High Speed Internet, How do I Love Thee? Let Me Count The Ways...

In anticipation of being parted from my dear computer and all the fancy trimmings, I must make a long, long post.


To begin with I am filled and fortified... your kind comments and even phone calls have been so heartening. It's hard not being immediately by my mother's side and besides regular calls to her and talking to my brothers, it's been the thoughtfulness of friends and family, and the blogging community that have helped me remain calm, feel supported and keep things in perspective.

And I think the prayers and healing thoughts are doing a great deal of good. Delia's been taken out of ICU, and they are commencing physical therapy today. She has been fitted for a custom neck brace, and her husband is going through some lessons on how to help her. When I talked to her last night she was in good spirits. She had so many visitors! Bill (happy birthday bro!) Alison and Dominic, Hans, Becky, Dan and Grandmother... they were all there to visit and care for her. I think perhaps Ron got to have a bit of break too and that's good. Hans snapped a cell phone picture of himself and her... gee, it's been 37 years since the 2 of them were in a hospital together on a June 10th. They are smiling. I am relieved to know that she is recovering, but I feel such a lot of sadness knowing that there are going to be many hard days ahead. Healing is not always easy, and her injuries are significant. My poor mommy.


Who thinks Betty looks like she just stepped off the Tilt-A-Whirl? She is so loopy and goofy looking.



Uh-oh. I think she heard me. Don't get your feathers ruffled Betty. We love you.

Meeting our obligations and getting everything in order is going fairly well, and I think the plan to be available for my mom on a longer term basis is a good one. Geoff has helped me finalize travel details and with a few more errands, meetings and adjustments, I should be traveling north very soon. My infamous tooth is messed up, but my dentist and I agree the cure can wait, so that is good news. Of course seeing the cost estimate for the next appointment did little to ease the pain. Insert nervous laughter here.


Gracious!
Amelia is a much better flyer than what we saw last week! She's a little too good. A little too cocky. The suspense is making me nuts. Do we have pullets?


Or do we have cockerels? Anyone? I've read dozens of articles online. Vent checks. Feather checks. What about spurs? Do hens have spurs? There are several accounts of hens that have spurs and even hens that will crow!


Are these spurs? Those 2 pale spots on her ankles...
I keep imagining all 3 of them are roosters for one reason or another, but there is no conclusive evidence.


Now this is conclusive. One of our tadpoles is a frog. A teeny, tiny hopper.


The journey began April 13th and we now have one tadpole turned frog success. The rest of the tadpoles are in varying stages of development. This has been such a fun experience. And educational too... for the children, of course. The frog swims to Max's hand and sits there. Must be love.


She said it was coming! She dropped hints and left clues!


Can anyone really be prepared for a gift from Calamity Kim? Her heart overflows, onto fabric, onto paper and right in to our home. We were flying high just anticipating the arrival of this latest chicky-apron. Leave it to Kim to send so much more. All of the little touches and sweet messages were the nicest boost to our morale. Honestly we all sat together enjoying the unveiling of each token of Kim's talent and imagination.


That's Pip, Lola and Lady Betty Oprpington sitting amongst the daisies. And the chicken wire panels are pockets. Maria found a message from Kim in 1 pocket. It fits beautifully. It looks delightful. Thank you Kim. You really do make the world a better place.

Well, all these links, the swiftness of the server, my iPhoto and the ease of Googling and searching... what bliss! These diversions and reflections are keeping me sane... lol! Computer and server, I love thee a Googolplex! I may just have time to post once more before we head north, and after that it could get sketchy. Thank you again for keeping us in your prayers, for generosity beyond compare. We are blessed in a Googolplexian ways.

Flights of Fancy

We do play!

This is all about randomness and my whimsical, fanciful mood. First of all, my Mom and I had a good laugh about my break from blogging. Yes, she noticed I've had a lot to say ever since I cutback. What can I say? It's good to know I am not the only one who juggles with issues about quitting, cutting back, taking breaks and then jumping in for more... "Crunchy Chicken" is taking a poll on this timely topic. What do you think?


What do you think of peanut butter on whole wheat bread, hold the jelly?


What do you think about Pork and Beans? And what do you think about science and geeks, and recycling?


I love science and geeks, and these Pork and Beans. And I love my serious boys. My serious boys engaged in serious geek topics. Building flying cars, designing a Lego universe. All your geeks are belong to us. What do you think about video games, and music and slow motion photography and stop motion photography? What do you think of robots?


What do you think of back yard pools, back yard camping, and climbing trees? Max wants me to to think about BIONICLE and this really hurts my brain. I try and I try to learn all those names and places and events. Alex used to try to teach me, and William used to try to teach me, and I just never have been able to retain any of it. Lately, I am reading the BIONICLE comics aloud, to Max. I do all of the voices and dramatic pauses, and I thought this was making him really happy. He says, "It's alright. Mostly I am only interested in you learning the story."




Sometimes it pays to put aside all your troubles, look the other way. Last night friends came and we played and laughed together, and the sun went down and then it came up again, and nothing's really fixed or changed, but I just feel a little bit better. I don't want to over think this... Over thinking is something I do well, and it's not to be confused with deep thinking or productive, genius type thinking. What do you think of swirling and dancing, even when there is no music? What do you think of dresses and aprons, picnics, wide brimmed hats, ponds, brownies, and charm packs?

Nothing is fixed, but the sun came up and I feel alright. I'm going to take a shower, and go on a walk. I'm going to watch the chicas run in the garden, and do some hand quilting. I am going to read a BIONICLE comic to Max, water the garden and listen to music...




...Listen to Pink Martini

"Hang on Little Tomato"
You gotta hold on, hold on through the night
Hang on, things will be all right
Even when it's dark
And not a bit of spark
Sing-song sunshine from above
Spreading rays of sunny love

Just hang on, hang on to the vine
Stay on, soon you'll be divine
If you start to cry, look up to the sky
Something's coming up ahead
To turn your tears to dew instead

And so I hold on to his advice
When change is hard and not so nice
You listen to your heart the whole night through
Your sunny someday will come one day soon to you

Home School's Science Fair: Alex's Tank-Bot

Yesterday was a full one, and we did make it to the science fair. It was the home school science fair, for students enrolled in homeschooling in our county. The woman who coordinates these events, seminars, classes and activities is wonderful. She is one of those dear people that extends herself and with sincere warmth and kindness she makes everyone feel special. I might ask for her number, so I can call her over summer and get good advice, affirmations and encouragement... for the children... of course, for the children.


Alex has been reading "Robot Builder's Bonanza," a technical and, for him, inspiring book all about designing and constructing robots. Not light reading. My favorite part about this book may be the suggestions to visit thrift shops and look for parts that can be rescued and salvaged for making robots. No need to flog the wallet on specialty kits and fancy sets. Alex decided to give robot thrifting a go and we headed to our favorite thrift store for supplies.

Here are some excerpts from Alex's report and presentation:

Hypothesis:
My objective was to make a robot from found parts and broken toys. I wanted to see if I could find a remote controlled device that was not working, repair it and possibly make it better than it was before. I hoped to make the toy operational again and was interested to see whether I could give it more power, greater range of motion and to add an arm to it.

Method:
I went to the thrift store and searched in the toy section, the home appliances section, and the electronics section. I was looking for remote controlled toys that were broken, that also looked salvageable. I found a 6-volt Radio Shack replica tank that had been discarded. It was missing a custom manufactured rechargeable battery pack, and its charger. In the other departments I did not find anything to help my experiment.


Process and Results:
The first thing I did to make repairs to the tank was to find a new battery pack. I bought 2 battery packs, to hold a total of 8 AA batteries. To prevent the total voltage from exceeding 6 volts, I had to parallel wire them. “Parallel wiring” is when you attach 2 positive wires, of the same color (usually red,) to a load. The “load” is whatever you are powering. I also had to attach 2 negative wires, of the same color (usually black) to the load. It is important for it to not exceed 6 volts to prevent the motors overheating. If the motors overheat they can melt the protective coating of the wires, and short circuit the motor; this can start a fire.


The antenna was glued to the turret and I had to pull it out. I measured the black wire that served as an antenna and cut a new antenna of equal length. I soldered the new piece to the section that had been cut. Instead of reattaching it to the turret, I raised it above the chassis by slipping it through 2 soda straws that were taped together. The new antenna stood vertical out of the center of the vehicle.

With the improved antenna, and the new battery pack, I am able to control the robot vehicle from over 100’ feet away. The vehicle’s base and drive system is extremely powerful and can carry 3 pounds, and possibly 4.

Next I decided to build a remote controlled arm to add to the vehicle. Inspired by suggestions from the book “Robot Builder’s Bonanza” by Gordon Mc Comb and Myke Predko, I designed a cable-operated grabber. It works by winding a string around a part of the gearbox that was intended to rotate the turret of the tank. Modified like this, the gearbox now opens and closes 2 arms or “fingers” that extend from the front of the vehicle. I built the arms from pre-cut steel brackets, 2 rubber bands, tooth-lock washers, and locking nuts, and I added a second antenna to link with the controller for the new arm. The arm needed a separate power supply, so I equipped it with its own 6-volt battery pack.



Conclusion:
I hoped to build a robot from broken toys and electronic parts, to make it better and equip it with an arm. I wanted it to have greater remote range, be more powerful, and I wanted it to have additional features. The tank I found was not functional, but I was able to repair it. By adapting the antenna I increased its range, so I can control it from greater distances. The arm I designed and built allows me to retrieve objects, so that the robot can manipulate its environment.

I learned how to solder wire using a hand held electric soldering gun. I learned how to use a digital multi-meter; it tests voltage, it tests to see if circuits are complete, resistance and amperage. I practiced patience and diligence, reading the “Robot Builder’s Bonanza” for guidance, and I was able to successfully achieve my goals. In the future I hope to attach a video transmitter, so I can see the vehicle’s path from a remote location.

My heart swells.
Pardon me for a moment while I breath deeply and reflect on the joy I have thinking of my children. William helped carry in Alex's equipment. Max was on hand to keep an eye on everything. Maria took a nap, and was very cooperative and helpful when she woke. Alex was reluctant to enter the science fair, because of uncertainty, shyness and such, but William encouraged him, pushed him... I'm just trying to express how happy it makes me that these children look out for each other, they offer support and concern and they make me very proud. I cannot think of a better indication of success than having children that are creative, nice, inquisitive and a pleasure to be with.

This Morning:

Max: The dishes in the dishwasher look dirty. Can I use a fancy plate?

Me: Sure.

Max: I didn't know we could use these plates.

Me: You can only use them today and never again.

Max: Oh.

Me: Just yolking.

Max: Yolking?

Me: Joking. Yolking. Egg yolk.

Max: Why do people assume everything can be funny? Some things are just weird.


Last Night, Driving Home From Mom's Night Out:

Maria: I love dat pardee. And all the ladies are so booful.

Me: I loved the party too. Maria, you were a lady too, so good.

Maria: No. I'm not a lady. I'm jus' M'ia. And what dos ladies called?

Me: Linda.

Maria: Oh, yes, Leenda.

Me: Anne.

Maria: Anne. I like Anne. She's booful.

Me: Vera

Maria: Veela

Me: Jola

Maria: JoLA

Me: Janice

Maria: Janice

Me: Yanina

Maria: Fun-sheena

Me: Belinda

Maria: Buhlinda

Me: Josie

Maria: Joseee

Me: And Gigi

Maria: And Gigi, and the chockie fountain. And it was a pardee, and Lucas showed me the chockie fountain. I like Lucas. So fun.

Cutie Pants and Chocolate Croissants... Yeah, We're Creative


This is Maria's line-up. I can't think of a nicer way to tone down the looming towers of faux columness that grace the entry of Garage Mahal. True, she does tend to overrun the house with her collections, assortments of odd this and that, and sacred altars of randomness. I could do an entire blog devoted to things Maria puts in boxes, bags and cupboards. But if this is her art, her expression, well then, it is sacred to me too.


I can't think of a time when we haven't been a creative family, enjoying spontaneity and the pleasures of discovery and invention.

Jennifer, those stamps you sent us have been a huge hit. It took me a while to remember to bring home a fresh stamp pad, and when I finally did show Maria what magic was contained in those funny wood blocks she was ecstatic. Then Alex jumped in and filled a giant page with his stamped tales. Max was racing through his school work, so he could join them, and he stamped these stars dancing across the waves. Yesterday he used the 3 dragon parts to make a dragon of unusual length.

William's creativity has been applied to stop motion animation. The latest family interest has been of extra special interest to William. He is our resident film enthusiast-graphic art-CGA expert... a true prodigy, his father's son. I promise to figure out some way of posting video, so I can show-off some of the fun William, Alex and Max have been having with stop motion animation.

Warning: Here Comes The Chocolate Part!


Alex likes to mix things up... his creative enterprises are all over the galaxy and in the kitchen too. Heavens! He decided to try his hand at making chocolate croissants. We had some leftover chocolate chips from Trader Joe's and in the freezer was some puff pastry, also from Trader Joe's. Love that place! Defrost, cut, fill with a few chips, fold and bake... and then drizzle with melted chocolate. They are small and tasty and I think Alex has a baker's gift...


Nothing satisfies like chocolate, except, perhaps, a good read. Maria has an uncanny ability to immerse herself in a book, any book, pictures optional, and turn it page by page. Sometimes she makes a running commentary, a sort of lecture or lyrical narrative, and she does not appreciate being interrupted. Fair enough.


These reading sessions can last a long time.
Self-conscious Mother Moment: I washed her shirt and she pulled it on again, so no, she hasn't been in it for 3 dirty days. Oh, I feel better.

So, what's up with the Creativity Theme? Well, I finally couldn't resist bringing home Amanda Blake Soule's "Creative Family" book. There is so much good buzz about the book and I really enjoy visiting her blog, so when she offered signed copies, I jumped.


It's strange... when William was born and I was merely 24 years old, none of my peers were into marriage or starting families or even remotely interested in going all domestic, so I felt like something of a loner-pioneer mom, and I also felt free to do things my way. My way has been a creative journey. These days? Well, these days I feel like a rather old mom. A been there, done that kind of mom, and I wasn't sure I needed a book about "creativity." Then I remembered something else from when William was born... Geoff questioned some method or approach I was taking in caring for our newborn son and he cited the advice of an expert from a hospital pamphlet. I did not agree with said expert and said as much, adding, "It's okay to do it our way. We'll just find another expert to support our style."

So, trusting my instincts, including finding help when I need it, has been my parenting style and I like to surround myself with experts, resources and support that confirm and validate my beliefs. I guess that might sound narrow... it isn't, and most importantly it's what works for me... which leads me to something else I've learned as a parent: You have to do what works for you and your family.

Well, since creativity works for our family, I realized I ought to welcome an expert into our home, someone who supports our beliefs and lends a fresh perspective, new ideas and terrific insight. And I must say buying this book was a very good decision. I am enjoying it immensely. It is thoughtfully written and full of lovely examples and real life illustrations from a real life family. No one asked me to review the book, so I hope she doesn't mind my deep thoughts and other musings!


Maria was the first one to get her hands on the book and she obliged me by reading me some of the pages. I love Maria's reading voice, the words she creates. Then, on page 42, we found something that really captured my imagination: "Constructing Children's Pants" was a perfect fit for something I have been working on lately and I could not wait to try my own version of this ingenious recipe.


I just recently finished a quilt top. It's been a very emotional project, involving Aloha shirts. I have been wanting to take a breather, a step back to prepare myself for the next step of finishing this quilt, and Amanda's idea seemed like an ideal transition. Her idea is to make something old new again, and in this case it involved turning a shirt into children's pants. Some of Geoff's old Aloha shirts were still on my cutting table... a fun print and careworn comfiness seemed ideal for some beach-combing, pajama-style pants for Maria.


Easy! Oh, man was this easy and gratifying and fun. Really, I am quite giddy about the results and even the process. The hem of the shirt finishes the hem of the pants.


Even the pocket transfered nicely... a feature that delights Maria. I had already used the sleeves to make soft baby blocks for cousin Izzy, and now much of the rest of this old shirt is new again and keeping Maria comfy-cozy and very happy.


I love the how the details of the shirt, like the cut vents in the shirt's side, make an easy, cute finish in the pants. Geoff joked that he might start missing some of his shirts. I will be on the lookout for any that are getting too shabby! Thank you Amanda Blake Soule... this creative family is feeling nurtured and encouraged anew!

What the Future Holds

Both Max and Alex are working on entries for a Lego contest. The theme: Build the hot new gadget of the future... What will everyone want 50 years from now?


What will people be clamoring for in 50 years? There are so many amazing gadgets already. Sometimes I wish we could decree a cease fire... an agreement not to make any new gadgets until we can catch our collective breaths and fully absorb and appreciate all the technology at our disposal already.

Max envisioned a hand held computer with an attached stylus. "It has an antenna, and you use it for wireless internet." And he adds, "You can use the stylus to type things on the keyboard, which is located in the screen. It has 2 buttons for the power, and the power comes from a processor that collects the energy from sound waves." He says, "Using its processor you can make charging it easier by talking to it."


I think I say this every time the boys show me one of their creations: I only ever made roofless houses, boxes with imagined furnishings and gardens and tiny kitchens. Max made a streamlined, curved frame, a monitor and pen pointed stylus with its own built in holder.


No one diagramed this. He did not follow a plan or instructions. I have a deep and abiding admiration for creativity, for the skill required to envision something and the ability to make it real. Plumbing, wiring, planting a garden, plowing a field, sewing a dress, writing software, baking bread... these are the skills that impress me. I suppose there will be marvelous gadgets 50 years from now. There are marvelous gadgets today. But I hope in 50 years children will still empty a box of parts and pieces and make something all their own, something from the recesses of their hearts and fancy.

Country Roads, and a Dragon + Shameless Self Promotion and Begging*


With some economic news to fuel our hopes, we have been venturing out across the county, looking for that ideal place, at an ideal price. And we have found ourselves in some remote spots, and in places with beautiful and unexpected views. We've even seen some of the "ugly climb" in the form of beautifully priced houses.


We have not found our house. Not yet. Yesterday, after 3 hours of looking and driving in one area, I decided on something I never thought I would choose: Gated... Ugh. I am so ashamed. I think gated communities are pretentious and isolating. Maybe they work for some, but I have never seen myself feeling comfortable in a gated neighborhood. Never say never?


Geoff and I have stumbled upon a development with astonishing views and huge lots, pretty homes that are large and inviting... sigh, and the best part is that some are in foreclosure and some are priced to sell and the rest are lovingly maintained, so the neighborhood feels welcoming and nice. Even the name suggest everything I would like: "____Ranch." Ranch, as in freedom and wide open spaces, and barns, stables, chicken coops, tractors and windmills. Not.

I spent 3 days daydreaming about one particular house, but could not get over that gate, until I realized that I can't let a gate stop me from something that is really nice in every other respect. So, I convinced myself of the benefits of living there, like slower traffic and peace of mind when the children ride their bikes. Naturally by this point I was deeply attached and excited and full of big hopes. It was more than enough to get me to the next step and I called the association to ask about a few things. That's when the red flags started dropping from the big blue sky. In their Ranch no one can make home changes without committee approval. In their Ranch no one can have livestock! No horses, cows, goats, donkeys, sheep or chickens! A monthly fee is paid for the privilege of letting other people to tell you how to live in your own home. Feh

I never should have stopped at that feed store yesterday. Yes, I needed rabbit food and some parakeet seeds, but I should have just picked those up from the market. I should not have gone into the back corner of the store where Maria and I could hear the distinct peeping and chirping. I shouldn't have peeked into the cages where it said "Banty Chicks." And Maria and I should not have pet the tiny, tiny chicks with the loveliest plumage I have ever seen, the tiniest chicks that would sit in Maria's hand like a cotton ball of downy fluff. No pictures. I had to drag myself away. On Friday they are expecting a shipment of Araucanas. My favorite. Geoff should take my keys on Friday.


William took this picture of his brother sketching. The boys are taking their state tests this week. Standardized, fill in the bubble tests. I guess I sympathize, because when we got home I didn't ask them to do any more school work. Max begged for 30 minutes of PS3 time and I gave in. Alex was happy to play for 30 minutes too, and then he immersed himself in sketching dragons and making electro-magnets. Coming soon: A post featuring the things Alex has made and revived from thrift shop junk. You can probably understand why we are looking for a home with room for a workshop!

Thank you everyone that took the time to vote. Time is up and the votes are being counted.
* OKay. Here comes the shameless self-promotion and begging!
Vote For Me! Vote For Me! Won't you please vote for me and my wonderful octopus photograph? And after you vote, please, please ask your friends and family to vote. What?! I would vote for you. Hmmm. I wonder if this is enough. Should I send out emails? Get on the phone? I wonder which is more humiliating, begging or not getting a response to shameless self-promoting. I'll get back to you on this.

Archimedean Solids and Learning From Home


"Can you draw a rhombicuboctahedron?" Max is working on geometry. Alex is trying to figure out what happens when electrical circuits are overloaded. William is calculating Lego price values. When Max asked, " what is the difference between a rhombus and a parallelogram?" William asked whether any of us could draw a rhombicuboctahedron. Squares, rectangles and rhombuses are parallelograms. Alex can draw a rhombicuboctahedron, which is an Archimedean solid with 8 triangular and 18 square faces, and William added, "Leonardo da Vinci was the first person to draw one."

In 1 hour we drive to the homeschool headquarters, where we turn in work and share what we've been up to. The children have plenty to share and discuss. I, on the other hand, will be fumbling around, because the hardest part of homeschooling is being the teacher and the administrator. I would love to give up the administrative duties. I contend that there is not enough time to do the paper work and teach. So, I am scrambling to put my stuff in order, answer questions in science, math and literature, and visit Maria's kitchen where she is preparing a picnic and needs people to show some interest in her activities.


Unschool takes its own kind of discipline, but some days it is so tempting. This morning all of the children snuck into our bed. We shared drowsy laughs, then Geoff and I went to the family room to figure out computer/printer/telephone issues. When I went back to my room I found William reading to Alex, Max and Maria. He was reading "Amelia Bedelia" for his sister. They filled the bed and Maria was snuggled in the crook of her biggest brother's arm. They postponed the reading of "The Hobbit," because Maria wanted her book read first. Once Maria's wish was satisfied, they continued reading aloud from their book. Not a school book, not assigned.

They read aloud to each other most nights, and many mornings. Left to their own devices there are many things they seek and decipher, they take apart, figure out and calculate. Together we discover and learn a great deal, and somedays it seems our greatest stumbling block to actual learning is trying to fulfill administrative expectations, prepare for standardized tests and fill out forms. As Alex says when exasperated: Feh.


Max's most recent endeavor is to witness metamorphosis. He read 3 articles about the Pacific Tree Frog, a very common species of chorus frog... that's one part I remember from reading the wikipedia article. I have the best memories of scooping up tadpoles from creeks and ponds when I was a kid. We would drop them in a pail or wading pool or whatever and pretty soon we had frogs. It's magic I have been meaning to share with my children for quite some time.


Last week, while on a country excursion we found some tadpoles. We have them set-up in luxury accommodations, where Alex and Max have applied all they have learned about the needs and delights of the Pacific Tree Frog. We think there are at least 4 of them in there, and they are very, very small. Can you see the dark pea in the algae? That's one! Even when they first transform into frogs they may be as small as 1 centimeter. We will take them back to their creek home once they become frogs... congratulating ourselves for keeping them safe from predators until they are strong hoppers!

Buttermilk Biscuits in a Blue Dress


Maria couldn't wait for me to hem her new dress. She twirled and whirled the whole day, so I feel successful. When we sat in the shade of the oak trees, at the Renaissance Faire, I pinned and basted the gatherings on the four rows that make up the skirt. I love having handwork available when I am having a quiet moment. New patterns, like new recipes can be a bit tricky and slow, but now that I have finished this dress, I am anxious to try another variation. Of course... something like Meg's blouse. She's Sew Liberated!


The biscuit recipe was a new one, and I substituted butter for the shortening. Needless to say, with all of that butter, they came out very tasty. The best part though was sharing the hand mixing part with Maria and then rolling and cutting together too. She was up for the whole process! With the last bit of dough she spent another half hour rolling, cutting and dusting everything with flour.


I will have to thoroughly shake-out her dress before I finish the hem. I wouldn't want to wash it before hemming it, even though the edge is pinked. Over the years I have periodically sewn a few garments. It's not always easy to rationalize sewing clothes over buying them, when it goes as slowly as it does for me. Still, it's nice to know how to sew clothes and to have the option to make the styles I like.

I know the boys would love it if I dedicated myself to outfitting the family in Renaissance fashions. Throughout the day we were offering suggestions for our family guild. How about a Biscuit Guild?

Lego Bricks + Imagination + Patience + Cooperation = Amazing Creations

William, Alex, Max and Maria love to create and build with Lego. I really ought to create a separate label for this topic, as it has come up before. I believe I have been listing all Lego creations under the "Talent" label, which is appropriate. But after taking photographs of just a few of Alex's creations, I realize that the subject of Legos could be its own blog. None of these creations is made from instructions or diagrams or kits... they are each a result of Alex's imagination and ingenuity and a great deal of diligence.


Using bricks and parts from the Mars Mission theme, Alex created a few new vehicles and rovers for exploring Mars. The sets have vehicles with animal names, like the beetle and a bull. Alex created a rabbit. Note the cute bunny ears. I don't think he used the word "cute." He says, "It can fit one astronaut and the upper half can rotate to allow it a wider range of vision."


"The fore and aft panels can be lifted for engine repairs."
That sounds useful, don't you agree?


I like the cute bunny profile, and the suggestion of big bunny teeth.


This is a Hazardous Environment Unmanned Heavy Lifting Vehicle or HEULV. I have an order in for a house cleaning version.


"His tongue extends to grab hazardous materials, such as explosives and radioactive waste," says Alex.


I am thinking how great this could be for scooping up dirty socks and sweeping under the dining table... talk about hazardous duty!


Here's HEULV with his grabbing tongue fully extended.


I would be proud enough to assemble things as elaborate these, but Alex does more than create interesting figures. His creations have purpose and every part has a function. His Mars Scorpion is a transporter that works in conjunction with the HEULV. "It has 6 legs, constructed using Martian technology. The front arms are for drilling and picking up energy crystals. The 3 tubes on the top can carry Martians in cryo-sleep."


"The legs can lower the hull for loading and unloading of cargo."


Check out the doors! This could be a futuristic mini-van. I'll have to ask Alex to design mine with a renewable and sustainable fuel source.


Top Secret Mystery Chest
Alex and William made this decorative and purposeful box together. William built the Eye of Horus. Alex designed and constructed the rest. The pictures do not do this one justice. I wish you could try to unlock its secret for yourself and see up close the engineering, art and ingenuity of this treasure chest.


We like Lego brick mosaics. Mosaics are a unique and beautiful use for the bricks and they take some patience to create.


Turn the box around and you may discover that 2 of the decorative pieces are keys. But keys to what?


Remove both keys and look for the keyhole to unlock the secret.


Hmmm... what have we here?


Nothing needs to be forced or yanked. If you are on the right path doors and locks open with ease. That takes masterful engineering.


Choose the right key and turn in the right direction and you are almost in.


Alex had to design, construct and reconstruct the lock at least 6 times. He wanted the mechanisms to work precisely.


A hush falls over the archaeologists...


and we are in the treasure chamber!


I think this is Max's favorite part. Max loves treasures.


Here are the tumblers. I love that Alex knows how things work. He based it off the same design used in safes. So awesome.


Riding the currents in his Steampunk Gyrocopter, Alex's future is as wide and clear as the skies he flies.

The Healing Power of Spontaneous, Temporary Art

I am looking for those boots, or any red cowgirl boots with vintage flair and heroine powers. It is my quest. Staying focused on the bright side, the light side, is part of my quest too... an ongoing journey, made easier with your kind thoughts and encouragement.

Alex asked me if I could replace the button missing from his shorts. And I could. And I did.


And it was satisfying to see the problem, know the solution, to have the resources and skills to do the job, and then to make the effort to execute the plan. Alright, so it was only a button, but sometimes we have to acknowledge our successes, great and small.


I asked Alex to pull out some likely candidates for the replacement from the jar of buttons I keep on the shelf. My jar of buttons is one the pleasures in my life... one of the many pleasures. I like to recognize the little, simple things that go right, feel good. He made the happy face, then Maria made the sun.


Next came the whale. By this time his new button was securely affixed to his shorts.


I find this irresistible. I want to play. I want to sort the colors into rainbows and mosaics, mandalas and stories. Alex asked about making a quilt with buttons sewn all over it. I wondered about making a stop-motion animation.

There are many more things that need to be accomplished today, besides attaching one button to shorts. I have the usual list of errands, chores, promises to keep, and projects to wrestle into submission. Alex, Max and Maria scooped all of the buttons and dropped them back into their jar. There are many more things I have to do, but I am so glad we had these moments.

Expect to be Surprised


Part wisdom, part affirmation... expect to be surprised.


I thought our invitation to Mitchell and Julie's was for a potluck picnic, or something as casual. I should have brought our tuna salad in a prettier dish. I should not have brought Fritos. What can I say? Sometimes a bag of Fritos are a rite of Spring, like daffodils and new shoes. We arrived to a garden and home in full bloom. Julie had set the table with her beautiful china and silver, and elaborate dishes were coming out of the oven.


And they even had supplies for decorating eggs, and Alex mixed the potions, so we could get down to business. I realize these pictures may cause a bit of a stir in some parts of the country where snow is still falling... yes, it has been gorgeous in Southern California, and yet, I think I would actually enjoy a few more weeks in Wisconsin.


This little bunny dropped egg after egg in the cups of dye, so the artistic part of the program went fast.


Alex made a newly hatched chick. She's still popping out of her shell.


Here's the hen that laid her.


Most fun things, and even some difficult things, are more fun when shared. Our afternoon together was beautiful, and fun, relaxed. Mitchell's a sweet boy, with an easy laugh.

Suddenly It Is Spring


William initiated this Spring cleaning weeks ago and they are still at it. They are methodically, diligently sorting and organizing Lego bricks, components, characters and gears.
I tried to get a picture that included the cats; the cats like to tiptoe through the maze and find a spot to roll in, but they came to me when I showed up with my camera. This is Alex's room. This is the first time the boys have had their own rooms. In the "TreeHouse" their beds were in the dining room/kitchen/living room. In our "Rancho" they slept in one room and played in another. At "Neptune" they shared a room in the little house we had. Maria shares our room. I think the boys would just as soon share a room as not, or at least they agree that they enjoy sharing a playroom, er a "Lego Room."

They love Lego bricks. Love. Don't talk to me about the expense or the waste or the volume... I have a thoughtful and tested response to every negative comment I have ever heard against Legos. Even Maria uses Lego bricks to make things and she brightens when her brothers invite her into their world. She is very helpful with sorting and finding heads. I imagine she will be an engineer, like her brothers, able to comprehend the function of gears and pistons, and how to increase the speed of vehicles. Maybe she will have Alex's design skills, or some of William's creative abilities. She'll be lucky if she can be as methodical and disciplined as Max is with his creations.

Sometimes the house gets very quiet, and I call their names... William? Alex? Max? Maria?
Then I hear back, "We're up here. Maria's with us."
They are playing together. They often do.
They plan and design together, and share ideas for future creations.
They read aloud to each other and have sleep-overs in each other's bedrooms.
No, they are not always perfect angels... they get moody and mean, but it's quite rare and even understandable.
Truthfully, I think they are 4 of my favorite people in the world. I love their company and their ideas, their attitudes.
I love that they care for each other and that they have no qualms about sharing their love.
I marvel at their intelligence and curiosity, their appetite for learning.
Even when I think of our challenges, the areas we need to improve, the setbacks we want to overcome, I think that I am not so disappointed or dismayed. They fill my heart with so much pride and joy, that I can only expect good things, bright paths. Perhaps our paths are unconventional, and maybe we cannot always see the most direct route, but at the end of the day, you will find us together and happy, and I would not want to have it any other way.

Art


When I grow up I want to be an artist.
And a cook, a veterinarian, a midwife, a plumber, a welder, an author, a farmer, a potter, and a philanthropist. I am a certified massage therapist, and I claim a major university as my almost-mater... I nearly graduated, but found my true calling in being a mother. I like to dabble and sample, and I love to find art. Isn't it wonderful to discover something that makes you pause, awaken, tingle, yearn, imagine, ponder, shudder, question, smile, sigh, breathe deeply... ?
I like art that makes me wish I were the artist, that I was the creative force that brought elements and light, imagination and skills together.

The painting above is in Aunt Carol's home. I apologize. I do not know the names of most of the artists responsible for the art in this post. The colors and shapes reminds me of Kaffe Fassett fabric and his quilts. And Anna Maria Horner's new fabric, "Drawing Room." Those colors and bold strokes... so saturated, and infused. Am I using the right words? I did not study "Art" in school. Normally I use words like "yummy," "pretty," and "cool," or "really cool," when I am critiquing great works.


Aunt Carol's home is a warm, inviting gallery for art of every variety. A place where you can cast your eyes in almost any direction and find something to appreciate, contemplate, admire.


I felt at home there, because Aunt Carol is relaxed and has a gift for making me feel at home, and because I kept thinking how much her home is like my Mother's... with an eclectic collection of spiritual, personal pieces, textures and variety that reflects a life lived in appreciation of cultures, beliefs, dreams and color.


We had dinner there and she made an awesome poppy seed, almond cake with coffee frosting. Oh that was good. Artful cooking... mmmmm. We sang "Happy Birthday" to William. That was nice of her to play, to extend the celebration of William's birthday.

One more thing to love about Carol's house? Toys. Her grandchildren have corners, cupboards, closets, spaces and shelves to call their own, so that one is warmed by the knowledge that Carol loves and respects her grandchildren. She invites them in and gives them room for their interests and needs. It's so sweet to witness.


Like candy. Like polished light you can hold in your hand. My Mother's art is twisted metal, beads, stones, glass, gems, bits of history made into a new story. Gold. Sterling silver. Pearls. She works with a huge variety of elements and materials. She makes earrings, bracelets, necklaces, rings and some things that have no name... stones wire wrapped and embraced in intricate shapes and colors... oh, you'd have to see one to know what I mean, which is why Geoff and I are trying to get her to blog, to open an Etsy Shop. She sells in galleries and shops. She gives her art away too. She seems to take great pleasure in matching her art with the people she loves, so family and friends always part with her company with something new and beautiful to wear. Which ring do you think I took for my own?

Grandma Nancy quilts and paints and for a few years now she has been painting with quilts, joining her two skills in original and stunning wall hangings. First she made "continent quilts" and now she is immersed in a series of quilts depicting her favorite artists, like Renoir, and here is Van Gogh:


This is the latest artist quilt completed by Nancy. Nancy is another favorite artist of mine. I cannot write. I am transfixed.

And now Geoff is teaching Grandma the art of the home computer, surfing and email. He readied her house for wi-fi and set everything up so she can read Chickenblog and visit fabric sites and chat with family through email. Geoff is one of my favorite artists. It will take me a few minutes to think of and list all of the ways he is an artist. He draws, paints and doodles very well. He designs. He programs computers. He writes original and patented software. He recites poetry, Shakespeare, Whitman, Poe, and others... he knows so many beautiful words and I am struggling to remember a few of the names of the many people he can quote. He can repair and replace radiators, brakes, engines, carburetors, fuel intake valves and he knows how they work. Mechanics are definitely artists. He can plumb a house, wire a house, lay tile, install windows, hang doors, frame and roof. He can calculate how much water you can collect from rain falling on your roof. He knows how much water weighs, and how to depict water on a television screen using equations he wrote himself. He understands economics, the stock market and video games. He can whistle a tune. His computer art depicts waves and water currents, trees, fabric flowing, crowds waving, a ball that bounces with the physics that represent force and direction. He taught me how to make grilled cheese sandwiches. There are 2 things wrong with what I am sharing: 1. I am not doing his work justice. 2. He is going to be totally shy and uncomfortable with me "carrying on" about him.


I began seeing art from the flight. I took pictures over the snowy plains as we approached Chicago. I am mesmerized by the patterns and shapes, the dark and light of plowed fields and iced meadows, frozen ponds, winding rivers, creeks and streams. In Summer the fields, farms and forests are as captivating in infinite greens and golds. In Winter I am challenged by the filtered colors, the muted light, and still I adore the beauty of the landscapes. There are 50 barns, 100 homes, 900 farms I meant to take a picture of, to capture for my scrap book of Midwestern art.


In one home we found whimsical art. Clay art made when Paul was a boy and I am so glad he did not throw it out or let it get lost in life's shuffle. Like this castle, or really just the tower of a castle that he made. It's chunky, folksy and warm,


...and at the base is a man coming out of a window. I don't necessarily want to understand what it means, to interpret it. I don't see that the piece has an intended purpose. What I do recognize is that it makes me want to know and appreciate the artist, to be glad that he made this castle, that he kept it. It evokes compassion and interest in the art and the creator.


I like Paul's bowl too. Like an avocado shell, sliced and scooped out, with feet, and the skin of a scaly dragon. It was perfectly, ideally weird and magnetic. Paul, you creative, soulful man, what beautiful art you make.


While we visited with Paul and his mom, Megan, Alex played with Maria. He drew a robot for her. Alex studies robots, designs robots, and makes robots. His little robot character, hastily sketched to distract Maria after a long day, was just the thing to inspire robot art from her, and Maria added an entire robot family parade to the page. Each of her robots was assigned a name and a mood. Ink and paper art, the art of affection and patience, the art of sharing and kindness. I love these arts, these treasured family arts.


Later, that same day, when we were having dinner at Carol's, Alex was immersed in his sketchbook again. This time he was inspired to illustrate the act of singing "out-loud." Another rough sketch, another spontaneous expression of Alex's wit and humor. I love it when art and humor entwine.

It's time to open a thesaurus. Look up Art... I find skill.
Can you have art without skill? Can art appear where there is little or no effort, no ability? Is art an equivalent of skill?


Is this "art?" Was it skill that brought a sketch and iron filings and a table top together and added a magnet?


Does it become art when manipulated by an imaginative boy?


Is it art if it does not last more than a day, or a minute?


There is a kind of art that I deeply admire: The art of making a home. Not all houses are homes. A home lends itself to sheltering and nurturing our bodies, our minds, our spirits and celebrating our lives. A home is comfortable, not simply by its design and purpose, but by the constant care of the people who live in it, who maintain it and project their values and gifts into it. I already touched on this subject in a recent post. In Margie and Howard's home, in Paul's place, and Carol's, at Grandma Nancy's... in all of the places we have been lately, I have been so struck and emotionally stirred by the art of homemaking, by being met by generous hosts, by kindness and warmth, by the art of preserving and honoring memories with tangible tokens and mementos. It has little to do with designs and features from magazines, or even immaculate housekeeping... it has everything to do with care, pride, sincerity and appreciation for people over fixtures and polished brass. Family pictures, children's gifts framed and displayed, a wide-open kitchen, time dedicated to sharing stories and ideas, laughter, homemade cookies, a relaxed grace, a gentleness. It takes skill to bring these qualities to life in a home, it takes art to infuse a home with this kind of elegance and beauty. There are a lot of things we can do and buy, that we are seduced into believing our homes are incomplete without, like granite and designer appliances, that are mostly only superficial and costly.

A happy thought: I have been in many artful homes, a lot of lovely and warm homes. Maybe the common thread is that the people who make a house a home are inclined to be generous, to say "Come on over," and mean it.

I want to be an artist. I have strayed from pride and heartfelt warmth for the place I live and the neglect is showing. This is a painful, honest admission. The reasons are many and real and very hard to overcome, but I am glad at least I want to do better, believe I can do better. I have so much inspiration, so much aspire to.

A Birthday Weekend and Gratitude

Happy Birthday Izzy!
Happy Birthday Griffin!
Happy Birthday Rich!
Zounds! that's a lot of cake!


2... Well, almost 2 in this picture, which was taken at the end of January. To hear her speak and see her get around and do her stuff, you might take her for like 2 and a half year old... really, she's that sophisticated. Maria loves her cousin Izzy, we all do, but the girl cousins share a special toddler bond.


6 tomorrow. Griffy is having a party... Star Wars theme? I remember his "Cars" cake from last year, and I am hoping we'll get to see some pictures from tomorrow's festivities. I also look forward to hearing frequent updates about Griffin, who is bright and curious. I love his sweet enthusiasm, his energy.

It has been about a year since I started embracing the quilting, knitting, crafty, artistic, farmy blogs. I feel like I have discovered a wonderful world both familiar and exotic, inspiring. You may have noticed a lot of the links in my sidebar are to creative women; they are talented and generous, and surprisingly thoughtful. Not that I am surprised about their thoughtfulness... what I mean to say is that in their thoughtfulness they do things to surprise me and others. Things like sending condolence cards, doll quilts, chicken aprons, and even nominating me for awards like the "Beautiful Newborn Baby Pepper Award."


These kind acts, and generous gestures never cease to amaze me and when we came home from our latest adventure we were met with one more surprise. It is a quilt from Mamaspark's World. Pam was hinting about a blue quilt, showing peeks and promising a story to go with it! And I remember smiling to myself, because it made me happy to think of all the nice things Pam does for others, the amazing quilts she makes and gives away. Someone is in for a real treat, I thought to myself, thinking of "Spicy Chicken," the doll quilt she and her quilting accomplice, Liz, sent me last Summer.


I had no idea I was the one in for a special treat. This is the quilted lei and message of "Aloha" stitched in the border. Pam did all of the planning and piece work and Liz worked her quilting magic, and together they finished a beautiful and heart touching quilt that is already a family treasure. It comes with so much love and tender regard for us at this difficult time. Geoff was stunned at the sight of it, to hear the letter Pam enclosed, the description of this quilt's journey to our home. Every gift has a story, but this one is exceptional and dear... Geoff said it "renewed his faith in humanity."

Sometimes (most times?) I can be really horrible about getting back to people, whether in emails or phone calls. Too often I am distracted and wait too long for the right time. Happily, when Pam emailed me with some casual inquiries, some innocent questions about leis, I made the effort to respond right away. As I recall we exchanged a few detailed discussions about lei colors, flower types etc... And I was really enjoying the research and realizing how significant and beautiful leis are, how meaningful they have become to me. The whole conversation inspired me to work on a post all about leis. I felt like she had given me a gift by leading me to discover a topic to appreciate and learn more about. Little did I know she wasn't through with her gift to me.


"Blue Aloha" is so pretty and dear, and I am tearful and comforted by its significance and by the kindness of it. Thank you Pamela. Thank you Liz. Pam made a post explaining this quilt, and how it came to life, read about it at her inspiring blog, "Mamaspark's World."


Blue water, blue skies, an abundance of flowers and cheerful dolphins, pieced together with care and purpose... it is so much like Hawaii, so much like Aloha.

Reflections... An Update With Lots of Images


Here is Sophie, at Cam-Rock 3. We were sledding there. Can you see William? Can you see me? I can take hundreds of pictures and still only have a few favorites. This is one of my favorites.

We rented a car in So Cal. We drove along the coast, stopping when we pleased. Seeing the world from completely unexpected vantage points. Relishing our time together as a family. This is my limited, impromptu, and random photo album from California to Wisconsin.


Our first taste of cold weather came in San Luis Obispo, which was good, because we were packed for Winter, and we were packed in the rental van. It's like there are 6! of us. Sometimes I like blinky photographs... that moment when our smiles overcome our faces and we close our eyes. Joy unedited. Pizza Port, Morro Bay, California.


Did I mention my Mommy met me at the laundromat in Capitola? She and Bill brought me hot chai. I love Monterey Bay, including Aptos, Soquel, Capitola, Santa Cruz. Can you believe we didn't stop at Gayles, the best bakery ever? Next time. I will always return to the Central Coast. I will always love California.


The 19th floor of The Hotel Nikko, San Francisco. Maria discovers her inner Urban Woman. Video to follow, soon. It's one of those home movies that makes us roll around laughing, because we know our daughter, sister... and she busts us up.


Yes, my camera is around my neck all day long, and I constantly see shapes, colors, art, trash, faces and moments that I want to possess. Click! And sometimes it's just a cliche. Lombard Street. Coit Tower. The Bay Bridge. The Bay. For me it's a window, back to a morning, riding in a car, seeing a city, eating a freakishly delicious onion bagel with cucumbers, sprouts, and cream cheese.



China Town is so cool. I love that we walked all over the place, that we were out of place. China Town is its own. We were welcome to walk through, but we did not belong. I saw a sign for "Exotic Birds" and I could not resist. Oh man. There were quail and chickens in there. Chickens! Live ones. So I am standing there and just loving this scene in the middle of cosmopolitan San Francisco, and I get it. These are dinner birds, not pets. But the two guys are not getting me, standing there with my bemused grin, thinking of taking a picture. "I like chickens," I offer, and they stare at me, not amused. Awkward. Hilarious. Geoff said they probably thought I was from PETA.


What can I add?


Four hours and a night of sleep later, we are in the snow! Flying is weird. I think it is miraculous to be in one place and in less time than it takes to make good bread, you can be in another part of the world, in another climate, another season. How many different places could you be if you flew for 4-6 hours? Where would you go? We chose Chicago, Madison, Oshkosh. We chose more time with family. Time to embrace family and reconnect. It was a continuation of our Aloha 'Oe to Jim "Corm."


Our lives can get so complicated, so full. And we feel fortunate that we could set aside this time to share, to listen and to appreciate the people we love.


Geoff and I have our memories and connections to Wisconsin, to family and places, and it is a treat watching our children form their own bonds, make their own connections. When Maria and Jordan are together, playing, talking, we can hardly tell their voices apart. It's funny.


Grandma? Are you reading? Brave is the woman, the Great-Grandmother, who agrees to learn how to use email, to log-on and surf the web. Geoff and William salvaged computers and made a surf worthy laptop for Grandma. Now she can stay in the loop with all of us. Everyone must encourage Nancy not to panic when she gets email. Relax Grandma. You're doing great. She and I even shopped for fabric online!


Have you played "Apples to Apples?" Fun. Seriously simple and fun. It was a game on Max's Christmas list and we have been enjoying it a lot. We were stoked to see Sophie bringing over her game and we had a hilarious and rousing game of "Apples to Apples." If you can find the ridiculous in life, if you can laugh, you will find there are no losers in this game. Who played... Laura and Nancy, William, Alex, Max, Sophie, Gary, Geoff and me. I love laughing.


For us, she's Aunt Carol, but Jordan and Griffy call her Grandma. I think she is having a marvelous time being a grandmother.


I met Matt Kenseth's grandmother at Nancy's quilting class. That's a NASCAR reference and anyone that googles "NASCAR" and comes to Chickenblog is going to be disappointed. I know nothing about NASCAR. I know more about Badgers. Grandma Nancy is a Badger fan from way back. And this has been a very good year for Badgers and men's basketball. Someone named Brett Favre kept making the news too.

OKay. It's after 1 p.m. and so it's after 3 p.m. in Chicago. I thought I could post more pictures, but I am whooped and falling further and further behind. Look for Part II tomorrow. PST.

Are We There Yet?

Our early departure did not happen. It's okay. It's even good that we stayed home an extra day, before driving up the coast, then heading to the Midwest. So, rather than leaving yesterday, we are leaving this morning.
I'll let Geoff sleep as late as he needs to, and then we will climb into our vacation-mobile, which is already overloaded packed, and we will head out into traffic onto the open road. We are seeking our destiny. About the only thing I am sure of is that the pets will be well cared for, otherwise we have no game plan. We know which day to be at the airport, and we have a dinner date in the Chicago area. Everything else is a bit sketchy. This could be fun... or something.


For his Grandpa Corm's memorial, Alex drew an invention. It is in honor of Corm's brief career as a Good Humor Man, selling ice cream, and it is meant to recognize his grandfather's mechanical skills. I really should have Alex do this write-up, so he can explain it properly. Every gear and lever has a purpose, and by the time he describes it, you can't help but believe that this machine actually would make waffle cones and ice-cream and dispense them both, efficiently, and delightfully.

Well, I guess I should start turning on some lights, playing some music. No time like the present, when thinking of searching for your destiny. We have short term goals, like finding fresh berries at roadside stands and farmer's markets, we have next week goals, like playing in freshly falling snow. And we have big dreams: Finding a home to call our own, space to make our mark, a somewhere to hope for and focus on. And, of course, we want to enjoy the ride!

Everyday Life 30 :: 13
Our Pizzeria is Open!

Technically this post is more accurately a reflection of things that do not happen Everyday. We do not make pizza or coffee Everyday. And I certainly do not meticulously rip-out quilting that is too wonky... more on this in a moment.


With dough from Trader Joe's, a great deal of enthusiasm, and some naivete, we launched our home pizzeria enterprise. Don't expect a public debut for a time. We still have some kinks to work out. Ah, but we had fun. Lots and lots of fun.

First, I created a playlist on iTunes, so we could set a Euro-Italian-Slow Food-Mood. Think... "O Mio Babbino Caro," "Buono Sera," Tino Rossi, Louis Prima, Vivaldi. With our pizza tunes playing we rolled up our sleeves, washed our hands, and began slicing and dicing. Everyone made their own creation. Well, Geoff came too late to make his own and Maria was still too drowsy from her late nap.


Alex's pizza was a deep dish pie with cheese, sauce, pepperoni and pineapples all layered between the divided dough. He added a face to the top. It was deeply delicious.


William's pizza was more traditional. I must commend his patience with the stretch and retract dough, which is hard to work with. I did call Anne at this point... they know pizza at her house, and I got some helpful suggestions and some new ideas and news about UU events in Florida... ooops! Back to the kitchen! LOL... So, William's pizza had basil and sauce, extra garlic, spicy Italian chicken sausage, cheese and pepperoni. It came out scrumptious! Trader Joe's crust might take some time for us to learn to work with, but the flavor and texture are worth it.


Max wanted an altogether unique pizza experience and he achieved this with his pepperoni surprise, stuffed crust pizza. He kept laying stuff on, then rolling and pounding the edges to hide all the saucy-cheesy-pepperoni goodness. It came out round and perfect, just like he worked for, and it tasted just to his liking. Another good cook.


My pizza came out of the oven first, and it sustained and inspired us. We kept sampling it as we cooked the rest. Mmmm it was good. It was a plain crust smothered in chopped garlic, tomatoes, zucchini, basil, onions, crushed peppers, and a little cheese... really just a small handful... oh, I really should write this one down. Oh, the wine was tasty too.


Slowly rousing from her evening nap, Maria took her veggie pizza in her tent, her castle, her personal space. Sweet are the luxuries of youth.


Behold: I make the worst coffee ever. I threw out the first pot and tried again, and the second was only half as bad as the first batch, but certainly not worth drinking. Blech. I do not make coffee everyday, or even once a month. At this rate I may never make it again.


I have not gone into any details about this... I have not disclosed the absolutely awesome nature of my Christmas present, but you may be able to guess what I am trying to learn how to master from this picture.

Everyday Life 30 :: 5

The left half of the landlord's refrigerator.
Plenty of magnets.
2 salsa recipes.
Calvin and Hobbes.
Micky.
Tamsyn's painting of a house... October 2006.
Max's sunflower... March 2007.
A little photograph of William... September 1994.

Everyday Life... 30 Days :: 2
Yesterday I was inspired by Amanda Soule, of "Soule Mama," to dedicate 30 days of photography to looking at the Everyday. I started yesterday, I committed today, and I think it's kind of funny to make it an official project, since it's more or less what I do everyday anyway. Perhaps it is the discipline aspect that I am looking at as the unique approach, and I like the idea that I am going to make a dedicated effort to seeing what is going on under our roof, in our lives. Amanda is right, it is fleeting, the time we have with our children, and it is interesting to really take in a focused view of what is happening. Well, maybe not always focused... I purposely did not delete yesterday's fuzzy action shots.


So, everyday, Maria draws, and her artistic style made a very sudden development since yesterday. She got bolder and more elaborate. This is her self portrait. Someday we may forget that she always calls herself "Girl." We may be partly to blame, since she has many, many nicknames, but no matter how many times we ask her to say Maria, she always replies "I'm Girl." Until today. Today she handed me this picture and said, "It's me. It's Mree-ah." And she added, "I have wobbly, wobbly arms and wobbly, wobbly hands."


Everyday there is tea party or a picnic. Something is always