Microwave

I've been feeling more pressure to get back on facebook. I told one of my friends to get 100 signatures on a petition to have me rejoin, and I would. She convinced me to decrease it to 50. Haha. Even though I like the idea of not being a total conformist, I miss the interaction. There are pictures I don't see and stories I miss out on because I'm not on FB. Plus, all those facebook events I don't get invited to. haha But, I also save myself from plenty of drama and negativity and gossip, not to mention how much time I could be wasting.

Recently, our microwave died. It involved a little smoke and an electrical fragrance. So, for the past couple weeks, we've had to use the stove and the oven for all of our cooking. It definitely takes more time and planning, but I've noticed that the food tastes better! Even though I'm required to put forth a little more effort (and have more patience), the results have been yummier for sure. We're going to get a new one eventually, but I've actually grown to like cooking the "old-fashioned" way.

Facebook is like a microwave. It's convenient and does what it's supposed to, but it might not be the most healthy and satisfactory tool.

Now I'm not saying that facebook is bad or that radiation is involved. I'm just wondering if it affects the quality of relationships, because it's too easy. People don't have to put forth any effort. They can just look at their iPhone or hop on their laptop, read some status updates and post a few comments.

Facebook is a great tool, just like a microwave is. But it shouldn't be the only tool we use in fostering relationships. Sometimes we have to plan a little more and put forth more effort to get the best results. That might mean picking up the phone or mailing a letter (support the USPS! lol) or driving over to someone's house and talking to them face to face as alternate ways of communicating. It might mean *doing* something for our friends and loved ones to show our appreciation rather than just saying something on facebook. I can't give you a hug or hold your hands while praying with you or bake you cookies or share a meal with your family or babysit your kids or go to the zoo with you on facebook.

While typing this blog, I've realized that I probably haven't been putting forth the best effort over this last year. From now on, I'm going to plan a little more and take more time to foster relationships with my family and friends.

However, this isn't to say that I'm opposed to rejoining facebook one of these days.... ;0)

PS I'll post updates of my life in another blog soon, but right now, I need to go spend some quality time with my children.

Life is but a Vapor

Today I found out that one of my classmates (from kindergarten to high school graduation) died as a result of childbirth complications. I'm from a small town, and there were less than 80 students in my graduating class. So everyone knew everyone. Mandi was her name. She had an identical twin sister named Abi. I haven't been in touch with either of them for a long time. I suppose not being on FB has something to do with that. For some reason, when I heard the news, it hit me like a ton of bricks. I cried a lot today. I don't know any details about what exactly happened. One thing I know is that the baby survived - a girl they named Abigail after her aunt. It pains me to think about what her husband, parents, sisters, brother, in-laws and close friends are going through right now. I'm upset as a result of empathy for her loved ones, not because I've lost a good friend. Although, I have always liked Mandi. As far as I can remember, she was always nice to me and to others. I also think this hits a little closer to home, not only because I knew her, but because I'm pregnant. Maternal mortality rates were always a statistic that meant little to me. I guess that's how statistics are: pointless until you know someone who is a statistic. I know that pretty much all death is tragic, but is there anything worse than going to the hospital with your wife, expecting your first baby, and then losing your wife in the process? The emotional rollercoaster has got to be almost unbearable. I pray that God would give everyone close to Mandi peace that surpasses understanding, that they would find comfort that defies logic and that their hearts would heal soon.

Miscellaneous

It's not like *nothing* has been going on these last few weeks; I've just lost motivation to update my blog lately. And even if something interesting happens, it might not be interesting to anyone else. It's hard to say when I don't know who (if anyone haha) reads my blog. I'm not sure if I've even been missed. ;0)  Anyway, let's see if I can share what's been going on lately.

I'm 17 weeks pregnant. We should be able to find out the sex of the baby soon. I just need to make an appointment for an ultrasound. I've gotten to hear the heartbeat twice, at two different appointments with the midwife. Speaking of midwives, I have a new one this time around. She seems very nice and motherly. I think she'll bring a different dynamic to this next homebirth. I still haven't decided who I want to be here, besides Justin and of course, the midwife. I don't feel like I need a natural birth expert, because I pretty much know what I'm doing. But on the other hand, I don't want nobody to be here (that's a double negative, but I meant it that way haha). I know I'm the one doing the hard work, but it's a very stressful time for Justin, and sometimes he needs to be able to step away for a few minutes. So, I'd like at least one other person to be there, just in case. I'm going to keep thinking and praying about it before I make a final decision. (I jokingly suggested to Justin that I have my three closest friends here while he and their husbands hang out in the backyard. He thought that was a fabulous idea lol.)


My parents came to town last weekend. Well, they were here from Thursday to Sunday. It was a nice, but quick visit. Justin and I and my parents went out to dinner while Alana, Justin's sister, watched the kiddos for a few hours. Then on Friday, while Justin was sleeping, the kids and I went to Brown Deer where my parents' hotel was. We hung out, went to a pumpkin farm/petting zoo, the kids swam in the hotel pool (with Grandma and Grandpa), and then we went out for pizza. It was a very full day! Saturday was pretty low-key. My parents took the kids up to the park and spent plenty of time playing with them throughout the day. We had dinner at our house, which I cooked (except Mom helped with the mashed potatoes). And then on Sunday, I skipped church. We went out for brunch instead. Then afterward, we went mattress shopping, and bought Josie a big girl bed (ie twin) and bedding! And by we, I mean my parents bought it, which is totally awesome. Her room looks great now, I think! Anyway, they left Sunday afternoon. All in all it was a really great visit. I just wish they didn't live so far away.

Oh yeah, Sunday was my birthday. I turned 32. It was pretty uneventful. I got some nice gifts from my parents, including a gift card to Archiver's! I can't wait to go shopping! Justin has given me permission to get a pedicure, so I'll take advantage of that soon too. I think I'm finally starting to look my age. I'm noticing more wrinkles on my face and a few grey hairs. Honestly, I don't mind the grey hairs too much unless they're right at the front of my hair line and sticking straight up. Those suckers get plucked out of my head. For now at least, I don't want to pluck myself bald. haha

Justin turns the big 4-0 in February, and I'm working on a big surprise for him. I know he hates the idea of being the center of attention, so I'm not throwing him a party. I've been saving up and earning money on my own to pay for this surprise. I've been baking cookies and bread and selling them to anyone interested. I've also been saving most of my spending money, which hasn't been easy. But between now and the end of February, I should definitely have enough cash for what I'm planning. (I know Justin doesn't read my blog, but I don't want to say exactly what my plans are, just in case.)

I've really been enjoying church lately. The kids are getting better being in service, and hopefully, they're getting a tiny nugget of truth here and there. Another great thing about church is all the friends I have there. And they're not just friends because we hang out, but friends that hold me accountable and pray for me and are good examples of Christ for me. I am so very blessed!

We had "revival services" the week before last, and they were fantastic! I didn't get to go to every one, but the ones I did attend were really awesome. I especially liked one message, which was mostly about rejecting the Holy Spirit. I haven't been moved that much by a sermon in a really long time. I did listen to it later online, and wasn't moved to tears again, but there is a lot of good meat for sure. Here's the sermon, if you're interested in listening to it.

I'm leading a mother's group called Mommies of Blessings, and it's been quite successful so far. I missed the last meeting, since my parents were in town, but the September meeting was awesome. (I can't remember if I blogged about it or not.) There are about 12 or so women that get together once a month to get to know each other better, pray together, and discuss a different topic at each meeting. We're also trying to meet on a different day with our children for a fun activity once a month. I've taken on quite a bit of responsibility preparing for the meetings, but I've learned that it's just as good (if not better) to go with the flow. I'm really looking forward to seeing what God is going to do in and through this group of Christian mommies!

I'm sure there is plenty I could say about my kids right now. But since this is already a pretty long blog, I'll write about them a different day. Hopefully, it won't take me three weeks to blog again. But if it does, assume it means I'm living life to the fullest with my wonderful family! 80)

Day at the Zoo

We were supposed to go to Swan's Pumpkin Farm today with a bunch of my mommy friends. I was really looking forward to taking the kids on a hay ride, petting the animals at the petting zoo, and picking out pumpkins. But one after another, for various reasons, people started canceling. So, two other moms (Marie and Mo) and our kids went to the zoo instead. It was such a gorgeous day; we couldn't waste it!

I've really enjoyed the zoo with the kids this summer. I brought the wagon today, which is easier to get the kids in and out of than the stroller. I let them have some freedom inside the buildings. They love getting close to the apes, big cats and especially the aquariums. While Josie was looking at a Mandrill (looks like a baboon), he ran up to the glass and hit it. She wasn't sure how to react at first, and then she cried. It didn't take her too long to get over it. I fibbed to her, telling her that he was just saying, "hi," when in reality he was probably being aggressive.

Here's a picture Marie took of us by the giraffes.

Can you believe both kids are looking toward the camera?!

All in all it was a great day! Now, we just need to reschedule the trip to the pumpkin farm...

New Baking Adventure

Justin brought home a big butternut squash that one of his coworkers had given him from his garden. I decided that I wanted to do something creative with it, and started searching on Allrecipes.com. I searched for the ingredients "butternut squash (duh) and brown sugar" hoping to find a tasty looking baked good. I came across a recipe for Butternut Squash Braid. It looked a bit challenging, but I decided to make it last night.

First I had to cook the squash. I cut it in half lengthwise, and then scooped out the seeds and pulp. I smeared a little butter on the flesh, placed cut side up in a pan with about 1/2 an inch of water. I baked at 350 for about an hour, until the flesh was pretty tender. Then I mashed up the squash.

I followed the directions precisely, and ended up with a very soft and moist and yummy bread. I decided to make it again today, but this time take pictures. I also made a couple very slight adjustments.

Without further ado, here is the Butternut Squash Braid recipe and instructions:

BUTTERNUT SQUASH BRAID

Ingredients
2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (or 1 packet)
2 tbsp warm water
1/3 cup warm milk
1 cup cooked, mashed butternut squash
1/4 cup softened butter
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 tsp salt
1 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)
1 egg
3 cups all-purpose flour

Don't these ingredients look pretty? (Not pictured: yeast, water, milk, cinnamon and salt.)

Directions

In a small bowl, mix together the yeast and warm water. (I don't have a food thermometer, so I just turned the hot water on and let it run until it was a nice shower temperature.) The yeast mixture might be a little pasty.

Warm the milk in the microwave or in a small saucepan on the stove. (I used the stove, and frequently checked the temperature of the milk with my finger until it was quite warm. Don't worry, my hands were clean.)

In a large mixing bowl, combine the squash, milk, butter, brown sugar, egg, cinnamon and salt. (I used my Kitchenaid stand mixer.) Then add the yeast mixture and flour. Add more flour as necessary to form a soft (and not too sticky) dough.

The dough was a little sticky, so I added a bit more flour.

Turn onto a floured surface and knead until dough is smooth and elastic, at least 5 minutes.

Before kneading.

Put dough in a greased bowl, and turn dough so the top gets greased too. Cover and let rise in a warm place for about an hour. The dough should double in size. Punch dough down.

In a greased bowl after kneading.

Ooh bigger.

I think you only need to punch it once. But the dough got sassy, so I showed it who was boss.

Divide the dough into thirds. Stretch and  roll out each third into an 18 inch rope.

From this angle, the back ball looks smaller. Whoops.

3 ropes, that aren't that even as you can see.

Braid together the dough ropes, and pinch the ends together. Gently move to a greased baking sheet. Cover and let rise for about 30 minutes.

Lovely, isn't it?

Large and lovely.

Optional egg wash: In a small bowl, combine an egg and 1 tbsp water. Using a pastry brush, spread all over the braid. You probably won't use it all.

Bake at 350 for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Yum.

The bread should be soft and moist.

How does it look?

Boring...

Sorry I haven't written anything in awhile. Honestly, not much exciting has been going on around these parts.

Deuce is sick right now. He woke up in the middle of the night puking. After I cleaned him up, I brought him to bed with me so I could give him some affection. I'd considered snuggling on the couch, but that would be more of a pain to clean if he upchucked again. Bedsheets are easier to change. He barfed a couple more times, but not since like 8:30. He's been snoozing most of the morning, which I hope is helping him feel better. The way Deuce is feeling and the gross weather outside means we're staying indoors all day. Probably staying in our pajamas too. ;0)

What else? Last weekend we had an awesome first Mommies of Blessings meeting. We had lots of great conversation, and got way behind schedule. I had planned on the the meeting going until 8, and then scrapbooking afterward. The meeting didn't end until around 10:30! Raven, Sarah and I spent the night at church. Even though the pews are padded, they aren't the best for sleeping on. Kim came back in the morning, and Apryl showed up a bit later. We scrapped until about 5. It was a really great time, although I don't have many pages to show for it. I'm a slow scrapper!

I got to hear the baby's heartbeat at my last appointment with my midwife. The kids were with me, and it was cute to have them right by my side. Deuce thought the heartbeat was neat, but I'm pretty sure he had no idea what he was hearing.

In other baby news, Justin and I are still debating on a boy name. I guess I shouldn't say "still" considering that I'm just 12 1/2 weeks pregnant. We've got plenty of time to come up with something. We already have a girl first name picked out, but we're not certain about the middle name yet. I'm sure we'll come to an agreement soon.

Anyway, I better get some lunch made, and then get back to lazing around with my kiddos. Hopefully I'll have something more interesting to write soon.

Life After Facebook

Sometimes it's hard to believe that I used to be obsessed with Facebook. I honestly hardly think about it anymore. Sure, I do miss some of my friends. And I miss being able to share with people little one liners of my life. Occasionally I miss being out of the loop. But I don't miss those things so much that I would go back. I am so thankful that God removed that desire/burden from my life. I pray that I will continue to be open and willing to give things up if and when He asks me to.

I don't pretend to have this amazing and exciting life since quitting the social network world. In truth, I still spend too much time online. But, I'm thankful that I am less hesitant to get up and play with Josie and Deuce when they want me to. There are times when I have to tell myself, "there is nothing on this computer that is more important than my kids." That lights a fire under my butt and gets me in the living room loving on my kids for sure. We've been going to the library more often (we're gonna go tomorrow!), so we've been reading more books together. I love sitting on the couch with Deuce on my lap and Josie beside me under my arm while I read book after book in the middle of the afternoon.

Recently I've gotten a lot more organized. I developed a weekly cleaning schedule for myself, so I now have certain chores I do each day. I'm a lot more disciplined with how I leave the house when I go to bed too. The house is far from perfect, but I definitely feel better about myself as a wife and a homeowner. Another great thing is that the kids seem to enjoy picking up. We usually sing the song "Clean up clean up everybody everywhere! Clean up clean up everybody do your share!" It's really cute how Deuce will hear toys being thrown into a bin, and he'll rush into the room and start helping. I sure hope it stays with them! I was not very tidy for the first 30 years of my life (although adulthood was definitely better than my teenage years!). I hope I instill in them pride in their belongings and their home. Time will tell!

Things are really up in the air right now with Justin's job. Tomorrow night he is supposed to find out the fate of the USPS Milwaukee Processing and Distribution Center where he works. Many of the plants nationwide are going to be shut down and consolidated in order for the Post Office to save money. If Milwaukee's gets closed, there's a good chance we'd have to move, and there's no guarantee he'd have a job somewhere else! This situation has the potential to be stressful, but I've decided there's no point in worrying about what I can't control. I sure hope we don't have to move, but if it comes to that, we'll manage just fine. But I am still very anxious to find out the news!

This weekend my mother in law is coming to town like she does about every 6 weeks. And then we take full advantage of her and plan as many things as possible. Justin and I are going on a date on Thursday, and then going our separate ways (he will be doing dude bible study while I will be hanging out with a couple of my girls). On Friday evening, I have my first Mommies group meeting of the year, followed by a scrapathon at church that lasts until Saturday at 5. I'll be gone for almost 24 hours! I'm not sure what else I'll be doing that weekend. I'll go to church on Sunday by myself like I previously mentioned. And hopefully we'll get to the zoo on Monday if the weather cooperates.

Okay, that's enough rambling for now. I have a sink full of dishes that I need to wash, and I want to start planning some scrapbooking pages. 80)