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Well, we've had a busy week here at the farmstead! Every year, we attend a campmeeting (a church conference) for a week the last week in July and early part of August in Virginia. If you have ever been to Virginia during that time of the year, you will have groaned. It is just so hot and sticky - one can cut the air with a knife the moisture is so heavy. I really enjoy Virginia, and its beauty, but give me the dry desert during those months! Anyway, last year we attempted to set up a tent. Liam was only 9 mos or so and it was horrible for him. He was so hot and red all the time and all the boys were soaked with sweat after every nap. It was not fun and really not safe for a baby. So this year, we tried to come up with a new plan to make the experience enjoyable and realistic. Into the equation comes the radical idea to buy a pop-up camper trailer! After much looking, many nights searching, we found one at the perfect price and had the amenities that we needed. So, we picked up the camper on Thursday! It is lovely. A Fleetwood 2005 Sea Pine. We've learned alot about allowable towing weights, how to hook up, and that garden hoses are not meant for transporting drinking water. After visiting our friends that live south of Cleaveland in Amish country, on Friday and Sabbath, we then came home. Sunday we decided spur of the moment to take out the camper before our big excursion in a few weeks to learn how to set-up and tear-down the camper and to fix any bugs that need fixin'. We, again, learned so much about what we need to bring, what we need to fix, and how to turn on propane, AC, and DC powers. On Monday morning, we blew up our new raft (it's used) - it holds 900 lbs and is quite durable and took it out for the second time. It was less windy this time so we weren't be blown all over the lake! We had quite the enjoyable time. We went for a swim in the middle of the lake too.
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Yesterday was a big day for us - our 3 yo woke up with a heavy coating of poison ivy all over his body. The poor child has it in his eyes, his face, inside his mouth, his ears, neck, chest, back, legs, arms, and hands, with it also being inside the webbing of his fingers. Due to the swelling on his face, I decided to not mess around and take him into the base ER. I would have taken him to acute care if there were any appointments available. The wait was short and he was seen by the acute care physician. They weren't identifying the rash right away, but she did finally concede tht it was probably a bad case of poison ivy. Because of the face, she couldn't give him any topical steroid. So the only option was pretnezone in liquid form. We had a bit of a problem getting Jack to take it (read: he threw up breakfast because he gagged due to the taste), but after a few hours of suffering in a bad way, he decided he would take it. We've had no problems getting him to take his medicine now! The hardest part will be getting him to stop rubbing his face. The first day eruption
Second Day eruption the other side of his face
First day chest eruption
Second day chest eruption
As you can see from the pictures, the second day was worse than the first. Today is still the second day - it seems like it has been days! Tonight, his face is doing better and I am optimistic that the rash will clear up by week's end. |
Well, our little boy is growing up so quick! Peter lost another tooth today, the lower left tooth! This makes for a large hole in the front, since he is missing the top right, lower right, and lower left. He whistles when he talks now! Too cute! He's only 5 - it seems to have come too quick. |
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We enjoyed our strawberry shortcake so much on Sunday that I decided to take the children to a strawberry farm very close to our house - only about 8 miles! It is one of the largest berry farms this side of the Mississippi! Friends have told me that the strawberries are about finished, so I wasn't expecting much. When we got to the farm, there was no one else picking! And this is a huge farm. But when we got into the fields, we picked 4 lbs of strawberries within 45 minutes! And this was with a 5 yo and 3 yo! We had lots of fun and will definentaly do it again. It wasn't too expensive, $1.90 per lb. Yes, I could get them cheaper at the local grocery right now, but they are not grown locally and don't taste nearly as good!
Self portraits, they are a must in our family even though they aren't the most attractive! Lol.
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Getting a new well dug is quite the experience! We had the opportunity yesterday to watch as the big trucks came in and began the big operation. Two 30 ft trucks managed to maneuver in between our trees and back into our woods, close to the corn fields. The trucks came within 5 inches of our house! But the owner operator is a pro, having been in the business for 47 years! Here are some pictures of the operation. Sorry if they are a bit redundant but it was exciting for us!
After watching all that hard work, we just had to cool off with a dip in the 'swimming pool'.
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"Holidays" aren't really big in our family, but that's not to say that we don't try to cherish one another in an extra special way a few times during the year. I loved on my husband yesterday and we had a very lovely day. With homemade blueberry pancakes, maple syrup, and hashbrowns to start the morning, how can we go wrong? I made him walnut burgers, corn on the cob, and baked beans for dinner and then we had an extra special treat in the evening- strawberry shortcake! I made gluten-free shortcake (with no sugar, eggs, oil) and then made a coconut whipped cream for the strawberry agave nectar topping. It sure was delicious! I think the best we've ever had! And healthy. We have been refinishing a wooden play set that our dear friends gave us. We have been power washing, replacing wood, scraping paint, and now sanding the set. We started out sanding by hand but quickly realized it wasn't going to be done within the summer, hee hee, so dear husband was about to jump out and buy a sander for full price. I came to the rescue and found a nearly new Black and Decker belt sander for $10 on craigslist! And yes, it was practically brand new. The owner still had the original box and insert papers! So, Jeff had a fun time using his new toy on the playset. We also sat around on the front porch and shelled the sweet peas from the garden. What fun! Great memories for the kids and for us.
Enjoying his Daddy's Day treat!
Liam wishing he had more Strawberry Shortcake! And it was bed time..
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Within a very quick trip to the shores of Lake Huron, where I was born and raised, my Father is the town Mayor, and my Mother and Step-Dad owns a restaurant, Grandpa was able to take the kids, Jeff and I out for two seperate boat cruises. Grandpa has his boat in the water this year, which is really nice. The kids have never really been on a boat before (except for Peter, when he was 18 mos on my Uncle Jack's boat). We had great times both trips and brought back many great memories for my Dad and I. Many of those memories (ok, nearly all) were from accidents and near accidents on the water. It's funny to look back but at the time of the crisis, it doesn't seem so funny! Alas, no accidents during these trips but lots of great memories. PS For Father's Day, I bought my Dad a hair cutting kit and cut his hair before I left. It seems as if I'm the official hair cutter for both my Dads. :) Gladly accepted. I'll take boat rides (from Dad) and food (from Step-Dad) as payment! :)
Behind Jeff, you can see a small island. It is called Big Charity Island. We drove out to the island. It is actually somewhat surrounded by a large reef and if one were to approach the island without knowing how to get into a channel, a boat would run a ground. Growing up, we never really went to Charity for fear of Dad hurting the boat. This trip, Dad was a bit more knowledgable and we actually made it in. As we were entering the channel to the harbor, one has to go behind a large stone wall that runs parallel to the shore. This wall prevents the water from moving the sand into the harbor channel. The island does not get many visitors although we did see a few new houses - about 3 on the entire island. So as we were entering the channel, the water became very shallow. Just as we were turning into the channel inside the island, I looked over and knew we weren't going to make it. The water was bout 2 ft deep and our draft was at least 2-3 ft. Yikes! We hit bottom softly and I told Dad to back her up and get out. We all held our breath - and made it out! At least we got to see the lighthouse somewhat up close. Maybe one day we will be able to get out and walk around.
The Captain.
The afternoon was late on the ride to Charity Island, and Liam desperately needed a nap. I layed him down in bow hold which is a sleeping area. After a time, he fell asleep with the constant rocking and bouncing of the boat - it was a bit bumpy. When I came out, Peter had fallen asleep at the table with his head being held up by the lifevest. So, I layed him down next to Liam. They were too cute, sleeping with the commotion. It is amazing what rythmic pounding will do to sleepy children!
Later on, Liam desperately wanted to stand up and lean over the boat. Yikes! I was holding him down in this picture.
I love the water most in the world, I think, besides my family of course. It is in every fiber of my being. My Dad has had a boat for nearly all my life and many summers were spent on board. I even worked a summer, before college, as one of two boat dock attendants in the Harbor. I loved working the marine radio, helping people launch, guiding people into the docks for port, and fueling. That was a great summer. |
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I made one Hunter's Playsuit by Bonnie Blue Designs this afternoon. It was super quick and super easy. I will put pockets on it tomorrow. Here is the pictures, let me know what you think:
I think it is much cuter in person, and looks more like a 'bag' in these pictures. I lengthened the pattern by 5 inches in the legs to make it a bit more modest. It is still very cool for the summer and nice and roomy to allow air to circulate. I'll make one more of these, for Jack, and then I'll make one of the other pattern Little Explorer, which looks more like an overall type and a bit more more time to make. Also, I think for Jack, I will put the button holes more towards the center of the top portion - they are a bit wide on Peter, causing it to pucker a bit in the middle. Have I ever mentioned I'm a bit on the perfection side when it comes to making clothing?! Lol |
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I've been slowly working on the Tulip Bells Table Runner that my MIL purchased for me during Christmas. I would like to have it done by the end of the month since it is so pretty. The last I worked on it was Mother's Day (deciding I needed to do some nice sewing time instead of the constant needs!). I found myself in between tasks - I am waiting for two patterns to arrive for the boys Little Explorers, by Make it Perfect, and Hunter's Playsuit, by Bonnie Blue Designs. So last night I decided to finish the second block of three. Here is a picture of the first block: Yesterday, Liam looked so cute that I had to take a picture to capture the moment. I would like to remember these little moments more than the big ones. Childhood goes by too fast! Liam has bedhead as he just woke up.
And the boys having to get in on the picture action too...
And a dress I sewed up for a friend's daughter. I had the dark flower print and matched it with a simple poly/cotton lavendar.
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This week we were blessed with a visit from the paternal grandparents. We had a lovely time! While my MIL was here, I noticed a pretty denim skirt she had on and the stitching design. She really liked the skirt. I mentioned that it wouldn't be hard to make and that we could make one in khaki or tan for the summer. Well, she took me up on the offer and before she left, we had a lovely new skirt!
After our visit, I decided to sew up a bonnet. Do you remember a year ago when I tried making one when I lived out West? Ha! The pattern was ridiculously large and I felt like I was wearing a space cadet helmet. I had kept my favorite bonnet even though it was no longer wearable. I took it apart, traced the pieces, and remade the bonnet in lavendar! It turned out great! So, I am happy to say, I am 2 for 2 in copying a known design without a pattern! God is good!
I have been working on a teepee for the boys for a few weeks, although I've only spent a few days actually doing anything. I would have had it done sooner, but a certain 5 yo really wanted to help him Mama cut out the pattern. While putting the toddler to nap, the said child proceeded to pin the pattern and cut it out! Well, he didn't exactly put it in the right spot, so I couldn't finish cutting out the remaining pieces. Thankfully, I was able to find more home decor fabric that somewhat matched and was the same weight/texture. I was able to make the entire teepee under $20 and would have been $10 if I didn't need to buy more fabric!
Here is a summer nightgown I sewed up a few days ago. I have yet to put the buttons on.
I'm making the boys some tractor pajamas! Liam is the most excited and every time he sees the fabric, he yells "Tractor Tractor!" That is his favorite word and his favorite object! Being surrounded by farm land, he loves seeing the tractors go by continuously all day. And his favorite thing to do is ride Daddy's tractor (the large JD mower).
The garden is coming along nicely. Friday we planted the tomato starts. Today we planted peppers, cucumbers, summer squash, and butternut squash. I will be planting more onions, and hope to add cauliflower. We've got more to add, but we are doing ok. Peter's other front tooth is now loose. The dentist had suspicions it had been knocked too, but it wasn't bleeding nor had gum damage. So, we take Peter back in one week for an x-ray. The root is still up where the other front tooth was pulled and I guess the doc wants to make sure everything is ok. He'll take a look at this other tooth, I'm sure. He is getting over the embarrassment and starting to take ownership and is actually showing others now.
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Well, one of Mom's worst nightmares has come to fruition at the Gallagher homestead. Yesterday, early evening, Peter was walking towards the garden across the driveway (getting ready to pick some spinach) and he tripped over a small bike laying on the ground. When he fell, his mouth went on the metal part of the bike and busted his mouth, tooth, and gum. At first, I thought he simply bit his lip, as is the usual. But no, he hit his front tooth. After calling a dear friend, my husband, and finally 911 (which were of no help!), I grabbed all of the children and drove away knowing I couldn't fix anything being out in the country. So, I started driving towards the city knowing the Lord would direct my path. Along the way, I picked up dear husband who was driving home. We then planned on going to a major hospital that had a dental ER clinic. Fortunately we were able to get a hold of our dentist and he kindly returned to the office to treat Peter as an emergency. Another good bit of news was that the tooth did not go up into the gum line, and damage the permanent tooth. The tooth was out of socket so it could not be returned without causing damage to the permanent tooth. The dentist had to numb Peter first with gel, then with the large needle of novicaine. Peter was a trooper and didn't complain. Then the good ol pliers came out and the doc yanked out the tooth. I asked Peter to close his eyes so that he wouldn't see the needle or the pliers. He did great. Now the poor boy can't say his "S" or "th" and many other words he could say before. His bottom tooth that he lost just 9 days ago is directly beneath the tooth he just lost so he has a gapping hole! He had such a beautiful smile. I will treasure the pictures we have. Just the night before, I took a picture with his brothers that is just precious.
Here he is with the beautiful Peter smile, on the far right. Jack on the left and Liam in the middle.
Peter here, after the accident, with his first smile. The church sent a large balloon bouquet and it sure did it's job. This was the first time he smiled for us - although it was a picture.
It changes his whole face! But I'm trying not to mourn the loss of my sweet child's face too much. So many others are scarred and burned and what is a tooth - especially since it will grow back?
To add insult to injury, Peter threw-up last night in bed and we didn't know it until this morning. Jack had the same thing before bedtime. Not sure what the deal is - they act completely normal until in one moment, up comes the last meal. That has happened since Tuesday. I'm hoping this strange occurance will be done soon! |
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What a beautiful week it has been here! Spring is slipping away into Summer. We have had lots of sunshine to help grow our garden - and we actually need some rain now! Lots of forecasted rain, but no rainfall yet. I began transplanting and thinning out the brussel sprouts. Wow - do we have alot growing! The green beans have sprouted and cabbage as well. The carrots have not come up yet. I have only watered the garden once since the rain is supposed to be coming. I might have to water tomorrow.
Peter lost his first tooth this week! We are all very excited for him! The big boy pulled it out himself, can you believe that?! Dad had just tried pulling it out 30 sec before Peter pulled it out. He was very excited and happy. He is feeling grown up more everyday.
Today was a big day for me. I have been thinking about donating some hair to Locks of Love, a non-profit organization devoted to providing natural hair wigs to children with cancer and other diseases. My hair was down to my waist and becoming a bit unmanageable to comb after washing. So I knew I needed to cut an inch or two. Well, I decided I think I should - it might be cooler for the summer not having the weight on my head since I do wear my hair up. I finally decided to go ahead and do it. But then I quickly got cold feet! Dear Husband was very supportive and if it weren't for him, I wouldn't have done it. He thought it was for a great cause and a self-less act. So, he measured and cut off the ponytail! There is still some length to my hair - I put it up immediately and I haven't had it down since! i'm too afraid! Ahh, it will grow back. :)
Our weekend was going lovely until a few hours ago. A bug has infected our boys. They are very happy and go-lucky but seem to be throwing up regardless. Jack first, then Peter, then Jack again, and just now, Liam. They have no fevers, no colds, nothing. And seem to be very happy! So, it has been a long night of carpet cleaning and laundering. Pray that they heal soon!
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The last two days have been exciting on the birding front. Our 3 babies have fledged, yesterday. It was quite the excitement. I think the boys spooked the babies when they walked out the front door and they went flying. Sort of. One landed/glided/fell to the ground a short distance away. I was on the other side of the house hanging laundry and I heard Jack screaming and Peter shouting something. They were very excited. So I ran over and had to rescue the baby robin from our puppy Maggie. She was just licking the poor bird! So we all moved back and the bird started hoping and trying to fly. We knelt down and prayed that the bird's wing wasn't broken and for healing. The robin is doing better now. The babies sure are cute, though! They still have baby feathers sticking out in places! Here is a picture later in the afternoon when Jeff was home. Maggie found another baby bird in the higher grass. This time I had my camera and snapped a picture!
We also have a new bird family nesting on our detached garage. We do not know what kind of bird it is.
The bird is smaller than a robin and has longer tail feathers.
The eggs are smaller than a robin's, and have small specks on them. We have been planting in the garden. We planted lots of green beans and carrots. Here are some pics of the kids:
Peter planting green beans. The seeds are large so he can pick them up. Jeff is planting carrots - the seeds are very tiny!
Jack weeding! He's pretty good, too! Jack found this toad in the garden - can you see it? The difference between a toad and frog is their location and preference. A toad does not like water while a frog will live near water and prefers it! Read that fact from our friend's library book at her house.
Here is a picture of our first salad from the garden!
We also did a "Who's Been Here" Nature Walk in our backyard. While we were investigating, we found some new wildflowers. The first is called Spring Beauty. It is actually a tubular plant and can be eaten like a potato! The second is called Daisy Fleabane. If you rub the flowers on a dog, it will keep the fleas away (reportedly!).
Spring Beauty
Daisy Fleabane
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It is so beautiful to see God's Creation come alive before our eyes! We have several robin's nests around the house, sitting on wreaths. One robin family decided to nest directly outside our front door, on the porch. We didn't really know it until one day, we walked outside and noticed a few baby bird beaks pointing straight up! They heard a noise and thought we were their Mommy & Daddy! We are so excited to see the growth and progress. Here is a picture of nearly a day after hatching:
Here is a picture taken about 9 days later, quite a difference in size and look! Last night, Jeff attempted to take a picture of a Mama raccoon and a baby raccoon. They weren't as cooperative as he would have liked. He tried sneaking around to get a "National Geographic" picture, his words. Lol. But, instead he got reflective eyes and lots of growling from Mama. They were eating our black oil sunflowerseed out of the large bird feeder that sits in the woods' edge. The baby raccoon climbed about 30 feet high on a tree! Amazing!
Here are some wildflower identifications from two weeks ago. We have been so busy outside that I haven't had the time to update the blog. Our garden is growing so fast - and the weeds even faster. We aren't able to spend more than 30 min a day on average, and it doesn't seem long enough. I'm hoping next week we will be able to spend more time.
Jack in the Pulpit
Large Flowered Trillium
Moss Phlox
Star Violet
I have many many more to identify, but it takes me time to look through the books. I have really come to enjoy identifying each wildflower and even weed or bush. I am really unknowledgable in this area, but thankfully, the library is full of wonderful resources and we are only lacking in the desire to learn. So, break open a book, and begin to learn! I plan to make a small photo album of each flower and label each one so that the children and I can begin to remember each of the names. What a blessing to be able to learn about God's Creation! |
Dutchman's Breeches
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Have you been looking for easy and simple patterns to make as a busy Mom? Well, I have found a new site, via my friend OhioSarah. It is called Squiggly Twigs Designs. Check her patterns out! You'll be pleasently surprised with the design and the price. I really enjoyed browsing her selection. Coming Soon: I've been working on a post titled Wildflowers in Ohio Spring. During our hike this past Saturday, we came across some beautiful wildflowers I have not seen. I am identifying them and writing a bit of a blurb. As soon as I'm done, I'll post! |