Imitating Steventon

A Mom Fail...Again

2011-11-16T16:52:00.004-05:00

As most of you know, Kevin couldn't just quietly come back from Europe and slink into the shadows. He had to return and keep the focus on him. His most memorable souvenir is probably the nasty staph infection that kept him in the hospital for four days and resulted in his first surgery. Dr. Dunn made a lovely two inch incision last Monday, which is now doing incredibly well. The young heal so fast.

While I have suffered small bouts of guilt over what I could have done differently and perhaps avoided him having had to go under the knife, I know that is futile. The aftermath, though, is where my real failings have become apparent.

After the whirlwind admittance to South East Georgia Regional Medical Center, the angst of inserting the IV (Kevin is not really wild about being pricked with needles of any sort) and beginning the antibiotics, the long wait for the imaging folks to have an opening to do an MRI, and then the waiting to hear if surgery would happen later in the evening or the next morning (all while Kevin is starving and he's hoping he hasn't NOT eaten all day for nothing), my emotions began to wear thin but Kevin was like a rock, completely unflappable and joking with everyone right up to and including the anesthesiologist.

Kathy and Lauren Lee were God-sents to me and stayed with me all though the pre-op, the surgery, and waiting in the regular room for Kevin to return from recovery. Really and truly, without them I might have been a puddle on the floor by 10pm in a waiting room that had long been abandoned by everyone but the janitor.

I spent the night in the hospital bed next to Kevin and almost felt like I'd slept a few hours when the morning rolled around. I dutifully waited for the doctors to make their rounds and then slipped home to take a shower while Kevin rested. I returned to the hospital and later in the afternoon, since Kevin had several visitors, I decided to slip home and get Victoria. After she was able to spend some time with her brother, I returned home to get Hannah, who was staying with Caitlyn. About 4pm, Hannah and I stepped out of the room. I planned to bring Hannah home and make sure things were under control at the house when a nurse stopped me and said, "Are you leaving him alone." I sort of nodded and laughed nervously...wondering why she was asking me that. She proceeded to tell me that pediatric patients can't be left alone without notifying the nursing staff.

Oh...I confess it had never crossed my mind that a kid who had just returned from backpacking Europe without me might not be safe to leave alone in a hospital bed with a nurse's call button at his finger tips. Now I understand the rule, mind you. It just honestly never occurred to me that it might apply to Kevin.

And then today I was again reminded of how I have so completely abandoned my maternal duties in regard to my son. Kevin has to go to physical therapy every other day to put is elbow in a whirlpool that swirls around some kind of solution to clean the wound and for the nurse/therapist to change the packing and redress the wound. The first day I went and sat in the lobby for the duration of the appointment...all 20 minutes. The next appointment he attended by himself because it seemed pointless for me to sit in the crowded lobby and listen to the country music station when he's perfectly capable of driving himself. But today he again went by himself and was told that because he is a minor, he had to have a parent in attendance or he couldn't be treated.

Gee whiz. I do suppose he could pass out while puts his elbow in the stainless steel tub of luke warm water, or peeling the bandage off might cause him black out; but couldn't they just call me if that happens. I'm pretty sure the billing department has my number. Honest to Pete it never occurred to me that I would have to be present for him to have the Band-aid changed.

I was afraid the Europe trip would change Kevin into this independent, self-sufficient man who no longer needed his mom (much). The truth is, Kevin was already those things before he left. Apparently it was ME who needed the Europe trip and his long absence for that reality to be solidified in my heart. Now, if only the rest of society could grasp the same concept, I wouldn't have to feel like such a failure for allowing him tend to his own business. Thankfully he turns eighteen in a couple of weeks and the rest of the world will see him as the responsible young man that he is.

Okay...so I may not receive any Mother-of-the-Year votes, but neither will I ever be accused of being a helicopter parent.

2011-11-05T22:16:00.004-04:00

The European traveler has returned! The stories are trickling in, and I can't help but smile to hear of all he learned and all that he has learned at home that was reinforced abroad. Yep, even if he couldn't quite spit out Romulus and Remus names precisely, he did know the legend of the abandoned twins, nursed by a she-wolf, who are purported to be the founders of Rome.

I have marveled that my son had the determination and assertiveness to make the trip happen. I can even begin to think that Kevin has done something extraordinary, something unique among his peer group. I can also begin to pat myself on the back that I even LET this kid wander through Europe at seventeen years of age.

Then, in the midst of one of my self-congratulatory moments, it hit me that I'm not unique at all. I'm not that brave. My kid has not done something that hundreds of eighteen year olds have never done before. And I'm not talking about studying abroad.

Whole generations of young men have gone off to explore Europe. But they didn't fly into London on a commercial jet; they arrived on a transport ship. They didn't have a debit card in their pocket, but dog tags dangling from their neck. Yes, there's been plenty of young American men tour Europe - compliments of WW I and WW II. And for everyone of those boys, there was a mother back at home sending him off and wondering when and if he would ever return.

That realization made me doubly thankful to have my son home and grateful to live at a time in history when my child can freely travel Europe, even those countries that I find slightly mysterious (think Poland, Hungary and Czechoslovakia - now the Czech Republic and Slovakia). I'm not blind to the unrest in the world, but I'm also not overlooking the blessing it is to have a son who came home from Europe on his timetable and not the schedule of the US Army.

As we approach Veteran's Day on Monday, I'm thankful for those who currently serve and have served our country. It's their devotion that has paved the way for my children to experience a world with a freedom few people in history have ever known.

2011-10-22T22:42:00.000-04:00

Sometimes you just have to take the plunge. After several years of snooping around Sapelo Farms' website, I inquired about an opening in their CSA program and joined. Once a week for six weeks I will pick up my box of vegetables - whatever is in season and ready to be harvested. I figured we would have to expand our palate a bit, and I was right. This week was heavy what looks to be a ton of greens for salads, radishes, a cucumber, a couple of winter squash and two other items I've never laid eyes on in my life.

The first new veggie is tatsoi. I have never even heard of it, let alone know how to cook it. Thankfully, Sapelo Farms enclosed a simple recipe to try - a pasta dish that uses tatsoi much like spinach is used in chicken Florentine. The other mystery vegetable looked like over ripe green beans, but with a thinner shell and funky colored. I surmised that they were field peas, which I had had before but had never seen un-shelled. Honestly, they look far more like a bean than a traditional pea to this Yankee girl. I KNOW how to cook those like a Southerner - throw them in a pan with a little water and bacon and I'm good to go.

Here's to the Eades attempt to support small, local farmers and eat fresh from the field vegetables.

Two Perspective

2011-10-12T23:01:00.002-04:00

Alyssa, Kevin's girlfriend Lauren, and my sister-in-law Cynthia have safely arrived in Florence, Italy and have met up with the boys. They spent today meandering to Rome, will spend the night and see the sights tomorrow. Sure hope they don't eat so much pasta and gelato that they make themselves sick.

I'm not sure who was more excited about the trip...the girls getting to see Italy (well, and Lauren seeing Kevin) or the boys getting to see some familiar faces other than each other's. In preparation for the girl's arrival, the guys found their razors that had long been buried at the bottom of their packs.

Handsome, don't you think?

On our side of the pond, I'm noticing the same sad song being repeated around the house. The girls, Victoria in particular, miss Kevin. Just a few days ago, Victoria surprised me with her countdown. Yep, after Kevin counting down the days until the beginning of his adventure; Victoria is counting down the days until his return. Today's number: 20.

I'm anxious for him to come home and add captions to his photos. Looking forward to learning so much by living vicariously though his pictures. I mean, who knew that Budapest had thermal baths? Pas moi.

Smooth....Very Smooth

2011-10-07T23:02:00.009-04:00

Budapest, Hungary

As most everyone knows, Kevin and his friend Sam have been gallivanting around Europe for the last month. When people would hear of this trip, they normally had one of two reactions. One group of cautious folks would have a look of horror come over their faces and would ask if we were nervous about letting him go. The second group would slap us on the back and congratulate us for encouraging such a fine learning experience. Typically that person had backpacked or biked through Europe themselves and would proceed to tell us stories of narrow escapes and wonderful memories from back in the day when they were a carefree teen or early twenty-something.

Honestly, when Kevin approached us about the trip, I think he was surprised at our positive reaction. But Kevin's super responsible, level headed, possesses more common sense than the average teen and has one of the biggest cases of wander lust ever known to a seventeen year old, so the trip seemed like a tailor made adventure for him.

While I confess that "worst case scenarios" occasionally run through my mind, for the most part I have complete confidence that Kevin and Sam are resourceful enough to find their way in train stations, decipher the time schedules, and figure out a way to communicate their needs, even in countries that don't speak their language. And, if all else fails, they can both be amazingly charming and nearly irresistible.

And based on a conversation I had with Kevin on facebook, my assessment of their abilities is entirely accurate. They are in Croatia, staying in a home (the owners are out of town) with no internet access. They rented bikes and planned to camp for two nights at a mountain near Varazdin, Croatia. Unfortunately it was cold (like 45 degrees) and raining, so they pedaled back to the house in town. The house with no internet.

I saw Kevin online at about 1pm Croatia time and wondered how it happened he had internet access. Here is a log of our Facebook chat.

Me: Where are you right now, if the people don't have internet at their house?
Some coffee shop or something?

Kevin: We asked the neighbors for there wifi password. Lol

      Me: Oh my gosh...you all are CRACKING me up!

       Kevin: Haha. We try.

       Me: You just went knocking on their door, introduced yourselves and asked for their password?

Kevin: Maybe

Me: lol Oh my...

Kevin: We needed Internet!!!!

Me: Desperate times call for desperate measures...no doubt.

Kevin: Lol. It's good we did cause it's too rainy to go to town for Internet. It's nasty!

Me: And they were happy to meet such charming American young men.

Kevin: Exactly. And we needed it for getting train times and stuff

Me: Right...

So if you are the shocked and dismayed type who wondered why on earth we would let these young men buy a Eurail pass and visit London, The Hague, Amsterdam, Hamburg, Berlin, Prague, Krakow, Budapest and now Croatia before moving on to Venice, Florence, Rome and who knows where else; rest easy. These boys are smooth, very smooth. Who else would have the courage to visit perfect strangers, who may or may not speak English, and ask for the password to their secure internet access? And how many young men would be charming enough to walk away with password in hand? No worries....these boys will be fine.

You can take the girl out of the Midwest,

2011-07-18T19:01:00.000-04:00

but you can't take the Midwest out of the girl.

Have you ever watched a movie and noticed something strangely out of place, maybe some kind of factual error or mistake in editing? My girls have noted several faux pas in You've Got Mail. In the scene when Joe (Tom Hanks) sits down with Kathleen Kelly (Meg Ryan) at the cafe, Joe takes his overcoat off twice. And in the scene on the yacht when Joe is mixing drinks with his dad, he's seen putting an olive in the martini, the camera angle changes to his dad, then when the camera returns to Joe, the olive is gone and he places another one in the drink.

Or in the movie Schindler's List there's a shot of a train arriving at a station in Czechoslovakia and electric cables are visible above the train tracks. Czechoslovakia didn't have electric trains before World War II.

I recently finished reading The Help, a southern novel if there ever was one. Set in the early 1960's in Alabama, one of the main characters lives on her daddy's cotton plantation. For whatever reason, from the moment the first scene flashed in my mind, that portion of the book was unfolding at the farmhouse where a childhood friend of mine grew up IN OHIO. Now I've lived in the south a LONG time. Over twenty years. And I've never seen a traditional mid-western farm house down south. I unsuccessfully tried to "switch" locations, change the house, knowing this character should be living in something more akin to Tara than the timeless farmhouse that I so clearly pictured in my mind. And the Ohio house doesn't remotely fit the descriptions. Scenes from the book took place on the porch, and the farmhouse doesn't HAVE a porch. No problem for my imagination. I simply changed the front foyer into an expanded porch. Seems like it would have been simpler to just imagine the common southern mansion with wrap-around porches. But no...the farmhouse stuck.

Have you ever pictured a scene or place in a book inaccurately, but somehow couldn't make your mind play it any other way? Strange, I know...but I just couldn't help myself.

Functional Avoidance:

2011-06-24T13:48:00.003-04:00

doing one project so as to feel less guilty about NOT doing a more pressing and less desirable task.

Well friends, I've come to the end of a road. The 2010-11 school year has passed, Victoria's recital was a success, Hannah's horse activities are on summer hiatus, another VBS is in the books, and Patrick and Victoria are on their way to Haiti via Miami. Now, something's gotta give around this house. The piles of books, stacks of papers, and small mountain of boxes destined for the attic must be given the attention they've been needing for so long.

I should have started this week. VBS sucked all my energy last week, but this week...well...here it is.

Functional Avoidance Day 1: What DID I do on Monday...oh, yes...I went shopping (again?) for items to take to Haiti. I'm not sure why this took most of the day, but when you are trying to avoid unpleasant tasks, any ole excuse will do.

Functional Avoidance Day 2: The pictures say it all - well...most of it anyway.

A HUGE thank you to Kathy Lee for telling us about the corn available to be gleaned from her family's garden near Hortense. It seemed like a manageable amount when we were picking it.

It felt far less manageable after 3 hours of shucking. I'd burned the kids out with the bushel we put up on Saturday. Thankfully, Hannah and Victoria helped a little bit.

Thankfully my neighbor Naomi showed up to help cut it off the cob. Here's her daughter Reagan being entertained with, what else? Corn on the cob!

The final result: 49 quarts. Naomi and I prefer to think it was really 50, but one quart was spread across every available bit of counter top and floor space, with a healthy bit splattered on the cabinet faces and my shirt. Do you know, dried on corn is harder to wipe up than about any other spill I've encountered?

Functional Avoidance Day 3: Day 3...how DID I profitably spend Day 3. Oh, yes...Haiti packing. Though, for the life of me I can't imagine why I can justify spending a whole day packing Patrick and Victoria for Haiti. First, everything must fit in the overhead compartment and weigh less than 22 pounds. That's right, they had to pack for an entire week in a carry-on. And second, they packed themselves. Honestly, come to think of it, I didn't even check Victoria's bag. I sure hope she has everything...because there is no Wal-mart nearby to purchased what was forgotten. Okay...now I'm feeling like a bad mom. Maybe I should call Patrick and have him check Victoria's bag before they leave Miami in the morning. I think Day 3 was a fail and can't even be classified as Functional Avoidance. It was just plain laziness.

Functional Avoidance Day 4: More Haiti prep (Yikes - it's sounding a smidgen old, isn't it?) and dessert making for the team and parent meal. This really did take a better part of the day since I had to research recipes, make a grocery list, go to the store, AND make the goodies all in one day. I know, I know....you're thinking "Wow, Natalie, don't tax yourself and over do it." No need to worry. I won't.

Tiramisu Trifle

Yes, that really is the dessert I made. It looks a bit like dirt on top...and know...I should have shredded something other than baking chocolate on top.

Pistachio Layer Dessert - I have no idea it's proper name.

The TEAM!!!

Functional Avoidance Day 5: The team drove off at 9:55am and then I was left with the rest of the day to tackle projects looming over my head. I stopped by Carenet to deliver some coin filled baby bottles and chatted with the lovely staff and volunteers. Then I came home and caught up with e-mail correspondence and now am blogging. Hmmm....I think Hannah and I might need to go to Summer Waves this afternoon as our reward for...reward for...seeing the Haiti team successfully off! I'm grasping at straws now, but will enjoy a quiet moment reading Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet and will get myself psyched to really get going on the tasks at hand...tomorrow.

Oh, wait....Kevin wanted to go to Jacksonville tomorrow to look for shoes and pants for his trip to Europe. There's always next week.

2011-06-12T19:37:00.001-04:00

We had a WONDERFUL time in Perry at the State 4-H Horse Show. The second day, Hannah competed in three Hunt Seat classes and placed third in the Pleasure class of about 50 riders. She and Scotch Bar Buffington (Buff) had an amazing ride against some very lovely horses. The whole family is proud of her hard work and determination.

I would be remiss if I failed to mention that Hannah's friend Rachel is the Senior Division Stock Seat (Western) Champion. It was thrilling to see a girl from our county clean up in her division.

It's All About Perspective

2011-06-09T22:44:00.000-04:00

Hannah's not normally pleased with a sixth place finish in a class at a horse show, but when the class is at the State 4-H Show with nearly fifty competitors in each of her classes, sixth place suddenly feels like much more of an accomplishment.

Hannah and Scotch Bar Buffington (Buff)


I love how hard this girl works!

Finals are DONE and Alyssa's Home!

2011-05-11T22:17:00.000-04:00

Okay, well she never really left home, but there were times that we saw so little of her that she might as well have been gone, especially the weeks she stayed with Lauren while her parents were out of town. Now, since she's not preoccupied with her studies, it seems like she's come home for summer break. She's free to sit around talking to me and indulging an occasional craving for Starbucks. I so love having her around the house more. Never fear, she'll keep herself busy. She's volunteering at Carenet two mornings a week, in addition to working at Lai Lais. Even so, her "no school stress", relaxed personality is shining through.

So nice having someone to run errands for me AND to treat us to half-price Frappachinos.

Don't you wish you had an errand girl like I do?

Easter Weekend

2011-04-24T23:17:00.001-04:00

Showmanship with Buff

First show on Buff

Victoria showing off her Easter eggs

Caitlyn showing off her Pez candy dispenser

Victoria showing off her silly faces

A good looking crew, if I do say so myself

After years of dressing the girls in matching attire for Easter, I gave up so as not to scar them for life.
Imagine my surprise when they decided to buy the same dress and match for Easter this year.
Aren't they just adorable?

Lessons from British Literature

2011-04-20T16:41:00.000-04:00

That title might be a little deceptive. No, I'm not going expound on the subtle nuances between Jane Austen's early works vs. her later novels, and I'll let you decide what makes Frankenstein a quintessential work of Gothic fiction. While those might (or might not) have been discussed in the British Literature co-op class that I taught this year, and I HOPE the students learned SOMETHING these last two semesters; the lessons I gleaned might be more fascinating than anything Lord Byron ever penned.

1. When a class meets only once/week and the kids don't already know each other, it takes about a semester for everyone to start feeling at ease with each other. Once they settle in and are comfortable, they can really talk and play pranks on one another. You might want to check the stability of your chair before you sit in it.

2. Even kids who have never been to school have the ability to entice the teacher down rabbit trails. Enough said.

3. Just because they moan and groan about having to read a particular book doesn't necessarily mean they don't have strong opinions about the book or the author.

4. Just because they moan and groan about having to read a particular book doesn't necessarily mean they are missing the beauty of the literature. Yes, you would have thought making these boys read Persuasion or a work of Shakespeare was something akin to waterboarding; but once the discussions started, they were quick to read the class their favorite lines and animatedly describe their favorite characters.

5. Despite my love for Jane Austen, none of my class will probably ever read another Austen novel. Somehow, that makes me sad. They loved the characters, but being a class of mostly boys, they kept waiting for a sword fight or an accident more tragic than a twisted ankle, a high fever, or a silly girl jumping off a step.

6. Instructed to select a novel to read from a particular list, students WILL NOT always pick the shortest. Okay, some kids will (and his last name is strangely similar to mine), but many don't. I think one brave soul even started Middlemarch.

7. I can never guess how students will react to certain authors or works of literature. I mean, who would have thought that the student mentioned in #6, the one who selected to read Heart of Darkness and The Time Machine (due to their short page counts) would spend free time reading poetry by William Blake. Seriously, who knew? *I* have never spend free time reading William Blake. And that same student claims his favorite work in the cannon of British Literature is Pilgrim's Progress. Do you have any idea how happy that makes my heart?

8. Everyone is strangely and pleasantly surprised by Frankenstein. Possibly the class's favorite book of the year.

9. Austen is a let down after the suspense and intensity of Frankenstein. If I ever teach Brit Lit again, I think I should put some distance between those two works, particularly for boys or younger students. The wit and keen mental insight of Jane Austen is somewhat lost on students still engrossed in murders and monsters.

10. While relieved to drop one ball from my proverbial juggling act, I'm going to miss seeing these kids every Wednesday morning. They have been a delight to get to know and teach.

Oh...and one more...a teacher bringing Dunkin Donuts offsets the ire induced by giving difficult tests or too much homework. Really, a Boston cream or jelly roll greatly increases affection. The way to a student's heart (especially a class full of boys) is through their stomachs.

Advise from the Trenches

2011-04-15T15:35:00.001-04:00

After a very late night chat with #1 son a few nights ago and a bit of a follow up dialogue this afternoon, I've been thinking about parenting (and how little I actually know). Somehow I thought when my kids passed some magical age (which has yet to be determined...but apparently it's not a number in the teens), I somehow would have accumulated so much wisdom I would have at least some confidence to be that Titus 2 woman I always imagined ladies should be my the time they reach "my age".

The reality is, now that I have three teens and a tween (soon to be three teens and a twenty-something ), I think I have more questions than when I started this parenting journey. Sure, I've learned (and failed) some lessons along the way, but I still feel wholly inadequate in this parenting journey. What I have learned is to hobnob with people a whole lot smarter than myself, and reading blogs seems to be the perfect way to do that.

Yesterday I was catching up on some blogs and found this worth passing along, especially since I have so many wonderful nephews and just found out one of Patrick's nieces is expecting her first baby. I'm thankful for wise, articulate ladies - my virtual friends, if you will. Some of you don't even know who you are, but I thank you for your help.

Okay...did you go read it? Here is is again...a great tip for raising boys.
So, go ahead. Even if you aren't a southern girl and would never consider yourself a steel magnolia, let those boys do the heavy, or even light, lifting. I know one thing, I've probably carried my laundry hamper to the upstairs laundry room for the very last time. "Kevin, can you came here, please?"

2011-04-11T22:33:00.001-04:00

This might be the only ray of sunshine for the Cardinals so far this season. Albert is a nice guy...even if he hasn't found his swing yet this year.

And here's an interesting bit about the bat used to hit his 400th home run.

My Amazing Life and Kids

2011-04-05T23:07:00.004-04:00

For those of you who may not be friends with Kevin on facebook and haven't heard his announcement: He and his friend, Sam Brooks, are planning a two month trip to Europe in the fall. I'm counting on a couple of dear friends in London and Berlin to hug their necks for me and make sure they have a decent shower and a proper meal once or twice while they are trekking their way around the continent.

Here's a peek into why I absolutely LOVE having teenagers and young adult children. Samantha is one of Alyssa's best friends and one of my absolute favorite young adults in the whole world. Enjoy the following facebook dialogue and see why I think my kids and their friends are some of most amazing young people EVER (and I want to preserve and savor this moment). We moms can feel invisible much of the time, so we must treasure times such as these.

Kevin Eades to Samuel Brooks
Better be savin money man. Our next purchase needs to be a Eurorail pass. Looking like it'll be $550-$700. :/

- Samantha Walton God created nitrogen. He can provide 700$ plus some
  8 hours ago · · 4 peopleLoading...
- Ashley Liggett You can earn 500 a month if your working part time.
  7 hours ago ·
- David Alejandro Estrada What are you doing in Europe?
  6 hours ago ·
- Natalie Rath Eades David, wandering around Europe for 2 months. They are still in the planning stages, but have purchased plane tix to and from London.
  5 hours ago ·
- Samantha Walton Mrs Natalie, how do you feel about your boy 'wandering around Europe?'
  5 hours ago ·
- Natalie Rath Eades Okay...they'll be fine. Both very smart travelers. I'm just jealous I can't go with them. :-) Plus, I know a family in London who will let them couch surf when they are in England and Daniel and Heather Williams are in Berlin. They'll eat well and have a decent bed for at least a few nights. :-)
  5 hours ago · · 2 peopleKevin Eades and Samuel Brooks like this.
- Samantha Walton Man, your faith in God is encouraging :) I'd be lying if i said i wasn't jealous. They'll never forget it for sure.
  5 hours ago ·
- Samuel Brooks ‎Natalie Rath Eades LIKE LIKE LIKE LIKE LIKE!!
  5 hours ago ·
- Natalie Rath Eades Samantha...should this REALLY require that much faith in God? Do you know something about these boys that I don't?
  5 hours ago ·
- Samantha Walton Hahaha NO! I just know my mother. and the response iiii would get if i told her i was going to Europe for 2 months.
  5 hours ago ·
- Natalie Rath Eades Boys...very different from girls. Not sure why, but it is. I'm not sure I would go for you and Alyssa doing the same trip. Sorry.
  5 hours ago ·
- Samantha Walton I'm not sure I would go for me and Alyssa doing the same trip either haha
  5 hours ago · · 1 personYou like this.
- Kevin Eades Samantha, what can Sam and I say?? Kathy Brooks and Natalie Rath Eades are the most amazing moms in the world. And to be honest I wish they were going with us!
  15 minutes ago · · 1 personYou like this.
- Samantha Walton That they are. You're pretty awesome yourself Kev. You too Sam! Sam, promise me you'll bring my little brother back safe and sound :)
  12 minutes ago ·

Passports and Paradigm Shifts

2011-03-25T20:17:00.000-04:00

I had a shocking and somewhat disappointing realization this week. In the process of applying for Victoria's first passport, Patrick and I checked ours and discovered it was time to renew. Since being issued nearly 10 years ago, Patrick has traveled to Venezuela, Honduras, Guatemala, Peru, Brazil and Columbia. Me? My passport was empty. Not one entry. I realized I haven't been out of the country since our trip to South Africa before Victoria was born.

Patrick and the two oldest kids have had the privilege of serving in those previously mentioned countries. During those years, the younger girls were small, and it felt completely overwhelming to even consider arranging the schedule for me to leave the country. It just seemed logical for Patrick to go and for me to stay.

Over the years there would be moments when I'd sulk over feeling like Cinderella while Patrick and the older kids were off having a ball. But for the most part, I felt like I was doing what I was supposed to be doing. After all these years, it's almost become a given that Patrick will go and I will hold down the fort. But this week, after mailing off Victoria's passport application, I realized there's been a paradigm shift. Victoria, my baby, is going overseas. My big kids are staying home...and they don't need me with them! I'm free to go.

I'm not sure what this new found freedom means...maybe I SHOULD think about going to Haiti with the team this summer. Who knows? In any case, I have realized I've just entered a new stage in life...one in which my kids need my physical presence less, and I'm now free to get that passport stamped.

I'll be sending that old, unused passport in soon. Trading it in for a brand spankin' new one. My goal for the next ten years is at least two stamps...one from Haiti. I want to see this country that has imprinted itself so massively on Kevin's heart. The second stamp I'm hoping for...England. I have a dear friend moving there...and she's going to need to show me the lay of the land.

Congrats to the Showmanship Champion

2011-03-22T20:43:00.002-04:00

Hannah had her final show in the 4-H Satilla Winter Circuit. Going into this show she was tied for first place in Showmanship. You'll have to ignore the stinky videography. I get caught up watching and forget I'm supposed to be paying attention to the Flip screen.

She and Lacey had a great pattern, and she emerged ONE point above her competitor. Here are the results!

She is also the Halter Reserve Champion (2nd Place) which is terrific considering she only showed one horse. The Champion actually showed more than one horse, thereby accumulating more points and not necessarily placing higher than Lacey and Hannah in the classes. At this particular show, Hannah and Lacey did place first under both judges in the Mare Class and in the Championship Class against mares and geldings. Thank you to Ms. Wendy for letting Hannah show your beautiful mare. Those two have come a long way together!

Hannah displaying her winnings with her riding instructors, Ms. Wendy and the amazing Erin.

Erin is the Showmanship pro, so all kudos go to her.

While winning chairs and cash is nice, an almost sweeter victory came later in the day during the riding classes. Hannah and Ginger had their best day ever, with Ginger making it through both western classes and both English classes.

Generally it's not a good thing when the judge walks over to talk to you before the results are announced. It usually means something like this: You did this and that really well, but because of the other thing, I was left with no choice but to place you last. And, that would stand true for Hannah's Western Horsemanship ride. Judge B told her she rode the pattern well, but the rail work killed her - and he placed her dead last. Apparently the other judge didn't weigh the rail work as heavily since he placed her third..

Historically, Ginger has gotten more nervous and become unrideable (I think I just made up that word) as the shows progress. To Hannah's credit, she and Ginger made it to the English classes and even placed a respectable 3rd and 4th in the English Equitation class.

Feeling Like Anne

2011-03-04T21:59:00.006-05:00

Anne Shirley: Can't you even imagine you're in the depths of despair?

It seems only Anne Shirley can appreciate what the Eades family is experiencing right now. For over fourteen years we have had a Saturday tradition. Pretty much the entire community knows about our weekly outing; and if anyone ever wants to find us, they know exactly where we can be located: eating muffins, bacon and cheese biscuits and drinking some of the best sweet tea ever to grace our lips. Yes...you know what I'm talking about...Saturday morning breakfast at Sweet Mama's.

It started off innocently...long before Hannah was born. Patrick took us one Saturday to give me, probably pregnant and exhausted, a break on Saturday morning. Back in those days, pork pops (the food of the gods) were a quarter, muffins about a dollar and a five dollar bill nearly covered breakfast for four. How could we not keep going back? It gave Mom a day of rest and Patrick some bacon.

Hannah was born and---I'm not making this up---breakfast at Sweet Mama's was her first outing. It's true. My other kids first outing was to church, but Hannah's was our Saturday morning tradition.

Then we started homeschooling the kids, and it seemed even more imperative that Mom get a break on Saturday morning. Occasionally people would act shocked that we ate out every Saturday, without fail. I think Patrick has always considered it an investment in our family, knowing life just runs more smoothly when Mom is sane.

Several years went by before I knew this Saturday morning trip to Sweet Mama's was serious business, not to be tampered with. One week when the kids were quite small and Patrick was out of town, I just couldn't bring myself to drag all four kids (Victoria was probably a baby) out for breakfast by myself. Just seemed easier to stay at home and feed them cold cereal or something. But all I heard, all day long was "it just doesn't seem like Saturday. What day is it? It doesn't FEEL like a Saturday". All that whining just because they didn't get their weekly dose of pork pops.

As the kids kids grew up, their palates expanded and bacon and cheese biscuits became the order of the day. And sticky buns. And cheese danishes. But don't forget the honey-nut bran muffin for Mom. Or a doughnut with sprinkles. Or maybe some sausage gravy over biscuits. Or a Wainright (a piece of sausage and a pickle between a pork pop that's been cut in half). Or, our most recent discovery...sausage gravy over pork pops. Now were talking!

I'm really not kidding about this...Sweet Mama's is ingrained in the Eades' culture, and I'm not sure sure what we're going to do come Saturday morning. You see...they closed their doors a few days ago. Suddenly...rudely. It's just gone.

Sweet Mama's was the St. Simons version of Cheers, where everybody knows your name. Not only did they know our name...they knew our order before we even gave it. They'd start preparing our drinks (decaf with 2% for me) before we even placed our order. But no more...sadly our tradition has come to an end. I suppose we'll visit other restaurants and maybe they will let us linger and read the Saturday paper over one more drink refill, but nothing will ever take the place of Sweet Mama's.

So...we're left feeling like Anne Shirley from Anne of Green Gables. In regard to our Saturday tradition,

This is the most tragical thing that has ever happened to me.

--Anne of Green Gables

What Language Are You Speaking?

2011-02-26T20:51:00.000-05:00

Sometimes in the midst of wearing my laundress hat, teacher hat, mom hat, wife hat or any one of my other millinery options, I forget which language I need to be speaking; or as I recently found out, don't even know which language is most appropriate for the situation. No, I haven't become bilingual and disoriented. It's not Spanish or French to which I refer.

The kids recently resurrected the discussion of "The Five Love Languages". As a matter of fact, a couple of them had been to the website and taken the assessment. As you might imagine, an animated discussion ensued, and I was left a little dejected. I realized that I had been blowing it with a certain child...really, seriously not speaking the right language AT ALL!

Patrick and I can joke about them as we've discussed the love languages plenty over the years. We laugh because we are so opposite. If one of the languages is at the top of his list, it's at the bottom of mine and vise versa. It makes for comical moments. For Patrick, Acts of Service communicates love and affection to him. So when he rattles off a list of things he's accomplished for me...a to-do list I didn't even know needed to be done...I can know that he did those things because he loves me. And I, in turn, can smile and thank him profusely because I know it's his language (instead of doing what comes natural to me...staring blankly and wondering why I would care if my van tires were rotated and transmission system flushed out).

You can laugh it us, but this used to be a big deal in our marriage. This is the honest to goodness truth---early in our marriage, Patrick would vacuum the house. I don't mean zipping the machine through the middle of the room. I mean moving furniture, dusting off baseboards and really going to town with the vacuum cleaner. I would get defensive and moody (okay, downright pouty) because I was hearing "you don't keep the house as clean as I would like it, so I'll just do it myself." In reality, he was just speaking the love language that comes most naturally to him...and assumed I was listening in the same language he was speaking.

Needless to say, Patrick and I have come a long way, but I've realized I need to figure out a way to speak to the kids in their primary love language. I confess, it feels a little overwhelming to think about keeping it all straight with four kids...like maybe I need a flow chart or a giant reminder on the refrigerator. But thinking about how being in tune with the kids' love languages would pay huge dividends makes it worth the effort. Maybe I can give a follow up post on my success and/or failure in this area.

If you are unfamiliar with love languages, check out the book by Gary Chapman, The Five Love Languages and The Five Love Languages of Children.

What about you and your spouse? Do you speak the same language? Or at least recognize that you don't speak the same language and make an effort to translate?

And the Winner Is...

2011-02-20T18:05:00.002-05:00

Woo hoo...Hannah and Lacey! Lacey and Hannah have won several first place ribbons in the halter class against other mares, but yesterday she won the championship class...beating all the girls AND the boys. Here are Patrick and Hannah showing off her winnings: a new lead rope, a bucket and some horse grooming supplies.

Hannah and Ginger- it may well have been their final show together. It was another rough performance, but Hannah looked good trying to ride the Little Red Mare. (Note the sparkly teal shirt and matching show pad on Ginger)

In fact, Ginger and Hannah were having such a rough time, the trainers took her off Ginger and had her ride Lacey for her final riding class. Yep, after combing catalogs and websites for a show pad that would match Hannah's teal and black shirt...here she is completely clashing with Lacey's lime green pad. Painful for the costume mom in me...but after seeing Hannah nearly take a spill on the very nervous Ginger in the show last week, I was happy to see her safe and sound on Lacey...clashing or not.


No matter who she's riding, Hannah rolls with the punches.

Let's hear it for #314!

After the show, it was on to the Father Daughter Ball.

Yes, it's the obligatory photo of one of the girls licking the ice sculpture.

Such loving sisters - always!

2011-02-13T22:26:00.000-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day, Patrick. Okay, so maybe we weren't nineteen and twenty-one, but I think non-profit work for nearly twenty years definitely qualifies us for "dancing in the minefield".

'Cause the only way to find your life
Is to lay your own life down
And I believe it's an easy price
For the life that we have found

I wouldn't trade our life together for anything. Thank you for loving me, caring for me and the many ways you lay your own life down for the kids and me.

That's Why I Married Him

2011-02-06T18:36:00.002-05:00

"A happy marriage has in it all the pleasures of friendships, all the enjoyment of sense and reason - and indeed all the sweets of life. - Joseph Addison

After more than twenty years, my husband still amazes me. He loves people...really and truly loves people. In his line of work, he's always giving and pouring himself out. And honestly, it wears me out to watch it. Seriously, sometimes I wonder what's wrong with me, and I ask myself, "How can I be that hard-hearted...or plain selfish?"

Just yesterday it happened again. We rolled out of bed early, early Saturday morning to be on the road to Savannah by 7am. While he met with the board of directors at a pregnancy center there, Hannah, Victoria and I took care of some shopping that can only be done in Savannah or Jax. After a whirlwind shopping adventure, we picked Patrick up and headed home...or so I thought. He suggested a couple more stops and on the way home I half-heartedly mentioned that we could still squeeze in a workout at the Y. He was up for it. I resigned myself to it.

Then on the way home from the Y, a stop at Target AND the office, a thought popped into my head. "We really need to call so-and-so to check on her." Patrick hopped right on the idea and suggested I call and ask her to go to dinner. Ummm...I was pretty tired by that point and quickly put the breaks on that thought. It had been a long day right. I had nothing left to give out, right?

We arrived home and guilt got the better of me. I conceded we should call her (it was already 6pm) and see if she wanted to "do dinner". Patrick wasted no time, called and caught her in the middle of carrying a bowl of soup to the table. Of course the soup could be refrigerated and yes, she'd love to join us. I groaned but told myself I could rally.

Turns out, this dear friend had been feeling low. Yesterday was the 2 month anniversary of her husband's death, and she had spend 2 days working through paperwork and really had wanted to get out of the house. She'd made several attempts to arrange dinner plans to no avail. She had resigned herself to dinner alone when Patrick called. My husband's invite was balm to her soul.

I sat there at dinner thoroughly ashamed of myself ---ashamed that I'd almost deprived this precious lady of much needed fellowship, and ashamed that I sometimes get irritated with Patrick's go-get em attitude.

Thankfully someone in this marriage is endowed with sense and reason...and a heart that keeps on giving. I don't know where I'd be without him.

How 'bout you? What's something about your spouse that sometimes irritates you, but really is a gift to your marriage?

Cut From a Different Cloth

2011-02-01T11:06:00.004-05:00

Ginger and Hannah

I think the reason I find Hannah so inspiring is how different she is from me. While she and I being polar opposites doesn't always translate into smooth school days, it does help me embrace perspectives I wouldn't normally see. Hannah rode Ginger, aka the Little Red Mare, in a show for the first time. It was...interesting. The first two Western classes weren't too bad...she even managed to place sixth in both of them (there were only eight in the class) . But the English classes, well...the English Pleasure was something akin to watching a train wreck: the longer it went on the more painful it became to watch and more disastrous if felt. It went so poorly in fact that she decided to scratch the English Equitation class.

And I left the show scratching my head. Hannah had worked so hard for the past year with Lacy, the big ole halter horse that she showed in the State Show, I was a bit sad to have abandoned a horse that Hannah was consistently winning on. Hannah had helped transform Lacy from a horse not so affectionately called "demon" and "heathen" to a lesson horse that actually earns her keep. I was thinking, "Can't we just rest on our laurels for a little while, enjoy winning and coast through this show season?"

Not Hannah! Not the slightest bit discouraged by the poor show, she is energized. I actually think she's more excited by the prospect of transforming Ginger into a great show horse that she would be hopping on an already proven horse.

Isn't that one of the joys of parenting - learning from and being challenged by our kids? God uses our kids to stretch us out of our comfort zone and show us things about ourselves that we might never see without them. So, the next time Hannah and I are going head to head, I need to remind myself how much I can learn from her tenaciousness and spunk.

2011-01-28T08:28:00.002-05:00

Happy Birthday VICTORIA!

2011-01-25T12:08:00.002-05:00

Friday was Victoria's last birthday before being a teenager. It was a memorable day for another reason: she started wearing glasses. Yep, we've dodged that bullet for all these years and then wham! Two girls, Alyssa and Victoria, got glasses the same day. She doesn't need to wear them all the time, so I suspect they will hardly ever be worn. But, they'll be there when she needs them.

With her birthday falling on a Friday and knowing Hannah had a horse show on Saturday, we elected to celebrate with Grandma, Grandpa, Aunt Chrissy, Uncle Mark, Matthew and Caitlyn on Friday night with me wimping out and ordering pizza. I DID manage to make a salad and slice up some strawberries to put on the Cheesecake Factory cheesecake that Miss Jane had given her for her birthday. She was quite surprised to see a her present, a new bike. So now she can ride around the neighborhood in style.

A Symptom of a Larger Problem

2011-01-07T13:26:00.001-05:00

Innocently, Victoria asked me if she could have a piece of chocolate. She didn't want just any piece of chocolate, but the Lindor Truffles we received as a Christmas gift from someone who had recently returned from Switzerland. That's right, chocolate straight from the folks who KNOW chocolate. I told her she could and then glanced across the room to see her fishing around in the box, searching for the kind she likes best. Well, I know which kind she likes best...the same kind we all do, the ones in the black wrapper, the dark chocolate ones. Hmm...are the dark chocolate ones almost gone? Out of curiosity, I poured them out to see.

Yes, that's right. You are seeing correctly. There is ONE left. One little truffle out of a 500 g box (I told you it really was from Europe...not an English measurement on the entire container). Just for reference, the box has been sitting around the house since December 20 and there are still twelve milk chocolate (red wrapper) truffles left. Clearly everyone is searching for the kind they like best.

"Big deal," you say. "It's just chocolate." And you'd be correct. The truth is, we're about to clear all (or most) of the sugary treats out of the house, and I'll probably end up gifting these truffles to Carenet and the faithful volunteers. (I don't suppose they'll be able to read the French on the box and notice the marked absence of dark chocolate ones.) But I think this bowl points to an attitude that DOES cause problems in our family...in all families. We all want our own way and are willing to deprive someone else of what we know they would prefer in order to satisfy our own desires. So maybe for the new year, instead of grand resolutions that will deserve a A or and F at the end of December, we should strive for incremental changes in our heart. If we all were to move toward a heart that prefers others above ourself, then I'd really have something to celebrate at the end of the year.

Maybe next Christmas the bowl of truffles would look just the opposite. If everyone were to prefer one another as more important than himself (think Romans 12:10) everyone would LEAVE the black ones. Interesting thought, don't you think?

What might "preferring others" look like at your house?

Making the Grade

2011-01-04T12:45:00.006-05:00

On December 31, 2009 I publicly set some goals for 2010. If I remember correctly, I even reflected on them mid-year. Today is the day of reckoning and it's not looking pretty.

#1 was to learn to use my phone. I'd have to say D+. I have learned to use a few additional features (it's now my alarm clock) but I have NOT successfully used it to listen to podcasts and music, which was my intent when I made this a goal last year. I have decided that since every other person in the house has some kind of Apple device and all music is stored in iTunes, I'm fighting a wickedly uphill battle to convert what I want to mp3 and get it onto my devices. Now, shall I be like my son and just hold out for Verizon to get the iphone or should I just confiscate Victoria's shuffle that she no longer uses (because she upgraded to an iTouch)?

#2 was learn to use my Christmas presents. This may be my best grade - say B+. I'm pretty savvy with the Flip, because it's so easy to use. I can post video here to my blog or to facebook. I probably don't use it enough, but I have documented Hannah's riding and Victoria's dance pretty well with the Flip. I also can make a pretty delicious cup of coffee in the French Press if you are inclined to like your brew on the strong side (I do). Just let me know you're stopping by, and I'll be sure to swing by Starbucks and pick up some fresh, coursely ground Pike Place Blend.

#3 is an undeniable F. Regarding menu planning, or my lack there of, I'm just going to plead the Fifth.

#4 was to blog more. Based strictly on numbers (and I have no idea how else to evaluate this one) I have another failing grade. I started blogging at Blogspot in February '09 and had 54 entries posted that year. In '10 had a measly 49 entries. What can I say - F.

#5 was to really go all out for Christmas. This is a tough one. I'd have to say a B-. While I'm not sure I went all out, I did make some efforts that I had simply given up on in previous years. For the first time since moving into this house, I unpacked ALL the Precious Moments porcelain ornaments and used them on the tree. I went with a white/pastel theme and was pleased with the result. I also decided to add one new element that I really love to my Christmas decor each year. This year, I had a beautiful silk arrangement made for a wedding shower that I hosted. Then the designer added some Christmas elements for the holidays, leaving me a very large new addition to my Christmas decor. I was thrilled with the result until Patrick, Mr. Practical himself, said, "Where are you going to store that?" Details, details. I try not to let those things bother me. For now at least, I'm thinking of turning it around, hiding the "Christmas-y" part, and letting it be a "winter arrangement". Aren't I clever?

Overall, I'd have to say I did a pretty lousy job keeping last year's resolutions. This year I may have to try some that are a bit more quantitative. Maybe if I'm a little more specific, I'll be more inclined to succeed. That will be a blog post for another day.

December Wrap-up Part 3

2010-12-31T20:10:00.008-05:00

Wow, am I finished yet?

Christmas Eve (or Christmas Eades as Reagan Spence called it) rolled around and found Patrick too sick to participate in the festivities. The kids went on to the Christmas Eve service at Redeemer Presbyterian while Patrick and I stayed home. We did meet up with the kids at our church for communion before they headed to our friends, the Wilkersons, for an oyster roast.

Alyssa: talking with her oyster knife. Should she be allowed to wave a sharp object like that?

Popping in an oyster. No one loves them more than Alyssa.

Not sure why there is no picture of Victoria...but she really was there too.

Christmas day rolled around and once Kevin finally dragged himself out of bed, we opened presents, ate breakfast and then prepared lunch for Patrick's family. Everyone chipped in and we had a small feast.

,Passing out the presents - someone's gotta do it.

Car speakers...just what he wanted. A fun project for he and Patrick later.

Her children are so going to make fun of these boots some day.

That's really all she wanted for Christmas...a picture of Zenyatta.

Victoria looking surprised

My Christmas morning piece de resistance:Gingerbread cookies from Cathy Dart

The kids had been groaning about me giving away several dozen of her cookies so they were very surprised to find a plate full on Christmas morning.

On the 26th we were thrilled to hear from Becky and Patrick, so they stopped in for a short visit on their way to Jacksonville from Beaufort.

,Patrick and Becky with Grandma and Grandpa

The whole crew minus Patrick and Mark.

It has been a wonderful Christmas season filled with special memories. I continue to be so thankful for all our family, far and near. I am blessed beyond measure.

December Wrap-up Part 2

2010-12-30T22:02:00.011-05:00

After deciding we simply couldn't have crammed any more into a weekend, we reflected on the Nutcracker, church play and luncheon for about, well.. a few seconds and then moved on to the next big event: the Holly Jolly Christmas Ball at Stately Eades Manor.

Prep for the Christmas ball is unique in that I don't obsess about how clean the house is (they're teenagers for goodness sake, and they won't notice whether it's clean or not), but I do have a tremendous amount of work to do to prepare the dance floor. Serious amounts of furniture moving, rug rolling and general rearranging has to happen in order for 2o or 30 people to line dance in the living room.

Alyssa and Nikole Brown were the masterminds behind this year's ball. They pared down the number of invites this year in order to achieve a more intimate group. Look at the pictures and see how they fared. Not sure what the criteria was for making the A list, but apparently I'm still on it. In keeping with the event being Alyssa and Nikole's baby, Alyssa made much of the food, and the Brown family rounded out the menu with their additions. I LOVE having big kids take over some of my former duties.

Yes, that's a sofa in my dining room, and my table with ALL the leaves removed. Odd looking, but it clears the dance floor.

Slide to the right?

Cha-cha!

Kevin and Lauren...aren't they cute?

Alyssa and Samantha Walton - good friends for, oh my, nearly 18 years.

Kevin? Hanging out with the girls? Surely not?

Raegan and her "creeper eyes"

The end of a long night, but still smiling.

A bit of clean up happened and then the next day we moved on to Patrick's birthday and the Shady Oaks Christmas Party. Every other year they dress up the horses and have a costume contest. I had been mulling an idea over since the last contest two years ago: surely I could combine my Nutcracker costuming skills and this contest. The result: Lacey the Sugar Plum Fairy WINS!!!

First we gave her pointe shoes.

Then we added a tutu, a feather boa, flowers and a tiara.

We tried to give her stage make-up, but she wanted nothing to do with lipstick.

And, the final touch was going to be me braiding her tail and tying it with a pink ribbon. Guess she told me what she thought of that idea. I was tenacious and finished (after Hannah scooped up the presents Lacey left us).

Here they are: off to be judged!

We couldn't stick around for the Low Country Boil as we had to move on to the next event - birthday dinner with the whole Eades clan at Longhorn's to celebrate Patrick's and Chrissy's birthdays.

December Wrap-up Part 1

2010-12-28T21:55:00.005-05:00

It seems I always do this. Fail to make time to blog and then blast my readers (my precious few) with whirlwind trip through December. Sorry, so sorry. Here it is again.

Once the Saturday trip to Jax to see the Rockettes passed, everything seemed to move at warp speed. Amazingly, I kept my paws out of Nutcracker costuming, and it turns out to be God's grace and mercy that I wasn't involved. The Sunday before Nutcracker our dear former pastor, mentor and friend, Don Johnson, went home to be with the Lord. While not unexpected, it still seemed sudden and shocking. We grieved but also celebrated a life well lived. I think I would have completely melted down had people actually been depending on me to fulfill costuming responsibilities.

Nutcracker weekend was also Children's Play weekend. Yep, our little actress and dancer had four performances in three days. She amazes me - the ease with which she handles the pressure of performances.

In the church play, "It's a Wonder-Full Life", Victoria played Miss Tune, a character roughly based on Miss Darbus in High School Musical (thus, the salt and pepper wig to give her some age).

Victoria hams it up as Miss Tune.

Choir member in the second part of the play.

Yes...Victoria is IN that box.

Harlequin Doll

Snow

And as if THAT wasn't enough for one weekend, Monday rolled around and was the famous Staff Luncheon at Stately Eades Manor. The menu came almost straight out of the 2005 Christmas with Southern Living book. I'd been longing to try the coffee crusted individual beef wellington (for 5 years you ask...yes, I'm a little gun shy about something that sounds so sophisticated) and finally worked up the courage. They were incredible, if I do say so myself; but then when isn't filet mignon wonderful? If you come to my house for dinner any time soon, that is probably what I'll serve you.

Ready and waiting for them to arrive.

Chocolate Creme Brulee for dessert!

My very silly wait staff. Next year I should require them to be more properly attired.

2010-12-05T19:43:00.006-05:00

The girls and I FINALLY saw the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. For years we've talked about catching the show in Nashville over Thanksgiving weekend, but we never want to miss any of the precious little time we have with the grandparents, uncles, aunts and cousins all together. We took along Victoria's friend Dana. What a privilege to take her at her first big show. At intermission the house lights came up and the voice boomed "We will now take a 15 minute intermission before the remainder of the show." Dana's face lit up as she incredulously said, "It's not over? There's another half?" That was a priceless Christmas gift.

Pre-show picture...do they look excited?

Something must be very interesting in that book about the Rockettes. Aunt Cynthia is always game for a show, and this time we dragged her and Patrick's parents along, too.

Okay...so the roasted pecans and cashews weren't as good as the Nuts for Nuts vendor's wares in NYC, but they were close.

We've discovered the lower balcony is the only way to go for short people who can barely see over the heads in the row in front of them.

And the next show on the "must see" list is.....

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas

2010-11-19T10:13:00.004-05:00

It has come to my attention that Patrick's staff Christmas party (a luncheon hosted by moi) is the Monday following the weekend in which Victoria performs in the Nutcracker AND the children's play at church. Soooo, I'm tackling Christmas decorating this weekend and then will only have the tree to do after we return from Thanksgiving break in Tennessee.

Oh, and I'm open to suggestions for creative lunch ideas (ideally that can be made ahead of time or are amazingly simple, yet elegant).

No Good Deed...

2010-11-14T17:37:00.009-05:00

Goes Unpunished

That's our saying for those times when you think you are doing a good turn to your fellow man, but instead the tables turn and you find yourself being punished for your virtue. For whatever reason, I seem to be on a roll lately. Today's lunch episode was the perfect example.

I haplessly walked toward the drink counter and discovered a young family who had turned on the peach tea urn only to find themselves unable to turn it off. After filling all their cups with the sweet amber concoction, it quickly overflowed the black mat meant to catch stray drips, started running all over the stainless steel counter and would soon be flowing off the front of the counter onto the floor. While they fiddled with the nozzle I instinctively shoved my water cup under the flow to stem the tide of tea which was pretty much covering a good portion of the counter. My quick thinking husband managed to adjust the spigot but not until my cup had overflowed. As I pondered how to move my cup that was filled to the tip-top with a drink I don't even like, a Shane's employees finally showed up, and the family explained what had happened. I was thinking I needed a tray or something to catch the inevitable spills that would occur when I tried to carry the cup to the trash can to dispose of the tea, so I say "Uh, I don't want this drink, so...." Without even letting me finish my sentence, she retorts, "You know that's a water cup and you're not supposed to have tea in it."

What can I say, guilty as charged. Honest to goodness, what happened next was a complete accident. As I reached toward the cup thinking I didn't care if it spilled all over the place I said, "Well, I was just trying to be helpful..." and somehow I bumped the cup and spilled the contents all over the counter. No, I didn't even apologize since that's where the tea rightfully belonged. Certainly it should NEVER have been in my water cup.

So does this happen to anyone else, or am I the only one who finds myself punished for my attempts to do a good deed?

Dance Revolution 2010

2010-11-09T15:08:00.005-05:00

A host of kids from the dance studio attended Dance Revolution in Orlando last weekend. I've never tagged along, but Victoria always comes home with stories of amazing instructors and hilarious tales of the ride to and from their destination. This year she rode down with a dear friend of mine and her daughter. Victoria and this particular friend always seem to bring out the silliest side of each other. A few days before the trip Victoria suggested I make sure she has extra batteries for the camera. Hmmm...wonder what they would need that for?

Victoria with one of her dance teachers and a friend (the one who is not camera shy)

Smile!

Victoria posing with some instructors - fun times!

The big surprise came Sunday afternoon when Victoria was selected from all the junior dancers who auditioned to be the recipient of a full scholarship to a Dance Revolution convention next year. Woo hoo, Victoria. Great job!

2010-10-27T16:21:00.003-04:00

My youngest (who fancies herself a queen) has started a blog. I think she just wants a place to record Caitlyn's antics, and that's good. Someday we might actually have a record of the funny things she says and does as opposed to what my kids have: memories treasured in the heart of their mother. Unfortunately those priceless moments are subject to their mother's ability to recall them. Sad, but true.

Here's Caitlyn practicing for Halloween.

The McGladrey Classic

2010-10-10T22:15:00.006-04:00

Saturday, Patrick nabbed a couple of free tickets for the McGladrey Classic, a new event on the fall PGA tour. While I have been in Sea Island's Lodge (see above photo), I'd never set foot on one of the golf courses. I've only been to one other PGA event, the Heritage Classic on Hilton Head, so this was a real treat for me.

Five Favs
1. The weather = perfect. Couldn't have been better. Honestly, that picture above - that's how it looked. Blue skies, sunshine, slight breeze.
2. The fans. I've been to more than my share of sporting events, but golf is like no other. What other professional sporting event has a crowd of several hundred people who become silent because some guy inside the ropes wearing a polo shirt raises his hands? We joined the very large group following our local hero, Davis Love III. Despite the jockeying for a nice vantage point, you never saw anyone being pushy, rude or cross. Lovely, golf fans are lovely.
3. The pros. What other sporting event do you get to be so close you could touch the celebrities you are there to watch? Matt Kuchar, the pro Davis was paired with,was genuinely kind to the fans. He gave an autographed ball to a young boy after sinking a putt on the 5th hole, and he signed autographs after he finished his round. He looked fans in the eye, acknowledging that we existed. Kuchar is this year's leading money winner on the tour. I can't picture the highest paid player in any other sport chatting with fans and signing caps after they have put in a full day's work.
4. The venue. I'm not even going to try to describe it. Nathan Green, the pro that was in the foursome Kevin caddied for in the pro-am on Wednesday, said the course was nicer than some other places that host PGA events.

5. The company. I spent five wonderful hours with my dear husband. What a fabulous way to spend an October Saturday. I'd post a picture of us...but no such thing exists. The list of forbidden items was long and included cell phones and cameras, so you'll just have to take my word that we were actually there.

Kinda Scaring Myself

2010-10-08T15:05:00.004-04:00

It's not yet mid-October and I've already purchased one Christmas present; and today at lunchtime, the kids and I were surfing the web for some fun gifts for their cousins. I'm almost ready to firm up a date and buy tickets to see the Rockettes Christmas Spectacular in Jacksonville, and in a couple of days the mailman will be delivering the following bits of joy.

To keep me in the holiday spirit.

To inspire and help me stay organized.

I pray my prep will help us all enjoy the season, and we can truly celebrate the birth of our Savior with peace and joy in our hearts.

How are YOU preparing for the season?

2010-09-22T22:08:00.003-04:00

Here we go...it's officially fall both on the calendar and here at my blog. I'm not in love with the new background, but it will due for a few weeks until it's time to find a CHRISTMAS background. Have you thought about that lately? It's nearly October and Christmas is right around the corner.

A little update on my New Year Resolutions would bring mixed reviews, so I'm going to ignore my failings and focus on Christmas and my goal to really go all out this year. Mentally I've already begun planning and I've even [please don't faint on me] purchased Christmas cards. I know, I know what you are thinking, "Natalie Eades doesn't even send out Christmas cards." Ah, but this year, you would be wrong. I'm getting it together this year. So, if you see my kids' facebook status updates moaning about the Christmas carols ringing though out the house in October, you'll know I've really got my game on!

And did I mention I'm not spearheading any costumes for Nutcracker this year? I almost feel anxiety driving up to the dance studio just because it's the fall. But then I remind myself "I'm not in charge" and the knot that had begun forming in my stomach disappears. It's so freeing...so I truly am on my way to a fun, festive holiday season.

And, I've even heard rumors about a Christmas Ball. You just never know what rabbit I might pull out of my hat next.

How about you? Have you thought about Christmas or Thanksgiving? They'll be here before we know it.

Random Thoughts

2010-09-03T22:28:00.004-04:00

I'm too tired for any creativity or cohesive thoughts, so you'll have to take what you can get.

Getting ready to load up for the big weekend.

Tie Dye shirts are only flattering on young girls...on me? Not so much. They are extremely fun and no one will mistake which group we are with.

A fun group of girls with their amazing and fearless leader.

A beauty pageant, uh...I mean, halter class for a horse is more work than I would have ever imagined.

Hannah banding Lacey's mane...making her all beautiful for the judges.

Unloading 5 horses and all their necessary gear for the next 3 days in temps hovering around 100 is beyond exhausting. I do believe we smelled worse than the horses.

Taking a ride to check out the new show arena. Rachel must have something interesting on her boot.

There's a chihuahua tied up a few stalls down from our horses, and it's lucky to be alive. Really...imagine a yippy chihuahua barking non-stop inside a metal building with concrete floors. No worries, Mr. Owner...those white signs with red lettering that say Absolutely No Dogs Allowed in the Barns...it only applies to everyone else. You and your hound are the exception because everyone loves that high pitched bark only small dogs can make.

No matter what happens in the arena tomorrow, I am incredibly proud of how hard Hannah has worked this summer. She is an amazing horse woman!

2010 Baseball Park Tour

2010-08-03T20:54:00.004-04:00

We successfully checked off three stadiums in our quest to visit every baseball park in America.
While it pains this Cardinal fan to say it...I think the Brewers have the best food and it's hard to beat Wrigley for a genuine baseball experience. You just feel like you're stepping back in time - well, except for the $40 you have to shell out to park in a church parking lot 10 blocks from the stadium.

We also spent one afternoon at Tempel Farms, home of the Tempel Lippizans. Hannah loved it, and the other kids endured it. Personally, I thought it was fascinating, but then I've grown to have great respect for those who train such powerful, amazing animals.

Brainwashed

2010-07-28T14:23:00.004-04:00

We adore having Caitlyn, Patrick's niece, with us during the school year. We think she's amazingly smart and articulate for a little girl who just celebrated her second birthday, and we all secretly think that we have somehow had a hand in her soaring intelligence. Well, okay, her dad being a math genius and her mom being amazing may have a little something to do with it, too. I sometimes wonder though if we are having too much effect on her...like are we teaching her things that she ought not know. After all she hangs out with teens and a pre-teen more than the average child.

But now I know for sure. We, especially Kevin, have had a profound influence on her. Living in Brave country, she is systematically being brainwashed into being a Cardinals fan. Kevin has diligently been teaching her names of the players, namely Albert Pujols and Adam Wainwright. Kevin's room sports a Pujols Fathead and an autographed photo of Wainwright. Caitlyn gives Pujols high fives and points at Adam.

Sunday night Patrick's family was all eating dinner at a restaurant with televisions tuned to the Cardinal's game. Hannah was holding Caitlyn when #5 came up to bat. Hannah pointed at the tv and asked Caitlyn, "Hey, Caitlyn, who's that on tv?"
"Albert" came the immediate reply.

Kevin will be so proud when he returns from the Amazon and hears the story.

Dan and Katie

2010-07-05T06:32:00.003-04:00

Wow, I can't believe it's been almost a month since my last post here. I've given up the delusions that summers will be a time to catch up on my "to do" list. I know they are just crazy with no chance of significant projects being accomplished. I WILL catch you up on our lives...soon, but for now, here's a peak at our vacation through my niece's blog.

Dan and Katie, it was great to see you. Portillo's was the perfect place to suggest for lunch. Hope you are having an amazing time on your cruise. Congratulations on five years of marriage.

Sapalo Island Field Trip

2010-06-09T12:31:00.000-04:00

Cap'n Bill

2010-06-07T22:05:00.005-04:00

As I made final preparations for the Low Country Boil for family and friends on Friday to celebrate Alyssa's graduation, the last item on my errand list was to buy shrimp. I pulled into the parking lot of the local seafood market where I normally buy shrimp only to discover it was closed. Well, not just closed, but out of business for good. Great, what's plan B? I had no plan B as I had noticed the shrimp at Publix were farm raised in Thailand - and I certainly can't serve those! I decide to try out a new little place that had recently opened. I couldn't even remember the name, but knew it was fairly close by and I didn't have time to drive downtown to the only other fresh seafood markets I was aware of.

In the middle of a downpour, I pull into the parking lot of a convenience store and walk up to the tiny portable building off to the side advertising shrimp for $4.99. Wow...that's a terrific price! As long as it's fresh, I'm in great shape. I'll be home in a jiffy and will have saved a bundle of money.

Dodging puddles I run up to the sliding window of Cap'n Bill's and an old lady with a raspy voice asks: Whatchya need today?
Natalie: Ugh...shrimp. Do you have large?
Old Lady: Yeah. How many you thinkin' you gonna need?
Natalie: I think 8 pounds will do me. Thanks. Are they fresh?
Cap'n Bill jumping up from his folding chair: Just off the boat this morning. Those guys were alive just a few hours ago.
Natalie seeing the old lady (who I now surmise is Cap'n Bill's wife) slinging, what looks to be, whole shrimp onto the scales: Umm...do you have any shrimp WITHOUT heads.
Capt'n Bill: No ma'am. That's how shrimp is caught - with heads.
Natalie: Well, yes, I realize that, but I normally buy them WITHOUT the heads. I confess, I've never deheaded a shrimp. (Not really knowing if "dehead" is the proper verb to use - but then I don't think Cap'n Bill and his wife are big on formal grammar)
Cap'n Bill: Oh, it's easy (he demonstrates popping the head off while I calculate how long it will take me to do 8 pounds) - would take me five minutes, maybe seven to do all of 'em.
Natalie: Wow, um, I'm a little pressed for time this afternoon. I'm thinking I wouldn't be nearly that fast. (Nor do I want to smell like raw seafood for the party) Can I pay you to do them? (Knowing full well he could really take me to the cleaners, but with four hours until forty people arrive for dinner - I'm fully prepared to pay him top dollar)
Cap'n Bill: Is this for a Low Country Boil?
Natalie: Yes.
Cap'n Bill: Oh, well, then you should just throw 'em in the pot just like they is. They taste a whole bunch better with the heads on. People can just pop the heads of theirselves.
Natalie: Wow, I never knew that, but I'm accustomed to the head being off and so would really love to serve them that way tonight. I then notice his wife smirking and suspect he's simply having a good time pulling my leg.

After a little more begging and flattery directed at the great price and freshness, Cap'n agrees to decapitate the shrimp - for no charge. Hmmm...sweet talk pays off, and I'm invited inside the one room, smoke filled shop. Great - now I'm going to smell like a cigarette. But it's that or stand in the rain. He does indeed complete the job in less than seven minutes only for me to see the scales and realize I bought just over five pounds of shrimp. The heads comprise nearly half of the weight so this is not going to be nearly as cheap as I had originally thought. I sheepishly ask for him to prep a few more pounds to bring me up to eight pounds total, and I again offer to pay him for his trouble. He refuses my offer, hands me my crustaceans and instructs me to tell my friends about him and come back the next time I host a Low Country Boil.

Consider it done, Cap'n Bill.

The final product!

Lopsided Living at It's Best

2010-05-25T13:47:00.010-04:00

Dear reader,

I had every intention of continuing with my thoughts on recent changes in my life and in my thinking, but I'm delaying part 2 of the Paradigm Shift (at least for now) and embracing a little lopsided living. To celebrate our anniversary my dear husband has made arrangements for us to spend two nights at The Beachview Club on Jekyll Island (shhh...I think it's even in one of the luxury suites). The name says it all...the sound of waves crashing and a view of the sun rising over the Atlantic - all from our suite. No kids, no responsibilities...just he and I (see I told you it was lopsided).

Go ahead...be jealous.

A Paradigm Shift - Part 1

2010-05-24T10:55:00.007-04:00

Interestingly enough, I've recently been challenged to rethink a couple of ideas I simply assumed to be true. First, I read Shopping for Time by Carolyn Mahaney and her daughters. I requested it on PaperBackSwap ages ago and so can't even remember the life events that precipitated me thinking I needed the book. In any case, when it arrived I rolled my eyes at the sub-title, "How to Do It All and NOT Be Overwhelmed." Uh...yeah...right. Another book that promises the moon. I've an entire bookshelf lined with those books, so what's one more for the collection? Seriously, if the books on my shelves delivered all that I thought they would, I'd be the perfect wife, have an immaculate house, the laundry would always be caught up, perfectly well behaved children who all achieve National Merit Scholar status would live in my house, in addition to me being thin and svelte. So, why not read this one too. Really, it can't hurt to read it and...well...I'm a sucker for that elusive pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, so I starting plotting when I could squeeze it into my schedule.

In a moment of weakness over spring break, I took the younger girls to the beach (not my fav place to share with 3 million people) and thought I'd zoom through the short book before relegating it to the bookshelf....or the most drastic fate at book can meet at our house - that of being re-swapped at PBS.com. Beach weather was perfect and I devoured the book.

Not only is it NOT getting re-swapped just yet, I'm actually implementing many ideas from the book and am only on tip 2 of the 5 suggested for "finding more time". What ARE tip one and two that I have faithfully implemented you ask? Well...let's just say it involves an alarm clock and copious amounts of caffeine (at least initially). Yep...that's right. I'm getting up early...me...the night owl who relishes every moment of stillness after all the kids are in bed is getting up at 5am (or 5:30am depending on how early I can get in bed) and having a quiet time with the Lord. It's amazing really. After so many years of KNOWING my best hours of sleep come between 4am and 7am, this is a real paradigm shift.

My second challenge has come from my dear friend over at Pleasing to You who has just completed a series entitled Anti-Balance with this cute little tag line, "living lopsided and loving it". Hop on over and check it out. In my next few posts, I'll share more about my new routine...both the up side and the down side...as well as some thoughts on "lopsided living".

It's a Wrap

2010-05-09T16:53:00.008-04:00

Last weekend was CRAZY, but I think I've recovered enough to give a quick summary. Hannah's nearing the end of show season, and it appears she has enough points to qualify for the state show in Perry, GA Labor Day weekend. Apparently my summer will be filled with daily trips to the barn so Hannah can keep the horse in tip-top shape. While it's not Hannah's horse, she is the only one riding, grooming and taking care of her this summer.
After Hannah finished showing, I popped into Panera Bread for some lunch with Patrick's family before heading home to pick up Victoria at her friend's birthday party. I arrived home in time to see a very handsomely dressed young man preparing for prom.
After we snapped a few pictures at the group meeting place, they headed to dinner on Jekyll Island, and we crossed town to pick up Hannah from the barn. We missed the Kentucky Derby (much to Hannah's dismay), but she did catch the replay of the race - over and over.

I spent the rest of the evening acting like Santa Clause, making lists and checking them twice. Victoria had a pageant (on Sunday...grrr...) that require SIX changes of clothing. The pageant, her first ever with an interview, talent and modeling categories was a bigger undertaking than I had ever imagined. I did manage to remember everything - except a fully charged FLIP, so I have no video. Waaa... The good news is, she won her division and will be able to participate in the state pageant in July. Thankfully, I don't think there's a lot of changes to be made to her "pageant game plan", so it aught not be too traumatic to prepare for.

Getting ready to tap to Judy Garland's, "Get Happy" from the musical Summer Stock.
She won best talent, despite slipping and sliding like she was tapping on ice. She fell during the opening sequence, but hopped up, kept smiling and found her place with the music. All three judges commented how how well she maintained her composure despite the less than ideal tapping surface.

Casual Wear - I love this outfit that Mary (the lady who talked me into letting my girls try pageants - and trains them how to be proper ladies) found at a little shop on St. Simons.

The famous green dress! Victoria LOVES this dress...second only to the blue dress she has (sadly) outgrown. Amazingly, we found this dress used at a local formal wear store, Essentials. I had been trying to work up the courage to ebay her old blue dress, but much to my delight, Essentials liked it and bought it from me for nearly as much as they sold me the green one. Yeah...I get the old dress out of the house, they gain a dress in a size they are low on, Victoria has a new dress she adores...for less money that it takes to feed the family a meal at Chick-fil-a.

Shew...it was quite a weekend. Mother's Day has been pretty chill - Patrick's family for lunch and then a little reading in the hammock. Lovely!

Inspiring Ideas: Mother's Day Giveaway

2010-04-25T19:52:00.002-04:00

My next door dorm neighbor from my freshman year at ORU has a Mother's Day give away at her blog, Inspiring Ideas. I suspect she's as charming now as she was twenty some years ago - the kind of person you'd love to sit and have coffee with and reminisce about special times from another phase of life. Check out her stuff the next time you find yourself in a Hallmark store - isn't it impressive that I know someone so famous? :-)

Quote of the Week

2010-04-23T12:15:00.006-04:00

Patrick's been in San Diego at the Christian Leadership Alliance conference. With the time difference, our schedules haven't worked out for us to talk much, but one morning I suspended school to chat. He informed me that he has started Twittering (or is it Tweeting?). When I told the kids their dad was now a Twitter-er, a child who shall remain nameless quipped, "Oh, no...Dad's having a mid-life crisis."

"Spring" is Bustin' Out All Over

2010-04-19T17:57:00.009-04:00

I seems there's a song from a musical for every occasion. With a little modification to "June is Bustin' Out All Over" from Carousel , we have the perfect description of south Georgia.

The purple verbena are covering the ground.

I don't even know what this little guy is...anyone?

My knockout roses make me look like a master gardener while, in reality, they seem to thrive on neglect. They are already covered with blooms.

The bottlebrush plant will soon be loaded with hundreds of huge red blooms.

These coreopsis are in full bloom, and I'm looking forward to fresh cut flowers again. Finally...it's been a long winter for us southerners

I started to take this picture to complain about the long cold snap claiming the life of my hibiscus. Much to my delight, I discovered this:

I guess I'll cut it back and see what happens.

Coming Soon: Tiger lilies and hydrangeas.

*************************************
The weather today was perfect for being in the garden, so I decided this was the day to plant. I donned my rain boots (in an effort to avoid coating my shoes with "barn fertilizer") and was still wearing cropped yoga pants and a tee shirt from my early morning pilates workout. Believe me, I was making quite a fashion statement. No problem though...I'm far back in my own yard, right? Yeah, until the pest control guy wanders over from the neighbor's house to tell me he'll be right over to check our termite stations. Busted! Completely busted! Really, there's no redeeming yourself dressed like that.

Despite a few moments of embarrassment over my awful attire, I did get everything planted. I'm even giving an heirloom tomato a try.

Quarterly Progress Report

2010-04-18T19:01:00.006-04:00

Last week I was thinking about my goals/resolutions that I had set at the beginning of the year. I was lamenting how badly I'm failing at keeping up this blog and thought I might need to revisit that post to even remember what the other goals were. I'm not in horrible shape, but I probably need to redouble my efforts with the couple of them.

Goal #1 is to learn to use my phone. I'm making progress, but thinking it's a losing battle. I'm the only one in the house who doesn't use an Apple product for music and podcasts so it's just a bother to remember how to convert the files to the mp3 format - consequently I never get around to it. I also don't have a case to hold the phone when I walk and run, so it's just not all I need it to be.

Goal #2 is to learn to use my flip. I'm on my way with this one, and as evidence I have this to offer from the horse show yesterday.

Not only do I know how to load video, Hannah figured out how to make a movie with clips from different recordings and how to add music. I'm well on my way with #2.

Goal #3 is planning menus. Can I just plead the 5th on this one? "Nough said.

Goal #4 is to blog more. This is a work in progress and so far I'm not making much headway. I do have nearly three-fourths of the year left, so there's still hope.

Goal #5 is related to Christmas and therefore not applicable. I can still make good on that one.

In addition to those five, I do have a sixth one I'm working on, but it's not ready for a public unveiling. It's one of those resolutions that I'm tempted to make every year, but know I never follow though and have just about given up completely. So, maybe I'll be able to report success in an area that has been a major source of guilt for quite some time. Maybe...

So, how 'bout you? Are you making headway with any of your resolutions?

A Breakthough

2010-04-15T09:29:00.009-04:00

Yep, it's true...after nearly 13 years of homeschooling, I've had a breakthrough. A friend (and I use that term quite loosing) dropped by unexpectedly. Most of you know what my days consist of: normal housekeeping duties, school, and watching my darling 21 month old niece. Most of you also know I can be a little housekeeping challenged. Believe me, the irony of someone "housekeeping challenged" having four kids at home 24/7 is not lost on me. On more than one occasion it's felt like some sort of cosmic joke. Needless to say, the house can occasionally "get away from me". (How's that for the understatement of the year?) I really CAN get it cleaned up and I'm really never horribly, horribly behind on the laundry; so it's not like my family's constantly wading through dirty laundry and strewn books and papers to get from one room to the other. But neither is my house going to be photographed for "Southern Living" or mistaken for a museum any time soon.

All that to say, yesterday when this rather inquisitive friend walked into my house and announced that she had never seen my "new" home (we've lived here nearly 5 years and she had dropped by for a chat about a year ago and HAD seen the house), she proceeded to snoop though the downstairs. And that's when it happened - a complete breakthrough. I didn't apologize when she walked into the kitchen and found THIS on the gathering table.

Normally I would have made excuses. I would have scrambled to tidy up when she excused herself to the powder room. Nope, not now. I think, at 41 years old, I'm finally comfortable in my own skin. I know the house will get cleaned up, eventually.

A few days ago, I read Thorton Wilder's Our Town for the first time. I THINK I saw the play in college, but didn't really understand it. But reading it now, at 41 years old and with a daughter who's itching to fly the coop, I heard loud and clear what Wilder was saying. I won't remember how many days the stationary for Kevin's Haiti letters and the unprinted graduation announcements lay on the table, but I will remember watching Victoria's grinning face as she practices her tap routine to Judy Garland's song "Get Happy". No telling how many times the Rod's Western Wear catalog will get moved around downstairs before it's finally pitched, but I sure am enjoying watching Hannah devour her new book, Centered Riding. I'm not naive enough to think I can fully appreciate the little things in life (just as Wilder was pointing out in his play). But I DO know how badly I used to beat myself up over the clutter on the table. Now that I'm seeing it as evidence of a full life, I know I'm making progress. Like Thorton's Grover's Corners, my life isn't perfect or idyllic, but it is filled with uneventful, ordinary days that add up to something very special.

So, stop by any time. I'll be happy to move the books off the sofa to make a place for you to sit down. I'll fix your beverage of choice, but you must promise to ignore the untidiness - because I'm not apologizing for it.

2010-04-08T17:01:00.001-04:00

Playin' at the barn

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So, which is it?

2010-04-07T20:58:00.004-04:00

Who knew Frank Stockton's short story could spark such a firestorm of debate, both in my reading club at co-op and here at home; but that's exactly what "The Lady or the Tiger" has done. I'd love to hear your reaction to the story (if you aren't familiar with it or haven't read it for a while, it's online here). Everyone seems to have strong reactions one way or another, and Patrick and I have our opinions about who selects the lady and who selects the tiger. I'd love for you to weigh in with your opinion in an effort to test our hypothesis.

Wall Words - My New Obsession

2010-04-05T21:29:00.004-04:00

I've been looking for the perfect addition to the walls in the breakfast room/library/media center. Here's my solution.

Desperate Times

2010-03-25T11:01:00.005-04:00

As a rule I don't do bumper stickers, yet I just found myself carefully, ever so carefully, positioning a political statement on my van. It's painful. I hate bumper stickers, yet feel I need to do more than write a check to the campaign I support. AND this is a good friend. Jesus laid down his life for his friends. Me? I'm just swallowing my pride (for a few months anyway).

But, do you notice my shiny, scratch-free bumper? That would be compliments of Progressive and the inattentive driver who bumped into me a few weeks ago.

Attention Please!

2010-03-22T16:32:00.007-04:00

We will now take this moment and break from the horrors of the healthcare debate to look at that pale blue form from the government that arrived in your mailbox last week. It seems pretty straightforward, but is it? How many people were living or staying in this house, apartment, or mobile home on April 1, 2010? But they sent the form several weeks prior to April 1. Do I wait until April 1 to fill it out, so I can answer definitively? Oh, but then I received a card in the mail saying, hurry up and send in your census form or you're going to be fined (okay, so it didn't say that exactly, but something to that effect). So I suppose it's okay to assume none of my kids will run away in the next week, and I can simply write a six in that first box.

Question number two seems superfluous or insulting. I'm not sure which. Either it's redundant or insinuates I'm an idiot and don't know how to answer question one.

Question three is the one the is leaving me scratching my head. It reads:
Is this house, apartment or mobile home - Mark ONE box.

Owned by you or someone in the household with a mortgage or loan? Including home equity loans?

Owned by you or someone in the household free and clear (without a mortgage or loan)?

Rented?

Occupied without payment of rent?

I can understand having this as a sentence completion - but why is it a question? Do they mean to say "mark the box that makes a question to which you can answer 'yes'"? That seems awkward. Why doesn't the form say "This house, apartment or mobile home is....and then give the previous choices. Since the census bureau never specifies WHAT the answer to the question is supposed to be, just for the fun of it (okay...just to be spiteful) am I allowed to mark any box (because I could just answer "no" to three of the four choices) to create which ever question I feel like answering?

Okay...that's probably enough of my snarky attitude for today. You may now resume whatever it was (probably something productive) you were doing before you wasted your time here.

One for the Ages

2010-03-07T21:46:00.006-05:00

The following facebook dialogue needs to be preserved for the ages! If you had told me 10 years ago that MY Hannah would be giving parenting advise and thanking me for requiring first time obedience, I probably would have fainted. I'm NOT kidding.

Sarah Burgess Rath 1st time obedience. This will be a difficult week for this Moms heart but I know it is the right way because it's God's way.

about an hour ago via Facebook for iPhone · Comment ·

Hannah Eades

Even though it it hard keep doing it!! Your children will thank you some day( from personal thanking point of view)!

about an hour ago

Natalie Rath Eades

You can pay now, or you can pay later...either way it's gonna cost you something. The price now is much lower than it will be later. If you need encouragement, I'll be your biggest cheerleader. I'm here for you!

about an hour ago ·

Sarah Burgess Rath

Thanks both of you. We are taking a great class at church and had just returned and of course an opportunity presented itself pretty much immediately. I feel like an idiot in not really knowing discipline as it was meant to be done but feel much better now that I do.

48 minutes ago

Hannah Eades

Obedience- right away, all the way, with a happy spirit...Delayed obedience is not obedience!!

43 minutes ago

Ruth Ann Mack Schroeder

Hannah you are too wise for your years, is this a voice of experience. Love you, girl.

After Hannah pressed "comment" to submit her "delayed obedience is not obedience" bit of wisdom, she looked at me and mused, "This is probably going to come back to bite me."

Gulping vs. Savoring

2010-03-07T17:02:00.005-05:00

For as long as I can remember, I've loved books and reading. As a child, I remember lazy summer days spent reading Laura Ingalls Wilder's Little House on the Prairie series and then devouring my set of Trixie Beldon mysteries. I've never had much self control once I'm off and running with a good book. Once when Alyssa was a baby, I remember finishing a book and anxiously awaiting her to wake up from her nap so I could dash off to the bookstore to buy the sequel. As far as I was concerned, books were for inhaling as fast as time allowed. The more the merrier, right?

I've also have never been a fan of re-reading a book. I've always figured with so many books out there, why would I waste my limited reading time on a book I've already devoured. Well, turns out I'm beginning to change my mind. Yep, it's true...I'm having a paradigm shift.

It all started with Hannah's reading schedule for the year. I decided to have her roughly follow the recommendations of Ambleside Online for 7th grade - particularly the history, literature, and devotional books. When we started, I was skeptical how Hannah would do with it - reading multiple books at a time, but only in measured doses. Turns out she doesn't really like it much more than I expected...but I keep reminding her that this slow pace allows her to really interact with the book, soak it up and let it become a part of her (while I mostly believed what I was saying, I was secretly glad it wasn't me reading those books at a snail's pace).

But then, during a book club meeting a few weeks ago, I asked the kids a question about a book I had assigned a couple of weeks before. One girl piped up and said, "I can't remember anything from that book. I read the whole thing in one night". Hmmm...not exactly the results I have in mind when I assign a book. Ambleside Online (and their Charlotte Mason approach to education) really is on to something.

Then my book club started reading The Chosen by Chaim Potok. It's my second time through what I've long called one of my all-time favorite books. I really started re-reading it just to refresh my memory for the discussion, but honestly, I'm sucked in just like I was the first time I read it...only more. While I've heard others expound on the merits of reading books two or three times, I just didn't think that a book could be good enough to captivate me a second time. I simply hoped the merits others talked about outweighed the boredom of reading the book over again. Turns out I was dead wrong. I'm noticing even more the brilliance of Chaim Potok, the beauty of his language, the countless ways he uses literary devices, and how tightly and intricately woven his story is to his theme.

So, after 17 years of education and 12 years of home schooling, I'm finally realizing the gems that can be mined if I'm willing to slow down and savor books rather than gulping them down as quickly as time allows. I'm seeing the merits of a more vertical education, digging deeper in few places rather than scratching the surface as we wander through large stacks of books.

And yes, all this should have been evident to me years ago, but I suppose I'm just a little slow. So, pick up an old favorite and read it again. I bet you see it in a whole new light.

Hannah and Lacey

2010-02-27T18:45:00.006-05:00

Before you watch, I need you to do me a favor. Please turn DOWN your volume. I am heard trying to turn the horse in a 360 degree circle...like my whispering and other coaching is going to help? Guess I'll fix that next time around.

And this is how the judge saw it!

2010-02-23T22:07:00.008-05:00

For my friends up north,
this is for you - a little glimpse of springtime.

Even my pitiful little hyacinths are trying to appear.

And, I guess I should enjoy the camellias while I can. The low tomorrow night is supposed to dip below freezing, so they'll all be brown and sorry looking on Thursday.

Happy Valentine's Day

2010-02-14T22:34:00.004-05:00

Hope you had a terrific day with your Valentine!

I do believe Hannah has perfected the art of making chocolate creme brulee. She made a practice batch last week that was pretty good, but her effort for Valentine's Day was flawless - creamy, chocolaty and divine. Seriously, I think this just might be my all time favorite dessert.

Patrick is the official guy in charge of caramelizing the top...but is sorely disappointed that I didn't purchase a torch like Paula Deen uses (looked like some kind of giant shop torch that should be stored in the garage).

For anyone interested, Hannah uses Paula Deen's recipe. If you follow the link, there's even a demonstration video. The girls have watched it quite a few times, and now Victoria can do a hysterical Paula Deen imitation. Fyi, we didn't have any chocolate liqueur (what the recipe calls for) or Grand Marnier (what Bonefish uses), so we substituted 1/2 t. of orange extract and 1 1/2 Tbsp. of orange juice. It was plenty chocolaty without the liqueur and orange extract was a suitable substitute for the Grand Marnier. Go ahead...give it a try. It's not hard at all!

Too Pretty to Eat

2010-01-24T22:19:00.005-05:00

Here is the cake that will never be eaten...not really because we can't bear to cut it, but because we fear for our future if we do. You see...just a few short hours after Hannah finished icing and assembling this cake, she came down with a nasty stomach bug. We might have thought it was just something she ate, except Patrick came down with it too; all just a few days after Alyssa was down with it.

Victoria's birthday present was tickets to see the ballet, Cinderella in Atlanta. So, in keeping with that theme, Hannah designed this cake:

She put in so much time and effort, I can't bear to throw it away; but neither can anyone bear to eat it.

Saving and Losing

2010-01-09T11:14:00.005-05:00

So, here I am, the second week of the new year, and it's hitting me why I don't plan menus. I'm not convinced that it saves me time.

Here's what my planning time has looked like so far. I noticed on facebook earlier this morning that Terri Lynne at Pleasing to You mentioned loving $5 dinner mom. I'm thinking…all right…score – dinner for $5! I google $5 dinners and find the website. Snoop around there for a few minutes, look at recipes and follow links to various other websites, including but not limited to: Frugal Dr. Mom, Ronzoni Healthy Harvest (to get a coupon), Life as Mom, and Coupon Teacher. I've now spend thirty minutes on the computer and still don't have a menu for next week. I have, however, increased the guilt I already feel over not being more frugal. By the way, I suspect the $5 dinner lady doesn't have four children, three of which are teenagers. I'm just guessin'.

So I have to ask myself…is this worth it? Or am I better off pulling into the Publix parking lot with no menu planned and only the bare necessities (you know, eggs, milk, chocolate) on my list and just winging it. You know…let the sale circular inspire as you wander aimlessly through the store. While it sounds fun, and I'm fairly adept at that method; I do know the drawback. In the middle of prepping tomorrow's dinner, I will realize I don't have one critical ingredient and another trip to the store is necessary.

What to do, what to do. Am I saving money? Losing time? Can't decide.

Attempt #1

2010-01-08T16:24:00.002-05:00

We're about to see if the FLIP is as easy as everyone says it is. Here's a clip from Hannah's most recent riding lesson.

I think it worked. One goal down! Another goal is on hold. My phone has been having issues, so Verizon is replacing it with an upgrade. It will be here Monday, so I'll be starting from scratch. Good grief...this from a gal who rarely upgrades her phone...two new phones in 8 months. I'll keep you posted!

I hereby resolve...

2010-01-02T14:05:00.012-05:00

Hmmm....I don't make New Year resolutions any more. I think the lackadaisical attitude comes with being 40ish and having seen so many unsuccessful resolutions come and go in my younger years. However, this year I'm going to set some goals...some big, some little, and some just plain silly; but here is the beginning of my list.

1. Learn to use my phone. Yes, I know...most of you talk to me on my phone and I CAN use it to call people, but I really am going to use the features on it. I selected this phone so I could consolidate gadgets and not have to take my mp3 player AND my phone into the gym. I tried to upload some podcasts, only to have just the first few minutes of each one actually show up in the play list. Grrr....I WILL conquer my phone.

2. Learn to use my Christmas presents. Yes, I must have been a good girl this year... I got a Flip! Isn't that fun?! Supposedly they are amazingly simple, so I should be in good shape, but we must never underestimate my ability to be a complete technology dunce. You'll know if I succeed here...if I post videos. I also received a French press coffee maker from my daughter. I'm still perfecting my skill at getting just the perfect brew, but stop in any time and I'll make us a pot.

3. Plan menus ahead. I have been trouble shooting some issues in my life. For many years I was on top of things (or at least I was compared to now) and felt much more at peace. Then the kids grew up, schedules got complicated, we weren't eating the things the way I had planned and the pendulum swung the other way. I gave up planning (well...the plans never worked out so why continue) and now I rarely know what we are eating at the next meal. Thus, we end up eating out more than we should, simply because I am paralyzed in the kitchen. This year, I'm going to try to plan flexible meals that will work into our schedule if we are home or can be made at a later date without wasting ingredients. I may even try to cook ahead and freeze some meals.

4. Blog more. I saw that for less than $20 I could have my blog from last year made into a book. I would love to do an annual "this is our life" book to pass on to my grandchildren some day. But let's be real; at this point, those grandkids would just see how scattered I am and how inconsistently I post here.

5. Decorate, really decorate for Christmas next year. I've only given it a half hearted effort for too many years. Next year, I'm going all out. If I say it all year long...maybe then it will happen.

That's all I can think of right now. I reserve the right to add to my list. How 'bout you...what are your goals for the new year?

Happy New Year!

2009-12-31T16:17:00.002-05:00

Wow, 2009 is drawing to a close and I don't want to let the year end without a shout out to a few people. These people don't even read my blog (I know....there are precious few of you readers out there), but I LOVE looking back at old posts, so I'm doing this more for posterity's sake than to actually thank these terrific people.

To my husband - Wow...our 20th Christmas together. I'm excited to see what happens in the next 20 years. Life with you is always exciting.

To Alyssa - You, my dear daughter, have blossomed into an amazing young woman. I'm privileged to be your mother. Thank you for being my "guinea pig". I'm excited to see what God has in store for you next year.

Kevin - Your desire to serve the Lord here and abroad is such an inspiration to those around you. I'm truly thankful for the "front row seat" that I have been given in your life. I can't wait to see what all God is going to do through you.

Hannah - You are amazing. I love watching you cultivate those things in your life that you are passionate about. Thank you for being patient with me. Sometimes I think we are too alike for our own good. :-)

Victoria - Your zeal for life is precious - thank you for making me smile. I love watching you dance and your stage presence is amazing! You are soon going to be 11 years old...I guess I don't have little girls any more.

To Wendy Jeffries - YOU are a blessing, a true gift from God! You are more than a riding instructor, horse trainer and owner of the most beautiful stables around...you are a tremendous mentor to my daughter. What a privilege to see her blossom under your tutelage.

To Mark Linton - Thank you for imparting life to my children. You inspire them to seek the Lord for themselves, not just attend church because that's what our family does. Your energy and enthusiasm are contagious.

To the friends of Carenet Pregnancy Center of Coastal Georgia - Thank you for your prayers and generosity. In the midst of strange economic times, YOU have been faithful and Carenet is thriving. What a blessing to look back over this past year and see God's faithfulness. It's because of YOU women are served and lives are changed.

May God richly bless you in 2010.

Merry Christmas

2009-12-25T22:22:00.005-05:00

As a lover of Christmas music of all kinds, I like to think I'm pretty well versed (no pun intended) in traditional carols. However, at the Christmas Eve service last night I was struck by the richness of the lyrics of some of the lesser known verses of common carols. This one especially caught my attention.

What Child is this who, laid to rest On Mary's lap is sleeping? Whom Angels greet with anthems sweet, While shepherds watch are keeping?

[CHORUS] This, this is Christ the King, Whom shepherds guard and Angels sing; Haste, haste, to bring Him laud, The Babe, the Son of Mary.

Okay...so we all know this part. One of my favorites.

Why lies He in such mean estate, Where ox and ass are feeding? Good Christians, fear, for sinners here The silent Word is pleading.

[CHORUS]

Okay...so we hear this verse occasionally.

Nails, spear shall pierce Him through, The cross be borne for me, for you. Hail, hail the Word made flesh, The Babe, the Son of Mary.

[CHORUS]

Wow...the entire gospel, right here in this hymn. I LOVE this verse.

So bring Him incense, gold and myrrh, Come peasant, king to own Him; The King of kings salvation brings, Let loving hearts enthrone Him.

[CHORUS]

Raise, raise a song on high,
The virgin sings her lullaby.
Joy, joy for Christ is born,
The Babe, the Son of Mary.

Hope you have enjoyed the season!

Happy Birthday Patrick!

2009-12-20T16:00:00.008-05:00

In the midst of all the Christmas hustle and bustle, we did pause to celebrate Patrick's birthday. All kids were present (no small feat considering everyone's conflicting schedules) and a good time was had by all. After a delicious birthday dinner, some chocolate cake that was to die for, and a couple of presents, we topped the night off with our annual viewing of It's a Wonderful Life.

Mmmm...just gotta love Publix bakery's decadent dessert line.
My goal is to try them all.

Patrick's office is about to be refurnished, so I thought he needed something new on the wall, you know...something trendy and sophisticated...like a quote from Winnie the Pooh.

Christmas with a Toddler

2009-12-14T23:15:00.009-05:00

In the midst of my hurried house decorating, I forgot that a toddler roams the house four days a week. I wasn't worried about her getting ornaments from the tree, as she's quite obedient and rarely out of sight. However, Caitlyn did manage, in a brief moment, to find some baubles on a little side table. Most were plastic, so when she threw them down, it was as if she was playing with balls...toys of her own. But when she threw down a glass one, we all came running. We found her staring at the shattered, red ornament saying, "Uh, oh...NO, NO baby!" We all burst out laughing...how do you reprimand a child who chastises herself?

Let's Play Jeopardy

2009-11-12T22:50:00.010-05:00

Alex, I’ll take NYC numbers for 100

The answer is: Three

How many college friends met together to reconnect; OR how many seconds did it take to feel like we’d never been apart OR how many times did Natalie buy hot, melt in your mouth coconut, almonds, peanuts and cashews from the Nuts for Nuts vendors on the street? Seriously, it’s a good thing I don’t live near those vendors…they could be addicting.

Alex, I’ll take NYC numbers for 200

The answer is: One

How many times did Laura and Natalie wander aimlessly trying to figure out where they needed to go next. Yes, after leaving the Empire State Building, we circled the entire block once before realizing where we needed to go to catch the subway to Uptown. We were quite pleased with ourselves that we navigated the city by ourselves so well.

NYC Numbers for 300

The answer is: 3000

Approx- imately how many calories were in the cheese cake and frozen hot chocolate Laura and Natalie sampled at Serendipity 3? For a fleeting moment, we considered a third dessert when we heard a waiter tell a neighboring table that the peanut butter frozen hot chocolate is like drinking Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. Yummmm……

Alex, I’ll take NYC Numbers for 400

The Answer is: 12 Million

How many 19^th and 20^th Century paintings did we look at in the MET? Okay, maybe that’s an exag- geration, but it was a lot; or how many people were AT the MET while we were there? I hate crowds, so it was sensory overload in each and every way possible.

NYC Numbers for 500, Alex

The Answer is: 12 or more

How many Broadway shows would Natalie see if she had the time and money to see them? Alas…I settled for one, South Pacific. We fell in love with Paulo Szot's (Emile de Becque) voice. Oh my…hearing him sing Some Enchanted Evening is enough to make any young woman fall in love with him.

I can now say I’ve seen Times Square, Central Park, the Empire State Building, and Ground Zero. I’ve shopped on Canal Street (no, I don’t want a Gucci, Coach OR Chanel bag), bought $5 pashminas and walked more in one weekend that I ever imagined. I’m hoping this is the first of many reunions with dear friends. Angelique and Laura, my life is richer when you are a part of it.

Skipping the Rambling

2009-10-18T22:13:00.006-04:00

You'll be relieved to have me simply post pictures and skip the 1000 words.

Here's what my weekend looked like.

And then on Sunday.

And, before you ask; no, I did not make the cookies. I could have, if I had the time and talent. As it is, I just have connections to people with the time and talent.

Also, if you are in the neighborhood, drop by for some tiramisu. I begged the owner of a local Italian place to let me buy a pan of his Godiva cocoa sprinkled tiramisu for the baby shower. He reluctantly agreed and gave me a fair price for what I thought was going to be a 10x13 pan of deliciousness. Turns out, he only had a monster size pan and so made me enough tiramisu for the whole neighborhood. Seriously, the pan barely fit in my refrigerator. I feel a little bad...as he probably lost money on the proposition; but I did tell everyone where it came from, so I guess he could just consider it an advertising expense.

Oops...sorry. I guess I just can't help a little rambling.

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2009-10-10T22:36:00.005-04:00

Since I seem to have no time to think up clever, pithy blog posts (especially like my dear friend Micki) I'll steal an idea from another homeschool mom. Here is: The Simple Woman's Daybook

Outside My Window -- it's dark, not even any moonlight. Is it a new moon?

I am thinking.... how glad I am that one of my dear friend's husband is running for a State Senate seat. I'm thinking how glad I am that it's her getting to be the congenial trophy wife and not me. We attended the Brunswick Stewbilee in 90+ degree weather today. I got to go home after only and hour and a half of sweat and misery. She stayed for hours "meeting and greeting". Lord bless 'em...that's all I got to say.

I am thankful for.... great kids. Really, they are so much better than I deserve.

From the learning room.... I started reading Robinson Crusoe to Hannah and Victoria. I didn't exactly love it when I read it for the first time a few years ago and but it seems a bit more palatable the second go around. Hannah in particular seems to be enjoying it.

From the kitchen.... Hannah made cherry turnovers for dessert tonight. Quite yummy!

I am wearing.... shorts and a tank top. Yes, I know...it's supposed to be autumn. Southeast Georgia didn't get the memo and thinks it's still the peak of summer.

I am reading.....Paul Johnson's A History of the American People. I love his style...In talking about the original settlers he says, "America had the liberty of vast size. That was a luxury denied to the English; the constraints of their small island made dissent a danger and conformity a virtue. That indeed was why English settlers came to America. A man could stand on Cape Cod with his face to the sea and feel all the immensity of the Atlantic Ocean in front of him, separating him, like a benevolent moat, from the the restrictions and conformities of narrow Europe. And, equally, he could feel behind him---and, if he turned round, see it---the immensity of the land, undiscovered, unexplored, scarcely populated at all, a huge, experimental theater of liberty...Here was the dominant geopolitical fact which bore down upon the settlers from their first days on the new continent: if they did not like the system they found on the coast, and if they had the courage, they could go on. Nothing would stop them, except their own fear." The man can turn a phrase: benevolent moat, dissent a danger and conformity a virtue...love it!

I am hoping.... I can really implement Ambleside Online with Hannah this year, and even some with Victoria. I'm sensing the need for some beauty in our lives...studying some composers, artists...doing the things I've always wanted to do in our school but haven't. We're going to slow down and smell the flowers along the way, and maybe sketch then as well.

I am hearing.... a Georgia Tech football game. Go Yellow Jackets!

A few plans for the rest of the week.... Ummm...well...the week ends in less than 30 minutes, but for next week, I'll be planning a baby shower to be held here next Sunday afternoon, doing a normal school week, teaching a Bible study at Carenet on Monday, attending the Kingsland fundraising banquet on Thursday, and watching Hannah's second horse show of the season on Saturday.

This is written in the tradition of The Simple Woman's Daybook.

How's that working for you?

2009-09-23T22:05:00.016-04:00

Generally I eschew daytime television and pop psychology, but I have to admit Dr. Phil's words are echoing in my head today.

The school day was moving along normally until 10:15 when Kevin asked for the denatured alcohol to put into the bunsen burner for his chemistry exper- iment. It was no where to be found, so I was tempted to tell him to just use the stove. But, it's the beginning of the school year and I'm still feeling like I need to do everything by the book, so I decide to run to Wal-mart and pick some up. But, as I pull up to the first stop light, my aversion to Wal-mart kicks into high gear and I talk myself into going to Winn Dixie (for all you yankees-that's a grocery store). It's closer and a less painful shopping experience. After hunting down a few groceries, I wander around the newly renovated store looking for the item I came for. No luck. So I ask a group of employees where I might find denatured alcohol. They look at me like I'm not speaking English, but one finally pipes up and asks if you drink it. I resist saying "only if you're suicidal". After an all out hunt involving 3 employees, one who thinks they used to have it but doesn't remember seeing since the remodel, I give up and follow their suggestion to try the Family Dollar just a few stores down in the strip mall.

Family Dollar was a bust, so I head to Wal-mart. But on the way I have to pass Target, and I'd MUCH rather shop at Target than Wal-mart, so I turn in. Here I only stump 2 employees with my odd request. After a bit of roaming around by one employee and another checking the computer for the item (but she confessed to not knowing how to spell it, so it COULD be somewhere in the store), I realize I need to go home and check on lunch progress.

But, on the way out of Target's parking lot, I pass a hobby store that I had heard has science supplies. Ah, I think to myself, "Maybe THEY have some," so I whip into a parking space near the door. Turns out they don't stock the item, but the nice man behind the counter did know what denatured alcohol was...and knew that the people who fly model helicopters use them to remove stickers. Exactly! I'm getting closer...at least I've found someone who knows what denatured alcohol is?

I return home to find everything going smoothly, help feed Caitlyn, who had just gotten up from her nap, and suggest just using the stove to heat the beaker. But, seeing the burner, the stand, the thermometer and Kevin's sad puppy dog eyes, I volunteer to go to Wal-mart. After all, I don't want to squelch his enthusiasm for chemistry, right? Really, I fear he doesn't care about chemistry, but does want to play with fire.

So, I head to my FIFTH, yes fifth, store in my quest to find something I should have already purchased. After looking a couple of places I think it might be, I head to the hardware department, thinking it might be near other adhesive removers. I immediately see an employee and hold my breath as I ask for denatured alcohol. To my great surprise, a second employee overhears me and says "behind the paint counter". What! Someone who knows what I'm talking about AND knows where to find it. I could have hugged her....really! I can't help but think, "why didn't I just come here first?"

My family knows how much I despise Wal-mart. When someone wants to go there I groan inwardly (and usually outwardly). I'd rather take a beating than shop at Wal-mart. But, I confess, today my aversion wasted the better part of an hour. I'm willing to swallow my pride and admit "this might not be working for me".

The New Normal or Same Old Chaos?

2009-09-22T20:35:00.003-04:00

School has officially been in session for a month, but we are still looking to find our groove. I'm hoping this isn't how the whole year is going to feel, and we can settle into a routine soon.

Alyssa continues to work at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center and has added a bit of nanny-ing to her schedule. For the first time in twelve years I am not her primary teacher, as those duties have been relegated to the local college and an online instructor.

Kevin continues to work at Grandy's and volunteer at Braveheart. Combined with his church activities and social schedule; working, volunteering and school keep him fairly occupied.

Hannah continues to love her horseback riding. We're going to attempt to get her to the barn more often this year, so she's thrilled. She's decided to try her hand at Western riding, so we'll shove all the English paraphernalia to the back of the closet and make way for the cowboy hat and spurs. Stay tuned for updates as her first show is a week from Saturday.

Victoria just keeps dancing which means I keep on costuming. Nutcracker is in full swing, so I forbid her from auditioning for a lead part in the Christmas play at church. I confess, I am a mean mom!

And last, but certainly not least, is little Caitlyn. She is a joy from the time she arrives until she is picked up. A few "Hannah-like" behaviors have begun to emerge, so she might end up being more of a challenge than first suspected. But hey, I've got some practice under my belt, so I'm not intimidated.

All in all, we're surviving the new school year, and with Patrick's "banquet season" (3 fundraising banquets in 3 weeks) fast upon us, chaos my not give way to normal until...the holidays. Yeah, right.

Father of the Year

2009-09-16T22:38:00.010-04:00

Okay, so most of you sports fans have probably already seen this; but in case you haven't, check it out here. This guy deserves an award for his reaction to his daughter's shocking throw. Really, this guy must be a gem!

And then, if you have a tissue handy, check out this article about Albert Pujols. See why he's so popular around our house?

Which Season Is It?

2009-09-11T19:29:00.007-04:00

Every year about this time I grow nostalgic. As a rule, I love living in the South. But when the beginning of school rolls around and we're still running the air conditioning twenty-four hours a day - every day, I begin to long for autumn in Ohio. I just can't seem to help myself. I miss waiting for the school bus on crisp, fall mornings. I miss new sweaters and football games. I miss seeing the fog roll off the pond when the cool air brushes against the warm water. And the leaves. I miss deciduous trees. Don't get me wrong; live oaks, with their massive spreading limbs, have their charm. But they don't change colors. I daydream of playing in the mountainous piles of leaves in the neighbor's front yard.

Really, do you think kids can grow into normal, healthy adults when they've never bundled up and huddled together on freezing bleachers at a football game? Aren't you scarred for life when, instead of sweaters and coats, you wear shorts and flip-flops to the season opener? No matter how long I live here, I can't wrap my mind around wearing tank tops to football games in the end of September. It just doesn't compute. The calendar says it's fall, but the temperatures are unmistakably summer-like.

Eventually, fall arrives here too and gives way to a winter of sorts. And then I decide I'm glad I'm not in the North. Really, wearing coats and gloves is way over-rated. No boots to find. No snow to shovel. No gray, dreary skies for days or weeks on end.

So, I've come to expect my season of nostalgia. And like all other seasons, it too will pass - only to come again next year.

2009-08-27T12:15:00.004-04:00

After a rousing grammar lesson involving colons, semi-colons and ellipsis points, Kevin suggested to Victoria that she seriously consider not growing up; that she simply stay the age she is right now. Without missing a beat, she quipped; "I considered that when I was seven."

You know summer is ending when...

2009-08-17T22:59:00.005-04:00

...random first names take on great significance. Ana, Bill, Claudette, and Danny.
...checking Wunderground.com 's tropical update becomes a daily occurrence.
...everyone's swim suits develop threadbare spots from too much sun and chlorine. (note to self: check suit for those spots BEFORE going to the Beach Club on Sea Island)
...we are so tired of the heat we beg for relief, and make rash promised to God that if we can just have a bit of cooler weather we will never again complain about the cold weather in January.
...school begins. The cousins have left and so I fear it's going to be back to the books for the Eades kids. The local college starts this week, and since Alyssa is dual enrolling in two classes (College Algebra and English), she jumps into the fray tomorrow. Other than the co-op classes that Kevin, Hannah and Victoria start tomorrow, I wasn't planning to officially begin until next week. But with Patrick out of town and our days free, I may bump our start date to later in this week. Then maybe we'll be back in full swing by next Monday. Yeah, right...full swing. Hey...I can dream, can't I?

Flashback Friday

2009-08-14T10:07:00.006-04:00

Sunday, 22 April 2007

Too busy?

If anyone saw me or talked to me on the phone about a week ago, you probably got an earful about an amazing article in the Washington Post. The short version is: The Washington Post asked Joshua Bell, a famous violinist, to do an experiment to see if beauty, greatness in fact, would win out in the midst people's busy schedules. To really appreciate what happened, you will need to listen to Joshua Bell (and if you are like me, will open his website often just to hear the music) and then read the Washington Post article. I can't begin to explain all that happened, so just take the time and read the article. It's totally amazing.

Okay, if you have read the article, what would you have done? I would like to be able to say I would have stopped to listen. I would...really. A musician friend, Fred McKinnon, says he's 99.9% sure he would have stopped...and he probably would have. But I had to ask myself, would I have been too busy to stop even if I had recognized the greatness? I know I would have heard the beauty, but I don't know that I would have had enough "margin" in my morning to have the liberty to linger in the subway station. I admit it...the Eades are usually running a pretty tight schedule. So I have to ask myself, what am I missing in the midst of my business? Would I find more beauty in life if I didn't schedule my days down to the minute? If didn't wait until the last moment to head out the door to barely make the next event on time, would I have time to stop and gaze at the painted buntings in our bird feeder or admire the flowers blooming in the yard?

I'm afraid we are more like the people in the subway station than I would like to admit.

Thanks to the Washington Post for making me think. I have a few more ideas stirring about their "experiment", but I'd best save those for another time.

Flashback Friday

2009-08-07T10:15:00.008-04:00

Well, what's the old saying...the road to hell is paved with good intentions? What can I say? I intended to institute Flashback Friday as a way of moving posts from my old blog to here for posterity sake and as a fun reminder of the not so distant past. Summer and it's lack of routine has taken it's toll but I'm determined to just pick up where I left off and begin anew.

Wednesday, 18 April 2007

I Knew She Was in Trouble

Some months back I had one of my better "mom moments". Sometimes I look back over an "incident" that has occurred with the kids and I wish I had been more patient, more understanding, slower to anger. Maybe I should have held my tongue altogether. As I look back on that particular day, I have no regrets. I returned from an errand while the rest of the family stayed at home. I walked into an empty kitchen to find my favorite teapot broken. No guilty party was near. A bit of inquiry brought the truth...Victoria had done it. I can't remember if there were streams of tears as she confessed how the accident had occurred, but then it happened. I calmly and gently told her what my mother vividly taught me many years ago, "Things can be replaced, people can't." She looked at me as if some alien had invaded my body...no lecture, no raised voice, no pointing my finger telling what she should have done differently. In that moment, she needed to know I still loved her even if she had accidentally broken my best teapot. Even if not consciously, she needed to know that our relationship was more important than any "stuff" we have in the house. She needed to know that "Things can be replaced, people can't."

Fast forward to yesterday evening. Victoria tracked me down in the garden, walked up and said, "Do you remember what you told me when I broke your teapot?" I knew she was in trouble...something was broken, but she was wisely preparing me, reminding me of my own words before she confessed. There was no sense of urgency in her voice, so I didn't think there was bleeding involved (besides, I think we already met our April quota for blood shed on Saturday night when Hannah cracked her head open on the cabinet door). She informed me that "just a little" finger nail polish remover had spilled on Alyssa's desk. None got on Alyssa's computer though, and she had wiped up what was on the wood desk....it just left a few marks. So...while this was an accident, it was also disobedience. She is only allowed finger nail polish and remover in very controlled situations with permission. Sitting at Alyssa's desk, with hard wood floor underneath her is NOT one of those controlled environments. So, she will have to make restitution to her sister. Since refinishing the desk is out of the question....maybe Victoria will be buying Alyssa a desk blotter. Any other suggestions for a punishment that fits the crime?

And just in case you were wondering: Victoria did buy her sister a desk blotter to hid the evidence of her misdeeds. Let's all hope she's learned to be more careful with the polish AND the remover.

Refreshing and Renewing

2009-07-26T23:32:00.002-04:00

For the first time in more years than I can remember, I spent time alone - really alone. No husband, no kids...just me and the dog. Despite a lengthy to-do list I was incredibly lazy, taking naps at will, sometimes staying up late and sleeping late, sometimes going to bed early and rising at dawn. Whatever tripped my fancy, that's what I did. Sadly, I think I kicked into "selfish" mode more quickly than even I expected...and I ran with it. I was reminded of the fact that selfishness doesn't get "used up" like the gasoline in your car. If fact, I found it to be quite the opposite with my self-indulgence only breeding more self-seeking desires. I have an endless supply of selfishness...something I'm sure my family can readily attest to.

However, I did attempt to redeem bit of the time by renewing my vision for our family, our school and my purpose at this particular juncture in my life. I had already started Keeping House and then began A Life that Says Welcome. Through these books I was reminded that though the tasks I perform seem small and insignificant, they can have profound, life-long effects on my children and husband. I was challenged to treasure the life I have, value the mundane by seeing it in a whole new light and dig a little deeper in an effort to serve those inside and outside my household. I snooped around some blogs, most notably Girltalk where I was smacked up side the head (again) with the challenge to be more hospitable.

So, in the weeks ahead I will be seeking to be intentional in my hospitality and in doing that I'll also be serving my family with renewed vigor and...well...happiness. It's a privilege to do what I do and my actions need to reflect that truth. I'm reminded of the childhood song, "if you're happy and you know it clap your hands...if you're happy and you know it then your face will surely show it..." Sadly, I fear my face doesn't always reflect what I truly desire to communicate to those around me.

And as if to seal the work God was doing in my heart, someone on a Yahoo group sent this link to encourage us homeschool moms. It really does say what I realized during my time alone...and says it much more articulately and creatively than I ever could. If you're a mom who feels overwhelmed...you might want to grab a tissue. Enjoy!

Summer Fun

2009-07-21T22:07:00.007-04:00

Everyone has returned from their various travels. Patrick and Kevin had a fruitful trip to Honduras while Victoria and Hannah had a memorable time at Grandma Camp. Alyssa took her first road trip with a friend while I stayed home and was just plain lazy.

Hoping to give more in depth updates at a later time, but for now, we are soaking up the last days of summer and enjoying them more than Duke (my nephew) enjoyed his Klondike Bar. Hope you all are doing the same.

A Turn for the Worse

2009-07-02T16:02:00.003-04:00

We just got word that Bj had to be put down just a short time ago. He didn't improve at all and took a turn for the worse during the night. As is typical, Hannah took the news well, but has retreated off by herself to process her loss. Wendy is getting a lock of hair for Hannah to keep and a print of a professional picture that Bj was in some years ago. Hannah is relieved he's not in pain any longer...but the barn just won't be the same without him.

The Other Side of the Story

2009-07-01T21:22:00.003-04:00

This is the companion view to Hannah's story found here.

Early this morning, Hannah and I arrived at the barn to find Wendy (owner/instructor) leading Bj, the horse Hannah usually rides, into one of the stalls that backs up to the covered arena. Odd...but I saw the vet there and so hoped it was a routine visit by him. That was not to be the case. After Wendy told us Bj had a bad case of colic, and she was getting ready to transport him to the horse hospital in Gainsville, FL, I knew the situation was serious. Hannah proceeded to help out with some morning chores and Wendy got the truck and hitched up the horse trailer. At some point she had told Hannah she could ride Buff, and so Hannah headed out into the gelding pasture to get him. Not really knowing HOW serious this might be, I asked another lady who was tending a wound on her horse if Hannah should say goodbye to her dear riding partner, just in case he didn't make it. She nodded. But Hannah was WAY out in the pasture and Wendy had already loaded the horse and was ready to drive away. But then she rolled down her window and said the words I was hoping not to hear, "Hannah may want to come and give this horse a kiss. He may not be coming home." Knowing Wendy was anxious to go, I tried waving and motioning to Hannah to come in...and she was, but not very quickly. So what's a mom to do? I couldn't let her miss her only chance to say her final farewells? Well, what option did I have? I ran across the gelding pasture...IN MY FLIP FLOPS to lead Buff so Hannah could run in and say her goodbyes. I was holding it together pretty well until I walked up to the gate and saw tears in Hannah's eyes. Then I broke down. I'm still not sure just what I was crying about...the horse, Wendy, Hannah's breaking heart. All of the above, I suppose.

I've been toying with the idea of getting some boots for my hours at the barn...and after dodging piles in my flip flops, boots may have just moved up my priority list.

The good news is the vet was optimistic that Bj would recover and after 48 hours on fluids would be released. Wendy generously offered to take Hannah with her on Friday, so the horse lover will be able to see the inside of a horse hospital. So, stay tuned for more horse lessons from Hannah.

Vacation Superlatives

2009-06-27T13:49:00.017-04:00

Best Museum - According to Victoria and me: The Clark. Who knew a tiny little town in Massachusetts could boast an art institute with an impressive collection of 19th century French Impressionist art. Some people collect stamps, Francine and Sterling Clark collected Monets, Manets, Renoirs, and Degas. The Clark even displays one of our favorite works of art: The Little Dancer Aged Fourteen, a bronze statue by Degas.

According to Kevin: Duh...the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York.

According to Alyssa and Hannah: Norman Rockwell Museum. We especially loved it when the guide explained the paintings to us. Shed new light on everything Rockwell did.

Best Baseball Stadium: Tie! Fenway is old; Citi Field is new. Kevin says they can't be compared. The boys attended a game (and got rained out) at Fenway while the girls and I connected with a friend from high school. The whole fam went to a game at the brand spankin' new Citi Field (Mets). It was quite nice, and we were thankful for seats under cover, as it rained.

Biggest Surprise: How many Dunkin Donuts are in the northeast. They are everywhere! I suppose if you can't have Krispy Kreme, you have to replace it with something second rate.
Kevin was just sad that it was so stinkin' cold and therefore was not in the mood for the drink he loves, Dunkin Donut's Iced Coffee.

Best National Park: Acadia Nat'l Park in Bar Harbor Maine. Hannah even likes it more than the Grand Canyon. The Statue of Liberty was great fun...and we saw that before the clouds and rain moved in so our pictures of Lady Liberty are terrific. Minuteman Nat'l Park has a great multi-media presentation, and it was sobering to see the North Bridge, home of the Shot Heard 'Round the World. We just love Nat'l Parks...can you tell?

Biggest Disappointment: the rain. We LOVED Bar Harbor and were so disappointed that it rained the entire time we were there. We drove to the top of Cadillac Mountain twice, only to find the view completely obscured by the clouds.

Favorite Old House: Hildene, but it had no competition. Amazingly it was the only "old house" tour we made. The gardens were breath-taking and the sound of the organ alone was worth the trip to Vermont.

Best Meal: Lobster in Maine...what could top that?

Best Reunion: Both! I plotted and planned to meet Micki, a dear friend from high school who now lives near Boston. It was everything I imagined it would be and more. Despite a slew of e-mails over the past few months, I still found catching up after twenty plus years something akin to drinking from a fire hydrant. The second reunion was with a great friend from college, Angelique. This one was spur of the moment and Angelique was a dear to let the girls and me visit her at her Queens apartment while the boys soaked up the sights and sounds of Citi Field during batting practice. We were captivated by Lily, her adorable, curly-haired two year old and loved seeing a glimpse of her life in NYC. Now, both of these friends need to venture down the coast and visit me!

City with the Best Subway Workers: Boston. The very kind ticket agent helped us get the most bang for our buck. The ticket agent in NYC just acted irritated that such a subway dunce (that would be me) was taking up his time. I AM happy to report we did not get lost or miss a stop in our travels to and from Citi Field and Angelique's apartment, no small miracle for small town girls like us.

If it sounds like we lived in the van...we did! Grand total we logged over 3400 miles in about 75 hours. Except for the rain, we couldn't have had a more fabulous time!

Bringing You Up to Date

2009-06-07T23:47:00.012-04:00

I can't seem to find the time to be creative or witty; both of those require too much effort on my part, so this post is just a plain vanilla attempt to let you know what everyone is up to these days. Grab a cup of your beverage of choice and see what occupies our time these days.

Alyssa is still working at the store at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center. They seem to be working her more hours during the summer, for which she is thankful. She begins some type of volunteer work at the hospital this week and needs to get her application in to the local college so she can dual enroll in a couple of classes this fall. Dance recital is this week...and we will ALL be glad when that is over.

Kevin entered the working world last week. He is carrying on the family name at Grandy's and seems to be a quick study, though eating there since he was born has probably helped him know the drill. He also joined Braveheart (the abstinence education program at Carenet). We haven't pushed the kids to be involved...don't want any accusations of nepotism, you know, but he's a natural at talking to kids and, well, doing what his dad does. He is also preparing for an upcoming trip to Honduras...those of you with check books will probably hear more details of that soon. :-0 And isn't Caitlyn adorable, sporting Kevin's Grandy's hat?

Hannah is still in love with horses and would live at the barn if Ms. Wendy would let her. She has day camp this week and is probably too excited to sleep at night. She has been surprised at how much joy her blogging efforts have given her. Giving her a platform and a voice makes me nervous, but it's great to see her personality shine through her writing.

Victoria is Victoria. She continues to love the stage and so is looking forward to the dance recital. She won her division in the South Georgia Scholarship Pageant on Saturday. She placed first last year too, but had no competition. She was relieved to hear she would actually have girls to compete against this year. How a child of mine can be comfortable with all eyes on her is beyond me. Definitely her father's child. Check out the hair bow...and no, I did not do that myself.

Patrick is busy as ever. Other than family travels and the trip to Honduras, it looks like he'll be home most of the summer. The fall is shaping up to be quite busy, but that's the norm. He received an unexpected phone call last week...an invite to join a group traveling to Israel. Now that's a fun blip on the radar screen.

Me? I'm having a blast seeing these kids grow up. I can't tell you how relieved I am that everyone's horror stories of teenagers have, so far, not come to pass. I am blessed beyond measure. Keeping Matthew and Caitlyn has also been a blessing. I can't imagine our days without them...it seems odd when Caitlyn's not here on a weekday. The garden started off well, but is looking a little weedy as of late. My family will soon be tired of eggplant and the neighbors will be reaping my harvest during our vacation. My recent diversion has been facebook and reconnecting with old friends. It looks like a couple of reunions are in the works and I am practically giddy with excitement.

The fruit of my labor

2009-06-07T23:20:00.004-04:00

Discussions around the house have ventured in the direction of child rearing and training techniques. Some of this has come about as I've recounted funny comments from the parenting class I'm teaching at Carenet, and some from reading my sister-in-laws tales of life with toddlers. All my kids can recount times they received "the rod of correction" and apparently some more than others. Hannah even boasted, "Yeah, and the one who got the most, turned out the best." I think her older sister and brother would beg to differ; both about who received the most spankings and who has turned out the best, but I'm glad she now sees the wisdom in our correction and discipline. It's been a long, often exhausting road...but well worth the effort. So, for all you parents of toddlers, I'm rooting for you! Keep up the hard work of consistency. The results are priceless.

An Ill Wind

2009-06-05T15:05:00.006-04:00

I've had blog posts swirling around in my head all week, yet haven't taken the time until right now to sit down and try to capture them with words. Just as I was at the point of inspiration, I received a message from someone via facebook. And everyone who has facebook knows, once you've logged in, you might as well check everyone's status. In doing so I came across this, which completely took the wind out of my blogging sail.

Flashback Friday

2009-06-05T14:58:00.003-04:00

Wednesday, 18 April 2007

I Knew She Was in Trouble
Some months back I had one of my better "mom moments". Sometimes I look back over an "incident" that has occurred with the kids and I wish I had been more patient, more understanding, slower to anger. Maybe I should have held my tongue altogether. As I look back on that particular day, I have no regrets. I returned from an errand while the rest of the family stayed at home. I walked into an empty kitchen to find my favorite teapot broken. No guilty party was near. A bit of inquiry brought the truth...Victoria had done it. I can't remember if there were streams of tears as she confessed how the accident had occurred, but then it happened. I calmly and gently told her what my mother vividly taught me many years ago, "Things can be replaced, people can't." She looked at me as if some alien had invaded my body...no lecture, no raised voice, no pointing my finger telling what she should have done differently. In that moment, she needed to know I still loved her even if she had accidentally broken my best teapot. Even if not consciously, she needed to know that our relationship was more important than any "stuff" we have in the house. She needed to know that "Things can be replaced, people can't."

Fast forward to yesterday evening. Victoria tracked me down in the garden, walked up and said, "Do you remember what you told me when I broke your teapot?" I knew she was in trouble...something was broken, but she was wisely preparing me, reminding me of my own words before she confessed. There was no sense of urgency in her voice, so I didn't think there was bleeding involved (besides, I think we already met our April quota for blood shed on Saturday night when Hannah cracked her head open on the cabinet door). She informed me that "just a little" finger nail polish remover had spilled on Alyssa's desk. None got on Alyssa's computer though, and she had wiped up what was on the wood desk....it just left a few marks. So...while this was an accident, it was also disobedience. She is only allowed finger nail polish and remover in very controlled situations with permission. Sitting at Alyssa's desk, with hard wood floor underneath her is NOT one of those controlled environments. So, she will have to make restitution to her sister. Since refinishing the desk is out of the question....maybe Victoria will be buying Alyssa a desk blotter. Any other suggestions for a punishment that fits the crime?

Mercy abounds....all around

2009-05-29T09:46:00.008-04:00

Last Saturday night Kevin and Patrick were returning home from running a couple of errands. Less than a half mile from the house, a lady coming toward them turned front of them. Kevin slammed on brakes and cut left trying to miss her, but the collision was unavoidable. Here are the results:

So here's a reminder: Wear your seat belts and thank God for airbags. I had never seen how the dash just rips open, but there it is.

Thankfully no one was hurt badly, though two passengers in the other vehicle were not wearing seatbelts and were transported to the hospital for neck/back trauma.

And on a much happier note, mercy abounds in our home, and Patrick and I were able to get away for two nights at The King and Prince Resort on St. Simons Island to celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary. It's a sentimental place for us having spent our wedding night there, dined there for various anniversaries and escaped there for a night away once or twice over the years. We had a wonderful time enjoying each other without interruptions (well...except for the phone calls to Gieco...see above). The kids did well on their own and a special thanks to Mark and Chrissy (my wonderful sister and brother-in-law) for hosting Victoria. I am blessed beyond measure to have a devoted, loving husband!

Drum Roll Please.....

2009-05-28T13:48:00.003-04:00

Hannah has started a blog. I'm a little nervous about this adventure...there's no telling what she'll tell you, but here it is www.leaveittohannah.blogspot.com

To Patrick: 20 for our 20th

2009-05-27T00:01:00.013-04:00

Twenty short years ago we embarked on a journey, and what an amazing odyssey it has been! Since that hot, May afternoon when we said "I do", we have traversed waters we never dreamed existed, and have created a beautiful life.

I'm stealing an idea from my sweet niece and in honor of our 20th wedding anniversary am presenting 20 reasons I am blessed to have YOU for a husband.

1. You have an amazing gift for loving people! People make me crazy...but your patience and compassion have no limits.

2. You are a man of the Word! I can hardly remember a day passing in 20 years that I haven't seen you with your Bible open (or seen you scrolling down your Palm). Truly, you set an incredible example for the kids and I.

3. You are one of THE punniest people I know. Though I often groan outwardly...secretly I love your jokes.

4. You watch Jane Austen movies (over and over again) with me...and I even think you like them.

5. You love baseball. And I love baseball. Doesn't that work out swimmingly?!?

6. Despite my grandmother's prophesy to the contrary 20 years ago, you still open the car door for me...each and every time we go somewhere. Chivalry is not dead! You are my knight in shining armor!

7. You let me have whatever I think I need for homeschooling...and never complain about how much it costs. You are a prize!

8. Similarly, you don't complain that our house looks like a library (albeit a messy one) and books are everywhere!

9. You are amazingly understanding when the laundry gets behind or the house stays cluttered. If you think ill of me and my homemaking skills, you never let on. Thanks...I'm trying, really I am.

10. You have the most astonishing connection with teens. I love your heart that sacrifices your time to communicate God's truth to them. This county and school system are incredibly blessed to have you here!

11. You see value in everyone's life...even pre-born lives! Carenet and LifeSteward Ministries found a gem when they found you! This country is blessed to have you here!

12. You have a heart for the nations! You aren't afraid to give up the normal conveniences of life in America to go to the nations and preach the gospel. The world is blessed to have you here!

13. You eat anything I cook with nary a complaint. No matter what my latest food quirk is...you just eat what's in front of you. Thank you for making my life easier.

14. You take care of yourself physically and are in great shape. You are a runner...and runners amaze me. Seriously, I hate running (but you know that) and I think it's great that you can crawl out of bed ridiculously early, take the dog and run. Keep up the good work!

15. You can fix anything! Your tinkering used to scare me, but now I have complete confidence in your abilities.

16. Similarly, you are a computer genius. I am in awe of the breadth of your knowledge of hardware, software and host of other things about which I am completely ignorant.

17. You are a terrific father to four of the most beautiful children to ever grace the planet (I'm the mom...so I can say that). From birthday lunches to the rotating Friday breakfast dates, the kids know that they are valued by you and that you always have time for them.

18. You love me. Many days I don't know why or how, but you do. You have loved me through times of incredible grief and times of great happiness. Your steadfast love is a comfort to me.

19. You watch musicals with the girls and I. From funny ones like Hello Dolly to more serious ones like Fiddler on the Roof...you've seen them all, and you tolerate us singing the songs, over and over when they get stuck in our head.

20. Marrying you has made me a better person. In the words of a song from Wicked (a musical I have yet to share with you), "I do believe I have been changed for the better" just by having you as my husband. I can't imagine my life without you.

You are a treasure...and I'm blessed to be your wife, friend and lover. Happy 20th Anniversary!

Flashback Friday

2009-05-22T10:51:00.002-04:00

I've recently become a bit nostalgic. A couple of weeks ago, we turned on our main computer to see a message to this effect: A hard drive failure in imminent. The short story is the hard drive failed and despite hours of effort and several hundred dollars, nothing was recoverable. Our entire life on the computer - evaporated. Lesson learned...back up computers, even new ones.

Anyway, I'm quite thankful for the pictures and memories that have been recorded on my blog since mid 2007. In an effort to have all my blog in one place, I've decided to slowly but surely copy my old blog at xanga into Imitating Steventon here at Blogger via Flashback Friday. Each Friday (Lord willing) I'm going to import a post from my old blog to this one here. Here is my first post dated

Tuesday, 17 April 2007

So....

Are you wondering about the name...Imitating Steventon. To be proper, it should be Imitiating Steventon Rectory, but I liked the sound of it w/o the Rectory part. Steventon Rectory was the childhood home of Jane Austen. I love the quote by one of Austen's family members about "the home conversation being rich with shrewd remarks, bright with playfulness and humor," so I have incorporated it into the name of my blog. I'm sure Steventon Rectory was indeed filled with witty dialogue and mischief. The Austens had 8 children AND took in boarders from Oxford and Cambridge. No doubt there was never a lack of lively conversation. So, while we don't plan to add boarders any time soon, we do aspire to have a home with lively and loving conversations. As the kids and I read in our devotion today, we desire to follow Paul's admonition to "let your conversations be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone." (Col.4:6)

Patrick always refers to our house as Stately Eades Manor...maybe I'll start calling it Steventon Manor. I prefer my home be named after Austen than Batman...don't ya think?

I guess I just lose the comments...maybe someday someone will figure out a way to import xanga into Blogger.

2009-05-19T12:01:00.002-04:00

Sometimes I just can't help myself. My compassion and mercy run roughshod over reason and good judgment. Two weeks ago, the center director (not the executive director...the one I am married to) at the Brunswick Carenet asked me to speak to a group of soon-to-be moms about babies and caring for newborns. Of course I was delighted to do it. Well, before the evening was over, I had fallen in love with the girls and heard myself offering to teach the parenting portion of group for the next 6 weeks or so until it is time to begin the Lamaze/medical portion of the class. What was I thinking? I need one more commitment like a drowning man needs more water. But, the deed was done.

The girls and their boyfriends/husbands/mothers attend the class, hopefully become more prepared for labor, delivery and parenting, and accumulate Dedication Dollars that they can redeem for maternity and baby clothes, diapers, cribs and all kinds of baby paraphernalia in the Carenet Baby Store. The girls range in age from 15 to 26, and most are having their first baby. Most are outgoing and most of my attempts to hold the discussion to the topic at hand often prove futile. I challenge them to eat a little healthier than they did last week, drink a little more water and a little less Code Red Mountain Dew, and think about parenting as a long term proposition. I want them to see that small decisions add up to big consequences in the future. Often taking the easy route with a 3 or 6 month old will make parenting a little harder with a 9 month old. Most of them seem to love the mother figure nurturing them...I guess what remains to be seen is if they actually put any of our advise and wisdom into practice.

After last night's class, one girl stayed late to talk to the other leader and I. Despite having just found out she was pregnant last week, she and her fiance have kicked their preparations for marriage and parenthood into high gear. She pulled out her Bible and a Bible Study book that she had recieved at Carenet last week and showed us how she and her fiance had nearly completed the study questions. Then she inquired, "Do you think I could have another Bible so my fiance could have his own while we do the Bible study together?" Doesn't that request just make you smile? While the week has hardly begun, I knew I wouldn't find a better quote of the week than that.

The Dreaded Gaps (and my Quote of the Week)

2009-05-16T22:26:00.011-04:00

I have tried to avoid typing this blog entry because it's not very, well...eh...politically correct. But you know, I've noticed LIFE is not always politically correct, and this is just way too funny (and sad?) not to share.

Homeschooling. So many times I feel like a failure; like I'm ruining my kids for life, and their future success or failure rests solely on my puny shoulders. I confess, my kids have gaps, huge academic gaps in their education. I'm often shocked at what they don't know, and some days it's downright discouraging. The one thing I have never worried about, but is foremost on homeschooling opponents' minds is the "s" word: socialization. I think our kids are very well adjusted and can hold their own (and sometimes dominate) conversations with peers or adults. But much to my dismay, this past week has revealed several gaps even in their social skills. Man, the one area in which I was formerly worry free!

Patrick has the distinct privilege of speaking to every 7th, 8th and9th grader in the Glynn County School system during their respective health class. He encourages the kids to look to the future and make good choices, specifically in the area of relationships and sexuality. Based on the feedback we get when we are out in public, the kids love him AND his somewhat unorthodox presentations. On Wednesday, he had two 8th grade "shadows" - you know, kids following him around all day to see what his career is like. Funny, his shadows from one middle school had to go to another middle school and sit through a whole days worth of repeat performances...but I guess they didn't mind. Part way through one class, he was interrupted and asked to come and help break up a fight between two girls in another classroom. He found one girl holding the other by her hair, er - uh her hair extensions (also know as weave), and attempting to pulverize her. Patrick did help break up the fairly fierce cat fight and eventually returned to his classroom. Before picking up where he left off, one girl raised her hand and timidly offered this: "Mistah Eeeeades, I don't know if I should tell you this, but you have weeeeave on your elbow." Gee, one of the casualties of breaking up fights, huh?

After a full day of his shadows patiently enduring multiple presentations, he treated them to Chick-fil-a. As they were dining together, one shadow quipped, "You know what the problem in the school is? They got too many black kids in those classes?" Shocked to hear such non-politically correct speech, Patrick questioned the statement. "Yeah, you put that many black kids in a class and you're gonna have trouble," clarified one of the two African-American shadows.

So, let's see if I have this right. My girls have failed to learn how to physically fight (they prefer verbal lashings), and possibly none of the kids have fully developed their prejudices.

So if the previous two gaps were not enough, Kevin brought one more to light. He has joined the Braveheart drama team, and on Friday had his first experience speaking to the kids in the public schools. While enjoying the delicious cafeteria food (hmmm...maybe he won't complain about leftovers any more), he witnessed a boy attempt to sit down at a table with his tray of food. The kids already seated informed him that he could only sit there IF he gave them his bread sticks (which he did). Drats, it had not occurred to me to teach my kids proper and effective bullying techniques.

So, just when I think I am free and clear in one aspect of home schooling, the dreaded gaps identify themselves right before my eyes.

One Blessed Mom

2009-05-10T19:28:00.005-04:00

The Laundry Maven

The past three Saturdays have been consumed with yard work. Patrick and Kevin tackled the installation of border boards to keep the St. Augustine grass from creeping into the rest of the landscape. I have feverishly been weeding, planting, fertilizing and spreading mulch - four pick-up truck loads to be exact. Okay, so to be fair, I haven't exactly done that ALL by myself. Patrick and Kevin did most of the heavy shoveling. :-) So, while I work outside, you might think everything inside the house lies neglected.

Thankfully, I have wonderful daughters to prevent that from happening. While Alyssa seems to have escaped the yard frenzy by miraculously being scheduled to work every Saturday morning and afternoon, the other girls have risen to the occasion. Last Saturday Hannah swept and mopped the entire downstairs. No small feat! The feeling of coming into a clean house after working outside all day was incredible. Thanks Hannah!

Up until yesterday, I'd been a bit of a control freak about me being the only one to do the laundry. While I think all the kids know HOW to use the washer and dryer, I don't generally LET them. I guess I don't want them to ruin any clothes...you know....have something red accidentally go through with the whites. I'll leave that faux pas to me. But yesterday, it all came to an end. I was woefully behind before Saturday morning rolled around, and I knew we would all suffer if the washer wasn't humming for a major portion of Saturday; so Victoria took on the giant. While Hannah and Kevin worked outside, Victoria set up shop in the laundry room. At one point she could have been found sitting on top of the washer and dryer, folding clothes and watching a movie on Alyssa's laptop. She dutifully kept the washer and drying spinning all day and diligently asked advise about whether this shirt or those pants were permitted in the dryer. Amazingly enough, when I came inside mid-afternoon, the laundry room was void of all dirty clothes AND clean clothes. All articles had been taken to their respective rooms. The mountain of dirty laundry (and even a mound of clean that had been thrown on top of the washer and dryer) had been transformed into neat piles on my bed and in each kid's respective clean laundry container.

I have such amazing children. That is, after all, the best Mother's Day present they could ever give me.

It Takes all Sorts

2009-05-04T17:34:00.006-04:00

Don't you love how differently God made each of us? I have a dear friend who is an incredible woman of God, faithful Carenet volunteer, pastor's wife, and one of THE funniest people that I know. She is also super organized. She is a calendar/planner/menu freak! She IS what I want to be when I grow up. Today she posted her latest menu effort on her blog . Not to be outdone, I posted mine too. If you scroll down on this page, you will see today's menu on a button just below my "Currently Reading".

Katrina, the Wonder Dog

2009-05-03T22:22:00.006-04:00

Wonder dog, you ask? For those of you who have ever visited our house, you think I've lost my marbles by calling her that. You've been greeted by the vicious beast who has yet to respond to any of our attempts at bark training. Yes, we've gone through every kind of bark collar known to canine owners. Nothing has helped. But other than that little (okay, giant) behavior problem, she is every child's dream dog. Just this week the younger girls decided to purchase a harness so that she can pull them on the garden cart. Amazingly enough, she loves it. Well, if she doesn't love it, she's a good sport about it.

So, despite the fact that I often wonder why we have a dog, another creature to clean up after, I am continually amazed at how much joy she brings to all of us, but especially to Hannah and Victoria.

Just Wonderin'

2009-04-28T22:25:00.004-04:00

I'm thinking there must have been something in the air tonight that zapped all logic from the brain of most every store clerk I encountered. At Chick-fil-a I must have picked the line with the new cashier. When I ordered my Southwest Salad, he had to ask the manager if the button that said "SW SALAD" was the correct one to push. Seeing that Chick-fil-a only has about 3 salads to pick from, I would have thought he could have gone out on a limb and skipped tracking down the manager on that one.

I am really getting into these reusable shopping bags that all the stores are selling; not because I'm all that environmentally friendly, but because groceries and such are soooo much easier to carry in them. Really, they don't cut the circulation to your fingers off when you carry the gallon of milk in them. However, I just hate walking around with an advertisement on my hip, so I decided to buy a more generic and cool looking one at Pier One (then I can stash the grocery store bags inside of that one until they are needed). After plunking my three dollars onto the counter, the sales lady asked if I wanted the purchase (my reusable shopping bag) in a plastic bag. Hmmmm...I'm thinking it doesn't take a rocket scientist to guess the answer I gave.

Armed with my new, hip bag, Hannah, Victoria and I headed next door to purchase some ink cartridges at Staples (and kudos to that clerk...the only one with a brain firing on all cylinders tonight and who actually dropped my purchase into the bag I was holding open). Next, we walked to the pet store a few doors down. Hannah selected a few things she needed for the dog and we made for the checkout stand. I plopped my handy dandy bag onto the counter for Mr. Pet Store to drop my items into. Of course, the collar/harness didn't have a bar code to scan, so Hannah picked up another one. Same problem. While she was getting a third one, bright Mr. Pet Store laid the two other harnesses on the counter behind him. Finally we hit pay dirt and the third harness scanned. Our cashier friend promptly put the third harness behind him with the other two. I informed him that, since I was paying for a harness, I was planning to take one of them home with me, and could he please put one of those three into my open bag? He finally finished ringing up the rest of our items, which he promptly put into a plastic store bag that was almost directly underneath my open reusable bag. Wow...I guess it's going to take a while for folks to get accustomed to using those things.

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Better be savin money man. Our next purchase needs to be a Eurorail pass. Looking like it'll be $550-$700. :/