sara's art* house

sugar & spice (+ robots)

2012-02-11T12:17:00.001-08:00

My thrift stores have been very good to me lately, I wish I had taken pictures of everything I found the other day! It is such a completely satisfying feeling to find wonderful things at dirt cheap prices. Especially when they are things that I have had on my list to find. Found a table cloth that I cut in half and clipped up with my red gingham curtains- needed more of the green to contrast nicely with my red kitchen cabinets. Speaking of the cabinets--I have been sanding more today and hope to get them painted soon.

Robot valentine that my boy made last year..one of my all time favorites.

Source: lisastorms.typepad.com via Sara on Pinterest

And the valentines we are going to make this year! How cute are these little robots?! The body is a mini chocolate bar. ((sweet))

Have a happy weekend and a lovely Valentines :)

OK, fine! Here they are....

2012-02-06T11:43:00.000-08:00

Come on in! Here is the kitchen, let me first show you the new painting by the door.....

Looking this way, you will get a glimpse of the bottom cabinets that I painted, red! The top ones are waiting patiently to get their red coats on.

I still need to pull out the fridge and paint the side of the cabinet too. This was just the very beginning of a large project!

Can't wait til it's all done and I can do proper before and after photos.

I am so happy with this color. Red was never on my list of color choices...I was always thinking green- something light- basically because that is the trend right now. But when I saw the photo in the magazine of red cabinets it made me so happy, and I knew this color was right for us.....add the distressed look and I am even happier.

finally, finally--I'm doing it---

2012-02-03T09:27:00.000-08:00

Painting the kitchen cupboards!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It took me 3 years of hemming and hawing and trying to settle on a color. Yesterday, I was looking through a very old magazine and saw it! The color! Painted on cabinets! And I instantly knew. So I ran to the store and bought the paint and ran home and sloshed it on and grabbed sandpaper and distressed it and am supremely happy! I only have the bottom section by the stove done- and have 75% more to go. But I am happy :)

The color? I can't give that away so soon, can I?

party! 9 year old boy style

2012-02-02T08:43:00.000-08:00

Let's start healthy, why don't we, because it's going to go downhill from here. Our 8 year old turned 9 on Tuesday! He wanted a lemon cake with light green frosting. Pineapple and kiwi fit right along with that since they match, and he loves them.

And what a happy cake topper- some ninja-type lego guy with various weaponry.

There he is- seriously, those beady little eyes will follow you wherever you turn...

Off to the lego store to spend his b-day money! (lego party 2010, lego store 2011)

Back to the cake.

The green loving boy was very happy.

Dave and I found our favorite lego set.

How many more years will we get to celebrate at the lego store? Our 5 year old will turn 6 at the end of this month and she has taken a liking to the girl legos...so maybe we will continue on down the lego brick road :)

Happy Birthday, Dear :)

2012-01-28T09:55:00.000-08:00

It's Dave's birthday and I got a present. My sweet girl wrapped up the masking tape (that I had been looking for-- That she stole and hid...)

It's Dave's birthday and what do we buy? Clay for the classroom.

It's Dave's birthday and he has no feet (but he has ears and he looks very happy....)

Happy Birthday, Dave ((2 days ago :))

the art museum

2012-01-24T14:06:00.000-08:00

The kids and I went last week. I adore the art museum. Especially the new building that is bright and naturally lit.

We were in luck because there was a special Rembrandt exhibit in the other building, so we were virtually by ourselves over here. Just us and the security guards and their evil eyes. (I should be fair, there were nice security guards along with the mean children fearing guards)

Just me and the little man climbing the wall behind me...??

Our favorite of the day. After the Mona Lisa 2. Not only made out of spools of thread- but upside down! With a crystal ball to look through! We were blown away. Way to go Devorah Sperber.

After museum refreshment- a work of art in itself.

Do you have an art museum close by? How is it? And how it is for kids? We did have a really nice guide who gave us little maps made especially for kids, and for the most part they let us wander to our hearts content....but ((probably rightly so)) they do get nervous when they see us coming.

t-shirt art

2012-01-20T17:41:00.000-08:00

You know how it is when you haven't created something in too long?! That is how it has been around here...soooo, we had to remedy that! My little girl had some t-shirts that were dying to be embellished.

I ironed fabric onto some fusible web (wonder under? I think it may be called), cut out the shapes, and ironed them onto the shirts.

Before

during..

And stitched! I had an awful time with my sewing machine- the thread kept breaking- so I called a local fabric store to ask advice. She told me that I had used the wrong fusible stuff (be sure to check the packaging and get the sewable kind). But that I could keep cleaning the needle with fingernail polish remover and that would keep it going (the thicker fusible gets the needle sticky with glue)

It worked and I was able to sew them all on. Here is one for me....

And a matching one for my girl!

I never claimed to be a neat and orderly stitcher :)

Oh goodness! I have fun dressing my doll :)

And goodness, she has too much fun posing :)

goals for 2012 * anthro painted window * and a date

2012-01-11T11:12:00.000-08:00

Dave and I got to go on a date this past Saturday. We had some gift cards to spend and we needed to get out and talk about our plans and goals for 2012. We had a sweet time together. I thank God everyday for this man.

I do have some goals for this year. I already told you about the first one:

[1] Romans 12 for 2012! The kids and I have started memorizing it- now the hard part...putting it into practice...

[2] Couch to 5K! Have you heard of this? I got an app for my phone that allows me to listen to music while I walk/run- and I will get notified when I need to switch from running to walking...it gradually gets you from running for about 40 seconds at a time--to completely running 3 miles! I love it so far- I'm into my second week. Here is an excerpt from the website:

Too many people have been turned off of running simply by trying to start off too fast. Their bodies rebel, and they wind up miserable, wondering why anyone would possibly want to do this to themselves.

You should ease into your running program gradually. In fact, the beginners' program we outline here is less of a running regimen than a walking and jogging program. The idea is to transform you from couch potato to runner, getting you running three miles (or 5K) on a regular basis in just two months.

My goal is to run a 5k with Dave this Spring. This is huge because, a) I have not run a 5k since college and, b) I hated running even then when I was in shape...but I am optimistic and life is too short not to run a race with my husband, you know?!

Loved the Anthropologie windows! ((excuse me while I go paint mine...))

Alright- so we have the scripture memorization goal, and the running (jogging) goal...now for the parenting goal:

[3] Chill out! This one takes a little explaining. I want to still uphold the expectations that we have for our children- but, when they mess up, make a mistake, or just flat out rebel; I want to react in a loving way, firm but kind. Showing that no matter what, my feelings for them never change. That I understand and love them and make many ((many)) mistakes myself, and struggle with sins every day- and we will have to deal with it....but that it is not the end of the world.

I struggle with this one- maybe just with my body language- when the kids start fighting- I tend to show them how annoying this is to me- what an interference that is to my day. And this should not be the case at all! They are my joy- it is my privilege to nurture and train them every day....sometimes I act as if I am surprised that they would do such a thing (whatever that childish and naughty behavior may be) - when the reality is that we all mess up every single day (hourly) and God is so loving and patient and forgiving to us. I am praying to react in a loving and forgiving and understanding way.

[4] Study the Bible more intensely..have a plan, use books, concordances, whatever it takes to dig in there and get more and spend more quality time. Right now I am using a Beth Moore study on David. I am also reading (still) The Resolution for Women by Priscilla Shirer, and Lies Women Believe by Nancy Leigh DeMoss.

There are lots more I could add to this list--but I really want to focus on these 4 things; Romans 12, running, responding in love (this could go back to Romans 12 too!), and studying the Bible.

Tell me what you have planned for this year, I would love to know- or, if you have posted about it- put a link in the comment section.

2011 was a colorful one!

2012-01-06T12:38:00.000-08:00

Thank you, dear readers, for sticking with me and sifting through the piles of pictures I throw at you! :) Here's to 2012 being even more creative and grand!

Thank You, God, for making all the color possible and for being our Inspiration.

To Canada and Back (all in one post!)

2012-01-05T16:42:00.001-08:00

Our trip started out sunny and warm. We love driving through NYC. This time I was not the only one gawking and shooting pictures at every street sign. Both boys got cameras for Christmas and were snapping pictures from every window of the van.

Got a little crafting done in the van- when you have 22 hours to drive, you find stuff to do. Let's see, I read 2 books, surfed pinterest, made some of these fabric flowers, broke up fights from the back seat, listened to hours of books on cd, passed out snacks, bothered Dave, took pictures, and ate snacks. What I didn't do: drive! Dave is the man- he drove all 22 hours (we took 3 days to get up there, stopping at hotels; and 2 days on the way back)

I think this was a Panera Bread food stop in NY.

We stayed overnight in Portland Maine and woke up to SNOW! We were so excited.

Nice that they kept the roads plowed so well for us southern drivers.

So pretty.

Last food stop before Canada: The Bangor Mall in Bangor Maine. Good memories of that mall from my childhood. The first time I ever laid eyes on a gap was at this mall. No time to shop, tho- just ate hotdogs, scarfed some julius, and hit the snowy road.

Arrival in Canada! Mom and Dad had the house so cozy and ready for us.

We were just in time for supper :)

Lobster!

Somehow we ended up opening presents that night- the 23rd.

The next day: Christmas Eve day- lots of snow to play with!

It was sooooo cold that day. But we had lots of thrifted and borrowed snow clothes, we could hardly move!

Christmas Day! Dad + Mom's view of the frozen lake. We went to church and then headed out to the farm.

Mom and Dad have a new house at the farm. Everything was soooo beautiful!

I love this mirror

And I love the dresser...

And this room was adorable! (they have good taste :)

Wool socks + plaid shirts= a must for Christmas in the north woods :)

More playing in the snow! Not as cold today.

lots of sledding. It is impossible not to smile when you are sledding

Dad + the snowblower

Adorable door

(adoorable)

Grampa on the sled

Back inside to get warmed up.

Some crafting with Gramma

We (Dave) dragged the tree down the hill- next step- set it up.

Put on the lights...

Then decorate!

Take a break and drink some Coke Snow.

This was typical- us relaxing and mom cooking :)

Gramma on the sled!

We went into Saint John one day. Saw the house I grew up in.

A very important stop- my favorite thrift store of all time!!! I got the cutest striped blanket- I'll have to show you that.

Stopped by the beach- coooold and windy. But gorgeous.

My high school! I'll never forget having art class on the top floor with those arched windows overlooking the harbor.

Downtown (actually up town) Saint John (New Brunswick). Such a beautiful port city.

Fun touristy shops.

For supper we ate at the Reversing Falls restaurant- where we had our rehearsal dinner for our wedding.

Got to meet up with Helen! My best friend growing up. We always feel like we have never even been apart. We talked and talked while Dave went and ate some poutine :)

Mudroom at the farm.

On our way home- our last Canadian treat- ketchup chips!

You are a true friend if you lasted until the end of our trip down memory lane :) Good memories made this Christmas :)

hello to a bright new year!

2012-01-03T18:44:00.000-08:00

Oh my goodness! I have been uploading Canada photos for days now! And still that post is not ready- so I choked and gave up on that and just picked these two for now. Aren't these s&p shakers in the chippy wooden holder adorable!? My parents have the cutest stuff!

And the vintage ornaments! I have just this minute decided to collect vintage ornaments from now on.

***********************
Have you started back to school yet? We start school tomorrow and I am ready! We went to the homeschool store today and found some fun stuff- an abacus! a felt board + shapes! Geography books! ((it is weird that I love anything schoolish?)) I have always wanted an abacus- and have a funny feeling that it will stick around as decor long after the children are gone.

Hope you have had a good start to 2012. I am starting tomorrow on my Romans 12 for 2012 (memorizing Romans 12). who will join me? It has everything in there that I want as goals for this year.

White Christmas

2011-12-31T11:28:00.000-08:00

We got to travel up to Canada to stay with my parents for Christmas. We got snow! We got to sled and cut down our tree and eat Mom's good food and shop at Frenchy's (what more could I ask for?!). More on that later. Hope you had a wonderful Christmas and didn't miss me too much :)

let me sing you a carol or two

2011-12-20T13:56:00.000-08:00

The Friendly Beasts

Sweet Little Jesus Boy

Christmas Is Coming

We Wish You a Merry Christmas

Ding Dong Merrily on High

Love Came Down at Christmas

Silent Night

Winter Wonderland

Deck the Halls

Greensleeves
:)

*Found the list of Christmas Carols on Wikipedia.
Alternate title for the Silent Night photo:
Children, Go Where I Send Thee

Merry Christmas from us :)

we've been crafting

2011-12-15T13:08:00.000-08:00

A patchwork tree is a must for December art class. What is it about patchwork?!?! It makes me so happy- especially when crafted by little kid hands :)

And in the window?!? I am beyond happy.

These handprint snowman ornaments were fun to make too. I saw the idea here.

And the santa hand prints! I saw the idea at a friends' house, and then Lindsay posted about it.

I know this is a change from my usual decor- and I like that contrast- not everything can be neon with polka dots :)

I don't know what it is about the santa hats this year but for some reason I think they are sooo cute. So I made the kids have a little photo shoot.

mantel, snowman, encouragement

2011-12-13T18:08:00.000-08:00

Christmas mantel 2011

Snowman sundae. I'm going to call him Pinocchio :)

The Christmas season seems like a whirlwind this year! A busy, happy, wonderful whirlwind. I have been so blessed with songs and church services lately. My heart is full and encouraged. Monday was a grumpy day...seems like after a great Sunday, it is easy to get discouraged- might be the devil trying to take that joy away. I was so discouraged...thankful in a way that God has been showing me soooo many areas in my life that need changing. I was thinking - well that is it! I can never live this Christian life victoriously- I am too selfish for this! But, God--He always encourages. Today I heard someone say on the radio (can't remember who) that God does not call us to perfection- but He is looking for the direction we are going in... That was so encouraging for my heart to hear! I smiled and said, "yes, God! You know which direction I am trying to go in! You know my hearts desire and You will help me!"

I have also been reminded of Romans 12. I need this chapter. I need to read this every day. I kept telling Dave about Romans 12- how this is the chapter the kids (and me!) need to memorize next.....when it struck me- Romans 12 would be a perfect chapter for 2012! It is official! Romans 12 for 2012!!

Romans 12:
I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned.

For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function,

so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.

Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith;

if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching;

the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.

Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good.

Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.

Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord.

Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.

Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them.
Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.
Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly, Never be wise in your own sight.
Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all.
If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.
Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, "Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord."
To the contrary, "if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head."
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

wrapping

2011-12-09T13:32:00.001-08:00

Rudolph
by our 5 year old. This girl is handy with a roll of tape.

Favorite wrapping stuff this year: red paper with polka dots, yarn, muffin liners, scrapbook paper, & ribbon.

recycling: pumpkins into trees

2011-12-08T08:31:00.001-08:00

Couldn't bear to throw out our spin art pumpkins.

I was going to just keep them up forever and ever...when an idea struck....

Turn the pumpkin upside down and cut it into a tree shape.

The stem turns into the perfect trunk.

I can see these trees being recycled into February hearts...and shamrocks......birthday cakes....

marbled cookies

2011-12-05T18:09:00.000-08:00

Fun to make....funner to eat :)

We used a toothpick to marble the icing. I used powdered sugar + milk for the white icing (put it in a ziplock and cut a tiny hole in the corner to pipe out a white filled in circle) and a purchased squeeze bottle of red icing.

storytime!

2011-12-03T18:44:00.000-08:00

We love this book. We love the author, Lois Ehlert, and her adorable books!

Creating our own (paper) snowmen after reading.

Another cute book we have read recently (made me cry!) Book details:

After World War II there is little left in Katje's town of Olst in Holland. Her family, like most Dutch families, must patch their old worn clothing and go without everyday things like soap and milk. Then one spring morning when the tulips bloom "thick and bright," Postman Kleinhoonte pedals his bicycle down Katje's street to deliver a mysterious box – a box from America! Full of soap, socks, and chocolate, the box has been sent by Rosie, an American girl from Mayfield, Indiana. Her package is part of a goodwill effort to help the people of Europe. What's inside so delights Katje that she sends off a letter of thanks – beginning an exchange that swells with so many surprises that the girls, as well as their townspeople, will never be the same.

folding laundry

2011-12-02T05:19:00.000-08:00

This is my special laundry folding spot. I was folding towels and Sadie came and climbed up onto my lap. It was the sweetest thing. She is such a faithful friend. How much better to fold laundry with a friend on my lap!

Looking at this picture there is one thing that stands out: those black cords!!! There are two kinds of people in the world; those who would never even notice the black cords, and those who want to photo shop the black cords out of the picture. Hah!

Info from yesterday's post:

Felt Nativity- I found that on Amazon a few years ago.
The Nativity Print- I won it in a giveaway last year from FlorLarios. LOVE her artwork.
Felt Mushroom Ornament- given to me by a friend who got it at Pier 1- this year.
Felt Peppermint that I am working on- idea found on flickr.

welcome, December!

2011-12-01T11:11:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving, Shopping, Eating, Trees....(what else is there?)

2011-11-26T19:24:00.000-08:00

Hope your Thanksgiving was nice. We had a good time with Dave's family. Loved Mom M's Thanksgiving table.

Thanksgiving Day- 4:30pm
The weather was beautiful.

Thanksgiving Day- 11:30pm
Dave and I participated in our very first late night Black Friday sale. We got to Old Navy at 9pm on Thanksgiving and waited for 3 hours until they opened the store at midnight. We were the 12th and 13th in line (of about 400) and each got a free kodak digital camera!! We are so happy- the boys each have wanted a camera for some time- so win-win for us...get to shop the deals and get 2 cameras to boot. (don't tell the boys...Granna, that includes you :) The store was packed, but we came out unscathed. Did you shop Black Friday? Tell me what happened for you. I have always said (when people ask me if I shop black Friday) that I would if there was something worth it for me- and this year it was worth it. (Oh, and Dave talked me into it and fed me mint m&ms)

Then, then! We stopped for a surprise Ikea visit on the way home. I was just dozing off to sleep when the car veered off the highway and onto...Ikea Boulevard! Ikea is about the halfway point from Dave's parent's house to ours- so it was the perfect time to stop and eat some Swedish meatballs and roam around. I wish I could have stuck this adorable little couch in my pocket and brought it home!

Now for a veer off topic.....raw oatmeal! Did you know you can pour yourself a bowl of old fashioned oats, add toppings (bananas, honey + walnuts, or apples + cinnamon), pour on the milk, and have a delicious cereal? I read about this somewhere. I like it as long as there are topping- but when you run out of toppings it gets a little tedious.

Another plus from the purple camera- panorama shots!

We put the tree(s) up before we left for Thanksgiving and I am soooo glad we did. It was perfect to come home late on Friday night and see the trees waiting for us.

So, I have 2 questions for you:
1. Did you shop black Friday
2. Is your tree up yet?

thankful

2011-11-22T19:46:00.000-08:00

I am so thankful! We had a Thanksgiving praise service at church tonight and it was the hugest blessing to hear how God is working in our lives. (I love my church :) To hear my little kiddies stand up and say they were thankful for mommy and daddy- awww, I was thankful for that too.

Lamb of God tree ornament by our 10 yr old.

I am sooooo thankful for this man. Dave Mincy, you are the best.

This was taken on a date nite a few weeks back. We went to Carrabbas. All I can say is get the Chicken Bryan: ((Topped with goat cheese, sundried tomatoes and a basil lemon butter sauce)) Mmmmm (I think I've decided I'm not a vegetarian...this month...)

We were at the children's museum a few weeks back and I happened to snap this picture of the colored pencils. I want to enlarge it and put it on the wall. It's the colors of my house! My world!

And may I present the Mayflower.

If I don't talk to you before then....have a wonderful Thanksgiving! We have SOOO MUcH to be tHanKfuL for!!! :)

it's the little things

2011-11-18T11:35:00.001-08:00

I need a new blog category entitled, Goodwill Has Been Good to Me. I am ecstatic about these mittens. Here in the South it is hard to find cute mittens at thrift stores. I love mittens- especially this striped pair.

This bench has come in handy as my little photo shoot spot! Are you getting sick of seeing it as a background yet?

Another blog category: pancakes! I luv pancakes too :) We have made valentine pancakes, pumpkin pancakes, watermelon waffles, and polka dot pancakes.

Last night we had PB&J pancakes. I read in a magazine that you can add a half cup of peanut butter to pancake batter. They were pretty good, but what made them better was the raspberry jam that I heated up til runny.

Another thrift store find: a retro mug holder.

Nice to have the mugs close at hand as the weather gets colder.

I re-patchworked my back splash. I had taped the paper up before and covered with contact paper. I had thought the paper would be very temporary, but I love it- and want it to be more permanent and durable (the edges were starting to come up). So I got some new paper at Archiver's and put mod podge just on the back, then when dried, I covered it all with clear contact paper. I am soooo happy with this paper- see the tiny bicycles? Small things make me happy; mittens, pancakes, and paper :)

....................................
Hope you have a great Friday night. Dave told me he is going to make a fire in the fireplace - and I could not be happier...I may just put on the mittens and make hot chocolate for one of my mugs (it's 49*!)

sugar + spice

2011-11-17T12:01:00.000-08:00

My kids' creativity makes me happy. Here is a pillow stitched by our 10 year old.

The back...

....and the front. I know he is planning to give it away for Christmas- I just hope it is to me!! :)

Poor Sadie couldn't see.

So she got a haircut.

Our kitchen smells good right now! For art class today we drew shapes on paper, outlined them with sharpies, painted with glue, then sprinkled on spices.

I saw the idea here.

By the end of the project the kids were passing each other spices and identifying them by smell- nice...we can count that lesson as science and cooking classes too :) Mmmm, and my house still smells cinnamon-curry-pepper-nutmeg-paprika-ish (kinda a weird combination..)

sprinkles on top

2011-11-15T11:50:00.000-08:00

This year I spared some of the mess and made the dough and baked the cookies myself. Then I let them loose with the icing and sprinkles....

The kids have not been that hyper since...I think, Oct 31! They were allowed to sample a few cookies...but who knows how much icing they secretly licked?!

Last year we made these pilgrim hat cookies- but these are tastier- and easier! We got the new chocolate covered oreos with mint flavor (similar to thin mints, made with just one bottom cookie). The kids squirted on a circle of yellow icing and put a rolo on top of that- then we added a little square buckle with icing.

God's gorgeous artistry.

yum...pretty...colored sugar...bright...fun..

sticky...messy...totally worth it and fun to photograph :)

hi

2011-11-09T19:07:00.000-08:00

The black hole that is the inside of my fireplace is bothersome to me. I have been looking for a fireplace screen for a few years and found nothing.

Finally! I found something that fit-- a foam board, the size of a poster board (the kind kids use for school projects)

I decoupaged some paper on there and it sits just perfectly! Yay! I am so happy. It can be easily moved when we want to have a fire.

My purple camera came in the mail! I am happy about that too :)

All in all- a happy day! Thank You, Lord, for your blessings to us- and Your LOVE! I can put all my trust in You- You are my rock and my salvation!

it's that time of year.............

2011-11-07T15:25:00.000-08:00

time to sit by the fire and sew felt! (my red bird inspired by the blue birdie in this photo)

****my camera has not arrived in the mail yet!!!! Just waiting, waiting and hoping and hoping :)

before you throw something at me...I promise it is a Thanksgiving..........

2011-11-05T15:28:00.000-07:00

....tree!

Yes, (Steph :) I found this tree at Goodwill - already assembled. I brought it home and didn't know where to put it until Dec. And could not bear to take it apart- so......

We decorated it with burlap, acorns, pumpkins, gourds, mustard and coral ribbon, and basically anything orange or brown we could find.

When December comes, we will take off the fall decor and put on the Christmas!

I'm thinking I should just leave it up year round.....

Can't you see it in February with pink lights, red hearts, and white doilies?!?!

pumpkin eating pirate

2011-11-04T10:59:00.000-07:00

I am ecstatic! Dave ordered me a new camera for my birthday! (yes, my birthday was in June, it's a long story :) - A purple camera, no less! I am so thankful for my camera phone. It has gotten us through these camera-less weeks...but it gives me fuzzy photos.

I was a pirate. We also had a spiderman in the family and 2 cow...people

One of the cow-people.

It rained on Halloween! But it sorta worked in their favor- they braved the drizzle and people gave them more for their efforts.

Mmmm- they are getting more savvy with age and know when we steal from them. Oops. yes, as a matter of a fact I did take the butterfinger.

Goodwill has been extremely good to me lately- first of all: we had a new Goodwill open up...............drumroll...................3 minutes from my house!!!!!!!!!!!! You can bet we were there for the grand opening!!! It was packed out- that day I got this beautiful globe! YAY.....

You will not believe what I got at Goodwill yesterday--all assembled--already up in my living room- at a dirt cheap price. You'll have to wait til I get pictures of it.....

We made penguins :)

And in other fallish news: we made pumpkin granola. Every single person in our house loved it. The house smelled so good while it was baking. I am definitely making it again and maybe other granola flavors?

We also made Pioneer Woman's pumpkin muffins- they were gobbled up too :) We didn't make the frosting. They are just as good without.

sadie, pillow, food, race, and a coat

2011-11-01T15:04:00.000-07:00

Sadie's favorite little spot :)

Oh my goodness! A sweet reader sent me this pillow- isn't it the cutest thing ever?!?!?!

OK- since you asked- we are eating {a lot of} vegetarian meals :) :) You knew I couldn't quit meat cold turkey, right?! I love eating vegetarian- I love eating super healthy and tons of fruit and veggies- but then real life sets in and I end up doing that about half of the time- and the other half- there are hotdogs and mac n' cheese...and Chinese take-out...baby steps, I say!

Dave ran a half marathon!!! 13.1 miles! I am SO proud of him. We made signs and cheered- it was a great experience. If you are ever bored and want a little excitement and want to be a huge encouragement to someone, look up a local race and go find a spot on the route with few other spectators- then when each runner comes by, cheer specifically for them, "you can do it! You are doing an awesome job!"

Dave said this is what got him through to the finish line. And it was thrilling to see people struggling at mile 10, who brighten up and push a little harder when you cheer them on.

Little miss and I are having fun with her fall wardrobe. My mom found this little trench coat at Frenchy's (best thrift store ever...only in Canada..pity)

Oh my goodness....I have so much to show and tell! The pumpkin patch! Our Halloween costumes! I have missed you :) Was it only a week? Felt like longer.

media fast

2011-10-23T10:26:00.000-07:00

I am going to say goodbye for a few weeks, my friends! Just taking a little break from the computer- logging off for a bit. The problem is not the computer- and it is not you, or your blogs- the problem is with me - and the balance that has yet again gotten out of whack! When I constantly fill my mind with tv and movies and blogs and pinterest and facebook - there is not much left for what is really important...

I will miss you! :)

spin-art pumpkins

2011-10-22T18:42:00.000-07:00

The kids and I are totally in love with this project.

Each pumpkin is better than the last.

You never know quite how it will turn out.

Spin, salad spinner!

But before you spin- put in the paper...
Squirt on the paint...

s-p-i-n...
crack open the lid and peek in!

It's miraculous.

Turn this--

Into this.

What is not to love?!

Even the leftover mess is a work of art.

And to think- tomorrow this spinner will be back to lettuce.

2 sharpies + white shoes =

2011-10-20T13:07:00.000-07:00

Too bad my little funky shoe wearer is taking a nap...these would be a lot cuter on the feet.

I had a moment................

2011-10-19T15:08:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I went for my yearly physical....my cholesterol is a little high :( But other than that it was good! Good news was I didn't have to have the you-know-what test- I only have to do that every 3 years! Yay....Anyway- she convinced me to get a flu shot ((which I did not want to do))- and I did and have felt terrible ever since- my arm is SORE, and achy and blah blah... (now I know why my poor kids have a hard time getting shots!!!)

So tonight- I put on Christmas music (Oh shoot! I should not have told you that!!!!) and made pumpkin pancakes!!!!

That was my healing moment! It was dark and rainy outside, the kitchen was warm and cinnamon smelling, and the pumpkin pancakes were yummy and comforting (maybe not the greatest for my cholesterol?!?!....next time I'll leave off the butter...)

Wow. I must be getting old if I am worrying about that!!!

So if you need a warm and cozy moment go make these........:)

PumpkinPancakes

1 1/2 cups milk
1 cup pumpkin puree
1 egg
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 tablespoons vinegar
2 cups all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons brown sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground allspice
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (I didn't use)
1/2 teaspoon salt

Directions

In a bowl, mix together the milk, pumpkin, egg, oil and vinegar. Combine the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, allspice, cinnamon, ginger and salt in a separate bowl. Stir into the pumpkin mixture just enough to combine.
Heat a lightly oiled griddle or frying pan over medium high heat. Pour or scoop the batter onto the griddle, using approximately 1/4 cup for each pancake. Brown on both sides and serve hot.

fall mantels + Ikea birds

2011-10-17T18:33:00.000-07:00

Fun thrift store find: 4 Ikea placemats for $1- tweet, tweet.

Fall mantel!

Art by my kids: Indian Corn and a Sunflowers painting from last year. The leaves are pages from books and scrapbook paper taped up.

Another recent deal--striped rug for $6!

Now back to fall mantels of the past.....................................
.........................................................................

2009

2010

And waaay back to 2008 when it was white.

fall's soliloquy

2011-10-13T10:14:00.000-07:00

flowers in the hair
yellow leaves in the air....

stripes, sweaters, and corduroy...

The weather's cooler,
summer is through....
there is nothing quite like a leopard print shoe.

(p)inspiration

2011-10-12T15:02:00.000-07:00

Hi from our house today :)

Source: family.go.com via Sara on Pinterest

I saw this on pinterest and have a little redhead at home who could be Lucy too!

Source: nikkidwright.wordpress.com via Sara on Pinterest

I want to sit and sew felt!!!!!!!!!!!

(or just sit and look at this inspiring photo :)

Source: rebeccascaprichos.blogspot.com via Sara on Pinterest

Pinterest is so full of great ideas- how about a bird mobile for the classroom?

have a great Wednesday :)

last week's hi-lites: the zoo, the library, the donuts, and the outdoors

2011-10-10T11:29:00.000-07:00

yay, Fall!

2011-10-04T19:00:00.000-07:00

Source: kendieveryday.blogspot.com via Sara on Pinterest

Source: 3.bp.blogspot.com via Sara on Pinterest

Source: oldnavy.gap.com via Sara on Pinterest

Source: whatiwore.tumblr.com via Sara on Pinterest

Fall is the funnest time of year to dress. Jeans, sweaters, scarves, boots- super fun. Here are a few of my favorite outfits from my pinterest board.
.......................................

Today was a good day...thought I'd record it here to remember:

6:10- turned off my alarm and reset it. (talked myself into walking on the treadmill later)
6:35- turned my alarm off and decided that I really needed to get out of bed this time.
Shower, hair, makeup, get dressed- jeans, t-shirt and hoodie today (started out in the low 60s and got warmer later)
7:30ish- Said hi to boys (playing legos in their room)
Looked in on the girl- still sleeping
Let Sadie out to potty
Make bowl of cereal for myself- boys get their cereal.
Little Miss wakes up. Time for her Multigrains! (Multigrain cheerios every day for that kid- before that it was Honey Nut Cheerios)
8:00- Devotions on the couch (a little distracted- the kids come in and out- I tell them to get going on their chores, devotions, and piano practice)
8:30- Get a load of laundry in, pick up a few messes, stick some dishes in the dishwasher
9:00- School time! We all stomp up to the schoolroom. Best time of day- Bible story, storytime, memory work, songs, poems, geography, science reading.
10:30- Downstairs again for snack- yogurt for the kids, chips and salsa for me. I deal with the laundry for a few minutes while the kids play legos
11:00- Back up the stairs! Back to work. I assign work, drill one child with flashcards while another reads to a brother, I switch and have one read to me while the others do writing, etc, etc...in the midst of it all we decide to make Indian corn (we had just read some info about it). One kid gets hers and mine done while the boys finish their math.

12:20- Back downstairs for lunch. The kids run outside while I get food ready. Pineapple, sandwiches, veggie chips.
12:30- they come in to eat and I finish reading a chapter to them from The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.
1:00- Back upstairs to finish a few school projects
1:30- quiet time! The boys start off together in their room (quiet time means that they can play or do whatever quietly without bothering mom)...but they got louder and louder- so I separated them- one had the room to himself and the other brought toys and books to use in the living room. Our girl was having quiet time in the schoolroom- using the craft supplies up there. I answered some e-mails, then- took a nap.
3:00- More laundry, make a few phone calls, kids get up and make themselves a snack- the boys have a huge mess in their room- so one works on that while the other finishes piano practice. Little Miss watches a Tom + Jerry dvd. I start making banana bread and figuring out what else we will have for supper.
4:00- I decide that we will set the tent up outside and use it for school tomorrow- I figure the boys can put it up themselves. Corn chowder is on my menu for this week, so I get stuff out for that. The boys try and set up the tent and need help. I get the soup started and then go out to help. We get it up- just even the smell of a tent (that plastic-like crayon smell) makes me happy :) The kids get sticks for the bonfire and fight over who has the right size sticks....
5:00- oops- the soup is not quite ready- I only have about half of the stuff in the pot- quick- finish that-we have soccer for the baby in an hour. Make a salad, she cuts (whacks) the banana bread, the soup tastes souper boring- I add chili powder hoping it will taste like chicken tortilla soup that way. (guess it didn't quite work, everyone doused it with salt)
5:20- we sit down to eat. After a bit, Dave reads the questions we got from our parenting class - thought provoking questions for your kids. Tonight's questions: What could you not live without? How would God provide for you if you had to go without that thing? What thing could Dad not live without? Mom? We got into a good discussion.....oops- It's 5:40! We're going to be late for soccer.. Dave gets a business related call- we all scramble to get ready.
5: 53- leave for soccer
6:04- they have already started. She actually kicks the ball tonight. Super beautiful weather- the boys play football on another field. Dave and I cheer.
7:30ish - get home from soccer- start the getting ready for bed process..boys on the computer checking football stats. I scramble to get sheets on the beds (they had been washed today..that was long overdue). Dave does supper dishes.
8:00- Baby in bed, boys heading to their room. I get some things ready for school tomorrow. Dave goes for a run. I fold some clothes- put in another load.
9:00- Aaah! I get the computer all to myself! Time to blog/read, answer e-mails.
9:43- realized I never did get on the treadmill :(

Thank You, Lord, for the good day! I am so blessed. Thank You for Dave who works hard to provide for us- thank you for our kids- thank you that I can stay home with them. Thank you that I am not potty training anyone right now!!!!!!! (prayers and hugs to my friends who are :) :)

wordy update

2011-10-02T17:39:00.000-07:00

Dave and I at the Cheesecake factory a few weeks ago- me with my 2 loves: Dave, and Sweet Corn Tamale Cakes!!!!!!!!!!! mmmmmmmmm

1. We attended the funeral of a dear friend's mom. Not too long ago we attended the funeral of a sweet friend's father. I have not been to a funeral in years before these two. It made me think a lot. Made me think how short life is, how sweet life is, how even sweeter heaven will be. How thankful I am that these parents of my friends were Christians and are in an amazing place right now with Jesus! WOW. Amazing. I think I want balloons at my funeral- and I want the song, I Can Only Imagine played...check out the words if you don't know them:

I can only imagine what it will be like, when I walk by Your side...
I can only imagine, what my eyes will see, when Your Face is before me!
I can only imagine.

Surrounded by Your Glory, what will my heart feel?
Will I dance for you, Jesus? Or in awe of You, be still?
Will I stand in Your presence, or to my knees will I fall?
Will I sing 'Hallelujah!'? Will I be able to speak at all?
I can only imagine! I can only imagine!

I can only imagine, when that day comes, when I find myself standing in the Son!
I can only imagine, when all I will do, is forever, forever worship You!
I can only imagine!

...........

I wrote this down after hearing it at Jen's Mom's funeral:

* Live each day preparing to see Jesus (I lOVE this! I am going to paint it on our wall)

2. OK- The Lord must be telling me something! Thursday nite was our ladies group (Apples of Gold), Nan spoke about the second greatest commandment: Loving your Neighbors as Yourself...it was such a good reminder.....thinking about other's needs- living sacrificially!!!! Then, Pastor preached about restoring our brothers and sisters in Christ- loving them enough to help them, show them things that need to be changed (in love!!), then tonight, we had a college group (Northland) come to our church and sing/preach- they also talked about loving others and forgiving- they also mentioned the 2nd greatest commandment (the first being to Love The Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind)

And there was also the couples' retreat where we were reminded to live sacrificially and love our spouse unconditionally as Jesus loves us.

Wow- I have a lot of work to do with my selfish character....OH my dear! I just thought of something else!!! The kids and I were listening to Adventures in Odyssey in the car on Saturday morning and what was the story about?! I Cor. 13- the Love chapter- loving others unconditionally! (I cried when I listened to that story...let me see if I can find the link so you can listen to it: Here is the link- it's called Wooten Knows Best.

3. We got to see Courageous again! Friday night was opening night. Let me tell you- I cried again all through it! Laughed, cried, laughed, cried! Tell me if/when you see it and how you like it. (it's no wonder the story line is so fantastic- it's written by Randy Alcorn- my favorite author). The Gospel is so clear and powerful in this movie- but you will also be inspired to be a better parent- you will want to resolve to use every opportunity to love your kids and teach your kids about God.

Transition: from Alcorn to Acorn :) ..........................

4.More edible acorns! Jen made these with her kids and I think they look even cuter then the doughnut hole acorns.

5. My cousin's leaf garland- I love this version!

6. My blogging habits have changed. Some reasons for less posts: We are down to one family computer and up to more users in the family. Our eldest now checks his football fantasy team, and we have some educational stuff that the others use once in awhile, and Sadie has to update her facebook profile daily (ha!). My computer died :( But it has been a really good thing for me. I have felt in this past year that I was too dependent on my computer. I have also given up painting (as a business)- it was getting too stressful. SO, all that to say- my life is much more simple and focused on the hubby and kids and church- the important things!!!! I am so happy. Seriously, I am peaceful right now. I want to bottle this season of life and keep it forever. But I still love to blog and will get on here when I can. The thing I am sad about is that I don't get to comment on your blogs as much as I would like. If you feel like I have neglected you, please don't take it personal- blame it on Sadie and her 469 friends :)

Hope you have an awesome week! The weather here is fallish and I am giddy with excitement about the boot and scarf and sweater weather. :)

that special age

2011-09-30T10:47:00.000-07:00

Snack time. Our kindergartner is learning about her teeth. "Yes, Dear, your teeth are just like marshmallows stuck in peanut butter-like gums."

I love our kindergarten curriculum, I really do. This is the 3rd time through it and we all enjoy the little experiments each time- Once again- the tooth (hard-boiled egg) put in the Coke turned brown....and all of our brushing could not get it white again. But the milk turned the other egg/tooth a beautiful sparkling white :)

*Remember- All you really need to know you learned in kindergarten. (what will I do when I have no more kindergartners?!?!? Sadie will have to step up to the plate, either that or my older kids will just have to keep reading Dr. Seuss and Eric Carle with me :)

Who has a 5 year old right now, raise your hand. Do you love that age? Do you realize that somewhere in the middle of the kindergarten year they lose their chubby baby cheeks and get real kid cheeks?!

owls, love, and the art*house tested toy award goes to...

2011-09-28T11:07:00.000-07:00

I saw the owl art project idea here. See, I just steal everyone else's good ideas :) But- in typical Sara fashion, our owls turned out a little mis-proportioned and funky.

The leaves are my favorite part- that and when we used purple background paper and decided the paper needed to be black, and we colored the background with black crayon- I liked that effect too.

The kids decided Mr Robot-man needed some friends so we put a few owls to roost here.

(by the way, mr robot man is greatly loved and adored in our classroom. Everyone has gotten to pick a prize on Fridays and his head has kept us supplied with fresh pencils now for 6 weeks. The favorite prizes have been: packs of gum, bouncy balls, and punch balloons)

Then I uprooted the one owl and took her to stay in the kitchen for awhile since we had an empty spot on the wall.

Dear classroom, How I love you, let me count the ways! I love the space to spread out- to tape our posters, maps, and signs to every available spot. I love the room to put piles of work here and there. We know when we finish a pile we have accomplished something! I love that we can display our books and look at them each day (which book was set in Africa? Which character lives in Spain?) I love that I found a huge map of the US with blank spots to write in each family member's name on the state where they were born.

..............................................................

Ok, now for another art/love story (and love/love story)
Dave and I got to go to a couples' retreat this past weekend. The love story part is that we got to spend time on our relationship....with a focus on God and what He wants for our marriage.
The art/love story part comes in when we stopped at some cute little shops on the way home. One was this completely adorable toy store. Set up in a rambling old building- there were rooms crammed full of every single toy, game, and craft kit imaginable.

Long story short- we got the kids a spirograph! Oh my dear- this is the ticket to eternal happiness. All 3 kids have used that kit for hours- I could use that thing for hours if they would let me!

Best use of $15. The board is magnetic- so the pieces don't slip.

the leaves are changing...to brightly colored and....felt?

2011-09-22T15:24:00.000-07:00

Inspired by this and this....

I made this......

...leaf garland for our mantel.

Happy first day of fall eve!

botanical garden field trip, edible acorns, + food art

2011-09-19T18:38:00.000-07:00

We just started a new parenting class at church [using Shepherding a Child's Heart and also, Age of Opportunity] and I am ecstatic about it. It could not be more timely. And sincerely- I need a parenting class yearly to keep me on track as a parent. The first lesson was about instilling the awe of God in our children. And what better place to see God's greatness than a botanical garden!!

God's awesome-ness is all around us even in the most mundane location- but this place was overflowing with His creative genius.

poor bug stuck in the [pitcher-plant]

[venus flytrap]

my faves of the day: [lily pads]

............................................................
............................................................
I saw them here and had to make them. Spread frosting [or nutella!] on one end of a doughnut hole- roll in sprinkles, toffee bits, or tiny chocolate chips. Add a pretzel stem and you have a cute little edible acorn!

My tiny artist is at it again. This time with cookbooks spread around her for inspiration.

I hope you are having a good start of the week :)

books from around the world

2011-09-16T11:23:00.001-07:00

I love when something like this evolves in the normal day to day learning in our classroom. We read Madeline in London yesterday- looked on the map to see how the girls went on their trip to England from France. Today we read a book set in South Africa. How fun would it be to read books set in every continent of the world? Any good suggestions for us? I have North America covered and several Asian books.

And then...and then we could make little figures of the people we read about and attach them to the map! Tiny Madeline in Paris, 5 teeny Chinese brothers...

when it comes to decorating your house- do you have a plan?

2011-09-15T10:47:00.000-07:00

I got a sweet e-mail from a reader who wanted to know how I started decorating my house the way I do. How do I go about the process?

That is a good question! For sure it is a gradual process. It is layer upon layer...one wall at a time.

This house started off as a blank canvas and I just started covering and filling it and painting it as I had time. As you probably guessed, there is no complete plan- it is a step by step- do what feels right at the time. I get inspiration when I shop- see something cute and cheap? I bring it home and find a spot for it (I don't have a very smart strategy to share!)

My advice if you want this look: keep adding color, pattern and textiles until you feel like you are wrapped in a cozy patchwork quilt. And lamps! Put a lamp in each corner of every room- and on every possible surface.

My style changes all the time. When we first got married we had blue and white everywhere (I need to dig out those pictures). Everything was country and baskets. Even when we moved to this house 5 years ago- I had baskets hanging where the paper lanterns are now. I like to switch things out so that things stay fresh (fresh to me...I in no way try to think that my look is fresh in the design world...my look is what makes us happy)

What is your decorating strategy? Get it done? One room a year? Don't want to even think about it? Do it once and never change anything? Change things up every day? ((there is no wrong answer- it is YOUR space!))

happy monday

2011-09-12T11:53:00.000-07:00

I will keep this forever.

Thanks, Chrissie for the fun project idea.

working on our journaling skilz :)

Writing in shaving cream never gets old.

I cannot even believe the many different kinds of mushrooms we have seen lately. God! You are an awesome artist and creator!

The weather has been fantastic.

bonfire snack! (idea found here)

Hope you have a fabulous week! :) :)

Fun links!

2011-09-08T12:48:00.000-07:00

OK- you remember my famous friend, Candace, right? Here is a photo in case you forgot.....

(Candace/me at church with her cookbook)

She has a really great blog called Frugal Mom (wow, Candace- you have done some great changes over there. Pretty) - and now a facebook page. If you go and like the facebook page- you will get a free e-book that she wrote entitled, "88 Simple and Creative Ways to Save Money"

Just click this link and it will take you there.
...............................................................................

Also....Chrissie Grace just did an Eric Carle inspired art project too- and hers is super adorable. We are totally making these this week!

happy september!

2011-09-07T18:49:00.001-07:00

Hello- welcome to our house...c'mon in -although, if you are coming in this front door I'm afraid- no one comes to the front door except the UPS people.

Our Eric Carle inspired wall!

This Rooster's off to see the world

Bonus # 657 of having a schoolroom- space to spread out.

Sadie studying the calendar

Our Eric Carle inspired project- #1 - read his books. #2- paint lots of paper with different colors + textures...........

Maybe read and paint at the same time- why not?!

Cut shapes out of the designs you painted....ask your dog to help

Revel in the colors and textures.

Cut many circles and glue them on. Circles are always a good choice.

Stick the artwork on the wall and be amazed at how happy it makes you....

wreath for the schoolroom door

2011-09-04T18:47:00.000-07:00

welcome to our classroom....

This wreath encapsulates all that our homeskool classroom stands for: numbers, letters, the golden rule, and art supplies. But most importantly: cute muffin cups + polka dots.

[linking up to the nester's wreath party]

So excited about our Eric Carle inspired art wall...more details on that later.

the foods of late summer

2011-09-02T16:54:00.001-07:00

gumballs at the mall (is gum considered food? Guess not, the dictionary says "food is..any nourishing substance....)

raspberry salad (nourishing substance!)

what I loved about this was that Dave and the kids insisted I take a picture of the salad because it was pretty.

I think I hath thumthing thtuck in my teeth. (that's gross)

Blueberry/banana smoothies!

September is currently my favorite month. (it will be until October.... But wait -their's December! November is not too shabby either)

And there is something about pre-fall that makes me want to bake. My excuse is that the kids need to learn how to bake

anything can be polka dotted

Oh my word! Only sad thing about Nutella is all of the 35 years I have lived without it.

cake

Source: sweetapolita.com via Sara on Pinterest

Speaking of cake! I saw this cake in the Readers' Digest.

Yes, since you asked (you wanted to ask, right?) I am still trying to eat pretty much a vegetarian diet. I love how I feel when we all eat healthier! And it is easier than I thought (most of the time). It is only really hard if you have not planned well. That is why I am not going vegan- to me that is a lot harder and takes a ton more effort to keep dairy and eggs out of everything. I do still eat meat on occasion, and don't feel bad about it- the point for me is to get as much healthful veggies/fruits/grains in as I can (within a budget and time constraints). So yes, I love this way of eating and will eat this way a long time, I hope (or until I discover a grand new diet...meat only! roots and leaves!....)

pluto

2011-09-01T10:12:00.001-07:00

Lydia asked if Pluto was still a planet at our school, and it reminded me of this commercial (which I love on so many levels)

We at The Franklin School of Arts and Academics make this official statement:
Pluto is a dwarf planet....with privileges.

Pluto gets more recognition and love from us than the other 40 or more dwarf planets, because wouldn't you feel rejected and unloved to be taken away from My Very Energetic Mother Just Served Us Nine Pizzas? Pluto is needed! Otherwise My Very Energetic Mother (would) just Serve Us Nachos.

salty ice cream + planet art

2011-08-29T18:52:00.000-07:00

As a little recipe reading practice, the kids made their own ice cream. So easy, really (too bad it didn't work quite right!!!!!!). You put half a cup of milk in small ziplock bag, add vanilla and 2 T sugar. Zip shut, put in large ziplock- add lots of ice and salt. Wrap a towel around the bags and shake for 10 min (or less). The milk froze beautifully and would have tasted great, except that in most cases the smaller bags broke open and salt got in. But, I am thinking if you get high quality ziplocks and maybe tape them closed it would work. We will try this again.

A fun art project that I saw here (of course :))

Trace several circular objects. We used a cd, a jar, paint bottles, a glue stick, and a lid. Paint the planets with watercolors. Cut them out and glue to a piece of black paper that you have spattered with white paint (I had the kids dip a brush in white paint and rub their fingers on it to get the little speckles of paint on the paper)

See the little square universe in the middle? The kindergarten class (all one of them) decided to do a second version; used marker to color a piece of paper black, made planets, then scotch taped it all firmly to the wall.

school

2011-08-24T18:40:00.000-07:00

Back to school this year has been extra nice- one reason is because we are in our new classroom. What a huge difference this makes for me! It is like I become a "real" teacher when I walk into this room instead of last year when we used the kitchen table. Then I was mom trying to finish the laundry while teaching math and getting the dishes done.

It is a happy place. I know that this year will have it's challenges, but right now I am so thankful for this slice of peace and happiness.

Also! This is good news...I found this site (blurb.com) where you can make yearbooks! I downloaded the program for free and whenever I take photos of the kids I can immediately add the photos to the book and (I am hoping) that at the end of the year it will be as simple as adding the last photos and clicking 'order book.'

That's our news- school has started and I'm on the yearbook committee. How is your week going?

the crayon melt project

2011-08-22T12:07:00.000-07:00

I saw it here. And mine is not as pretty as Meg's but it was a fun experiment.

I like the different types of crayons- the sizes and differences are fun...but, only Crayola melts perfectly and vibrantly. Seriously, every other cheapo crayon melted clearish and melted slower.

You glue your crayons to the canvas (glue gun). Then melt them with a hairdryer.

Just like life- a little messy and not at all perfect; but beautiful nonetheless.

Dave got new glasses! He's cute :)

Our first day of school went well-more on that later. Hope your Monday is nice :)

Thursday's Confessions

2011-08-18T05:09:00.000-07:00

1. I love this salad! Tabouli, a Mediterranean salad with parsley and bulgar (I used quinoa in place of the bulgar) ((my family would hate this salad...so I'm not sharing!!!))

2. I may have mentioned it- but we are ready to start school on Monday :) It is funny, I have read so many homeschooling articles that say that in order to homeschool you must enjoy being with your children. I have to be honest here and say that homeschooling has allowed me to enjoy my children more. The last few weeks in August; after a hot summer, and them getting a little too spoiled by us-- there are moments when we do not necessarily 'enjoy' each other.....but the structure of school is good for the mincy family and our relationships.

3. I have been looking back at August of 2010:

homeschoolers are weird
first day of school
2nd day of school
coke vs. pepsi
sillybands

4. Lastly, I painted this last August (how long has it been since I have painted on canvas??? It feels like forever), and it is a good verse to meditate on today.

Have a wonderful Thursday :)

linking up to: The Adventures of Jolly Goode Gal- Thursday's Confessions

happy face bush man

2011-08-17T09:42:00.000-07:00

We see this bush every time we drive on a main road near our house. There are other cute bushes too- a basket shape, a swan, a little house. I threatened the kids that I was going to stop one day- and the other day we did. We got out and knocked on the door...(our 9 year old was mortified, "mom! this is so embarrassing!")

The lady was so nice- she said her husband did all the gardening and that yes, we could take a picture.

That man is a happy gardener!

Local friends, have you seen this? Know which road?

...........................................................
We are starting school on Monday. We are all very ready. Ready for the routine and the challenge to our mushy brains :) Have you started?

Hi, Hello, + Banana Bread

2011-08-14T17:40:00.001-07:00

Hi, How are you? I am fine. How was your Sunday? Ours was good. Church was great. I love church. I always get so encouraged and pumped up for the week! God is good and He gives us grace! We cannot get through without Him.

I have been asking myself, "what if...?"

What if I picked up my Bible instead of picking up my phone to check e-mail or my blog 10 times a day?

What if I meditated on a verse every time I went to the bathroom instead of looking at my phone to read a ton of blogs?

What if my children saw me reading my Bible a lot more than they saw me on the computer?

What if I prayed instead of letting my mind wander and worrying over matters that I really need to pray about?

I think we all know the answer to these questions. A lot more wisdom and peace and closeness to my Savior- that is what would happen.

I am going to [with God's help] intentionally try and do these things this week.

Answers to your questions:

The book where I found the vegan recipes was the RAVE diet and lifestyle book. (Like I said, I found it in a 'free' box at our local homeschool store...a store run by a homeschool family. They sell curricula on consignment and also new books. I got 100% of my stuff there this year and saved a ton of money- yes, we are spoiled and I love that place). Here is a link for the book, although, there are so many great vegetarian websites that you probably don't need it- AND, I'm going to give you the banana bread recipe.

My 2 favorite healthy food sites so far:
Two Peas & Their Pod
Fat Free Vegan Kitchen

And, my healthy food pinterest board -you can click on each picture to be taken to it's original site and to see the recipe.

Vegan Banana Bread/(cake)
...................................
4 ripe bananas
2 cups whole wheat pastry flour (I used regular whole wheat flour)
1-1/2 tsp baking soda
I cup chopped walnuts (I didn't use)
1 cup maple syrup
1/3 cup applesauce (I used natural applesauce- no sugar)
1/4 cup water
1 tsp vanilla extract

Preheat oven to 350*. Mix flour and baking soda in a bowl. In a large bowl, beat maple syrup and applesauce together. Add bananas and mash them. Stir in water and vanilla, mix thoroughly. Add flour mixture and nuts and stir to mix. Spread in a non stick 9" square baking pan (I greased the pan with butter..and also, I only made a half size of the recipe and put it in a loaf pan- worked well). Bake for 45- 50 min, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Let me know if you make it and how it turns out :)

vita-(no)meata-vegamin

2011-08-12T18:22:00.000-07:00

I think it is because it is the end of summer and we have been bad- too many ice cream cones, too many fast food trips,.... too much. So when I picked up a free book at the homeschool store about the RAVE diet, I was intrigued (you know trying different diets is my hobby, right?!)

Anyway, I want to tell you about the fun meals we have had this last week.

Basically the RAVE diet is no:
Refined food
Animal food
Vegetable oils
(no) Exceptions

I am using recipes from the book- which we have loved. I am not against eating meat and dairy (as a moral issue), but I have been eating pretty much a vegan diet for a week, and like it!

Dave and the kids have been eating the same as always for breakfast and lunch; and then I have made an entirely vegetarian supper most nights (can't say vegan because I have let them have cheese and butter). My goal is to make this as appealing and filling and yummy to them....so far it has been a hit!

The favorite so far has been the banana bread. Made with whole wheat flour, maple syrup, applesauce, and bananas- this stuff was super moist and wonderful! A definite keeper. The chowder was good too.

Supper #2...pretty good. Dave loved the beans...the kids were not huge fans of the antipasto mainly because the rice vinegar is not their favorite. But I could make this with a different sauce.

The kids have enjoyed looking at the menu and knowing what will be for supper. Saves me from telling everyone what we were having a million times :)

Supper time is such an important time for us as a family. Bring back the family supper every night, I say!

That is my soapbox :)

The sweet potato fries look disgusting! But they were good- baked with cinnamon.

I am just blown away with how positive this week has been!!!! I have always wanted to try this healthy eating thing- but was so sure that it would be torturous! It really made me focus on veggies/fruits/grains and how to get as much of that as we could for the same budget that we have been on for food. It is totally doable! And Dave and the kids enjoyed it much more than I thought they would.

Dave gave the meals and overall experience an A-

I feel like I could conquer the world :)

video games + our kids

2011-08-09T05:30:00.001-07:00

I read a good article today. About technology and the balance of it in our lives.As I was talking to some friends the other day it seemed we all agreed that video games have been a frustration to us as moms. One mom said that her kids were not even allowed to be on the wii because of their fighting when they play (same thing happens at my house- drives me crazy, lately I have said- one person on the wii and everyone else out of that room!! Whatever happened to, "the wii will be nice because we can all play happily together!?) Another mom said she wishes they had never gotten the xbox.

What I loved about the article I mentioned above is the light he sheds on our hypocrisy as parents and how we use technology. All I can say is that things have been out of whack around here. And we do have a very strict time limit. Some days each kid gets 30 min of video games- some days a little longer- more often than not, lately, it's none at all because of the whining and greediness and fighting that seems to go right along with the "fun and games."

I think we do use technology as a babysitter of sorts. I think I need to [as a mom] take more control of the day- sometimes I think that they need to creatively decide what to do all day and they better make good choices! But at ages 10, 8, and 5; my kids need guidance and help. My kids need to be told to go outside and play. They need to be told to read, they need to be told to play a game with their little sister, and write a letter to a grandparent, and weed the garden. They need this help in their lives! For goodness sake, I need this help in my life! Can someone please tell me what to do?! Just kidding, but really, they are not adults yet, and when they grow up, I want them to be responsible and spend their "free" time productively- not just playing video games!!!!!

I know part of the angst I am feeling is because we are winding down from summer vacay- they are bored and need to be challenged and need to get their muscles (and brain) back into gear.

How do you balance technology in your home? How old are your kids? I know that when our kids get older, things will just get more complicated. I would love to hear how you manage these things in your home.

**Bottom line- we are here on this earth to glorify our Great God who made us and loves us- what are we doing to accomplish that when we let our kids stare at a screen all day?! (or when we stare at a screen all day?! :))

waffle/pancake fun

2011-08-08T09:18:00.000-07:00

I saw this on pinterest and isn't it the cutest idea? Watermelon waffles. ((with chocolate chip 'seeds')). I will show you the inspiration photo (but at the end and far away from my version- cuz hers is much cuter :)

pink waffles....when we ran out of green

This picture just pops in randomly to say Hi. Hello Pen-guin and stramberry (like I have said- she's hom-skooled)

I got this idea from the watermelon waffle post- put your pancake or waffle batter in these squeeze bottles. I cut the tops to make the holes bigger- and the possibilities are endless!

I like it..

Source: michellesjournalcorner.blogspot.com via Sara on Pinterest

Here's something I would love to make- and with the squeeze bottles (and some practice :) I may be able to- come spring!

Source: the-wilson-world.blogspot.com via Sara on Pinterest

And finally- the inspiration photo- sigh- someday I will make a waffle worthy of a pinterest pin....such as these beautiful watermelon-ffles.

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On another note- welcome to you new readers. Thanks for visiting here at the art*house! I love you all; old and new readers alike. It was good to hear from you. ThAnKs so much for the notes and comments about my (our) dollhouse and our (my) schoolroom! I luv your feedback :)

dollhouse update

2011-08-04T17:48:00.000-07:00

The bathroom is coming right along. Fabric patches glue gunned up for window treatments- ric rac glued on top. The mirror was the cover to a candle.

Rug and wall and window treatments done in here! (it's a dining room today- but has been used as a school room and...garage), I used the liquid starch to affix the rug and wall covering. I love this technique- you just paint the liquid starch on the wall- smooth on the fabric, add another coat of the starch- voila! A beautiful non-permanent covering.

The red + green room. I glued on a piece of paper doily first, then glued on the fabric for curtains. Tied back with ric rac.

Landscaping, check

Window boxes, check

We forgot to paint this side of the house a wheat color like the other side...but none of the homeowners seem to notice.

Notice the yellow room (how could you miss it?). You will be proud of me- I let my girl (the true owner of the dollhouse) pick the color and paint it herself.

She did good :) She got paint in her hair, paint on her arms...paint on her ear.........paint on the carpet....

See the precious enamelware pitcher and cups I found at an antique store for a dollar!!??!!? CUTE! *We love them :)

I see this picture and I have to take a deep breath and be OK with Spider Man who has invaded the playroom..

We are having fun :)

Linking to Beyond the Picket Fence.

to brighten your day

2011-08-03T11:35:00.000-07:00

The pile of place mats in the kitchen.

Even better- Rainier cherries on the place mats. Pretty and delicious. God, You are the ultimate artist.

OK- I can't hide my sugar addiction anymore- ((I could lie to you and say that I eat none of the treats I make, but how can we have a friendship based on lies?!))....this was a very happy treat at our house. And to top it off- I made a mistake and the mistake happened to make it even better!

S'More Pie. I found the recipe here. My mistake was that the dough for the crust was too sticky- I think it is supposed to be sticky- it is more like a cake batter than pie crust dough- so I ended up just putting globs of the dough on top instead of spreading it and covering the whole pie. What made it so good is that the marshmallow creme started puffing up through the holes and got toasted perfectly while baking! See- such a happy mistake.

school supplies, laminator love, + the alphabet

2011-08-01T11:49:00.000-07:00

New school supplies always make us happy :)

Who knew a laminator could be so much fun?! A friend gave me a small laminating machine (my friends show me love by giving me their junk :) :) I had no idea what I was going to use it for- but then I decided to just try a random collage...it worked! You could scrapbook in minutes with a laminating machine!

Just put your collage in between the plastic sheets and run through the machine. You could do several pages, punch holes in the sides- instant scrapbook! Awesome.

Add a clip and it becomes art for your wall.

I posted photos of our schoolroom, and looking at them I realized I had forgotten the most important feature of a elementary classroom. The Alphabet, for goodness sake!

I quickly remedied that with scrapbook paper, scissors, string, and tape.

And numbers! The term number line takes on new meaning.

kindergarten chic all the way.

What will my excuse be for decorating this way when the kids grow up and leave us??

our new schoolroom!

2011-07-29T08:30:00.000-07:00

Pretty much everything is done! We have gotten our books, school supplies, and our room is ready.

The couch, tv, book shelf area is where we'll sit in the mornings to have devotions and story time. Directly behind the couch is my desk.

Behind the piano is the file cabinet and apron hooks- the file cabinet area will be a perfect place to do anything that involves magnets.

That little alcove to the right is where we keep the treadmill and a large shelving unit for books and supplies that are not in use.

Cozy.

I got this map at an antique store for $4!! So what if it only shows part of the United States?! At least it shows the part where we live. (and it is dry-erasable)

We've got the solar system up there to the right of the map and the art supplies are in the black cabinet to the left of the map.

I have the kids' desks set up in front of the windows as well as over by the art cabinet- but the beauty of this room is that we can move the desks and chairs around to suit our moods. If someone needs no distractions- they can move their desks into one of the window alcoves. If we are working together on a large project, we can move the desks/tables all together.

The armoire holds more art supplies.

The tall white shelves hold all games, and the cubbies hold all school books and papers. The headphones that hook up to the piano have been priceless. Anyone can practice anytime when the headphones are used.

The chalkboard is in the back- close to my desk.

Robot man is so ready for school to start.

We tried to use this room as a school room when we first started homeschooling 5 years ago when our eldest was going into kindergarten- but I have to say, it has never worked out when we had some in school and some babies or toddlers. This year, I am hopeful that things will work well up here since everyone will be in school and busy working.

Do you have a school room? Or a playroom? Where do you store school supplies and/or games and books?

too much cuteness

2011-07-26T10:56:00.000-07:00

Source: artprojectsforkids.org via Sara on Pinterest

Giant paper mache pencils!!!

Source: familyfun.go.com via Sara on Pinterest

Cute snacks-- we are going to learn about the fruit of the Spirit- this might be a good snack to make for that week.

Source: bakerella.com via Sara on Pinterest

Apple cake pops...perfect for the first day of school.

Source: thepleatedpoppy.com via Sara on Pinterest

I am dying to make this...we need a rainbow day...art projects + rainbow cake!

Source: tatertotsandjello.blogspot.com via Sara on Pinterest

Cute idea for the school room

Source: acaseofthemundays.com via Sara on Pinterest

LOVE! I just got a handful of rulers from a thrift store too!

Source: belladia.typepad.com via Sara on Pinterest

Weaving a rug on a hula hoop with old t-shirts- super fun.

Source: ohdeedoh.com via Sara on Pinterest

Healthy too :)
................................................
I am overwhelmed with the cuteness. Seriously overwhelmed. I know the cure would be to get off the Internet for about a month. I see so many good ideas. But I can't do it all. I am praying for wisdom as we start our new school year (in 27 days). Wisdom to keep a balance between fun + creative and hard work + discipline.

I want to do the fun stuff!!!!!!!
I don't want to constantly wash the clothes! I want to paint more pictures on the schoolroom wall.

I don't want to clean- I want to make a patchwork pillow for each of my rainbow chairs in the school room!!

I don't want to cook and make a grocery list and organize the kitchen- I want to repaint the canvas over my mantle!!

I don't want to vacuum and dust! I want to decorate the last 2 rooms of the doll house!!!!

.....................................................
See the struggles I have?! I need to buckle down- it is time to be an adult and do the hard stuff. ((and maybe if I do the hard stuff real quick, I can do something fun?!?!?))
See the irony in that we are going to be studying the fruit of the Spirit?! ...............

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Galatians 5:22-24

chairs, pretzels, m&ms, + healthy stuff too

2011-07-25T17:42:00.000-07:00

We needed some chairs for the school room. I had a blue chair and a green chair. I was thinking how fun it would be to have a chair in each color of the rainbow- and look what I found at my thrift store..............

Yellow and orange!!!!!!!!!!! A happy day of thrifting for me :)

I made some goodies! These were good goodies :) Here's the recipe so you can be naughty with me and eat these Caramel Swirled Pretzel M&M Blondies.

The only thing is...the recipe calls for Pretzel M&Ms. When I read the recipe I skimmed real quick and went to the store and bought a bag of pretzels and a bag of regular m&ms. I decided to try it anyway and put in about half of the M&Ms and a cup of chopped pretzels.

We loved them to death!!! The salty pretzels, the chocolate, the chewy caramel..mmm.

And since I feel guilty and want you to be healthy, here is a wonderful pico de gallo recipe.

I found this nifty cilantro in a tube! (cilantro toothpaste?!) This has saved our marriage. Dave hates cilantro...the smell, everything. This just makes it so much easier to add cilantro to a recipe without the whole house smelling like cilantro, and I can add it to just my food, while he can add ketchup to his :)

linking to:

what's important?

2011-07-22T06:29:00.000-07:00

I was inspired when I read this post. Oh my dear! We have gotten off course this summer! It has been good, in a way, that we have gotten to relax some..but taking a break from reading the Bible to your kids? (that's not a good break to take!)

I did get myself a new journal. TJ Maxx had lots of pretty ones to choose from. I am going to journal my prayers to the Lord in these nice books (instead of the scraps of paper I was using)

So I am inspired to get back to reading The Word with them first thing in the morning. Even though Dave reads to us after supper....the more the better, right?! I also reallllly miss our storytime. I am almost ready for the structure of school....I just have to buy the actual school books, get the school supplies, finish up organizing the school room....and completely organize the rest of the house! But other than that- I'M READY! :)

we painted

2011-07-21T04:41:00.000-07:00

We got out the brushes

We went wild with the paint + canvas

but who needs a canvas- find some sticks (inspiration here)

Spinning Round Colorful Arch
By my daughter

Here they are. Our painted sticks.

There is something extremely therapeutic about painting sticks- you can make a mess- there are no rules- and the end product-- bEaUtiFul.

Wash the brushes-it's back to reality.

fishin'

2011-07-20T16:31:00.000-07:00

Dave and I took the 2 kids we still have (while our oldest is at camp) fishing. We have some very kind friends who let us come use their pond. Actually, Dave took our middle child fishing and our girl and I tagged along...........................

Us girls kinda got in the way.

We made lots of noise and took lots of pictures...

The boys were verrrrrrry serious

Anyways.....like I said- we had a lot of fun. The boys fished, our girl threw the line in twice and caught 2 fish, I took pictures and enjoyed the beautiful scenery.

I'm not sure I understand the whole lure of fishing...

but it was peaceful

and pretty!

And the best part of fishing- the refreshments :)

yomo (our cupcake alternative)

2011-07-19T19:03:00.000-07:00

We found another option for our sweet tooth (teeth). Yogurt Mountain (yomo)! You walk in and there's a wall of frozen yogurt flavors for you to choose from and fill your cup with....then you go to the other side and pick your toppings (lots of exciting toppings to choose from)

Then you set it all on their little scale and pay by the pound. Super fun and (a little) better for you. Especially if you get the tropical sorbet topped with raspberries, blueberries, and the lemon zest topping. mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

The whole time we were in there filling our cups (we were the only ones in the store since it was 11:00 am on the dot..they open at 11) I kept saying- just a little! Pick the light toppings! (I'm so cheap! It averaged out to be about $4 a cup - the cups are big- they want you to fill each with $8 worth! ((now that I think about it- cupcakes are much cheaper.......))

................................................................................................

Our oldest is off at camp. We miss the little guy....things are quieter around here (and I have noticed- the boys room is staying much neater :) Anyway, today I was reading in his Bible (he took his other smaller Bible with him to camp), and it was interesting to see what he had outlined.....the Bible opened to this passage..........................

I was thinking about verses 3 and 4 all day today. Major encouragement! Thanks to my boy for his blue marker. And I know he is getting a lot of good stuff from God's Word at camp....And I am trusting in God to bless and protect my baby who is away from his momma :)

front door

2011-07-16T18:26:00.000-07:00

The front storm door was begging me to paint it. I had no idea until Friday when I was in the painting window mood. and I walked by this door and knew it had to be done.

I wish I could have lots and lots of pretty flowers in my yard (and I am so thankful for the pot that I have right now, thanks, Mom), but alas, my thumb is black (and paint stained). So here is my garden. And look, I have not even put away the paints and junk.

Oh let me tell you about the 2 days my girl and I had. Dave took the boys and dropped them at his parents (thanks, Mom + Dad M!) while he was on a business trip. So my daughter and I had the house to ourselves for 2 days. She mostly watched all the princess movies she could find while I organized the school room, painted windows, and made this to eat non stop for 2 days.

If you look close you can see the rainbow windows upstairs.

Yes, boys, we missed you soooo much- but we made the most of it :)

rainbow windows

2011-07-15T04:54:00.000-07:00

I have one goal for the summer- and that is to organize the house! Closets, cabinets, drawers, etc, etc...and now summer is half over and I haven't even scratched the surface! On top of that, I have my new schoolroom to work (play) in. Yesterday I decided if I got a certain amount of work done that I could do fun stuff in the school room. I cleaned the bathrooms- cleaned out 2 drawers, packed up junk to take to Goodwill...and...and then I got my reward- I painted windows!!!!!!!

I painted 2 windows in the schoolroom (and another downstairs...I'll show you that later)

And I finished painting the tree...finally.

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**Face paint answer: we used acrylic paint. I researched a bunch of washable paints and regular face paint- it all comes off too easily- or goes on too watery. Acrylic works the best. Washes off skin with soap and water. If it gets on your clothes- you are in trouble...unless you get it ASAP with a baby wipe or wet cloth.

face paint

2011-07-14T07:32:00.000-07:00

The Family Fun Fest on Saturday turned out beautifully- the weather was hot- but no rain. We got to paint 375 faces (or hands, or arms- whatever they wanted us to paint :) The next day at church we had 6 families visit. Here I am painting Mary Ann- our dear friend who just accepted Jesus as Savior about 2 months ago!

Jacqueline painting a dragonfly on my baby.

I had several kids who were very interested in the gospel- and we know that God's Word has been planted in their lives! (we use the colors to present the gospel message of salvation: gold=heaven, black= sin that keeps us from heaven, red=blood of Jesus that can wash our sins away, white=clean and forgiven, green=growth in Christ as we read our Bible and go to church and pray)

For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. John 3:16

This sweet man was a treat to paint :)

I know some of you asked questions about the face paint - and I can't remember who asked what...e-mail me with questions: saramincy @ gmail.com

Face paint is just the hugest blessing to be involved with each year. Kids love it and will wait in line forever to get their faces painted! And we get to have their attention for that 6 or 7 minutes that it takes to paint their face. We show them each color as we paint it, and this year, they had a bookmark to take with them (thanks, Monica :)) that told what each color means. I think this would be a great thing to do at a VBS or even birthday party. It is really easy to get started too- I have the outline available and you can make your own samples, making sure you start painting with the gold and paint in order. (e-mail me if you are interested in doing this for a church activity or party)

sadie's makeover

2011-07-13T10:01:00.000-07:00

at least she can see....:)

out on the town (cupcakes were involved)

2011-07-11T05:59:00.000-07:00

It was the last day that my parents would be with us before they headed back to the great North. So we had to take them to our favorite spot of town.......

First stop- Tropical Smoothie Cafe- thank goodness they loved the flatbreads as much as me.

I got the cappuccino smoothie and was very happy. Not to be left out, the lego men also came with us.

I only went to Gigi's Cupcakes for them- I promise- I had no desire for another sinful cupcake ;) ((is it bad that I have been there 3 times in the past 3 months?!? Yes- the scale tells me so))

Carrot cupcake dissected.

Do they like it?

Hmmm, Mom's look says it is going to send her into anaphylactic shock. Dad's look tells me I must get the sugar addiction from him.

We browsed the cute shops....these precious bouquets were at Fresh Market- super cheap. Husbands/boyfriends listen up: Fresh Market has gorgeous flowers for a steal.

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In other news...last night Dave and I switched rooms! His office is now the school/art room and my art room is now his office.............................................

Lots to do!!! But the kids were super excited when they saw it this morning.

I'm off to get this room into shape! Have a great Monday :)

plans and stuff

2011-07-08T06:20:00.000-07:00

My parents are here for only one more day :( We have had a good time with them. My mom took my girl and me to this cute little coffee shop (and the only picture I took was of the top of this mosaic table?!)

Excitement: Dave and I decided to trade rooms/office space. He is going to give me the larger room and he will take my art room for his office. You know what that means?!?!??! I have a nice big classroom to set up and re-model!!! I am beyond excited about this. We are keeping the piano in there so we will have a music center, an art center, a reading center, little desks, room on the walls for our maps and posters and artwork. We start the switcharoo on Monday- it will prob take all day to move the furniture around and figure out what goes where....but I am confident that things will be ready for a new homeschool year by August!

And one more thing: Our church's Family Fun Fest is tomorrow! We are all so excited and have been preparing and passing out flyers for weeks. We will be doing the gospel face paint again (see a previous year here). To be able to paint hundreds of kids' faces and present the gospel each time- that is amazing! Each color represents a part of the gospel story- so we paint in order. I'll share more pictures of that next week. Have a great weekend and if you are local e-mail me and I can tell you where the family fun fest is located (10:00- 3:00 tomorrow, everything is free; food, games, inflatables, etc- I would love to paint your face!!)

what my {faceless} kids are up to

2011-07-07T12:05:00.000-07:00

I am so thankful for our little plastic 2 foot deep pool. We could not survive the 90* weather without it!

I am also thankful for our little library. The kids have been motivated to read- and are rewarded with prizes and a pin they get to stick to the country where they want to visit- the boys are picking Israel and NY, the girl picked Australia. The librarians are all amused by the many pins stuck to Antarctica (I told you it was hot here...the little readers are dreaming of ice)

Speaking of the library- I took my girl to the bathroom and we used the potty, (I can only say potty a tiny bit longer since my baby is 5!! :) and washed our hands- meanwhile, another little kid came in, used the bathroom, flushed, and walked right out with her mom. How is it that someone can live in North America and not know (or care) to wash their hands after using the bathroom?!?!??! That totally grosses me out. Especially at the library where we may handle the same books as that kid!!!!!

**Also- since we are talking about kids and hygiene- I took the kids to McDonald's after and they played in the playland for a few minutes- gross again! Every surface in there was grimy and it smelled like poop! (mmmm, that makes me want to eat my big mac!)

((sorry for the tantrum))

I am the type of person to want to be done with school and then when we have been done for a month- I am ready to start again! I guess I love a schedule. So I am really trying to enjoy the summer months- just trying to relax.....something that has been an awesome relaxation exercise has been coloring with my kids. I love to color and draw. And to just sit and not try and get anything done- or do my own thing- that means a lot to them. To our daughter especially. The boys have each other, and they play, play, play. And our girl plays too- but she always wants me to color with her. So I have been and it has been really nice. To find something that you and your kids both like- that is a big winner.

Anyway, all that to say, books + water + art time= summer sanity at the Mincy house :) What keeps you sane in the summer?