The Nutty Mama

curiouser and curiouser

2011-06-29T18:22:00.001-05:00

So if I were to post a registration for my uh-hummm.... my dance studio.... would you be able to print it off and send it in?

I just like to know these things.

Experimenting

2011-06-29T17:20:00.002-05:00

So if you want to be in the parade, print this out and send it in.

Our New Girl

2009-09-17T16:30:00.003-05:00

We had a death in the family this summer. Our little girl dog got hit by a car. I guess that's part of having farm dogs. They get the freedom to run around and you risk losing them. Well, we did. It was my Snuggle Bug's little girl dog. The girl. I didn't know the impact she had on the other two boys until she was gone. The boys really don't like each other. But for her, they got along. Without her around, they quit playing. One disappeared into the orchard. The other just lounged around all day... sighing.

Until we found her. The Snuggle Bug thought long and hard about her name. He named her Missy. And it fits. She's fun and playful. And so sweet!

When we got her she was just 6 weeks old. She's bigger now. And when folks meet her, they say she's the gentlest puppy they've ever met. I think she's just precious. And the boy dogs like her too. She's playful and they are so gentle with her. They even argue over her! What a princess. She'll fit right in.

Welcome to the family, Missy!

Long Time No See... er... Write

2009-09-16T17:04:00.003-05:00

Howdy! Long time, no see! Things have been busy and I've been struggling with what to blog. It's an interesting process to make the commitment to start a blog. At first you have all these great ideas about what to say. Then as you say what you thought would be fun to say, you wonder what else there is to talk about. So while I was waiting for something phenomenal to happen to me so I could be entertaining on my blog, I quit writing.

My other struggle is with photos. I like to put photos out there. A blog with no photos is like a gift without the wrapping paper. And country living means slow Internet. So I have been impatient waiting. Instead of waiting, I quit writing.

And here we are. No writing. No pictures. No blog. BLAH! Sorry, Trish. I've missed you too. Let's see if we can get this thing going again, eh?

Stepping Out of My Comfort Zone

2009-06-27T08:38:00.002-05:00

I have taken a week off. Yep. I'm in Dallas and I have no children. No farm. No hubbie. Just me and my college roomie... and my tap shoes.

I'm in Dallas for a Teachers of Dance convention. Since I'm going to attempt to teach dance again, I thought it would be wise to see what the kids are doing these days. And see if I remembered how to move. So I registered myself for this convention. It starts tomorrow. I'm nervous. I'll be surrounded by people half my age who haven't taken a hiatus from dance to have 4 children and run a pecan farm. Should be interesting.

I did leave the leotards at home, though. I'm not stepping that far out of my comfort zone.

Girlie Day

2009-06-18T23:09:00.003-05:00

The Doodlebug was invited to a birthday party... a Princess party. I was under the impression that all 4 year old girls were princesses so I didn't think much of the invitation.

When we arrived, I learned it was a glamour party... you know, hair, makeup, nails... but small town style. I had seen pictures of my sister Trish's girls doing this and thought it looked fun! I never imagined a swanky place for that in my little small town.

When we arrived, the Doodlebug spent the first 20 minutes shopping. The party was in a side room of a cutsie little boutique so we had to shop and touch everything in the store before truly enjoying herself in the party. Geeh... I wonder where she gets that?!?

The birthday girl got all dolled up first. She has this amazing head of curly hair and it just piled right up so nicely on her head. She was really enjoying the dress up and make up. She doesn't have three brothers.

The Doodlebug finally got her chance in the beauty chair. Pink. Pink. Pink. Pink eyeshadow. Pink lip stuff (that she wiped off immediately cuz it felt funny) and pink nail polish. We challenged the hair lady with the Doodlehair. It hasn't spent a lot of time in a brush... or growing for that matter. The hair lady offered to put lots of ponytails on her head. I don't think the Doodlebug fully understood what was happening, because after about 6 pigtails, she very politely said, "That's enough. Please, stop." And then she ripped them all out. That's my girl.

Everyone was interviewed after being dolled up. The Doodlebug's stage name was Barbie and she held that mike the entire time she was there. She loved the thing. Note to self: Next time we are in Michael's, buy a Styrofoam mike. Provides hours of entertainment.

I was so happy for my Doodlebug to be invited to such a girlie party. The brothers stayed home... happily... and we had a little girl time. It was really a great time!

Good Excuses... Really...

2009-06-03T09:08:00.003-05:00

My sister, Trish, reminded me I haven't blogged lately. And since I don't want her and my one other reader to think I've fallen off the face of the earth, I thought I'd give you an update.

Since I'm becoming "The Dance Teacher," I've been reflecting on what that will mean. And my first realization was... tights. I'm going to have to squeeze this flabby, outta shape old body into tights. In order to not offend and send the parents running out of the studio, I decided I should do something about this issue.

SO... I've joined "The Gym." That's what it's called. "The Gym." And it's not a place filled with intimidating muscle men and folks running on treadmills for 45 minutes while laughing about their weekend trip to Bermuda. I walk into those gyms and get the deer in the headlight look. I see people working out, but I haven't a clue what to do there myself. This gym is a wonderful place with men and women doing classes to lose weight and get in or stay in shape. Dance-like classes. That's right up my alley. And I'm really enjoying myself!

I hope to someday look as cute and wear fun strapless clothes like Trish! We all gotta have a dream, right?

Doodle Day!

2009-05-14T14:33:00.002-05:00

My Doodlebug is 4. We survived 2... whizzed past 3... and we have soundly landed at 4. Raising a daughter is so much different than raising boys. The boys don't have the emotional ups and downs that my daughter has. And they don't have her tenderness. She's a great little sister, big sister and daughter and I am so blessed to have her as my own!

Happy Birthday Doodlebug!

Following A Dream

2009-05-07T07:04:00.003-05:00

When you're a kid, people ask you all the time, "What do you want to be when you grow up?" I think grown ups do it to see what kind of kid they're talking to. A driven kid: "I want to be an astronaut." A creative kid: "I want to be a banana!" A lazy kid: "I want to just watch TV all day." Or maybe to see what a kid is interested in: "I want to be a football player!"

Well, I hated getting asked that question. I didn't know. Until I started dancing. I could see myself dancing forever. I wanted to dance in the Rockettes. I wanted to be a Kilgore Rangerette. I wanted to be on Broadway. I loved it! So when someone would ask me want I wanted to be, I wanted to be a dancer.

As I got older, I realized I couldn't do it. I wasn't cut throat enough. I wasn't good enough either. But I could teach. I was good enough for that.

But as time went on, I married a military man, we lived in Alaska, and I had babies. I have always missed that part of me... but just accepted that it was gone.

Until now.

There was a strange rumor going around after the Doodlebug's recital that the dance teacher was leaving. After a little investigation, I found out it wasn't a rumor. She WAS leaving. And the dream began to arise again in my gut. Could I teach dance here? Am I too old? Am I too out of touch?

The answer... YES! Yes, I can teach dance! Yes, I'm old! Yes, I'm out of touch! And YES! I'm terrified of the thought of all those Mommies and Daddies seeing me in a leotard! But I'm going to do it anyway!

Look out world! Here I come! (I'm the one stuffed into my too tight leotard hiding in the back of the room!)

My Baby Had Another Birthday

2009-05-01T20:07:00.007-05:00

Here's my Baby... 2 years ago. I love this picture! He was so tiny. My smallest boy. And so alert at 2 days old.

Then at one, he was just a little explorer. He was movin' and shakin'. And talkin' my ear off. Some things don't change in a year.

Saturday, we celebrated his birthday... as well as the Doodlebug's recital and Chojuk's Blue and Gold Banquet. It was a busy day. But we made sure to open presents. The Doodlebug supervised. See the hands on hips? She's in training for middle management.

My Snugglebug was excited about every gift and pushed him on to the next gift. I think he was secretly hoping something in there would hold some interest to him. The Doodlebug, however, genuinely was interested in every thing he got. More toys for her.

This classic was a hit. It's now in a million pieces all over my living room floor. But it was fun while it lasted. I guess that's a lesson for the Baby of the family. If you want it to remain in one piece, don't share!

Happy Birthday to My Baby!

From Wolf to Bear

2009-04-30T07:50:00.006-05:00

Chojuk had his big Blue and Gold Banquet last weekend. (It was a busy weekend!) The Blue and Gold Banquet for the Cub Scouts is where they give awards, and promotions, to the kids. Chojuk went from being a Wolf to a Bear.

These are his buddies. At A&M, your "buddies" are the folks you are in the Corps with. The ones who suffer through the tough stuff and celebrate the achievements with. I think it's safe to use that term with these guys.

This is our fearless leader and her son. She is fearless. And that woman thinks of everything! She is organized and on the ball. She doesn't miss a beat and doesn't let our boys miss one either! When we slow down as a den and don't feel like moving, she drags us through! Everyone should be as blessed as we are to have such a wonderful leader!

She found this cool ceremony for the boys to do at the banquet. They had their faces painted. Each stripe was unique to the level the boys had achieved and each stripe and color meant something. The Nutty Papa painted Chojuk's stripes so I could take pictures.

Chojuk loved having his face painted! He asked if we could do it again tomorrow. "Maybe for Halloween."

We had a fun time at our banquet! Now on to the Bear requirements...

Anyone know how to handle a knife?

The Ballet Cycle

2009-04-27T12:46:00.008-05:00

My Mom did it. I did it. And now my daughter has done it. Danced. In a recital. I'm so proud!

We put on the makeup. She LOVES this part. Can't you tell?

Then we put on the itchy, scratchy, costume... with the pokey, pinchy crown. Beauty is pain, I tell her.

She lined up with her other teapots, and....

"...Here is my spout!"

It was so fun to see her dance! And there were 6 little girls all with different approaches to this dancing thing. There was the show off, the speed demon, the watcher, Miss Independent (can you guess who that was?) and the cryer. I was beaming with pride and excitement! I just can't wait already until next year.

She's not so sure about it. But I have a few months to convince her she loves it!

Can't accuse me of living through my daughter.

The Holy Spirit Blesses the Nutty Forest

2009-04-24T08:39:00.007-05:00

Yesterday, my Snugglebug and I were out at the barn. When we walked in, we spooked a dove. She flew right into the window and dropped to the ground. I hate when birds do this. Not knowing what else to do, I call to the Snugglebug, my resident animal lover, and ask him to rescue the dove. He very gently walked over to her, and picked her up. She flew down a few feel to the floor. He picked her up again. And again, she flew to the floor. We finally managed to get her out of the barn and into the grass, but she just couldn't seem to take flight. I thought if we could catch her, and put her in a box until the Nutty Papa got home, she'd be safe... at least from the dogs.

We went searching for her in the yard and couldn't find her. Finally the Snugglebug ran back to the house to tell his big brother, Chojuk. He listened carefully to his little brother share his story and suddenly interrupted. "Wait a minute... wait a minute. Did you say a DOVE? The dove is the bird that God sent as the Holy Spirit. THAT'S THE HOLY SPIRIT!! WE HAVE TO GO FIND IT!!!" And out the door they flew.

Chojuk put his detective hat on. He'd seen someone feel the ground when searching for something before, so he did too. (Such a flare for the dramatics... I can't image where he gets that from.)

Finally they agreed to check the barn again. Maybe she had returned. She hadn't. I'm afraid she flew off to die... but I just can't bring myself to suggest that to them.

We went again this morning to check and see if she'd returned. The Doodlebug joined the adventure this time... she drove her gator and wore no clothes. Ah... the life of a country kid!

There was A dove in the nest... but there's no telling if it was THE dove. The kids were convinced it was her and that she's busy protecting her babies. Then we were all informed that the Holy Spirit is alive and well and living in the barn.

So if you are looking for her, you'll know where to send your prayers.

Chojuk's First Communion

2009-04-22T14:18:00.005-05:00

Chojuk had his first communion this past weekend. There were 42 children receiving this sacrament and it was a lovely ceremony. Chojuk has been chomping at the bit to partake of the Eucharist. So I am glad his moment finally arrived.

As he arrived in the church, he bowed in front of the alter. The priest, Father Gilberto, was there to direct traffic.

We prayed, and passed peace.

And then his moment arrived. He received the Eucharist with grace and pride.

And then returned to his seat to pray. It was a lovely day. I'm so proud of him.

One more sign that my baby is growing up.

The Coolest Thing EVER!

2009-04-21T09:53:00.002-05:00

I had the coolest thing happen to me yesterday. I was so floored, I forgot to take pictures. Maybe I'll post some later. I am just so glad I live in a small town with the BEST neighbors EVER!

Yesterday I was taking the Doodlebug to her ballet class. As I drove down our half mile dirt driveway, I noticed the ruts and holes that I usually bump my way down were missing. MISSING! How did this happen? The holes were BIG. Enormous. And they were gone.

I thought I'd call the Nutty Papa and ask him if he knew what was going on, and I noticed a missed call from my Friendly Cotton Pickin' neighbor. No. Way. I had to call and see what was going on.

"Hello, Friendly Cotton Pickin' neighbor!"

"Hello!"

"Were you on my driveway today?"

"Yes M'am."

Be still my heart! I just about broke out in tears!

Then he says, "I'm not done..." WHAT?!? "I was calling to tell you to drive on it... over and over so we can get that dirt packed down. Then I'll have to come back to fix more."

"Thank you so much! You just made my day!!!"

What an amazing thing to do for someone! We had someone, a professional, come in and tell us he'd fix it for $6000. And my Friendly Cotton Pickin' neighbor just does it! I don't think I'll ever be able to say thanks enough.

If I fall on my knees in prostration in front of him at the next T-ball game and sing his praises, is that a little over the top?

This Nut Didn't Fall Far From the Tree

2009-04-18T07:15:00.000-05:00

Darcy's first Dance Recital is next week. And to prove once again that the apple doesn't fall far from the tree... I took pictures.

I thought I needed to practice doing her hair since every hair on her head has to be up in a "bun." We got special permission to just have a pony tail, but it's still going to be a struggle. AND... once I get it up, there's no guarantee she'll sit completely still until she dances so as not to pull it down. I take that back. There is a guarantee... that she WON'T sit still.

Anyway, I bought some gel at the store, slicked back her hair, and stuck on her crown. Then she looked in the mirror to see what she looked like.

I think she approved!

Then to entice her to sit a little longer, I offered to put on some makeup. She liked the lip stick.

Or maybe she licked the lipstick. And by the way, this is only half of the pictures I took of her. And every one is different. I just couldn't do that to you. You have other things to do today.

Then she wanted me to put "makeup on her toes." So we painted them pink. She sat so still and loved every minute of it. I'm so glad she's a girlie girl!

Once again here's proof that "I hope you have one just like you" really works.

Thanks, Mom. I feel your pain.

I'm Feeling Nutty!

2009-04-17T08:21:00.004-05:00

We've got nuts!

Teeny tiny, itty bitty nuts!

But they're there!

You know what this means?!? The trees have done their part, now it's time for me to do mine! Say a prayer for a bountiful harvest this year... we need it!

Easter Pride and Joy

2009-04-14T22:24:00.008-05:00

Easter is a great time to get a picture of everyone. The kids are all hopped up on candy and sugar and in good moods... for the most part.

Here's the Baby. He's almost 2. Handsome little guy isn't he? He looks just like his bigger brother, the Snugglebug.

Here's the Snugglebug. He's at the point in his camera life where he can't quite figure out what to do when I say, "Smile!" After a few tries, I finally got a good one. Isn't he cute?

Here's the Chojuk. Man, he's getting big. But when I look at this picture, I still see that chubby little guy that came into my life eight years ago. And those dimples! Enough to melt your heart!

And then there's the Doodlebug. She wasn't happy at me for making her stand still for any length of time. She had places to go, things to do, candy to eat, kittens to terrorize.

But I won her over in the end. Isn't she beautiful!

Ah, my little bundles of joy... not so little anymore!

Roadtrip Oddities

2009-04-13T22:30:00.005-05:00

We drove down to my in-laws to celebrate Easter. It's an easy 3 hour drive. The kids love to see the scenery change as it goes from rolling hills to palm trees. On this trip, however, we saw something we've never seen before.

Is that a zebra grazing with those cows? I couldn't believe my eyes. So I turned around on the highway and went back for a second look.

Yep. Clear as Day. There was a zebra chompin' on some grass. I took quite a few pictures...

I think he's used to the pictures and the people stopping to watch him. He didn't get spooked. Neither did his buddy. In fact, they wouldn't even look up at me. Snobs.

But I'd watch out for this guy. "Don't mess with my zebra!"

The Light at the End of the Tunnel

2009-04-09T06:11:00.002-05:00

I'm a dreamer. I always have been. As a little girl, I did nothing but dream about life as a grown up. Being a Mom. Being a wife. I'd look around and snag ideas from the people around me. "Oh, look. They have four children. Everyone has a friend. It's an even number. I like that. I think I'll have four children." Things like that.

One of the things that appealed to me was having a house. A home. That my kids could grow up in. Leave their memories in. Bring their kids to. As my kids grow, I was feeling the pressure of this dream. My inner desire to provide that stability for my children. And I began to fear it was slipping through my fingers. Until Tuesday.

Welcome to my home. This is the home my children will grow up in. This is the home they will bring their kids to. This is our home. Isn't it lovely? And it's ours.

Thanks to the help of my wonderful uncle, my biggest dream, hope, desire, has been fulfilled. He's my dream master. I had the dream and shared it with him. And he helped it to come true. None of this would have happened without him. He's a great teacher and pecan farming partner. And I feel so blessed to have someone like him in my life. And thanks to him, my heart is home.

Pecan Farmin' and Marathons

2009-04-06T08:50:00.008-05:00

After watching The Nutty Papa run his marathon last year, I learned a few things and assimilated them into my own life. (Whew! "Assimilated"! Look at that big $2.00 word! My Mama would be so proud!)

I'm starting to think being a pecan farmer is kinda like running a marathon. The leaves have broken through and are growing... it's like the starting gun. GO! So I get started at a slow pace. Check the leaves. Check the traps. Cut the grass. Jog. Jog.

Then as the weather heats up and things get to growing, I pick up the pace. Cut more grass. Kill some grass. Spray the trees. Count the nuts. Check for bugs. And it all seems to roll around faster than the time before.

Over the summer, things really get groovin'. Water the trees. Fix broken pipes. Kill the grass. Cut the grass. Watch for bugs. Shake the trees. Faster. Faster. The pace seems to pick up. Pant, pant, pant....

Then all of a sudden, the finish line. Harvest. We start running equipment, moving, shaking... literally. Pickin' up pecans. Haulin' pecans. Fixin' equipment. (See here... I'm goin' so fast now I can't even take the time to add the "g" to my -ing.)

And then it's over. We cross the finish line. Whew. We take a long sit in a tub. Drink a beer. And enjoy the break. Winter.

These are the signs that my marathon has begun. Bud Break. And this year, all the trees have leaves at the same time! It's such a relief to see things progress on track.

And catkins! Lots of catkins. We have them everywhere! Another relief. Last year, I had a whole variety... you know who you are... that didn't produce catkins. No catkins. No nuts.

Not this year. We have catkins everywhere. Look at these big fat beautiful catkins! They'll make some good nuts!

Yesterday, the boys and I set up the traps. I am part of a research group that tracks the movement of "the enemy," the pecan nut casebearer, across the state. I'm one of the more southern orchards, so they hit me first. I'm honored to be a part of this program. But more than that, they help me. They let me know it's time to spray. The Great Pecan Man goes out everyday and hunts for bugs on the tree. That's what the professionals do. Us rookies need a little more guidance. So thanks to the folks at Texas A&M (WHOOP!), I get free traps and they tell me what I need to be doing. It's a win-win, I think!

They send me these funny looking cone things to place in the middle of that grid. The grid is EXTREMELY sticky. So the bad guys go flyin' in there to see what that smell is and they get stuck on that goo.

I hang the traps in the trees for the little guys. They fly right in and don't know what hit 'em! Then I go everyday and count how many I've caught. When I hit my peak, I wait 10 days and then hit 'em with the tough stuff. I kill them, their babies, their Mama's, their crazy uncles. No one is spared! Mwah, ha, ha!

So to all you Pecan Nut Casebearers out there, come on in! The weather's fine!

What a Good Share-er

2009-04-04T14:59:00.004-05:00

Bear had to eat lunch with us today. He had to sit in the chair, eat the food and drink the milk.

Sometimes it's the simplest things that make us the happiest.

Experimenting in the Orchard

2009-04-03T08:55:00.009-05:00

Dr. Pecan wants to try an experiment, and until lately, hasn't had any volunteers. Oh! Me! Pick me! Me! Over here! I love experiments! We'll do it!

... what do you want me to do?

Cut down trees? Huh? Hmmmm. Well... now I can see why he hasn't had any volunteers.

Dr. Pecan has an idea. He thinks that if we cut a pecan tree down to the ground, and let it grow a few sprouts, we'll be able to graft a new tree onto it as opposed to planting a brand new baby tree or trying to graft big limbs. Sounds like a plan. And I have LOTS of trees that are in the wrong place. I have a row of this with some of that in there. Or some of that with a little of this in there. I'd really like to see them all be the same variety as I walk down the row. So we're going to give it a try.

The Nutty Papa is an expert at cutting down trees. He's cut a few in his time. He is an Aggie you know. He went to "cut" for bonfire. This is easier though. It's with a chainsaw. So he cut down 8 trees for us last weekend.

He was closely supervised.

And everyone did their part cleaning up the tree.

Gulp. And here's what's left.

-sigh- I hope this works!

Broken Doodlebug

2009-04-01T08:34:00.004-05:00

We have our second broken bone here in the Nutty Forest. The Doodlebug broke her collar bone. Well, she didn't actually break it herself. She had help. She and Chojuk were wresting on the trampoline and he fell on her. SNAP! It broke.

She's tough as nails though. She cried about it hurting for a while. Said it was her elbow that hurt. She couldn't point out where it hurt just that it did. So we took her in for X-rays and sure enough, it's a "green break." A green break is like a green twig trying to break. It bends as far as it can and then splits. It doesn't really snap in half. The doctors assure me that she'll be healed in 3 weeks. She'll still have the bone sticking out of her shoulder/neck area. (You can see it in the picture.) The Orthopedic surgeon said she'd repair it herself as she grew. I was especially concerned about prom. "Will she have this funky bump sticking out of her when we are shopping for dresses?" Nope. She'll be good as new by then. The bump will take time to straighten out.

In the meantime, she's getting lots of TLC.

Daddy's little princess.

And she's still dancing too. This is tutu day at the dance studio. They have a recital coming up and this is her costume. She's so excited! Hope you can all make it!

Showing Bigger Animals

2009-03-31T12:33:00.006-05:00

Our other cousin, Justin, showed Carl the goat at the Livestock show. I'm not so sure about bigger animals. As far as I'm concerned, anything you can't pick up and lob around might just be too big.

Carl the goat was a big fella. He was at the top of his weight class. He was a big guy.

And with big guys like this, I'm not sure who's showing who.

Just did a great job. I was so proud of him. He got 9th, I think. He raised a great goat and worked hard.

The livestock show is really all about the rides. After showing the animals, my sister-in-law, brother-in-law and I decided to divide and conquer. My brother-in-law took the boys to the big rides. I went with the Doodlebug. She needs one adult to watch only her. The Baby enjoyed the view from the cheap seat... my back.

We met up with the boys for one last ride. The Snugglebug went on this one while Chojuk rode the Spaceship 2000. It was a great visit with our cousins! Can't wait until next year!

Chicken Show

2009-03-30T08:28:00.004-05:00

It's 4-H time again. The kids and I made our annual pilgrimage to the valley to see the cousins show their animals. This was an important year for us. Next year, Chojuk will be eligible to show animals and we needed to see which animal we want to show and what work it will entail.

Alec showed chickens. The Nutty Papa's family has participated in 4-H for years and they think starting with chickens is the way to go. I agree. They're easy. Well... they're a short term commitment. The chickens are raised for 6 weeks and then shown. 6 weeks. I could handle that.

There Alec is with his best bird. He placed 7th. See that big bird? He can barely hold it. And there were 7 bigger! Whew. I don't know about this.

The last part is showing 3. You hope to raise 3 that are uniform. All the same. And you have to have help holding them. Luckily Alec, on the left, has a big brother who has done this. He's the one on the right. Then they recruited a buddy from 4-H to help. Nice buddy. I don't think I could be easily recruited.

While you wait for the judge to judge the birds, everyone stands around holding these chickens. Apparently the stress it pretty bad on the birds. There's a fear they'll die right there in front of the judge. So you have to be gentle holding them while you wait. Some kids put them down. And they poop on you. Ew.

I'm thinking chickens aren't for us.

The Scientists Might Be Interested in This...

2009-03-27T15:54:00.005-05:00

We've solved the mystery to cloning. We do it here at the Nutty Forest. And many of you commented on it. Take a look:

I might be able to fool some of you, if it weren't for the horrible wallpaper in the back ground. This is the Baby at 18 months.

This is his big brother, the Snugglebug at 18 months. Uncanny resemblance. I agree.

The Baby, again, with his baby doll.

The Snugglebug with HIS baby doll... A.K.A the Doodlebug. I know, I know. It's bizarre. They both look like the Nutty Papa. I don't have a picture of my handsome hubby from when he was 18 months old, but I imagine if I did, it'd look something like this. Pretty stinkin' cute, huh?

Daddy In Training

2009-03-26T15:18:00.005-05:00

Hello, TrisHill... my dedicated reader. Thanks for checking in everyday to see that Yes, we are still celebrating a birthday around here. But not today. Today, we move on to the baby.

The Baby has taken a liking to his sister's dolls. She isn't too happy about it. I finally convinced her that the baby... the one with all the pen marks all over it's head... it would be a great baby for the Baby. She reluctantly agreed.

He carries it around with him.

Kisses it.

Hugs it.

And pushes it in a stroller. Don't mess with his dolly either! He knows what he's doing. (Don't mind that it's contorted in the stroller. THAT'S THE WAY HE WANTS IT!)

He'll be a great Daddy!

He's learning from the best!

Birthday Boy

2009-03-02T08:17:00.007-06:00

This is the third time I've made this post... I've been fighting with my blog... and I'm ready to throw down! Here goes...

My first born, my Chojuk, is 8. He celebrated his birthday last week. It was a great day!

It began with the traditional Bubble Bread Breakfast.

We love Bubble Bread!

Then one present... one for the road. Chojuk got a DS from Mimi for his birthday so he opened his gift from Pop Pop and Memaw...

a new DS game. He played it in the car while we drove to the bouncy castle place.

We slid down the slides...

Wheeeeeee!

And jumped... and wrestled... in the bouncies.

And tackled Daddy!

Oops!

Our friend Trenton came to play too. It was a great adventure!

When we got home, Chojuk opened the rest of his games. He got a few more video games that he had been asking for, a new movie, and a Bop It. I thought the Bop It was especially funny because I gave my OB, Dr. Wappett, a Bop It to play while I was in labor. I thought it would be funny to see Dr. Wappett with a Bop It! Turns out he didn't deliver my 9 lb. 10 oz baby boy. But he still enjoyed the Bop it.

So did Chojuk. He couldn't even stop playing long enough to smile for his picture!

Happy Birthday Chojuk!

False Alarm

2009-02-25T12:20:00.001-06:00

Call it a blonde moment. Call it lack of sleep. Whatever. The pump is back on.

Seems I need to write myself a note reminding me how to turn it on.

... I'm so embarrassed.

Oh, No. Here I go again...

2009-02-24T18:11:00.003-06:00

Seems the pump has died... again. It happened last year, and the year before. It seems part of our tradition. But it's an expensive tradition. And we might have to rob Peter to pay Paul...

So if you run into Peter, can you send him my way?

Pinewood Derby

2009-02-22T20:10:00.012-06:00

Chojuk is in Cub Scouts. He's a Wolf. But Cub Scouts is a friendly organization and doesn't exclude anyone. So everyone in our family participates.

The big event this time if year is the Pinewood Derby. Everyone starts with a block of wood and makes it into a car. The Nutty Papa was in charge of the style this year. He went with his brother and their boys to a friend's house to cut the body of the car. Last year we were rookies and made lots of mistakes. We learned our lesson and are smarter about it this yer.

Chojuk had a rough go of it last year with his car. So this year the Nutty Papa decided to turn the tables in his favor with a sleek wedge shaped car. From what I understand, Chojuk wasn't too thrilled with the design.

Last year decorating our cars was a last minute thing. I didn't want to do that this year. So we spent lots of time considering what we wanted. Chojuk wanted lightning. It reflects his current interest in tornadoes and weather.

For the Snugglebug, I chose Pokemon. He lives it. Breathes it. So I thought what better decorations than Pokemon? He stuck lots of little Pokemon stickers all over the body and I painted over them with Modge Podge. He loved it!

The Doodlebug is the easiest of them all. Pink. Girlie. She doesn't care as long as it's pink. So she painted her car pink and then I let her put stickers all over it too. She chose the Lil' Pet stickers and some sparkly purple hearts. She's such a girl!

We had the race on Saturday. The Snugglebug and Doodlebug raced in the "Me too" category. Chojuk raced against his fellow wolves. Each car races 4 times. They have it set up on a computer. It's all very scientific and I'm sure I don't understand all that is involved. But it's fair.

Here are the Me Too cars. The Snugglebug's is the yellow looking one with black window in the upper left corner. The Doodlebug's is next to it with the purple heart. I liked the yellow crayon too.

Here are the Wolf cars. The Nutty Papa called Chojuk's car "Black Lightning"... I think you can see why. The one in front of us was a real competitor. The Camo Car the kids called it. It was fast!

After 3 hours of racing, it came down to the final cars. Chojuk and the Camo Car were in a tie for first place. So they had a race off. First they put Black Lightning in one lane to race and Camo in another, then they'd switch so that if there was a fast lane, no one was benefited by it. I think there was a fast lane because Black Lighning would win, then Camo would win. Black Lightning, Camo, back and forth. It took 10 minutes for a winner to finally emerge.

Here is the track. And as you can see, Chojuk was very excited to watch his car race.

They had a laser finish line that would register the winners. It would then send the information to a computer and they'd make a spreadsheet to record all the information. Abuck would have loved it. He's into spreadsheets.

Everyone gets something at the Pinewood Derby Races. The Doodlebug was called forward to receive her participation medal first. She might as well have been crowned Queen of the World. She was so proud. She walked off waving and smiling at all her adoring fans.

The Snugglebug's car won first place in his division. He was so excited! Last year he was second so first was an improvement. Papa and I were surprised. We had put so much effort into Chojuk's car doing well that Snugglebug's didn't get as much attention. Turns out it didn't need it. It was a good car.

He was so proud to have another trophy to add to his collection!

And Chojuk got first in his division too! He was so excited... but not surprised! He cheered his car on at each race and knew exactly how many he had won.

This is Chojuk's biggest trophy. He was so happy to get it. At least I thought he was. When he called to tell Mimi about his big day, he told her he only got a small trophy... not the big one. The Grand Champion trophy. We'll try for that one next year.

It was exciting to have two first place finishers. (Next year we'll go for three, because the Snugglebug will move up a category.) The Pecan Family will be a force next year!

We're Losin' it Around Here...

2009-02-21T18:02:00.002-06:00

Teeth are falling out left and right around the Nutty Forest. Chojuk has now lost 6 of his little baby teeth. I love baby teeth. They are so cute. And small. And straight. And you don't have to worry about them too much because you know sooner or later big ones will follow. So eat all the junk food you can!

Until you look like this. Then you aren't eating much of anything!

Oh, to be loved so much

2009-02-20T16:39:00.008-06:00

The baby... he's a lover. A lover of Mama. When he kisses me, he grabs my neck, pulls me close, and lays one on me!

Mwah!

He then launches into identification of the parts of my face... mouth, nose, eye...

Tongue!

You're so funny!

Aren't we funny?!?

MMMMMMMMwah!

The Nutty Kids Flip Out

2009-02-15T16:25:00.000-06:00

I had a trampoline when I was a kid. I loved it. It was my sanctuary. It was my escape. I would read and nap and relax out there. It was my happy place.

That's not to say it didn't have it's dangers. There were injuries. Flips off the trampoline. And one terribly unfortunate broken ankle.

But that didn't deter me. I still wanted that for my kids. I wanted them to have the fun I had on my trampoline. That is until now...

The Nutty Papa ran into the house the other day and said, "Come here, quick! And bring your camera!" So I grabbed my camera and ran outside after him. This is what I found...

Wait a minute...

Whew! Landed on a safe spot!

Watch the head!

Agh!

... holding my breath...

whew!

Seems the Nutty Papa has taught the boys to do flips.

Anyone want a slightly used trampoline?

You Know You Are Loved When...

2009-02-12T14:18:00.005-06:00

I have been spoiled these last few weeks. My sweet husband has been waking up and getting himself ready for work every morning bright and early. And he's added a duty to his morning line up: Fire building.

The kids and I have been warmed with his fire. I have absolutely loved waking up, starting breakfast, and then lighting a fire for the kids and I to warm up beside.

We love to sit and watch the flames dance while we enjoy our breakfast.

It makes us feel so special!

Sleepless Nights

2009-02-05T08:32:00.003-06:00

Night time in the Nutty Houshold is often fill with adventures all of their own. Take last night for example. The Snugglebug woke up crying. It was the most pitiful, tear filled, whiny cry. So instead of trying to figure out what was wrong, I carefully picked him up and carried him into our bed. When he'd settle down for a moment, I'd ask him, "Did you have a bad dream?" and he'd start again... sniff... sniff... wahhhhhhhh! I learned my lesson.

About an hour later, the Doodlebug wakes up screaming like someone is sitting on her. I run into her room prepared to lift the bed off of her, or de-tangle her limbs from the headboard and she yells at me, "I DROPPED MY ICE CREAM THIS DAY!!!" What? Ice Cream? Ok. That I can handle. I've had lots of experience talking a sleeping child back to sleep. So I look at her, with as much seriousness as I can muster, and I say, "Well, then, let's go get some more. What flavor was it?" And she says, "Vanilla." Then she smiles at me, grabs her security blanket, a.k.a her Woobie, rolls over and goes back to sleep. I have to admit, I was glad she didn't jump out of bed and run downstairs to get herself some more ice cream!

And finally, the Baby. He still wakes up looking for someone... anyone... who can help him out of the predicament he's in. First he calls for me. "Mama! Where are you? Maaaaa-maaaaa?" And if I don't run to his aid, he'll start on the boys, since they share his room. "Bubby... help me... Buuuuuu-bbbby?" This morning, his Bubby was comfortably snuggled in his Mama's bed so he turned to his biggest brother. "Bubba! Help me, Bubba! Buuu-baaaaaa?" Normally his brothers are so tired they don't hear him. But he managed to wake his Bubba up this morning. Bubba got him out of his bed, turned him lose, and went back to sleep.

Never a dull moment!

My Little Helper

2009-01-28T09:38:00.003-06:00

The Baby has learned to get Mama's attention whenever and wherever he can. Lately, he's been helping me with the laundry.

He likes to climb up on the dryer door and get the dry clothes out for me. Sometimes he crawls right in the dryer!

Don't I have the cutest help?

School Days in the Nutty Forest

2009-01-27T07:59:00.002-06:00

School has started here at the Nutty Forest Academy. If I haven't mentioned it before, I homeschool. Some days it's the proudest thing I do for my children. Everyday, it's the road less traveled. There isn't much support for homeschoolers. People think you're weird. But that's ok with me. I've been the weird one all my life. Why stop now?

We school around our farming schedule. Now is the best time to do school because the trees are resting up for the year. Dormant. Hibernating. So while they conserve energy, here in the house, we expend it like no body's business!

Homeschooling really fits our family. We get to sleep in. Take things at a slower pace. Enjoy each other more. When the Nutty Papa comes home from work, we aren't in a hurry to do anything but spend time with him.

My oldest two boys are really good friends because of this choice. They play together really well. And now, they are helping each other with school work. It makes me feel good to see them foster this friendship. After all, shouldn't you be best friends with your siblings?

My Guilty Pleasure

2009-01-13T12:25:00.010-06:00

I love Christmas cards! I send out my share of them too. Every year I look forward to filling up my Christmas card wreath. I almost run to the mailbox! And when I have to take it down, I feel a little sadness. Today's the day. But before I do, I thought I'd share with you some of the fun... relive it again.

This is my Christmas card wreath. My good friend Amy bought it for me when we were living in Alaska. We were shopping at Santa's House in the North Pole and I saw it. Later that day, she gave it to me as a house warming gift. And it warms my heart and home to this day.

In fact, hers is one of the Christmas cards I enjoy getting the most. She always sends two: one serious and one fun. That's the kind of gal she is. I imagine she'd rather just send the fun one but doesn't want to offend the serious readers she gets. So she humors everyone. (Here she's bragging about their recent move to Hawaii... pfft!)

Sometimes I get cards from friends telling me they've moved. And if I'm lucky, I get to see a picture of the family on their new porch!

Other times, I get pictures of my friend's kids and its a surprise. "They had another one?!? How exciting!"

Maybe I'll get a card from someone who shared our Santa. Remember my friendly cotton pickin' neighbor's muddy day? They clean up well!

This is a busy time of our lives... those of us with small children. And so we don't get to see each other too often. I love getting the cards that remind me so much of my girlfriend... "Man does she ever look like her Mom!"

Don't get me wrong. I love the non-picture cards too. They are often breath takingly beautiful with a great message of the season.

And I love people's creativity. I loved this one! It made me laugh. These friends are always so creative with their card too!

And once in a while I get a card from someone I haven't heard from in years and years and years. Those cards where I look and think, "Who IS that?" And when I realize it's a friend from high school, what a thrill! Especially to see how happy they are!

My favorite this year was from my sister. She dropped everything in her life to pursue a life long dream... working at Disney World. (or is it land... I can never remember.) Anyway, she gave up her teaching in Washington state and headed south. I think that's a great story! Knowing what you want from life and going after it! She's happily working at Disney and living her dream.

I love getting Christmas cards and updates! It's like the final chapter of a good book. I love ending my year with friends.

Wishing You All Blessings for 2009

2009-01-05T08:00:00.000-06:00

I didn't get any pictures taken for the New Year. We didn't do much. The boys played video games until midnight. We had some dear friends over for tacos and Wii. And then we all went to bed. It's a bummer being under a burn ban. I miss the fireworks.

But I couldn't continue, post one more blog entry, without wishing you all a Happy and Blessed 2009. I am often surprised when I hear someone mention they read one of my blog entries. It's an honor to have you as my friend to share this with. Thank you for all the support and laughs this year! I'm looking forward to seeing what new adventures 2009 brings for the Nutty Family and all of you!

Now, since this is officially the first day of school here at the Nutty Forest Academy, I'm off to educate the masses... or at least my little tribe. God Bless you!

Losing Control

2009-01-04T13:49:00.002-06:00

Like I said before, my family likes to take their time opening gifts. That's how I remember Christmas. I don't have many memories of Christmas' with toys. And since I was the only one opening the gifts, I guess it seems like we took turns. In reality, My Mom probably sat back and let me tear into everything while she watched. So I guess I did know what everyone got, since it was only me. This year, I really wanted to enjoy watching my kids open their gifts. I wanted to see everything they got and enjoy it with them. When Chojuk was the only child, he would open a gift and want to play with it. So we had to take it out of the box and he'd sit there and play with his new toy for a while. When he finished playing with it, we'd show him another. He'd open it and want to play with that one too. It took forever. But as you add children to the mix, they don't want to wait for the other to open gifts. They just want to see what they got.

Needless to say, I lost control this year. The first gift was about everyone watching. But I soon noticed that the kids weren't watching their brothers or sister open a gift... they were searching under the tree for their next one! Notice the baby there... he just wanted to open everything! It was sheer chaos! But only for me. The Nutty Papa is used to that... and the kids enjoyed it too.

Let Chaos reign!

Christmas with the Cows

2009-01-02T09:19:00.012-06:00

We spent Christmas with my in-laws... The Nutty Papa's folks. They are great people. If I haven't already told you, the Nutty Papa is one of nine. Yep, 9. I'll pause briefly for you to make all the mental jokes and jabs you need to...

The Nutty Papa grew up in the country. I guess that's why pecan farming hasn't been so hard for him. Hard work is something he grew up with.

Christmas has always been his favorite time if the year. It's full of tradition for him. And when it's over, he has withdrawals. He loves being home. Being with his family. Doing what he's done every Christmas for as long as he can remember.

The best surprise of the season was his niece, Alicia. She's a Peace Corps worker and she came all the way back from Africa. She was trying to surprise everyone. But it's really hard to keep a secret in a family this big. But they kept it from us. When we walked in the door, there she was sitting at the table with Grandma and Grandpa. It took me a minute to figure out what was going on. At first, I thought, "Hey! Alicia beat us down here." And then I went, "Wait a minute... she's living in Africa! What's she doing here?!?" It was a GREAT surprise. I loved staying up and listening to her stories and philosophies. She's one smart cookie and an amazing human being. She has a blog too. You can read it here.

Anyway, here she is participating in the first of the family traditions: The Christmas Ball. Everyone has a ball with their name on it. When you arrive, you hang your name on the tree. She's making a ball for our Baby. It was his first Christmas with Grandma and Grandpa.

The Nutty Papa is proud of his Christmas ball. His is the pink one. He likes that it stands out. I think someone recently added another pink name ball, but that's OK with him. His was the first.

My favorite part of Grandma's tree is her angel. It's handmade. Her Mother made it for her. See the red? It's from the bridesmaids dresses from Grandma's wedding. Isn't that creative! People don't take time to make things like this anymore. I wish I still had some fabric from one of my bridesmaids dresses. I might try and make me one.

One of the newer traditions is the cousin party. There are older cousins and younger cousins. The Nutty Papa's oldest 5 siblings' kids celebrate together as the "older cousins" and the kids from the last 4 siblings celebrate together as the "younger" cousins. The younger cousins got together this year to make crafts. Here is Aunt Deborah helping little Bayley with a craft. Aunt Deborah is good that way.

Chojuk painted a snowman. It's one of those stained glass things that hangs in the window. I remember making those... but they didn't have paint. They had teeny tiny little pieces of pre-melted plastic that you had to very carefully put in just the right place. I loved making them... but I remember being very frustrated when I'd put a color in the wrong place. This way is much less frustrating.

When Aunt Nancy and I hit the outlet mall at midnight on Black Friday, we found this cute little cardboard house. She set it up in her living room for the kids to color. They had so much fun with it! We imagined the boys would do their best to tear it down while the girls played around them. We weren't too far off.

The Snugglebug, however, completely enjoyed coloring it. He might have sat there all day and worked on that door... if people would have quit coming in and out of it. He sat there very patiently for about 20 minutes. He'd color, and then let someone in. And color, and let someone out. In and out. Back and forth. Finally, I think he realized that it was more fun to go in and out than to color and he gave up.

The Doodlebug was one of the main culprits going in and out. She and her littlest cousin, Naomi, just kept going in and out. They each had a window to stick their heads out. They'd open the window and yell, "Hello!" And then hide back in the house. It was a loud party.

At around 5pm, we all gathered in the converted carport. It was converted for Christmas to accommodate all the family members. The family has just outgrown the house. It makes a nice gathering room though.

Here is our resident heart throb, cousin Mark. All the girl cousins enjoyed having him there. I'm not sure he ever had a moments peace the whole evening. He left early the next day. I wonder why?

We gather at 5pm to read the story of Christmas and say the rosary. The bigger cousins read the story and the littler ones lead the rosary. They did a great job. Grandpa asked who wanted to lead and Chojuk shot his hand up in the air like someone was giving away free Wiis. He enjoyed using the beads to say his prayer. We haven't said the rosary too often but I can see it appeals to him. We'll have to work that into our school time.

After the Christmas story, the rosary, and a BIG family picture (which Aunt Nancy has... I'll share that later), we eat! Grandma is a great meal planner. She really knows how to feed an army of people. And it was good food!

The favorite tradition on Christmas Eve is the fireworks. See when you live out in the country, apparently you are worried about Santa not seeing your house. So they traditionally popped fireworks so Santa could find them. Funny thing is, he brings the gifst while they are popping fireworks. He's a sneaky dude. He gets in the house without being hit or seen by a firework! He's not as quick coming out though. Someone usually hears his bells ringing and all the kids go stampeding into the house to see what he brought.

This is where the chaos begins. In my little family of 3-6, we take time to open presents one at a time. We enjoy seeing what everyone gets and Oh-ing and Ah-ing at everything. It's nice. It really stretches the process out. We have been known to take 3 or 4 hours opening presents.

But when you have 42 all wanting to open gifts, there is no waiting. Everyone starts tearing into their gifts and you hear, "Thanks Aunt Carole!", "Thanks Aunt Beaty!", "Thanks Grandma and Grandpa!", "Thanks Aunt Suzanne!" And before you can catch your breath, it's over. I barely get any pictures. If I did, I imagine it would be of paper flying!

And when it's over, everyone walks around to see what everyone else got. The Snugglebug got a great gift from his Mama: an organized notebook of Pokemon cards. He was in heaven!

And the girl cousins sat right down and started to play. This is the last picture I took of the evening... we were all worn out! Another amazing Christmas with Grandma and Grandpa!

2008-12-30T07:59:00.007-06:00

When we go to Grandma and Grandpa's house for Christmas, Grandma's table is filled with sweets. It's a real buffet of yummy-ness. I usually skimp on the meal and pig out on dessert. It's a little bit of heaven on earth.

So when I go, I don't like to go empty handed. I am, after all, going to eat my weight in wine cake, pecan pie, and cookies. I like to contribute.

This year I discovered these yummy little treats at my friend Chera's open house. One of the other ladies had made them and I couldn't stop eating them. They looked easy enough, so I thought I'd make them with the kids.

First you take square pretzels and lay them out on the cookie sheet. (Is it "lay" or "lie"? I'm sure my readers who have a better grasp of the English language will be happy to correct me...)

Anyway, the placing of the pretzels was extremely important to the Doodlebug. She wanted them to line up and make nice little rows. When the Nutty Papa came along and dumped pretzels on her cookie sheet, she let him have it. "That's not right!" I didn't know I had such a perfectionist on my hands.

Next you put these little candy discs on top of the pretzels. I searched all over for these little things. I finally found them in the Christmas aisle at Walmart. They had these and the little plastic molds. So I grabbed a bag of each color; red, white and green.

After all the pretzels have received their splash of color, you put them in the oven just long enough the soften the candy disc thing. We liked 5 minutes on 350. That was just enough. You have to be careful not to melt them threw though. That's a mess!

Once the candy is soft, you take them out of the oven and put peanut M&Ms in there. Why peanut? I don't know. That's how the lady at the party made them. I suppose you could make the regular ones. But I think the peanut adds to the salty part of the salty sweet flavor.

And here's the final product. You can see which ones are the Doodlebug's. She insisted on having her peanut stand straight up. It was cute. She wouldn't let her Daddy help either because he didn't "do it right".

Whew! Perfectionists!

Christmas at Wolf Lodge

2008-12-28T16:03:00.010-06:00

We celebrated Christmas early with my side of the family. My Mom wanted to take the kids somewhere fun, and she found this place called the Great Wolf Lodge. The kids love playing in the water and this place has an indoor water park. It was amazing! Everyone had a great time!

The lobby of the hotel was beautifully decorated for the holidays.

This was Chojuk's favorite spot. The big bucket dumped water on everyone every 5 minutes. It was so fun! The water almost knocked his suit off once! And it was a heated room so it was comfortable to play even though it was cold outside.

This was the Baby and Doodlebug's favorite spot. Lots of room to splash and play. Behind the wading area is a wave pool that everyone loved. The Snugglebug loved it all! He'd go wherever anyone else was and found fun. He even enjoyed the baby area. He found fun splashing the grown ups! No use staying dry in a pool, right?

At night, they had storytime. The kids would gather around a reader while they read stories. Luckily for us, Santa was the story teller. He read "The Night Before Christmas." See my little blondies there? It was fun!

When we weren't in the pool, we were playing a hotel game. You bought into a scavenger hunt of sorts. You bought a wand and with it you got a playing guide. The guide gave you clues to find. When you found the clues, a wave of the wand would direct you to the next clue. There were kids running all over the hotel looking for clues and waving wands. It was so fun!

If you found all the clues, and collected all the ancient runes, you got to battle a dragon. We didn't make it to the dragon, but we sure had fun trying!

We even encountered some mystical creatures along the way. It was a fun game!

Thank you for a wonderful vacation, Mimi! We're looking forward to going again next Christmas!

Santa Claus Came to Town

2008-12-20T12:03:00.008-06:00

One night, a few weeks ago, we heard that Santa was going to be at my favorite coffee shop in town. So I thought it would be a great time to take the kids. It would be a quiet intimate place to visit and see Santa. With four little personalities, you never know what reactions you'll get to the big guy.

We were the only ones there when we arrived. As expected, the Doodlebug and the Snugglebug jumped right into his lap. Good thing Santa expects this behavior from children. Anyone else wouldn't have seen it coming.

The Baby wasn't too sure about him. He kept his distance and only offered a high five for a greeting. He quietly observed our jolly new friend for the rest of the evening, never getting any closer than required.

Chojuk has never been a big fan of Father Christmas. When he was smaller, we'd pass him at various locations around town and Chojuk would dare to look and possibly wave, but only at a distance. He's a cautious little guy.

The Doodlebug nearly talked his beard off. She told him all about life with 3 brothers and was happy to report that they were mostly naughty, and she was the nice one. And when she was asked what she wanted for Christmas, she simply said, "A new movie." I hope she's always this easy to please.

The Snugglebug was the first to reach Santa. He didn't bother to introduce himself or engage in small talk. He jumped right to the meat of the conversation. "My friend Mallory has Mario Kart and that's what I want for Christmas. Don't forget to bring me one, ok?"

After 30 minutes of chatting with Santa and trying to get a good picture of the whole family, as evidenced by the Christmas card you've hopefully received, we went into another room to eat dinner. We wanted to give other families the chance to speak to Santa if they wanted to. But for the duration of our visit, we were the only ones there.

After he finished eating, Chojuk went back in to see Santa. He had kept his distance earlier but I think his curiosity got the best of him and he wanted his chance to talk to Santa. He told Santa all about his favorite video games, how he lived on a farm, but didn't like to go outside, and what the true meaning of Christmas was. They visited for quite a while and the longer they talked the more comfortable Chojuk got. Santa and Mrs. Claus were extremely complimentary of him, and all the kids, and said it was due to our homeschooling. I cherish those compliments as they are so rare!

By the end of the evening, I'd say Chojuk had pretty much welcomed our jolly new friend into the family. It was fun to see him enjoy himself and have such a good time with Santa.

Irony at It's Best

2008-12-19T00:45:00.003-06:00

The Nutty Papa has a pea sized bladder. Everyone knows this. When we make road trips, he is cut off from beverages. Otherwise, we're stopping every 45 minutes. It's annoying how often he pees.

There's always an exception to the rule.

The Nutty Papa called me this morning to tell me he had gone to the doctor for his "upset stomach" and was off to the emergency room. Turns out, his "upset stomach" was appendicitis. Yep. Merry Christmas.

So I pawned the kids off on one of the only people that can handle all 4 at a moments notice, thank you Michelle!, and head to the hospital. After waiting 4 hours, they get him in for a CAT scan. At this point, I had to make a childcare switch. So I'm off to pick up the kids and take them over to Aunt Deborah's for the rest of the night... thank you Aunt Deborah! Luckily, Aunt Tricia was there to step for me while I'm runnin the kids all across God's green earth. And as soon as I leave to pick up the kids, I get a call from the Nutty Papa... "It's Appendicitis. I'm going in for surgery." Great. I have been sitting in the ER all morning with him and the moment I leave, he's taken away for surgery.

Luckily nothing happens fast in a hospital. So I was able to pick up the kids from Michelle's, run them to Aunt Deborah's, and get back to the hospital before he went in. The nurse tells me it will be an hour surgery and an hour recovery. 30 minutes later, the doctor is walkin in to tell me it's over. It wasn't ruptured, just fat. It needed to come out. He tells me no heavy lifting and no work for 2 weeks. (The Nutty Papa was thrilled with this news since his work has basically closed down for the next two weeks. He gets a free pass from work and can't use it.)

So I sit in the waiting room and wait. And wait. And wait. 3 hours after he's finished with his surgery, they call me in. He's ready to go home. HOME?!? Great! But he has to pee first. No problem! He pees all the time. Wrong. There was a problem. That man couldn't pee. This is the guy who pees every 30 minutes. Couldn't do it. Give him something to drink, they say. He drank 6 Sprites, 3 Cokes, 4 bottles of water and had 3 bags of IV fluids. NOTHING! Finally 4 hours after his surgery, success. We can go home.

The Nutty Papa is home and crashed out. He says he feels much better with it out. Thanks to all those who helped and prayed. We appreciate it!

Cherish your Gifts this Holiday Season

2008-12-16T14:21:00.002-06:00

This is what greeted me as I walked out the back door the other day...

When it gets cold, we get the dogs pillows to enjoy while napping. They love them. They fight over them. And apparently, they get so excited to have them, they tear them up.

I spent the next 45 minutes picking up pillow fluff from the yard. They obviously don't appreciate their gift. Silly puppies!

What is it they say about Apples...?

2008-12-11T22:32:00.004-06:00

I have been dying to show these pictures to you since I took them at Thanksgiving. It brings to mind the amazing way genetics comes into play while creating children. Being an only child, I have often watched with wonder how siblings are so different and so alike. I have enjoyed the puzzle life puts forth as to whether the child resembles Mom or Dad. But I never realized the resemblance could go so deep.

Example #1: The Baby. Animal Lover. Like Brother. Like Father.

Example #2: The Snugglebug. Looks like Daddy. Loves animals like Daddy. Genetic wonder? Nature vs Nurture. Hmmmm...

And for those of you who wonder, here's Daddy:

He apparently spent lots of time outside with the animals. He especially enjoyed trying to tame the not so tamed cats.

Apparently he was successful at times. And the resemblance is more than just emotional. Check out that hair! The nose! Those eyes! It's like cloning!

And his love for animals always shines through. Like Father like Son? Yep.

Gettin' Her Wig Busted

2008-12-11T10:31:00.007-06:00

The Doodlebug has never had her hair cut. People are starting to ask, "When are you going to get her hair cut?" It's not like it's too long. It's not like it's in her face. But it's ratty. And apparently, people think that if you cut ratty hair, it won't be ratty anymore. I'm tired of being pestered about it, so I decided since I was going to get my hair cut, she could too. Maybe that would get the monkeys off my back.

So yesterday, I made the call. In small towns, there's no need to wait. They are usually waitin' for ya with open arms. And they were. Belinda said, "Come on in!"

Here is the Doodlebug ready to get her haircut. It looks fine. A little runaway. But when you don't have much hair, there isn't much to cut.

She sat so still. I was so proud! She didn't wiggle or squirm like I expected her too. She loved it!

She even paused to give me the classic Doodlebug smile... it usually includes a wink. See?

She loved the attention and the pampering. I can tell she's going to be one of those girls I wasn't. The kind of girl who pays attention to fashion. The kind of girl who applies her makeup in just the right way. The kind of girl who always has her hair styled nicely. Not like her mother.

She was enjoying herself, however the woobie made it's appearance too. It was there to make sure she was 100% comfortable in the situation. To ease her nerves. To make it a really GREAT experience. Because that's what woobies do.

When it was all over, she was thrilled. You can hardly tell she got a cut. But the experience was divine. Let your inner diva shine, Doodlebug!

Baby Teeth

2008-12-10T09:08:00.002-06:00

The other day, while snuggling with my Snugglebug, I got to looking at his little teeth. I was telling him that since he's 5 going on 6, he'll probably start loosing his teeth pretty soon. He got his teeth really early. His first two little biters arrived when he was 3 month old! So, if the theory is correct, since he got them early, he'll lose them early.

Losing your teeth is a milestone for kids. When our friends Miles and Davis lost their teeth, their faces all of a sudden looked more grown up. It made them lose the baby face I was so used to. When Chojuk lost his first tooth, I wasn't prepared for it. It happened on accident and it surprised me. He is still losing his teeth really slowly. So his face isn't morphing quite as fast as our friends did, but I still miss that little baby toothed smile.

Not wanting to forget how much I loved those little baby teeth, I decided to snap a picture to cherish the moment.

Look at those teeny tiny teeth. It's the little things about being a Mom that I love so much!

Oh, Yeah... Thanksgiving!

2008-12-09T08:23:00.004-06:00

I knew I was forgetting something. In all the hustle and bustle, I forgot to tell you about our Thanksgiving. It annoys me to no end when the stores skip Thanksgiving and jump straight into Christmas after Halloween. None of that here!

Our Thanksgiving plans had been to go to my Mom's house. Unfortunately, she got sick. So we invited ourselves down to my in-laws Thanksgiving. It's always fun for the kids there... cousins! The boys get to play with their boy cousins and talk Pokemon and video games. And the Doodlebug gets a good dose of what life would be like surrounded by sisters. Girlie stuff everywhere! And she has a ball!

After our delicious Thanksgiving meal, Aunt Nancy gathered all the kids at the dinner table to teach them a new game... Spoons! It was a great game! The kids all get 7 cards. The dealer passes the cards around the table with the goal of getting 4 of a kind. Whoever gets 4 of a kind first is supposed to sneak a spoon off the table. As the other players begin to notice a spoon is missing, they grab one themselves. A spoon grabbing frenzy soon begins and someone is left without a spoon. That person is the loser.

Needless to say, there were some tears shed... no one likes to lose after all. But it was a lot of fun! Trying to keep up with the passing of the cards, watching what you have in your hand, and watching the spoons was quite a lesson in multitasking!

Little Angel Update

2008-12-02T08:31:00.004-06:00

Remember the little miracle baby? Matthew , the little miracle baby born to my friends Beth and Tony. He's 5 months old now. He's getting so big! His Daddy likes him to wear hats. It's adorable!

They came to the Nutty Forest to visit during our "We shake 'em, you take 'em" Fall extravaganza. It was a blast! You should plan on coming next year! ... shameless plug... I'll stop at nothing to drum up business...

Anyway, he's doing great! His Mommy and Daddy are so good with him and he's an easy baby...

And he is oh, so cute!

We Start 'em Young 'Round Here

2008-11-25T08:04:00.003-06:00

Video Games. They are a completely different animal than when I was growing up. When I was growing up, playing video games was done in an arcade. Games like PacMan, Mrs. PacMan, Donkey Kong, Galaga. To see those games now, the graphics are pitiful. But we loved them. Then came Atari and we got to play Pong! Ugh! I hated pong. I didn't have the patience for it. I could never get that little bar to go where I wanted it to go as fast or as slow as I wanted it to get there. And then I remember sitting for hours watching my high school boyfriend play Zelda. That must have been the beginning of story games... puzzle games. Figure it all out. But again, you had to read the clues. They didn't speak to you.

Video Games have become part of my children's culture. It's what they talk about. It's what they LIVE to do. In our house, it's the carrot. "Get your school work done and you can play video games." "Do your chores and you can play video games." "Help Daddy in the barn, and you can play video games."
Saturdays and Sundays they each get a free hour of video time. No Chores. Just fun. When the Nutty Papa and I were kids, we enjoyed Saturday morning cartoons. So that's what this reminds us of. Just free time to do what you want. They love it! They count down the days until Saturday and Sunday.

Lately, the Baby has been wanting to join his big brothers. This has been a long standing dilemma in our house. First it was Chojuk. He wanted to play with Daddy. Then it was the Snugglebug. He wanted to play with Chojuk. Now, it's the Baby. So I've taught the boys to do with him what we did with them...

Give him a "dummy" remote and let him play along. They're happy because he's not in their way, screaming for a remote. And he's happy because as far as he's concerned, he's the one playing. Ah, peace. If only it could be attained this easily all over the world...

Problem with Watching too Many Movies

2008-11-24T09:17:00.003-06:00

So Friday, we made a trip to the city. I took the kids to town for a little culture. We watched a ballet... Cinderella. I was the most surprised by Chojuk's interest. He sat quietly the entire 2 hours and watched. He enjoyed the sets and analyzing the difference between this ballet and the Disney version we've watched a hundred times. I think I need to read him the real version. Anyway, the Doodlebug enjoyed it too. And after the show, she enjoyed meeting the cast... especially the Prince and Cinderella. I was surprised to hear that the Prince was Russian. The Doodlebug walked right up to him and shook his hand. The Snugglebug and Chojuk followed right behind her. I was so proud of them for walking right up to that prince, shaking his hand, and introducing themselves.

After the ballet, we zipped across town to meet a new homeschool group. They are Catholic and do things on a weekly basis to support each other and their community. Sounded like a good place for us, and they just happen to be meeting the day we were in town. When we arrived, I was expecting lively songs and music. I was disappointed to learn we were there for an hour of adoration... which means quiet reflection and prayer. I was tempted to turn around and leave, but the group leader said that it was geared for children and that my kids wouldn't be any more disruptive than any of the other kids there that day... they don't know my kids... So reluctantly, I stayed. I'm glad I did. It was a very interactive experience with the Deacon asking the kids questions and teaching lots of things from church symbols to parts of the mass.

After about 30 minutes, the Snugglebug announces he has to go potty. And not wanting to miss out on an opportunity to escape, the Doodlebug says she has to go too. Luckily the bathrooms were right outside the door to the chapel. So I told Chojuk I was going to run everyone to the bathroom and that he should stay and listen. And out the door I went. Once we got to the bathroom, I realize they aren't planning on making this a quick trip... if you get my drift... so I tell the Doodlebug and the Snugglebug that I'm going to go check on Chojuk. So I leave them in the bathroom to finish their business and the Baby and I head back into the chapel to check on Chojuk.

When I walk into the chapel, Chojuk is sitting in the pew with his hand raised. Fear rushes to my brain. I get all flushed. Obviously the Deacon has asked a question. What if he doesn't get it right? What if he is just going to start talking about his favorite video game and isn't going to say anything about what's happening here? I hold my breath...

"OK.. so I'm going to do my first confession. I'm ready for that. I know what I'm going to say. I'm a little worried about telling the priest everything I've done wrong. But Mama says it'll be OK. And then I get to take my first communion.... and there's the bread... I know bread... it tastes good... I'll like that. But the wine... I'm a little worried about the wine. What is it going to taste like? I don't know if I'll like it.. and Mama says if you drink too much wine you'll get marinated."

Marinated?!? All the adults in the room stifle their laughter. Then they look for the "proud" mother of this child. There I was standing the in the back of the room red as a beat thinking, "I've never said 'marinated'!" But the Deacon handled it beautifully...

"Well, when you drink the wine, you don't take a big drink of it. You just take a little sip. So you'll be OK when you drink the wine. But your Mama is right... if you drink too much wine, you can get marinated."

At that moment, I remembered I had two children still in the bathroom. So I left the chapel to get the other two. We returned to finish the adoration and as some of the adults left, they'd quietly pat my shoulder in a knowing way with a gentle smile on their face. Everyone had been there before and knew how I felt. And I felt support. It was the right place to be.

For those of you wondering, I later learned the source of Chojuk's concern with being marinated...Aristocats! Thanks for solving the mystery, Amy .

Go!

2008-11-16T19:44:00.011-06:00

The Nutty Papa ran his first marathon today. And I cheered for my first marathon today. It was so much fun! I can see why people want to run them. The energy is contagious! Everyone is cheering. People are happy! It's fun!

The Nutty Papa started his day at a bus stop at 6:30am. He waited in line for a shuttle to take him to the starting line for 30 minutes in 40 degree temperatures. I'm sure the cold didn't help his nerves. But he was surrounded by folks feeling the same anxiety... so I'm sure that helped.

He joined his corral, #18, and his friend from work. They were going to motivate each other. When #18 lined up, the guy at the starting line had them cheering. They did the wave. They were ready to go. I wish I could have seen that. But I was on the road with a car full of kids, ready to spend the day with their friends. There are few friends in life who are willing to take your four kids for the day. We are so blessed to have such a friend in Ms. Michelle and Mr. Tim. The kids had a ball and I was confident that my kids were having fun and being loved so I didn't think about them at all. I could focus on my Knight.

The Nutty Papa's sister, Tricia, and I made it to mile 13 at 9:30am. According to my calculations, The Nutty Papa should have arrived at approximately 9:50. So I found a spot and started watching for him, while Tricia started passing out energy drinks. I was so thankful to have her with me on so many levels today. But at that moment, I was thankful to have someone who had it together enough to offer the runners support. I stood on the side of the road on the verge of tears for the first 30 minutes. I couldn't believe how many people where there. How many were willing to push their bodies in such a way... to strive for such a goal. It moved me.

Luckily for me, The Nutty Papa didn't make it at his designated time. Apparently they got a late start and he was 10 minutes late. I needed that extra 10 minutes to pull myself together. Thankfully I wasn't standing on the side of the road bawling my eyes out. But I certainly couldn't yell for anyone.

The Nutty Papa planned on wearing his yellow shirt. He imagined that there would be few yellow shirts on the run. And he was right. The yellow stood out in a crowd. There were yellow shirts... but only a few. So every yellow shirt caught my attention. But only for a moment. I knew his pace. I knew his stride. I'd recognize him immediately.

It was interesting to me the different approaches all the runners took. Some were very serious about it. They were weighted down with energy drinks. Some popped ibuprofen. Some carried carb filled snacks. Some stopped to stretch. Others were walking. Then there were the guys who knew what they were doing. These were the guys who took time to make it entertaining for the others. Take "Jim" here. Turkey head. He ran past me right past the 4:15 sign with a smile on his face and a turkey on his head. What a great attitude. I saw ZZ Top, Santa, beauty pageant winners, and super heroes. One guy was even in a full face mask. How he could run with that face mask over his mouth and nose, I couldn't imagine. But he did. I saw him at every stop.

Finally, my eye found a yellow shirted runner with a long stride. I knew it was him. I held up my sign and started yellin', "Go, Daddy, GO!" He saw me from quite a ways back and started smiling. He made his way over to me on the side of the road and wanted a hug and kiss. He was so happy to see me. It made it worth the wait out in the cold.

As soon as I saw him, I started yellin', "Tricia! Tricia!!" I wanted her to be ready with energy drink for him. And she was.

How cool is it to be greeted by your sister at mile 13 when your needin' a drink? She made sure to get him the energy drinks that were well mixed and full. And she stood there while he drank up 3 or 4 cups of the stuff.

He had done lots of studying about how to prepare your body for the race. He hadn't prepared his body for his big 20 mile run during training and he lost it. So he got some information from a nutritionist who gave him exact amounts of carbs to eat Thursday, Friday and Saturday before the race. Then she also gave him tips on fueling his body during the race. He was much better prepared for his marathon experience than any other run he had made. When we saw him at mile 13, he said he was feeling great. He was breathing well and looking fabulous. I knew he would be doing well. After all, I fed him his carbs on Saturday... and I have the extra pounds to prove it!

After The Nutty Papa passed us, I was ready to run to the next marker. I wanted to make it to as many as I could. I wanted to be the little push he needed, if he needed it. Tricia got called by the Drill Sergeant of the water table and was ordered to clean up the street. There was only one rake, but I tried to help by kicking the cups off the road. It was useless... the more I kicked, the more cups appeared. Tricia is such a considerate person, she would have stayed there all afternoon if I hadn't been jumping around yellin' for her to come drive me to the next stop. She was very patient with me and finally found a break in her street raking duties to come drive me to mile 15. As we were driving, we got a call from the Eye Doctor and his family. They had just seen the Nutty Papa and were excited to have yelled for him. What great friends!! I later learned that the Nutty Papa was so excited to see someone yelling for him that he kissed them all! The Nutty Papa... nothin' but love!

Mile 15 and mile 19 were right beside each other so I asked Tricia to drop me off at mile 19. The Drill Sergeant had recruited her to buy some toilet paper. So she went and got toilet paper while I waited and watched some more.

One again, I was amazed at the endurance and drive of the runners. And of course, the level of seriousness they had. One guy ran by in a big purple tutu and purple tulle cape. It was funny! And he was having a good time.

Another thing I noticed was the different running styles everyone had. Some ran really heavy on their feet. Some bounced a lot. Some were so smooth, their heads didn't bob up and down at all. Some were knock kneed and swung their legs around a lot. Others had limp hands and when they ran, their hands would flick like they were trying to get water off of them. But all of them were cussin' this hill. There was an extremely enthusiastic group of cheerers at the bottom of this hill. They were jumpin' up and down and hollerin' trying to get everyone ramped up to take the hill. Sometimes it worked. Sometimes it didn't. I'd say a good half of the folks just walked up the hill. At mile 19, I would have crawled. That's when I started wondering what was happening with the Nutty Papa. Where was he?

Wait a minute. What's that? Is it a yellow shirt? Tricia decided to wait at the bottom of that hill and run up the hill with him to offer him a little encouragement. Could that be them?

I do believe I see a yellow shirt runnin' along beside my sister-in-law. I started waving my other sign. This one said, "We Love Daddy!" I put that picture of the Nutty Papa kissin' the Doodlebug after a run on there and wrote, "I wish I were running with you Daddy!" Tricia pointed it out to him, but he didn't see it. He was focused on me, he said.

He ran up that hill. He was doing GREAT! He wasn't one of the ones that let that hill get him! I was so proud of him! I put down my sign and ran with him for a few steps. He introduced me to his friend from work. She was running for her brother in Iraq. I bet he's proud!

Then he was gone. Off to tackle more marathon. And I was back to bugging Tricia. "Can we go to another stop?" She was skeptical. I wanted to get to the stop that might be his "wall". I wanted to be there to tell him he could do it. To show him I believed in him. Turns out he didn't need it.

I managed to persuade Tricia to stop at mile 24. It was on the way to the finish line. We stopped and before long, here comes the Nutty Papa. This time he was running with another running buddy. He introduced me and said, "I gotta run! She and I are going to run the rest of the way together." He said he was doing great and feeling fine. He looked it too!

The next time I saw him, it was as he crossed the finish line.

My biggest complaint was that I couldn't see him cross the finish line. They had it so blocked off, I couldn't get in there. I couldn't yell for him. I couldn't snap that picture. But you can bet someone did. And they'll be charging me an arm and a leg for that monumental photo. And it'll be worth it!

I am so proud of him. He finished at 4 hours and 42 minutes. This time was better than he hoped for. And he never hit that wall. He was comfortable and well juiced the whole way. It couldn't have been a better first marathon!

Way to go, Nutty Papa! We're so proud of you!

On Your Mark, Get Set...

2008-11-15T12:23:00.003-06:00

Tomorrow's the big day. My Marathon Man is on his way. After training since April, running almost daily, the big day is here. He's doing his last minute preparation before he runs. And that means eating. He's eating carbs, and carbs, and more carbs. For lunch today, he's eating a box of rice. For dinner, a box of spaghetti and a loaf of cabatta bread.

Maybe I need to run a marathon....

Clean Pecans

2008-11-09T08:20:00.006-06:00

Part of harvesting the pecans is driving them to The Great Pecan Man's orchard to have our pecans cleaned. His machine is so fancy and so cool, the kids love going there. Chojuk loves to see the cogs and wheels spinning. The Snugglebug likes to help on the pickin' table. And the Doodlebug just loves the opportunity to get out of the suburban after an hour and see what kind of trouble she can find. This year, she had a partner in crime with the Baby tagging along behind her.

The kids and I drive a trailer loaded with 6 big supersacks of pecans. Each supersack holds between 600-1000 lbs of pecans depending on how full we stuffed it.

Once we arrive, the guys working there unload the bags with a forklift. If I'm really lucky, they'll start dumping them in the cleaning plant right away. The first step is emptying the bags into this big hole in the floor.

That's me. Pecans and sticks. I haven't figured out a way to market the sticks. But for all you creative folks out there with too much time on your hands, and you know who you are, I'll leave that for you. There's money to be made there. People need sticks, right?

Anyway, the pecans then begin the long voyage up out of the hole in the floor by way of conveyor belt. Chojuk loves conveyor belts. He goes into another world... thinking of how things work. Watching the pecans ride up. The only problem is, it's LOUD in there. He's got really sensitive ears. So he runs around with his fingers in his ears. I'll have to remember to pack his ear plugs next year.

Once they get to the top of one conveyor belt, they get tumbled and brushed, washed and dropped, lifted and dumped. I imagine it's an interesting experience for a pecan.

After they've been scrubbed, they sit in this cylinder for a while. There they wait to be released to the other side where there are friendly farm hands waiting to pick out the icky pecans that wouldn't release it's green shuck. Sometimes the pecan suffers from separation anxiety, Stick Tights to us professionals. They sometimes get to go on the ride again. Other times, they get tossed out for the pigs. I imagine if they knew their fate, they might just let go. Pig slop would not be my choice of ultimate demise.

After being cleaned and picked over, the pecans go to a holding bin to dry. The Great Pecan Man has great big fans that blow air up through the pecans for a few days. When pecans come off a tree, they're a little green... and I'm not just talkin' color here folks. They have too much water in them and need to have some of that water dried off. Anyway, the pecans sit here and sunbathe for a few days until the Great Pecan Man's great daughter can get in there and get a sample. She'll crack a few open and grade them. Just one more reason I am ever so thankful for the Great Pecan Man and his Great family!

Anyway, when the Great Pecan Daughter has deemed the pecans dry enough, they get one more ride on a conveyor belt. There they are blown around a lot! The winners, the ones who are heavy enough to survive being blown around, ride along one last pickin' table where they are carefully checked to make sure they are eatable and not tryin' to sprout. Sprouts are yucky. Don't wanna eat those. Blah!

If you are a pecan grown in the Nutty Forest, you get bagged up in a 50 pound bag and stacked on a pallet. Here you wait some more for some lucky guy to come along and buy you. This year, it seems the lucky guys are all lookin' to Mexico to buy their pecans, so the Great Pecan Man and I are lookin' at oodles and oodles of fresh, clean pecans. This is a first for me. They are usually gone before I even get a chance to see them clean. Now when I go visit the Great Pecan Man, I can visit my entire crop too. See there it is. Three pallets of 50 lb bags. Roughly 15,000lbs of pecans.

For those of you who think that's a lot of pecans, check out what the Great Pecan Man gets to visit everytime HE goes to his barn:

(There are mine, right there in the red bags... ) And then this....

Each of those bags holds between 1500 to 3000 lbs of pecans. Now that's a lot of nuts!

And here's the final product. Pecan anyone?

Long Over Due Halloween Post..or Maybe Just Long

2008-11-07T07:58:00.004-06:00

Whew. After a week of fighting a nasty case of food poisoning, I am finally able to sit up at my computer and check in with you. And as I sit trying to figure out what you need to hear, I realize Halloween came and went and it seems like an eternity ago. That's what 3 days of semi consciousness will do to you.

I started thinking about Halloween in August. After all, the boys are now old enough to have an opinion about what they want to be. They are into enough things, I figured surely they'd have some ideas. And when I'd ask with baited breath, "What do you want to be for Halloween?" instead of creative and crazy ideas which blew my mind... how could I possibly make that?... I get stares. Blank stares. And then, the words which I came to dread, "I dunno." In August I thought, fine. It's early. I'll give 'em a week or two and try again. Unfortunately, I'd just get repeat performances of the same thing. I dunno.

The Doodlebug, on the other hand, was well equipped to answer. "A witch!" Great! I can handle that. But knowing my budding primadonna, she'll change her mind a hundred times first. Luckily, I came upon a used witch costume that was so cute! I bought it and she was thrilled. Doodlebug done. Check.

And the baby... well, since I get to pick that I'd had a plan for him since birth. I have a Pooh costume that all the kids have worn. It was time for him to wear it. Tradition. End of story. Baby done. Check.

But the boys kept draggin' their feet. Finally, at the beginning of October, well into harvest, the boys started talking about getting a light saber like Darth Maul. You know the guy... red horns. Gets sliced in half in Star Wars, episode 1. They have a tendency to go for the bad guys. Anyway, they started asking for these light sabers. And lucky for us, Mimi was coming for Halloween and wanted to bring treats for the boys. So she brought them build your own light saber kits. They didn't get to build a light saber just like Darth Maul. But they had cool glowing light sabers, and were dressed in black. Bad guys. Good enough. Check. Check.

Our Halloween tradition here is to go trick-or-treating at a local retirement community. The residents dress up and sit outside in the hall while the local kids run from door to door collecting candy. We love going. They are so friendly. And since our neighbors, the local squirrels who have taken up residence in the trees, weren't offering candy, we thought it'd be a great place to go.

As soon as we arrived, I grabbed my camera to take pictures. The Baby looked especially precious toddling around the halls. But when I aimed and fired... nothing happened. Wouldn't you know? I'd left the battery charging in the kitchen. So no pictures. Not one. Bummer. Oh, well. I guess I couldn't have taken a picture of my favorite part anyway. What's my favorite part, you ask? The Baby. He'd toddle up to those little ladies... watch with awe as they dropped two or three pieces of candy into his bag... and then he'd say, "Tank too!" I love toddler babble. Makes me smile.

After hitting up the ladies and gentlemen at the retirement community, we ran over to a friend's house hoping they'd be home and possibly go house to house with their kids. They, unforunately, weren't home. But we went door to door anyway. The kids got plenty of candy and were asking us if we could go home. All except for my Snugglebug. He's got the sweetest tooth of anyone I know. He'd have gone to every house in town if he thought it meant free candy. And the Baby would have followed. He thought all this was fun too.

The real excitement came when we were driving home. The Doodlebug yells out, "I gotta go tinkle!" Unfortunately, the Nutty Papa isn't trained in the art of Doodle-management, so when she said that, he looked at me for assistance. "Pull over, NOW!" And the Nutty Papa, safety first, says, "Here? Now?" "YES!! NOW!!!" So he slams on the breaks and pulls over. I holler to Mimi, who was sittin' next to the Doodlebug in the car to unbuckle her and get her out, and I jump out and get the potty that I was advised early in my daughter totin' days to always carry with me. (Thank you Andi for that sound advice!) So here we are, standin' on the side of the road, with a 3 year old pink princess (who I forgot to tell you, changed her mind about the witch costume last minute), a Mimi who can't stop from laughin' (she gets that way when it comes to tinkle... remind me to tell you about the first time... holy moley!), and a Nutty Mama yellin', "Come on Mimi! Hurry up!" I wish I'd been the guy who drove by. Well, Mimi, bless her heart, just wasn't fast enough and the Doodlebug leaked all over her pretty princess costume and then refused to wear it for the 2 minutes home. So she crawled back into her car seat buck naked, only sitting on a few napkins, because she didn't want her bare bottom on her car seat. Parenthood. What an adventure.

When we got home I said, "Freeze! I need pictures." And here's what I got:

Don't they look like they've just had the time of their lives? Chojuk is actually exhausted. And the Snugglebug is just waiting to get inside so he can dig into that candy.

The Baby has figured out what happens when the camera comes out. See? Cheese!

And then went straight for the candy. How do I get me some of that?!?

Chojuk disappeared upstairs. The Doodlebug, who is not properly clothed for this G-rated blog, is munchin' away on the floor about 2 feet from the door. And the Baby actually screamed at me NOT to take his costume off. All while the Snugglebug sits in candy nirvana. But he took the time to share with baby brother.

But don't think about trying to sneak a piece while he's not looking.

One of the Benefits of Homeschooling

2008-10-31T08:09:00.003-05:00

We homeschool our kids. Have I mentioned that? It's a long story... I'll tell you about it later. But for now, you'll have to just be satisfied with the knowledge that we do.

One of the coolest things about homeschooling, for us, is that we can let the kids be involved in the harvest. They really love the harvest. The tree shaking. The tractor riding. The trips to The Great Pecan Man's Cleaning Plant. It's something different. And they all enjoy it.

This year, Chojuk found a new love of harvest. Driving. He was out with Mr. David and I while we were hand harvesting a few pecans and he asked Mr. David if he could drive the shaker.

Mr. David taught him the ropes and off he went. It was so fun to see! He was so excited, I think he spent more time waving at me than driving. Luckily the shaker doesn't go too fast, so that was alright.

But I can see Chojuk volunteering for the shaker job in the future. He'd make a great tree shaker. I am so proud!

Meanwhile.... there's the Doodlebug. What's a Mama to do?

The Only Girl

2008-10-24T09:35:00.002-05:00

We only have one princess in our family: the Doodlebug. She enjoys lots of perks being the only girl. She gets her own room. Filled with her own clothes. And lots of girlie toys. It's very pink. As an adult, I would think that would be the best position in the whole house... your own space. No one keeping you awake when you are trying to sleep. But that's not how the Doodlebug sees her world. She is happy to enjoy her space with her brothers during the day. She needs someone to chat with... non stop. But at night time, when she is forced to go in her room and sleep all by herself, it's torture. I often find her sleeping somewhere else when I go up to check on her.

Sometimes she's crawled into bed with The Nutty Papa...

Sometimes she's bunkin' up with the boys...

And this week, I found her in bed with the Baby.

I think we need to get her a roommate...

She's a little restless at night, but otherwise she's quiet. Any takers?

Too Busy!

2008-10-23T16:45:00.003-05:00

You know you are working your dear husband too hard when he doesn't have time to shave. This is what I have been kissing for the past 3 weeks....

Prickles. Stubblies. Tickley. Beard.

This is a first for the Nutty Papa. He's let himself go... but never this far.

You should have seen it when he would get off the sweeper. That thing is a dirt catcher. His entire face looked really brown from the dirt. He finally got tired of it and shaved it off this weekend.

Ah... back to baby soft kissed. Come to Mama!

A Baby No More

2008-10-20T13:29:00.002-05:00

The time has finally come. My baby boy was more and more being identified as a girl. "What a pretty little girl!" It was time for a hair cut.

The Baby has had more hair than any of the other kids. The other 2 boys didn't get haircuts until after their second birthdays. The Doodlebug is still waiting for her first hair cut. And since he's my Baby, I was putting it off as long as I could. But it was time.

We went to see a barber. We enjoy barbers. They're boys. They get boys. So we found a barber downtown and asked him to cut my Baby's hair.

My Baby didn't like it. He held on tight to Mama and Bear. He refused the cape. So he and Mama got covered in hair. But we didn't mind. Whatever it took to help make him comfortable.

Mama whispered to him and sang to him and before long, it was all over. The Baby had finished his first haircut.

Doesn't he look all growed up?!?

A Pitiful Substitute for Snow

2008-10-16T08:02:00.002-05:00

My children are abundantly aware that in Texas, there will be no snow. No need filling their heads with maybes or somedays. Tell 'em it doesn't snow and there can be no disappointment. And when, on that rare occasion there is snow, what a treat! So for now, we live for the day we can take our kids to the snow.

The other day, in an attempt to capture that "snow" feeling, I found the Doodlebug laying in a pile of sand by the barn.

"Whacha doin', Doodlebug?"

"I'm makin' a sand angel, Mama!"

I'm glad to know she won't miss out on THAT snow experience.

That's Farmin'

2008-10-10T08:33:00.004-05:00

On our first day of harvest, things hardly ever go right. This year was certainly no exception. While the Nutty Family was busy at the soccer fields, Mr. David, our trusty orchard man, was busy shaking our first rows of trees. When the phone rings at the soccer game, I'm sure it's bad news. "Bad news... a big hose busted." Great. Since it's Saturday, and everything closes at noon, I begin to feel the pressure.

When we got home, sure enough, there is was. Busted was an understatement.

So the Nutty Papa gets right to work. Wait a minute... why are you taking my picture? Is this for your blog? I need to lose the hat if it's for your blog....

The Marlboro Man over at http://www.thepioneerwoman.com would never wear a hat like that. I have to look cool like him!

I may not be able to get calf nuts, but I know how to get greasy!

The Nutty Papa takes the hose off, I take it to town and say "I need this." They make it up for me and I bring it back. I dream of the day I don't need to have the part to buy the part. That I can call the store and say, "Hey Joe. I busted a 470 -399. Can you get me another one with a 55X adapter?" (Sounds like I know what I'm talking about, huh?)

Two hours and 4 big drums of hydraulic oil later, we are shaking. It was a slow start to harvest. But eventually, we picked up the pace.

Today we are patiently waiting for The Great Pecan Man to clean and dry our pecans. We have finished the first go around of the Wichita. Unfortunately, there were some stubborn suckers who hung on a little too tight. We'll be back to get those in a week.

For now, I'm off to a relaxing girls weekend where we scrapbook into the wee hours. I can't wait! I love working on my books. Seeing all the wonderful memories reminds me how much I love being a wife, Mom and farmer. Have a great weekend!!

Sticks, Sticks and More Sticks!

2008-10-09T08:06:00.002-05:00

This year, since we didn't harvest last year, we have LOTS of sticks. We are having to pick up last years sticks and this years sticks. That's a lot of sticks. I tried to leave the sticks alone... but they just slow you down on the harvester.

One of my bright ideas was to hire a stick crew this year to pick up the sticks. Cheap labor. If I could get all the sticks picked up with my crew, then Mr. David and the Nutty Papa would be able to focus on the machines. We got off to a good start. The crew was willing... but they didn't last. Eventually, Mr. David got the job by default. Good thing he's a hard worker.

Here's my crew. They're cute. But they lack endurance. Maybe they'll be better next year!

Weird-itis

2008-09-30T16:59:00.002-05:00

So harvest has begun. You got that, right? What I haven't told you is what's happened to the nuts. Apparently, something snuck into the orchard in the last week to 10 days and got a hold of the nuts and messed 'em up.

Here's what I'm seeing in the orchard right now. I'm shakin' trees, and nuts are fallin' but they are comin' from this...

Funky lookin' shuck, huh? Should be pretty and green... but it's this. Weird-itis is The Great Pecan Man's official diagnosis. The Pecan Doctor, however, thinks it's a fungus. And when you open those nuts in those shucks, you get this...

Thin, wafery, pecans. (Notice the lovely black thumb nail. That's from impatience. If you are too impatient to wait for a knife to cut into shucks, and you use your nail, the oil from the shucks turns your skin, and fingernails, black. Lovely.) Anyway, not all the pecans look like this. I have some of this weirditis on all the trees. But I also have this on all the trees:

Beautiful. Masterful. Perfect. It gives me great joy to see these beauties hangin' up there in those trees. To know that I took such good care of those babies. I did something right. I sprayed at the right time. I watered at the right time. And for my efforts, they reward me with those nice, plump, healthy shucks.

And then there's this. I guess it's God's way of remindin' me, I got a lot to learn!

It works! It works!

2008-09-26T08:08:00.002-05:00

Hello? Tap. Tap. Tap. Anyone out there? Oh, there you are! I've missed you! Seems I've been running in ten different directions and just haven't made the time for you. I am so sorry!

It appears harvest has arrived. It'll be a bitter sweet harvest this year. We have some nuts. On some trees. And the quality will be Great to fair. It's always hard to work so hard to grow something only to have some on half. But as I keep telling Grandma, some nuts are better than no nuts!

This year for harvest, we are trying to streamline the process a little. Historically, we shook, swept, harvested, and shoveled. That's right. We shoveled all the pecans in to great big bags to take to the Great Pecan Man to be cleaned. Shoveling is a pain. A pain in the back. A pain in the legs. And a time waster. It takes a long time to shovel. And no one likes doing it.

This year, after many restless nights, dreaming of shoveling... (I have restless sleepless nights thinking about things like shoveling, laundry, the economy, what color I'd like to paint my living room... rest assured, the Nutty Papa doesn't have restless nights)... Anyway, we decided to try something new. This year, instead of hiring someone, we are going to rent a forklift and see if we can harvest the pecans straight into the great big bags, lift them out of one trailer and into another.

We found a neighbor who has a bobcat with forks. He has agreed to rent it to us for a week. We decided to give it a test run to see if it'd work yesterday. And it did. Kinda.

We harvested into the bag. We lifted the bag off the trailer. And put it on the cleaning trailer to go to the Great Pecan Man.

And this process was all carefully supervised by the Future Farmer of Pecans.

This morning, however, we hit a snag in the plan. Seems the bags swell with all those pecans in them and we're having a hard time getting as many bags on the cleaning trailer as we'd like. Oh, boy. Might be back to shoveling.

In the meantime, I'm off to harvest! TTFN!

Being the Farmer for the Day

2008-09-11T22:35:00.001-05:00

I want to be a fully self sufficient farm girl. That means I have to know how to drive everything. On Sunday, I tackled the tractor with shredder.

I've never been the one to mow the grass. As a child, that was Mom's job. She enjoyed cutting the grass cuz it gave her an excuse to work on her tan. And quite frankly, cutting the grass made me sneeze. So I avoided it.

Well, now that I'm a big time farmer, I need to know how to cut the grass. It's a big part of orchard operations. And after 4 months of things breaking down on the shredder, I thought I needed to get a handle on what was going on out there.

So on Saturday, I jumped on that shredder and gave it a whirl. The grass was way out of control and we needed to get it whacked down asap. I headed down the driveway and out to the strip of grass by the road so we could make the orchard look nicer.

I'm a pretty good driver. I had one little accident, which I'll tell you about later. But for the most part, I did alright. I drove slow and steady. And over time, I'm sure I'll naturally know where the wide shredder ends without having to stand up and look. And I loved the quiet time mowing.

Hey... maybe that's what Mom was doing out there when I was a kid. Hmmm...

I've Waited Three Long Years For This Day....

2008-09-09T08:15:00.010-05:00

I grew up dancing. My Mom put me in dancing when I was three and it was the best thing she ever did for me. I loved it. As an only child, being on stage felt right at home for me. I thrived there. And when my Mom decided to put me on a competition dance team, even though I resisted with every ounce of my being, I quickly found my love. My passion. It gave me a reason to walk proud. Hold my head up. I was good at something. And I loved it!

So when I found out I was pregnant with baby number three, after having two rough and tumbly boys, I secretly hoped for a little girl. A little dancer.

When I went to the hospital to be induced that Wednesday, 3 years 3 months and 28 days ago, I crossed my fingers....

And much to my surprise, I got my wish! My own little 8lb. 8oz. bundle of pink prettiness. I was thrilled!

So was her big brother!

I began whispering to her about ruffles and tutus... smiling and performing... leaping and bopping. And I began the countdown. Once she's three, I'll start her in dance lessons.

In May, with dance lessons looming right around the corner, I hit a bump in the road. Potty training. UGH! She can't go to lessons in a diaper. So we started working on potty training. I never thought she'd get it! As days turned into weeks, and weeks turned into months, I was sure September would arrive and she'd still be dancing in her diapers.

Ten days ago, she surprised me. She started getting it. Running to the potty. Preferring panties. Ballet lessons, here we come!!

Monday was her first day. She was almost as excited as I was. We got her dressed in her new dance clothes and put her hair up "like a ballerina"...

and she took a look. And I saw it in her eyes. This might just be her thing.

and with her ballet clothes on, she danced for herself in the mirror. A sure sign of approval.

We arrived for dance classes and they got started right away. Point, flex. Point, flex.

Touch your toes.

Stretch! (Look at those pretty ballet arms!)

Her brothers and I stood and watched every minute through the one way window. (He's not as excited about having a sister as he was that day 3 years ago, but he sure was proud of his ballerina sister.)

She squatted like a frog and...

jumped into the air!

She learned her positions...

and how to do plies.

Even in second...

Then she bourree-ed...

and glided across the floor. Ballet was looking pretty good.

Then is was time for tap. And she discovered her shoes made noise!

Tap, tap, tap, goes the teacher. STOMP, STOMP, STOMP goes the Doodlebug.

She walked across the floor going, heel, toe, heel, toe, heel, toe....

And came back again.

And then she was done. It was a GREAT first lesson! And well worth the 3 year wait.

Soccer Time

2008-09-08T08:53:00.004-05:00

Chojuk had his first soccer game over the weekend. He had one practice... then a game. Needless to say, I felt a little unprepared. But he was ready. Ready to kick that ball.

When we arrived, I was delayed a moment. I had to fumigate the stroller. It was full of spiders... Blah! So the Nutty Papa ran ahead with Chojuk so they could get started. When I finally caught up, this is what I found.

Chojuk playing goalie! Eh-Gad! My heart started racing and I got all nervous. GOALIE!?!

Time for a confession. I hate sports with a goalie. I'm really not a big team sports fan. I feel sorry for the losing team. They are trying their hardest... why can't everyone be winners?!? But sports with goalies?!? They have that one guy down there all by himself with the pressure of stopping the goal. Sure he has teammates to help. But really... when it all comes down to it... it's the goalie's job. And I HATE when someone scores on a goalie. He's doing his best right? He's kickin' that ball. And then WHAM! The ball goes in and the scorer celebrates! While the goalie is left with his head hung, felling like he disappointed the team. It breaks my heart. Seriously, I'm not meant to be a sports Mom.

But I love my kids and if they want to try their hands at sports, cool. But please don't make me watch while my kids are goalies! UGH!

But Chojuk did pretty well. It helped that the red team, a.k.a. the Dragons, were not the best kickers. But they stayed down at our end of the field for most of the game. And Chojuk stood his ground. He kicked that ball away whenever it was near.

Kick!

Then it was someone else's turn to play goalie (whew!) and Chojuk got out there to chase the ball with the other kids. Chojuk isn't a runner. He doesn't like running and he doesn't like to get hot. But he surprised me at first. He was up and down that field trying to get his foot on the ball...

But after a few minutes of playing in the field, Chojuk started playing like this. He'd just stand there and wait for the ball to come to him. Too much running. Maybe goalie is a good idea for him...

The red team, I mean, the Dragons, were pretty good. They scored on us a few times. We got one in on a technicality. But when they're 7, who's keeping score, right? The parents! They keep score. Each child on the field had 4 coaches: the two poor pitiful souls who volunteered to lead this pack, and their parents. All those folks were hollerin' and screamin' at their kids. I think the hollerin' was part of the fun... for everyone!

After a while, we really got into it. These two cheerleaders were cheerin' up a storm. All that was missin' were their pom-poms.

We were even teasin' the Doodlebug. Someone heard that she starts ballet classes on Monday and they asked her if she wanted us to bring our chairs and holler at her too: POINT THOSE TOES! SMILE BIGGER! YOU'RE LEAPIN' THE WRONG WAY! Doodlebug politely answered, "I don't think so." I am so thankful that ballet won't be so involved.

We have been really blessed to have a fun soccer team for Chojuk. The parents are all so friendly and the kids are friends already. I love to see the Hand of God at work.

Withdrawals

2008-08-28T08:54:00.004-05:00

I'm sleeping better this week. Going to bed much earlier than I have the last 2 weeks. But I'm going through withdrawals.

I love the Olympics. I have fond memories of them. Watching the "Battle of the Brians" at the winter Olympics with my Mom on the sofa. Watching the American girls win the gold when I was in college with my roommate Chera. I love them. I enjoyed watching Michael Phelps go for gold. I cheered when he raced. I even had the butterflies.

And I held my breath watching the girls perform for the gold. It's exciting. I wish it happened more than just every 4 years. I'm glad they separated them. I'm looking forward to my next fix in the Winter 2010 games. And I have to say, I'm glad Canada is closer. Maybe I'll get more sleep.

Or maybe not.

Meet the Miracle Man... er, boy...

2008-08-24T23:25:00.006-05:00

Our newest little friend and resident Miracle has left the hospital. He is home living with his family and is living large!

We had the pleasure of visiting him last week. He is still tiny! His pacifier is almost as big as he it!

He's a content little guy. But who wouldn't be? He has 2 loving and caring parents who are over the moon in love with him. And 2 big sisters who just don't see fit to let him sleep anywhere but in their arms.

When we visited, he had been to church for the first time and was wearing this cute little onesie. "Heaven Sent." Truer words were never spoken.

The Doodlebug even wanted her chance to hold and love on him. She was so gentle and sweet. She just sat there and loved on him and smiled. It was wonderful.

Welcome Home, Little Matthew!

The Only Bad Thing About the Nutty Forest

2008-08-19T23:27:00.002-05:00

I love living here. Have I told you that? The Nutty Papa tells me I'm a city girl. I didn't grow up in a big city, but I grew up next to one, with a car. So I did what I wanted when I wanted. I didn't work outside. I spent my time at dance classes. So moving out to the country has been a new experience for me. And I love it! I love the smell of the air. I love the freedom I feel. Being able to do whatever I want outside without worrying about what the neighbors think. And I love the sound of the wind blowing through the trees.

That being said, there is one thing about living out here that I hate. Can't stand it. Drives me wild. Luckily I have only had to deal with this from a distance, a few times a year.

Meet my nightmare. Mr. Rattlesnake. Unfortunately, I have to share the country with him. He mostly keeps his distance. But every once in a while, he wanders, or slithers, over to my part of the world. Luckily, Mr. David is usually there to save me when he does. This particular fellow met Mr. David on our driveway. Mr. David ran over him with his car. Then he took him over to the barn and placed him under a tree so the kids could look at him. Thanks Mr. David.

We have run ins with these guys 2-3 times a year. I'll never forget my first run in with one. The kids and I were alone... the Nutty Papa had gone to Japan. Japan of all places. He couldn't have been farther away. We were returning one early March evening from a visit to Aunt Tricia's. It was dark. I told Chojuk to feed the puppies and I was going to go get some laundry off the line. That's when I heard it. Not a rattle. A scream. I came running and it was Chojuk. He was hysterical. I could barely understand him. Finally, I figured out he'd seen a rattlesnake. When I asked him where it was, he said, "Come here, I'll show you." Wait a minute. I didn't want to see it. Didn't want to get close to it. Didn't want to let HIM get close to it. So I told him to point to it. And sure enough. There was a tiny little rattlesnake curled up on the back door, preventing us from going in. Not knowing who else to call at 9pm, I called Mr. Pete, our mechanic.

"Pete..."

Groggily.... "Yes"

"I think there's a rattlesnake by my back door."

"You think?"

"Well, I'm not getting close enough to see."

"Is it alive?"

"I don't know. I'm not getting close enough to see."

"You sure it's a rattlesnake? It's awfully early in the year for rattlesnakes."

"No, I'm not sure it's a rattlesnake. I'm not getting close enough to see."

"Is your gate open?"

"If you'll come kill it, I'll open the gate for you!"

"Let me get out of bed. I'll be right there."

"Thanks Mr. Pete."

Mr. Pete arrived and was as surprised as we were to see a little rattlesnake on our back porch. He brought a shovel and cut his head off. Then he showed it to the kids and gave us a little lesson in rattlesnake. I'm such a city girl!

To this day, if you ask the kids what to do if they see a rattlesnake they'll say, "Run away from it." And then what'll happen? "Mr. Pete will come with a shovel and kill it." Thanks Mr. Pete!

After that, I started askin' people how to get rid of them... or keep them away. Put down a rope... they don't slither over rope. I had a hard time findin' a rope long enough to go around 100 acres. Moth Balls, my father in law said. They don't like the smell of moth balls. So I went to Walmart and bought them out of moth balls. I put them all over the ground like I was landscaping the ground with them. Then my girlfriend Teza came out. She said she pulled onto the driveway and was so excited to be in the country, she rolled down her window to smell that wonderful country air. She started coughing from the smell of moth balls. Kinda ruins the whole country livin' thing. So I'm still lookin' for a solution.

Rattlesnakes. My country livin' nemesis. As long as I live here, he'll be here. But if my choices are live with the occasional run in, or leave, I'll live with the rattlesnakes. They bother me a lot less than my noisy neighbors used to.

But if you come up with a rattlesnake bait, let me know.

A Good Day Outside with The Nutty Papa

2008-08-19T22:55:00.003-05:00

The baby is old enough now to walk around outside with the family. This past weekend, The Nutty Papa was in charge. He allows so much more freedom than I do. I worry. What if they run into a rattlesnake? What if they get a stick in the eye? What if they step in an ant bed? What if they throw dirt at each other? WHAT IF THEY RUN INTO A RATTLESNAKE?!? Not to worry. The Nutty Papa stays outside with the kids. He's never far.

This weekend, while I was cleaning the inside, The Nutty Papa and kids were cleaning the outside. Since there isn't much for the Baby to do to help, he just gets to explore. The Doodlebug and he have become really good buddies. They get into all kinds of trouble together. They especially love the dirt. Here's what happens to a Baby who plays in the dirt.

This is what I saw when the Nutty Papa brought him in for lunch! Needless to say, he didn't get lunch until he got a bath! It took a while to get him to smile for this picture. He was really mad that he had to come inside. But he was so hot! The dirt is stuck to his sweat!

I'm envisioning years of dirty tubs ahead for me.

Madness in the Nutty Forest

2008-08-14T08:06:00.000-05:00

I love farming. It's great to watch something grow. Then to harvest it. Eat it. Sell it. It's cool.

The craziest part of pecan farming is thinning the crop. Walking up to a perfectly healthy tree loaded with nuts and saying, "We need to get rid of some of these nuts!" My Friendly Cotton Pickin' Neighbor doesn't do that. "Hmmm. We just have too much cotton. Let's get rid of some of it!" If he did that, the neighbors would laugh at him.

But here I go. Shakin' down half the nuts on the tree. There's a logic to this. If the tree has too many nuts, it can't fill all of them and you'll have bad nuts on the whole tree. AND next year, you won't have any nuts because the tree would have used up all it's energy trying to fill all those nuts. So if you shake them down, it's a win-win situation. Except for the punched in the gut feeling it leaves me. I still look at the ground at each and every nut and think, "That's a lot of money on the ground." (I still think I can get a penny for every pecan. It's more like 1/5 of a penny for every nut.) And yet The Great Pecan Man has said, "Shake!" So I shake.

This is going to be a learning lesson for me, since I tried shaking last year and didn't do so well. The Great Pecan Man orders me to shake every nut of the heaviest loaded tree I can find. "Every nut?!?" Yep. Every nut. So Mr. David fires up the shaker and off we go, to shake down a tree.

We shook and shook. Those babies weren't comin' off that tree. But we finally decided we had as many as we could possibly get. Sigh. Look at all those nuts.

Next, the Great Pecan Man tells me to make an "X" on the ground so as to divide the nuts on the ground into fourths. OK. Ground "X"-ed. Next? Count the nuts in one section of the "X". Count 1/4 of the nuts on the ground. WHAT? Count? Did I hear you right? You want me to COUNT all those nuts? Maybe I didn't hear you right. Could you explain this again? He actually wanted me to count all those nuts. Can you see all those nuts?!? That's a lot of nuts! But after pleading and begging, there seems to be no way around it. I must count the nuts. So I do.

An hour later, I have counted 1,928 nuts. So I call the Great Pecan Man with my number. Great, he says. That means....if you.... then you could.... yep. You want to shake 3000 nuts off trees that are as heavy as that one. So go find another tree and shake it, then count 1/4 of those nuts and you should have about 750 nuts.

WHAT?!? More counting. I don't need to do that. I get it. 750 nuts is about 2 1/2 buckets of nuts. So I need to shake down 10 buckets worth of nuts. Got it.

So off we go. I walk around each tree and decide whether it's a 0, 1, 2, or 3 tree. 0 means it's a no shake tree. I didn't find many of those. 1 means it needs a few nuts taken off it. Using the Great Pecan Man's numbers, I decide 1000 nuts would be good. A 2 tree needs a little more nuts taken off it... say 2000 nuts. And a 3 is the heaviest tree. It needs about 3000 nuts taken off it.

We are slow at first. I carefully walk around each tree. Evaluate each side. Look up at those pecans. Then give it a rating. I came up with signs for how big a shake I want Mr. David to give each tree. So he grabs the trunk, looks to me for a sign, then lets it go! Shake! Shake! Shake!

After 2 hours, we are really working well. Mr. David and I have it down and we are just shakin' away. So I call the Great Pecan Man to let him know how well I'm doing. You know what he says? "Did you count?" Count what? "Did you count the nuts you shook off a 3 to make sure you had 750 nuts?" No. Counting is hard. It's time consuming. And it's HOT out here! "Count." So guess what I did folks? I counted. I found a 3 tree and counted the nuts in 1/4. And guess what? I got 721!! When I called the Great Pecan Man to boast, I was pleased with his response. "You're pretty good!"

So Mr. David and I took the weekend and shook trees. We shook about 600 trees. If all the trees we shook were 2s, we would have shook 1,200,000 nuts off the trees this weekend. Whew! That's a lot of money!

Don't look, Abuck!

Gramps

2008-08-07T07:15:00.000-05:00

This is Gramps. He's my Dad's Dad. He'll be 88 in September. And I love him.

He is the reason for the crazy 18 hour drive in the car with 4 kids to Minneapolis family vacation. I wanted to see him. It had been 4 years since I'd seen him and that's just too long. It was wonderful. It was great to see him, and all my other cousins, aunts, uncles and their families. Everyone was there. (Except Jill. She didn't come. Loser. And Amy. She didn't come either. Slacker.)

Seems it was divine intervention, this trip. See, my fun lovin' Aunt Donna called me as we were on our 18 hour drive in the car up to Minneapolis. She said Gramps wasn't doing so well. She took him to the VA hospital and his kidneys are tired. Run out. Pooped. They are slowin' down and slowin' him down. And apparently they are both scheduled to stop in 6 months. This was a surprise. None of us were expecting this. But He knew. That's why we gathered together, one last time with Gramps. To celebrate. To remind him what he did.

He always says that. "I did all this."

He did a lot more that just "all this" family. He served his country. He fought in World War II and was captured. It was ugly. It was scary. And he survived. He's a hero. He's my hero.

I love Gramps. He's a tolerant man. He's a patient man. He's a loving man. If you had met Grandma, you'd understand. He says it best: "She was easy to love, and hard to live with." (And when he told the Nutty Papa this, the Nutty Papa smiled knowingly. What's THAT about?!?)

When I'm with Gramps, I want to sit in his lap and just be. Just loved. I'm so thankful for my Gramps.

While Mama's Away...

2008-08-05T07:15:00.000-05:00

While the Nutty Mama and Nutty Papa were busy learning about pecans, Mimi was busy doing what Mimi's do best: spoilin' everyone. The Snuggle Bug had requested a trip to Build a Bear. He's an animal lover and especially loves his stuffed animals. (He gets that from me.)

He chose to make the cheetah. He named it "Fire Cheetah". It's really cool. It has a heart beat and even a special sound. He loves it!

Surprisingly, the Snuggle Bug was the only one who participated in the bear building adventure. I figured the Doodlebug would come home with a bear dressed in a Tu-tu. She apparently just wanted to get something for Mama. She's so thoughtful. (Where did she get THAT?)

But don't you worry. While they were out having a great time with Mimi, I was having a great time too. My niece, Katy, met me at her salon and I got a new do.

I think this is the shortest my hair has been since 7th grade. I'm getting used to it. It's a lot more maintenance than I am used to. I asked for different, and I got it! Whadda think?

Utopia for My Boys

2008-08-02T07:15:00.000-05:00

When we go to Mimi's the rule is, there is no rule. I guess the kids rule. So the adults are left to the whim of the children's desires. This most recent trip, the boys wanted to go to Dave and Buster's. They have a game there that they LOVE and wanted to get a chance to play again. Leave it to Mimi to grant them their wish.

While the boys played, G'pa and I shared Doodlebug duty. She isn't much of a game player. But she is a button pusher. G'pa once said, "I think we've touched every machine in the building!" And that's her philosophy. Keep movin'.

Here is the game the boys love. Something about a big dragon. All I know is Chojuk was really excited about beating something.

After a while, G'pa and I sat down to the trivia game and tested our brain power. Seems between our 2 brains, we do alright. We won the kids 300 points to spend in the junk room, er, I mean prize store. Doodlebug was true to her girlie roots. She wanted everything. And before we left, she had touched and played with everything in the store. She finally ended up with a cute little lip gloss purse and a stretchy bug.

Everyone wanted a stretchy bug. So Chojuk and the Snugglebug got one too. Then they each got one other item. Everyone left happy. And the food was pretty good to. So the adults' bellies were full. It was a nice trip.

And Chojuk has already asked if we can go visit Mimi again tomorrow so we can go back. We'll see, buddy.

Happy Birthday Mimi!

2008-08-01T10:34:00.002-05:00

We'll see you in a few weeks! Hope you have a wonderful day! We love you!

(Remind me the next time I come, to get a better picture of you and the kids!)

Our Other Favorite Thing to do at Mimi's

2008-07-31T07:15:00.000-05:00

Mimi has a cool community pool. It has a waterfall that runs into the duck ponds and it's very serene...

That is, until my gang arrives. We bring the fun and everyone gets wet! Just ask that guy sitting back there in the red swim trunks. The Snugglebug hosed him down with our water gun. He wasn't happy. Hey, dude, you come to a pool, you gotta expect to get wet. Right, G'pa? (He got hosed down too, and he was fully clothed!)

Leave it to the Nutty Papa, the baby of his family of 9, to always have a game to play. And as far as his family is concerned, if it isn't competitive, it isn't a game! So the Nutty Papa paired Chojuk up against the Snugglebug in a swim competition. If you ask me, this isn't a fair race, seeing as Chojuk has been swimming like a fish since he could walk and the Snugglebug just recently became a tadpole. Fairness doesn't matter though, let's race!

It started out innocently enough. Jump to Papa and swim back to the side. Chojuk was first. He likes to cannonball into the water.

Next it was the Snugglebug. At first glance, you might think he's trying to dive. He's really just aiming for the top of the Nutty Papa's head. He knows if he lands there, he's safe. I'm just glad he has a swim shirt on. It softens the blow of a belly flop.

Last but not least is the Doodlebug. Who knows what she's doing! She's fearless around the water. I can't wait until she's potty trained so she can take lessons. I know I'll breathe much easier when I know she can swim. Anyway, she had to take her turn too. She wasn't aiming for the Nutty Papa, however. Her mantra is "I can do it MYSELF!"

After a few rounds of jumping to the Nutty Papa, things started heating up. Chojuk jumped right in along side the Snugglebug and they'd race to see who could get to the Nutty Papa first. This resulted in some seriously long jumps off the side of the pool. Less swimming, you know.

Then the Nutty Papa would launch the boys back to the side. By the end of the day, the Snugglebug was swimming pretty well on his own. Don't tell him that though. He still has a few concerns about the water.

At the end of the day, we were all worn out. Even the Doodlebug had enough. She was so worn out she forgot her mantra and just wanted someone to fish her out of the pool. We drug ourselves back to Mimi's house and collapsed into bed.

Gotta love a day at the pool!

Our Favorite Thing about Mimi's House

2008-07-29T07:58:00.000-05:00

We just returned from our family vacation. It was a whirlwind trip. Lots of time in the car. Seeing lots of family. And we had a wonderful time!

Our first stop was to Mimi's house. While the Nutty Papa and I were busy expanding our brains with pecan knowledge, my kids were enjoying doing whatever they wanted to do at Mimi's house.

This was the Baby's first experience feeding the ducks at Mimi's. Mimi lives on a duck pond and we get to feed the ducks. My kids LOVE it. The ducks swim right up to the dock.

See. Look. Ducks. (And a pizza faced Baby.)

He really got into it. He would toss that bread down there and then turn to Mimi and get more. (This trip we were surprised to see geese there too. We assumed these were geese and they were NOT ducks.)

Sometimes the ducks decide not to fight the crowd and jump right into the back yard. The Baby was especially excited to see a duck waddling around the yard, just like he was. Kindred spirits, I tell you.

After trying to catch the duck, the Baby decided the best thing to do was just sit and watch.

A Rite of Passage

2008-07-25T07:15:00.001-05:00

I love watching kids eat spaghetti. I take pictures of everyone doing it. It's a rite of passage of sorts in our house. (And just a bit of useless trivia for you: Spaghetti was one of my spelling words when I was in the 4th grade. I remember my Mom making me write it over and over so I could get it right on the test. Darned if that writing thing didn't help me remember it! I still remember how to spell it to this day! Moms know everything!)

Here's the Doodlebug when she was 2 eating spaghetti on Valentine's Day.

Here's my Snugglebug eating it. It's a staple for him. He loves spaghetti.

Chojuk. He's still as messy eating spaghetti as he was when he was 2.

We introduced the Baby to spaghetti the other day.

Needless to say, he took right to it.

I think we have a new favorite food. What do you think?

The Run Away Doodlebug

2008-07-23T07:00:00.000-05:00

One afternoon, the Nutty Papa announced it was time for his marathon training run. It was after he had gotten home from work and we had missed him all day. We always try to be supportive of his running, but honestly, we miss him while he's gone. Especially when it takes 2 hours out of our time with him.

The kids and I stayed home and got ready for dinner, watched movies, cleaned up, etc. I soon realized the Doodlebug was missing. I looked for her in the playroom. Nope. I looked in her room. Not there either. I went outside expecting to see her riding her bike around. Nada. And then I looked up the driveway. Here is what I saw.

The Nutty Papa was coming back from his run, Doodlebug in his arms. Apparently, she was worried about him. It was starting to get dark and he hadn't come home yet. So the Doodlebug went to go find him. She was worried.

The Nutty Papa found her half way up our 1/2 mile driveway. She had wandered up there barefoot, looking to save her Daddy.

And from the look on his face as they walked up...

she did.

I think they'll probably save each other. What a great love!

Ant Wars

2008-07-21T07:00:00.000-05:00

The Nutty Papa returned from his run the other day and said, "You'd never believe what I saw today on my run. I was running down the driveway and ran into a bunch of those flying ants. They were attacking a bunch of ground ants. They were fighting each other!" Yeah. Yeah. Ants fighting each other. OK, Nutty Papa. Whatever.

Later that night, we all crammed into the Suburban and drove to town for pizza. Yea! And on our way, he said, "Look out the window! You can see all the ants!"

Sure enough. There in a line on the ground, was the carnage. Dead ants.

And the winged ants were marching around like they owned the place. I guess we know who won. It was a sad sight, though. Even though I'm not so fond of the big red ants. They make big circles of dead grass on the ground in the orchard. But I wouldn't want this for them. Being attacked by their cousins. But it's nature I guess. Fighting, wars, disagreements. In the bug world, there is no negotiating. No lawyers. It's dog eat dog. Or ant eat ant. Interesting.
I'm sending a shout out to Mystery, the resident bug man in these parts. What is this? Why did this happen? Can you explain this phenomenon?

When he lets me know what's what, I'll let you know. I have no secrets from you.

Until then, may all your ants be friendly.

The Other Birds In My Life

2008-07-19T07:00:00.000-05:00

I love hummingbirds. They are amazing. Their little bodies. Their speed. Their agility. Love 'em!

My dear friend Teza gave me this hummingbird feeder one year for my birthday. I think it's so pretty. I have it hanging outside my kitchen window and I love to watch the hummingbirds come and drink the sugar water I make for them. Talk about easy customers. A little warm water. A little sugar. They're happy. They don't need any ranch to dip it in either.

Lately, there has been a little battle going on for control of the water. They fly at each other and try and scare the others away so no one else will drink it. It's really humorous. I like to stand at the window and narrate...

"Hey, look at this water... Yum, it's delicious.... Hey, dude, get away! This is my water!... Ahhh, he's gone. Now I'll get more... but I'll look around and make sure he's not coming back...AGH! He's coming after me! Fly away! Fly away!"

I know. I have too much time on my hands.

Rain, Rain

2008-07-16T07:00:00.000-05:00

For 3 months, we have been dry. No rain. Not even a drop. Then low and behold, last week as I'm going to get the mail, I see this.

Could it be? The blessed gift from Heaven coming to rinse the icky sticky stuff off the leaves of my pecans trees? To give them a nice long drink of fresh clean nitrogen filled water from the Creator? One could only hope.

And as I turned around to head back to the house, there it was. Moving right over the orchard. Big, beautiful rain clouds swiftly moving over the trees. Opening up and dropping that sweet drink of life.

We got a little over 4 inches the first week of July. Enough to wash the aphid residue off the leaves. Enough to wet everything enough to pop fireworks safely. Enough.

Or too much?

After a week of off and on rain, I needed to get into the orchard and spray for fungus. Last year we didn't get in fast enough and lost the entire crop. Can you sense my feelings of urgency here?

It finally stopped raining long enough for Mr. David to get in there and spray. He did actually spray 5 loads only to have them washed off by the rain. However, we might have made up for that by turning the spray off and on as we drove past patches of trees with or without pecans on them. Did we get in there and spray in time? Or will the fungus once again take us over? Only time will tell.

As you read this, I'll be visiting and socializing with all the great pecan producers in our state. We'll share stories, laugh, learn, and figure out how well everyone else is doing. I'll let you know what I hear. So far, we only have a half crop. Is that going to be as better, as good, or worse than others in the area. We'll see.

Swimming like Fish

2008-07-14T07:00:00.001-05:00

We are taking swimming lessons this summer. By we, I mean my 2 big boys. You have to be potty trained to learn how to swim and we all know how that's going. Thanks Aunt Deborah!

I signed the boys up for lessons with a local natatorium. They use the Swim America program. They're training athletes!

The first step was bobbing up and down and blowing bubbles. Chojuk flew right past this. He's a bubble blowing fool! The Snugglebug, however, worked on it for 4 days.

The second step was gliding on your back and front. This is where Chojuk worked for about 4 days. That floating on your back thing is tough! But with persistence, and a little bribery, he moved on to level 3.

In level 3, you add the kick. It's the beginning of the crawl and the backstroke. Chojuk was stuck here for quite a while. 10 days to be exact.

Here's Chojuk working with one of the instructors on the back stuff. He has never liked being on his back in the water. He doesn't float well. We gotta work on that.

Here's the Snugglebug learning how to do bubbles. He worked so hard to get it. He had a mental obstacle to overcome as well. He was scared to go underwater. So he had a lot more to work on than just blowing bubbles. But after 4 days of HARD work, he did it!

At the end of each 8 day/2 week session, each swimmer gets an award. They make a big deal about it. Each kid stands on a podium and receives his certificate. It's a lot of fun. Here's Chojuk..

And here's the Snugglebug. They were so excited about their certificates. I'm proud of both of their success, especially the Snugglebug. Chojuk is a fish. He's always loved the water. I expected him to have fun and do well. The Snugglebug has always had a love/hate relationship with the water. He loves to play with it, but the underlying fear is always there. I'm thrilled to say, the fear is significantly less than it was.

It'll be fun to watch the Olympics with them now that they both enjoy swimming. 8-8-08... Here we come! I can't wait!

My Little Mover and Shaker

2008-07-08T20:32:00.005-05:00

Well, it's about time. Time to lock the cupboards. Time to put up the breakables.

Someone is on the move.

Here he goes. He's getting up...

And he's off. And now, with the help of the flashing magic flip flop, he will attempt to walk over to the door to see his favorite things...

Puh, Puh! (Puppies!)

Look out world, here I come!

My Marathon Man

2008-07-04T07:15:00.000-05:00

So every once in a while, the Nutty Papa gets these wild hairs... you know... things he's gotta do before it's too late. I remember once he came home and said, "Honey, I wanna do this bike thing where we bike to the beach. OK?" And a few months later, he rode his bike 360 miles to the beach. No training. Just jumped on the bike and off he went. He's amazing that way.

He's decided he needs to run a marathon before it's "too late." "Honey," he says, "I want to run a marathon... in November." OK. Great. Just let me know where I need to drop you off.

Now, can we go get a pizza for lunch?

Not this time, baby. He's training. He gets up and runs everyday. (And it's really hot!) He bought new shoes. He's reading.

This is serious. I guess, when I think about it, 26 miles is nothing to sneeze at. I couldn't do it. Even if I trained for a year, which I wouldn't, I still couldn't do it. That's one of the things I love about the Nutty Papa. Once he sets his mind to something, he gets it done. He's driven. Self-motivated. Amazing.

Our hero.

Jehovah Ha-Ha!

2008-07-02T07:15:00.001-05:00

My girlfriend Missie has this thing she calls Jehovah Ha-Ha... God's sense of humor. It pops up in the most unexpected places. She'll call me and tell me a story, God working in her life in one way or another, surprising her, reminding her that she's not the one who is really in charge. Jehovah Ha-Ha.

For example my friends Beth and Tony... they just experienced the best case of Jehovah Ha-Ha I have ever been privileged to be a part of.

This is my friend Beth. And that little miracle, or should I say Jehovah Ha-Ha, that she's holding is her newborn son, Matthew. Matthew was born on Thursday night. See, my friend Beth had absolutely no idea she was pregnant. None. Zero. Nada. Zip. In fact, she was sure she wasn't pregnant. How's that you ask? She went for her yearly check up 2 months ago. Got checked out. Inside and out. You'd think if you were pregnant, an OB could tell. Especially from that angle. Nope. Apparently, her OB was absent from med school the day they taught their students what a pregnant cervix looked like. She missed it. Instead, my friend has been running tests up one side and down the other looking for tumors, messed up glands, other things that could be causing her grief.

And on Thursday night, her water broke. She had been told she shouldn't have any more babies. Beth doesn't have babies. She gives birth to toddlers. Her 2 girls were 12+ pounds at birth. So having another toddler, just wasn't in the cards for my friend. See, the doctors told her her uterus was prolapsed, blah, blah, blah... and bladder problems. So when her water broke on Thursday night, she thought something was wrong with her bladder. It wasn't until she and her husband were almost to the hospital that she realized she was feeling contractions. Then she decided she was miscarrying a 2 month old baby. After all, 2 months ago she was decidedly not pregnant.

Ten minutes after being checked in, and getting snubbed by the ER doc, her husband found out little Matthew was crowning. Luckily, someone had taken them seriously when she told them she might be in labor and called the labor and delivery nurses. They arrived just in time to catch him. And they were just as surprised as my friend was that no one could figure out how old he was. After some quick analysis, they decided he was 32 weeks along. He had a healthy umbilical cord and gave a good holler for Mama and Daddy, so other than being a little early, he's doing great. He was a whopping 4 lbs, 12 oz. Nice size for a 32 week baby. Imagine how big he'd have been had he waited 8 more weeks! As of yesterday, he was doing well, trying to eat, and strengthening his lungs so he could go home with his family.

When I met my friend Beth, I asked her if she was finished. Done with 2 girls. She said it didn't look good for her. And besides, she was looking forward to enjoying life in her early 40s with her girls off to college. The oldest one is a senior and the youngest one is a sophomore. Now, when Matthew graduates from high school, the oldest will be 35.

Jehovah Ha-Ha. See, just when you think you have it all planned, you know what's what, God surprises you and let's you know He's still in charge.

This is the best surprise my friends have ever had. What a gift from God. And it couldn't have happened to a better family.

Congratulations Beth and Tony! And welcome to the world, little Matthew!

Boy Scout Day Camp

2008-07-01T07:15:00.001-05:00

What a week we had last week. It was busy. We went to Boy Scout Day Camp. It was about 30 minutes away and started at 7:30am. That meant I had to wake my kids, who usually sleep until 9 am, and get them fed, dressed and in the car ready to go by 7 am. Needless to say, we were always late. But we had a great time!

We made lots of new friends!

My Snugglebug got to be a Tiger for the week and participated as a scout too. He made some new friends too.

We learned about shooting BB guns and bows and arrows. We made crafts, fished, played games and swam in the local pool.

The Doodlebug was even allowed to participate. She had her own little group and played while the boys were scouts.

The highlight of her day was splashin' around in the baby pool. It would have been the highlight for me too... it was HOT!

All in all, it was a busy week and we were just all worn plum out.

A Lesson on Being Boys

2008-06-26T08:41:00.002-05:00

Our Friendly Cotton Pickin' Neighbors were with their Dad working on the farm the other day. They saw us outside and came over for a visit. They are such good boys, I'm always glad to have them come over. Plus, they love to play outside and usually get my kids outside with them.

On this particular day, the kids were outside driving whatever vehicle they could find. They had the tricycle, bikes, and the little gator out driving in the mud puddles created by the irrigation pipes. We haven't seen rain in over 2 months so the mud was exciting.

While they were playing outside, the baby was taking his nap. I went inside to check on the baby and this is what I found when I came back outside.

Those Crazy Cotton Pickin' Neighbors were covered in mud! They had been driving the vehicles through the mud in search of one that would go from one side of the puddle to the other. And as you can see, nothing made it. So when they'd get stuck, they'd just climb off the vehicle and go fetch a new something to ride through the mud in. Apparently, when they would climb off the stuck vehicle, they'd get a little muddy. After a little mud here and a little mud there, they just gave in to it and got all muddy.

And I mean, all muddy. If they had been in there with a bunch of pigs, they'd have done themselves proud. They were muddy from head to toe! And just to make sure it really was from head to toe,

They just laid down and rolled around. They were having the best time! If I hadn't been holdin' the baby, I would have jumped in there with them! It brought back memories of going to Mudd Races and watching the cars get all muddy and hoping they'd get me too. Mud is so fun!

And while I'm standing there laughing and having a grand time, what do you think my kids were doing? They were standing on the sidelines watchin'. Lookin' at these two like they were from another planet. I'm sad to say, my two oldest children are a bit prissy when it comes to getting dirty. They don't like it. They get it from their Dad. The Nutty Papa is OK with getting dirty if he knows he's going somewhere he's going to get dirty. But if he gets messy unexpectedly, watch out! Needless to say, I do a lot of unnecessary laundry in the Nutty Forest.

While the Crazy Cotton Pickin' neighbors were gettin' muddy, they wanted to make sure they got it all. So Big Brother dumped the coupe on it's side and slid his face through the mud in the process. Crazy!

It may look awful but it's great for the complexion!

And I forgot to mention the best part. As I was walking out of the house to discover this mud fest, the Friendly Cotton Pickin' Farm Mama showed up. Here I am, offerin' to keep her boys. It's my responsibility to keep them safe. And as every Mom knows, there's an unwritten rule to watchin' someone else's kids... you keep them clean.

But you know what that Crazy Cotton Pickin' Farm Mama did? She laughed! She bent over and just laughed. And I joined her. The more we laughed, the muddier they got. And it was fun!

Finally, it was time to clean up. Chojuk, the king of the water hose, was happy to help. And before I knew it, Big Brother had stripped down to his undies. Chojuk had a ball hosin' off his buddy. He just wasn't gettin' the job done. So Big Brother grabbed that hose and decided to take care of it himself.

And that's when the fun really began! Who would have known sprayin' yourself in the face could be so much fun?!?

Pow! Right in the eye!

Hey, Ma! Did you see that?!?

Then Big Brother decided Little Brother needed some help too. So he started hosin' off Little Brother. They were having a grand ol' time! Laughin', sprayin' each other, gettin' good and wet.

Finally, enough was enough and the Friendly Cotton Pickin' Mama stepped in to take over. Notice her nice outfit. The Friendly Cotton Pickin' Mama isn't a cotton picker. She's a fancy mortgage worker who has nice clothes. She's always dressed beautifully. She gets it from her Mama. You should see her. I ran into her once at the grocery store and she looked awesome. I was embarrassed to be in my t-shirt and shorts. Fancy, I'm tellin' ya! And she's a great Mama! Notice how she sprays her boys off while holdin' my baby. You gotta love a Mama that takes charge.

And not to be left out, my two bugs got in on the action too. In fact, if I had waited a few more minutes, the Doodlebug would have waded a little further into that mud puddle too. She got in up to her knees. So the Snugglebug hosed off the Doodlebug. But he got mad about getting his crocs wet. Prissy!

Notice the Little Brother in the background going tinkle. Nothin' like havin' a couple boys over to show you how to be a boy.

Bye Bye Birdie!

2008-06-20T08:06:00.000-05:00

The baby birds are getting bigger. One morning, I glanced out the window and noticed one of the babies was OUTSIDE of the nest. How did this happen? Was he flying? Did I miss it? How exciting!
While I was waiting for the baby bird to gather the courage to fly off, Mrs. Barnswallow arrived with breakfast. Once again, there was pushing and shoving... Feed me! No, me! Over here, Mama! He got the last moth! When is it my turn?!?
And then there were three. Out of fear that the little guy had fallen into the clutches of my ferocious bird and cat eating dogs, I ran outside to check on him. Only to find this...

He HAD fallen out of the nest. Or so it seemed. Poor little guy. I couldn't just leave him there to be eaten by the dogs. I had to do something. Call 911!
Nutty Papa to the rescue! The Nutty Papa is an animal lover, although these birds aren't on the top of his list. Especially these... muddy nest making, staining the house, poopin' everywhere... barnswallows. But for the love of his wife, The Nutty Papa strapped on his gloves and went outside to rescue the baby bird.

He gently scooped up the baby bird and lifted it ever so gently up to the nest. As he was placing it back in the nest...

the little guy flew himself back down to the window ledge. I guess he'd had enough of sharing space with those greedy moth grubbing brothers and sisters of his and just wanted to be on his own. Well, being the only child that I am, I just don't understand these needs. You are lucky to have brothers and sisters. Enjoy them, dang it! It's no fun to have no one to play with! Please, Nutty Papa, try again. Stick him up there with his brothers and sisters so he won't be alone.

And as the Nutty Papa reached up with the baby bird to place him in his nest, something unpredictable happened. Something unexpected. Something amazing...

They all flew away.

Now I wish I could say that the Nutty Papa only temporarily scared those baby birds out of their safe and comfortable home. But that's not true. I have kept the light on for them every night. I have called for them. Looked for them. They have disappeared. As a Mama, I worry about them. I hope they are doing OK. I hope they know how to find food. I hope they are together. Not alone. I hope they are happy.

But there comes a point where you just gotta let go.

Another Birthday in the Nutty Forest

2008-06-18T12:14:00.002-05:00

My Snugglebug had a birthday while I was in time out. (By the way, I've been a good girl so I'm out of the naughty corner and I'm downloading again. Yippee!) He's 5. I can't believe it! Seems like just yesterday we brought him home and introduced him to Chojuk.
Chojuk was thrilled, can't you tell.

At first, theirs was a relationship of tolerance. Chojuk tolerated having a little brother, someone to share Mom and Dad with. Now, it's a truly loving relationship. They are good buddies, and I'm so glad they have each other.

I digress...

The Snugglebug celebrated his birthday with another homeschool family, our favorite Aunt, and his godparents (AKA the cookie lady). We ate cake and cookies, opened presents and had a great time.

On the day of his actual birth, we like to have a family only party. We let the birthday boy call the shots. So on The Snugglebug's birthday we gave him 2 choices: go to Sea World and play in the waterpark, or go to the Reptile Expo and look at, well, reptiles. I should have known better than to offer the Reptile Expo as an option. I have an abnormally strong fear of snakes and just being in a room with them makes my heart race. But for the love of my precious child, I'm willing to make some sacrifices.

We ran into a few of these snakes. I actually think this one is pretty. I love the color. We have a favorite book around here called "Verdi" about a green snake much like this one. And while standing there taking this picture, my heart was only mildly racing. I'm getting better, I guess.
We also ran into this guy. Isn't he cool! We just read somewhere about how chameleon eyes can look two different directions. So when we saw him, we just sat there for a while and watched his eyes. It was amazing! (And my heart rate came back down.)
The purpose of the Reptile Expo is for people to sell their reptiles. So everything is extremely hands on. As we were walking by this table, the man had this bucket open and was letting another woman hold a snake. The Snugglebug, being the animal lover that he is, ran right over and started picking them up too. See the smile. He loved it! There's Chojuk behind him, keeping a healthy distance. The Nutty Papa is right beside the Snugglebug making sure he's doing it right.

And I'm way over here with my zoom lens getting every happy moment digitally. Seeing my Snugglebug over there handling those snakes did make my heart race a little. In fact, writing about it is making my heart beat faster. But I can make it beat faster yet. Watch this...

"Mama, can I have a pet snake?"

Nooooooooooooooo!

I can only sacrifice so much.

Happy Birthday anyway, My Dear Snugglebug!

The Babies

2008-06-18T06:43:00.002-05:00

One of the highlights of my summer so far has definitely been watching the Barnswallow family. Last we left, the babies were hatching and there were four babies. They were so tiny, it was hard to get a good picture without going outside, climbing up a ladder, sticking my micro lens in that nest, and taking a picture. I figured that might upset Mrs. Barnswallow, so I just limited myself to pictures from the kitchen window. There is one little baby in there. You can barely see him, but he's there. Look for the little yellow triangle in the middle of the nest. That's his beak!
After a few days, the little suckers started begging for food, and they kept poor Mrs. Barnswallow busy. I praised the Lord many mornings while I was doing dishes, after having fed my rascals breakfast, that I wasn't a Mama bird. What a thankless job. She flies away, hunts and finds a bug, brings it back, and all 4 of those little guys would fight for the food. Me, Mama! No, Me! Over here! I want some too! I tried to tell her she needed to make everyone wait to eat as a family, then she would have a little down time before lunch. But she wouldn't listen. To each his own.
Our whole family enjoyed watching the babies grow. We would often climb up on the counter top and check it out. I don't know which the Doodlebug enjoyed more; the babies, or climbing up on the counter.
After about 10 days things really started getting a little crowded, and I started worrying about someone falling out of the nest... or getting pushed. They were really crowded in there!
And the begging continued! Just look at them climbing all over each other. There's one little guy back there you can't even see cuz someone is sitting on his head! It just goes to show, it doesn't matter what kind of animal you are, children think the world revolves around them!