Wordless Wednesday ~ Lovin' the Great Outdoors

Sierra, my nature girl. She's always finding treasures outside.

Her latest:

She didn't want to put him back, but we did :)

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I love how children are always discovering. Always finding treasures. Learning new things. I'm thinking it's because they take the time to really look around and appreciate God's creation. We could learn a thing or two, don't you think?

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For more Wordless Wednesday fun head on over to Miller Racing Family :)

Back to Normal?

Alllllllrighty. I think things might just be back to normal around here. Not that I even really know what normal is, mind you. But I do know that Makenna is off of her pain medication, the "bed" that was set up on the couch for her has been taken down, and she is steadily adding more and more real food back into her diet. One can only eat so much chocolate pudding and popsicles, ya know? She has a check up on Thursday, and I'm pretty certain the doctor is going to be pleased with her recovery :)

Yep, life is back to the normal hustle and bustle.

I have so much that I want to post, but not much in the way of time. One of these days I'd love to talk about our homeschool schedule. Many of you have asked what a typical day looks like for us, and I'd really love to share. I'd also love to have time for a craft or two. Sigh. But for now, I'll have to make do with a little pitiful update once or twice a week ;)

Anyone else feel consumed by the busy?

Update on Kenner-Bug

You all are so sweet for your thoughts, prayers, and words of encouragement for my little Kenner-Bug. Her surgery yesterday went very well. We're glad it is behind us so that she can heal, and get on with her very busy 5 year old schedule ;)

So, you knew it was coming. An update in pictures.

Sweet little thing was all smiles. The nurse asked if she was always this smiley. Yep. That's my smiley girl.

She was in a LOT of pain on the way home, and I felt so bad for her. As soon as we got home she had 4 popsicles in a row {lol} followed by some Motrin. That {along with snuggles from her new stuffies and three bouquets of balloons plus roses} seemed to do the trick.

We even got to color a little.

And big sis, Sierra, did an excellent job as nurse. She made sure Kenners was comfortable and had everything she needed.

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The surgeon called last night to check in {I thought that was very nice, btw}, and he mentioned that the swelling and pain would peak today. Crumb, I was sort of hoping that the worst was behind us. And true to his word Kenners did wake up at 2 am crying and very swollen. Poor thing could hardly talk. She is now sleeping {somewhat} soundly beside me, and we're looking forward to another movie-watching, ice cream-eating, snuggle-filled day.

Hmmm, that all came out a little more jumbled than what I had hoped. I guess I'm tired.

Yeah, that's it.

Today's the Day . . .

. . . Kenners goes in for her Frenectomy {that's where they remove extra tissue from under her tongue that is keeping her from being able to use her tongue correctly ~ just in case you haven't been following ;) }.

She's a little nervous. I'm a little nervous. But we all know that this is a good thing :)

Our plans for after surgery? Kickin' it at home, on the couch, with the multiple containers of pudding, jell-o, ice cream, and popsicles we purchased yesterday :) And watching a whole lotta movies. I'm expecting to gain a few pounds.

Hope y'all have a great weekend!!!

Wordful Wednesday ~ In the Kitchen

The weather has been cool this last week, putting me in the mood for . . .

BAKING!

These blueberry muffins? They didn't last long. You may remember, the blueberries were hand-picked with love last month by my sweet girls. I love that I can freeze them {the blueberries, not my girls}, and use them in baking throughout the year.

Last night it was sugar cookies. With sprinkles. Always with sprinkles.

How 'bout you? Been doing any baking?

Hop on over to Miller Racing Family for more WW fun!

Catchin' Up

I feel like I'm constantly playing "catch up" around here. Well, actually, not just around here, but regarding life in general. I guess it's just one of those seasons. We're busy, and happy to be. It means that we're healthy and able to be on the go. It's a good thing :)

Just wanted to take a minute to say thank you for all of the sweet words and prayers for my brother. He was released from the hospital last week, and is doing very well. Praise God! I am hoping this is truly his road to recovery. He deserves so much more than the life he's been living.

Kenners and I went in to see the oral surgeon last week, and she is officially scheduled for surgery this Friday. I was worried that she may be nervous, but I think she's actually excited. The nurse mentioned that she would only be able to eat soft foods, then proceeded to list pudding and ice cream as some popular choices ;) Kenners perked right up at that news. I think we'll be going grocery shopping for treats on Thursday. Afterward we'll hit the library to find movies to rent. It should be a relaxing weekend. Of course, any prayers are welcome. This mama is a little nervous ;)

Nothing too exciting on the new-home front. We did have gutters installed on Saturday, and exterior painting was supposed to have started today, but with all the rain we've been having, it'll have to wait. We're hoping for a few dry days this weekend. Jeremy has been working on the electrical on his days off, but it's slow going. I keep reminding myself that next year at this time it will all be a memory, and we'll be enjoying our new home.

Field Trip to the Zoo

After last year's zoo trip, I swore I'd never go back. But time has a way of making you forget the bad. And when my friend, Amanda, suggested a zoo trip as part of our homeschool science studies, we jumped at the chance.

The plan was to see only the African animals. We figured on fewer meltdowns if we focused on just one continent instead of trying to see the entire zoo in one morning. We had to make a few stops on our way to Africa, though. We couldn't pass up the mountain goats; they were right at the entrance, just begging for a photo.

And the tigers. I just love the tigers.

And the monkeys . . .

hehehehe, just kidding.

And finally, we made it to the African Savanna. We were in charge of learning about giraffes before our trip, our friends took the zebras. And we swapped info.

I thought this little guy was pretty cute.

And this little girl, she's cute too.

And these two ;)

We had such a fun day!

We are scheduling a field trip once a month along with craft days twice monthly with Amanda and her kiddos. We are so blessed to be able to share our experiences with our precious friends.

Sharing

I'm back with more sharing, folks! :) Looks like my sweet friend, Connie, tagged me for the same 8 question meme. And I love Connie too much to say no. FYI: you may want to head over to her place to give her a little Oprah love today ;)

Connie's questions:

1. Share a favorite memory from one of your birthdays. Why is it so special to you?

My 21st birthday was probably the most memorable {and not for the reasons y'all may be thinking!}. Jeremy and I had been "dating" long distance for almost 10 months. He took me to the beach for my birthday, we had the most delicious dinner at our favorite restaurant, and then we went for a walk on the beach. And he proposed. Awwwww!

2. What kind of birthday cake do you like?

I'm not picky. I love all birthday cake. My favorite? It would probably be something chocolate. Double chocolate. Maybe dark chocolate with chocolate filling and lots of chocolate frosting on the top. Not the gross frosting made with lard, but the Pillsbury frosting that comes out of the can. Yeah, that sounds good.

3. What color was your childhood bedroom?

I had many a childhood bedroom. My dad liked to build houses, and I think he got antsy if we spent more than a few years in one spot. My first bedroom was white, I think. The next was pale yellow, then back to white, and the last was an oatmeal color.

4. What is your dream job?

Does it have to pay? ;) I LOVE being a stay at home mama. I love being at home with my girls every day. I love picking out their clothes, reading them stories, playing beauty shop, and watching movies together.

If I had to choose an actual career? A photographer. My camera is permanently attached to me, and I would love to be able to make money taking pictures.

5. What is your favorite vacation destination?

Depends. We went to Hawaii when Sierra was 4 and Kenners was 1 1/2. I LOVED laying around on the beach all day, {and eating yummy food every night!}. But I equally enjoyed our fast paced Disneyland trip, and someday I would love to travel the U.S. with Jeremy and the girls. Just hop in a motorhome and go.

6. What is your favorite movie?

Hmmm, I have many, but if I had to choose only one it would be The Notebook. I've seen it a million times, and I still bawl every time.

7. What is your favorite recipe to make in the winter?

Pretty much anything in the crockpot, and I love baking. Zucchini bread, muffins, coffee cake. All so delicious during the winter months.

8. What do you love about blogging?

I love having a spot of my own to jot down my feelings and memories. I love having a journal of our days. But equally important to me are the wonderful friends I've made. It makes me sad in a way to think that I will never meet all of you. I know that we'd have such fun together.

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If any of y'all haven't been tagged, I tag ya! :) Refer to my questions at the bottom of this post.

Just Gotta Know

Oh, hi there.

So, I guess if I can barely keep up with the laundry, dishes, and other odds and ends that are screaming for my attention these days, it should come as no surprise that my blog has been severely neglected as well.

Luckily I have two super wonderful blog friends who are trying to get me back on track ;) Miss Kelli and Miss Jenny both tagged me to participate in an 8 question/getting to know you meme. I'm going to pick 4 questions from each of their lists {hope that's not cheating}!

From Kelli:

1. If you could live anywhere, where would it be?

I would probably choose to live right here, in the country, in Oregon. I LOVE it. We live on 20 acres {my parents live on an adjoining 20}, with trees, a creek and a pond {that hubby built}. Deer come right into our yard. We have bunnies hopping about all the time. And we occasionally get to see a bobcat or coyote. BUT, if I couldn't live here, I think I'd like to live on the east coast. Maybe Vermont or Massachusetts? I've heard that Fall is gorgeous back there.

2. Who is your best friend, and what is she like?

I met my best friend, Amanda, several years ago when our daughters took dance lessons together. We struck up a conversation one day, and it was like we'd been friends for years. She is so kind, and an amazing mom. We both homeschool, and I honestly don't know how I would have gotten through our first year without her. When I'd have a tough day, I could call her and she would empathize. I just adore her children, and I love being around her.

3. What is your ideal vacation?

Any vacation that includes my husband and children. We've been on some wonderful vacations, but even the little mini trips to the coast or to a waterpark are special when we're all together.

4. What is on your To-Do list this week?

Oh dear. It's a mile long. I need to get this house cleaned and organized. I feel like we've been gone so much lately, that I'm always trying to play catch up. Also, Kenners has a consultation with the oral surgeon tomorrow.

From Jenny Kate:

5. What are you most looking forward to about Fall?

The crisp days {with sunshine, of course}, leaves changing colors, more time in the kitchen baking, lighting candles, holidays just around the corner.

6. Do you take pictures? What kind of camera do you use?

I surely do! I love taking pictures, and my camera goes almost everywhere I go. I just upgraded from my Canon Rebel XS to a Canon 7D, and am learning to love it. It's a little more than I am used to, and I still have a lot to learn, but I love it!

7. Do you go to Starbucks? What is your favorite drink?

I'm not a coffee drinker {gasp!}, but my girls LOVE their Vanilla Bean. Now that our grocery store has a Starbucks, the girls think they need one every trip :)

8. Why did you originally start your blog?

Originally I started blogging because I had an Etsy shop, and I kept hearing that I needed to "get my shop out there". Everyone was talking about blogging, and I really had no idea what it was all about. About once a month I'd post some pictures of things I had in my shop, and that was it {ha!}. I didn't really get how people would find me. Then one day I was visiting my fellow Etsy friend, Lisa's blog, and she was talking about another blogger {Amber} hosting Extreme Makeover. I had just had Kam and needed to shed a few pounds, so I clicked over to Amber's, and the rest is history. A whole new world opened up to me, lol :) Now I blog as a journal of our lives. Days seem to pass so quickly, and life is a blur sometimes, so I love being able to look back on it all.

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And now, my questions for you:

1. Where were you born?

2. What is your idea of the perfect job/ If you could do anything, what would you choose?

3. What is your favorite food?

4. If you had a day all to yourself, what would you do?

5. What is your favorite restaurant?

6. What is your least favorite chore?

7. What is your favorite movie of all time?

8. What is your happiest childhood memory?

I tag:

Heather

Colleen

Julie

Suz

Kelli

Tanya

Mel

Jenny

Odds & Ends

Did someone hit the fast forward button? Life sure does seem to be moving even faster than before. {And I didn't know that was possible!}

We had a terrific first week back to school. I was a little apprehensive about the start of this school year. Homeschooling two instead of one paired with Kam's super loud and needy personality left me feeling nervous. But it was great! Kameryn enjoyed sitting at the table with the "big girls", and she had her own coloring books and activities to do. That's not to say that she didn't try to "help" her big sissies every once in awhile, but all in all we had smooth days.

We had dental appointments on Thursday. I hate the dentist. I mean, I love our dentist, but I really detest going to the dentist. This visit went particularly smoothly, yay! No cavities, and we got a referral for Kenners to see an oral surgeon. Did I mention that I am just now finding that Kenners is tongue tied? Sierra never had any sort of speech impediment. Even as a toddler. Geri {MIL} and I would chuckle because from the time that Sierra could talk, all of her words came out pretty perfect. These big words from a little bitty girl. Kenners, on the other hand, used to have a lisp {that went away on its own}, and has always had a little trouble with her Rs coming out like Ws. I figured it was normal. But once she turned 5, I thought maybe we should work on correcting it. Come to find out, she is physically unable to make certain sounds because her tongue simply won't move in the way it is supposed to. When I tried to make an appointment with our pediatrician, he wouldn't see her. He wanted her to go directly to a speech therapist. While I'm not against her having speech therapy, I truly believe that if we could correct the problem {the tongue tie}, we could solve the problem on our own. Anyway, I was so grateful to our wonderful dentist for not batting an eye, but giving us a referral right away. Miss Kenners has a consultation with the OS next week!

Yesterday we spent most of the afternoon at the hospital. My brother is having severe back/neck problems {which have really been going on for years, and are finally being addressed}, and he is finally scheduled to have surgery on Monday. I am praying that this will rid him of all of the pain he has dealt with for so long, and be the start of healing in more ways than one.

Okay, hold on to your seat . . .

Siding is FINISHED! WOOHOO! Seriously, I don't think any of us had the slightest idea just how big a job siding would be. We have a little caulking to do, and then . . . it's on to electrical! Need a photo? Here ya go:

Next week we have multiple appointments scheduled, and we will be picking out a front door AND paint colors.

What are y'all up to?

Wordless Wednesday ~ First Day

School is in full swing at the Fraijo's!

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Head on over to Miller Racing Family for more Wordless Wednesday Fun :)

Back to {Home} School 2010

Another school year is upon us, and I couldn't be more excited! This year I have two in school. And by school, I do mean homeschooling at our dining room table. {Watch out, because in a few months, when we've moved into our new house, we're actually going to have a homeschool room. Whoa.}

I haven't talked much about our homeschooling journey. I suppose that the decision to homeschool can be a touchy subject, so I've stayed away from it. But no longer, friends. One of the things I love most about blogging, and meeting new blog friends, is that we are all so diverse. Some of us work at home, some of us work outside the home as well. Some of us have homeschooling children, some of us have children who attend private schools, or public schools. And some have babies that are too young to be attending any kind of school ;) My point is that we're all so different, and I love that! Unique, just as God made us. So, I'm about to do a little more talking about our homeschool journey. Simply because it is such a big part of our lives, and that's what this blog/journal is all about. I recognize that the choices we make for our family may very well work wonderfully for us, but would not work at all for you. I just wanted to put that out there because I am so passionate about homeschooling for us, but understand fully that it is not for everyone. Okay then.

Our story.

Once upon a time, in a kingdom far far away {that's how my dad started every story he ever told me}, there lived a little family of four {this is pre-Kam, don'tcha know}. A Mama, Daddy, and two beautiful girls ~ aged nearly 5 and 2. Okay, enough with the fairytale. Funny enough, I had no idea that I desired to homeschool our children. None. Actually, it would have been so much easier if I had. At least Jeremy would have been clued in ahead of time ;)

In May of 2007 we excitedly attended Kindergarten round-up, filled out all of the proper forms, and were preparing for our oldest to start Kindergarten several months later. But then, something happened. Word got out that the Kindergarten classes were changing from 2 days a week to full day/everyday. I started feeling uneasy about sending her to school. Thoughts of homeschooling started creeping in. I spoke with Jeremy about it. He was not . . . thrilled. The school we were about to send Sierra to, it was the same school Jeremy attended from Kindergarten on up. The same school I attended, for that matter. The same school system in which his mom had served on the school board. The same district in which his grandpa was a teacher. The same physical class room in which I spent my 6th grade year. The same class in which Sierra's cousin, Kolby, would be in. Get this, the same teacher that Jeremy had when he was in school. Yeah, I know. I was going against the grain, I guess you could say.

To say I was an emotional mess during the weeks leading up to the start of school, would be a major understatement. Major. Jeremy at least wanted us to give school a shot. So I reluctantly went out and bought all the school supplies on the list, and we prepared to send our barely five year old off to school. And I couldn't turn off the millions of thoughts floating around in my head. What if she gets hungry in the middle of the day? What if she needs to go to the bathroom, and is afraid to ask?

Looking back, I know without a doubt that homeschooling was God's calling for us. Isn't it funny how God's voice is so loud and clear after the fact? I always seem to doubt if it's "really" Him while I'm in the thick of it. I'll spare the millions of other details. Some I want to keep as private memories for myself, anyway. We did send Sierra off to Kindergarten. She made it through her first day. And the second, and third. But it didn't seem to get easier. In fact, there were more tears shed as each day passed. That weekend we took a quick trip to the beach, and so enjoyed our time together. When Monday rolled around there was a meltdown. Apparently Sierra had thought that once she had gone to school for the week, she was done. Sigh. I took her back to her classroom, crying and clinging. And vowed I wouldn't do it again. We didn't.

We've been homeschooling ever since. Jeremy was hesitant, and I'll admit that the first year was difficult as we all came to terms with our new normal. There were a lot of dreams, goals, and expectations of the future that changed when we decided to embrace God's calling on our lives. But now, we could not be happier. We love this journey, and are so blessed to be taking it together.

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Thanks for letting me share! Hope y'all have a fabulous school year ~ wherever it may be!

Gearing Up . . .

For our big first day tomorrow.

Anyone else?

End O' Summer Fun

Time for a little game of catch up again. Is it just me, or does it seem that the end of Summer brings a certain chaos with it? I don't know about y'all, but we have many many August/September birthdays, and with school right around the corner, we are trying to squeeze in a few end of summer outings. Add planning for our upcoming school year to the mix, and the fact that I recently found a new site that I'm in LOVE with and, well, it's kinda like "Oh, hiya blog, sorry I've been neglecting you".

Anyway.

You're caught up. Birthdays. School. Home-building. ;)

You didn't think I was going to let you get away without some photos, did ya?

Thursday morning we headed in to Oaks Amusement Park with Grandma Geri.

The last couple of years we've taken the girls' cousin, Kolby. Geri and I don't do well with the rides that spin round and round uncontrollably. Actually, truth be told, Geri does really well. Me, not so much. It's so nice to have Kolby with us so that he and Sierra can ride the vomit-inducing ones together.

I love this one! Grandma and her girls having a ball.

Kam and I tried this roller coaster. Let's just say it wasn't her favorite.

We all loved the carousel.

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Only a few short days until school starts! We're so excited!!

Wordful Wednesday ~ Helpin' in Nana's Garden

Kam sure loves "helping" Nana in her garden.

She helps eat lots of peas and beans {or "means" as she likes to call 'em}

She helps dig in the dirt.

She helps clear a path through the corn.

She helps care for all of the gorgeous plants and flowers.

And when she's had enough, she tries to escape to Nana's house ~ where she might just find a cookie or some juice.

Yep, that Kam, she's a helper ;)

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Head on over to Seven Clown Circus for more Wordful Wednesday, or if you're a Wordless Wednesday kinda gal, stop by A Beautiful Mess.