Archive for the ‘Family’ Category

Simple Woman’s Daybook

Tuesday, January 25th, 2011

simple-woman-daybook-small1

Hosted by Peggy

For Today…January 25, 2011

Outside my Window…Nighttime and nippy. No snow, though. Wonder if we’ll receive any more this winter?

I am thinking…It’s amazing that I’m doing a blog post again! I need to stay up late to pick up our youngest son after his “away” basketball game, so I have the perfect opportunity to write a little something.

From the learning rooms…I have been learning about exponential equations in the 8th grade math class in which I assist. We’ve also been reviewing scientific notation. This is so much fun!

I am thankful for…each member of our dear family. We’re at that stage in life where the kids are young adults, each one choosing his or her own way. We may need to think about down-sizing soon!

From the kitchen…I tried quite a delicious quiche recipe lately which called for feta cheese and broccoli.


I am wearing…a favorite long-sleeved purple sweater and a black skirt.

I am reading…(just finished re-reading) a favorite novel by Georgette Heyer entitled Frederica.

I am hoping…to bake two birthday cakes for our twin daughters. Laura wants German Chocolate Cake and Sarah wants Carrot Cake. We plan to celebrate their birthdays early, this coming Saturday.


I am creating…this blog post.

I am hearing…Rebecca and Lydia talking in the dining room, with their music in the background.

Around the house…We’ve had so much rain, so things are muddy and mossy. Our lawn is almost more moss than grass, it seems.

One of my favorite things…is straightening up the house at the end of the day. It’s cheering to awaken to an orderly house (for me, at least).

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week…I need to visit my elderly mom at the Christian Health Care Center, and run errands after that. High school basketball is also on the agenda, since both Lydia and Seth are participating.


Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you…

Our darling grandsons, photo by their mommy, Laura

Hostess Peggy says this about The Simple Woman’s Daybook:

Are you content to linger on the simple things of life…then join me in taking a little look into the day plans and thoughts of those of us who are focusing on simplicity…the beauty of the everyday moments around us. That is my vision for this idea!

Simple Woman’s Daybook

Friday, November 19th, 2010

simple-woman-daybook-small1

Hosted by Peggy

For Today…November 19, 2010

Outside my Window…The thermometer tells me it’s 28 degrees tonight, and I see that the wind is blowing from the northeast. Wintery weather is upon us! When I step outside, I can smell the snow that fell on the foothills recently.


I am thinking…that in just two weeks, daughter Rebecca will be home from Costa Rica! She has been volunteering in a small school, helping to teach English to 3rd grade school students. Daughter Kayla plans to come home for a visit in about one month!

From the learning rooms…I am enjoying helping in the 8th grade math classroom so much. When I was in school many years ago, I think the method was to simply teach formulas, rather than the reasons behind the math. Currently we have been learning about the Pythagorean Theorem. Solving problems using the theorem is very enjoyable, and possibly more fun than playing word games, which is one of my favorite leisure activities.


I am thankful for…safety for daughter Lydia on the icy roads this morning. Her car did some serious skidding on the way to the community college, but she made it there and back safe and sound.

From the kitchen…Our son-in-law brought over some traditional German dumpling soup for us to enjoy. Mmmm, good, especially on a chilly evening.


I am wearing…two layers of cozy clothing.

I am reading…(going to start reading tonight) a book recommended to me by daughter Rebecca, The Man In The Brown Suit by Agatha Christie. She assures me that it won’t be too scary for me, so I’m eager to begin!

I am hoping…the roads won’t get too bad, as snow is definitely being expected.

I am creating…this blog post.

I am hearing…the washer on spin cycle, the northeaster blowing, and the hum of the computer.

Around the house…it’s looking more and more like late autumn. Only a few leaves still cling to deciduous boughs, and very few annuals remain. The yard is getting a swept-clean look from the gusting winds.

One of my favorite things…is everyone getting home at the end of a busy day. We’re still awaiting Lydia’s return from basketball practice this evening.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week…Tomorrow morning I’m on kitchen duty at the high school, to help prepare the dinner which will benefit the choir students’ activities. We plan to serve ham with pineapple sauce, scalloped potatoes, broccoli, salad, rolls and dessert. I’ll bake some dessert at home to take along.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you…

This was my father-in-law’s “home” 66 years ago when he fought in the Battle of the Bulge. He recently sent this photo to daughter Lydia, who interviewed him about his experiences during World War II. I thought this photo was appropriate, because I’ve been talking so much about snow. For us, snow is something unusual, something we look forward to, but sometimes it can be a trial and hardship, as it was for Grampa Taron and the other soldiers.

Hostess Peggy says this about The Simple Woman’s Daybook:

Are you content to linger on the simple things of life…then join me in taking a little look into the day plans and thoughts of those of us who are focusing on simplicity…the beauty of the everyday moments around us. That is my vision for this idea!

Simple Woman’s Daybook

Wednesday, October 6th, 2010

simple-woman-daybook-small1

Hosted by Peggy

For Today…October 6, 2010

Outside my Window…the leaves are beginning to change color, while the ferns are especially lush and green. I notice lots of wild mushrooms springing up in the lawn, and the late blackberries along the roadside are still edible.


I am thinking…of the blessings of sufficient food and clothing, and adequate shelter. I am also sad to think of those who do not have these blessings.

From the learning rooms…I’m very much looking forward to reading a book by Barbara Coloroso entitled The Bully, the Bullied, and the Bystander. This book is of special interest to me because I work in a middle school setting, and want the best for all the students.

I am thankful for…a happy home.


From the kitchen…I want to make Apple Dumplings again soon.

I am wearing…cozy clothing. It’s sweater weather here.

I am reading…(just finished reading) another excellent book by Georgette Heyer: The Nonesuch.

I am hoping…friends and family who are ill will feel better soon.

I am creating…this blog post.

I am hearing…my youngest son and his friend doing their homework at the dining room table.

Around the house…is green, green grass. Our recent rains have really contributed to this lush, fresh look.

One of my favorite things…is connecting with friends and family on Facebook. The result? A neglected blog.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week…I plan to bake sweet rolls on Saturday for a friend’s belated birthday gift. I’m also trying to stay more on-track with preparing nutritious meals for the family. So, I plan to spend more time in the kitchen.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you…

Our youngest son, Seth

Hostess Peggy says this about The Simple Woman’s Daybook:

Are you content to linger on the simple things of life…then join me in taking a little look into the day plans and thoughts of those of us who are focusing on simplicity…the beauty of the everyday moments around us. That is my vision for this idea!

Simple Woman’s Daybook

Friday, August 13th, 2010

simple-woman-daybook-small1

Hosted by Peggy

For Today…August 13, 2010

Outside my Window…nighttime, summer, cooling down to 68 degrees, sweet blackberry dreams.

I am thinking…of our three youngest children who are on a train to California to visit Grampa and Gramma. It’s a 23-hour trip. Hope they’re not too saddle-sore from so much sitting. They told me this morning that the train is a double-decker, and they are sitting on top.

From the learning rooms…I finished reading Brain Rules: 12 Principles for Surviving and Thriving at Work, Home, and School by John Medina. One of the rules that has me worried is: The brain doesn’t pay attention to boring things. Does that mean that poor students who are mainly interested in watching TV and playing games are doomed to mediocrity? School work certainly doesn’t interest them. I’ll have to cogitate on this.

I am thankful for…the guidance of God’s Word. I’m thinking especially of attitudes here, and being genuine from the inside-out. Still plenty of learning and growing needed here.

From the kitchen…Eskimo Blueberry Upside-down Cake

1 cup butter

1 cup sugar

5 eggs

½ teaspoon salt

3 cups plus 2 Tablespoons flour

2 ¼ teaspoons baking powder

1 cup milk

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 quart blueberries (or, try other berry varieties!)

1 cup sugar

Whipping cream

 

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Cream together butter and sugar. Add eggs, one egg at a time, then add the salt, flour baking powder, milk and vanilla, mixing with mixer until creamy. Pour into greased (extra large) sheet cake pan.

Distribute berries over batter, and sprinkle remaining one cup sugar over all. Bake for one hour. Cool and serve with whipping cream.


I am wearing…clothing that was too warm for this hot day, but I was too lazy to change into something cooler once the morning warmed up. No problem. It’s pajama time.

I am reading…Barren Corn by Georgette Heyer. I just checked the book out today, so have nothing to report yet. I do enjoy this author very much, though.

I am hoping…for good weather for the Northwest Washington Fair, which begins on Monday.

I am creating…Well, I actually sewed something, a rare occurrence. Daughter Rebecca found a pattern from my teen years and requested that I make it for her. The picture follows. It’s one of those tent dresses from the 1960s!

I am hearing…a quiet house. I miss our traveling children, including daughter Kayla who is due home from her summer in Europe soon.

Around the house…The little veggie garden has been doing well. Latest offerings have been green beans and zucchini. The cauliflower was excellent, but the broccoli looks sparse.


One of my favorite things…is playing word games such as Lexulous on Facebook instead of blogging. Maybe since it’s so terribly quiet here tonight, I’m finally settling down to writing a blog post.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week…I hope to help on the clean-up crew for the food booth our school Music Booster’s has at the NW WA Fair.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you…

Cell phone pic. Pixels. But cute dress, no?

Hostess Peggy says this about The Simple Woman’s Daybook:

Are you content to linger on the simple things of life…then join me in taking a little look into the day plans and thoughts of those of us who are focusing on simplicity…the beauty of the everyday moments around us. That is my vision for this idea!

Simple Woman’s Daybook

Tuesday, July 6th, 2010

simple-woman-daybook-small1

Hosted by Peggy

For Today…July 6, 2010

Outside my Window…a temperate summer evening, after one of the first warm days of the season. It’s only about 62 degrees outside, but feels balmy compared to the cool, damp weather we’ve been experiencing.

I am thinking…summer school session begins next week already! How quickly these vacation days are flying by.

From the learning rooms…I ordered the book Brain Rules by John Medina, but have not yet started reading it.

I am thankful for…an enjoyable visit recently with our two oldest sons. We belatedly celebrated Mitch’s 24th, since we were in California visiting my husband’s folks on the actual date. Fun times!

From the kitchen…What better way to enjoy warm weather than with a barbeque? My new favorite marinade for steak is this easy recipe from Betty Crocker:

½ cup soy sauce

½ cup apple cider vinegar

2 Tablespoons vegetable oil

1 Tablespoon chopped ginger root

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 Tablespoon sugar


I am wearing…short sleeved floral print top, jeans and flip-flops.

I am reading…Emma by Jane Austen. Emma is not such a likeable girl for much of the book, and I find myself growing quite tired of her matchmaking schemes. Gwyneth Paltrow as Emma is more likeable than the Emma of the book, I think. I’m trying to be patient, though, and give the original Emma a chance to speak for herself.

I am hoping…the blogging friend Rick, Debra and I visited on our way to see Grampa and Gramma will take us up on our offer of hospitality and come to visit.

I am creating…my first blog post in a long time.

I am hearing…owls hooting outside. Love that lonely sound.


Around the house…the vibrant green of Pacific Northwest foliage was almost electric today as SUN was shining through the leaves. Ah, beautiful summer!

One of my favorite things…is being useful and happy right here and now.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week…I want to go to the farmers’ market in Bellingham tomorrow when Deb and I go into town for an appointment. I’m after rhubarb and strawberries. You can just imagine what I want them for.


Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you…

Daughter Rebecca before her high school graduation ceremony!

Simple Woman’s Daybook

Friday, April 23rd, 2010

simple-woman-daybook-small1

Hosted by Peggy

For Today…April 23, 2010

Outside my Window…I see a typical Pacific Northwest evening. It’s generally overcast, and a slight breeze is trembling the fresh, spring leaves. It’s only 50 degrees this evening, with rain every so often.


I am thinking…it’s unusual to be at home all alone, except for the company of the doggy and the kitties. Rick and Seth are off to a basketball game, and the girls are having a movie night. I’m still recovering from a cough, so am enjoying the quiet evening.

From the learning rooms…I learned in 6th grade science that cancer cells are our own cells that don’t die when they should. They just keep replicating, so they are “immortal” in a way, but good for nothing, since they no longer do the work they used to do. Sort of zombie cells. Yuck!

I am thankful for…a quiet life, removed from the violence of crime. I’ve been helping 8th grade students research social issues such as child abuse and gang violence, so have been learning more (than I want to know) about all the ill effects of sin in this world.

From the kitchen…Since everyone is out tonight, I’ll just snack for dinner. Last night I baked bread, though, and I plan to bake an almond paste dessert tomorrow.

I am wearing…blue jeans and cozy knit top. It’s not warm here yet.

I am reading…(going to read) a book I just selected off my girls’ bookshelf: Switched by Jessica Wollman, a sort of Prince and the Pauper-type story. Sounds like a fun read! I recently finished Whose Body? by Dorothy L. Sayers. She writes so well, and the book gave me a lot to think about, but I don’t enjoy meditating upon human depravity. Switched sounds like the light read I’m looking for.

I am hoping…the girls have a great time together tonight.

I am creating…this blog post in my quiet house.

I am hearing…the dog panting, and the computer humming. That’s about it.


Around the house…Tomorrow I plan to weed flower beds and buy a few more bedding plants. Hope it doesn’t rain!


One of my favorite things…is quiet time to read.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week…Saturday is our deep-cleaning day, so that’s what’s on the agenda for tomorrow. I hope to prepare a nice meal for tomorrow and bake a dessert.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you…

Yours truly, at the computer

Random Dozen

Wednesday, April 7th, 2010

Thanks to Linda from 2nd cup of coffee for this meme

1. Define a great relationship.

For a relationship to be truly great, there has to be an underlying unity – in spirituality, in morality, in interests, in goals. It’s possible to be kind and loving towards many different kinds of people, but to have mutual give-and-take of love and friendship, there must be a foundation of unity.

2. Why is it called a “drive-through” if you have to stop? (Real question: What was the last food/drink you purchased at a drive-through?)

I’m partial to the taco salad at Taco Bell, but after watching Food, Inc. recently, I may swear off all fast food (especially the meat).

3. As I type this, the Butler Bulldogs are getting ready to play in the NCAA championship game. Every Hoosier is hysterical about this except me. So in honor of the Bulldogs … what is your favorite breed of dog? (I tried.)

We had a wonderful dog years ago which was a Newfoundland/German Shepherd mix. That’s my favorite “breed” so far.

4. If you had to move to a state besides the one you currently live in, where would you move?

Sometimes my husband and I say that “someday” we’ll live in a camper van and just travel the entire U.S. Who knows?

5. If you could change anything about the way you were raised, what would it be?

I am from a dysfunctional family, but I like the person I am now. Though life was scary, it helped to make me the person I am today. However, I wish my younger sister and brothers had been safer from harm.

6. Who’s the funniest person you know?

My children can really get me laughing. Hmm. Difficult to narrow it down to one person.

7. Did you get enough sleep last night?

I’m blessed to be able to fall asleep easily, and fall back to sleep easily. I think it’s due to all the practice I had caring for our children when they were babies. I do enjoy staying up too late, so I probably didn’t get an optimal amount of sleep last night, but it was enough.

8. What’s the first thing you thought about this morning?

Making the coffee!!!

9. Grilled or Fried? –HONESTLY

Definitely grilled, especially if my husband is the one doing the grilling.

10. Are you afraid of the dark?

Yes. We live far enough out in the country that on rare occasions mountain lions and/or bears wander around. I don’t want to be out in the dark with a possibly mean critter sneaking up on me.

11. When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be a mommy, and I’m so thankful that I got my wish! I gave parenting my all, and am happy with the results so far.

12. If you had one word to describe yourself, what would you choose?

LOVE: I am loved, and I love.

Simple Woman’s Daybook

Tuesday, March 30th, 2010

simple-woman-daybook-small1

Hosted by Peggy

For Today…March 30, 2010

Outside my Window…evening dews and damps: a typical Pacific Northwest spring night.

I am thinking…that maybe I haven’t been blogging because I’ve been tired of hearing myself talk. Well, I feel selfish just reading others’ blogs and not blogging for such a long time, so here is a post!

From the learning rooms…Daughter Rebecca successfully presented her senior project paper this evening to a panel of judges from the community. It was based upon research she did for her medical tech prep class at the hospital.

I am thankful for…another birthday for daughter Debra on Monday. Happy 20th, Deb! We had a quiet celebration here at home, which brings me to the next entry.

From the kitchen…It’s our custom to have the birthday person choose a favorite meal and cake. Debra chose lentil soup for dinner, and then German Chocolate Cake for dessert. Here’s the soup recipe:

Lentil Soup
(modified from Lentil and Sausage Soup Recipe found at www.supervalu-ourownbrands.com)

1 pound lentils, washed and drained

12 cups vegetable broth

4 cups sliced leeks

3 cups chopped carrots

3 cups chopped celery

14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes

2 Tablespoons minced garlic

2 teaspoons salt

2 teaspoons dried thyme

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon ground cumin

Early in the day, or the day before you wish to serve the soup:

Place washed lentils in the broth and bring to a boil. After boiling for a few minutes, turn off the heat, cover the pan and let sit for an hour.

Later in the day:

Cook the lentils about an hour until tender. Add all the remaining ingredients, and simmer until the lentils are as done as you like them.

We like this soup with shredded cheddar cheese and saltine crackers.


I am wearing…still need to wear a sweater and warm leggings, but warmer days will come.

I am reading…just finished reading a favorite Georgette Heyer historical novel, Devil’s Cub. She excels in her character studies, and fills her books with such characters!

I am hoping…to work out in the garden again soon. Weeding of the flower beds has been done a couple of times, but now Rebecca and I want to plant a few things, such as some lavender and something daisy-ish.

I am creating…or plan to ‘create’ a large batch of cinnamon rolls to take to church Sunday morning for our church breakfast.

I am hearing…my husband on the phone to one of our oldest sons. It’s a blessing that they stay in touch.

Around the house…The lawn has been mowed once already this spring. Things are looking greener every day.

One of my favorite things…is being with my family at home.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week…Tomorrow evening I serve as a judge of Senior Project presentations at the high school. April 1st is my birthday (no joke!) and daughters Rebecca and Lydia have plans to help me with extra housecleaning as a present. I love it! Friday we have a church service, and the Lord’s Supper.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you…

This is daughter Laura and her husband Darren with their three little ones, Diederick, Carly and Koen. Deeder was being a little grump, but, oh, well!

Hostess Peggy says this about The Simple Woman’s Daybook:

Are you content to linger on the simple things of life…then join me in taking a little look into the day plans and thoughts of those of us who are focusing on simplicity…the beauty of the everyday moments around us. That is my vision for this idea!

Simple Woman’s Daybook

Tuesday, March 16th, 2010

simple-woman-daybook-small1

Hosted by Peggy

For Today…March 16, 2010

Outside my Window…nighttime, breezy and a brisk 46 degrees.

I am thinking…it’s too late to be blogging, but I’m doing it anyhow, after playing all my ‘Scrabble’ moves on Facebook, and reading everyone else’s news.

From the learning rooms…I owe sweet rolls to some of the students with whom I work for earning perfect scores on their math work. This is quite an accomplishment for kids who have trouble learning.


I am thankful for…my daughters doing the dishes tonight, even though they are busy, too.

From the kitchen…I made homemade whole wheat bread tonight, and Lydia made some delicious no bake cookies for dessert.

I am wearing…jeans and a cozy sweater top.

I am reading…recently finished reading The Conqueror by Georgette Heyer. I learned a lot about William the Conqueror who became King of England in 1066. I had to move out of my ‘comfort zone’ to read a book so full of bloodshed and human suffering. Perhaps the fact that one of my favorite authors wrote the book helped me to stick with it.

I am hoping…to feel better tomorrow, as I’m finally sick with the cold and sore throat that’s making the rounds of our family.

I am creating…this blog post.

I am hearing…the jingle of a kitty’s bell as she runs around upstairs.


Around the house…a forsythia bush is planted, and two box bushes. My friend who has a small nursery business will have lavender for sale soon, which I want to purchase and plant as well.


One of my favorite things…is relaxing at the end of the day by playing word games such as Scrabble online.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week…Tomorrow I’m going to an awards ceremony for two of our high school girls. On Thursday our youngest son has AAU basketball practice, and on Friday his choir travels to be judged on their performance.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you…

This family portrait is about three years old now. Guess it’s time to get another one done!

Hostess Peggy says this about The Simple Woman’s Daybook:

Are you content to linger on the simple things of life…then join me in taking a little look into the day plans and thoughts of those of us who are focusing on simplicity…the beauty of the everyday moments around us. That is my vision for this idea!

Simple Woman’s Daybook

Saturday, March 6th, 2010

simple-woman-daybook-small1

Hosted by Peggy

For Today…March 6, 2010

Outside my Window…Though it’s a chilly 36 degrees outside, I see a cheery robin hopping about, looking for his breakfast. There’s a gentle breeze trembling the new leaves of the wild plum bushes, and, best of all, BLUE SKIES!

I am thinking…that it’s much easier to compose a blog post in Word, but I will have to wait for one of my computer-savvy sons to set this up for me again. We had to reinstall Word, and now I’m quite inconvenienced. 😛

From the learning rooms…I have been learning more about the life and times of William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy, who successfully claimed the English throne in 1066.

I am thankful for…Such a beautiful day, and a little extra time off from school for the children (and me, too!). Our high school sent both boys’ and girls’ basketball teams to the State competition, so all students had Thursday and Friday off to accommodate all the families who attend the State competition.

From the kitchen…I won’t be cooking dinner tonight, since we plan to go out to one of our favorite restaurants tonight, the North Fork Brewery. Those who stay home will have leftover Tortilla Casserole. I prepared both ground beef and vegetarian versions of that dish last night.

I am wearing…jammies (lazy morning).

I am reading…The Conqueror by Georgette Heyer. What kind of woman was a perfect match for such an indomitable man? Read this interesting, fast-paced and historically accurate novel to find out.

I am hoping…that grandchildren Diederick, Carly and Koen are getting over their bad colds, and that their mommy Laura is feeling better, too.

I am creating… this blog post.

I am hearing…Seth and Debra watching an old episode of Chuck on the computer. I enjoy watching the show as well, which is a sort of combination of Get Smart and Mission Impossible.

Around the house…Daughter Rebecca and I did some weeding, and Seth pruned the apple trees, so the yard is looking better. It is high time for the first lawn mowing of the year to happen, but the mower hasn’t had its cleaning and tune-up yet.

One of my favorite things…is a quiet morning at home.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week…Since I’m posting this on Saturday, what can I say except I’m looking forward to Sunday School and church on Sunday, and to seeing daughter Lydia, who has been at State with friend Courtney and her family.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you…

This photo of Lydia and Seth is fairly recent. This past Monday, Seth turned 14; Happy Birthday, Seth! 🙂

This photo of Seth was taken 13 years ago. As you can see, his computer literacy began at a young age.

Hostess Peggy says this about The Simple Woman’s Daybook:

Are you content to linger on the simple things of life…then join me in taking a little look into the day plans and thoughts of those of us who are focusing on simplicity…the beauty of the everyday moments around us. That is my vision for this idea!