Whatever Happened To ...

More and More ...

2012-01-06T12:29:00.000-05:00

Nathan as a wee babe 1997

independent. That Gift of mine (Nathan .. the possessor of an extra chromosome) has got his groove on. Pretty self reliant of late is he! After spending months and months with an in home therapist, he has got himself in order. Bathing, washing his own hair, eating at the Christmas table with eleven people, brushing teeth, shopping, extra outings after school twice a week .. just to name a few improvements. God is good .. and I am blessed.

Almost Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-04T12:16:00.000-05:00

Grandma love. I can't even describe the warm feeling when I hold my youngest little grandbaby. She's a trooper after having heart surgery four days after birth.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T05:21:00.000-05:00

It's been a very busy month .. one that has blessed us with the arrival of our wee little granddaughter, Rowan.

At nearly two weeks of age, she is still in the hospital after needing heart surgery .. and may be home in about a week. Need I say that we are very blessed to have her and can't wait to hold and spoil her.

We had a lovely dusting of snow Christmas Eve and have plans to spend Christmas Day with our loved ones at home.

Amid the hustle and bustle of this busy season, it's nice to remember why we celebrate. In a few hours, there will be much chatter and tearing of paper as the young and old open presents. Platters of food .. and sweets to be passed at the table. It is good to remember that Jesus is ...

... a light for revelation to the Gentiles,
and the glory of your people Israel. ...Luke 2:32

A PJ Day

2011-11-26T16:07:00.001-05:00

Here it is nearly 1:00 PM and I'm still in my pajamas. The weather is cloudy and I am enjoying the leisurely time spent sipping coffee, eating homemade waffles (after grinding the wheat .. of course), fresh thick bacon from the piggy we bought at the fair .. sizzled crisp .. and watching a few cooking shows for inspiration. America's Test Kitchen (Cooks Country) featured St. Louis style pork steaks that I'm going to search the internet and find the recipe.

Granny Day Care is closed this coming week .. that means I'm in vacation mode and can eat bon bons, pick up and go shopping at any hour of the day, or just bask in homemaker's bliss. With Christmas just around the corner, I'll probably finish up shopping and drag out the decoration boxes (with Mr. Mac's help) from the storage room.

Well, perhaps I should figure out what new recipe I'm going to invent with Thanksgiving leftovers.

See you around blogland.

Through A Glass Darkly

2011-11-25T13:15:00.000-05:00

Deep Lake, Millersylvania State Park, Washington

When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a (wo)man, I put away childish things.

For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.

And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.

1 Corinthians 13:11-13 (KJV)

Changing Of The Guard

2011-11-13T09:41:00.001-05:00

photo by Mrs. Mac

We had a beautiful extended autumn this year .. warm and mild. Then it all changed when we woke up with a few inches of snow yesterday morning ... with another four inches during the day. Bright autumn day to .. beautiful white and black scene .. just with a few winks of sleep. Our winters can last a long time in the North Woods ... five to seven months of the year can be expected. This winter is supposed to be a 'la nina' weather pattern with heavy snowfall. The first few months are great and a time of rest from gardening and kitchen canning work. By February I'm ready for a little vacation to a warm sunny spot for about a week. That's just long enough to get over the winter time blues and make spring and summer easier to wait for.

Have a blessed Sunday!

He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High

shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

Psalm 91:1

RIP Miss Holly

2011-11-10T03:00:00.000-05:00

Nathan and his faithful companion, Miss Holly

I just went to check on my beloved Miss Holly (the dawg) and found she had passed away in her sleep. Old age crept upon her with a heavy hand this year; first with a liver ailment .. then springing back to life, and now this autumn with aches and pains from the arrival of cold weather. She passed with a little labored breathing that I thought was just snoring. Just yesterday she was running around in the yard with a little gusto. But .. she labored getting up and down. Much love she gave, only asking for food and shelter. My heart is filled with many happy memories that will keep me warm through the grieving period. Rest in peace my beloved friend. Good night.

Love,

Mamma

Still Life - Ruby Tuesday

2011-10-25T12:47:00.000-04:00


In the Odyssey, Homer declares pears as a 'gift of the gods'

Red glow sweet crisp fruit

Hanging on orchard tree boughs

Washed by autumn's mist

Pears .. betwixt summer and winter .. aaaahhhh!

A very Ruby Tuesday .. for more inspiring photos and to join the 'red' rubies .. click here.

photo and Haiku by Mrs. Mac

On The Road Again

2011-10-10T17:26:00.003-04:00

Edit - My screwy computer posted pictures from I don't know where .. that only show up on my iPhone .. not laptop .. What gives? Anyhow .. I've reposted this post .. you're not seeing double.

This coming week I'm off to the second annual Scarf Sisters Retreat. We're meeting in Northern Michigan for lots of catching up, eating, sight seeing .. and, of course, lots of hugs and prayer time.

2010 Scarf Sisters Reunion - Idaho

Hubby is holding down the fort .. and Ann will help out when needed with her younger brother Nathan. But before I leave .. there's lots of work to finish. Baking bread and making freezer meals. There's also about 30 lbs of ripe tomatoes to can, raspberries and apples to pick and garden debris to burn. For sure .. I will need a vacation from just getting ready to go on this trip.

Oh .. there's the oven timer .. have to scoot. Enjoy your weekend!

Just Dance

2011-10-05T09:06:00.000-04:00

Nathan has been back to school for nearly a month. He had a nice surprise at school; his (favorite) 5-6th grade teacher has moved up and is now his 8th grade teacher. He is so happy to trek off to school each morning and is continually making progress. His in home therapy has ended as he met all of his goals. Now he spends two afternoon/evenings a week receiving developmental therapy in a group setting with a new set of goals. This is a BIG deal for him .. considering that only a year ago he would barely set foot inside the building. His comfort level has greatly increased. My once introverted son is comfortable enough to dance to music in front of his peers. Praising God for His goodness!

Early To Bed (Not)

2011-09-14T06:20:00.000-04:00

Insomnia .. loud crickets .. change of life (two years and counting) .. summer rush in the garden .. have all been contributing to my lack of sleep. I settle down on the couch for a little TV at night .. usually an old movie .. then doze off. Usually I'm already for bed so I can just shuffle half asleep down the hallway to bed. Once there, I toss and turn a few minutes. Still tired. Then it hits me. I need to check the front door, take the pooch out for a potty run, get a glass of water, and heaven forbid if I've forgotten to brush my teeth and decide to use the electric (bzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz) toothbrush. I get back in bed and have a hot flash, which makes me get up to turn on the fan and put on cooler jammies. Settling back in .. I am WIDE AWAKE and thinking I should go bake the bread dough slowly rising on the counter. This is the dough I forgot to add yeast to yesterday so hastily added it after I noticed it wasn't rising. Humm .. I must have been distracted (again). Adding dry yeast to bread dough is not a good idea. But now it smells all yeasty and like sourdough .. so I don't want to waste it. Time to turn on the oven and finish baking bread. Smelling the yummy goodness makes me hungry so I make a pot of coffee and wait for the bread to finish. My day today is going to suck. I'll need a nap just after Nathan gets on the school bus .. oh, I forgot, it's Wednesday and I have my little grandson ALL DAY. I really need to mature and better order my day!

Early to bed, early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise .. Ben Franklin

Change In The Air ...

2011-09-02T23:15:00.001-04:00

We've had a little hint of autumn this week. Day time highs in the 70's .. and nights dipping down into the 40's. Summer is not over as we're supposed to hit the 90's again soon .. but it was refreshing to feel the coolness of the evening air .. and see a shallow fog bank blanketing the nearby lake. The crickets and frogs are singing their halleluiah chorus to the Lord of Heaven and Earth .. such lowly .. yet beautiful harmony they make.

Tuesday Nathan heads back to school. His interventionist will continue to work at home with him for the month of September .. then he will transition to attending two afternoons a week at a local facility that helps people with developmental disabilities further their life skills. There he will practice cooking and washing laundry and a host of other skills. Eventually he can get a job with them and earn some money. Good practice for our growing teen. He went shopping with the Mr. and me today for six hours ... behaved beautifully! Just to think a year ago we were very limited to our outings with him. Now he's turned into such a mature young man.

My computer is acting up and not letting me post any new photos. Will have to see about getting it repaired or replaced. Too bad as it's not that old!

Hubby and I have a little list started for our weekly date days. Next week we hope to go kayaking. What's up in your world?

“The LORD is nigh unto all them that call upon him, to all that call upon him in truth. He will fulfill the desire of them that fear him: he also will hear their cry, and will save them.” – Psalms 145:18-19

Life Takes a Different Turn ...

2011-08-29T01:32:00.000-04:00

sometimes.

This has been a tough summer. My oldest daughter and her husband are expecting their second baby .. a little girl named Rowan .. that has a severe heart defect. She will need several surgeries and who knows what all procedures after she is born. I'm stepping back and watching my daughter become this very calm, wise mom that is putting her priorities and house in order to take the best possible care of her growing family. All I can say is that I'm sitting on the side lines and watching in awe as God leads this little family and helps to strengthen them for the rough ride ahead.

Today's My Friday ...

2011-07-16T02:45:00.002-04:00

Lovely violas that freely keep coming back year after year ..

Hubby confuses me sometimes when he says on Tuesday, 'Today's my Friday' because he has Wednesday and Thursday .. and most of Friday home from work.

When the real Friday rolls around, I'm thinking it 'feels' like Saturday. Today is/was Friday .. and I did, indeed, think it was Saturday. It doesn't help having Nathan in camp three days a week .. Mon/Wed/Thur .. which makes his having Friday off, once again, seem like Saturday because I can possibly sleep in .. unless, that is, oldest son is working Friday .. which is really his Saturday .. and calls on Thursday night to see if he can come over early Friday morning before he goes to work on his day off .. to have coffee with me.

Now that it's taken me so long to 'splain' myself .. it's actually Saturday .. that I've figured out all on my own.

If this is your Saturday .. what are you up to?

Verse of the day:

"For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form,

and in Christ you have been brought to fullness. He is the head over

every power and authority"

Colossians 2:9-10

Thunder STRUCK

2011-07-13T04:31:00.000-04:00

I LOVE a good thunder storm. Trouble is .. my dawg is a weenie and freaks out. Tonight one such storm rolled through. I have resorted to parking my truck on the driveway and tying up the dawg in the empty garage .. away from anything she can topple over.

Several weeks ago a magnificent storm rolled through. We had company staying in the guest room above our garage .. and didn't want her to wake them up with barking .. so she was kept on a short leash in the dining room. At 3 AM I awoke to what I thought was a burglar .. only to find out the dog had toppled some plants, books and mail off the bakers rack, tipped over her water and proceeded to tromp around creating a BIG MESS.

Now the storm is passing. Nathan has gone back to bed after spending an hour in the 'safe room' (interior bathroom) .... all is well.

Thank you Lord for sending the rain and for shaking up the heavens to remind us of your presence.

Ever Thankful

2011-07-11T04:00:00.002-04:00

Nathan .. age 15

Thankful for one left in the nest. After Ann moved out in May, I have come to discover it would be pretty lonely around here without any youngins at home. Nathan (the possessor of an extra chromosome) is perpetually youthful and adds great joy to life. To be so young at heart .. always .. is a gift beyond measure.

Every part of life is a season. I think the empty nest phase would be quite .. well empty without our special needs son. So thankful God knew we needed him before he was born. Even with all of his challenges, life adds a richness that would be lacking without him.

In God's infinite wisdom .. He has blessed us and given us reason to have joy as we enter the golden stage of life.

Life In The S.L.O.W. Lane

2011-07-05T06:59:00.000-04:00

Living with a broken pc and a slow internet connection may just suit me fine. (I can't believe I just printed that) ... since my computer crashed last month .. by a hacker .. resulting in less than better pc use .. (yes, I have anti-virus .. etc .. firewalls ..but when you have a SLOW connection .. sometimes the updates don't update in a timely fashion .. and don't update .. putting you at risk of the latest threat .. make sense?). This might be my signal to ditch the ~~non existent~~ internet service and go use the computer at the library once or twice a week when I am in town .. thus saving me about $700 a year!

Speaking of slow lane .. that is the pace our garden has taken this year as well. Many of my May/June blooming flowers are just now putting on a show. The veggie garden is a month behind as well in production. I hope God is generous and extends the first frost date by at least a month so things have a chance to ripen before we descend into winter.

Mangy Moose Lodge .. spring flowers in summer

Back to the computer .. now the picture scan/disc port on the pc shuts down when I load the disc into it. So any pictures I post from home will have to be ones I can find stored on my broken pc prior to July 4 .. until I start using the library computer. This seems complicated .. and maybe not worth the effort. But .. I don't want to completely stop blogging (even though it may appear that I have already done so).

Why do people have to be so evil and think up viruses .. scams .. hijackings? I'll spare you with my idea about what God should do to them .. it's not a nice picture!

Summer Goodness x's Ten

2011-07-03T02:17:00.000-04:00

Nathan, Jake and imagination at play

green lawn
perennials in full bloom
day camp
bird song
fresh garden produce
family gatherings
blue skies
homemade ice cream
BBQ's
road trips

Whatever Happened To Mrs. Mac?

2011-06-11T01:37:00.000-04:00

Mr. and Mrs. Mac at Memorial Day Service

It's been a while since I dug in and wrote a blog post with more than a sentence and a few pictures. Life has a way of passing by without so much as a hiccup .. then .. the brakes get applied.

Our youngest daughter, Ann, recently moved out on her own. She has been working as a dental assistant for almost a year now after graduating from school last summer. This makes the homestead a bit quieter and has freed up my schedule. You wouldn't think that having an adult child living at home would make the parent's calendar fill up .. but somehow now that she's not living here .. I have more (me) time. Her room is being transformed into a little retreat for sewing projects and quiet day dreams.

Nathan finished up the 8th grade yesterday and is home for the summer. He has three days a week planned for summer camp activities. Did I mention that he has progressed to the point that he can pretty much take care of himself? Thanks to the work of a very special interventionist that has helped to transform a very needy (special needs) child .. into one that is very capable of managing his own self without very much assistance. PTL! I'll post an update soon about his health after a recent scare we had .. but for now, let's just say he's growing like a weed and seems to be on the mend. The docs don't suspect leukemia .. will know more after his next blood test in July. Thank you all that have been praying for him ..

I hope to get my writing grove back and post more often.

Part II - Sepia Flying Fortress

2011-06-10T21:26:00.000-04:00

Our visit to Felts Field's open house revisited in sepia.

A Flying Fortress .. Aluminum Overcast ... B17

Chrome in sepia .. a somewhat self-portrait

Felts Field .. part of Spokane Airport

A Ruby Flying Fortress - Part I

2011-06-07T04:59:00.003-04:00

Restored B-17 named the Aluminum Overcast

U.S. Navy bi-planes

Our weekend outing was to a neighborhood vintage aircraft display at Felts Field in Spokane, Washington. There were many restored war planes, including a B-17 from WWII. For the right price you could even take a flight in several of the planes. Years ago, Mr. Mac was treated to a flight in this very same B-17 .. can you believe he opted to take the flight instead of celebrating my 30th birthday?? .. His loyalty was swayed by this scantily clad ruby aluminum beauty ;)

For more Ruby Tuesday beauties, visit Teach Mary here

A Re-enactment That's Rebel Worthy

2011-06-01T00:45:00.000-04:00

The North getting ready to fire the cannon

The South in close combat battle

The Northern Army

The encampment was complete with the latest laundry facility

Boom, Boom, Boom

Southern and Northern Belles

The womenfolk honoring the fallen soldiers

This past Sunday hubby and I had an adventure visiting a Civil War re-enactment. We had front row ground space to sit upon our blankets to watch the battle scene unfold. The cannons were very LOUD and kept me jerking each time they were fired. The encampment had North and South settlements complete with period tents, camp cook stoves, period dresses and battle uniforms. Living history louder and larger than life.

Ruby Tuesday - In A Jar

2011-03-29T10:02:00.002-04:00


Wild Rose/Geranium Jelly

A little bit of summer captured in a jar .. to be savored during the long cold winter to lift the spirits of my family while waiting once more for the rebirth of the land.

Jelly and photo created by Mrs. Mac.

To find out more about Ruby Tuesday, visit Teach Mary

Ruby Tuesday Curios

2011-03-22T15:24:00.001-04:00

A bit of ruby cheer while waiting for spring. I can always count on my little glass fronted curio cabinet to lend some color to brighten the day.

heirloom ruby glassware

To get your own ruby inspiration, visit Teach Mary at Work of the Poet.

Happy Birthday Nathan .. God's Gift

2011-03-20T22:34:00.000-04:00

Our youngest turned 15 years old today. If you don't know it .. he was given a 2% chance of survival at birth.

It's a miracle he's growing up so strong and healthy .. full of life .. and a blessing to all who know him. Thank you Lord for the honor of being his mom.

Life would be many blessings short without our Gift!

Instilling A Love For Cooking & Healthy Eating

2011-03-15T16:05:00.001-04:00

... with your children.

Nathan is at it again .. learning how to cook! He so loves to crack eggs, stir them with milk and make him some good eats (French toast) from the kitchen. If you have a picky eater .. try including them in the cooking .. or growing/gardening process to make healthy food choices more personal. We are looking forward to the 'dirty' work in the garden now that winter is almost a memory :)

God Has A Plan

2011-02-10T15:17:00.000-05:00

... and I'm anxious to see what is in store for our newly employed son! Answered prayer .. It's a good thing!

Monday Morning Quarterback

2011-02-07T11:22:00.002-05:00

... from someone in the know ;)

Well .. that was some Super Bowl game yesterday. It makes me feel so proud to see that America's best was on stage during the half-time show (not!). Instead of hiring so called 'professionals' ... Hollywood-ites .. why doesn't someone with half a brain try giving the stage over to some true American patriots .. like a military marching band .. or a group of Girl Scouts that can sing America The Beautiful or The Star Spangled Banner (our NATIONAL anthem) and belt out the words with meaning. This is the problem when exceptionalism is paved over with mediocrity .. there are no winners .. just empty awards for participation (win or lose).

Jake provided entertainment

The best part of the day was spent with my beautiful family .. eating great yummy snacks and hijacking Face Book with a play by play account of how bored I was 'watching' the game. I LOVE MY FAMILY for not turning me out in the snow :)

Family Life Of A Public Servant

2011-01-30T10:03:00.003-05:00

Having been married thirty years .. 26 of which have been while hubby has been an officer of the law has not been easy on our family time. Odd hours .. long shift work .. mid week days off .. are just of few of the lesser stresses of the job. There's also the safety fears: Will he come home in one piece at the end of watch? Will he stay awake on the long drive home? Will he be exposed to infectious diseases?

This life style has left a good deal of the work on my shoulders with hubby's odd hours and oft times need to sleep during the day. Homeschooling was an option we chose so DH could take part in our family life.

We've survived separation during great civil unrest, earthquakes making travel impossible, hostage takeovers, high speed pursuits and shootouts. Calls from the hospital with hubby saying, "I've been injured and am covered in someone's blood."

Now we are in another city .. with a less stressful job .. still odd and inconvenient days and hours. People are people no matter where you live. Some are kind .. but most treat the law officer in contempt .. that is until they need help. Yes .. there are bad apples in every field .. and it only takes one to tarnish the badge. Next time you need the assistance of an officer, or you get pulled over for speeding, or get a ticket for illegally parking .. be kind and thankful to the man or woman behind the badge that has sworn an oath to serve and protect YOU.

Answered Prayer

2011-01-16T15:18:00.000-05:00

Nathan .. that's about all I'm writing about on this blog of late. But .. today was his second Sunday attending church with me .. in the adult church .. he has sat quietly by my side during the entire service .. soaking in some of God's word .. listening to praise and worship music. This is something I have prayed for for several years .. Words are not adequate for what is taking place.

Nathan and his dad .. unusual but much appreciated Christmas gifts :)

" People were also bringing babies to Jesus for him to place his hands on them. When the disciples saw this, they rebuked them. ¹⁶ But Jesus called the children to him and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. ¹⁷ Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” Matthew 18:15-17

Sandbox 101

2011-01-14T11:04:00.000-05:00

Growing up .. Nathan never really learned how to play in the sandbox and share or interact with other children. He often kept to himself and played alone .. or parallel played, along side, without much interaction. Something is changing .. he's now interacting with his new 'best' friend .. his little nephew, Jacob.

They are always competing now .. talking up a storm .. communicating with incomplete sentences or using the IPad app (Proloquo2Go) .. to speak .. remember manners .. share .. be kind.

Nathan's therapist has been encouraging their developing friendship by including Jacob in at least one weekly therapy session.

It's great to see their relationship develop into a friendship; one that will carry them into adulthood .. one day Jacob may even be his big uncles protector.

Good Intentions

2011-01-05T13:12:00.000-05:00

of taking down the Christmas decor on New Year's Day .. but oh, I'm still enjoying the tree lights, door wreath, and instrumental (flute, violin, harp) music. Why all the fuss to get it put away so soon after Christmas .. not going to happen .. I'm waiting until Friday when hubby can help. It will be more enjoyable working together .. memories to share as we take the ornaments off the tree together .. not so much a dreaded solo chore.

Besides .. this will give us a chance to start a new/old tradition .. that of celebrating the Epiphany .. arrival the the Three Wise Men to visit the Christ child .. 12th day of Christmas.

Savoring in Him,

Winter-scapes

2011-01-02T11:09:00.003-05:00

Ann enjoying a bleak winter day

Finding beauty in bleakness .. it takes just a little imagination to develop this sense. Living in a winter scape affords a person the ability to eventually see summer in technicolor. Never one for wasting a good day, I try to find the beauty within each one.

Bleak .. cold ..

snowy .. sunny .. in-between .. leafless

emerging .. emerald .. first leaf .. first bloom ..

scents .. fruit of the vine .. harvest ..

swirling leaves ..

naked sentry trees .. wind .. ice ..

cold .. bleak.

As each day unfolds, there is a beauty to behold. Even on the bleakest day of winter, somewhere in the landscape .. beauty is waiting to be discovered. No special glasses required .. just open eyes to pinpoint the God given abundance that is ours to discover .. if we just observe His ever changing landscape.

You will go out in joy and be

led forth in peace;

the mountains and hills

will burst into song before you,

and all the trees of the field

will clap their hands.

Isaiah 55:12

A New Year

2011-01-01T13:28:00.001-05:00

There's nothing like a fresh new calendar on my wall or desk .. one that holds lots of hope and promise stored within its pages .. yet to be written. May God bless each of you this coming year as you bless Him in actions, words and deeds. Not in 'good works' to get something back from Him .. but as an act of faith and desire to serve the Living God Almighty.

What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.

But someone will say, “You have faith; I have deeds.”

Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds.

James 2:14-18

After The Storm

2010-12-30T23:55:00.000-05:00

after the storm .. our front yard

Had a wild snow storm roll through yesterday .. in the midst the kids decided to blaze a sledding trail in the front yard. Today was picture perfect .. with a cherry on top :)

Waiting to ring in the new year tomorrow night at home. It's cold .. and the best place is inside by the stove. Christmas has come and gone .. and it's almost time to put the decorations away for another year. Today was spent getting up early to make homemade cinnamon rolls to enjoy with friends, sledding, taking care of car maintenance, and fixing a nice pot roast dinner for my family. Nothing profound .. simple everyday life .. ebb and flow stuff. Still resting up from last summer's garden and enjoying the produce put away for winter. My life speaks volumes of 'homebody' .. and that suits me just fine.

I hope to get back to blogging more regularly once the new year rolls around. Been hit or miss of late with Christmas and company. Enjoy New Year's Eve .. be safe.

sledding .. oh what fun

Hugs,

Christmas Week

2010-12-21T18:58:00.000-05:00

... finds the Mac home making preparation for the coming celebration of the remembrance of Christ's birth. Often times this gets lost in the secular world .. but as Christians .. it is foremost in our home. I've done some baking, more decorating, and cleaning. We will have a houseful this weekend. Our oldest daughter and her family will be staying overnight on Christmas Eve. Christmas day will find 12 people at our dinner table including family and friends.

Today the weather was in the low 40F's .. clear skies .. this tempted me to do a load of laundry to hang outside ... just because :) too bad it all got washed yesterday .. it may be quite a long time before another spring day happens this winter.

Nathan is home from school this week. He continues to amaze me with the progress he's making. currently he is working on bathing skills AND learning how to cope when other people laugh out loud (LOL). This has been a tight rope walk until now. I can honestly say that life is more typical in our home with his new self control capabilities .. can I get a big AMEN!?

Cookies have been baked. Most of the grocery and gift shopping is done. Mr. Mac has been the gift wrapper extraordinaire again. It's nice to have someone help with the extra work Christmas brings.

Chocolate Brownie Drop Cookies

Have a blessed day.

Pleased As Punch

2010-12-10T09:18:00.003-05:00

Finding what motivates Nathan seems to be the key to his success that he's currently experiencing. Now that sounds like it (the motivation) would work for anybody .. and why didn't I think of it in the first place? .. humm .. not quite so easy to unlock a child that displays autistic traits .. easier said than done. But, this is just the ticket .. along with a fantastic therapist that has brainy ideas and challenges me to think outside the box. His latest adventure .. taking a bath and having Nathan doing most of the work .. (soon to be all of the process). Just how are we motivating him? Well .. little pennies to be earned for staying focused. Pennies have helped him transition from eating in his room to now regularly enjoying meals at the dining room table with the whole family. They have also been used to have him go shopping and staying by my side .. even when walking down the toy isle or frozen food section (favorite places he used to get side tracked and take off to visit ALONE). Last night we started on the bathing skills. A simple back brush with a puffy scrubber end .. seems so simple why didn't I think of it first ... was his to begin using; a better choice than a washcloth with his delayed small motor skills. You can see from the after picture how proud he is .. even combing his own hair. Little steps .. to big success. Next stop ... transitioning to using a shower. I have no fear of Nathan lagging behind any longer. Praising God always!

More Than Able

2010-12-04T23:46:00.000-05:00

Nathan Springing To Life

This past week found Mr. Mac and myself attending a meeting at Nathan's school with his teacher. At times I have no idea what he's capable of doing .. because when he gets home from school, it's time for him to unwind .. have some quiet time .. dance .. watch a movie. He rarely gives me more than a nod when I ask how his day at school went. OK is his word of choice. OK can mean he had a good day or a bad day. OK and NO are sometimes interchangeable with Nathan. Short answers do not always answer questions. At one point during the meeting we stepped into the classroom where Nathan was studying. There he sat with a few other children at a computer desk ... wearing a headset ... and surfing the web. Now, I had no idea he could 'surf the web' .. but there he sat .. surfing the web. He is mainstreamed in P.E. and is excelling ... and now sits in a circle for reading .. taking turns .. practicing moving his finger under the line of words the other children are reading. Last month we ate out at a restaurant that had white butcher paper on the table as a covering .. crayons were provided for amusement .. so I started writing out simple words ... family names .. and Nathan was reading them. I am witnessing a miracle in my child's progress. He is developing good coping skills and losing some of the 'fright/flight' antics that once dominated his behavior. Being in crowds is less frightening .. he's growing up ALL AT ONCE right before my eyes ... Praise The Lord!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-12-01T03:17:00.001-05:00

Photo by Mrs. Mac

Giving Thanks

2010-11-26T19:07:00.000-05:00

... the day after.

Yesterday found the Mac family at home celebrating many blessing. Food, warmth of home, family, friends. We had a bounty of goodness served up at the table. Reflecting at prayer time .. each person gave a short offering of thanks for what they were most grateful for. I had to give a BIG shout of thanks for the progress Nathan has made: He is developing the skills to EAT in the dining room at the table with the whole noisy lot of what is his family. Just a few weeks ago, this was only a dream. Now, he regularly eats with us. I'm praising the Lord and saying AMEN! Thanking the dedicated work his therapist is doing ... we call here the miracle worker!! Next on the list of miracles: Haircuts, baths, and trimming toe nails. Hey, with God in control, we have success!

Starting Off The Holidays

2010-11-16T14:29:00.000-05:00

... with a BANG!

Sunday afternoon found us at a rare concert (rare as in I don't usually go to concerts;) .. the Trans Siberian Orchestra was playing in Spokane, Washington. The performance was OUTSTANDING! If you haven't been to one of their shows, be sure to catch them if they are performing near you. Picture Beethoven on crack ... and you've got a good idea of the energy, sound, fireworks, flames and snow to kick it up a notch. Thank you Patrick for the early Christmas present.

(Almost) Wordless Wednesday ...

2010-11-10T16:25:00.000-05:00

Nathan luv'n him some venison ribs

Our Day, Plus 30 Years

2010-11-08T08:09:00.000-05:00

Old Irish Blessing:

May God be with you and bless you
May you see your children's children
May you be poor in misfortunes and rich in Blessings
May you know nothing but happiness
from this day forward

Today marks our thirtieth wedding anniversary. We've been celebrating all weekend. First with a lovely dinner out on the town Saturday, an overnight get-a-way, Sunday brunch ... and dinner with our family last night.

Mr. & Mrs. Mac - On This Our Wedding Day, 11/8/1980

Mr. & Mrs. Mac - 2010

With all of that merry making .. I'll return to my Monday night football widow status. Mr. Mac has been enjoying a week of vacation time at home. Rainy weather and a cold front moving in this week should make for a final end to the summer season.

(Almost) Wordless Wednesday ... (a day late;)

2010-11-04T20:29:00.001-04:00

sunrise over North Idaho

Oh So Pretty!

2010-11-01T11:13:00.000-04:00

Gr-gr Grandma Minni's parlor lamp .. waiting for a good dusting!

It finally arrived! My heirloom parlor lamp. It's been years of patient waiting .. trying to figure out how to ship it safely from St. Louis to North Idaho without breakage. Great-great grandma's lamp is finally resting in safety atop my dresser. Although my dad claimed it to be from the Civil War era, from a bit of research (on-line) last night, I peg it from the 1880's to about 1901. Thank you, my friend and neighbor (Cathy K) for bringing this heirloom home to roost!

The lamp is painted with chrysanthemums. Funny .. not remembering what floral pattern was on the lamp nor the color scheme .. I'd say my bedroom was designed with it in mind. We even have chrysanthemums on the bathroom curtains and upholstered dressing stool. Please, Lord, don't let my family members be the ones to break it ... AMEN!

(Almost) Wordless Wednesday ...

2010-10-27T17:36:00.001-04:00

Jake and the pumpkin caper looking for a green one.

This one isn't green ... but it will do ;)

Imagination at play!

Fruit Of The Spirit

2010-10-24T13:49:00.000-04:00

photo by Mrs. Mac

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other." Galatians 5:22-26

Scarf Sisters Reunion - Day Three

2010-10-21T11:33:00.000-04:00

On Sunday I loaded up the gals into the 'tour bus' (my old van;) and we headed out of town ... final destination .. to tread ever so quickly into and out of the state of Montana ... just to say 'We Were There' ;) Sister Deb wants to visit all fifty states ... so with this trip, she was able to check off three.

Scarf Sisters at the Greenbriar Inn, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

We started the day with a beautiful and delicious brunch at the Greenbriar Inn. A lovely brick home built in 1908 that serves dinner, brunch, and is a B&B. The food was so good, and the interior of the home right up my alley .. vintage!

A trip to North Idaho wouldn't be complete without a visit to the oldest building in the state. That being the Mission Of The Sacred Heart in Cataldo. Built between 1850-1853 by Catholic Jesuit missionaries and members of the Coeur d'Alene tribe, it has a feeling of rich history blending religious traditions of the white men with that of the native.

Mission Of The Sacred Heart, Cataldo, Idaho

Parrish House .. next to the mission

Parrish House Parlor

Parrish House Kitchen

Wooden Urn at Mission

Inside the Mission

A Black Robe worn by Jesuit Missionary

The afternoon was spent having authentic BBQ at the Smoke House in downtown Wallace, ID .. and a little shopping for silver jewelry (Wallace is in the Silver Capital of the world). Sister Cheryl was a brave soul standing on the spot (in the middle of the street) dubbed 'The Center of the Universe' ... There is much more to see in this area ... but not enough hours in the day. I think the sisters need to come back for a longer stay one of these days :)

Sisters At the Center Of The Universe :)

A Weekend Not Soon Forgotten

2010-10-19T16:45:00.000-04:00

Scarf sister style! We finally met for a reunion. It was with regret that more could not attend in person, but I know many were with us in heart and spirit. Can I just say BLESSED! That is the overwhelming feeling after the fact. God ordered such a perfect weekend: good weather, safe travel, good food, conversation, Bible study, and a lasting friendship between gals that were once strangers and now friends. Amen! God is good.

Getting Ready For The Scarf Sisters

2010-10-11T01:16:00.000-04:00

Reunion.

This coming weekend ... a long awaited gathering is scheduled to take place with some of my dear blog sisters ... otherwise known as 'The Scarf Sisters' ... we have been meeting online for years .. and are taking the plunge. Will be posting more over at my other blog titled (what else;), The Sisterhood Of The Traveling Scarf.

On Making Dates

2010-09-28T09:31:00.000-04:00

with hubby!

Over the course of the summer, Mr. Mac and I have been setting aside one day a week ... when our son, Nathan, is in school or camp ... and our grandson, Jacob, is not being watched by 'granny' .. to get out and explore the greater area that we call home. We have to time our outings around the school bus schedule, but even so, that gives us until 3:30 PM, which is long enough to even head out of town. So far we've taken a bike ride exploring downtown Coeur d'Alene, a tour of a silver mine, shopping at thrift stores, kayaking in a beautiful bay, exploring area parks and malls ... and always grabbing a bite to eat at a local eatery ... which is the hardest part for me due to food allergies. Next week ... is quite local with a bike ride around our own dear little lake .. no need for a car ride ... and lunch will be in a picnic basket at our choosing along the shore. Making time to keep our marriage alive is of great value! Parenting at our age is lasting forever ... and the prospects of having a empty nest are zilch! Parenting our special needs teenager .. is actually getting easier ... but we need to recharge our batteries for sanity's sake.

Nathan ... Waking Up To The Beat Of The Drum

2010-09-23T15:05:00.001-04:00

Most days find our son, Nathan, somewhat apprehensive and shy. That is ... until ... he turns on some music and starts dancing (spinning) .. non stop until he either wears himself out ... or I purposely 'unplug' him. Sometimes it's a struggle for the rest of the family to 'endure' another playing of 'Little GTO' ... or ... surfin' 60's music, or The Monster Mash, as he can listen to the same selection over and over. Thank goodness when we built our home I had six inch walls stuffed with insulation and solid wood doors put on the bedroom doorways ~~lest his bedroom would be moved to the basement~~ ;) On the bright side .. Nathan often sings along with the music ... helping him to practice his speech. My once un-intelligibly voiced son is starting to string three and four word sentences together. Music ... soothes the savage beast (so I've heard) ... and brings out the best in Nathan. Normally, loud noise sets him off in a tizzy ... but not so with music .. to him it's a white noise pleasure. BTW ... I have to frequently change the furniture placement so as not to wear a hole in the carpet.

Hallelujah! Sing to God a  brand-new song, 
      praise him in the company of all who love  him. 
   Let all Israel celebrate their Sovereign Creator, 
      Zion's  children exult in their King. 
   Let them praise his name in dance;  
      strike up the band and make great music! 
   And why?  Because God delights in  his people, 

      festoons plain folk with salvation garlands! 

Psalm 149:1-4 The Message Bible

Thank you, Dr. Boucher for exploring this topic with the many families you have helped to think outside of the box in the physical and occupational therapy areas of your expertise. To read more, visit her site, Therextras and follow her third annual blog carnival coming soon.

Closing In On Autumn

2010-09-15T11:17:00.000-04:00

Today I plan on making my last run out to the local u-pick farm to get food to store away for the coming winter. The days are sitting pretty at about 78-80 degrees this week with nights in the 40's (F). In the winter, 40's would feel like a nice summer day. In the summer, 40 degree temps feel cold. The past month has been spent busily in the kitchen canning and freezing garden produce. A lot of work .. but a $ and time saver during the cold weather.

Hubby and I have made dates for one day each week during September and October. Our bikes have been fine tuned and have been getting some use as well. He put his name in a drawing at the library and won two tickets for a lake cruise which took place last Friday evening. Everyone aboard had won similar tickets ... so the boat was full of 'readers' and book club fans. Mostly silver haired folks with great life stories to share.

With the cooler nights it's time to start feathering the nest with extra bedding, and hanging a few sweaters in the front closet for cool morning walks. What's going on in your neck of the woods?

Blessed Routine

2010-09-07T19:42:00.000-04:00

... has been reestablished! With the start (albeit rocky) of the school year this morning, Nathan is back in his routine ... which means my time is more predictable. After the school bus got a mixed signal this AM by not picking him up at the bus stop, and Mr. Mac had to drive him to school, the ride home was just as 'exciting' when a rock hit a side bus window and another bus had to come to complete the transportation.

Mr. Mac got a call from the library that his name was drawn for two free lake cruise tickets this Friday ... with a guest speaker aboard telling about the history of our area lake. Wow ... an actual date .. if I can find a sitter. All's well that ends well!

Ahoy!

Photo: Nathan and his teacher, first day of school 9/7/2010

Off To The Fair

2010-08-30T02:05:00.001-04:00

We talked Nathan in to going to the fair yesterday :) Since he's been receiving 'intense' development therapy, it's been a little easier getting out and about with him. The highlight was having him walk through the horse barn. (OK ... I bribed him with a few pennies ... he's saving up 70 so he can 'purchase' an outing to the bowling alley.)

Aaah ... the sights and smells of the fair. Fried food galore. Even deep fried pickles. I was not tempted to try one ... have you ever eaten a deep fried pickle? Who thinks up food like this??????

My favorite part was walking through the quilt exhibit. There were so many beauties displayed. I'm working on finishing up a hand pieced quilt top that my(dearly departed) grandmother started. There are enough complete squares to make a full size bed quilt. She must have started the pieces in the 1960's from scraps of fabric she saved. It will be so special to sleep under the cover knowing she hand stitched the pieces. Her son, my dad, will enjoy using it when he returns for his annual visit next summer. (Mums the word mom if you read this post.) Inside the quilt barn were some ladies spinning wool yarn. Since I have been mastering so many new/old skills the past few years, I'm looking for something to work on this winter so just might take up spinning ... it looks so relaxing.

Did you get out to a fair this summer? If so, what is your favorite part? Rides, food, exhibits?

Savoring The Last Bit

2010-08-22T16:20:00.000-04:00

... of summer.

Already the leaves on our maple trees are starting to be tinged with yellow and flame red. Hints of cooler temperatures can be felt upon the daytime breeze ... and the nights .. well, they are getting chilly. School starts once again the day after Labor Day ... and then I can begin my LONG rest. It happens each year. Look forward to spring (which bypassed us this year) ... then work like a dog all summer ... and slide right into the restful mode that autumn ushers in. We are predicted to have a snowy winter this year. Each season is a welcome change from the one that just passed. We are still busy storing away food for the colder months ahead. Our freezers are full and the storage pantry should be overflowing in the weeks to come. The cycle will begin once again ... Life goes on. Ebb and flow. The cricket will have its swan song soon enough ... then the quiet peace will return as our little area settles in for a long winter's nap, once again devoid of summer's tourists.

Photo credit: Carl Larsson, Apple Harvest

"The Big Burn" 1910 Fire

2010-08-18T17:26:00.000-04:00

This coming weekend will be the 100th anniversary of the tragic 3 million acre forest fire that consumed much of the northwest including areas of Idaho, Montana, Washington, and Canada. Monday we took a trip up to Wallace Idaho to see the Historic Nine Mile Cemetery where some of the fire fighters that lost their lives are buried. Our son Patrick, a federal forest firefighter, has been working to spruce up the graveyard in preparation to this weekend's activities. It's a very moving experience to tread upon the site where so many heroes are laid to rest, including U.S. Veterans, miners, and various pioneers from a bygone era. To read more about these devastating fires check out these links:

USDA Forest Service’s Northern Region 1910 Fire Commemoration Information web site

Outdoor Idaho August 20: The Day the Fires Burned

The Big Burn: Teddy Roosevelt and the Fire that Saved America, book by Timothy Egan

Summer Vacation - Part III

2010-08-15T09:07:00.001-04:00

... company.

My parents are visiting and playing catch up with their grand kids. Jacob has his Gigi wrapped around his little finger as she is a good audience for his imaginative play. We're trying to squeeze every living bit of summer warmth out of this season ... it's predicted that our winter will be rather snowy.

Photos: My parents (mom and step-dad, Helen and Otis), Jacob and his Gigi 'wearing' plastic volcanoes as hats, story time with her grands.

Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD.
From the house of the LORD we bless you.

Psalm 118:26

What I Did On Summer Vacation - Part II

2010-08-12T04:18:00.000-04:00

Lake cruise on a kayak. We've stayed pretty close to home this summer with company, summer camp, a basketball tournament (upcoming) for Nathan, etc. Mr. Mac and I have been wanting to go kayaking for the longest time .. so we took the plunge last weekend and signed up for lessons .. this involved safety as well and we had to learn rescue techniques should we tip over in the boat. It's a good thing the water was nice and warm or I'd have chickened out.

One more mini-trip before school starts for Nathan ... Let's see .. it's a National Park just about four hours from home .... any guesses?

Lest We Forget

2010-08-08T14:06:00.002-04:00

"He is ready to separate the chaff from the wheat with his winnowing fork. Then he will clean up the threshing area, gathering the wheat into his barn but burning the chaff with never-ending fire.”

Matthew 3:12 (New Living Translation)

Photo credit: Winnowing The Grain by Carl Larsson,

What I Did On Summer Vacation - Part I

2010-08-07T11:13:00.000-04:00

... in pictures.

Summer wouldn't be summer without a little relaxation thrown in the mix. I tend to stay close to home due to the gardens .. and the busy production of storing food for the winter. Hubby did let me slip away one weekend to the west coast of Washington to visit new found family.

This is my cousin Egon and his wife Debbie. He emigrated from Denmark years ago and is the keeper of our family tree. They invited me to join them for a Danish picnic ... and a visit to Viking Days at a Nordic museum.

It has been my dream for years to discover my Danish heritage ... and this was a great way to start!

We Return To Normal

2010-07-30T00:39:00.001-04:00

Summertime is rolling right along. We've had two rounds of company so far ... and one more for the month of August ... my folks; they are easy to have as house guests as they know their way around town and offer me respite throughout their stay :)

I'm amazed to see how much Nathan has grown this summer in height and weight. Not that he's a large boy, but he definitely is growing. Camp exercise and fresh air give him a good appetite.

I just couldn't resist posting this pic of Jacob and Daisy Mae (his new puppy). Both come over for regular visits to melt this grammy's heart!

Today was berry picking day at the local farm. I picked two quarts of raspberries and 2 quarts of strawberries to make some freezer jam and stockpile the freezer with frozen berries for winter treats.

Hoping your summer is spent with family and friends making good memories.

Yes, I'm Still On Vacation

2010-07-25T08:44:00.000-04:00

... with family (at home;) ... but I had the best epiphany last night and woke up so peaceful and rested in spite of not getting much sleep. It had to do with dogs, kids, marriage, and life passing quickly. All this from playing with an adorable puppy and being aware of God's stirring during the night to abide in Him.

Pic: my newest 'granddaughter' Daisy Mae

Mrs. Mac has ....

2010-07-24T01:43:00.000-04:00

.... company this week. I'll be down at the lake, out to lunch, BBQing, gardening (always) ... catch you soon.

New Graduate ...

2010-07-14T00:11:00.002-04:00

Now employed.

Ann hustled the week after graduation dropping off her polished resumes and cover letters at area dental offices. Last week she was called in for an interview ... and today had a paid working interview ... and ... and ... and ... was handed a new employee packet at the end of the day. Yippee! Praise the Lord ... Thankful girl ... hard worker ...

Pic: (1) Ann's grad night, (2) Ann and Patrick, (3) Ann heading out the door for her first interview, (4) Excited Ann with employment papers :)

"I can do everything through him who gives me strength"

Philippians 4:13

911 What's Your Emergency?

2010-07-12T17:34:00.001-04:00

"Hello ... This is Mrs. Mac. I have a little son with Down syndrome and he's missing from his bed. His shoes are gone and his older sister heard the front door shut about five minutes ago. We've been looking for him inside and outside ... calling his name. It's pitch black and we live in the woods. pause ... blood curdling scream can be heard outside (sounds as if coming from a girl) ... Sir ... we've found him, thanks .. and sorry for the trouble. Click."

Mr. Mac soon calls out that he's found Nathan. This happened last night around 10PM. Ann was already in bed and the Mr. and I were watching a movie downstairs in the family room. The scream?? It was a neighbor girl ... seems Nathan just walked into her home unannounced. Later I asked why he left and he said he wanted to watch a movie with his friends. You can bet we will be hiding his shoes at night. You can bet that our home's alarm. door chimes are once again turned on. And you are wondering why I have so much gray hair?;)

What Not To Do ... Let's See

2010-07-10T16:21:00.000-04:00

I don't feel like doing anything today. But .. so far I've managed to pull weeds, make humming bird food, cook Nathan's breakfast and think about not doing anything for the rest of the day. OK? If I decide to work, here's what I'd be doing today:

driving to town to purchase spray paint to refinish an antique metal bed frame for the guest room
baking bread (too hot)
canning pinto beans (too hot)
reading a vintage magazine
changing the bed sheets (Mr. Mac is sleeping until 3PM .. so that'll have to wait
sipping ice tea and snoozing under the shade of a big tree on the hammock
cleaning the windows (MIL is arriving in two weeks;)

That's it. Now I'm off to not do something on my list (except maybe the hammock and tea). Have a blessed Saturday.

Here a Berry ... There a Berry

2010-07-09T01:20:00.001-04:00

The strawberries and raspberries are ripening ... a few at a time. That means they are snacked on and I return from the garden with an empty pail in hand ... juice dripping down my face.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-07-07T22:41:00.000-04:00

Pics: Jacob playing peacefully at our neighborhood lake June, 2009.

A Quiet Independence Day Planned

2010-07-03T18:13:00.000-04:00

For Mrs. Mac. Mr. Mac will be taking our company and kids to a minor league baseball game complete with a fireworks show for the Fourth of July celebration. I get a nice relaxing day (almost) alone with Nathan and the dawg. They don't 'do' fireworks ... and I need a nice loooong rest after this weeks activities.

Take a Seat ...

2010-07-01T00:45:00.000-04:00

... and grab a cuppa coffee!

It's been a busy week at the Mac home. Father's Day ... graduation ... Patrick's birthday ... BBQ's ... and a visit from my newest grandson. Newest AND oldest. Let me introduce you to Junior. As in Patrick Junior. That's right! He's my little grandson that has been haunting me for the past four years. You see, he was born to his Korean mother ... and my oldest son. Sadly .. they are not married .. but that's water under the bridge at this point. I met him briefly nearly two years ago and he melted my heart. Then I came home and pined away praying to God about the little fellow wondering if I'd ever be part of his life. His story is one of complications that go way beyond his understanding so we will leave it at that. I'm just happy to have him with me this week! We've got lots of catching up to do, stories to read, games to play ... and trips to the park. This grandma needs a nap!

Pics: Top ... Patrick & Junior, bottom ... Jacob & Junior (cousins)

Thunder and Lightning and Rain ...

2010-06-20T12:41:00.000-04:00

...Oh My!

Last night the dawg and Nathan were stirred up a bit. They both have super keen senses and .. much to my surprise .. had detected the presence of a storm off in the distance well before it arrived. Just last year Nathan could be found holed up in an interior bathroom sleeping on the floor with the exhaust fan and light on during such an event. And Miss Holly, the dawg, would be given a sedative to make it through the night. This is a picture of Nathan and his dawg waiting out the storm. Brave boy sat under the front porch on a rocker wrapped up in a blanket .. pretending that dinosaurs were making all the racket. The dawg was allowed inside to fidget ... drug free ... until all was calm. Miracles never cease to amaze me;)

"On the morning of the third day there was thunder and lightning, with a thick cloud over the mountain, and a very loud trumpet blast. Everyone in the camp trembled."

Exodus 19:16

Graduation Time ...

2010-06-19T21:00:00.000-04:00

... again.

Ann will be wearing her cap and gown on Monday night as she graduates from dental school at the local community college. Then she will be 'hitting the pavement' with her resumes in search for a job. Here's praying for a successful career Ann!
The sad part of it all is that we couldn't get a sitter for Nathan .. which means Mr. Mac will be attending the graduation .. and I'll be picking up Nathan from his first day of summer camp .. coming home and throwing together a light supper/dessert buffet. The sacrifices we make at times are painful ... but we rejoice in the privilege of having Nathan .. at home .. and in good health.

Going Paperless?

2010-06-16T14:11:00.000-04:00

I said no and then yes to re-subscribing to the newspaper over the summer. We canceled the paper at the beginning of May to go on our financial diet. I really felt bad about the paper as it employs local people and we have a slow economy. Paper newspapers are becoming a rarity these days ... yesterday's news today (so to speak). Still, I have no TV connection and rely on news from the radio or internet. But ... I did start to miss the paper. So .. when the subscription dept. called yesterday offering the paper 1/2 off for the summer AND two free boat cruise tickets on Lake Coeur d'Alene, I said YES! I'm a sucker for a bargain ... and a boat cruise!

Saturday's Fix

2010-06-12T08:25:00.000-04:00

Sunrise with the birds from the front porch rocker
Awe for God's nature
Hot coffee and quiet before the rush of the day
Buttermilk pancakes hot off the griddle .. topped with homemade huckleberry syrup
Laundry hung outside
Fresh sheets to sleep in tonight
Clean windows
Plant more herbs
Set a nice dinner table
Give thanks to God for all blessings

Last Day Of School

2010-06-10T00:01:00.000-04:00

On Friday I'll have to change gears as Thursday is Nathan's last day of school. I always like sleeping in or having more time alone in the morning without the school rush. Summer will get going ... family will visit ... the garden will consume me ... taking weekly trips to the local u-pick farm ... mini vacations ... summer camp for Nathan ... canning and freezing food for winter ... then I'll be pooped and long for school to start. It always happens this way. So what's on the horizon for you this summer?

A Day To Do Whatever

2010-06-09T14:51:00.000-04:00

.. today is Freedom Day. No one holding me back from taking a trip to town .. to browse the vintage shops, thrift stores, read a book, cook ... etc. A RARE DAY. Enjoy.

Church 'For' The Birds

2010-06-06T14:51:00.000-04:00

Another Sunday rolls around and I'm home bound .. alone with Nathan. He does not 'do' church well (period). Today's Bible lesson was one that was observed from the comfort of my backyard ~~perch~~ wicker chair. A pair of binoculars and a Western Bird field guide ... along with scripture were my instruments for learning. God often speaks to me when I'm in the back woods observing His creation. Today at the feeder I spied a red headed 'purple' finch. The description in the field guide informs that this (male) bird appears to have been dipped in raspberry juice :) I wonder why he's called 'purple'? Anyway ... being in the presence of God's creation is very fulfilling. The scripture says... Let the water teem with living creatures, and let birds fly above the earth across the expanse of the sky ... (Gen. 1:20). Some days I envision all of man's devices for following God null and void. When you strip all but the very basic form of worship .. you have communion with Him that has set the stars in place. Just think how blessed we are to have written scripture and the ability to read. Even so, without these abilities, we should still know that God is the creator of the universe. He has left enough finger and foot prints for us to follow. Have a blessed day.

"The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness, since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities - His eternal power and divine nature - have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse." Romans 1:18-20 (NIV)

Practice Makes Perfect ... Nap Time ...

2010-06-02T14:15:00.000-04:00

... and other minutia.

I was on a short trip to visit family on the West Coast of California. Ocean air and sunshine were pleasant and a nice change from all the rain we've been having. This was a trip ALONE. No kids or hubby. Just kick back time to relax from the everyday stress of life ... stopping in Phoenix on the way back ... and happy to say not for long as it was over 100F .. much too warm for the Snow Queen. And wouldn't you know .. I picked up a cold on the flight home ... so now I'm recuperating.

Yesterday I found myself in the dentist office after chipping my tooth on a butter rum lifesaver candy. Ann is interning with our family dentist .. so she was able to assist. Nothing like practicing on a family member, eh?;)

It's time for another nap ... hope to be feeling better soon and maybe find something to write about.

A Meeting Hundreds Of Years ...

2010-05-22T12:07:00.002-04:00

... in the making!

Since I began dabbling in genealogy, I have been surprised recently to find that I have distant cousins all over the place ... including my own relative 'backyard' (speaking in terms of the size of the world;). Last night was worth waiting many generations to meet up with my newly discovered cousin, Egon, from Denmark. He and his beautiful wife, Debbie, live on the west coast of Washington state .. a mere six hour drive from my home .,.. and stopped by last night for our first visit. We are connected through my grandmother Esther's father that emigrated from Denmark in the 1880's. Egon is the family historian and is quite involved the region's Danish community.

I encourage you to write down your family's history. Talk with the elders of your family and record their stories, family heritage, recipes, etc. Often, we wait until our family members are long gone to think about the importance of such records.
Photos: Top .. Grandma Esther, about 1918, bottom .. Egon, Mrs. Mac, Debbie 5/21/2010

I Broke Down

2010-05-20T23:02:00.000-04:00

... and took Nathan to see a nurse practitioner this morning. His sniffles turned into a sinus infection and he just couldn't shake it after nearly two weeks of home therapy. She checked his chart and found that the last time he had one was January, 2009. For him, that's progress. So the much dreaded antibiotics were prescribed .. along with a prescription nasal spray. How did people survive (or suffer) sinus infections prior to antibiotics??? I'd really like to know. The thought of using a netti-pot on him is about as looked forward to as clipping his toenails ;) so I'll be skipping the former and tending to the latter:)

Today ...

2010-05-19T00:42:00.000-04:00

... Nathan was home, once again, from school. Seems he has a mystery disease that only strikes at school (uh-hum ... how convenient;). Rain washed the land and watered the gardens. The weeds have grown wild and need to be mowed once more. A nap was in order this afternoon and was taken. Dinner was an easy fix of leftover homemade lasagna from last night. A quick salad with homemade ranch dressing rounded out the meal. Today I vacuumed, mopped floors, washed laundry (always), made homemade mayo and ranch dressing ... and baked a rosemary-lemon pound cake. Little Jake blessed my day by being such a good boy. Now the day is over ... time to make sure Nathan is 'unplugged' and sleeping.

I leave you with a picture of my great grandmother, Elizabeth Groden Melcher ... a regular teenage hippy from the 1800's ... my spitting image, eh?:)

Homesteading ...

2010-05-14T04:36:00.000-04:00

Now that winter is behind, and spring has arrived, my time has been spent in the GREAT outdoors ... working in the gardens, cleaning up the property, tending to the fruit trees, planting veggie seeds, pulling weeds. The humming birds have returned and the feeders are up. We've had quite a few song birds visiting and enjoying the sunflower seeds we put out for them. They are so kind ... and in return for the free food, I occasionally will find sunflowers growing in odd places;)

I do take time to sit on the front porch rockers to soak in the scenery and rest my feet, but from now until winter I'll be busy tending the garden and stocking the pantry and freezers with veggies and canned goods to get us through another year.

I have yet to find the charger for my camera ... will have to borrow Mr. Macs to post some current pics soon.

Mother's Day Memories

2010-05-09T07:39:00.002-04:00

Though Many A Mile

We Distant Be,

Together Forever Our

Hearts Shall Be

Happy Mother's Day

Mom

Photos from Mrs. Mac's family collection:

Top .. Mrs. Mac and Mom about 1966

Bottom ... Mrs. Mac with her mother and brothers about 1967

A Diddle-diddle-diddle-diddle-diddle-diddle-dee Day

2010-05-08T13:11:00.000-04:00

If you live at our home ... anytime Nathan says the phrase: Diddle-diddle-diddle-diddle-diddle-diddle-diddle-dee ... we all know it's going to be a happy day. Don't ask how he came up with this long verbiage ... but it does make everyone smile knowing he's happy!

Today brings:

happiness .. Nathan style
morning showers to water the land
food to warm and nourish body and soul
fresh laundry
rest from garden and yard work

Have a wonderful Saturday soaking in God's blessings.

Picture Memories - Part II

2010-04-30T09:00:00.001-04:00

I present my great grandparents, Oscar and Elizabeth (Groden) Melcher. Both first generation Americans born to immigrant parents from Germany and Ireland. I'd like to step back in time to visit with them. She passed away when I was only two; I have a very vague recollection of visiting her in Salt Lake City, Utah ... I remember a beautiful decorative floral tin with a little knob on top that she let me play with ... my mother said this grandmother enjoyed watching boxing fights on TV (LOL).

They were married on March 21, 1903 in Madison, Nebraska ... residing the early years of their marriage in Osmond, Nebraska.

Childhood Expressions

2010-04-23T01:38:00.007-04:00

... I'm participating in Dr. Barbara Boucher's blog carnival over at Therextras.com. Her theme this time around is about Childhood Expressions. I can think of no other post that expresses Nathan ... and his unusual language ... than borrowing some good insightful info from a condensed previous post. I give you:

'Eyes OK'

We've had our share of ups and downs with all things Nathan related. Being the possessor of an extra chromosome has its advantages and disadvantages. A few of the downers are health, physical, cognitive and speech challenges. For example, On Wednesday he had an appointment with an ophthalmologist which went something like this: The doctor's Assistant persuaded Nathan to sit in the big up and down exam chair. "Please read the top line in the mirror." She had little insight that he has unintelligible speech ... but soon switched from letters to numbers. After I informed her that she might try shapes, she dug out a slide with stencil looking animals, a car, house, etc. This proved pointless and she gave up. All the while he's trying to ask her if she plans on giving him a shot. Next, in comes the doctor. He plans on putting eye drops in Nathan's eyes ... but first is asked something about a shot. "No, we don't give shots here." In go the drops and after a few minutes, the 'dance' of unintelligible communication proceeds between the doctor, Nathan, and myself. I was the interpreter, and calming force. Somehow, the doctor, with the help of his hand held lenses, was able to deduct that my child is farsighted and has an astigmatism ... but does not need glasses.

Lost In Translation:

Here is a sample of Nathan's vocabulary:

ice (said while pointing to his eyes) = he's thirsty and wants some ice water. Since ice and
eyes sound alike ... he points to his EYES.

mirror = "come here"

boom = the name he calls his 'security blanket' which just
happens to be a little plastic yellow garden spade

Ma = all things related to Mom (me)

KeeKee = (older sister)

Wowa = (older sister)

baby = nephew Jacob

Ha-nee = Holly, his dog's name

eee-eee = said while signing to eat

no = no (the same in every language) his favorite word

nu-do = noodles/pasta

cut = splinter

bee off = make the (bee sting) pain go away

bee off blip = the pain is gone

Words he uses sign language for:

French fries, cookie, please, sorry, help, water, sleep, potty, eat, chips,
baseball, basketball, soccer, book, cat, ready, play, friend, Jesus, fruit, more,
ketchup, NO, days of the week, happy, sick,

edit: the sign for 'vagina' was used incorrectly (much to my horror) as his sign for his Playstation Game. Two acquaintances asked if I knew what he was signing ... well, we now have an appropriate sign for the word game being used. :)

As you can imagine, one has to be well trained to be his mother ;)

Did I mention he's the joy of my life???

Is it any wonder that I've installed a Voice4u app on my iPhone. This application has touch screen icons with an audible 'voice' that he can scroll, tap & touch to help make known more of his needs and wants. If you are interested, check out the website here for a demo and more information.

"Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love,
that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days."
Psalm 90:14

Throw Back The Covers ...

2010-04-17T13:08:00.001-04:00

... open the window sash to spring ... in the beautiful North Woods of Idaho.

Yesterday morning was the first in ever-so-long that the heater was not turned on to warm up the rooms at the Mangy Moose Lodge. Windows were given a good 1-2 opening .. summer furniture cushions were placed outside .. patios cleaned, and a veggie garden tilled. It took just one day for the kefir and buttermilk cultures to set up on the counter .. instead of the normal two days.

On the movie menu was Julie & Julia (as you can see, I'm very 'current' on my flicks;) ... and from all of the work done outside, I once again ~~for the second night in a row~~ fell asleep during the ~~same~~ movie. Exhaustion is a good feeling when one has exerted oneself from heavy labor .. ~~instead of stress~~. Saturday is our normal day for changing bed linens and bath towels. But, no sleep was to be had on Friday night with flannel sheets and an extra blanket on me bed. Tired as I was ... I had to muster up the strength to put on proper spring time sheets ~~at half past midnight~~. Cool, crisp percale with extra high thread count pillow cases of luxury Egyptian cotton (from the Hospice thrift store .. never used at $1 a piece;).

Today ... albeit ... spring ... finds a light drizzle watering my newly (partially) planted garden. Free water from heaven ... hubby's motto .. 'If it's free .. it's for me." The dining room has a stack of outdoor furniture cushions off in the corner.

The coffee is getting cold ... and it's now time to get dressed for the day.

Happy Saturday SPRING greetings ... from ... a crazy old grandma ... lover of all things vintage ... that needs to go select which porch rocking chair she wants to use today to watch the world go by.

Enjoy the day God has given you.

vintage copyright free image from here

Having A Fit

2010-04-16T12:00:00.001-04:00

... in progress.

Hubby's work hours were changed. Him being low man on the totem pole .. is now working the night shift. (uuuggg) I didn't think about the consequences this would have on my daily routine until this week. It's been years since he worked at nights. Here's a list of my 'no can do' during the daytime: I have to BE QUIET! That means no vacuuming during the day ... minimal noise in the backyard ... think rototilling the garden right outside the bedroom window ... and trying to keep Nathan quiet this summer when he wants to dance to loud music in his room ... uugggH). Waiting for permanent retirement. Help me to find the bright side ... Pollyanna is hiding today!

Picture Memories - Part 1

2010-04-14T03:55:00.016-04:00

... are currently scattered on top of my desk. I have been blessed with an abundance of faded, ~~time worn~~ heirloom family photos ... handed down by my mother, via her parents, via their parents ...

These memories are my connection to a different era. The past that steps so close to .. but is no longer touching ... the present. Some memories are stored in my mind from stories told by my dearly departed relatives about their youth; though most of said memories are of when my ancestors were my age and older that I remember from years ago. To see them as youngsters full of mischief in a different era makes me want to step through the boundaries of time ...

To possess my grandparent's wedding announcement and marriage certificate makes me long to see them again. Time is passing all too quickly. In the blink of an eye ... so many changes ... inventions ... modes of transportation have come and gone ... and yet, we are still connected by heart strings and family genes. How will I be remembered by my descendants? I hope to one day print out my blog journals and bind them with a pretty cover. Then little Jacob's grandchildren can read about their great grandma's family and remember from whence they came.

... to be continued

Mrs. Mac's family photos: Click on photos to enlarge

Top, L-R Maternal Great Aunt Theresa & Grandma Donna taken on their First Holy Communion day. According to a story told to me by Grandma Donna ... Auntie was mad at her for getting to wear the pretty gold locket ... and she had to wear the old pearl necklace;) ... you can almost imagine that just before the picture was taken, they were in a tiff with each other as is evident on their pretty ~~sad~~ little faces.

Center photo: Mrs Mac's Great Grandmother Myra's beautiful Victorian farmhouse parlor. She was well off with house servants and fringe lined buggies to drive. Great Grandma Myra had the latest modern furnishings for her era (according to my mother) ... including an electric stove before most anyone else.

Bottom photo: Mrs. Mac's Great Grandparents, Myra Grigsby Hodges, and their family. My grandfather is the cute little boy; the baby of the family. He married the little girl with the pretty gold locket. This is the same family in the new blog header .. years earlier. It is this grandfather that I led to Christ when he was in his 70's ... (When Grandpa Got Saved)

... to be continued

On Being A Grandma

2010-04-09T10:59:00.000-04:00

There is nothing better than having your wee grandson take hold of your hand and say: "I luff you Nana" ... what a heart melting moment.

Photo of Jake ... age 3

His Sheep Know His Voice

2010-04-03T14:05:00.002-04:00

“Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”

Hebrews 12:2 (NIV)

For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.

1 Corinthians 1:18 (NIV)

My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and  they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand.

John 10:27-28 (NIV)

copyright free image from here 

While The World Forgets ...

2010-04-02T18:08:00.000-04:00

Let us remember:

But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.

Isaiah 53:5

Five Minutes Of Freedom

2010-03-30T17:54:00.001-04:00

Today Nathan played unsupervised for a whole five minutes on the driveway. Not such a big deal to most 14 year old boys, eh;) ... but this little guy has been known to take off. He possesses an extra chromosome and has been a challenge to figure out most of his life. Lack of his personal safety, awareness of his body in space, poor communication skills, and a myriad of other baggage has haunted him and our family for years on end. He had this freedom because I was reading his mind. Today is his bowling day with the family to celebrate his birthday. I knew he only wanted to wait until the family was out the door. Ann asked, "do you want Nathan outside unsupervised?" ... yes, perhaps just this once ... after all ... it is HIS five minutes of freedom and my five minutes of being a normal mom ... we have strange ideas of normal in our family:)

Sunday Afternoon ... Rest ?

2010-03-28T16:46:00.002-04:00

Another day of rest as I recover from a pinched nerve in my neck. Mr. Mac and Patrick headed out to church this morning. I stayed home with Nathan ... he seems a bit agitated and complaining about his head hurting ... he seems not to notice the more he screeches the greater his head hurts ... no amount of reasoning seems to work with him. My job is to sooth him and set him on a path for calming his inner being. Not an easy task at times ... especially when the 'calmer/mother' is trying hard to rest quietly. A dog chasing after its tail is a good description of life in my world today.

Photo credit: Here

Whatever Happened To ...

2010-03-25T14:14:00.000-04:00

... Mrs. Mac's Hives?

After changing my diet by removing any and all processed foods (anything not in a whole state) my years (four) long battle with hives has come to an end. In a way, I'm thankful for such an annoyance (the hives) because it/they were a giant wake up call to the toxicity of store bought, prepackaged foods. Has it been easy? YES (because I'm blessed to stay home and have the time to cook without the 'help' of prefab food. Was the change in diet worth it? YES! With the awakening of the American populace about the horrific nutrition of ready made foods ... have you been tempted to include more whole food items in your diet? Are you trying to eat more seasonal foods?

Photo credit: Carl Larrson

Things That Go Bump In The Night (revisited)

2010-03-21T00:23:00.001-04:00

Mountain lions, bears, bobcats, moose, deer, raccoons, skunks and coyotes ... oh, my ... no lie! The more I talk with neighbors coming out of winter hibernation, the more I don't want to venture out into the great outdoors after dark. Some nights the dawg is climbing all over herself with fright and anxiety. Critters here ... and there ... and everywhere. I keep having to remind myself that this was their territory first.

Put Another Candle On His Birthday Cake

2010-03-20T07:40:00.000-04:00

... he's another year old today.

My little mister is celebrating his 14th birthday today. It's Saturday ... and he's excited to have a day off from school as well. Our plans include a trip to Toys-R-Us for a little shopping spree. Being young at heart, he still enjoys boyhood toys, dvd's, Disney character shirts, etc. And it's a rare treat for him to browse the toy isle with his mom and pop. No cake ... but I'm sure we will have his favorite sweet ... oatmeal cookies. During his upcoming spring break a little bowling excursion with a certain little red head is in order. Happy Birthday, Son!

Sit A Spell

2010-03-12T18:51:00.000-05:00

... is something I'd like to do once in a while. Being a busy homemaker rarely affords such a luxury. There is a slim window of opportunity some days between two and three PM for a little cat nap, but that old foe ... my alarm clock brings me back to the reality of parenting a special needs child with the afternoon arrival of the school bus. Some days I wish I could turn back the hands of time and be a carefree youngster on a lazy summer afternoon under the roof of my parents home.

My Brain Works Overtime

2010-03-11T11:50:00.000-05:00

.... coming up with ways to save money around the home. Cutting grocery expenses in half, fermenting this and that, baking, gardening, It scares me to think what job I would have had if all this energy was unleashed beyond my front door.