Traditional Clam Chowder

We went to spend time with family today. I love doing that on the holidays. We hardly ever see many of them.

This evening we spent time with Jim & Peggy Pippert and family. (Most people know Jim as Dan's twin brother :D) They have a tradition of Clam Chowder on Christmas eve. I asked them what started it...and they weren't sure. They just knew it was tradition. They think it started 20 or so years back. And I bet everyone of their children will do it with their families when they grow up.

That is what I hope will be tradition for us some day. Not knowing why...just doing it because that is what you always do.

Cinnamon Ornaments

I love Christmas baking. But, today I am making ornaments for the tree. They are made out of cinnamon and applesauce. They smell sooooo good. But, alas, you cannot eat them. Torture of the worst kind.

How littles view adoption....

My littlest sister is adopted. She is actually my niece....but was adopted by my dad and step-mother. (We call her my Niester) She is 7 years old.

They came by to visit today. (They live in Roseburg) We try and visit with them at least once a month.

We found out today that she has reacted to Britanie being gone differently than the other family members. She knows she is adopted. She knows Britanie was being adopted. Now that Britanie is gone...she is worried that she could be sent away too. She is actually concerned about her behavior because of it. She is trying to be the perfect child so she will always be loved and wanted.

I never realized the impact that adoption might have on little people. My little sister is a smart little thing. I know that by talking to her about it has or will make her feel better. I'm very sad that she ever had to be affected by the loss of Britanie.

Perfect gift givers

How do people know how to give the right gift? There are many people out there that don't receive well and end up taking all of their gifts back. (We won't mention names) In this day and age...how do you learn to be a great gift giver?

I've been studying this a bit this year. I know people who give gifts to see the look on the persons face when they open it. They want the eye popping action. I also know people who want to give anonymously. They don't want to be known as the giver at all. What do most people look for? Do you really study the person you are giving to? Or do you just get lucky?

President Henry B. Eyring said...."When you are on the receiving end, you will discover three things in great gift givers: they feel what you feel and are touched, they give freely, and they count sacrifice a bargain."

Have you ever thought of gift giving as a sacrifice? Or do you just give because that is what everyone else is doing? Think about it this year. It might be too late for some with shopping season already over. But what would Christmas be like if everyone gave with a sacrifice....gave with love....and gave freely?

Dedication

There is a little old woman in our ward who was baptized yesterday. She is an adorable little lady. She was giggling so much after she was baptized that I couldn't stop giggling. She is disabled and has to walk with a cane. When she does use the cane...it is with great effort. Due to her disability she is unable to drive. And she depends on members of the ward to take her to church.

Because she was baptized yesterday...she was to be confirmed today. There was a mix up in communication and right before church started the missionaries realized that she was not there yet. She didn't have a ride. Someone went to get her immediately. On their way they found her walking alongside the road. On her way to church. She was not going to miss this day. And she was willing to sacrifice anything to get there.

How many times have you felt that kind of dedication for anything that you do? I only hope that I can have the same faith and dedication that this woman has. She has truly inspired me today. I will never forget it.

The rush is over....

We finally finished all of our gifts today. We usually make ours. But, it amazes me how much we find ourselves in the hustle and bustle of stores. We went to get some milk today and were overwhelmed by people. The last Saturday before Christmas. It really makes me feel good to know that we are not a part of that hustle and bustle. What is the average dollar amount people spend on Christmas? It scares me to think of it. I am grateful that I have almost an entire week to reflect upon Christmas without all of the commercialism of it. I will visit friends and families in their homes and enjoy the rest of the season with Joy!!!

For this season.....

This
Christmas
Write a letter
Mend a quarrel
Give a soft answer
Seek out a forgotten friend
Apologize. Try to understand
Keep a promise. Forgo a grudge
Examine your demands on others
Encourage youth. Forgive an enemy
Manifest your loyalty in word and deed
Dismiss suspicion and replace it with trust
Think first of someone else. Laugh a little more
Gladden the heart of a child. Welcome a stranger
Take pleasure in the beauty and wonder of the earth
Express your gratitude. Speak your love and then speak it again.
Be Kind
Be Gentile
~Howard W. Hunter

Once you pop....you can't stop..

We are all done with the cover-up painting. I decided to do a little touch up on the trim. Four hours later I was done with all the trim in all the house. I just couldn't stop painting. I tried and then I would see another blemish...and then so on and so on. I have to admit. I love to paint...and I guess I am trying to look for some stress relieving things to do. So be it.

Painting again....

How many layers does it take of primer to cover Hot Pink and Alien Green? So far...I know more than one. Oi Veh!!!

My husband and I are freaks....

We have been trying to plan a vacation around Christmas. We always love to travel this time of year. We have looked at cruises, Disney World, Hawaii, Canada or maybe even Mexico. Nothing seemed to excite us much. They seemed ok....but not exciting. I mean really how difficult is it to get excited about going somewhere foreign?

The freakish part starts here. We were looking at a new calendar for next year and decided that we are going to Salt Lake City. SERIOUSLY!!! Salt Lake City??? Neither of us have been inside the Temple there. Any of them in that area actually. And there is most definitely going to be snow. We are totally stoked! I think I'm taking too much medication. Dan.....well.....Dan is just Dan:D

We are going to stay at a place called 'The Anniversary Inn'. It is a bed and breakfast with theme rooms. And we will be able to spend some time with very good friends there. But....I think we need to take a vacation class.

Too much stress....???

When I think of all of my friends and family....and all that they go through on a daily basis. I don't really put myself at their stress level. As a matter of fact I think of myself as a person with literally NO stress in their life. I'm pretty laid back. I don't have a job. I can't even think of anything besides cob webs that are on my list of anxiety builders.

I went to the doctor today because I've been having weird head aches. Not really the regular kind. They kind of feel like my bones are hurting. Not really a toothache but something that radiates through the whole skull. I have no signs of sniffles, cough, fever or anything flu related. After poking and prodding she said that she thinks it might be a form of TMJ. She says my muscles in my jaw and cheeks are too tight. I need to watch the stress levels in my life....and she put me on some muscle relaxers for the next few months.

Now all of you moms out there...who are chasing around your children, running errands, holding many callings in church and doing community service....remember that I am way stressed out. I guess more than you guys (RIGHT!) If only they gave muscle relaxers to everyone. We would all be happy :D

Do Weathermen get paid?

Do you remember when you were little. The excitement that you had on Christmas eve? Not being able to sleep. And time seemed to go by so slowly....

I had that last night. Because the weather said we were supposed to expect 2" of snow. I got a kink in my neck because I kept looking outside to see if it had started. But, NOTHING....I mean...NOTHING...is more disappointing than getting up in the morning to a soggy green yard.

Now I know where winter depression comes from...

December 11th

This day will always be a day of great meaning to me. Dan and I met 16 years ago today. I remember I went to meet him at his work. (A gas station) He was the night manager. (which meant he was the only one working the shift) He was bundled up because it was so cold. I remember that all I could see of him were his eyes. But, I knew immediately that I was going to marry him. (Did I forget to mention that I was on a date with his roommate?) I'll never forget that feeling. And I never have regretted it.

We were sealed in the Temple on this day too. At times I think that December 11th is more an anniversary than our wedding anniversary. (We have a lot of anniversaries that we celebrate) All I know is that I love that man. I never had a choice. It was destiny. And I am OK with that. He is the constant in my life. An eternal companion like no other. And he makes me laugh daily. Sometimes hourly.

Happy Anniversary Buddy!!!

Not a creature was stirring....

I woke up yesterday to Kestra growling under the bed. I thought maybe Gauper or Elphaba had gotten to close to her and her chewy. Then she started to bark. Kind of a playful bark. I thought again...maybe the other dogs were down there with her. Until I turned over and realized the other two were with me. I called for Dan. There was NO WAY I was getting off the bed until I knew what she was barking at. After a thorough search....nothing was turned up. But, Kestra was still interested and sniffing up a storm. Why is it that dogs can create so much fear inside you? I trust Kestra. If she says something is there....something is there. I'm kind of creep-ed out.

You know how they say....'the cobblers children have no shoes'? My husband is in pest control. That doesn't exactly make me feel better!!!

Oh By Golly....

I love the Christmas season. I love making gifts and wrapping. But, my house is really showing the wear and tear. We had company last night. I cannot believe what my house looked like and that I allowed people to come in my door. I guess it is good therapy though. At least I feel Christmas-y.

Elphaba

I have decided that Elphaba hates it when I am on the computer. She brings me toys and and paws at my feet. She cannot stand that I am not paying attention to her. If I stop typing and start to play with her....she won't even acknowledge me. But, once I start to tap the keyboard....here she is at my feet again. What a silly dog.

Piano

Dan is in the front room playing George Winston on the piano. Thanksgiving. I am very happy that he is playing the piano...and it really sounds amazing. He is doing a fantastic job. The part I struggle with is that it is my favorite piece of music and I have been trying to learn it for a good 25 years. He got the music from my dad on Thanksgiving and sounds like a professional. I still can't play it. What is wrong with this picture?

(Ok...really the secret is....he can read music. I cannot)

This still doesn't seem fair! I guess it is time to make a call to a piano teacher. I don't have anymore excuses :D

Snow?

Did anyone know we have snow in our forecast for this next week? When I read that it made me giggle like a little kid. I love that feeling :D

New life.....Fresh start

Dan and I were given a wonderful gift this last six months. The chance to know what it is like to be parents. To have a family. To love unconditionally. That gift...even though it was only six months....is something we will always be grateful for.

Britanie has always had the choice whether or not she wanted to be adopted. She has made the choice and unfortunately will not be staying. We are taking her to Newport tomorrow (December 3rd) to her caseworker.

Dan and I are both still quite numb about it all. We have not been able to stop and think in these past couple days. It has been a whirlwind. We do know that it is nothing that we did wrong...and nothing that Britanie did wrong. She has been 'diagnosed' with what is called "Reactive Attachment Disorder". Basically stating that she is unable to attach to anyone. So, no matter who we are or what we do for her....she will never bond to us. She will probably never bond to anyone. That is what Dan and I are the most concerned about. She is going to be out in the world and we will never be able to help her. There is nothing out there to fix what has been wronged in her. And she will be all alone. Dan and I have each other, a loving family and many friends to help us get through this loss. She will have nothing.

It is hard to believe that it is all gone. There is no more family. We will have to start all over and make a fresh start. Of course we know this is nothing compared to what Britanie has lying before her. To grieve someone when they die is one thing...to know that they still live....but you will never be a part of their life is something completely different...and Dan and I love her with all our hearts. That is a gift we will always be thankful for.

Same thing....different year

I remember last year I was trying to figure out what to do about Christmas with Barbara my cousin. We didn't know if we should stick to the Christmas that we always do (Spiritual Christ) or to spoil her and make it a blast. I remember that we chose to combine the two. We gave her 3 large gifts because Christ only got 3 gifts. Granted they were expensive gifts....but, I think we got the point across.

This year we have Britanie. She has no religious belief. She doesn't want to. How do you make Christmas spiritually special for Dan and I without destroying it for a teenager? And how do you make it special for her without destroying everything we believe in?

Why is Christmas so hard? It is times like this that make me not look forward to Christmas. This is not how I am supposed to feel. This should be a happy and joyful time. I wish I could look into the future and see what I am going to do. So I don't have to worry about what I'm going to do.

Chill

Even though we have had quite a few days to get out in the sun and warmth the past few weeks, I am beginning to feel the chill settle into my body. I love this time of year when Hot Chocolate, Soup and warm rice bags are on the top of my list. I am grateful that I have the warmth that my home offers me, and a nice warm bed to snuggle into at night. (with said rice bag)

Traditions

The day after Thanksgiving has a tradition in our home. Decorating the Christmas tree. Officially it is time to start the celebration. Dan and I spent all day re-arranging the house to make sure everything would fit right. And even though it is a fake tree...IT IS BEAUTIFUL!!! Amazing how different the house feels in Christmas mode. We decided that this year we will start a new tradition of sleeping in the living room with the lights on all night the first night. It is like a slumber party. Dogs everywhere (we are babysitting an extra one) so we have four to find room for. They are all snoring....including the papa. (Thank goodness for earplugs :D) I look forward to more traditions being added on.

Can't sleep

There is an apple pie in the kitchen calling my name. I cannot have any till tomorrow afternoon. Will I even get through the night???

FAILURE

I cannot believe it!!! I bought a fake Christmas tree today. First of all...FAKE??? Second, I was mortified to know that people saw me walk out of Costco with the tree before even Thanksgiving. I think it is all this Christmas cheer in October. Something has snapped. Will it ever be the same again???

Passport anyone?

I went on to a pretty cool website trying to find Dan a great birthday bash gift. What I found was a 5-day Caribbean vacation for $229 per person...including airfare. I was just about to hit the book button when I realized we never followed through with our new year resolution to get passports. THIS SUCKS!!! Guess what we are going to start on this next week???

'Traditional' Thanksgiving

This time of year is always the same to us. Tradition is something that I love to rely upon. Thanksgiving Day, Dan and I generally have to ourselves. (This year we have added one :)) So, it has caused me to reflect upon what of our traditions will change and which ones will remain.

The day after Thanksgiving is our Tree day. We either go hunting in the woods for our Christmas tree (only $5 - but kind of flimsy)...or we go to Martha's and buy a tree that will die (usually $80-90)...but we have been wondering if we are going to fall within the "fake" tree slot this year. I've always hated fake trees. But, this year it has been kind of appealing to me. (I have no idea why)

The Saturday after Thanksgiving is the annual Pippert Thanksgiving. All of Dan's brothers and sisters get together and just have a meet and mingle. Bring left overs from your Thursday meal (Which we never seem to have) and just hang out. It is great that we can depend on this to happen every year. It has always amazed me that most of his brothers and sisters live in the Willamette Valley....yet we only see each other on this one Saturday a year.

This year we are starting a new tradition. We are hosting Thanksgiving at our house with my side of the family on Sunday. I love the big traditional Thanksgiving dinners with all the trimmings. I am so excited to get this started. I'm kind of sad that it is not happening on Thanksgiving day....but, I'm very grateful that it is going to happen no matter what.

I love this time of year. I love spending time with Family and Friends. Happy Thanksgiving to all. And if you do not have a home to celebrate Thanksgiving this year.....please come on Sunday. All are welcome :D

All-you-can-eat CRAB...

This week we went to Spirit Mt Casino. (Believe me, I only go there for the food:)) I recommend taking good friends with you so you can sit there for hours. It is so worth the drive out and the money. It was a great 'Happy' meal. Sitting there for hours cracking crab...going back for more...doing it again. (Ok, I did have some good for me food too...they have desserts:)) Anyone who would like to experience it...I am offering my services if you feel like you need company :D

Comfort Food

I am on a quest to find the best comfort food available. You know that food you look for when your day isn't quite going right? Or something you can nibble on when you are curled up with a great book? I want to know what other people think comfort food is.

I've found myself addicted to pumpkin seeds. I'm afraid I won't find them much longer. So, That is what has prompted this search......

Stormy weather

Instead of shredding all of our confidential documents from bio-pest...I like to have a nice warm fire in the back yard. This is one of my 'duties'. It isn't that fun in the summer...but when it is very stormy and windy and even a little bit of hail...it is kind of fun. I sat out today with hot chocolate and a good book (audio) and enjoyed all the stormy weather. What a joy it is to just sit back and watch as the storms go by. I love the black clouds and the sucker spots. I really should have been a weather person....or even better....a storm chaser :D

Horrible Mom? Or 'Healthy' Medicine?

Please tell me that other parents have done this.....

Britanie wants to be on the freshman basketball team. So, we had to get her in to the doctor to have a sports physical. I decided to let her go back by herself because it seemed like it would be a pretty personal appointment. I thought she might like her privacy. Well, as normal, the nurse came out and asked me if there was anything that I would like to talk to the doctor about. And I remembered that we had a problem at the eye doctor. He had recorded her vision as 20/70 but could not match a prescription to her to correct it. Nothing worked. So, I asked if she might have recommendations for an ophthalmologist. The nurse then told me that they just did an eye test on her for the physical and her eyesight was 20/20. (Britanie wanted contact lenses...because she thought it would be cool) And I am just realizing while I'm talking to the nurse that she tried to fake the first test...but obviously did not know the right way to do that. And because the physical was not just eyesight...she must have forgotten that she complained about problems seeing. TEENAGERS!!!! So, of course I am steaming inside about the lies and the running around...when the doctor says "because of her age and because she is going to be doing sports...I highly recommend she get a flu shot." Is it bad that I almost cut the doctor off by agreeing to the shot? Not only that, but I requested to go back and watch her get the shot. I'm not one that has ever been sold on flu shots and I really haven't been worried about the current epidemic. I just wanted her to get a shot!!! That felt like the only "healthy" way to get back at her for being a teenager. Sad...but I felt much better. :D

I think I mention Hilary Weeks a lot....

I was trying to figure out how to do links and e-mails this evening and my head is just a little too fuzzy to figure it out. So what do I do? I ask my husband for help.

Conversation:

Me: "I'm having a bit of trouble figuring this out..."

Dan: "Can I help?"

Me: "I'm not sure. Do you have a few minutes?"

Dan: "Sure, what is it?"

Me: (I started saying, but was interupted) "Hilary.........

Dan: (LOUD laughter) "I thought you really needed help with something...and it is about Hilary?"


This may not sound funny to most of you. But, it kind of struck me as strange that my husband would know what I was thinking just by saying her first name. Maybe I'm a little to obsessed. OK...too harsh of a word. But, I'm seeing a few red flags here.

Hilary Weeks - Christmas once again

Not because she has challenged us to....but rather because I really want me friends to find the light.....

I started listening to Christmas music in October this year. I blogged about it earlier. The only reason why I would go against my own scruples is because it happens to be a new Hilary Weeks CD. She has been my favorite artist for about 10 years now. And, I have to admit is saddens me when I mention her name and some of my friends don't seem to know who I am talking about. That is absolutely uncalled for and it means I have not been doing my job to get her into your homes. Her new CD is amazing (just like all the others). I am making my goal to spread Christmas cheer and get all of my friends hooked on Hilary Weeks, just as I am. Well, maybe not as much as me....I'm a bit over the top. (Ask my husband :D)



Please check out her music. You will not be sorry. This is a link to her website (one that I check almost daily)

http://hilaryweeks.com/moreinfo.php?SKU=1021

She is amazingly funny and has such a strong testimony and spirit to her. I hope that you find as much joy and peace in her music as I have :D

Unknown Halloween Rules

Did you know that Halloween is for kids up to the age of 12? Did you know that Trick-or-Treating is only to be done between dusk and 8 ish? (One of my friends had kids show up at 10:30pm) Why don't they publish these rules? Why have I never heard of them?

We were pretty bummed that we hadn't seen anyone show up at our house until after 6pm. I had no idea there were time frames. We stayed home all day just in case. I wish I had known better. We always give out full size candy bars...we have been training kids in our neighborhood for 8 years now. We get more and more kids every year. It is a lot of fun. Some kids come way out of their way to come to our house. It always feels good to know that.

Late night dreams

I've been doing a lot of reading again lately. Mostly really late at night. This isn't working so well...I like the books....I forget to sleep. I received many books for my birthday this year. I don't know which one to start. I guess sleep is just over rated. My dreams are funnier though when I do get to sleep...they are about real life. Not book stories like you would think...but just average talking with Dan or Britanie in the kitchen or bedroom. Sometimes I wake up and think they were real. And of course they have no idea what I'm talking about when I try to revive the conversation. Funny...I guess I'm getting too much fiction that my dreams are taking care of reality for me. :D

IKEA

When you go to your favorite store....do they ever serve you free breakfast? Mine did!! It was Awesome :D You need all the energy you can get to get through IKEA.

Questions for my "not so perfect" friends

I am finding that it is difficult to send my daughter out into the world because of all the bad choices I made as a teenager.

I see a spitting image of myself in her. This is not a bad person....but a person that is not as informed as I am as an adult. She has been through a tough time and knows a heck of a lot more than most kids her age. Ok...this sounds so stupid. I know she sees me as the parent that thinks I know everything but don't. That she knows way more than me and that I could never know what she is going through or thinking. So much a teenager.

That is where I'm stumped. I know that you must stand back and hope they make the right choices. What if you don't think that they will? I know some youth that are clueless and don't know which way is up. Is it the right thing to NOT tell her what my experiences were? Or might it be a way to get her to open up? Or would it give her leverage....'you broke the rules, why can't I'?

I don't mean to turn this into a help me be a parent blog. I look back and realize that that is what I have kind of been doing. Really, I'm just posting my thoughts and hoping that I'm doing the right thing. I know all moms do this. I just do it in public. I love this girl so much that I want the best for her. And I want to protect her with every means possible. But, I don't want to smother her either. Smothering kind of sounds good to me right now.....

Christmas already???

I'm so excited. My favorite vocal artist (Hilary Weeks) is releasing a new Christmas album on Tuesday. I cannot believe that I will be listening to Christmas music before Halloween. That is a big NO NO in my book. But how can I resist? Shame on her for releasing it before Thanksgiving!!! :D

20 / 70 eyesight

We decided to take Britanie to the eye doctor because she always has to sit in the front row to see the chalk board in school. And as most of you know....it is NOT 'cool' to sit in the front row. The doctor checks out her eyes and says she has 20 / 70 eyesight. You would think with this number....the eye doctor would have sent Britanie home with a prescription. NOPE!!! He said he had nothing that would help her see better. Is there something wrong with this scenario? We are definitely going for a second opinion.

Writers block

For the last week I have tried to post a blog and I just cannot come up with something. I even pull up the 'new post' page and just stare at the blank screen. How can life be this uneventful??? I have a 14 year old daughter!!! I must just have a bad memory :D

Unexcused

One thing I have noticed about Britanie is that she always feels like someone is out to get her. Or steal something from her. She is constantly losing things and blaming it on people that have come over to the house. MY FRIENDS!!!?? One thing that bothers me is that when the items mysteriously show up, she never once apologizes for calling my friends thieves. The story is just dropped. I was very concerned about her having a locker partner. I worry for her partner. She is already expecting to get something stolen from her this year. It is very sad and it will definitely be dealt with.....BUT today we noticed that she has an unexcused absence on her day from yesterday. When Britanie was told that it was there she immediately blamed the teacher. "They are always screwing up the attendance." Of course we already have a plan to resolve this. She needs to get a signed note from the teacher and get it cleared. If it is not cleared....she will have consequences. It will be interesting to see how she handles this. I wonder when she will start taking responsibility for her own actions....or if it will ever happen. We shall see.....

Lies

What do you do the day that you find out your child has outright lied to you? We caught her in a lie today. We are not naive enough to believe it is the first one...but sad enough that it was proven. This has always been a very large issue with me. I hate lies(as I'm sure most people do). I guess that I'm supposed to learn forgiveness and trust. How do you trust someone that you don't know very well and that you know hasn't been completely open and honest with you? And why am I the one learning all the lessons? I'm the adult!!! Shouldn't it be the other way around? I'm sure all of my mother's generation would laugh up a storm at this.....but dang it.

Favorite Season

We have now entered my favorite season of the year. Autumn. The smell of fresh rain. The wind blowing the leaves through the yard. These are truly my happy days. Orange is my favorite color and it is everywhere. I hope it spreads smiles to your faces as it will be doing to mine :D

Nothing to do

I was talking to Britanie the other day about inviting friends over. She looked at me and said "the pool is closed down....there is nothing to do". It amazes me that there is no imagination in the world today. Let us not mention the movie library with over 700 titles, or the sideboard loaded with games, the basketball hoop outside....the list goes on and on and on. When I was her age, I invited people over just so I didn't have to be with my parents. I guess I should take that as a compliment then :D

I have a blog???

I haven't looked at my computer for so long...I almost forgot I had one.

All is well in Pippertland. I can't remember what it was like to not be a mom. I'm loving all the quirks that come with having a teenage girl in the house.

Dan's most common question is 'are all teenage girls like this?'. Yes Dan....they ALL are. I don't think he quite gets the whole emotional thing. The ups and downs. It is really funny. I just sit on the sidelines and giggle when she stomps out of the room and he is clueless as to what he has done. I'm still amazed at how it all makes me smile even (and usually) when things are not running so smooth.

Britanie's most recent request has been for me to braid her hair at night. She likes the look of kinky hair. So, fifty or so braids later, and cramping fingers she is all ready for bed. I makes me so happy to spend that time with her. We talk about everything. And I look forward to doing it every single night.

Dan has been reading to her when she goes to bed. They are reading 'New Moon'. It is really great that she doesn't feel too old for being read to. Dan loves it. And we look forward to it every night when she comes and asks us to do it. I will be a little sad when we get so used to it that we just do it without asking....only because it makes us feel so special when she does ask. She is so freaking adorable.

Disneyland

Our first family vacation was, of course, Disneyland. Five full days in the sun.



We were not smart enough to get someone to take a picture of all three of us. So we don't have proof we were all there as a family.



But the memories will last a lifetime.....







It is always fun to be a kid again.

Two Kegs and a Margharita

This month we were able to spend some time with extended family. Our nephew, Ryder, turned one on the 9th of August. So we went down to California to celebrate!



Much to our amazement the party had approximately 80 people attending. Of course that might have been due to the fact that it was a drinking party in disguise. I couldn't believe how much alcohol they had at a one year birthday party. Two hours into it...they still hadn't cut the cake or opened gifts....and there were no games on the agenda.

We were very sad we could not stay for the cake or gifts....or anything having to do with a party because we had to fly out of San Francisco that night to LA. We missed it all. So much for celebrating. Of course....some people were really getting into the party I'm sure......

One whole month -

My last post was the 24th of July....Wow! Amazing what you can shove into just four weeks. We went on a family trip to California. I will try to fill it all in.....

New Blog - Survival 101

http://storageandemergency.blogspot.com/

It is still new and very plain...Please check back often and post everything you know.

Food Storage & Emergency Preparation

I am really thinking of starting a new blog spot. I have realized that there is so much information out there that used to be passed down through generations. It has now been almost lost. And if anything happened would anyone know how to do the little simplistic things? We are all so used to technology and pre-made foods. I think it is very important to share everything that we know and see if we can help others. I want to start this site to share and educate. I'm hoping that I can find others who are willing to contribute. I hope to have it up and running in the next week. Updates to follow.....

Moons & Rivas

We had friends over for the last few days. It was amazing. Usually when you have a house full of people you go crazy....but this was different. It was the most wonderful time we have had in a long time. Teresa Moon and Chelsea Rivas are like sisters to me now. This weekend brought us so much closer than I could ever imagine. I am even starting to think about spending Holidays with them and their families. I am so excited to have a growing extended family.

Blog?

So it seems that I have forgotten about my blog for a while. And I have some good stuff to say too. Lets see if I can update and remember......

Summer?

We got our pool up and running in the spring. I was hoping it was because we would be swimming in it a lot. I think I have been in it a whopping two times. I clean it more than I get to play in it. The saddest thing is that I can look out the window and see it glistening in the sunshine. It is so pretty and refreshing looking. I remember summers as a kid....they lasted forever and you never had anything you had to do. Being a parent totally changes that equation. My schedule is booked for the next 3 weeks. I hope I get to swim in the pool before it starts to snow again :D

July 12th in Salem

Yesterday was a pretty exciting day. It rained!!! And although you may think that that is not a big thing in Oregon....It was for Salem. Since 1892 it has not rained on this day. Yesterday....It was a downpour. Thunder, Lightning and all. What a great day it was :D

Teenagers

I realized I haven't blogged much about Britanie lately. Our house has been all in an uproar with Gauper....I hope I'm not neglecting my parental roles with my concern for my little man :(

I find myself reflecting upon how NORMAL of a teenager Britanie is. Funny how I expected it to be much more difficult. I guess that most moms would be frustrated with the way their teenagers react to things. (Good or bad) I find that every time there is a problem...it makes me smile. I realize that her pre-pippert life didn't affect her as bad as it could have. She seems to respond to things the same way any teen would. (Clothes, Music, Rules) Unless anyone is going to admit that their parents LOVED their kind of music.....Or NEVER had a problem with clothing issues. If there is that perfect family out there....I'd like to meet them. They might need therapy.

For now I am happy with a dysfunctional adult. That is the way it is supposed to be. How else are we supposed to learn to deal with the real world? Life is good :D

Unconditional love?

You know how people tell you that dogs are the kind of animals that give you unconditional love? No matter what you do...they think you are the most amazing thing to ever happen to them. They love you despite yourself. I have a dog that defies that rule. Gauper. He has had a rough week with surgery, possible cancer and horrible tasting pain meds. This little guy holds a grudge. He will look at everything he eats....taste tests it....and then chews it up into tiny, tiny little pieces before he swallows. If you are the one who gave him the medicine....he will not eat his breakfast or dinner if you are the one feeding him. He sits and pouts all day long just staring at you giving you the 'pup eyes'. Sometimes he won't even look you in the face. I remember a few times when he was younger he would do something wrong....like digging a hole in the yard. We would reprimand him and he would pout for hours until you apologized to him. Then he would be back to his normal self. It just makes me feel extra guilty. And I suppose he knows that too :D

I know it is long.....

But, it really does surprise me that not many people know it. Take a moment to read the declaration. I hated this kind of stuff in school....but now that I can choose what I read....it is kind of interesting :D

The Declaration of Independence

IN CONGRESS, JULY 4, 1776
The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America

When in the Course of human events it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, — That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security. — Such has been the patient sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government. The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States. To prove this, let Facts be submitted to a candid world.

He has refused his Assent to Laws, the most wholesome and necessary for the public good.

He has forbidden his Governors to pass Laws of immediate and pressing importance, unless suspended in their operation till his Assent should be obtained; and when so suspended, he has utterly neglected to attend to them.

He has refused to pass other Laws for the accommodation of large districts of people, unless those people would relinquish the right of Representation in the Legislature, a right inestimable to them and formidable to tyrants only.

He has called together legislative bodies at places unusual, uncomfortable, and distant from the depository of their Public Records, for the sole purpose of fatiguing them into compliance with his measures.

He has dissolved Representative Houses repeatedly, for opposing with manly firmness his invasions on the rights of the people.

He has refused for a long time, after such dissolutions, to cause others to be elected, whereby the Legislative Powers, incapable of Annihilation, have returned to the People at large for their exercise; the State remaining in the mean time exposed to all the dangers of invasion from without, and convulsions within.

He has endeavoured to prevent the population of these States; for that purpose obstructing the Laws for Naturalization of Foreigners; refusing to pass others to encourage their migrations hither, and raising the conditions of new Appropriations of Lands.

He has obstructed the Administration of Justice by refusing his Assent to Laws for establishing Judiciary Powers.

He has made Judges dependent on his Will alone for the tenure of their offices, and the amount and payment of their salaries.

He has erected a multitude of New Offices, and sent hither swarms of Officers to harass our people and eat out their substance.

He has kept among us, in times of peace, Standing Armies without the Consent of our legislatures.

He has affected to render the Military independent of and superior to the Civil Power.

He has combined with others to subject us to a jurisdiction foreign to our constitution, and unacknowledged by our laws; giving his Assent to their Acts of pretended Legislation:

For quartering large bodies of armed troops among us:

For protecting them, by a mock Trial from punishment for any Murders which they should commit on the Inhabitants of these States:

For cutting off our Trade with all parts of the world:

For imposing Taxes on us without our Consent:

For depriving us in many cases, of the benefit of Trial by Jury:

For transporting us beyond Seas to be tried for pretended offences:

For abolishing the free System of English Laws in a neighbouring Province, establishing therein an Arbitrary government, and enlarging its Boundaries so as to render it at once an example and fit instrument for introducing the same absolute rule into these Colonies

For taking away our Charters, abolishing our most valuable Laws and altering fundamentally the Forms of our Governments:

For suspending our own Legislatures, and declaring themselves invested with power to legislate for us in all cases whatsoever.

He has abdicated Government here, by declaring us out of his Protection and waging War against us.

He has plundered our seas, ravaged our coasts, burnt our towns, and destroyed the lives of our people.

He is at this time transporting large Armies of foreign Mercenaries to compleat the works of death, desolation, and tyranny, already begun with circumstances of Cruelty & Perfidy scarcely paralleled in the most barbarous ages, and totally unworthy the Head of a civilized nation.

He has constrained our fellow Citizens taken Captive on the high Seas to bear Arms against their Country, to become the executioners of their friends and Brethren, or to fall themselves by their Hands.

He has excited domestic insurrections amongst us, and has endeavoured to bring on the inhabitants of our frontiers, the merciless Indian Savages whose known rule of warfare, is an undistinguished destruction of all ages, sexes and conditions.

In every stage of these Oppressions We have Petitioned for Redress in the most humble terms: Our repeated Petitions have been answered only by repeated injury. A Prince, whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a Tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free people.

Nor have We been wanting in attentions to our British brethren. We have warned them from time to time of attempts by their legislature to extend an unwarrantable jurisdiction over us. We have reminded them of the circumstances of our emigration and settlement here. We have appealed to their native justice and magnanimity, and we have conjured them by the ties of our common kindred to disavow these usurpations, which would inevitably interrupt our connections and correspondence. They too have been deaf to the voice of justice and of consanguinity. We must, therefore, acquiesce in the necessity, which denounces our Separation, and hold them, as we hold the rest of mankind, Enemies in War, in Peace Friends.

We, therefore, the Representatives of the united States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these united Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States, that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace, contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do. — And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes, and our sacred Honor.

— John Hancock

New Hampshire:
Josiah Bartlett, William Whipple, Matthew Thornton

Massachusetts:
John Hancock, Samuel Adams, John Adams, Robert Treat Paine, Elbridge Gerry

Rhode Island:
Stephen Hopkins, William Ellery

Connecticut:
Roger Sherman, Samuel Huntington, William Williams, Oliver Wolcott

New York:
William Floyd, Philip Livingston, Francis Lewis, Lewis Morris

New Jersey:
Richard Stockton, John Witherspoon, Francis Hopkinson, John Hart, Abraham Clark

Pennsylvania:
Robert Morris, Benjamin Rush, Benjamin Franklin, John Morton, George Clymer, James Smith, George Taylor, James Wilson, George Ross

Delaware:
Caesar Rodney, George Read, Thomas McKean

Maryland:
Samuel Chase, William Paca, Thomas Stone, Charles Carroll of Carrollton

Virginia:
George Wythe, Richard Henry Lee, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Harrison, Thomas Nelson, Jr., Francis Lightfoot Lee, Carter Braxton

North Carolina:
William Hooper, Joseph Hewes, John Penn

South Carolina:
Edward Rutledge, Thomas Heyward, Jr., Thomas Lynch, Jr., Arthur Middleton

Georgia:
Button Gwinnett, Lyman Hall, George Walton

Happy 4th

Anyone read the Declaration of Independence? It is something my dad always did. I'm not sure who does that anymore. Or even who can say the first sentence. Dan tried and named like five different speeches or documents before he came up with it. Just curious if anyone else knew before they looked it up on the computer. Have a great weekend!!! :D

Hilary Weeks---This is my dream but out of my price range :(

I have just finished writing three Christmas songs for a new Christmas CD releasing this year. I have 11 pages of songwriting notes from the new songs I have written. They include all the thoughts, scribbles, scratches, ideas and changes that have created these three new songs. I have NEVER done something like this before, because my songwriting notes are personal, but I would like to auction off those pages. Included with the 11 pages I would like to auction an opportunity for the purchaser to attend a session at the studio while we record this Christmas CD and a private concert to be used in any way you would like. I would be glad to sing for your family and friends or your company Christmas party or whatever you’d like. The proceeds, in their entirety, will be donated to the Huish family to help pay for the funeral costs. The bidding will start at $1000. You can place a bid on ebay or by following this link: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&item=280363819969

The auction will end Monday, July 6th at midnight.

Spread the word to any one you know that might be interested and perhaps together we can help create another little miracle for this wonderful family.

Blog to you soon,

Hilary

Gauper

Last week I noticed a suspicious lump on Gauper. I took him into the Vet and was informed it was a mass cell tumor. Unsure if it is cancerous yet. He goes in for surgery on Thursday. Once they remove it they will be able to tell if it is cancer. They also found a bacterial infection (I'm beginning to hate that phrase). He will have to be neutered too. Today I took him in for pre-op blood work and he now has two more masses to remove. I'm really struggling on this one. He was my first baby. He will be eleven in September and they are telling me if this is cancer he might not make his birthday. I cannot seem to hold him enough. I've taken tons of pictures and videos. (Which are pretty boring....he doesn't do much) As much as I don't want to say good-bye to him...I find myself grateful for the 10+ years I have had with him. He is handsome and wonderful. The best dog ever (excluding Kestra and Elphaba of course:)) I just don't want him to suffer. They have offered Chemo but, I don't think I want to put him through all of that. His quality of life doesn't change much with or without it. 18 months is all he might have. I want him to be happy and lovable to the very end. Not miserable. I never wanted to make this decision. I hope I don't have to. Maybe he will be ok...after they cut three big holes in him and take away his manhood. He'll be mad at me of course....but it is unconditional madness right? It comes with 100% love. The kind of love only a dog can give. He has been my nurse maid through all of my struggles. He has been my lifeline. Now it is my turn. I will do anything for him.

Needs vs. Wants = Rock & Hard Place

During our classes we took through the state, we were told not to shower children with gifts when they are first placed because they may think that that is the way that we show our love. (Or...they would get spoiled) I agree with the second one more. When Britanie came she didn't have any clothes. So what did we do? We went and bought her clothes. Looking back on that...I'm not sure it was the right choice....even though she needed something to wear. Every time we go to the store she expects we are going to buy her something. And let me tell you...a teenager that gets said no to...Not Pretty!!! But, I'm not sure we had a choice to begin with. I fear that we set off on the wrong foot and gave her the wrong impression that we have tons of money and what ever she wants is hers. We let her know that we will supply her with her NEEDS and she has an allowance that supplies her with her WANTS. There is a very fine line between the two and I hope we never cross it. I'm afraid she will be ready to pounce as soon as we do. Trying not to spoil is very difficult when you are trying to make someone happy.

Missed Kodak Moments

Arin....if you are reading this.....STOP NOW. Rats involved!!!


Today was such a wonderful day that we decided to do a little pool work. You know how the saying goes....'The cobbler's children have no shoes'? I always thought that was because they might not have needed shoes. Well apparently the exterminator's family is in need of service.....AND WE ARE GETTING IT OR ELSE!!!!

Dan was pulling out the pools solar cover from a bench and we found that there was a huge rat living in there. We didn't want to kill it (it wasn't bothering us) so we decided we were going to let it get out of the bench and run away. Britanie knew what was going on and was really interested....but very jumpy. Just standing there watching Dan try to let it out was giving her the creepy crawlies. She was wiggling all over. (I don't know why I didn't have the sense to get the camera. I guess I didn't want to miss it either.) When the little guy jumped out....it ran straight for Britanie.....she was screaming so loud! ( I can still hear it in my head and it makes me laugh so hard) Of course she took off running....and he kept chasing her. They were following a pathway. It was not intentional....just her luck. Screaming the whole way.

I wish I would follow the teachings of my friend Amy and carry a camera with me at all times. I would watch that video over and over and over. For now I will have to live with my memories....and giggle.

Medication is sometimes not a good thing

I woke up this morning to a haircut. Apparently last night AFTER I took my sleep meds....(I didn't fall asleep.) For some reason I decided that I was a hairstylist. I was wrong. I don't remember any of it. I actually got lucky....it wasn't a 5 year old with the scissors nightmare. I'm afraid to post pictures. It is not my best haircut :( Apparently I need to be under close supervision after I take my night meds.

New Hair

For a lack of time....(I have better things to do now)...RIGHT!!!....I will post about Britanie's new hair cut. I think it is adorable. Short hair makes her sassy!!! Now we just have to work on mine..........

Some things they just don't find in profiles...

Can any of you think of a reason why she should not be my child?

Family resemblence

I think it is so great that everywhere we take Britanie people just assume she is our daughter. I guess she looks a little like us....but, I didn't realize it was that much. No one has thought she was my niece or cousin or neighbor. I guess most people just probably think that if you are with a child...it must be yours. Here is a picture that I think most would believe she belongs to Dan (biologically)....

Breakfast in bed

Britanie woke me up this morning with breakfast. It was so wonderful. She had made an egg sandwich with fried ham....and a smoothie....and there was a mandarin orange, cherries and chocolate covered coconut treats. Oh....and orange juice. I guess I forgot to tell her that I'm not a big eater. But, I ate it all with joy in my heart. She stood right there and watched me. Good thing it wasn't chocolate pancakes with ketchup. I am definitely grateful for a teenager that knows food. :)

First Gift :)

We received our first gift from Britanie. She made it at school. Quilting and all. She made us a card and everything wishing us a happy anniversary.

I fear that I am going to be a mother pack rat. I loved the pillow. If she makes anything else my house is going to get cluttered. Funny thing....it doesn't bother me. The clutter of having a family isn't too bad. I thought I would go crazy with my OCD obsession. I've had friends comment already about how I'm handling the mess. But, I am quite relaxed in a home filled with Britanie stuff :D

15 Years!!!

Today is our fifteenth wedding anniversary. Sometimes it is hard to believe that it has been that long. (Dan doesn't seem old enough:))

Through these past years we have learned so much about each other that we don't even have to say anything out loud. Just a look or a movement can tell us what each other is feeling or thinking. I am so grateful for the time that we have had together. Adding Britanie to the equation at this point in time has been a blessing. I don't think we would have been able to do this even two years ago. We were truly ready for this next step. I would never trade our time for anything. As much as I would have loved to be part of Britanie's life when she was younger...I am grateful that Dan and I have had so much time just the two of us. He is my very best friend and I couldn't imagine spending the rest of my life with anyone else. Even eternity is not enough for me.

I love Daniel with all of my heart. And am so grateful to be a parent with him.

Red Robin

Dan and I went to Red Robin today for lunch. We are trying to keep busy while Britanie is at school. (Work is not really even an issue right now. Luckily, no one is calling with a bug problem.) Anyway, we went to lunch. The person who showed us to our table asked us if we have anything exciting planned for the weekend. Of course, we just shrugged our shoulders and said "we're adopting...does that count?" When we told her that Britanie was 14 years old she started crying. Then she told us that lunch was on them. (She happened to be the manager) She was so excited that we were adopting a teenager. She kept saying thank you. (And still crying). It was so sweet. Why is it that when you get a free lunch you are never really hungry? So when we were finished with our lunch....a procession of employees came out carrying this:








While Dan and I were eating the manager went to a florist and bought these for us. And then she had all of the employees sign the card. I have never had such wonderful service from complete strangers before. It was the most amazing experience to be pampered like that. And as we left everyone was wishing us congratulations through tears.

Grumpy mornings....

OH MY GOODNESS!!! Britanie is so freaking cute in the morning. She did not want to get up this morning. And she moans and groans and whines....and it is the cutest thing in the whole world. Especially when her hair is going everywhere. :) I would post a picture....but I'm trying to keep her liking me right now :D

Friday it is!

Wow. What a circus! Between talking to our caseworker, Britanie's caseworker, their supervisors, Britanie's school and the people at the group home....we have all come up with Friday as our day to officially bring Britanie home and leave everything else behind. It is about time :) We are all very excited.

Prayers answered

We pulled our new parental strings and got the ok to spend the week in Portland with Britanie. We are staying in a hotel and taking her to school everyday. (Thank goodness for mobile businesses)

What a blessing it is to spend time with her. We hated having to leave her at the group home. She is so happy...and so are we. Even if we have to live out of a suitcase for a little while :)

Details to follow...

Honeymoon

The transition period for adoptees is called the honeymoon. And what a honeymoon we had this weekend. When Britanie first got here she was very shy and not very outgoing. Kind of sad and kept to herself. Totally Normal!!!

Friday we took her shopping and bought her personal stuff and clothes. What fun it was to find sales. We would walk into a store....find her size (which by the way is almost non-existent) and grab all the colors and styles we liked. What fun to shop for someone else. We came home and worked around the house while she unpacked all of her stuff and set up her room the way she wanted it. We spent the evening together at home. She makes amazing guacamole....enough that Dan even tried (and liked) it. I've been trying to get him to eat that stuff for 15 years...she is only here a day and he does it for her......hmmmmm.

Saturday we slept in. Boy, did that feel good after shopping all day the day before. We went up to Wilsonville to Bullwinkle's fun center. We found out that she loves to drive....(as most 14 year olds will). We did the go carts quite a few times. I've never done those before. It was a blast.



Sunday we decided that the weather was so good that we needed to go to the coast. We found a dog sitter and took off. We ended up staying at agate beach in a hotel. We walked the beach...took lots of pictures....one being the one at the top of the blog. We went swimming in the pool. And we dyed her hair platinum blond. She wants purple tips....but I don't think that will fly with Dan. We will see how much she can manipulate his decision :) Dan and her had pillow fights until around 11pm. I was pretty sure they were going to kick us out of the hotel for noise.....but....they didn't :)



Monday we ordered room service for breakfast and hung around in the room until noon. And started our trek home. None of us wanted to come back here because we knew that we would have to take her home by 9pm. She was playing with our phones on the way home and changed all of the settings with pictures of her. But the one text that I got from her I will remember forever. She sent a note that said "D+L+B=Family". When we did get home we decided to do a little pool time. We found that she does NOT like spiders (definitely my daughter). She clung to Dan in the pool every time she saw anything that resembled a spider. Boy can she move fast when she wants to. The most difficult part of the night was dropping her back off in Portland. It was very emotional for all of us. We didn't want to do it. She even got us lost on purpose because she was trying to stall. When we finally did get to our destination.....she introduced us as her mom and dad. I thought I was going to cry right there in front of everyone. Dan and I both saved it for when we got in the car later.

It amazes us how much you can fall in love so quickly. I know I felt that way for Dan when I first met him....but I didn't think I would get that twice in my life. Britanie completes us. She is a pure joy. And this has been the best weekend of mine and Dan's entire life. Even our own honeymoon doesn't compare. And we are both ok with that. We cannot wait to have her in our home permanently....and we are hoping that will be this next weekend.



We don't know how long the honeymoon will last. But we are sure enjoying it while it does. At some point we will become a normal family....with normal problems. But for now.....it is pure bliss.

THIS WEEKEND!!!

I just talked to my daughter on the phone. She really wants to meet us TODAY....NOW. She is coming tonight and she is spending the entire weekend with us. I cannot stop shaking. I have never felt this wonderful in my entire life!!!

IT IS OFFICIAL!!!

As of 11:13 and 57 seconds AM we are now the proud parents of a lovely daughter. She is 59" long and 90lbs. Her name is Britanie Leilani Nichol Pippert. Her birthday is February 3, 1995. She has brown hair and hazel eyes.

We have been waiting a very long time to have her in our lives...and are very excited to be new parents. We will not be able to meet her for another seven days. She will most likely be placed with us on our 15th wedding anniversary (May 28). Here is the funny thing...if we had birthed this beautiful child....she would have been a honeymoon baby. Almost to the day.

We are so excited for all of you to meet her. Be patient...this will be a huge transition for her and we do not want to overwhelm her. We will contact everyone individually for a personal meeting. Thank you all very much for your love and support. We will fill you in with all the wonderful details.

OK......NOW I'M SAD :(

Got a call from the caseworker. Turns out Britanie's caseworker has been really sick and they almost had to postpone the committee.....which would have made it in June or July. Luckily.....she feels good enough to go through with it. Oooooooh I would have been so upset. Poor Britanie.

The other news....is not as lucky. Our caseworker, Britanie's caseworker and all of their supervisors wanted to waive the 5 day grace period after committee. They proposed that to the main office......DENIED!!! So, we all have to wait 5 business days to meet each other after tomorrow. Turns out last weekend wasn't our last weekend with just the two of us. The upside is that she will probably be placed with us ON our 15th anniversary date. Which means we have so much more to celebrate on that day :D

NO SLEEP

This is the last day of unknowing. And I am having problems sleeping. Dan can sleep through a tornado if he had to. But me.....even drugged...Not so much. Too many things racing through my mind. I keep thinking of tons of stuff to do....but then I have to put it off because it would be a perfect family together project. So of course I'm just adding to my problem. I wonder if I will be able to sleep after we spend time with her.....or if it will take a while to get used to. I hope I'm not going to be a creepy mom staring at her while she sleeps. :D

Feeling so much better!!!

FINALLY....the doctors decided to give me antibiotics for a bacterial infection that they have always known I've had. They just didn't know WHY I had it. Strange how some doctors will give you antibiotics at the mere mention at being sick and some stay so far away from them that they make you suffer for four months before they decide to do anything. It has been a week now and I feel great. I am up and about again and doing tons of stuff around the home. The only problem I seem to have now is my legs are aching. But, I'm pretty sure it is because I am actually using them now. :D

BUSTED!!

Dan and I took the weekend off from ALMOST EVERYTHING. We really enjoyed turning the phones off for two days and just doing whatever came to mind. We did a lot of work in the back and side yards.....but it was worth it!

Yesterday was pretty warm. Not scorching....but warm. We thought....hmmmm....ice cream. Sounds great.....OH WAIT.....it's Sunday.

Don't go....

Don't go....

Don't go....said the little voice in our heads:)

But we obviously took the time of from the little voice in our heads too. We went to Baskin Robbins. Yummy. As we were sitting at the traffic light ready to go home...I kept thinking....we are pretty close to Natalie's house. We better be careful not to get caught. So, I was watching the cars across the way to see if I recognized any from her blog. Nope.....we were safe. Then a look to the left....NATALIE....in a jeep. She didn't say anything about a jeep!!! If I was going to run into anyone....I guess I'm glad it is Natalie....she smiled and said "it's your last weekend!" I'm so glad she understands.....but why is it that we always get caught?

We are usually pretty good about Sundays. Keeping the Sabbath day holy is very important to us. But, it is funny that we know when we are doing something out of character....that is usually when we go sneaking around. Only doing things in the side or back yards to be hidden by the fence. Or in the garage with the door mostly closed so people cannot see inside. What we always forget is the one we are trying to hide from is able to see what we are doing no matter how much we try to hide. We just have an allusion that it is the people we are hiding from.

The only regret I have about yesterday is that Natalie had her oldest daughter with her. She saw that we were NOT keeping the Sabbath day. Adults who are supposed to be role models. I am very sorry for that :( But grateful too...it has made the little voice louder in my head. And next time I hope I listen :)

Hanging Garden

We are trying a new idea this year. I've been wanting to do this garden for quite some time...but our yard is not necessarily garden worthy. Also, this way you don't have slugs or weeds...the dogs cannot reach them.....AND you don't have to bend over to get your harvest.



Although this garden is not as spectacular as some (Amy & Peter)...It fits our yard and my ability. Plus it adds new dimension to the back. There used to be fifteen foot arborvitae where the pergola now stands. (I'm still mad at the neighbors for that!!)



I hope it works. I'm excited for harvesting time :) I don't think corn would work this way though.....must think of something to do for them.....

This is it !!!

Our final weekend as just Dan & Leslie Pippert. Our case worker came by today and told us to be ready to spend next weekend in Portland meeting Britanie. We will get a hotel up there for a few days and spend all day with her doing anything we want to....if she decides she wants to come back with us at night to stay in the hotel....it is her choice. At the end of the three or so days.....we pack her up and bring her home.

This has been one of the longest few weeks of our lives. I've actually had times that I looked at the clock thinking that the battery died. I'm really not complaining...we have had some amazing days that have lasted forever. Ones that would have just flown by if we weren't paying attention. It has been wonderful. But we were told it would fly by......it so hasn't.

This has been a truly amazing experience. We are so grateful for all of our friends and family that have been supportive through this. Thank you all!!! :D

I thought it over....

So, last night when I posted about Britanie.....I was really mad at the State. I thought....What could they be thinking? Leaving a child in the dark? Knowing it is causing her more grief than she already has to deal with. I thought they were supposed to be the good guys. The ones that really cared about the kids feelings (Well, that is another blog in itself really).

But after I thought it through, I realized it is the right thing to do. Imagine being in the adoption process. Being a 14 year old girl and all alone in the world. Would you rather not have a clue? Or would you want to know that out of thousands of families looking for children....ONLY ONE chose you? Looking at it with all the information in my hands.....I would rather be in the dark. She doesn't know that.....and I hope she never finds out....but, I guess she is getting the least amount of stress that the State can give. All we can do now is pray that her burden will be lifted.

In other news.....

Did you know that they have physical therapy for bladders? I went to the Urologist today and had a horrible, horrible test done. I don't recommend it to anyone.....But, we found out that I raised my bladder wrong. The doctor says that my muscles are too strong. They do not allow for normal flow. (I guess this was one of the reasons that I was so good at Uno wrath ((a drinking game)). I can hold my bladder too well. He says that when I get older that can be a bad thing. So I have to go to a physical therapist to retrain my body to relax my bladder. I know....not something that you really like to read in a blog.....but I thought it kind of interesting. Just another thing that went wrong in my childhood I guess.

If you ask my brother (a pilot) about my bladder.....he would say it was the weakest one around. I always have to go to the bathroom when I fly with him. And my best friend in middle school would love to tell you of countless times that we went to the mall and I laughed so hard it ended in us in the bathroom getting my pants all the way wet so no one would know what happened. (Those days are in the past thank you) And another reason it is good we are adopting an older child is that I won't have to play hide and seek with her. It never fails that I have to go to the bathroom as soon as I hide. I don't know what this doctor is talking about. I can't imagine that I would train myself to hold my bladder. :D

Update on Britanie

We talked with our adoption worker today. I guess Britanie is starting to act out. She is getting restless. Nothing big....just not wanting to eat certain foods and not talking to certain staff members. She is in a group home with six other girls in similar situations. She has now been there the longest and the new girls are picking on her. They think she is a goodie two shoes....kind of a delinquent nerd. (Of course I think that is great, because she is such a good girl)

I feel terrible....I've been blogging about how nervous I have been. We just found out today that she has no idea who we are. She doesn't know where she will be going. She has no idea about the dynamic of the family she will forever live with. How sad is that? I couldn't imagine not having any sort of clue where my future lies. No wonder she is acting out. Poor thing.

I guess there is supposed to be a five day period after committee that is supposed to be no contact. Our caseworker is trying to over ride that since our case is a little different. What we might be looking at is staying in Portland for a three day period and spending time with her. At the end of the three days we would bring her home with us. Nothing is set in stone. But I'm grateful for the information. I'm sad that there is nothing we can do to comfort her. :(

Posting off ideas of other posts.....

I have a friend that is growing butterflies. And it is so exciting to wait for the finished product.

I myself have been growing butterflies. Just not the same kind. I cannot seem to kick the butterflies in my stomach. Is this what mothers feel during the last month of pregnancy? I'm having a hard time eating. I cannot concentrate. And I cannot get my house in the right order. I'm sure it is driving Dan mad!!!

We watched the movie 'The Secret Life of Bees' the other night. And although I had read the book in my book club it was a completely different experience to me. The young girl in it was 14. She was struggling with feelings of her mother and who she is due to her loss. I was crying so hard. (So was Dan) All we could see was Britanie in that movie. What she must be going through. What it must be like to have been abandoned by your mother. (or entire family) How difficult it must be to move on with life and grow up and be a whole person.

I know that I cannot complain about how uncomfortable I feel with the butterflies in my stomach. I just hope they will go away eventually so I can love this little girl with all of my heart. And let her know that she is not alone and never will be again. I am so grateful for this opportunity to be able to help this little broken girl. Imagine what it is like for all of the older children in the foster program that do not get a second chance with parents. The ones that have to live the rest of their lives alone. With all of the horrible feelings of not being good enough or not being lovable. I wish I could bring them all into my home. But, since that is not possible....I will have to do it one at a time.

Mother's Day Medicine

To escape the Mother's day blues you must spend time around babies. These are the babies I was blessed to spend time with










Dan has successfully named all of the puppies "Not Ours".

And the baby...

Elphaba is all puppy. She is in her terrible twos now. The only time we see her in angle mode is when she is sleeping. She will attack almost everything that moves. Her favorite thing to do is sit on the back porch peering through the gate to the side yard....where the birds are. She has only brought me one....but she is still hunting.

Not so trusting

Gauper on the other hand has a mind of his own. He'll look around to see if Mama is close by and then gets as comfortable as he can. We need to work on his relaxation therapy. :D

My most trusted guardian

Kestra. It never fails....where ever I am....she is less than two feet from me. She is my most loyal companion. She only wants the mama. And that is ok with me :D