Bella's booty

Last week brought morel hunting with Grandma Joyce. We brought the kids and three dogs on a two hour hike through the woods and found beautiful mushrooms (well, as beautiful as a dry year can produce!)! Here's Bella with one of our treasures:

 

First Grade Graduate

I realized today how long it has been since I posted photos of the kids! Wanna know why? I haven't emptied my memory card for A MONTH! Yep. A month. So, without further a-do...
Here is Doodle's biggest news of the month thus far...

 

... He is a first-grade graduate! Doodle, we are SO proud of you and all you have learned this year. Here ends our formal teacher/student relationship (at least at this juncture) and, ya know, that is heart-warming, and makes me sentimental all at once. You are going to do GREAT in public school, buddy. I love you!

Well yesterday was extremely productive- Thank you, Lord!- so Doodle, Bella and I are off to visit Jake's parents and brother at the farm. While we are gone, Lord willing, the forms will be built and concrete will be poured for the basement. When I get back I am hoping to photo document the process, thus far, here at Doodles. I know, edge-of-your-seat excitement and FREE!

For those curious, tomorrow the baby will reach 5 1/2 inches (the length of a large sweet potato) and about 7 ounces. I can feel her/him flutter kick when I lay down at night (my still moment of the day) and there's no questioning whether or not I am pregnant. I just popped right out over the last week. Thank you to my sweet sisters in law (Laura, Cori) for the maternity clothes! I settled them all in the closet yesterday and I am set, thanks to you two and a few good garage sales!

Take Care, all! We'll catch up in a few days!

In the wake

Well, my plate is full today.
I have a two-yr-old visiting for the day.
Yesterday's excitement is over, but left in its wake a pile of undone laundry, dirty floors, boxes to be gone through, dirty bathrooms, dishes, clothes sorting and more.
Floors and dishes are done and I'm praying for the Lord to direct the rest.
What is it YOU want done today, Lord?

Monday, Monday

The good news?

The excavator is here!
I have been meaning to clean and purge our utility (storage) room for a couple of months now, and I have the opportunity!

The bad news?

I HAVE the opportunity because a line was accidentally hit that brings water our to our wood boiler. Our utility room is under 2 inches of water. The lines broke right above the shelves that hold our camping gear (sleeping bags, tents...) and our keepsakes from childhood. What does the Bible say about holding loosely to the things of this world?

I'll be downstairs until further notice.

Walla Walla, anyone?

So today the baby has reached the size of a large onion. Approximately 5 oz. and 5 inches long. However, to this point, I have gained 5 pounds total. (Where's the justice!?) Seeing as how I am 17 weeks along out of 40 total weeks, I figure I will gain a grand total of 11.76 pounds. You know, when you cross-multiply and divide. ;)(insert snickers. Or Snickers... yum.)
The tough news is that I have had my heart set on finding out the gender via ultrasound which our doctor has always done between 18 and 20 weeks. Yesterday he informed me he would do it at 24 weeks... which is late June/ early July. That's a long time, people!

I have felt the baby move just a few brief moments. I really don't sit still very often, so I am sure it moves more frequently, I'm just not paying attention. Sometimes I can see a baby belly plain as day, and other days I can't even tell it's there (usually in the morning). That's about all the news I have for you on the gestation front.

Tomorrow is the long awaited "Garage sale day" (insert angelic "Ah-ha's"). I will share a portion of my list with you, though like last year, I am sure I will find many treasures that I am forgetting I need until I see them. Here goes:

1.Shoes, shoes, boots and more shoes for all three kids.
2.an umbrella stroller (never had one, believe it or not. Spoiled baby of the family. :) )
3. a hot thermos
4. a bigger cold beverage thermos (1 gal+)
5. rollerblades for Noodle
6. a bathroom scale (again, never had one!)
7. bedside lamps
8. Little House books
9. an aluminum bat (or a few of them)
10. brown dress sandals for me
11. sawhorses
12. a sled (or a few of them)
My youngest SIL os making her maiden voyage with us, and seems to be up to the rigors of the day. :) She and her family should be arriving later tonight.

God has been so good to us. I am so thankful for health. For friends. For family. For the beauty of His creation. For new life. For the joy children bring. For this new little life inside me. Thank you, Lord.

Dances With Skunks-Now on DVD

Well, due to the precious avocado I am incubating, I will not be able to join friends in doing the May Day weight loss challenge. I do however, hope to control the weight gain with this pregnancy, and hope to not retain "our little caboose" with a big ol' caboose of my own.

So, with that in mind I set out for a walk this morning, met up with a friend for a bit, and then parted ways to head to our own homes. I walk a little frontage-type road and was admiring all the new green life in the ditch when out of the corner of my eye I saw movement. About 5 feet away in the middle of the road was a skunk, precariously tiptoeing on it's front feet- rear in the air. I took a quick step back, then side stepped slowly along the road, trying to look as non-threatening as I could. Without the release of any aroma, he started waddling away. He took the opposite ditch to the nearest culvert with me crossing to watch him until he was out of sight.

So there you have it. My brush with nature on a lovely Wednesday morning.

I made delicious mango/banana smoothies for breakfast- just the fruit and milk. Oh, were they good! Now off to do the bills in which I will sweat off any water weight I am carrying. :) I have a baby check this afternoon. Stay tuned for the produce update tomorrow!

Ahhh...

Do you hear the satisfaction in that sigh?
Doodle, Bella and I spent a good part of the day purging their toys. We started with a messy, overflowing, disorganized basement family room and now have a clean, orderly place where, hey, ya know, I think they could actually PLAY with the toys that remain.

We sorted movies and books. We consolidated toys and re-containerized what remained. I wish I had before and after pics. Honestly, though, my first reaction upon going down there was to throw up a little bit in my throat, not to grab the camera.

A good vacuum and dust will complete the makeover.

*** Note, speaking of vacuum, my dear husband fixed our saggy-belted vacuum that has been stinky and non-effective since he was out east! It now purrs like a kitten and sucks like, well, a Hoover.***

I am officially getting in on a garage sale in early June. I have a pile accumulating and today's booty doubled it.

Not to tackle that wretched utility room. Inspiration- come find me!

Another fabulous Mother's Day gift would be...

I would just love for someone more techno-savvy than myself to design my blog! I've got it all envisioned... but I'll save the details for later. Good Luck to all! :)

10 things meme

OK, I was bad at posting the last meme De(de) threw my way so I am going to do this one so she doesn't hold a grudge forever (he he... you have to read her list to get that one!).

I am to list ten facts about me or habits that I have, and then am supposed to tag ten of you to play along. I haven't done this for a long time, so I may repeat, and I don't think there are ten of you out there who read this blog and have your own (or haven't already been tagged by De), so if you want to play along, please do, and leave a comment so I can read them!

1. I hate feet. Especially other peoples feet. I even wince when I have to trim the kids toenails. The boys both do their own now. Dry feet are the worst... On me and others. ugh.

2. I go through deodorant very slowly. Though I DO wear it daily, Jake goes though 2 or 3 sticks to my one. (Let me know if you are a friend who has noticed I don't put enough on. I do want to know.)

3. There are only 4 foods I don't like (I think). Milk, cake, frosting and coconut. I am a very adventurous eater and will try just about anything that isn't in the "Fear Factor" realm.

4. I love hiking and walking. I would take a hike daily if time allowed.

5. I was adopted at 2 months old. I have found my birth mother, but once my curiosity about her was fulfilled I am no longer in touch with her. I have a GREAT God-given family and have no desire to pursue a relationship with my birth mom. There are many more emotions to that all than I ever knew existed. I still don't understand them all! :) I DO know that I am very full with all God has blessed me with.

6. I *LOVE* garage sales and most of what I wear is from them. Not everything... but at least an item a day.

7. I get carsick when I am not in the front seat. Be warned. :) It's manageable... I usually just need to open a window and get air when I start to feel queasy.

8. I can't stand waking up to a dirty kitchen.

9. I love to shower and take L-O-N-G showers. Daily.

10. I took 8 years of piano lessons. I also played the oboe for 8 years with stints on the cymbals, alto sax, and bass drum for marching band.

There you go! Probably not new for most of you. Play along!!! I dare you.

Have I mentioned I love contests?

This would be a fun Mother's Day gift! Good Luck!!!

Happy Trails!

This bloggity lady is packing up and shipping out bright and early! I get to board an airplane- NO KIDS- just my MIL and I and we are headed west. Gonna get ourselves a homestead. Oh, no wait. That's On the Shores of Silver Lake, the book I'm reading with Bella. Well, we're headed west anyway and greeting the tiniest member of the Dahl family. Not that I'm counting, but we leave here- KID FREE- in 15 hours.

So Hasta La Vista, all. I will report sometime next week how the travels of a cooped-up-mommy went. :)

Disclaimer: I love my children beyond words. I WILL miss them. They are well cared for and loved immensely. Just clarifying.

The Welcome Wagon

Whoo Hoo! We have Daddio back home at the Dahl house- Welcome home, Jaker!

And a big WELCOME to our newest neice, born today in the Wydaho region (I'll wait for her mommy and daddy to introduce her)! I can't wait to give her Mommy a big hug for a job well done! See you Thursday, Baby girl! Your Auntie Molly, Uncle Jake and all your Wisconsin cousins love you already!

Hallelujah!

I just have to say praise the Lord for 75 degree weather! Despite the dreadfully dirty laundry it produces, I love it. Clorox II, Biz and Oxydol on on the top of my Walmart list this week.

We have my wonderful college roomie's kiddos here for a couple days and at about 10am the girls came running up to me and said, "We loved having a bubble bath together last night, so we're trying to get really dirty so we need another one tonight!"

I was truthfully able to say, "Mission accomplished. Now you can play cleaner."

Ha!
Sandbox, trampoline, sandbox, trampoline, sandbox, trampoline... You get the picture.

Back to the citrus fruits!

Ahh ha! I was sadly mistaken! The citrus comparisons continue. We have two more whole weeks of edible comparisons before I need to storm the produce section with a tape measure.
So the baby is lemon-sized this week. We have officially begun the second trimester, which I am sure is much more of a milestone if you are nauseated. I am pretty sure I have felt baby move the past two days. I think it is the love of Hot Mushroom Dip inspiring him/her to dance. Right, Jaker?
We have had a productive week at the Dahl house. I have much of the yard raked and finished the "Big Clothes Sort" for yet another season. No, shorts are not officially in their dressers yet, but it looks as if they may make an afternoon debut over the weekend as temps will soar (We ARE in Wisconsin, folks) into the 70's! Whoo Hoo!
We are eagerly awaiting the arrival of our newest niece out in the Idaho/Wyoming border area. Next week my MIL and I get to fly out and make her acquaintance. Pray for her anxious parents as they wait on their firstborn!
Well, the weather is beautiful and I have a date with my Doodle. (Noodle is at school and Bella is at a playdate, so Dood and I get to walk to the local ice cream parlor for a treat!) Sorry, friends, but a momma's got to have priorities!

I think I may have had a craving. I don't like to blame things on pregnancy a lot, but yesterday morning I woke up and realized I had been dreaming about a hot mushroom dip I made one time. Throughout the day I thought of it and by the kids bedtime I was chomping at the bit to make it. Besides, Jaker is not a mushroom fan AT. ALL. What better time to make it? We loaded up, I got what I needed and while the kids watch part of a movie I threw it together. I got them in bed and came down to warm, creamy fungi heaven.

Here's the recipe:
(If you are looking for low fat, pass on by... nothing to see here.)

Hot Mushroom Dip/Spread
4 slices of bacon, diced (I've gone to using the Real Bacon Pieces in a pouch- Quick and not so messy!)
1/2 pound fresh mushrooms, chopped
1 med. onion, chopped finely
1 clove garlic
2 T. flour
1/4 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. pepper
1 tsp. soy sauce
1 (8oz) pkg. cream cheese, cubed
1/2 cup sour cream
2 tsp. Worchestershire sauce

Cook bacon until crisp, drain all but 2 T. of drippings to saute mushrooms, onion and garlic in until tender. (Or, just saute in a little olive oil and dump in the easy bacon pieces at the end)
Add flour, salt and pepper, cook and stir for a minute until thickened.
Reduce heat, Add cream cheese, sour cream, and both sauces. Cook on Med low until cheese is melted.
Stir in bacon and serve warm with *Wheat Thins* or veggies.

YUM.
And you've gotta love this packaging, right TA? My favorite words... combined with mushrooms! Heavenly!

Dear Daddy,

We sure miss you. We wanted to write to tell you that everything is going well at home. Doodle has become a "reader rabbit" while you've been away. He read 2 whole books yesterday!



Bella has been strengthening her leg muscles continually...



Noodle has been climbing higher than ever...



And lots of things are growing, like the plants:



and Mama:



We can't wait for you to get home. Mom makes us work a lot more than you do.
Love,
Noodle, Doodle and Bella

High Aspirations

So in school the past couple of days Doodle and I have been talking about jobs. Yesterday we focused on how every job is important. After all, what if garbage collectors and firefighters didn't do their job?

Today we talked about how there are some jobs that most anyone is able to do such as a store clerk, dog walker, or cleaning person. We talked about how some people have to have a lot of specific training for their job such as a nurse, electrician or teacher. (I'm not meaning to start a fight over which jobs are harder or anything... after all ALL JOBS ARE IMPORTANT!!!)

So they had a page where Doodle then had to draw a picture of a skilled field he may want to work in someday. Their examples were a dentist, juggler (Special talent/skill?) and a police officer.

He came to me with pride in his eyes and said, " I came up with a really good one. I really want to play football or work in a bait shop, but if I have to go to special training I want to work here!"

And showed me his sweet little drawing of a red building with golden arches.

"Cause not everyone knows what a double cheeseburger is!"

Our Weekly Update

I promised a break from the fruit venue and here it is... the baby is a jumbo shrimp this week. Three inches from crown to rump. I'm sad to say that I think this is where BabyCenter breaks from the food analogies and just gives length and weight approximations from here on out. We'll continue to keep you updated, as I am sure Thursday brings anticipation throughout Blogland as to the development of our little fetus. :)

In other news we had a great Easter!


Though the boys look less than enthused, I assure you their Easter baskets were found, and not filled with coal, or rabbit pellets, or whatever the bad Easter omen would be.

We are headed into the weekend again! Where does the time go? I'm off to tidy the house. And that only makes it sound like a small, pleasant job.

Happy Thursday, All!

And the fruit salad continues...

Well, the fig has now hit lime status, but I guess not the girth of a lime, but rather the LENGTH of a lime (Knowing our Dahl babies, it very well COULD be the girth of a lime as well). All is well. Still haven't had a lick of "morning" sickness (Thank you, Lord!) and am not to worried about it hitting as we begin week 12! I see the doctor next Tuesday for the first of many in and out visits, Lord willing. Stay tuned as next week we break out of the fruit comparisons!

In other news, the rumor is true and I turned 31 on Tuesday. I have great friends and a great family and that's about all I have to say on that.

We are excited for the coming Easter weekend. A time to see extended family and celebrate the Lord's resurrection! Bella and I are having a packing/laundry extravaganza tomorrow as the guys all party at school. Doodle was invited in to our friend and Pastor's wife's 1st grade classroom for the day. He is thrilled. He and Noodle both get to attend a birthday party following school. Can the day get any better? Jake has to say farewell to his first student teacher tomorrow. He was thankful to have him and I'm sure will be sad to see him go.

We wish you all the happiest of Easter weekends! Travel safe, enjoy family and eat the ears first!

An eight-year hickey

So my driver's license expires tomorrow and I loaded up the troops and headed to the DMV. I hurried them through lunch, hollering into the dining room as I primped- determined that the notorious "nightmare photo" wouldn't be so bad. At one point, while craning to keep the kids on task I burned my neck with the curling iron, but didn't think much of it as I packed books, snacks and sleeping bags for the full afternoon wait I was sure was awaiting us.
We were pleased when we took number 98 and they were on 86. Two chapters of Little House later I was up to bat. All went very smoothly. I got to take the vision restriction off the back of my license, "yes, I will give my organs," "yes, I weigh that... usually," and then off to the little photo curtain, "Cheese" and "Here you go, Molly. Your photo turned out nice!"

"Whew," I thought, "cause I don't renew this for eight more years!"
Then I looked.
And maybe it's just because I'm not into the whole public-display-of-vacuum-like affection thing, but I just don't think the burn gives a "nice" look to the photo.

Contest plug

I have to admit that I sign up for contests. Not like hundreds or anything, but here and there. I think I get it from my dad who religiously entered the Readers Digest Sweepstakes, and more recently that Dream Home one on HGTV. He hasn't won yet, but ya know... SOMEONE has to win, right? The Lord provides. It's not a desparation thing- but just entering a contest here or there for say, a $1000 Gap Gift Card Drawing. I won't even have a chance if I don't enter. I see it as opening the door for His provision. :)

So here are two that are too good to keep to myself.
Try not to laugh when the title for this one pops up! It's gas(oline) for life! Over $50 worth of gas each week for I think like 35 years!

And here's one for the "all the rage" Dyson vacuum.

After all, someone's got to win!

Wrapping up the Week

Well, here you have it. I am carrying a wee one the size of a fig this week. That translates to T-202 days until the addition (physical house addition) must be finished! Ahhh...

For those who don't know the minute-by-minute plans of the Dahl family... We had been looking to do a kitchen remodel this summer and after news of the fig hit, decided quickly that an additional bedroom trumped the need for pretty countertops and floors. So we are looking at (and praying for) putting on an "east wing" master bedroom. Your prayers for wisdom would be greatly appreciated as we begin this project. We are newbies at the building process and it seems a bit daunting at this end.

This weekend holds some time with my mom as she is headed up for a short visit. We hope to shop in the morning and she'll spend some time with Jake and the kids as I head into work tomorrow night.

We've had a rainy, cold end of the week. The days have rushed by and I've spend most of my time in the kitchen, it seems. My aunt had sent me a subscription to "Cooking Light" for about 5 years and I recently compiled two cookbooks of what I thought our family would enjoy from them. So far we have not been disappointed... Mango and Raspberry Crisp, Chocolate Zucchini Bread, Cuban Picadillo, Beef and Barley Soup, Pork Tenderloin Enchiladas, Chicken/Cheesy Noodle Bake... they've all been very good. And what better place to be on a rainy spring day than a warm kitchen? (OK, a comfy chair in front of a fire. Or bed. There are better places.)

De- I am contemplating the Real Moms post. I'm not ignoring you! :)

Take Care. Happy Weekend.

Spring has sprung

Ahh, we enjoyed the beginning of this week when temperatures soared into the upper 70's!! Doodle pulled out his bat and ball and gave me a lesson on the "correct stance" to take when at bat. The poor guy needs to pull up a better pitcher from the minors. He stayed calm and kept giving me pointers. "Mommy, maybe I should just stand over here (moves four ft. to the right), cause it seems like that's where your pitches usually go." I could just squeeze him!! (And did!)



OK! WHO KNOWS HOW TO FIX THIS! I CAN'T SEEM TO "BLOG THIS" FROM PICASA, AND WHEN I LOAD IT FROM BLOGGER, THEY ARE UNALTERED- EVEN UNTURNED! HELP? ANYONE?
***Edited*** Thanks, Tammy!

This is Bella on our beautiful Monday. Contrary to how it appears, she is covered- she just had her leotard ("dancing outfit") on under her poncho. "Cause it's kind of like shorts, right, Mom?" Yeah, kind of. Like the kind you don't wear in public... unless you're five and in your own yard.

Bwhahahaha!

Ok, Shannon linked to this, but if for some sad reason you didn't catch it there- and are in need of a deep abdominal workout... ENJOY.

In which I compare my child to a citrus fruit

This is the size of the baby this week- we're back up to ten weeks. :) She/He is a kumquat. the kids are amazed at the updates in physical development we get each week from Babycenter. Ellie always gushes, "OH, Awww... I just love our baby!!" and gives my very normal abdomen a big cold kiss. I hope the love continues.

Jake and the kids are off to the Basketball banquet at school- a pizza buffet for which I am grateful (not to be in the midst of supper preparation, I mean). After a busy day I am staying home! I hope to go for a walk and then return to pack for a get-away this weekend! Me, and as De put it, forty of my closest friends! :)

We did school today from 8 -10:30!!! Now to some that isn't a biggie at all, but lately we've been starting so late that it takes the whole morning. We're getting down there... 25 lessons in the curriculum to go, but much reading and writing and spelling to teach in the "off-season." (Oh, and gestating and building on an addition, and spring cleaning, and purging of junk, and...) Yeah, we're really never "done."

Life is rolling along here at the Dahl house. We have friends visiting today and you wouldn't know there are any kids here. A gray, drizzly day + Little House + Pollys = quiet. Ahhh.

I am off to get Teriyaki Chicken prepped for supper.

Oh- I got these for my kids for Easter today. Check out the website... The words on these CD's are straight from Scripture, yet a bit more appealing to a little bit older kids than Steve Green's classics "Hide 'em in your Heart." I'm excited to get them! Thank you, Girltalk ladies for the suggestion!

A Wicked good time

We had a great time in Madison. My sister had lots of fun on the agenda for the kids. We mini-golfed, visited the library, went bowling and went to a movie. I got to catch up with my best friend from high school one evening while the kids were in my sister's care. Jake watched more basketball than I previously thought was possible between the State Tournament and NCAA Tournament.

The highlight however came on Saturday when my mom and sister, aunt, cousin and I headed down to Chicago for Wicked. It was SUCH a fun day! We were seeing green and loving it!


Lottie and I and the St. Patty's Day fountain


Lottie, Sara, Me, Mom and Char right after the show!

In which I apologize for neglect- the 18 step plan...

1. I apologize for my delinquency as a Blogger in the past weeks.
2. The ticker at the very bottom of the page is the accurate one.
3. I am at the "tree trunk," "thick middled" stage of pregnancy which feels yucky.
4. But I'm not sick!
5. Doodle was invited to go to school this morning for "Waffle Wednesday."
6. That is why I am blogging at this time of day.
7. I went out late last night and slept very hard upon my return.
8. I am still in a bit of a zone.
9. I need to get out of this zone as I need to pack to get 5 people out of the house in T-minus 8 hours.
10. Here I sit.
11. Thinking surely a milked-down latte wouldn't hurt the kidney bean.
12. The baby is kidney bean-sized this week, moving into a grape on Thursday.
13. I get to see my sissy tomorrow!
14. We are invading her house for FOUR nights!
15. It doesn't seem like I missed telling you about much over the past two+ weeks.
16. It just really flew by.
17. And I'm sorry.
18. For being a delinquent Blogger.

A Winter Wonderland

The kids spent a long late afternoon in the snow yesterday after God dumped us with a foot of fresh powder. Their specialty was "tunnel creation." Here they are with their handiwork!

Delayed Gratification

Well, a visit to my OB and an ultrasound of this peanut brought to light that the peanut is actually lentil-sized yet. Dr. Bob pushed the due date back (insert shrieking "Nooooo...) to Oct 18th, and scheduled another ultrasound in two weeks to check on the little legume. Not exactly the words I was going for. I was hoping more for, "Man, I think you're about 6 months along! No weight gain yet."

On another note, little Bella had her 5-year-old shots. She is terrified of medical procedures. It wasn't pretty, but our nurse was good and for now Bella is completely vaccinated. Hopefully at 12 it won't be quite as traumatic.

I could curl up and nap, but have things to gather for church tonight.
And a lasagna to pop in, thanks to De. What a treat! Thank you so much!!

Well, all is well at the Dahl house. Everyone (Daddy especially) is excited about the baby. Bella and I are headed to the doctors' offices tomorrow. Her to the pediatrician for her 5-year check-up and I to the OB. At least at this point we all have a great relationship with him and there is little anxiety. I'm thankful for our doctor.

Bella had a grumpy day. She has a bit of a cold and just wants her daddy on days like today, which leaves us all wishing he were here. She went to bed early, so hopefully the morning will bring a more chipper Bella.

Doodle and I have been plugging away with school. We are working hard with some high-frequency words. Reading them is easy for him, but spelling is a totally different story. A couple of times I have said, "Close your eyes and picture it," and he seems to do better. I do not learn like he does. He's got me stumped some days. I'm not giving up on him, though. The day will come too soon when he doesn't WANT to curl up in a ball on my lap and "do school just cuddling." :) I'll be sad when it does.

Noodle is doing well in school. He's been jumping rope with a bunch of other 3rd graders at recess for quite awhile now and really seems to enjoy it. Ahh, the sweet innocence. I'd like to bottle him up. :)

I'm off to bed. I'm trying to plug my way through Wicked before we go to see the show in Chicago in March. Very different book. I'm interested in how it will be done onstage.
Good Night for now...

The big news

I'm putting this ticker on the bottom of our page, so you can keep track of where we are at!

Happy Birthday, my Bella!

Our sweetheart, our valentine!
We love you so much, precious girl.
For now, enjoy the thought that all the pink and red, hearts and flowers of this day are all about you.
I won't tell you otherwise.
You are loved.
You are cherished.
You will always be our sweetheart.
We love you, Bellagirl.
(even though you're sideways and your mother can't seem to get you upright.)

A princess and Her Tea Party

Bella had a tea party with her friends this weekend to celebrate turning *FIVE*. Here she is with her fine maidens- in a sea of pink and purple...

And here they are enjoying "tea." We had juice (some had real tea- OH, the faces!), finger sandwiches, grapes and pink cupcakes! What a beautiful group of princesses! Thank you for joining us, beautiful princesses!

A little update

Ahhh... It's Friday.
It's been a weekful! We were busy every night this week. Good things, just busy.
Add together one truck that didn't start (circa 1985, windchills of
-20- it's no surprise, just inconvenient), two away games, one church night, one "working-mama" night, and parent-teacher conferences (1 parent + 1 teacher/parent)- well, that all equals one wife and one husband that didn't see much of each other!

The kids are tucked snugly in their beds. I drank a hot mug o'joe TOO late in the evening (which leaves me able to be awake for my DH's arrival home).

Tomorrow is Princess Bella's FIFTH birthday tea... We did some preparations today and I really should do a little more cleaning in the morning (but I might not- consider yourselves warned!:)). Tomorrow's the boys' last morning of basketball, though. Excuse? maybe. Priorities? definitely. :) (I'm learning, people, I'm learning!)

I really need to post photos soon. Is it bad that I think Noodle's birthday photos from a month ago (Has it really been a month?!?) are still on the camera? Ooh- I'll get on that.

G'night all.

From the Frozen Tundra...

School was cancelled due to an air temp of -20, wind chills up to 50 below here in the northwoods (But not before my diligent husband was at his desk getting report cards finished at 5:45am!). The kids are still snuggled in their beds, I got to have a quiet devotion hour and ahh... another day is before us.

Going with the "freezing" theme of the day, I thought you fellow Wiconsinites might enjoy this- and you who don't hail from the cheese-state may come to appreciate how hard core we are!

Cold vs. COLD
60 above zero:
Floridians turn on the heat.
People in Wisconsin plant gardens.

50 above zero:
Californians shiver uncontrollably.
People in Eagle River sunbathe.

40 above zero:
Italian & European cars won't start.
People in Wisconsin drive with the windows down.

32 above zero:
Distilled water freezes.
The water in Green Bay gets thicker.

20 above zero:
Floridians don coats, thermal underwear, gloves, wool hats.
People in Wisconsin throw on a flannel shirt.


15 above zero:
New York landlords finally turn up the heat.
People in Wisconsin have the last cookout before it gets cold.



Zero:
People in Miami all die.
Wisconsin people close the windows.


10 below zero:
Californians fly away to Mexico
People in Wisconsin get out their winter coats.


25 below zero:
Hollywood disintegrates.
The Girl Scouts in Wisconsin are selling cookies door to door.



40 below zero:
Washington DC runs out of hot air.
People in Wisconsin let the dogs sleep indoors.


100 below zero:
Santa Claus abandons the North Pole.
Wisconsin people get upset because they can't start the Mini-Van.



460 below zero:
ALL atomic motion stops (absolute zero on the Kelvin scale.)
People in Wisconsin start saying..."Cold 'nuff fer ya?"


500 below zero:
Hell freezes over.
Wisconsin public schools will open 2 hours late.

A new "layout"

Those who have updated to blogger beta, check out the "customized look" section. I've been playing with mine, can you tell? On the homepage I just clicked on "Customize your look" and then had fun with different colors from there.

I wish I could use fonts I have stored on my computer- their choices are very limited.

It allows for a few more choices than the old templates- and it was kind of fun. Definitely much easier than before!

Enjoy!

A contest!

I have a confession to make. I LOVE contests. I dream of winning something big. I don't play the lottery or go to casinos- but I do like to sign up to win things. Like this.
Good luck, ya'll.

Hmmm...

Banana tagged me with an interesting thought... "What are 5 things I'd like to do before I die?"

Many who know me well know traveling is at the top of my list. Traveling with my family? Even better. With the exception of the first one, maybe, I'd like to do each one with Jake and the kids at my side.

1) Hike the AT. Probably just part, but I'd love to do it. My brother-in-law did it start to finish, but mom and wife doesn't equal bachelor. I will also never attain his physical fitness level. I'd be satisfied with portions of it. :) (By the time my mothering responsibilities lighten my body will... well, not have lightened.)

2) Visit South America. Machu Picchu and a rainforest.

3) Go on a safari in Africa.

4) Travel through New England in fall... Slowly.

5) See each of my kids into adulthood- Serving the Lord and joyful.

OK, I'm back

After a rocky week of circumstances and illness (the kids), I'm back.

God is so good. He gives strength, peace and hope.

My "theme" for this year (and beyond) is...

Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face,
And the things of earth
Will grow strangely dim,
In the light of His
Glory and grace.

Until further notice...

... "Doodles" will be on hold. No plans for when I will resume at this point. Just know I need to be done for awhile.

For the love of my kids...

I haven't posted a photo of the kidlets for a bit- here's one with my little (6'5") brother when we got to see him at Christmas.

My parents will be here in a couple hours to help us celebrate Noodle's big 0-9! Nine years ago tonight Jaker and I went out to eat at a nice, quiet, Italian restaurant for what would be our last night not being parents. For the rest of our living, breathing days on this earth we will be parents- What a priviledge. A job that is scary and sweet, crazy and rewarding... and all those emotions can land in ten minutes of time!

I have been attached this week to this song off of MWS's most recent CD. Parents, if you HAVEN'T heard it, grab a box of tissues. The piano music is just a beautiful as the words. GET THIS SONG!!!

How to Say Goodbye

tell me when
the time we had slipped away
tomorrow turned to yesterday
and i don't know how

tell me what
can stop this river of tears
it's been building up for years
for this moment now

here i stand
arms open wide
i've held you close, kept you safe
till you could fly
tell me where
the road ahead is gonna bend
and how to harness up the wind
and how to say goodbye

tell me why
why does following your dreams
take you far away from me
and i knew that it would

tell me how
to fill the space you left behind
how to laugh instead of cry
and how to say goodbye

 

Weekend update

Well, Doodle laid low for about an hour Wednesday (just enough time for me to decide we weren't doing school) and then was back to his normal self. So, I don't think he had a stomach virus. We did school Thursday and Friday, and he did well. It takes both of us a bit to get back in the swing of things.

Friday night we went to the Bulldog game, then came home and watched 24 (surprise, surprise!). Jake and the boys got a last minute invite to go fishing in the morning, so our plans of a family day to EC were foiled. Doodle lives to fish (we hope it morphs into a strong desire to fish for men!) and Jake just couldn't pass up this chance to get him out on the ice. Bella and I continued with our plans to shop- so we ate breakfast, loaded up and headed down- only for a stop after a bought of carsickness (her, not me) A package of wipes and a cute new outfit later and we were back in business. I spent my gift card to Eddie Bauer on a cute new pair of pants and a purple shirt (thanks mom!) and Bella found a magnetic Cinderella paper doll set that she bought. We had lunch together and headed home.

We had (they brought in!) friends for supper and then sent our hubbies out for a movie and appetizers. Often the dad around this house doesn't get any guy-time to speak of and it was SO fun to enable it!

Today I got some great mommy-time as my adventurous friend and I hit the trail to the south and did a 4 1/2 mile hike. It. Was. Great. and I could be persuaded to do it again at the drop of a hat. What a gorgeous world our Lord has made!

So, here I sit. All is well with the Dahls. Just Doodling away in our corner of the world. Running the earth- Watching the sky.

Ha ha ha...

I should have known as soon as I typed,"I mean it this time," that I was setting myself up! We are in fact NOT doing school today, either.

My sweet student just threw up.

A new addiction

So we were going to start back with school today, but then I looked around at my house, which looked as though it had thrown up, more than likely due to the obscene amount of sleeping in yours truly has enjoyed over the past week. Ahh. So... we're starting back with school tomorrow. I mean it this time.

And yes, Jaker and I are new addicts to a highly acclaimed series... you guessed it-


Yes, I know we are 5 seasons behind and living under a rock and all that for not having gotten hooked earlier, but enjoying it none-the-less. Thanks, Lottie! :)

Happy New Year!

We had a good, but whirlwind-like holiday season with visits to both sides of the family and friends up-north as well. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you to everyone for having us and for all the amazing gifts! We have all enjoyed a couple days at home now- and man, can we sleep in!
If you have an infant, please skip the next line, as I don't want to hurt feelings-

We have slept until 8:45, 9:00 and 9:40 the past three days. All of us. Ahhh!!!

We got a new game- Whoonu- a Cranium game. It is so much fun! The gist of it is each person has a turn to rank their favorite things. The other day Dawson was ranking 6 things and put "breakfast in bed" as his most favorite. The funny part is, he has never HAD breakfast in bed- just thought it sounded "totally awesome." So, this morning, we put an end to his wonder and served up eggs, toast, oranges and yes, grape juice (his fave) in bed. He was thrilled. I wish I had taken a photo of his face. :)

We brought in the new year in style with friends and games... It was a lot of fun! :) Thanks to all who were here!!!

Tomorrow is back to reality. School. Ahhh. I have some prepping to do. :)

Right now we're still in pj's and spent the morning straightening up and doing each other's hair (just Ellie and I!). The girls are off to watch a new Strawberry Shortcake movie while the boys finish cheering my Badgers to victory over those Razorbacks.

Happy New Year!

A Bloggityville Birthday Announcement!

Go on over and wish this sweet lady a happy birthday today!!!

Tiptoe-ing through the plague

The people around us are falling like flies to a yucky stomach virus. Friday night we had visitors and Saturday morning got a call that their daughter had been sick throughout the night. Saturday the boys played football with friends and after they got home one of the other boys got sick. We went to a party last night and one of the kids who stayed with our kids got sick in the night.

Tis' the season. I'm not sure if we are the carriers and are spreading it to those around us, or if we are iron-wall resilient to whatever this yuck is. I have been staring quizzically at my kids all day... bracing myself for what seems sure to come.

I just hope they don't do it behind the Christmas tree...

Just another day in paradise

I was going to post about the nice little day we had yesterday... but it will have to wait as I have been alerted to the fact that the kitten puked behind- yes *BEHIND*- the Christmas tree.

I quote... "Mom, I thought there was an ornament down behind the tree, but then I got closer and it looked weird, and I realized it wasn't a weird ornament, it was just puke. And I think Mango did it 'cause she was behind the tree. And she was eating the branch."

Enjoy the images you may have of me dealing with said pile... *BEHIND* the tree in the corner. Mmmm...

Ahhhh...

Tonight was the Kidquest and Bible Buddies Christmas program at church. The kids did so well in each of their parts! I will have to share photos soon... but not tonight. I'm pooped.

Just one more holiday production ahead of us now. Sunday both Jake and I are in the Christmas Cantata at church. I've really enjoyed taking part in the theatrical end of it this year and last. Someday I wouldn't mind doing a community production... maybe when my kids can be in one too! :)

We got cookie dough made today... and will maybe cut out and bake sugar and gingerbread cookies tomorrow evening. Doodle, Bella and I are headed to "A Little Princess Christmas" tomorrow morning (Daws kind of groaned at the title, but when he found out it was a play, he was excited- Meanwhile his sister was planning what she was going to wear... She thought she got to be the princess) !
I am off to bed. Good night one and all...

This is our snowman the other night with his biggest fans...

Our kiddos with ALL FOUR grandparents. Here. In our house. AT THE SAME TIME!!!

 

Noodle's Christmas concert?

Alright, grandparents, this is a feeble attempt to let you see Noodle in his "snowman finery" at the Christmas concert last night. Mind you I tried to use my digital camera's video feature- and I was up in the bleachers, so it's not the best quality, but here's our boy! ( when I downloaded the video to" youtube" The sound doesn't match up with the video... not sure why this is!)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3YPOvxZLXGY

And don't miss this one:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prnRlKrlorI

Dahl family update...

We are all alive and well- we've just been hither and yon far too much to keep you updated!

I am back on the bean and it's a good thing. I'll have to post a photo of this new pot. Starbucks sent me a voucher for the next model up (which DOESN'T have the same electrical problems) at a discounted price. The machine kind of looks like an alien space ship, but it makes a great cup of joe, so I'm not complaining.

After my woeful tale of not being able to go with my family to meet Hannah, see the new house and see my sisters-in-law... I ended up being able to go. It was such a wonderful trip! Jaker and I talked the entire way down while the kids slept (except for the occasional shrieking of the eel- I mean, Bella. It was wonderful to take a morning walk with my SIL's, see our beautiful nieces, and enjoy family time. We found out the trip was only 4.5 hours, which is an ol' hat- that's how long it takes to go to my Mom and Dad's- So look out, Seversons, we just might come see you more often! :)

We got back Sunday night. Monday and Tuesday the dust flew as I got our house ready for friends to use while we were away. Tuesday night the younger two kids finished swimming lessons. Doodle passed on to level 3 and Bella said as we got into the car, "I thing I'm starting to like level 2!" (A good thing seeing as how I think she may be in it for awhile!)

Right after lessons we took another 4.5 hour journey to Mom and Dad's for the Thanksgiving holiday! Oh, it was fun. My brother was there (PTL!) and it was the first time all 10 of us (immediate family) were together for a year and a half. Thank you, God! We enjoyed a huge feast with extended family, played multiple games of canasta- our family game- and had a great "day-after-Thanksgiving" shopping spree.
I had NO Christmas gifts bought before the day began and have a lot done now, so I consider it a successful day. The crowds weren't even that annoying, and except for Kohls, the lines weren't long. I think unless you're up before 5 and rushing to be the first one in- that day is overrated. It's not that bad.

So this week we're settling back into school. My goal is to be halfway done with our curriculum by Christmas, which means 20 lessons between now and then. It's doable, but with all the holiday festivities and preparations, I know it's also a hard time of year to stay on track. So, we'll do our best and try to enjoy the season first and foremost. Take Care... Happy Monday!

Striving to exist in the java-free zone

My coffee maker was recalled. It was a beauty of a model that Jaker got me for Mother's Day this year. Oof I've loved that appliance. UPS came yesterday with a coffin box to send it back in.

So this morning I made myself a big 'ol cup of tea. I like tea. When
I choose to drink it. Since I am being forced to by the impending headache NO caffeine would bring on... well, Let's just say the tea isn't cutting it.

So, if your reading this over a steaming cup of java (Fannie, Ringmaster...) take you next sip for me. I'm not sure how long my Java-free life will last- you'll be the first ones to know when I'm back on the bean.

For the Love of Scrabble

Always a game fan, here's my official Scrabble score...

Pholph's Scrabble Generator My Scrabble© Score is: 18. What is your score? Get it here.

We had such a good weekend- With many thanks to Poppy and NC!
Oh, and a very happy anniversary to them, too! (the 13th- NOT the 24th!) :)

This week is looking great... a lot of school and a lot of cleaning! I was SO looking forward to a trip to Iowa to see our newest niecethis weekend, but due to an uncooperative work schedule will not be able to go. I am very sad not to be able to meet Hannah, not to be able to see the new house, and not to be able to see the "sisters from afar." I know that God has a reason. He has a plan. I'm going to roll with it.

Take Care, all. Have a great week.

Off!

Noodle is off of school tomorrow. We are headed (mommy and kiddos) on an outing to the south. We need to pick up a part for a broken seatbelt in the van, do some big-town grocery shopping, then a play lunch outing (hopefully as a reward for good behavior!). I'm excited to spend some special time with them as in the evening... WE'RE OFF- Jake and I- to the couples retreat with our church. Basketball starts Monday and I'm excited for some alone time with this handsome guy...

 

Happy Weekend! 

In the words of David...

... There is such relevance and truth.
David was so real.
He didn't pretend that everything was always great.
He wasn't afraid to cry out to his God.
When others hurt him, he ran to the One who wouldn't bring more pain, but healing.

His words ring with truth...

Psalm 29:11 "The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses His people with peace."

Psalm 27: 14 "Wait for the Lord: be srtong and take heart and wait for the Lord."

Psalm 25, Psalm 31... thank you, David. Thank you, Lord.



"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."
2 Cor. 12:9