Tif & Her Crew

Whole Foods Anyone?

2012-01-02T15:04:00.000-08:00

Cha-Cha-Cha-Chia Seeds:
aren't just for a Strange Christmas Gift Anymore!
If you are like me and always seeking affordable, family friendly, whole and raw foods recipes, you may just LOVE chia pudding as much as my family. This can be used as a dessert, or as a breakfast. Chia seeds are FULL of Omega-3, protein, rare antioxidants, and fiber! They are gluten free and keep you feeling satisfied long after you eat them. This recipe does not affect blood sugar, which prevents your body from producing insulin, that triggers the storage of fat in your cells.

Cocoa Chia Pudding (yields 4 HEARTY servings)
3/4 cup chia seeds
2 cups almond milk
Dash salt (I use Himalayan Pink Sea Salt)
Natural (unbulked) stevia to taste (3-5 of the tiny scoops)
2-3 rounded Tbl. natural cocoa powder
optional: vanilla extract (1/4-1/2 tsp.) to taste

Simply mix the ingredients together, and let them rest for a few moments. Stir the mix well with a fork every five minutes or so. At first, it’ll seem far too liquidy, but over the course of thirty minutes the chia seeds will plump up, till the pudding resembles tapioca pudding. I love to throw the entire batch into the blender and process it until it resembles a creamy pudding, but if you like little tapioca-like balls, just don't blend up! If you serve the pudding in the quantity as in my photo, you'll easily serve 8.

Unblended

Cocoa Chia Pudding

I'm a real fan of unsweetened vanilla almond milk. We add about 3 tiny scoops of 100% pure stevia to the entire carton and shake it up if we are going to drink it by the glass.

Bringin' Back the Festive Tea Party

2011-06-17T14:45:00.000-07:00

Our local mom's group gathered our resources and ideas and threw a throw-back party; a classic, ladies outdoor tea. The women dressed in fanciness from multiple decades, and drank tea and chatted among tables with white lace and triangle sandwiches. Here are a few of the highlights:

Elise and I before we left

Elise and her dear little friend, London

My sweet friend, Shannon Alwine

Grandma Jean and Chickie came all the way up from Spokane to come to the tea with me!

Petra was a little out of her regular attire in her dramatically ruffled gown.

Four lovely, related ladies

Elise Erickson, Shauna, and Toshelle

Me and my little-tiny tea attender

Chickie is demonstrating her beautiful deerskin purse.

Speaking of Changes...

2011-04-14T16:27:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that I let this problem go on for so many months. I'm often so easily distracted from what I intend to do...There's been a slight import problem with my computer, and I just ignored it since, oh, the tamaracks WERE GOLDEN! Sorry that I've been so inattentive. It's almost comical.

Seems like the kids have probably left for college by now, but we have celebrated a few milestones. There was Silas' b-day, which came with a preschool-age bash that included his favorite food...grilled cheese and tomato soup. His cake this year was shaped like a circle...round...boring...cake, not a monster truck or a dinosaur, sorry Silas, I have come to understand that I'm NOT the mother of the year.

Christmas was cold and snowy, just like the kids had hoped. We played in the snow a lot more this winter, given the twins' ability to stand the cold...and mommy's ability to get them dressed before we meet a fit of some kind (by me, not the twins =).

Our chickens and two dogs made it through the winter, well, all the chickens but one-Hilary Rodham. She was one of the original "Cornelius" chickens and she just didn't have the heart to make it through these harsh winters. That, or she was old. She just curled up in the nest box and breathed her last...tragic.

The snow did finally melt, after I mastered a bread recipe and practiced all the indoor domestics that one, lone, unimaginative female could imagine. Silas began learning to read and if I'd be more consistent, he'd have his lesson book mastered by now! He loves it and has a sharp mind...that may be from his dad. =)

Elise has begun practicing her feminine charm, from the swinging of her purse to the song and dance performances that she graces us with. Emmitt has taken to swimming, well, more like plunging his body under water and flailing his arms above water. The lifeguards at nearby (indoor) pool watch him like a hawk. He DOES look like he's drowning, but he comes up and victoriously says, "I'm practicing my swimming." Good son.

I'm training for a sprint triathlon...it in August and I am truly enjoying the training. Shauna Alwine taught me how to properly perform the crawl, so now we bike for 10 miles and swim a 1/4 mile when we go to the gym/pool/deli center in Usk, WA. The place is called the Camas Center, and is on the Kalispell Rez. It is classy. No kidding. It's nice. I'm not sure how long I can afford to drive over there to exercise and take the kids swimming. We have to cross the ski hill to get to Usk.

Barry received his Masters in Education from George Fox University in December. We took a family drive down to celebrate the completion of his long, hard, extremely tedious, never-ending grad work.

Barry is currently busily farming our 5 acres. He has plowed about 2 of them and will continue to plow those same two for the next 3 weeks or so, I'd guess. He takes the tractor in circles every chance he gets. He did, unfortunately, take out one 20 foot stretch of my fencing...

My 30th was brought in with a bang. A few of my friends planned a fabulous trip to Spokane, staying in a hotel, going out to fine restaurants, and even a little live piano...until the music took a turn for the worse and we turned in for the night.

The church and the youth at church have been our "down time" events. Teenagers are lovely things, if well fed. It seems like every night there's some kind of meeting, or group, or bonfire. I don't mind bonfires at all, unless they are 30 feet high and in my yard...like last night.

Here are some pictures from the past few months. Some are from events mentioned above and some are just random. Enjoy!

The Colors of the Tamaracks

2010-11-01T22:42:00.000-07:00

I love it when the colors change and the autumn rains bring out the musty smell of fallen leaves. We are surrounded here by tamaracks, which I genuinely treasure. They are tall and graceful, not ill-shapen and puffy like some other evergreens. They turn a vibrant shade of yellow before they drop their needles, and leave a golden trail up the driveway to the house.

We've had such rain and mist, I've not been able to take their picture properly this season, but last Sunday afternoon, the clouds parted and I walked outside with my camera to attempt to capture them.

Our Family...plus one!

2010-09-28T23:48:00.000-07:00

This is Peyton Joan Laramie, Barry's sister's baby. We took the day for a special ceremony in Inchelium at St. Michael's Parish and enjoyed the family time on the reservation.

Barry loves Peyton. You can see how he looks at her and talks to her... he is quite smitten.

Bull Riding! I hear it was a bar phase in the 90's.

2010-09-28T23:43:00.000-07:00

The day Silas rode his sheep, I tried a mechanical bull...it's actually quite fun, except for the shoulder pain the next day!

Oh, The Things We Do For Fun...Mutton Bustin' Again

2010-09-20T07:53:00.000-07:00

Last year, if you can remember, there was a small distraught boy who couldn't believe that such a terrible sheep existed that would throw him off onto the hard dirt ground of the mutton bustin' arena. This year, my little champion held on as if his life depended on it and rode his wild sheep nearly to the fence on the other side! He was so brave, not displaying fear! Although he did not win a medal, he was my favorite contestant and he made his family proud.

I Really Can't Resist This

2010-09-18T22:19:00.001-07:00

Potty-ing By Twos!

2010-09-13T15:01:00.000-07:00

I feel like I'd be failing in my blogging responsibilities if I didn't make some comment on potty training twins...the thought of which brings countless images of cloth-rubbing flooring to mind.

If you thought that asking one toddler to "potty in the toilet" was a challenge, try asking two tiny autonomous rulers to make their mark in something flushable rather than in their pants. Children have a myriad of reasons why they are not interested in using the toilet, but the reasons only multiply when two are asked to use the toilet in the same week.

I thought for a while that I would start with Elise, when she had mastered the skill, I'd move on to Emmitt...after all aren't girls "easy" to potty train? I was spending so much time in the bathroom, sitting with Elise, that Silas and Emmitt began making all kinds of mischief. Surely taking both 2year olds captive at the same time would be better than being tied to a bossy yelling 2 year old in the bathroom while the other 2 year old and his "enabling" brother disassembled some couch, or bed, shoe rack, or stack of clothes, cupboard,or half-prepared lunch.

We bought a "baby potty", one that requires dumping into the toilet, so both of the kids could sit at the same time to do their business. This tandem training began to work and Elise could sit on the toilet and wear "big girl pants" without much incidence from the first day. Emmitt took longer, he had to first gain the self-awareness to understand what "pottying" felt like, so we washed many many, "big boy pants" that first week. I was constantly looking for dirty laundry to throw into the wash because I needed that one dirty pair in a half hour or less!

Two weeks later, I am happy to report that both the twins are successfully using the toilet, with few accidents, and that Elise is still sleeping all night (12+ hours!!) with no accidents. I think her bladder must be the size of her entire stomach.

I'm looking forward to Emmitt's next step of controlling his own stream and keeping the bathroom floor (and bystanders) clean. This, I know is a lot to ask, and I'll be patient...this struggle Emmitt will face on his own, without the guidance and dictatorship of his little twin!

Greenbluff's Peach Festival

2010-08-26T13:35:00.000-07:00

At the Harvest House in Greenbluff there's live music (supplied by a decidedly elderly, yet surprisingly energetic band), fresh lunch faire, desserts (including donuts made before your eyes), a grassy hill that calls out to be "rolled", and of course, peaches of every variety.

The twins were especially photogenic, and all three were in a good mood as we watched the crowds and enjoyed the green slope of lawn. I love this next picture. I think it will go on our picture wall in the living room.

Silas wanted me to capture his "flight", so I did my best, although I'm sure this picture is far less exciting than the one in his imagination.

Grandpa Pat, Yaya, and Grandma Jean all accompanied us on our farm adventure. It was a lovely outting, but I think poor Grandma Jean was set on edge the entire time because of all the dogs roaming around off of leashes. There was one great dane that was as tall as a horse!

Silas was able to ride the Wiggly Worm at Walter's Farm, a Greenbluff favorite for the kids. Walter's has a play structure and a huge covered box filled with dried peas instead of sand. I LOVE the pea pit because sand is so hard to dig out from every crease and crevice, but the peas fall right off.

Silas is a big goof ball, you can guess where he gets his charm...I'm not sure how I'll get him to smile a normal smile for the remainder of his childhood. "Normal" pictures may be a thing of the past.

Crazy Summer Fun

2010-08-03T18:58:00.000-07:00

The flight of his life began on a sunny Sunday afternoon while mommy was huddled into a puddle trying to convince herself that flying was safe and God is strong and good enough to protect her son. He may not appear excited, but Silas was probably just masking his anticipation with the confidence of his gender. "Papa Dennis" took my eldest up into an airplane, a J-3 Cub to be exact, and claimed that Silas was one of the only children to ever hold the controls and observe the plane's appearance as he turned and climbed through the air. I've always recognized "Claridge-like" patterns in Silas, but never more than his thrill over this small propeller plane.

Silas high in the air over the pond.

I did have Dennis take me up to preview the safety of the J-3 pleasure flights. I didn't have quite as much fun as Silas, but it was thrilling to see everything from the sky.

Silas couldn't have all the fun! Shauna and I decided to try out some new tricks on the zip line. Double the weight turned out to not be too much for the little line. We even dropped on top of the water trampoline at the bottom!

We Honeymooned Again: Radium Hot Springs and Banff 6 Years Later

2010-06-30T10:18:00.000-07:00

Here are the pictures, without dialogue. It was a wonderful trip. Just imagine us having fun and taking advantage of adventure.

Some Relationships are Just Like That

2010-06-16T19:39:00.000-07:00

...enduring; spanning miles and years; comfortable, yet willing to challenge.

I had a great little visit with my East Valley ladies, April and Tamara the other day. April is home for the birth of her sister's twins, so we took the opportunity to have lasagna on the porch and play Scrabble. Of course, Tamara creamed us in Scrabble (thanks, I'm sure, to all of those two-letter, "it's a word that's allowed in Scrabble...I don't know what it means" words), but we all laughed most of the night anyway.

The kids were free to roam our five acres while I finished getting dinner on the table. Tamara made sure everyone followed our two family rules: 1. No using the drill in the dirt. 2. Don't point your guns (pretend at present) at any person.

April took all of these lovely pictures.

Silas and Elise have a special love for their helmets. They like to run around wearing them long after the bikes have been put to the side.

~Carne Asada~ What's Grilling for Memorial Day Weekend

2010-05-28T13:17:00.000-07:00

In my opinion, carne asada is the most wonderful dish to serve on a bbq weekend with friends and family. It is teeming with garlic and cilantro, marinated for hours in spices and lime juice and is fabulous wrapped up in a tortilla with sour cream, avocado and pico de gallo. I'm sharing this recipe because I've never found a better one and because the store-bought spice blends always include MSG, to which we are allergic. This marinade is adapted from simplyrecipies.com.

Carne asada is the thinly sliced, grilled beef served so often in tacos and burritos. Although almost any cut of beef can be butterflied into thin sheets for the carne asada, typically it is made from flank steak or skirt steak. I've found the most reliable store to find the thinly sliced beef to be Winco.

Carne Asada Recipe
2 pounds flank or skirt steak
Olive oil (to coat the grill to prevent sticking)
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to season on the grill if desired)

Marinade:
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 jalapeño chile pepper, seeded and minced (or 1 Tbl. chili sauce like Tapatio)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 large handful fresh cilantro, leaves and stems, finely chopped
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 limes, juiced
2 tablespoons white vinegar
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/2 cup olive oil

Method
1. Lay the flank steak in a large non-reactive bowl or baking dish. Combine marinade ingredients and pour the marinade over the steak. Make sure each piece is well coated. Cover in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1-24 hours.

2. Preheat your grill over medium-high flame. Brush the grates with a little oil to prevent the meat from sticking. Remove the steak from the marinade. Grill the pieces for a few minutes only, on each side, depending on how thin they are, until medium rare to well done, to your preference. You may need to work in batches. Remove the steak pieces and let rest for 5 minutes.

(Optional) Serve with warm tortillas (flour or corn). Warm the tortillas for 30 seconds on each side in a dry skillet or on the grill, until toasty and pliable. Alternatively, you can warm tortillas in a microwave: heating just one or two at a time, place tortillas on a paper towel and microwave them for 15 to 20 seconds each on high.

(Optional) Serve with pico de gallo (fresh tomato salsa), sour cream, freshly chopped cilantro, and chopped avocados.

Serves 4-6 very happy people.

The Woman I Love

2010-05-27T21:44:00.000-07:00

This may seem a little weird because I (Barry) am making this post on Tiffany's blog. No this is not Tiffany she is not that into herself. I just got home at 9:00 p.m. from a crazy day at work and I was a little disappointed to not see my wife awake and ready to talk to me about her day and all the wild things she and the kids did. But I walked into our room and I saw her sleeping peacefully; I just had to thank God for an amazing wife. She snored a little as I exited the room, it made me laugh and it made me want to tell someone just how blessed I am.

Everyday Tiffany wakes up with a smile and a wonderful outlook on life. She encourages me to see my life through God's eyes and not my 20/60 prescription glasses. She is not afraid to tell me to suck it up when I'm feeling depressed, and she is always there when I need her to just listen. As you can tell I'm not the greatest writer and I would not be able to finish grad school without her help. Tiffany is the most beautiful, talented, caring, and courageous person I know. She is also the most amazing mother to our kids and she loves others as if they were more important than herself. Thank you God, for an amazing wife, and thank you Tiffany for loving me the way you do. I do not deserve you or the gifts of love you constantly give me.
Love always, your husband and your number one fan,
SB

The Powwow for Child Abuse Prevention

2010-05-05T07:22:00.000-07:00

It was a ton of fun to go to Wellpinit for this family event to raise awareness concerning child abuse. The dancers were all children and even kids with no costumes were included in most of the competition dances. There was a nice dinner, a Native musician to sing and speak about the pervasiveness of child abuse, and then there was the drumming and dancing.

Elise found a happy dance partner in Josiah, the pastor's son from Westend. They ran around an laughed and danced, even during the dances that were reserved for the real competitors.

The kids made a train and hopped and danced in a circle.

Emmitt and Elise are mesmerized by the procession.

That quickly turns into careless fun.

Silas made friends with a very pretty princess. She was so charming, still Silas says, "She was ni-ice."

Welcoming Earth

2010-05-05T07:21:00.000-07:00

This earth beneath my feet, feels cool and sturdy. It tells me that I am welcome here. I have trod this same earth since childhood, and the earth has become my companion. It tells me to rest, to not worry much after any new wave or truth, which may as well be a lie, for the earth wants me only to stay and to be satisfied. New adventures are not needed, as long as the old ones of my youth are replayed. The earth will tell me of the old ones and remind me that if I venture out, my adventures may not be as forgiving and nostalgic as the ones the earth loves to recount. Fear, then, slowly instilled in my heart, comes from the earth. I shouldn't, couldn't...dare not try, for it would be unlike me, unlike my people, unlike what I and this earth have always known.

I'm not sure at what point the earth ceased to be a friend and began acting as an enemy, silently plotting against me with it's dark, sweet smell and it's inviting richness. Perhaps, my friend, the welcoming earth is not so altruistic in it's motive to keep me close, to determine that my feet stay planted on it's soil. Perhaps the earth is more like a friendly captor, who whispers kindly for me to stay, but thinks nothing of the dreams in my heart, or the plans which have been so lovingly prepared for me.

One More Down

2010-04-08T23:17:00.000-07:00

Well, the little black one that had been shunned finally met her end. She wouldn't stop her seizures, and when she would flail about, she would peep so loud that she would keep Barry awake. You can imagine what happened when I wasn't there to nurse the little tormented chick...when I got home, the warm hen box was quite quiet. I asked Barry if my sick little barred rock died and he said it was so. I accused him of doing the deed, to which he quickly confessed. I was imagining that a bit of creative history could've made me feel like my chick had just succumbed to natural causes, but Barry is not one to speak in euphemism. We are down to 6.

Easter Eggs and Easter Chicks!

2010-04-01T12:56:00.000-07:00

I should have guessed that my son would inherit my less-than-hilarious sense of humor. Here he is posing that he is eating the Easter eggs we just colored...

The blue definately was the darkest color.

Anyone who has known me for more than a couple years, knows that I LOVE chickens. They are so cute, and they follow you around and I can raise them anywhere! On the farm, in the residential neighborhood, in a dorm room...

Here is my new batch: I started with 3 Barred Rock, 3 Rhode Island Red, and 2 Araucana. One of the Barred Rock died the day we got them. She wouldn't eat and she pecked continuously on the side of the dish rather than in it. I think that's what they call natural selection. :) The 7 left are doing well. Although, one has been shunned by the group and she may also end up dying if they don't let her in the sleeping huddle. I can hear them peeping as I type.

The Warm Temperatures Bring my Creativity Back to Life

2010-03-19T14:15:00.000-07:00

With the coming of Spring, I always find myself opening up my heart to accomplishing things I've left unattended throughout the winter. I love the sun. It brings with it gardening, digging in the dirt, dreams of splashing in warm water and the coveted vitamin D, which brings me to life! Today at my MOM's group we created a decorative jar and I decided to follow an antique French motif...you can judge if I succeeded, but I love my jar. It makes the perfect, simple vase for my very favorite: calla lilies.

If you know Valerie Sjodin's artwork, you'll notice one of her self portraits on the far left. I love that little piece.

To the Camas Center

2010-03-01T11:23:00.000-08:00

We took a trip to the nearby waterslide park/fitness center and loved it. The babies loved walking around in the warm water and especially enjoyed the slides, also known as "wees". Silas loved squirting people with the built-in water guns and playing pretend with his friends.

My friends Shawna and her boy who's the same age as our babies.

Summer, Silas' friend.

My other friend, Chelle's new baby.

Our wet little family.

Christmas with the Claridges

2010-01-13T18:40:00.000-08:00

"The Boyz"

Here are the big boy cousins. Emmitt will soon join the ranks, but for now he is happy to beheld by Mommy.

Grandma with Baby Salt and Baby Pepper. :)

All of the cousins gathered together:

Mommy and Elise.

My lovely siblings, all grown up!

Woah, a Bit of Catch Up!

2009-12-27T19:48:00.000-08:00

Silas has a TV buddy...don't worry, we are keeping a close eye on those two blonde heads. Summer belongs to our friends, Josh and Shauna. She is spunky and feisty, kind of like Elise, only taller!

Total boy-watching-tv-and-nothing-else look here!

My ladies group up on Kiefer Mountain. :) Great woman and friends...

We were wrestling the two bitty ones in the living room. We have such big personalities when we have kids!

"Howdy, ma'am."

The first proper snowman of the season and the back yard:

Silas had his 4th birthday party. We were graced with my parents, Pat and Chickie, my brother, JD with his kids and Josh and Shauna and their two. It was a Curious George Birthday and a ton of fun! Here we are playing pin the nose on George and drop the candy in the jar. We tried animal charades, but the kids kept yelling out their animal before the guessers had time to do their job...

Mom pinned the nose on George, but she came in fourth!

Josh and Shauna in deep discussion.

Awesome monkey faces!

Summer decided to just bend down and place the candy right in the hole...duh! Why would the other kids even bother dropping it from so high up?

We had a serious party animal on our hands!

Thanksgiving 2009

2009-12-04T21:52:00.000-08:00

Hello! With all of the holiday bustle, I've not posted for a while. I asked Barry to put together this post, so read ahead to enjoy his very first blog post!

Thanksgiving was great. Both sets of grandparents graced us with their presence.

We had enough food to feed four more families.

Silas loves turkey because it gives him big muscles!

There are moments in life when everything seems to come together in a special way. This year's Thanksgiving was a sweet reminder to us about how God has greatly blessed us beyond measure. We are thankful for all our loved ones and for Christ who "redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us" (Gal.4:13a).

My dad was a great help in cleaning out my shop and chopping a lot of wood.

Twin cousins. No, twin twin cousins.

Michael, Jimmy, Emmitt, and Elise

The 10th Year Memorial in Memory of Christopher

2009-11-05T13:30:00.000-08:00

We got ready for the 10th Year Memorial at Pat and Chickie's. Barry's sister, Melissa, was in town for the event as well and our plan was to go out to the cemetary in the morning to remember his life. His boys, brother, mom, and dad would all meet us there. Silas and Emmitt were styling in their matching shirts.

Auntie Mim and Leesie-Claire

Yaya and the baby Statue of Liberty

She is signing, "more, more" with a very appropriate questioning look. I think Yaya had sugar cereal.

Auntie Punkin, Uncle Jack, and Alvin.

Silas and Grandpa Pat enjoying a cloudy walk.

Me and my baby.

Mommy Had More Fun...Like Girls Just Wanna Do (Thank you Cyndi Lauper!)

2009-11-03T20:46:00.000-08:00

This past weekend was "Boo-Jah" at Addy New Life and we helped out with the games. You know I love to dress up, so I found the most outrageous 80's character around and patterned myself after her.

I was Cyndi Lauper...and as it turned out, so was my friend, Stephanie. We decided to have a Cyndi Lauper-off on the running bungie game. Whoever could run the farthest while being pulled back by the bungie cord, and place her velcro marker on the line nearest to the end of the run, won.

My Cyndi Lauper twin was a fierce competitor and in the end, our markers overlapped each other in a dead tie. I think the outfits were also equally stellar, although, Stephanie's white socks with dress shoes really added a classy touch!

Has anyone seen Nacho Libre, the fanastic, manly luchador?

Look, there's my little puppy, Emmitt! The Bunny is London, a friend's daughter.

Waking up to Snow!

2009-10-29T16:02:00.000-07:00

At 7:15 Silas walked up the stairs to go to the bathroom and to make sure I was up. He is instructed to wait until "the clock says seven" to get out of bed and he does a great job! His clock may be set a little slow so that "seven" comes closer to 7:15, but I can't be sure...

We sleepily moved into the livingroom where I noticed a strange thick frost out the window...nope snow! On October 29!

Silas was elated and said he was going out (it was still dark as you can see in the picture!). As Silas told me that "Christmas is here!", I pulled on jeans and a hat over my pajamas. Out we went to make the first snowballs of the season and lay on the cold ground to make snow angels.We couldn't find the sled, so we settled for bringing in some extra wood and went in to get warm.

Later, I bundled up all three for their first snowy romp, but the twins were not sure about the new precipitation and cried almost the entire time.

They were so sweet and snuggly that I had to get close-ups.

Motorcycle Dudes and a Little Lady

2009-10-24T20:34:00.000-07:00

Kylen, Evie, and Lydia came to visit us today! It was great fun to see the cousins play and help the men load wood. The boys got a kick out of having the same jammies.

Pumpkin Patch Love

2009-10-06T15:15:00.000-07:00

The Warren Family Clan took the short trip to the Addy Pumpkin Patch this week. Silas picked out the "perfect pumpkin!!", which was something we read about in a book from the library. He was sooo happy to pay for them and load them up in the van.

The next day, Grandma and Grandpa came out to the house to look at our septic problem and we took the opportunity to carve up a couple holiday decorations. Silas wore his "motorcycle dude" costume and LOVED the carving and quickly named his jack-o-lantern, "Pumpkin Pie"!

Is This Me or What?

2009-10-02T16:03:00.000-07:00

This photo has caught the eye of a couple friends who have suggested that the picture is actually from my photo shoot with my uncle and cousin the day of my wedding. Rather than ask my family, I've chosen to promote the mystery by posting it up for discussion.

Actually, although the resemblance to our wedding photos is striking, the only detail that makes me wonder if this attractive photo displayed on Spokane CD'A Living Magazine is really me, is the thick flip flop shoes and the date that the photo ran, which was Jan/Feb 2005...conveniently after our 2004 wedding.

So, what do you think?

The House

2009-09-25T14:51:00.000-07:00

Some friends and family have not been able to see the house yet, so we thought we'd post a few pictures to catch everyone up. We feel REALLY humbled and blessed to have such a wonderful house. We love living out on a piece of land, so near town, and we are excited about all of the landscaping potential! Thanks to everyone who has helped us move in, get stuff installed and fixed, and painted...thank you. We hope our home can be used for great things and many gatherings for years to come.

The back of the house.

The view from the front porch.

Diaper Heads

2009-09-24T08:05:00.000-07:00

What fun can be had with a couple of swim diapers and two little baby heads? Take a look and see!

Emmitt actually liked his and wore it for about an hour after we were done playing. :)

In Memory of Marshall; who came and went

2009-09-15T19:05:00.000-07:00

Barry's dream dog, a purebred German Shepherd, came to live with us after we had about 1/4 of our hours complete to pay him off. We made an agreement with the breeder to work for her in lieu of cash. The dog tagged along behind us as we organized and sifted through her massively overcrowded possessions, trying to help her simplify. It was fine work, and well worth the prize of a beautiful and obedient German Shepherd.

The kids LOVED him, especially Elise. She crawled around the house, constantly trying to peek out of a window, or plaster her face to the glass door to see the "doo-doo". She would scream, laugh, and tap his head as I said, "gentle".

A couple days after we got him, he began to act sick. The next week was consumed by watching his liquids, checking his hydration, giving him homeopathic mixes (as instructed by his breeder) and taking him to the vet for fluids, antinausea meds, and antibiotic to fight any secondary infections. Throughout the week, I was sure that Marshall would make it. He was so strong. He was beautiful. He was mine.

When he died I was with him and for the previous hour had known that it was coming. His body was ravaged by the parvo. His heartbeat was irratic and his breathing labored. Still, the moment of his death scared me and was so shocking in it's finality. He was suddenly just a body, without life, without personality, without breath.

Silas had trouble sharing my attention the week of Marshall's illness. He began acting out and (I believe) became resentful of the dog. When we bleached our home and porches, and the following day when we went to the gravesite to have a ceremony, Silas seemed relieved.

The ceremony was even a little fun, having a three year old involved help keep the mood light. We began with a prayer, thanking God for Marshall and the time he was with us. We preceeded by each placing picked wildflowers on the grave and saying something nice about the dog. Silas said, " Marshall, I wish you weren't dead." Poor kid.

We asked Silas which song we should sing together, to which he replied, "The Zacheus is too little one". So we sang, "Zacheus Was a Wee Little Man", and closed our funeral. Marshall will remain with us and in his grave as the perfect dog that came and went in a week.

East Valley 10 Year Reunion

2009-08-31T15:10:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was the East Valley High School 10 year reunion. There was a cruise on Lake CD'A, a park day and a bar night. I went to the latter two events, but I only have a picture from the park. There were more people at the evening events, I think those without kids felt like they shouldn't do the park thing. It was fun to reconnect with friends.

Why Do We Let 3 Year Olds Do Mutton Bustin'?

2009-08-31T14:26:00.000-07:00

Silas showed his cowboy colors this weekend at the North Idaho Fair. He wanted to mutton bust, so we paid the fee and turned on the video camera. Poor guy had no idea that the sheep are not as friendly as the neighbor's horse. We did try to warn him, but he had his mind set.

Here's the little buckaroo post-bustin'.

Zip's and the Park

2009-08-24T15:04:00.000-07:00

We enjoy the Chewelah park so much. Whenever Barry's parents are with us, we get to go to Zip's after our play time. Silas and the babies love fries...

5th Surgery

2009-08-22T20:13:00.000-07:00

Barry had his fifth of the same type of sinus surgery this summer. The doctor was surprised (as they all are) at how much stuff was up in his sinuses. Here's my recovering man.

Grandpa Pat came over to help out during the recovery time. He really helped out; cleaning the garage, going to the dump and recycling our boxes... all things that Barry could have done if he was feeling up to it.

Barry's Birthday

2009-08-22T12:45:00.000-07:00

A rather strange, but fun family gathering in honor of Barry's birthday. He turned 28! Oh, we can get a little corny sometimes...

(..couldn't help it!)

Two Peas in a Pod! Double the Fun! Emmitt and Elise are Turning One!

2009-07-24T09:42:00.000-07:00

Sorry about the formatting...I'm a little confused by the computer I'm using.

The babies had never opened their own presents before and they each had one from Aunt Angie to rip into. We tore the corner of the paper for them, but they weren't sure what to do. Eventually the big kids "helped" and the presents were opened. Both of them held on to their gifts like they were precious. No one was allowed to take them, especially Elise's. There were screams and arms flailing when we tried to get the sound mechanism to work.

Elise smiled and yelled at her cupcake. She talked to it and tentatively poked her finger into it. She laughed when she tasted her dessert and daintily put her finger in again. It took quite a while for her to finish, in between screaming and poking. Emmitt was as quiet as a chubby little laughing mouse and consumed his in record time.

Emmitt grabbed his cupcake with two fists and giggled. He put it in his mouth and giggled some more! He ate like a sea creature that just digests it's food whole. When his treat was gone, he got to have another, at which he again laughed.

Crashing a Company Picnic :)

2009-07-21T21:08:00.000-07:00

We went to the park on a lazy day and found way more than we expected. Oak Harbour Homes had the park loaded with a jumpy house, snow cones, a clown, pinatas, and lawn games. They said we could tag along, so Silas and the twins enjoyed a little more fun than anticipated. There was also a big grey poodle that wanted to get to know the babies.

When Oregon Came to Us

2009-07-12T22:00:00.001-07:00

It was quite a special day when the Sadys honored us with a visit here in the wild forests of Eastern Washington. Any obscenity that you see was, of course, the work of Sam...

We had a sweet and brief reunion to fan the flames of our friendship. I was busy playing the couple days they were here, so I almost missed out entirely on the photo opportunities, but I trust that Jenna will post some doosies on her blog shortly.

My Country-fied Kids

2009-07-06T13:13:00.000-07:00

I guess I like to make up words like "mommy-ness" and "country-fied"...language is meant to be used for communication, right?

Anyway, Silas does enjoy a good outdoor playtime, especially if it includes trucks and dirt. "Papa Dennis" and our friend Matt came over the other day while Barry was away. They offered some much needed man time for my oldest son and he was able to ride a dump truck and help oil a wheel. That's what little boy dreams are made of.

The babies were a little less thrilled to be left in the weeds. Emmitt looks absolutley grumpy.

The Single Mommy-ness Has Passed!

2009-07-06T08:52:00.000-07:00

Barry was off at his grad school for two weeks and in the meantime, we moved to a new town and a new house! Don't worry, he knew that we were packing up! ;) It was a crazy time, but plenty of family and friends helped. We are immensely thankful for all of the help and encouragement! I LOVE our new house and I am having fun setting up a new nest for the little chicks. Barry was so happy to get home to us and we are getting ready for more summer fun.

With One Phone Jack working

2009-06-30T12:44:00.000-07:00

Our lovely house has been nothing but a joy to me! We moved in last week and our friends and family rode in on a white horse to save us from our overwhelming task. I just now configured the computer so that I could use the internet. We only have one phone jack working in the house, so I stretched a long cord between two rooms and now I have power! I think I'll be calling Century Tel asap to help me out. I hope to upload some pictures soon. Just watching kids and trying to set up house has been a major undertaking recently. I have a new found painting fetish, so I've been staying up late to brighten up the walls. I think that there is only one picture from the last week...none of the move itself. Things were a little hectic.

Baby Girl Loves Strawberries!

2009-06-23T15:29:00.001-07:00

This stringy little thing really likes strawberries! She was talking to them and contemplating how best to enjoy them, and had a lovely sweet snack. I hope she's not allergic!

Oh yeah, our house is full of boxes...we've been packing for more than 3 weeks! We move tomorrow!

He's Off!

2009-06-21T15:47:00.000-07:00

My handsome graduate student has departed for a short summer class. We WILL DEFINITELY miss him while we move into our new home. He needs to work on completing the masters program that he began years ago, and this class along with a couple others must be taken this summer, on campus.

We Needed a Family Break!

2009-06-20T09:10:00.000-07:00

So, we went into Spokane for a day at Riverfront Park. It was like a dream day for Silas because it included the big wagon slide, feeding the ducks, a playground, the carousel, and the huge fountain that kids can play in. We spent some relaxing time together which is just what we needed after a few weeks of moving and house buying stress (we are hopefully moving in this Wednesday.) These binoculars were from an Arby's meal and they were the treasured toy of the day. Still, right now Silas and Barry are out at the dump and Silas took his favorite binoculars so that he wouldn't miss any deer, or people, or cars, or trees...

Elise LOVES swings! We never knew that before because we live far away from any baby swings. She was such a ham!
Emmitt enjoys things a little more discretely, but he had lots of fun too.

Hey Princess!

Doesn't every boy like to sit on fountains and let the water spray out from between his legs?

5 Years Ago

2009-06-10T08:31:00.000-07:00

This month is our 5 year anniversary.

What I think is beautiful about love is that it grows, changes, and renews. Love allows for transition, even expects it. Love gives allowance for failure. Love quickly forgives. Love anticipates goodness and fosters truth. Love is not something you "fall out of", it is something you choose. Love never fails.

Barry & Tiffany

June 19, 2004

Inchelium Visit: What We Do About Every Other Week

2009-06-04T11:40:00.001-07:00

I wanted to do a little documentary on our Inchelium trips. We go to Inchelium for doctors appointments, dentist appointments, to get WIC checks and to see Papa and Auntie Punkin. Whenever we go we run into other family and spend lots of time chatting. Sometimes, it's our only social outing of the week (besides church), so it's a pretty important event.

Here we are loading up on the ferry from Gifford to Inchelium. The ferry crosses the Columbia River, where it has become wide because of Grand Coulee Dam and it's now Lake Roosevelt.

Whenever I take pictures on the ferry, some nice Indian man or lady gives me a look like, "Oh, I'm sure this is a novelty for you...". I'm always a little shy and would like to say that in fact I am a local.

Getting on the ferry:

Silas looks really happy to be in his car seat. But, he did get a special "Silas Soda" to drink before be left. He and I drink carbonated water. It's our version of caffeine free/sugar free.

Emmitt in his big boy seat that Silas used to use.

Elise is still in the infant seat. She's just a little button.

The sign, just in case someone new comes looking for the clinic. I'm not sure if anyone new has ever come up to the clinic.

The clinic: Auntie Punkin works there in the pharmacy. I didn't take any pictures of the doctors or clinic workers; once again, I was too embarrassed. Really it's my whiteness that makes me feel like I shouldn't make myself stick out any more than I already do.

A mural inside:

A painting inside that I really like:

Heading back across the ferry: A truck almost hit me as I took this photo because he expected me to just keep going and load up on the ferry.

The beautiful view from the ride across the river. The breeze across the water brought the temperature down about 10 degrees. It was lovely.

Local terrain: dry and mountainous

On the ferry ride back, Silas got to "drive" the van. He is sporting his new Dora sticker that he picked out a the doctor's office.

Catholic Mass & A Moose

2009-06-02T19:21:00.000-07:00

My handsome fella climbing a fence at a friend's ranch.

Melt my heart.

I'm trying to show Silas how to lead this calf without letting go of the rope. She pulled and spooked a little, so he wasn't sure whether he wanted to risk it.

A cowboy in training.

Silas and the "Big Rock"; a very important part of our daily life. He plays on it, under it and around it, and when he wants to go outside without parental supervision, he says that he'll go play out "by the Big Rock", which for some reason makes me feel like he'll be safe.

Yaya reading to Silas:

He loves books and loves the personal attention of being read to even more.

The moose that ran across the road on Hunters-Springdale pass. It seems fitting that we should almost kill this moose. I'm sure that it's a relative of the moose that almost became my front seat last year on the same mountain pass.

Aunt Rosie had her (twin boy) babies baptized in the Catholic church a couple of weeks ago. All of the family filled an entire section of the ornate building and I'm sure we were the rowdiest attendees the congregation has seen since Christmas.

Michael looks a little angelic. James looked equally sweet, but I was bouncing my own duo and all of the other shots turned out blurry.

April Came to our House!

2009-05-06T22:43:00.000-07:00

Let the pictures begin with the worthless chihuahua. She is so underloved.

My handsome boy and me having a tickle match.

Posing with the camera in hand is always so tricky. I usually look like I have eight chins, so a slightly strange facial expression is not so bad.

Baby girl was very happy to socialize with April. I think April should consider it quite a sincere compliment.

My dad rocks!

Emmitt has a fever and wasn't happy today, but he tried to be friendly.

Sweet little nubbin.

The Northwest in Springtime

2009-05-06T09:46:00.000-07:00

Apple blossoms:

Daffodils are some of the cheeriest and earliest flowers.

Apparently the scallions come back year after year.

Hum, green...blessed green.

The sky is blue and calm like a placid lake today.

The apple trees:

Cut wood: a scene in every season

We call these "skunk plants" because they smell so good.

The proud master tree climber:

The Girl Shanty

2009-05-01T13:13:00.000-07:00

I'd like to take a moment to mention that just because I enjoy music, books, art, and media in general which celebrates women, does not mean that I am anti-men. I am very pro-men, especially as it relates to my man.

I hope you can enjoy this song with me. Click below and press "play " to hear it. Eat your heart out, Sam Sady.

http://new.music.yahoo.com/sons-of-the-never-wrong/tracks/girl-shanty--56472905

By the way, pick yourself some flowers. It's MAY DAY!

Hiking Hunters: A View From the Top

2009-04-20T12:10:00.000-07:00

Michelle and Me on top of "Echo Ridge" (which btw, doesn't echo unless it's wintertime...I don't really know why) with a FUSSY little girl who wants her mommy and two content boys.

Hunters from the view of the birds, or deer, or rattlesnakes...

Barry's school (he's out there running some Jr. High boys in baseball practice)

The happy crew again.

A New House

2009-04-20T09:28:00.000-07:00

After a couple years of waiting, looking and praying, we think that we've finally landed the house of our dreams... :) Here is a beautiful home that recently went through a forclosure and was trashed. We are buying it from a friend, who's doing the work that you'll see here. At the home, there are 5 acres, a shop and a roomy home on top of a private treed hill.

The Shop: Barry's Favorite First

The House: back & side yard, looking from the shop
The Master Suite: Upstairs

The Dining Room: Main Level

The House: Front View

We are really excited about this purchase and we are grateful that God is handing us this wonderful thing. We hope to use it as a gathering place and share what we've been given.

Spring Break!

2009-04-06T09:57:00.000-07:00

All the grandkids, ready for an Easter egg hunt.

J.D., Silas, Kylen, Evie, Lilly, Hazel & Josiah

We had everyone from the good'ol egg hunting days gathered again. We grew up a little and multiplied. Now our kids get to enjoy the hunt.

Barry is in with some pretty shady company here. Uncle John, uncle Greg, Barry & Spencer.

Grandma with Johnny and & Me and all of our kids: Johnny's boy is a month younger than my babies! He might be twice as big as Elise! :)

My lovely aunts, Paula and Debi & Grandma.

While we stayed at J.D.'s, Kara helped me straighten my hair with her fancy straightener...I would love to have hair like hers everyday.

No need to share, each of our kids can hold a baby.

At the Pool

2009-04-06T08:26:00.000-07:00

Here was our maiden voyage to Usk, WA, where some brilliant team thought up to build an indoor pool and workout facility in the middle of practically nowhere. Living in another "practically nowhere", we recognise the benefit of such an oasis. We had a great time at a friend's birthday party.

Sweet Elsie, who screamed for about 80% of the time in the water, liked snuggling mommy after the fun, fun, swim.
Emmitt splashed and played and then enjoyed Daddy and a warm towel.

One baby is a handful at a pool, two babies are a hazard at a pool, and two babies and a three year old are certain demise anywhere near the water.

School Carnival!

2009-03-28T09:30:00.000-07:00

Columbia School District

Home of the Lions

School Carnival 2009

Yum....cotton candy...

Me & Michelle (friend & teacher) - she's my workout buddy

Michelle (friend & teacher) & her daughter Lexi

Friends and teachers

Joey (aka Dirt Dirt)

Elise, Me & Becky (another friend & teacher)

Alex and Rachel, Barry's kids last year

Barry's friend Tom (teacher) and Elise

Mike (Jen's husband) & Josiah and a student's dad

Jen (friend & teacher) is in charge of the cake walk. Silas won a huge package of treats at her booth.

I Happen to Believe that my Children are the Most Beautiful, Wonderful Children Around...

2009-03-19T19:41:00.000-07:00

Seriously, she looks like a doll (even if she screams like a bobcat).

Notice the toothbrush in the packaging...it's a very favorite toy reserved for special occasions, like when Mommy wants to take a picture.

Have you ever seen more dashing stud-muffins? I dare say, no!

Daddy Giving Double Snuggles

2009-03-19T18:37:00.000-07:00

Because of the babies' schedules, Barry doesn't get to see them for long in the evening before they are plopped into their cribs. Both of them love attention from their Daddy, though, especially Elise. She gives him flirtatious sideways glances and big smiles.

Emmitt is such a snuggler. I love to hold his substantial self and feel his head as he lays it on my shoulder.

Baby Dedication Sunday

2009-03-01T19:26:00.000-08:00

Once again, here are our faithful leaders and friends, the Stones. They are off to new things and today we celebrated our church's 30th anniversary along with Pastor Danny's last day of preaching and a slew of baby dedications. Everyone was trying to jam in one last ceremony with the Stones before they jumped into their next great adventure.

The baby dedication:

Mom & Dad with the family:
What is Silas doing?

Mom and Elise:

Chickie and Elise:

Barry and Grandpa Pat:

Papa and Emmitt:

Ann was there too, she brought Papa over to the service.

Auntie Rosie with her twins, Michael and Jimmy:

Aunt Maria wouldn't pose for the picture. :)

Our crew:

Hey Dad, was your finger over the flash?

Small People Do Business Too

2009-02-25T17:15:00.000-08:00

I thought I'd try a new thing the other week. Why couldn't the babies poop on the potty when they have to go? I've heard that with enough effort (which I'm sure I can't muster) you can "potty train" infants entirely. So, I gave it a try with the Little Big One. He took right to pooping on the potty. He sits down and gives it his best push. Amazing. That was two weeks ago and I've only changed one or two poopy diapers since! Now on with the girl...She has a slightly less predictable system, but she has successfully done her thing a few times in the last couple days. I suppose this takes more attentiveness to the babies, but it saves a ton of diapers and I am about the cheapest person I know (besides my brother). Thanks to all those mothers out there who found out through necessity that babies can go potty on the toilet.

Growing Things

2009-02-25T13:58:00.000-08:00

If there are two things my father passed on to me, one is the love of proper grammar and the other is the joy of gardening. Here are a few things I've been trying to grow lately. Thanks Dad. ;)

basil, dill, cilantro, and chives

dill? I forgot which plant is which...

butternut squash

baby girl...

At Church Yesterday

2009-02-23T10:47:00.000-08:00

We like to obey the rules, really we do. But here is Silas playing in the "under 2" room. He and some little friends had taken over the joint.

So, the reason that I took the camera to church was because our pastor and his wife are leaving after March 1. Iam so disappointed, but if God has them leaving, He has something special planned for them.
Hey, there's my friend Rosie.

Marian and Sandy, I am so encouraged by them both.

Baby boy wasn't feeling so fabulous.

Emmitt's Giggles Sound Like a Man's

2009-02-15T20:57:00.000-08:00

My sweet Little Big One is quick to smile, but slow to laugh. Today Yaya got him to show off his low raspy laugh.

Hanging with the Warrens

2009-02-15T17:57:00.000-08:00

Yaya was making Emmitt laugh and laugh with the popping sound.

Grandpa Pat and Emmitt: we've been reviewing Barry's baby photos and Emmitt is almost a carbon copy.

Auntie Mimmy and Elise

Justine and Aunt Deedee being silly.

Yaya and Emmitt again.

Amber and Tim's Wedding

2009-02-15T17:49:00.000-08:00

Oh, here's my lovely April. Her and her parents worked tirelessly, as I'm sure all families do, to make Amber's wedding a beautiful event. I miss her, she has already flown her little self back to Massachusetts.

Carol and my mom, oh sweet.

The vows.

This is probably my favorite picture, Amber and her dad, walking down the isle.

April's walk down the isle.

We Got a New Camera

2009-02-15T17:21:00.000-08:00

So, as I'm sure you've noticed, we've had a little trouble posting photos lately. We (or possibly, I) have lost the camera and haven't had any way to document our recent lives. I suppose our memories will have to suffice. Our carelessness has been good for the economy though, as we've had to go out and buy a new camera...and not just any camera...one that's bigger and better than the last one, of course!

The blog has missed some important events; a trip to Oregon and family get togethers. But, you'll be glad to see that the kids are all bigger and aquired new skills. Emmitt and Elise both roll around the house. They LOVE solid food, especially carrots, yams, and bananas. Emmitt bubbles when he is frustrated and Elise screams and sings most of the time. They both

Silas had something to tell us, I'm not sure what, but he looks a little distressed.

Here's Elise making bubbles.

Emmitt is full of genuine smiles. He loves people and he wants to be snuggled and held all day.

Kylen, Evelyn, and Silas really enjoy their time together. They were running after Grandpa and throwing those frisbies at him because he was a big bear and they were trying to "get him".

Sarah Tagged Me

2008-12-14T17:52:00.000-08:00

So, I guess I have to tell you seven weird or random things about me? Ok.

1. I can't stand dry things touching dry things. Flour on a rolling pin, naked feet on dusty cement...things like that majorly make me cringe.

2. Growing up, I had such a bad memory that I told my friends that my birthday was on Dec. 28 (it's really the 29th). To this day, my best friend growing up still can't remember which it is.

3. I can't stand common grammar errors in writing. Sorry if you can't stand people like me!
Ending a sentence with a preposition (at, to, from...)
Misusing words like; there and their or then and than
Putting "a lot" or "really" in every other line

4. I like to have someone stand in front of me and hold my ankles while I sit. I have to be in a comfy, tall chair and the "holder" has to cup my ankles really gently or else it doesn't count.

5. I smashed a T.V. in the driveway a couple of years ago. It was out of rage.

6. I may try to conceal it, but I always want to win.

7. I love to have a party. I (almost) always like company.

So, now I tag seven other people who post seven things about themselves. Don't be shy. I look forward to reading...

Jenna
Tamara (facebook)
April (facebook)
Melissa T.
Melissa L. (facebook)
Stephanie K. (facebook)
Stephanie H. (facebook)

Sorry, I can't make a link to your page. I'll just check later.

A Time To Decide

2008-12-11T11:10:00.000-08:00

When life changes I suppose we all have a choice. What our life circumstances become will not always be in our control. "Life" seems to have a direction of its own, not bothering to check with me about the flow or timetable.

While a senior in high school, I helped select the following quote for our senior motto: "We are exactly where we have chosen to be." I no longer remember the author, and yet I have often thought about that message. Yes, we are, in a sense, where we have chosen, but life is not a bank account, which yeilds exactly what we have deposited. I suppose it's more like the stock market. We deposit and hope that the market will improve. We research and find the most promising financial future, but even the most experienced broker cannot assure you of immediate, or even eventual gain. You watch and wait, hoping to someday be exactly where you have chosen to be.

So in the midst of being "not" exactly where I have chosen to be, I have a choice to make. How will I respond to the life that is mine - not that life which I thought I chose? Will I find the strengths of my situation? The strengths of my spouse? The beauty of my children? The sweetness of the unpredicted? Or will I become bitter? Will I cast off God and refuse to forgive because "I have that right"? Will I shrivel? Or will I choose abundant life?

Elise, Silas, Emmitt & Amelia: we love it when Amelia and her mommy come to play!

The three little squishy ones.

Dad, Elise, Mom, Emmitt, Me, Barry & Silas at Thanksgiving

The Thanksgiving crew including JD, Kara, Kylen, Evie, & Lydia. We are really missing Angie and her family.

MORE TWINS!

2008-10-26T20:36:00.000-07:00

Auntie Rosie from WA D.C. had a set of twins in Aug. and they are in Spokane for a while. I can't imagine taking care of all four together. You can really tell the difference in temperment when they are all lined up. Michael and Emmitt are hungry, laid back little guys and Elise and James are a little high strung and active. I think Silas feels a bit concerned about all the babies!

Two chubby boys.

They seem like they're leaning on each other to keep from having to work too hard to sit up.

Michael is on the left and Emmitt on the right.

Michael, Emmitt, Elise & James. The angle makes the first two look a lot bigger than the others, but I think (left to right) Michael is about 13+ lb, Emmitt is 14lbs. 2 oz., Elise is 12lbs. 11oz., and James is about 12lbs.

To be fair to Elise, it was her nap time and we were keeping her up for photos! :)

Silas, Owen & New Hair

2008-10-24T09:23:00.000-07:00

Silas and a buddy, Owen look a little like twins sometimes. I made them hug for the picture. Owen was trying to get out the entire time. :)

So, I have a new do...It was definitely time. I feel like a real person who likes to have fun again. Amazing what a haircut will do for you!

Where's Silas?

2008-10-16T12:57:00.000-07:00

You've heard of Where's Waldo, have you ever played Where's Silas?

Oh, there's that handsome dude.

Recent Trip to Africa

2008-10-16T09:58:00.000-07:00

We wanted to promote our "Water for Africa" fund by showing you the water quality there.

Just kidding. Although Africa does desperately need good water, we apparently do too. This is what periodically happens to our public water source. Yuck, huh? We never drink this water.

Sleepyhead and Cutie Pie

2008-10-13T08:21:00.000-07:00

When a friend gave us these shirts, no one knew how appropriate they'd be...

Grandpa Pat, the pumpkin and a bunny:

Grandpa Jerry (Boppa) and the little cherubs:

Babies are Smiling

2008-09-21T17:21:00.000-07:00

Emmitt is such a stud.

Oh yeah, I know who's da man.
And my pretty girl is so subtle. She wouldn't want to let her face give it all away.
I am darling though? Don't you think?

I've Learned that Babies Actually do Sleep

2008-09-15T15:33:00.000-07:00

Well, we've begun a journey in learning how to "schedule" a baby's eating and sleeping patterns. As you've seen on a previous post, the babies have been characterized by crankiness. We are beginning to see that turn around however.

I am not a person who feels comfortable just trying something out with my babies. I want facts, a well written book to describe a detailed plan and some positive testimonies attributing credence to the theory.

Diving into "Babywise" was a little drastic for me, but I needed to do something. The babies were tired and fussy, and required being held constantly. What I've found in the week and a half that we've been keeping the schedule is that my babies can be content and well rested.

I know that as an infant, Silas never slept as much as these two. I'm sure that's because I just let him decide how and when he wanted to eat and sleep. If he wasn't in a front pack, then he was in my arms sleeping. And there was never a chance that he'd fall asleep on his own in his own crib. It wasn't until he was six months old that I finally decided something needed to be done to make him a more independent sleeper. His colic had passed and he was "old enough", I thought to learn a few new tricks. The following six months were not easy. A co-sleeping six month old has his own ideas about what should or should not be happening. Finally at a year he could resettle himself after he woke up from a 20 min. power nap (the only kind he took before).

I'm sure I would have walked that same path with these two, had they not been too much for me to handle. Severe lack of sleep and growing psychosis forced me to be the parent in this case. Anyway, it seems to be working...for all involved.

2008-08-31T12:07:00.000-07:00

Mommy and Silas playing!

L to R: Elise, Emmitt, & Lydia
Auntie Mim has both of them!
Silas loves Josiah. They are playing at Chewelah park.
Lilly and Silas are very concerned about the dangers in the park...

At Priest Lake

2008-08-31T11:53:00.000-07:00

Our most common view of the babies lately:

We're not sure why God gave us twins and then chose them to be fuss buckets, but this seems to be the case...they love to eat (Emmitt recently had to go through some blood tests because his liver wasn't processing the huge amount of food he was eating!), and then want to be bounced and held at all times after that.

Auntie Angie, Lilly, and Emmitt. Auntie Angie seems to be able to always calm Emmitt down when he's crying.
Si and the Big Bike.
Grandparents and their offspring (minus Silas).
On he left is Lydia, born to JD & Kara on the same night as the twins! On the right is Elise.

Kalispell for a Spell

2008-08-31T11:40:00.000-07:00

My lovely grandma...she finally got to see the babies.

In just a couple days we have sufficiently worn out all the Kalispell family members. It was great to visit!

Here is a four generation shot- Grandma, Dad, Me, and the kids.
Silas likes to hold his siblings.
He is very confidently climbing the steep slide back in Hunters.
Suddenly he's at the top of the very steep slide and realizes that there is no more hand holds.

Double Time

2008-07-25T16:42:00.001-07:00

Here is a "out of the womb" picture that we've seen before in the womb. Elise is sucking and licking Emmitt's head! During one of our last few ultrasounds, we saw Emmitt licking Elise's head, and now she seems to be excited that the roles have reversed. She was quite certain that she could get at least a little milk from that round head.

Back in the hospital.

Everyone seems to wonder if you can nurse two at the same time. Sure. Just attach like so.

Emmitt Gunnar

Elise Claire

Babies, Babies, Babies

2008-07-22T14:49:00.000-07:00

The Warren family is a trifle indisposed at the moment, so I'll be stepping in to provide some pics and stats about the incredible new additions to the family.

First things first. Everyone is doing really well. Mama Tif was able to hold out against a barrage of C-section fantatical medical professionals and delivered both of her babies the good old-fashioned way late last night.

Meet Emmitt Gunnar (aka Baby "A")

This little guy weighed in at 6 pounds, 10 ounces and 21 inches long. He was born at 9:57 pm. He is either narcoleptic or a night owl, because in the entirety of my hour-long visit, Emmitt did not once open his eyes.

Meet Elise Claire (aka Baby "B")

Elise was born a mere 9 minutes after her brother. A bit daintier than Emmitt, she weighed in at 5 pounds, 12 ounces and 19 inches in length. As you can tell, she was quite alert for the duration of my stay (she was still very well behaved; both of these kids appear to be extremely mellow).

Silas is holding up well. Mama Tif says he is everything a big brother should be, giving kisses and patting heads as a demonstration of his love. He was even able to differentiate between the baby's cries, claiming, "That's my sister," when little Elise gave a short wail. Like his parents, though, he was a bit tired.

Congrats to the entire Warren-Claridge clan! This is one beautiful family.

Silas has been having lots of fun lately!

2008-07-20T18:52:00.001-07:00

Silas, Daddy and Boppa went fishing on Saturday at my parent's neighbor's pond. No bites, but you know what they say about a bad day of fishing.

Si has also been swimming at Aunt Mimi's pool lately. He LOVES to just kick and play by himself with no one holding on to him. I'm glad that not touching doesn't seem to be a problem. He is occasionally put in the shallow water without his life jacket on so that he knows that you don't always float. :)

Here Daddy and Silas are playing in his cousin Kylen's creek. All the boys and men made a dam to create a pool, but it eventually had to break and when it did the little guys liked that part the best.

Scheduled for 2:45 on Monday

2008-07-20T18:36:00.000-07:00

The babies will most likely be born tomorrow. The C-Section is scheduled for 2:45. The surgery may be delayed because hospitals typically over-book themselves, and following the hour of surgery the babies will have to be taken to the nursery (hospital policy) for about an hour for a routine check. So, the earliest they will be given back to mommy will be about 5:00pm.

I won't be online to post pictures of the babies, but perhaps a blog savvy friend will take on the duty. Still, the earliest you may see babies on this site would be Tuesday.

I just wanted everyone to know the plan. I'm not overly excited about the C-Section and if the baby girl decides to turn head down, I may still opt for an induction. This would put the delivery off a couple days because of my doctor's schedule, but I like the traditional method of labor best...

Here are a couple recent photos of me and the belly.

The Babies are Still in the Tummy

2008-07-16T15:34:00.000-07:00

Sorry there are no pictures, but the public library computer does not seem to allow them. The babes are still cooking, although if they don't decide to show themselves soon, the doctor will C- Section them (possibly early next week). I'll be 38 weeks by then and the two babies will probably weigh about 14 lbs together, not counting double placentas and double the fluid. Baby B (the second in delivery position, the girl) has turned to breech, if she turns back to vertex we'll probably induce rather than C-Section. So, we should have these babies out soon one way or another. We miss everyone still and hope that we'll be able to talk and/or see you when the twins come. Our home in Hunters has an extra bedroom, so if you are a friend, consider yourself invited. :)

Ok, Ok... here are the baby belly shots...

2008-06-11T07:57:00.000-07:00

I really haven't been in the mood to post baby belly shots. It's not exactly as glamorous as my first pregnancy I suppose. I suppose that everyone wants to see what two 4 lb babies look like in a tummy. They'll still get bigger, I'm at 32 weeks. I'm on partial restriction because of a slight growth disconcordance between the babies (the girl is smaller) and because my cervix seems to be thinning out a little early. So, I don't watch my friend's boy anymore. I just sit at home and keep the house from being a pit and make sure we have something to eat... very exciting, but it's a nice rest.

Here are some recent "Claridge family" gathering pictures. The old picture is one we found of my parents and siblings about 28 years ago. I guess I'm in the belly.

We Got A Dog! :)

2008-04-15T17:28:00.000-07:00

Well, we just couldn't resist this little female Chihuahua/Terrier mix...and I know we have twins coming, but what's one more baby? We still miss our Chicle dog!

Silas and the new puppy.

Life Lately

2008-04-15T16:59:00.000-07:00

Silas got to see his Auntie Mim last weekend. He talks about her for quite some time after he sees his auntie.

Tif, Kimmie, and Kara.

Yaya and Silas snuggle.

While on the pot yesterday Silas took out some cream and began "shaving" just like Daddy. He was pretty good at getting the cream in the right places. No-fun mommy washed it off after the picture. :)

Silas and his friend Dirt-Dirt (Aka Joey) were jammin' and dancing.

Phil, Steph & Jackson

2008-04-15T16:41:00.000-07:00

Phil & Steph came all the way over from their mother land to stay with us for a week and a half. It was a ton of fun. Here we all are at our cabin. They stayed in another little cabin at the camp.

My parents love them and so we went up to their house for a couple hours. We couldn't stay long because poor Steph has a huge cat allergy! You can see her face mask that she took off for the picture. :)

Here we are at Raptor Reef Indoor Waterpark. I LOVE this place!

Nathan becomes a Big Brother!

2008-02-29T14:30:00.000-08:00

Daddy suiting up after a few very tense episodes.

Grandma Tony is praying for the Baby Isaac and Jenna.

Jenna's mom is taking a break from her stress.

Finally a baby boy! Isaac came into the world, 9lbs, 9oz, and very healthy. Mommy was fine, but not looking forward to a long recovery! Silas thinks baby Isaac is so cute. :)

A Very Quick and Very Sweet Visit

2008-01-17T16:32:00.000-08:00

Here are three little dudes back in Oregon. Nico, Silas, and Nathan played really well during our too short visit. It was so fun to see our friends. Unfortunately, we wanted to visit so many other people that our day-and-a-half long stay did not permit. We had a doggie emergency at home which caused us to have to go home. Chicle is kind of OK, but he is paralyzed in his back legs. We are adjusting to it, but I'm not sure how long a little doggie can live in such a state.

Here is Barry's classroom. A small group of ten kids make up the 6th grade at the rural school. Barry loves to teach and the students seem to respond very well to his authority.

Hum. Look-ee-here...

2007-12-19T09:53:00.000-08:00

Surprise! There seems that there is going to be an addition to our family...but look closely...it's not AN addition...it's TWO additions! I'm officially being bumped up to "high risk" because of the twins! It was a crazy surprise to us, because we just had an ultrasound last week that showed that we only had one baby. I guess the second was hiding!

Here's another angle.

Fun Swimming & Playing Outside

2007-12-17T14:45:00.000-08:00

Dashing Little Swimmer:

We went to Raptor Reef, an indoor swimming park to celebrate our first two years of fun with the Buddy. Silas took his friend Amelia and I brought her mom, Tamara, for the day. Barry had a great time too. We could barely pull the kids away from the water when it was time to go.

So fast down the slide...

Here is the cat, Orange Meow, whom Silas named and loves at the camp where we live.

Silas and Chicle suiting up for the fridged snow.

SIlas' Birthday Party!

2007-12-17T14:19:00.000-08:00

We had Silas' B-Day party at my mom's house on the 15th. It was a football party, because of my little football lover. He received lots of gifts from family and friends. He now has many new fun toys and Christmas is just around the bend. He is bound to be totally spoiled!

Here is Papa, Yaya (Grandma Chickie), Silas, and Grandpa Pat.

Silas is the motorcycle dude with cousin Evie happily riding in back.

Boppa (Grandpa Jerry) and Uma (Grandma Melody).

I'm always a sucker to make a cute and tasty birthday cake!

Silas' 2 Year Pictures

2007-12-17T14:11:00.000-08:00

Oh, Barry found the little white cord that connects my camera to the internet! So, I will hopefully be updating the blog on a timely bases now. Here are Silas' professional pictures from his 2 year photo shoot at Penny's. I love the way he looks so happy and handsome! I hope you enjoy the restarting of our blog. :)

Sam & Nathan's Birthday Parties at the Sady's House

2007-05-01T08:44:00.000-07:00

Somebody has cool hair! That's Silas' new favorite word..."cool". Or "Whoa, cool." Very intelligent speech we are teaching him!

Crazy Uncle Greg!
Look at Uncle Sam's goose egg from paintballing!
Just a couple bites please.
Oh, here's another party...the same nice grandma...the same mooching boy!