What in the Walters?

Today's Facebook Status...

2012-02-01T07:32:00.000-08:00

If I was posting today on Facebook (I'm taking a bit of a break), my status would be...

SERENITY NOW!!!!!!!!

All at Once!

2012-01-26T11:50:00.000-08:00

Energy

2012-01-10T07:03:00.000-08:00

I got a teaching job for the month of January. Sociology 101. Yesterday was the first class and I have 3 whole students! I found out about the job in December and I knew it would be hard work to get prepped for a 3 hr class that meets 3 days a week, but I was up for the challenge.

I have to say that in the last couple of weeks, I have been so energized by what I'm doing. I don't mind getting up early or staying up late to work. It is fun to talk and think about the class and while I have a healthy amount of intimidation, I'm not completely overwhelmed. For the last year or so, I have dreaded work, it has drained me, and I have felt completely overwhelmed by it, AND I was only working a couple of hours a week. I wondered if maybe it was having kids and a full life that made it difficult, but now I am seeing that the fit wasn't quite right. How many times did I talk to students at Trinity when I worked there as a career counselor to pay attention to the times that you are drained and the times that you are energized? Well, I am taking my own advice. Although I am working only one month on the new job, I decided to quit my other job. It wasn't worth the few dollars that I made every month. It wasn't worth the hours I spent awake at night filled with anxiety.

Another lesson learned about myself. Often finding a career path comes through trial and error. I had to try the other job. I'm glad I did. I tried to stick it out. I'm glad I did. I'm thankful for the opportunity and the personal and professional learning. But I realize now that it wasn't a good fit and I will know in the future when I have other opportunities like this to walk away. Working with kids sounded great, but in reality it was really hard...for me. Tomorrow will be my last day. I will be relieved. And then it's back to making quizzes, prepping lectures, and coming up with creative ways to convey the inspiring ideas of Sociology. I am loving the energy and the life that has rushed back into my mind and body!

Happy New Year

2012-01-01T18:11:00.000-08:00

Whew. I sit here at the computer pretty pooped. We had Christmas with my brother, we moved and I am in the middle of finishing one job and starting another. Life is full, but I think this is our normal (and probably yours too!)...
Aaron and I rang in the New Year last night fast asleep. I woke slightly to fireworks at midnight, but I had been in bed for almost 2 hours by then. Lame? Yes. Oh well. There's always next year!?

This year, my grandma had everyone in the family come up with one word that they hope for 2012, almost like a theme word. It was hard for me not to pick the word "new" as my word. In the new year, we are in a new home and I am starting a new job. I also feels like I have entered a new season. I spent last year mostly in a "baby bubble." I didn't do much outside of my kids and home. I never spent more than a few hours away from Amos, but now that he is one and getting more independent, I find myself excited about looking outward and shifting my energy a bit. I will definitely still focus on my kiddos and all of their growing, but I am actually looking forward spending more time with women and doing things outside of the home. It feels like a subtle shift. So "new" felt like a good word. But I believe along with this new season, is going to come a need for intentionality, being more fully present. When I am prepping for my class, I need to be fully engaged and when I am with my friends, I want to be more present. I feel like I have spent alot of time being distracted. I know this is part of having small kids who demand alot of attention, but I hope to be more intentional with my time, especially. So I think "intentional" is a good word for 2012.

One thing I am going to do (starting tonight) is have Aaron change my facebook password, so I can't check facebook several times a day. What a waste of time. We are also starting our annual January cleanse this week, which means being more intentional about what I eat. Oh man, this post is beginning to sound like your cliche New Year's Resolution post, but I guess it is. I love the start of January. It feels like I can hit the reset button and refocus my priorities. There are so many things happening at the end of the year, so it is always a huge relief when January rolls around. Yippee that it's January! And as I type I am watching my son toddle around taking multiple steps in a row. I think he's on his way to walking...this week! So, yet another new change around here...more mobility. Oh boy, here we go...

A picture to get the New Year started!

Montana's self portrait of her and her brother...
(I love that she misspelled her name)

The important things

2011-12-23T06:49:00.001-08:00

Last Friday I had the amazing experience of attending my close friend's birth. She called me at 6:30am and said she had been having contractions since 4a. I got my stuff together, dropped Montana off at school and arrived in Seattle around 11a. I just knew the baby would come in a few hours, so I was surprised that my friend and her husband were still at home laboring and hadn't gone to the hospital yet. She wanted to labor at home as long as possible. The contractions became more intense after I got there and we all headed to the hospital around 1ish (I think). It's amazing how time works during the birthing process. It is slow. It is fast. It doesn't seem to exist. It is all you can think about.
My dear, beautiful friend labored hard all afternoon. She handled contractions with such strength and focus. I was blown away. She was getting tired and still managed each intense contraction without one ounce of drugs. Her husband was also so strong and supportive. They found a rhythm that was beautiful to watch. What a team.
At 6pm the midwife checked her and she was only dilated to 7cm. Really? All that hard work for over 12 hours and only 7cm? This is what I was thinking, but didn't say it of course, but I know my friend was thinking the same thing. The midwife suggested breaking her water and after that things got moving. My friend started pushing at 7pm and little man was born at almost 8:30p. Oh my, I just can't describe how thrilling it was to be there and watch him emerge into the world. He was 9 lbs, that little bugger. And oh so stinkin' cute. Added blessing for me was watching him bond with mommy and daddy.
This day was emotional and powerful and at times very intense for me. Part of what contributed to that emotion was that around 3pm I found out (by email) that our neighbor passed away. We had been expecting it, but it was still surprising to find out. She was a neighbor that shared our faith and so we had a special spiritual connection with her. Here I was at a birth, learning about a death. What things are more core, more pivotal in life? Nothing is more important. Nothing matters more.
Also happening that day was a bridal shower for another special friend. A party to celebrate her upcoming marriage. Because I thought that births don't take that long (based on my experience!), I left in the morning pretty certain that I would be able to make it to at least part of the celebration. As the afternoon went on, I realized that I would not be there to celebrate with my other friend. I was sad, but as this friend graciously reminded me (when I called to tell her I wouldn't be there), I was exactly where I needed to be. She gave me words of hope and encouragement as I sat in all of my own personal emotions.
Life, death, marriage. All in one day. It was powerful. It was emotional. It was very real.
And to be with my friends in such a pivotal life changing event - the birth of their son - what an honor and a joy I will never forget.

Amos Pax turns 1!!

2011-12-11T22:58:00.000-08:00

Oh how time flies. Last year at this time, I was back home after a 4hour labor at the Bellingham Birth Center with my sweet boy. Now I have a one year old who is on the verge of walking. They change so much in the first year, don't they? Today, to celebrate, we opened gifts and allowed him to have his way with a chocolate cupcake. It was a simple celebration as a family. Pictures tell the story of the cupcake much better than words:

Happy Birthday Amos!! We love you so much!!

Moving

2011-12-03T09:15:00.001-08:00

At the end of this month, we will be moving into a bigger unit here at co-housing and we are all very excited! We have been in our little space for almost 3 years and it has been so good. We started our church here, welcomed Amos here, and have had numerous friends and family visit. For the most part 750 square feet has been good. We are forced to think through every item we bring through the door: where will we put it? is it really necessary? I love that it has enabled us to live simply and without a lot of stuff. Lately, though, I have been feeling tired of being ultra quiet when the kids go down, not having a dishwasher, and having all of my clothes in the kids' closet. Little things have been getting to me and I have longed for just a bit more leg room. I have been praying about this for months and as always God is faithful and He knows when the time is right.

A couple of weeks ago our neighbor approached us about renting from her. Her unit has been on the market and hasn't sold, so she wants to take it off the market and rent to us for one year and then she will resume her attempts to sell. At first we approached the option cautiously because we have had several similar offers that have fallen through, but after a few days of negotiations, we signed a lease! It's official. It's legal. It is still a 2 bedroom unit, but there is another bathroom and an attic and about 300 more square feet. Did I mention all of the closets? Plenty. I feel so blessed to be in a bigger space AND to remain in this community.

Aaron and I have often had the personal space vs. community living conversation. What do we value? We speak about the importance of living in community and talk about how much we love it, but at times our need (desire) for a bit more space would cloud that value. I feel so grateful to be able to be moving within this community. We are so grateful to be here and really believe that God has brought us here.

So all that to say...December will be a busy month with a couple of birthdays (Aaron and Amos), packing, prepping for the holidays, Mason visiting, some dear friends' wedding, and the amazing honor of attending a close friend's birth. And then we will move at the end of it all!! Should be fun. Bring it on!!

Finally Four

2011-11-28T09:54:00.000-08:00

"I love being four!"
Announced the FOUR year old this morning.

Yesterday was the big day. Finally four. It's been a long time coming...

We have been celebrating for the last week or so. Last Saturday, Montana had her first kid party while her Grandma and Papa were here from Colorado. Ten kids or so (plus parents too) came (thank goodness for the common house). We decorated cupcakes (I made about 50!), had a book exchange, and whacked a pinata. All in all it was a fun time, with only one minor casualty from the pinata!! I think Montana had a fun time and that's what counts!

Then after her party we went home and opened presents from Grandma and Papa and Uncle Dan and Aunt Sarah and her Colorado cousins. The gift that was probably the biggest hit was the Rapunzel wig! It totally cracked us all up. And check out her pose....

We topped off her birthday celebration day with crab! What a lucky girl....yum!!!

By the time it got to her actual birthday, we were partied out, so we had a very low key day. We started out with pancakes and presents and relaxed most of the day. Montana told everyone she saw that it was her birthday. She was so excited to go to school today to tell her classmates that she is four!

We are so proud of our 4 yr old and the girl that she is becoming. She is imaginative, creative, and silly. She loves being with people. And she knows what she wants! She is riding her bike and enjoying little crafts. She is a great big sister. My heart overflows with love for my special girl.

Happy 4th Birthday, Montana Faith!

Thankful

2011-11-25T22:23:00.000-08:00

Another Thanksgiving away from family. But we have come to love our Thanksgiving with friends. We have hosted several years and typically spend it with friends who are away from their families for whatever reason. This year we missed our friends who moved to Australia last month, but enjoyed it with 3 dear friends. We had a feast of food and fellowship.

I have so many things to be thankful for. Mostly I am so thankful for this little life of mine. I live in a beautiful place, in a community I love, doing things that bring meaning and purpose....and all this with an amazing partner and awesome offspring. At our dinner when we went around the table and said what we were thankful for, I said this, and Montana reminded me not to forget mentioning my kids!

Speaking of Montana, the other day we were at her school for a Thanksgiving Party and Montana and I were doing a craft together. She would tell me what she was thankful for, I would write it on a leaf and she would glue it to the tree. Her answers were fairly basic - parents, brother, God, you know, all the expected things - and then she surprised me when she said, the Holy Spirit! That caught me off guard and so I asked her why she is thankful for the Holy Spirit. She said, "because he 'tects us." Oh, he protects us. Earlier in the week she told a neighbor girl that she was "...thankful for God AND Jesus, but they're like the same thing." Oh my little theologian with simple faith. The Trinity does seem easier to understand when you are 4!

I am thankful. Thankful for family, for friends, for faith, and for food. We are never in need and rarely in want.

And as a side note, yes I WILL be brining my turkey again next year. It was amazing (if I do say so myself!)!!! Here's a link to the recipe I used from Sunset magazine. So yummy. I'm actually thankful for turkey leftovers this year!!

Grandma and Papa visit

2011-11-22T10:37:00.000-08:00

Aaron's parents came for a visit last weekend. We had them here for 5 wonderful days. It was such a great time together. Montana was over the moon and loved having them here. She went to bed late and got up early asking when they were coming over. (Our guests usually stay in the shared common house which is so nice because our little condo is so small.)

Some highlights:
~Montana's first kid birthday (I will save another post for that major event!) They got to meet her friends and take care of Amos while mom and dad ran around.
~They watched Amos and Montana Sunday morning so that Aaron and I could go to a church service project kid free!
~All of us took the ferry and visited Pt. Townsend.
~We ate crab and La Fiamma pizza.

We already miss them.

Fashion Corner with Montana Faith

2011-11-16T10:26:00.000-08:00

As "dot (and stripe)" girl

Somewhere Montana learned about tucking her shirts in and so that's what she does. All of the time. Trend setter? I think so.

Lately she has been dressing in themes. Monday she was "pink" girl and wore all pink. Today she is "dot" girl and is wearing dots. We don't have tights with dots and she said, "that's okay, mom. I can be dot and stripe girl." Great idea!

I also love the hands on hip pose. This girl is amazing!

Fall Fun

2011-11-02T14:32:00.000-07:00

Superheros!

Check out that smile. He looks thrilled.

At the pumpkin patch with my pumpkin (gag) :)

Oh I can't stand his cuteness

My superhero princess in all her glory!

Missing you...

2011-10-17T20:49:00.000-07:00

No matter where you go, you will always have someone to miss

On Thursday, Montana and Aaron are going to Ohio for his cousin's wedding. They have been talking about this trip for months. Montana is so excited. She and dad are going to eat pistachios on the airplane and Aaron bought James and the Giant Peach to read together. A new dress was purchased and the twirl factor has been approved. Grandma and Papa Walters will meet them at the airport in Denver and they will fly to Ohio all together. Montana has made a book to read to Grandma and "she will love it." She gets to see her beloved cousins that she misses so much.

But today, she realized that she will miss her teacher and her classmates while she is gone. "And I think they will miss me."

"I am sure they will, Montana. But just think you get see your cousins and you will only be gone for a few days. I bet you miss your cousins when you are at school."

And then it hit me. No matter where we go, there is always someone to miss. And I told Montana that.

That's what makes living here so hard. And the longer we stay, the harder it would be to go back. I miss my family like crazy, but there are people here who I would miss if we left. I actually already do miss a few people who have recently moved away. Our very good friends recently moved to Australia and I am going to miss them like crazy. Close neighbors are moving 20 minutes out in the county and I am going to miss seeing them around co-housing almost everyday. There are lots of changes and transitions happening all around. So many people to miss. I miss my family daily and if we moved back I would miss my neighbors and the wonderful friends we have made. It leaves me longing for a day when good-byes don't exist and we never have to miss anyone. What will that be like?

And as I write this, I am reminded how beautifully blessed I am by so many relationships...and that I actually miss them when they are not near. Thank you. You all know who you are.

Lately...

2011-10-15T21:05:00.000-07:00

We found a bike on the side of the road last week. It is....you guessed it...purple with princesses. And Montana is doing so awesome at riding it. My heart overflows with pride.

Fashion Corner with Montana Faith

2011-10-08T08:00:00.000-07:00

Where did this girl come from?
This was her hiking attire for a recent family hike.

I was actually horrified recently when in the grocery check-out lane, Montana spotted a tabloid with a picture of a young girl from the show "toddlers and tiaras" and said "Mom I love her dress..."

Ready for dance class in her leotard and tights. So stinkin' cute!

Harvest

2011-10-06T22:14:00.000-07:00

Like many people, fall is probably my favorite time of year. What is it about pumpkin, brisk days, and apple cider that is so darn heart-warming? Maybe the nostalgia or the excuse to be cozy? Whatever it is, I love it. But I also love the summer here in the Northwest and the availability of so much amazing produce. I was reminded this past week visiting my sister in Wyoming that we have it pretty good.

This summer Aaron, Montana (although she mostly ate her weight in berries), and I picked 14 lbs of raspberries and 50 lbs of blueberries. I ordered a case of peaches, a case of pears, and a case of nectarines from a farm in Eastern Washington. We used several pounds of apples off of the trees at co-housing. I have had fun making jam, learning to can peaches, and making pear sauce. Our freezer is full of berries and our supply is quickly dwindling. Next summer we will have to pick more! We also bought a CSA (community supported agriculture) share and so every other week we get a box of organic goodness. I am so grateful for the abundant harvest.

Amos enjoying the abundance...beets and blueberries!

Stuff Runners Like

2011-09-25T21:09:00.000-07:00

Last year about this time I decided that my post pregnancy goal would be to run the Bellingham Bay 1/2 Marathon. I did it! Aaron and I ran it together and it was a great time, despite the very blustery fall day. I was so glad that I followed through. While we were running we watched other runners to help pass the time and couldn't help but think of our version of "Stuff White People Like" and "Stuff Christians Like"....

Stuff Runners Like

Here's a few:
1. The farmer's blow on the side of the road
2. Wearing shirts from other races
3. Back handed compliments (Telling a fellow runner..."you're doing great" as you pass them up a hill)
4. Nasty power gels
5. Drinking cheap beer at 10am because it's free
6. Unique warm up routines

Do you have any to add??

Side by Side

2011-09-18T22:14:00.000-07:00

Our babies at about the same age...

Fashion Corner with Montana Faith

2011-09-15T21:50:00.000-07:00

Another fashion moment brought to you by Montana Faith. She is digging the pant/tutu/t-shirt combo these days.

By the way...
Is it normal for a 3 year old to beg her mother to go to the "kid clothes" section while grocery shopping at Fred Meyer? "I just want one thing, mom!" I replied with "NO!" because earlier in the week she picked out those pink shoes in the photo and begged me to buy them. Thankfully they were on clearance (and stinkin' adorable). Ah, my little shopper. She has been spending too much time channeling her Aunt Emily.

1st Day of School

2011-09-12T21:33:00.000-07:00

Yay! The Walters' household rejoices. Montana returns to preschool!!

She is going 3 days a week and LOVES it.

( And this mama loves it, too.)

Monatana's Prayer - 8.30.11

2011-08-31T11:12:00.000-07:00

Montana, to date, doesn't pray out loud. Often we just ask her what/who she wants to pray for, and then we do the honors. Last night was one of the first times were she broke this rule. I noticed she was repeating what I was praying, which was cool. After I finished, I asked her if she wanted to pray about anything else. What followed was one of the most precious things I've heard. I tried to remember it all but only was able to write down the following (BTW, Kate is not pregnant):

"Thank you for houses, birds, trees. Thank you for my house, and clothes you give us, forever and ever. Thank you for mama and dad and my brother, and for mama having another baby. Thank you for our house. Amen."

So it begins...on so many levels...

2011-08-30T08:08:00.000-07:00

Fashion Corner with Montana Faith

2011-08-29T09:05:00.001-07:00

Fashion tip #74:

It's never too hot for scarves and tights.

Adorable Alert

2011-08-02T22:10:00.000-07:00

Distracted

2011-07-26T17:54:00.001-07:00

Don't get me wrong. I LOVE being a mom. I mean, how could I not love being a mom to my spunky 3.5 year old and my adorable 7 month old?

BUT...

You knew it was coming.

I miss having long, uninterrupted, deep conversations with friends whether on the phone or in person. I am always distracted by a child who needs something. I feel like I forget important details or events in people's lives, if I ever heard them to begin with. I miss the ease of leaving my house to go for a run or a hike or to meet up with a friend. I wish that staying out late didn't mean 8pm and sleeping in didn't mean 8am. Mostly I just don't ever feel fully present and I hate that.

I wouldn't give up this season of my life for anything, but I lament that I don't have the freedom and flexibility and attention span that I had pre-kids.

I know my friends understand, but I just want them to know that I know and I'm sad. Part of me is missing. But for now, this is where I am...distracted by my kids. And I know it won't last forever.

Our Jaunt to South Dakota: Part 3: Grandma's Celebration

2011-07-14T21:12:00.001-07:00

We celebrated my Grandma's 80th Birthday while we were in So. Dak. The whole family was together. We had a little "program" to honor Grandma. My cousin played guitar and sang and my sister, brother and I even did our own little "number." The coolest thing the family did was each give Grandma a rose and tell her what we appreciated about her. It was really cool to hear everyone's feelings about this wonderful woman. Grandma is the most hospitable person I know. She makes a meal from nothing and serves people sacrificially. There are always people in her home and she makes everyone feel important. Buying locally, reducing, reusing and recycling were practically invented by her. She would fit right in here in Bellingham!! But most importantly, she has created a spiritual legacy by loving Jesus and leading her family toward Him. I love you, Grandma. Happy Birthday!

The whole family
(minus Bloom and Amos who were both exhausted)
taken by my friend, Alyssa!

Our Jaunt to South Dakota: Part 2: The Lake

2011-07-11T21:40:00.001-07:00

Oh, Iron Creek Lake, how I love thee. I played in your waters as a kid. My parents were engaged there (officially - more to that story!). We went night fishing with my Grandpa Wayne. You bring in the most random mix of people, which makes for incredible people watching. And 4 years ago, my parents made the investment of a lifetime - a 1958 trailer with no running water right near your small, but timeless body of water! Now we can visit you every summer. Montana hasn't missed a summer of her life.

I love that my parents have memories at Iron Creek Lake, I have memories of the Lake and now my kids are making their own memories. Forgive me if I'm nostalgic, but there is something absolutely magical about that place.

Our Jaunt to South Dakota: Part 1: Yellowstone

2011-07-11T20:36:00.000-07:00

We just returned from our annual summer trip to South Dakota and my parents' little "lakehouse" by Iron Creek Lake outside of Spearfish. The day after The Table's first anniversary (woot! woot!) we loaded up our trusty red Subaru with a roof rack (thanks, Cody!) and headed south and east. Our plan was to take our time getting to South Dakota, taking a few back roads and going through Yellowstone. I loved our short 5 hour drive through Yellowstone. We had to be escorted to our car after lunch because it was surrounded by elk. Then we saw a grizzly bear, tons of bison, and a wolf right along the road. Aaron and I were amazed by the animals...I think Montana was a bit young to fully appreciate it, although she did like the museum with the "fake" fox!

Herd of people...Yellowstone has an abundance. You see them everywhere.

This wolf was wandering in the road and then we drove right by him.
It was a little scary to be so close!

Grizzly Bear minding his own business while hundreds of people stopped to watch him.

Can anyone say traffic jam??

Montana and Mr. Fox

Family picture taken by an Asian teenager who was stoked to take our photo!

Teenagers

2011-06-13T21:30:00.000-07:00

Nothing like attending a Christian High School graduation to take me back 15 years to my own high school graduation. A trip down memory lane and I was the one standing in my cap and gown instead of our friends' daughter. I assumed my graduation would feel like it was yesterday. It didn't. It felt like it was 15 years ago. By the way, did you know that I was valedictorian? Impressed? Don't be. There were 20 people in my class.

When I was in high school I was really worried that life would never get better than my life in high school. Really? Yes, in my teenage mind I figured high school would be the best years of my life. And although there were some really fun times in high school, thank God I was absolutely wrong.

Speaking of teenagers, I've been thinking about them alot lately. Partly probably because I just started seeing my first teenage client. I have to confess that I don't really "get" the teenage brain. Research actually proves that teenagers process very differently than adults and that their brains have more gray matter, much like toddlers. You should check out Inside the Teenage Brain on PBS. My mom always said that teenagers are just like toddlers and science can back her up!! But, seriously, I just don't know when I crossed the line of relating to teenagers over to relating more to their parents.

I know I am going to sound old, but teenagers these days have alot of different issues to deal with than I did. I got my first email address when I was a senior and my first cell phone when I was 29. Not these guys. They are always plugged in and connected. As parents, how and where do you draw the privacy line with technology? I am overwhelmed just thinking about it. And when I think about Montana becoming a teenager, all I can think is, "come quickly, Lord Jesus." Occasionally I get glimpses of what she may be like as a teenager when she pops an attitude or talks about make-up or is overly dramatic, and I brace myself. But for now, I will be grateful that she is an imaginative, playful 3 year old who constantly says, "you be the mama ____ (insert any creature here, such as dog or dragon) and I'll be the baby ____ (insert any creature here, such as dog or dragon)." Although it drives me positively crazy some days, at least she is not buried in her phone texting her friends.....yet. God help me.

Teenagers. They keep life interesting.

First Bite

2011-06-12T22:49:00.000-07:00

First taste of bananas. He didn't seem too convinced.

More CO

2011-06-02T22:38:00.000-07:00

Back from Colorado

2011-05-31T22:14:00.000-07:00

We had a great trip to Colorado. We saw, we visited, we ate, we played, we attended, we enjoyed, we drove, we caught up, and we ate some more. Here are a few highlights (unfortunately not all of the highlights were captured by photo. I often forgot to pull the camera out...):

We visited where Aaron and I got married 11 years ago!
So fun to revisit our wedding day. And while we were there it snowed.
Gotta love Colorado weather!

Our dear friend Gregg was ordained as a Roman Catholic priest and
we got to be there to celebrate with him

Fantastic friends and fantastic food at our good ol' alma mater.

And the cousins! Montana LOVED playing with her cousins.

And these goofy kids belong to one of my bestest friends from college

While in Colorado we got to see my parents, my sister and her little family (including, Mumba, the dog with dementia), my Auntie Jill, my 3 college roommates/friends, Aaron's 2 college roommates (who are both Catholic priests), a handful of people from college and before, my oldest friend from childhood and her 2 sets of twins, more awesome college friends who we ate at ROMA with, my uncle, aunt, and cousins from SD, and of course Aaron's parents and sister and her husband and kiddos. Whew. Trying to make sure I didn't forget anyone. I'm exhausted just thinking about it, but feeling so blessed by such amazing people in our lives. There is never enough time with anyone and I always leave wanting more.

Rollin'

2011-05-06T22:23:00.000-07:00

He's done it a couple of random times before, but we never caught it. Tonight, however, he gave us several chances to watch him and he did it about 4 times in a row. I think it's official...he can roll over!!

Tellin' it like it is

2011-04-27T15:47:00.000-07:00

Today at the grocery store, Montana informed me that when she gets to be a grown-up, I will be old and she will take care of me. She said that she will put my jammies on, tuck me into bed and read me a Bible story. Later she was recapping this information for Aaron and added, you will eat cheerios and jello. Aaron and I looked at each other and laughed, and said she's probably right!

And now I am blogging about it, so that when I am indeed old and she is indeed a grown-up, there will be proof (if the internet still exists) that it was HER idea to take care of us and change our clothes and feed us jello.

Love these kids

2011-04-21T21:51:00.000-07:00

Amos is 4 months! At his appointment this month he weighed in at 13 lbs 4 oz and is 25 inches long.
You know, when Montana was born I remember thinking that I would never feel so much love or experience that moment ever again. But then Amos was born and it was just as special as it was with Montana. I look at both of my kids and have complete love.
And I have to say, there is something about having a boy that is just great. He is so sweet and smiley and he looks at me so adoringly. Before I had Amos my friend jokingly said about her son that no woman could ever love him as much as she does...and now I get it, even though it was a joke!:)

Here's to my four month old...absolute love...

And here's to my daughter. Full of spunk and personality and 3 year old attitude. Love this girl...

Housing

2011-04-17T21:35:00.000-07:00

It's a little silly, but I think one of the more difficult decisions that Aaron and I have had to face in our marriage is where to live. Moving across the world or across the country doesn't bother us, but when we are faced with a choice between price, space, community, and the distance to local coffee shops we get stuck.

When we were in graduate school in Canada, we lived in this tiny little suite above someone's garage. We LOVED it and one of our closest friends lived right next door. Then our landlords had to go and sell the place and so we had to move. We were faced with a *horrible* dilemma. Should we move a few houses down to another garage suite that was smaller or should we move 4 miles away to a much bigger basement suite for the same price?? Oh the drama. We were stuck, we couldn't decide. We got hung up on the assets of the neighborhood and community. Our favorite coffee shops were within walking distance, which was very important to us as students and our neighbor was one of our closest friends. We weren't foolish enough to think that we would see just as much of them 4 miles away. But we were thinking of starting a family and having more space was very appealing. Anyway, after one long evening of sitting in our apartment going around and around, we finally decided on the bigger space.

Okay now you have sufficient background on the drama of making a housing decision for Aaron and Kate. We are once again faced with a similar housing dilemma which boils down to a decision between space or community.

We have lived in co-housing for almost 2 years which has been a great experience. Especially after a day like today. It was sunny and almost warm. Neighbors were out on the lawn playing croquet, Montana was running in and out of the house playing with kids. Friday night there was a potluck and game night. I slipped into the other room to nurse Amos and a neighbor came and gave me a foot rub and talked with me as I fed my baby.

BUT...you knew it was coming...I am feeling a little cramped in our space. We don't have a door on our bedroom and we are constantly trying to keep clutter out. Our closets are always disorganized and I am supposed to be getting my mom's old dining room table which may or may not fit. We are making it work with two kids, but I am curious how it will be when Amos starts crawling and the kids start sharing a room. We have to pay for a storage unit because we have zero storage for things like camping gear, Christmas things and baby clothes.

So by July, we need to figure out what we should do. There are currently no bigger units for rent in co-housing. Do we stay and make our small space work? And while I write this, I am keenly aware of people all over the world who live in spaces smaller than 780 sq. feet with more people. I feel guilty thinking about how blessed we are. And I am longing for a dishwasher...is it even okay to think that??

Well this post has taken a different turn than I expected! Maybe my answer lies therein. Stay in co-housing, count my blessings, get over myself and buy a new pair of dish gloves. That wasn't so hard, now was it?

Theology for infants

2011-04-12T22:06:00.001-07:00

Just a little light reading with Ashley at the coffee shop...

2011-03-17T11:44:00.000-07:00

Today a new schedule started. It's a bit ridiculous, between one car, two kids, preschool, one meeting and two appointments...but I think we've figured it out.

Aaron leaves the house with the car and Montana around 9:15a. He drops her off at school and heads to a meeting. I leave the house around 10:30a with Amos and take the bus downtown. Aaron leaves his meeting early, picks Amos up from my office a few minutes after 11a. I see my clients at 11:30a and Aaron waits for Montana to get done with preschool at 12p. I finish up my client around 12:30p and the three of them come pick me up. We head home and eat lunch. Aaron works for 2 hours and I prepare for a 3:30p client. Aaron decides that he wants to take the kids for a big walk, so everyone loads in the car. I drop them off near Western's campus and drive to the office. I finish up around 4:30p and the three of them stumble into my office exhausted shortly after. We decide to go out to eat. Pepper Sister's it is. Phew. What a day!

Thankfully I don't have my afternoon client every week, but Thursday mornings are all about navigating and coordinating. I actually feel like much of our lives is arranging, coordinating, and organizing. Aaron and I are more business partners these days than anything else. We are always talking about schedules, plans, and budgets. We fall into bed at night, exhausted. But for all of these crazy days, I am thankful for a faithful, patient, flexible partner. He is so supportive of me working on getting my counseling license and has sacrificed some of his schedule and work to accommodate my work. And so far we've managed to do it without outside childcare, besides the occasional times. I am thankful for our one car. It reminds us to use our legs, bikes, and public transportation. It is paid for and insurance is cheap. All in all - we are blessed.

The Secret to Long Hair

2011-03-14T18:11:00.001-07:00

Hair Treatment #79:

Glue Stick

Montana has been into having/wanting long hair. In order to achieve this goal, she has tried soap, water, lotion and now a glue stick.

The truth is...it must be working. Her hair IS getting longer.

So Talented

2011-03-12T19:48:00.000-08:00

This is a video Aaron made of the kids and the amazing things they can do! Amos is 3 months!!

Oh Amos

2011-02-27T21:48:00.000-08:00

So, I realized that we haven't posted, or even taken, many pictures of Amos. One reason could be, and I hate to say it, but maybe you really do take less pictures of your second child, but I think the primary reason is that pictures do NOT do this little guy justice. He is so stinkin' cute, but his dad and I have a hard time capturing it. Here are a few attempts to capture his cuteness from the past several weeks:

Amos had his 2 month check-up on February 11th. He weighed in at 11lbs 2oz and has grown 5 inches since birth. Man, they grow fast!

be MINE

2011-02-15T08:47:00.000-08:00

When Montana woke up yesterday morning (Valentine's Day), Aaron greeted her with a "Happy Valentine's Day, Montana!" Her reply?

"Thanks. I love myself."

Wow! Okay, I wasn't expecting that one. But if that one statement wasn't a prediction for the rest of the day, I don't know what was. She spent the entire day asking for candy. And when I brought out the paper/stickers/scissors to make valentines for her classmates and neighbors, she proceeded to make a beautiful valentine...for herself.

I was going crazy. I wanted to wring her beautiful little neck. Am I raising a self-absorbed, bratty child? I mean, having a good self-esteem is a good thing and I want it for my children especially as teenagers and young adults, but come on, she's three!

I called my mother and freaked out a bit. Maybe Aaron and I weren't demonstrating how to give and how to prefer other people? Were we not teaching her the importance of love and how to give it away? My mom's response?

Kate, she's three! (That was what I said, but mom was coming at it from a bit of a different perspective - the grace filled side.)

Okay, I will have a bit of grace this Valentine's Day...but next year...I am NOT making all of the valentines by myself.

Learning to Speak

2011-02-08T20:08:00.001-08:00

I've always struggled with my voice as a woman, perhaps it's why I dedicated my master's thesis in part to studying women and voice. Authors and researchers such as Carol Gilligan and Mary Pipher, along with my thesis supervisor inspired me to look more closely at my womanhood and my voice. In my readings, I learned that young girls learn to "silence" their voice for the sake of relationship. They would rather live in harmony than speak what is on their heart or mind. At first glance, of course, harmony doesn't seem problematic, especially if you are a woman reading this, but it's what is sacrificed that is problematic. That is, sense of self, feelings and beliefs. We see this "silencing" generally begin around adolescence...

But the other day I caught myself silencing my 3 year old daughter's voice.

On Saturday a little boy was chasing Montana. She ran by me and said, "mom, he is going to rip my coat." I gently replied in a teasing voice with something to the effect of, "Oh, Montana, he's not going to rip your coat. You better get used to boys chasing you. Deal with it."

Then the little boy's dad said, "Montana, if you don't want him to chase you, just ask him to stop. He'll stop."

It wasn't until later that afternoon I realized how powerful that small comment truly was. Yes, Montana, if you don't like something that is happening, by all means, please ask them to stop. It's so simple, so understated, and why wasn't this my response to my daughter?

I want to protect her and defend her, so of course I should be teaching her at this age to ask for a boy to stop chasing her when she doesn't like it. If she is encouraged to use her voice at this age, how much easier will it be for her when she is older and in situations that will require her to use her voice. As a woman in my thirties, I am still struggling and learning how to speak up and not "just deal with it." I long for my daughter to know her voice and not be afraid to speak, and here I am silencing it for her. I am reminded, however, that it's not just my words that can silence, but also my example. I am challenged and inspired to practice using my voice so that my daughter can see it in action.

But can I also say how grateful I am for this subtle, yet powerful shift that occurred on Saturday? And that she is 3 and not 13 or 30?

Welcome to Parenthood

2011-01-30T06:49:00.000-08:00

Having two kids really makes you seem, well, like a parent. We are now that couple, you know, the one with a family. You can kind of get away with still being a couple with just one kid. You can hang out with your couple friends and only need one car and it's pretty easy to find a babysitter for one kid. But with two...well you're in it now.

That's what Aaron and I said the first time all four of us were in the car together. Two carseats in the backseat, on our way to our daughter's school Christmas program, we looked at each other and said, "we're in this now, here we go." Life has changed again. As my mom would say to us, "Welcome to Parenthood."

Actually that's usually what my mom says when I tell her about something Montana did or a situation I might be having about being a mom.

For example, last week or so, Montana wasn't taking a nap, so Aaron and I told her that she could get up, but she had to have quiet time in her room. After awhile, we were amazed by how quietly she was playing and thinking that this quiet time thing is gonna work out great. Then a few moments later she emerged from her bedroom. She had colored her face, her hands, her stomach, and the carpet. She put stickers on her wall and colored it too. We both had to try not to laugh. This was a moment to teach our daughter important life lessons like, you can color on paper ONLY and the difference between owning and renting, we had to bring out our parent A-game. But she was just too darn cute. When we reprimanded her, she started to whimper and said quietly, "I was just trying to make things beautiful". Oh, my heart.

I told my mom this story, and she chuckled and replied... "Welcome to Parenthood."

And then there was the evening when Aaron was at a meeting. I had done 6 or 7 loads of laundry that day. All of the clean clothes were piled on the couch. There was also a pile of dishes in the sink. I put Montana down early with great intentions of tackling both piles of housework before Aaron got home. Well, I feel asleep with Montana and when I woke up I jumped up to get the dishes started. It was about that time that Amos started crying. The dishes weren't going anywhere, so I resigned myself to sit by the pile of laundry with a glass of wine, my crying child and my current favorite tv show. This is about the time Aaron walked in the door...

Welcome to parenthood...this is our life...we are now IN it!!

Bellingham Christmas

2011-01-02T06:24:00.000-08:00

We are definitely in a new season of life. I think we officially realized this on the 2nd night of Emily, Heath, and Bloom's visit when after the kids took a bath together, Aaron spent the next 30 minutes in the bathroom with Montana because she refused to put her pajamas on. After about 30 minutes of crying and who knows what else, Montana emerged with her pj's on and a sad face and just about then Bloom (who was sleeping) started crying. And no joke, when he got settled again, Amos started crying. By this point we had nothing to do but laugh and look at each other and acknowledge that holidays and times together will be very different from here on out!

Amos' first week

2010-12-21T21:23:00.000-08:00

Amos Pax is Here

2010-12-18T13:34:00.000-08:00

A mere 3 days, (12/11/10) after my last post, our son, Amos Pax was born...

The Story:
It began on a Saturday morning. I woke up at 6:30a and was experiencing a few contractions. But this wasn't new, I had had some contractions earlier in the week that turned out to be nothing. I was definitely wide awake so I went for a walk and then went about my morning as usual along with a quick trip to the grocery store, buying a few extra things "just in case". Aaron met some friends for a run, so I thought I would go along and take another short walk while Montana played with friends. I was having a few more contractions, but definitely not getting my hopes up! Aaron and our friends came home after the run and we hung out for while and then after they left, my contractions started getting stronger and more frequent around noon. I wasn't sure when to call my midwives, because I had already called twice before and it turned out to be nothing. I didn't want to be the girl who cried wolf. By 1pm they were more intense and regular, so I decided to call. I talked with the midwife and she told me I could go to the Birth Center at 2p and we could check in, but I didn't want to waste her time if it was nothing, so I asked if we could just check in on the phone. So we agreed, I hung up, and 20 minutes later I was doubled over and could barely talk. I called her back and somehow told her that I needed to meet her at the birth center. Aaron was running around trying to get packed for himself, me and Montana and I was of little help to him at this point. Aaron ran Montana over to our neighbor, Auntie Caca (as we lovingly refer to her) and I hobbled to the car and laid in the back seat. I had started to write a few friends and family a text, but couldn't finish it, so Aaron drove like mad to the birth center while making a few phone calls (don't tell that he was driving and talking on the phone!). We made it to the birth center around 2p, I fell on the bed with an intense contraction, and by the time the midwife was able to check me I was already 8cm dilated. I started pushing around 3:30, Amos Pax entered the world a few minutes after 4pm, and I fell in love all over again.

The birth center was such an amazing experience. Amos was immediately laid on my chest and his vitals were checked and then the midwives sat down and just let the 3 of us soak in the moment. We laid there with the umbilical cord still attached for a good 20 minutes. Aaron cut the cord and I sat up to nurse Amos.

Aaron called our friends who were taking Montana overnight to Lynden. They were at cohousing picking her up, so we asked them to bring Montana to meet her brother. Aaron introduced Montana to her brother, Amos, and Montana got weepy and said, "his name isn't Amos, it's Chubby Orange." For a brief moment I felt really sad that we didn't name him Chubby, but I think those were the hormones thinking for me and that thought quickly dissipated. Montana got to hold her brother (before Aaron did) and she said "I'm so happy." She left for a splendid evening with a teenager who played dress up with her and made a tent for her to sleep in, fruit snacks galore, and she even got to see the other teenage daughter and her friends all dressed up for a dance. I think she left the birth center and probably thought "what brother?"

Aaron and I were ready to go by 7:30 and made it home by 8pm. The birth center's philosophy is that you rest best at home and both Amos and I were fine and healthy, so that's what we did...headed home to rest. Aaron joked about heading to the mall to finish up some Christmas shopping and then stopping for supper at Boundary Bay on our way home, but we went straight home.

We chose for him the name, Amos Pax, because of the Old Testament prophet who spoke of social justice and reminded the Israelites of God's concern for the poor and oppressed. Amos means "to carry" and Pax is "peace" in Latin. Our prayer for him is that he will carry peace wherever he goes.

Everything went so smoothly. It was an amazing experience (I was definitely not thinking that DURING labor) and I am so thankful that my son is here in time for Christmas. He is the best gift this year, by far! God is the giver and sustainer of life and my heart is full of gratitude for all He has done!

Anticipation

2010-12-08T20:41:00.000-08:00

I didn't have to wait with Montana. Her birth caught us completely by surprise at 36 weeks. Today I am 38 weeks pregnant - more pregnant than I've ever been - and I have to admit the anticipation is killing me. I've told myself that this baby will very likely be on time or even late, but I didn't really want to believe myself. At least 2 or 3 times in the last week, I was convinced that I was about to go into labor and even called my midwives.

My mom just left today after 8 days here. Right before she got here I was having some contractions and just felt that the baby would come while she was here. We ran around like crazy women "just in case the baby comes tomorrow..." But alas he didn't come, but we got alot done.

I have heard everything from, "looks like you've dropped" to "you haven't even dropped yet" to "I have a feeling you'll have the baby soon" to "this baby will probably be late" to...you name it. I choose to only listen to the people who say that he's coming soon and completely ignore the comments on him being late.

I know, I know, I'm being ridiculous, my due date is still 2 weeks away, but it's funny making plans/not making plans during the holiday season. Will I be up for that Christmas party or will I be too big and fat to even get in the car? Or will I be having a baby? Or will I have a newborn?

I have to admit that the anticipation is kind of fun, too. Not knowing when baby's birthday will be, wondering if tonight is the night, and packing a bag. Stuff I didn't think about with Montana. I never had a chance to analyze every pain, contraction, change in my body like I do now. But I may actually even get around to making a birthing playlist for my ipod this time.

Aaron and I were talking about the anticipation of a son being born this time of year. It's kind of cool to think about Mary taking a bumpy donkey ride to Bethlehem (maybe I should give that a try!). Perhaps she wasn't close to her due date yet, or maybe she was late and couldn't wait to get baby Jesus out. Either way, she was probably nervous about birth but was excited to meet her son. What was her anticipation like? Did she have contractions on the way? Of course I'm not in anyway comparing myself to Mary and my son to Jesus, it just makes the Christmas story more real, more human this year.

As I anticipate the birth of my son, I am reminded of the anticipation of the celebration of Jesus' birth and what that means to us today. It brings me focus and reminds me not to get so caught up in all of the crazy details this time of year. I'm waiting and longing to meet my son, but also I am longing when one day I will meet my Jesus face to face. What a day THAT will be! For now, I am anxiously awaiting the arrival of my son. Will he come tonight?

36 weeks

2010-11-29T04:30:00.000-08:00

36 weeks pregnant. I'm thinking that I will be more pregnant than I've ever been, considering Montana's early birth. Definitely feeling very pregnant, but I don't think I'm quite ready for the baby yet. But if he's anything like his sister, ready or not, he will come when he wants.

Happy Birthday, Montana!

2010-11-28T15:03:00.000-08:00

Dear Montana,

Happy 3rd Birthday! Today I can't believe you are already 3, but other days I forget that you are only 3 and not 7 or 16! For your birthday this year, we woke up and ate pancakes and opened presents and then went and got our Christmas tree! You wore a pink tutu all day with your new sparkly shoes from Grandma, along with a pink Barbie band-aid on your forehead because the night before you fell and bonked your head on a chair. The Barbie band-aid made it feel all better!

You are a constant delight to us. Currently your favorite things can mostly fall under the "p" category. You love preschool, penguins, princesses, pink, people, and your new panda. The pictures that you have been drawing and coloring have seriously amazed me. The other day you cut something out by yourself so well that I am still in awe. You are picking up on so many things and are very observant. So observant and curious, in fact, that your new favorite question is "WHY?" I love you and I am very glad that you are so curious, but I hope that question doesn't drive me to insanity!!

I think you are excited to be a big sister. I don't think you have any idea what is really coming, but it's fun to see your excitement. I love the name that you have chosen for your brother...Chubby Orange...and it's consistently been that name for the past 2 months or so. I think you are going to be a fabulous big sister. You will be such a good helper and a good friend to your little bro.

Because I am pregnant right now, wondering if this baby will have a similar entrance to the world as you did, I am thinking about your birth alot. What a crazy whirlwind it was, but knowing you now and your extroverted personality, I can't help but wonder if you knew there was a party on the outside and you just couldn't wait to get out. Looking back on that week you were born...15 people held you in your first day of life! You continue to be surrounded by people and you handle it so well. We have had a few days when you've told me, "let's just stay home," but most days you are excited when you know you get to see friends.

Here is what I wrote about your birth once the dust settled a bit.

I am so proud of you and love you to pieces. I have enjoyed reading books with you and have valued the time that we've gotten to spend together. You are a joy to my heart and I can't imagine life without you. May you continue to love people and we continue to pray that you will have faith that will move mountains. In the words of Jesus, "Don't be afraid, Montana. Just believe."

All of my love,
Mom

Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T19:47:00.001-08:00

My belly is full, along with my heart. I have so much to be thankful for. A home, clothing, health, community, family, a calling, and a savior. Today was spent with friends and food. And snow! How can I forget the beautiful snow falling from the sky?!?

And now at the end of the day, I am tired, but a good tired. The upcoming weekend is still full of celebrations and my mom comes next week. I love this time of year and I am so thankful for a loving, supportive family along with good, authentic friends to celebrate with. Thank you, God, for your mercies that are new each morning. I am beyond blessed. May I live from a grateful heart.

My husband

2010-11-17T22:01:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for my husband. And not just because he brings me flowers or coffee cards or bubble bath for no reason. And it's not because he's been gone for 2 days and I miss him. And of course it's not because he puts Montana to bed and does the dishes. It's not because he is excited about the work he is doing, but still makes time for me and Montana. It's definitely not because he has a quirky sense of humor or because he looks at chess strategy books for fun.

Well...okay...maybe it IS all of these things that make me thankful that I am married to an amazing partner who happens to be a great friend.

kindness of strangers

2010-11-12T16:18:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for the people that we have met through the Firehouse Cafe, where Aaron works a couple of days a week. One woman learned that we were having a boy, so she contacted us and wanted to give us a "few" things. I went to "J's" house and she had a box of wonderful boy clothes, a stroller, bouncy seat, and then later brought us a car seat and a bag full of cloth diapers. She gave it all to us and said that they were done having kids and wanted to see some of these things go to a specific baby boy. I am blown away by her generosity and kindness. I hope she knows what a tremendous blessing it was to us. My heart is full of gratitude for her and her family.

Next Sunday a few coffee shop regulars and employees want to have a baby shower for us. Again, I am humbled by their thoughtfulness and kindness. People in general have such kind and generous hearts and I truly hope that I am leaving room in my heart and life for generosity and kindness to those I encounter.

Mama/Sistah

2010-11-10T21:57:00.000-08:00

I love my mom and my sister. I feel so blessed to have good relationship with both of them. Yesterday I blabbed to my sister and this morning I blabbed to my mom. I hate that they are so far away, but I am so thankful I have them. I love you Mom and Em so much. Thanks for being uniquely you and loving me for being uniquely me.

And by the way, we need to take some pictures together. I didn't have much to choose from!!

Thankful

2010-11-07T01:29:00.000-07:00

Tonight I am thankful for that extra hour of sleep that I may get if I can go back to sleep.

And also I am thankful for crockpots.

Community

2010-11-05T13:30:00.000-07:00

Today I am thankful for living in community. I love living in co-housing. Don't get me wrong, it definitely has its dysfunctional moments, but for the most part it is a great place to live and raise a family. I'm thankful for this opportunity to be here.

I'm also very grateful for our larger community of friends. We are surrounded by amazing people. I am so thankful that we have been here for only 2 years, but feel that we have made some genuine lifelong relationships. I am thankful for all my peeps!!

Practicing gratitude

2010-11-02T07:19:00.000-07:00

Yesterday a friend's facebook status challenged me to practice gratitude for the month of November rather than waiting for Thanksgiving day. I thought this was a fantastic idea, so I will try to practice gratitude daily and post when I can.

Today, I am thankful to be pregnant and to have a healthy, relatively easy pregnancy. Several people I love have experienced miscarriages and others cannot get pregnant for various reasons and still others have very difficult pregnancies. I am so thankful to experience the miracle of carrying a baby and feeling it move and grow. I am thankful that my body is stretching and changing and naturally readying me for birth. Yes, I am thankful today for being big and pregnant!

(Picture: 29 weeks pregnant in Mexico!!)

Halloween

2010-10-31T20:12:00.000-07:00

I've never been a huge Halloween fan. Maybe it was because of the tacky decorations or Christian culture's semi-ban of Halloween. You know how that goes...one year it's okay to celebrate, the next it's evil, and the next you are too cool to care. And I've never really been into dressing up, but when I do dress up I get all stressed because the costume must be ultra creative and outside of the box.

For example, my first year at grad school at Trinity Western, my classmates had a "Harvest Party" and we were to come dressed as farmers, harvesters, etc. Of course Aaron and I, being Aaron and I, decided that was too boring. We didn't want to be like everyone else, so we donned our Hawaiian Shirts and leis and went to the party as Banana Harvesters, toting Hawaiian Punch to share with our new friends. Well needless to say, we spent all night explaining that, yes, we did understand the instructions, and "no, we're Banana HARVESTERS, get it?!?" They certainly were not amused as we were.

Then there was the year when we were invited to a costume party and about 30 minutes before the party we were scrambling for costume ideas. Aaron had his old Starbucks apron, so I threw on a black shirt and pants and the apron and went as...no, not a barista, but a college graduate. And then Aaron found our Obama pin (the costume party was a few days before the elections) and decided he would go as a socialist, mocking all of the media commentary about Obama being a socialist. Again, we spent the evening explaining our "costumes" and on our way home realized that again, they were not as amused as we were.

This year, however, Halloween has been fun, almost magical even. Maybe it was my friend who LOVES Halloween. Maybe it was Montana being in preschool and needing a costume, maybe it was carving pumpkins once a week for the last 2 or 3 weeks. Maybe it was all of the parties this weekend. I don't know, but it was fun. I even dressed up and I didn't try to over think it, I just tried to get as close to a princess (per Montana's request and plea) as a pregnant woman can get. We dressed up last night AND this afternoon. Today we took Montana to Fairhaven with some friends where most businesses were passing out candy and there were so many people dressed up. It was an event. Then we came back to co-housing and trick or treated with the neighbor kids. Montana was in HEAVEN. She and another girl kept shouting "I LOVE Halloween". Who can blame them? You get to dress up and run around with your friends collecting candy.

So here's to many more Halloweens. I'm letting go of past negative feelings towards Halloween and embracing the day. It may still take awhile for me to embrace the tacky decorations, but bring on the pumpkins, parties, and costumes!! I have a feeling the next few years will be a lot of fun. So Happy Halloween Everyone!!

Book Club

2010-10-26T07:02:00.000-07:00

The new chapter of a book club.

What possibly can be more fun than a group of ladies, eating snacks, drinking wine, talking about books and anything else that likely comes up?

Tonight will be the second meeting of our new book club and I'm excited. I don't know half of the women, but I like them. I think that we are a random group and we picked out some pretty random books, but I think it's great. The book we are discussing tonight is David Sedaris' hilarious book, Me Talk Pretty One Day.

Oh my gosh, I don't think I've ever laughed so hard reading a book. I read it in Mexico and I would start laughing and poor Aaron would feel left out, so I would read him a passage only to start laughing louder. You need a light read and a good laugh? Pick this book up! It's the perfect book to read before bed. My favorite chapter? "Big Boy." Why is it that I am 32 years old and I still laugh at all things related to poop? Will I ever outgrow this? I mean, seriously, it's ridiculous.

But thanks just the same to David Sedaris for giving me a good belly laugh. I needed it.

And for the record the book wasn't all about poop. There was other funny stuff too.

Mexico

2010-10-19T15:05:00.000-07:00

I hate to make you jealous, but I'll tell you anyway, our recent trip to Mexico was Fantastic!! To celebrate 10 years of marriage and to prepare ourselves for baby #2 and a church plant, we went to Mexico for 7 glorious days...just the 2 of us! We had an intentional layover in Denver in which we dumped our daughter off on our parents and then made it to the Cancun gate with a few minutes to spare.

And what did we do when we got to Mexico? NOTHING. We woke up to the waves, walked a mile to Turtle Bay Cafe, lingered over coffee and breakfast, and got back to our condo where we sat on our little private beach the rest of the day. We would often interrupt our book reading with a snorkel and maybe a beverage. I read almost 3 books, Aaron and I had uninterrupted conversations, and I didn't get too sunburned. It was so great that we decided to stay married another 10 years just so we can do it again. Although I truly hope we will not wait that long for another vacation like this. We got home and actually felt rested.

Before we left for Mexico, we decided that it would be a completely "unplugged" vacation. No cell phones, no internet, no movies, and we didn't even listen to music. It was so good to be away from all that technology. However, we were missing our girl, so we found the condo managers and they let us briefly check email in their office twice. The first time we checked we found this email from Aaron's mom:

We have had a wonderful time with Montana so far. She is so sweet and innocent! And Friendly! Here are some highlights of Saturday and Sunday.

: Playing with Madelyn and Will and some fighting...Tomorrow Madelyn in school so Will gets his chance to play.

: A Picnic and popcicles.

: A fun bath

: Successful pooping after many tries. Again on Sunday. Is she done for the week? Who knows?

: Strawberry Shortcake movie

: Decorating a birthday cake for Papa with Madelyn and Will. Fun and sweet!

: Quiet time with Grandma and Papa

Montana quotes!

: I'm so glad to see you! ( Love it!)

: I love you Papa. Let's all go and hug Papa!

: I love co-housing!

We are having fun! and I know you are too.

Love, Mother"

After this wonderful update, we were able to last a few more days before checking email again.

What a blessing this trip was. I am reminded of what good friends Aaron and I are. I thoroughly enjoy spending time with him and it was so good to just hang out with my best friend for one week. At home we so often act as business partners. We negotiate schedules, childcare and budgets, we entertain guests, and we make lists and plans and preparations, but we don't make a lot of time to just hang out and laugh or talk about silly books we are reading or good music we've discovered. I am so grateful to be reminded that my partner is a really fun person to hang out with. Here's to 10 years of marriage to my best friend. And let's go back to Mexico soon! Who's coming?

...and so it begins

2010-09-19T13:11:00.001-07:00

Montana started preschool last week. I know she isn't 3 yet, but we felt that she would love going somewhere to play with kids and we want to get her some structure before the baby comes in December and her world is turned completely upside down. I have to confess that a couple of hours at home to myself before the baby comes was rather appealing as well. She was so excited to go, although she was not very happy about us trying to take her picture every 2 minutes and was even less thrilled with the video camera. We did manage to capture a couple of good ones, however. We got to school and she ran right in and started playing. I had to walk over to tell her good-bye and and "Montana, look at me. I love you. Have fun." Yeah, mom, whatever. See you later. I got a little teary and the teacher assured me that it's usually harder on mom than the kiddos. She deals with parents leaving their kid for the first time every year, but this was MY first time. I never experienced it before. Aaron and I got back in the quiet car and we realized this was the first day of about 20 years (give or take) of school for Montana. Wow! Maybe we are getting her started too early, maybe we are speeding things up unnecessarily...but when I walked into my house by myself, I thought, well she's gotta go to school sometime!! :)

We are so proud of our little girl and so excited for this new chapter for her.

25 week comparison

2010-09-10T08:53:00.000-07:00

25 weeks pregnant with Montana in Michigan

And exactly 3 years later (in the same shirt!)
25 weeks pregnant with "Junior" in Washington

From Montana's Mouth

2010-09-09T15:00:00.000-07:00

The other morning, Montana was full of cute quotes. I had to write them down before I forgot.

Monday on Labor Day, Montana said, "let's go to the library." I replied, "I think it's closed today, but I'll check." Montana then said, "I'll check my phone." She held out her hand, looked at it and said, "It's 30 o'clock and it's open."

Ahhhh...technology.

The other day I was wearing a sweatshirt and Montana told me to take it off. I told her that I was cold and wanted to keep it on. She then goes on to say, "Take it off, mom. God will keep you warm."

How's that for a spiritual lesson?

Bad Timing?

2010-09-08T10:02:00.000-07:00

Did I tell you? The church started. The Table is what we call it. We've gathered for worship about 6 times or so. It's a new season. And it's exciting to see it start after almost 2 years of prayer and preparation. So at the height of reaching out, building relationships, gathering a community of worshippers who serve their neighborhoods, I find myself pregnant. When momentum for the church is high and our focus is outward and Aaron is excited and motivated, my energy and emotions aren't quite there. My energy is going toward growing a life inside of me. I want to stay at home more. I am tired much more easily by people and events. This seems to be such terrible timing. I don't want to hinder the momentum of this new season, but at the same time I don't feel in the space to ride the wave either.

I was reminded by a wise friend, however, that maybe this isn't terrible timing. Maybe it's God's way of helping our family establish boundaries early in church ministry. Maybe it's a way for me as a "pastor's wife" to maintain my identity and not get wrapped up inappropriately with church life. Maybe it's a way to protect my children and give them space to grow and be instead of always doing things, going places, and being with people. This reframe of what seems to be bad timing has encouraged me immensely. It's a reminder that God's way is the best and most times I have no clue what He is up to. Maybe that's why it took us over a year to get pregnant again. So perhaps this timing isn't so bad. Now the next step is just to learn how to balance it - to know when to give and reach out and to know when it's okay to stay home and just be. Ahhhh....balance....the secret to this life! When I finally figure out the formula to balance, I will write a book!

From Montana's Mouth

2010-08-18T11:41:00.000-07:00

Montana: "Someday I be a mama. And my kid will say let's watch a movie."

Montana's mama: "And what will you say when you're a mama?"

Montana: "Yeah. Sure"

Montana will probably let her kid eat ice cream for breakfast, too. Because that's what SHE wanted for breakfast this morning.

Summer pics

2010-08-15T21:19:00.001-07:00

Some highlights of our road trip to SD where we saw family, family, and more family. Loved it!

Sweet girl, Montana

Anniversary hike

Emily, Heath, Bloom (sporting the shades)

Baby Bloom

Aaron taking a sweet shot over my very tall cousin. And yes, he made the shot!!

Montana with her 2nd cousins!

Montana is an awesome road tripper. She was made for the road!

I love this photo of my mom and dad!

Mason and Bloom

On the 1880 train through the Black Hills

32 years old and 20 weeks pregnant

2010-08-03T14:24:00.000-07:00

My birthday was perfect. I got to celebrate with 2 good friends over breakfast, shopping and a beverage on the porch on a beautiful day. Then the evening was topped off with sushi with my hubby and a drive down Chuckanut Drive for the sunset. 32 is off to a good start, especially knowing the little guy (20 weeks) is healthy.

3 years ago

2010-07-31T21:22:00.000-07:00

Three years ago, Aaron and I were going through a lot of transition. There was a move to Michigan for 3 months, a visit to Swaziland, a purchase of cell phones and a pregnancy. We felt like life as we knew it had been dumped upside down. Well here we are three years later with a newly started church, a new job for me, and another pregnancy. Seems as if change and transition is part of the pregnancy game! The crazy thing is this baby's due date is the exact same day as Montana's was - December 22.

Yesterday we found out "junior" is not a girl, but a boy! Aaron, Montana and I were all convinced it was a girl. We had talked about girl names, watched sisters play at the park, and were looking forward to re-using all of Montana's clothers. Yet the little guy, according to the ultrasound, is definitely a little GUY! It took me the better part of yesterday to get used to the idea of having a boy. But today we are getting so excited to meet our little man and even bought a few things for him today. I know a lot of people like to be surprised about the sex of the baby these days, but I am so glad we found out. It gives me a greater connection with the pregnancy and my son that is growing inside of me. I love being able to say "him" and "he". I am so thankful that we can prepare Montana for a little brother. She was a bit disappointed when we told her that the baby is a boy. She said, "no she's a girl. I have a sister." She also is adjusting well to the idea of brother.

So, change, it is a comin' to the Walters house. Ready or not. Hopefully this little guy will not surprise us with an early arrival like Montana. We will be staying home this Thanksgiving, just in case!!

Wyoming

2010-06-02T04:58:00.000-07:00

I never talked about my wonderful little jaunt to Wyoming at the end of April to meet my nephew, Bloom. I am thinking about it now at 4:30am when I can't sleep because I was wishing that I was there again. It was such a wonderful, restful time of connection. Montana was left at home with her dad and I got on a plane ALL BY MYSELF. I wasn't sure I would remember how to travel alone, but it came back to me very quickly. I had 5 days of down time. It was everything I wanted and needed: from sleeping in to yoga class everyday to spending time with my mom to holding a sweet newborn to making my sister nap to watching tv. It was glorious. Thank you Emily and Heath for letting me come and BE in your home and for having a baby in the first place. What a gift. And when can I come back?

PS

2010-05-08T22:31:00.000-07:00

And, yes, our 3 eggs that we hoped to hatch, indeed did not hatch. We were very sad. We are left only now with Judy and Apple who are growing at an incredible rate.

So there is the chicken update and the potty update. How's that for disappointment?? :)

Potty Update...Day 26

2010-05-08T22:20:00.000-07:00

ARGGGGG! After 5 pairs of underwear today, I'm not convinced that this potty training thing is working.

Speaking of babies...

2010-04-28T08:00:00.000-07:00

We have 2 and 3 more are due any day now.

Aaron, Montana, and I eat lots of eggs. I mean lots. We have talked about having chickens for a long time, but for those of you who know us, know that we TALK about alot of things. Well my friend, Lea, helped put a stop to our talking, by giving us chicken eggs to hatch plus 2 other chicks. She brought our 2 chicks on Monday, and we are anxiously awaiting the hatching of our 3 other chicks. I have a fear that the 3 eggs are not going to hatch at all and we will only have Judy and Apple (named by our sweet 5 yr old friend).

We will keep you posted on the hatching of the other 3, yet to be named. And here's the other thing...should we really be naming these chicks?? We are new to ALL of this. Much is to be learned in this process!!

Welcome Bloom Oliver

2010-04-27T16:00:00.000-07:00

One week ago Bloom Oliver was born to my sister, Emily and her husband Heath. He was a whopping 5 lbs 14 oz and 20 inches long. He just a little peanut and so wonderful. This quote inspired Bloom's name:

"I hope you will go out and let stories happen to you, and that you will work them, water them with your blood and tears and your laughter till they bloom,
till you yourself burst into bloom."

We are so glad you're here, Bloom.

Day One

2010-04-12T15:46:00.001-07:00

Let the potty training begin. I'm officially sick of diapers and Montana has shown interest in the past (let's hope I didn't miss the window!) and there are a couple of other signs, like a dry diaper after nap. We went to Target this morning and bought princess pull-ups and princess underwear (her choice, not mine) and also an Elmo potty/sticker chart. I told Montana that once she gets 10 stickers on the chart she can pick something out at the store and has already asked 3 or 4 times in the last 30 minutes if she can have a dress and I've said 3 0r 4 times in the last 30 minutes that she can have a dress once she goes potty 1o times.
I'm not really sure what I'm doing, but here we go. I swore that I would never potty train with candy, but here I am, attempting to potty train with M&Ms AND stickers. Who knew it could be so fun to go to the bathroom?
Any words of wisdom on potty training you would care to share??
Let the pottying begin!

Red Lentil Coconut Curry Recipe

2010-04-07T21:40:00.000-07:00

Every Monday night we have a potluck/biblestudy at our house. I make a pot of soup and everyone brings something to share. This week I made this soup and it was a hit. It was so good that I had to share. The recipe is from the cookbook Simply in Season.

Red Lentil Curry Coconut

If time allows, place can of coconut milk in freezer 20 minutes before starting to cook. Open can and remove solidified coconut butter from the top to use in sauteing.

1 large onion (minced)
In large soup pot saute in coconut butter or 1 T oil over medium-high heat until transparent but not browned.

1 T garlic (minced)
1 T ginger root - peeled and minced (I used 1/2 tsp-ish of ground ginger)
2 tsp curry powder
1/2 tsp each - ground turmeric, ground cumin, pepper
1/4 tsp ground red pepper
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
2-3 bay leaves
Add and reduce head to medium-low. Cook and stir constantly for 3 minutes; do not let spices and onion brown.

13.5 oz can of coconut milk
1/4 cup tamari or soy sauce
1 cup tomato sauce
Add and simmer on low heat for 20 minutes, stirring often.

2 cups dried red lentils (rinsed)
5 cups water
In a saucepan cook for 15 minutes. Add, with liquid, to soup pot.

1 medium head cauliflower (cut into 1 1/2 inch florets)
1 large sweet potato (peeled and cut into 1 inch cubes)
1/4 head cabbage (cut in 1 1/2 inch chunks)
1-2 cups peas (optional)
Add to soup pot and cook over medium heat just until tender. If using peas, add at the end of cooking time.
Serve over brown rice with toppings (optional): Indian chutneys and pickles, fresh diced pears, roasted sunflower seeds, plain yogurt.

So yummy!! Enjoy!

Emily and Heath Visit

2010-04-03T14:46:00.001-07:00

But you wouldn't really know since most of the pictures are of Montana! We had amazing weather and such a good time. It made me miss my sis even more, though. She better have that baby soon, so I can go to Wyoming and see her and the baby (oh and Heath too, of course!). Love you guys so much!!!

Tooth Trauma

2010-03-24T14:16:00.000-07:00

3 different phases of teeth, but all Montana's smile!

Last Saturday, Montana had quite the fall. She was strolling along with her hands in her pockets and tripped. I picked her up, sensing it was bad, and saw blood. I started to freak out and then I saw that her tooth was chipped. I called Aaron because I didn't have the doctor's phone number in my phone (I do now! Along with poison control and my dentist!) and I was concerned I had to take her to the ER. All rational thought was gone. Thankfully I had a friend with me who remained calm. So here I am carrying my screaming daughter through the park to get back to my car while trying to talk to my husband on the phone. I'm sure we were quite the spectacle. I clearly don't handle situations like this well, because without comforting my bleeding daughter I threw her in the car seat and raced home. She was crying the whole time..."my tooth, my tooth." We finally got home Aaron took a good look at it, we iced her fat lip and sat on the couch and breathed...and watched Veggie Tales. One of our neighbors is a doctor so she stopped by and suggested seeing a dentist but said she would be fine. Montana went to bed without eating or drinking because she didn't want to put anything in her mouth, but she was sleeping well.

And then I really freaked out.

Of course I have been reading all about brain trauma and with my counseling background I kept thinking about how this event will change her, how she will never be the same (let me remind you, I wasn't being very rational at this point). But as I sat in the living room in the middle of the night in the dark, I began to chill out. I cried because her tooth WON'T look the same, but was thankful that it was JUST a tooth. I processed my response to the incident and realized how I could have comforted my daughter better in the moment. I worried about my baby and what she went through, and at the same time recognized how minor this was considering what other kids go through (and live through!). I gave myself permission to be sad about this little event (after a brief encounter with another neighbor in the laundry room who reminded me that Montana was MY baby- sometimes you just can't beat co-housing). Our first "major" incident is now under our belt.

We took her to the dentist on Tuesday and the tooth needed to come out. We went to a pediatric dentist on Thursday and they pulled it. Can I just say what a trooper Montana was? She sat in the chair by herself, opened her mouth when she was supposed to, and didn't cry when they numbed the area or pulled the tooth. And yes, I did leave the room for the tooth pulling - Aaron stayed with her. She was back to her normal self that afternoon and in fact gave Aaron, my sister and her husband, and me a wonderful concert on the beach later that day!

Now she shows people that she lost a tooth, talks about the tooth fairy and all of her other friends who have lost teeth (she doesn't need to know they are all 5 or 6!). Her smile is different but still adorable!

too familiar for normal

2010-03-23T22:31:00.000-07:00

March has been, to say the least, Ca-RAZY. It started off with visitors from Seattle and Vancouver and a job training. Yes, I got a job! Then 1 day of cooking for a common meal and then Aaron, Montana and I were off for a little 2 day getaway. A Christian camp/conference center offers free lodging to pastors in the winter during the mid-week. We decided to take full advantage of it. It was a much needed rest, but we came home and jumped right back in...hosting a church planting leadership dessert at our house. Thankfully dessert came from the Firehouse Cafe (where Aaron works). Then it was the weekend which actually tends to be our busiest time. (go figure...I tried to tell Aaron that when he signed up for this ministry thing! I think he may tire of me saying "I told you so" every Sunday when Sunday afternoon naps are only a distant memory) It was during that weekend that our 2 yr old who was simply walking in the park with her hands in her pocket tripped and chipped her front tooth. After freaking out I made it home and Montana and I were exhausted. 2 days later my beautiful pregnant sister and her husband arrived for 5 fantastic days. While they were here, we had 2 trips to the dentist with the end result - a pulled front tooth. Then it was the weekend again. Wash and repeat. Oh yeah, and then Aaron left for a trip to Michigan and had to be at the airport at 4:30am. Whew...is this my normal life, or was this just an uncommonly busy couple of weeks? It feels a little too familiar to be uncommon. This week is catch up, be at home, enjoy the sunshine, and breathe...

Latest Montan-isms

2010-03-13T21:38:00.000-08:00

Montana,

You are now almost 2 1/2! I can't believe it. You are talking so much these days and you are saying the funniest things. A couple of weeks ago you asked for coffee when I came to get you from your crib. It made me crack up so much. Like mother, like daughter! Lately you have been pretending to be other things. Either Madelyn, Annika or a doggy, it's stinkin' hilarious. Last night and this morning you were ice skating around the living room frequently asking us to help you take off your pink skates and put on your purple ones. Man, we've got to get you to the ice skating rink. On Tuesday mornings after our Monday night Biblestudy, you always ask "where people go?" The other day you told dad that you wanted to give him a "face kiss" and you kissed him on the cheek. You were so upset the day we bought Scarlet a dress-up dress for her birthday. You really wanted to keep it for yourself and I let you wear it for one afternoon. You told everyone about it, even though they didn't understand you. I had to translate a few times.
Another brief conversation between you and I went something like this:
Mama: Montana, when are you going to start going potty on the big potty?
Montana: 4 hours

Here's what other people say about you:
"When I look at Montana I think extrovert" "Montana really needs a sibling" "She just loves all the kids"...

What a delight you are, my sweet girl. You make your mama and dad so very proud.

Whirlwind

2010-02-23T13:57:00.000-08:00

It has been a crazy couple of days. On Saturday I got a call about a job that I submitted my resume to before Christmas, and she wanted to interview me in Seattle on Monday afternoon. (The job would be in Bellingham, though) So as I was getting geared up for the interview on Sunday night, my friend's water broke. We had agreed to take their little girl when she went into labor, but she was a week early and was going to watch Montana while I went to Seattle. So, needless to say, I didn't have a babysitter and we had an extra kid! I had a brief moment of panic, but as always...things totally worked out. Aaron got his shift covered at the coffee shop in one phone call, so he got to be Mr. Mom to 2 little girls while I drove to Seattle. Thankfully I gave myself a bit of extra time because there was a terrible accident on the way, and I sat on the highway for about 30 minutes. I made it to the interview only a few minutes late. The interview went well and I should find out in the next week or so if I got it. I arrived home last night right in time for our Monday night biblestudy to begin. Whew. What a day.
Right now, Montana is asleep and Elena is back with her parents and new baby sister, and I have a few minutes to breathe and process.

I am overwhelmed by how quickly things can change...one minute you are not thinking about a job and the next you have a job interview. One minute you are pregnant and the next you are holding a brand new baby. It is a good reminder that nothing is permanent whether good or bad. It just is. God's timing is always better than my timing even though I often think my timing is best. Why haven't I learned THAT one yet? Just when I think life is going in a certain direction it changes. I am so grateful and thrilled for this possibility to start counseling again, yet so scared at the same time. Will I know what to do and what to say as a therapist? Will I be able to help my clients make positive change? Will I have time for the things I do now? Will Montana miss me?

As my mom always reminds me...one day at a time. So for now, I'm going to enjoy this quiet afternoon at home with Montana. The Washington weather is back after a long, good stretch of sunshine. A good afternoon cuddle on the couch reading some books never sounded so good. Life will be what it is, why stress myself out now with the "what ifs" I can't answer.

USA

2010-02-19T14:14:00.000-08:00

We couldn't resist. It just sounds so funny coming from the mouth of a 2 yr old.

Olympics

2010-02-19T13:53:00.001-08:00

You know what I love about the Olympics?

The human spirit that embodies the games.

I love watching the events, hearing the stories of the athletes, watching some succeed and others fall. I love the way the world feels united for 2 weeks and stands behind the country of Georgia in the tragic death of the young Luger.

The Olympics gives us something to gather around and connect over. And it is pretty darn cool that it is all taking place about 1 hour from where I live.

Yesterday we decided last minute to head into Vancouver. I have been swearing that I would avoid Canada for the month of February, but after watching the opening ceremonies and a few random events, I HAD to go. We decided to try to drive into the city and if we found parking, great, if not, we would just drive and soak in the human spirit. We drove by the torch (amazing!) and found street parking 2 blocks away (even more amazing!) Aaron, Montana and I walked around near the torch, enjoyed the people watching, tried to capture some pictures of the Olympic torch, saw a USA gold medalist (Hannah Kearney, freestyle skier), and resisted purchasing Canadian paraphernalia. Speaking of Canadians...I have never seen so many Canadian flags, hats, mittens, shirts, baby clothes in one place...it's awesome. It was so easy to get in and out of the city. I was so thrilled to soak up some Olympic Human Spirit in person. And plus the weather was marvelous, and now I can say that I wore my chacos to the winter Olympics.

For Emily

2010-02-09T21:50:00.001-08:00

I was talking to my sister today and she told me that I needed to post some more pictures of Montana...so here you go, Em!!
Montana gets to be more of a ham as the days go by. (Perhaps she is taking after auntie Emily??) We just joined a "mommy and me" dance class at the coffeehouse where Aaron works and she loves it. We are working on listening to instructions instead of just running around...but it's alot of fun. She still loves dressing up and is very opinionated about what she wears in the morning. I thoroughly enjoy her (well except for the days I finally break down and go dig the brown and pink polka-dot skirt out of the hamper because she refuses to wear anything else and we've got to be somewhere in 15 minutes). :)

Cravings

2010-01-18T13:45:00.001-08:00

Today we are entering week 2 of cleanse and I have to say it "I WANT COFFEE!!" Aaron and I negotiated for an intentional "cheat" on Saturday and got coffee at the Firehouse Cafe where Aaron works. Man, did it taste good and now I want more. I think not drinking coffee is probably the hardest part of the cleanse for me. It is a part of my morning ritual and we go visit Aaron and get coffee. I go to coffee with friends and like to drink coffee when I drive. So there are lots of times when I have a coffee in hand. I'm missing that connection to my rituals, but I keep telling myself only 2 more weeks...and maybe Aaron and I can negotiate and bring coffee back a week before the cleanse officially ends. So then it would only be one week left with one intentional "cheat" day, so really only 6 days left of no coffee and really when you think about it, today is almost over so it's almost like 5 days...whew, I think I can do it.

Thursday: add rice

2010-01-14T12:06:00.000-08:00

And rice never tasted so good...

This morning for breakfast:

Warm short grain sweet rice with raisins and cinnamon

Snack of the day

2010-01-13T11:57:00.000-08:00

I made this snack today and all 3 of us love it!

Spicy Trail Mix (from Vegetarian Mother's Cookbook, by Cathe Olson)
1 cup raw pumpkin seeds
3/4 cup raw sunflower seeds
1 heaping cup raw almonds
1 heaping cup raw walnuts or pecans
1 Tablespoon sea salt
Chili powder or paprika

Place seeds, nuts, and salt in medium-size bowl. Stir to distribute salt. Fill bowl with water to about an inch above nut mixture. (Soaking and roasting the nuts and seeds make them more digestible) Let sit 7-12 hours. Rinse and drain well. Preheat oven to 150 degrees. Spread nuts and seeds in an even layer on a baking sheet. Sprinkle with chili powder or paprika evenly over mixture. Roast 8-12 hours. Keep in covered jar.

*Kate's note: I used a yummy smoked paprika and chili powder and also threw on a bit more salt. I roasted at about 200 degrees for 5 hours. It tastes really good with raisins. This recipe zipped up all of the plain nuts we were eating!!

Highlights of Christmas

2010-01-12T14:52:00.001-08:00

Sledding in an elementary school playground in Laramie. Did I mention that it's COLD in Laramie and we didn't have the best snow gear? But it was a blast anyway.

Look! The Middle Eastern Santa Claus came to deliver presents to my family on January 2nd in Laramie, Wyoming at my sister's house.

At the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo with Madelyn and Will. The zoo lights up some of the animal homes (this was my attempt at finding a word that wasn't cage).
It was a super cold night, but we bundled up anyway!
We got to feed the giraffes crackers which made it all worth it for me.

We celebrated Christmas with Aaron's family on Dec 26.
Here's Aaron with Tana and Isabelle

Christmas Eve, the night before we left on the airplane.

Reset

2010-01-12T14:25:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year again. You know, the time when we start with a fresh year, lots of plans, goals, resolutions. Well I'm jumping on that bad wagon and starting out this new year with our annual January cleanse. For the past 4 years or so Aaron and I take a month to hit the reset button with our diet. It gives us permission to get out of control at holiday parties, eating just one more bon-bon, and taking one (or 5) more pieces of yummy cheese guilt free. Don't forget catching up with friends and family in Colorado and having a 3rd cup of coffee or drinking another glass of wine. I think my record this holiday was eating at 3 different restaurants in 2 different cities in 6 hours. Yep, after about a month of decadence, it's time to cleanse. We started yesterday and I literally just got off the phone with Aaron who confessed to eating a muffin at work!! WHAT??! It's only Day 2. I can't really say that I blame him...working at a coffee shop and all. I probably would've broke down and had a coffee by now. This year we will be at it for about 3 weeks...and basically be consuming no dairy, wheat, meat, sugar, beer/wine, and the hardest one for me...coffee! I may give myself a cheat day now...considering Aaron's confession!

I also want to hit the reset button on a couple of other areas of life as well. I'm not sure I want to share them yet...because that implies a little accountability. For now, let's just say I want to be more intentional with my time. Perhaps more of an update will follow depending on how my follow through goes!! :) Nevertheless, I am grateful for the start of a new year, especially after the holidays. I love the holidays, but I'm always glad when they're done and I can settle into a new rhythm. I welcome the new rhythm, hitting the reset button, and making Aaron feel very guilty for cheating on day 2!

Christmas letter

2009-12-14T14:34:00.001-08:00

I'd like to say that we are writing our Christmas letter on the blog to save a few trees, and while that is very noble, the truth is...I’ve been trying to figure out what to write in this year’s Christmas letter for over 2 weeks now. I couldn't think of anything clever or creative and besides, between our blogs, facebook, and prayer updates I feel like you have heard enough about the Walters in 2009! There’s not too much to add, but I'll give it a try!

Lately I have been trying to practice the attitude of gratitude. I am finding when my heart is full of gratitude, peace is a natural consequence. For example, when I start to want more things or compare myself to other people, if I reflect on what I DO have with thankfulness, peace follows. I’m not going to pretend that I have this “gratitude” and “peace” thing figured, because many of my days are spent running around with hardly a thought besides “what’s for supper”? But I do want to take more time to pause with a grateful heart and thank God in His goodness for all I have: for loving, supportive family and friends. For our home and our neighbors who make it a bit easier to be so far from family. For work that we enjoy and brings us purpose. A healthy 2 year old daughter who is full of life and loves to explore. For my health and Aaron’s health. For being able to go to Colorado to stay connected to family and friends there. For the beauty of the mountains and the water so close by. For delicious food to nourish us.

As you know, Aaron was hired to start a new church in Bellingham and that is starting to progress. Aaron spends lots of time in the community, works in a neighborhood coffee shop part-time, and actively participates in a partner church called Mosaic. In the new year Aaron will begin preaching and being involved in their evening service with the intent of putting together a launch team for our church out of Mosaic.

Montana is a delight (I suppose all parents are required to say this in a Christmas letter!). She just turned 2 and is changing every day. Much to her mother’s dismay she is very much into the “princess thing” and loves all things pink and frilly. Actually I don’t mind it that much, it’s just so fun to watch her little personality emerge. She is an easy kid, adjusts quickly and well to change, and loves people.

2009 has been a year of finding our place, finding our rhythm and finding peace. We pray for peace for each of you in the upcoming year.

Blessings,
Kate, Aaron, and Montana

Our pictures were taken by our amazing and talented friend, Sarah!!!

Birthday pics

2009-12-01T14:07:00.000-08:00

We had a great day celebrating Montana's 2nd birthday. Aime and Ashley came down from Canada to eat pink cupcakes, watch Montana open loads of presents, and eat La Fiamma with us. I must say, Montana was IN to it being her day. She kept saying, "happy, again" meaning sing happy birthday to me again. It was a good day. And now she's 2 and asserting her free will and I'm needing more and more patience every day!

Happy Birthday, Montana

2009-11-27T13:50:00.000-08:00

Dear Montana,

Today you are two! I can't believe how fast time has flown, yet somehow it seems you have always been in my life. Today we get to remember how you came barging into the world throwing both me and your dad totally and completely off guard. Yes, obviously I knew I was going to have you, but I thought I had one more month of pregnancy. I thought I would have a few more weeks to wash your new little clothes, make a birth plan, and make a music play list on my ipod for labor and birth. There was no waiting for you to come, my little love bug, you were ready before we were. But as I've learned in the 2 years of being your mama, I'm never fully ready for anything. You do things in your own time. When you're ready, not me.

I am delighted by your personality. You are a little looky-loo even at the ripe age of 2. How many times have I already told you to "pay attention" because you will step off the slide or trip over a stick because you are staring at other children at the park? People ARE fascinating, aren't they? Your extroversion already shines through...I am amazed by the energy you get when other people enter the room. You love to dance and carry around your stuffed animals. Your lastest new trick is moving the kitchen rug so you can drag a chair over to help me with what I'm doing in the kitchen. You HAVE to be in the action. Sometimes I look at other children asleep in their parents' arms at church or at a restaurant and I laugh because I know that no matter how tired you are, you wouldn't sleep because you don't want to miss anything.

Happy 2nd Birthday, Montana Faith. We continue to pray that you will have faith that will move mountains, that you will be kind and gentle to all people, and that you will continue to be adventurous. You are loved, Tana-Banana.

All my love,
mom

I am thankful

2009-11-26T19:36:00.000-08:00

I have so much to be thankful for, but this year I am particularly thankful for health. Tuesday I went to our friend's house who has cancer. She is 26 years old and has been sick and in pain for 7 years. She doesn't have much energy, so we help her around the house with dishes, trash, etc. She told me that she wanted to live, but has made peace with death. Wow...and I was stressed about getting to Target to buy a new shirt to go with a sweater someone gave me. Talk about a dose of much needed perspective.
So today, I am thankful for my friend who lives so gracefully despite sickness. I am thankful for my body. I am thankful for my health. I am thankful I have the energy for small and large tasks. I am thankful for reminders.

More Colorado

2009-11-24T22:35:00.001-08:00

While in Colorado Montana got to spend time with her cousins, Madelyn and Will, and the newest addition, Isabelle. Beautiful baby! Montana loved holding her and I forgot how fragile, small, and precious newborn babies are. It's amazing how quickly they grow and become crazy toddlers!! I hadn't been trick-or-treating in YEARS, so my sis and bro-in-law, broke me in. Madelyn went as Ariel, Will was Spiderman, Montana was a princess (of course), and Isabelle was just plain adorable. We got some good candy and it was a fun evening. Montana was her usual social self and enjoyed it, I mean what kid hates it??

Princess in Action

2009-11-19T20:38:00.000-08:00

Sorry you have to turn your head to watch it - I'm not computer savvy (or patient) enough to figure out how to turn it. (PS if anyone knows...let me know!!)

Princess? My daughter? Really?

2009-11-19T20:20:00.000-08:00

Yep. My daughter is loving the princess thing and she's hardly 2. When we found out we were having a girl, the one thing I did not want was a princess. Well, here she is loving everything pink, dress, and princess. I guess there's a little something to say about the whole nature vs. nurture controversy!! AND to top it off, when we were in Colorado, my parents and my sister completely egged it on. They bought her a princess dress complete with wings and a wand. She wore it almost everyday over her clothes and insisted on dancing whenever it was on. Four adults indulged a 23 month old whenever she saw fit.

Final Confession: She's utterly adorable and totally cracks me up.

Vermont

2009-11-11T21:37:00.000-08:00

Highlight of my fall: visiting my friend, Shawna, in Vermont with Jenny. We had a terrific girls' weekend. The weekend got kicked off with a "chicken of wine" and ended at Ben and Jerry's home factory with lots of talking, laughing, eating, drinking, driving (not necessarily in that order) in between. Fantastic! It was my first time leaving Montana for that long and we both did just fine. She stayed in Colorado and got to spend time with both grandparents, while Aaron remained in Washington holding down the fort! Now of the top of my agenda: getting back to Vermont ASAP!! :)

Climb!

2009-10-08T22:34:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday Aaron and I ran a half-marathon in Leavenworth with some friends. We had a great weekend. The weather was fantastic and Aaron and I ran pretty much the whole thing together. Of course we had to partake of the post-run Oktoberfest beer and brats and then we headed home. On Sunday we were both beat - a Sunday afternoon nap never sounded better. I put Montana down for her nap and she chatted with her sock monkey for awhile, so Aaron and I put ourselves down for OUR nap. And just as we were starting to wonder if Montana was going to go to sleep, we hear the pitter-patter of feet across the hard wood floor and Little Miss Montana appears at our door and announces herself with a very proud, "HI!!" Well I had no reaction but to crack up laughing. I laughed until I cried, because life as I know it is about to change...again. We asked her how she got out and she proudly replied, "Climb!" Duh, mom and dad. Needless to say, nap time did not happen on Sunday.

A brief picture blurb

2009-10-07T20:56:00.001-07:00

Montana and I at a farm outside of Bellingham - we've had a gorgeous fall!

Aaron and Montana made a cake while I was camping with the youth group.
Looks like she got the fun job!!

Montana and August hanging out during snack time. We miss that kid!
His parents moved to Canada, and they HAD to take him too.

Montana LOVES wearing dresses and playing dress up. This was taken at a museum when we met our friends Jana and Will for the day. Montana was in to the dress-up clothes they had and Will just wanted to watch the trains. Go figure.

Montana and Will chatting over a little snack

Camping with teenagers

2009-09-25T20:12:00.001-07:00

Last weekend I found myself camping with 13 teenagers. I'm not exactly sure how it happened, but it did. I didn't get much sleep, ate junk food, and woke up Sunday morning with a zit on my nose. I really felt like a teenager again!! Here's a play by play of the first night, just so you can get a flavor of the weekend:

10:45pm - Aaron comes to pick up Montana because I had her with me, so he could play poker with some guys for the evening.

11pm - I get back to the campfire and I'm stoked for a s'mores and more silly stories and laughing by the fire, but all at once everyone gets up and goes to bed because "it's 11". So, I am stuck roasting a marshmallow at the fire all by myself.

11:10pm - brush my teeth and go to bed

12:30am - wake up and have to pee, boy, do I feel old. I have the debate in my head: should I get up and go or hold it until morning? Once I decide to get up, the question is whether to pee outside the tent or walk all the way to the bathroom? Decide to walk to the bathroom to spare any youth from stumbling across my bare ass in the dark. That could be scary.

2am - I hear voices and feet outside the tent. Sense a presence. Wonder if a kid is scared or needs something. Lay there for a bit and think I hear Yuanita snoring next to me, but it's someone pulling the zipper of our tent open very slowly. I say, "Is everything okay?" being the concerned adult chaperone I was. Totally naive to the schemes of youth these days. Yuanita was faking sleep and was waiting to scare whoever was trying to get into the tent to pull a prank. So, I ruined that prank reversal.

3am - it's starts raining. Not just WA drizzle rain, but pouring. I consider what's at the picnic table getting wet, and decide that I don't really want to get wet and cold, so I'm sure it will be fine.

3:15am - I see flashlights and hear a group of courageous girls pulling tarps over everything. Awesome girls!

4:00am - I realize that rain is dripping on me and I can't figure out why because we have an awesome REI tent. Then I remember the vent was open in the roof, so I crawl out to close it. Awww, much better. Yuanita is a little wet, so we pull her sleeping bag away from the tent walls

5:30 or 6am - not too sure the exact time, but Yuanita is really wet and has to pee. We hear some of the boys outside checking to see if everything was covered up and she decides to get up, go to the bathroom, and move to the van to finish sleeping. I resume sleep feeling very warm and dry, thankfully.

8am - our alarms go off because it's time to get up and start breakfast. It's still pouring and I don't hear anyone moving around, so I try to go back to sleep and delay the inevitable of leaving my warm sleeping bag.

8:20 am - the guys are up and about ready to eat. Everyone starts to crawl out of their tents, soaked and grumpy. We start making breakfast, but I am thinking the whole time that we should throw everything in the cars, get coffee, and head home. The rain stopped shortly thereafter and the day ended up being dry and beautiful.

I learned all kids of crazy youth group games, played PIT, learned how to make a pudgie pie, went on a hike, sat around the camp fire. And, I observed what an amazing group of teenagers Bethel has. It was a blast, but being the adult helper made me appreciate all that Yuanita and other youth pastors do. So hug a youth pastor next time you see one. They are amazing people!

What's new?

2009-09-16T13:42:00.000-07:00

Well nothing...really. No big events, no exciting news, just the daily grind. But as much as I love fun trips and life changes and other sorts of drama, I am appreciating the small and mundane daily activities of talking with neighbors, running around with Montana, chores around the house, looking through cookbooks when Montana is sleeping, watching an "episode" or two with friends, walking to the Firehouse Cafe for coffee. I often times can't believe this is my life. I love getting out and doing things, but I equally love staying at home and spending time here.
We had a great summer. The weather has been fantastic, we spent time with family, my sister and her hubby visited, we went camping with friends, we attended 3 weddings, but I welcome autumn with open arms. Welcome cooler weather, scarves, pumpkin lattes, and a little routine to our crazy summer!! We started a Monday night Bible study with neighbors, I will be helping lead a women's Biblestudy in Lynden on Wednesday mornings, Aaron started a part-time job at the aforementioned coffee shop to meet people in addition to everything else he manages to do. We have established a family night and have ideas for another group to start. Our life is very full, nothing too crazy or exciting, but very good. So if you ask me what's new, I'll probably say not too much and that's how I like it!