay's sister in law Pia, was able to fit into the dress and stand in for her. Finally, after an hour delay, the wedding started.

Only in the Country does the bride arrive on a GATOR!

It was a beautiful day, and the ceremony beautiful. Robert cleaned up really well (he looked great) and Lindsay was a beautiful bride, full of smiles all day. The food was great, and before we knew it, it was all winding down. Lots of pictures, and am in the process of sorting them all out...as I took over 700!We were to head to a birthday party for Brandon after the wedding, but with the late start of the wedding, and the time spent with pictures...we missed most of it, and with the 45 minute trip in, we would have gotten there in time to say goodbye to everyone! We headed home, Jen & Brady arrived, and we all had dinner together, followed by some more visiting, and a movie.

Sunday, we headed off to church...enjoyed service, and then said our goodbyes to Jen & Brady as they headed home. We headed home, and in doing so managed to get a 190.00 speeding ticket...just busy chatting with Bill & kids...nice sunny day...didn't set the cruise control! Expensive lesson.

Monday through Wednesday were just busy...work, school, and all those other things that make life busy. On Thursday, we had a potluck baby shower for Katie at work.

She is due on September 30th, and there were many of us at work that just wanted to shower her with love for her and her new baby. It was none too soon, as at 6am, we get a post from Nate, that says "Katie's water broke at 5:18...." It was all I could do to get ready and go to work. You would have thought it was me having the baby I was so excited! I headed to work, and around 8:30, I saw a call from Nate..but missed it because I was on the phone with a member. Bill called a few minutes later and said he was heading to Eugene with Kristin because they could not reach Katie's Mom, and they weren't sure if they needed Bill to be with Audrie or take her home. As it worked out, Bill & Kristin hung out and when Katie's mom arrived, I met up with them on my lunch, and found that Katie was only at 4 CM...but having some heavy contractions. We all went for lunch in the cafeteria and let her rest, Bill & I headed back out, he to get Ryan, and me to work. We left Kristin at the hospital, as Katie's mom had some DR appointments, so Kristin could take Audrie out of the room if needed. Good thing we did...no sooner did I get back to work than I got a message from Kristin...Katie's at 9 1/2 cm....she was so excited to be there with them. It wasn't long until Kristin, Katie's mom and Audrie were sent from the room, and less than 25 minutes, Kristin was calling me and her message said" THE BABY IS OUT"!! After that call, it was all I could do to sit still....and my awesome boss came out and said "Get over there!" I was pretty much useless there anyway...as my heart was with this excitement of a new life, and another pretty little girl to spoil. Audrie will have to share, but there's enough of this "Aunt" to go around!!

I can't even explain what I saw in Kristin when I got there...it was pure exhilaration, pure awe, and she felt so blessed to be included. Nate invited her in right after Katie delivered, and although she was worried this would be family time, she like I would have been, really wanted to be there too. It was an incredible event for her to be a part of...one she will never forget!

The next thing I saw was the sweetest little baby ever. Katie, who looked like she had a rough day at work, rather than just delivered a baby...looked awesome..and poor Nate looked exhausted! Of course, as some of the girls at work said...how could Katie be anything but beautiful.

Nate & Katie, I don't think you know what a special gift it was for us to be there with you yesterday....one more bond in that wonderful friendship we have.

Labor Day Weekend & the First Day of School

2010-09-08T21:56:00.000-07:00

It was a busy Labor Day weekend! On Saturday, we did sleep in and enjoyed some coffee before Bill headed to the church property to cut the grass. Kristin & I headed off to Katie's baby shower (Allie is due in 3 weeks), and then all joined up home for supper.
On Sunday, we headed to church...great bbq afterward, and then headed to Sisters. We enjoyed a beautiful fall like day, and then hit Jennifer's Gallery before heading home. Kristin had a picture she had painted that she wanted to give Jennifer....it was a great day!

Monday, we were up early, chatting & having coffee...then heading out to get the trailer ready to head to the Tilfords for 'hotel accommodations' for the wedding this next weekend. Our Oldest Pseudo Son Robert is getting married on Saturday. After cleaning out & delivering the trailer, we headed to Walmart to do needed shopping for the week, and then home to get ready for work & school the next morning. Wow...did I say 'get ready for school'? That always meant "Jammies & workbooks"!
Wow...I can only say this............I am SO thankful I didn't have to put Ryan on a bus at age 5! I was a wreck yesterday, and he is almost 15! Actually, I wasn't a wreck, but I did think of him most of the day yesterday! He was great...got up himself, packed his lunch, got himself out the door very early to the bus stop, and the same was true today. Not that I didn't have faith that he couldn't do it, but being he has never had to get up for school....I was very impressed. Kristin rushed down the steps after he left, sad that she didn't get to tell him goodbye, and said she was "worried"...I told her to say a prayer...she said she did, and she was so worried, she went back to bed!!

Ryan had a great first day at school..and an even better second day. He loves his teachers (so far!) and bragged about having a 4.0 today! One of his teachers wrote his home # on the board, and said "If you need help...call me...not at 10:30, but call me. I do have enough friends though, so please keep it to homework and don't call to 'visit'". He also said "I am always happy to help you one on one....but only if you shower, and brush your teeth" So funny!! All in all, its been a great experience for Ryan, and I've been a good Mom and let him do "his thing". I want to say "Did you brush your teeth?" Take a shower? Put on your deodorant? Put on clean undies? But I've refrained! He's done great the first few days...which are always the toughest. Now, to get into the books. I have no worries..he's a good student, and always does a great job.

This weekend brings Jen & Brady down for a visit. Rehearsal on Friday night, Robert & Lindsay's Wedding, Brandon's 3rd birthday party, church on Sunday, and, well, I think that's a pretty full weekend!

Stay tuned....weddings & birthday parties...you know there will be more pictures soon!

Catching Up

2010-08-19T22:19:00.000-07:00

It's been a few weeks, and there have been reasons I've been silent. A lot has been going on, and there was much I could not share until things fell into place. That, combined with being bummed about so many decisions has led me to be quiet....

First though, the big news, if you haven't already heard....I was offered, and accepted a full time position at Oregon Community Credit Union. Same job, just full time. I'm loving it, and if it wasn't for the 2 hour drive (one hour each way) I would put in as many hours as they'd let me! One benefit to a two hour drive....I can listen to at least one good message a day from Tom. (Click here if interested!) One HUGE benefit to full time...INSURANCE!! We've been without for 18 months, and it's time...the kids and Bill are extra, but we're looking into separate policies for them, as it's 900 per month to insure then through my job. I believe we can get insurance for about 450 a month for all three of them.

I knew this was a possibility a few weeks ago, but had no idea if it would even be offered to me. It was, and I accepted...with a heavy heart though, because this meant I had to give up Monday Home School group that I have taught for 7 year now. It's a passion, and my love for the kids and the learning is at the top of my list, and it was bittersweet that I took the position and had to let this go. I felt it was all orchestrated by God..because here is how it played out.... LAST Wednesday...August 11th, I was offered and accepted the position at OCCU....Wednesday afternoon, I was called by the secretary for the Superintendent of the school district for a meeting on Friday. News was minutes old when she called, and it was only fair to speak to my teaching partner Dana first...so I called Dana and let her know, as we were both busy Wednesday and Thursday nights. Friday was our meeting..so by phone it was. We both cried...and of course was tough. She went to church on Wednesday night, and found out that her friend was interested and has taught before...what a perfect fit. Heaven sent...and what a blessing. I felt at peace, and knew that only God could have worked all this out to make me feel comfortable in leaving.

We shared the news with Mr Curtis on Friday at our meeting, and he liked our choice. We then had the meeting with the home school families yesterday (Wednesday 18th), in one short week I resigned, found a replacement, got lesson plans laid out, and advised our group...only God could have pulled all that together!! I am still sad, but yet excited to see what is in store for me this next few months as I settle into a full time position.

After the meeting, Ryan & I went out to lunch, and enjoyed an afternoon of shoppping together for school clothes and supplies. This is the first time ever as a parent, I've had to "school shop" I quickly realized how much money we've saved in shoes, clothes, and "STUFF" for school!! Not that we don't clothe our kids...it's just it's not all purchased in August, and home school attire is sometimes jammies!! We never required the latest & greatest stuff. However, I was very proud of Ryan when we had looked at many shoes,and he said "Mom, lets go to Walmart...they have the shoes I want for half the price (or 1/8 of the price) of other shoes we looked at. He was happy, I was happy, and it was a good day.

We met up with Bill & Kristin for dinner...and Bill headed to bible study, while Kristin, Ryan & I headed off to do some wedding shower shopping. While Ryan wasn't too excited about it..he did have some good ideas. Kristin is in charge of the games, and has come up with some great ones. Praying for it all to come together for Lindsay's shower (Robert's (AKA our 'other son') fiance-) for a good turn out, and a well mapped out shower!

Lexxi...our new addition has fit in so well! She is learning to trust the rest of us, but is still glued to Bill. She has learned to play fetch....and loves to chase after the stick with JayDee...we must make sure to get a long enough stick to share!!

Kristin had a few great days with friends. Tanya (One of the O'Hara's) and McKenzie (Grandaughter of neighbor from WA) had a great time for three days of fun together. I caught them all "hanging out" and just having fun. They had tea parties, and some good "girl time". A much needed time for them!

Charlie, (our oldest) is moving to the Portland area to be with family. He's gotten a job, and will be leaving us. Sad that he's going, but happy that he's being guided by God in this decision. Praying for his safety, and for God to keep him focused. We'll miss you Charlie!

We also had a great camp out on our church property with friends. For the full run down, and more fun pictures, click HERE.

Family Again

2010-08-08T23:29:00.001-07:00

Update from last post--

We ended up staying in Richland Sunday night, and heading home on Monday...no kids...so why camp!! We headed home to enjoy some quiet before I had to head back to work on Wednesday. The next week would have me working full time. Sad being we had no kids, but happy for the hours.

Ryan ended up going home with Jen & Brady on Sunday from Washington, and Kristin ended up staying with Tam & Evan. Both kids had a great time, and both were gone for two weeks. While we missed them, Bill & I enjoyed a quiet two weeks at home. Very quiet, since Charlie is gone too...however, it was great getting back to just "Shawnna & Bill" for a few weeks. We spent several evenings out to dinner, and many at home....even a special one which Bill prepared...and was I surprised, and felt so very loved...all my favorite things, a wonderful salad with every veggie you can imagine, garlic bread, corn on the cob, and a glass of wine...what more could a girl ask for?!
We did do some work around the house...cleaning out both kids rooms for a fresh start for the new school year. Ryan is going to High School this year. He's decided he wants to have the High School experience, and give up the home schooling. Kristin still wishes to stay home, so we will be making adjustments to continue school for her. Both kids rooms needed some TLC...but Ryan's...oh boy...these are the pencils, pens, markers & crayons we collected around his room when we were cleaning....
Kristin is ready for a food shortage...or being sent to her room without supper. We're still not sure how the "Rocks" book fits in...but hey, she even thought of spoons! When we asked how she would eat that Top Ramen without water....she said she'd eat it raw!

Kristin arrived home on Thursday...with Tam & Ev bringing her down from Richland, WA where they live...we had a great visit and Kristin was so happy to be home. She came home very mature, and you could tell she had been with people who treated her more adult like than we do. It's been great having her home....and listening to all the fun things she got to do while with them. Her favorite thing....a pedicure which Tami blessed her with.

We picked up Ryan on Saturday from Rod & Lissa's as Jen & Brady brought him down as far as Albany. We got the opportunity to meet Brody, and I was so blessed to get to snuggle him for awhile...

Saturday night brought giggles, stories and a house full of blessings. Nice to have the kids home.

Saturday night...I get a note from a friend at church....needs a home for this sweet girl.
We went and met her today...and yes, she is at home with us now...she's two years old, very sweet and oh so beautiful. She's a bit bigger than Jayden, but the same temperment....

We feel very blessed. Working on a fitting name for her right now...as she came to us Niobi...or Naobi (not sure on the spelling), and was Ruby prior to this last home...but will give her HER final name...once we know her a bit better. For right now...Pretty Girl seems to work!! Back to three dogs, but JayDee seems very content to have a new friend.

Richland Weekend

2010-07-24T23:10:00.000-07:00

We started off our trip heading off on Thursday to Jen & Brady's. We arrived around dinner time, and left the kids together, and we adults headed out to dinner. Claim Jumpers....oh, my, incredible food...good company, and a nice evening out.

After dinner out....we headed out to do some shopping for Jason's birthday...which we celebrated this weekend. It was then home to the kids, and the hot tub. Always nice to relax and kick back...and visit. What a great evening. So thankful for older kids to watch younger ones to give us a nice evening out.

After hitting the hay, and sleeping in the trailer at Camp Noffsinger, we woke in the morning to overcast skies. Little did we know it would get so hot! We headed off toward Washington when Jen got off at 2pm, and reached Richland about 6pm. It was a nice drive, and thankfully a safe one.
We spent the evening hanging out, catching up, playing with kids. Kristin kept the kids entertained in the back and she & Jason found a little friend. I saw it at first and said "Its a slug" Jason quickly corrected me..."Aunt Shawnna, I saw it's eye poke out of it's shell, and look at me like this......" SO FUNNY!!
Saturday brought 75% of our group heading to the boat races. Bill & I stayed home, and headed to Art in the Park. I'm not sure how many vendors were there, but my guess would be more than 100. It was almost overwhelming. We had walked since to park would be almost as far as from home. We enjoyed a beautiful walk along the river, and some nice time looking at 'stuff'! We headed back to find it was now 100 and climbing! We enjoyed a great birthday supper, along with Evan's parents. Jason picked awesome stuff....Chicken on the Traeger, mashed potatoes, gravy & corn....afterwards of course presents, cake & ice cream!

Happy 6th Birthday Jason...

Not sure what tomorrow will bring...if we are staying another night, or heading down the road...as we have a few more nights before heading back to work. Thanks Tam & Ev for the hospitality...and the great hook-ups at your driveway campground.

Last Weekend & The Big Day Today

2010-07-03T22:56:00.000-07:00

I'm a bit behind this week...I never got a chance to blog last week...busy with things around the house, and catching up with Dr. Joe's stuff.

Last weekend, we had big plans to go to the K-9 Dog trials in Springfield, and watch Tony & Creck--but things changed by the time I got home on Friday night. Bill was going to surprise me by doing a deep cleaning in the livingroom & kitchen....since the TV died--and we've decided it's not a 'have to' replace item right now....he was going to hang a Jennifer Lake I've had behind the dresser for some time...waiting for a place to hang. Needless to say....his idea came to halt when he pulled the couch away from the wall, and found a kitty puddle. It had been there for awhile, probably while we were on vacation the week prior...and of course, it was permeating the whole corner. The odor had 'vaporized' under the couch, and once he moved it, there was no mistaking that odor. He turned all the pieces of the sectional upside down and moved everything making sure that there were no more surprises. He found one more, and we headed out after work to pick up some kitty odor remover. As he was moving some furniture...the leg on his Grandfather's antique desk broke...leaving him holding it up, while the kids unloaded the drawers. Another "UGH" to deal with! I come home to the furniture upside down, and the desk on the back porch on saw horses....and all three large drawers on our bed, and all of the contents of the top part of the desk in a box. SO...Saturday plans are now changed!! Bill was very apologetic, and how can you be mad at a guy who was cleaning?!
Saturday, we woke and got busy. By 2ish, we were getting to a point where we could start putting things back together. By 6pm, we had a couch, all the desk had been gone through, and the floors had been washed & rewashed....and of course, we finished what he started, with cleaning, dusting and getting the winter wood stove cobwebs knocked out. The Nida clan was together in Albany...so we called to see if we could come crash their campfire. It was Lissa's baby shower--and everyone was down for the weekend. It was a nice visit that we didn't expect to get to...but enjoyed a nice visit with everyone.

Sunday we headed to church...you can check that day out here. It was a good day, followed by a nice nap, and a lazy day...we all need those once in awhile. Especially after a day like Saturday!

On Tuesday & Wednesday I was off, and Bill & I got some things done around the house...as well as some much needed errands. On Tuesday, we had some things to do in town, and the feed store in town had the greatest 'exactly what we needed' chicken coop. Kristin was dying all day on Wednesday, hoping to get it put together.....but it didn't happen...but on Thursday, as Kristin went to Fun in the Parks program...Ryan & Bill got started. She was thrilled when she got home, and they were almost done. By the time I got home from work, the chicks were in their new abode. Kristin was SO excited. Since there is not a door we can latch on the back side....we are still bringing them in at night...as they didn't seem to have enough sense to go inside...but tonight, they did, and I picked up snoozing chicks and took them to the garage where they've been since we've had them.

Bill & I headed to bible study, and when we got home...there was much scurrying in the house. I thought "OH boy, what are they up to..." but we were met with giggling kids, and the smell of a freshly baked cake. We were not allowed to look...but the finished product was priceless.

Today...we headed out to Linn County Search & Rescue Camp...also known as Posse Camp...that years ago we used for our Young Families Camp outs. Much has changed. There is running water, bunk houses for SAR recruits, the kitchen has been extended, there is a shower house, and WOW...it looked great.

The highlight of our trip was to see Alyona graduate the Search & Rescue program. She spent 11 days out there...and although it was tough for her...she did it. We are SO proud of her! Her folks were very proud as well....Sean, a former marine was beaming as Alyona was taking her oath. There were 34 recruits, and only 26 made it. Four dropped the first day, and four more through the week.

It's comparable to boot camp, with grueling tasks, huge obstacle courses, and tasks of teamwork, searching & rescuing, loading a patient, first aide, the list of what she did was endless. I know I'm not her Mom...but I was just as proud as if I were! I always laugh because she reminds me so much of myself at her age, all knowing, stubborn, I always feel she really could have been my kid...but today...she was all Sean's!

Hopefully, I can catch up today's blogging by Wednesday this week! We'll see. Watch for more...coming soon.