Rules (Repost)

— Dana

To the Mother With Only One Child (Repost)

By Simcha Fisher

 

Dear Mother of Only One Child,

Don’t say it. Before the words can even pass your lips, let me beg you: don’t say, “Wow, you have nine kids? I thought it was hard with just my one!”

My dear, it is hard. You’re not being a wuss or a whiner when you feel like your life is hard. I know, because I remember having “only one child.” You may not even believe how many times I stop and reflect on how much easier my life is, now that I have nine children.

All right, so there is a lot more laundry. Keeping up with each child’s needs, and making sure they all get enough attention, is a constant worry. And a stomach bug is pretty much the end of the world, when nine digestive tracts are afflicted.

But I remember having only one child, and it was hard—so very hard. Some of the difficulties were just practical: I didn’t know what I was doing, had to learn everything. People pushed me around because I was young and inexperienced. But even worse were the emotional struggles of learning to be a mother.

When I had only one child, I truly suffered during those long, long, long days in our little apartment, no one but the two of us, baby and me, dealing with each other all day long. I invented errands and dawdled and took the long way home, but still had hours and hours to fill before I would hear my husband’s key in the door.

I cared so much what other people thought about her—they had to notice how beautiful she was, they had to be impressed at my natural mothering skills. I obsessed over childhood development charts, tense with fear that my mothering was lacking—that I hadn’t stimulated her enough, or maybe had just passed on the wrong kind of genes. I cringe when I remember how I pushed her—a little baby!—to achieve milestones she wasn’t ready for.

I lived in terror for her physical safety (I once brought her to Urgent Care, where the doctor somewhat irritably diagnosed a case of moderate sniffles) fearing every imaginable disease and injury. In my sleep-deprived state, I would have sudden insane hallucinations that her head had fallen off, her knees had suddenly broken themselves in the night, and so on.

My husband didn’t know how to help me. I didn’t know how to ask for help. My husband had become a father, and I adored him for it. My husband got to leave the house every day, and sleep every night. He got to go to the bathroom alone. I hated him for it.

When I had only one child, I told myself over and over that motherhood was fulfilling and sanctifying and was filling my heart to the brim with peace and satisfaction. And so I felt horribly guilty for being so bored, so resentful, so exhausted. This is a joyful time, dammit! I should enjoy being suddenly transformed into the Doyenne of Anything that Smells Bad.

I loved my baby, I loved pushing her on the swing, watching squirrels at the park together, introducing her to apple sauce, and watching her lips move in joyful dreams of milk. But it was hard, hard, hard. All this work: is this who I am now? I remember!

So now? Yes, the practical parts are a thousand times easier: I’m a virtuoso. I worry, but then I move along. Nobody pushes me around, and I have helpers galore. Someone fetches clean diapers and gets rid of the dirty ones. When the baby wakes up in the middle of the night for the ten thousandth time, I sigh and roll my eyes, maybe even cry a little bit for sheer tiredness—but I know it will pass, it will pass.

It’s becoming easier, and it will be easier still. They are passing me by.

I’m broken in. There’s no collision of worlds. We’re so darn busy that it’s a sheer delight to take some time to wash some small child’s small limbs in a quiet bath, or to read The Story of Ferdinand one more time. Taking care of them is easy. It’s tiring, it’s frustrating, but when I stop and take a breath, I see that it’s almost like a charade of work. All these things, the dishes, the diapers, the spills—they must be taken care of, but they don’t matter. They aren’t who I am.

To become a mother, I had to learn how to care about someone more than I did about myself, and that was terrible. But who I am now is something more terrible: the protector who can’t always protect; the one with arms that are designed to hold, always having to let go.

Dear mother of only one child, don’t blame yourself for thinking that your life is hard. You’re suffering now because you’re turning into a new woman, a woman who is never allowed to be alone. For what? Only so that you can become strong enough to be a woman who will be left.

When I had only one child, she was so heavy. Now I can see that children are as light as air. They float past you, nudging against you like balloons as they ascend.

Dear mother, don’t worry about enjoying your life. Your life is hard; your life will be hard. That doesn’t mean you’re doing something wrong—it means you’re doing it right.

Those Damn Inspiring Infertility Quotes

— Dana

Sometimes I just need to search for those inspirational quotes that make my bad infertility days seem a little bit better. Perhaps I even Googled “Infertility inspirational quotes” for sources of much needed hope, strength and perseverance. And I usually end up with some hopey-dopey, butterfly quotes. Here are some better infertility quotes that ring much more true…

• “If a tree falls in the forest, can anyone hear it? If an infertile bangs her head against the wall in a bathroom at a baby shower, can anyone hear her?”
• “Only caffeine and chocolate can rejuvenate the infertile soul.”
• “Don’t cry over spilt milk (unless you’re crying because you don’t have breast milk, then it’s okay to cry).”
• “Millions of couples suffer from infertility, so why the f$ck is everyone pregnant but me?”
• “Screw you, infertility!”

Or you can just find hope in some of these quotes…

• “It’s going to be okay in the end. If it’s not okay. It’s not the end.”
• “Life isn’t about trying to weather the storm. It’s about learning to dance in the rain.”
• “If you can’t find hope. Look in a new direction.”
• “What isn’t today might be tomorrow.”
• ‎”Hope is a renewable option: If you run out of it at the end of the day, you get to start over in the morning.”
• “Nature has got it all wrong: When you are younger, it should be harder to get pregnant, and as you get older it should be easier. When you are so ready, you can’t do it to save your life. And when you are 21, you are so not ready, but you are ripe as could be. The eggs should become more developed the older you get, not die slowly from the day you’re born. That’s one thing God got wrong.” – Halle Berry

How Voting Works (update)

— Aaron

“Bad officials are elected by good citizens who do not vote.” -George Jean Nathan

I think this should be amended to “Bad officials are elected by good citizens who have no choice but to elect one of the bad candidates who are running”

An update of this post.

“Healing Spiritual Abuse” (quotes)

— Dana

I just finished reading the book “Healing Spiritual Abuse”. I don’t usually do this, but I thought it might encourage someone else if I put a few quotes that made me consider life in the church.”Spiritual abuse occurs when someone in a position of spiritual authority, the purpose of which is to ‘come underneath’ and serve, build, equip and make God’s people MORE free, misuses that authority placing themselves over God’s people to control, coerce or manipulate them for seemingly Godly purposes which are really their own.” – Jeff Van Vonderen

**Jesus was so focused on the problem of spiritual abuse that it was the only social evil against which he ever developed a platform. It was the only cultural problem that he repeatedly exposed and opposed. This is amazing when we recall that his culture was plagued by a host of serious social ills. Jesus took no public stand against slavery, racism, class warfare, state-sponsored terrorism, military occupation or corruption in government. He spoke not a word against abortion or infanticide, homosexuality or the exploitation of women and children. All of theses and more were pressing problems in Jesus’ day, but we have no record of his directly addressing them. (pg 18)

**Abuse requires power… (pg 26)

**We only get angry about the issues we care about. (pg 26)

**Out of the twisted image of the body of Christ comes the supporting idea of a “spiritual covering,” which functions as yet another tool of control. (pg 30)

**Jesus leads through friendship rather than fear…Every day of our lives he invites us to voluntarily follow him. At no point does he employ his all-emcompassing authority to compel us to follow. (pg 33)

**By reading the New Testament, followers should understand that they cannot be coerced or shamed into submitting to any leader. They are free to cooperate or not…Let me make some basic observations about why otherwise sensible and intelligent people submit to spiritual abuse. (pg 35)

**It should be comforting to realize that the hurt you may have suffered from church leaders in the past could be due not to something wrong about you by something right: your longing to get close to God and to please him. (pg 36)

**Followers cooperate with this abusive regime because they are told that it is the way to please God and gain his favor. Tragically, this kind of conscientious rule-keeping actually takes us away from God. Any religious activity that implies that Jesus’ cross is not enough for our acceptance with God leads us away from him, not to him. (pg 44)

**Martin Luther, in his commentary on Galatians, says that to add any religious work to the gospel of grace seems to be a trivial matter, but “it does more damage than human reason can imagine. Not only does it mar and obscure the knowledge of grace but it also removes Christ and all of his blessings and it completely overthrows the gospel.”…remain faithful to the gospel of grace. (pg 46 & 47)

**Guilt is an extremely powerful force; when we feel it, we become distracted, confused and incompetent…We become overly dependent on others to make decisions for us, and we begin to avoid necessary confrontations and independent actions. We become slaves. (pg 53)

**Every Sunday, thousands of well-exhorted saints march out of church with a renewed determination to the false teaching to “die to self” and “live for God” as they should. A week later they return, disappointed in themselves and ashamed. A few who are less honest or aware may feel pride in the previous week’s spiritual accomplishments…the problem of presenting Christian discipleship as discovering God’s demands and working hard to fulfill them is that our churches will eventually resemble first-century synagogues run by Pharisees…filled with either weary folks who know that their best efforts fall short, but who are willing to try harder next week, or proud people who, like their teachers, so badly miss the point of God’s law that they think they are keeping it…This establishes permanent guilt feelings and exchanges salvation by God’s grace for salvation through my surrender, in which I can never rest…because we can never surrender enough to earn our salvation. (pg 56 & 57)

**Jesus promises rest for all who are weary of trying to please religious leaders. He offers an easy yoke to all those laboring under a load of spiritual performance. If your religion is wearisome and burdensome, God’s answer is not longer quiet time, a firmer commitment, attendance at one more conference or church gathering, or one more trip to the altar. God’s solution for spiritual tiredness is rest — rest in the loving acceptance of Jesus and his perfect load-carrying work for you. (pg 59)

**The heart of the good news is that God declares us righteous the moment we give up our own claims of righteousness and accept Christ’s righteousness as our own. False shepherds will always give lip service to this mercy and grace, but will then undermine it in the body of their teachings and in their actions. (pg 60)

**God helps those who confess they cannot help themselves…Jesus constantly pressed for a radical definition of sin that denied any cure through self-effort…If you are worn out trying to keep your fears, compulsions and sins under control, Jesus’ first answer to you is not more discipline or Scripture memorization, it is rest. Rest in his loving acceptance and rest in his power. (pg 63)

**Abusive shepherds tie up various heavy loads and lay them on people’s shoulders. Good shepherds take off those loads. (pg 65)

**In a spiritually abusive system, the mundane become essential, the vital trivial and the real needs of people are neglected for the sake of agendas. (pg 88)

**The Pharisees thought that they were serving God and doing it better than anyone else. Yet Jesus accused them of actually working for the enemy. (pg 92)

**I suspect that all churches (and for that matter, all people) are abusive to some degree. All of our institutions are made up of fallen and sinful people. Abuse may come by passive neglect of by active manipulation, but we all treat each other with less than perfect love. (pg 95)

**However, the mistake most people make regarding ecclesiastical abuse is not leaving prematurely but staying too long…we must be clear that leader’s good motives should not permit them to continue hurting people. (pg 97)

**Such well-meaning abusers much be confronted, and if possible, stopped. We should expect, however, that they will probably not see or admit to the harm they are doing. There is a curious innocence in these leaders. They act with cruelty without having any conscious aim of doing so. They usually don’t want to hurt people. Ironically, what they do want is, on the surface, good — evangelism, commitment to the mission of the church, respect for authority, church growth, mature discipleship, a balanced church checkbook. They can’t see that they become abusers in the pursuit of these good aims. If they give any acknowledgement at all of the abuse, it’s often minimized. “After all”, they say, “I am seeking first the kingdom of God.” They fail to realize that they are actually closing the door to it. (pg 98 & 99)

**…there is one essential thing we must do: we must forgive the abuser…Jesus forgave everyone, especially those who abused him. In several places in the New Testament Jesus insists that we follow him in forgiving those who do evil against us…The significant abuse we suffer in the family or the church may be extremely difficult to forgive because the perpetrator is someone in authority, someone who should have protected us. Betrayal augments abuse when a person in high position violates our trust. The deep pain and damage suffered are unlike any other. (pg 100)

**Before his conversion to Christ, Paul thought he had gained righteousness and deliverance from guilt and shame through his own keeping of the law. His encounter with the resurrected Christ included the blinding insight that his right standing before God had nothing whatever to do with his own efforts. His real righteousness and freedom from guilt (what we do)  and shame (who we are) came as gifts of God’s grace…Paul and those like him, who discount the law as a way of acceptance with God, are sooner or later accused of “antinomianism” — that is, being “soft on sin.” The truth is exactly the opposite. Paul took sin too seriously to ever think it could be dealt with through human effort, no matter how heroic the effort. Sin renders us totally incapable of please God through our own efforts. The law by itself can never save; it can only condemn. (pg 122)

**The gospel of Jesus Christ, properly preached and understood, is the only cure for the misuse of the law. The Good News is the only means of neutralizing legalism, the primary tool of spiritual abuse. (pg 123)

**Many Christians say they have heard, understood and believed the gospel. But when they continue to subject themselves to the legalistic manipulation of spiritual abusers, we must assume that the Good News has not yet sunk in fully. For some this takes time. So we must continually reinforce the truth that we have in fact died to the law and are no longer obligated to it. (pg 127)

**Much of the law’s abusive power is due to the nature of our conscience. Conscience is the internal voice that pronounces judgment on our motives and actions. It commends us for doing what we think is right and condemns us for doing what we think is wrong. Notice my wording: “what we think is right” and “what we think is wrong.” The conscience functions much like a computer programmed by cultural values. If we program our conscience with the truth, it will judge us according to that truth. In this case, our conscience is of immense value to us. It is a kind of moral homing device. If, on the other hand, we program it with a lie, it will judge us according to that lie. As computer experts say, “Garbage in, garbage out.” That is why we cannot always let our conscience be our guide. For the person who is fundamentally shame-based, the conscience is an open wound that does not heal. People who believe they are essentially defective find their conscience punishing them for almost everything they think, say and do. A skilled spiritual abuser armed with a code of religious oughts and should can exercise great power over such a person. One who is already vulnerable to manipulation through shame is made more so as heavy religious burdens pile up. (pg 128)

**Yes, we sin, and yes, we must live in daily repentance. But we repent not only for our sin and failure but also for our righteousness and success. It is not just our vices that need forgiveness but also our virtues, because all we do falls short of perfection. Our performance, good or bad, has nothing to do with God’s acceptance of us. We are either equally saved in Christ or equally lost outside of Christ. Grasping this good news frees us from debilitating shame. (pg 130)

**The tragedy, then, is that church leaders who preach the law as a means of manipulation and control actually rearm the devil in his work of accusation. What Jesus accomplished on the cross is effectively reversed by religious legalism. Or, as Paul explains in Galatians 4, when we come back under religious law, we actually come back under the demonic influences we were once rescued from. (pg 132)

**No amount of submitting to authority, dying to self, praying to God or giving to an organization will clear a guilty or shamed conscience. All these works are vain attempts to get even with our conscience and are what the writer of Hebrews appropriately terms “dead works.”…Religious performance cannot assuage guilt, because no amount of self-effort can ever atone for sin…The writer to the Hebrews insists the only cure for guilt (real and imagined) and the shame that makes us vulnerable to spiritual abuse is the blood of Christ. (pg 132 & 133)

**One of the major indicators of an abusive church is the difficulty people face in leaving it. Jesus made it easy for people to leave him. The back door was always open. Leaders who truly follow Jesus also allow people to go when they choose to. Abusive leaders, on the other hand, erect significant obstacles to deserters…Sometimes the most loving thing we can do for abusive leaders is to leave them. Sometimes the most humane act is to let an abusive church die. If you must leave an abusive church, you may go through a painful period of anger, depression, even despair. These are normal responses. Take time to take care of yourself. Resist the well-meaning exhortations of friends who tell you to “snap out of ti” in Jesus’ name. If you were hit by a bus, you would need time to recover. Something almost as serious as that has happened to you. Take time. Let yourself heal. Finally, resist the temptation to stay away from church just because of a bad church experience. There actually are more good churches out there than bad ones. Find a church were you can safely tell your story and find healing. Never give up on the church. God doesn’t. (pg 135 & 136)

**Fire cannot pass where fire has already passed. The fire of God’s judgement, the terrible punishment for sin, has already passed through Christ. Now those who are standing in Christ have no judgement or condemnation to fear: because fire cannot pass where fire has already passed. As we arm ourselves with this gospel and hold firm to this faith, we can delight in a clear conscience. (pg 136)

**Abusive leaders oppress and manipulate men and women by tying up heavy loads and laying them on their shoulders (Mt 23:4). They multiply rules and regulations to induce guilt and shame in their followers in order to control them. Non-abusive leaders lift those burdens off, directing their followers to Jesus Christ for rest and for “yokes” that are light and fit well (Mt 11:28-30). (pg 140)

Is Loving Myself Biblical?

— Dana

True or false: Before you can love others you have to love yourself.

Aaron and I have been talking about this idea for quite sometime. And it seems like Christians take a different opinion when you ask them. From what I can find in my research, Jesus simply said to love others “as yourself.” He didn’t say to love others “after you love yourself.” That’s just something people read into the passage.

Let me illustrate another way you could read something into this passage…and be just as wrong: Imagine that I hate myself. Since Jesus said to love my neighbor “as myself,” doesn’t this mean I should hate my neighbor? After all, I am supposed to love my neighbor the same way I love myself. (I’m sure you would agree it’s obvious this is not what Jesus was saying.)

So, I guess the question would be…what does loving your neighbor “as yourself” mean? It’s pretty straightforward. Throughout the Bible, it is assumed that we love ourselves. It is part of human nature, part of what it means to be a human being. Here’s how Paul put it: After all, no one ever hated his own body, but he feeds and cares for it, just as Christ does the church (Ephesians 5:29). When Jesus said to love your neighbor “as yourself,” he simply was emphasizing how important it is to love your neighbor, to be genuinely concerned for others’ welfare. He was not adding a third commandment or a precondition to loving others.

You might say, “But I hate myself,” or, “I hate my body.” I wouldn’t argue with you on one level. It’s true that many of us are disgusted with ourselves or our bodies. Some are even self-destructive. But Jesus wasn’t talking about feeling love for ourselves. He was talking about the reality that underneath everything else, at the core of our being…even under self-loathing or self-destructive behavior…we are self-centered and want the best for ourselves.

Loving your neighbor means being concerned about other people…seeking the best for them, and helping them in their time of need. Is it absolutely wrong to feel self-love (to love yourself)? Not necessarily. It is not a precondition to loving your neighbor, but on the other hand it may be possible to say something such as, “I love myself because God created me and he loves me.” However, this can be a dangerous road to travel since it’s easy to focus more and more on ourselves. That’s why the Bible actually warns against self-love. But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy … (2 Timothy 3:1-2).

If loving yourself is not the answer to a negative self-image, feelings of inferiority, or sense of failure, what is? Is self-hate the opposite of self-love? No. That clearly is not God’s desire. The answer is to understand the depth of God’s love, mercy, forgiveness and grace. He demonstrated this love in the most powerful way possible when he sacrificed Jesus on the cross to die for our sins. When we comprehend God’s love, when we deeply know he loves us, we don’t need to focus on loving ourselves. The more we experience God’s forgiveness and love, the more we think of him and the less we think about ourselves. When we are excited and secure in his love for us, the less the idea of finding meaning through loving ourselves makes sense.

In the Bible, 1 John 4:7 says: “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God”. So, before you can love others (including yourself) you have to know God.

Alyson’s 16th Birthday Party

Harry Potter Themed Party

 for Alyson’s 16th Birthday [December 10, 2011]

________________________________________________

[The Invitation]

We didn’t get a guest list until a week before the party, so I typed up something really quick and sent out an email with this attachment. I also put it on Alyson’s wall and had her tag people that she wanted to invite. It worked out well for a last minute invitation.

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[The Party Decorations]

Sarah is the best co-party planner. We spent 2 hours brainstorming one evening (just a week before the party). And then a few days before the event, we spent 4 hours putting everything together. We then separated the remaining tasks between the both of us…and we managed to put it all together perfectly five hours before everyone showed up. It was magical. We grabbed things that we had around both our houses…purchased items from the thrift store…and borrowed a couple items to complete the decorations. If we didn’t have an item, we managed to re-create it with things we already owned. In our planning, we attempted to get the biggest bang for our buck. I think we made the best choices when it came to the decorations. It helps that we’ve done a few parties before…so we also know our strengths and weaknesses as individuals when it comes to party planning.

________________________________________________

[The Food]

 I think the food was my favorite thing to make. Somehow, we managed to make the perfect amount of food for everyone to enjoy throughout the evening. We are getting better and better at making the perfect amount of food.

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[The Guests]

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[The Games..."Guess the Harry Potter Movie Character"]

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[The Dinner and Tea Reading]

Sarah made an amazing dinner for everyone (“Mrs. Weasley’s Savory Stew”) to enjoy this evening. During the meal, we handed out cups of loose leaf tea to drink. While I cleared the tables for the games, ”Professor Trelawney” went around reading everyone’s tea leaves. She was highly accurate…just like the movie.

________________________________________________

[The Sorting Hat]

I made a “Sorting Hat” to look just like the one from the movie. We used it to sort people into different houses so we could do a “House Cup Tournament”. I think this was my favorite part of the evening…and everyone seemed entertained by the whole process.

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[The Games..."Harry Potter Movie Trivia"]

The night before the party, I scoured the internet to find a long list of Harry Potter trivia from all seven movies/books. I was really impressed that everyone guessed practically every question that I had about the Harry Potter movies. I thought they were really challenging…obviously not. The Slytherine team wins this round and adds rice to their house cup…

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[The Surprise Harry Potter Look-Alike Serves Butter Beer]

Sarah asked her friend, David, to show-up at Alyson’s birthday party as a surprise guest. I wish I would have had the camera in my hands when David walked out of the kitchen holding the “Butter Beer”. Her jaw dropped and she was pretty excited to see that Harry Potter was attending her party. I found a recipe for “Butter Beer” online. I don’t know about everyone else, but I really enjoyed it. We might make it more often in the Kangas household…

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[The Games..."Jenga Tournament"]

Harry Potter arrived just in time to join the Jenga Tournament. We played two rounds…and they were the most intense games of Jenga I’ve ever played.

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[The Birthday Song]

Alyson is not a big cake fan, so Jared graciously made her an apple pie. My grandma also made some tasty Baklava (it’s Alyson’s other favorite dessert). The party wouldn’t be complete unless Harry Potter sang Alyson a Happy Birthday, so we sent him out with the pie and candles to start the song for everyone to sing. Naomi wanted to sing the Birthday song all by herself…as a gift to Alyson.

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[The Games..."Sorting Hat Ring Toss"]

The funny thing with this game is Naomi was the closest to actually getting the ring on the Sorting Hat. It was pretty entertaining to watch everyone walk up to the line and act like it was super easy. It was harder than it looked. In the end, Gryffindor won the House Cup (totally by chance) and they took home their very own prizes with the Hogwarts Crest on the outside.

________________________________________________

[The Birthday Girl Opens Her Presents]

I couldn’t resist making Alyson a “Muggle” shirt for her birthday present this year. It was super easy to create, and I think it got the point across (and went with the theme).

________________________________________________

[The Party Planners]

An enormous thanks goes out to Sarah for being my co-planner. I couldn’t have done it without her. She is the yin to my yang…and she has the ability to get things done in a short amount of time with minimal stress. In the end, I think Alyson really enjoyed herself, and I’m sure she will have fond memories when she thinks back to her 16th Birthday Party. I know I had fun planning it…

Facebook Status Updates (December)

— Dana

And we’re wrapping up the year with very insightful thoughts…

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By Aaron Kangas

After a looooong travel time (thanks Delta!), I made it to Kentucky.
December 5, 2011 at 12:47pm

Tomorrow night, my band, Back In Time is playing at the Mulz Shed!
December 9, 2011 at 5:43am

Shortest day of the year – 8 hours, 25 minutes here in Spokane.
December 21, 2011 at 2:40pm

4 day vacation before a 3 day week. Nice.
December 23, 2011 at 10:43am

“He’s makin’ a list / and makin’ a list / then he’s compiling the first two into another list / Santa Claus is a compulsive list-maker”
December 23, 2011 at 11:41am

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By Dana Kangas

Here’s a great prayer from “The Uncluttered Heart” in yesterday’s reading: “Loving God, be patient with me when I stray from you, when I fail to turn to you during challenging times. Help me remember the simple things I can do to return from chaos to hope, peace, and serenity. For you are able to care for all that exists. Amen.”
December 1, 2011 at 6:25am

And the prayer from today: “God of comfort, wrap me securely in your nurturing arms. Let me be your voice, your heart, your loving touch to someone who needs a word of grace, a voice of hope, a loving hug during these sometimes difficult Advent days. Amen.”
December 1, 2011 at 6:28am

“No Shave November” has finally come to a close. Hooray!!!
December 1, 2011 at 7:29am

We’ve been elfed!!!
December 1, 2011 at 9:11pm

It’s the simple things in life that make me happy today…
1) Lots of friends and family coming in and out of my house today.
2) Decorating the outside of our house with Christmas lights and wreathes.
3) Celebrating Advent with my daughter and husband.
4) Treating Ben and Alyson to Krispy Kreme donuts.
5) Celebrating a new house with a friend.
6) Eating fancy cheeses (from Saunder’s Cheese Market), trying new wine and dinning on gourmet chocolates with the love of my life.
December 1, 2011 at 9:32pm

“We have hope not because we are powerful or smart or resourceful but because of who God is. And as we test our hope by acting on it, we release God’s power into our circumstances. Our ‘hope muscle’ grows stronger and our desire for God more compelling, just as exercising strengthens our physical muscles.” -Mary Lou Redding in “While We Wait”
December 2, 2011 at 6:28am

• “God of the universe, accept my tentative offerings of hope, and strengthen my practice of hope. Sharpen my vision so that I may see the signs of your goodness at work in the world. I am your partner in hope. Amen.” -The Uncluttered Heart December 2, 2011 at 6:29am

The live nativity was pretty sweet this evening…and so was the “Rice Crispy Treat” mangers that we made at home (and yes they were made complete with a little baby Jesus for everyone).
December 2, 2011 at 10:17pm

Disney on Ice was absolutely incredible this afternoon!!! It made me tear up a little. I have a lot of great memories as a kid watching the current Disney on Ice each year with my grandparents.
December 3, 2011 at 7:03pm

A good reminder that hope can open my heart…”God, open our hearts and the heart of the world to your transforming hope. Peel back the layers of our stubborn opinions, our fearful assumptions, and let the light of your life-giving spirit enter in. Amen.” -The Uncluttered Heart
December 3, 2011 at 8:02pm

I’m having too much fun this month to clean my house. Does anyone want to give me an early Christmas present and pay for a maid for December?
December 3, 2011 at 8:42pm

It has been a long time since I’ve been alone in my own home. Both Aaron and Naomi are gone on their own separate adventures. I can’t decide if I should clean this messy house, take a nap, or read for a while. Maybe I’ll do all three…
December 4, 2011 at 3:43pm

Dear Future Dana,
When you’re feeling really emotional, don’t go back to the calendar and count how many weeks you would have been pregnant at this point. You’ll thank me later for this friendly reminder.
Yours Truly,
Present Dana
December 4, 2011 at 9:03pm

Last week we went to the christmas tree farm, then out to Coeur d’Alene for the light display…we visited a live nativity (Journey to Bethlehem), watched Disney on Ice, played the drums at Mobius, played in the snow and went to see some real reindeer. Despite all the fun we had last week, I’m really looking forward to a mellow week this week.
December 5, 2011 at 11:43am

Here’s a joke for you this afternoon…I should go clean the house now!!! “One evening my dad returned home from work, walked into the kitchen and Said, teasing my mother, “You know, dear, I can write my name in the dust on the mantel.” Mom turned to him and sweetly replied, “Yes, darling, I know. That’s why I married a college graduate.”"
December 5, 2011 at 1:13pm

Dear Naomi,
I’m so happy you’re home. Mommy really missed you!!! On the other hand, I am not excited about the fact that you’ve been throwing up for the last 2 hours and have had a fantastic bout of diarrhea. I think you need to limit the amount of snow you’re eating this winter. It doesn’t seem to agree with you…
With Love,
Your Mother
December 5, 2011 at 5:15pm

Two reasons why I love Facebook…
1) I can video chat with my husband when he is on a business trip.
2) I have amazing friends that know what to do when my daughter is sick (thanks Bob and Diana)!!!
December 5, 2011 at 6:51pm

Trader Joe’s. Peppermint. Oreos. Changed my life.
December 6, 2011 at 3:53pm

What’s on my mind? I’m glad you asked, Facebook. I’m loving this week’s Advent topic of peace. “Peacemakers are those who see that the world and it’s people are broken but also hold a dream, a vision, that God can and does reach out to heal our world. And God does it through the acts of those who live by the values of this new kingdom where God’s will is being done.” -Mary Lou Redding
December 6, 2011 at 4:09pm

I think I should just get a uterus transplant. Mine is defective.
December 7, 2011 at 9:44pm

I feel like a bumbling idiot today. I keep saying the wrong things…not encouraging things…or my mind goes completely blank. Good times.
December 7, 2011 at 5:22pm

“Hope believes that God is not done.” -Sam Crabtree
December 8, 2011 at 7:37am

The colored rice we made last night smells so delicious. Now, I just need to convince Naomi that just because it smells like kool-aid doesn’t mean we need to eat fists full of raw rice.
December 8, 2011 at 9:57am

I seriously feel like a 50 year old woman.
December 8, 2011 at 10:54am

“Understand what you’re doing and why you’re doing it. Advent Conspiracy is not about anger, disgust, or guilt – it is about entering the story of Jesus more deeply with a desire to worship more fully. It is not enough to say no to the way Christmas is celebrated by many; we need to say yes to a different way of celebrating.” – www.AdventConspiracy.org
December 8, 2011 at 2:21pm

I’m not sure why women call hot flashes “power surges”. I just feel powerfully cranky.
December 8, 2011 at 9:17pm

I haven’t been to a chiropractor in over 2 years (I’ve been a little nervous since Georgia’s accident). I’m so glad I went in today. My migraine is gone and the numbness/tingling in my fingers have subsided. Hooray!!!
December 8, 2011 at 9:33pm

Who has two thumbs and is excited to see Aaron today? This girl!!!
December 9, 2011 at 10:33am

I think I underestimated the amount of sugar in my advent planning this year. It didn’t look like a lot on paper. Now that we’re half way through Advent, I’m a little sugared out.
December 9, 2011 at 2:47pm

I’m so excited for Alyson’s 16th Birthday party today…and I’m very thankful Sarah is co-planning the party with me!!!
December 10, 2011 at 12:13pm

I’m also excited to dance the night away at Aaron’s gig this evening (after Alyson’s birthday party). We know how to live it up at the Kangas household.
December 10, 2011 at 3:35pm

Naomi constantly brings us the Thesaurus and begs us to read it. I think she’s going to be a super genius.
December 11, 2011 at 12:58pm

Aaron and I decided that we would never go by ourselves to make gingerbread houses at The Davenport. I’m so glad Naomi lets us drag her around with us so we can have a good time.
December 11, 2011 at 4:26pm

“God, when I am joyless, help me stop, turn to you, and take actions of joy. Let me join with you in selfless joy. Amen.” – The Uncluttered Heart
December 13, 2011 at 7:08am

I know my 10th Anniversary is 6 months away, but I’m incredibly excited about our plans for a Hot Air Balloon adventure and wine tasting…only 190 days left!!!
December 13, 2011 at 9:41pm

My house smells like Christmas. S’more Cookie Bars and Mint Grinch Cookies are calling my name in the kitchen. I bet you can smell them through your computer if you try really hard.
December 13, 2011 at 11:09pm

A lovely meditation for today as we celebrate a week of joy during Advent…
Prayer: “Loving God, help me be the face of joy to someone who might be struggling today. If I am facing struggles of my own, gently guide my thoughts toward gratitude, that I may rejoice always in you. Amen.”
Carry These Words in Your Heart Today: “Replace my fear with gratitude.”
December 14, 2011 at 7:53am

Naomi: “I think daddy is stuck in the ground! We have to save him!”
(Aaron works from home…and his office is in the basement.)
December 14, 2011 at 11:31am

I’m so thankful for my husband. He knows just what I need when the doctors tell me, “I don’t know what’s going on with your body.” Hooray for “Elf” and ice cream/popcorn for dinner.
December 15, 2011 at 6:10pm

My daughter made it through an entire High School Band concert. It’s a Christmas miracle…
December 15, 2011 at 9:49pm

“When I have lost my way, God is. When I am found again, God is. When all around me is chaos, God is. When all around me is peace, God is. When I face tragedy, God is. When I face triumph, God is. Thank you, God. Amen.” – The Uncluttered Heart (I Believe In Love – BarlowGirl Video)
December 16, 2011 at 7:17am

If my cat pees on one more thing I will have to look into the cost of taxidermy.
December 16, 2011 at 11:18am

Glitter is the herpes of craft supplies.
December 17, 2011 at 3:35pm

There’s only one more week until Christmas. I’m both excited and sad to see the Advent season come to an end. Our family has had so much fun the last month. My favorite activities from the last week include…building gingerbread houses at The Davenport, creating fun/messy crafts with Naomi, hanging lights on the outside of our house, and going on a one horse open sleigh ride (well, it was more like a two horse enclosed carriage ride).
December 17, 2011 at 10:08pm

The ladies at The Porch really know how to bake delicious cookies.
December 18, 2011 at 9:43am

There’s nothing like a good ol’ fashion game of “Hide + Go Seek” and “Chase” for an hour to get the blood pumping…
December 18, 2011 at 1:52pm

Nothings says sexy like nausea, migraines and hot flashes.
December 18, 2011 at 8:18pm

I’m both sad and relieved that I’m not going to school right now. It’s really not a good time. I hope I can go back someday…
December 19, 2011 at 6:01am

“God, help me set aside my fear and my mistrust so that I can begin each interaction, each situation, in love. Amen.” – The Uncluttered Heart
December 19, 2011 at 7:17am

Fun facts about the Nativity Story that I researched today…
1.) Joseph found out Mary was pregnant in a dream. Unwilling to expose her to public disgrace (and possible stoning for being unfaithful), he married her in a quiet ceremony and didn’t have sex with her until after Jesus was born. This fulfills the prophesy that Mary would have a true virgin birth. (Matthew 1:18-25)
2.) The Bible doesn’t mention Mary riding on a donkey to Bethlehem…nor does it explain that they talked to an innkeeper (this is implied since there was no room at the inn). There wasn’t a barn (only a manger…which is just a food trough for animals) and it’s likely that Jesus was born in an underground cave without farm animal present.
3.) The shepherds witnessed baby Jesus when he was less than 24 hours old. And there wasn’t a drummer boy present in this group of shepherds.
4.) The number of wise men was never given in the Gospels. It’s been suggested that the number of wise men was assumed to be three because of the number of gifts they presented.
5.) By the time the wise men got to Jesus months had passed…maybe up to 2 years…but enough time had transpired because Jesus was living in a house (possibly with Joseph’s relatives since they were poor).
6.) The symbolism of the three gifts is striking. Gold was a gift for royalty and was given by the wise men to signify that Jesus was the King of Kings. This was also used to help Mary and Joseph escape to Egypt. Frankincense was an incense intimately connected with the priesthood and temple sacrifices, foreshadowing the fact that Jesus would serve as our High Priest and give Himself as the perfect sacrifice. And Myrrh has a much more sobering symbolism. When a person died, this perfuming agent was wrapped with the body to help cover up the stench of death. Jesus’ body would be wrapped with this costly perfume that would take a lifetime to save the money for the purchase of such an item.
7.) There is scientific evidence that there was a bright star in the sky when Jesus was born. However, the wise men didn’t know where Jesus was at. They had to go to Herod to find where Jesus was living. The star was not around for that long.
December 19, 2011 at 9:17am

• All this to say…for everyone that is so bent out of shape about the story of Santa Clause (when St. Nicholas was a real dude), remember that the story of Jesus’ birth has been embellished over the years. December 19, 2011 at 9:18am
• Also, most people don’t know that both Joseph and Mary were descendants of David. The purpose of the two lineage is that through Joseph, Jesus establishes His royal line…while through his mother (Mary) it establishes his blood line to the line of David. December 19, 2011 at 2:34pm

As of today, we are done with Baby Step 1 (again). We can skip Baby Step 2. Now, we are starting Baby Step 3 (again…same time last year).
December 19, 2011 at 10:53am

I really want to be a Hipster. But the very fact that I want to be one disqualifies me from joining the club. Shoot.
December 20, 2011 at 10:36am

Don’t worry everyone…Diego saves Christmas. I know you were worried.
December 20, 2011 at 12:11pm

What would any reasonable parents do while their darling daughter is away for the night? I’m glad you asked!!! Our date night last night consisted of things we can’t do with a 2 year old…
1) Eat at a restaurant (and we finished eating while our food was still hot).
2) Sit in our seats for the entire meal (without getting up for a thousand different reasons).
3) Enjoy each other’s company and have multiple conversations without interruption.
4) Drink lots of beer in a dirty bar.
5) Scream and run around the house in the middle of the night (because we can).
6) Play the piano and sing really loud
7) Watch SNL re-runs at midnight…in the toy room.
8) Eat mousse and not have to share it.
9) Sleep until 9:30am and finally start my day.
December 21, 2011 at 10:53am

“The best way to spread Christmas cheer is by singing loud for all to hear…”
December 21, 2011 at 10:00pm

I would like to take a moment and dedicate this week to my friend Black Cohosh. Without this little natural supplement in the morning, I wouldn’t have relief from these pesky hot flashes. Don’t change, Black Cohosh. Don’t change.
December 22, 2011 at 11:31am

“We have hope not because we are powerful or smart or resourceful but because of who God is. And as we test our hope by acting on it, we release God’s power into our circumstances. Our ‘hope muscle’ grows stronger and our desire for God more compelling, just as exercising strengthens our physical muscles.” – Mary Lou Redding “While We Wait”
December 23, 2011 at 12:01pm

Naomi wanted to dress herself today. The accessories were my favorite…and included a pink sparkle necklace, purple sunglasses, a pink pipe cleaner as a bracelet and a blue cup over her left hand.
December 23, 2011 at 1:19pm

“If tomorrow is Christmas Eve, then today is obviously Christmas Adam.” – Alyson on Christmas Eve Eve
December 24, 2011 at 4:53pm

I love it when people delight in my daughter.
December 24, 2011 at 8:34pm

I have this sudden urge to call people at midnight and wish them a Merry Christmas
December 24, 2011 at 11:41pm

Naomi: “Let’s trick daddy to come upstairs to play, and we will hoop him. Then I can wrap him with paper and he can be my Christmas present.”
December 25, 2011 at 12:21pm

I love it when my house is filled with people I love.
December 25, 2011 at 5:20pm

Naomi is slowly slipping into a sugar coma, and I think the parental units will do the same. It’s time to finally recuperate from all the Christmas festivities before heading to The Schafer’s for our annual evening mini-reunion.
December 26, 2011 at 2:39pm

I think I need to fast for the rest of the year. So many days in a row of tasty food and sweet treats with TONS of people!!!
December 26, 2011 at 2:57pm

I’m excited about spending the next few days praying about my word for 2012. This year’s word was “rest”. I learned a lot about rest and what it means in my life.
December 27, 2011 at 6:45am

I’m so glad we went sledding and snowmobiling yesterday before the rain ruined all the snow.
December 28, 2011 at 9:02am

I’m pretty sure the mailman sees me naked at least twice a week…
December 28, 2011 at 10:09am

A place for everything, and everything in its place.
December 29, 2011 at 3:39pm

Me: “What is your favorite color for kitties?”
Naomi: “PINK!!!”
Me: “I don’t think they come in pink. How about a different color?”
Naomi: “How about green…so I can name it leafy?”
December 30, 2011 at 7:56am

I love working from home.
December 30, 2011 at 10:08am

You know you’re a parent when…you go to make the bed and you find kid’s toys. Then you realize that they have been there all night and you vaguely remember feeling uncomfortable at times in your sleep. The toys would explain it.
December 30, 2011 at 11:50am

I wish I was a millionaire…so I could pass out money to so many hurting people I know…
December 31, 2011 at 10:34am

What a year for a new year…
December 31, 2011 at 11:02am

I wish everyday was like today…which includes (but is not limited to): sleeping in, an afternoon walk with my two favorite people, 50% off sale at the used book store, coffee at The Rocket, cupcakes at Celebrations, Aaron’s handcrafted soup/sandwich for lunch, movie during Naomi’s nap time…
December 31, 2011 at 2:48pm

If You Give a Mom a Muffin (repost)

“If you give a mom a muffin, she’ll want a cup of coffee to go with it. She’ll pour herself some. Her three-year-old will spill the coffee. She’ll wipe it up. Wiping the floor, she will find dirty socks. She’ll remember she has to do laundry. When she puts the laundry in the washer, she’ll trip over boots and bump into the freezer. Bumping into the freezer will remind her she has to plan supper. She will get out a pound of hamburger. She’ll look for her cookbook. (101 Things To Make With A Pound Of Hamburger.) The cookbook is sitting under a pile of mail. She will see the phone bill, which is due tomorrow. She will look for her checkbook. The checkbook is in her purse that is being dumped out by her two-year-old. She’ll smell something funny. She’ll change the two-year-old. While she is changing the two-year-old the phone will ring. Her five-year-old will answer and hang up. She’ll remember that she wants to phone a friend to come for coffee. Thinking of coffee will remind her that she was going to have a cup. She will pour herself some. And chances are, if she has a cup of coffee, her kids will have eaten the muffin that went with it.” by Kathy Fictorie

52home: Week 50

Aaron was gone on a business trip this week. I wasn’t feeling well…and I’m really surprised I actually finished as many activities as I had planned. I know Naomi appreciated it…

Advent Day 7: Ice Skating
Saturday 12/3/2011 • 11:33am

1. Books

This story didn’t tickle my fancy (apparently, I’m not a big fan of the Angelina series). It talked about bullies instead of ice skating. RATING: ◊

I would totally buy this one. It was a cute story about a family of ducks that get all dressed to go skating. Naomi really enjoyed it as well. RATING: ◊◊◊◊

2. Movie

I can’t believe how much I paid for this VHS movie on eBay. It is out of print and I wanted it REALLY bad. I hope it quickly becomes a family favorite…but not enough to watch it everyday and break the VHS. I need this thing to last a lifetime!!! RATING: ◊◊◊◊◊

3. Activity: Make a tutu from scratch

This was my first attempt at making a “no-sew” tutu. However, I don’t think it will withstand the test of time. I’m sure Naomi will wear it everyday (since she’s at a great age for tutu wearing), so it will only last a few months. I had a lot of fun using Naomi as my model while I tied the tule to the elastic band.

4. Treat: Shaved ice

I had no idea where I was going to find the “shaved ice” treat for today. Thankfully, they were selling it at the Arena during the Disney on Ice show. Naomi was excited to get a Jessie cup to add to her collection.

5. Field Trip: Disney on Ice (Toy Story 3)

For my birthday this year, my mom bought tickets to see “Disney on Ice”. Words cannot express how much fun I had!!! I have great memories, throughout my childhood, of attending the various “Disney on Ice” shows with my grandpa. Every once in a while, I would feel so overwhelmed with happiness that tears will well up in my eyes. I’m sure Naomi and my mom had an equally enjoyable time. I hope to make it an annual tradition so Naomi can have great childhood memories as well.

Advent Day 8: Snowman
Sunday 12/4/2011 • 9:06am

1. Books

This is a sweet, little picture book that tell a magical story of a snowman and the little boy who built him. It was arranged more like a comic book without words, so Naomi wasn’t too interested in sitting through this one. I thought it was entertaining. RATING: ◊◊◊

I seriously love Eric Carle. His pancake book is top notch. We kept this book for more than one Advent day and made sure to put it on our “to buy” list. RATING: ◊◊◊◊◊

2. Movie

When Naomi was younger, she loved to sit and watch this movie. It has no words (since it is the animated version of the book) and has a great little musical score related to the story. Now that my daughter is a little older, she likes having it play in the background while she does something else. I think this one is a keeper…even if it’s a little boring for toddlers. RATING: ◊◊◊

3. Activity: Make a snowman at “Big Rock”

4. Treat: Snowman pancakes

Advent Day 9: Nutcracker
Monday 12/5/2011 • 10:12am

1. Book

I didn’t think this was going to be an extremely wordy book. We just looked at the pictures and I paraphrased the story. I don’t think I’ll get this one again anytime soon. (On a side note…why is there so many lame children’s books???) RATING: ◊◊

2. Movie

We watched this movie every Christmas while I was growing up. It’s not the most riveting story, but I think I have more nostalgic feelings than anything else. I started watching it with Naomi and quickly realized that she would be bored with the storyline. Maybe I’ll subject her to this classic when she’s a little older. RATING: ◊◊◊

3. Activity: Coloring page with nutcracker stickers

4. Treat: Crack whole mixed nuts

Advent Day 10: St. Nicholas Day
[ONE] Tuesday 12/6/2011 • 2:47pm

1. Book

A nice little book about Santa Clause and how the birth of Christ is his favorite story. I don’t think I’ll purchase this one. However, it was worth getting at the library. I’ll probably get it again next year. RATING: ◊◊◊

This was your traditional “Twas the Night Before Christmas” story with beautiful illustrations. RATING: ◊◊◊

2. Movie

I love VeggieTales…and I think they did a great job reconciling the idea of St. Nicholas and Christ by honoring the “spirit of joyful giving”. RATING: ◊◊◊◊

3. Activity: Make Santa and his beard

I felt inspired to do some sort of a Santa craft. So, I picked something easy and mess free. I cut out a picture of Santa’s face and Naomi glued cotton balls to make a beard. It was fun watching her play with glue and add little puffs of white. While she was doing this activity, Naomi kept saying Santa’s beard was getting bigger and bigger everyday.

4. Treat: Gold coins in Naomi’s shoe

I’m still on the fence about Santa Claus and how to find a balance between imagination and truth. So. we talked with Naomi about the fact that Santa was a real man that worshipped Christ…and that giving gifts was a way to love his neighbor and help the poor. I think celebrating St. Nicholas Day gave me an opportunity to talk to her about the story in a way that honors Christ. She knows that Santa is not alive anymore and that everyone is just pretending when they dress-up to look like Santa. I also had to explain to her that Jesus is alive but not on earth right now (because she kept seeing Nativity scenes and telling people that she saw baby Jesus). To celebrate the day today, I put gold coins in her shoe…just like St. Nicholas did for the poor children.

5. Field Trip: Coins in a Salvation Army bucket (only if he looks like Santa)

Adventures with Oma + Opa
[TWO] Tuesday 12/6/2011 • 12:29pm

My parents graciously spent the night last night…and it couldn’t have come at a better time!!! For whatever reason, Naomi decided to throw-up for hours upon hours, and it was nice to have the extra hands to help her through the short-lived sickness. This was also the first time she successfully made it into a bucket or toile (and it really made for quick and easy clean-up). Naomi seemed well enough the next morning to go out for some Monday fun…so we went to Cabella’s (where I finally found a pair of snow boots), Krispy Kreme and Trader Joe’s. I couldn’t ask for a better afternoon to help pass the time while Aaron was out of town.

Party Planning with My Favorite Co-Planner
[THREE] Tuesday 12/6/2011 • 7:58pm

I love planning parties with Sarah. We make such a great team when it comes to the brainstorming, purchasing power and implementation of a party. We had an evening free to work on a few projects together…and then set off to finish the remaining projects by ourselves. It’s going to be an amazing “Harry Potter” theme party for Alyson’s 16th Birthday. I can just feel it…

A New Messy Activity: Coloring Rice
[ONE] Wednesday 12/7/2011 • 9:14am

I needed to color rice today…so we would have it for the “Tri-Wizard Tournament” at Alyson’s birthday party. Using my favorite website (pinterest), I found a great recipe using kool-aid and white rice. It smelled delicious in my house!!! Naomi loved playing with the left over rice, and I tried to maintain my cool while she messed up my dining room. Looking back, this was a great messy project…and I took a picture of my floor to prove it (CaSandra would be so proud of me).

Advent Day 11: Stockings
[TWO] Wednesday 12/7/2011 • 1:45pm

1. Books

I found this book because it mentioned stockings on one page, and I was having a hard time finding a “stocking” themed book. However, Ithink I’ll purchase this Christmas story for my at home collection. The two kittens were adorable and the text was easy to read. I think Naomi could read it to me in the coming years. RATING: ◊◊◊◊◊

I love this Christmas classic!!! We read the book before watching the movie, and Naomi enjoyed following the story in the book while the movie progressed. RATING: ◊◊◊◊◊

2. Movie

We tried to watch this movie last year and she was really scared by the Grinch. It took some persuading to get her to try it again this year. When the movie was over, she immediately asked to watch it again. I think we will try the Jim Carrey version next year to see how she does with that movie. RATING: ◊◊◊◊◊

3. Activity: Hang stockings in the house

I should explain that Naomi is not in trouble…she is finally tired of the constant picture taking this year. Perhaps I will give her a break in the coming year.

4. Treat: Make Grinch Cookies

This was one of the easiest, most successful treats we’ve made all year. These minty green cookies were a little sticky when it came to forming the balls, but other than that they were delicious and made for a great Christmas presentation on our treat plate. http://www.flickr.com/photos/bettycrockerrecipes/4595758178/

5. Field Trip: Deliver Christmas Cards

Advent Day 12: Star/Jesus
Thursday 12/8/2011 • 8:31am

1. Books

 The rhymes seemed awkward, it wasn’t really the story of the birth of Jesus, so much as the story of a random couple who had “lost their way” and ended up sleeping in a barn that night. And there isn’t so much of an actual story to it at all. It was more like random kind of rhyming lines about the sounds that the animals make and everyone being together, safe and warm in the “ancient barn”…with absolutley NO explanation of who these people were or what they were doing there, and bits of various old Christmas carols thrown in. It just wasn’t the cut-and-dry for kids version of the nativity story that I was looking for. RATING: ◊◊

The author took some artistic liberties with the traditional story of the nativity, but I think it was executed well. The theme was basically God calls different people to different purposes. The shepherds where telling people about the birth of Christ as they followed the star. They asked people to come with them, but each person served a different purpose in preparing the way for Christ (each doing a different job that related to the life and death of Christ). It was very moving to read and I think I will add this one to my collection. RATING: ◊◊◊◊◊

2. Movie

I’m beginning to realize that the nativity story is a little scary for toddlers, so I decided to preview this one on my own. It was told from the perspective of an old donkey and the animation/script is less than desirable. It seems to be more focused on King Herod and his jealousy than on Jesus himself. I might save this for when my kids are over the age of 10 and can understand the reality of the nativity story in more depth. RATING: ◊◊

3. Activity: Make a star wand

I wasn’t feeling well today, so most of my plans didn’t happen. I was going to do this activity: http://www.freepreschoolcrafts.com/make-a-fairy-wand-or-magic-star-wand/

Advent Day 13: Snowflakes
Friday 12/9/2011 • 2:00pm

1. Books

This is a fun, vocabulary rich tale about the adventures of building snow forts, snowball fights, snow plows…and all the wonderful things you can do in the snow.
RATING: ◊◊◊◊◊

I wasn’t too impressed with this book. I’m usually a Mercer Meyer fan, but this story was less than desirable. There was a lot of attitudes and family dynamics that I don’t want to reinforce with my daughter. RATING: ◊

2. Movie

I would watch Kipper all day if Naomi would let me. He is this cute British dog animated in really simple graphics. I always feel calm while I’m watching it (compared to feeling agitated like some of the cartoons out there). This was a great collection of shows that related to Christmas and the show. We actually watch it all year long. RATING: ◊◊◊◊◊

3. Activity: Make snowflakes with doilies

4. Treat: Marshmallow snowman

5. Field Trip: Christmas activities with Oma + Opa

Aaron flew into town this evening, so my parents took Naomi out on the town. I’m not sure what they do for their annual Christmas activities together, but I know it includes going to the Mall and driving around while looking at Christmas lights.

Kangas Quotes (November/December)

— Dana

It’s been awhile since I’ve posted our favorite Kangas Quotes…

__________________________________

Aaron: “That fart was like a question. It went up at the end.”

__________________________________

Aaron: “When we were camping the bees kept swarming me.”
Dana: “Do you know why?” 
Aaron: “It was probably my sweet disposition.” 

__________________________________

Dana: “I really need a binder before school starts. So, I went to Walmart and all they had left were puppies, kitties, Barbie and rainbow binders. I really wanted something more professional.”
Aaron: “So you went with the puppies then?”

__________________________________

Naomi: “Little “e’s” are my favorite…”

__________________________________

Aaron: “Cooking is like science for hungry people.”

__________________________________

Naomi: “Let’s trick daddy to come upstairs to play, and we will hoop him. Then I can wrap him with paper and he can be my Christmas present.”

__________________________________

(While talking into a toy microphone…)
Naomi: “Ladies and Gentlemen…may I introduce my amazing mommy.” 

52home: Week 49 (Part 2)

The last blog post was growing by the minute. Let’s start this one at the beginning of the month…Happy December!!!

Advent Day 5: Wreathes
[ONE] Thursday 12/1/2011 • 12:22pm

1. Book

This book was a little strange. It sort of grew on me the more I read it. It’s about a poor polar bear that got a wreath caught on his neck. As he went in and out of the water, trying disparately to get the wreath off, more layers of ice and sea creatures fused to the wreath. Eventually, the wreath came off as the polar bear rubbed against Santa’s front door. I’m not sure if I would get it from the library again. RATING: ◊◊

2. Movie

I.Love. The. Muppets. I found this Christmas video at a local thrift store, and it was better than I expected. It was mostly a video montage of different Christmas songs. After watching this movie, I could hear my daughter singing more Christmas songs around the house (and some of them were in the different Muppet voices). RATING: ◊◊◊◊

3. Activity: Make tissue paper wreathes

I had the biggest “proud mommy” moment when we made these tissue paper wreathes. Naomi cut the paper, glued them down, and put stickers on the wreath…all by herself. Who said she can grow-up and become a big kid?

4. Treat: Green gummy ring “wreathes”

5: Field Trip: Decorate the house with wreathes

Sarah and I made four wreathes for my house (six years ago) when they lived with us. They are my favorite Christmas decoration. I love taking them out of the box each winter and hanging them on the pillars on our front porch. This year, as a special treat, Aaron put our red/white outdoor Christmas lights on our house this year. They make me so happy!!! I absolutely love driving up to our house and seeing it all lit up during the Holidays. It’s really the simple things in life that I love during this time of year…

Pre-Christmas Haircuts
[TWO] Thursday 12/1/2011 • 3:41pm

A Surprise Trip to Krispy Kreme
[THREE] Thursday 12/1/2011 • 6:17pm

Cuddles with Liam
[ONE] Friday 12/2/2011 • 11:38am

Advent Day 6: Nativity
[TWO] Friday 12/2/2011 • 8:03pm

1. Books

The illustrations in this book were absolutely breathtaking. They used the story of Jesus’ birth directly from the Bible as the text for this book. However, the version used (King James version) would have been better if it was more “kid friendly”. Although, my daughter really enjoyed the pictures and didn’t seem to mind the old language of the KJV. It just made it hard to read out loud. RATING: ◊◊◊◊

This was the sweetest little book. From all the nativity type books that I’ve read, I think this one is my favorite. I just wanted to cuddle with my daughter while reading it. I will definitely add this to my collection. RATING: ◊◊◊◊◊

2. Movie

This was a neat show that had claymation and cartoon mixed throughout the movie. Naomi was tired of hearing about baby Jesus all the time, so she started reminding me that “Jesus grew-up, my mom.” So, I found this video on Netflix about Jesus as an adult. Christian movies tend to be really cheesy, but I really enjoyed this one. The story of Christ as an adult is a little overwhelming for kids, so I would recommend it for 4 and over. It might be one that should buy and add to my collection…in the near future. RATING: ◊◊◊◊

3. Activity: Nativity Pre-school Pack + Veggie Tales Nativity Set

I was going to work on this pre-school pack with Naomi, but I ran out of time this week. I’m looking forward to trying it next year. Download the Free Nativity Pre-school Pack.

4. Treat: Manger Rice Crispy Treats with baby Jesus

This was one of the most ridiculous, hilarious and tasty activities I’ve planned for the entire Advent season. Everyone enjoyed a little rice crispy after our field trip to the life nativity. The baby Jesus was also fun to have around…and a lot of inside jokes were made this evening.

5. Field Trip: “Journey to Bethlehem” live nativity

I was busy holding Naomi during the entire nativity walk through, so I didn’t get to take as many pictures as I would have liked. This was THE best living nativity I’ve ever witnessed (it was my first living nativity, but I can tell you I think you’re wasting your time if you go to any other display). I know I already want to go next year if they are still hosting it. Since this was their 7th year, I’m sure it will be back. “Journey to Bethlehem” was an interactive dramatic re-creation of 1st century Bethlehem. You are guided through a winding path that goes through the events leading up to Christ’s birth. It was well organized and entertaining for all ages.

52home: Week 49 (Part 1)

Let the Advent celebrations begin…

It Feels Like A Kalico Kitchen Morning
[ONE] Saturday 11/26/2011 • 10:12am

The Advent Calendar is Finally Complete!!!
[TWO] Saturday 11/26/2011 • 8:59am

I was in charge of the Advent planning for this year. So, I bought a plastic shoe rack to hold all 28 days worth of activities. I then printed 2″ circles with numbers for each day and glued them to a paper rectangle (which are just cut paper bags and then crumpled for texture). I found a snowflake cookie cutter…and I then used it to add white paint for extra “bling” behind the paper numbers. We bought “mystery” candy from the Russian store (so we have no idea what we’re eating) and I placed three wrapped candies in each pocket. I also found an ornament in our Christmas box to coordinate with each day. Naomi is really excited to hang one decoration on the tree every morning!!! For each day, I picked a theme to build on and will try to document the theme as the days go on. I’m really excited to celebrate Advent this year…and prepare my heart and mind for the celebration of Christ’s birth. Aaron and I are also reading “The Uncluttered Heart” in the wee hours of the morning. I can’t wait until Naomi is older…and she can participate in our morning devotional discussions. I’m also hoping to add the lighting of the Advent candle in the coming years.

Advent Day 1: Trees
[ONE] Sunday 11/27/2011 • 12:08pm

1. Books

This book was a little boring for Naomi to listen to…and a little lame to read out loud. I think it was due to the fact that this book was a memoir about a little girl who was raised on a tree farm instead of a story about a tree farm. RATING: ◊

We absolutely love this book!!! I cannot count how many times we read this book all week. Since we received this book from the library, I think we will go ahead and purchase this one for future Christmas celebrations. We also started a new tradition of cutting off the top of a real Christmas tree (just like the story) so Naomi can decorate it all by herself. RATING: ◊◊◊◊◊

2. Movie

A must own Christmas classic!!! I can’t count how many times Naomi asked to watch this movie. I think she really enjoyed it. RATING: ◊◊◊◊◊

3. Activity: Set-up Christmas Tree

4. Treat: Decorate sugar cone trees

5. Field Trip: Camden Tree Ranch

Advent Dinner at The Porch
[TWO] Sunday 11/27/2011 • 5:44pm

On the first Sunday of Advent, we merged with another church (Kaleo) for the evening. Everyone crammed in to The Porch for an evening of tasty Haitian cuisine and a viewing of a short film by “Piti Piti”. This video shared a little bit about this non-profit and how everyone can join their efforts in Haiti. Our Pastor (Dave Wilkinson) plays a major role in the “Piti Piti” non-profit. It’s neat to see what he is working on outside of being a pastor on Sunday evenings. It’s like he has a real life or something…

Advent Day 2: Stars
Monday 11/28/2011 • 6:31pm

1. Books

We really liked the silver foiled star found throughout the book. It really sparked as we turned the pages. However, I’m not so sure about the story. I don’t think I would buy this book, but I might get it from the library again. RATING: ◊◊◊

This book had some really big words in it. I think it would have been more interesting for a five or six year old. Again, this book is not one that I would recommend, but it was worth borrowing from the library. RATING: ◊◊◊

2. Movie

This wasn’t as entertaining as some of the other VeggieTales movies, but it’s definitely worth sitting through during the Christmas season. RATING: ◊◊◊

3. Activity: Star on the Christmas tree

4. Treat: Make star shaped sugar cookies

Believe it or not, this was the FIRST time Aaron and I have ever made sugar cookies (we had no idea what we were doing). It was so much fun…and Naomi was a little too excited about frosting and sprinkles.

5: Field Trip: Star gazing in the back yard + Thai Bamboo for dinner

After grabbing a pile of blankets, we went out on the back porch to gaze at the stars for 30 minutes. It was a little chilly outside but we somehow managed to stick it out and talk about the star that the shepherds followed to find baby Jesus!!! Afterwards, we decided to go to “Thai Bamboo” to gaze at the amazing star ceiling. It was nice to warm up with a pot of tea and a steamy bowl of Pad Thai noodles.

Fancy Afternoon Tea
[ONE] Tuesday 11/29/2011 • 11:23am

I decided to take Sarah to “Taste & See Tea” for her birthday this year. It was absolutely amazing…and completely girly. They presented us with a tasty five course meal (I didn’t get a chance to take a picture of the Tomato Soup because I enjoyed every bite before I could grab my camera). We were also offered as many pots of tea we could drink from their extensive selection. When all was said and done, I think we had over TEN pots of tea in a three hour period. When it comes to friends, Sarah is the cream of the crop. I’m so thankful we were able to visit for her birthday this year…and make some new memories.

Advent Day 3: Lights
[TWO] Tuesday 11/29/2011 • 4:55pm

1. Book

Naomi loves the “I Spy” books, but for some reason this one didn’t tickle her fancy (whatever a “fancy” is…I don’t know). Maybe she’ll enjoy it as she gets older (when she can follow along with the riddles). I picked this book because it had a page with Christmas lights. Currently, I’m on the hunt for a good Christmas book that features lights as the main part of the story. RATING: ◊◊◊

2. Movies

I don’t know if I laugh at many Christmas movies, but this one definitely takes the cake. I could watch this one everyday if Aaron would be okay with it. However, due to some adult humor, I wouldn’t recommend this movie for kids under 12 years old. RATING: ◊◊◊◊◊

Since I couldn’t find a decent “child friendly” Christmas movie that had a scene with lights…we watched youtube.com videos of different houses that had crazy lights synced to music.

3. Activity: Put lights on the Christmas tree

4. Treat: Hot buttered rum + hot chocolate

I didn’t have a good “light” themed treat, so we just went for a warm beverage while we looked at lights.

5: Field Trip: Holiday light display on Lake Coeur d’Alene

Advent Day 4: Drums
[ONE] Wednesday 11/30/2011 • 1:16pm

1. Books

An interesting little book that uses “The Little Drummer Boy” song lyrics as the text and incorporates beautiful imagery on every page. RATING: ◊◊◊

This book had nothing to do with Christmas, but it was a fun “extra” book to read during Advent. It was just a story about a city full of people drumming…and it all started with one boy drumming through the streets. I wanted to use this book to get Naomi excited about the theme for the day. RATING: ◊◊◊◊

2. Movie

I forgot how much I like “The Little Drummer Boy” Christmas classic. It was an entertaining movie for everyone in our family. RATING: ◊◊◊◊

3. Activity: Play the drums to “The Little Drummer Boy” song

4. Treat: Make drums from Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups + Pretzel sticks

(Sorry…I don’t have a picture for this one.)

5: Field Trip: Mobius Children’s Museum (play the drums)

I didn’t get any pictures of the three of us playing the drums at Mobius. But rest assured…we entertained the masses with our mad drum playing skills.

Vacation Fun in Downtown Spokane
[TWO] Wednesday 11/30/2011 • 2:07pm

Aaron had a week vacation after Thanksgiving…and today was the last day to hang out as a family. We had a great staycation together!!!

52home: Week 48

A wonderful week filled with much gratitude…

Naomi's New Obsession: Plastic Toy Plates
Saturday 11/19/2011 • 9:39am

Dinner for TEN, Coming Right Up!!!
Sunday 11/20/2011 • 7:15pm

Evening Home Repairs (Courtesy of the Bearded Lance)
Monday 11/21/2011 • 8:43pm

Our water heater decided to act up a bit this week, so Lance graciously offered to make sure there wasn’t any damage beyond new thermostats and elements. We can’t thank him enough for all his help…and dinner doesn’t seem adequate enough to repay him for his electrical expertise!!! For a little side note, as I was uploading these pictures, Naomi said…”Look!!! Nate has a smile and I have cheese.” I can only assume that means she has her “cheese” face on.

Enjoying the last few days of our Mobius Membership...
Tuesday 11/22/2011 • 12:21pm

Cupcake Date (Happy Birthday, Sarah)
Wednesday 11/23/2011 • 11:52am

Another Blessed Orphan Thanksgiving
Thursday 11/24/2011 • 4:38pm

This marks the 7th “Orphan Thanksgiving” we’ve arranged. Our friends (Robbin + Ginny) graciously offered to host Thanksgiving this year. I think this was officially the largest Thanksgiving dinner we’ve ever attended. We counted over 35 people eating dinner together. What a blessed evening…

Family Library Time
Friday 11/25/2011 • 1:07pm

52home: Week 47

I had numerous appointments this week. Somehow, I managed to squeeze in a little fun, too.

Happiness is...a girl in her pajamas in the snow!!!
[ONE] Saturday 11/12/2011 • 7:46am

Evidence of Ben Activity
[TWO] Saturday 11/12/2011 • 3:28pm

Ben spent the night last night and it’s always fun to have him around. I also always have a keen awareness when he’s here…because there’s a lot more “boy activity” around the house. Things like action figures, legos and board games are found resting on all the horizontal spaces.

Impromptu Tea Party
Sunday 11/13/2011 • 12:51pm

We stopped by my grandma’s house for a quick visit this afternoon. She had a little tea party all set-up for us to enjoy. I just decided I need to have more impromptu tea parties.

What Naomi Does When I'm Doing the Dishes
Monday 11/14/2011 • 11:10am

I was doing the dishes in the kitchen when I realized Naomi had been really quiet for a while…and that made me nervous. I was pleasantly surprised to find that she had been going upstairs to retrieve some of her favorite items to play with in the living room. I love this little girl. She is so precious.

Movie Time with My Favorite Smurf
Tuesday 11/15/2011 • 5:32pm

Shaelyn and I share a long history of watching “The Smurfs” TV show. So, it seemed appropriate to have a girls night and take her to the movie theater when the full length feature film came out at The Garland. When I think about it…I can’t believe Shaelyn is already 10 years old. It seems like other people’s kids grow-up so fast. I’ve know her since she was born…and I’m looking forward to watching her mature over the next 10 years. We will probably watch “The Smurfs” together when she’s 20 years old…

Cupcakes and Coffee with Courtney
Wednesday 11/16/2011 • 10:09am

Every once in a while, Courtney and I find time to hang out. It’s always a blessing to hear about her photography business and how it’s growing every month. And what better way to share life with a friend than over cupcakes and coffee? (I should note that Naomi took the picture of Courtney and I. It’s pretty good for a 2 year old photographer!!!)

Elevator Fun
Thursday 11/17/2011 • 1:45pm

A Snow Day
Friday 11/18/2011 • 2:23pm