Warm October Daybook

Because I haven't written a daybook since last February

*and*

I'm trying to get back to a more daily writing habit...

Outside my window... another day close to 80F! It just doesn't seem like fall for real with the past week full of mostly 75+ degree days.


I am listening to... Knitpurlgurl podcasts while I drive to and from work. Her laugh is so cute and I love that she includes so many bits of the fiber arts world in her podcasts. I'm primarily a knitter, but I do dabble in other fibers, so it's nice to hear about other fiber arts too.

I am wearing... a long black and pink skirt and a black tee-shirt. This is probably my last week in "regular" clothes, but I'm trying to put off moving into maternity clothes a little while longer if I can...

I am thinking... about how to re-adjust our school schedule. We took time off when my mother-in-law passed away in early September, but we've also only really done school about 3 days a week over these last few weeks because of this morning sickness. Some will be put off til January, some cut, and some just rescheduled... sorting all of that out is taking some time.

 

I am reading... Harry Potter 6 again.

I am creating... a baby. And a new school schedule. I'm thinking fondly about knitting though...

Always learning... I don't know why I'm still amazed by this, but my kids still choose to learn new things when left to their own devices for a time. While I've been sick Ender has been keeping up on his 20/20 goal for the Book It program with very little reminding from adults, they've both been building all sorts of structures after reading Amazing Buildings, and they are also working on adding artwork to their "animal notebooks". We've spent this month reading fairy tales together a la one of the lists from Real Learning, and it has been lovely to "do school" in such a way.


Around the house... We're still getting settled in, but are starting to feel more at home lately. Especially with the re-doing of the bed situation- a new mattress was exactly what we needed and suddenly sleep is that much more accessible.

Baby news... 11+ weeks, strong heartbeat and hopefully a decrease in morning sickness on the horizon. I've been told that this is the week with the craziest hormones morning sickness wise, so I'm seriously hoping that is true.


I am planning... more time to sleep. Certain things like school and work can't really move in the schedule, but pretty much everything else is out until I start feeling better.

I am praying... for my new little nephew Malachi. He was born this past Sunday at just over 36 weeks, but only 4 pounds and 9 ounces. He is healthy aside from weight, but his weight is the concern. He's doing the typical newborn "lose a little, gain a little" dance, except that he doesn't have much wiggle room in this area. We're praying for his weight to stabilize and consistently gain so that he can come home!

One of my favorite things... Frozen peaches. They seriously *always* taste good, even at my queasiest.

A few plans for the next week... have I said SLEEP enough in this post? Seriously I'm trying to be really tough on myself to be in bed, lights out by 9:30 so that I can get enough sleep

For February

Today's Gratitudes...

11. The relief that comes after a week with sick little boys.

12. Extra knitting time this week.

13. Daisies still looking as bright as they did on Valentine's Day.

14. A few days of warmer weather, even though we know this winter is not over.

15. Unexpected visits from family.







Outside my window... another cold wet day, but it doesn't seem so bad after almost a full week of warmer weather.

I am listening to... Never Not Knitting podcasts while I've been cleaning this week.


I am wearing... a long black jersey skirt and a red blouse. I'm trying to branch out from the plain black I wear too much...

I am thinking... about first grade things still. I like to have a lot of time to consider and think through before making a decision, but I think I have an overall direction now.

I am reading... Found,  Redwall and One Thousand Gifts. Taking my time with Ann Voskamp's book.

I am creating... I've been working on this month's sock over the last few days and I've got a pretty big pile of almost finished sewing in preparation for Me-Made-March (hosted by Zoe) to finish up before March 1.

Always learning... we went to a local science center this week to explore the new water exhibit and ended up spending an entire morning there with plans to go back. It was so much fun exploring water pressure, currents, and building boats that would actually float.

Around the house... I'm planning some painting projects for this spring/summer and currently exploring colors. Brian is pretty set on a grey for the living room, and I'm trying to decide if I can be happy with that with the right accent colors. Thoughts?

I am planning... studio schedules for summer and fall- already! I can't believe summer enrollment hits in 6 weeks, followed shortly by fall enrollment...

Towards a growing faith... Back to getting up early this morning after a week of sleeping in. Getting up and down with sick boys all week really threw off my schedule. Back to normal today now that the boys are sleeping through the night again.

I am praying... for a dear friend possibly facing divorce. We are pouring prayers on her and her husband.

One of my favorite things... Dr. Pepper, but I'm trying to stay away. Caffeine has been wreaking havoc on my sleep and I really have to cut it completely to reset.

A few plans for the next week... getting back to normal around the house and in the studio, finishing up the details for our 10 year anniversary, a trip to the library for more YA to read, and much more sewing

On the Last Day of January

Outside my window... More cold and deeper grey as we await a storm that should start this afternoon and go through Wednesday, maybe even longer. They've predicted another 10-15 inches for our part of the city- at least the last 16 inches melted mostly over the past 5 days...


I am listening to... Jason Ingram's Forever Reign. We rehearsed this last Thursday and played it in the Sunday morning services and I can't get the simple melody out of my head... Our new worship pastor spent the last 2 years in Australia at Hillsong and even though he's only been with our church for about 6 weeks he has brought some amazing music to us and the collaborations with our worship director and the new pastor are so heart-changing.

I would embed, but it's disabled on this video: Hillsong Forever Reign


I am wearing... jeans, a long sleeve t-shirt, a hoodie and more socks than I have feet.

I am thankful for...

God's faithful provision, always right when we need it

Family that comes together whenever anyone has a need

Great books to keep company with in the evening

I am thinking... ahead to first grade for Ender next fall, just starting to get some loose plans rolling around in my mind. We're also thinking about spring and summer and how schooly we'd like to be during that time. I'm considering just keeping up math and having him read to me for 10 minutes or so every day- so basically 20 formal minutes a day and letting the rest of the time go. Not that we're doing a lot of super formal work...

I am reading... Redwall and eagerly awaiting One Thousand Gifts which hopefully will be here on Friday!

I am creating... I'm almost done with the sleeves for Poet's Pullover with mods [Rav link], Leyburn socks are on the go, and the new Spillyjane mittens, Camilla.

Always learning... we're hanging out with basics- handwriting, math, reading, and faith this week, and maybe next week too depending on regular life stuff.

 

Around the house... the boys have started a regular morning chore schedule- (make bed, brush teeth, get dressed- sort of thing) with a chart and it's working well for now. Who knew a chart could be so inspiring?

I am planning... not much til after Friday. This week is full of ice and snow!

Towards a growing faith... trying to gear up for a longer section of Scripture memory- do you think I can really handle a whole book this year?

I am praying... for the job interview Brian has on Friday.

 

One of my favorite things... Peppermint Tea for breakfast. Mmmmmm....

A few plans for the next week... Mostly staying warm! But after that, teaching the lessons who do decide to brave the weather, keeping up on the house, hopefully finishing a project or two, praying about the direction we want schooling to take in the spring and summer months.

First Daybook of 2011

Outside my window... The last few weeks have been defined by being cold and gray. We've only had the tiniest dusting of snow so far this season, and nothing on the ground right now.


I am listening to... Chris Tomlin's Awakening. The title song was included in the worship set we played at church yesterday and I can't get it out of my mind. I got to play the most gorgeous violin line . . .


I am wearing... a long red linen skirt, black long sleeve t-shirt, and knee socks. Trying to stay warm!

I am thankful for...

A return to regular days after the busy-ness of the season.

One of the most blessed Advent seasons we have enjoyed as a family.

starting the year with a clean and functional entry closet (and bedroom closets as well!)

Ezra, who makes me see life through the eyes of a 3-year-old

 

Ender, who really needs to start his day with lots of cuddles

 

My husband, who is back to work full time today after a few months of contracting!

I am thinking... about goals for this year- tasks to conquer, habits to learn, education and habit-training goals for the boys, new projects to attempt . . . my brain is very full.

I am reading... The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate, The Capture with the boys, and getting ready to start a new-to-me John Piper but haven't decided which one yet.

 

 

I am creating... essays. Lots of writing going on over here. I am knitting still of course, but it's a little slower going. Current projects include the Poet's Pullover with mods [Rav link], and vanilla socks for Brian.

Always learning... Today is our first day of "back to normal"- basics always, but we'll finish up our reading about Antarctica and get to work on Europe next week.

Around the house... Maintenance is the codeword around here. After two weeks of both of us being off work the house is in fine shape- now to keep it that way...

 

I am planning... the rest of this semester. Almost done!

Towards a growing faith... Brian and I are continuing our reading in the New Testament in the beginning of Mark now. My own reading is in I Thessalonians.

I am praying... for my husband's cousin, who lost her sister to a stroke at the very young age of 42 on New Year's Eve.

 

One of my favorite things... Ezra sneaking into our bed for cuddles at 5 a.m.

A few plans for the next week... Getting back into the usual routine (but with a few tweaks), a trip to the library, hopefully finishing up those socks for my husband.

 

 

Getting Ready for Christmas Daybook

Outside my window... It has been cold and gray for several days now. Maybe snow this weekend? We'll see...


I am listening to... Manheim Steamroller. It makes working around the house a more exciting venture!

I am wearing... Jeans, a long sleeve tee-shirt and cardigan, and knee socks. This type of outfit is fast becoming my "uniform" now that it's so cold.

I am thankful for...

Quiet mornings

laundry done early

an unexpected free hour to read, write, knit, whatever...

my sisters

I am thinking... about knitting. My brain is stuck on the Christmas projects yet undone, and I'm trying not to stress. I have plenty of time for what needs done, but I'm sure something will go wrong....

I am reading... Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, more Elizabeth Zimmermann, and continuing our family read-aloud of Treasure Island.


I am creating... Christmas gifts in the evening hours, lesson plans in the early morning.


Always learning... We're taking care of basics each morning in about 30 minutes then spending the rest of our time on great Christmas books, making cookies, making art, and being all around relaxed.

Around the house... I'm in "maintainance mode" until Christmas break in the studio. Once Christmas break is here though I'm finishing up the closet revamps we started on Thanksgiving break.

I am planning... for next semester. and I'm resisting the temptation to start working on first grade stuff. At least until February or so.

Towards a growing faith... Brian and I are continuing our reading in the New Testament, almost done with Matthew. My own reading has been in Colossians this week.

I am praying... for a new nephew arriving in late April/ early May.

One of my favorite things... hot chocolate. Mmmmm....

A few plans for the next week... Finishing up this semester in the music studio, marking the days with the Jesse Tree, singing together and celebrating early with extended family.

Thanksgiving Week Daybook

Outside my window... We spent the weekend outside cleaning up leaves and sticks, so the yard is looking great even if the sky is gray for the 5th day in a row.


I am listening to... Chris Tomlin. I love his voice.


I am wearing... Jeans, a long sleeve tee-shirt and cardigan, and knee socks. It's a cold morning!

I am thankful for...

Extra sleep just when I need it most

Christmas projects done early

Fresh advent candles ready for Sunday

Time off from work all this week

I am thinking... about the food article in Christianity Today this month.

I am reading... Forge by Laurie Halse Anderson, the continual parade of knitting books stacked up on the night stand, and continuing our family read-aloud of Peter Pan.


I am creating... Christmas gifts and Bible study plans in the evening hours, lesson plans in the early morning.


Always learning... This week it's all about Thanksgiving and a little introduction to the pilgrims. Since I have the chance to be home all day this week we have a lot of projects planned. :)

Around the house... I'm working on the closets that seem to get out of hand every 4 or 5 months.


I am planning... for Advent. I'm very much looking forward to the season.


Towards a growing faith... Brian and I are continuing our reading in the New Testament, still in Matthew. I'm reading more John Piper on my own.


I am praying... for friends with a big decision to make.

One of my favorite things... early morning quiet.


A few plans for the rest of the week... Lots of time with my boys, time to cook dinner every night this week, spending the holiday with our families over the long weekend...

Early November Daybook

Outside my window... It is cold and crisp and we're waiting on a bit of much needed rain.


I am listening to... Casting Crowns. I'm so not the girl who longs to listen to Christmas Carols all year, but I felt the need to start early this year for some reason. Christmas music it is.


I am wearing... Layers. Lots of layers. Still having furnace wars with friends- you know- who can go the longest without turning the heat on? You're allowed to have the heat on if a baby comes to visit or if it snows. :) Whoever lasts the longest is the winner.


I am thankful for...

The chance to just stay home every day all week long, even though I worked

Ezra's morning cuddling

a few of the most beautiful words I've ever heard "I cleaned my room just for you"

the hard work of my husband

flowers on the table in November

I am thinking... about a friend's words: "We ask God to teach us to be patient or to trust Him but then we get mad when life suddenly gets difficult- isn't it just God giving you opporunities to be patient and trust Him?"


I am reading... The Lost Hero by Rick Riordan (almost done!), a few knitting books stcked up on the night stand, and continuing our family read-aloud of Peter Pan.


I am creating... Christmas gifts and Bible study plans in the evening hours, lesson plans in the early morning.


Always learning... We finished up our study of Asia and we started reading about Australia this week.


Around the house... we were finally able to replace some very leaky windows last weekend and the difference in our heating is already tremendous. Now to replace the trim on the doors, re-paint . . .


I am planning... for Advent. I'm very much looking forward to the season.


Towards a growing faith... Brian and I are continuing our reading in the New Testament, still in Matthew. I'm reading more John Piper on my own.


I am praying... for my boys. Always for my boys.


One of my favorite things... desert for breakfast. Mmmmm...


A few plans for the rest of the week... finishing out the week in the studio, working on the house, and hopefully lots of artwork and knitting time this weekend!

October Daybook

Outside my window... It is cloudy and wet. I'm hoping for a bit of sunshine today.

I am listening to... K-Love, very low in these early hours. I'm waiting to hear little feet on the stairs.

I am wearing... Jeans and a long sleeve t-shirt and I've been wrapped up in a blanket while I read scripture this morning. That's becoming an every morning thing lately while we're playing the furnace game- it's not cold enough long enough in the mornings to justify turning the heat on, but it makes getting out of a warm bed quite hard most mornings!

I am thankful for...

temporary work for my husband

two little boys that I love tremendously

the gracious and kind spirit of my mother-in-law even while she waits for difficult news.

I am thinking... About the will of God. How He gives us opportunities to obey, and how often we ignore them.

I am reading... The Lost Hero by Rick Riordan, Home Learning Year by Year, and we finished our family read-aloud of The Wizard of Oz last night. We're planning to begin Peter Pan this evening.

I am creating... Winter items still. Down to the last bit of ribbing on one of Ender's mittens and then still have the second to go. Hopefully both pairs of mittens will be finished by the end of the weekend, soon to be followed by the hats.

Always learning... Last week we read about trees and why leaves change in the fall, followed by some autumn crafting. This week we're jumping into a few books about our bodies. We've also been learning about Asia and the animals and people that live there, specifically about Korea since my sister C and her husband will be moving there in about a year to serve as missionaries. I'll share more about that unit study when we finish it!

And the thing Ender deems "very most important"- learning to tie his own shoes. He is so very close to accomplishing this task and he's practicing half the time before he's even had breakfast.

Around the house... I hesitate to say this, but . . . I think for this temporary moment I have almost every room organized in a way that makes me feel like our cozy little house is just a bit bigger . . . there are still two closets that need work and I'm sure when I finish there will be somewhere else that needs attention...

I am planning... Nothing. :) Our homeschool has taken on a very nice shape of forward progress in math, reading, writing and religion every single morning, and the rest of our school time is productive even if it isn't predictable. Art, science, our continent plans, it's all happening without a plan behind it so I'm going with it.

Towards a growing faith... Brian and I began reading through the New Testament together a few weeks ago a chapter or two at a time a few nights a week. It is interesting to see these words through his eyes. I was raised in the church and know many of these passages by heart, but he was not, and there is still so much new-ness there. I've also begun a study one night a week with two of my sisters as a chance to talk and pray together with our focuses on our husbands, children and homes.

I am praying... for the new faith and clarity of a dear one. Oh, let this return to God be true and good!

One of my favorite things... stealing a few quick stitches on stealthy Christmas projects now and then!

A few plans for the rest of the week... A trip to donate our "extras" and as much time outside as we can manage since I have a very light week in the studio this week and have 3 free afternoons this week!

Recovering Daybook

Outside my window... We've had storms every night for a few nights now, so our mornings are very cool and windy this week.


I am listening to... back to Steven Curtis Chapman's Beauty Will Rise.

I am wearing... Jeans and a black long sleeve tee. Simple and easy is the motto this week.
I am thankful for...

My sweet Ezra who cuddles with me every single morning.

Ender's new found independence (this kid is trying new htings right and left thses days- quite the opposite of the little one he was just 6 months ago!)

A husband at home with us, instead of several states away.

I am thinking... about God's grace. ALWAYS about grace.
I am reading... The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo and A Charlotte Mason Companion by Karen Andreola. Our family read aloud is Alice in Wonderland (tonight will be our final chapter!) and then on to The Wizard of Oz.

I am creating... I'm having a little stand off with the mitten thumbs right now, so I started the hats for the boys. Ezra's is the fish hat, and Ender's is this sweet elephant hat. [rav links]

Still in progress: the KAL shawl and a baby gift for a little one due any day now!

Always learning... We are still taking advantage of being outside before icy weather starts up, so there isn't a lot of "real work" going on here. Instead, we're collecting pine cones, comparing leaves and going on long walks.

Around the house... with our recent lay off news the remodel is on hold a bit. We are still replacing the two broken windows since those are necessary, but the other windows, the paint and other "freshening up" decorating will have to wait.

I am planning... on nothing for awhile. After last week I'm counting on nothing to be what it actually is.

I am hoping... that the job that is supposed to come through on Monday actually does and commits to the full project they have planned. It would mean a solid year of work for Brian. This project has been "supposed to start" for a few weeks now, then was announced to be premanently on hold, but now is slated to start 9/27.
I am praying ... for steady employment for my husband. He has worked in this industry for almost three years, and while there have been slow weeks and even a slow month here and there, there have never been periods of "no work". The constant back and forth is wearing on both of us and last week was one of the most worrisome for us so far, as it sounded like the company he contracts for would decide to pull out of this city altogether. He has been looking for other work for almost 2 years now. We continue to pray.

One of my favorite things... morning oatmeal now that the days are cooler.

A few plans for the rest of the week... finishing the room swap we started last week, another library trip, an introduction to estimation for Ender, and a quiet calm weekend.

September Daybook

Outside my window... At least 3 lawnmowers. Everyone is getting ready for fall. Our temperatures are already 10 degrees cooler and everything is changing accordingly.

I am listening to... a Blue Whale book on tape. Ender's Blue Whale project has hit week 6.

I am wearing... Jeans and a black button down blouse. I'm adding my shalom sweater later when I start to get cold.

I am thankful for...

The long weekend away with all of my siblings and their spouses and the little baby cousins!

News of a new little cousin joining us next spring

Quiet and adventure in the same trip

Trying something new and *loving* it

I am thinking... about a tiny re-vamp to one portion of our schooling that is taking far too long for a Kindergartener.

I am reading... The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo and A Charlotte Mason Companion by Karen Andreola

I am creating... mittens (still in need of thumbs and lining), the shawl KAL (part way through section 4!), and finishing a sleeve on SOMETHING.

Always learning... We've been sticking strictly with phonics and math only for the last week and then heading outside for the rest of our time while the weather is pleasant. Ender is still firmly occupied with blue whales (though he is starting to branch out into other types of whales) and the most common game around here is "you be krill and I'll be the blue whale. Watch out or I'll eat you!!!"

Around the house... we are getting ready for a bit of a remodel. We have plans for new windows after some were broken in a storm, a new coat of paint for several rooms, and hopefully some new flooring for the kitchen if we have enough money left over after windows.

I am planning... for fall meals. Right now the plan is for 2 weeks of meals that repeat through November and make good use of the crockpot on the days I work later in the evenings.

I am hoping... for a bit of grace as we adjust to Brian's new work schedule, the beginning of the studio's full schedule, and a little change to our schooling.

One of my favorite things... playing Acquire and Settlers of Cattan into the late hours with my brothers (which only happens once or twice a year).

A few plans for the rest of the week... getting all the vacation laundry caught up, a room swap, getting back into the swing of a full time work schedule, and flag football for the boys (I'm pretty sure that is going to be a riot!).

Daybook

Outside my window... the late night noises that usually mean peace, but right now? Loneliness.

I am listening to... the Wicked soundtrack. We saw the musical on Broadway a few weeks ago and I have had the music in my head ever since.

I am wearing... A black tea-length skirt with white polka dots and a black peasant blouse. Bare feet to beat the heat, even at this time of night.

I am thankful for... a certain brother-in-law of mine who has found time in his busy schedule to come and wrestle with the boys when they're particularly missing Daddy.

I am thinking... about the work we have around the house in the next week before the fall schedule starts. The goal is to get a few key areas re-organized so they'll function a little better for us in the coming months.

I am reading... The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo and another time through Knitting Around by Elizabeth Zimmermann.

I am creating... mittens (still in need of thumbs and lining), a baby sweater (an inch from the end of the body, then sleeves), and the shawl KAL (almost done with step 2, almost into step 3!). I'm in a finishing mood now, so I'll try to finish the mittens and and baby sweater this week, and maybe one of the socks in progress.

Always learning... We finished up learning about continents and oceans last week and this week we're starting to learn about the people and animals in Africa.

Around the house... the closets are all calling out for some attention again, so that is first up this week. After that? Well, I'd *really* like to get a new coat of paint on the studio walls, but we'll see if that happens or not.

I am planning... the next few math blocks. I love planning games for Ender.

I am hoping... for continued peace in the house while we wait for Daddy to come home to us.

One of my favorite things... after 2 weeks of my husband working out of state? Skype. It brings Daddy "home" to us every night.

A few plans for the rest of the week... I will be working a little here and there, but otherwise we're tidying the house, learning a lot and doing little things to keep little boys happy while Daddy is gone.

August Daybook

Outside my window… It's dark except for the street lights. It's late and it's been a long day.

I am thinking… about making it through the next 4 weeks. Brian will be gone for most of it for work, and there is a lot to get done in his absence in preparation for the school year.

I am thankful for… very little working hours this month. With Daddy gone the boys will need extra mama love.

Always Learning… We spent last week in NYC and spent a whole day at the American Museum of Natural History. Ender didn't want to leave! Add in visits to the Statue of Liberty, the WTC site and learning to use the subway and you have a boy who thinks we should pick up and move to the big city permanently.

From the kitchen… We have plans for salsa this week, and an attempt at Peach fruit leather.

I am wearing… the comfy-est of pajamas- Brian's old coaching jersey and yoga pants.

I am creating… currently, mittens. 3 each for the boys, and then up on the urgent list is pajamas for the boys, a baby gift for a little one due in October, and work on Christmas gifts... and Ender's birthday is in there somewhere . . .

I am going… to make space for flexibility this month. Yes, we have things to do, but I want to be able to drop everything for sad little boys during Daddy's long absence.

I am reading… The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Steig Larsson, the Story of Dr. Dolittle by Hugh Lofting with the boys, and an assortment of knitting books (I'm diving back into Elizabeth Zimmermann)

I am hoping… that Skype makes his absence bearable.

I am hearing… my mind working overtime.

Around the house… I'm re-working the boys' rooms to try to make a little more space, and I'm doing another re-sort of the basement. Why don't boxes magically disappear when you need them to?

One of my favorite things… Cherry Limeades from Sonic. They put a Sonic in down the street from us and it is taking some serious will power to not hop in the car and go get one every. single. day.

A few plans for the rest of the week... I'm finishing up my summer work schedule this week and we have plans with family this weekend. Hopefully it keeps little bodies busy and little minds occupied.

Daybook

Outside my window…
Another humid morning. Maybe we’ll stay around 90 F instead of hitting more like 95 F.

I am thinking…
about Ezra’s poor chin! On Friday we were out running our weekly errands and he fell at the grocery store. He fell into the edge of the dairy case and cut his lip and the bottom of his chin as well as his teeth puncturing the inside of his lip. After 5 hours in the ER the outside gashes were sealed with Dermabond and we’re keeping an eye on the wounds inside his mouth and trying to protect his chin as much as we can.

I am thankful for…
an unexpected but good family trip next week, complete with my husband coming along!

Always Learning…
Grandparents gifted us with a telescope recently so we’ve been checking out the stars! Ender has been really good at finding the Big Dipper the last few days. We got a few books too, and we’re checking out some more constellations.

From the kitchen…
We made strawberry jam last week and this week I’m planning an adventure into hand pies. It may or may not go well since I don’t have a ton of experience with pastries, but we’ll try it and see how it turns out!

I am wearing…
my blue tree skirt, a white shirt and knee socks.

I am creating…
Sleeves. This is the week of finishing sleeves- I have 2 one-armed sweaters in need of a second sleeve, and I still haven’t finished a sleeve for my Tappan Zee Cardigan yet.

I am going…
to stay home and try to keep everyone cool this week. We’ve been going to swimming lessons every day for the past 2 weeks and I’m ready for a few weeks of not having to go anywhere.

I am reading…
Sweater Quest by Adrienne Martini, which has proven to be a really interesting read for me, but explaining what it’s about to a non-knitter, well . . . that’s *really* difficult.

I’m also reading the new Jacqueline Carey book, Naamah’s Curse and Don’t Waste Your Life by John Piper.

I am hoping…
That the rain will stop so that something will actually grow. Everything we’ve planted this year has been drowned out, except for the gerber daisies on the back deck. I’m going to have to see about new tomato plants or give up for this year.

I am hearing…
Steven Curtis Chapman, Beauty will Rise.

Around the house…
I’m trying to maintain all the reorganizing that’s been going on lately.

One of my favorite things…
Our fresh strawberry jam . . . mmmmm . . .

A few plans for the rest of the week...
A trip to the doctor for a checkup for Ezra, a special program at the library, packing for the trip, and then getting away with my family!

Rainy May Daybook

Outside my window…

It's still dark and wet from the huge storms we had all weekend. Our front yard looks like swampland.

I am thinking…

about how wonderfully light our summer schedule will be!

I am thankful for…

Quiet time in the morning. Me, coffee, and writing. What a lovely way to start the day!

Always Learning…

We're re-organizing shelves and supplies this week. We're still between projects (I think this may be our longest "between" stretch all year) so we're mostly just reading through the most recent assortment of library books.

From the kitchen…

Back into some healthier habits for me and Brian. During school this semester we were having a hard time with meals since he was hardly home for any! Between the two of us we were able to pack some of the meals, but since he doesn't have access to any way to heat his food at work, it kind of limited his options. We're getting back to healthier habits now that he won't be in school during the dinner hour any more!

I am wearing…

jeans, a brown sweater, and a pony tail. Plain and ordinay today, but comfy for the rainy day.

I am creating…

another little baby sweater, this time for the nephew due to arrive in August.

  

I am going …

to get to bed early this week. I need the extra sleep lately.

I am reading…

The Graceling by Kristin Cashore, and also Leven Thumps and the Gateway to Foo by Obert Skye. The first is a little slow so far, and the second is amazingly descriptive. I have laughed out loud a few times because I can see so precisely in my mind what the author is writing about.

I am hoping…

for a bit drier weather before the strawberries drown!

I am hearing…

the quiet of the morning. No music, no television-- more on that tomorrow.

Around the house…

I'm enjoying the fruits of the re-organized house! There are only a few things left before it is completely done- our coat closet, and my work desk. Both are a little scary.

One of my favorite things…

Hot chocolate on a rainy morning..

A few plans for the rest of the week . . .

a trip to the library, establishing a new morning routine with the boys, and planning a new quiet place in our home.

Getting Ready for Graduation Daybook

Outside my window…

Bright sun. We'll probably get into the low 80s again today, which is lovely for the tomatoes we planted over the weekend.

I am thinking…

about all the details for Superman's graduation, the graduation party, and taking care of out-of-town guests coming in for the special event.

I am thankful for…

the end of these long two years with my husband back in school. The result has been so worth it, and it was the best time to do it, but I won't lie- it has been difficult. I described it the other day to a friend as feeling like we've been living with a ghost for much of this time. Between work and school Superman was only home a few nights a week and even when he was home he wasn't really available to us. Time as a family had to be carefully planned. I can't even describe how happy I am to know the simple fact that when he's home he's actually home.

Always Learning…

We’ve been planting things and taking care of the yard. On my to-do list is gathering a few garden titles for our latest learning basket.

From the kitchen…

Friday will be the big cooking day! We're having guests Friday night and the graduation on Saturday so my sister is coming over Friday morning to help me chop vegetables and cut fruit and get ready to barbecue Friday night.

I am wearing…

my cleaning clothes- track pants and an old t-shirt. This morning I'm finishing the last of the re-organizing and getting the lower level dust and dirt free.

I am creating…

Idea lists for future projects Ender might be interested in, and choosing what we will learn from the tour of continents in the fall. I'm also setting up a little schedule for Ezra who *desperately* wants to be part of school with us, so I'm setting up a new list of montessori work for him.

  

I am going …

to make time or quiet this week. We are busy but not rushed, and having a bit of quiet of the end of the day really helps my introverted self keep recover from all the craziness.

I am reading…

I picked up a few YA award and Mark Twain Nominees at the library this week. I'm starting with Graceling by Kristin Cashore.

I am hoping…

for a great weekend celebrating Superman's accomplishment!

I am hearing…

Little boys building towers together. I love to listen in on their conversation when they think I'm not paying attention.

Around the house…

We've been working hard on the re-organizing/spring cleaning over the last few weeks, and I'm happy to say that there are only 2 areas left to go! The kitchen (which is in decent shape because I worked on it over Christmas break) and the laundry room/pantry (which is a scary place to visit right now). I'm trying to finish those areas before Friday.

One of my favorite things…

Quiet time to myself in the morning to pray and read before the boys get up.

A few plans for the rest of the week . . .

GRADUATION DAY!!!

Mama's Sick Daybook

Outside my window…

Another bright day so far. We are expecting rain this afternoon though, so we're trying to get outside for as long as we can this morning.



I am thinking…

about an organized house. Hopefully mine. I'm trying to tackle some definite problem areas this week and see if I can squeeze a little more space out of our small house.

I am thankful for…

My husband who spent his day off yesterday wrangling kids, keeping up on laundry and dishes and taking care of my sick self.

Always Learning…

We've had several little conversations about healthy food this week and made some healthy snack cards to help us to remember which kinds of snacks are good snacks to ask for and which ones are not. We always seem to need a post-holiday reminder.

From the kitchen…

A lot of homemade since I am not teaching in the studio this week! I made and froze some soup on Monday, but I was done yesterday with this evil cold. I'm hoping to get back into the kitchen today with some tacos and maybe a lasagna to freeze for another day.



I am wearing…

my lazy "I'm sick" clothes: hoody, terry cloth pants and fuzzy socks.

I am creating…

A new spring cleaning plan since the ones I made up last week aren't actually starting until today since I was unexpectedly sick yesterday (and still today a little. Bleh!) . So I'm revising this morning and trying to figure out what I can actually get done with the time left.

 

I am going …

to stay home this week. Between the inside spring cleaning to be done and the outside yard work there is more than enough to do!

I am reading…

A first novel by a friend of mine, more Elizabeth Zimmerman (have to decide what to knit next!), and still working on The Queen’s Governess by Karen Harper. The last title isn't as well written as some of the other Tudor fiction I've read in the last year, and it's actually a little dry for fiction reading.

I am hoping…

for a great burst of energy in the next few days while I have the time to get a few extras done around here.



I am hearing…

K-Love. Ever since our t.v. broke we've been in the habit of having K-love on most mornings. This station is such a blessing to our family!



Around the house…

Big plans, but nothing accomplished yet. Hopefully I'll have exciting things to share by the end of the weekend. I'm planning a total revamp of our learning area after seeing the awesome simplicity of Sarah's system. It is where my heart was heading anyway, but seeing Sarah's orderly shelves in place renewed my resolve for simplicity in our schooling and in our organization.

One of my favorite things…

Hot tea,which has been my dearest friend these last 36 hours.



A few plans for the rest of the week . . .

A trip to the library by the end of the weekend and a transformed house. That's enough for one week, I think!

A Sunny Daybook

Outside my window…

It is bright and cheerful already at 8 a.m. We're looking forward to another warm day- we're supposed to hit 80 F again. Our pollen count has been very high these last few days and I've been really feeling the effects. I think Ender has been too.

  

I am thinking…

about the recital this Sunday. Everything is as ready as it can be as of today. I'll be printing programs on Saturday, then it comes down to setting everything up on the day of the event. I'm looking forward to this event, but maybe looking forward a little more to it being over!

I am thankful for…

My mom who understands that this week is stressful . . . so she came over and did my dishes and a bit of laundry to help me keep up at home.

Always Learning…

This week has been interesting for us! We've been invited to be part of the local homeschooling association and also talked to a friend about getting together once a week for nature study. Ender signed up for teeball this summer and we need to pick weeks for swimming lessons. I feel like we've gone from zero outside activities to suddenly several. We are praying for discernment as to which opportunities we should take advantage of, and which would mean too much on our schedule.

From the kitchen…

This week has been a week of treats- cookies for another family, brownies, and plans for more cookies.

There has also been a LOT of picnic making!

I am wearing…

a green skirt, white shirt, and a cardigan. The mornings are a bit on the cool side this week, but by 2 p.m. I'll be too warm for the cardigan.

I am creating…

A February baby sweater for my neice.

new Pajamas for my boys that grow like CRAZY.

Shorts for Ender.

Spring cleaning plans due to start next  Monday!

  

I am going …

to take the space I need this week. I usually spend Supeman's class evenings working on the things that need done around here, but this week I'm knitting, and occasionally just sitting and gathering my thoughts.

I am reading…

Lemony Snicket books (which are incredibly short, I found out!) and The Queen's Governess by Karen Harper- another set in the Tudor household while Anne Boleyn is around.

I am hoping…

for great weather next week so we can work in the yard while I have a free week. The boys are very excited to help me plant flowers this year! (It's all Ender has talked about for almost 2 weeks now!

I am hearing…

Mickey Mouse Clubhouse for the first time in ages. Our t.v. broke several weeks back so any episodes that have been watched have been me and Superman watching on the computer. My brother-in-law B. works for a moving company, and a client was leaving a t.v. behind and offered it to him for free! He picked it up and passed it on to us. We do watch some t.v. around here, but we've been so in the habit of not watching that we've only used it a few times since getting the new one.

Around the house…

I'm keeping up with the dailies for this week, but Monday starts the deep spring clean. I'm looking particularly at my laundry room/pantry that somehow became a "catch all" room in the last few months. I tackled the boys' rooms over the weekend and also started on the linen closet. My goal is to have the whole house done by May 1st.

One of my favorite things…

This February sweater gull pattern. The 4 rows are easy to memorize and I have not gotten tired of it, even though this is my second February sweater in a row.

A few plans for the rest of the week . . .

A trip to the library, knitting a lot (as stress relief!), and the big performance this weekend!

Gray Daybook

Outside my window…

It is gray and cool again today. It rained much of yesterday and it looks like it's going to spit on and off again today.

I am thinking…

about mini-units for Kindergarten. I'm making plans for an About Me unit (learning our address, phone number, city, and other things about our family), and compiling some book lists for science topics Ender has mentioned lately.

I am thankful for…

Quiet evenings. Since we've been able to get outside more readily my boys have been falling asleep quickly and easily at night, making for the quiet evenings I'm needing lately.

Always Learning…

Ender has been reading a lot of easy readers lately and getting the hang of recognizing sight words a little more quickly. He's also been really involved with helping me plan for the garden this year.

Ezra has been lining everything up lately. I mean EVERYTHING- toys, shoes, pillows . . . he started categorizing some things too- stacking little books together, big books together, etc.

From the kitchen…

Not a lot lately, to be honest. I'm having a bit of a hard time adjusting to the schedule for this quarter, but I'm hoping to catch up over the weekend. We have plans to make bagels and prep a few meals for later in the week.

I am wearing…

Jeans, a black long sleeve t-shirt and my blue Shalom cardigan.

I am creating…

Lots of booklists.

The first sleeve of my February Lady Sweater. (!!!)

Easter surprises for the boys.

I am going …

to make it through the next three weeks. That's when the annual recital for the studio is- and I have 55 individual performances. Between now and then there are the programs to design and have printed, reception details to finalize, hands to hold, nerves to calm . . . It all gets done somehow every year. Every year it comes together in time. And every year I still stress the same way!

I am reading…

The Last Olympian by Rick Riordan and looking through a GIANTstack of knitting books from the library.

I am hoping…

To get my Easter ideas for the boys to come to fruition- I'm trying to find as much spare knitting time as I can!

I am hearing…

Episodes of The Guild. Again with the geekiness.

Around the house…

We are still in spring cleaning mode a little bit each day so that by the time we  can have the house opened up full time everything will be clean.

One of my favorite things…

Green apple shampoo. It's the best smell to me first thing in the morning!

A few plans for the rest of the week . . .

A bit of work on the recital, hopefully finishing knitting one Easter gift, and making a much needed run to the library.

March Daybook

 

Outside my window…

The temperature peeked above freezing for a little bit over the weekend and faked my daffodils into thinking they can come up. I truly hope there is no more snow so they really do have a chance.

 

I am thinking…

About spring menus and celebrations (4 anniversaries, 3 birthdays, and a variety of holidays) and changing up the house for a fresher look. Maybe this is some special disease I have, but I get a little itchy if I don't move the furniture around every once in awhile for something different.

I am thankful for…

Good books. Home Education, knitting, cooking, fiction . . . whatever I need can be found in a book.

Always Learning…

Our current explorations are still in space (with a heavy concentration on telescopes), and Ender just asked for the DK Eyewitness Elephant book, so that may be where we're headed next. Ender wrote a long page of K's yesterday for some reason, and he's been measuring everyone and everything again and writing down every measurement he comes up with.

Ezra has been crazy busy with his cutting basket. He asks to cut paper the second  his little eyes pop open in the morning. Scissors and a glue stick are his best friend lately (closely supervised of course!).

From the kitchen…

I'm still on a big soup kick lately. We had chicken gumbo last night . . . mmmmm . . . I think there will be gumbo leftovers for lunch!

I am wearing…

A jean skirt, red long sleeve t-shirt and black cardigan. Knee-high argyle socks because I love weird socks and the argyle stands out to Superman every time.

I am creating…

Spring spaces and book stacks- St. Patrick's day has it's own basket this year. Also, still knitting on the Talia vest and the red socks. I'm down to the last ankle, so hopefully I'll have finished socks by Friday's quick takes!

I am going…

to keep my focus. I know that may sound silly, but focus has been a big word around here lately. If I know what's going on before the boys get up our day goes a million times smoother.

I am reading…

The White Queen by Philippa Gregory and Knitter’s Almanac by Elizabeth Zimmerman. A lot of books about planets with the boys.

I am hoping…

For some time in my kitchen. I got to cook a bunch over the weekend and remembered how much I love it and miss it.

I am hearing…

The soundtrack to the Buffy musical Once More with Feeling. I'm such a geek.

Around the house…

I'm all too eagerly getting ready for spring. I may have pulled some spring-ish clothes out of storage for the boys and I've been sketching for spring sewing. The house got a bit of spring cleaning too- I just can't wait any longer!

One of my favorite things…

Caesar wraps. I've had one every day for lunch for the last few days. Tastes like spring.

A few plans for the rest of the week . . .

Helping Superman get through finals (only one more quarter to go!!!), finishing the red socks, getting outside, clearing the desk so I have a shot at piecing quilt blocks that have been cut but not pieced for far too long.

February Daybook

Outside my window…  

it LOOKS like spring, but it's so cold that walking outside sucks the breath out of you. Thank goodness spring is in the distance.

I am thinking… 

about knitting constantly these days. I've finished several things in the last few days (including the Stella Pixie hat seaming and a second Jayne hat) and I'm ready for a new cast on tonight. Most likely a hat for myself , but I also haven't knit socks in awhile so I'm thinking about that . . .

I am thankful for…

a family that prays. We wait and we pray, together and apart.

Always Learning…

books, books, and lots of books. We're still reading about winter and hibernation, but we also picked up some simpler books about George Washington and Abraham Lincoln for president's day. We are suspending most of our Montessori work this week for something very exciting- Ezra is switching to underwear full time!  He's been doing really well with staying dry 3-4 hours at a time, and in the last two weeks he's been waking up dry in the mornings most of the time. We're taking that as a sign that he is ready for this last step in potty learning.

From the kitchen…

LOTS of soup. It's the very best way to keep warm I think.

I am wearing…

Jeans, a black long-sleeved tee, and another t-shirt on top. Two pairs of socks. Layers are my friend these days.

I am creating…

aside from the knitting? Space. We re-arranged Ezra's room this weekend to accomodate a bigger dresser, and I'm continuing the toss 15 project in a big way, even though I finished with the 30 day scope of the project. It gives me a hint at control to keep our home a certain way while so many other things are uncertain. Again- we pray. And I clean a lot.

I am going…

to continue the attitude of quiet and order we've fallen into in the last two weeks. Everyone is more calm.

I am reading…

Santa Olivia by Jacqueline Carey and Knitter's Almanac by Elizabeth Zimmerman.

I am hoping…

that Superman starts getting calls on some of the resumes he has been submitting.

I am hearing…

Casting Crowns. Loving them lately.

Around the house…

still organizing, but mostly just keeping up with the day. Potty learning has been a bit time consuming lately.

One of my favorite things…

Carmel Apple Spice from Starbucks. No caffeine, just lots of yumminess. And the fact that I received two Starbucks giftcards makes picking one of these up every few days far too easy.

A few plans for the rest of the week . . .

Trying to get back to an earlier bedtime (for Mama), waiting on our new little cousin to come any day now, and lots of knitting, I'm sure.