Fish Friday?

This photo shows why I'm allowing the milkweed to grow up through my deck. We have two chunky Monarch caterpillars that have so far made it through the earwig attack. I really hope they make it!

I woke up too early and my brain was racing with spastic thoughts, like that commercial with the people with internet search overload. I couldn't shut down and chill. My eyes didn't want to be left open, but my brain wouldn't shut off, so I just decided to stay up. Now I'm paying the price. I probably won't be too much fun for our family fun night, but I'll give it my best shot.

DH is hoping we can find a decent fish fry for supper. We're going to try our luck finding a back road bar & grill located on a small lake that is rumored to be a good spot. Its actually easier to find if you have a boat.

Its a wonderful feeling heading into a weekend knowing there is absolutely nothing we are committed to doing. We can go with the flow and see where life takes us.

I do hope I can tackle our book shelf dilemma. How is it I love books but a bookshelf to me looks cluttered and uninviting? On the the other hand, I want the books to be in plain sight so they get picked up every now and then.

I haven't gotten around to stringing up wire for our vertical garden frames. Maybe I'll  be inspired this weekend to tackle that, or maybe not. I don't mind really if the plants sprawl out over the lawn. Maybe I'm  being lazy, but our Square Foot garden box is so overgrown with tomatoes, you can't make out the squares anymore.  I was born to break rules, I'm an unschooler!

Going to try jumping around and see if that wakes me up. DH will home soon and I'll need to have my Friday Fun Game face on!

I love being an Autodidact! Learning new things empowers you and is such a confidence booster. Never fear what you don't know. Face it head on and don't give up. Even little steps count and move you further towards your goal.

13 for Thursday

1. Discovered my stomach cramping is in response to chemical exposure. Darn crop dusters!

2. The ants are attacking as well. The first few days, they were in our bathroom. They drank up the Terro poison in droves, but days later, the second wave is ignoring it. Now a new platoon is exploring the boys' bedroom.

3. DS10 said he's watched too many insect shows. He didn't feel safe sleeping in his room, thinking he'd wake up with ants covering his body. I told him our ants weren't of the tropical variety, and were not interested in feeding on humans. Right after I assured him ants wouldn't crawl on him, he discovered an ant on his forearm. DS10 ended up in a sleeping bag on our bedroom floor.

4. I'm not looking forward to calling my mom. We most likely will have to postpone our trip. She'll be disappointed.

5. Kicking myself for not buying cereal yesterday. When I was there, I thought, naah. Its not on sale and we've been eating nothing but cereal. We need to try something different. Now that there is none in our pantry, its the only thing I'm craving.

6. Hoping tonight's shift goes much better. Its not fun being yelled at by angry moms.

7. Bite Me, Dr. Mike's Vietnam, show didn't disappoint. He dropped his drawers and had his medic check his butt crack for leeches. A huge, long, slimy one fell out and the medic indeed confirmed it was headed for his scrotum. He also willingly swallowed a tape worm and combed a rat looking for fleas which carry the bubonic plague.  I don't see how this guy can make it through an entire season without serious harm coming his way. He is insane, of course we are too for watching!

8. Our homemade mosquito repellent seems to work, but I admit, the smell is not that much better than that of Deet loaded chemical sprays. Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and witch hazel. Add a few drops of citronella essential oil, (not citronella oil fuel) and mix in a spray bottle. It also costs less than Off.

9. Anyone want to brush Yumi? Why is she still shedding her winter coat?

10. I think I need pizza. Its been too long.

11. I only have 8 minutes left on the computer. The child is starting to circle me like a shark!

12. Tomorrow may have to be a "do what I feel like day."

13. I really need to redecorate my blog.

Been having strange, stressful dreams lately. I tried to call 911 but Ozzy Osbourne was the operator, and I couldn't understand anything he was saying.

Unschoolers Are Not Guilty Of Educational Neglect

My quickie note today is in response to having read this article. Click here.

This woman believes Unschooling parents are guilty of child neglect. Her article created a firestorm, and the next day she posted another article, sort of a retraction.

Personally, when I read the original article, I thought this woman was extremely judgmental and had no clue what unschooling really was. I wasn't offended but rather felt sympathy for her ignorance.

I had DS13 read it for his take. He shared my sentiment. He assured me, he hasn't felt educationally neglected in the slightest. He also told me it wasn't worth posting a response to tell her how wrong she is. "She is too close minded."

The majority of unschooling parents I know share much more of their lives with their children than parents who send their children away for their education. How could I neglect them if I'm with them practically 24/7 unless I were, let's say, to confine them in a room, with holding bathroom and snack breaks unless I said it was time for them, and forbidding them from leaving? (Oh wait, I think I know where this is done and its not usually one's home.)

My children live and learn each day. I haven't placed them in a vacuum. They are free to explore the world around them. They are free to ask questions and follow their interests. The only limits I impose are those of safety.

This woman should meet my children. They are respectful, self motivated, creative, loving individuals. How did they end up like this? We loved them, unconditionally, and treated them with respect. We will always respect their feelings, their curiosity, their creativity. Can you imagine a world if we all did this for each other?

My sister once said my children were "Stepford children," because they were too well behaved. Yes, I guess we are freaks in that way.

When I asked my oldest if he felt like a freak because we unschool, he said, "Mom, I think we are normal and everyone else are freaks." I don't worry about my children's self confidence and self esteem.

I asked my son if he regretted not being able to read on his own until he was around age 8-9, not age 5. He said he still found enjoyment from books because we read them out loud together. It was an experience of sharing and bonding. 

If I were new to unschooling, perhaps this woman's comments would have razzled me, but after the 10 plus years we've been living and learning together through life at home, I pity this woman who has no clue how much greener the grass is over here.

I feel so blessed to have had the chance to share my children's lives on a day to day basis as they've grown through the years, but also have my desire to constantly learn more about the world around me re-awakened. They have taught me to question things and always strive for happiness.

I really believe God created us all different, with different interests. We are wired to naturally have curiosity and it is impossible not to learn. Scientists actually have proven the brain is constantly making neuron pathways. It is impossible not to learn, (even if you are confined to a desk all day.) Can you imagine the things you could do without limits on your curiosity?

Unschooling means I do not look at the clock and say, "Oh, its 2:00pm. Time to stop figuring out how to write the number you get when you multiply one million times one million. You need to study biology now."

If neglect is "to leave undone, or unattended to", wouldn't I be neglecting him if I stopped him from being able to figure out the answer to his question?

DS10's latest project is- If you gave one million people, one million dollars, what does that number look like? Do you know what's its called? I'll give you a hint, after DS10 & I figured out the answer to his question, it led us to a discussion on our country's national debt! Thankfully because we unschool, we had the freedom to shift gears from math into political history when we decided it was interesting to do so, not when the clock said we had to.

Unschooling parents aren't neglectful. We instead, understand how best to facilitate our children's natural desire for learning and growth. Our focus is on the individual child, not on equalizing an age group.

She may call me a lazy, unschooling mother, but if that were the case, wouldn't my children have modeled that? Why aren't they bored blobs, sitting on the couch all day? Oh wait, you mean I should not have modeled reading, writing, creating, growing, cleaning, exercising, sharing, problem solving, shopping, resting, curing, cooking, engaging, expressing, fixing, thinking, crying, laughing, wondering, etc... As an unschooling mother I was suppose to be a lazy, a self centered, sloth of a woman?

She obviously doesn't really know any unschooling moms. Prejudice is so ugly. Too bad she can't open her mind. Maybe its because to do so, would mean she would have to question her own educational philosophy. She may discover a flaw or two and those cracks in her glass house may cause it to crash apart. I pity bullies. They make themselves feel better by picking on others because inside, they are unsatisfied.

I will end this by assuring you, in our Sleepyhouse, we are more than satisfied with how well natural learning works.

   
 

"In a nutshell, people whose lives are hard, boring, painful, meaningless ­people who suffer ­tend to resent those who seem to suffer less than they do, and will make them suffer if they can. People who feel themselves in chains, with no hope of ever getting them off, want to put chains on everyone else." ­John Holt, Teach Your Own

Watch out dust bunnies! I'm coming to chase you out!

Too much partying this weekend....need to digest, stretch out, and sleep it off like a kitty.

Pesto Pizza Family Fun Night

Our homemade pizza came out so good!! The thin crust was homemade, but the pesto did come from a jar. I topped it with a little Parmesan and mozzarella cheese and threw on a few fresh tomatoes on my side. Pesto sauce is simply chopped basil with olive oil and chopped garlic.

It didn't feel like a Friday at all, since we aren't used to having DH home all day. I could get used to this. I should start playing the lottery and maybe someday we'll win big and DH can retire.

We've been watching the Twilight Zone marathon on the Sci Fi network and tonight's F.F.Friday movie was An American Werewolf In London. I'm too pooped out to stay up much longer though.

Tomorrow we'll have to get up early and bring our blanket down to Main street, reserving our spot for the 4th of July parade. Our little town's Independence Day parade is Norman Rockwell all the way. Color guards, police cars, firetrucks, floats, bands, Dairy Princesses, politicians, boy scouts, girl scouts, crazy Shriners in little cars, scary clowns, horse clubs, dog clubs, church groups, and of course, farm tractors, trucks and huge combines! The boys will bring bags because almost everyone throws out candy and each year at least one float throws out string cheese! Only in Wisconsin!

After the parade, we'll hop in the car and drive to Grandma's for a cookout. The watermelon is ready and we'll bring our swimsuits for perhaps a quick dip in freezing cold Lake Michigan before the fireworks begin on the lakefront.

We have more partying to do on Sunday too!  I'm sure by Monday I'll be ready to be a homebody.

So with a pizza happy tummy, I'm heading to bed to rest up for a busy holiday weekend. Happy 4th Of July!

Time to make some pizza dough. Pesto pizza anyone?

Do Earwigs eat Monarch caterpillars?

More grossing out, not relaxing....

Last night we watched Monsters Inside Me on Animal Planet. It was the first and last time we'll watch that show! To my horror, I learned there is a parasite carried in raccoon scat that can lead to worms eating your brain. Its rare, but the eggs can lie dormant in dirt and after being ingested, hatch. The worms usually stick to hanging around your guts, but as this rare case featured on last night's show proved, can move to your brain. It was heartbreaking watching a baby struggle to survive this parasitic brain worm! Terrible show!

Now I'm a bit freaked as to how I'm going to clean up the raccoon scat I discovered in our yard yesterday. (photo) Ignorance is bliss. I preferred not knowing we have raccoons, which have an 80% chance of carrying a potentially deadly parasite.

I should be feeling good. Its kind of like a Friday today, but I'm not. Aside from the parasite invested raccoon poop, I'm on edge because DH's boss hasn't made a decision yet regarding our health insurance. I'm also not looking forward to seeing extended family, which is terrible of me to say, I know, but they don't relax me. They pick on me. They'll say I'm too sensitive, but its not a balanced bullying. I'm just not in the mood to go through this trial.

I will have to set aside these worries and turn my focus to that which brings me joy. Tonight is the grand re-opening of our little Lake Leota. The village is planning a fireworks display on the water. I hope I can get home from work in time to see some of it.

DH doesn't have to work tomorrow! I'll have to griddle up a batch of Mancakes tomorrow morning!

Firefox keeps crashing on me as I try to use Multiply this morning. Grrrr......

Please Pray With Me! - DH is meeting with his boss regarding our health insurance proposal. The best case scenario is we pay another $100 a month out of pocket, but get to keep our current health insurance plan.

How Not To Relax (Unschooling Science & Health)

Last night we caught an episode of Bite Me, with Dr.Mike. He was in India trying to pick up as many nasty diseases as he could. He purposely ate unwashed vegetables with the hope of picking up worms. He did, showing us the proof after he excused himself off the bus and into a near by field as nature called. I'm sure the production crew were cringing as he asked for a bottle of water so he could wash off the worms to show on camera. Go to the website and click around on Gross Factor photos. The first India photo shows what came out of Dr. Mike.

Dr. Mike also willing immersed his body and drank from the Ganges river. If you aren't aware, this river in India, considered sacred, is used to dispose of cremated remains along with sewer waste. People believe the river has spiritual and medicinal properties so they bathe, wash and drink from it. While filming he acknowledges seeing all kinds of nasty waste in it, but he still proceeds to swallow it. It is later confirmed when he begins to notice stomach cramping, that he has indeed picked up parasites.

The show is fascinating, but for someone like me, also terrifying! Tonight there are more disturbing shows on, this time on Animal Planet, Eaten Alive and Monsters Inside Me.

Why is my family so fascinated with parasites? At least now they understand why hand washing before we eat, and washing off our food is so vital.

Thank you God, for these past two, most perfect weather days. After last week's misery, these 60's feel so good!

A large pitcher of ice tea is on order today. I know I didn't drink enough yesterday.

Weekend Notes 6/26-6/28

Friday night Grandma arrived and we headed over to hang out with our cousins. We played a freaky game of Trivial Pursuit. We kept getting Michael Jackson related questions! 

Saturday we hiked part of the Sugar River trail through Albany. We must of chosen the boring route. It was pretty much a straight line hike, not very scenic, but the exercise was worth it.

Saturday afternoon Grandma treated us to Transformers II Revenge of The Fallen. It was a fun, summer time movie, however we are questioning the PG-13 rating. We think we heard a few F-bombs coming from the racist/stereotyped robots.

Sunday we hiked Magnolia Bluff. The weather was great except for the fact the breeze blew in the pig farm aroma. If you live in the country you know what I'm talking about. I'll take cow manure over pig any day! Part of the trail at Magnolia bluff was washed out with several large trees blown down. The boys had a great time climbing over and through the downed branches as we attempted to climb up the hillside. I was happy we made it up all the way. I'm hoping my MIL got good pictures since I had forgotten my camera.

The ants are back in my bathroom. Every summer they come in, I think looking for water. Hate to do it, but I'm leaving out Terro poison.

The wasps seem to be gone. I think I killed about a dozen or so before they finally got the hint a nest in between the doorway wasn't the best spot.

I'm so happy to have the air conditioning turned off! It feels so refreshing to open windows and air out. All this week we should be able to continue with this since our temperatures are back in the 70's! Yeah!

Looking forward to it being a 4 day work week for DH. I'm still working my same hours, but just having an extra day with him makes this week special for me.

I better get moving. I've made a vow that today is mine.  I don't want to spend all it sitting here, when its so perfect outside. 

This day has been given to me, and I'm taking it for all its worth!

Why is my offspring so good at already being on the computer whenever I get a free moment?

My attack wasps are not behaving. Last night one decided to get in my car and ride with me to work. Buy stock in Raid. I'm about to go medieval.

Wish I could walk around with my eyes shut today.

Wednesday's babble

Out with the old, in with the new. Really, I don't know what was wrong with our old town sign, but our village has spent the money to erect a newer one. Except for needing some weeding, the old sign seems fine to me. One of these days I really should become more active in my local government.

Have you read this article about the FTC monitoring blogs? I read this a few days ago, and it really concerns me. How can this not be a violation of free speech? The FTC is concerned that some bloggers are receiving free goods in exchange for writing about them and readers may not understand those bloggers were compensated. Why do we need government to regulate this? What ever happened to "buyer beware." Their argument is that when you walk into a store, you can identify the salesclerk. My response to that is what makes the salesclerk any more or less trustworthy than anyone else?

For the record, Emergen-C, Dandy Blend, or any other product I've written about, I've had to buy with my own money. I don't receive free gifts to blog, and my blog is just my opinion. I have not scientifically tested the products I review. Now hopefully the FTC won't come after me since I've disclosed this to you!

I'm trying to brain storm for things we can enjoy only in summer time. DH & I realized, since our boys are unschooled, they don't really see summer like we did as kids. Summertime to us meant freedom. Our boys never lose theirs. It made me think about how our life revolves around the seasonal calender rather than a school calendar. Its the seasons and holidays that bring change into our lives. I should focus on that and do a better job with our family traditions.

So what kinds of things do you only enjoy in the summer time? I know trips are the obvious, but I'm looking for life's little pleasures, keeping in mind money doesn't buy happiness.

There were half a dozen wasps in between our front door and the storm door. I broke down and used wasp killer. I was sorry to end their lives, but they can't set up shop on my front door!

The central air at my work was broken tonight. I had fun working in the dark, trying to keep the lobby temperature down. My boss was the best, bringing us fans! I'm glad I'm home now, sipping on a frozen banana strawberry smoothie.

My Nordic blood is not liking this heat and humidity. I can't imagine how our soldiers handle this in Iraq and Afghanistan. Today I am grateful for their sacrifice, and for the central air in my Sleepyhouse!

Dawning's Peanut Butter Kamut Cookies

Description:
Kamut is an ancient grain, related to wheat only its higher in protein, lipids, amino acids, vitamins and minerals. Kamut is the Egyptian word for wheat, meaning "Soul Of The Earth". The kernels are 2-3 times larger than regular wheat, and the plant produces high quality grains without the use of pesticides and artificial fertilizers.

I freshly grind our own flour. 48 hours after grinding, flour begins to lose nutritional value. You can prolong the shelf life by storing freshly ground up wheat in your freezer. If you buy flour from a store, make sure it is freshly ground otherwise, your buying nutritionally dead flour, or worse, the natural kernel oils could go rancid. Perhaps this is one reason why more people today have a gluten intolerance? We eat too much dead wheat.

DH loves when I add peanut chips or even chocolate chips. DS10 is a purist and prefers no chips. I'm just happy my family enjoys a healthy cookie. I've also used soft pastry whole wheat in this recipe with success, but the cookies come out less puffy. Either way they are delicious and you would never guess you were eating a whole grain treat.

Ingredients:
1/2 C unsalted butter
1/2 C peanut butter
1 1/2 C brown sugar
2 eggs
1 t vanilla
2 t baking soda
3 C Kamut flour (or soft pastry wheat flour) FRESHLY GROUND

Directions:
Preheat oven to 375F

Cream together the butter, peanut butter and brown sugar. Add in the eggs and vanilla. Add in the baking soda and flour.

Drop by spoonfuls onto a silicon lined cookie sheet or use parchment paper.

Bake for 11 minutes or until lightly browned.

Our Father's Day 2009

Why does my family make me feel like I'm the paparazzi? I did bring the camera but didn't get any shots because they moaned every time I asked to take a photograph.

We took DH to Outback Steakhouse. We went early, skipping breakfast, and it was still crowded. The manager gave DH a $10 off coupon for our next visit. Hmmm.... next month's date night?

After lunch, we took DH shopping at Preplayed, a used movie and video game store. He picked out a few cheesy movies. We then headed over to a used book store, Frugal Muse, but unfortunately, didn't find anything worth while. They are getting ready for a move, so it seems inventory is low.

Our last stop was to try the new Sonic for dessert. I had the new bundt cake sundae, DH a rootbeer float, DS13 a Reeses Blast and DS10 a cherry slushy. It was all very tasty and the only strange thing was when the car hop later came and asked us if we wanted ketchup. We don't normally enjoy ketchup with our ice cream. I was pleased to see they offer flavored ice teas and during "Happy Hour", 2-4pm, they are half price! I may just have to plan a detour on my next drive to work.

I can't decide whether I should try two shorter, outside walks today, or just resolve to work out indoors, which bores me. How long before Autumn returns?

Happy Father's Day!!

Our Saturday the 20th...

When we came across this tree, my boys wanted to turn back. I admit, it is creepy.

Yesterday we decided to hike at Picnic Point. This park is popular, located near the UW University in Madison. Its really beautiful and on certain trails, you can see the lake all around you. The area historically was camped in by Native Americans and an Indian burial mound is marked along the path.

I haven't picked up citronella oil yet, so I haven't had the chance to make a home made safe alternative to mosquito spray. I am going to do this very soon! For some reason, when we are getting bit, we're getting these giant welts, not like normal bumps. Yesterday's bite left a 3 inch welt on my arm. Hope those weren't West Nile mosquitoes!

The humidity made the hike less pleasant too. With my asthma it felt like someone was standing on my chest, but the boys seemed excited about the baby frog migration going on, so I pressed on.

It was a challenge to walk the paths. There were so many baby frogs hopping around. I felt bad for them, because many were getting squished by people riding bikes on the path. We came across one section where the trail was marked, encouraging people to take a different path to allow the baby frogs to remain unharmed, but when we carefully walked that path hoping to see many, we saw almost none. They need to move the sign!

After our hike, we picked up bagels for lunch and headed home. I had a Diva Sister outing to prepare for.

The boys enjoyed a boys only night with dad, our cousin, and our cousin's X-Box. I enjoyed my Diva sisters, gourmet chocolate at Daniel's followed by supper out at Pearl's. It was a repeat of our last Diva outing, but Daniel's and Pearls are two great places worth repeating.

Today I'm afraid will involve more food, but it Father's Day and how can we not take him out to his favorite place? The plan is lunch at Outback, another hike, followed by dessert at Sonic. We have yet to try Sonic, and the commerical for those new bundt cake sundaes is working on us!

Come Monday I will have to find my workout DVDs or kick my kids off the Wii so I can try Wii Fit again. With summer's humidity and the ozone lately, I feel like I can get a better workout breathing indoors.

Well, I better get moving. Hope you have a great Father's Day!

I should probably unplug today.

Look out weeds! You're getting a little too close to my baby melon plants. I'm coming for you!

Climbing Back On My Box Today....

My choice today is continue to feel helpless, cry my eyes out some more, sink into depression and over eat, or I could embrace my anger, moving into action.

DH wants me to be careful and remember this is a public forum. Perhaps this is a risk I shouldn't take here, but I think better when I can write, and this is something I must put my mind to.

Our health insurance most certainly will be changing. I can understand the frustrations on an employer's side with rising costs, but I feel insulted when dollar signs are more important than acknowledging the hard work, dedication and sacrifice my husband has given.

We currently pay out of pocket about $300 a month for our current PPO/HMO. DH's employer pays the rest and soon the rate is going up about $300. Rather than ask DH to contribute more, his employer has decided to shop around for new health insurance.

Now its a small office, and of the 4 men that work there, only half use the insurance. The others are covered by spouse plans. Of the two that use the insurance, only 1, my husband, needs family coverage. Keep that in mind. We're talking only ONE employee that would cost an additional $300 to insure. The single worker increased cost, I'm guessing, would be half that, but lets just say for argument sake, its another $300 a month, bringing the total to an increase of $600 or $7200 a year.

The business is an engineering design firm. Depending on the work required, projects could range from $5,000 to $50,000. If this business owner could bring in one more project a year,  this increase in health insurance would be paid for. The best answer here is bring in more business through the door. Get out there and sell this company's services! 

Instead of approaching it this way, he is shopping for new health coverage, but he's not shopping so far too wisely. The option presented to my husband yesterday made me sick to my stomach as I realized it was NOT an option and we would basically be without coverage.

On the "Americare Plan", our family's deductible per year would be $20,000. If we break our arm, that is covered, (after the deductible), but if we get strep throat, its not. MRI's & CAT scans, are not covered and we may even be rejected if we have pre-existing conditions. I can tell you right now our son will be rejected having been diagnosed with a Chiari malformation. Americare doesn't really seem to care at all now does it!

My husband is already working for less than most in his field because he feels a sense of loyalty to the business owner. My husband has taken on more work than he was originally hired for, picking up the slack, to ensure that this small company succeeds. He's worked with this business owner since 1991. Its not just a paycheck to him. He has vested 18 years trying to help this man reach his goals. I can't help but feel spit upon by the offer of a health insurance with a $20,000 deductible. 

Maybe I shouldn't whine. So many have no health insurance. So many are unemployed. I just can't help but feel like the company my husband has given so much to, is turning their back on him.

A very wise woman taught me to never bring complaints to the table without suggesting solutions. So today, instead of baking chocolate chip cookies and eating them, I am researching and shopping for health insurance. I'm praying for answers, for peace, for security, but I'm also the type of person who has to do something while I wait for those prayers to be answered. I hope I can find realistic alternatives and convince DH's boss to embrace our concerns and suggestions. 

Depression is anger without passion. Anger without action is cowardice. I will not go down with out a fight!

I will not get through this night without a sprinkling of tears, and lots of prayers. A giant stress ball has landed in my lap, and I can't find peace tonight.

Gaps Don't Scare Me

On a homeschooling newsletter list I belong to, one mom wanted to know which tests she could administer to see if her children had any gaps. Another mom offered a response that nailed it. She pointed out how it is not possible, to NOT have gaps. No one can know it all.

She used the example of history/geography. Pointing out that there are over 200 countries in the world, if you were to study each one of them over the course of a 12 year education, you would need to spend only 2 weeks studying each country. How much detail could you retain studying a country for only 2 weeks?

What also came to my mind is how the borders, leadership and cultures of those 200 plus countries are going to change over the course of 12 years. Education is an eternal process, because change is a fact of life.

With so much out there in the world to learn, a person has to decide what's important to know. My personal conviction is that you should be free to follow your God given curiosity. Each one of us is unique. We aren't all born to be gardeners or brain surgeons or song writers.

(Of course if given the chance, our government would like us all to be good consumers, but that's another soapbox.)

So getting back to testing for gaps, why is it important to see if you know or don't know, what someone else thinks you should? Why allow someone else to tell you what it is that you need to know, unless you want to fit into their mold? Wouldn't you be giving up your freedom doing so?

Maybe some don't want that freedom? For them, it may be easier to choose to follow someone else's path. Maybe its a desire to fit in, to belong and maybe that stems from an insecurity? Too bad,  because I believe we are born to be creators and trail blazers. Fear and insecurity will keep us from soaring achievements.

Testing isn't perfect either, and it often fails to match action methods needed to accomplish a goal. (But this too is another soapbox.)

I'd much rather my children pass life tests. Can they show respect for others? Can they be self motivated? Do they demonstrate strong work ethic? Do they practice healthy judgment? Have they figured out that God has a plan designed exclusively for them? Can they forgive? Can they love?

The gaps will always be there, for everyone, whether you attended a traditional school, schooled at home, or unschooled. You can worry about the gaps or you can choose to build bridges over them when the time comes you need to get across. Life is a journey of discovery. Its your journey and you should decide the destination, when you want to go and how you'll travel.

"Stretching us before strawberry picking didn't help." - Message from my legs this morning.

Death by Strawberry Picking

Wisconsin strawberries are ready for harvesting. We headed to Hazeltine's to self pick. We collected two baskets and to be honest, there is no way we could have picked anymore. All of us broke out with itchy rashes on our arms.

Quickly paying for our berries, the young man working had no idea what was used to spray the plants. I drove to the next town over, pulled into a Burger King, and we ran into the bathroom to scrub up.

The rashes thankfully went away, but I started to feel other symptoms of chemical sensitivity. I bought a Diet Coke and sat down to rest, hoping it would go away enough for me to drive home. My stomach started cramping up, feeling like knives were stabbing me. I called DH and continued to sip on the Diet Coke. After hearing his voice, I calmed down and felt well enough to make it home, where thankfully the pain stopped, but I'm fatigued.

I'm grateful we didn't consume any while picking! I can only imagine what my reaction would have been if I had eaten a few without washing them.

Next time, I will pay the extra money, make the longer drive and find an organic farm! (Or just stick to buying them in the store.)

I have such fond memories of strawberry picking throughout my childhood. This is the first time something like this has happened to me, and I'm a little freaked it happened to the boys as well. I'm usually the sensitive one and the fact we all broke out has me wondering what kind of toxin that farm used!

I soaked and rinsed the berries like crazy, and the first batch of jam is done. The rest are chilling in the freezer ready for future smoothie days.

Pull

"I live more than what you'll ever know, and I'll give you more than what l'll ever show..." (woke up with Pull in my melonhead)

My Neighbor's Going to Hate Me....

Yes, I'm a nosy neighbor. The kind that watches everything. I guess I'm home during the day, and I like to keep my neighborhood safe. I take Neighborhood Watch seriously.

A young man came to my door claiming to be participating in a magazine contest. I asked him for identification and to see his solicitor's permit. In our village, you need a solicitor's permit if you want to go door to door. He told me he didn't have one, and he was just dropped off by someone else to canvas our neighborhood.

I told the young man politely, he needed to go to city hall and get a permit. He left my doorstep and walked directly to my neighbor's house. So Bee-atch that I am, I called the village to report him.

In our small town, the police are quick. They were at my neighbor's house within 3 minutes ringing her doorbell asking to speak with the solicitor. I'm sure my neighbor is pissed and thinks I'm a busy body, but I don't care. I'd rather my neighborhood be safe.

Part of my beeatchiness is coming from the fact just a few years ago, one of these crack pot magazine sale companies crammed a bunch of teenagers into a van which over turned on the highway. The driver at the time didn't want to be pulled over, so he attempted to switch drivers while going 65mph. Several young lives were senselessly lost that day and now in Wisconsin, we have laws regarding these traveling magazine sales companies.

This neighbor is not directly next to us, but around the back corner. I'm sure she's freaked out to know someone was watching and then called the police. Frankly, I'm shocked she invited the young man into her home.

When strangers come to my door, I step out to meet them, closing the door behind me. My children wait and watch from inside, ready to pick up the phone if needed.

Last summer, while playing in the back garden, to my surprise two Mormon boys decided since we didn't answer the doorbell, it must be ok to walk around to our back yard. Upon seeing the strangers, my youngest decided to run and hide around the corner of the house. He later told me he was watching to see if they were going to harm me, and he was ready to run to the neighbors to call 911.

Yes, I guess DS and I can be a little paranoid, but I'd like to think we are just cautious.

I'm wondering who gave my cat dork juice, as I sip what may possibly be, the greatest glass of iced tea I've ever brewed.

"All I can do, is read a book to stay awake, but it rips my life away, it rips my life away, it rips my life away, but its a great escape..."

What's Up on Wednesday

Its so beautiful out, what am I doing inside?

School is officially out in our village, so I once again have a basement full of boys. Fed them hotdogs and watermelon so they are happy. I'm going to have to get used to flying solo. At least the boys are still sharing their mornings with me.

I made chocolate covered strawberries after deciding the berries were too big. I broke down and bought California strawberries at the store, but truthfully, I like the local smaller berries we should be able to pick in a few days. The tiny ones taste better to me. When I see a humongous berry, I naturally think it needs chocolate. I'll serve them to my homeschool posse moms tomorrow.

I'm taking baby steps to making over my bedroom. My original goal was to prime and paint this coming weekend, but I'm discovering there is just way too much junk to move first. I want a true love nest to share with my husband.

Yesterday we moved book shelves, including all the books stacked on them, from our bedroom. DH found room for them alongside the treadmill in the Mancave. My first reaction upon seeing the empty space in our bedroom- HEY! We could buy more book shelves to fit there! No, no, no, Dawn. You are building a Love Nest, not a library.

I'm trying to take inspiration from the forest, but choosing paint colors is difficult. I want it earthy, but not too brown, not too dark. I should just go for it and remember its only paint.

Well, I better get back on task. Hope you're enjoying your week! 

I know I'm only days away from picking fresh, locally grown strawberries, but I caved in at the grocery store. Couldn't pass up the sale and the chance to eat fresh berries this very day.

There are days I regret introducing my children to Youtube. "Monkey Cheese! Monkey Cheese!"

IS IT TIME YET? IS IT TIME YET? I keep checking daily to see if strawberry picking has begun.

Need More Monday....

I'm enjoying this day too much and it needs to be longer.

Accidentally bought another Father's Day shirt for the dad in law.

When will I learn to use my cell phone to call DH and check before I buy things?

I found both a large & small Pampered Chef micro cooker at Goodwill for $1 each! To buy these from Pampered Chef would cost over $18. Score! They are fantastic for quick steaming veggies in the microwave.

Picked up the primer but once again, was over whelmed by paint color choices. I probably won't know what color to use until the day I paint.

Thunderstorms rolling through in between bouts of sunshine.  Windy, cloudy, sunny, cool, I love it!

Rabbit fence is around the SFG. Thinned out the Romas & lettuce. Wishing we could find some basil and oregano to plant. I'd love a "pizza" garden.

Moved junk off of a shelving unit in the basement, and the boys and I moved it into their room. What a different storage makes! You can actually walk in there now. Can't say the same for the basement storage area.

Supper is half way done. Only need to make tortillas and rice.

Tea break is now over.

Let the day filling continue.

Its starting out to be a strange day. I woke up and cleaned my ceiling fan. I better call my Dad and make sure he is ok.

Bunny bite marks on the lettuce. :( Time to put up more poultry fencing.

The beginning of our weekend...

Our Pizza Oven lovin days may be coming to an end. Second time in a row they've screwed up on service. The first time they messed up, we spoke with the owner and were granted a free pizza on our next visit. This visit our free pizza was fine, but they had forgotten our appetizers, and we ended up getting them after the pizza was consumed. 

After pizza we headed out used book shopping. Ended up coming home with a used movie instead. A really good cheesy Japanese horror film in which a demon, unearthed by an archeologist, begins attacking school students.

Today I'm up early, waiting for our cousins to be dropped off. We're babysitting for the day, and I get to play soccer mom. Wish me luck. I'm so NOT a soccer mom.

I'm actually relieved my boys aren't into the organized sport thing anymore. Our extended family is big time, and we rarely get to hang out because they always have games or practices. My nephew at one point had organized sport practice or games every single day of the week. My sister would have to spend every weekend away at tournaments.

I suppose if my children enjoyed participating in organized sports, I would have no other choice, but I'm glad they are cool with spending time with us, hiking on weekends, shopping used book stores and watching cheesy horror films. With dad having to work full time, when he is off, its fantastic we get to share our time together doing something we all enjoy.

We found area 51

Walking through Target, DS10 found area 51. He wanted me to take a picture. All it takes is a sense of humor. I'm not kidding- LOVE THAT BOY TO PIECES!

Believing that birds of the same species can understand each others chirps, DS10 would like to know if birds communicate across species lines with other birds, or is it like trying to understand a foreign language. Do birds have accents and dialects?

I thought these are excellent questions, and I look forward to helping him figure out the answers. Unschooling Rocks!

Have a great weekend!

Dandy Blend Banana Soy Frap

Description:
This tasted so good!! Very refreshing and healthy. I think it tastes better than using coffee actually. No whipped cream is needed as it naturally ends up with a frothy topping after blending.

100 calories

Ingredients:
1 spoonful of Dandy Blend
1 C ice water
1/2 c light vanilla soy milk
1/2 frozen banana, chopped into chunks

Directions:
Add everything to your blender and mix until frothy. Enjoy!

"In a world full of people, only some learn to fly. Isn't that crazy?"- Seal. Yes, Seal. That is crazy. I plan on spreading my wings today.

I was just asked on a date to Pizza Oven tomorrow night! I can't wait!

Trying my best to stay away from the pecan Kringle left in my kitchen by Mr. Sabotage.

Wondering on Wednesday.....

Why do salads always taste so much better away from home?

Why do drinks taste better in Styrofoam cups? (Curse you McDonald's Sweet Tea)

Do I really want to allow my children to have an ongoing garage sale every Friday until they make enough money for an X-Box?

Should I micro chip the escape artist previously known as Yumi?

Why can't I choose a paint color for our bedroom?

What can I use other than paint, other than paneling and other than fabric on a bedroom wall?

Why do I refuse to close the window even though I'm freezing?

Why can't I figure out what cottage business is right for my family?

Why do I miss him so?

Do I have to pull the whole weed or can I get away with just chopping off the top?

Can rabbits move rocks?

Do certain finger nails grown faster than others?

Strange Things In My Kitchen

Knowing I love the unique, DMIL gifted us this egg separator. DS10 took one look at it and thought it was scary looking. How Grandma came to buy it, is a scary story in itself. Just remember not to go antiquing alone, and always have your cell phone handy!

This egg separator was handcrafted by Jim Leadbetter of Sedona, Arizona. How it ended up in a scary, back woods antique store in Wisconsin, I don't know, but I couldn't wait to see if it worked.

Deciding we needed cupcakes today, the occasion for separating egg whites presented itself. In went the first egg and then as we poured, out came the white. Needless to say, after witnessing this action, I'm no longer in the mood to eat a cupcake.

Its now June....

I'm cured of my graham cracker/smore obsession. Here's a quote that will stick with me from my boss during our re-certification CPR training.
"You may break ribs administering chest compressions. It will sound like your crushing graham crackers."

Since today is the first day of June, its time I change our home schooling calendar. In our state, we are required to keep attendance records for our home based private schools, and I do this by marking each day "P" for present, or "S" for sick on a calender.

I'll tell you right now, we have perfect attendance. If my children are conscious, they can be read to or watch a video. When any amount of learning happens, I consider that being present in our "home based private educational program." Even the act of being sick brings learning experiences my children never forget!

I log our school year from June 1st though May 31st, knowing that learning happens each and every day. Our state law says our home based private educational programs must provide 875 hours of instruction a year, but I get to choose how that year is scheduled. Divide 875 by 365 and you get a little under 2.5 hours a day. Its very easy to meet and exceed that 875 hours if you share learning experiences each and every day with your children.

In many ways, it seems like our home school follows more of a seasonal schedule. This is especially true when it comes to science. When your "classroom" isn't a room at all, but the world around you, the seasons tend to lead you.  Spring and Summer mean botany and biology. Of course thunderstorms or blizzards can peak interests in meteorology at any time of the year. 

A few things our family has decided to focus on this summer are the summer night sky, (constellations), the effects glaciers had on Wisconsin, (Ice Age Trail), gardening, (botany), poker, (math/probability), have a garage sale & develop our Zazzle sites, (business/entrepreneurship), and lots of day trips.

Near the end of this month, we hope to visit Old World Wisconsin for the Scandinavian Midsommer fest, (history & social studies.) If DH's work schedule permits, we'll also make our yearly summer pilgrimage to the grandparent's house in the north woods.

Today may be the first day of June, but I know how quickly the summer goes. I just hope we can get our fill before its gone.

13 for Thursday

1. Yeah! We have a watermelon up! She's my little garden shop of horror, "Feed me! Feed Me!"

2. I'm worried the rabbits will beat us. We won't have a chance to install chicken wire, excuse me, I mean poultry fencing, until tomorrow afternoon.

3. Darn! I just spilled nacho. Shouldn't try to multi-task lunch and blogging.

4. Can't wait to watch Mega Shark Versus Giant Octopus! Cheesy CGI, Debbie Gibson, Lorenzo Lamas, sharks... How can it not be great!

5. Only I can walk through the entire Kohl's Department store and not find something to spend my $20 Kohl's Cash on. I just am not a shopper.

6. All Wisconsin State Parks are free Sunday June 7th! Can't wait to go to Devil's Lake.

7. Will I be bad and have a Diet Coke tonight?

8. Dentist appointment tomorrow. Sigh.....

9. I think its time to let go of my Twitter. I'm getting teased about it.

10. Did you know your cell phone, even though locked, may still dial 911 automatically? Warning- pool story - One of the dad's watching his child in lessons locked his phone and slipped it into his pocket. The tracball scrolled down to emergency and 911 was called without him knowing. The police were dispatched and from the phone signal they figured out it was coming from our pool. The police officer told me he averages about 10 such calls a week.

11. Looks like I won't have that book finished by the 31st. He'll forgive me.

12. I really need to clean this desk.

13. Lunch break over. Time to get ready for the crew to arrive.

The Elephant In The Locker Room

Maybe its the influence of my grandmothers, my mother or just being raised in a female dominated home, but you can't intimidate me, Creepy Dude.

Last night at the pool a younger staff member, (a description that pretty much covers everyone I work with,) nervously runs up to me at the front desk and says, "There's a guy in the women's locker room! What do I say?"

"How about- THIS IS THE WOMEN'S LOCKER ROOM. YOU CAN'T BE IN HERE!" Too nervous to confront him herself, (she said he was one of the "mean" dads,) I offer my voice.

Upon entering the locker room I was stunned to see it filled with several women, all staring at the man, but not one of them feeling comfortable enough to ask him to leave.

I get the man's attention, inform him of the obvious and his response back to me was, "Well where am I suppose to change my daughter!?"

We have a family restroom, changing stalls on deck and of course he could have always taken her into the men's locker room. Why he chose the ladies' locker room almost leaves me to come to a very creepy conclusion.

When my boys were little guys, I would take them into the ladies' room, not the men's. Most parents use "their" locker room, well in fact, every parent I know has done this except for Creepy Dude. We inform our guests, families with children over the age of 5 must use the family restroom or poolside changing stalls.

I wanted to give this guy the benefit of the doubt. Maybe he couldn't read English? You would think a room full of women, wrapped up in towels staring at you would give you pause, but then again, none of those women said boo to him, and he was focused on dressing his daughter, not feeling the piercing stares all around him.

Afterward a coworker asked me, "What if he wasn't a guy?" I suppose he/she would have been offended by my actions, but with the rest of the guests feeling he/she was in the wrong place, I was willing to take that chance.

She brought up a good point though. In this day and age, gender lines are criss crossed more often. Maybe next time, I'll pause after first saying, "this is the ladies locker room," and wait for a response before I say, "GET OUT!"
  

Dawning's Rhubarb Muffins

Description:
These came out so delicious, I'm sorry to say, they will not last long. Next time I will double the recipe and make 2 dozen. They would be great for breakfast or a snack.

Ingredients:
1/2 C brown sugar
1/4 C butter
2 eggs
1 C fat free, plain yogurt
1 1/2 C flour
1 t baking soda
1 t cinnamon
1 1/2 C chopped raw rhubarb

Topping:
brown sugar and cinnamon (mix a few spoonfuls with cinnamon to taste)

Directions:
Cream together the brown sugar and butter.
Add in the eggs.
Add in the yogurt.
Mix in the baking soda, cinnamon, flour and rhubarb.

Spray a muffin pan with non stick spray.
Fill each muffin cup with about 1/4 cup of batter.
Sprinkle cinnamon sugar on the tops.

Bake with love in a 375 over for 20-25 minutes.

Anyone have any rhubarb recipes?

Blessed with rhubarb, I need recipe ideas. For now I've chopped up a bit and simmered my stainless steel pots to a brilliant shine, without chemicals. The acid in the rhubarb polishes naturally.

My mom says I should chop it all into 1/2 inch pieces and freeze in two cup portions, as most recipes she knows of use this amount. She also warned me not to eat more than one to two servings a week as rhubarb can block the absorption of calcium.

Years ago I had a rhubarb crisp that was delicious, but I'm also thinking I may like jam. I can't decide just yet.

Any suggestions?

I think its funny when I see rhubarb for sale at markets. Most people I know who have rhubarb growing in their garden can't give it all away. Who is buying it?

I remember my mother's garden growing up. The rhubarb plants were huge and invasive. I would pretend they were monsters. I was probably frightened of them after my mother warned me not to eat the leaves as they are poisonous. If the garden trolls found me in my secret lilac bush cottage, they would drag me to the rhubarb. Years later I was happy when my mother replaced them with raspberry bushes. A garden princess fairy could eat her fill of those!

My grandmother told me a funny store about a friend of hers who threw a party and insisted his guests take care of business near the rhubarb to help fertilize it. I bet he couldn't give his extra rhubarb away!

I love rhubarb's color. Its a cheerful color as the blushing pink stems turn to fresh green. I wish I could find fabric like that. I'd make curtains for my kitchen.

Well, I better stop babbling about rhubarb and get it into the freezer.

Dandy Blend

Rating:	★★★★★
Category:	Other

My good friend introduced this wonderful drink to me knowing I was seeking out dandelion tea to improve my health. I've never been a big coffee drinker, but I was corrupted into drinking mochas and lattes by a Diva sister who shall remain nameless.

On my first impression, my taste buds told me this was coffee, only a better, not bitter coffee. My second sip had me hooked. I don't like the taste of straight coffee, but this is better than coffee with a natural sweetness.

I've been drinking it cold, adding a little soy milk and its exactly like an iced latte to me. I'm thinking of splurging and making a smoothie with it later to see if I can make a healthy version of a frappe.

I'm sending a sample to my mom, who had to give up coffee for health reasons. Another perk, (no pun intended), its caffeine free!

I found my supply at a health food store called Green Earth located in Middleton, WI. I imagine you could also order it online from their website. http://www.dandyblend.com

"Ridiculous, Why Have Children Just To Get Rid Of Them"- Gomez Adams

This was posted on an Unschooling list I'm on. The Adams family were a terrific example of an Unschooling family. My favorite part is their Marie Antoinette doll! That really does happen in Unschooling homes, only in ours we built a Lego guillotine.  

Gardening Babble That Turned Into Deep Thoughts (Don't you love free writing?)

We are beginning to see tiny sprouts so I guess we're not failing at this garden project we are attempting. I think this is the lettuce we planted.

The curious cat in me couldn't help but dig up our melon seeds to see if they are sprouting. Sadly, they looked like dried up seeds. I am now seed testing some of the seeds from the pouch. Maybe our seeds aren't any good? I'm not giving up that vertical melon dream just yet!

Life is getting busy again and I'm find myself struggling to let go and not sweat the small stuff, such as the dust bunnies rapidly multiplying in our Sleepyhouse. Mostly I'm concerned I'm not taking care of myself like I should. I'm a let go and ride the current type of person, but I usually do so without remembering to paddle towards my own needs in order to keep my boat afloat.

My next "have to do absolutely nothing" day is next month. How did that happen? I think I need to consider scheduling these days. It begins with the word, "No."

"No, I can't. That's my nothing day."  Do you think this will fly or will people be offended?

Hopefully I'll be forgiven. Forgiveness is something I've been focusing on lately. Coming to that place where you can forgive even the cruelest horror done unto you, is a journey, but once you get there, oh there is such peace!

I've realized how important forgiveness is in the equation. Being a Universalist, I believe I'll have to share heaven with everyone, whether I agree with them or not. I don't get a say in the matter. It's really the same here on earth as well. I have to share my life with people that don't agree with me. This is why forgiveness is so vital. If I can forgive, I can live in peace here and there.

Forgiving myself is the journey I'm still very much on. Why is this so difficult? Who taught me to hate myself so much?

I came across a quote from a wise artist, (yes he's in Blind Melon.) He is referring to drug addiction, but it struck a chord in me. (No pun intended.)

"In no way do I mean to diminish the pain that you are currently enduring....

But....you now have choices.
You need to concentrate on your strengths, and stop feeding your weaknesses.
F**k all this junkie bullshit....
The loss of control should anger you...

fight the war and win. period." - Rogers Stevens

I'm not addicted to drugs, but I do lose control when it comes to eating and I fail to recognize my pain. To eat when I'm not hungry is to feed my weakness. It is time to get angry, but also its time to forgive myself and focus on my strengths.

Dump It All In Bean Soup

Description:
I wasn't in a recipe following mood. I started just grabbing stuff and throwing it in to clean out my pantry and refrigerator. It turned out very satisfying and really inexpensive to make. I try not to cook with salt to keep my blood pressure down. I'm hoping I can freeze it because it made a huge pot.

**This recipe is very similar to one I've previously posted. Here's the recipe for Bouquet Garni from that previous bean soup recipe.
Garni Bouquets
(makes 12 for use in making soups/stews)
-12 dried bay leaves
-1/4 C dried thyme
-1/4 C dried parsley
2 T dried celery leaves
Crush the dried herbs with a rolling pin and mix together.
Cut a double layer of cheesecloth into 3 inch squares.
Put 1 T of herb mixture on each square and tie up tightly into a little bag using string.
Store in airtight jars.

Ingredients:
1 T olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
1 green pepper, chopped
4-5 cloves of garlic, crushed and minced
10 baby carrots, chopped
1 Jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped
1 Can of no salt added chopped tomatoes
1 quart of low sodium vegetable broth
1 Can of Pinto beans, drained, rinsed and smashed
1 Can of Black beans, drained and rinsed
1 C cooked brown rice
1/2 C frozen corn
(Seasonings to taste)
1 bouquet Garni
1-2 t cumin
1-2 t chili pepper
1/2 t pepper


Directions:
-In a large soup pot, add the olive oil and cook the onion until translucent.
-Add the green pepper, garlic, carrots, Jalapeno pepper.
-Pour in the liquid from the canned tomatoes. Chop and add the tomatoes.
-Add in the vegetable broth
-Drain and rinse the Pinto beans and mash them with the back of a spoon, add to pot.
-Drain and rinse the Black beans- add them whole!
-Add in brown rice, frozen corn and seasonings.
-Simmer until desired consistency and flavors are well blended.
-Remove bouquet garni and enjoy!

Study Ball- Because Learning Should Be Like Living In Prison...

This is horrific! I thought it was a gag gift, but I've since learned there are actual parents using this device to force their children to study.

How can they really believe it helps their children retain information? I can't believe there were people willing to pay over $100 U.S. for this either! I guess child abusers worry about being posh.

As an unschooler, I have witnessed first hand how much a person can learn if the motivation comes from within. If it is something that interests you, drives your passions, learning is not a chore, but it feeds your soul.

True learning isn't prison like at all. If you want to kill your child's natural ability to use their curiosity, just force them to study something that doesn't mean anything to them. Only add the Study Ball if you want to go medieval. 

 

Our Sunday Out and About

After a little yard work, we drove to Madison for popcorn and sunshine. Our plans to hike the ICT put on hold while my lungs continue to clear up. Strolling through the zoo was all I could manage without wheezing.

Madison was crowded. Graduation weekend, students moving out, plus the weather was perfect so everyone crawled out from under their rocks despite Swine Flu fears.

I'm actually stunned that our state has the second highest count of Swine Flu cases. I would have put my money on Texas,California and New York beating us, but only Illinois has. I'm not worried we'll get it though, even after sharing all that air space with a zillion zoo families.

The prairie dogs saved the zoo experience for me with two babies coming out of their hole to test the sun's rays. They were too cute. I was sorry I didn't bring my camera. When mom discovered there were out, she stopped eating and ran over to them.

The rest of the zoo was a disappointment. The lion family was off display as was the polar bear. Two of our three giraffes have left to spend the summer in Minnesota and the rhinos only let us stare at their backsides.

It was still a beautiful day to be outside, and my family did buy me a flat of petunias to plant today. I may try to carve out a little me time too, breathing deep to clear up the rest of my lungs. My asthma is easy to control as long as I stay clear of pollutants.

Have a great day!

Saturday

Weird! I'm blogging at night. Didn't get my daytime fix I guess.

I worked this afternoon at our pool's safety day and swim meet. It all went very well and my boss totally spoiled me by assigning me the grill station. I got to be outside, grilling up burgers and hot dogs, passing out cookies and chips.

The local firefighters drove their truck over and allowed the families to check it out. The poor captain was sitting directly in front of the horn when a little person decided to try it out. I've never seen a man jump like that. That's an image that will keep a smile on my face whenever I think about it!

The local news shot some video. I'm hoping I'm not in it, but the camera woman was filming for quite a long time. I think she wanted a cookie. Last year's news crew got embarrassing coverage of me teaching the kids to "reach and throw, don't go." Again, I can't tell you how grateful I was being grill mistress this year instead!!

My men drove in to meet me after I was finished working and we had supper at Chili's. I'm really not a big fan of Chili's but they enjoy it. After doing all that grilling, I surprised myself and ordered a black bean burger.

With stuffed bellies we headed over to our favorite used book store. (Am I the only one who always wants to go book shopping after a big meal?) I'm delighted to see this bookstore is moving to a bigger location soon, but on the downside, many of the books have already begun moving over. I didn't find anything, but DH found the two Sandman books he was missing and DS13 is excited about that. I suppose he'll be up all night now reading them.

I'm a little worried about the garden tonight. We have a frost advisory. Why did I plant this past week?! I'm hoping for the best. One calendar I checked said Mother's Day, but a friend said she heard May 25th was our safe date. I'm keeping my fingers and toesies crossed.

Tomorrow I'm hoping we can hike more of the Ice Age Trail. If we make it across the county this summer, I may break down and buy the trail map book. Or I'll end up being the obnoxious person who keeps checking it out from our library.

There are some books I wish I could ask our librarian if we could "foster" in our homes if I promised to bring them back to the library if someone really wanted to check them out. I see it as a win- win arrangement. I'd promise to take care of the books and it would free up space on the shelves for others. I'm sure she'd think- crazy home schooler!

Its time for a warm cup of Sleepytime tea so I'll say goodnight.

Soapbox Moment- WATCH YOUR CHILDREN!!

Have you heard about the poor toddler who drowned after first crawling through the doggie door? The family is suing the doggie door maker, placing the blame for the child's drowning. They feel the doggie dog manufacturer should have warned people this could happen or taken appropriate steps to prevent children from crawling through them.

I work at a pool. I know drowning statistics. I also know the only way to prevent drowning is to WATCH YOUR CHILDREN!

I can remember when my boys were toddlers, even within the house, I never let them out of my sight. If it meant I couldn't take a shower until DH got home or that I had an audience when I had to do my business, so be it. We had baby proofed our home, but I didn't trust that completely.

If I lived in a home with a swimming pool, I would have a locked fence around it. I would also get my baby into lessons at age 5 months. Toddlers can be taught to roll over and float on their backs so they can maintain their airway long enough for you to pluck them from the water. That is provided you are watching them so you are aware they are in danger!

When we did go swimming, I didn't trust floatation devices. I always kept the boys within arms reach at all times. It meant I had to wear my infant in a sling while I splashed with my toddler, but not once did anyone lose their footing, go under and be tramatized. My boys learned to swim without fear.

Of course being able to swim does NOT prevent you from drowning. This is why you must always swim with a lifeguard present or someone watching, ready to "reach and throw." Unless you are trained, never jump in to save someone drowning. Reach out to them with poles or throw them flotations. A drowning person will bring you down.

I do feel sorry for this family's huge loss, but its not the doggie door's fault. For that short time they weren't watching, this kid found his way outside. Little guys know how to open doors too.

Take for instance, the family who's young son unlocked their door and wandered out into the woods for two days. They aren't suing anyone. They simply said, "We need to install the lock higher."

Last night a 3 year old wandered out from the locker room unattended. (I can't tell you how often a parent dresses their child and then tells them to go out while they themselves change.) This little one picked up our stamps and began to stamp the backs of her hands, which most kids enjoy doing. However, without a parent watching, she began to roll up her sleeves and stamp away. I offered her paper but she refused.

For about 20 minutes, I did my best to keep my eye on her, but I'm alone at the desk. I have to answer the phone, check people in, assist with guest's needs. I can't babysit. The mom comes out and sees her daughter's inked arms and glares at me!

When my children were 3, there is no way I would have allowed them to be unsupervised for 20 minutes, let alone unsupervised at a swimming pool!! We do have lifeguards, but with hundreds of families coming and going you need to supervise your own. The danger isn't just the pool.

I have often had to leave my post and make a run for the parking lot because little ones walk out the door. I usually sit them down behind the desk and its amazing how long it takes for a parent to come looking for them!

I did lose DS10 once. At a Toys R Us at Christmas. He was a toddler and he squeezed past me and the cart. Blocked by a mountain of toys stacked in the aisle, I lost my arm's reach on him and he took off running. 30 seconds later, a kind woman stopped him, picked him up and began walking towards us. I bought a wrist tether at Toys R Us that very day.

My point is, I was watching and was aware the second he became in danger. His little feet may have been faster, but because I was watching, I knew which direction he took off in. There is no substitute for directly watching your children. Its what makes the difference.

Whenever I hear of a child drowning, it breaks my heart because I know they were left unattended for more than 3 minutes. Children drown in only inches of water, not just swimming pools. Whether your doggie door locks or not, won't make a difference. This kid could have slipped into the toilet! Sounds stupid, but why was this toddler able to crawl through the doggie door unnoticed? The blame as tragic as it is, has to return to the parents of that child.

One of these days, I'm going to snap. I almost did last fall at the beach. We came across a toddler, sleeping on a blanket, next to the water's edge of Lake Michigan, no parent in sight. We stood guard over this child until the mother returned. I wanted to lay into her. She had taken her older child to the bathroom and didn't want to wake up her sleeping toddler. She didn't think about the possibility he may wake and wander into the lake, or very easily been plucked up by a pedofile and taken away! I hope we scared her enough she won't do this ever again.

Thanks for letting me vent. One of these days I'm going to stop reading the news! 

Restless Legs

I'm feeling better today despite the odds. I went to work last night with a vicious headache that included nausea and body aches. I was sure I was coming down with a flu. I picked at a raw salad throughout my shift, and I think all that veg helped.

I drove home through a crazy storm, took two Advil and went to bed only to wake up 2 hours later with Restless Legs. I inherited RLS from my dad, and I've suffered from it since childhood. I will not take medication for it. Its a pain in the butt, (or more accurately, legs), but so is filling my body with chemical side effects.

I've noticed it flares up worse when I'm over tired. Sometimes I can ride it out, counting the seconds between jolts, trying to mentally force my body to resist the urge to move my legs. It feels like an electric jolt to me, and it only goes away if I get up and walk around. Problem is, this happens in the middle of the night, when you are dead tired.

I got up several times last night, but thankfully, my headache went away despite not getting enough sleep.  Today I won't try to be too busy. I'll take things easy and try to drink more water.

Evil Cat

I'm having a brain cloud day and its all this creature's fault!

"Its too quiet around here. I think I'll knock stuff down on my human's head!"

It was just after 4:00am. First came a baseball cap then came an avalanche of magazines. I got up and checked the tyrant's dish. She still had kibble. Water bowl was full.

I headed back to bed only to have bitch kitty attack my bare legs, claws and jaws style. OUCH!

What has gotten into her? Spring fever?

I may just give in, follow her lead and take a nap this afternoon. Hopefully it will take away this brain cloud.

Unschooling Our Garden & Ice Age Trail Planning

I messed up yesterday and planted our seeds in the wrong spots. I'm wondering if I should just wait for the young seedlings to sprout and then start over, or try and dig up the seeds. If I leave the vertical frame where we have it, when the melon vines are big and high, they will shade the rest of the garden. I had DH dig new trenches for which we will build new vertical frames. Today we will most likely just plant new melon seeds in the trenches.

I'm realizing that even though we really liked the idea of Square Foot Gardening, we couldn't come up with 16, let alone 9 different crops we'd actually eat that would grow nicely in the garden box. Most of our produce choices grow best on vines or trees. To my children's horror, I ended up dropping in flower seeds to fill in our SFG.

Although I had once envisioned a yard full of SFG boxes, I think we're going to end up with lots of vertical frames instead. Our garden is after all, ours. It should serve our tastes, our goals, our choices. I couldn't help but see the unschooling in that.

Yesterday, deciding we needed even more fresh air, we chose to ride our bikes to the library and check out Ice Age Trail maps. After realizing our bike tire pump had broken, we had to walk half of the 3 mile journey until we could fill up at the gas station. It wasn't until after my tires were properly inflated that I realized my back tire frame is bent. We had so wanted to invest in a bike for DH, and a bike rack so we could explore the 1000 mile Ice Age trail. Now we may need two new bikes and a bike rack. I hope this dream isn't slipping away.

After reviewing the dated maps, and realizing our bicycle set backs, I think we'll make our first goal to hike the portion of the trail that goes through our county first. Its about 18 miles, very doable by summer's end, if not sooner.

DS10 is a little stressed, thinking 1000 miles is an impossible goal, but I'm reminding him its a lifetime goal. We won't be walking 1000 miles this year. After our bike ride, he did say some encouraging words. He's admitted that our daily walks/rides are increasing our fitness levels. I just hope it will click that anything that seems stressful can be managable when you take small, consistent bites at it. 

Zonotrichia leucophrys (White Crowned Sparrow)

Start:	May 12, '09
Location:	Sleepyhouse bird feeder

One of these guys actually showed up a few weeks ago, but I thought he was a mutant sparrow. LOL! When I saw two together, I realized we had a new species visiting. We were surprised to learn they don't nest in Wisconsin. They are migratory.

Our weekend...

(I'm just now realizing my camera lens has gunk on it. Do I try to clean it myself or have it done at a camera shop? I don't want to scratch the lens.)

Friday night DH and I went out to eat for our anniversary. Although I did wear a different purplish shirt, no comments about wearing a red hats were heard. Yeah! We had an enjoyable supper and then cruised around Madison, watching the thunderstorm roll in.

Saturday we headed out to garage sales. DS10 found a new lefty baseball glove for only .25 cents! My favorite find was a .50 cent, silver plated "tea" spoon. It looks like a regular spoon except the tip is designed to hold loose leaf tea. Its tarnished, but I managed to polish off enough to see its an Oneida spoon and its marked, " WM. A. Rogers A1Plus". I'll have to snap a photo once I get it all polished up.  Here's one I found online.

After lunch, we toured Olbrich Gardens, shopped Trader Joes and took Grandma to the Flower Factory to pick out a hanging flower basket for Mother's Day.

Sunday we hiked a few of the 1,000 miles on the Ice Age Trail. We're thinking we may have to make it a goal to map the entire trail out and try to hike all of it in our lifetime. Sunday's stretch was through Janesville. We all hopped onto this rock for a goofy photo. I was sure we'd get wet but thankfully, no one fell in!

We didn't get any gardening done, but that leaves us something to do for today.

Pheucticus Ludovicianus (Rose Breasted Grosbeak)

Start:	May 10, '09 11:00a
Location:	Sleepyhouse bird feeder

Mother's Day Treat! A Rose Breasted Grosbeak stopped at our feeder this morning! Migratory bird from South/Central America/Mexico, only hangs out in Wisconsin for the summer.

Blind Melon - Soul one

For my baby... I'll always be your girl!

Video Clip ; Shannon Hoon tribute.

---

Lyrics:

How come, girl was there when I needed one
How come, girl was there when the song is done
Some say, open your eyes to a brighter light
Okay, open my arms they were right
She was my soul one
She felt she was the only one
She was the sun, the sky blue eyes
She was my soul one

Inside, pain in my heart often made her cry
Outside, I cursed the birds and the sugar sky
How long take to realize she's the one
How long until I find my lost and lonely soul one

She was my soul one
She felt like the only one
She was the sun, the sky blue eyes
She was my soul one

Should of never taken the time
'Cause I found myself living a lonely lie
You said, you left to find yourself
But I never, no I never got the chance to say good-bye

She was my soul one I though she was...

Friday Family Fun Night Will Be Taking A Backseat...

Twenty three years ago we began dating this first week of May. Sixteen years ago today, he made me his wife.

He is my Soul One.

I was looking forward to a moonlit stroll tonight, hand in hand, but now it looks like I'll be kissed in the rain. Just as nice!

I am so grateful to be so blessed. He is a gift. Our marriage is a gift. He is everything a perfect husband should be, and he not only shares it all with me, but now also with our two sons.

I'm counting the hours until I can wrap my arms around him and let our night begin.

A Quote that touched my heart & soul...

A Facebook friend posted this today, and it really touched me. I wanted to stick it somewhere I could come back and draw strength from it when I needed it, so I'm posting it here.

I carry with me a belief not many others share, so I often feel alone. This isolation also means I'm challenged when it comes to defending my faith, however, just recently people have been placed into my path, making it a little easier. I've always felt like the odd one out, the black sheep, the minority, etc. but a path less traveled allows me to think and grow independently. (The same can be said of unschooling.)

Anyway, here's the quote:

"You are what you worship. We tend to become like our version of deity. If we believe God is a vindictive and unforgiving tyrant who tortures his enemies in flames of fire for all eternity, then we find it easier to accept our own torturing of one another, especially if that person doesn't belong to our group, religion, race, country, etc. As Thomas Paine once said, “Belief in a cruel God makes a cruel man”. Voltaire said, “Those who can make you believe absurdities can make you commit atrocities.” And therein lies the problem. If we all had a more honest and realistic view of the Great Spirit, and if we all knew and believed the true inclusive gospel, we would all be more loving, forgiving, accepting, understanding, compassionate, etc."

Why I love him so much!!

Someone very special to me just told me, he hopes to have a wind farm someday with lots of land and a super big garden. He told me I can visit anytime I want to! He's also going to be a police officer and when he retires, he will sail the seas, taking his brother to Japan.

What a lovely dream to have.

Meme Stolen From Navarrofreak

1. If you were to kill a man, horror movie style, which kitchen utensil would you use?
It probably wouldn't be premeditated so most likely a knife.

2. Did you ever swallow a coin?
No, but I have a nephew who swallowed a Magnetix ball.

3. What was the worst gift you've ever received?
Underwear from my parents every Christmas

4. What is your most embarrassing childhood memory?
 I can't think of one, so I'll just say, "Jr. High". (Wasn't everyday of Jr. High an embarrassment?)

5. How many kids do you want?
I wanted 4. Two are with me now, two I'll have to wait and meet in heaven.

6. Whats your moms middle name?
Catherine- (for all you hackers, its not one I use as a password)

7. Have you ever operated a fire extinguisher? 
 No and I hope I never have to.

8. Worst car you ever had to drive and why?
 My Toyota Tercel. It was a money pit.

9. Who do you hate?
I really don't "hate" anyone, but I'm greatly annoyed by unsafe drivers.

10. What do you hope to have accomplished by the end of this year?
I'm done with goal making. I'd rather live in the moment.

11. Do you have any really crazy relatives?
You don't want to be here all day reading this right? 

12. Did you ever wake up under the influence of NyQuil, completely unable to move?
I HATE Nyquil! DH swears by it, but I cannot stand the taste and that feeling of wanting to shake my head like crazy after drinking it.

13. Are you feeling nostalgic right now?
Everyday I see how quickly my children are growing up, and I wish I had a time machine so I could travel back and hold and rock them just once more.

14. Did you own a Lite-Brite?
 No. Lisa did.

15. Can you dive? 
Not really well. I can't get over the fear of hitting my head and breaking my neck. Maybe if I was in the middle of the ocean, over an abyssal trench, I would be a better diver.

16. Do you own a mouthpiece for anything?
No

18. Have you ever used a pogo stick?
Yes. I got one for Christmas in addition to the underwear.   

19. Who was the most creative bum you've ever met, trying to get some money from you?
Not too long ago, a guy told me his daughter was hit by a bus, he had walked 5 miles from the mall and he just needed $12. The hospital was closer if he would have walked in that direction.

20. Whats your favorite Jelly Belly jelly bean flavor?
 Pear!! No question about it. You haven't tasted Jelly Bellies until you've eaten a pear.

21. Favorite food you CRAVEEE?
 Do you even need to ask? Chocolate of course

22. When was the last time you pulled lint out of your bellybutton?
 Since I shower everyday, this isn't a problem for me.

23. Did you ever use someone else's toothbrush?
 Yes. DH's. Hey, we're swapping spit anyway!!

24. Do you REALLY floss everyday?
Is my dentist reading this?

25. What is your favorite cologne/perfume you always wear?
 Its cheap but it works with my chemistry- Haiku by Avon.

26. If you were on Double Dare, would you take the physical challenge?
 No because the questions are not that difficult to answer.

27. What's the largest living organism that you killed?
 That I intended to kill- probably a wasp. I was once riding in a car when we hit a ground hog running across the road at night.

28. Did you ever take a lighting bug and smear its guts on your arm so you get a cool glowing effect like war paint?
 Not exactly, I did smear it on the sidewalk to see if it would really glow. I felt badly afterward, and never killed another firefly again.

29. What's the best toy you've ever gotten in a McDonalds happy meal?
 Flirting with my future husband, he gave me a Ronald McDonald Airplane, back in the day when the Happy Meal toys were McDonald related instead of advertising for movies or other toy companies.

30. If you could be anywhere in the world doing anything right now what would it be?
In my love nest with DH

31. Can you juggle?
I can multi-task. Does that count?

32. How do you feel right now?
 Thirsty

33. Do you remember that square candy bar called "Chunky"?
 Yes, but I usually bought Hubba Bubba instead. 

34. Predict the length of the next Peter Jackson movie.
Don't really care.

35. What was your favorite toy as a kid?
 Fisher Price people with my doll house my grandfather had made

36. Are you willing to go the distance?
 "I'm slow to finish but quick to start..."

37. Did you answer question 17? 
I would have if there was a question 17.

 

Gardening progress

Why is vermiculite so difficult to find?

We spent yesterday morning running around trying to collect the last of our gardening supplies. I followed a man in a red pick up truck from garden center to garden center. I think he was looking for vermiculite as well because at Farm and Fleet the garden attendant said to me, "Everyone is trying that Square Foot Gardening! You'll have to take photos and come back and show me what this is all about."

I picked up the electrical conduit at Menards and I think the guy helping me thought I was nuts. "What are you using this for?"

They wouldn't cut the 10 foot pipe so I was prepared to buy a hack saw and do it in the parking lot, but thankfully, with the seats folded down, my Vibe was just long enough to fit the 10 foot conduit. DS13 helped me hack saw it at home and attach the corners and fittings. We pushed the rebar into the ground but to be honest, the vertical frame we built does not seem sturdy enough to hold melons and squash. I think I may have to tweak that a bit and either go with longer rebar or something different.

DS10, after practicing his balance beam walk, was inspired by our progress and announced he wants his own box. So I suppose I'll go back to Menards, and see if I can find anymore secondhand 2 x 6's. I have to pick up something else for the vertical frames to work anyway.

I ended up special ordering the vermiculite. I hope it ends up being worth the bother. Maybe for DS10's box, we'll use regular potting soil & manure and compare the harvest results.

It looks like the rain will delay us a bit for a few days, but hopefully by this weekend, we'll start planting.