Mining with Rarejule

my love{s}

2012-02-14T09:46:00.002-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day, my loves...

"if there ever comes a day when we can't be together,
keep me in your heart and i'll stay there forever"

-winnie the pooh

you are my sunshine, my only sunshine,

you make me happy

when skies are gray

you'll never know dear{s}

how much I love you...

please don't take my sunshine away!

oooh, l@@K! a shiny object!

2012-02-10T10:41:00.000-06:00

We have been teasing Henry all week about his inability to focus. He will sit down to do something and within seconds, get distracted. It's laughable as it happens quite frequently. He also has a bad habbit of procrastination. He had a book report due this week and we were literally printing it off 10 minutes before we had to walk out the door (he wrote it the hour before) on Thursday morning.

yet... he manages. and gets good grades.

To discover where he learned these habits, you don't have to look far. {gulp} Yes, I admit, I have those same traits. It's easy to point out in someone else, but not always easy to admit about yourself. My job will be to help him understand how to use those ~~faults~~ abilities to his benefit and not his detriment.

When I was in high school, oh so many years ago now, there were no honors classes. Or if there were, I wasn't aware of them and wasn't enrolled in them. I managed to keep focus and get good grades, but was also easily distracted and procrastinated. I discovered that if I always kept busy and close to over-extended, I managed better.

Not much has changed. I am the same today, but am finding that my purpose on earth is being challenged, or in the process of being redefined. I don't have a packed schedule, nor a busy job, and so I've lost my UMPH! lately. The year of 2012 is a self-defined year of focus for me. On what? I have no idea. So I am easily distracted, once again, by shiny objects. Looking to find myself. My midlife self. What does that mean to me? A new job? A new passion? Why isn't it coming easily to me? the answers, I mean.

{sigh}

I could spend hours and hours blog hopping and internet surfing. Guess you could say it's a passion. We're supposed to find our passion and turn it into a career, right? That's what they say. However, I'm not sure I could turn that into a career, but it sure is fun. I love peering into other people's lives and seeing what makes them tick. Aren't we all voyeurs on some level? How else would sites like Pinterest get started?! So, one of the more recent blogs I find fascinating is Kelly's over on thesmallthingsblog. She has fabulous videos, tutorials, and fashion ideas. I've never been a girly-girl, but she makes it look easy. Maybe it's time to reinvent myself in this way too. One of the company's she recommends and highlights often is BirchBox. They have a customer program where you receive a box of samples monthly. Great! Just what I need to get me inspired. Sign-me-up! Except for they've been sold out for months. Instant gratification {poof}.... until last night when I recieved an email that it was my turn to sign up! yippeeeeee. So I've signed up and will soon receive a box monthly of new ideas, inspiration and fun, all wrapped up in a little pink box. If you're interested in jumping on this beauty bandwagon, use my link here and I'll get referral points.

....look, a shiny object!

i won't give up {iHeart music}

2012-02-08T12:58:00.000-06:00

i cannot get enough of this song lately.

it just plays to my heart & soul.

what piece of music moves you lately?

a teenager {oh Henry!}

2012-02-06T09:31:00.000-06:00

February, 6, 1999. The last millennium.
You entered our lives and they will never be the same!

When you were born, we celebrated by handing out Oh Henry! candy bars. Silly, I suppose, especially since we couldn't find enough of them and had to get the local drugstore to order two boxes just for us to hand out. Everyone wanted to know who you were named after, and "are you sure it's not John Henry?" No. Henry John. Certainly not Hank. You were named after your great-grandpa, William Earl Henry, and your father and his father, John Paul and John Edward. You never met your father's father. Neither did I, so we'll have to get more history for your memory bank by listening to your Dad's stories.

Daddy remembers your birth (and most details) much better than I do. Heck, I don't even remember how much you weighed when you were born. I do recall that you were the biggest of my sons. You came into the world very quiet, with the cord wrapped around your neck twice. Dad followed you over to the warmer until you let us know, with a small cry, that you were ok and ready to greet the world.

After that first day, life with you was never dull! Two days home from the hospital, we had a kitchen fire. Details are kinda fuzzy now, but I recall that I was nursing you on the couch when from around the corner in the kitchen I saw a flash of fire. I tossed you (yes, I was not a perfect mother then either) onto the footstool and ran to get the fire extinguisher. When that didn't work, I returned to find you on the floor (how in the world?!) and snatched you up to run outside after you father who was out for a walk with Ella. We'll skip over the rest of the details of that day, but the next two weeks were spent in nearby hotel rooms. I brought you to the pediatrician's office, admitting what had happened, and you checked out fine. Life in a hotel room with a newborn. Interesting. Alek loved it, as he got to go swimming every day after school. You, I and Dad... well, we started life together in an entirely different way than we had imagined. But it was good.

We used to call you chunky-monkey. You had rolls and rolls like the Michelin tire man.

You nursed like a champ. Grew like a weed.
You were a good baby.

My only thumb-sucker. You're now paying the price of an overbite with braces. Your smile melts my heart and will be all the greater with straight, pearly whites.

You're growing up too quickly.... right.before.our.eyes!

How is it possible that you're thirteen?

Inquisitive. Full of wonder. Talented. A friend to all. Compassionate. Full of grace.

You've grown out of your "Michelin rolls" and out of your curls.

You've grown into your own. Taller and more handsome every day.

Full of spirit, personality & spunk!

You're almost as tall as I am now.

Oh, don't get me wrong. You've shown tendencies of the typical teenage boy lately... letting the homework slip by, while you figure our your priorities might not be the same as Mom and Dad's... picking on your younger brother... giddy, sarcastic and silly almost 90% of the time... we're on to you, kid! But we believe you're growing into a fine young man, Henry, and we are so very proud.

Happy 13th Birthday, Oh Henry!

We love you,

Mom & Dad

FMSC @ Calvary {sunday snapshot}

2012-02-05T10:01:00.000-06:00

Lots of activity at Calvary Lutheran Church in Golden Valley this week! We are hosting a mobile packout for Feed My Starving Children. The kickoff was today and runs for an entire week. These pictures and video are from the 8:45 am Grace Place kids' hour of volunteering!

the packout area goes from this....

to this!

everyone gets a job... and a hairnet (even if you have no hair)

and even the littlest Superbowl fan can volunteer!

chicken . veggies

soy . rice

Such a wonderful organization... join us and donate or volunteer this week! We are celebrating Henry's birthday by filling one side of the table and packing this Saturday at 3:30 pm.

Blessed are those who are generous,
because they feed the poor. Proverbs 22:9

a little addiction {i heart}

2012-02-02T08:21:00.003-06:00

Yes, I must confess. It clears the conscientious, right?

Ok, ok. I have a little ~~admission~~ addiction to fess up to... I {heart} etsy. For all that creativity that I cannot find the time or energy to cultivate, I am thankful for those who can and do! And to think it's all at my fingertips. look. click. buy. Well, that's just plain exciting and dangerous all in one keystroke!

So here's my admission of purchases this week.

All the way from England in Pomella's store, this cute and functional case for my iphone. As a minimalist, I have a love/hate relationship with carrying a purse. This fits the bill nicely when I don't want to drag a purse around.

It holds my phone (which has a slim case on it) and some credit cards. The elastic strap doubles as a way to secure the items and can also be used as a wristlet. I should have ordered another in my favorite combination colors of orange/red/yellow. Another day, another wishlist.

I also ordered a key chain and credit card case from QuiltSewCover. My intent for the key fob is to hold all of the saver tags from the local merchants. I plan to keep it in the car so I've always got them handy. Right now I frequently forget them, and with a new CVS down the block, I've been using the ExtraCare card weekly.

From the lovepray store, I ordered these adorable and simple jade earrings. After being reminded about the powers of wearing jade, I couldn't resist.

Jade is called the Mayan ‘dream stone.’ It is used to promote Harmony within. It assists in achieving meditative states. Long thought to promote a Long life, it also aids in making realizations of your purpose in life. It is also considered to be good for emotional balance and stability. Jade is a stone of the heart related to the heart chakra and has a beneficial effect on all heart chakra related issues, including love relationships. Jade of all kinds is a very protective stone.
I can use some clarity, stability and emotional balance in my ~~mid~~life. These will be a nice everyday staple in my jewelry wardrobe, as well as a reminder to stay centered and believe.

So, yeah. {raising hand} I have just a few addictions in life. I could sit and blog hop all day, and now etsy hop almost all day long. I will have to "look with my eyes" for the remainder of the month, however. I'm thankful that it's payday again tomorrow. After all, the mortgage is due.

be. calm.

2012-01-30T14:49:00.000-06:00

close your eyes and breathe

mind and body drift away

inner calm is yours

Photo taken by me while on vacay in the Riviera Maya 2011.

have you channeled
your inner yogadork lately?

friendship {Sunday Snapshot}

2012-01-29T07:00:00.000-06:00

It's a well-kept secret among the female gender that friends will be there for you through thick and thin. I hope this same thing for my boys to know and learn, as they grow through these teen years into adulthood. I pray that these boys stay friends for years and years to come.

Much of the vitality in a friendship lies in the honouring of differences,
not simply in the enjoyment of similarities.

checkmate {flipping for Friday}

2012-01-27T10:36:00.001-06:00

So proud of my youngest son! He has been participating in afterschool chess club for three years now. It started out as fun, with a little competition mixed in. I believe he was something like #34E (whatever that means) when he began. Last year he was able to participate in a couple of tournaments. This year's schedule hasn't allowed that, but he's still having fun.

I picked him up after school yesterday and he informed me that he is #2 of the kids' afterschool club in his school. I happened to take this photo of him playing back before Christmas break. He is playing with the current #1 champion, and a good friend. I love that my little man enjoys using his brain to master the game and that he truly enjoys playing chess with anyone that will give him the time to sit and play.

Go O!! Keep honing those skills that will help you go far in processing, making friends and strategizing into adulthood. You've got this proud Momma flippin' with joy this Friday!

What's got you flipping for Friday?

photog fun {scavenger hunt Sunday}

2012-01-22T02:00:00.000-06:00

On a recent blog hop, I came across Scavenger Hunt Sunday on Ashley's blog Ramblings and Photos. I made a note of the next items to find and went about thinking and snapping pictures to fit the category as the week went along. Here's my first week's participation in this fun event! The last photo I had to get {without using a previously taken one} was the sunset... and as if on que, Friday night provided a glorious one over the neighbor's house.

Sunset

Black and White

A Day in My Life

Four
(set of four photos that go together)

Colorful

If you're interested in jumping in on the fun, here's more information.

The rules are simple:

Anyone can participate.
You're encouraged to take five new photos this week for the challenge. Creativity is also encouraged!
If you get stumped, you may use one photo from your archive (although I'm not too strict about it - I do my best to take fresh shots).
Link up here on Sunday (or Tuesday at the latest) - you can use the button below.
Leave comments for at least five entries around yours (we have so many new participants each week, this is the only way I know to be inclusive).
Have fun!

through the looking glass

2012-01-20T10:02:00.000-06:00

One of these things

2012-01-19T15:53:00.001-06:00

is NOT like the other! After doing the happy dance that I finally found a brand and size of jeans that my son approved of, my high hopes of being able to "buy off the shelf" were quickly dashed.

{really long} Back story:
You see, my middle child does not like, nor wear, labels or band-name anything. I don't know why, and I am happy that he doesn't have to wear the latest fad to fit in, believe me. However, it makes purchasing on his behalf {without him} almost entirely impossible. Recently he has had a growth spurt and needed some new jeans. oh joy. In the past couple of years, the only jeans he liked were the Sears brand, and the only location that had the denim wash and size he liked was at the MOA. Remember, I didn't claim he wasn't picky.

Because he is in no-man's land between youth and men's sizes, the hunt was on... again. We spent many Saturday mornings trying on jeans. Him tossing them back over the top of the dressing room door, me running back to find another size or colorwash. I'll spare you the "child injured by security tag without a proper cap: story at 10" story. Imagine my surprise and excitement when he suddenly appeared, door flung open, a smile on his face and we found a WINNER!! Levi's. Great! 29x30. No belt necessary. No exposed underwear. Medium denim colorwash. Something standard. He could remove the label if it really bothered him, but this Momma was elated that we finally found something that almost every store in the 'hood would carry. This particular pair of jeans was discovered at Sears. On sale. I would have liked to purchase two of the very same jeans, right then and there, but as luck would have it - no other pair existed.

Fast-forward to a couple weeks ago. I thought I had struck gold again. Levi's were on sale at Kohl's. Bonus! I could run an errand over my lunch hour, hopefully find the correct size and color and voila, a second pair of jeans {so the first pair didn't have to stand up on their own in the corner or be peeled from his body to wash}. I digress. That's a whole other post. First trip. I got the 550's instead of the 505. Rookey mistake. Last week, I am thrilled to report I was able to find the 505's, per above-stated requriements.

A few days go by and I finally get him to try them on. Well, let's just say... my mouth hung open when he declared, "they don't fit! I cannot even button them". WHAT?! {insert some frustrating comments from Momma here} Certainly that cannot be true. I check the size. Again. Brand and number. Again. I just don't get it. Until I check the tag, thinking that perhaps they were mislabeled. They certainly were not, according to the label, but get this.... they were made in two different countries!! and the USofA was not one of them. Levi's. American label. Made in America, right? Guess again.

Colombia and Egypt. Yep, same stupid pair of jeans, one trademarked and the other registered. Same fabric and style. Wrong fit. One very, very frustrated Momma.

...to be continued.

pretty please

2012-01-16T09:50:00.002-06:00

Oliver thought that by giving me puppy-dog eyes, I would take him to breakfast at Bruegger's.

It worked.

Precious in His Sight

2012-01-13T09:06:00.000-06:00

...so many

boys and girls

desperately

wanting

needing

a forever family!

It just breaks my heart. I do believe there are families out there for these children on Adeye's blog. I can only share and share and hope that someone, somewhere, is able to help find these children who are "aging out" of the system find a forever family!

More information is here in Adeye's post.

And even more information in this adoption blog too... wonderful waiting kids

Do you know someone who has been waiting?
Will you help spread the word too?
Will you go?

Setting Records

2012-01-12T10:38:00.001-06:00

We have had a very mild winter so far in Minnesota... and I'm not complaining! Compared to last year, it's almost like living in the tropics.

So mild, in fact, that we have broken two weather records in one week and this past Tuesday it was 52* outside. The boys & girls took to playing in the yard and I had to get it on record for posterity.

As much as I don't miss the bitter cold and windchills that eventually come with the white stuff, I do hope to get to use my snowshoes that we got for Christmas... sometime this winter.

grateful for {ma boys}

2012-01-10T10:29:00.000-06:00

Never marry a man

unless you would be proud

to have a son

just like him.

Reso-what?

2011-12-30T17:09:00.001-06:00

Not sure that I believe in making resolutions year after year. Have I ever made resolutions that stuck? I don't think so. But why not throw caution to the wind and call them GOALS instead this year. After all, 2011 was my "year of reflection" so 2012 will be my "year of change". Sure, I know change is constant, but I really hope for BIG change this year and that starts with the power of the mind.

So my goals will be fluid. A work in progress. Yes, that.

Starting small and adding exercise into the day, just as it should be *but hasn't been for oh-far-too-long!

yoga. daily. starting small and I vow to meditate or do a few sun salutations to get the ball rolling again. I'm going to use Esther as my yoga kick-start.

and focus.
goes hand-in-hand after all, right?

in all honesty, I really need to get these goals
onto paper
or a visual-board
and make it happen in 2012.

so keep me on track.
kick me in the arse.
you've got permission.

Christmas Blessings 2011

2011-12-25T19:25:00.003-06:00

From Christmas 2011

We had a wonderful Christmas holiday in Minnesota. Oliver sang at the early Christmas eve service at church, and then we headed "over the river and through the woods" to Grandma & Grandpa's house. We were only missing the two eldest boys (Adam & Alek), but everyone else was present and in good holiday spirits. There were plenty of yummy eats (sans the dry ham from Sams Club) and we all had a nice evening together as a family. Sunday, Christmas Day, was a lazy morning of brunch and presents. Alek joined us too! A very special treat for this Momma.

will you play with me?

2011-12-22T11:47:00.001-06:00

From Chloe & Carli

magical MUSIC in the air

2011-12-21T09:31:00.001-06:00

I love love love the holiday music this time of year... and it gets even sweeter when it's my kids and hubby singing such sweet melodies. Wow, seven concerts in a month! Where've we been this month, you ask? Just take a look and you'll see... we've been busy!

4th: JP's concert at Calvary

11th: Oliver's holiday concert at Calvary

12th: Henry's 7th grand band concert

15th: Henry's 7th grade choir concert

18th: Oliver's ADC Winter PRISM concert

19th: Henry's Sola Voce performance at AHS

24th: Oliver's singing at the 3:30 pm Christmas concert

Check out more of the recent music magic in videos on my YouTube channel.

When looking at the ADC videos, you will find Oliver on the left-hand side, second row from top (near the microphone pole in the middle of my videos - grrr). He is also the fiddler in the solo performance.
Henry is mid-section in choirs wearing a pink tshirt. In band, he's in the back (most likely you will not find him) playing trumpet.
Some of the videos have yet to be named because I need to match them up with the appropriate program. Hopefully they won't be deleted due to copyright infringement.

...sing, sing a song...

make it simple to last the whole day long

sing of good things, not bad

sing of happy, not sad

just sing... sing a song!

holiday hookey

2011-12-19T15:59:00.003-06:00

Decided to take a Monday off and hang out with hubby.

I'm not sure he was on-board at first, but we had a good time wandering and shopping.

Thankfully the mall was relatively quiet, after what I'm sure was a busy shopping weekend!

Also thought it would be fun to check into FourSquare the entire time...

Starting with our first stop to put gas in the car and free air in the tires!

From there we started our day at the MOA... and oh, the lights and decorations!

and a FOUR story Christmas tree

and store displays... lots of those.

some festive

some, not as much - but worthy of a glance

Next stop... IKEA (pronounced ick-ee-ah)

Where even a kitchen display gets my man excited...

with more festive fun

if I had an office wall, I seriously considered this purchase...
perhaps maybe giving the wrong message in an office,

but I still love it!

Our travels also took us to Wallyworld

and then the Nordicware store

where we saw this sign

- where apparently people are

tracking too much stuff

from the grass into the store -

last stop - Byerly's liquor store

for some final holiday cheer

it was a great day of holiday hookey...

spent with the one I love.

this day would not have been possible

if not for the kindness of neighbors

who let the puppies out for a break

thank you, Gladys!!

Music and a Story {date night}

2011-12-17T06:00:00.005-06:00

I cannot wait for date night tonight... performing locally at Grace Church, and I've got a date with JP to take in the whole spectacular experience!!

Making Santa Buttons

2011-12-16T20:49:00.001-06:00

A friend of mine makes these sweet treats every year for a party...
I just had to give it a try this year!

Ingredients: Round pretzels, Hershey's kisses and Mint M&M's.

Step One:

Place round pretzels in cookie sheet, single layer.
Begin to fill centers with unwrapped kisses.

Step Two: Try not to eat more kisses than you're putting into the pretzel rounds.

For variety, I used dark chocolate and milk chocolate with almonds.

Step Three: Melt for 2 minutes in a 250* oven. The kisses will NOT appear to melt.

Step Four: Press mint M&M into the center of each button.
Note to self, center may not "center" if you're using kisses with nuts!

Extra special when shared with friends!

Ta-dah: Santa's buttons for a sweet & salty treat!

Tomorrow: Making Jerry's fudge with Mom

Say Cheese! {wordless wednesday}

2011-12-14T10:23:00.000-06:00

What's in your bucket?

2011-12-13T10:14:00.002-06:00

I started to put my bucket list onto {virtual} paper yesterday.
So much to do. Living the dash.

I think the music and lyrics in Mindy Gledhill's Whole Wide World make for great inspiration if you're looking for a way to start your list.

Dream. Big. Do.

catch the {creative} spirit of the season

2011-12-09T01:37:00.016-06:00

I've come across quite a few crafty videos lately... they just make me smile.

I hope they do the same for you on this fine Friday in December. May you enjoy slowing down just a bit and partaking in some holiday creativity and silliness going on around the world.

From Alaska...

To Haiti...

and everywhere in-between!

these can get very addicting! go on, go ahead, share the joy!

And if you're in the mood to BLOG HOP... link up and follow along! I'm flipping for Friday and joining Never Growing Old today with her Follow Friday 40 and Over.

today: nineteen.

2011-12-08T03:41:00.007-06:00

Just another day
to most. Today.

To me, the day
I gave you life.

Into this world,
hope & dreams.

My future.
Your future.

Your giggle and smile.

Such a beautiful
little boy.

Blonde hair.
Blue eyes.

All a mother
could ask for.

Full of hope.

You grew. Changed.
Grew some more.

The way you looked
UP to me

has since changed to me

looking UP at you.

I did my best

to teach you.

to love you.
to protect you.

Will it sink in someday?
The truth.
The love.
The sacrifice.

Missing you.

Oh wayward son,
how I miss you.

Will my heart ache this time each year?

I pray for healing. His healing of your heart.

The One you choose not to believe in.

Even now. I pray. I love you.

Happy Birthday.

I'll love you forever,

I'll like you for always,

As long as I'm living,

My baby you'll be.

Reclaimed & Repurposed

2011-12-06T10:33:00.001-06:00

Ain't she puuurrttty??
Let me introduce you to our new trestle farm table. Hand-made for us by Jeff, who lives nearby in Linden Hills. He did a fabulous job. Made from reclaimed barnwood (Grandpa Gardner would be proud - he loved barns!!).

the Queen's chair on one end

bench seating on two sides

It is, by far, one of the most beautiful pieces of handmade furniture I've set eyes on. Merry Christmas to us. I hope to share of many, many meals, conversations & games {of Scrabble} on this table in the years to come. This will not be one of those pieces of furniture we "rotate out" like we do countless others. And perhaps someday... ma boys will be fighting over who gets Mom & Dad's reclaimed barnwood table.

Fill in the Blank Friday

2011-12-02T09:45:00.002-06:00

Found a new way to celebrate Friday... over on The Little Things We Do, she has a link up for filling in the blank. Because I'm recovering from some kind of flu bug today, not thinking too hard about a post sounds ideal!

Join in the fun if you're blogging and looking for something new to share today!

1. The holiday season is generally not my favorite time of the year. I know, I know. Surprising, right? I'm not scrooge or a ba-humbug, honest. It's the obligations that are put-upon the holidays themselves. People forget the reason for the season, quite honestly, and that's what bothers me most. Knowing that I tend to get a tad grumpy about it each and every year, I will do my best this year to put on a smile and instead, wish you a genuine MERRY CHRISTMAS!

2. Snow makes me {uh-oh, sensing a theme here}.... grumpy. Ha! Sure, it's pretty and all, when you're on the INSIDE looking out, but I really am a California girl trapped in a MinneSNOWta world.

3. The best comfort food to eat when it’s cold out is hotdish. For those not familiar with the vernacular, it's another word for casserole. Leftovers, combined together and tossed into the oven at 325* for 30 minutes. Voila. Dinner!

4. Winter is the best time for catching up with girlfriends and finishing projects in the house.

5. I can hardly wait for Spring!

6. When it comes to holiday gifts I prefer to sit back and watch. I do not need anything. I'd much rather gift, volunteer or donate than add more materialism to the holiday.

7. If I were to rate my excitement about the holiday season on a scale from 1-10, I would say I am at about a 6 so far this year. We haven't figured out what to do about a tree yet, nor decorated. We will probably dig out the ol' Charlie Brown Christmas tree because of the new puppy. I'm really looking forward to the holiday break with the boys, however, and making the most of each and every day spent with family and friends.

Who loves Elmo!? I do, I do!

2011-11-29T13:47:00.006-06:00

Wonder if I'll be able to keep still if a familiar song comes on the big screen tonight?

Wanna bet the average audience member is 40-something?

Going to see Becoming Elmo with Nancy & Cheryl. Soooooo excited. What a great story to be told about a kid visionary who knew what he wanted to be when he grew up!

Will return back and update with my review tomorrow!

After the movie review: Great documentary! Short and sweet. It was a heart-warming story of how Kevin Clash followed his dream, despite all teasing and odds against him. The friendship he developed with Kermit Love (what a name?!) and Jim Henson are equally touching. Seeing the story come full circle and watching Kevin sharing his passion with young kids, who are battling illness or who want to be puppeteers, was a testament to the LOVE both he and Elmo have for children everywhere.

Elmo made an impression in our house once upon a time!

Oliver's 2nd Birthday - with Grandpa

Chicken-Dance Elmo

ELMO LOVES YOU!

A Baby Changes Everything

2011-11-28T19:50:00.000-06:00

JP sings at Calvary this weekend with the Expressions Choir. The Christmas concert is on Sunday at 3:00 pm and 6:30 pm. If you're looking for something to do this weekend, spend a few bucks and come out to hear a fabulous choir & orchestra... nothin' better to get you in the spirit! Come and sing along with over 100 local voices.

Here's a snipit from last year's performance. Of course my recording doesn't do it justice at all.

Hope to see you there!

If you want to come and cannot afford it, send me an email and I'll make it happen!

Thanks.... giving in review

2011-11-27T18:12:00.002-06:00

Lots to be thankful for this year.

too much to list, actually.

So I'll just share the pictures

{in no particular order}
from our wonderful weekend spent with friends & family.

ads for Black Friday... read and re-read

making the yummy gravy

one can NEVER have enough homemade olive bread

place setting at casa de Foreman (Minnetonka)

tired puppies on their *NEW* bed from Black Friday shopping

the chef... busy, busy, busy

making a new dessert... chcocolate-pumpkin bundt cake

time for a game of Mancala, or three

and what would Thanksgiving be without a game of cribbage too!

beautiful bird

turned out to be the most yummy, moist, chococlate-pumpkin desert - EVER!!

place settings at casa de Foreman {New Hope} on a card table, ha!

and the cleaning crew dressed in style...

a place at the table

2011-11-22T10:53:00.000-06:00

Did I mention that we've contracted for a trestle table to be made by a local craftsman. His name is Jeff and we found him by Google search. After our staycation in July, we decided that while we want this piece to be an heirloom for our boys, if they should so choose, we were not able to afford his asking price.

a frame he is making for someone - love it!

we will have two benches for seating

So, we went off to visit Jeff, around the corner in Minneapolis. Same concept, great quality... and when it is finished and delivered, a place for the family to gather and share time together. Ours will be made out of reclaimed lumber as well.

Reclaimed Lumber
Fine furniture in the country tradition from recycled lumber. Old boards are recycled from remodeling and demolition. The boards are cleaned, sanded and trimmed before shaping them into their new lives. All joints are hand crafted and assembled, then painted or finished using the finest materials and traditions. Standard finishes or eco-friendly finishes can be applied at your discretion. Work with is to design the perfect piece for your home or weekend retreat

Visit his website if you would like more information!
Jeff builds furniture!

I cannot WAIT to see it in our house!

COLD for a Cause

2011-11-18T13:13:00.004-06:00

It was a chilly, cold November morning, but I did it... dropped Henry at school for Select Choir, and headed toward Target yesterday morning.

The line started in the wee hours of the morning, but had only made it to the corner.

7:15 am, I had found my spot.

With my Caribou mocha in hand.

We watched the sunrise and shivered together.

Strangers all lined up,
Minnesota nice,
creatures of this annual habit,

with a love of music.

I was the pivot.
And convinced everyone behind me to
WRAP
and shift around the building to be out of the wind.

Did I mention it was cold?

12* "real feel" with the windchill.

And then it came.

Finally.

After listening to a conversation
in front of me about physics, and the probability of making a green light
and behind me, long-term care insurance and aging parents...

8:00 am
...we were let in through the channel of red & gray carts...

The coveted prize.

One of the Cities97 Sampler 23 CDs.

For my very own.

Fabulous music for a wonderful cause.

Sold out in a matter of hours.

If you missed it, or want to know what all the hullabaloo is about.

Click the link above.

Happy, happy girl am I.

The Patient, Part Duex

2011-11-17T07:00:00.017-06:00

He must think it's some kind of competition... yes? We were matched surgeries, one for one in 2011. Until recently, when JP became aware of a hernia needing repair. This has incapacitated him in the past few weeks, surrendering him to much discomfort and pain. Sure, I know, some of you may think this is TMI, but there's education in it too! And for family, this is how I keep everyone informed who doesn't live nearby. So...

Aforementioned patient will now undergo {hopefully laparoscopic} surgery for an inguinal hernia.

Surgery is often the best and safest solution for the discomfort of a hernia. Most can be operated on through either open surgery or laparoscopic surgery. Both are out-patient procedures, and in both cases patients can return to ordinary activities within a few days.

Indirect inguinal hernias form near the opening of the inguinal canal, a tunnel running between the abdomen and groin that often develops weakness. Over time, the intestine can slide into the canal, forming a bulge in the groin. During surgery, the hernia sac and protruding organ are moved back into the abdomen and mesh is secured to surrounding tissues, patching the hernia.

We are checking him in to F@irview Southd@le this morning... and I will post more later this afternoon. This is our first experience with this hospital and I hope it's a good one.

Let's just say, I'm hoping that my super-human-healer will be back to 100% in no time! Your prayers for the surgeon's hands and swift healing would be appreciated.

Update: The surgery went well. All patched up and sent home with his happy pills. He's at home resting now with a 20 lb. weight restriction for two weeks and a new-found appreciation for me and the c-sections I've had. Continued prayers for healing are appreciated.

Success in Music

2011-11-16T10:33:00.004-06:00

Henry had a fabulous event last night with the Dallas Brass. The Plymouth Middle School and Armstrong High School bands joined together with the Dallas Brass for an evening of fun. The Dallas Brass played a selection of music from their American Musical Journey and WOWed the crowd with a stroll down memory lane. Tossed in for good measure a little auditory history, some humor and tap-dancing too!

I believe this was an experience that Henry won't soon forget! Oliver even asked if he would get the same experience when he's in 7th grade.
Gosh, I hope so!

A sharp dresser.

Handsome young lad, if I do say so myself.

Stylin' wingtips for the evening!
(borrowed from Grandpa)

After spending the day in workshop with the kids, the Dallas Brass provided wonderful entertainment for everyone. I am unable to share any more video due to copyright, but suffice it to say, the group was well worth the time and monetary donation! There is one more concert this week with the other middle & high schools in the district. If you're local and looking for some great music - take your kids to get a passport stamp!

The video of the drum solo is played by Lyn Enoksen, the PMS Band Director. What a great sport!

Who's with me?

2011-11-15T14:30:00.001-06:00

Although I'm not employed by a retail company, I agree wholeheartedly with this individual's attempt to SAVE the holiday. There is no justifiable reason that companies need to infringe on quality time spent with family and friends. Shopping can and should wait until at least the next morning - preferably at a decent hour!!

Change.org|Start an Online Petition »

Will you sign and help create change?!

husband blessed.

2011-11-12T07:29:00.000-06:00

so true. so blessed.

My husband has been "down and out" these past few weeks. The house just isn't the same when he's not feeling well. We all feel his absence when he's sick. To add to the stress, his busy season is around the corner @ UP$ and I am praying he heals quickly in body, mind & spirit.

Please add him to your prayers as he undergoes hernia surgery on Thursday {providing he can get rid of his cold and is cleared on the pre-physical Monday).

thank a VETERAN

2011-11-11T15:39:00.000-06:00

What a perfect day to celebrate...

Eleven Eleven Eleven

Do you know the history of Veterans Day?

Today, Nov. 11, marks Veterans Day, a holiday that honors those who have died or fought in all of America’s wars. Nov. 11 is the anniversary of the end of World War I, “The Great War.” Fighting ceased and an armistice between the Allied nations and Germany went into effect on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918. The Treaty of Versailles was signed at the Palace of Versailles in France seven months later.

In November 1919, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed Nov. 11 as the first commemoration of Armistice Day and it has been observed since, though the date has changed several times. An Act of Congress approved in 1938 made Nov. 11 each year a legal holiday. The original concept for the celebration was a day observed with parades, public meetings and a brief suspension of business beginning at 11 a.m.

The 83rd Congress, at the urging of veterans service organizations, amended the Act of 1938 by striking out the “armistice” and inserting in its place the word “veterans.” With the approval of this legislation (Public Law 380) in 1954, Nov. 11 became a day to honor American veterans of all wars. Not only does it preserve the historical significance of the date, but also helps to focus attention on the important purpose of Veterans Day; a celebration to honor America’s veterans both living and dead for their patriotism, love of country and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.

In our family, there are many who served and should be celebrated today:

William Earl Henry

Veikko Olavi Lindfors - Spanish Civil War

John Edward - World War II

Glenn Roger - Vietnam (two tours / Navy)

Julie Annette - MN Army National Guard - 7 years (SSG E6)

Across this great nation,
so many countless others...
friends, relatives,
all willing to fight for our freedom.

THANK YOU.
Two little words.

that mean so much

Elephants

2011-11-09T15:11:00.001-06:00

Three times this week... elephants have crossed my path.

Once on a coworker's finger - new bling ring.
Once in a meeting, symbolism reference, regarding future possibilities.
And now once again, I am reminded of the Ganesha
sitting on my shelf at work, that a dear friend gave to me.

I am doing my best to believe
that all things happen for a reason, and in their own time.
That my patience will not be in vain.
Perchance doors were not opened because the path was not yet laid.

May we all find the strength to walk our spirit walk,
to navigate the inevitable obstacles on our path with beauty, truth, and grace.

Henry and the Dallas Brass

2011-11-08T07:14:00.007-06:00

Second Concert of the Season
This one will be Henry, playing with the Dallas Brass on Tuesday, November 15th at 7:00 pm. They are also playing with RMS and CHS on Thursday evening.

The Dallas Brass are coming to town! Have you heard of them? Founded by Michael Levine (originally from Minnesota) and they are an inspiration to young musicians everywhere. If you search for them on YouTube you will find hundreds of comments by young kids who have had the opportunity to listen, learn and play alongside these phenomenal men and women.

"The Dallas Brass has become one of America’s foremost musical assemblies. The Dallas Brass concert, American Musical Journey, incorporates a full complement of brass and percussion for an engaging musical travelogue through American history. Music will be selected from the masters – Copland, Bernstein, Gershwin, Berlin, John Williams, Sousa; various American styles will be represented as well: Dixieland, swing, folk, patriotic, and pop."

I can't wait to start the season! I love this type of music and am sure I won't be able to sit still. Might actually embarrass my family with my toe-tapping.

Check here more information on the ISD #281 website.
See you there!

Trail Ride

2011-11-06T16:21:00.001-06:00

It was a crisp, autumn day...

perfect for getting out and enjoying

before the first snow flies this week

Perfect for getting out with a friend
bundled up and outdoors on the back of a horse.

I rode Houdini

He liked to walk slow, and brought up the rear of the trail,

along with Cheryl's horse, Snowcap.

The sun came out halfway through the hour-long ride.

Our afternoon ended with a sampling of

hard cider, cheese & crackers.

The Pacific Pear was my favorite!

yum

Century Boys

2011-11-05T16:21:00.003-05:00

Buddies

Oliver plays Orchestra Hall

2011-11-02T15:56:00.002-05:00

First Concert of the Season
Oliver will be singing with All District Choir at Orchestra Hall on November 7th at 7:00 pm.

Performing together with hundreds of others, Oliver will sing with ISD #281's All District Choir at the Fall Festival.

"Making music on a grand scale, our combined high school choirs and orchestras, along with the fifth-grade All-District Choir, perform at Orchestra Hall each fall. Direction for the Fall Music Festival is provided by a guest conductor of national acclaim."

I chaperoned this event two years ago when Henry was in ADC and look forward to another fabulous afternoon & evening, this time with my youngest son! Such a wonderful experience for impressionable, young kids.

Can't wait!
Be sure to check my YT channel later for snippits of the day's events.

a PRIME day to celebrate

2011-11-01T09:20:00.001-05:00

It's Oliver's birthday today... our youngest. No longer a baby. Eleven. Already?!

giggles with his Daddy

daydreams

reaches to new heights every day

looks up to his big brothers

loves his Momma

still enjoys a good book and a nap

and yeah, well...

don't even think about taking away his soda

{I blame his father for starting this habit}

my, how you've grown

into such a sweet,

talented

lovable

wonderful young lad

This handsome boy

gets to celebrate his

11th birthday

11-1-11

now, that's pretty special

Happy Birthday Oliver!

food, glorious food

2011-10-29T08:09:00.001-05:00

by george, I think he's got it!

the pizza crust

the toppings

the yummy, ooey-gooey- goodness!

Well done, JP, well done!

Flipping for Friday!

2011-10-28T10:51:00.003-05:00

Where in the world did this week go? It just flew by quickly, although I don't feel like I accomplished much. I guess it helps to summarize, on occasion, to keep sane, right? So here goes.

My highlights this week, in no particular order:

finally seeing the scale move in the right direction and losing four pounds in the last two weeks (the same four pounds I lost in the Spring, but it's a start and I'm excited to say I have a goal of another 6 pounds by Christmas)
being over-the-top thrilled for my boys in their passion for music (Henry started Select Choir on Wednesday and Oliver sang at the Mayor's breakfast)
living paycheck-to-paycheck, but staying above-water in an otherwise crazy economy (thankful to have a job, even if it's not following my passion rightthisveryminute)
finding a local merchant who will make us a farm-table for 1/3 the cost we originally thought we would have to pay for an heirloom table (old set now for sale on Craigslist); in our effort to change things up again, because we can, I am also still trying to find a buyer for our gently-used, excellent condition sofa/loveseat if you know anyone looking.
beautiful weather ahead this weekend to do all of the activities on the agenda below, as well as finish up the outdoor projects at home
volunteering for set-up of the All Saints Carnival and inspiring my son to do the same!

My Saturday, however, will be crazy busy, so I am praying that Father Time slows things down starting about 4 o'clock this afternoon. It looks something like this: Going to the chiro in the morning, then I have lunch with my friend Ginny, Hank has basketball evaluations, JP and I are going to see aforementioned table/craftsman's workshop in Minneapolis at 2 pm, Hank has jumping at SkyZone for church and then a party at night. Phew!! I'm exhausted just typing it all out. Oh, and it's a costume party and I don't want to purchase anything to wear... must.get.creative!

I hope that YOU have a wonderful weekend ahead of you... and that you take time to be thankful for the abundance in your life. Look around, you'd be surprised at all of the little things that add up to big ones.

There is nothing to practice.

To know yourself, be yourself.

To be yourself, stop imagining yourself to be this or that.

Just be.

Let your true nature emerge.

Don’t disturb your mind with seeking.

Nisargadatta Maharaj

happy {Finnish} momma

2011-10-25T19:11:00.005-05:00

Our {Uncle Sam} gift to ourselves this year was a sauna.
It's been sitting in my basement since June. Taunting me.
I wanted it up before the snow flies in Minnesota.

It was a lot of work. Okay, well, not as much as it could have been.
I moved the white cabinet from the middle of the room to the end.

I then spent the better part of a few ~~months~~ hours cleaning.
Space. Vacuuming cobwebs. Moving stuff.
To make enough room so that we could build the sauna.
And not have to look out at stuff. That was important to me.

It came in six large pieces.
Taking two competent people.
A little over an hour {after reading the directions}.

New power had to be run to this area.
Power tools came out. A few terse words were said.

And then it was done.
Oh, the joy. And the health benefits and enjoyment for years to come.

I spent a
glorious
20 minutes in this beauty tonight.
Back to my Finnish roots. No switches or water to throw on rocks, however.
We've come a long way, baby.
A new infrared technology. Still hot enough (120*) to make me sweat.
With piped in music and mood-changing, chromatherapy lights.

Grandma Elsie would be proud.

Healthy. Sweaty. Happy.

found you in black & white

2011-10-19T09:39:00.004-05:00

To the man I picked out of the hundreds of personal ads in the City Pages... your words spoke to me, eloquent and wanting to find love. When my phone rang so early on a Saturday morning, I never imagined it would change my life forever by answering.

You love to bake and cook;
I love to eat and thankfully, don't mind the clean-up.

You love to enjoy a glass red wine;
I learned to expand my palate and discovered I love it too.

Your passion for singing, theater and the arts equals mine.

You weren't afraid of a challenge;
I brought along instant family (well, then again, so did you!!).

You were raised Catholic, me Lutheran;
together we join to raise our boys in faith, bringing us closer to God.

You love adventure and travel, so do I;
mix in my spontaneity, and we will always find adventure!

You proposed to me, over the loud speaker,
during the 7th inning stretch at a Saints game
and sealed the deal with your cigar band.

We got married at Judge Albertson's farm with just a few family members present.
On a crisp October afternoon in 1996.
Simple, beautiful, blessed. United together.

I am so very thankful for the path my life has taken, and that you are in my life.
Happy 15th Anniversary, John Paul. I love you!

Who knew that after our first date at the Loring Bar,
and all the bantering we did that first night together,
that we would still be so much in love and bantering still, almost 17 years later.

For all the richness, love and never-ending adventure...
thank you.

For not calling the crazy farm when I said I wanted to have more babies,
for someone else,
thank you.

For agreeing to stick by my side while I choose to follow my dreams,
thank you.

For the beautiful family we created, and continue to nurture, share & raise,
thank you.

Some may call us crazy

and wonder how we manage...

but I get you,

I get us.

PINK for Breast Cancer Awareness

2011-10-18T12:42:00.000-05:00

Now that's a way to use your mouth to get the word out, right?

Lookin' good, Hank, lookin' good!

"the best part about going to the ortho every 6-8 weeks is

getting to

brush and floss your teeth

without the wire and rubber bands in the way!"

pick your brain, Ollie?

2011-10-17T10:42:00.001-05:00

on the wall for all to see during fall conferences...

a little insight into Oliver's fifth grade mind

*yellow writing: Needs down time, happiness, sleep.

Oliver is off to a fabulous start in fifth grade (top of the class) at school. Great words of accolades by his teacher at conferences. He also auditioned for and became a member of All District Choir. He has many concerts coming up, starting with the Mayor's breakfast next week! A big one in November at the Minneapolis Orchestra Hall. It's a fabulous experience and I'm thrilled that he has pushed himself to excel in new areas this year. Oliver has also taken up playing the saxophone.

Keep up the great work, Ollie!

guard{ed} at seventeen

2011-10-13T15:04:00.000-05:00

So, yeah... a while ago I mentioned that I was going to enter a writing contest. Whoops, missed the deadline. So this is what I would have submitted. Just a little history ditty about me at seventeen. enjoy.

Guard{ed} @ Seventeen

I was the baby in my high school graduating class. Seventeen. Back in the day, my Momma started me in Kindergarten when I was only four years old. Unheard of today, right? Unless you're homeschooled or believe you have a little genius on your hands and persuade the school otherwise, most kids don’t start school until their six. And no, I am not referring to myself a little genius.

While everyone else in my class was finishing their studies and taking college entrance exams, I enlisted in the Minnesota Army National Guard. Seventeen. My parents had to sign on the dotted line for me to enlist. A minor. Having no college aspirations, nor money to attend, I followed my boyfriend into the Guard and joined the band. Yes, you read that right. The band! Raised my hand and swore my allegiance to the military.

I graduated from eight weeks of basic training from Fort Jackson, South Carolina, only two months after graduating from high school. Still Seventeen.

I learned a lot about myself those first couple of months in the Guard. Not only did my physical appearance change and I gained 35 pounds of muscle (yes, I really needed to put some weight on my scrawny body back then), there were many life lessons learned. I was a natural leader, but the Guard taught me to speak effectively and listen to others. I had self-confidence, but the Guard taught me the value of one among many. I had faith, but the Guard showed me that believing could take on a whole new meaning. I was a woman in a man’s army, and my female drill instructor showed me how to rise above gender roles in the Guard. I was out to show the world my worth, and the Guard enlightened me that sometimes it takes teamwork. I wore baggy camouflage pants and combat boots. I was young and healthy, and the Guard showed me what it meant to go one step further, to stretch, to dig down deep and find strength and stamina.

I grew up in those eight short weeks.

Looking back now, my seventeenth year was a pivotal time in my life. It is an age I will never forget. The Guard shaped & molded me in ways that I couldn’t even begin to imagine. Seventeen. Dreaming of who I wanted to be, what I could do to change the world, and how I could give back... moments now frozen in time and in my mind. As I stood at parade rest for hour-long speeches, learned to shoot a rifle or grenade launcher from a fox hole {for what seemed like the umpteenth time}, or marched one more mile, I grew in ways that continue to reveal themselves to me. When I speak of being a woman and how I evolved into who I am today, I find myself being thankful for having no direction, no money and no designed future… for without having served in Our Country’s military, I wouldn’t be who I am today.

I am valuable.

I have self-worth.

I am strong.

I am… {unGUARDed} and no longer Seventeen.

I am middlessence.

I am woman, hear me roar!

it's all in the advertising

2011-10-09T17:47:00.004-05:00

Found this neighborhood yard sale sign while out running errands this weekend. Makes you go, "Hmmmmmm!" Right? More than that, makes me really want to go see what's for sale!

Finding my inner creativity... again

2011-10-08T13:51:00.019-05:00

Quite some time ago I purchased a Groupon for a mosaic tile making class. The Groupon was about to expire at the end of the month. Oops. I am not sure if I talked Ginny into buying one also, or if we were just on the same wavelength again, but we finally took this class together on Saturday morning. It wasn't what I thought it would be, but turned out to be a fun way to nurture the creative side of me I so seldom take the time to do. Hopefully I will find a little nook in my eclectic house to hang this little creation.

I absolutely love spending Saturday mornings doing something creative and fun with my girlfriends!

The folks from the studio got to do the messy part of the project. Phew!

Although not planned, it has a little Halloween theme to it!

Visionaries

2011-10-06T14:45:00.001-05:00

The world pauses to recognize a true visionary who died yesterday...

The TODAY Show dedicated the whole morning to his story. Crazy.

Crazier yet to think of where we would be if people like Steve Jobs didn't follow their passion, march to their own beat, and defy the odds of normal. "If you haven't found it yet, keep looking. Don't settle. As with all matters of the heart, you'll know when you find it. And, like any great relationships, it just gets better and better as the years roll on."

So does the name Kevin Clash also ring a bell? He is the hand/man behind the beloved Elmo. Do you know his story? Another man who followed his passion, beyond the teasing and the disbelief of others, to bring SMILES and LOVE to the faces of millions everywhere.

Can't wait to see this documentary!
it opens November 18th @ the Lagoon if anyone wants to join me?

I grew up on Sesame Street.
And the first computer I learned to type on was an Apple Macintosh.

We have a lot to learn from these visionaries.

... these are the lessons of passion that I hope to share with my boys...

and to never, ever, hold them back from doing something they love!

gLoRiOuS

2011-10-05T16:38:00.000-05:00

my morning commute was accompanied by this

gLoRiOuS

sunrise in my rear view mirror

Smooches!

2011-10-02T20:18:00.000-05:00

love ya, girlfriend!

...a little bit of celebration, with just a touch of bittersweet this weekend
as we get ready to send Kara's son Sam off to basic training...

good luck & God bless, Sam!

Beautiful

2011-09-30T10:05:00.002-05:00

When we moved in on Aquila Avenue nine years ago, our sugar maple was the most beautiful fall tree on the block. Since this photo was taken, we are also two less trees in the backyard too (less raking for us each season now, not complaining). Our sugar maple has had a beautiful life... it will transform into something entirely different by this time next year. When I can get JP to take down the large limbs (too many projects on his honey-do list), we will have the trunk of it carved into a character.

A lot has changed in the nine years since we moved into this house... one thing's for sure, it has certainly turned into a beautiful home and neighborhood for us to raise our children! We are blessed.

Not QUITE 75...

2011-09-29T10:52:00.002-05:00

Got quite a chuckle out of a belated birthday card we received in the mail yesterday. On Sunday mornings I am always completing prayer cards for folks we know with health needs, spiritual healing, etc., but this past Sunday I asked for blessings on a NEW year for both JP and me as we celebrated our birthdays!

Made my day.

Thanks, Pastor Steve!

For Daddy

2011-09-27T02:22:00.005-05:00