Snow Day!

We have had an unusual amount of snow fall here in the past 24 hours (around 15 inches!!!). This has meant that our little family has just snuggled up by the fire, eating good food and going nowhere. We played outside today and built a snowman. I took a nice long nap this afternoon and woke up to Juniper and Nathan laughing hysterically in the hot tub. They were throwing snowballs at each other. Kingsley has been LOVING the weather, too. I just have to laugh at how the snow has accumulated on his legs.

Our Babies

Baby "A"

Baby "B"





Here are the first pictures of "Baby A" and "Baby B".

I look at these pictures several times a day, and think about the little lives inside of me all the time. It's amazing how much I love both these babies even though I didn't know there were two a week ago!!!

Surprise!

This week has probably been the most life changing week EVER. I have been waiting to share the news that I am pregnant, but haven't been sure how far along I am so I wanted to wait until I was 3 months along for sure before I pasted it all over the internet.

I went in for my first ultrasound this pregnancy on Tuesday to find out just how far along I am. I found out that I am 14 weeks along. . . . with TWINS!!! I of course had to tell Nate to sit down when I called him with the news. He took it like a champ.

I have been so tired and so sick with this pregnancy that it was a bit validating to find out there was a reason for how difficult this has been so far. I never in my life thought I would hear those words. . . . but now that I have, I am up to the challenge. I have had so many different reactions from friends and family members and I must say all reactions have been very positive and supportive. I have had some pretty good laughs (along with some tears) as I've shared this news.

Juniper has been so sweet about there being two babies. She said, "you can hold one and I can hold one". I think she'll be the most amazing big sister, and I thank God for having the opportunity to be a mother to just one little girl.

Life throws us curve balls - I can tell you that for sure!!!!

I hope to be better about blogging as I share this new and exciting life experience.

I feel so happy!

Yep, I am one of the many American people who feels SO HAPPY about Barack Obama winning the recent election. I am particularly happy that there wasn't confusion about the ballots, no hanging chads or other annoying hang ups. It was a landslide. I love that! I have felt like I want to write a song, or a poem about this historical time. . . so here it goes.

Thank you, America.
For voting for Obama.
For judging a man "not by the color of his skin, but by the content of his character".
Thank you, America.
For your excitement.
For your enthusiasm.
For your genuine desire to elect a new leader like no other.
I never thought that in my lifetime I would witness something so historical.
Children of our country, have confidence.
You can be anything you want to be.
Grandparents of our country, have confidence.
You can trust us to keep the American Dream alive.

Who's been hiding this stuff from me?

Okay, no one. But I can't believe I didn't discover it sooner. I'm here to show off just how darling I've made some of the lightswitches around my house. I've used Mod Podge and craftbooking paper that I found at a darling new paper store in Poulsbo. I'm not one for craftbooking, but I think I'm going to become very into the fun paper I can cover things with!


living room

hallway

half bath

kitchen

Precious Girl

The other morning I came up from the basement where I had been trying to organize my laundry nightmare. This is the little girl I found playing upstairs. When asked what she was doing, she replied, "we're having a birthday party."

My heart belongs to. . . . .

I think it's time

that I start getting serious about selling my jewelry and other handmade items. I've been finding every excuse in the book not to do it, despite almost daily encouragement from family, friends and acquaintances (SO flattering!). I really WANT to do it, but I've been afraid. So. . . . . I just spent some time on Etsy. I set up my password and will try to set up my own little shop here in the near future. I think it's worth trying, because I can have as many or as little items up for sale. I can also refer people who are interested in my craftiness to my site. Fun!! Any tips from Etsy users out there?

I'm going back. . .

to some of my favorite old cd's. It's been a couple years since I've broken out the Ani Difranco. I used to be a faithful fan. . . . had all her newest cd's and went to several shows.



This morning I listened to some of her political songs. I remembered how I felt five or six years ago when I listened to them. I was going to school to be a social worker and aside from feeling sad, hopeless and worried, I felt that through my profession I could work to make some change. As a stay at home Mom, I don't feel I have as much power to make change (other than raise my daughter with the values I think are important). As I listened to this song today, I felt excited that we have such an amazing presidential candidate in Barack Obama. The following lyrics are to the song "Subdivision", by Ani Difranco. I think we as Americans have the opportunity to rise and make change by voting for Obama. I just love him!

Subdivision - Ani Difranco

white people are so scared of black people
they bulldoze out to the country
and put up houses on little loop-dee-loop streets
and while america gets its heart cut right out of its chest
the berlin wall still runs down main street
separating east side from west
and nothing is stirring, not even a mouse
in the boarded-up stores and the broken-down houses
so they hang colorful banners off all the street lamps
just to prove they got no manners
no mercy and no sense

and i'm wondering what it will take
for my city to rise
first we admit our mistakes
then we open our eyes
the ghosts of old buildings are haunting parking lots
in the city of good neighbors that history forgot

i remember the first time i saw someone
lying on the cold street
i thought: i can't just walk past here
this can't just be true
but i learned by example
to just keep moving my feet
it's amazing the things that we all learn to do

so we're led by denial like lambs to the slaughter
serving empires of style and carbonated sugar water
and the old farm road's a four-lane that leads to the mall
and our dreams are all guillotines waiting to fall

i'm wondering what it will take
for my country to rise
first we admit our mistakes
and then we open our eyes
or nature succumbs to one last dumb decision
and america the beautiful
is just one big subdivision

New Blogger on the Block

My sister in law, Sasha has just started a blog! Yay! I love that all my sisters are bloggers. It's pretty neat. Especially since all of us live far away from eachother, it's a great way to keep in touch across the miles. Here's the link to

Well Hello. . .

enjoy!

Going Home

So special. . . . . Juniper with her Great Grandma and Grandpa Burkholder

Juniper holding Ayden - Jenia's baby boy.
Cousin Time - Juniper and Ellie
So Sweet
A wonderful reunion of friends.



Juniper with Abigail (Cynthia's darling daughter) and Ayden (Jenia's little guy).

Nana Time

Juniper and I enjoyed a fun evening with Nana on Monday night. We went to two darling places on Bainbridge Island. Shima Sushi and Mora Ice Cream. Yum!!!

Juniper and Nana by the "ponytail plant". This one's for you, Sash!
Juniper and Nana enjoying ice cream.

So true for me. . . . .

This quote is on my sister's blog and each time I read it I am reminded of how true it is for me. I think it's why working (even just a little bit) has been so good for me. . . . .

"I was lonely, dead lonely. And I was to find out then, as I found out so many times, over and over again, that women especially are social beings, who are not content with just husband and family, but must have a community, a group, an exchange with others. A child is not enough. A husband and children, no matter how busy one may be kept by them, are not enough. Young and old, even in the busiest years of our lives, we women especially are victims of the long loneliness." ~Dorothy Day

The Funny Farm

Juniper and Mocha.
She can't get her head out of the bag!!
Kingsley plays with Mercury.
So sweet.
The Mama with Magic.

I absolutely love a good bargain.

I mean really, really love a good bargain. I pride myself on being a good bargain hunter and this past weekend I had a strike of good luck. I found a little kitchen for Juniper at a huge rummage sale. I've been looking for one FOREVER. It was marked at $5.00 but Noma (my mother in law) talked them down to $3.00 (and paid for it - thanks Nana!) I also found a BRAND NEW Sigg water bottle (this one to be exact) for .50 cents - yes .50 cents at a local garage sale!!! It has brought me so much joy to drink out of because I've been wanting one, but haven't wanted to pay the retail price for one.

Enjoy the picture of Miss Juniper by her new kitchen. She loves it and I just don't think you can get a much cuter plastic kitchen:)

New Kittens

I mentioned in my last post that we just got two new kittens. I guess it's just a farm over here!!! Anyway, here are some pictures of Rainbow (Juniper named her little white kitten) and Magic (I named the little dark gray one). We love them so much!!! They started out as little outdoor porch kitties, but have worked their way into our hearts and home:) I also thought I'd share a picture of my newly painted kitchen door (look closely at the reflection in the window - it's cute).

It's been 5 weeks?

I saw on my sister's blog that it's been 5 weeks since I last posted!!! I think about my blog all the time, but didn't realize that it had been that long since I filled any interested people in on my life. I have so many ideas brewing in my head for what to post next. . . . . I guess it doesn't have to be too exciting.

I am totally into painting lately. I've painted my kitchen a light blue gray, the kitchen door bright green on the outside, dark teal on the inside, and the door down to our basement dark teal. Nate thinks I've gone crazy. I really have just gotten over my fear of tackling big tasks. I am planning to do nearly the entire interior of my home by the time summer is over. I'll take pics and post them soon (I know you don't believe me, but I hope to:)

We still have three chickens. . . . no eggs yet, but our family is fully enjoying chicken personalities. Juniper and I also got two new little kittens today. . . . now I'll admit that I'm crazy for that one (not really. they are very cute and sweet and will be outdoor kitties).

I love my new job. This Saturday will be my 6th Saturday of slinging coffee drinks to the Kingston Locals. I love it. I miss my little girl while I'm gone, but know it's good for all of us involved.

How's that for a little update?

I love this

For the love of a tree,

she went out on a limb.

For the love of the sea,

she rocked the boat.

For the love of community,

she mended fences.

For the love of the stars,

she let her light shine.
For the love of a good time,

she sowed seeds of happiness.

For the love of the Goddess,

she drew down the moon.

For the love of nature,

she made compost.

For the love of a good meal,

she gave thanks.

For the love of family,

she reconciled differences.

For the love of creativity,

she entertained new possibilities.

For the love of her enemies,

she suspended judgment.

For the love of herself,

she acknowledged her worth.

And the world was richer for her.

By Charlotte Tall Mountain

This past weekend

30 Now!!
Precious Girl
Juniper holding Mocha the chicken
My New Pass Through. Thanks Dad!
My Cute little family.

I'm 30 now.

Well, I'm 30 now. I've been busy in the past couple weeks (hence no posting). Juniper and I were out of town, then Nate was out of town and during that time I embarked upon the challenge of finally weaning Juniper. That was exhausting and trying, but I survived and so did she. It's been nice to know she still loves me and is still a happy little girl (irrational mother guilt thoughts on what would have happened if I took away her favorite thing).

So now I'm 30 and am no longer nursing my little girl. I feel independent and my body is my own again (for the first time in over 3 years if I include pregnancy). It has been a HUGE change for the better for me.

My parents came to visit this past weekend and my Dad helped put a pass through in the wall between our kitchen and dining room. I'll hopefully post pictures when I figure out how to do it from this computer:) I'll also post pictures of our chickens that are now big and wander around the yard all day.

Oh - also one more thing in my life that is good. . . . . I got a little job. I'll be working as a barista on Saturday mornings at my friends little coffee shop in Kingston. I feel so fortunate that I don't need to have a job and that I am able to stay at home with Juniper, but I thought it would be fun to get a break, make coffee and chat with adults for a little while.

Okay - gotta run. If I try to make this too long, the post won't happen. Thanks for tuning in.

I'm baaaack!

Well, we're back. We're tired. We had so much fun and made more memories while spending time with family in Boise. I am looking forward to getting back into our routine and anticipate having a little more time to spend blogging. I've needed an outlet to process my thoughts!!!

I'm still here

Yeah, I am still around with the full intention of keeping up my blog. I really enjoy it, I was just thrown for a loop when my computer crashed. I thought I'd update any loyal readers (thanks to the sisters and mothers in my life) that Juniper and I will be out of town for a week. We are going to Boise to see family. Fun!!! Maybe if the techno gadgets are available I can post from there. If not, check back in a week to see if I have anything new going on. I am working on an outrageous wish list for my upcoming 30th birthday. Hopefully I'll be sharing it soon.

It's been a long time

since a television program really stuck with me. Last week, Nate and I both stayed up late (for us) watching Frontline's new documentary Bad Voodoo's War on PBS. I went through a range of emotions watching these very human soldiers telling their story from Iraq. I encourage everyone to check it out no matter what your position is on the current war.

Turning 30

I've been contemplating making a dream wish list for my birthday, only with the hesitation that maybe some people will think they need to get me these things and then feel badly if they don't. That is NOT the case. I am only sharing my dream wish list because it is MY blog and I can do whatever I want here, especially when it comes to my birthday (not to mention that it's my 30th AND it's on Mother's Day this year). This list really is outlandish to say the least. I'd be just as happy with some cake and a hug and a kiss from my hubby and little girl.


Okay - I'll quit babbling and start drooling!

30th Birthday Dream List

(Please Oprah, stumble upon this list and have me on your show.)

I REALLY need a pair of good jeans. One that fits me. Really well. I've always drooled over Joe's jeans and almost bought a pair once, but thought I could stand to lose a few pounds before I made the committment. I think I could stand to own a pair at the size I am now. Not sure which style I'd like. Maybe the Honey in Harvey, any recommendations?

I'd like to spend several hours at a spa. I'd like a facial, body scrub, full body massage and a pedicure. I'm thinking that the Angeline Spa at the Casino down the road would be just the spot for me.

I'd love a LeCruset dutch oven and fondue pot. I like the Lemongrass Color.

For our anniversary this year, Nate got me a necklace from Hotcakes Jewelry. I'd like a ring with a bird or floral design set in the black resin.

I've wanted Mommy Tags for a long time.

I'd like a camera that I can practice being a better photographer with. This is the one I'd be happy with.

I'd never buy myself this robe, but I'd love to wear it regularly!

My birthday is an occasion as good as any to recieve a glassybaby!

I'd like a plane ticket to go visit my sister.

A gift certificate to TJ Maxx is always a good gift for me. I love to treasure hunt there. I'd look for a new purse, and possibly some kitchen stuff or new clothes.

I guess the list could go on and on, but I've been working on it for over a week in the little time I've had to blog. So I'll post it now and if I think of anything else I'll share later.

I'm a sucker

for many things. As I mentioned in an earlier post, I am a product fanatic. I have to admit that I am not always as educated as I should be about these products, and I often fall victim to their claims of being "natural" or "organic". My sister-in-law, Sasha, informed me that the Method brand (which I prefer to use over traditional cleaning products) isn't that great. . . . that it has some substance (I can't remember for sure, but I'm thinking dimethicone? - Sasha fill me in here) that is really rather harmful. I try to avoid certain things when buying certain products (like Sodium Laurel Sulfate in shampoos for example) but don't always steer clear of the harmful stuff. I am going to research this a little bit and get back to you. If you have any information on what to watch out for in "natural" cleaning or beauty products, let me know. I'd love to hear about it!!

The verdict is in. . .

. . . . and it isn't good. My ibook's hard drive is broken. As far as I understand, this means my computer is really no good anymore. The good news is that I can probably find someone (and pay them a bunch of money) to retrieve all my data - so my pictures aren't lost forever (cross your fingers). Nate says this is where my stimulus package and tax return money will come in handy:)

I guess I'll have to start using Nathan's computer to download my pictures and blog. I'll be getting an external hard drive as well. . . . . why are some lessons so hard to learn?

If You Know Me Well. . .

You know that I am a product FANATIC!!! I love using natural, organic, Eco friendly and aroma therapeutic products. I especially love it when I find one that works really well.

After having guests and a sick little girl, I've been cleaning quite a bit. I am reminded just how much I like the Method brand of cleaning products. I like their window cleaner, wood cleaner and floor cleaner just to name a few. I highly recommend trying these products out the next time you are looking to "go green" with your household cleaning. I know you can get them at Target, but other places sell them as well. The website should be able to help you find where to buy them.

Enough Moping

Okay. I think I've moped enough about my computer. I have no control over what has already happened to it and I am lucky enough to have access to Nate's computer, so there is no excuse to stop blogging (although I REALLY miss adding my photos)! It is a connection to so many friends and family that I can't stand not logging in and telling people what is going on!!!

Worried

I'm worried about my computer. I know for many people in this world there are much larger things in this world to be worried about. . . . . but as I've mentioned before I have SO many photos (like 6000) on my computer. I would be so sad if I lost them. I am feeling like an idiot because I didn't back them up on a hard drive. I try to be computer saavy and in many ways I am. . . . . but when it comes to organizing my photos or even knowing how to pick out a hard drive I am not so smart.

What's a not so techno saavy gal to do?

Broken Computer

Okay - this week has been busy and crazy to say the least. We had guests, got three chicks, and Juniper was sick yesterday. Now my computer seems to be broken (I'm using Nate's). I should be getting a new cell phone in the mail on Monday so that will help if you'd like to reach me. . . . . . but for now I won't be able to post any photos which means I won't be posting much at all until the problem with my computer is fixed. I also won't be checking email nearly as much as usual. I wonder how life will treat me without my cute little ibook!

Not Busy Enough

As if I'm not busy enough with company here, we just added three new members to our family.  I'll be posting pictures later.  Hopefully tonight:)

I'm Busy. . .

We have company and it's fun, but busy.  Nate's Grandma and aunt Sally are here visiting for the week.  I've also lost my cell phone so it is hard to get ahold of me.  Yikes!  I'll try to post something fun soon, but only time will tell if I have any time at all!!!

Fabric Update

I've made three napkins out of the dishcloths I mentioned earlier this 

week.  I like 'em!  And for those of you who thought, 

"I have a good idea.  Why doesn't she just use them for dishcloths?"

That would have been way too easy.  

Cute Easter Gifts

I got these cute little bags last year with the intention of filling them with Easter goodies for our neighbors.  I didn't get around to it last year. . . . . but did this year!  I filled them with the yummy, recently discovered Homemade Peanut Butter Cups.  According to My Man they are now to be referred to as Welcome to Paradise.  Juniper helped me pass them out this afternoon.  She was so cute going from door to door carrying each little package.  

Our European Visitor

Nate's best friend Scott moved to Austria after getting married last year.  He was just in town visiting and spent a couple of nights with us.  He and Nate had some "male bonding" and went on a ten mile hike to the Olympic Hot Springs yesterday. Here's a photo of Scott and Juniper as we said farewell this morning.  Thanks for coming to visit, Scott!  We hope we can come see you in Austria very soon (that is if I'm not too big to fit on a plane after eating all the chocolate you brought)!

So Many Possibilities

I got this fabric in the form of seven 100% cotton dishtowels.

They were on clearance for $4.00!

I thought I might use them for new cloth napkins by

adding a new patterned binding.  I could also make them

into cute little aprons by adding a pocket and a waistband,

I even thought maybe I could make some cute little

throw pillows.

. . . . .  any suggestions?

Peanut Butter and Chocolate Goodness

Mmmmmm. . . Homemade Peanut Butter Cups.  

I got the idea from my sister.  She got the recipe from 

Everyday Food Magazine.  

These were very simple to make and SO divine.

A sure crowd pleaser.

Camellia Bush

I just love this Camellia Bush that blooms this time of year outside of our door.  

I think about it every day . . .

Nate and Juniper, Hawaii 2007  

. . . my first Hawaiian vacation that is.

Nate (my amazing husband who took us there 

because he knew how much I would love it) 

took us to Hawaii in November of last year.  

It is hard to explain with words just how truly amazing it was.

It was warm and relaxing. Everything was new to me.

It was beautiful, breathtaking and smelled 

just how I imagined a tropical island to smell.

It was the most amazing vacation I've ever had in my life.  

I didn't want to come home.

Unfortunately I think My Man wants to 

(eventually) live in Montana more than Hawaii,

so I'll compromise and take the beautiful mountains 

and breathtaking views there to enjoy life.  

I'll also make it a priority to vacation

in Hawaii whenever possible!

I thought I'd share one of my favorite products that 

makes me feel like I am in Hawaii.  

Pacifica soaps and candles has a scent called Hawaiian Ruby Guava.

If you've never been to Hawaii this will take you there.  

If you have been to Hawaii it will

bring back memories and make you want to return. 

I love their clean burning soy candles!

Aunt Helen

Juniper's middle name is after her Great Aunt Helen Bishop on Nate's side.  

This is one of my favorite photos of her - playing dress up with Aunt Helen's purse, hat and scarf at Christmas time.  

So sweet (not to mention, fashionable)!