
Friday, July 3, 2009
SARAH SINGS THE NATIONAL ANTHEM......

Tuesday, June 30, 2009
If you are wanting homeschool room inspiration.....
Look what you can do with a dining room!
In fact, if you check out Jennifer's blog at anytime you will find inspiration.
Have a lovely day!
Love, chari
A Wig-Wam in the Woods
Tomorrow we say goodbye to the wigwam......till who knows when.....
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Haven Heartbeats
How are you? How's the weather been?
We are in the Sierras at my friend's house. They live about 5, 500 feet...almost 2, 000 feet more than us. The weather has been perfect here...lovely summer temperatures. Willa and I have been able to get three long walks in. I had trouble sleeping the last two nights and was too sleepy to go yesterday and today. I hope tomorrow and Tuesday will fare better. We leave for home on Wednesday. We arrived here last Tuesday.
The boys built a wigwam. Their backyard is the woods and they got their building materials from there. It is pretty clever. Matthew, on crutches, was the taskmaster and the four younger boys were his slaves, uh, I mean his helpers. It reminded me of Ramses bossing Moses around in The Ten Commandments. :) Tonight, four of the boys are sleeping in the wigwam. Here's to hoping the mosquitoes leave them alone tonight! I will take a picture tomorrow...maybe I will post it...IF I remember. :)
Today we drove down to Fresno for Mass. It was 88* in the mountains...but it got to 109* in the city. UGH! I told the kids that I begged God to never allow me to live in a place that gets that hot. I would melt...they could just bury me and be done with it. I will not do heat. At least with the cold...I always have my leggings. :)
I have done a few pages of scrapbooking here. Maybe five? I think the next five are lined up and ready to go. I am working on Anne at six-seven weeks. Slowly, but surely, I just might catch up....oh, probably not. I just keep taking more and more and more........pictures. Sigh.
Marty is at home working on fixing things.....he took the lattice off the front porch...will be sanding and staining the deck...he got the sprinkler system convinced to turn to AM after midnight now.......tried to poison the clovers in the grass, but has now resorted to using a natural way to eradicate some of the clover......he hung the big feeders for the chicks who are four weeks as of yesterday.......and he "cleaned" out the well system. He said he found a dead chick today, with no obvious reason why. I hope it is not disease. We have about 40 hens. I only got one rooster......but, lucky us........they threw a FREE rooster in our order. Marty says I only get to keep one. I have about 20 breeds...I like the variety.
Well, it looks like it is after midnight now....so I will go to bed now.
Goodnight! We all love you!
Chari
Monday, June 22, 2009
Welcome to Workboxes!
es fine!
I cannot stop thinking about.....
I think my life is still too busy to start, but I have been looking around my home, seeing what I could use or tweak to work, without much investment. I have been perusing the storage bin aisles at the stores and have hit the dollar store, too. I need to make this inexpensive. I simply must.
I really need to get this written up in one place, so I can share it with all of my friends. I know so many who would find this a very useful idea. And, as this is NOW the prime time for homeschool planning for the next year.......I need to be in a hurry!
I particularly think my friends Frances, Maria, Willa could make good use of this idea......for various reasons. I think Shawna & Stacey would like it, too!
I first heard about this idea on Brigid's blog. I remember thinking how clever it sounded........and the usual thought: "I wish I had known about this when my kids were younger." I always forget that I still have a couple of young kids. :)
Then it was brought up on the 4 Real homeschool message boards in March. I skimmed the first messages and treated it like everything else new: I" do not have time to look into anything new......besides, nothing really feels new anymore, after all of my years of homeschooling."
Then, in May, the same thread got going again, ladies wondering how those using the workbox system were doing after a few weeks.
Comments were consistently coming up, there and in other places on the Internet:
WE GET MORE DONE IN A DAY THAN WE EVER HAVE BEFORE.
WE ARE USING SO MANY HOMESCHOOL ITEMS THAT HAD JUST BEEN LYING AROUND THE HOUSE, UNUSED.
THE KIDS ARE EXCITED TO DO SCHOOL.
WE HAVE MORE FREE TIME.
Well, of course those concepts caught my eye!
I want that for ME!
I want that for MY homeschool!
At first, I thought, hmmm, Malachy (7yrs) could really go for this......he loves doing stuff........any stuff.........and he loves being creative and this would give him a chance to do that more often.
Then, I thought how well Garrett would do with more structure (we always need more structure here!).
And I thought about the days when I am at work or just unavailable.......which I hope will be less once we move Anne & Matthew out. The workboxes would be just the thing to give them for those days.
Eventually my thoughts turned to my two high schoolers........
Sarah, 10th grade, could probably benefit from a more specific plan each day. I think she would accomplish more.
And Maddelyn, soon to be 9th grade, who thrives on structure and prefers to have most decisions made for her, would probably do well with this idea......once she gets over the balking....she does not like change. Wonder where she gets that from.... :)
So, I have spent much time in researching the WORKBOXES IDEA.
I have found a yahoo group which is good for early questions and inspiration.
I have found many blog posts about this topic.
But before we go explore the 'net, let me tell you where this all got started......
There was a woman named Susan Patrick who had an autistic son, and she did a lot of research about educating him and eventually developed this idea for her son. You can find her website here and read her story here.
She wrote a book called:
Sue Patrick's Workbox System A User's Guide
Many people have started using the system without reading the book. I was planning to do that, too, but I have seen so many moms say that while it could be done without reading the book, they were so glad to have read it. I would assume with any special needs children in the family, it would be even more important to read the book. I am sure if you do it without the book, it would work just fine. I have decided to order the book as I rarely have anything I need to buy for school anymore......so I can justify this small purchase. I will share it with my friends, too. You know who you are. In fact, I just ordered it Sunday night from Amazon, along with some other good stuff. I want to have it here in time before I go to Willa's house next week. I hope it gets here. (It didn't...only part of the order arrived.....:( )
The basic premise is to have 12 boxes for each kid, and place in each box, each school day, what they need to do, from the first to the last. When they finish one box, they go to the next numbered box.
Now, that is a very basic description. But, then...this is a pretty basic idea. Checking out the links below will give you a much better overview.........since I have not actually done this. In the past we have done similar workings.....but this is more fine-tuned.
And, keep in mind: KEEP IT SIMPLE! That is always a good rule for homeschooling moms to follow! So, while you explore this idea, do not give it up right away.......study it more and spend time thinking about the possibilities.......asking God if this is a good fit for you. I can't help but think it is a good fit for so many I know!
In the meantime, I have discovered a bookshelf in the schoolroom that can be put into the boys' room for this project. And, I have purchased some bins I have used in the past.........for $1 each at the dollar store. Now, I just need to clean out the spot in the boys' room for it....and figure out where to put the stuff on those shelves. I have posted to Freecycle, looking for bookshelves. So far, no nibbles....
......since I wrote that...my friend Patty just happened to have some metal shelves I can use to replace the ones in the schoolroom. Thanks, Patty!
Well, since I started this post, someone has written an online article about workboxes.....and there are lots of links and a few photos. I think I will give you a link to it, so you can look around. Before you start clicking on the links on that page...I have highlighted the useful ones below........
Also, while Willa and I were looking for the above article, she found another good blog post with lots of links. I have also highlighted the good ones below.......
Here is a great idea for using cereal boxes for holders...great photos. I will be considering this idea because I WANT magazine holders, but cannot find any less than $5 anywhere...and some were as a high as $14
Leslie, who also has six kids (aged 2.5-15yrs) has a nice post on workboxes, with good details of what's in them. Her blog is so lovely, that I added it to my google reader. :)
A good example of one mom who tweaked the system to work for her family, using three different methods of storage.
Oh, wow! I love how this looks here! Now I see I CAN use only what I have around and have it still look good visually and make sense. I needed this visual permission. Check this out if you do not want to get a bunch of new stuff or spend money. It works! Plus, you will all chuckle at her first photo. :)
Same mom has an excellent suggestion for the "art-handicapped" mom...ideas for art in the workboxes.
Here is Candace's blog and how she is doing the system.
Tina has a wonderful testimonial to offer after the end of her first week......She also has two posts about their Do-It Door...which someone may find helpful. It is a clever idea. Post one and post two. Especially helpful to those with young elementary kids.
This mom did it exactly as recommended in the book. In fact, you can find all of her posts about the workbox system here, which includes her first few days. Be sure to read from the bottom up. A nice look into someone's home and first week using the system.
Here you can find a lovely blog and description of using with a 2nd, 1st and preschooler. She has great photos of her system. This specific post here covers what to do with the "together" activities. I like her idea.
I like Lynn's little chat about the attitude to take when approaching this system, when you cannot or will not do it exactly as the book states. She also has another approach on the numbering.
Laura has seven kids and six boxes and no room to do the full system. You can see the alternative she is using here. She is using plastic bags...and her children loved the test run so much, they want to do it for the summer! :)
This post is useful to think about what to put into the boxes: the "must haves" the "want to haves" and the "fun" extra stuff.
I like the use of these ice cube trays.......check them out for another way to organize your workboxes. She let me know that you can find them at the Dollar store, Wal-mart, Freds...where she paid 1.50 for each.
Several posts of this small family's experience....a 5yo and a 3yo. Cute kids!
The mom above interviewed her kids' reaction to workboxes.
This mom wrote a "day-in-the-life" post for the days of her 8yo and 6 yo. You get to look in each drawer.
I really like this blog. It is sweet & classy....and she has an alternative way to use the idea, when you have a family that would require 96 boxes!!!! And, based on the little bit of research I am doing, and I could be mistaken, but Leslie may have been the one who got the whole workbox discussion going online. If you scroll down her homeschool posts, you can find some are about the workboxes...and photos of her girls using the boxes.
Another nice blog by Kendra......again, start at the bottom and read each post above. These are all of her workbox posts. She has a nice sense of humor. The one at the bottom reviews the original book a bit. I have a feeling she is describing what MY reaction will be when I get a chance to read it.
Heather has a collection of posts...the most telling ones are at the bottom of the page. Start there and then read each post above the last. She has many photos of her kids actually doing the work. I like how she described the workboxes: "A LIVING CHECKLIST" I believe this verbalizes what I LOVE about this idea: it "livingness!" Is that a real word??? :) Spellcheck says: no way!
Cute number idea for numbering the boxes! She will even make them for YOU....for ten bucks!
List of ideas at homeschoolshare.com for putting in the boxes....expect this list to grow! I had already printed out the animal classification page for Malachy before I found this link. Our little collection of animals will go to good use!
WHAT'S IN THE BOX? The description: Suggestions, Ideas & Discussions regarding the workbox system. Could be a nice one to follow.......I think I will add it to my Google reader.
THINKING OUTSIDE THE BOX has lots of info....and the other parts of her blog are inspiring for the preschooling moms.
Good stuff for tots!
Want a resource for LOTS of worksheets? Try worksheetsworks.com! I have not used lots of worksheets in the past...but Malachy loves them...and this website looks like good filler. Oh, I found alphabetizing, maps, fractions, clocks, money, calendars, states & capitals, California puzzles, and lots more!
So, what are the kids saying about the workboxes? Find out here!
A message board about sharing workboxes, by Homeschool Share. By the way......this is a good place to find ideas for filling your workboxes. Explore if you have not been here before.
Other ways to apply the workbox idea:
How about vacation boxes? Clever!
There are lots of blog posts on workboxes for preschoolers. Since I sadly do not have any preschoolers, anymore, I mostly ignored those resources. The yahoo group above has quite a few including their preschoolers, so it is a good resource.
And, as last thought on these workboxes............
Something to think about......I like this quote Heather wrote: "Nearly every homeschooling board is humming with thoughts and questions related to this approach, which is, in essence, a structure for outlining a school day with minimal distractions. Is there more to it? Of course. But at its very heart, the Workbox System is about optimal organization. And, as we all know, organization is one of the major themes in homeschooling." Read more for an interesting take......she writes well...I like her vocabulary and way with words.
God bless, Chari
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Haven Heartbeats
I can only spend a moment here..........to say we are so busy........that I cannot post anything, anytime. Even now.
We have so much to do by next Monday, when we plan to leave for the Sierra Nevadas....where some of you may remember we visited last summer.......and the March before that.......and anytime we can get there. :)
We have an entire stage & set to break down and store.......a nephew from New Hampsfire is coming for a visit......John & Gloria will be here all weekend........to tired to add the rest, but it is a massive to-do list.......STILL.
Please pray for Matthew's knee to heal........it is slow-going. At least his wisdom teeth are healing well and without consequence!
Got to head to bed, after I put a load of laundry on.
Noght and God Bless!
Love, chari
PS I am working on a post.......I hope to post it soon! I have promised Frances I would hurry and get it done................I tried tonight but my computer said: NOT NOW! :)
Saturday, June 13, 2009
My Grandma's Birthday.........
One of the items on my grateful list: that my children have a GREAT GRANDMA to know and love!
We will try to call you on your special day!
with love, the inhabitants of Our Hearts Haven
ps.....you can see the birthday greetings from last year......includes vintage photos
Saturday, May 30, 2009
It rained today.........
Garrett, Malachy & I were driving home from Garrett's baseball team barbeque this afternoon........when the thunder clouds that had been building released one giant raindrop on my windshield, about 1/2 mile from home. As I was pointing out the size of the raindrop to the boys, a bolt of lightning seemed to land right next to our car, and the thunder was an immediate, instantaneous jolt. Just one loud boom. We all jumped! Then, the rain made large polka dots all over the road......and as we pulled into our driveway, the 1/4 inch hail began to pelt our car. The rain was SO hard.
We were stuck in the car for a few minutes before the boys decided to make a run for it to the porch.
Anne came out of the door and said: It's Kansas all over again!
Not quite! THAT was pretty bad! And extremely scary for the driver.
After another two minutes, I decided to make a run for it, too! I was soaked even though it was only a ten foot run to the porch from my car.
The rain was pouring off the roof........the flower-bed-needing-flowers was filled with water......
The rain was thunderous in its pounding of the earth. We had to yell to each other to be heard, though we were all on the porch together.
I did go turn off the sprinkler system after ten minutes. :)
I had yet to use the video function on my new camera......so, just for fun, I took a video. It was so easy! I think I will use it more often for posting here.
I must say, the rain does not sound or look as intense in the video as it was in REAL LIFE. The water on the ground that you see is after only about 3-4 minutes of rain......it just broke open wide.
So, have a peek with us!
Blessing from Our Hearts' Haven!
Love, chari
YES! That IS Matthew on crutches! More later on that! But, Clare......you DO need to know his dancing days for the summer may well be over......before the season even started. Pray it is not so!
Thursday, May 28, 2009
It's a Picture Book Day!
We will often read a handful, or more, of one author. Here is a recent discussion on 4 Real message board about the same topic........
I recently found at Bridget's blog, that she had a recommendation for
Our library did not have it, but I could find it on the interlibrary loan list. I also saw about six other books by the same author, and I found the titles intriguing, so I ordered all of the books by Ferida Wolff.
I am glad that I did! I pretty much enjoyed them all, as did the kids. I kept them to share with my friend Gloria from San Francisco last weekend. She liked them, too.
I was surprised that all of the books have a totally different illustrator. We liked some better than others.
Here is the list we read:
SEVEN LOAVES OF BREAD
Cute & sweet story as the busy, productive sister takes ill and the lazier sister takes over.......and she finds that making less than seven loaves of bread actually costs more work that making all seven loaves of bread.
THE STORY BLANKET
I saw on her website this is her newest book. This is an incredibly sweet story about an old lady who makes gifts for the community out of her story blanket...till its gone. Then, the community give her yarn to make a new story blanket as a thank you gift for all she has done...and then she starts the give-and-take cycle over again. The colors and illustrations are lovely. I think Miss Miranda, my little princess friend, will like this story.
THE EMPEROR'S GARDEN
We really liked this book, too. Humble villagers who are very agreeable with each other create a garden for the emperor's visit. When a monsoon damages their work in the garden, they are sure the emperor will not like the garden. They begin to be less agreeable toward one another. When the emperor loves the garden, the villagers begin to appreciate each other again. Gorgeous artwork and color.
THE WOODCUTTER'S COAT
Loved this story and artwork too. A clever and witty story as a woodcutter has a beautiful and efficient coat become ragged and less useful, only to be stolen by a beggar on his way to get a new coat, with a trade of firewood to the tailor. We then follow the coat as it gets new life, from one person to the next........only to end up in the woodcutter's hands again.
A WEED IS A SEED
I thought this story would be different than it was. It tells two perspectives about how a negative thing can be viewed on a positive side. For example: a weed is a plant growing where we do not want it...but it can feed a mouse in the winter......or moth eats a hole in our shirt, but pollinates flowers.......or rain ruins a picnic day, but waters the fields. The illustrations are fair, the colors nice.
IT IS THE WIND
The watercolors are lovely in this book, and make up for the text, which we did not mind, but did not prefer. It might be because the text was a bit young for us. Actually, I found on her website that this book is for youngers. Gorgeous artwork.
The author has a website. There are a few lesson plans there. I did not take a look at them.
The list of all her books is here.
PS: Gloria......you should be able to find all of these through the same library system. do you know how to use Northstate Cooperative Library to your advantage?
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Matthew Graduates Tonight!
With love,
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
MY HEARTS' HAVEN DAYBOOK 2009
Written Sunday morning, May 24th.......
Outside My Window.......a gorgeous sunny day.......like last week.......and like the week to come.........I am deliriously happy about the weather!!!!! :)
I am thinking........so MUCH to do! Where to start??? SHOULD I start??? I want to slow dowwwwwn!
I am also sadly thinking about a situation that happened recently...........someone was strangely offended by something I did........It was a simple thing and now it is making for bad feelings in her family......please pray! And, what I did was NOT offensive......and if I could do it over again.........I would have to do the same thing! My conscience would not allow me otherwise. Oh!
I am thankful for.......... warm weather...........for my kids helping to put the garden in..........for the amazing work they did in putting on a play........for my friend Maria.........and for Gloria..........and for being chosen to be Benedict's godmother........and.........and........and.....
From the kitchen.........bacon sandwiches for lunch.........we are eating leftover Costco lasagna for dinner and some steamed veggies........we need to run out of the house........again......for another show........the final show......I also hope to make a cake or cupcakes.......for Christopher (Maria's # 4 out of 8) who is passing the programs out at the play tonight. It is his birthday...........and I was his nurse when he was born!
I am wearing........a nightie.........and a hand-me-down Disneyland sweatshirt from my dad........
I am creating........not. Just trying to maintain. :)
I am going...........not sure :)
I am reading......... Still barely reading The Confessions of Saint Augustine. And I am 1/3 through Walden; Or Life in the Woods by Henry David Thoreau. I need to start a new book with the boys........Back of the North Wind??? Maybe. I just read six picture books to them by Ferida Wolff. Also our weekly newspaper........that has an article and photo, both by me.........for the kid's play. I almost forgot........I just read Betsy-Tacy and Heaven to Betsy by Maud Hart Lovelace.
Here is the book review I wrote for Abraham's Book Challenge:
Betsy-Tacy by Maud Hart Lovelace
I was needing something light to read while I am in the middle of something "heavy" and this book "popped" off of a list. This is the first in a series. My friend Lissa loves this series as does my oldest daughter, Anne. (In case you wonder who my friend Lissa is.......she is an author of Little House "pre-quels" and her pen name is Melissa Wiley. She wrote the Martha Years and the Charlotte Years.) Right away I found out something I had been assuming WRONG for years. I had always thought that Betsy-Tacy, was ONE person! I had no idea it was TWO girls.
It is an adorable book! It was written in 1940. It is a story about 2 five year olds who meet and become best friends. They are such sweet little girls! I love their family lives. So good, so pure. In this first book of the series, a very sad thing happens in Tacy's family. And, a very happy thing happens in Betsy's family. Tacy has about 8 siblings....and Betsy only one. Both have 8 year old sisters who become very good friends, too. They live on Hill Street at the top...their house are the last two houses, across from each other. Betsy's dad has a store and I forget what Tacy's dad does. Both dads "drive" to work in buggies or wagons. They both have barns. Betsy's mom is so sweet. I was surprised at how much freedom two five-year-old girls are allowed!
They live in Minnesota and I just found out from the link below that it is based on the author's hometown of Mankato.....a town I drove through recently on a cross-country trip. That will make it easier to imagine their surroundings. That is always fun.
The girls love to sit at the bench on the top of the hill and have picnics. They also have a piano box in the backyard of Betsy's house and they have their own little "living room" in it. They play "paper dolls" with magazine cut-outs and the "dolls" live in magazines. They love to play dress-up.
I HIGHLY recommend this book to little girls whether as read aloud from mom or to read to themselves. I think Shawna should read this to her two little girls soon...and she can borrow my book if she wants. I highly doubt little boys would be interested in this story. I am so glad I was inspired to pick up this book I missed as a girl.
AND.......I still need to write the other one.......
I am hoping.............that our cat, Jane, named ofter Jane in Pride & Prejudice........miraculously lives.........and if she does not, that her kittens will be well-cared for by her sister Lizzie.............who is at this moment nursing the four of them along with her one kitten. Boy, was she shocked when I gave all of those kittens to her last night!
I am hearing......Maddelyn playing her piano pieces, readying for her recitals next week........and the two youngest boys playing together......barely below the argument level.... :/
I am wondering.......why computers must be a pain in the ____!!!! Every computer I am touching this week makes me nuts..........from the computers at home, including Anne's new one......to the one at work.....at Rite Aid photo center.........to my new cell phone.......to my new camera.....to the ones at the charter school......ACK!!!!!!!
Around the house.......wet, clean clothes to hang on the line......a floor to be vacuumed.......cupcakes to make......an entire house to organize (I sound like a broken record :) )........I HAVE gone through Malachy's clothes.....both in the drawers and in storage......so he is ready for summer.........and I have gone through Maddelyn's drawer with her.
Now Showing..........I just watched The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. I was looking forward to seeing it because I recently read the short story of the same name by F. Scott Fitzgerald. I loved the story! Therefore, I was disappointed with the movie.........because it barely had anything in common with the original story. The acting was good of, course...........but, it is a long (almost three hours) and strange story.........and all of the coupling between couples was between unwed couples. The original story was SO good! It was good enough for a movie...........why did they have to change it!
We saw the second disc of The Planet Earth, a BBC series from Discovery Channel. It included Ice Worlds.........FABULOUS!!! Deserts............SO COOL!!! They spent over 25 million dollars making the series.......and it shows. It is absolutely wonderful and amazing!!! See it if you can........we are getting ours from Netflix.
Though.........I have found that my dad has the series on DVD so I am trying to get a hold of his set now.
In the schoolroom.....and OUT of the schoolroom....NOT MUCH............mostly is it PLAY Performance WEEK!
Though there is some......Handel, math........Sarah finished her math-u-see book and has one more to go.........Maddelyn is 2/3rds done with the last book........and hopes to start Jacob's algebra soon. Garrett and Malachy are plugging away at their math books.......Some baseball, teeball (just finished this week!) piano, singing, American history, chicken egg development, picture books........
The BIG projects this week, after the play is done.........for Matthew to get his high school project papers done so he can graduate at the end of the week and Maddelyn has two 8th grade projects to do before she moves up to 9th grade.
Also, I have something "new" in homeschooling that is exciting me.......I hope to share eventually..........I just pray I can see it through!
One of my favorite things.........as they say in the song from one of my favorite musicals: Seven Brides for Seven Brothers: Spring, Spring, Spring!!!
Signs of the seasons............that gorgeous bright spring green EVERYWHERE!!!! Wonderful and comfortable temperatures!!!! Flowers everywhere..........swallows building at least eight nests on the third floor of the fort (my grandma would hate that!).........mowing and watering of the lawn......a visit to the lake.........a hike to several falls.....sandals...........happy am I!
In the garden............all the seeds are in..........and I think.....I may have actually combined the carrot and lettuce seeds into one packet..........this should be interesting!!!
A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...........
Monday-music night for piano is in the evening..........a barbeque with several families???
Tuesday-go to lake with Gloria & John, graduation rehearsal for Matthew, Piano lessons for three of the kids........and one more performance of The Gazebo for the kids so we can film it
Wednesday-Matthew presents his high school project to two teachers..........a private piano recital in the evening.......only Sarah & Maddelyn will be playing from our family
Thursday-Matthew graduates from our charter school this evening
Friday-we go see TWO different dance school performances because we have friends at two different studios.......and baseball for Garrett that evening and possibly my older children will go to a dance........but we are thinking about having our own at a different time :)
Saturday-Garrett's baseball team having a kids vs parents game & barbeque....not sure if I should embarrass Garrett and Marty by playing, in a skirt :)
Sunday-Mass, followed by the official piano recital at which Garrett, Maddelyn & Sarah will be playing
Monday-45 chickies arrive!!! Garrett has a baseball game in the evening
Tuesday-five of six kids go to orthodontist at a city 1.25 hours north of here.............and perhaps Mom's Night Out at my favorite local restaurant
And, now...........if I shall not be here much.........you can see why!
Special prayer requests on my mind this week.....for private intentions..........for these breathing issues I have...........for two someones very close to me who have deadlines........for my friend Willa and her family after the passing of her father.........for two acquaintances of my children (through theater) whose father died earlier this month (I just found out)..........for other health issues for many I know
St. Gerard's List..........Tonia (my co-worker, due the same due date as Malachy: October 20th), Suzanne, (Gloria's sister), Louise, Victoria & Erica.....and we can add two of our nieces......both in New Hampshire: Clara due with #5 and Suzanne with #2. And, now, my friend Jodie is due with #9 and Gloria's sister-in-law Jody is due with #5!
I am currently scrapbooking..........I actually found a bit of time to scrapbook.......but not until I re-organized my scrapbook stuff and put it totally out of sight..........to save till June.......did I realize I actually had time to do it two nights while Matthew as building his set. So, I got Anne's baptism photos and first two weeks of life scrapbooked. yes!
And, now, it is all put away............I am not sure when it will come out..........by the end of June for sure..........I hope to go away for a week and take it with me.
I am exercising.........unfortunately, I have taken 2-3 weeks off............due to illness and other such stuff, such as NEVER being home!!
I do hope to get a 2 mile walk in with the kids today along the railroad tracks behind our house.
Here is picture thought I am sharing........
God bless us all!
Love, Chari
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Girlfriends
Friday, May 15, 2009
Anne Graduates Tonight!
Tonight Anne will take part in her first graduation ceremony.
She will be receiving an Associates of Arts Dregree in English, with a focus in Theatre from our local Junior College.
She is expecting to transfer to the University of Nevada-Reno......my Alma Mater!
We are very proud of her......she will graduate with High Honors and Phi Theta Kappa.
She is so excited to move on.........
Prayers for her future vocation, wherever God calls her, please!
Love,
Chari
Thursday, May 14, 2009
For the month of May, Mary's Month
I thought it over and decided I needed to do a bit of research through Blogger's Help section......and the first attempt failed, using their video tutorial......but, their written info.........fixed my education........I think it will work!! Let's see!
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I have no idea how to embed this video.........so, I will have to have you go to this blog............you can see it!
I am so proud of those kids. They are inspiring!
Oh! .......here is another video
So, here is the video at the above link..........now that I have it figured out! BEWARE! I will be using more video now! :)
God bless!
Love, chari
PS......If anyone knows how to embed video witout downloading it to my computer.......PLEASE teach me! I think I made my computer sick the last time I did it!
I did try to copy and paste the "embed" on youtube.......but I cannot get ALL of the link! ACK!
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Haven Heartbeats
Thought I would just babble for a few moments here........total babble.
Last week, on Tuesday, I felt like I was coming down with something.....which was no fun when I had to go teach a childbirth class for 12 couples.
The next day I was down with something...and so was Marty. Then the next day, I felt better....and went to work for about half a shift.......but got really stuffy while I was there..and could not breathe through my nose for 48 hours....ugh!!!
Then the next day........I felt much worse......and the following day, barely better....and I had to call in sick for my morning shift on Mother's day.......I felt barely better on Mother's Day........so I was SO glad I called in sick.......but then they called me in to come sign my time card...ugh! That was the second time in three years that I called in sick....and still had to go in and sign the time card.....ugh! I usually only call in sick once a year at the most. Kind of easy when you are hardly on the schedule. :)
Luckily everyday since Sunday, I have felt a bit better. Today......my schedule was such that I could get the house cleaned up a bit..........I started out that way......but my breathing issues were perking up too much today...and it sure slowed me down.....
Plus, I had to get Matthew's student VISA application and other stuff taken care of today........for the travel agency.....that took all morning....not to mention all of the time last week......but, I was able to FEDEX it this afternoon. FEDEX is $$$$$!!!!! I had no idea. I am so glad Marty gave me more $ than I asked for this morning........I would not have had enough.
It is SO MUCH WORK to get this kid out of the country! Every time I turn around...there is another packet of paperwork!! This is much harder than figuring out the college application stuff.........a whole new lingo, too.
I should go back to that "to-do" list I posted here in January....and see what's left.
And add what's new.
Every.day. is a "due date"
Until June 4th at noon.
I know.
I have mentioned that before........but, I am keeping my eye on my work and every once in awhile.....I peek ahead to June 4th..at noon. :)
I have a meeting with Shelly at 10am on the 4th........our last of the year for our learning records.
Now you know why I keep saying........noon on the 4th.
Oh, wow......this is definitely babbling. :)
I have been "writing" so many blog posts in my head lately....even philosophical ones.....even profound posts :) .....and homeschooling...and spiritual posts. But, I am not sure if I can ever actually commit them to paper...I mean to the blog.
Please pray I can get my house a bit cleaned up before our company arrives next week! It is SO thrashed.......and never being home and being up too late.......and having appts every day........is just making it too difficult to get to it.
If you walked into my house right this moment.you would see clean clothes all over the living room floor........waiting to be folded.......piles of dirty clothes on my bedroom floor.......a refrigerator desperately needing to get cleaned (has to happen tomorrow because Marty is going shopping for us tomorrow)........two bathrooms needing to be cleaned.......a certain nameless child did not do his turn at cleaning the bathroom.....its in trouble!.......the hallway is full of stuff I need to get into the garage.......the floor needs to be mopped, desperately.......the carpet vacuumed.......the dining room table and the kitchen counter cleared and wiped down........the kitchen has our early dinner mess all over it.......both kids rooms are strewn with clothes.......and my desk and dresser need decluttering.........help!!! Is that enough of a visual for you???? :)
I promise........I am NOT exaggerating......OR sugarcoating it. MY kids will VOUCH for me!! :)
And OUT of the house....the school room is DESPERATE after the winter......and the back of my car is full of stuff Matthew put in there from building the set.
Okay....time to go to the game!!!
Love to you all!
Chari
Monday, May 11, 2009
Sad news for one of my dearest friends......
It is with great sadness for one of my dearest friends, Willa, that I beg these prayers.
Earlier today the sad news came.....that her father passed away this morning, unexpectedly.
Being unexpected does make it all the more painful.
A few specific requests:
.....for Clare, she was to spend ten days with her grandparents next week in Alaska.....and this is especially painful.
.....for Liam as he finishes up his finals at TAC and graduates this weekend.
......for Paddy & Aidan, they are so young and this sorrow is strange to them
......for Willa's mom....she and her husband were a very close couple.....
......for the rest of the family, of course........her other children and husband, and Willa's brothers and their families
And, could you please MOST ESPECIALLY offer a MEMORARE for Willa's dad's soul? He was a Christian, and a good man, but not Catholic.......and Willa has been praying so hard and so long for his conversion......she feels this loss most painfully.
Could you please pray that Memorare for her peace as well? This is one of her favorite prayers.
MEMORARE
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thine intercession was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my mother; to thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen. Thank you so much for covering my friend, and your friend, in these prayers.
You are all so dear. You may leave a note of condolence here for Willa and family, if you so please.
Thank you so much for your prayers. I know Willa and her family covet them. I do as well.
Blessings,
Chari
Sunday, May 10, 2009
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY, MOM!
And Alleen & Jim gave birth to BeverLey Kaye, my mother.
Then, my mom grows up and gives birth to me after one year of marriage to my dad.
Friday, May 8, 2009
May well be my book find of the year............
I have been perusing it ever since........reading poems aloud to whoever will listen, especially the two little boys who are my captives just before our morning read aloud. :)
Van Dyke even wrote poems about poets! He has tributes to Tennyson, Longfellow, Hugo, Aldrich, Browning, Keats, Wordworth & more!
He has "story poems", too. Here is the first poem I read aloud to all who would listen, while they all were getting ready to leave for their college classes:

A tale that the poet Rückert told
God bless!
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
There's another BIRTHDAY in our house!
Poor thing, our day today was too busy due to obligations.....too busy for celebrating....so, we will do cake this coming weekend.
She did get to go for a walk to the meadow behind our house.
She did get to skip school this morning.
And, most importantly, her mama did not forget to make her the pancakes she loves......and that she had asked for for her birthday months ago. Phew! I barely remembered.......but, I did. And, they were ready to eat when she awakened at 7:45am.
I was going to post a recent photo of Maddelyn but ran out of time in our busy day....so, if you go look at one of my favorite blogs........you will find a picture of Maddelyn here and here. The particular maiden who owns this blog.....is particularly fond of Maddelyn.....and thus the photos.........the maiden is one of Maddelyn's confirmation sponsors. They are practically "sisters."
HAPPY DAY, HAPPY WEEK to DEAR MADDELYN!
Monday, May 4, 2009
Haven Heartbeats
Until then.....we have..........
two graduations: Anne with her AA in English and Matthew from high school
graduation rehearsals
lots of play rehearsals for two plays
two tech weeks, one each for two plays
set building
set de-building
company for a few days, once or twice
numerous Tee-ball games
numerous baseball games
three childbirth classes to teach
three days to work
one day to work interviews of pregnant women
one or two plays to attend at the college
4 plays to attend for the other kids
LOTS of meals to give thought to...
foreign exchange student stuff to go through
a birthday
a birthday party
finals week at the college for the four older kids
work the concession stand for baseball
help the boys clean their room.....ugh!
meet with our educational facilitator twice
finish up Matthew's senior year
finish up Matthew's senior project
finish up Maddelyn's two little projects
math lessons with Patty
piano lessons
piano rehearsals
piano recitals x2
plant the garden
attend a ballet, or will that be TWO?
attend a recital
prepare chicken coop, in order to......
welcome 44 baby chicks
a run out of town for orthodontics
possibly host two Catholic brothers as they drive by
and lastly.........there are, of course, the every day things that need to be done, like homeschooling some of the kids some of the time, like meals and exercising and cleaning bathrooms..........etc!
So, I am putting blogging on the back burner on the imaginary stove in the garage. I will get to it as I can........like when Maddelyn is in her class...........or I am stuck at the school. We will see what time I can pull out of my hat. It often seems when I take a "break" from blogging......I often blog more that I thought I could, or would.
I am going to try to get a Daybook done over the course of a few days.......maybe load some pictures..........who knows. I have LOTS of posts going around in my head!
I beg God's blessing on these endeavors........and on your endeavors, too!
Have a nice day.......week.........month!
Love, chari
Saturday, April 25, 2009
How I Spent My Birthday........
So, Louise, my dear friend, whose love language is so obviously gifts..........she specializes in gifts that resemble acts of service.......called me this morning and told me to meet her at her house about 11:30-ish so I could follow her to our destination. She said for all of us to wear flip flops.....swim suits and to bring beach towels. With a high of only 61* expected.........she said 65*......I was a bit scared........but I obeyed.......and brought a sweatshirt, too!
So, we left the house........and on the way.........it was the start of........
........ a very good birding day! The kids said it was because it was my birthday.......and all of the birds came out for me, to celebrate.
First, we watched a Great Blue Heron soar and then land......but I did not get my camera out in time. Then, above you see the next bird. We think it was a kestral hawk. We saw it again......or another one later over the lake. On the way to the lake, we found the Snowy White Egret we discovered in the marsh the other day..........this is only the second time since we have lived here.....20 years.........that I have seen an egret in the area.
Not sure what bird this was.........I think it was the heron......Matthew took the picture.
So, we arrived at our hometown lake.........where we have not been since last September. Where it is often too cold to go to in April. It was a sunny day, and comfortable enough........but for that wind. The wind chill factor definitely brought our temp down. But, it was tolerable enough.....and Louise set out a delicious picnic............she remembers everything.......it is her way. There was pastrami, of course, and cheeses, other deli meat, two kinds of mustard, mayo, bakery bread, 4 or 5 kind of chips, a homemade pasta salad, sliced tomatoes, avocados, pickles, sodas, waters........and cookies, cupcakes & gummy bears!
While we ate, Miranda, Louise's daughter, almost 6 years old, and Malachy explored down by the water. We just shared conversation......and enjoyed having the entire beach to ourselves......it kind of felt like we were on a deserted island. :)
Garrett, Louise, Sarah, Malachy & Miss Miranda walked down to the lake.......to discover the driftwood treasures along the shore. Nice view, eh?
This is "our" lake.........the kids have grown up here........Malachy & Miranda have always known this lake......and will grow up here, too........and so will Miranda's little brother........who is due to join the family sometime at the end of July, early August.....hopefully before I need to take a road trip to San Francisco!
This was one of the uninvited guests at my birthday picnic........they were so well-behaved today! They never barged into our party. I am actually one of those people who enjoys gulls. We also saw cormorants flying over the lake several times..........and once, I think I saw a bald eagle......it sure looked like one..........but I am not sure they camp out near this area.
******
Anne said Sarah wrote my name on the cake.......and then asked Anne how it looked. Apparently she had written C-a-r-i on the cake........Anne said: Who is Cari? I guess Sarah takes after me.........I am infamous in my family for my gigantic birthday banner for Tony which read: Happy Bithday!
I saw Matthew standing, with this background, and had to have it memorialized. It was a beautiful day..........and Matthew loves this mountain........his mountain.
It was definitely a bit chilly when that wind came up.........even the boys, Matthew & Garrett took shelter in the beach towels.
Sarah loves......I mean really loves Louise. She thinks Louise is one of her most favorite people in the whole world. She is one of mine, too.
And, not sure if it was the last bird of the day.....but there was this lone sandpiper at the shore.......he was very busy. I just sat and watched him for a bit.
Oh, of course, we also saw Canadian Geese, Stellar Jays, swallows, Western Scrub Jays and pigeons. :)
MY HEARTS' HAVEN DAYBOOK 2009
Here is my daybook for Saturday, April 25, 2009
Outside My Window.......a sunny day, as promised by weather.com....I have been waiting as patiently as I could for this day.........sunshine! I just wish it was supposed to be warmer.......but I guess 61* will feel pretty warm after yesterday..........when it was 36* at 10am when I was driving to town..........and there was snow everywhere........all of the trees dusted all the way up to the top of the mountains.
All three weeks of April have had at least one 70* or plus day......and at least one day with a dusting of snow. I can take the teasing..........though it is hard. I can stay hopeful........the calendar shows me that May and June are just around the corner. yes.
I am thinking........who "stole" my internet connection? I have checked everywhere........I am guessing Anne took it with her to Patty's house..........and forgot to bring it home......grrrrr. Everyone is still asleep........so I guess I will find out later.
Hmmm. I just checked her car and school bag.....nothing there. Patty's?
UPDATE: Turned out she had mistakenly left it at the college, sitting in the hallway.....phew! It was still there when she returned today. She is so lucky!
I am thankful for.............my friendship with Cindy. We went to a play last night at the college, at which Anne was the assistant director and propmaster...........and then she treated me to dessert at one of those old diners that has been around since the 1940's. It was nice to visit.........though I think I talked her ear off. :)
We ususally try to do "lunch" whenever both of us are at work at the same time. She is a hospice nurse........I help bring them in.........she helps them to go out. She is a wonderful person...........so I am guessing she is a wonderful nurse. :)
From the kitchen.........I know there is a naked chocolate cake in there..............and some pork steaks in the garage fridge........dinner will probably revolve around that.......as for breakfast............can't decide between a sprouted wheat bagel........or oatmeal.......something soon.....my tummy is growling.
I am wearing........Nevada-Reno Wolfpack socks from my dad.............to keep my feet warm.........some blue and white striped lounge pants handed down from Louise........a loose green shirt my dad bought me at The Gap.......loose and comfy
I am creating........hmmmm.........not sure.......will have to think longer on this......
YEAH, I wrote this last time........but sleepiness disallows the brain for creativity sometimes, ya know? I WANT to scrapbook.........
I am going...........to try to drive no where today........last week was one long day of busy-ness after another. Today is my break. I hope tomorrow is a break, too........I desperately need it. I am scheduled to work tomorrow...........and I pray they cut me because they don't need me. I am scheduled on Tuesday, too.......and I already know I will be working then. I am going to go take a hot bath with a hot cup of Irish Breakfast Tea........which I have not had for over a month.......avoiding caffeine due to my remedy.........and with Walden......though I am tempted to call Willa. Oh, I can't.......my phone just died.
Oh! Louise has called me and I am going to go to meet her at her house to go to "our destination" for a birthday outing.........I will let you know later!
I am reading.........I have finally finished "S.T.A.B.L.E.," a textbook for a STABLE class I have at the end of the month the topic being for post-resuscitation of the newborn and stabilization of the infant being transported. Stiil barely reading The Confessions of Saint Augustine. And almost through one essay in Walden; Or Life in the Woods by Henry David Thoreau. Still reading The Wind in the Willows aloud to the boys.
And, I quickly read Child of the Jungle by Sabine Kuegler. This is the story of this woman's life..........her parents raised her and her siblings in a very remote jungle of Indonesia, as the first white people ever to interact with many of the inhabitants. I feel she wrote it well.........I enjoyed it. I just feel bad that her parents sent all three of them as mid-teens back into the "world" for education.......but had not really prepared them for it. Not only that, but teens need their parents just as toddlers need their parents..........and these teens had to fend for themselves. I think if their parents wanted them to get a Western education......they should have sacrificed a few years out of the jungle..........to care for their burgeoning young adults. A lot of heart ache could have been prevented.
I am hoping.............we can accomplish all required of us by June 4th.............when my calendar shows a bit of freedom. I may make a to-do list.....and, I would love to have warm days to accomplish these things. This busy-ness is why I am not going to be able to blog much.
I am hearing......hum of the computer and Garrett breathing as he stays warm in my bed..........and Doris Day songs.............yeah, I am a little different. :)
I am wondering.......if I have already lived half of my life............or if today is my half-way mark? I am 45 years old today...........and it feels kind of freaky knowing that the first 45 years ZIPPED by .......time is racing, racing.........what does God want me to do with the second half of my life? My grandma is going to be 88 years old in June. I want to be her age some day. And still scrapbooking??? :) My father-in-law is almost to 86 years old..........and still travels all over the country visiting his relatives and kids. I want to do that.
Around the house.......I am not in the same "I can clean the house up in 20 minutes" place I have been over the last few years. It has been a bit sloppy for the last few weeks.......is it months? And, I cannot take it anymore!
Now Showing..........I watched "What's Eating Gilbert Grape?" the other night.........when I should have been sleeping. Well-acted..........Leonardo Dicapprio was AMAZING portraying an 18 year old.........I think he was autistic.......but they never said....I think. There is one, er, two bad parts.....so I will not share it with the kids.......plus it was just plain depressing........
We have started the second disc of The Planet Earth, a BBC series from Discovery Channel. They spent over 25 million dollars making it.......and it shows. It is absolutely wonderful and amazing!!! See it if you can........we are getting ours from Netflix.
In the schoolroom.....and OUT of the schoolroom....Bach, squares & rectangles, multiplication, fractions, pi, circumference of a circle, decimals, copywork, grammar, spelling, baseball, piano, singing, American history, chicken egg development, picture books "starring" chickens, Saint stories, First Holy communion notebook and prep, play rehearsals, tee ball & baseball for the two little boys.............and more
One of my favorite things.........a yummy pastrami sandwich, mustard and pickles only..........from Johnny's Pastrami......where four generations of my family love, love, love to eat! I have mentioned it on my blog before........we try to go there the day before we go to Disneyland. You can see photos here.
Why is it on my mind? Well, Louise called this morning, and asked me "What else is on a Johnny's Pastrami sandwich besides pickles?" Now it is heavy on my mind...... :)
Signs of the seasons............my pear tree is blooming.......see weather above.......I have purple grape hyacinths and daffidils........the lawn is getting quite green........a few days last week without leggings or sweatshirts........little league.....
A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...........hmmm....let's see.....
Monday-usual drive all over, from one town to another.......oh, piano is in the evening instead of afternoon.....tee ball game for Malachy
Tuesday-I work
Wednesday-I am taking a class all day.......little boys to Shawna's all day........rest of kids to college class and then to Patty's for math and whatever
Thursday-testing at the charter school for the kids (note......I do it for the charter school.........I do not ever teach to the test.......we do our own thing.period. ......the tests are meaningless to me.....and I teach the kids the same) -tee ball game for Malachy
Friday-Sarah goes to see the pediatric cardiologist in the morning and then the usual driving plus help Matthew work on set-building-take Maddelyn to see the concert band concert at the college
Saturday-take a college student from San Diego to see waterfalls and other natural history around here.......before he moves back home!
Sunday- Mass........rest!!!???
Special prayer requests on my mind this week.........that the homeopathic practioner can find the right remedy for me.......the last did not cure me............and private intentions.
St. Gerard's List..........Tonia, Suzanne, Louise, Victoria & Erica.....and we can add two of our nieces......both in New Hampshire: Clara due with #5 and Suzanne with #2. So strange to write that.........I knew both of them when they were babies!
I am currently scrapbooking..........June? Where are you??? I kind of thought I would scrapbook all day for my birthday........but I think that will not be. Maybe this afternoon???
I am exercising.........I think I only got on the treadmill once last week due to not being home all week long...........but, it went well! I should get three days in this week........
Here is picture thought I am sharing........
Malachy dressed up in Maddelyn's ballet recital costume when he was about 8 months old.....or is he 18 months old?
God bless!
Love,
Chari
Saturday, April 18, 2009
My Hearts' Haven Daybook
Outside My Window.......looks like another week in a row of snow and freezing temperatures mixed with 70* days......glad the 70* are waiting for the weekend....can't wait. all that to say......it is freezing cold outside..........gray.......with a thick dusting of snow on the ground........and snow still spitting! BRRRRR.
I am thinking........I wish nitrates did not give me headaches. Marty could not find a nitrate-free ham this Easter. The ham he did buy was muy delicioso!! But....it hurts my head. :(
I am thankful for.............my husband doing the taxes every year and leaving me out of the project. :) SO INCREDIBLY thankful......
From the kitchen.........not sure what's for dinner.
I am wearing........a pink night gown with flower print.......and an old Nevada-Reno Wolfpack sweatshirt, to keep warm, of course.
I am creating........hmmmm.........not sure.......will have to think longer on this......
I am going...........to be a chauffeur, for the day, as usual......meet with Shelly, kids from math, kids to rehearsal, Garrett to and from baseball.......yadda yadda yadda....translated: ad nauseum :)
I am reading.........still: S.T.A.B.L.E., a textbook for a STABLE class I have at the end of the month the topic being for post-resuscitation of the newborn and stabilization of the infant being transported. Finished Those Who Love by Irving Stone. Also just finished an amazing and wonderful book: The Family and the Cross: The Stations of the Cross and Their Relation to Family Life by Joseph Breig. It is one of the BEST books I have ever read. I want to see if it has been republished......it is from 1958, I think. I have also re-started The Confessions of Saint Augustine........I am starting it over. And, I have just started Walden; Or Life in the Woods by Henry David Thoreau. Reading The Wind in the Willows aloud to the boys. A LOT of heavier stuff than usual..........wonder if I can keep it going on?
I am hoping.............it warms up very soon. I want my bones warmer. :) I just checked the ten day forecast........and it is supposed to be near 80* by next Sunday.........oh, Deo Gratias!!!!!
I am hearing......the chatter of six children in their morning routines...........
I am wondering.......if I should go get "something....anything" done
Around the house.......I got a kitchen counter and desk decluttered....AND, this is HUGE: ALL of the snow, ski, boarding gear put away for the rest of the year...AND the garage revamped...AND all of the games put away and re-organized. All of this took only an afternoon because it is one part of my life I have organized well.......and I work on it about every 8 weeks out of the year. to maintain it. It is nice when an organization system works. Too bad I cannot get the rest of the house in that same order.....my poor desk.....my poor husband.
Now Showing..........Kung Fu Panda, Planet Earth, disc one........old musicals like High Society, Oklahoma, etc, for the voice students' homework. Northanger Abbey for the girls and their friend.
In the schoolroom.....and OUT of the schoolroom....what I wrote last time pretty much sums it up: Bach, squares & rectangles, adding to ten, multiplication, fractions, decimals, German, violin, copywork, baseball, piano, singing, American history, chicken egg development, picture books "starring" chickens, Saint stories, First Holy communion notebook and prep, play rehearsals, skiing & boarding (last weekend was LAST day).............and more
One of my favorite things.........watching Matthew build a set for their upcoming play!
Signs of the seasons............minimal snow.....buds on trees........crocuses at the hospital......a few more flowers out this week.......baseball.....bird sounds ever increasing.....swallows diving all around my house.......a freshly roto-tilled garden......ahhhh
A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week........opening day of baseball on Saturday.......support Matthew in set-building (drive him here and there...sit with him at the school while he works)...make college phone calls......Anne has an opening weekend for the college play she is co-directing and working as the propmaster for.......maybe go see the play......hang laundry out on the line for the first time this year.......collect learning samples for school......aid Maddelyn in a homework project or two.......go over Matthew's senior project plans......take four of us to the dentist for cleanings and only one filling.....maybe work one day.......study for my class.......attend a three hour meeting/class at work...plus the usual!
Special prayer requests on my mind this week.........for Thomas Aquinas College and the family of its president, Dr. Dillon, who recently died in a car accident.....for Emily and her family.....for a young girl I know.....for Matthew and his doings.......and private intentions.
St. Gerard's List..........Tonia, Suzanne, Louise, Victoria & Erica.....oh, and adding Mindy, someone in our homeschool group
I am currently scrapbooking..........I read a scrapbook magazine from Creative Memories. I am kind of bummed....just when they got the magazine to be really top rate....they go and decide to close the magazine. Boo hoo. There are so many ideas in this last issue.....that I am looking forward to experimenting with....now, to get through some crazy days and try to do some scrapbooking. I don't see how :(
I am exercising.........well, I started the week strong......two miles plus a day for three days....I am feeling stronger.......I know I have more stamina for my days.....I pray I can keep up......wonder if I can take a walk outside this weekend in the warmer weather?
Here is picture thought I am sharing........
well....I.....have tried twice and waited forever for three fotos to load...it is not working this morning...so que sera sera.....
Love, chari
Monday, April 13, 2009
A Happy & Holy Easter week to you!

The Resurrection of Christ and the Women at the Tomb
Fra ANGELICO; 1440-41 fresco; convento di San Marco, Florence
Saturday, April 11, 2009
What the heck is "pond skimming"?
Do you know?
(Originally written on Saturday night, last.)
Well, I had never heard of it. I am not sure where I was yesterday, but someone told me all about it....or was that Thursday???
So, today, when I took the kids to the ski park......and I bumped into my friend Laurie, who is a manager at the park........and she was dressed in weird 80's clothes.........and she said she was going to go try this "pond skimming," I just knew I had to go check it out.
I also noticed an RN from the hospital in the bathroom, dressing down, and getting ready to go try it.
And, then I saw Katie, who is the local homeschooled girl who went to Germany last year with the Rotary.....and someone I have known since she was four years old.......in line to join the fun........
I thought I would come home and see if there were any videos online....so I could share my experience.....as a spectator, that is...........and I found A LOT of video!
I guess this is a fun spring skiing thing to do. Brrrrr!
This first video is very similar to what our park had today......but our hill was a bit steeper.......and to get out at the end you had to actually lift yourself into the air a bit to get out. More tricky!
The first skier down today was one of the co-owners of the park. He biffed good! OUCH! I was thinking: this is dangerous........are there EMTs here???
But the rest did not eat it as bad as he did.
So, you need to know.......this is extremely cold water.......as in there were little icebergs floating in the water. We also had a diver just on the edge of the pool or in it.......to help folks out. I thought that was a very humane thing to do.
Watch and see what you think...........
What I noticed today was this......you were least likely to get across if....
- you were female.......NO women got across today
- you were young.....only ONE kid got across.....though one who missed the first time did make it the second
- you were on skiis.......while some skiers did make it.....the boarders had better luck
And, OF COURSE, Garrett asked in all seriousness....if HE could try. Like, I don't think so.........remember you are recovering from a head injury???? Duh.
Don't tell him.......but, I just might let him try next year......shhhh. If they do it again. They do not do it every year....but everyone had so much fun.....I think they just might.
I also found this other video.....kind of funny.......or not. Depends on who you are.......my kids and I laughed. What does that tell you? :)
And, here is one more.......and it is not like we really need one more video.....but, about 19 seconds into this video.....is one of our favorite runs. Too funny! Oh, and the music is fun....one of my own....and the world's......favorite pieces of music!
Fun??? You wanna try?
I did not see Frances anywhere......but I think she and her family would have loved this........and I wished I had grabbed Abraham!
HAPPY SPRING!!!!
Love, chari
P.S. I am SO EXCITED that I finally figured out how to put a video up! Yes!
Well, it is not as if I had ever tried before. :)
But now.....I can put my favorite youtube video on here.........one I am sure you are all familiar with....but if you are not.....you hafta see it! Watch for next week........
Haven Heartbeats
I tried all week to post......but I never felt like writing. I had some fantasy of posting something profound daily for Holy Week. Maybe next year........
I had an opportunity to chat with my brother-in-law David a few evenings ago. He and his family used to live here, in our town, but up and moved to New Hampshire about 12.5 years ago. That was a sad day.
Anyway, he and his wife Christine, have ten children.......only four are still at home......hey, that will be like us next fall! I have two more St. Gerard prayer requests now. Two of our nieces, Clara and Suzanne, are expecting babies the same week......the last week of September. It will be 5th and 3rd respectively. They both live in New Hampshire, too
Yesterday morning we woke up to four inches of snow. Of course, it is all gone this morning....and the sun is currently rising today. We have had a week of dreary weather.......except for that gorgeous last Monday....when it hit 70*!
Today is supposed to be near 60*.......and I think the plan is to take the kids skiing/boarding for their last day of this season. I believe we are even going to be brave and let Garrett board today. And, Malachy gets to play a big kid and join them for the day, too. The last few outings the kids have been able to take him on the intermediate ski lift. That is cool.
I am longing for Spring......and for FREE days...to get things done around here. Oh, and the energy to do it, too, would be helpful. :)
Speaking of energy, using the treadmill as many days a week as possible (so far, four times a week) has definitely made a difference in my energy, even in spite of the fact that my latest sleeping, or lack of sleeping, issue has been for my body and mind to wake up between 4:30 and 6:30 am, never to fall back to sleep. That is why I am here this morning, all by myself......peace and quiet!
It is kind of funny.........how self-absorbed blog posts can be. I don't really want to talk about myself so much......but, I guess if I actually wrote hard copy letters to my friends and loved ones...it might look like this blog.
Friday, April 3, 2009
MY HEARTS' HAVEN DAYBOOK 2009
I am thinking........I have SO MUCH TO DO TODAY! I better get going. I will write this off and on throughout the day...if I can manage it!
I am thankful for.............my friend Shawna......and her husband Jacob. Besides letting my little boys hang out at her house all day yesterday......and feeding them dinner while I got the oil changed in the car........it is a pleasure to talk with her......and I appreciate that when I inserted my foot into my mouth in a public display of forgetting to "think before I speak" they can laugh at me and with me.........and not take it all too seriously. And, I am very happy to have Jacob as a coach for Malachy's tee ball team.......and I love the way they both allow Garrett so much time practicing leadership skills........where, as the 5th child in my home he is not often allowed to exert that capability. Oh, and I appreciate that Shawna did not kick me out last night when it was getting late :)
From the kitchen.........still thinking on this.......tuna for lunch.......cheese pizza, homemade for dinner???
I am wearing........my treadmill clothes: a pair of pastel capris and a purple Curves shirt and my tennis shoes
I am creating........energy, with my exercising! Let's hope!
I am going...........to Davis tonight. Matthew, Marty and I will travel down to Davis for Matthew's outbound orientation with the Rotary Youth Exchange Program. Katie, who is my dear friend Sheila's daughter, will be traveling with us.........she went to Germany in the same program, and was Matthew's inspiration for getting himself out of the country :)
I am reading.........S.T.A.B.L.E., a textbook for a STABLE class I have at the end of the month (YES!!!! ANOTHER CLASS!!!) the topic being for post-resuscitation of the newborn and stabilization of the infant being transported. FUN. Actually, it has been about four years since I last took the class and there has been a lot of interesting research since then..........things seem more simplified. Also, just about finished with Those Who Love by Irving Stone. Finished The Phantom Tollbooth with the little boys.........and have started The Wind in the Willows aloud to the boys. I also read to them at night: Stories of Favorite Saints by Bertha C. Krall
I am hoping.............that the rhythm to our days will maintain and improve......a rhythm I have been aiming for since January!!!......and that we have a good, productive day tomorrow at the orientation.....and that the homeopathic remedy will cure these asthma symptoms........and that I can lose weight and get in better shape. There. I said it publicly. :)
I am hearing......the hum of a computer......that is all.
I am wondering.......if I should just post this as it before I go tonight.........so all of the tenses are right within my sentences.
Around the house.......slowly getting straightened up. I have a short term plan........and I hope the kids involved will put it into effect tomorrow!
Now Showing..........Travel movies from Netflix for Switzerland, Germany & Austria. A movie about Bach, for the little boys.
In the schoolroom.....and OUT of the schoolroom....Bach, squares & rectangles, multiplication, fractions, decimals, travel videos, copywork, baseball, piano, singing, American history, chicken egg development, picture books "starring" chickens, Saint stories, First Holy communion notebook and prep, play rehearsals, skiing & boarding.............and more
One of my favorite things.........a tuna melt!
Signs of the seasons............minimal snow.....buds on trees........crocuses at the hospital......spring skiing
A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...........too much to write now......but, it is Holy Week!
Special prayer requests on my mind this week.........travel prayers for the weekend.....and private intentions.
St. Gerard's List..........Tonia, Suzanne, Louise, Victoria & Erica
I am currently scrapbooking..........I just got an order of new paper and pages and an album and some tape refills.........I hope to scrapbook a week from Saturday. :) You know........all I want is a room to leave my scrapbook stuff out so I can do 0-30 minutes whenever I have time.............I think I will do leaver it out for the month of June........we'll see.
Oh! I almost forgot! I am getting some journaling done from the mid-eighties. That is a HUGE success! Scrapbookers everywhere are aware, eh?
I am exercising.........I am! FINALLY!!! Now, if it would warm up.....I would like to go walking outside.........can't go when it is cold.......it makes it hard to breathe.....and I couch for the rest of the day........ugh
Here is picture thought I am sharing........no time....gotta post now!
Love,
chari
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Haven Heartbeats
Since I am having to wait around for Maddelyn's 50 minute class at the college, spending the time blogging is a good use of my time, since I will not do it at home......much. You may have noticed.
So, let's see...where to start.
Anne has a pray request for all of us. Two of her friends at the college, siblings.....just found out that their mother is dying of cancer......"if chemo goes well, she could have five years." Anne's heart is broken for them.
Oh, blank mind.
Another friend needs prayers, as she and her husband discern how and when to sell their home and to purchase another one. You know who you are. :)
Garrett is in his last year of Majors in the baseball world. I took him to practice yesterday.....left him there with a teammate and parent...only to have him call me an hour later stating practice had been cancelled. What??? I checked the schedule. Oh, Sorry, Garrett.......there was NO practice scheduled. Not till Wednesday.
We have a bit of a dilemma with baseball and the play he is in.......practice and rehearsal overlap by 30 minutes....and Garrett is only in the play in that last half hour. I pray the coach is understanding.
Today Malachy begins tee ball practice. While I am not very found of tee ball.......I am SO glad to be done with Pee Wee Tee ball.......that can really get my patience. We only do tee ball because it is so exciting for the boys to be playing ball......and they are at a disadvantage in minors if they had never played tee ball. So, there you go.
Last week I got a phone call from Shawna saying, "I have a 'full circle' story for you." It turns out that her husband Jacob, who was coached by David, Marty's brother, and by Marty as the assistant, when he was 14 years old.......will now be coaching, Malachy, Marty's son. Malachy is so happy to be on Abraham's team. And so happy to have Jacob for a coach. So is Marty, in fact.
I put Malachy to bed early last night....for him....and he awakened before first light, at 6:45am...the first words out of his mouth were: What time is practice? :)
Maybe his late bedtimes ARE better........for me anyway. :) I like having quiet mornings.......plus......when he awakens before me.......he just keeps chatting at me...not conducive to a few more minutes of rest.
I am getting happier with my new camera...which is good...because it is now mine...and too late to take back. :) There are so many new settings on the camera...it is going to take awhile to figure it all out. Oh! I almost forgot! I bought it at a private camera store.......and they offer a complimentary class on how to use the camera......I need to look into that. And, if it works out just right....maybe I can invite myself for tea, Gloria? I have YET to find a way to stop in your town....I am always passing through or have an all-day commitment. I need to go see Anne, too. It has been way too long. She is Garrett's godmother.
I have to go switch cell phone services this week......or next. So, I end up with a new phone, whether I want it or not. I am not fond of change that is not of my choosing. :) Our local cell phone company will be no more...but will be an ATT dealer. So, we get to pay more each moth now, for less service. BUT, since my family in Nevada all have ATT.....all phone calls will be free to them and vice versa. So, maybe we will get our money's worth.
Ski/board season is almost up here. Looks like closing day is April 12th. I hope to take the kids up there this Thursday afternoon. And, then maybe next Thursday and then maybe the last weekend. We had a family pass this year...it was cheaper than individual passes. We got it paid off last week....so, all the rest is our extra.
Marty took all of the kids up last Saturday. They had a blast. Marty got all of the equipment for AJ, Anne's friend from San Diego, and then gave him boarding lessons on the bunny hill for a moment.......and then AJ took off.........boarding pretty much the whole park on his first day of boarding.ever. He even went down the face for his last run. The kids are very amused by this.
My time is almost up.......what to say? What to say?
I was supposed to work today.......but they cut me.
I found a good book to read for Passiontide: The Family and the Cross. Or, is it The Cross and the Family? Ah, well. It is a very short, very meaty book. PERFECT topic for the last two weeks of Lent.
When I was at Shawna's yesterday, I tried one of those EMERGEN-C vitamin powders. It certainly increased my energy. And, my energy was so low that I was actually laying down on the bench in her kitchen because I was so tired. I want to try them again to see if there is a consistency. I cannot take multi-vitamin pills....maybe having this powder daily can make up for it. Micki, my co-worker and friend, has been drinking these about 3-4 in the afternoon when she hits that afternoon lag in our 12 hour shift. She has been encouraging me to try them. She is trying to avoid the coffee in the afternoon.....and I won't do the coffee.....so......I put it on Marty's next shopping list!
Well, that's it for my chatterings....got to go meet Maddelyn. She does not like it when I am late. :)
Blessings and love on this lovely day that God gave to you and me!
Chari
Saturday, March 28, 2009
I am SO blessed!!!
Everyone else goes in to the parish potluck.......and I always stay behind in the chapel.
To adore.....
To beg forgiveness.....
To petition....
To give thanks.......
To praise......
To just sit and listen......

I offer up prayers for each of my family members by name.
And, I always light two candles before I leave, for some special intentions.
I love Mass. I love receiving Our Lord. I love my Catholic Faith.
I am so blessed.
Act of Adoration and Thanksgiving
for the Benefits Accrued from the Incarnation
Most Holy Trinity, Father, Son and Holy Spirit,behold us prostrate in Thy divine presence. We humble ourselves profoundly and beg of Thee the forgiveness of our sins.I. We adore Thee, Almighty Father, and with hearts overflowing we thank Thee that Thou hast given us Thy Divine Son Jesus to be our Redeemer, and that He hath bequeathed Himself to us in the most august Eucharist even to the end of the world, revealing unto us the wondrous love of His Heart in this mystery of faith and love.
My favorite two weeks in the Liturgical Year start tomorrow......that could be part of my joy, too. I love Lent.......and I love the last two weeks.
More about praying here.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
My Hearts' Haven daybook 2009

My daybook is back.........but only sporadically!
And, whenever I feel like it......maybe not even on a Monday. :)
I said I would not allow myself to post a daybook till my 2008 Christmas newsletter was completed. I finished it up a few weeks ago...and I may actually get it mailed out...that will remain to be seen.
In the meantime......
Outside My Window............actually, outside the ski park windows........a day of clouds of various shades of gray...from dark to almost white......about 44*....I can see an occasional patch of blue sky. Oh, the sun has made it through some clouds because the snow hurts my eyes when I look out. And Mount Shasta has a most unusual and interesting blanket of lenticular clouds over it, in the shape of the mountain. I also see Malachy & Matthew skiing toward the lodge...and about 25 people of various sizes on the bunny hill.
It was so cold at home because of a chilly wind....but there is barely any wind up here....go figure. This weekend will bring us into the 60*s....yes...YES!!! In fact, of the ten forecast...there are only three days in the 5o*s.and the rest all in the 60*s. Better get Marty to put up the clothesline.
I am thinking.........this is so cool. I am sitting in the lodge at the ski park, warm, sipping my Stash Chai Spice Tea, still hot from the thermos...writing on the computer...because our Verizon Internet cell service can go wherever we want to go...as long as we have "bars".....and there are FOUR here! We only have 2-3 at home.
I am ALSO thinking......boys and girls.....girls and boys.......when your girls are "so good" (a quote from a young man)...it actually makes them more attractive to the guys. Please pray for all of our young people.
There is a young fella here who has a crush on Sarah.......it is amusing. And, thankfully, we do not see him much. Oh......looks there are TWO fellas. They said goodbye to her: "Well, see you next year, if you are still here." :)
I am thankful for.............my husband........I appreciate the way he takes care of us......working hard, taking care of the finances.....doing our taxes. Driving the kids when I need help.
And, our great and excellent local charter school. A few weeks ago, there was an "open house" with the WASC.....the accreditation people. We have great teachers and lots of great parents. And, the director is awesome. She is our facilitator and our friend, too. My kids were excited to set up a table of some of their recent projects and successes. They mingled well with the accreditation folks and the teachers. Anne and a friend came and shared their experiences as recent graduates of the charter school.
From the kitchen.........wow.....it is one of those days where I actually planned ahead AND took care of it! Last night I set out all of the ingredients and this morning I put black bean chili in the crock pot so it will be ready at the end of our day away from home. And, if there is time....I will bake some of Tasha Tudor's cornbread.......mmmm? Have you tried it yet??? It is the best!
Oh, hey look! I found a copy of the recipe on someone's blog! And, she just happens to be a scrapbooker, too! :) I will have to look around her blog. :) It is in Tasha Tudor's cookbook...... which I do not own. I only own a copy of the page with the cornbread. :)
If you do try the recipe.....and I say you all should.....please come back and tell me what you think! If you have had chili at my house........you may have already had it before.
I am wearing........a black knit skirt and a striped cotton shirt.....and leggings, of course.....got to stay warm! Of course!
I am creating........not sure I can think of anything........my next scrapbook? Chaos?
I am going..........to get a good night's sleep...one of these nights!!! I am. Tonight would be a good start since I may be working tomorrow. (so far...I am on call)
I am reading.........75 Year Round Hikes in Northern California by Marc J. Soares......I am SO anxious to "get well" (heal from the asthmatic symptoms) and get out there and explore some of these new places that are not too far away. I am also reading Those Who Love by Irving Stone. This is a re-read........I first read it the week Malachy was born, while I sat around nursing all day. I loved it then.......and I love it now. The local newspaper, too.
I also read in a day.....Bloomability by Sharon Creech I cannot vouch for any of her other novels......but for a modern day junior novel....this was kind of fun. Since the main character is an American who ends up going to school in Switzerland....I borrowed it from the library. Matthew read it, too and did not mind it.......I am going to have the girls read it also. Do not take this as a direct recommendation. If you ever think you want your kid to read it....just read it first to see if it matches what you want your kids to read. I probably would not have handed it Anne at 13...but the other girls are "older" than Anne at 13 and more "exposed" to the world....and it is sweet. I think they will enjoy it enough. The setting is in the part of Switzerland that Matthew is going to...and possibly the same town area. Oh, and I am reading The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Jester aloud to the boys while I walk on the treadmill. It is word and number fun......I loved it when I was in 5th Grade. I won it in Mrs. Tansy's class.......one of my favorite teachers.......she loved literature.
I am hoping.........the remedy the homeopathic nurse practitioner found for me cures these asthmatic symptoms. I took it last Sunday/Monday.....so far, no improvements.....but no adverse effects either.....I was scared after last summer! Constitutional remedies sometimes need some time...but at least I have something on board! I feel more peace about when I feel like I cannot breathe.
I am hearing.........LOTS of conversation going on......it sounds like a ski lodge!
I am wondering........how I am going to accomplish so much in so little time. Can Matthew really get his “to-do” list done???? Around the house.........well, I got us cleaned up enough that I am trying to maintain….....before I can truly declutter and paint and all of that….I am wondering if June may be a good time for starting that??? :) As for my clutter spot......I finally cleared my dresser off…..and now, I need to do so again……..sigh.
The younger girls and I have it all planned out......once Matthew and Anne are gone.....their stuff will be gone, too...as well as all of the busy-ness their age brings to our family......and we will purge and organize the entire house. Do you think it will take years??? :) And, now that we know they will both be here through early/mid August.....I am going to get started in June! I do not want until August to get going on Operation DeClutter.
Now Showing………..we just finished the HBO John Adams miniseries, borrowed from Netflix. My opinion follows below. We also have watched two renditions of Mozart’s “The Magic Flute”.........this was his last opera. I also saw “The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants” which I was surprised to find was well-made......I will not share it with my kids because of the "adult" themes.......but it SO resembled my growing up time that I could really appreciate these girls and their struggles....oh, and I like the way they handle the fact of one losing her innocence: "It was just as wonderful as I thought it would be......so, why do I feel so empty." "The Gazebo” with Glenn Ford & Debbie Reynolds…1958……..VERY funny! And, one of our family’s favorites! It is the play the kids are performing this spring......with Anne as the director and Matthew in the lead. Their last big hurrah. We also watched a couple of very old musicals for an assignment the kids had in voice class: New Moon and The Merry Widow both starring Jeanette MacDonald. In The Merry Widow you can also find a debonair Maurice Chevalier. And Nelson Eddy is in New Moon. Both musicals were sweet and funny. Clare.....if you have not yet seen these......I think you will love them!
I was not thrilled with the miniseries. I hated this portrayal of John Adams. They spent so much effort on so many negative aspects of his life......when there were so many good and amazing things that he accomplished. Yes, I know he was generally considered "unliked and obnoxious"...I have seen "1776" the musical, often enough to know that. :) But...he was a wonderful thinker...a wonderful writer......a loved husband.....and yes, he made some mistakes......including in his parenting......but, can we give the guy a break all these years later? I think I would rather watch "An American Experience" about John than this. So, there you have, my thoughts.......well, only some of them, for what they are worth. Oh, and my kids aged 7, 12, 13, 16, and 18 were unhappy with this movie as well......and they LOVE historical movies. The 18 yo quit watching after three episodes. And we only finished because we wanted to finish what we had started. And, it is NOT for all ages.....there are a few scenes we had to fast forward through or look away.
In the schoolroom......... For the three youngers: chicken-egg life cycle…..thought we would re-do a study we did 6 years ago……since we are set to get new chickens. We also have been reading LOTS of books about chickens are "starring" chickens. Listening and learning about Mozart. The last time I did a formal study of Mozart…...these three were too young, or not born yet, to appreciate. Beethoven next? Bach? Bach it is! We are listening to old copies of Classical Kids that Anne & Matthew enjoyed way.back.when.......supplementing with library books....and Netflix......and five Mozart CDs in the stereo at all times. Math moves forward for all........looks like the two younger girls are going to take up sewing with Patty. Maddelyn starts next week. And, whatever else we are doing...but I do not feel like writing right now. :)
One of my favorite things.........being up early in the morning...all alone....watching the sun rise. Too bad I feel like falling asleep by ten am. :/
Signs of the seasons......warmer days in the forecast. Buds on trees. More bird noise every morning. No fire tonight.
A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...........
Friday.........Either I will be on call......or I will be working.
Saturday......Still trying to decide. I think there will be some skiing going on.....with Marty, too........as the season winds up in a few weeks.
Tuesday........I am scheduled to work.
Wednesday.......see Monday...but no piano or show. I have to be at work at 7am for a mock crash c-section code........ugh.
Thursday..........violin for Maddelyn........take a ski day?
Special prayer requests on my mind this week.......for the play the kids are doing......for Sabine's little Michaelman.....for a serious issue that desperately needs resolving........for special private intentions. In thanksgiving for my friend Todd to find a job!
St. Gerard's List..........all new list as the following have all delivered healthy babies and all is well:
Stacy, Sherry, Lissa, Alice, Bridget, Gloria (a different one!) That's boy, girl, boy, boy, girl, boy.
New moms due: local friends, Louise, Victoria & Tonia, who is a co-worker and the only Catholic I know at work besides one doctor.....kind of funny in a Catholic hospital.....oh, I guess the sisters are Catholic, too. :) And, then, my other friends who live somewhere else: Erica & Suzanne, Gloria's sister. All but Tonia are over 40...I think that is cool.
I am currently scrapbooking...........I got a bunch done over Christmas vacation......scrapping at my dad's and with my friend Su........and at least once a month a good four hour stretch. I have caught up all the way to Anne's birth....which means, I am now only 20 years and 6 months behind.
Here is picture thought I am sharing........
This is me at age 4 or 5 years.
I feel like I may have posted it before...but I cannot remember and I am not going to check.
Have a blessed day!
Love, Chari







