I just finished this book that I picked out for Halloween. Mr. and Mrs. Darcy have a mystery to solve. It was perfect for the holiday season since I don't like real mysteries or horror. I've posted it as was well as another book I finished this weekend on My Reading Spot.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Pride and Prescience
I just finished this book that I picked out for Halloween. Mr. and Mrs. Darcy have a mystery to solve. It was perfect for the holiday season since I don't like real mysteries or horror. I've posted it as was well as another book I finished this weekend on My Reading Spot.
Halloween is over!
Halloween is now over and aren't we all happy? Here is my story. It started about 5pm yesterday when I told Gage to put on his costume so we could walk to the apartment office, hand in a paper, get a treat, and then come home to eat dinner. I told him that after dinner we would go trick or treating with his friends.
Gage didn't take his nap and apparently his world fell apart after returning from the office. He didn't want to eat dinner, he wanted to eat candy. He was very upset with me. To make a long story short, an hour and a half later I was sitting in his room with him sobbing while Wade and Noah handed out candy. His friends came by and he was able to wave at them. He then calmed himself down some to eat his cornbread and 3 bites of his chili. I told him he could go trick or treating but only with Mommy - NOT - his friends (or his Dad). We went to about 5 buildings before coming home and going to bed. Wade and I were both pretty sad we didn't get to take fun pictures and have fun. I know Gage thinks I am so mean, but at least he knows I am serious. And I know that my 3 1/2 year old still needs his nap.
Needless to say, I am very glad that Halloween is over here in Iowa. Iowans don't celebrate Halloween, they celebrate Beggars night - which is the night before. I haven't ever understood it. To celebrate our last night was our last Beggars night in Iowa I made homemade chili and cornbread. I think this dinner can be a good tradition for future Beggars nights. I guess while I might find the holiday lame, it will be fun to have a tradition that teaches our kids about where we lived while we were in school.
Gage didn't take his nap and apparently his world fell apart after returning from the office. He didn't want to eat dinner, he wanted to eat candy. He was very upset with me. To make a long story short, an hour and a half later I was sitting in his room with him sobbing while Wade and Noah handed out candy. His friends came by and he was able to wave at them. He then calmed himself down some to eat his cornbread and 3 bites of his chili. I told him he could go trick or treating but only with Mommy - NOT - his friends (or his Dad). We went to about 5 buildings before coming home and going to bed. Wade and I were both pretty sad we didn't get to take fun pictures and have fun. I know Gage thinks I am so mean, but at least he knows I am serious. And I know that my 3 1/2 year old still needs his nap.
Needless to say, I am very glad that Halloween is over here in Iowa. Iowans don't celebrate Halloween, they celebrate Beggars night - which is the night before. I haven't ever understood it. To celebrate our last night was our last Beggars night in Iowa I made homemade chili and cornbread. I think this dinner can be a good tradition for future Beggars nights. I guess while I might find the holiday lame, it will be fun to have a tradition that teaches our kids about where we lived while we were in school.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Yankee or Dixie
My friend Courtney had this on her blog and what a fun and interesting quiz. I was 62% southern. I think it's the question about carbonated beverages (coke/soda/pop) that put me over the edge. No matter where I live, or how old I get, I think I will always refer to soda as "coke" Sprite, is a coke to me. Root beer is a coke to me. No matter the flavor. You get the idea. It's a southern thing. You won't understand unless you have lived there. What is your score?
Day Three
Today is day three of my "NO tv" challenge. Things are getting easier. I've figured out showers and getting ready. The boys play great in their room. I'm glad that I didn't have to give up the computer or the internet. The great month long Christiansen computer crash of spring 2007 proved to me that I am NOT ready for that challenge.So, to recap yesterday...
I knew it would happen. My sister called me and told me that Des Moines had blown up and was on fire and I was missing it because I couldn't turn on my TV. Really. See the picture.
I guess there was a chemical explosion that made national headlines and we were missing it. I cheated and did watch some live footage on the internet for about 5 minutes. It's my own challenge and I don't think that should count.
I took this picture from my car on the way to Target. That is about all we could see.
All in all the day went by really fast and we made it through great. Gage asked me a few times if he could watch a show but then I reminded him that our TV was broke for a few days. He thinks that is funny. Besides, who needs to watch TV when you can play underneath it, right?
On a different note, we went to the library preschool Halloween party last night. He has another library party this morning and beggars night tonight. I know a lot of people think it's great all the fun parties here in Iowa, but sometimes I feel that it takes a little bit of the magic and surprise out of the real Halloween. I still take him to all the fun things anyhow.
Monday, October 29, 2007
Monday Moments
There is no better way to start off a week then Proverbs chapter 31, versus 1o through 31. It reminds us of the great work we have to do as woman and gives us all something to strive towards and become.
10 ¶ Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.
11 The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.
12 She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.
13 She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.
14 She is like the merchants’ ships; she bringeth her food from afar.
15 She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.
16 She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard.
17 She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms.
18 She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night.
19 She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff.
20 She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.
21 She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet.
22 She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple.
23 Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land.
24 She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant.
25 Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.
26 She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.
27 She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.
28 Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.
29 Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.
30 Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.
31 Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.
~~~~~~
I have a lot to live up to after reading this passage. This week I have many goals to work on. As I read this section of scripture, verse 27 stuck out in my mind. So this week we have taken on a NO television challenge. It shouldn't be hard, but I know it will be.
Sunday, Day one: Sunday we don't want much TV anyway, but I do tend to cheat in the morning after Wade has left for his bishopric meetings and I am trying to get ready myself and get two boys ready. I held strong and didn't cheat. Last night was quiet and nice.
Monday, Day two: Today will be the biggest hurdle. I use the television a lot in the morning. So far it's 7:30 and the boys have both been awake an hour and I've survived. We have along list of alternative activities. I realize that blogging might be hard to do this week.
Anyone want to join my challenge? What are you working on this week to better yourself and become a virtuous woman?
10 ¶ Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.
11 The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.
12 She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.
13 She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.
14 She is like the merchants’ ships; she bringeth her food from afar.
15 She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.
16 She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard.
17 She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms.
18 She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night.
19 She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff.
20 She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.
21 She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet.
22 She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple.
23 Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land.
24 She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant.
25 Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.
26 She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.
27 She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.
28 Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.
29 Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.
30 Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.
31 Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.
~~~~~~
I have a lot to live up to after reading this passage. This week I have many goals to work on. As I read this section of scripture, verse 27 stuck out in my mind. So this week we have taken on a NO television challenge. It shouldn't be hard, but I know it will be.
Sunday, Day one: Sunday we don't want much TV anyway, but I do tend to cheat in the morning after Wade has left for his bishopric meetings and I am trying to get ready myself and get two boys ready. I held strong and didn't cheat. Last night was quiet and nice.
Monday, Day two: Today will be the biggest hurdle. I use the television a lot in the morning. So far it's 7:30 and the boys have both been awake an hour and I've survived. We have along list of alternative activities. I realize that blogging might be hard to do this week.
Anyone want to join my challenge? What are you working on this week to better yourself and become a virtuous woman?
Busy
We've been busy this past week at the Christiansens' household. I now have a ton of pictures I haven't posted, so I better play catch up!
Last week (Wednesday) Gage woke up feeling a little sick. We usually go to a play date at the mall every Wednesday, so we skipped. Instead we stayed at home cuddled under blankets and then make paper pumpkins for our windows. Gage also got to paint his own pumpkin. He woke up Thursday feeling a lot better.
Last week (Wednesday) Gage woke up feeling a little sick. We usually go to a play date at the mall every Wednesday, so we skipped. Instead we stayed at home cuddled under blankets and then make paper pumpkins for our windows. Gage also got to paint his own pumpkin. He woke up Thursday feeling a lot better.
Thursday was the DMU kids Halloween party. The boys going to Daddy's school! The students help and set up lots of games for the kids to play and give out treats. Gage won a gold medal necklace during pumpkin bowling and has been wearing it every since. They also love going to the game room and playing a little pool each time they go to DMU.
Friday, we went to a Halloween cookie decorating party and had date night! All of it was fun, but sorry - no pictures!
Saturday was our church's trunk or treat. If you don't know what this is, I it is the best thing ever! Everyone comes and parks their cars, opens their trunks and then hands out candy. The kids can run around in a safe environment and get candy from people they know. There was lots of hot chocolate and friends. Gage's favorite part is that we painted his face so he could look just like daddy. Little Hyram (top right picture) even got to wear Gage's Peter Pan costume from last year! The kids were all studs!
Saturday night we carved our pumpkins. Noah ate the pumpkin top and Gage had yummy root beer. Gage and I went for a simple star design and Wade tried something more challenging...a foot. I don't think that the pictures do it justice.
Sunday we attended {church} and found out that we will now be attending a new {ward} (congregation). Since our church is a world-wide church, it is the same every place you go and attend. This also means that you cannot have one single congregation, but most rather congregations are split up geographically. Sometimes one congregation gets larger while another one struggles. This has happened and so the lines have been re-aligned. It's a bitter sweet thing. I know that my church is true and understand why this happens. I have great friends in my new ward. However, I leave behind some of my best friends, Erica, Katie and Lisa, and while I will still see at least Erica and Katie almost every day during the week, I will miss hearing their comments and feeling their testimonies each Sunday.
Friday, October 26, 2007
Inspiration on a car
One thing I've found about living in the Midwest is people here have great values. I think this might come from the hardworking farming background. Whatever the reason, I love it. Today while sitting at a stop light I saw this quote on the on the minivan in front of me. I wish I would have had my camera.
"FAITH makes all things possible...not easy.
How true.
"FAITH makes all things possible...not easy.
How true.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Man Scrapbooking
Click on the link above for one of the funniest video's I've ever seen! For some reason each time Live Video links to post on my blog it won't work, but I promise, if you are a crafter - or just know a man - you have to see this one!
My favorite part is when he creates a watermark with his car. Is this really what would happen if the man in your life decided to scrapbook?
We are painting pumpkins and going to a Halloween party at DMU today so I should have some great pictures this afternoon!
My favorite part is when he creates a watermark with his car. Is this really what would happen if the man in your life decided to scrapbook?
We are painting pumpkins and going to a Halloween party at DMU today so I should have some great pictures this afternoon!
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Good News Wednesday
Welcome to Good News Wednesday!
1. We had great weather and a good time at the pumpkin patch yesterday. See my post below.
2. Noah's scrapbook is getting fatter...this means I am getting closer to my goal. I made this page at a scrapbook class last week that my friend Sarah H. hosted. I wasn't sure I would find pictures to go with it. I have to see the picture first to scrapbook, so doing it this way seems a little backwards in my mind. Then I remembered that the next page in Noah's book was when the guys in my family went on their "deer hunt" in our house. I think it worked out well.
1. We had great weather and a good time at the pumpkin patch yesterday. See my post below.
2. Noah's scrapbook is getting fatter...this means I am getting closer to my goal. I made this page at a scrapbook class last week that my friend Sarah H. hosted. I wasn't sure I would find pictures to go with it. I have to see the picture first to scrapbook, so doing it this way seems a little backwards in my mind. Then I remembered that the next page in Noah's book was when the guys in my family went on their "deer hunt" in our house. I think it worked out well.
3. Wade got the Portland rotation in September. This is a highly competitive rotation, so we were very blessed to get the month that we wanted. This also means we won't be apart for September (well, at least during the weekends). So counting his core 4 month rotation in Tacoma, WA and his one month off, we now have 6 months planned and will be together for all of those 6 months.
4. Bitter-sweet good news. Both boys are sick, but I have two very cuddly boys. Noah is never cuddley so I'm eating this up. This morning they both sat on my lap and we held hands watching my new favorite PBS kids show. { Super Why. } (Click on it for more information) - This show is so great!
5. Gage & Noah gets to wear their costumes this weekend at our church's trunk or treat. I can't wait to see the boys dressed up! Arg. Growl. (pirate and dinosaur)
6. I'm getting my hair cut tonight....any suggestions?
What's your good news this Wednesday?
What's your good news this Wednesday?
Pumpkin Patch
A fall in Iowa isn't complete without a trip to Howell's Tree Farm & Pumpkin Patch. This was our third and last year to visit the patch. (tear.)
We went with some friends and saw some more friends while we were there. It was a perfect day at the patch and we all picked out two pumpkins - one for Gage to paint and the other for Noah to, well, look at.
Here are some of the highlights (click on any picture to enlarge):
For some reason I realized this year on the way to the farm that I have taken the same picture of Gage each year walking down the dirt road. Of course that meant I had to get the shot again this year.
I then had to reminisce about old times we had at the pumpkin patch. Our first year we went with a few girlfriends, since our first year medical student husbands were all too busy to go. The the kids seemed like babies! Gage's favorite part was finding sticks. I know I have a group picture scrapbooked, but I must not have it on file on my computer. Last year we went just Wade, Gage and myself. Wade had just got off his crutches from his surgery and he had a hard time walking on the uneven patch ground. I looked like a 8 month pregnant pumpkin myself. I remember it was a very hot day for October and I was very uncomfortable.
Last but not least my favorite picture of the day is of Noah. For some reason the farm animals really scared him. Wade, being the good responsible father he is, kept asking me to pick him up so he wouldn't be scared. I, being the crazy-scrapbooking-blogging mother I am, told him to keep pulling them around towards the animals so I could capture this moment on film. The result was priceless!
We went with some friends and saw some more friends while we were there. It was a perfect day at the patch and we all picked out two pumpkins - one for Gage to paint and the other for Noah to, well, look at.
Here are some of the highlights (click on any picture to enlarge):
For some reason I realized this year on the way to the farm that I have taken the same picture of Gage each year walking down the dirt road. Of course that meant I had to get the shot again this year.
I then had to reminisce about old times we had at the pumpkin patch. Our first year we went with a few girlfriends, since our first year medical student husbands were all too busy to go. The the kids seemed like babies! Gage's favorite part was finding sticks. I know I have a group picture scrapbooked, but I must not have it on file on my computer. Last year we went just Wade, Gage and myself. Wade had just got off his crutches from his surgery and he had a hard time walking on the uneven patch ground. I looked like a 8 month pregnant pumpkin myself. I remember it was a very hot day for October and I was very uncomfortable.
Last but not least my favorite picture of the day is of Noah. For some reason the farm animals really scared him. Wade, being the good responsible father he is, kept asking me to pick him up so he wouldn't be scared. I, being the crazy-scrapbooking-blogging mother I am, told him to keep pulling them around towards the animals so I could capture this moment on film. The result was priceless!
Progress
We found some fun paint with water books at Target the other day and I had to pick a few up. The first reason was I remembered Becca's post about how much her daughter loved them after her mom sent her some. (The best part of Becca's story was the books were from a dollar store in California and were in Spanish.) The second reason was Gage got a paint by water book for his birthday last year - loved it - but I had trouble finding them as well.
This morning I got them out for Gage and he had a great time painting. I was impressed with his progress in the past 6 months. When he got his first book he would just frantically paint all over the page and mix all the colors. He now sits and concentrates on getting each color right and staying in the lines.
I took this picture with my new camera! It's a Canon Powershot. I got it at Costco - you cannot beat their warranty! I decided to go with a smaller camera and I am very excited to figure out all that it can do. Thanks for every one's advice. I owe my mother in law Betty the BIGGEST thanks ever. She helped me with the cost. I totally lucked out in the mother in law category, she is a wonderful mom and grandma!
Some other progress we've had around the Christiansen household lately is at bedtime. Gage has gotten in this horrible habit of coming out his room at night. We have tried taking away toys and that worked for a while, but then I read in {Parents} magazine (the BEST parenting magazine!) about the bedtime pass and how it works great for 3 and 4 year olds. I sat down Gage last week and we created this pass. He did all the cutting, gluing and decorating. I then told him how it would work. He is allowed one time out of his room but after that we get to take away his coveted train table. It's been about a week and it has worked wonders! Some nights it's almost immediate that he comes out and hands us the pass. Other's he waits a while and some nights he hasn't even used it. I think the freedom of knowing that he can come out without getting in trouble is the answer.
I hope everyone has a great Tuesday! We are off to the pumpkin patch!
This morning I got them out for Gage and he had a great time painting. I was impressed with his progress in the past 6 months. When he got his first book he would just frantically paint all over the page and mix all the colors. He now sits and concentrates on getting each color right and staying in the lines.
I took this picture with my new camera! It's a Canon Powershot. I got it at Costco - you cannot beat their warranty! I decided to go with a smaller camera and I am very excited to figure out all that it can do. Thanks for every one's advice. I owe my mother in law Betty the BIGGEST thanks ever. She helped me with the cost. I totally lucked out in the mother in law category, she is a wonderful mom and grandma!
Some other progress we've had around the Christiansen household lately is at bedtime. Gage has gotten in this horrible habit of coming out his room at night. We have tried taking away toys and that worked for a while, but then I read in {Parents} magazine (the BEST parenting magazine!) about the bedtime pass and how it works great for 3 and 4 year olds. I sat down Gage last week and we created this pass. He did all the cutting, gluing and decorating. I then told him how it would work. He is allowed one time out of his room but after that we get to take away his coveted train table. It's been about a week and it has worked wonders! Some nights it's almost immediate that he comes out and hands us the pass. Other's he waits a while and some nights he hasn't even used it. I think the freedom of knowing that he can come out without getting in trouble is the answer.
I hope everyone has a great Tuesday! We are off to the pumpkin patch!
Monday, October 22, 2007
Monday Moments
I enjoyed another wonderful lesson in Relief Society yesterday at church. I came home inspired and feeling so grateful for my testimony of the gospel and the blessings I am given through my role of womanhood.
This led me to creating Monday Moments. Each Monday I hope to share some inspirational thoughts, quotes or scriptures. I must admit, I am doing this for my own selfish motives; I hope this will help me start each week on a positive note. The following quotes are all from President Spencer W. Kimball, the 12 President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
“No greater honor could be given to a woman than to assist in God’s divine plan. I wish to say without equivocation that a woman will find no greater satisfaction and joy and peace and make no greater contribution to mankind than in being a wise and worthy woman and raising good children.”
“One does not need to be married or a mother in order to keep the first and second great commandments – those of loving God and our fellowmen –on which Jesus said hang all the law and all the prophets.”
“No greater recognition can come to you in the world than to be known as a woman of God. No greater status can be conferred upon you than being a daughter of God who experiences true sisterhood, wifehood, and motherhood or other tasks which influence lives for good.”
This led me to creating Monday Moments. Each Monday I hope to share some inspirational thoughts, quotes or scriptures. I must admit, I am doing this for my own selfish motives; I hope this will help me start each week on a positive note. The following quotes are all from President Spencer W. Kimball, the 12 President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
“No greater honor could be given to a woman than to assist in God’s divine plan. I wish to say without equivocation that a woman will find no greater satisfaction and joy and peace and make no greater contribution to mankind than in being a wise and worthy woman and raising good children.”
“One does not need to be married or a mother in order to keep the first and second great commandments – those of loving God and our fellowmen –on which Jesus said hang all the law and all the prophets.”
“There has never been a time in the world when the role of woman has been more confused. There has never been a time in the Church when women are able to do more to show what their true role in the world can and ought to be. The impact and influence of women and mothers on our world is most important. The through that “the hand that rocks the cradle rules the world” is more viable today than ever before.”
“No greater recognition can come to you in the world than to be known as a woman of God. No greater status can be conferred upon you than being a daughter of God who experiences true sisterhood, wifehood, and motherhood or other tasks which influence lives for good.”
Saturday, October 20, 2007
Help!
I've been scrapbooking tonight and I have a picture of Noah after he ate his first bug. A very important milestone in a little boys life, right? I really want to scrapbook it. Here is the hitch: I have almost the same picture scrapbooked for Gage after he ate his first bug. (Both were rolly polly's I might add!) I think it would be fun if I could somehow reduce the two 12x12 pages I have of Gage's experience and somehow include them on the two pages of Noah's experience. I don't have a 12x12 scanner and I don't think a picture of it would look good. I am a tad bit crazy about scrapbooking in order and will find it really hard to move on until I get this page finished. Any suggestions?
Guy Stuff
Wade had the boys all to himself this afternoon while I attended two baby showers. I had a great afternoon off and he had a fun time doing guy stuff.
1. The first thing on their list was a fire safety event at the local fire station. He said the boys had a great time seeing all the equipment and he got this one picture before the camera battery died.
(Yes, we are still trying to decide what new camera to get, we some of the slowest decision makers you will ever meet.)
Wade is off attending a special church meeting tonight, so I had Gage tell me about this picture. In his words:
"I am driving a John Deere. Noah is ridding in the back. I got to see fire and smoke. I like the fire trucks. They are big." If you look close you can see the back of Gage's head - he's wearing the fun fire truck hat that he got to take home. He also learned about climbing out of a window on a ladder. He says that was his favorite part of his afternoon.
Other Guy Stuff:
2. Helping a woman who was stranded on the road change a tire on her car.
3. Taking naps.
4. Eating snacks....especially cheese.
I came home four and half hours later to find everyone well fed, happy and driving around cars in the living room.
I am so glad that my boys have such a great dad around to teach them all these important and fun boy things!
Now I'm off with the boys to torture/bore them at the scrapbook store:)
1. The first thing on their list was a fire safety event at the local fire station. He said the boys had a great time seeing all the equipment and he got this one picture before the camera battery died.
(Yes, we are still trying to decide what new camera to get, we some of the slowest decision makers you will ever meet.)
Wade is off attending a special church meeting tonight, so I had Gage tell me about this picture. In his words:
"I am driving a John Deere. Noah is ridding in the back. I got to see fire and smoke. I like the fire trucks. They are big." If you look close you can see the back of Gage's head - he's wearing the fun fire truck hat that he got to take home. He also learned about climbing out of a window on a ladder. He says that was his favorite part of his afternoon.
Other Guy Stuff:
2. Helping a woman who was stranded on the road change a tire on her car.
3. Taking naps.
4. Eating snacks....especially cheese.
I came home four and half hours later to find everyone well fed, happy and driving around cars in the living room.
I am so glad that my boys have such a great dad around to teach them all these important and fun boy things!
Now I'm off with the boys to torture/bore them at the scrapbook store:)
Friday, October 19, 2007
G
Today was Gage's G party. Yesterday we made G invitations and then we invited his favorite friend over - Gabriella. We loved celebrating G with such a good friend!
Gage and I made these fun G hats this morning during our preschool time so they would be ready to wear at the party. Gage did the glueing.
We then celebrated the letter G with a little g lunch. On the menu was: Grilled cheese, Grapes, Green beans and Grape soda. We also had G decorations.
After lunch the kids had a great time playing and eating Green jello gigglers. I'm glad Gage got to celebrate G today with Gabriella!(I love that Gage has his G hat on upside down in this picture!)
TAG
I've been tagged. The rules are that you list 6 facts/habits about yourself then at the end of the post name 6 people that you are going to tag. Then you go into their comments and tell them that they have been tagged. I'm not sure I'll tag six of you guys, but I'll play along for now.
1. I will be 32 years old before I have the chance to live somewhere longer than 6 years. This means I will be 39 before I live somewhere longer than anywhere else and can call it home. This is why I strongly dislike the question "Where are you from?"
2. Lately I have been thinking about going back to school for a Masters in Library Science. It doesn't exactly fit well with my undergrad (Mass Comm), but it sounds right up my ally. I won't be able to start this until Wade is in residency, but I have already been checking out programs in Washington.
3. Ten years ago today, one of my biggest dreams was for our high school football team to make it to the state finals so I could cheer in War Memorial Stadium in Little Rock. It didn't happen, but because I was captain I got to do it later when they had the state all-star game.
4. I would love to have a cabin in the mountains full of books and lots of pens and paper so I can read and write to my hearts content. Wade jokes that I am like Belle in The Beauty and the Beast...the best gift someone could give me would be a library.
5. I like cats, not dogs. I am allergic to both.
6. I actually am a little scared to live somewhere the rest of my life (refer to #1). I love moving around and meeting new people, finding new places. I think it's exciting and fun. I always tell Wade that when we end up in one place he better be prepared to at least move houses every so often. Maybe I'll change - we'll see.
Tag: Heather, Chandra, Jennilyn, Kim Y., Karen P., Sarah H.
1. I will be 32 years old before I have the chance to live somewhere longer than 6 years. This means I will be 39 before I live somewhere longer than anywhere else and can call it home. This is why I strongly dislike the question "Where are you from?"
2. Lately I have been thinking about going back to school for a Masters in Library Science. It doesn't exactly fit well with my undergrad (Mass Comm), but it sounds right up my ally. I won't be able to start this until Wade is in residency, but I have already been checking out programs in Washington.
3. Ten years ago today, one of my biggest dreams was for our high school football team to make it to the state finals so I could cheer in War Memorial Stadium in Little Rock. It didn't happen, but because I was captain I got to do it later when they had the state all-star game.
4. I would love to have a cabin in the mountains full of books and lots of pens and paper so I can read and write to my hearts content. Wade jokes that I am like Belle in The Beauty and the Beast...the best gift someone could give me would be a library.
5. I like cats, not dogs. I am allergic to both.
6. I actually am a little scared to live somewhere the rest of my life (refer to #1). I love moving around and meeting new people, finding new places. I think it's exciting and fun. I always tell Wade that when we end up in one place he better be prepared to at least move houses every so often. Maybe I'll change - we'll see.
Tag: Heather, Chandra, Jennilyn, Kim Y., Karen P., Sarah H.
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Bugs
So this morning we had the bug guy come and spray our house. I hope he was just having a bad day, but I was very offended. His visit went something like this:
He ran our doorbell and when I opened the door the first words out of his mouth were "Well, why aren't you at work?"
I then told him about how big the spiders are that we are finding and where we find them. He didn't really seem like he believed me but he sprayed a little anyway. Then one minute later he tried to leave and got very upset that I have childproof locks on my door. He looked annoyed and asked me "Why do you even have these?"
"Because my 3 year old will run outside anytime he wants and I don't want to find him outside." I offered to open it for him. He then looked Gage and told him, "You just need to tell him NO once and that is all you need to say to him."
Yes - sir, you are right. I am not at work because I stay at home with my children and that is not work at all. NOT AT ALL.
You are also right, that is all you have to say to a 3 year old. NO. Once and then he will never go outside without me again. I'm sure it will work even though there is a play ground across the street from my apartment and he can see it from the window. I'm sure he won't go in the busy road if he sees a friend outside. I'm sure he won't because you are the bug man and you are right.
I think Wade will be in charge of pest control for the few months left we have here in Iowa.
~~
On a happier note I got some scrapbooking done last night. I am currently at 9 months old for Noah and he turns one in 2 weeks. Maybe I will reach my goal, but I am in need of some inspiration! I'm going to a scrapbook party tomorrow morning, maybe that will help.
He ran our doorbell and when I opened the door the first words out of his mouth were "Well, why aren't you at work?"
Surprised, I looked at him, pointed to my two boys and said "I am at work, what are you talking about?" He grunted.
I then told him about how big the spiders are that we are finding and where we find them. He didn't really seem like he believed me but he sprayed a little anyway. Then one minute later he tried to leave and got very upset that I have childproof locks on my door. He looked annoyed and asked me "Why do you even have these?"
"Because my 3 year old will run outside anytime he wants and I don't want to find him outside." I offered to open it for him. He then looked Gage and told him, "You just need to tell him NO once and that is all you need to say to him."
Yes - sir, you are right. I am not at work because I stay at home with my children and that is not work at all. NOT AT ALL.
You are also right, that is all you have to say to a 3 year old. NO. Once and then he will never go outside without me again. I'm sure it will work even though there is a play ground across the street from my apartment and he can see it from the window. I'm sure he won't go in the busy road if he sees a friend outside. I'm sure he won't because you are the bug man and you are right.
I think Wade will be in charge of pest control for the few months left we have here in Iowa.
~~
On a happier note I got some scrapbooking done last night. I am currently at 9 months old for Noah and he turns one in 2 weeks. Maybe I will reach my goal, but I am in need of some inspiration! I'm going to a scrapbook party tomorrow morning, maybe that will help.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Good News Wednesday
Welcome to Good News Wednesday!
Sorry I'm a little delayed today - but late good news is better than no good news!
1. The letter of the week this week for Gage is G. He is so excited! I think Friday we are going to have a G party!
2. I've had lots of good advice about cameras. Today we ventured out in the rain to Best Buy and I found this one. I think it might be a good mixture of the two. Hopefully by this weekend I can make a decision!
3. A yummy taco soup is cooking on the stove! Yum-o Soups are GREAT for the fall!
4. Since Noah weened himself he now sleeps through the night! After 11 months of waking up every 3 or 4 hours, sleep is so wonderful! 8-7 is wonderful!
5. My Gage make me laugh. He was just playing with is cars and exclaimed "Holy Crack!" I suppose I say holy crap to much, but it was so funny I couldn't correct him!
6. I finished Pride & Prejudice last night. I'll post about it on My Reading Spot tomorrow. I started a new book, Wish You Well, by David Baldacci. I got it from Kristy during Heather's book swap.
7. I'm off to a Halloween Costume Party tonight at my church. I help with a youth program for the girls ages 8-11. I can't find anything spooky - so it's either my husbands scrubs and white coat, or a crown I have and a formal dress. I think I'm leaning towards the princess. Why not get all dressed up?
What's your good news this fine Wednesday?
Say Cheese
So I've really wanted a new camera for a while. I need some assistance. I love our Sony Cybershot camera. We bought it a year before we had Gage and it has been a very good camera for us to use. It's easy to figure out and can fit in my pocket and purse. I almost always have it with me. It takes decent photo's (but is only 3 mega pixels so it is time to upgrade!) It also has nice movie options that are easy to use. I love that it is easy and small.
However, I would also love to take better quality photos. A higher shutter speed would be nice. So I am torn between a larger camera and just buying the new Sony Cybershot. I cannot afford t
he larger camera I want - it's a Nikon and way out of my price range - so I need some opinions.
he larger camera I want - it's a Nikon and way out of my price range - so I need some opinions. Option 1: Get the Sony small camera that I know how to use and can fit in my pocket. I know it will be a good camera. I can afford this cute pink one too! It has 7.2 mega pixels and that will develop very nice pictures for scrapbooking! This one is also completely in my budget - which is something that is very important to this starving medical student wife.
Option 2: Get a larger camera that I won't be able to carry everywhere with me, but will have a better shutter speed - meaning it will take better picture (when I figure out and lear
n how to use it). I will probably have to get a lower mega pixel for the price I can afford. This option also leaves me to brands. I said before I can't afford the one I really want, so I'm not sure what brand I should get. I found this Kodak one at Costco I could afford if I saved a little big longer.
n how to use it). I will probably have to get a lower mega pixel for the price I can afford. This option also leaves me to brands. I said before I can't afford the one I really want, so I'm not sure what brand I should get. I found this Kodak one at Costco I could afford if I saved a little big longer. I don't have hopes and dreams of becoming a professional photographer, so spending out of my budget on a camera is something I'm not considering. I just want nice pictures.
Any suggestions?
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Book Swap
Last chance for the Book Swap! I'm sending out the assignments tonight! If you want to get some great new reads then email me this afternoon!
Happenings
June: Albuquerque, NM
July: Salt Lake City, UT
August: Greeley, CO
September: Portland, OR
October-Jan: Tacoma, WA (we already have this one!)
Feb - April: various private practices
May: vacation!
May: vacation!
As for other news, Wade made it safely home from Utah last weekend and brought home a few treasures from his grandparents house. One was an old time harmonica of his Grandfather's. Wade let Gage try it out - see what you think. I also am posting a video of Noah attacking the vacuum cleaner. This one is for you Aunt Jeni!
Monday, October 15, 2007
Families
Yesterday I had the privilege to attend Relief Society (find out by clicking in it) meeting at our church where the lesson topic was “Strengthening Our Families.” There were so many parts of this lesson that really stuck a cord with me. The lesson came from the teachings of President Spencer W. Kimball, the 12 President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. President Kimball served as President of the church from December 30 1973 until November 5, 1985 when he died. Below are some of my favorite quotes I wanted to share.
“We know when things go wrong in the family; things go wrong in every other institution in society…
Our political institutions cannot rescue us if your basic institution, the family is not intact. Peace treaties cannot save us when there is hostility instead of love in the home. Unemployment programs cannot rescue us when many are no longer taught how to work or do not have the opportunity to work or the inclination, in some cases to do so. Law enforcement cannot safeguard us if too many people are unwilling to discipline themselves or be disciplined.”
“There seems to be a growing tendency to shift this responsibility from the home to outside influences such as the school and the church, and of greater concern, to various child-care agencies and institutions. Important as these outward influences may be, they never can adequately take the place of the influence of the mother and the father. Constant training, constant vigilance, companionship, and being watchmen of our own children are necessary in order to keep our homes intact and to bless our children in the Lord’s own way.”
“Fathers and mothers, your foremost responsibility is your family.”
“As parents read the newspapers and magazines and see what the world is trying to teach their children, they should become all the more determined that their children not be damaged by such sin and error. Parents should then provide the home life, the discipline, and the training that will offset and neutralize the evil that is being done in the world. As children learn of the ugly things in the world, they must also learn of the good things in the world and the proper responses and proper attitudes.”
“We know when things go wrong in the family; things go wrong in every other institution in society…
Our political institutions cannot rescue us if your basic institution, the family is not intact. Peace treaties cannot save us when there is hostility instead of love in the home. Unemployment programs cannot rescue us when many are no longer taught how to work or do not have the opportunity to work or the inclination, in some cases to do so. Law enforcement cannot safeguard us if too many people are unwilling to discipline themselves or be disciplined.”
“There seems to be a growing tendency to shift this responsibility from the home to outside influences such as the school and the church, and of greater concern, to various child-care agencies and institutions. Important as these outward influences may be, they never can adequately take the place of the influence of the mother and the father. Constant training, constant vigilance, companionship, and being watchmen of our own children are necessary in order to keep our homes intact and to bless our children in the Lord’s own way.”
“Fathers and mothers, your foremost responsibility is your family.”
“As parents read the newspapers and magazines and see what the world is trying to teach their children, they should become all the more determined that their children not be damaged by such sin and error. Parents should then provide the home life, the discipline, and the training that will offset and neutralize the evil that is being done in the world. As children learn of the ugly things in the world, they must also learn of the good things in the world and the proper responses and proper attitudes.”
I hope we can all strive to be better wives, mothers, sisters, and friends.
Sunday, October 14, 2007
Book Swap
This is your reminder - Monday is the last day to sign up for the book swap! Email me the info below if you want to participate! Fall is always such a fun time of year to curl up with a blanket and a good book!Here is the low down:
Send me an email to sign up - wadeanddebbi - at - gmail - .com
Send me your shipping address, type of books you enjoy, any other information you might find useful about yourself and if you would mind receiving children(s) books
Deadline to sign up is - MONDAY, OCTOBER 15
I'll send you your special swap someone on -TUESDAY, OCTOBER 16
Packages must be postmarked one week from that day - TUESDAY, OCTOBER 23
Friday, October 12, 2007
Fun Fall Quizes
| You Could Not Be a Vampire |
 Sorry, but you're not just cut out for flesh eating, turning into a bat, and living forever. But that's okay. The sight of blood turns your stomach... without even thinking of drinking it. And while you definitely would never be a vampire, you're exactly the type of frail prey Dracula wannabe's crave. Maybe it's time to arm yourself with a cross and some nasty garlic breath! What you would like best about being a vampire: The raw power (though you wouldn't admit it to anyone) What you would like least about being a vampire: The whole killing thing |
(To bad they don't have a quiz - Could you be a werewolf? I could probably ACE that one!)
| You Are Changing Leaves |
 |
| You Are a Yellow Crayon |
 Your world is colored with happy, warm, fun colors. You have a thoughtful and wise way about you. Some people might even consider you a genius. Charming and eloquent, you are able to get people to do things your way. While you seem spontaneous and free wheeling, you are calculating to the extreme. Your color wheel opposite is purple. You both are charismatic leaders, but purple people act like you have no depth. |
Soccer
So Gage has been in a soccer class for the past six weeks. It's been a parental involvement class where the coach/teacher tells the parents how to do a drill and we then teach the child. They learn the basics of soccer. Dribble, trapping, kicking, throwing. It has been very fun and entertaining way to spend some quality time with Gage. Gage has loved it and it's been fun to see him improve.
Last night was his last class and he was pretty sad. He drew his teacher, Abby, a picture and I attached it to a bag of Hershey Miniatures, since she did a great job teaching all the miniatures how to play the game.
During the last 15 minutes of class she got all the kids together and they got to play their first soccer game. She carefully told each team where they should be trying to kick the ball (in the opposing net). Then she gathered them all together and dropped the ball. The game was a hoot to watch! I was so sad that Wade had to miss it!
Gage got the ball first and headed in the right direction, but then went up the big hill. Gage's friend Maddie got her feelings hurt no one was giving her a turn and she stood by the goal post the whole time. Some fellow teammates tried to console her. I thought she made a great goalie. Gage then found a big white stick (from the goal post?!) and chased kids around with it. I don't have that on video because I was frantically trying to get him to stop. In the last part of the video you will see his teacher carrying it around. They pretty much all ran around chasing the person with the ball. At some points it was on the verge of football since there were some good tackles and pile ups as well. In the end I think that Gage's team lost, but he didn't even care. He loved soccer class.
Thursday, October 11, 2007
P & P
As I was throwing a load of the boys laundry in the washing machine this morning as I heard something heavy hit the machine. I started looking around and found the half wet copy of my Pride and Prejudice book!!! EEIIKK! I had forgot I put it in the basket as I was walking down the stairs! I now have to let it dry out before my reading can continue. Anyone have suggestions on how to speed up the process?
I apologize for the boring post and lack of pictures this week, Wade has had the camera with him.
I apologize for the boring post and lack of pictures this week, Wade has had the camera with him.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
You should have seen his face
It's nap time at the Christiansen abode. Noah has been placed in his crib upstairs to fall asleep. Gage is resting on the couch in the living room. I am at the computer checking emails and reading blogs. Suddenly I hear a huge crash come from upstairs. I pause. I don't hear crying, but my mind is racing. Could Noah have fallen out of his crib? The mattress is in the lowest position. It couldn't be possible. Could it?
I run. I race past Gage (who is wondering what is going on) and take the stairs by two. I crack the door and peak in. I can't see Noah. My heart is racing. I open the door and there he is. Standing and jumping in his crib pointing to a large tub of A&D Diaper ointment I keep on the dresser in between his crib and the changing table. He threw it across the room. He looks at me and laughs.
The little stinker. It's not nap time any longer at the Christiansen abode. He is playing in the living room where I can now see him. You really should have seen the smile on his face!
I run. I race past Gage (who is wondering what is going on) and take the stairs by two. I crack the door and peak in. I can't see Noah. My heart is racing. I open the door and there he is. Standing and jumping in his crib pointing to a large tub of A&D Diaper ointment I keep on the dresser in between his crib and the changing table. He threw it across the room. He looks at me and laughs.
The little stinker. It's not nap time any longer at the Christiansen abode. He is playing in the living room where I can now see him. You really should have seen the smile on his face!
Good News Wednesday
It has been a busy weekend - sorry for the lack of posts, but there is no better way back then to share good news so - Welcome to Good News Wednesday!
1. Noah is making huge strides in the "pulling himself and cruising" category. As I type he is attacking my scrapbook cart. Why is my scrapbook cart so amusing I ask myself? Why? It probably has something to do with small choking hazards and lots of expensive paper to crinkle and tear.
2. Number 1 leads me to number two....Noah understands the word NO, but doesn't always follow through. It's good news because I forgot how hard it is to keep a straight face when they laugh and giggle at you. I love this age, they are so much fun!
3. We were blessed to listen to our world-wide church leaders this weekend in a General Conference. We were also blessed to be able to watch it from our home. I can't wait to read back through the talks - they come out in text form tomorrow!
4. I am happy that I have the knowledge that families are forever and I can teach my children this. Wade leaves today for Utah to attend his Grandmother's funeral. Gage had been praying that his great grandma's heart would get better, but he now tells me that she is with Jesus and Heavenly Father. I am glad to know that we can all see her again.
5. I am slowly but surly reading Pride and Prejudice. I have the opportunity to watch the movies this weekend!
6. This past weekend I was able to finish 6 pages of Noah's scrapbook. I don't have pictures, but I am planning on holding my very own scrapbook/P&P (see #5) fest this weekend. Hopefully I get a lot done and can post pictures soon!
Happy Wednesday! What is your good news?
Saturday, October 06, 2007
Mom's
I know this is making the rounds and you might have seen it - but each time I see it I smile and laugh. I hope you have a great weekend!
Friday, October 05, 2007
Book Swap
It's that time of year again. I promised I would host another book swap. So everyone get ready for the fun! We all love getting new books, and this is such a fun way to get one! You can send one book or more, it's up to you. You can pick a used book you have loved or buy a new one. Recipe books, non fiction, fiction, or even children's are all free game.Here is the low down:
Send me an email to sign up - wadeanddebbi - at - gmail - .com
Send me your shipping address, type of books you enjoy, any other information you might find useful about yourself and if you would mind receiving children(s) books
Deadline to sign up is one week - MONDAY, OCTOBER 15
I'll send you your special swap someone on -TUESDAY, OCTOBER 16
Packages must be postmarked one week from that day - TUESDAY, OCTOBER 23
~~~~~~~~~~
I hope you enjoyed the reading features this week on My Reading Spot. I hope you will check back often to see find good books and fun ideas about reading!
Thursday, October 04, 2007
Thursday - Fiction
A fiction (not fictitious) quiz is posted on {My Reading Spot.} Let's see how well you do and share what kind of fiction you like to read!
Wednesday, October 03, 2007
Good News Wednesday
Welcome to Good News Wednesday!
1. Noah is 11 months old today! Wow, where did the past year go?! He is a busy crawler. He is way more curious than Gage was. Maybe it's because he sees Gage move all over so he knows his world is pretty big and not limited to a small room. He loves to go after my scrapbook cart and house plants. He loves to wrestle. He prefers Wade, but some time when Gage is mean and tries to hit him (we are working on this) Noah thinks it is a game a laughs and goes for more. He cries now when Wade leaves the house. He grunts for communication and says mama and dada. He weaned himself last week (I'm surprised that I was a little sad!). We love our happy boy Noah!
2. I made a yummy pumpkin layer cake yesterday. It was fun to bake something fallish. I posted the recipe on {The Recipe Market}.
3. Gage and I are working on a weather calendar for October because I think this month will offer such a wide variety of weather.
4. My Usborne book party was last night and very fun. We aren't closing the show for about a week so if you missed it please check out these great books. Katie's website is: www.ubah.com/r2426
You can email me at wadeanddebbi (at) gmail (dot) com if you have any orders. The books can be shipped to you so check them out today! I have a catalog if anyone here wants to see one. One thing I am ordering is this Christmas Nativity book. Each day you pop out a small character and build a nativity. It comes with stands and is a very sturdy board book you could use year after year.
5. I am featuring series books on My Reading Spot today. Tomorrow will be Fiction! You won't want to miss that!
What's your good news this fine-sunny-Wednesday morning?
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
Super Powers
My kid is special. He has super powers that are contained in his softball bat. When it is placed in his shirt he becomes a rocket and he is fast. Then is falls out. What a "special" kid I have. haha
The letter of the week this week is E. Today we made an Elephant with an old CD. Gage thought it was super funny! If you want to try to make one they are super easy, but put masking tape on the CD before you glue anything or else the glue won't stick!
Monday, October 01, 2007
Monday
My friend Erica captured this picture of Noah at the orchards this weekend. She is such a talented photographer. She sent me the picture this morning and I love it. The apple orchard was fun and many have asked where it was, I have the directions if you want them, but I will warn you, it was $6.25 a person, and that includes 3 year olds. Wade and I wanted to turn around and go home when we saw the price but we couldn't because Gage as so excited. Because of this we have to admit our favorite place is Howell's Pumpkin Farm. It's free - except the pumpkins and we will be going there sometime in the next few weeks. Anyone is welcome!
Also some have asked how to do collages of pictures. You can use a free HP software - downloaded on the HP website. If you have photo shop you can use that, or if you are in Iowa because of DMU then you can use Microsoft Publisher on your husbands computer and save the image as a jpeg.
It's Monday and I'm featuring Children's books on My Reading Spot. Check it out [here] and check back all week!
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