Homemade Mama

Home Field Advantage

2011-07-29T23:53:00.003-05:00

Sammy played his last games of the (travel) season today. The Buccaneers started off strong, winning the first three games. They were the number 1 seed going into the play-off rounds. That's not surprising with this kid pitching~

Sadly, they lost the first play-off game to Elmhurst :( Sammy and the Bucs still had an awesome season. More importantly, they had a lot of fun!
And Mary even found toad~

Fair Weather Fan

2011-07-28T23:57:00.007-05:00

We stopped by the County Fair today. It was raining, so we didn't stay as long as usual~
Mary with a giant frog (toad?) ~
Just like her brother, she loves the tractors~
And we always love the pig races~
Believe it or not, the corn husking never gets old, either~

If it walks like a duck~

That's a big truck~
There was this young performer who juggled, etc... Sam was called up to be his assistant~
Pretty cool~
We love this guy every year, too~
Mary could have spent all day on the tractors. Because it was raining, she really didn't have to wait her turn~
Where does our food come from?
We ran into our friend, Sonnet (love her name!) - she had entered some beautiful photographs in the fair~
The county fair is one of the suburbs' under-appreciated events. It's affordable, with lots of fun, and educational, opportunities. It's worth checking out!

Slammin' Sammy

2011-07-23T23:57:00.007-05:00

I know I sound like a broken record, but Mary has to sit through a lot of baseball games. She's a good sport, though, and always finds ways to entertain herself~
Sam had an amazing game today! He pitched two perfect innings (all he's allowed to pitch per tournament rules), hit a grand slam, and a three-run homer! Here's our MVP~
Grandpa and Pam met us at Rooster's to celebrate~
Mary is a ham~

Cloud Cover

2011-07-22T23:11:00.002-05:00

There were some really beautiful, low lying, clouds in the sky this evening~
Thank God men cannot fly, and lay waste the sky as well as the earth. ~Henry David Thoreau

Practically Perfect in Every Way

2011-07-21T23:13:00.004-05:00

Six Flags

2011-07-18T23:59:00.003-05:00

Charlie and a couple of his baseball pals went to Great America today. I believe it's impossible not to have an awesome time there (if you're a 12 year old boy) ~
Sam and Aiden went, too - no one threw up, so that's always a plus. I am so glad Scott is willing to take them (we get free passes from a reading program) - I really, really don't care for amusement parks (I'm trying not to say "hate").

Perfect 10

2011-07-16T23:59:00.002-05:00

Mary has been admiring Jen's nails for a couple of years now (we see Mrs. Barnick at Upward basketball and baseball). Today Mary had her wish granted with a mini-manicure at the baseball game~

Ready to Play

2011-07-16T23:54:00.007-05:00

Charlie's travel season has begun. It's going to be a short one for him, because he is going to Honeyrock at the end of this month. But he'll play as much baseball as he can before summer's end~
Sam had his own game today, but was able to catch the last part of Charlie's~
Bossy pants~
I love this kid~
Travel season is hard (a lot of running around), but as Scott always says, "It's worth it!"

Better to light a candle than to curse the darkness. ~Chinese Proverb

2011-07-11T23:59:00.004-05:00

Our power flickered out shortly after we woke up today. After about four hours, Scott ended up buying the last generator around for miles on his lunch break (we have a freezer full of meat and a refrigerator full of insulin). We spent the day at the pool, and Mary loves to perform, wherever she is~

Tonight we had Sam's baseball team party. It was a lot of fun, but our power was still not on when we returned home tonight. Lucky kids had a bath by candlelight~
Any time is a good time for a rousing rendition of Mary's favorite song~

Just before we had resigned ourselves to sleeping in the smothering, muggy heat for the night, our power kicked back on - 12+ hours later. I love modern life, especially when it's 90 degrees out.

Domo Arigoto

2011-07-09T23:11:00.007-05:00

Mrs. Roboto~
Mary has her annual Holter monitoring this weekend. She was happy, then unhappy, then finally happy again, about having to wear this contraption. It helped when I told her she looked like a robot~

And The Rockets Red Glare

2011-07-05T00:49:00.002-05:00

Once again, we were lucky enough to spend the 4th with the Bishop Family. They have a ton of people over and it's always a blast ;) Mary enjoyed the water balloon fight~
The Bishop's live just a half block from the perfect firework-watching spot~

Second Place

2011-06-30T23:59:00.005-05:00

Sam's team also ended up facing the A's in tonight's championship game. After six hard fought innings, they came up a little short. But what a great season!
They had a lot of fun, and that's all that matters! Right?!?
The team dumped water on their favorite coach~
Now both boys have trophies and we can gear up for the craziness that is travel season!

Not a Frog

2011-06-29T23:56:00.004-05:00

During Sam's playoffs tonight, Charlie found a toad. He's cute, as far as toads go~

Fullersburg Woods

2011-06-28T23:58:00.003-05:00

We were able to spend a beautiful day at the Forest Preserve with our friends, the Peseks~
Now, Mary refused to be in the above photo, but I caught her looking quite angelic here~
This just cracks me up because Mary really does everything her "boys" do~

Say Ahhhhh

2011-06-27T23:54:00.003-05:00

Mary had her very first dentist appointment. As usual, she was a dream patient~
She loved it! What ever happened to the terrifying dental visits of my youth?!

Champions!!!

2011-06-24T23:59:00.005-05:00

After a long season, Charlie and the Mets found themselves facing the A's in the championship game tonight!

Since I was busy biting my nails, I don't have any pictures of the actual game. After six innings the game was tied. The Mets finally won, by one, after two extra innings. This was a very trying season, I'm glad it's over. I'm even happier that it ended well~

Charlie's best bud, Isaac, is in town, and was there for the championship game!!
Another member of Charlie's fan club~
On to travel season...

A-Hey-Hey

2011-06-19T23:59:00.003-05:00

Mary loves her grandpa, and Grandpa loves Mary~
We celebrated Father's Day with Grandpa and Pam~

Of course, whenever Grandpa comes over, we always play Apples to Apples~

Grand Slam Sam!

2011-06-17T23:53:00.004-05:00

Sam played tonight in the All-Star Game (he should be easy to spot in the picture below) ~
He was pretty excited~
Sam had the entire crowd on their feet when he crushed a ball down the left field line. After the opposing team contributed a couple of errors, Sam ended up crossing home plate with a grand slam (!!) under his belt! Fans on both sides were going crazy! It was pretty amazing. Of course I wasn't video-taping at the time :( Here he is getting some congratulations from grandma~
Wendy and sweet baby Ava came and watched the game~
Sam's team crushed the opposition. Mary was pretty stoked~
Nobody was surprised when Sam was named MVP~

Second Base

2011-06-08T23:59:00.004-05:00

Charlie's season on the Mets is winding down. They have a great record so far this year~
At the plate~
Ready~
I don't want to jinx anything, but they have a good chance of making it to the championship game!

Beach Bums

2011-06-08T23:58:00.005-05:00

Once again, we were able to enjoy the ROCK end of year picnic! It's always so much fun, and the weather cooperated this year~

Baseball Buddies

2011-06-08T23:52:00.009-05:00

Sam, Aiden, and their dads were able to catch the White Sox vs. Mariners today~
It was a perfect day for a ballgame~
Best buds~

Paulie pulling out a home run~
The White Sox lost in extra innings - 7 - 4 :(

Ante Up

2011-06-07T23:54:00.003-05:00

Another great thing about homeschooling - the manipulatives we get to use. Double down, anyone?
Also, I love how Sam has his shirt pulled over his head :)

Cardio Workout

2011-06-03T23:46:00.005-05:00

Mary had her regular check-up with Dr. Varga today. Sam is a good sport and helps keep Mary happy while we waited~
Of course the prognosis was good :) Mary does need to have an MRI at some point, but we are going to wait until after summer. And since she will need to be sedated for that, she will just have her echocardiogram done at the same time. While she is always cooperative when awake, this will allow them to get really good pictures.

Flexibility

2011-06-02T23:17:00.008-05:00

Mary loves gymnastics. This session she has started participating without me. If we could go every day, I don't think that would be too much~

No stupid questions...

2011-06-02T23:01:00.006-05:00

Mary has lots of funny phrases, but she's outgrown a few that I want to remember~

Nookie = Milkie

When playing "Slug Bug" she'll call out (without having seen a VW Beetle), "Sug bug - green (or whatever color she chooses) one - I got it guys!

We have a jar in our kitchen that is collecting money every time anyone says, "stupid, shut up, whatever, shouts, or swears. The one we all have the most trouble with is , "whatever". If Mary hears you she is quick to say, "aw - fifty cents! haha - burn!"

And lastly, she has started, while I am reading aloud to them, saying, "I have an answer" meaning she has a question. But she must have heard me ask the boys if they know the answer to questions while we're home schooling. It's really cute.

Nature is the art of God. ~Thomas Browne, Religio Medici, 1635

2011-06-01T23:53:00.002-05:00

We met some friends at Seven Gables Park today, and did a little fishing~

AV Club

2011-05-31T23:01:00.013-05:00

I love finding videos and pictures that the kids take without my knowledge. Charlie and Mary had a little photo shoot today. Great subject and great photographer~
"Be the wind" ~

I think she wants to take a picture~

Please forgive me, but this just never gets old~

Favorite word?

I love seeing them have fun together. With an over-8-year age difference, I was worried that they wouldn't "know" each other. Obviously, I had nothing to worry about :)

Arkansas - The Natural State

2011-05-30T23:38:00.005-05:00

Finally. They are back! The boys had a great time (with Grandpa and Gene) in Arkansas, this year. Charlie wants to fly down a week early next year.

I love my kids' names, and we love finding them out in the world~
Since I am in the midst of a huge silent auction as a fundraiser for the Greenhouse, Scott thought I would appreciate this~
I talked Scott into stopping at the Funk Prairie Home and Rock Museum (on Tracy's recommendation to me) on their way down. They loved it! Grandpa thought it was great, and everyone got a kick out of the museum curator, Bill Case. They were all so enthralled, they forgot to take pictures once inside~
The museum houses a huge collection of rocks and they are all extremely accessible. Everyone is encouraged to "touch it!", and are entertained and educated by Mr. Case's endless knowledge of all things Funk/history/earth science.
They stopped for lunch at Joe Rogers' Original Recipe Chili Parlor (of Man vs. Food fame)~
Once in Arkansas, the weather was less than stellar, but the boys still got plenty of time outdoors. While playing baseball, Sam chased a fly out to the grassy field, and stumbled upon this sleeping fawn~
Pretty awesome, right?
It's a double rainbow~
Playing catch (Mountain Home, Arkansas really is a boys dream) ~

This year they tried something new - trout fishing~Charlie's a natural (on the White River) ~
It doesn't matter if they don't catch a thing. This time with their dad, grandpa and a great friend (Gene) is priceless~

Two More Days!

2011-05-27T23:22:00.003-05:00

Until the boys get home! Mary and I joined our homeschooling friends for our weekly park-day. We can't wait for Sunday!

Create!

2011-05-25T23:52:00.012-05:00

As part of "keep Mary busy so she doesn't miss her brothers week - 2011", today we hit the Dupage Children's Museum with Johnny and Kel. We are blessed to be located within close proximity to so many wonderful museums. The DCM, though, has been one of our favorites since Charlie was little. I love how kids get down to work~
We haven't lost an eye yet~
Shop class~
Grandpa would be proud~
She made a cross :)
And here she is hard at work creating a box-car~
Johnny Joe with his masterpiece~
Five days down, four to go!

Maryknoll

2011-05-23T23:58:00.003-05:00

We met some friends today at a great little park in Glen Ellyn. It has some awesome climbing structures, a splash pad, miniature golf, and a sweet sand box~
But one of the kids' favorite things to do there is the zip line~
Three days down, six to go!

Painting and Popsicles

2011-05-21T23:55:00.007-05:00

The boys left for Arkansas today. This will be their longest trip yet. Mary is keeping busy painting her birdhouse~

And as a reward for all that hard work, a popsicle~
She always has something to say~

We have some fun things planned, but we miss our boys already.

"Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears."

2011-05-19T23:45:00.006-05:00

The boys had their fall performance at the Greenhouse today. It was wonderful. Here they are doing the Renaissance Acrostic~

Grammar 1 students recited The Pied Piper of Hamlin. Here is Sam~

And Charlie impressed us all with his performance of Romeo's monologue from Romeo and Juliet. The video is really bad, but I am so proud of him. He really wanted to do something from Romeo and Juliet, and this was the only piece that really fit the requirements (length, etc..). Someday he is going to win a young lady's heart with this~

How can you not love this kid?Mary's favorite part might be the ice cream afterward~Three of the best people I know~

Kings, Queens, and Courtiers

2011-05-16T22:51:00.005-05:00

We visited one of our favorite Chicago Museums today. One can never spend too much time at The Art Institute of Chicago. It was a beautiful day~
We went today to catch the special exhibit Kings, Queens, and Courtiers: Art in Early Renaissance France. It was really interesting, and tied in perfectly with our history studies. What was really helpful was the catalog of the exhibit they had displayed before you entered the galleries. The boys enjoyed looking closely, and for as long as they liked, at each piece. Sadly, no photographs were allowed inside the exhibit~
Oh yes, she is the queen~
We also checked out another special exhibit "Altered and Adorned: Using Renaissance Prints in Daily Life". We are continually amazed at all the beautiful objects that have been preserved. What a blessing to be able to see them hundreds, if not thousands, of years later! We stumbled upon The Ayala Altarpiece (1396). It was stunning~
And this Spanish crucifix from the 13th century also caught our eyes~
Every time we visit one Chicago's world-renowned museums, I am so grateful. What a privilege!

Lilac Parade 2011

2011-05-15T23:57:00.005-05:00

We don't usually watch the Lilac Parade - parking's a pain, it's crowded, etc... But our favorite chiropractor invites her patients to watch from her office every year. It's an ideal spot, located just behind the media tent. We had a perfect view~

What made it even better, was the fact that we could watch the parade through the giant picture windows, in the climate controlled office. It was raining, but not on us~Mary's friend Tim was there, too. Tim was born with a very serious heart defect, but he keeps everyone around him laughing. These two were cracking each other up~
The Lilac Parade is actually very good, with all sorts of cool floats, and marching bands - including some bagpipers, acrobats, shriners, the works!

Buca di Beppo

2011-05-15T22:58:00.012-05:00

Less than a month late, we took Charlie for his surprise birthday dinner. He was thrilled when we were seated at the "kitchen table" at Buca di Beppo~
The head chef, and one of the friendly waiters~
Mangia!
The birthday boy, with a bowl of alfredo bigger than his head~
They really know how to celebrate back in the kitchen! We loved the birthday candelabra~
Of course, our little Guido had to ham it up~
So fun! We were able to watch the inner workings of a very busy restaurant. The food was awesome, and the staff treated us like royalty~
You need a big mouth to get a pasta-spoon full of ice cream in - no problem for Mary~
The trouble with eating Italian food is that five or six days later you're hungry again. ~George Miller Truer words were never spoken. We were stuffed. What a great birthday!

Hello Spring!

2011-05-13T23:05:00.002-05:00

"Life well spent is long." ~Leonardo da Vinci

2011-05-12T23:54:00.010-05:00

Tonight was the annual Art show and Living Wax Museum. There were many beauties to behold.
Sam with his Carolingian book cover (his is the cross, and doesn't Sam look just like Scott here?) ~
Christian Symbols in Medieval art (Sam's is the anchor at the top) ~
This picture is funny. Sam is about to go on the stage for his living wax museum, and Mary is pouting. I'm not sure what Grandma is thinking~
Here is the princess, all smiles~
And twirls~
Sam and his friends put on a scene from the 100 Years' War~
The clincher for deciding to do this was the fact that they got to have cross-bows~
Charlie with his Illuminated Letter (A for Awesome) ~
And with his encaustic painting, St. Michael, the archangel~
And finally, this year's pièce de résistance, the Isenheim Altarpiece~
This is a collaborative effort between all of the students. Isn't it amazing? Previous years are just as fabulous.

Buy Me Some Peanuts and Cracker Jack

2011-05-11T23:52:00.004-05:00

We had free tickets to the Kane County Cougars game (as part of a reading program). Here's my little fan, smiling big~
Sam invited Aiden along~
The Cougars won, and we all had fun :)

Shiney

2011-05-06T22:40:00.006-05:00

Well, it finally happened. Mary got her first shiner. She fell on some playground equipment at Sammy's baseball game. It actually looked worse in person. But Mary was a good sport~
She was actually really proud of her "shiney" (as she called it) ~

Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art

2011-05-03T22:34:00.003-05:00

I had set up a rock and mineral identification for the boys at the Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art. I took Mary to the park while we waited, but the boys said it was pretty interesting~

Bring Your Good Times

2011-04-30T22:46:00.005-05:00

We celebrated Charlie's birthday with the family today. I made a root beer float cake (it was really good) ~
As usual, Mary has to be in charge of anything having to do with cake or candles~ Mary was pleased as punch that she got to hold baby Ava~We still need to take Charlie for his surprise dinner. But I think this concludes the "at-home" festivities :)

Born Friends

2011-04-29T22:30:00.003-05:00

I just had to take a picture of this. Sam made the drawing Charlie is holding. It's a stained glass letter "C", and it says "I love you" on top. Just out of the blue. It's times like this that I know we're doing something right.
Sometimes being a brother is even better than being a superhero. ~Marc Brown

Take Your Daughter to Work Day

2011-04-28T22:29:00.004-05:00

Look who went to work with Daddy~
Mary was really looking forward to this. Not only was Sam not going this time (he's at the Greenhouse now), but Mary left bright and early and stayed at The Carlson Group with Daddy until lunchtime! Of course, she made some friends there (Mary has gotten into the habit of winking when we take her picture - it's pretty goofy) ~
She had a blast! She went off with all the big kids, and "worked" on getting her face painted, and coloring, and eating bagels ;) I say it every year, but TCG really is a company that values a work-life balance, and does a lot of nice things for employees and their families.

It's the Real Thing

2011-04-27T23:59:00.003-05:00

I love this kid. Have I said that lately? Today he brought some cupcakes (with pop bottles on top) to the Greenhouse for his birthday. He is so handsome. And thoughtful. Two years ago there was a little girl in his class who couldn't have sugar. Whenever we would make cupcakes, Charlie would always ask me to get something else for her (a little notepad or something). We are really proud of him :)

Rock On

2011-04-25T23:47:00.004-05:00

We visited the Vulcan Quarry again, today. Mary loved learning about all the rocks, minerals and gems indigenous to Illinois. Fluorite is our state mineral - smile!
Sadly, I don't remember what each of the samples were~

Mary liked this one, a lot~
Again, it is just so cool to go down into a quarry!
The kids had a great time~
My littlest rockstar~
The Fist of Rock~
The kids always want to bring home lots of rocks, which Vulcan generously allows. They actually weigh us before and after to see how many pounds of rock we've collected. Sam found a fossil~

Since we were so close by, we stopped at the Lake Renwick rookery~

It was hard to know exactly what we were seeing, at first, the islands are covered with birds~
The boys had fun, too. I just wasn't able to get any pictures of them :)

See what a morning, gloriously bright!

2011-04-24T22:32:00.012-05:00

Alleluia! He is Risen! We love Easter 'round these parts. Not just because there are baskets filled with candy and toys, but because it is the culmination of a beautiful week of worship and observing the Passion of our Christ. We stay up very late for the Vigil, and are still eager to wake up early, and keep celebrating the Resurrection, Easter morning at our church~
Chocolate is to kids what a cup of joe is to the grown -ups, a burst of energy when one is exhausted~

On our way to church - Mary chose her dress and her hat~
Later we'll have dinner with Pam's family and another Easter Egg hunt!

The Hunt for Red (and blue and yellow and green) Easter Eggs

2011-04-23T23:15:00.004-05:00

Sam, Mary and I loaded up on chocolate and fun at Cornerstone Christian Church, again. The weather was perfect - not too cold, and not too hot. And dry :)
Sam sat with the Bunny, but although Mary said she wanted to, her feet wouldn't take her~
Of course she loved the little lambs~
And they both had a blast in the bounce house.
Tonight we observe the Great Vigil of Easter. Can. not. wait.

Eggs Galore

2011-04-22T23:19:00.003-05:00

We had our annual Easter Egg decorating day with the Eders. Charlie had a lot of fun~
Mary really got into it this year, too~
Sam could have done another dozen~
But Janelle probably had the most fun. Look at the cute little chick she made~
Hello. I am bewildered.Later Mary was playing princess pirate (notice the telescope) and decided to decorate her face~
Cute, huh?

Tweeeeeeeelve!

2011-04-20T23:25:00.008-05:00

My baby turned 12 today! I remember so clearly seeing his face right after he was born. He is so sensitive and kind, loving and protective of his brother and sister, responsible and honest and forthright, and finally too cool to smile for the camera. But he still expects his birthday pancakes~
We couldn't have asked for a better first child. He is so patient with our parenting mistakes, and is such an awesome kid - we get more credit than we deserve. Charlie is a blessing to our family and to the world. It is a joy getting to know the young man he is becoming.
In honor of Charlie's birthday, here is one of my favorite retro Sesame Street songs.

Minuet No. 1

2011-04-17T23:20:00.006-05:00

My kids continue to amaze me~

M.A.R.Y.

2011-04-13T23:29:00.003-05:00

Connect

2011-04-13T23:27:00.014-05:00

I had a groupon for the Dupage Children's Museum that was expiring. After my little get-away, it was the perfect place to take the kids and thank them for being so accommodating while I was gone. Something for the 8 and up crowd to do - find places to build numbers~

Mary with her self, and mama, portrait paper dolls~
Mary chose all the accoutrements, and glued them on - I added the faces and hands, and helped with the hair~
I think my three year old would win an award for longest attention span - she helped her brothers create this number 2~
Mary "hammering out love between her brothers" ~
The DCM is fun, especially when it's not too crowded, which usually happens from noon - 2:30 on weekdays :)

Lake Tahoe

2011-04-13T07:01:00.011-05:00

About a month ago, my good friend from high school, Jennifer, called me with a proposition. I'd help her drive from San Fransisco to Lake Tahoe (and check out some lodging options for a party she's planning there in the fall) and she would fly me there and back. I had to think about it - I had never left Mary overnight and I would also need someone to watch the kids while Scott was at work during the day. Scott and my mom both encouraged me to go ahead. It really was the perfect trip, for the perfect amount of time - I would leave early Sunday morning, and return Tuesday night. So I was up at the crack of dawn on Sunday, and took an early morning flight to SFO~
Best views from an airplane~
Jen(ifer) met me at the airport (along with her friend Eduardo), and after dropping him at his house outside of the city, we were on our way.
We stopped in Napa and had lunch at the Boon Fly Cafe, with more of Jen's friends. The food was fabulous and it was great fun to visit with Marcelle, Laine, Paige and Owen. It's obvious why people love Northern California - it really is a beautiful drive~We rolled into the Hyatt at Incline Village quite late, but were happily surprised when the young woman at the front desk upgraded us to the Regency Club! After settling in to our fabulous room, we got a bite to eat in downstairs. Jen and I stayed up talking 'til the wee hours, only to rise and shine bright and early the next day ~
Before heading out to check some properties, we had a delicious breakfast at the Log Cabin Cafe.
We checked out the beautiful lakefront, and saw some of the world's largest pine-cones. I'm afraid they were more awe-inspiring in person, but this one truly was bigger than Jen's head~
Jen has been telling me for a long time how spectacularly lovely Tahoe is. She's right~What could be better than a beach made of half sand and half snow? I hope the kids get to see this one day soon~
A very cool, albeit dead, little crab~
It's not a matter of just not littering, we really need to stop using so much stuff~View from the Hyatt~
On Tuesday, I ended up missing my flight (yes, I cried - I missed my family) and had a three hour layover at LAX. Outdoor tarmacs always make me feel like I'm in a 1950's movie~This was a GREAT trip! We gambled a bit (and met all the usual characters), ate some great food (including the best Mexican I've ever had, at Lupitas) and enjoyed some of the country's most beautiful scenery. All while laughing - there's something to be said for the easy comfort of an old friend. The kids were fine - Mary didn't even really cry for me (she asked a couple of times, but was content with the reply that I would be home soon). Thanks, Jen!

Bakugan!

2011-04-02T23:25:00.005-05:00

Many months ago, Sam signed up to display a collection at our library. Finally, it was his turn~
Anything her brothers can do, Mary can do, too~
We love our library :)

Waiting for the Lamb

2011-03-30T23:37:00.006-05:00

We met some friends at Catigny, and enjoyed a typical spring day in Chicagoland~

Loaves and Fishes

2011-03-28T23:38:00.003-05:00

We've been wanting to see the inner workings of a food pantry for some time, and today we finally were able to. Jody, at Loaves and Fishes, answered all our questions and gave us a very thorough tour~
Loaves and Fishes distributed over 2,000,000 pounds of food and groceries to over 2,200 families last year. They have it set-up like a tiny grocery store with shopping carts, giving people some autonomy over their food~
They also supply household items and personal care items. One item that brought a smile to our faces were the "birthday bags". Imagine not being able to afford a cake for your child's birthday. Here, they get a bag with paper decorations and tableware, along with a cake mix and frosting~
It really is a huge undertaking to keep this place organized.
Our R.O.C.K. homeschool group had a lot of fun~
As we were leaving we had to get a picture outside their brand-new facility~
Since we were so close, we had to stop at Farm & Fleet. That place is better than McDonald's playland!
Blessed are those who are generous, because they feed the poor. Proverbs 22:9

AWANA Games 2011

2011-03-26T23:49:00.004-05:00

The boys competed in the AWANA games this morning. It was pretty exciting~
Sam's team was up first, and he was rearing to go~
On your mark~
Get set~
G...
Go~
Charlie was finally able to participate~
He was awesome at the relay race~

He really knows how to handle a balloon~
Charlie's team lost 1st place by only 2 points :( Sam's team was all about effort ;)

All the World's a Stage

2011-03-19T23:59:00.005-05:00

Hear Ye! Hear Ye! The Greenhouse play has finally arrived! This year they did three abbreviated Shakespeare plays. While waiting for the casting, Charlie was keeping his fingers crossed for the part of Hamlet. He (and the audience) was not disappointed~

Charlie has inherited his great-grandfather's stage presence~
"O, woe is me, To have seen what I have seen, see what I see!"
Charlie was amazing~

This sword fight stole the show~

Poor Hamlet. Murder most foul~
Sam was excited to be a part of his first Greenhouse production~
I love his bashful smile~
Here he is performing a dance as a towns person, with his friend, Amelia~

We few, we happy few, we band of brothers~

Charlie's friend Isaac was able to make the trip from NC to see this year's play~
The sweet prince, smiling down at his number one fan~
As always, the play was impressive! Both Charlie and Sam were given the opportunity to shine. Shine they did!

"If music be the food of love, play on." ~William Shakespeare

2011-03-19T23:18:00.003-05:00

Sam had a little concert before the Greenhouse play this afternoon. Talk about over-scheduled! Of course, he was cool and collected~

Skating with the Stars

2011-03-15T23:37:00.005-05:00

Since hockey has been over, the boys have missed skating. We've been gong the last couple of Tuesdays~
Mary LOVES it! They don't have rental skates in her size, though she is happy to just tool around in her boots~
The hockey lessons the boys were taking have really improved their skills~
We are usually the only ones out on the ice. The boys are very talented at making their own fun~
"Glide on ice and joy of zeal..." E.E. Cummings

Jump Shot

2011-03-12T23:55:00.004-06:00

Today was Charlie's last Upward basketball game. It was a great season - he is really improving~
Here he is with his #1 fan~

Great Wolf Lodge

2011-03-01T23:51:00.006-06:00

We have never gone up to the Dells in the winter as a family before. We've gone once or twice in the summer, but our summers are generally reserved for baseball and camping in Michigan, these days. It's been a pretty harsh winter, and trip to a water park was just what we needed. We drove up on Sunday and were glad to see the place was at less than 50% capacity by the evening.

The kids, of course, loved it. Mary jumped right in~
The wave pool was pretty awesome~

Who doesn't love a hot tub?

Sam as actually more than a little hesitant to go down some of the water slides. Once he overcame that first fear (for each slide), he had a blast~

Brothers~

I love this picture - I hope they always remember who their first friend was~

There was a funnel type slide called the Howlin' Tornado that Sam took a lot of convincing to try. He ended up loving it, but needed to be re-convinced the second time down, as well. By the third time, though, he was rearing to go.

We really had a great time just hanging out without any of the typical distractions. We went out to eat a couple of times, and played card games before bed. The boys also played a little Magiquest while we were there, too. It was a nice break from the cold weather at home. I can't wait for summer!

Love this Boy

2011-02-26T23:51:00.005-06:00

Sam celebrated his birthday with some friends tonight. We started with a marshmallow structure contest~
This disproves the theory that if you put out healthy, colorful snacks, alongside sweet-tasting junk, the kids naturally will choose the former. Many, many marshmallows made it into their mouths, while the rainbow of veggies was left untouched :(

Sam was very clear about wanting a pinata. We made it work, even in the snow~

These days, nobody gets the birthday cake spotlight alone in this house~
Sam has a great smile, and it's contagious, too~

Sam had a lot of fun, and his friends did, too. It is hard to believe he really is 8!

A Little Princess

2011-02-22T23:58:00.003-06:00

Recently, Mary has really gotten into dress-up play. When her friend Allison was over, they surprised me with these charming get-ups~

"A girl should be two things: classy and fabulous." ~Coco Chanel

Where's Charlie?

2011-02-21T23:50:00.002-06:00

I just love when I'm able to get a photo of my kids having fun together. Even with almost 9 years between them, Charlie and Mary make great playmates. I do think homeschooling has helped to facilitate that - they have the time needed to build a relationship. This picture is perfect, because Mary is leaning on Charlie - he really is so sweet to her. I look forward to seeing how he continues to support her as they get older. Charlie is the world's best big brother.

Book 1

2011-02-20T23:46:00.007-06:00

What kind of music are balloons scared of? Pop music.

As part of the Suzuki program, upon completion of each book, students have to play straight through one time with accompaniment. Sam had his book 1 recital this afternoon. We combined it with his birthday with family. Here he is posing for the cover of his program~

Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star Variations, Shinichi Suzuki

Minuet No. 2, J. S. Bach

Minuet in C, J.S. Bach

The Happy Farmer, R. Schumann

Etude, Shinichi Suzuki

Rigadoon, H. Purcell

Andantino, Shinichi Suzuki

Allegretto, Shinichi Suzuki

Long, Long Ago, T.H. Bayly

Trumpet Solo – Charlie Reczek

Hail the Conquering Hero, G.F. Handel

Perpetual Motion in D. Major, Shinichi Suzuki

Allegro, Shinichi Suzuki

May Song, Folk Song

O Come, Little Children, Folk Song

Go Tell Aunt Rhody, Folk Song

Song of the Wind, Folk Song

Lightly Row, Folk Song

French Folk Song, Folk Song

Accompanist – Lisa Hirschmugl-Stein

His eager audience awaits~
We are so proud of him. I imagine him playing in church, or for his sister's wedding some day~

I video taped the first half. He hit a few stumbling blocks and was getting upset, so I turned the camera off. But he really did amazing~

Charlie gave Sam a short break and performed his trumpet ensemble piece (with Lisa on cello as viola) ~

He loved his cake~

What a wonderful day! Even though he made a few (minor to the audience, but large to him) mistakes, Sam persevered to the end, and finished his task. I can't say that I would have the confidence to do it, myself. He has worked really hard these last two years, and it really shows.

STOP SB136

2011-02-15T23:48:00.006-06:00

Today we had a little lesson in civics. Illinois state Senator Edward Maloney, is proposing a bill that would require all homeschoolers to register with the Illinois Board of Ed. What's the problem with that, you ask? Well, for one thing, Illinois public schools are failing, while homeschoolers, across the board, are succeeding. Why should we be required to register with a failing system? And what is the cost to the taxpayer to process all the homeschoolers?? There is so much more to consider when thinking about this subject, but I will just direct you here, and move onto the good stuff :)

My kids are fine, Senator Maloney, thank you very much. We don't need your "help" ~
Homeschoolers obey the traffic laws~
The Reczeks and the Peseks with a very successful homeschooler - Abe Lincoln. He taught himself to read, withOUT the Illinois Board of Ed!

Parents taking responsibility for their children's education. No help needed from the (failing) IL Board of ED. 4,000 strong~
It's 10:00am, do you know where your kids are? Homeschoolers - right here, getting a first hand look at Illinois government. Before Sen. Maloney worries too much about the mythical homeschoolers that are "falling through the cracks", why doesn't he figure out a way to help the thousands of failing Illinois public school students? Does your local public school have a surplus of resources, monetary or otherwise?
Three floors of IL homeschoolers. What I didn't see were any registered voters coming out to SUPPORT this bill.
After a very anti-climactic ending (no vote yet), we took a quick tour of the capitol building~
The Senate~

378 miles driven in 6 hours.

22 quarters fed to the parking meters and still getting one $5 parking ticket.

Getting to spend the day with 4,000 homeschoolers reminding Illinois politicians to keep their hands off my kids?

Priceless!

Balmex Cover

2011-02-10T19:49:00.005-06:00

Mary loves watching this video of Sam. Much to our delight, she sings it a lot in the car~

Hail the Conquering Hero

2011-02-05T23:57:00.004-06:00

Charlie had a trumpet ensemble contest today. He play Handel's Hail the Conquering Hero with another boy. They did fantastic (Charlie was the leader) ~

Here he is afterward, all smiles~

Sam Knows Basketball

2011-02-05T23:32:00.002-06:00

I don't want to brag, but Sam is a superstar - he rocks pretty much every sport he plays~

It helps that he's grown up in the "Charlie Reczek Sports Training Camp" :)

Kings of the Mountain

2011-02-04T23:58:00.002-06:00

When they finally plowed our skull-de-sac (Sam's name for it when he was little), they had to push the snow across the street, because there wasn't room to maneuver the plow with all the snow. Of course, the boys love it~

Hamburglar

2011-02-03T23:59:00.003-06:00

Sam brought cupcakes in to The Greenhouse for his birthday. He picked out the gummy hamburgers to top them. They (and he) are cute~

Snowpocalypse 2011

2011-02-02T23:21:00.007-06:00

It's all anyone has been talking about for the last couple of days, and finally, it came! The Great Blizzard of 2011. It is perfect for our family, because it gave us a chance to re-do our Polar Dash. There wasn't any snow on New Year's Eve this year, but this - this was a real boon!
You can barely see them, but there are some naked children hiding in all that snow~
And this is what we woke up to this morning~
It's still coming down~
The best part of all this snow, is Scott staying home from work (has never happened due to weather in the 15.5 years we've been married) ~

Some mighty drifts~
Peek - a -boo?
Heck no! Mary does not like the frosty wind~

Now this is cool~

Nothing like a warm bowl of oatmeal~
Charlie - tunneling us out~
I ended up not allowing Charlie to play in his cave (above). It was on he street side of the sidewalk, right where our driveway is. It would be too easy for a car to run right over him, or a plow to cover him with snow. HE was disappointed, but found other ways to keep busy :)

8 Really is Great!

2011-01-31T23:54:00.006-06:00

My little boy just keeps getting bigger - today Sam is 8!
We had a busy day planned, with a trip to the National Weather Center in Joliet. We saw lots of weather measuring equipment like a rain gauge and a weather balloon (the meteorologist assured us it is not big enough for a toddler to ride in) ~
Satellite images~
This is where they decide to play with our minds. Actually, they were quite busy today, preparing for the Blizzard of 2011, on it's way in. We're expecting the most snowfall since 1978!
Can't get enough of the "action" ~
Check out those blue skies behind us. Not a flurry in sight~
We stopped for a birthday lunch (it's Joshua's 9th, as well) at a little BBQ joint I found. It was small, but the food was great, and there were lots of cool pics on the walls of blues greats~

Even with only 10 of us, Jacqueline made a cake for each birthday boy (pistachio, and chocolate pumpkin) ~
Nine is fine~
I love his smile~
Someday the boys will get to blow out their own candles again, but for now they accommodate their little sister~
Quite a birthday - an awesome field trip, good food, and great friends~

Islamorada

2011-01-30T23:56:00.005-06:00

We went out for Sam's surprise birthday dinner tonight - Grandma came with us, too. Sam was thrilled with Scott's choice of Islamorada (inside Bass Pro Shops). Charlie gave Sam a firecracker as part of his birthday gift~
They have a giant fish tank (so clean!) that occupied the kids while we waited for Grandpa and Pam to show up~
My adventurous eaters enjoying some alligator~
It's a pillow, it's a pet....
It's a pillow pet!
Love this kid~
Warming up for a week (or more) of blowing out birthday candles~
Tomorrow morning, my Sam-bones turns 8!

Music and Art

2011-01-26T23:59:00.007-06:00

We saw a wonderful performance at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra today. The Peseks came along, too. Photography was not allowed inside the theater :( What a beautiful old building. And what an amazing show! Mary and I had to step out for quite a bit, but the boys loved it. Conductor Delta David Gier explored rhythm from the dances of the Baroque era through the complex beats of contemporary music. We heard Bach, Rameau, Mozart, Berlioz, Bernstein and Bartok. What a treat~
Because we were so close, we couldn't miss an opportunity to visit one of the world's finest art museums. Finally, the armor has returned!!
Just in time for our study of the Middle Ages~
They don't have as much of the collection displayed as they used to, but we are happy they share any of it with us peasants~

The boys especially liked this piece - monkeys playing various instruments, including both a cello and a set of bagpipes~

Charlie loved this goblet~
The Crucifixion, Francisco de Zurbaran~
The Assumption of the Virgin, El Greco~
Irreverent Mary~
The boys loved these paperweights. I found over 30 pictures of them on my camera after we got home~

We wound up our trip in the Kraft children's area. The entire museum is such a great place to explore - we are so blessed to live in close proximity to so many amazing museums!
After searching for our car for 20 minutes in three different parking garages, we finally made it home safe and sound :)

Inked

2011-01-12T23:33:00.004-06:00

Markers + benign neglect =
Little Miss Kat Von D~
Also, we check out a lot of library books, and don't keep them well-organized.

The Little Snowgirl

2011-01-11T23:58:00.002-06:00

Some friends from church invited us to skate on their backyard pond today. Even though it was cold, Mary had a blast running around the frozen pond~
Mary with one of the other little girls~
The boys had a great time skating, but I couldn't get any pictures because my camera kept focusing on the up-close snow.

12,312 Meals Packed!

2011-01-10T23:26:00.005-06:00

We spent another afternoon at Feed My Starving Children. As usual, it was great fun while serving others~
Rice! Soy! Chicken!
I can't say enough great things about this organization (praying over the food before shipment) ~

Can't wait to do it again!

Pow Wow @ Awana

2011-01-09T23:24:00.002-06:00

It was "Native American Night" at AWANA. Charlie was too cool to dress up, but not Sam~
On the warpath~

The merry year is born~

2011-01-01T09:57:00.002-06:00

We do the same (safe) thing on New Year's Eve every year. Games, movies, with homemade pizzas (and sundaes for dessert)~
Sam made a smiley face with lots of pepperoni, and a yellow pepper strip~
After dinner, it was time for our annual event - The Polar Dash!!! Mary was old enough to really get it, and we are in a day or two of unseasonably warm weather. The snow is all melted~
Charlie took some convincing - he thought he was too cool. I told him that I dream of him someday telling his wife, "But I do it every year with my brother!"
Because it was so warm, the kids ran a few laps around the back yard, instead of just to the fence and back~
After they came in and took some hot baths, we played poker (check out the card shark below), and our favorite, Apples to Apples~
It was a GREAT new year's eve. Grandma and Grandpa both came by, and stayed 'til just past midnight. We got to sleep in a bit this morning, and will probably laze around watching movies and playing games :)

Baby Split

2010-12-27T23:11:00.003-06:00

We went bowling with the Ihmses today. Mary has been asking to go bowling for over a month. I am glad I finally made it happen. Her feet are still too small (size 5.5) for bowling shoes, but she held her own on the lanes~
Afterwards, we had pizza at home and a swinging game of Trivial Pursuit.

On the First Day of Christmas

2010-12-25T23:53:00.007-06:00

Sam (our earliest riser) was up before 8, followed shortly thereafter by Charlie. Mary decided to join us close to 9. The boys opened their stockings (from Santa) while waiting for Mary. Once she was down, we dove into our gifts (something you want, something you need, something to wear and something to read). Mary's want was a cradle for her dolls. Whenever we get to the page with a cradle in "Baby's First Book", Mary points at it and says, "I need that." I found a nice, simple one on Etsy. I made a little mattress covered with some fabric she liked. She loves it~
Sam's "want" was a DSi~
And for our Irish fan's "wear" (he also got a pair of Elf pajamas)~
Charlie has been looking for a leather jacket for several months. He's pretty stoked about this~
Mary loves her princess dress~
A set of real bagpipes!!! The Pipe Major of the band that Charlie takes lessons with found a really cool set, made in 1971 that had never been played. We were able to get a pretty good deal on them, and Charlie, as you can see, is thrilled~
An Ipod for Charlie's "want" ~
Mary found a toothbrush from Santa in her stocking~
Sammy the Elf~
Sammy with a mood moustache he found in his stocking~
We had a really nice, laid back morning. Later, some friends from church joined us for Christmas dinner ( a yummy honey-baked ham).

Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer

2010-12-24T23:59:00.003-06:00

We spent Christmas Eve with Grandma and all of my extended family. It was pretty low-key - in a good way!The kids were excited to see their cousins~
We made some cupcakes to bring along. Mary's are at the bottom - her reindeer look like they've had a run-in with a semi. That, or she was channeling Picasso~
Tonight I get to go to bed at a reasonable hour - I wrapped all the presents for Christmas morning earlier this week!

House Party

2010-12-21T23:54:00.005-06:00

This year, instead of one average sized gingerbread house, I found a kit for a village- five tiny buildings~

I walked away from the construction for a few minutes and came back to what we call, "Poop Mountain" ~
Mary piled as many tootsie rolls as she could on to the roof of her house~
It had us rolling in laughter (check out Sam in the background) for several minutes~
She was just so earnest about it!

Say, "Sugarplums!"

2010-12-19T23:58:00.005-06:00

I took some pictures for our Christmas card today. It's really difficult to perfectly capture each child at the same time. This one was cute~
The boys really wanted me to use this one~
This was the winner~
I probably won't get the cards out until after the 25th. I'm mailing Christmas cards, people. Not Advent cards.

Walking in a Winter Wonderland

2010-12-18T23:57:00.004-06:00

Scott took the kids to the Lombard Jinglebell Jubilee in Lilacia Park tonight~
It was freezing, but the kids really like seeing all the lights~

I had a mom's night out with a homeschool group, so I was toasty and warm playing bunco all night ;)

Welcome to Our World

2010-12-11T23:20:00.002-06:00

Sam had his Christmas concert this morning~
He pushed himself a bit and was able to play a couple of songs beyond what was expected. We're really proud of his hard work. Mary wasn't cooperating for pictures, but here are my two handsome boys~

MSI - Weather

2010-12-09T23:06:00.006-06:00

We had some passes to the Museum of Science and Industry that I wanted to use before Christmas break (to avoid the crowds). We wanted to check out the Jim Henson exhibit (somewhat disappointing) and I wanted the kids to take a closer look at the exhibit on space exploration~
Which they loved~

But what I didn't realize was that the museum also has an awesome new exhibit "Science Storms", which is all about weather phenomena~
The boys had a lot of fun creating tsunami waves. And thanks to all the amazing technology, they used their "Sci-passes" to record what they were doing, which then was available on the world wide web when we got home~

These cars ran on solar power~
After a run to the bathroom, Mary was awestruck by the giant Christmas tree~
We love a good plasma ball~

We experienced an indoor lightning storm under a giant Tesla coil~
In the wind tunnel - 80 mph winds~
No biggie~
We love Jolly Ball~
And mindball - Charlie beat Sam. But I smoked Charlie~
The younger you are, the more active your brain is. The docent was impressed with how well Sam and Charlie both did, though. He said most kids really don't have the self control necessary to relax for any significant amount of time. But they held out for over a minute. Of course they loved all the other exhibits in "You! The Experience", especially the hamster wheel.

Sugar Cookies

2010-12-08T23:23:00.002-06:00

We had some fun making sugar cookies today. It was a long, tedious process (for me - all that rolling!) but the kids loved it~

Heralding

2010-12-06T23:19:00.004-06:00

Charlie had his band Christmas concert tonight. Sam was not feeling well, and fell asleep on the couch 20 minutes before we had to leave. I ended up staying home with him, but I heard from Daddy and Grandma how great Charlie did~
She's nothing if not consistent~

Discovery Center Museum - Rockford

2010-12-03T23:28:00.007-06:00

When we were at the Scarecrow Festival, we saw a cool exhibit about our solar system by the Rockford Children's Museum. They were also giving out buy 1, get 1 free admission coupons, so today we finally made the drive and checked out the place~
Attached to the back of the museum is a really neat playground with all sorts of "exhibits" built into the equipment. The kids played out there for a short while (I stayed inside where it was warm), but it will definitely be worth a second trip to check out further.

We spent a lot of time at this centrifugal force exhibit - trying to get all the accessories to stay on the turn-table. We did it once, for about 2 seconds~
On the second level, they had the most awesome pretend area I've ever seen. Ginny's House was great - Mary could have spent several days there~
While Mary explored the house and garage (complete with a car to work on) the boys checked out the Body Shop and the Science and Sports~
Sam at the pitching clock~

Another really cool exhibit was the veterinarian's office (complete with real x-rays of various animals). Dr. Mary was on call~
Heart and soul~
Believe it or not, this is the first time we've seen a plasma ball~

Tornado machine~

As usual, because it was a weekday in the middle of the afternoon, we pretty much had the run of the museum. I love that my kids can keep trying things as many times as they want, or look at exhibits for as long as they need to really comprehend what's going on, rather than being jostled in the crowd and having to wait forever. We are really blessed having the freedom to homeschool.

Hung Out to Dry

2010-12-01T23:21:00.004-06:00

While playing outside yesterday, Sam ran into the laundry line. Ouch~

Rats!

2010-11-30T23:11:00.003-06:00

After seeing "A Christmas Carol" at C.O.D this morning, we stopped at Willowbrook Wildlife Center for a bit with the Peseks~
A docent was kind enough to bring out one of the rats (Blanco)~
And a dove, too~

Hockey on Ice

2010-11-27T23:22:00.005-06:00

Thanks to a friend of Grandpa's, we had great seats at our annual Thanksgiving weekend Wolves game~
We were about 4 rows from the ice (and Wayne Messmer) ~
The boys~
And Daddy's girl (with Gene looking on) ~

Brothers and sisters are as close as hands and feet. ~Vietnamese Proverb

2010-11-18T23:53:00.003-06:00

Oranges and Lemons

2010-11-18T23:05:00.003-06:00

The boys had their fall performance (Sam's first!) at the Greenhouse today. Sam was pretty excited/nervous~
They performed some dances, recitations and sang~
I love this kid~
Charlie performed with his wizard sticks, as part of a scene with medieval "street performers" ~
Sam loves the Greenhouse. And his brother~

Minuet No. 2

2010-11-14T23:25:00.004-06:00

Sam played his graduation (from book 1) piece at today's recital~
It was beautiful~

We are so proud of him~

Naperville Astronomers Club

2010-11-12T23:57:00.007-06:00

While Charlie was at a concert, Sam and I got to check out the night sky with some pretty powerful telescopes, courtesy of the Naperville Astronomical Association~
They offer free star-gazing to groups. They have a small plot of land they use at one of the Naperville water reclamation plants. The folks that came out were incredibly helpful and generous with their extensive knowledge~
The center of the universe~
There were a couple of different telescopes~
Even though it was cloudy most of the night, when we were patient, we did get some clear views of the moon and Jupiter~
One of the observatories~