A Rose Between 2 Blogs

Glory Falls

2011-10-17T08:48:00.000-07:00

The oak stood proud and tall,

Until its leaves began to fall.

When Autumn comes, she gives them gold

And with the colors they then are sold.

But now, as their glory drops, they feel

Pangs of regret. They turn and reel

And thrust the gold at Autumn's breast.

But only leaves do fall and rest

Upon the house, the porch, the ground,

In piles of gleaming, glowing mounds.

The oak's gold crown falls

down

down.

~ H.H.

2011

October's First Morning Light

2011-10-01T07:38:00.000-07:00

Day Book 9-21-11

2011-09-21T06:16:00.001-07:00

On Monday, we took advantage of the beautiful weather, and took a walk in the woods. Being well into September, 76 degree temperatures are wonderful for our part of the world! I wore a light weight jacket to ward off the chill of the shady woods, but I ended up shedding it. The lighting was fabulous for pictures, so Mom and I each snapped quite a few! Here are some of my favorites.

Josh and Mom (that small grey and white blotch is Bella)

Autumn is showing itself on the ferns...

I love all the different shades of green. It's so fresh!

We found a big old rock that was covered in moss. Now I know why fairies sleep on it. :)

(Oh, and Josh is pretending to be a model!)

Golden corn ripe for the harvest!

Bella rolling in something....she always does. :P

And again!

Haha my new eyes!!!

Josh and I. Shadow and light. Gold and blue. I love it!

Josh. I love his lips!

The corn field was huge!

We played in the rows. Josh and I had great fun hiding from Bella. She always gets very upset if she doesn't know where I am!

Bella jumps up and walks around on her back feet to try and see us from a higher vantage point. She's such a cutie!

Mom spotted an old rotted ladder that was propped up against a tree. The remains of a hunting blind lay scattered on the ground.

Boy and his dog headed home. :)

I love this house and the land that surrounds it. Our family calls it Hidden House. My mom came up with that name a long time ago.

Tuesday was our neighbor, Julie's birthday. So at like 9 that night, we called her and invited her over for a bit of a surprise party. She said it was the highlight of her day!

Prior to her coming, Dad found Mom's old glasses--the ones she got married in, and so I couldn't help but trying them on. I sure hope the 90's style doesn't come back--at least not in my lifetime! haha

The festivities! Julie's cards and gifts, and the cupcakes...mmmm. :) Josh did the outside of the card and I wrote the note. He had Happy Birthday Julie in six different languages.

When she walked in I played Happy Birthday on the viola. And yes, I am in my pajamas!

Julie with a beaming smile! She loved the marshmallow kabob!

As you can see.... haha

Dale, Josh, and Dad. Mom made apple-walnut cupcakes with homemade caramel sauce. Mmmm!!! And she also made some without the nuts, since Julie doesn't like them.

Julie brought over almond raspberry cake with butter cream frosting. It was funny because last year she had three of the same cakes. Her co-workers got her one, her mom got her another, and Julie bought one for herself. And they were all the same! It is a pretty tasty cake, although it's a little too sweet.

7-5-11 4th of July Weekend

2011-07-05T07:48:00.000-07:00

Mom, Dad, Josh, Uncle Bob, Aunt Judy, Jonny, and Me.

Josh, Jonny and I.
Fumee Falls

Jonny just finished climbing those rocks in the background. He's wearing his climbing shoes. I guess you have to buy them too small because when your toes knuckle up it helps you to grasp the rocks.

I loved all of the shapes, and so I had to take a picture of it.

Courtney and I trying dresses on at Maurices.

I really liked this shirt! But, it wasn't on sale or clearanced, so it was a no go.

One of the trails Courtney and I traversed. The forest looked so pretty bathed in the evening light. :)

Courtney.

My bike waiting patiently for me. :)

The glowing creek was mystifying.

Here I am in front of the babbling water.

A gigantic moth on my bike seat. A little while before, when Courtney and I were biking around the campground, one of these moths flew up and hit her in the face. She was screaming and swatting at it with one hand while trying to stear her bike. This older man who was walking by kept laughing and laughing. It was pretty funny!

The last peonies of the season on our kitchen table.

Courtney and Michael. :) The whole gang of Schroeders and Saberniaks came to our home for lunch yesterday. We had ham and turkey sandwiches, barbecue chips, coleslaw, dilly beans, watermelon and blueberries, and lemonade. Dessert was homeade ice cream cake, made by Cassie and Mr. Schroeder, in honor of Mrs. Schroeder's birthday (the 5th).

The birthday girl blowing out a pretend candle.

The Schroeders brought their adorable Standard Poodle, Gibson, along. He is such a nice dog! Bella got jealous because we were giving him more attention than her, and he got a bigger treat than she did, even though she had four cheese treats. I found her in the bathroom with her eyes all red and puffy like she had been crying. I felt terrible. So then I encouraged her and pet her. I was doing so many kind things for her that I forgot to button my button and zip my zipper. When I walked out of the bathroom, I happened to look down and see my shorts. I quickly flipped my shirt down over it. I was so embarressed!

Cassie and Pooh. Pooh was terrified of the new dog in his terrain. He was hissing and batting at Gibson with his declawed paws. The spat was pretty hilarious. Gibby just wanted to be friends with him.

Cassie trying to make them friends. It didn't work. Pooh was not going to surrender to some scary dog!

Our house all decorated for the Fourth of July. It looks very patriotic!

I love the reds and greens together.

The dining room table waiting to be feasted on.

I picked these beautiful bouquets right before every one arrived. My mom had the daisy and mini daisy idea and I had the backdrop idea. We wanted them to look like fireworks. :)

Poor Pooh wanted to be on the other side of the gate where the dogs were.

Josh ready to go meet his team on the float. They came in 3rd place in the championships.

Cassie and I putting our atrocious band uniforms on.

Haha we were making fun of our hats. Can you see why?!

My dad tightening my hat so it didn't fall off on the march.

Cassie, Josh, and I were all in the parade this year. Sadly, we had to miss out on the candy being thrown out. :( Isn't that the best part of parades?

The saxophone section. :)

Josh and his baseball team--the Moose.

I like all these cool flags.

Hot and tired. It was ninety degrees and we had to wear suits. Ugh!

The song we played--Yankee Doodle Boy.

Evan, Heather, and Lainey. Lainey didn't recognize me in my band uniform. Evan did, though.

Our church's float. VBS this year is Panda Mania.

Night is falling fast. Soon fireworks will be spurting and flashing across the sky.

Day Book 6/10/11

2011-06-10T09:13:00.000-07:00

Our Strawberry Lake Ramble last evening. The lighting was perfect for pictures, and between Mom and I, we captured many. Here are the best of the bunch.

Bridal Wreath Spirea outside our house.

Lingering sun resting in a maple tree.

Josh and Bella are both so happy-go-lucky! I love it.

Josh Boy. (That's what our neighbor, Julie, calls him.)

Strawberry Lake glistening in the sunset.

They're boys...which makes them crazy... ;)

A grandpa teaching his grand kids how to fish. I remember that Dad would take Josh and I (and sometimes a couple of our friends Randy, Meaghan, Olivia, Micah, or Rory) fishing. We would always stop at Ed's Market to get bait, pop, and candy. Good memories! :)

The fairy tale gazebo at Knight's Kingdom.

Lavender irises at the park.

Another fun slide!
Bella sliding down the slide after me.

Hahaha so adorable!
She's so cute!!!
Bella and I, after her scary experience above our heads.

Peony buds ready to burst forth in the sunshine!

Lacy, lovely ferns.

Variations of green and texture.

Royal purple irises.

On top of the train tracks. :) Josh, Micah, Bella, and I were walking up there when all of a sudden, poor Bella's leg fell down in between the two ties. There she was hanging there above the road! I quickly, and carefully, led her back down the hill to the sidewalk where she'd be safer.

Peonies are probably my top three favorite flowers. I love their vibrant hues. :)

Pine tree and pine cones.

Bouncing Bets in full bloom.

Leaves are so intricate and incredible.

Dandelion spreading it's seeds.

Oh, the green of June!!!

Thousands of purple wildflowers.

Josh and his little friend Micah.

Strawberry Lake peacefulness.

Daisies in their simple garments.

Lush, lavender, lilacs.

Some of these pictures were taken at our house and some on the way to the lake and some at the lake.

Outside my window: It's grey and chilly. I'm wearing my flannel pajamas because I'm so cold. My bed was freezing last night. The weather is so weird in Michigan. On Wednesday it was 96 degrees and yesterday was 55 degrees. It dropped over 40 degrees that night. My dad says, "If you don't like the weather wait a minute." ;)

I am wearing: My pjs still like I just said up there, but I think I'm going to wear a warm, fuzzy sweat shirt the rest of the day. And probably jeans, because I spilled cappuchino on my favorite sweatpants, when we drove to see my horse yesterday morning. Bummer.

I am eating: A delicious mango/strawberry smoothie that my mom just made. Mmmm...

This weekend: My parents friends, the Bugnies, are having their 50th anniversary party tomorrow. They got married on the same day as Mrs. Bugnie's sister, so as they had a double wedding, they're having a double wedding anniversary. I think that it's pretty cool. (Not that I'd want a double wedding, though I did when I was little.) Josh got tickets for a Cardinal/Brewers game on Sunday, so we're going down to Milwaukee for that. (And hopefully a little shopping and Panera for breakfast on Monday!)

Evan, Lainey, and Elliott: Yesterday I went over to their house to help Heather put the kids down for a nap. She wanted them to be fully rested because they were having family pictures that night. While Heather put Elliott down for his nap, I played with the older two outside. Evan and I were sitting on the swings. I didn't have all my weight on the swing, I was just sort of resting, when Lainey came flying up and said, "Hey! That's my swing! You're to big for it. So is Mommy and Daddy and Joshie! It's only my size." She's such a funny kid.
Later I asked them what they want to be when they grow up. Evan said he wants to be an elephant handler in the circus. (A couple of weeks ago they went to one and it's still very fresh on his mind.) I asked him if he got to ride one. He said, "No. Because it cost 10 money." :)
Lainey wants to be an elephant when she grows up!

H.H.

Day Book 6-1-11

2011-06-01T12:19:00.000-07:00

The Schroeders came over for supper on Memorial Day. We had a really good time with them, as always. Supper was yummy--grilled pork with caramelized onions and blackberries, potatoes, Italian bread, peas and peas in the pod, water, Peanut Butter Panic ice cream, chocolate brownies with Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, and Cassie brought brownies. Mmmm.

Crazy Lainey with her crazy hat. Heather got it for her on Mackinac Island. Haha it's so cute and it's so her!

Apple doesn't fall too far from the tree. Her big cousin Josh is still at her level apparently. I joined our city band on Tuesday and we have to wear those hideous hats when we march in parades. :P Anyway, Josh is a nut case. (How does he get his shorts that high?!)

I started this post on the first, but today is the third. I know, I should have just gotten it done, but our mouse broke yesterday and I obviously couldn't write. Our new mouse is wireless. Pretty high tech, huh? ;)

Outside my window: It's grey and overcast and humid. (Why is it always gloomy when I write on here?) Our peonies are getting quite large. The buds are just starting to pop. Our grass needs it's weekly trim. Maybe tomorrow?

I am listening to: The race cars zooming around the track. We live a couple miles away, but you can still hear them clearly. I like the sound now. When I was little I would tell them to quiet down, but now it's a voice of summer.

I am wearing: My Knight Owl baseball shirt from three years ago and capris. I really want to go shopping for some new summer clothes-shirts, shorts, capris, and sandals, but my mom says I have enough, which means I have to buy everything. The joys of having a job...

I am reading: A Nest for Celeste. Isn't that the cutest name ever?! It's about a mouse who is driven out of her home by two mean rats. It's adorable and has lots of pictures to go along with the story. Mom is reading The Penderwicks at Point Mouette to Josh and I. It's the third book in the series. One of the best series I've ever read. It's very funny.

In the kitchen: I made ice cream bars for supper tonight. But when I tried to cut the brownies in half length wise it broke apart into numerous pieces. So in the end I just put the whole chunk back in the pan and put the vanilla ice cream on top of it. Maybe I'll make some hot fudge sauce to pour over the top.

Evan stories: On Tuesday when I went to watch the kids, Evan said to me, "Hannah, sometimes I wish Mommy wasn't here, and Daddy wasn't here, and Lainey wasn't here, and Elliott wasn't here, and I wasn't here.
Me: "Why Evan?"
"Because I wish I were a Hayes instead of a Zahn."
Me: "It's just a last name, buddy."
"I know but then I could live in your house with you."

Aww he's so cute. :)

Bella fell off the curb yesterday. She's such a weirdo. But I have to give her a bit of a break because her hair is so long that she can't see out. The poor girl desperately needs a haircut.

H.H.

Day Book 5-29-11

2011-05-29T10:52:00.001-07:00

This white cloud is my shaving cream. My mom was wiping down the shower and was drying off the bottle, when all of a sudden, the plug on the bottom popped out. It all oozed out. Very weird!

It's was so massive! Here it is in comparison to my head. :)

Mmmmm. Breakfast Sundae. (Actually oatmeal with brown sugar, raisins, craisins, blueberries, and cream.

Bringing Monet to the cross ties to be brushed. I'm holding her new lead rope.

Brushing her dirty coat.

She was very nervous and kept on whinnying. My mom took all these great shots!

Monet looks so pretty with her new halter at her new home. :)

Josh, Dad, and Monet.
She doesn't fit in the stall! lol
My favorite plate ever. Josh made it when he was 4 years old. I thought it was hideous back then, but now I love it. And I'm about to eat off it. :)

Outside my window: It's grey and warm. 67 degrees. I think it's about to rain, because it feels like that calm before the storm. I don't mind storms, though. I only hate them when they turn off the power suddenly and the house is entrenched in darkness. Too scary for me! The funny thing is that I'm tossing around the idea of law enforcement. AKA the F.B.I. Maybe it's not for me... ;)

I am listening to: My brother talk. My dad talk back to him. The whirring of the XBox, which is the subject of conversation. My mom slamming things around in the kitchen. Water sloshing in Bella's bowl as she drinks. My stomach growling. Man, I'm hungry!

I am wearing: Medium wash denim jeans and a forest green T-Shirt. My horse clothes. My dad and I are going up to the barn after we have lunch, so that's why this is what I'm wearing.

I am noticing that: The lilacs are bursting into full bloom. They're gorgeous and they smell delicious. My friend, Olivia, is allergic to them. I'm sad for her. It would be horrible to go through Spring without being able to smell a lilac or gather them up in a big heap.

I am remembering: Maybe 5 years ago we happened to have a visitor in our basement. He slipped through a small hole at the top of the cement wall. This visitor was a chipmunk. I have been terrified of chipmunks ever since I can remember.
My grandpa told me never to put my hand or finger in a chippy's hole, because it could bite my finger off. That obviously scared me. My cousin, Randy, on the other hand, thought they were cute. Once, at Randy's sister Meaghan's soccer game, Grandpa brought a caged one in the back of his truck to let loose somewhere by woods. Randy stuck his finger in the cage and the chipmunk bit him. Looking back, Randy didn't cry. I think it was because he knew he'd be in trouble if the adults found out. He could have gotten rabies!
Anyway, so the chipmunk was in our basement. Josh came running upstairs to tell me, and of course I didn't believe him. We had company over, and so I really didn't want to go downstairs. But he begged me...so I went. And there it was; scurrying over the concrete floor. I screamed and ran up to get my dad. Long story short, I stomped on its head with his foot! Hahaha. It was pretty funny. As he carried it outside I thought, "That little rascal deserves it." And imagined the mother chipmunk telling her children to "Never go in that house's basement because they'll stomp on your brains." I thought, "Bring it on little Napoleons. You all think you're so tough, but my dad will squish you around if anymore of you try."

I am looking forward to: Going on vacation. I have no clue where we're going or even IF we're going, but I'm totally ready. I want to go to Prince Edward Island and Maine and Niagara Falls this summer for my mom's milestone birthday. (I won't say how old she is. ;))

In the kitchen: My mother made these yummy looking brownies for Bible Study tonight. They are in cupcake liners and have a Reese's Peanut Butter Cup on each one. I can't wait to bite into the chocolate goodness. :)

You know where I'll be... ;)

H.H.

Day Book 5-21-11

2011-05-21T16:44:00.000-07:00

1st Best Thing That Happened This Week: Aunt Mary Ann's Surprise Party

Delicious food. :) Aunt Mary Ann turned 60 this week and last Saturday we had a surprise party for her. Mike and Heather organized it and it was at their house. They finished their basement for the occasion and set tables and chairs up down there as well as most of the food. Our family stood upstairs in the kitchen when Aunt Mary Ann came in the door. As she turned around the fridge she looked up and saw all of us and gasped. Her face was priceless. Then Heather said, "Well let's go down stairs. That's where all the food is." So we did. When Aunt Mary Ann got to the bottom and saw even more people, she was shocked and started crying. One of her best friends from nursing school flew in from Maine for the special day.

Little Lainey and I. She's so cute! She loves girly things now. Her favorite color is pink. She's still crazy, though. She wears her necklace on her head like a head band. And she can't stay clean for very long. Mike and Heather put down soft, new carpet on the stairs and floor, and after many of the guests left, Lainey ripped off her dress and threw it on the church pew and started rubbing her belly on the carpet! It was hilarious. I love her curly hair, especially after she wakes up from a nap, her mischievous eyes, and her dimple. :)

All of the younger/little cousins, minus Elliott. Me, Lainey, Josh, Evan, and Dane.

Aunt Mary Ann, Uncle Ed, and Elliott. Mike made a video for Aunt Mary Ann with pictures all through her life, and popular music from her day. Elliott kept dancing to the music and Aunt Mary Ann's friends were singing to it. A lot of people were crying. I admit, it was touching.

Dad with his aunts and my great-aunts. Aunt LaVerne and Aunt Mary Jane.

On Friday night, I went over to help set up while Mom and Dad ran errands. My cousin, Julie, and I set up the lanterns and stars on the ceiling. Josh and Dad blew up the balloons on Saturday. It had such a fun look down there.

Elliott, Dane, Julie, and Josh. Elliott looks really weird here. lol

Lainey. Her dress was the cutest thing ever! Heather said that she found it at Family Dollar.

Julie got balloons and those blowing things for the kids to be entertained with. They loved them.

The dessert table. Mom made all of those cupcakes. The two flavors were chocolate with raspberry jam, ganache, and a raspberry on top and vanilla with a cream cheese frosting and either coconut or white sprinkles on top. I helped decorate the chocolate ones so I'm partial to those.

Heather in front of the tower. She looked so pretty.

Here was the mini tower of goodies that I made. On top you will see almond sugar cookies with apricot jam filling and on bottom citrus bars that didn't turn out at all. They tasted delicious but they didn't bake all the way through and therefore were quite mushy. Julie made me put them out much to my chagrin. At least no one knew who made them. :)

Ok, even after two long posts that I started at 3:30 and it's now 8:30, my mom is making me write the day book part of this. So here it goes....

Outside my window: It's night time. And rainy. But at least it's a warm rain. There are raindrops clinging to the glass window and the light from inside makes them glow.

I am wearing: Black lounge pants, and the same grey graphic shirt I wore riding. Nothing too cool. My hair is pulled back in a side pony and my growing bangs are bobby pinned up.

I am grateful that: The rapture didn't happen today like someone predicted. I know it will be great when Christ comes back, but I just got a horse. And I want to live on earth a little longer. Even though I know Heaven will be so much better.

In the garden: The daffodils are blooming as well as the tulips, grape hyacinths, and cherry blossoms. It looks very beautiful and springy out there.

H.H.

Day Book 5-21-11

2011-05-21T13:55:00.000-07:00

2nd Best Thing That Happened This Week: The Grand Hotel/Mackinac Island/Winsome Women Retreat

Moonlight on Lake Michigan

A gnarled, ancient tree.

Heather and a turtle sculpture.

The Little Stone Church. I remember the first time I went to the Island. I was only seven but I wanted to go in the church, so we did. I thought it was so cute! And I still remembered it when I saw it.

Me: "Mom, it would be nice to get married here, wouldn't it? I could have the wedding in the Little Stone Church and have the reception in the Grand Hotel. That would be nice, wouldn't it?"
She just laughed. Oh! and told the others, and they laughed too.
Sigh.

My favorite room in the Hotel--Marley's Gallery.

Starbursts and painted paint brushes.

Awesome floor. They even had hardwood flooring on the ceiling.

This summer I want to learn how to paint with oils like this artist does.

My mom's plate of appetizers at the Grand Buffet Luncheon.

Here I am attempting the oyster....

Yuck!!!
:P

The Grand Pavilion where all the main meetings took place.

Out and about on the front porch. I was even doing ballet out there.

My third favorite house on the Island.

My second favorite house.

My favorite flag. :)

Mom in front of "my house."

At the extremely grand supper--Mom, Me, Heather, and Aunt Mary Ann. I felt like royalty with

my hair in the Kate Middleton style. ;) I loved how they pulled the chair out for you and

flipped the napkin onto your lap.

Our waiter for supper was Kirk.

The famous pecan ball floating in Mackinac Island fudge. Mmmmm.....

Me eating the famous pecan dish. (Well not the dish, but you know what I mean.)

Heather and I.

The matching matrons: Aunt Mary Ann and Mom

This was a room for parents to drop off their children. It was very cute. I wished that I was little again so I could play in there.

Grand Grounds

The Grand Hotel.

Mom and I took a walk after supper in the gardens.

On the red carpet. I wonder what my outfit rating would have been? Hmm...

These two pictures were taken in the bathroom. Isn't it amazing how a usually nasty place can be so pretty?

The Brighton Pavilion.

I want those pictures. :)

One of many sofas.

The Mackinac Bridge by night.

The setee. This one elderly lady came up to me and said, "I could never sit that low. If I did, I'd never get back up!"
Me: "Oh really?"
The joys of growing up.

All of the night time pictures were taken around ten/eleven p.m. It was really nice, because no one was around to disturb (or be disturbed by.) There were some employees around and it was a little embarrassing when my mom took a picture and the flash would go off. Then I'd get all embarrassed and say, "You better make sure that flash is off next time."
"Okay, I got it off. Ready?"
Flash.
"You've got to be kidding."

It was funny when we were out walking on the porch that night. We walked by the big window where the dining room was, and there were two guys setting up table settings in there. Now everyone (who has long hair) knows that the best thing about having your hair long is bouncing it around and having the wind stroke through it. Well I was doing that and throwing a couple of head shakes in and bouncing along, when I look up and see the two guys looking at me. It wasn't an "Oh wow check out that hair look" but... they were laughing at me! Haha I laughed too.... and stopped bouncing around.

I look pretty creepy here.

Outside our room. One of the best things about this hotel is that it's old. Which means that it's not sound proof. So as Mom and I are exploring, I casually stopped by some doors and just stood there. I wasn't being sneaky or anything. For some reason my mom made me stop. :( Party Pooper!

3rd Best Thing That Happened This Week: Thursday Piano Recital

Dad and Josh before the recital started.

The program.

I love playing on grand pianos! I can't wait till we can go pick up ours.

Hahahaha this picture always makes me laugh. Our personalities are shining through!

All of Mrs. Wichert's students. I knew who everyone was except for the girl in the purple. Mrs.

Wichert had everyone memorize their pieces this year, and EVERYBODY did a great job!

Even though this is a little blurry, I still like it. Laura and I are just laughing. I have no idea what was so funny. :)

Josh and I with our piano teacher, Mrs. Wichert.

Josh and Josh Carpenter.

4th Best Thing That Happened This Week: Riding Monet for the First Time

Here I am with Mrs. Day riding Monet for the first time today.

Dad, Monet, and I. (Isn't she gorgeous?!)

This little girl's name is Bailey--B-A-I-L-E-Y. I guess she spelled it out for my mom. She's about to give Monet some grass.

A close up of Monet's adorable face. :)

It won't let me write any more. All for now.

H.H.

Day Book 5/11/11

2011-05-11T08:25:00.001-07:00

Here are some photos from Courtney and Michael's wedding day 1/1/11.
The newly married couple.

Delicious food. Lots of chocolate!

The reception hall.

Josh and I drinking some hot chocolate.

The gorgeous cake.

Courtney and Michael

Liv stole Josh's hat. :)

Cassie, sister of the bride.

Aiden and Olivia's mom.

My friend Olivia and I. (People used to mistake us for twins when we were little.)

Right here we're comparing bruises from a Winterfest camp. The first night I walked in my sleep to the baseball field. It was my first time being at this particular camp so I had NO idea where I was. I remember starting to cry, but knowing I had to keep moving or I'd freeze to death. Thankfully I was wearing fuzzy socks to bed, which I hardly ever do, or I would have most likely gotten frost bit in the snow and ice. Just when I was ready to barge into a random cabin, I finally found the right one. It was a pretty scary experience. The second night, I fell off the top bunk bed. Olivia, who was on another bunk at the foot of mine, saw the whole thing happen. She said I was crawling around at the foot of my bunk peering over the edge and she thought, "Oh my gosh she's going to fall!" So she stuck her arm out to catch me, and I fell on her arm and her duffle bag. Good thing I didn't break her arm! I remember her jumping up and looking down at me. She said, "Hannah are you okay?!" I was laughing and telling her, "I'm fine! Go back to bed!" And I climbed back in bed. It was a really weird weekend at camp. The other girls in our cabin were like, "I wonder what else she'd do if we were staying another night?!"

Cassie and I.

Our family-- Mom, Josh, Me, and Dad.

Day Book 5-5-11

2011-05-03T19:41:00.001-07:00

I've been a little obsessed with the Royal Wedding this past week. Everything was so beautiful and perfect!

Prince William and Kate are such a cute couple. Loved Kate's dress....

I absolutely loved Joss Stone's outfit! She looked so adorable.

******************************************************************************************

Here are some pictures from my birthday almost two months ago. I just couldn't seem to find the time to post them.

All ready for ballet.

Birthday Supper

Blitz Torte Deliciousness. :)

The cake is so loaded that it's toppling over! lol

Cake time! My friend Liv came over after ballet to eat dessert with us.

The best birthday present ever! My first horse Monet. :)

She loves carrots, apples, and sugar cubes.

Such a big baby. So tall and gentle.

Outside my window: It's grey and rainy. A very sleepy sort of day. The spring flowers are

finally beginning to burst forth- the little white, purple, and yellow crocuses, and the

electrifying, cheery daffodils. The trees and grass are all stooping down with the weight of heavy water droplets.

I am listening to: The humming of the refrigerator. Dad's pen clicking on his book work.

Mom's footsteps. Bella's soft, rhythmic breathing. The sounds of peace.

I am wearing: A crimson, Aeropostale, bulky sweatshirt and dark denim skinny jeans. Skinny jeans are my favorite jeans for girls (or boot cut). I hate skinnys on guys! Gross.

I am grateful for: A warm house. Thick blankets. Good books. Bamboo needles and alpaca yarn. :)

I am inspired by: Betty Greene. She was one of the first WASPs. She never gave up when

things were tough. And she was a committed Christian who loved God. I'd love to learn how to fly planes and hot air balloons.

I'm looking forward to: A ladies retreat at Mackinac Island in a few weeks. This is my first time going. (I've been to the Island once before, just not a grown ups' retreat!) I'm going with my

mom, aunt, and cousin. It should be pretty fun.

H.H

Day Book 3/8/11 (My Grandpa's Birthday)

2011-03-08T17:28:00.000-08:00

This is Monet. She is a 17.2 hand Hanoverian/Thoroughbred cross, and will be 5 years old April 29th. I hope we get her! She's a very friendly horse. When I call her she comes trotting over to the fence so that I can pet her. She's very personable. Apparently she also has wonderful bloodlines. Her grandfather was a show jumper. Like a really good jumper! That's what I want to do with Monet. Here are a few pictures that her owner sent me.

She looks so cute here! I love her stripe and her pink nose. :)

Today is: My Grandpa's 85th birthday! Maybe Grandpa and I will have a combined party since, in one week from today, I'll be fourteen. Time goes by really fast. I can now apply for a job at Ebelings, our local grocery store. When I'm fifteen I plan to work at the library, at 16 I'll juggle two jobs-one at Maurice's and another at Linnea and Christine's. All of the jobs look like they'd be fun. (Except when you want to go somewhere or do something else.) Another thing. In eight months I can take Driver's Ed. Yay!!!! :)

Outside my Window: It's dark outside. It is late. (As Evan and Lainey say, "The sun is sleeping.") Most good children are in bed. I can hear the train's whistle as it goes through our town. When I was younger the sound used to scare me, but now I really love it. It's so peaceful. I think that it's saying "Goodnight" just to me.

We are expecting a big snow storm tomorrow. Might even get 7 inches. That's what I heard anyway. Other people have said 3-4 in. We'll see.

I'm listening to: The sound of the keyboard clicking away. The train's whistle. Mom cleaning a pan with oil. Footsteps. Bella's low growl at the train.

I am wearing: Red fuzzy socks, jeans, a burgundy long sleeve shirt with finger holes, my black Nike sweatshirt, and my hair is sweeped into a side pony.

I am noticing that: Just when the smell of spring is in the air, snow begins to fall. As ice becomes mud, snow covers it, making it icy again. What a vicious cycle. One bad thing about living this far north is that we really don't have a beautiful spring with glorious flowers and flowering trees. Instead we have an icky, wet, and gross spring.

I am soon to create: A bunny for Colton. He's the newborn son of Janelle and Blue. I ride horses with Janelle. She's very nice, and I'm sure Colton is adorable. :)

Oh, here are two pretty wedding gowns that I like. The first one is my favorite. I'd wear it any day... well, any wedding day.

I like this one except for that weird lace thing that's happening on the bodice. I'd wear a long veil and silk ivory gloves with it. :)

Good night.

H.H.

Day Book 3/2/11

2011-03-02T08:11:00.000-08:00

Here are some pictures of Elliott's 1st birthday party. :)

Elliott

Lainey and I

Lainey and Papa (Uncle Ed)

Heather brushing Lainey's hair

Delicious food

Two year old Lainey

Evan and I

Dane :)

That was Elliott's very own cake! He ate almost the whole thing!

Lainey talking to me

Elliott had vanilla cake, while everyone else had chocolate.

Dismantling and destroying... and eating.

Evan after his bath. When Evan and Lainey saw Elliott eating with his hands they both thought they should do the same thing. So a bath was in order.

I knitted this ball for Elliott. Evan and Lainey were using it as a pillow, which works too.

Lainey and Grandma. (Aunt Mary Ann) Lainey's towel is a duck, so she likes to quack in it.

Elliott after his bath.

Me reading to Lainey. Evan is looking at one of Elliott's new toys.

It was a very fun party. I was sad that Dad and Josh couldn't come, since they were sick.

I am excited for: My birthday in less than two weeks! It's so hard to believe that this year I'll be a freshman in high school. Time goes by so fast. :/

I am enjoying: The warmer weather and my new iPhone. There are a couple of really fun games on the iPhone. My favorites are Fruit Ninja and Tap Tap Revenge. You slice fruit and avoid bombs on Fruit Ninja, and Tap Tap is like guitar hero.

Outside my Window: The snow is melting and the ice is cracking! Spring is on the way. Since our yard is so shaded, it feels like we have all the snow in town. Everyone else's snow is almost completely gone, with just a brown icy pile here and there. I always want to shovel the snow out of our yard and throw it onto the street so it melts.

I am hoping to: Go on the Tour the Mackinac Bike Trip this summer with a Bible camp. The only thing I'm nervous about is not being in shape enough to go. I don't want to pass out from not being in shape or from heat exhaustion. The longest day you have to bike is 70 miles!

I am wearing: I am still in my pajamas. They are so comfy I don't want to change out of them!

I am reading: One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich, Summer of the Swans, and a Hudson Taylor biography. Ivan Denisovich is really sad. I feel horrible for those poor prisoners. Summer of the Swans is also a sad novel. Sara's brother got sick and can't talk so he's considered handicapped. It's sad because in the middle of the night he went for a walk to find the swans, but went the wrong way and got lost. Hudson Taylor is a very inspiring. When he finally arrived in China he lived on 70 pounds a year whereas all the other missionaries lived on 700 pounds a year. Hudson Taylor trusted God in everything, and knew God would always take care of him.

H.H.

Day Book 2-22-11

2011-02-22T13:00:00.000-08:00

(I want this look for my kitchen. I love it!! I'd hang one of these pictures by Mary Engelbreit on that bare wall...)

I am reading: The Story of the Vonn Trapp Family Singers. I'm not very far into it yet, but so far, so good.

Bella Stories: Bella was VERY bad this morning! She growled and snapped at Pooh, because he was getting too close to her rawhide. :/ This afternoon she grabbed Dad's underwear and socks and pulled them off the couch. At least she didn't chew on them like she usually does. Then she had an "energy burst" and went tearing around the family room, jumping on the couch like a mad-man. She keeps us on our toes.

I am grateful that: The Chaucer class I was in is over. It was a lot of work, and it is a great load off my back to be done. My final paper contrasted the parson and the monk; two very different characters who both supposedly loved God. The parson truly did, while the monk did not.

(We have a two week break before we start our next class Ivan Denisovich in March.

I am hoping to: Go to Ireland this summer or Prince Edward Island. Dad says I have a better chance at Prince Edward Island since we can drive most of the way there. I'd like to see Niagara Falls on our way. :)

I wish: Three things. First, that I was feeling better. I got sick on Sunday morning with a headache, body ache, sore throat, and congestion. I finally think my body is on the mend today. Mr. Nicholson and I were supposed to go up to the hill and ski today, but sadly due to my illness, it didn't happen. Second, I wish that I could be in the French class. The teacher said that it would be hard for me to catch up to the other students, since they've been studying for five months. I'd like to try and catch up over the summer, if I could. Thirdly, I wish I could type, since it would be so much faster to write down my thoughts. :)

All for now.

H.H.

DayBook 1-12-11

2011-01-12T07:00:00.000-08:00

Christmas Day "brunch". Well it was supposed to be brunch, but we didn't eat until 4 o'clock P.M. My dad was up all Christmas Eve night puking, so he wasn't feeling good at all. It was a weird Christmas, but I guess everyone has those.

Josh and I. Christmas morning.

Josh, Bella, and I. Christmas Eve night. Bella got the special privileged of coming into the living room and she got to go upstairs to see Dad on Christmas morning.

Bella. :) What a cutie.

Wow! I can't believe a New Year is already here.

2011..... I wonder what you'll bring.

I joined the Team Norway ski team, back in December, after only skiing three times in my life, over a span of six years. The first practice was pretty humiliating for me, but thankfully I'm now getting the hang of it. The coaches told me "You're a real skier now!" I think they're pretty proud of how far I've come in four weeks. From struggling down the easier hill to starting to weave poles on the racing hill. Haha for me that's a big accomplishment!

My coaches are Mr. Nicholson and Matt. Both of them are great teachers; kind, encouraging, funny. I'm having a great time!

The only thing that kept me coming back after the first week was going to Harvard, because a girl on the team got a full ride scholarship there because of her skiing abilities and academics. Now I go back because I love it, and because I still want to go to Harvard!

I am excited for: The Pine Mountain ski day tomorrow. It's for homeschoolers and this one private school. It's $5 for a lift ticket, $5 for lunch (which is gross), $5 for rental, $5 for a lesson. I'm just getting the lift ticket. Hopefully we can stop at Subway and get subs for lunch. My mom is actually going to try it because it's so cheap. I hope she doesn't break anything! lol I don't think she will. I literally can NOT wait! It will be so much fun to ski somewhere else!

H.H.

DayBook: Last Day of November

2010-11-30T14:27:00.000-08:00

Outdoors: The rain came last night and today and washed away all the ice and most of the snow. All that remains are puddles and some snow debris. It has turned very cold! In the beginning of winter it takes awhile to adjust to the cold, but when summer comes, it takes no getting used to at all.
I miss the warm days of summer...riding my bike on the paper route especially. Since the ice came, I couldn't ride my bike anymore. :( Now today, I was privileged enough to be able to ride it, but I still had to veer away from the icky stuff.
I just came in from helping to put the trampoline (Bella's favorite toy) away. Dad has already put away the basketball hoop, and he also put away the white vintage crib, that used to be in the library, because our grand piano is coming sometime, and he doesn't want to mess with it after the snow comes. Putting away all the outdoor things is one of the biggest signs of winter's arrival.

I am listening to: Josh is singing Just the Way You Are by Bruno Mars right now. It's one of my favorite songs. My favorite line is...if perfects what your searching for then just stay the same. I know, it sounds stupid if you just read it, but when you listen to it, it's WAY different!

I am wearing: My navy blue zip up sweatshirt, purple Mexican looking shirt with different colored stiching at the neck line, and jeans with purple butterflies on it.

I am creating: I have been knitting Christmas presents like CRAZY! I'm working on a festive red and green Christmas dishcloth and periwinkle blue and black hot pads. Both are turning out beautifully.

Looking forward to: Ballet tonight! Meaghan and I are both in the Nutcracker which is in a little over a week. I feel pretty confident with my part. I just carry around the head of the dragon in our Chinese dance. Meaghan carries part of the body directly behind me. The head is really pretty heavy. It's made of paper mache, so you wouldn't think so. :/
Meaghan and I are both bummed that our costumes are UNITARDS! They're sooo ugly! They should be called ugitards instead! Color is bright orange and hot pink tie die, which makes the hips look enormous! Blah!

~H.E. (who happens to be a she)

Day Book 11-18-10

2010-11-18T17:13:00.000-08:00

Picture thought: Here are Debra and I at Maurice's trying on dresses. I'd accessorize by wearing black shoes, a black clutch purse, pearl earrings and necklace, with a pale pink fake flower clip in my hair. I'd also wear a little black sweater for warmth.

I am listening to: Grease popping on the stove. It smells pretty bad too. :P My mom is cooking pork chops for supper so that must be why I hear greasy stuff sizzling. Also on the menu is potatoes, homemade apple sauce, and "some kind of vegetable". My mother is being very vague.

Oh, now she says we're having green beans and carrots. Mmmmm... :)

Outside my window: It's pitch black outside right now. I don't like when it gets dark at 4:30. It makes for a shorter day. In the daylight, you can see that our neighbor Tim (directly across the street from us) totaled his car. That must be such a sickening feeling to notice that the whole front grill and everything else on the front is gone. :( I like the color of his Envoy- a bright cranberry red. It's so cheery!

I am wearing: I wonder why everytime I write on here I'm wearing the same thing?! Yup! My pajamas! The same hot pink smiley faced ones. :)

I am reading: In addition to Little Men by Louisa May Alcott, I am also reading The Diary of Anne Frank. It's so sad how Jews were killed and persecuted just because of their nationality. Anne Frank's father had a good job and lots of money, so for a while they thought they would be safe because of that. Soon, though, they realized that they were in just as much danger as everybody else. So they went to their "Secret Annexe" as they called their hiding place. Everyone thought that they had escaped to America, but in reality they were hiding in the upper two levels of their father's office, where he used to work. During the day they had to be super quiet because people were still working downstairs and of course they didn't want to be found out. Here are the names of the people who hid there: Otto Frank and his wife, Margot Frank (sister), Anne Frank, Mr. and Mrs. Van Daan and their son Peter, and then another older man who was a dentist. It's a very good story. :)

Yesterday at Awana: I help out at Awana at our church. Well, actually it's at the Norway school, because our little church doesn't have room for all the kids. I help out in Cubbies, which is the youngest group, ages 3-5. My cute little cousin Evan comes too. He will be 4 on December 21. Yesterday, he came wearing a sky blue polo shirt, his navy blue Cubbies' vest, and a big smile. :) When Pastor Filizetti asked him what he could share with his friends, Evan said, " I could share Lainey!"

There are 6 pretty steady kids who come.

*Ellen. 4 years old. Blonde hair that is always tousled, blue eyes that are usually ringed in red from crying over every little thing, would be a very charming little girl if she would smile and be happy. I have NEVER heard such a little child scream and yell and argue with adults the way she does. Yesterday, she looked all sad and I asked, "Ellen, what's wrong?" The pleasant reply, "I'd NEVER tell YOU." Finally I got out of her "I feel left out." So I sympathized "Ahh Ellen, you don't need to feel left out. Come here and sit on my lap." Then I reach over to pick her up and she blows up. "NO. NO. Noooooooo....." And bursts out crying. I got so mad at her that I couldn't even look at her screaming and balling her eyes out. So after I was trying to be nice to her then I get "Hannah, you made her cry!" from Elyse. (Way to make you feel like a help!) So Courtney took her off to the bathroom to wipe her eyes.

Evan asked Josh, "Why is she crying?"

Josh, "I don't know."

"Maybe she had to poop. I cried in the car because I had to go poop." :) He's so cute. :)

All I can say with this handful is "Lord give me patience and make it snappy!" ;)

*Melanie. 3 years old. Blonde hair, blue eyes, turned up nose. Ellen's cousin. Not much better.

Seriously she won't talk, won't play the games, and just sits on Courtney's lap. Fun kid, huh?

The most I've heard her say, with her mouth full of animal crackers, is "More cookies! More cookies!"

She is more amiable than Ellen though, thankfully.

Aurora. Wavy auburn hair. Green/hazel eyes.

When we play God Loves (like Duck-Duck Goose) and she's picked to go around and tap heads, she just runs around without choosing anyone. It's pretty funny actually! That girl just doesn't tire out!!!

At snack time, she asks for cup after cup after cup after cup of water. Doesn't tire out from that either! Mrs. Freeman, the teacher, calls her a fish because she drinks so much!

Ethan. Brown hair. Brown eyes. Big smile.

This boy is the happiest one there. He loves everything! And flashes these massive smiles! Ethan's a super fast kid. Seriously I have to work at getting away from him when we play God Loves. I usually let him tag me though, and then he laughs so hard! He's actually Debra's uncle's girlfriend's son. So I've known who he was for a while.

Ethan. Almond eyes. Thick black hair. Oriental boy. Cute little smile.

I don't know this Ethan very well yet because yesterday was his first time coming. I think he liked it, because he just sat there smiling. It really was quite cute. :) He likes candy too. But who doesn't?! Uh hummm.... :)

Evan. Brown hair. Hazel eyes. Happy boy. Smile stretches across his whole face. My cousin.

Evan loves Awana and participates very well. He answers every question and memorizes his verses. He surprised everyone when Mr. Filizetti asked if anyone knew what a carpenter was. Evan said, "Umm... someone who builds things out of wood." He's such a smart boy! Mr. Filizetti said to him a little later, "Evan, I like you. You're a pretty cool kid." Evan said, "I know." And he's so proper!

When Aunt Mary Ann came to pick him up, I told her how we had to go back into the gym where they close up and give the kids candy. Evan was standing there and heard me and yelled, "CANDY!!!" Then he turned to Aunt Mary Ann gave her his coat and backpack and said, "Grandma, Hannah said we have to go back in the gym to get candy." It was so adorable, and I just marvel at how grown up he sounds!

Well that's my update.

H.H.

Day Book 11-12-10

2010-11-12T17:30:00.000-08:00

I am remembering: Fourth of July of this year. It was a sad day because, Mr. Danielson, a man our family was close to, died. He was 89 years old. I felt bad for him, since he lost his voice a few years ago, and he LOVED to talk! My dad called him the "Boss" and my mom called him the "King of Norway" because he lived here all his life. Mr. Danielson's wife died seven years ago. (The same year as my dad's mom died, my mom's mom died, and my mom's brother died.) He put two pictures of her on the dash of his red Tracker. One of them was her when they first met and the other was of her in her old age. I thought that was sweet and sad.
At his funeral there was laughter as people remembered times they shared with him. It's still hard to believe he's really gone.
Our little family- 2010

Here I am on our front porch.

My Bella!!!

Walking to the parade. The parade used to seem a lot splendider when I was little then it does now. Now I'm like "It's okay. I don't know what the big thrill is?!" But the 4th of July wouldn't be the same without it!

Our yummy lunch. Pretty much speaks for itself. :)

I am listening to: My mom moaning because she is sick. Coughs...coughs... mmmm mmmm ooh oooohhhh mmmm. I hope she feels better soon. It's really weird when one of the parents is sick. Here are the symptoms: Cough, Sore throat, Achiness (but no fever) Headache, and "just all around lousy" as my mom says. Lots of people have had this- Josh, Julie Huppert, Monique, Ashlynn, and Faith Ball, Debbie Miller, Aunt Connie, and who knows who else.

I am hoping that: Mom will feel better so that we can go to the play at Northland College. This year's fall play is "Pride and Prejudice." We had to cancel our tickets due to sickness. I've heard that it's really excellent.

I am praying that: No one else in our family will get this sickness. I think Josh already had it, because last weekend we went down to Milwaukee so Josh, Dad, and Micah could watch the Hornets/Bucks game. And he was running a high fever, cough, sore throat, and achy. I had a bad cough with lots of congestion that week too. Now my throat's starting to hurt.. ughhhh.... I pray that it goes away asap!

Well I'm going to go finish my school so byeee byyeee for now.... ;P haha

Day Book 10-30-10

2010-10-30T15:58:00.000-07:00

I am remembering: At the beginning of this month, we went to our neighbor Julie's property, where a few different kinds of apples grow. We had a lot of fun (and brought Bella too; who proved to be more work than we intended.) That nasty girl ate deer poop and would steal our apples, slobber on them, and run off and hide them. Yuck!

Here are a couple of pictures from our day.

Outside my window: There isn't much to see out there right now. The sky and everything else is pitch black. Maybe if we lived out of town I could say something like, "The stars are twinkling way, way up in the heavens, wrapped up in a blanket of velvet." But this next sentence is more true to MY life. "The stars are drowned out by counterfeit stars- streetlights, garage lights, store lights, house lights all trying to compete with the beauty of nature."

Looking forward to: A grand piano! We're finally getting a better piano. It's a Baldwin -Hamilton baby grand, brown wood cabinetry, made in the 50's. I hope I like it, because my Aunt Linnea found it down in the Champaign area, and I haven't seen it or played it. But I take comfort in the fact that it HAS to be better than what we have now!

What I did today: First thing this morning, my mom woke me up and helped me make my tutu for Halloween (TOMORROW!) I'm going to be a fairy and so is my cousin, Meaghan. The costume I created is the blue/purple tutu, blue dress underneath, purple and black striped tights, black knit boots, chunky navy blue hat, blue Mardi Gras mask, glow wand, and purple jack-o-lantern- trick-or-treat pumpkin. This is my last year for trick-or-treating which I'm sad about.
Then my dad and I went up to the ski sale at Norway Mountain. My dad bought me a really nice pair of skis and some poles. I have to buy some boots off Ebay. I'm looking at joining the ski team. Looks like a ton of fun!

I had a riding lesson after that. First one for a while! We're trying Buffy out for a month right now, so I kind of got a better feel for her. Hopefully, Dad can take me out to the barn tomorrow so I can ride again.

Mom and I went to Mrs. Verley's shop after my lesson. I got lots of different kinds of yarn to make Christmas presents. It's so exciting to start new projects!

Well all for now! I'm super tired so I'm going to head upstairs to bed. Have a good night everyone!

Day Book

2010-10-20T09:18:00.000-07:00

I'm saying 10-10. haha Happy October and Happy 10-10!

Outside My Window

It's 54 degrees outside right now, blue sky with some large, fluffy, cumulus clouds. On the front porch the geraniums are still looking beautiful. The red of the flowers is very vibrant. We still have our Fourth of July decorations up - American flag hanging, the cushions on our love seat and chairs are still covered with red and white fabric, and to kind of "fall it up" we have an orange mum on the table and two pumpkins on the steps.

I am listening to

Latin chant music. It is very peaceful. It makes me want to curl up in front of the flickering, flaming fire with thick fur blankets, a good book ( something historical/suspenseful ) and a piece of pumpkin pie....

I am wearing

PAJAMAS! Haha my favorite fleece hot pink polka dot pair. They really are very adorable. Some of the dots are smiley faces. :)

I am grateful for

Not having special needs. I sometimes wish I didn't have to do my school work, but I'd much rather learn and use my mind than not be able to do those things that we take for granted.

I am pondering

"Look unto Me all you that are heavy laden and I will give you rest."

I have been so busy this school year and rushing around with so many activities that sometimes I forget or am too busy to spend my time with God. But God says in his Word that if we spend time with him He will give us rest. That is a comfort. :)

I am reading

I just finished reading a Swiftly Tilting Planet by Madeleine L'Engle. It was excellent, I thought. But then again I LOVE science so I also LOVE science fiction. This particular work by L'Engle was about this man, Mad Dog Branzillo, and how he was trying to destroy the world. But Charles Wallace with help from a unicorn, Gaudior, were trying to change fate, and the outcome was that they had to go WAY back in time. Very enjoyable, but obviously make believe.

I'm also reading a book about Amy Carmichael who was a missionary to India in the early 1900s. She never married, but she was never lonely either. Her field was rescuing temple girls and other abused women. Sometimes she had over a hundred girls living with her at one time! She was a pretty amazing lady!

I am looking forward to

Heading down to Milwaukee area to look at a horse named Willie. A 16.1 hand Thoroughbred, dark brown (almost black) with a white star and a white sock on a back leg. He's 12 years old, very safe and dependable. Is a Dressage/ Hunter Jumper horse. I hope I find the right horse soon!

Easter 2010

2010-04-18T15:00:00.001-07:00

Summary of July

2009-08-07T08:10:00.000-07:00

This has been a very busy, cold summer in the U.P. We haven't been swimming once this summer! :( Okay, I didn't get the chance to blog in July, so here are some recaps!!!!

4th of July: Bella was scared with all the firecrackers going off, so she cuddled up with Dad on the porch. It wasn't a very good day/night for her.

Lupper ( lunch and supper ) at Aunt Connie's house. That's Mr. Danielson in the background.

Our friends from Illinois- the Cartys.

Cupcake!!!! Yum!!!

My cousins-- Yesenia and Johanna

Heather and Evan were in the parade! Evan wasn't being very camera cooperative! ;) Such a cutie!

A few of us kids on the curb. L-R: Daniel, Nathan, Christina, Me, Anna, & Meaghan

Our church's GREAT float--won first place!

Watching the fireworks! :) Back row: Me, and Meaghan. Front row: Anna, Christina, Randy, and Josh

Anna, Me, and Meaghan goofin' off!

The start of camp!!! Classic in front of the baggage photo! lol

Camp friends! Liz in the black, Jennifer in the purple,and Larissa in the blue/yellow. The other ones I didn't really hang out with.

Anna and I on Dress like a Cowboy Night.

My friend Mel and I. hahahaha

Why is Anna licking me????!!!

My counselor Jacqui and I. And my dad wearing my cowboy hat!

The last peonies of the season.

Meaghan's 16th birthday party. Chelsea getting food. I wasn't far behind!

Meaghan and I

Happy Birthday Meaghan!

Tirmisu for dessert! Mmmmm...

Yes, Josh WAS chewing on all this gum, and kept drooling too! A whole pack of Bubalicious! So ten Josh!

Josh and Randy had a sleepover after Meaghan's party. I thought they were hilarious the way they were both sleeping!

Mom's birthday supper! Happy Birthday Mom!

Mom's presents.

The card I made for her.

Julie sitting on her stool with her foot on the stool she got Mom. There is quite a story behind the stool and the vase with the roses!

Mom's birthday dessert! Pie without the crust.

Josh all geared up and ready for football season! Believe me, he was stoked that day!

A dog named Daisy that we "found" and returned to her owners. She was so sweet!

My favorite plant ever-- hen and chicks!

The geraniums on our porch.

Josh and I on Josh's birthday.

Josh's presents. Just like on my birthday, a small present in each bag, all spread out over the day.

The birthday table. Is this the Plague #2 of the frogs???!!!!

Josh had to get up and open his first present at the time of his birth--3:57 AM. He got a digital microscope!

The present he got the day before from Aunt Barbara. An awesome baseball book that looks like a baseball! She sent me paper dolls in the polka dot paper. I saved the paper! Thanks Aunt Barbara!

Raspberry/blackberry/peach pie. Delicious!

Josh and his friend Josh.

Blowing out the cake. He got them all out, too!

We have a Nature table now. The table used to be in our bathroom, now our bathroom's in havoc. Bella recently ate the bee hive! That dog!

Strawberry pie we ate last Sunday.

The play, Alice in Wonderland, that Josh and I were in. Can you find us?

Josh had two roles- the Mouse and the Knave of Hearts. I was the March Hare.

One of my BFFs Molly. She was Alice and did fantastic! :)

So this pretty much covers July! All for now!

Father's Day 2009

2009-06-22T19:24:00.001-07:00

Evan came over on Saturday, so we thought that it would be nice if he made a Father's Day card for his dad. When Mom told him to put his hand in the finger paint, he looked at her as if she was kidding. ( He hates getting his hands dirty! ) So, Mom took some out and rubbed it on his hands. Evan took it all very seriously. ;)

His little hand prints look so cute!

On the inside of the card, I translated as follows:

I'll meet you at the top of the coconut tree. Happy Father's Day! I love you Daddy! Love, Evan

Mom helped him write his name. He also drew a "picture" of a boat. It turned out really cute!

Pretty landscape.

In Escanaba, we drove around looking at houses. This one is our favorite. :)

The father with his children.

All of us "kids" with dad.

Josh and I on our way to Escanaba.

Dad wanted to go to our favorite Mexican restaurant in Escanaba for lunch, and since he had to go down to the terminal anyway, we would hit two birds with one stone. When we got down there, we found out that Ferdinand's was closed. We were all disappointed, cause for me I was REALLY in the mood for chips and salsa, fajitas, and a non-alcoholic daiquiri. But they were closed. So, we drove down to The House of Ludington, only to find that they too, were closed. Then we went to Hereford and Hops. They were open! We went in, sat down, and looked at the menu. We couldn't find anything we wanted! Dad had already ordered one of there homemade root bears-which was too sweet for most of us, except for the Candy Man! Not finding anything we liked we left. Finally, we went to the Swedish Pantry. A quaint little restaurant. The food was pretty good. I split a BLT and Swedish pancakes with Josh, had really good hot chocolate to drink, and split A Mile High Lemon Meringue Pie and Raspberry Pie with Mom and Dad. Good meal. Then we drove around looking at houses, a favorite past-time of all except Josh, went Lake Michigan to check out the water, and then drove over to the terminal. On the way home we stopped in Powers and got ice cream. I had blue moon/cotton candy! D-E-L-I-C-I-O-U-S-! Then we went to see Grandpa when we got home. We had a nice day!

Mini Camp and Trail Weekend

2009-06-21T17:49:00.000-07:00

On Memorial Day Weekend, I went on a Mini Pack and Trail at Lake Ellen Camp. It was a lot of fun, I just wish it had been warm enough to go swimming. The water was like forty degrees! A lot of people actually did go in the water!!!!! Brrrrr.... Anyway, here are some pictures.

My shadow. We were at Main Camp and all my friends were either swimming or taking showers, so I was kinda bored. At the rustic outpost where we were staying, there was no water, bathrooms, and no electricity. VERY dark!

Chella eating a very, very, black marshmallow!

The sunset. Believe me, we were never up early enough to see the sun rise!

There's the outpost! My cabin is the one directly ahead.

The horses' hoof-prints.

The sun between the trees in the woods.

Beautiful spring leaves.

My horse and my shadow.

The whole gang. It was Joie's birthday that day, so we all made her a cheese box with our hand prints on them. Top row L-R: Mary, Hannah, Carly, Chella, Megan, Joie, and Chris Ann.

Bottom row: Me, Julianne, and Addison.

The cheese box I painted in the Craft Shop.

My friend, Carly, on the gyros. I DID NOT do it!! lol

A few of us in the Craft Shop. Almost everyone (except Addison) painted a cheese box.

Where we ate our Sunday lunch.

My friend Carly and Me.

The horses were all tied up so that the hungry riders could eat!

Our outpost right across the lake.

Pretty trees and sky.

The line. I was second in line! My horse was really fast, and Dundee, the horse behind me, was really slow. So there was usually a big gap, but hey- I got good pictures because of it!

The sun again!

Addison's horse was being bad, so she had to ride with Joie.

Me on my horse Diamond.

He's so pretty. Bet you'd never guess he was twenty-two years old?

My other friend Addison and I.

Saturday night campfire. We had chicken, carrots, baked potatoes, and raspberry pudgy pies for supper.

The girls playing tether ball.

Carly's horse Romeo. He was batting his eyelashes at me! Hilarious!!

Dundee was VERY interested in my camera!

Diamond and Me. I wish he really was my horse! He's actually an ex-racehorse! Which is why he likes to go fast. Diamond has the number twenty-two on his neck.

Such a cutie!

Chris Ann's horse, Jewel. She is such a big pretty girl!

Carly and Addison. They brought there own horses from home! Lucky ducks!

Food cooking! Yum!

The inside of my cabin. I have the green sleeping bag.

Where some of the food was cooked.

The pump where we had to pump water. My arms got a good workout!

The horses stayed here all night. Diamond is second from the left.

We ate supper here.

And we ate breakfast and lunch in here.

Julianne, Addison, Carly, and my cabin.

I had such a fun weekend, even though I wanted to see my family and play my saxophone! Haha. It was great!

Day 6: Of The Adventure

2009-06-21T17:30:00.000-07:00

My cousin Erin's bridesmaid bouquet.

The Gerbera Daisies from the Rehearsal Dinner.

My friend Danae and Me. We like randomly met at the wedding. She's Aunt Judy and Uncle Bob's niece. She's REALLY nice!:)

We just hung out around Uncle Bob and Aunt Judy's house that day. We also got to go play basketball at the church. We had a very nice, relaxing day.

Our Adventure: Day 5-Awesome NYC!!!

2009-05-16T08:24:00.000-07:00

Imagine! A McDonald's in New York City!... and a retro guy! Lol

People playing chess on the street. That little girl is so cute!

I wanted to buy this picture... until I found out how much it was! Isn't it beautiful though?

I asked the guy who was standing behind the table if it was for sale. He said yes that it was. ( I'm so blonde! ) Anyway, my face probably fell, so he was so nice and told me I could take a picture of it. The salesman is in the top left corner.

Beautiful hand painted eggs. I LOVED them!

On a nice, warm, spring, Sunday afternoon, New Yorkers get out to the park for some relaxing. Isn't it crowded?!

I think that this is a cathedral or some kind of church. The architecture is amazing!

I thought outside flower shops were found only in Europe... I guess not!

Yummy fruit stand! We were almost done with our LONG, trecherous walk by this time. About 2-4 miles!

Yay! China-town outskirts! These clothes are so colorful and pretty!

I was taking random pictures everywhere... so yeah!

Mom, Josh, and Dad. Check out Josh's expression. After getting off the train, Dad scared Josh with stories of " walking down the street, and a gangster pulls out his gun and shoots you." Poor kid!

Chinese building. I wonder if China is just like Little China Town?

Walking...and walking...and walking....

This building is really cool. It juts out right into the street!

The little boy was crying because his brother had just gotten an ice-cream cone, and he wanted one too.

FINALLY THERE!!!!!

Eeeeeewwwwww! Fish markets make you gag!

The flowers were fake. :(

But aren't they pretty?

No, if you were wondering, we didn't stop here.

The cake on the top left was my favorite.

Little Italy where we bought gelato and sorbet. I ordered raspberry sorbet, which my dad ate, Josh ordered peach sorbet, which I devoured, Mom got cherry amaretto gelato, which Josh gulped down, and Dad ordered some kind of gelato, which Mom took.

I would be scared if I lived on the top floor and had to climb up those stairs... ( shivers! )

Pretty menu

Haha! :)

Cramped Little Italy

We got a subway back uptown. Yippee! Saved a lot of time. While in Chinatown, Josh got an F.C. Barcelona jersey and I got a plaid cabbie hat and an I Love NY t-shirt. The "born to shop" kid wasn't scared anymore after he began to shop! Just like him!

Sore feet, tired, a long way to go.

The play on Broadway we wanted to see. It had already started when we got there; to bad.

McDonald's! And a cool hand sculpture a little higher and farther on up.

Me getting drawn by a street artist just off Time Square. He did a good job!

Josh getting drawn. He was embarrassed by all the people watching him.

Me at Time Square. I think this was one of my favorite things in all of New York.

Josh at Time Square.

Me at The Square. You can see how pretty it was with all the lights.

This is how the policemen don't get run over. Reflectors!

Petting a police horse. He had some really weird name. The horse that is!

The tower where every New Year's Eve a ball drops, signaling the end of the year.

The ball at the top. ( It's purple. )

Someone offered to take our family picture, in exchange for taking a picture of herself and daughter.

Josh and I in front of the M&M building.

$12 per lb.?!?!?!...

WE didn't get any!! LOL

Looking up between two skyscrapers

We were looking for the Rockefeller Center, and we couldn't find it, so we asked a security guy. It ended up that the Rock was only like three buildings away!

A pretty carriage in action.

The moon actually shines in New York City!

The bottom of the Rock.

Here I am inside the Rockefeller Center.

Up on the tippy top.

The highest part. You can kind of see the glass so people can't jump off.

The ceiling, floor, and walls are all made of this flashing material.

The Empire State Building.

Me in front of the Empire State Building.

The view up there was spectatcular.

On the LONG wait to get down. Fifteen minutes at the top, and forty-five to get back down.

I love all the world's flags.

Imagine! Skating in April! It wasn't even very cold.

Mom and Dad on the train ride back.

Hahaha:) Me and photo fun!

Josh and I. The conductor loved my hat! We got back "home" at 11:00PM. New York is great! Of all big cities, this is most where I'd want to live!

My Guitar/Piano Recital

2009-05-16T07:39:00.000-07:00

My piano teacher, Courtney and I.
I played Hornpipe by Handel and Guide Me O Thou Great Jehovah arr. by Sprunger.

Me, Courtney, and Josh.

Josh and I did a duet called The Red River Valley!

My guitar teacher Cassie and I.

I played Cancion which is a Spanish Traditional. ( Note: I should've cleaned my guitar first! Sorry! )

Okay, It's been taking me forever to get through the vacation posts, so I'm going to take a little break and post our recital pics. :) But don't worry, I'll finish the vacation post!

A few days ago, Josh decided to play his song with his eyes covered up. I think he did a great job!

Our Adventure: Day 4-The Wedding

2009-04-23T07:56:00.000-07:00

Jaime and Jim taking their vows

Candy Hearts throwing

Cake Smashing

The kiss

On the dance floor

The newlyweds

First dance as husband and wife

Sooooooo cute!!

Jaime and Aunt Mary Ann ( actually my parents are there too! )

Haley, the flower girl, and Jaime

Jaime

The Bob Hayes Family L-R Uncle Bob, Aunt Judy, Jaime, Jim, Erin, and Jonathon

Erin and Jaime's brother

Erin!!!

Evan playing in the nursery after the ceremony ( He put a stuffed animal in the buggy and was " givin' it a ride"! )

Heather and Evan. Evan didn't want his picture taken, he wanted to get out and dance! I acually "danced" with him! Very fun!!

Discovering the Wonderful World of Mirrors!

The Reception Hall

J&J cutting the beautiful cake

The whole wedding party. It was soooo cold out there, I don't know how the girls did it!

Cutest Couple Award goes to Jim and Jaime Hayes!

The wedding was great! The food was wonderful! Amazing day!!!!!!!

Our Adventure: Day 3 - Rehearsal Dinner

2009-04-23T07:35:00.000-07:00

This was the only picture we took on Friday. It was a really busy, rainy, day-- setting up for the Rehearsal Dinner and then going to the dinner. So sadly, this is the only picture we captured; sandwiched between those two events. Guess what we had for lunch? Sandwiches!

Our Adventure: Day 2-STILL in the Car

2009-04-23T07:00:00.001-07:00

The inside of my Bean Canteen. I love how that sounds! I had lemonade in it, so that's why it looks yellow. Lol- fun with the camera!!!!

This was SOOOOOOO amazing. It was like a little tiny community smuggled far away from... Everything!

Random picture of myself. You can probably tell who's bored!

FINALLY! NJ!!! Did you know that in New Jersey you're not allowed to talk on your cell phone while driving?

Almost there! It was around 70 degrees, so Josh and I got to wear shorts!

My Uncle Bob and Aunt Judy's house

Our great hotel room at the Paramus Courtyard

Our Adventure: Day 1- In the Car

2009-04-16T19:33:00.000-07:00

Our kitchen was turned into a green-house; filled with plants for Aunt Connie to water after we left.

Dad caught the football and I caught his expression!

" On the road again... just can't wait to get on the road again! "

Heehee! My feet at a gas station!

I thought these were trash cans-- they're some kind of road barriers or something for construction peoples' protection, so the "Injuring Construction Worker-- Fine of $2,000 or More" doesn't have to be put into action.

Natasha- The faithful GPS! Just not faithful when we got to NJ and really needed her! We never exited the interstate when she insistently stated, "You have just entered a dead end street. Please make a U Turn as soon as soon as possible." Repeat. Repeat. Repeat. We could've shook her!

Josh sleeping. Wait...! Josh sleeping!!!!! Lol

Goin' pretty good

We were in Chicago at this time probably around 5:00 PM. ( We still had to get to the Pennsylvania border by nightfall )

Our luggage, food ,etc. in the back ( we had to put up the back seat in order for it all to fit! ) Still haven't learned to pack light!

Josh rotting his brain on The Nintendo

Sunset in Indiana

A truck we passed before dark set in. Josh took this one!

So day one of our vacation is over!

Our Pre-Vacation

2009-03-29T13:51:00.000-07:00

We are leaving for a vacation this coming Wednesday. My cousin, Jim, is getting married on the fourth so that's the main attraction. I'm just posting a few pictures to show you where we're heading. ( Hopefully it will be warm out East! )

Washington D.C.-- Cherry Blossom Festival will be going on while we're there!

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

New York City, New York

Baltimore, Maryland-- We're hoping to visit my mom's friend

So that's what's happening! We'll be gone for about two weeks, so I probably won't be on the computer much. ( I'll post pictures of our real vacation after it actually happens! )

My Birthday Party-Day! :)

2009-03-28T06:30:00.000-07:00

Three cheers and a-rah!

The breakfast table when I came down

Every little present in a separate bag-

Opened at different times throughout the day.

My birthday card from Josh

The breakfast cake ( aka Hawaiian bread )

I just woke up and am TIRED!

Josh and I after church still in our church clothes

Bella and I

JOSH-- THROUGH AND THROUGH!

Quick lunch before swimming ( at the pool, of course:) )

After the pool Pizza-Pizza Party (Meaghan, Liv, Micah, Randy, Josh, and I )

Pizza #1: Blackstone's supreme pizza

Pizza #2: Mom's Fruit Pizza

My camera!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

After the party- Liv, Me, and Meaghan

I am now one year older!! :D

Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing

2009-02-07T19:29:00.000-08:00

My brother Josh and I playing, Come Thou Fount. Josh on piano and I on the guitar.

25 Random Things About Me

2009-02-06T07:24:00.001-08:00

1: I love animals! Dogs and horses are my favorites!
2: I hate throwing up. I'm really freaked out about it. It's worse than you probably think! For example, my brother started puking one night, and I of course got freaked out. So, I went down stairs and sat on the couch to get away from all of the... well, you know! When my dad called me up to bed I did NOT even go close to Josh. Then as I started to fall asleep I felt something pop out of my mouth. "Dad, I think I'm going to puke!!!" He started frantically looking for the bucket. I was like, "Oh, never mind it was just drool!"
3: OK, for something a little more pleasant. I love candy! ( What kid wouldn't though?! ) I like pretty much every candy there is! Heehee!!!! Chocolate, skittles, star bursts, jelly-bellies the list could go on!
4: I love the sound of a solitary owl. One of my earliest memories is taking a walk and hearing the sound of an owl on a warm summer day. It's so comforting. Even now, I love awaking to the sound, with a cool breeze blowing through the curtains.
5: Mary Engelbreit is my favorite artist ever! Her work is so bright and colorful with a bit of animation! So great!
6: Josh and I both love Garfield. He is such a smart, funny cat, while Odie and Jon are such dopes. ( If you haven't read these comics you so should! )
7: Traveling is so much fun! My family has such great vacations. Once we went to N. and S. Carolina, which was great! If I have to live anywhere besides here, I would definitely want to move to either of those places. I REALLY want to go to Israel! :D
8: I love cooking as well. My first meal I made out of The Kid's Cookbook. My first full-scale meal I made, besides toast, was crunchy coated chicken breasts, salad with vinaigrette, green beans, and apple pie. Yummmy!
9: Music is great - Classical, Baroque, Contemporary, Hymns, Romantic, and Blues. It's all great!
10: I love musical instruments! I play piano and guitar, but I hope to play viola, alto sax, and Folk harp.
11: I read lots of books. I recently finished A Wrinkle in Time by Madeline L'engle. It was very good, but a little confusing on what the purpose of it was. It's a fantasy, like The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis.
12: I want to do something for my country. I want to make a stand on the things which I believe. I love my country with all of my heart and I don't want to see it fall into socialism. I'm so very proud of my country! America! America! God shed His grace on Thee. And crown thy good with brotherhood from sea to shining sea!
13: I love looking at blueprints. I know, kinda strange huh? Sometimes I get up early on Saturday and look at houses on eplans.com. It's great!
14: Riding horses is one of the best things this world has to offer! You feel as though you're part of the horse, moving as one. Nothing quite compares to jumping. The feeling of flying for one moment! Ahhhhh....
15: In the morning, cinnamon rolls and coffee are the best things for breakfast. Equivalent: smoothie and muffins
16: Setting up for Christmas is wonderful! Taking it all down is another thing!
17: I like knitting so much! I started about a year ago when Tashi and Anna M. took me to a knitting class at the library with them. It was fun! I go to the classes pretty regularly now. I've made a BUNCH of dishcloths and two scarves. I'm working on a hat now that is " a bit difficult ", but fun!
18: I love playing with my little cousins, Evan and Lainey. They're so cute and fun!
19: For some reason, whenever I go to the Theater, I start feeling sick. It's not too bad when it's dark when I come out, but when it's really sunny I feel weird. Like one time, my dad asked Josh if he wanted some more bucket popcorn. Josh holding his stomach replied, " I think I'll just take the bucket!" ( It was so funny! :D )
20: My favorite things to draw and color with are colored pencils and markers.
21: I like cars! I could spend hours looking at cars online. ( I probably have! ) My favorites are SUV's!!!!!!!!
22: My favorite flowers are orchids, tulips, zinnias, lilacs, roses, ranunculus, and lots more!
23: My favorite colors are lime green, yellow-orange, turquoise, and hot pink.
24: Webkinz are AWESOME!!!!!!!!!
25: I want to be a lawyer!

2009-01-24T17:11:00.000-08:00

My cousin Randy and I ready to go skating ( explanation for all the bulk! )

Randy and Josh ready to play hockey

My cousin Meaghan and I ready to literally hit the ice ( that would be me! )

2009-01-12T07:16:00.000-08:00

Hey Everybody!! I just wanted to let you know about my NEWEST blog. This one is strictly for Nature posts. http://hannah-nnc.blogspot.com So, this is it! Feel free to check it out!

This is Bella at her 1st birthday party. She was so thrilled that her friend, Dahlia, who shares the same birthday could come over! Doesn't she look proud?

Merry Christmas Cont.

2008-12-26T09:33:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas!

The college student cousins sat here ( Christmas Day at my U. Ron and A. Ruthie's house )

Note: Click on the picture to enlarge it, and try to find the different shapes in the snowflakes. ( Hint: spiderweb, angels, trees, guitars, star, snowmen... )

My mom took this picture while we were driving to my cousin's house

Merry Christmas!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-12-25T11:31:00.000-08:00

Our Christmas breakfast

One of Bella's presents-a beef chew! Sound good to you?

Josh giving a thumbs up to his Animal Crossing game, but giving a thumbs down to his new book, Created to Work!

Toasting with our hot apple cider

" Little Red Shoes" aka- Lainey

Waiting to shovel in the turkey!

This says it all! CHRISTMAS!!!!

Here we are! Merry Christmas!

Josh and I with our presents from the VandenBrookes

Three little elves-Me, Mom, Miss Jill, and our fourth elf-Olivia!

Before leaving for church from the hotel- Anna, Me, Josh Christina

We're having SO much fun

Josh and Christina after an excruciating cold walk in the Windy City

Some weird ball-like mirror sculpture thing

Posing in front of the "weird ball-like mirror sculpture thing"

Josh sucking up the coziness of the king bed

In the atrium at our hotel

Merry, Merry Christmas and Have a Happy New Year!!!!!!!

A Sad Story

2008-12-24T09:34:00.000-08:00

My Dad told me this story, and thought I should share it with you.

*****************************************************************************

A couple got married and wanted a child so badly. For some reason, they were only able to have one child. After the child was born, whom they named Christopher, they were thrilled! They loved this child so much. He grew up to be a kind, gentle, and loving.

When he was around ten, his best friend, a Pepsi addict, needed someone to donate a kidney right away, or he would lie still forever on this planet. (The Pepsi had ruined both of his kidneys.) Christopher came home one day and told his parents all about it. He said, "Dad, People can live on only one kidney, right?"

"Yes."

"Well, I'd like to donate one of my kidneys to Ryan. Please, I don't want him to die!

His parents agreed, and were soon filling out the paperwork needed for the surgery.

Later that week, Christopher was wheeled into the opperating room for the surgery. Once the sound of the wheels had died away, the mother turned to her husband with tears in her eyes.

"I'm so proud of him, honey. Aren't you?"

Her husband shook his head yes.

A little later a nurse stepped out into the waiting room. " I'm very, very, sorry. After the transplant your son passed into the open arms of the Father.

*******************************************************************************

After most of the grieving and sorrowing had past, the mother of Christopher went to visit Ryan and his family. As she stepped inside of the creeking screen door, she noticed Ryan sipping something on the island. She looked closer. She let out a gasp. He was drinking Pepsi.

*******************************************************************************

How would you feel if the characters in this story were you and your family?

This boy put his life down on the altar and sacrificed his life for his friend.

What does our Father in Heaven think when He sacrificed his ONLY Son for us, and we keep on sinning and doing what we want to do?

Christmas is Almost Here!!

2008-12-23T20:48:00.000-08:00

Christmas is almost here! So much to do, so little time!

Our stockings--my mom made them! Left-right- Josh, Hannah, Mom, Dad
The stockings on the right don't get anything... Santa Claus?????!!!!

Girls Bible Study @ Our House

2008-12-15T15:44:00.001-08:00

Yours truly was the 1st Abigail

Amanda was the 2nd Abigail

Debra became Lydia, seller of purple

Anna modeled Martha

Melanie was Queen Esther

Here I am displaying the food! Shepherd's Egg Bake, apples, oranges, grapes, pomegranates, mangos, dried figs, dates, apricots, cucumbers, red, orange, and yellow peppers, cheese curds,

garlic stuffed green olives, pita crackers w/ dip, almonds, and pistachios.For a beverage we had sparkling grape juice and sweet mint tea.

Baklava-a sweet Israeli dessert! Yummy!!

A glimmering feast table

My favorite Turkish carpet

The long runner/rug

The finished table

The Girl's Bible Study was at our house on October 25, 2008. I meant to post this earlier, but I forgot! Since it was our turn to host, and it was near Halloween, we decided to have the girls come dressed up as Biblical characters. It was a TON of fun! We played the game Apples to Apples Bible Edition. We all had a great time! ( hopefully! ) Many of the curios were lent to us by our wonderful neighbor, Julie Huppert, who got most of these artifacts from Turkey.

My New Blog

2008-12-10T07:25:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone! Check out my new blog--hannah-elisabeth.blogspot.com It's actually my gratitude blog. Just wanted ya'll to know!

My New Guitar

2008-11-30T18:23:00.000-08:00

This is my new Classical guitar. I got it in Appleton about two months ago. Please excuse the finger smudges!

Mueller Family Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T18:55:00.000-08:00

Some of all of us! Grandma Martha, Me, Meaghan, Andrew, Randy, & Josh

Symbols of the season

Overflowing blessings... "my cup overfloweth" ... ( Psalm 23)

Mom's delicious Cherry Pomegranate Jello with Spiced Whipped Cream

Even more blessings... Thank You Lord

Our scrumptious desserts -- Pumpkin, Pumpkin-Pecan, & Apple

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-27T13:35:00.000-08:00

Give Thanks With a Grateful Heart

Song writer --- Unknown

Give thanks with a grateful heart

Give thanks

To the Holy One

Give thanks

Because He's given

Jesus Christ His Son

Give thanks with a grateful heart

Give thanks

To the Holy One

Give thanks

Because He's given

Jesus Christ His Son

And now

Let the weak say

I am strong

Let the poor say

I am rich

Because of what

the Lord has done, for us

And now

Let the weak say

I am strong

Let the poor say

I am rich

Because of what

the Lord has done, for us

Give thanks

We give thanks

Give thanks

We give thanks

Keep Christ in Your CHRISTmas

2008-11-13T09:29:00.000-08:00

To help you keep Christ in CHRISTmas, please watch these videos. For more of the story, click on this link. http://aholyexperience.com/ ( The November 13 post.) ( The videos are now at the top! )

The Three-some

2008-09-07T20:34:00.000-07:00

This is Josh, Meaghan, and Randy at their combined Birthday party. Josh turned 10, Meaghan-15, and Randy-13. The Oreo Blizzard Cake really kicked it off!

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-09-07T20:22:00.000-07:00

This is my adorable new cousin, Alayna Lauren. She was born on August 26, 2008; to Mike & Heather. Alayna was 7#, 3oz, and 19 in. She was born at 2:26 PM.

School

2008-09-07T20:16:00.000-07:00

School starts tomorrow! Oh, no! We're having a gradual start up, but it's still school!

2008-09-07T19:09:00.000-07:00

When the Markhams were here,( Jessie, Davy,Jon, & Michael ), we made a TV show. This is just one of the commercials we made. Enjoy!

2008-09-07T19:00:00.000-07:00

This is part 2 of the commercial.

2008-09-04T17:41:00.000-07:00

Here I am with Meaghan! We're both being weird, but having a great time!

2008-09-02T15:13:00.000-07:00

I haven't written for a LONG time! Ok, lets see whats been going on in my life... 1. Yesterday our family went to the fair. I had a great time with my cousin Meaghan! Meaghan and I went on three rides at the fair: The Paratrooper, The Twister, and the Himalayas. [ My favorite was probably the Paratrooper. Meaghan's was the Himalayas. ] After doing all the normal fair stuff [ going through the barns, the Exhibition Building, and the Garden Exhibition Building ] we decided to go home seeing as it was 92 degrees.[ Oh, congrats Liv for your blue, red, and white ribbons!!!!! ] 2. Upon bringing Meaghan home Josh had a amazing idea to go to Lake Michigan! My dad agreed, so when we went to Meaghan's house we asked if Meaghan wanted to come with us. She ended up coming, along with Randy who was at a friend's during fair time. We got subs, chips, fruit, corn, and soda and headed for the lake. Our dog Bella was her kennel in the back.When we finally got there Randy, Josh, Bella, and I hit the lake. It was perfect! Not to hot-not to cool. We stayed for four hours. It was great! :) On the ride home we stopped in Powers and got ice cream. Poor Meaghan got cheated cause she just got one flavor[ 2 scoops] when everyone else got three flavors [3 scoops]! A perfect ending to an almost perfect day!! :) So that was the Hayes' great Labor Day! Hope yours was just as good! Happy Back-To- School!

2008-08-11T11:30:00.000-07:00

This is me and one of my BFFs, Meaghan. I got her a sort of matching shirt for her b-day. We're actually cousins!!

2008-08-11T10:51:00.000-07:00

This is me, Hannah, in my new floral shirt!! I love clothes!