Do Not Ask "What's for supper?"

Perhaps me not knowing it, the meals were quite rough.
Perhaps me not knowing it, they'd had quite enough
Of all these creations so weird and so strange.
Things I'd concocted on our far too hot range.
Or perhaps for science they came to the table
To dissect and test my "spoongoozits" and "snables".
More likely they were left starving from last nights
kerflop;
The orange and green mixture that bounced out of the pot.
"Please feed us some sustenance..." with their eyes they come pleading.
"We are your family you are supposed to be feeding!"
"Give us some water and bread and some carrots, we don't want dishes that look like nests of large ferrets!"
So what should I do but return to my cooking. (I'll slip in some sprouted grain when they're not looking.)
Oh they'll eat the fermented cabbage and greens--I'll bake them in cakes and grind in to ice-cream.
I have all these schemes but what should I say when my youngest inquires "Can I help you today?"
I'd love her to help but don't want her to see
All the things that I add, she's likely to flee.
What should I do, I can't turn her away.
I mustn't divulge my secrets, nay nay!
What should I tell her? What should I do?
What would you do if your daughter asked you....

"What's for supper mom?"

Family Pictures

Our tribe attempted family photos here at home yesterday...some of which turned out kinda cute...too bad little missy looks less than impressed with the whole sled idea. Next year we'll plan to have a friend help snap a few shots rather than doing the whole set-the-timer-and-run like mad thing. As you can see, we strategically wore co-ordinating outfits (sort of). Which I'm not sure just why that was such a HUGE battle with our middle child and somewhat our eldest. Though we are going thru a very independent to the extreme stage right now. (Urgggh!) Husband was less than excited to have the camera thrust in his personal space. And wee Becca thought going outside without a jacket on was just bad, bad, bad. So after a day of pleading, coercing, and begging a small handful of people I dearly love to please sit for a photo, I got my wish, even a few smiles and now kids who keep asking "Can we do a few more?" Always and adventure....

Why Sauerkraut?!

Sauerkraut

1 medium cabbage, cored and shredded
1 Tbsp. caraway seeds
1Tbsp. sea salt
4 Tbsp. Whey (if not available, use an addition Tbsp. salt)

In a bowl, mix cabbage with caraway seeds, sea salt and whey. Pound with a wooden pounder or a meat hammer for about 10 minutes to release juices. Place in a quart sized, wide mouthed mason jar and press down firmly with a pounder or meat hammer until juices come to the top of the cabbage. The top of the cabbage should be at least1 inch below the top of the jar. Cover tightly and keep at room temperature for about 3 days before transferring to cold storage. The sauerkraut may be eaten immediately, but improves with age. *

Now, you may be wondering, much as my husband was, why sauerkraut?! Truth be told, my mother in law brought us a HUGE cabbage a while back, I had a recipe and badly needed the space in my fridge where the "big brain" (what my kids called it) lived. After a bit of research into fermented vegetables, here's why I chose this recipe:

"The proliferation of lactobacilli in fermented vegetables enhances their digestibility and increases vitamin levels. These beneficial organisms produce numerous helpful enzymes as well as antibiotic and anti carcinogenic substances. Their main by-product, lactic acid, not only keeps vegetables and fruits in a state of perfect preservation but also promotes the growth of healthy flora throughout the intestine. " *

In short, eat it...it's good for you! (And it actually tastes good, as a side dish, not a meal or by the bowl full. But it is quite tasty!)

* - Recipe and excerpt taken from Nourishing Traditions by Sally Fallon.

Things I have learned lately...

1. Oregano essential oil, though tasty when added to your favorite pasta dish, is not a good companion for honey sweetened raspberry tea. (Oh the things we try when fighting a cold.)

2. Although two two year olds who usually fight and bicker about "who had it first" can appear to be mortal enemies, they still love each other like best friends. Quote from Becca:" Mommy, I just love my Logan..."

3. One should follow that inclination to accomplish a given task, instead of say, watching a movie, so that you don't have to take the trampoline down in the snow and cold...

4. That if you leave a heap of laundry long enough, it will not walk away, but rather wait patiently for you. (Can you guess what I'm doing today while the little ones are napping?!)

That's all for now, but I'm bound to learn something else along the way on this journey. I'll (try to) keep you posted.

HEY! CHECK THIS OUT, IT'S REALLY NEAT!!!

So, ya know how when time allows, you steal a chance to check out other people's blog lists. Well I did that very thing yesterday evening and stumble across this very amazing blog. If you are at all interested in living a life respectful of the earth, generating a sustainable income on as little as 2.5 acres of land (anywhere) or just looking to be healthier, you should check it out. Going green may not be as hard as one might think! Being self sufficient can be a reality.

These are my brain things today...

Ever feel ill equipped for a job you think God is calling you to do? Such is my brain dilemma presently...

Upon moving here to this small town one year ago, my family and I began attending a small evangelical church with a very small numbered congregation. We were prompted by the Lord to "not despise small beginnings." And so we stayed. The people there are very busy but friendly. The leadership is great but in desperate need of some help operating some of the ministries facilitated thru the church. I signed up to help out with the weekly kids club since my two oldest would be attending anyway. My "gift of the gab" was put to test as I lead (and continue to lead) the devotionals each week. Some from a formatted lesson, others as the Spirit leads. Commitment #1.

Last spring the youth of the church asked, pleaded, begged and grovelled for their own Sunday School as they'd been sitting thru service nodding off and gaining nil. Our over worked and over ministried pastor couple asked if I would come on board with teaching on Sundays. With fear and trembling I said I'd pray about it. (Note: I'm not afraid of teenagers, most of them I'd worked with at kids club, but the spiritual leader of our next generations voters thing seemed tricky to me...) So I prayed. They did too I'm sure. I now teach teen Sunday School every other Sunday. Commitment #2

I've grown to love the bunch that show up on Sundays and I do count it a privilege to point them to Christ. I've learned so much! There seems to be a bit of a repore between us, perhaps because I'm not one of their parents and I'm younger than almost 40. Perhaps it's God's favor. I say all this because it ties into the following: is God or is God not calling us (my husband [whom they think is absolutely cool] and I) to lead youth group on Friday nights? Our pastor has grown weary of having to spear head all of the adult and youth ministries (and his wife is in charge of children's ministries!) and has on occasion alluded to wanting to pass on the teen torch. We've helped out with different events and are hosting them here tonight.

A pastor friend Steve, at Hillcrest church in Moose Jaw has a message you can listen to HERE all about "How to Squander your Talents". He preaches from the passage in Matthew where the master of a property goes away leaving three of his servants with each an allotment of money. They each do with it as they see fit; the first two investing and growing what they were given, the third simply burying it in the ground. The master comes back, says "well done" to the first two. But to the third, he says "you wicked and evil servant...". He succumbed to fear, or laziness or both, didn't do what he was supposed to thus was repremanded for his behavior. I've been given a great many tools, experiences and gifts by my heavenly Father. He has invested a LOT into my life. Anything good that's there is from Him. What I(we) need most right now is clear direction as to what He'd like us to do with all this. (I find it interesting in the passage from Matthew, the master never did tell the servants what exactly he wanted them to do with the $$, but they did as they saw fit--perhaps because of upright teaching, life experience, or considering what was important to the one they loved. ) I'm learning to listen to His voice. To hear it clearly. Without the static of the busyness of life, my own fears and self consciousness.

He has invested in me a great amount of treasure. I don't want to be called wicked and evil. I don't want to fall into sin by not doing what He's calling me to. There are arguments supporting not being involved; we have young kids who need our every attention. (They'd do well to be exposed to other people and the youth love our offspring.) I don't know how to lead/teach/direct in that type of setting. (That's where God steps in--when we're sure to fail.) We're already busy and exhausted. (You'll be exhausted anyway, why not go that little bit further and do something that really matters in life, instead of just filling our own selfish desires ie: sitting on the couch watching tv.)

Lord help me to see what's really important. Help me to keep your priorities straight in my head and walk them out in my life. Help me to hear your voice and set aside my self to do your will. One day I want to hear you say "Well done my good and faithful servant. You did good with what I gave you and I AM PLEASED. " Amen.

Diabetes....

I found this little tid bit the other day in "Nourashing Traditions" by Sally Fallon. My sister in law is a diabetic and I found this very interesting info. Read on!

In The Saccharine Disease (1975), Cleave says the blame for prevalence of diabetes on the doorstep of refined carbohydrates. He acknowledges the genetic basis of the disorder but "rejects unequivocally" the assumption that this is a "defect". "The hereditary features of the disease...do no more than reflect the inheritance of personal build, including that of the pancreas itself, rendering the persons concerned more vulnerable to the new environmental factor...These features in no sense indicate hereditary defect...the body is not build wrongly but is being used wrongly." The more pronounced the genetic predisposition, according to Cleave, the earlier the onset of the disease, provided the triggering event occurs. In the industrialized society, the triggering event appears to be the overload of sugar, white flour products, white rice and precessed fruits and vegetables. "The consumption of refined carbohydrates...imposes unnatural strains upon the pancreas, either through over consumption, or ...rapidity of consumption and absorption, or...both." Joseph D. Beasley, MD and Jerry J. Swift, MA The Kellogg Report

Now, I've not researched the names of the writers nor the person quoted, but this really does make you wonder and question the "truth" behind mainstream health and our own eating habits as consumers. Let me know what you think!

Right Now

Dishes.

Laundry.

Apple Crisp.

And sleeping tots.

This is my life right now. And I like it!

I recently received this as an email from a friend. Grab a box of Kleenex, put on your thoughtful mind and read this oh so true message. Love to you friends!

This is a beautiful reminder for all of us, women and men, who serve, and raise kids, and take care of things here, there and everywhere. Take time to read it through to the end. It ends in a very unexpected way than it begins, and is applicable to all.

Perspective: The Invisible Woman

It started to happen gradually. One day I was walking my son Jake to school. I was holding his hand and we were about to cross the street when the crossing guard said to him, "Who is that with you, young fella?"

"Nobody," he shrugged.

Nobody? The crossing guard and I laughed. My son is only 5, but as we crossed the street I thought, "Oh my goodness, nobody?"

I would walk into a room and no one would notice. I would say something to my family - like "Turn the TV down, please" - and nothing would happen. Nobody would get up, or even make a move for the remote. I would stand there for a minute, and then I would say again, a little louder, "Would someone turn the TV down?" Nothing.

Just the other night my husband and I were out at a party. We'd been there for about three hours and I was ready to leave. I noticed he was talking to a friend from work. So I walked over, and when there was a break in the conversation, I whispered, "I'm ready to go when you are." He just kept right on talking. I'm invisible.

It all began to make sense, the blank stares, the lack of response, the way one of the kids will walk into the room while I'm on the phone and ask to be taken to the store. Inside I'm thinking, "Can't you see I'm on the phone?" Obviously not. No one can see if I'm on the phone, or cooking, or sweeping the floor, or even standing on my head in the corner, because no one can see me at all. I'm invisible. Some days I am only a pair of hands, nothing more: Can you fix this? Can you tie this? Can you open this? Some
days I'm not a pair of hands; I'm not even a human being. I'm a clock to ask, "What time is it?" I'm a satellite guide to answer, "What number is the Disney Channel?" I'm a car to order, "Right around 5:30, please."

I was certain that these were the hands that once held books and the eyes that studied history and the mind that graduated summa cum laude - but now they had disappeared into the peanut butter, never to be seen again. She's going¸ she's going¸ she's gone!

One night, a group of us were having dinner, celebrating the return of a friend from England . Janice had just gotten back from a fabulous trip, and she was going on and on about the hotel she stayed in. I was sitting there, looking around at the others all put together so well. It was hard not to compare and feel sorry for myself as I looked down at my out-of-style dress; it was the only thing I could find that was clean. My unwashed hair was pulled up in a banana clip and I was afraid I could actually smell
peanut butter I on it. I was feeling pretty pathetic, when Janice turned to me with a beautifully wrapped package, and said, "I brought you this."

It was a book on the great cathedrals of Europe . I wasn't exactly sure why she'd given it to me until I read her inscription: "To Charlotte , with admiration for the greatness of what you are building when no one sees."

In the days ahead I would read - no, devour - the book. And I would discover what would become for me, four life-changing truths, after which I could pattern my work:
1. No one can say who built the great cathedrals - we have no record of their names. 2. These builders gave their whole lives for a work they would never see finished. 3. They made great sacrifices and expected no credit.
4. The passion of their building was fueled by their faith that the eyes of God saw everything.

A legendary story in the book told of a rich man who came to visit the cathedral while it was being built, and he saw a workman carving a tiny bird on the inside of a beam. He was puzzled and asked the man, "Why are you spending so much time carving that bird into a beam that will be covered by the roof? No one will ever see it."

And the workman replied, "Because God sees."

I closed the book, feeling the missing piece fall into place. It was almost as if I heard God whispering to me, "I see you, Charlotte. I see the sacrifices you make every day, even when no one around you does. No act of kindness you've done, no sequin you've sewn on, no cupcake you've baked, is too small for me to notice and smile over. You are building a great cathedral, but you can't see right now what it will become." At times, my invisibility feels like an affliction. But it is not a disease that is erasing my life. It is the cure for the disease of my own self-centeredness.

It is the antidote to my strong, stubborn pride. I keep the right perspective when I see myself as a great builder. As one of the people who show up at a job that they will never see finished, to work on something that their name will never be on.

The writer of the book went so far as to say that no cathedrals could ever be built in our lifetime because there are so few people willing to sacrifice to that degree. When I really think about it, I don't want my son to tell the friend he's bringing home from college for Thanksgiving, "My mom gets up at 4 in the morning and bakes homemade pies, and then she hand bastes a turkey for three hours and presses all the linens for the table." That would mean I'd built a shrine or a monument to myself. I just want him to want to come home. And then, if there is anything more to say to his friend, to add, "You're gonna love it there."

As mothers, we are building great cathedrals. We cannot be seen if we're doing it right. And one day, it is very possible that the world will marvel, not only at what we have built, but at the beauty that has been added to the world by the sacrifices of invisible women.

Author: Unknown

YOU finish the story...

Well, what can I say? What does one say when their husband nonchalantly wears children's play costumes? Not that this is a regular occurrence but it did strike me as quite funny; funny enough to whip out the camera a snap a quick shot before the moment was over. I had a good laugh, a great picture and decided right then and there to:
__________(ya this is the part where you send a little comment about what YOU think should come next, for fun silly!)___________________________________
_________________________________________
_________________________________________
_________________________________________

Time for Tea

I was fooling around with the camera the other day and thot this picture kinda neat. I like the lighting and contrast of the tea pot and reflection of refracted light through the kitchen window. And then I saw my silly "taking a picture" reflection on the front of the pot and laughed. A photographer I'll never be. Oh well, can't blame one for trying. But this picture will remind me of all the times we've sat together laughing over tea or the times I wished we could. Life is short, enjoy the simple things. Love to you!

Keeping it Simple

I stopped putting away laundry just now to quickly jot this down, so please do read on...

Thinking about how our kids dress opened yet another door for me to peer into our developing life's philosophy. When readying our kids for school this fall,(the whole institution of which I am really questioning the benefits of vs. home schooling...I'll save that for another entry) the thought occurred to me that though all of the necessary school supplies had been purchased and checked off our class lists, we'd neglected to purchase any new school clothes. Shoes yes, pants, shirts and the like, no. Now, our kids have more than enough clothing filling their dressers, closets and even the "next season" bins in the basement storage room. And yet I panicked thinking they'd be the only ones without new outfits for their first day of school. We'd recently received hand-me-downs from friends, all of which were in great condition, fitting both of our older kids perfectly so that settled my little brain down for a bit.

But I have to admit, it did make me question why I really thought they'd be devastated about not having brand new store bought clothes for that all important first day of school. Neither of them had even asked! My husband reminded me that kids at that age don't really notice what each other are wearing, let alone if it's new or not. Heck, for the most part, they don't even really care what they themselves are wearing. When I was a kid, purchasing new clothing for school was an "event". (Not that we went on a big shopping spree, usually only A pair of jeans, maybe a couple of shirts, and shoes of course.) But again, hand-me-downs made up the majority of my wardrobe and actually still do.

It's silly how as parents we inadvertently pass on all sorts of wrong expectations and social acceptables. I'm glad I hadn't mentioned it to the kids amidst my own inner toilings, and they were thrilled at the "handy-down" outfits I'd put together for them for their big day. And I'm glad too, because anyone out there who has kids knows that those brand new outfits don't stay new for long when kids play hard as mine do. (Grass stains on the first day indicate a great deal of fun!) Don't get me wrong, everyone needs and likes to have something new once in a while, and we do make those purchases when necessary, but when I scramble to find places to put away the folded laundry, you know they've got enough!

Lord help me to remember to keep things simple, to appreciate what YOU have blessed us with and to keep my eyes on what's really important in this life.

Just a Quick One.

I was just about to post a few pictures for your viewing enjoyment but alas there is just too little time in my day for me to spend on waiting for them to upload. I've not forgotten about blogging nor have I lost interest, rather my priorities right now are to ready my family for school. That added to the ongoing house renos and yard work. Busy as always and I am quite looking forward to being done so many big projects and also looking forward to more of a routine. I'm certain I'll miss the carefree, unplanned days of summer but our haphazard way of completing things around here has taken it's toll. Too much to do all at once. Most pressing right now is my sweet five year old asking me to bounce (on the trampoline) with her. She begins kindergarten tomorrow, such a big girl. Wasn't it just yesterday she pulled herself up to standing for the first time? And when did she learn to walk and run, and how is it that she knows clouds are water in an evaporated form? Sigh...

Play Hard or Go Home

Sport: Ladies Outdoor Soccer, Lloyminster AB

Team: Cut Knife Coyotes

Season Finishing Record: I have no idea

Assessment of Personally sustained Damage:
-one discolored, painfully sore kicking foot
-toe nail, bruised deep blue, throbbing and likely to fall off
-multiple heel blisters
-upper knuckles on right hand scraped
-muscle strains and stiffness throughout
-bruising located on upper right shoulder
-cleat marks on bottom left calf muscle

Future plan of action: to keep on playing this awesome sport with these amazing ladies. Thanks for the good times and all the laughs. And to seek sleep and ice packs.

And I Quote...

I've become quite aware of the fact that over the course of a conversation I quote a varied number of people, books, magazines, t.v. shows and even my kids. However, my quotes are often lacking in accuracy as to who said what or where this information was gathered from or when. I generally quote to verify or intensify a conversation, or to add interest to what is being said. Many people do, but I think in the future I may pay closer attention to the details of the source, so as to not end up like the cartoon character Satchel whom you can see HERE. Go ahead. Look it up, you'll have a good laugh and then you'll know what I'm talking about...

Where we were...

Like my good friend Talena, we too are recently back from holidaying afar. Our trip began strangely, I had a dental appointment the morning we were leaving, and not wanting to have to reschedule for months later, I opted to sit in his ill fitting chair for two hours to have them poke and prod, drill and fill. (The worst of it is, I have to go back to have more work done. ) I don't actually mind dental appointments, just the after effects of the freezing. Drinking an ice-cap with a straw proved to be quite a laugh for the rest of the Guteks as we continued on our journey. Ha ha ha.

Our first stop was at my uncle's house in Norquay. (He's like a dad to me, raised me as one of his own.) That's where we found that little bird up there. It was just sitting there on the back lawn. A young one learning to fly I'd assume. The kids thought it was great and wanted to keep it. (So did Michael I think.) But me being the big Meany I am, reminded them we'd a long way to go, Birdie could NOT come with.

After a short but really great visit with my "dad", we continued on our way to Childs Lake, Manitoba. The boys on my side of the family had planned a weekend fishing trip, exclusively men and boys. To get there it was as if we were driving thru miles of endless bush, lost without a destination. Then suddenly we were at a fishing resort. BEAUTIFUL! The log cabins were right on the glassy lake. The girls and I hardly wanted to leave. Not to stay for the company, but for the view...and fishing of course!

We said a quick goodbye to the boys and us girls (my cousin Crystal + her daughter Mackenzie joined Sarah, Becca and I there) were speedily lead back to the van by our husbands telling us to have fun and drive safe. They seemed a little eager to see us on our way. Wonder why. Bush, fishing, men. Enough said.

The trip to Winnipeg from there took us a gruelling 8 hours. No AC, three little girls and two very hot mommies (temperature, I mean) made for a very long trip. We met up with construction a few times, made a few pit stops to eat and bathroom and finally made it to the city nearing midnight. Crystal drove us through down town Winnipeg, which to me was an amazing sight, old buildings lining the Portage and Main, standing grandly all lit up in the night glow. Very impressive.

Following a short nights sleep, we headed out to my cousin Bev's house in Blumenort where the rest of the girls in my family were gathered for a fun weekend of visiting, food, and the Martha Stewart movie (which I do not recommend). We also took in the towns Fun and Fair Days which was like an old fashioned carnival with a dunk tank, petting zoo, rides and bouncing things for the kids. That's the other picture up there. It's always so good to visit with that gang, lots of laughs.

Our fishermen husbands and sons returned from their weekend on Sunday night and met us at Lilac Resort where we Guteks spent a lovely three days swimming, hot tubbing, paddle boating, hiking, golfing, and playing. Unfortunately, our camera got a little wet boating, and the rest of our trip will have to be memories only. A couple more nights in Winnipeg included not only fun sleep overs for the kids, but also a really neat visit to The Forks, The Winnipeg Childrens Museum, and the Zoo. I highly recommend all of the afore mentioned. If you've kids who love to learn or are naturally curious about the world around them, TAKE THEM THESE PLACES! Michael and I loved the learning too.

On our way toward home, we stopped for a few days in Foam Lake to visit Michael's family and spent some time playing and fishing. It was there at Pelican Lake that I truly saw a different side of my husband. A side that, shall I say, was almost primitive...like a cave man. Just kidding, but he was very determined to catch fish, so determined we didn't get home until almost 10:00pm one night. The last day of our holiday, he finally caught his limit of Walley. That desire being satisfied, we went home with a van full of dirty laundry, keepsakes from the gift shops, and a plethora of memories to enjoy. But that being said, it's good to be home. Cheers!
Dawn

WARNING: this is not a gloat, I'm just excited.

I think I did it. I really think I did.

I think I just hit what's called a "runners high". 35 minutes of straight running, I usually quit after 20-25.

But not today. I decided in my little brain to just keep going. My exact thoughts were "So if I were to keep going, what's the worst that will happen? I'll pass out here on the street and have some neighborly person come to my rescue. Or I just might keep going indefinitely." I opted for the latter.

The last ten minutes were actually way easier than the first 25. I hardly noticed my breathing and my feet no longer felt like lead. By the time I rounded the last corner I felt kinda tingly (not passing out tingly) and still had energy. I thought about continuing, not sure why exactly I stopped.

We'll see how tomorrow goes.

Rain, Rain, Go away. Come again another Day!

Just a few drops at first then more. Before you know it it's a cloud burst that some how finds it's way into your basement...such has been my life the past few days.

We've had over 20 inches of rain each of the past two summers and close to 10 so far this spring alone. Already high water table + way too much rain in way too short a time + one ill placed down spout = water in basement and one Dawn freaking out about the possibility of the old paneling growing mold. No, not fun.

We've ripped out much of the carpet (needing to be done, just didn't quite plan on doing that so soon), "washed" the cement and wood down with an industrial anti fungal, and have many fans drying out what's been soggy.

What's God trying to teach us thru all this? Patience? Perseverance? Dependence? How to really tell if the sump pump is actually working? I think all of the above and I'm sure more.
It's not a party down there, but I guess it could be a whole lot worse. And besides, now we can shop for floor covering other than carpet (which I've never been too keen on in a basement anyway). When it rains it pours. At my house, I'll just keep looking for that silver lining. And I'd thought of some other rainy day cliche to add but I'm just too tired to try to think of it now.

Love to you all.

lonely (adj) 1 unhappy as a result of solitude. 2 resulting from the state of being alone. 3 isolated and not much visited by people. ~Collins Concise Dictionary~

Life in a new place is lonely. But just as each season comes and goes, this too shall pass. I am still blessed by friends far away and a family of friends always around me.

Our Fathers

Hello all you neglected readers of this blog...you should know by now that I am a fowl weather blogger only! Indeed, it is raining here again, therefore I sit to blog!

First order of business, Happy Father's Day to any dads out there who happen to read this post. Yours is truly a hard position to fill well and I do not envy you the expectations we all put on you. Dads have a heavy burden to carry and those who are a success at their role know all too well it's not easy. So hats off to all the dads out there who care about their children and wives and work so hard to support them. Thank you for being the men our wee ones look up to, aspire to be like, and teach life's lessons to. Hats off to you my husband Michael, (I'll make you read this later) you are a very good dad and our kids are very blessed to have such a caring, silly, wise and creative father to help lead them along the way. We love you and things could never be the same without you!

That being said, here's a story for you. I did not grow up for much of my life knowing my biological dad, barring the first couple of years of my childhood, which I cannot recall anyway. Through a list of crazy, sad and tragic events in my life, God saw it fit that my brother Dwane and I grow up on a dairy farm owned by some relatives we did not know very well. Quite a switch for two city dwellers who had friends around all the time and freedoms most kids shouldn't have at that age. (Right Darryl?!! ) Indeed, life on the farm was QUITE different than inner city Vancouver, but there we were. Though my brothers experience there was less than wonderful, mine was however a part of my childhood I often look back to with bitter sweet gladness. Living in a land we did not know in a place that allowed for little freedoms or creative expressions, I too felt at times cheated out of childhood "rights" so to speak, by the all encompassing work load of a dairy...always one more thing to do, one more animal needing care, one more section of garden to tend to, the list went on and on. My relationship with my aunt was somewhat stifled as we were greeted with a feeling of coldness. I was not a daughter of theirs (5 already grown children of their own and many foster children before we arrived) and that was made very clear the day I asked if I could call them "Mom + Dad". The words "We think it's best you call us aunt and uncle..." to this day echo in my mind and yes, bring tears to my eyes. In my childhood selfishness and pain I wanted to yell back "That's not fair, now I've no one!" but now in my adult life I am beginning to see they just didn't want me to ever forget who my mom was; they didn't want me to replace her with them.
The reason I go into all this is to say there was a time when I realized how much of a father my uncle was to me. It occurred to me quite early on while we were there that he was indeed much like what I'd pictured a father to be. And much to his credit, he really did make a concerted effort to raise me as one of his own. I remember times when even at our busiest, he'd stand beside me with his arm around my shoulders and ask "So Dawn, how are you today? How was school? And what was the best part of your day?" There was always a silly little song or tune to make light of the heavy work load and he always had some silly story or joke to add to our dinner conversations. But he could be foul tempered and fly off the handle, as I too along my own parenting journey find myself once in a while. And who can blame him...I would too if I had a farm to hold together, a business to run, and a family to clothe and feed. Not to mention the fact that the love of his life, my aunt, soon after we'd arrived there, was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. That in itself took on a stressful and very painful life of it's own.
There are things that I would change if I were to go back now, things I would have said, attitudes I would change in my own self. There are things I don't agree with that my parents thought priority at the time, life philosophies I will not repeat with my family. But now in my adult life I do see the value in the values they tried to instill in each of us. "We can only do the best with what we are given." I remember someone saying this from those days gone by. And it is very true. I am grateful for the time I spent there, for the good memories and for the respect, upright standards and hard work ethic I learned from my parents. I am also grateful and blessed to have gotten know these people on a very different level now as an adult. We are friends more now than ever and Uncle Art more of a father than even some who've know theirs their whole life. Things turn out the way they ought; there's a season for everything and we often are blessed along the way, whether we choose to see it that way or not.

Well, that's all for now. Have a great day today and tell your dad (or who ever fills that spot for you in your life) that you love him. If you can't, just remember all the good times and know that somewhere in there they really did love you! Cheers!

Beat that Bug!

Well tonight has not turned out at all the way I thought it would to say the least! Instead of rushing off to play soccer an hour and half away from here, I sit at the computer desk, hot tea in hand, warm fuzzy blanket wrapped around my shoulders, trying to shake off an ensuing cold. You know, in the past I probably would have popped some synthetic cold tablets, eaten something sugary for quick energy, tied on my cleats and run off to play. But not today. Today I chose to stay at home and kick this bug. My choice led me to think, am I getting wiser with age or just lazy. I choose the first, though the latter may hold somewhat more truthful.

I recently read an article in Readers Digest about the notion of people no longer taking sick days from work. (As a stay at home mom, ya right!!!) The author wrote about how many people in the corporate and blue collar world simply refuse to take a sick day(s) for lack of confidence in their job security. Others are simply driven by the almighty dollar, even when on salary. And still others feel they can cope with illness at work, though they really should stay home. Countless books, magazine articles and even mainstream health professionals agree that staying home for one or two days to better ones health is a far better idea than going into the office to perform at mediocre levels and spread germs. Perhaps the biggest kicker is the fact that what ever cold or flu you're trying to get rid of will take up to twice as long to get rid of without proper rest. What more evidence do we need?

As for me, I will sit here at the computer while my husband lovingly tucks the kids into bed. (I am so blessed to have Michael!) I will click away at the keyboard while the supper dishes, lunches yet to be made and stack of laundry stare at me from across the room. (They can wait until tomorrow, except the lunches.) And I will not regret that I missed one night of soccer. (Next weeks game is against an easier team anyway.) Cheers and stay well!

Let that Creativity flow...

I painted faces today and what happy subjects I had for my creative venture! The kids did actually enjoy the face painting, though you'd never tell by the so serious expressions! Note to self, 2 year olds do not make the most patient canvasses on which to paint, but will however, try yours (patience that is!) Why on earth would I paint these children (and no that little guy next to Sarah is not Josh, that's Walker, a kid I watch during the week) up with no place to go? All for fun and I have always enjoyed seeing kids' imaginations take off once they're done! I was totally inspired at Centre Fest in Red Deer last summer by a few of the face painters there and I think it may be a great hobby to take up. And hey, if you like what you see here and are mildly creative, have had your creative bone wiggled a bit, or want to find out more about painting you should go here to my friend Angela's blog! She's a very talented Canadian water color artist who I am privileged to call friend! Leave her a note and she will get back to you! Anyway, must go to bed now, maybe after washing off the many layers of garden dirt and citronella and essential oil from my day in the yard! God bless the people who make and market natural mosquito repellant and the people at Young Living Essential Oils for all their great recipes for naturals!

Here's what we've been doing lately...

Sarah turned 5 on May 21 and celebrated with a pool party and cake at home with a house full.

Josh rode a mini-bike at the moto-cross clinic here a few weeks ago, loved it and won a prize!!
" Caley"

Hello, sorry to be so neglectful. I do wish to blog more, but alas, the family, house, and yard take priority over my writings and musing here in blog land. Today, however, it is raining and the kids are napping so here I am, blogging, when really I could and should be doing laundry or dishes or painting or some other task. Funny how that stuff always waits for you.


We have just had another weekend filled with visiting and company; friends from Red Deer we truly missed. Always good to catch up. Excitement just prior to that however, was our newest addition to our family...our dog. "Caley" we call her. She is a Malamute Husky crossed Golden retriever dog who has easily won our hearts already...we've not had her even one week. I am a little tentative about the fact she may be a digger, as her genetics may lend her to be. But she's a very sweet puppy and seems to have learned her name, to come and to fetch in the short time she's been here. I'm excited by the fact I'll have a running partner by September! And by the fact our kids will grow up with a loyal and true companion...who just happens to chew on their toys if left strewn about. (Teachable moments, right?!) Our cat on the other hand is less than thrilled and I'm certain would love to scratch out Caley's eyes at any given moment. He spends most of his time up on Sarah's bunk or hiding in the basement. Thought the dog doesn't chase him. I guess I'd get a little crusty too if some slobbering, always happy, jumpy white ball of cuteness honned in on my territory. Entertaining none the less! Glad tidings to all of you reading but now I must go sprout some grains, tidy up a wee bit, and wake my sleepers!
Drop me a line if you've any dog keeping advice!

Eat your lawn, I say!

Today, for the first time ever, we, my family and I, tried something new to tantalize our taste buds and expand our culinary eating experiences. A dish with a very different flavor yet strangely satisfying but leaving you wanting to have some more. "Did I actually eat that and did it actually taste that good?" I know the suspense is killing you, so I'll tell you what we consumed...dandelions. Right off of our own front (and back, and side, there's a lot of green out there you know) lawn. I picked and washed them, fried them in a bit of butter and fresh crushed garlic and sprinkled with sea salt. They were amazing! Very buttery and not at all like that bitter taste the plant milk leaves in your mouth. The kids even tried them, their friends actually did too and thought they were quite tasty and little Becca wouldn't leave me alone until I'd given her a few more. Now, if you're going to try this, here are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Make sure you don't pick dandelions that may have been sprayed.
2. What you pick and think is lots actually cooks down to be about 1/4 of it fresh volume, so pick a few extra so you've enough for everyone.
3. These are meant to be a side dish or garnish, not a whole meal in itself. Though not proven, they may act as a diuretic. Not so good.
4. Know that while consuming these vitamin packed little blossoms, you are also controlling the "weed problem" in your yard. Though after trying this little recipe, you may want to encourage those little yellow treats to grow. Besides, the leaves can be used in salads...fresh greens bought at the store can cost an arm and a leg, and many high end restaurants actually serve them in their fancy dishes!

Anywho, that's all for tonight! Happy picking, don't eat too many and if you don't like them, well, that's just too bad for you!

P.S. I'm up to 20-25 minutes running now. I clock it with our van odometer and I'm travelling about 4.5 km in that amount of time. Yes, I am excited...Boston Marathon here I come. Well, not right away, silly. Ok,... good night!

Project "What to do with Guteks Extra Yard"

This wetland water fowl bird sanctuary actually belongs to us as part of our yard. Up and to the left, toward the house is our overgrown raspberry patch and just lefter than that (ha ha...lefter?) is our garden, which you can not see, but is a fairly large patch of dirt. To the far right of the "stream" used to be mowed and had garden many moons ago, but is as you can tell, very overgrown. We actually have a pair of nesting ducks taking up residence there. We could work it up, plant strawberries and open a U-pick, or throw a bunch of old tractor tires and junk down there and open up a paint ball thing or mow it, plant more garden and work like crazy at keeping the muskrats from devouring our produce or we could just leave it for the birds. What would YOU do?

Busy, ever so busy

So here's what I (we) have been up to, you know, instead of blogging:

1. Readying our yard and garden for planting.
2. Researching plants, organics and healthful ways to be "greener".
3. Scouting out resources for healthy living (raw milk, organic grain, grinders, honey, soap, meat, etc)
   
4. Reading many blogs and web pages about all that.

And other day to day stuff:

1. we changed a toilet, which was really fun. ya. But we did replace the old with a new 6 litre and got rid of the old half a barrel of water waste receptacle we used previous. Man that's a lot of wasted water.
2. I've been child minding a friends kid who is the same age as Sarah...adds an interesting dynamic and energy to our days.
3. Running...if you could call it that, though I do have big plans. So far just a 15 min. run every day this past week (with out walking or stopping...oh shut up you marathon runners!) but I'm going to lengthen it gradually. Surprisingly I'm enjoying it more than I did back in my glory days!

Things I'd like to do sooner rather than later:

1. read up on planting a herb garden and how to store for winter.
2. finish painting the interior. yikes!
3. spread compost--so excited, a neighbor we share part of our creek with has a whole pile of black gold in his yard (composted matter) that they just want to get rid of. It really is like hitting the jackpot!

That's all. Any suggestions? Ideas are welcomed!

Race of the Mommies

I always find it interesting how other mothers seem to obsess over comparing their child(ren) to others. It seems to happen at the play ground apon striking up conversation with a mom who's child pats the sand with his shovel. Or while waiting at the dental office for a check up. Or sometimes at other various places mothers cross pathways...play group, school, grocery stores, church, at the gym (I wish!). Anyway, it seems to happen a lot, this "my kid's _______er than yours" thing. (You can fill in the blank).
The conversation usually starts with a "How old is your little one?" The other mother generally replies with a fairly accurate tally of her offsprings age and if it's a new mom with just one child, she will usually answer by telling you the number of months, weeks, days, even hours old to tell you of her child's age. ( A simple 2yrs or 2 1/2 yrs. would be enough, stop making me do the math with your 27 months, 3 weeks, 2days and 13 hours answer!) Super MOM (whom I think a lot of moms out there think they are) will tell you not only their child's age in months, weeks, days and hours, will also tell you something along these lines: "Yes my child is potty trained, oh I know he's only 7 months, 1 week and 3.5 days old, but he was born trained and learned to walk at 4 moths. He's off the charts for his weight and height and our pediatrician concluded he will always be bigger than every other child, anywhere, ever. And of course he already knows his ABC's and can count to 10000000 unassisted. He is fluent in French, Japanese, and Swahili. He painted a repeat of the Mona Lisa yesterday, and during play group, he lead the children in a Beethoven classical while sharing his organic, sugar free sucker with the teacher. After that he read them the Chronicles of Narnia, start to finish. He's always slept thru the night, has never been ill, has all of his baby teeth including his 6 year molars and eats 5-10 servings of fruits and vegetables everyday often asking for more.
But I can't take all the credit, although I am Super MOM and my whole house is organized into alphabetized totes and containers from IKEA that me and my fabulously rich husband bought on our trip to Sweden over the spring break. And all our organic, home made, completely perfectly nutritionally balanced meals are planned for a year in our perfectly co-ordinating, stylish, non toxic house that energy balancing chi masters built for us and feung shwayed for us for free.
No, some of the credit goes to his coaches and teachers of his activities; preschool, dance, soccer, chess club, piano, hockey, karate, art club, little musicians group, baby theater, tots yoga, baby zen and of course play group. And how about you, is your little girl out of diapers yet?"


Excuse me while I wipe away the tears...of laughter. I didn't know I could laugh so hard at my own writing! I know this is completely absurd, but it does seem like there's a lot of comparing between us moms and even more in our own head spaces. Maybe it's because I've stopped caring what other moms think, or perhaps I no longer have the time and energy to waste on comparing (something to do with having 3 kids I think.) All I'm saying is enjoy your own kids if ya got 'em and never mind what your kid may or may not be doing, eating, saying, playing with, etc. If there's a problem, you'll know. If not, just find your own normal for your family! Cheers!

Oh where oh where has our little Dawn gone? Oh where oh where could she be?
With her hair cut long and her legs so short, oh where oh where could she be?
(please read this while humming the tune "Oh where oh where has my little dog gone")

We went away last weekend to visit the in laws for Easter but alas are back home again. Today we tackled the wallpaper, yet again, in the hallway. Looks much better, though it still needs some sanding before we prime+ paint. It's been great to have Michael at home to spend time with the kids and get a few projects done.

Tonight I'm to help plan the last section of our church's kids club. I'm also trying to decide on which resource(s) to pick for youth "Sunday School" where we attend. Any ideas? So far I've obtained catalogues from Willow and Group. Both of which look great to me. But then, I've never lead a group of easily distracted teens. Oh, Lord, please help me, for I know not what I do.

We've also been very busy about the yard raking, digging, composting the vast pile of winter refuse in our compost bin. And of course, not to forget bouncing, ever bouncing on the trampoline. It's actually a great view from way up their while in mid-jump...too bad I've not ventured onto the thing with the camera. Next weeks project. Some noteworthy news, at least in our books...JOSH IS RIDING HIS BIKE WITHOUT HIS TRAINING WHEELS! Look out world 'cause he's H#** on wheels! We so proud of him.

That's all for now. Sorry it's been so long since and sorry this is sooo long to read. Oh well. Cheers

A Sobering Thought

Ever sit and think about how much your life would change if you were diagnosed with a life altering disease? How differently would you live if you knew your life might be a whole lot shorter than you'd anticipated? These two thoughts have bumbled about in my head the last few days. But why? you may ask. Well, here's why: a close friend has been challenged with some unusual health issues. After consulting with her practitioner and undergoing a few test she now needs to see a neurologist. The prognosis is not very hopeful according to her doctor. I pray that it is nothing . But none the less, I will accompany her to her appointment tomorrow and brace for what may be a very long, painful journey. I also pray that any good God's planted in me will be of some encouragement and strength to my dear friend. It's crazy how quickly things can be put into perspective when life hangs in the balance.

To whom it may concern,

I've not posted lately due to the fact that our household has been under attack--by some terrible viruses; the flu and some crazy head cold/sinus infection. Cleaning up vomit and used tissue has yet again made me re-evaluate the state of our overall health. We've always strived to be a healthy family, making wise nutrition choices, trying to get enough rest and exercise as well as turning to alternative health measures. And not unlike others searching to be better, we've by God's grace, stumbled across some info. that YOU need to read, while there's still time . Follow the links, you'll see what I'm talking about.

Sprouts!--we re potted a few plants last week and the kids planted a few seeds as well. Can't wait to get out side to dig around in the dirt.

Spring by Dawn Gutek

Wake up oh earth.
Wake up and breath.
As the sun warms, open up your vast chambers of life.

Wake up oh earth.
Wake up and bring forth your newness.
As the snow melts away, peek through and show yourself.

Wake up oh earth.
Wake up, for it is time.
Do not slumber any longer, for yours are the very places we
need to sustain for by them we are sustained.

Wake up oh earth.
Wake up.

Look out world...Becca just turned 2

I can't believe my baby is already 2. Wasn't it just the other day that she was born? And who taught her all that running and climbing stuff anyway? When did she start speaking in sentences? (Today's quote: "More c00cumber pees, mum. Sanx.") It seems like just the other day she was born. Why oh Why does time have to pass so quickly? I'll never know. I'm so thankful to our Heavenly Father that we have 3 healthy beautiful kids and I pray they'll each know Him + stick close to Him all their lives. What a blessing to help grow these little ones.
This passing of time seems so much more emotional than it was with our other two kids. Perhaps because she's our last one. Maybe we stopped one too soon? Who knows. I'm just glad to be a witness to it all. Blessed!

Snow Crazy!

The tots had so much fun outside yesterday. We built snow castles, snow cakes (hence the snow eating), and all sorts of snow things. By the end, all were full and frozen. Good times!

Luck of the Irish...no Thanks!

The following post may offend some readers. Reader discretion is advised.

As I dressed my four year old for preschool today, she reminded me that they were to wear green for St. Patrick's Day. It got me thinking of that saying "Luck of the Irish" and that got me thinking "Now just what the heck does that mean?!" Really now, just how lucky are the Irish? Sorry Shaun Taylor if your happen to read this (from what I've read + pics, I know Ireland is beautiful.) Ireland is an island, right? All by itself, out in the ocean. A-lone. One would assume then that the weather there would be much like neighboring England, rainy, gray and dreary. If that's not bad enough, they've got leprechauns. Just how much Guinness does one have to drink to be seeing little men dressed in green suits and top hats at the end of rainbows with pots of gold they will not share? Come on, little men, pots of gold, fine. But rainbows in Ireland? Does the sun even have a chance to shine between the clouds of gray dreariness? Really now. And one last thing about Irish is the foul temper of some if not many Irish boil over with. I have an Irish friend and believe me, there is nothing lucky about that. Now if they could just convince those little men to hand over the gold, then I'd say that's lucky. You can bet I'd swipe it if I had the chance. Well, I'm all done pondering now. Sorry again if any of you reading are of Irish decent. I don't mean to offend. But perhaps you could enlighten me and set me straight on the "luckiness" of the Irish. Cheers!

Down on the Farm

Michael helped in delivery today...of a calf. Which led me to thinking...
One thing I really miss, having grown up on a dairy (no not 5:30 milkings, or shoveling manure, or being stared down by an angry bull) is the new life every spring. I had the good fortune of witnessing many calves being born and helped them along as they took their first breath. It is amazing to help such a huge animal birth it's young and to be able to watch them mother their own kind. Not only are cows good for milk and beef, but also an example of mothering and nurturing. Oh, come on. Like you've never bellowed for your kids?! Cheers!

Bessie...the dancing Pig

Who ever said pigs can't fly? Ok, so maybe she's not flying but ya have to admit, a dancing pig is pretty cool. We had a blast last weekend at a friends farm chasing calves, goats, rabbits, horses and of being entertained of course by none other than Bessie. Our friends intend to consume her in the form of bacon but I think she'd make a great show piggy. Oink oink.
And just so you know, that gate she's climbing is 5ft. high. Ya, big pig.

These are my birthday socks from my very good friend Annamarie.
"Buy me stuff and I'll be NICER".
Note: these arrived in the mail two days before my birthday, I of course put them on then and there and it worked! More gifts and cards arrived and a great big surprise from hubby! I didn't know I could get any nicer!?!

H A P P Y B I R T H D A Y T O M E ! ! ! !

Yes, today is indeed my birthday. And no I'm not afraid to say it, I'm 30. Not afraid, but rather quite enthralled at the fact. Sort of a "right of passage" thing. Some how I feel, now what's the word...older,wiser, seasoned, mature. Nope, none of those. I feel...very young and very blessed to have had a very interesting and wonderful 30 years. So many laughs, cries, and great memories to remember and blog about. Ah what a life! And what a day it's been! I got to sleep in, enjoyed a hot-rock massage (surprise from Michael), ate lunch out, did some shopping, frolicked in the snow with the kids, and a very scrumptious steak supper made by my wonderful husband and children. Thanks for the e-cards, and gifts my friends, I see you yielded to the power of the birthday socks. ha ha ha And to top it all off of course, CHOCOLATE CAKE! All this special attention makes me think maybe tomorrow could be my birthday and the day after that and the day after that and...you get it.

It's A Good Thing...

Ya know, it's a really good thing to know that when we fall flat on our earthly faces trying to perform or minister or do anything, that God is always there to pick us up again. The message gets across in spite of all our short comings and failures. Even when we said what we'd intended to but thought of the other half of the message after the fact, you know, when everybody's gone home, the lights are off and the door closed and locked. Ya. Good thing He knows and makes up for all of our short comings, cuz boy oh boy would it ever bite if He didn't. And Oh so Sweet that he never gives up on us but keep on giving us more opportunities to try, no matter how many times we fail or miss the mark. Hmm. Thanks Jesus.

Quick shoot, before it melts!

Shoot a picture of it, that is. This is the 4ft. high snow bank that runs the length of our driveway, on each side. We decided to put it to good use. And why not? After all what good is a whole pile of white fluffy stuff that's gonna be here a long while if not for, you guessed it, a snow fort. Or quinzie so I've learned. Michael and the kids hollowed out a hole which later turned into a rather large tunnel leading out to where we slide down our hill. Quite impressive. Yes this is what we do for fun in a small town.

Images of Winter, while it lasts

Here's a few shots of the frost we had here last week; very beautiful but very cold. The pictures were taken just out our back and front doors, wish I'd waited another 20 minutes for the sun to shine on 'em. Oh well.
March always brings all kinds of crazy weather but also the promise of spring. It won't be long until we're all griping about the heat, the bugs or lack of rain and too much moisture for others. Winters beauty will be all but a distant memory only to be relived in a few short months anyway. So here's to the beauty of the white and COME QUICKLY SPRING, come quickly!

Hot Cofee

My coffee cooleth on yonder black oak desk...

As I sit my mind doth wonder,
the next awaiting task my brain doth ponder

Shall I switch the laundry wet?
Or shall I thee the frozen supper get?

Though dust doth surround this dim lit room,

the task at hand may be to vacuum.

All this to be done while the sweet ones rest,
for I the clean freak mother of this nest
want a clean house, though my husband protest.

What futility it will seem when life's end comes,
to be worried and busied by the so easily undone.

But for now I will sit and drink my coffee...