it's the little things

Happy New Year

2012-01-15T21:24:00.003-06:00

I'm alive and well,

and hope to be back on here on a more regular basis.

Yikes it's been a busy school year!

I miss keeping up with my friends in blogland.

Please forgive me!

That's me in my new purchase that my son thinks is absolutely hideous.

Hmmm...I needed something to cover my ears with a whee bit of style, and at $7 the price was right.

Hey, at least he could find me on the sledding hill, right? ;)

I've happily finished nine days of teaching art.

I'm filling in for a long-term paternity leave.

Thank you Deep Space Sparkle for your amazing blog and ideas...

Check out this awesome work by one of my first graders!

I absolutely LOVE what I am doing.

I loved substituting for the reading specialist too.

Reading and Art are my two favorite subjects, so I feel so very lucky.

This job is completely one hundred and eighty degrees different.

I was becoming bogged down with the paperwork and meetings.

Now I'm dreaming in color again.

I love the creativity.

I love getting to know all the kids in the school.

I have six or seven classes a day for forty minutes each.

Each day Sofi & Izzy come to school with me.

I start the day with a prep, then 5th, 4th, 3rd, 2nd, lunch, 1st, prep or Kindergarten, and another class, then a reading intervention for the last 25 minutes of the day.

I see sixteen classes- twice a week.

The classes have 20-27 kids.

A lot of faces and names to learn...I'm getting there.

Many projects are drying each day on the racks!

Our first project was a little game of getting to know each other.

We made a monochromatic self portrait using pastels, markers, and colored pencils.

They shared what they love to do in art.

Isn't it fun?

Each little head is on a 4 x 6 inch card.

Putting it together took a little bit of organization!

My mission this week is to sew up some fun aprons.

I love dressing up, and I return each day a bit of a mess.

Pastels on the face and paint on the sleeves has become my new accessories.

I'm happy to be doing what I love so close to home.

Balancing the laundry, paperwork, meal planning and cleaning is still a little challenging...

but it was even when I wasn't working full time!

Cheers to a New Year!

-Julie

Find Our Home on the Newstand...

2011-12-12T21:27:00.003-06:00

We're in the January issue...
They were here in September,

and I was at school!

So not fair.

Mark worked from home...

truck was here with stylists & photographers from 9-3,

so the pics in here are new to me too! ;)

I honestly couldn't find our living room,

or my bedroom,

or my dining room.

Izzy did!

Our rooms are throughout the magazine...

They use products advertisers are selling, and staged them in our rooms...

the living room, kitchen, kid's bath, dining room, library, our master, outside, and my studio.

It's kind of a "Where's Waldo" game we've been playing as a family...

or "What in this picture is really in our home?"

My neighbor walked through our home with magazine in hand and played the game.

It's pretty funny actually.

They were an amazing team.

Everything in our home was put back in order.

They mixed things up a bit, and it was fun to see what they put here and there.

Our home is nowhere near magazine worthy now.

The tree is up.

I'm sitting near it and tingly & itchy from head to toe.

Ears are clogged, and nose too.

I think this may be the last year for a live tree.

I hate allergies.

Anyway...an 8 foot ladder is propped nearby,

Just in case I get the urge to clean the rest of the ceiling.

80% of the ornaments are on the tree,

75% of the decorations are up...

and the irony is I'm not phased by it one bit.

I'll get to it,

sometime before a big party here on Friday.

Four more days of school.

Four more days teaching reading.

Four more days with kids I've come to absolutely adore.

Four more days to tidy up the loose ends on this position,

Four more days to meet with the Art teacher during plan periods,

Five more days until a Nutcracker birthday party for Sofi...

I think I'm the big nut who hopefully won't crack while getting everything done!

Time to lose myself on Pinterest for a bit so I can forget it all....

-Julie

It's A Wonderfully Full Full Life

2011-12-05T21:08:00.003-06:00

Mark & Carl asked why I wasn't blogging much these days...

I didn't think they even checked in here.

I've probably used this pic before.

I'm too lazy to get off the couch, take off my snuggy, and plug the cord into my camera.

Just being honest.

I am bone tired.

Full days and a ridiculous cold have zapped the life out of me.

Nine hours at school over the weekend finishing paperwork didn't help.

Nine more days as a substitute reading specialist.

I'm going to miss these kiddos a ton.

I was feeling a little depressed about it ending actually.

Life threw a little curve ball last week, and I jumped up and caught it.

I was asked to cover another leave...from Jan. 3 into March.

I'll have minimal paper work.

I'll get to play with pastels, paint, paper, and pencils.

I'll get to dream again.

I'll get to plan mini history lessons.

I'm going to be the art teacher!

I've done a few happy dances this week in between sucking on lozenges.

I'll be in the same school, have a prep, and a room.

The girls can still come to school in the a.m., and leave with me in the afternoon.

I'm still pinching myself.

Two and a half block commute.

Reading, art, kids.

Three of my favorite things.

I'm the calmest I think I've ever been about Christmas.

No tree yet...we'll cut it down on Sat.

No cards...I have it picked, just need to place the order.

No decorations out...the bins are all in the dining room.

Stockings are hung.

Two or three little female elves took care of that.

Anyone else have three girls?

Anyone else make it through the drama?

OH MY GOODNESS.

If it isn't one, it has to be the other, or the other.

Plucking gray hairs,

Julie

"Mom, you really need a filter..."

2011-11-10T22:07:00.002-06:00

Thank you dear Son.

He told me this after I announced to my children that the dress in the corner boutique might as well be a bra.

We were heading to the library.

I said what was on my mind.

Just being real.

I probably needed a filter.

Sometimes I do.

It's been six weeks since I've blogged.

I've missed it.

I've been busy, but the real reason for not blogging is the whole filter thing.

To filter what's really on my mind or not?

For those of you who blog, what's your take...

To filter the written word or not?

Perhaps I should just write a private journal.

I have four weeks left in my permanent sub position.

I'm not sure what's next for me....

But know that I love what I'm doing.

Shocked by how much I love the primary grades.

Attached to my little friends I see every day.

Enjoying using my brain.

I learned last week that I've aged...considerably.

17 years ago I was the young teacher at the conference table.

Now I'm the oldest in the room, and ready to check id's at the door.

I did get carded at Trader Joe's last week.

It put a huge smile on my face.

Tonight I'll dream of poodle skirts that need to be glue gunned by tomorrow eve,

Excel sheets that I want to create,

Paintings I have in my head,

Leaves that need to be hauled to the curb,

Ten days of laundry that needs to be washed,

(never will I buy a Whirlpool front loader again),

Six months old, and thank goodness it's under warranty.

Repair man makes third trip here tomorrow.

Six boxes have been delivered to our door.

Three are the same thing.

They've filled the laundry room.

That's all I've got.

-Julie

Days to Remember

2011-09-27T21:19:00.003-05:00

Listening to the laughter of my boys playing with their fake basketball teams.

I don't get it, but I'm happy they like hanging out together.

My girls do too.

Our house isn't huge by some people's standards,

but it's plenty big for me.

The girls and I decided to make forts yesterday after school.

I thought the table in the play room would suffice.

It did, for about 5 minutes.

S & I chose to take matters in their own hands.

They've created an amazing fort under the basement stairs.

They are on top of each other literally.

They've created a sign in sheet.

The wonderful thing about it?

To access the laundry room I must sign in.

Brilliant.

If I can't get in, I can't do laundry!

I'd take pics, but they are asleep.

I almost am too.

Driving to the gym at 5:05 a.m. is nuts.

Worked out.

Showered at home.

Breakfast with the big kids.

Laundry sorted.

Lunch making supervision.

Mark to train.

Breakfast with the little girls.

Off to school.

Six reading groups.

Lunch in the car while talking to a friend.

Prep time.

Conferencing with teachers.

Training.

Bus duty.

Clean up.

Home.

Dinner for Carl.

Carl to marching band.

Dinner with girls.

Picked up Mark.

Figured out car pools.

Baked cookies with Linnea.

Dinner for Mark.

Linnea to Brink (youth group).

Mark picked up Carl.

Mark picked up Linnea.

Reading with girls.

Phew...

Are these the days to remember???

They are,

and tomorrow we will do it again....

Pondering On Life, Guys in tight pants, and Cleaning

2011-09-26T16:47:00.003-05:00

Another week has passed.

Every time I think I'm getting into a groove, something shifts.

Today I'm beat.

I'm craving a personal day, and wishing for a little down time.

The weekend was good...but not relaxing.

I feel like I'm always "on."

Too much to keep track of....at home and at work.

The house is clean....and has been so since last week.

Apparently I'm the one who dirties it during the day? :)

I cleaned like a maniac.

Top to bottom.

Up til 1 a.m., and up again at 5 a.m.

Nothing like a little photo shoot to get the blood going.

Country Sampler was here last Thursday.

I was dying to be here to see them style and photograph.

Mark was instead.

So not fair.

I came home for lunch.

It was a zoo.

Too much commotion to gain any perspective.

Bummer.

I'll have to wait until the issue is out in January.

Is anyone else sick of football already?

I almost googled "how to enjoy a game,"

or "being nice to spouse during game,"

or "testosterone in tight pants...I don't get it."

I don't understand the hype.

I don't get the game.

I don't like the tackling.

I think their uniforms are queer.

I tried to sit through a varsity game last week.

It was painful.

Packed stands.

Whiney tired little girls.

Commotion everywhere.

Crazy parents screaming at the refs.

Not the way one wants to relax on a Friday night.

My version of ____.

The best part?

My son marching at halftime.

My son who gets the coordination gene from his mother.

I'm not....at all.

My brother nicknamed me "Putz" through High School.

Anyway, watching the band is incredible.

He's right in step....so in step I can't find him.

He got a hair cut last week for the occasion.

A big haircut.

I didn't recognize him at the door the other night.

I locked him out.

Whoops.

Off to the next thing....

Julie

What I Know For Sure

2011-09-20T21:58:00.003-05:00

This little girl of mine knows how to have a good time.

She keeps me laughing.

She has a sense of humor far beyond her years....

She's been in my heart for a long time....

and in my arms for 7 years today.

Yep, it's Izzy's gotcha day.

We celebrated as a family last night with Chinese carry out.

It's the same meal every year, and we eat with our chopsticks from China.

Why last night?

Carl had marching band from 5-8 tonight...don't get me started...

This year Carl helped me set the table.

He made sure she had the "you are special" plate,

and our table runners from China were out.

Considering all the spats these two get in, it moved me to see the care he took.

I've noticed many in the adoption world have switched to "family day."

I asked Izzy if she wanted to change the name.

"No way, it's the day you got me."

She's right, and we'll continue to celebrate Gotcha Day for a long time.

After she went to bed, I did what I've done for the last six years...

Logged into our old yahoo group to check in with the other six families.

It's been 7 years since we've seen each other,

but we'll never forget that day.

Tonight with so many things on my plate, it's this pic that puts it all into perspective.

So much to be thankful for,

and so thankful for my little rainbow from above.

I love you Isabella CaiHong Johnson.

CaiHong means rainbow,

and she'll always be mine.

I'm Old

2011-09-12T21:38:00.002-05:00

And the kids at school have no problem telling me so.

Geez.

I introduced myself to a little girl, and said I was Izzy's mom.

I was hoping to make her comfortable.

"YOU are Izzy's mom?"

"I am..and Sofi's too."

"YOU are Izzy's mom? For real??"

"I am sweetie."

"You can't be."

"Why not?"

"You're way too old."

"How old do you think I am?"

"Geez, like 40 or 50 or maybe even older?"

"You are really good. I am 40!"

"My mom is so much younger than you."

"Really?"

"Yep. She's only 35."

So there.

I didn't think anyone would guess my new age yet.

I was wrong.

Kids are so smart.

I am this old, and this short.

Look at where my head hits the door.

Then look at these two.

Ok, I was wearing flats.

Next time I'll put on the heels and the eye cream.

Time to get some beauty sleep so I'm ready for another day at school...

-Julie

It's A Whirlwind

2011-09-11T23:34:00.003-05:00

This is how I'm feeling these days....

Happy,

and a bit windblown.
I haven't posted since Aug.19.

Yikes.

I've been working since then.

I love it.

I love the commute- 2 1/2 blocks.

I love the staff.

I love bringing my girls to school.

I love getting to know the kids at school.

I love using my brain again.

I love assessments, and interpreting data.

I love finding ways to motivate kids.

I'll be in this position until 12/16...

and I'm good with that.

My standards at home have had to slide.

Meals are a little simpler these days.

Kids are chipping in to help a bit more.

Laundry piles last a little longer.

Paper stacks are a little higher.

But I love what I'm doing.

I miss zumba.

I miss seeing friends mid-day.

I miss stopping at a garage sale on a Friday morning....all by myself.

I miss getting meals done before the kids home.

I miss having a snack ready on the counter.

Thankfully the kids have all been healthy.

Thankfully Mark's worked from home 1-2 days a week.

Life is good.

I miss my blogging friends,

but have a new little toy which should make blogging a little easier.*

Maybe turning 40 last week wasn't all bad.

It's the new 30, right?

I like it way better than 30.

Life is good.

-julie

*Thank you dear Mark for my eensy weensy laptop...

To Market To Market

2011-08-19T07:01:00.003-05:00

Flowers Anyone?

This is where we've been on Tuesday mornings.

Helping with the Garden Market at the Holmstad, a retirement community nearby.

Flower arranging,

Mingling with the shoppers,

Arranging produce,

Counting money,

Taking it all down.

The kids all loved it.

Probably one of the best things we did this Summer was start a garden.

They needed some "able bodied gardeners" who lived nearby.

For $20, a 45 x 15 foot plot was ours.

Our neighbors have shared in the labor with us.

We have about twenty tomato plants,

8 pepper plants,

1 eggplant,

4 zucchini,

1 butternut squash,

1 cucumber,

and 1 watermelon.

We've eaten so well, and been able to share some too.

Extras from the market go to the local food pantry.

One of our favorite things to do...

-julie

I'm Going

2011-08-17T22:48:00.003-05:00

Tomorrow!

I'm excited,

nervous,

and can't wait to begin.

I'll be a long-term sub for our school's reading teacher.

Tomorrow through the start of Christmas break.

She's having her first baby...very soon.

A two and a half block commute with Sofi & Izzy.

An amazing staff.

Awesome support.

Doing what I love.

Helping kids read.

Sometimes things happen when one least expects it.

I learned about it at the end of July.

I had goosebumps.

It felt right.

I completed a mountain of paperwork....

as fast as I could.

Today I had goosebumps again.

I received my badge, email address, and passwords.

Many things have changed since I left teaching to be a mom...

14 years ago.

It's been a wild and crazy ride.

With my babies all in school,

I'm ready to spread my wings again a bit.

This will be a good first step.

I think I'm ready for the morning.

Bag packed.

Clothes ready.

Lunch made.

New school supplies.

I feel like I'm six again,

and it feels really really good.

-Julie

I'm Alive

2011-08-08T06:47:00.004-05:00

Really I am,

Despite finding someone's tooth in my salad.

It wasn't mine.

I'll let you chew on that thought for a bit.

I hyperventilated for a few hours.

I still don't know whose it is...

We're back together again after a few adventures.

Mark & Sofi backpacked in WI.

Heat exhaustion brought them home two days later.

Linnea was at Covenant Point in the U.P.

Amazing time on an island.

No running water or electricity.

Had the time of her life.

Izzy lived it up at Covenant Harbor for three nights.

She hid in her bunk upon my arrival.

She loved it that much.

So thankful for amazing counselors.

Carl's been marching ALL day long.

His schedule is ridiculous.

Why is everything so intense these days?

No pic of him.

He'd be absolutely mortified.

I've been up to a few adventures of my own.

I think I can spill the beans in a day or two.

It will turn our world upside down.

Ready or not,

back to school is coming,

very very soon.

-julie

My Burlap Ruffle Bag

2011-07-26T09:32:00.002-05:00

Was a spontaneous sewing decision.

I couldn't find a purse I liked.

Well, I did...but it was $188.

Not going to happen.

Ever.

I spent $0.

Burlap was from an old table runner I made.

Gingham check liner from leftover pillow remnants.

Strap is a twill ribbon.

Rose is a satin ribbon looped to be a flower.

Polka dot flower and brad....leftover from scrapbooking days.

Pattern?

In my head.

45 minutes in June.

Done and happy.

-julie

Highly Recommend

2011-07-24T09:59:00.002-05:00

Anyone else read it?

Not exactly a sizzling Summer beach read...

though I did read a bit of it at the beach.

Unbelievable story.

Now I could use recommendations for something a little lighter....

any ideas?

-julie

"Did They Just Get That Way?"

2011-07-14T06:14:00.004-05:00

A visitor (who shall remain nameless) recently asked that question....

Upon noticing that our books are in Rainbow order.

All of them.

"Um, No."

"You took the time to color code your books? For real?"

"Yep, and I enjoyed myself while doing so."

This was my one decorating accomplishment during the month of June.

It makes me smile every time I walk by.

Totally worth the time and effort.

There are two more bookshelves on the other side of the room.

Color coded too.
I was a teacher.... :)

It's helped my kids discover some "new" reads!

-julie

I'm alive, and I chose yellow

2011-07-12T06:44:00.003-05:00

Ten days back from Mackinac Island....

and I want to go back.

Once upon there was just two of us....

and we needed some time away to remember that.

I danced the night away with cousin Freddy.

He's got some great moves for being a four year old.

My yellow shoes made me quite a bit taller....

See pic above.

I added about 4 inches and they really were comfortable.

No kids.

No dogs.

No bickering.

Made me think, "why did we ever had anyone else to the mix?" :)

But we did.

I love my kids, but we really needed some time away....

We've had a busy Summer.

Sister here for 17 days.

Brother here for 7.

Family trip to Door County.

Tutoring.

VBS.

Getting Carl ready for camp.

4th of July.

Community garden.

Time together.

Lots of time together.

I've instituted the bicker buckets.

They bicker.

They get a bucket to hold together.

Off they go to weed...until the bucket is full.

It's worked.

Except I'm the one doing most of the weeding!

LOL.

-julie

What color shoes?

2011-06-10T10:39:00.002-05:00

Would you wear with this?

I'm not a shoe person.

Help!

-julie

Do You Zoku?

2011-06-08T10:20:00.002-05:00

We bought Mark an early Father's day gift...

and have been playing with it every day.

Seven minutes and you have three popsicles.

You can even add fruit...

I'd love to know what others think of this little gadget.

Since we need more three popsicles, you can make another batch or two right away.

Then you freeze it again.

Today's flavor?

Belgium chocolate pudding from Trader Joe's.

I may not be sharing. :)

-julie

Random Pics from May

2011-06-07T13:23:00.002-05:00

I asked Izzy to take a little rest the other day.

Points for creativity?

Note the doll.

She thinks outside of the box like her mom. :)

I'm wearing heels in this pic.

Sigh.

Two of my children are taller than me now.

The pink ring is from my iphone case.

Annoying.

I wore this on May 26 to pick up the girls.
That's my gray wool coat.

My knit leggings.

My boots.

May 26 my friends.

Today I'm toasty in a tank dress in flip flops.

The weather is so random here in IL.

I've been sitting on the bench a lot lately.

Soccer.

Band.

It's fun seeing the kids thrive.

Izzy's teacher asked yesterday if she does her hair and dresses herself.

What do you think?

The dress is adorable.

You should see her outfit today.

Yes, yes she does.

-julie

No, We Don't Live in Kansas

2011-06-06T12:09:00.002-05:00

I just thought it was a sweet sentiment.

My soffits had been bare for over a year.

I changed that 10 minutes before dinner Saturday night.

I was in the laundry room folding a quick load.

Saw the barn wood resting in the corner.

Measured the barn wood.

Measured the soffit.

Got out the paints.

Done.

Sometimes you have to grab inspiration right when it hits.

We had this piece resting on the windowsill for a long time.

I missed it.

The barn wood is from Vermont.

I think I like it here.

-julie

Green Streamers Are Hitting The Fan

2011-05-26T21:50:00.003-05:00

and Chocolate chip cookies are on the counter.

Preparations for Wendy the tooth fairy are complete.

Pray she makes an appearance tonight,

or we'll have to endure the madness again tomorrow.

Izzy woke with a start this morning,

"MOM, the tooth fairy didn't come!!"

Whoops.

"I have to call Papa right now and see who is on duty!"

She called at 7:30 a.m.

He informed her it was Wendy.

Apparently Wendy likes fans and chocolate chip cookies.

Apparently Carl ate all of ours.

Izzy asked if I'd please make Wendy a batch.

Trader Joes was out of chocolate chips.

I caved and bought a tub of cookies instead.

We don't have a fan.

Thankfully Izzy got clearance from Papa at 5:15 this afternoon.

A ceiling fan would work...

as long as streamers were attached.

Thankfully we had some green ones.

I assured her they didn't need to be pink.

This added to an afternoon of pickups,

tutoring,

piano lesson,

soccer practice,

pick up at the train,

homework help (test on Pompeii...yawn),

dinner on the table,

taping streamers to the fan...

two grouchy sisters,

("and how do you think I'll sleep in here with that noise?")

and I was done.

I hit the gym at 9:10 p.m.

Wore my swimsuit,

PJ pants,

Bog Boots,

Wool Coat,

and scarf.

I looked pretty special.

For those of you not in IL,

I don't want to hear about your weather.

I wore my boots yesterday,

and my wool coat most of the day today.

My mission tonight?

Hit the steam room and hot tub.

Apparently if you hit the gym after 9:10 p.m.,

it's a little different crowd.

I didn't know.

I rained on a few parades.

Including the gossip fest in the steam room,

and then the naked hot tub soaker.

My first clue should have been body parts floating,

and swimsuit on top of her towel.

I was on my own mission,

sat down to relax,

and then looked across the tub.

I'm sure my jaw dropped to hit the bubbles.

I closed my eyes.

Stifled a laugh.

Then she told me she was getting out.

I closed my eyes again....

for a long few minutes.

Out of the tub to find the gossip girls doing mud masks together.

Thankfully the woman who dries herself with paper towels wasn't there.

She's there around 2 p.m.

There are towels.

I'm home.

Time for bed.

Pray that Wendy comes in the night.

The other top tooth is really loose.

I'm scared to find out who is on duty next.

-julie

Count down begins

2011-05-26T14:38:00.003-05:00

My kids have been counting down for a week now.

They aren't out until June 13.

My sister and her family arrive June 13 for two weeks.

I'm madly trying to

1. Enjoy the quiet.

2. Finish up projects.

3. Catch up with daily life.

4. Exercise and eat right.

5. Enjoy the end of the year flurry.

6. Clean and organize.

7. Schedule my students that I tutor.

8. Stay calm.

9. Deal with the endless paperwork.

10. Try to figure out Summer calendar.

Oh my.

What are you up to?

I'm breaking out the Winter coat today to walk up to school.

I'm already wearing a sweater and boots.

What's with the pic?

I don't know.

Random thing 9,099 that makes me happy.

I'd like to get lost in my studio right now,

but I've run out of time.

Again.

-julie

Charmed

2011-05-24T11:10:00.002-05:00

Many women like diamonds or pearls around their neck.

My husband's given me both, but this is what I wear every day.

It's tarnished, and to many I'm sure it looks like a pile of junk,

To me it's a bit of my story,

and worth more than diamonds or pearls.

Here is the end of Grandma Izzy's spoon,

My sister made it for me a few years back.

She was a gem, and I miss her so very much.

It seemed a little lonely,

So I added this little piece,

I don't know the story behind it, but it was from my first mom.

There are two empty frames.

I've never filled them, and like them that way.

With four kids and a husband, how could I pick just two? :)

My brother gave me this after my second mom passed away.

He had given it to her while she was sick,

I added this little piece a few weeks ago, but decided it was too bulky.

It reminds me of blogland, and the kindred spirits I've found in this virtual world.

I added it to a longer chain with another sweet charm from a dear friend.

I clink a little with all of these pieces as I walk.

Oh well.

I'm not trading them for all the diamonds or pearls in the world.

-julie

P.S. I was still wearing my Winter coat a week ago when I photographed these. :)

Days I Want to Remember

2011-05-23T07:51:00.004-05:00

In the busy moments raising four kids,

This day is one I want to remember....

Kidnapping Linnea at 7 a.m. on her birthday.

She was in the middle of the morning chaos,

and I threw a dishtowel over her head.

We put her in the "new to us" van,

and picked up two of her good friends.

They were already in on our plan. :)

Linnea hates secrets and loves the table in our mini=van.

It was perfect.

Sofi and Izzy kept the big secret.

A minor miracle.

I decorated the van the night before and had locker favors for the girls.

We drove through the new Dunkin Donuts drive thru for smoothies and donuts.

The mess and the smiles and giggles and thank yous I will remember forever.

It was the fastest birthday party I've ever thrown,

but will always be one of my favorites.

-julie

How the Other Side Lives

2011-05-21T11:05:00.003-05:00

Izzy and Sofi took matters into their own hands...

Disappointed that their color blocked area was neither cork or magnetic or dry erase,

They improvised.

Sofi's had to bring in her favorite thing to school a few weeks ago.

She brought an Expo dry erase marker.

Totally serious.

She spends about two hours a day teaching...to nobody in particular.

She's quite good.

I keep thinking she'd make a decent sub...if she could ever get on the sub list.

Sore spot.

Sorry.

I'd like to sub.

Can't get a packet.

Have a teaching degree.

Doesn't matter.

Some day.

Anyway,

here is their creation...

Apparently they used every post it note in the house....

I knew I waited too long to take a pic!

They created "special" days for the rest of the school year...

and wrote down outfits they'd wear.

There's a Hawaiian day, a yoga day, and of course a polka dot day.

Innovative, creative, and they were busy for thirty minutes.

Not a bad thing.

Plus they worked on their spelling skills.

We celebrated Linnea's 12 birthday last week.

Can't believe she's this old...yet some days I feel like she's about 25.

If I were 12 I'd want to be her friend.

She's thoughtful, intelligent, caring, and absolutely hysterical.

She's developed a very amusing sense of humor.

Not sure where that comes from. ;)

Here she is with her champagne taste dinner.

Always steak and artichokes.

The bigger the better.

Someday I'll make a birthday book of her and her artichokes.

First year forgoing one of my cake creations...in favor of tiramisu torte.

I happily obliged.

These too are a funny combination these days.

Some days it's tough having a sib with a similar personality.

They drive each other crazy.

-julie

The Girls' Room Redo

2011-05-19T09:10:00.005-05:00

I've cleaned, painted and purged.

Three girls pack a lot of stuff into one room.

I had to rethink the organization of the room, and this is phase one.

Here is Linnea's little nook...

I color blocked the area over her bed, and Mark added the border.

The "L" is paper maiche, and can be found at JoAnn Fabrics for $8.

She added the pom pom strand, and the drawers do push in. :)

Third time is the charm on the chandelier.

Originally it was in the dining room encased in glass.

We switched out the fixture, and used the innards over her bed.

I was tired of the brass.

Quick spray of white and it looks like new.

Bookshelf found curbside has a fresh coat of paint.

She arranged her treasures...

including the lime green drum she made in 4th grade.

Teacups were replaced with polka dot ribbon bands.

I repurposed their shoe organizer.

To be honest, the shoes never made it there.

Each section is now reorganized....

chargers, electronics, lotions, brushes, clips, etc.

Probably my favorite thing in the room.

They are even using it...day 5!

Took down the cute little dressing table.

Gave the found curbside mirror a fresh coat of pink.

Purchased a second organizer from Target.

Need to buy more polka dot ribbon for each bin.

Switched out the light for one we already had.

Second best thing.

Each girl has a color...to match the color block over their bed...

which matches their duvet cover.

Top bin is for their stuff,

Middle bin for their dirty laundry,

Third bin for their shoes.

Can you tell which daughter loves shoes?

Coming tomorrow...the other side....

I really should have taken pictures before they lived in it. :)

Paint colors- all Valspar from Lowes...the sample sizes are great.

Walls- tropical spray

Linnea's color block and Izzy's "I"- spring leaf

Sofi's color block and Linnea's "L"- La Fonda fiesta blue

Izzy's color bloc, mirror and Sofi's "S"- frosty berry

I'm Back

2011-05-18T17:34:00.003-05:00

Really I am!

18 more days of school for the kids.

I've been cleaning and organizing for Summer.

My motto is "no surface left untouched."

I've hauled 11 bags to Goodwill this week, and oh does it feel good.

I'm almost done with a room redo.

Can you tell whose it is?

Linnea, Sofi, and Izzy all share a room.

They needed a little tweeking.

Seven days of work,

and it's almost ready to show you.

One more pic that's going on the wall...

Linnea surprised me with this beauty last week.

The colors are perfect for their room.

-julie

Proud of My Boy

2011-05-04T06:52:00.002-05:00

Confirmed on Sunday.

Here he is carrying all 3 sisters...

I can't find heels tall enough anymore, so why bother? Oy.

Best buds still....

My two boys...
Thanks Carl for bringing so much joy to everyone you meet!

Love you,

Mom

I think I need one of these....

2011-04-28T11:27:00.003-05:00

photo Elle Decor

In here...

Wouldn't it be fabulous?

Why or why didn't I think of this?

This truly is a revelation.

Now to find an old rowboat...

Any in the barn Dad?

I'm hitting Craigslist and Freecycle right now.

Much more critical than dealing with housecleaning. :)

Anyone else finding that April is insanely busy?

Our schedule is nuts.

I hate it.

I love that the kids are in activities they love...but it's nuts.

I'm dying for our big get-away at the end of June.

An adults only wedding, on Mackinac island, for a special cousin.

Two nights in a small B&B away from it all...

Yippee!

Mark and I haven't had a vacation together since our trip to China to bring home Izzy.

We had two nights in Hong Kong, and one or two nights in Chongqing without kids.

That will be 7 years in September.

I think we are overdue.

Thank goodness for something to look forward to...

Off to search for my boat while playing a little Lyle Lovett...

-julie

Out the Door Drawer

2011-04-27T18:25:00.002-05:00

Is back in business!

What was a drawer filled with junk,

is now functional and pretty.

Give it a week in this house and I'm sure it will be another story...

Take some muffin tins,

little bundt pans,

and GG Lil's vintage Swedish tablecloth,

And you have this....

A place for everything,

and everything in it's place.

These are the "grab quick" items before we head "out the door."

It's situated in the big black island cabinet in the kitchen.

Clips, ponytail holders, combs, brush, chapstick, hand sanitizer, band-aids, etc.

I keep opening it...

Day 3 and it's still all orderly...

and makes me happy.

See?

This is how I clean!

-julie

I found baby Jesus in the dust

2011-04-26T11:24:00.003-05:00

I really did.

The kids didn't think he came this year.

He was right there....behind the old clock.

With another baby Jesus.

Apparently Santa forgot to bring him out on Christmas Eve.

It's a little tradition, filled with poor theology.

Apparently I haven't dusted behind this clock since then.

-julie

Suzy Homemaker is A Figment of the Imagination

2011-04-19T13:30:00.003-05:00

Clearly she did not have four children,

or two dogs,

or a husband who works 80 hour work weeks.

Clearly she had no life outside of the home.

Clearly she had too much time on her hands....

I'm cleaning today...again.

It's never ending,

and somehow I need to find a way to enjoy it.

But I don't.

Aren't I little merry sunshine?

I haven't seen her lately either.

I need this ground to dry for the annual Easter egg hunt on Saturday.

The clock is ticking, and the yard needs a final clean-up.

Blah,

julie

Procrastinating

2011-04-16T10:08:00.007-05:00

Again.

I have another deadline looming.

Pretty sure I have ADD.

Pretty sure I know what branch of the family it came from.

I need to finish up this baby for a fundraiser at Water Street Studios.

To finish this would mean I'd be surrounded by this mess,

And I'd need to pass by this room,

Which is in some serious need of my attention.

I'd also pass by this unfinished project.

I thought it would be easy.

Famous last words.

Meanwhile, the weasel could use some love and care.

She and I have a love hate relationship.

I think she'd do well to live on a farm in Door County....

If I take her outside,

I'd have to see the unfinished house,

We're getting there...

But we have a ways to go.

We've hired the painter.

We need to hang the mailbox.

We need to make a decision on a door,

and spruce up the swing, and clean up the beds,

But it's raining today.

At least the lights are hung.

The garden is in progress,

and we've decided on a wood ceiling...

So here I sit with my cup of coffee, in a very quiet house.

Have I mentioned recently how much I love my Keurig machine?

I've named it Victoria...after my dear friend who suggested countless times I needed one.

It makes a perfect cup every time.

No mess.

Perfect temperature.

Done.

I need to purchase more K-cups. Any favorites??

Off to drink another cup and end the cycle of procrastination.

-julie

More Ideas Please!

2011-04-08T13:50:00.004-05:00

So, this little pic yesterday was a teaser,

We pulled the two skylights out of the addition.

I'm still getting used to the void.

Isn't it pretty?

Hmmm...not so much.

I tried to take some pics right now,

but the paparazzi is staring through the windows. :)

There are five guys working at each of the windows...

can you say awkward?

They've been wonderful,

but I can't walk through the house naked like I usually do.

Just checking to see if you're still reading.

That was a joke!

My mind is going a bajillion ways as usual.

I've been thinking about installing a wood ceiling.

The room is rustic...

There's the vermont casting fireplace,

and Dad's old canoe...

See Cody?

She's done remarkably well this week given all the noise and commotion.

Those two things are nonnegotiable.

The rest?

Completely up for grabs.

These are pics in its current state.

My girls love playing teacher.

I wish I coul show you more, but it's too awkward to be in there...

So...wood ceiling or drywalled ceiling?

Leather couch or white slip-covered couch?

Not all of this is happening tomorrow...

I'm just dreaming a bit,

trying to come up with a plan...

Looking forward to more of your two cents!

-julie

Please Give Your Two Cents!

2011-04-07T11:15:00.002-05:00

This old house,

is getting a makeover this week,

and I need your help...fast!

What a week it has been around the Johnson house.

The dumpster and semi pulled up Monday morning.

Our roof was ripped off and redone in nearly a day.

The house was rewrapped and the siding is in progress.

This is a horrible pic, but the best I can do right now.

The workers are around every corner of the house working on the siding.

The new roof is called "driftwood."

The siding is "stone mountain clay."

Caution tape is everywhere.

We chose "dover white" for the corners.

A quick view off of the patio...it's as far as I could get.

Here's where I need your help.

The shutters need to go back up...and we're thinking black.

It's so boring.

So typical.

The door right now is this flaming red.

I don't think this shade of red is going to work anymore.

I could tone it down.

Everyone has a tan house, white trim, black shutters, and dark red door, right?

I like the look, I really do.

Should we go that route, or do you have another idea?

Here's the old pic again...

I'm off to look at doors,

light fixtures,

shutters,

and a new mailbox.

Thoughts?

Here's a pic to get you back tomorrow.

Did I say it's been a long week?

Did I tell you I hauled 630 pounds of siding to the recycling center?

Did I tell you I nearly got attacked by a stray dog?

Did I tell you I hate making decisions that last for a long time?

Come back tomorrow for more two cents about the pic above....

Running out of time,

Julie

I Know I'm Not Practical

2011-04-05T13:27:00.002-05:00

I'm reminded of that fact daily by either my husband or my children.

I did a little cleaning Sunday afternoon...

For me, cleaning is when I make things pretty,

and most of the time,

the end product is completely impractical, but usually free.

For me, personal touches and happiness trumps practicality.

Case in point, my new and improved sweets and hot drinks cabinet.

Our kitchen cabinets are original to 1968.

They insides have been painted several times.

I attached pages of a 1975 church cookbook to the inside.

The names are dear to me, as many of the ladies have passed away.

I seldom make these recipes, so found it more useful to have it here,

where I could enjoy it...

A little cocoa and cream station.

The kids are digging the keurig hot water dispenser...and cocoa is flowing.

The "0" container is from Anthropologie.

Inside is my zero calorie sugar. :)

Coffee pods for the coffee maker...

Labelled containers and reorganized...

Vintage ric-rac that I had attached to the shelves with a glue gun...
"New" basket from a dear friend holding baking supplies.

Old wooden spoon and gingerbread man from my Grandma Izzy.

I wish I had taken a before.

It was a disaster.

Feels good to have something in the kitchen that makes my heart sing a bit!

-julie

Water Logged

2011-04-04T13:13:00.004-05:00

We're back...

I'm not really going to say I miss the water park.

I don't miss the swarms of people.

I don't miss wearing a swimsuit.
I do miss being away with just the 6 of us.

I do miss the jacuzzi in the condo.

I do miss time to just be.

I do miss the people-watching.

It doesn't get much better than at a water park.

Just saying!

This week starts a very busy season,

and it doesn't really slow down until the end of June.

This boy starts track today!

Looking forward to warm days and track meets!

I'm an Idiot

2011-03-29T10:57:00.003-05:00

Decided to bake and bond with the girls yesterday...

Linnea chose The Pioneer Woman's cinnamon rolls...

http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2007/06/cinammon_rolls_/

Great idea.

The problem?

They're amazing,

And,

Tomorrow I'll have to wear a swimsuit in public.

I wish I looked this cute:

Ready or not,

We're heading out for two nights at an indoor waterpark....

I really should have taught them out to make a salad.

Grrr....

Off to zumba with the wii.

I don't even want to guess at how many calories her cinnamon rolls are.

If you know,

please don't tell me.

-julie

Stellar Parenting Moment

2011-03-24T11:46:00.005-05:00

"Did I tell you mommy that you sent the needle to school with me?"

"What??!"

"The needle, with the pink thread. Izzy said you were looking for it."

"I was. I got another one and finished fixing your rain jacket."

"It was hanging on my lei Mommy. I didn't think it should be there."

"Did you wear the lei all day at school?"

"For a little bit. Then I saw the needle."

"Did you show anyone?"

"No Mommy. I just took it off and put it in my backpack. I didn't want to get you in trouble."

Phew.

Thanks for covering my back Sofi.

Just thought I'd share.

My kids start Spring break today.

I'm not ready.

House is a disaster....again.

Winter projects aren't done.

Not ready to wear a swim suit for three days at a waterpark.

Not ready for endless sibling spats.

I am ready to let go of a crazy schedule for a week and a half.

I am ready to sit in the water dome with the sun beating on my face.

I am ready to relax in a condo with a hot tub.

I am ready to tackle the girls' room with them.

I am ready for warmer weather....

Maybe?

It's snowing again right now.

Three hours until they're home.

Time to finish a decorating proposal.

Time to visit the dentist for a check-up.

Good thing I worked out this morning and chilled in the steam room.

Sitting in the dentist chair is right up there with funeral flower arrangements.

Ugh.

-Julie

Addictions, Babble and Babes

2011-03-23T09:54:00.003-05:00

Meet my new best friend,

She's sleek, speedy, dummy-proof, and doesn't make a mess...

Unless you try to use the k-cup twice.

Yep, I did.

Don't try it.

Don't tell my husband.

It made a mess....

although not as much of a mess as I usually make while making coffee...

She's also the cause of my recent addiction to coffee...

I did purchase some decaf k-cups,

but what fun is that?

I'd much rather be caffeinated.

I'm more productive.

I'm able to deal with these two...

Seven is tough.

They're too little to do some things.

They're too big for others.

They have huge opinions.

They can be bossy.

But they are really cute...

They are having a beach-wear assembly today for good behavior.

Really.

Two days before Spring Break.

Funny, they seem to think they're on Spring Break already.

To say they were excited about finding their flipflops was an understatement.

They spent their allowance at the dollar store.

Grass skirts weren't in yet, so Izzy and I improvised on hers with crepe paper.

Sofi thought it was dumb.

Oh well...her loss.

They did raid my scrapbooking stash for "new" clips.

Do any of you scrapbook anymore??

I used to find such joy in the tiniest of things while making pages....

Now I just don't care about it...and I have lots of stuff collecting dust.

Good thing it can be added to a clip.

My kids will likely head to college with a flash drive of their youth.

It's kind of pathetic,

but practical.

Meanwhile I have boxes of photos from my youth collecting dust in the basement.

Perfect place for photos, right?

One more thing that I haven't dealt with this Winter.

Oh well.

Maybe I should stick it all on a flash drive and be done with it.

-julie

Cleaning Catastrophe

2011-03-16T11:58:00.002-05:00

Being gone for five days was great.

Coming back to messes and life, not so much.

I've been playing catch up all week.

After I arrived home from Seattle, I cleaned the fridge.

I dumped several containers of leftovers down the disposal.

Five minutes later, one thing was checked off my list.

Six hours later, I ran the dishwasher.

I cleaned the kitchen.

I put the kids to bed.

I went downstairs to change the laundry.

Something smelled horrific.

The recently routed floor drain was oozing...

with leftovers.

ALL over clean clothes.

Why was there clean clothes on the floor?

Izzy and Sofi had gone through their bins of Spring clothes.

They had a little fashion show in the laundry room...

and didn't put it away like I had asked.

A glass of wine and bucket of bleach later,

I went to bed.

Mark was a trooper...went to the store for draino, helped clear the drain.

Helped me clean the mess.

Sometimes cleaning can be problamatic.

-julie

Where I've Been

2011-03-14T22:25:00.003-05:00

It's been 11 days since my last post.

It's been a blur.

I spent 5 days in Seattle playing with these two little people!

Meet my nephew and his new baby sister!

I made a last minute quick trip out there...and am so glad I did.

My baby sister had a c-section.

I've lost a few brain cells since mine 7 years ago.

I was no help in remembering details...

like how long before driving,

or how long before you could pick things up again.

It's all a blur.

Remember having a two year old?

I don't...it's all a blur.

Many days spent in survival mode, moving hour by hour.

The messes.

The laundry.

The tantrums.

The joy.

I came home....

to messes,

laundry,

"tantrums" of sorts,

and joy too.

Some things don't change, no matter how old your kids are!

It was great to be with my baby sister and her family...

and my brother and sister-in-law too.

Being so far away is really really tough.

Thank goodness for email, texts, ichat and easy photo sharing.

I miss these two!

The two hour time change and the daylight savings on top of that has made for a rough transition back to reality....

See you tomorrow,

julie

On My Mind

2011-03-03T15:16:00.003-06:00

All the time lately...

Is this space....

Our church fellowship hall.

Pardon the iphone pic.

I'll work on some better ones this weekend!

I know it doesn't look like much, but I've been busy with this project for over a year....

Dreaming,

Fundraising,

Planning,

Ordering,

and making it a reality!

Most of the furniture has arrived within the last two weeks.

The conference table in the back corner and the ugly garbage can are going.

I'm really happy with the choices we've made.

We have fun conversation areas throughout the space...

...two booths

..."a campfire" complete with marshmallow ottomans,

...several sizes of tables

...a toddler wall coming next week

...cafe height tables

Now we're down to the tough stuff.

Choices on a sound system.

Fixed or movable monitors.

Window treatments or blinds or both.

What accessories?

What artwork?

My head is spinning with prices and measurements.

Would love to hear ideas for the windows...there are 10 in the room.

The far focal wall is eggplant.

When we started we had to work with two things-

the chairs around the tables, and the carpet.

I think I'll be blowing up some old old pics for the walls.

We're adding some cool planters too.

Any fun accessory/ wall ideas for a space like this?

Thanks!

julie

Today

2011-03-02T11:20:00.006-06:00

Sometimes the quiet of our house from 9-3:30 is deafening.

On other days I embrace it.

Today is one of those days.

My list is long...

Most of it involves restoring order to our home.

The laundry.

The dust.

The odds and ends here and there.

I'm rereading this....

The problem?

I need to throw out more than fifty things. :)

And just picked up these two books at the library...

I know that my seasonal clock interferes with my activity.

I know that my creative side interferes with my ability to focus.

I know that I need to accept both of these facts...

and make cleaning and household chores creative and inspiring.

So...today I'm thinking outside the box.

I'm cranking the tunes (I Gotta Feeling on Pandora)

I'm cleaning like I'm staging my home.

I'm going to make something....

And I'm going to take to heart the wisdom of this bird.

-julie

Today

2011-03-01T06:34:00.004-06:00

I'm hanging out down here....

after I get everyone out the door.

after I go to zumba and women on weights,

after I shower,

after I do a quick clean up of the top level.

It's Tuesday after all...

Get it?

T-

Tuesday-

Top Level.

I'm trying so hard to work on this "clean" thing for 2011.

I could clean all day with this crew.

Anyway,

I'm not going to spend the day cleaning.

I'll be in my little paradise,

With my sewing machine...

We have a love/hate relationship.

I love to make things.

I hate to deal with the mechanics of making things.

The bobbin is my worst nightmare.

I've affectionately named my machine "the beast"

I think it needs a tune-up.

The cost of a tune-up is about what I paid for my sewing machine...

so...

it may be time for a new sewing machine.

I'm working on new pillows for the canoe.

They look pretty good here,

but not so much after a long Winter of fort building...

Under the pillows is a trap door.

The fascination of all neighborhood children.

The trap door leads to a 2x2 box to hide in.

Really it was for storing extra blankets and things.

Not anymore! :)

Wish me luck with the beast,

julie

Monday

2011-02-28T09:09:00.001-06:00

I haven't been blogging much of late.

I always have something to say...

sometimes I'm just not sure how to say it,

and lately someone is always on the computer.

Some Days

2011-02-23T12:29:00.003-06:00

A soup bowl really isn't...
big enough....

Not talking about flu folks. :)

*on a side, nobody else got it...phew*

Talking about stress management techniques.

Breathe in.

Breathe out.

Pretend like you're blowing on a soup bowl.

I've been carrying my imaginary one around for a few months now.

I think it's time to lose the stress or get a bigger one.

All is fine.

It's just been a really long Winter.

Right now I have 27 minutes before I have a meeting at church.

I'm part of the design team.

Today we're talking window treatments.

Walls are painted.

Furniture is in.

We still have some major decisions to go.

In the remaining 26 minutes,

I need to finish this post,

clean the counter,

toss a load of laundry in,

deal with the mail,

make some decisions re paperwork,

find masking tape for the fun fair decorating,

figure out what I'm making for the bake sale,

decide on dinner,

straighten the art studio which hasn't been used for art lately...

just tutor,

push a million creative ideas out of my mind,

Clearly my focus needs more focus.

-23 minutes to do the above, including drive time.

Gotta go.

-julie

And another one

2011-02-21T09:57:00.002-06:00

bites the dust.

Okay, not really.

Sofi got the stomach bug Sat. night.

Mark sunday night.

Izzy was sick with it last Monday.

I'm hoping it stops there.

Carl, Linnea and I are staying far away.

Like two levels away.

We've camped out in the basement.

Bored.

Lazy.

Afraid.

I could never be a nurse.

I can't stand seeing anyone hurting or in pain.

or blood.

Tomorrow is Tuesday.

I've had someone home sick almost every Tuesday since Christmas.

I've missed every Tuesday zumba class since Christmas.

I miss it...so I bought the wii zumba game.

Anyone else?

It's a great workout.

Off I go to clean some more.

Turns out the word "clean" was a fitting one for the New Year.

Hoping to be a better ray of sunshine tomorrow...

-julie

Apologies to My Future In-Laws

2011-02-17T21:13:00.002-06:00

That would be my possible future daughter-in law and son-in laws.

I've been working hard to train your spouses on the art of picking up after themselves.

They are failing.

Miserably.

By the time you meet them,

it is my hope that they will know how to...

put their shoes in the shoe cabinet or boot tray,

put their coat away,

clean off the counter,

pick up their wrappers,

put away their personal belongings,

cook an amazing meal,

and many, many, other necessary life skills.

It is the dead of Winter here in IL in Feb. of 2011,

and I am trying to train them daily.

I am tired.

I am concerned for their potential future spouses.

Know that I will continue to work to help them be independent,

compassionate,

loving,

caring,

individuals.

Please be patient with them.

By the time they meet you,

I hope they will no longer be slobs.

-signed,

Your Future Mother In-Law

All That Remains

2011-02-15T12:11:00.002-06:00

are Hugs and Kisses wrappers...

and I could use both right now.

It's been a long day.

I don't live in a cabin,

I'm not sick,

but I sure do have cabin fever.

No more saving for big Summer vacations...

we need to leave the state of IL in Feb. or March instead.

Sunshine.

A beach.

Water.

Good books.

I'm there.

Izzy's home sick....stomach flu and a tad of a fever.

Poor thing.

I'm working hard on my word for the year,

"clean."

Disinfecting.

Washing hands until they are raw.

Laundry.

More laundry.

More cleaning.

I'm done.

Time to plan a vacation...

-julie

When Was Your Last Personal Day?

2011-02-10T09:23:00.002-06:00

I took one yesterday...and I highly recommend it.

Yesterday morning wasn't going swimmingly....

Dropped off the girls, and planned on heading to two classes at the gym.

Got a call en route,

and had to head home and do a few things.

Got to the gym,

went to my locker....and realized I forgot my sneakers.

Back to the car, -11 outside.

Headed home,

picked up the sneakers,

missed the class,

went to the gym,

and realized I needed a mental vacation.

I worked out longer than normal.

Even read a silly book while on a bike.

Sat in the steam room for a long time.

Showered.

Headed to my favorite mall.

Wandered a bit, picked up a few things at VS...

Little known fact- my first job was a clerk at a local lingerie store

I was 16

....loads of stories for another day

Poured over books and magazines at Borders,

Listened to "Lenka" on Pandora (trust me, best station ever),

Sketched three new birds,

Dreamed a little,

Came home just in time to pick up the girls.

It was a lovely day.

My batteries are recharged.

I so needed a personal day.

Today I will play catch up...

5 loads of laundry,

3 bathrooms to clean,

Floors to mop.

Meals to plan.

Shopping to be done.

Tutoring to plan.

Freezing again (-19 this morning)...

Oh well.

It was worth it.

I'm putting another one on the calendar right now....

-julie

(photo- Door County, 2/09)

Inspiration and Risks

2011-02-08T13:01:00.007-06:00

Getting back on track,

after a few weeks of nuttiness.

Looking for a bit of inspiration today,

and remembered this bird I made in December....

Sorry for the head tilting exercise.

This little bird is now at a store in Naperville called Little Luxuries...

She's a funny little blue bird,

But I like her.

I love the frame...from the store.

It's reclaimed barn wood....

She came to be because I took a risk.

My friend Donje and I were having lunch.

We wandered into this beautiful store.

I could have moved in.

Many a day I'd like to!

I found this cute little e.e. cummings quote and many others by the cash register.

I lost myself in the words for a bit,

and spent a long time completely absorbed.

The owner asked what I was going to do with my ever-growing pile of quotes.

I told her I'd been making birds from old books, lace, and quotes, and these were perfect.

She asked if she could see my art.

I thought for a minute, and realized she could.

On my phone.

I loaded up my blog.

She liked what she saw, and took a chance on me.

She gave me a box full of frames to fill with birds.

She asked that they be in her shop for Christmas.

I walked to the car carrying my heavy box of frames.

Giddy.

Thankful.

Inspired.

Glad I went out on a limb and shared.

Grateful for the chance this storekeeper took.

I think these birds are still there....

I'm going to get back at it today.

Drawing.

Cutting little pieces.

Making art.

Giddy to have a little time to myself.

Thankful for some time to myself.

Inspired again.

-julie

Right Now

2011-02-03T15:10:00.002-06:00

Can you hear me?The "feels like temp" is zero now.

We've had a little heat wave!

Two hours ago it was -7, but the sun was shining.

My son wanted to go for a walk to turn in his volunteer application...

Great idea.

Not today.

My daughter wanted to get the neighborhood kids together and play in her fort.

Great idea.

Not today.

We are going out of our minds.

We've cleaned our rooms.

We've practiced our instruments.

We had a 30 minute mandatory silent reading time.

We've made more cinnamon rolls....

which means I need to head to the gym when Mark gets home...

We've reorganized the laundry room.

We've played the Wii.

We've played games.

We've played teacher.

We've modge podged.

We've painted.

We've cleaned the art studio closet.

We've cleaned the floors.

Tomorrow is Friday.

My children are praying for another snow day.

I'm not.

We have family coming for dinner.

32 of them.

Please,

oh please,

can my sweet children head back to school tomorrow?

I need a little space.

I need a little time to bake and cook.

I need a little time at the gym.

Please?!

-julie

We Miss You Already GG Lil

2011-02-01T09:04:00.004-06:00

What was to be a fun weekend minus the kids,

was a tough weekend.

Mark's grandma passed away Friday night,

peacefully,

in her sleep.

She was 101....

and although her vision and hearing have been failing for a long time,

she was really doing quite well.

I captured this moment at her 100th birthday.

It makes me smile.

These two were very close.

I've known Lil really well since I was 16.

When Mark and I were dating way back then,

he would spend the night at Grandma's apartment to be closer to me.

She'd make him huge breakfasts of bacon and eggs,

tiptoeing around him while he slept on the couch nearby.

She watched us head to Prom.

She wrote a beautiful poem for our wedding.

She was there for all of our baby's baptisms,

and was there at our dining room table when she learned Sofia Lillian was born...

and named after her.

Being within walking distance had its perks.

We could always head over for a visit.

The kids loved to go see her,

and my older two even rode their bikes for visits on their own.

They loved to help push her down the halls,

And even snuck animals in for a quick visit.

Shhh, don't tell.

We're thankful for the many family parties,

Christmas gatherings,

and the in the midst of life little visits we had with her.

She will be very very missed.

-julie

Friday's Many Random Thoughts

2011-01-28T12:47:00.004-06:00

What is that a picture of?

Izzy's 2 minute snow sculpture while waiting for the bell to ring...

Come on, look closely.

What is it?

It's ok, I didn't know what it was either.

"MOM, it's the Great Wall of China!"

Yes, yes it is.

Last week she had her annual check-up at the eye doctor.

While waiting, she had a revelation.

"MOM! Feel my nose, I don't have a bridge there. Where did it go? How will I be able to wear glasses if I need them?"

Phew,

all is good,

yes, she does know she's Chinese,

and no glasses are needed. :)

What a week!
I've said that every Friday since November...But really...I just want a little bit of normal.

Thank you for the sweet comments yesterday!
Made my blah day, seriously!
Those tulips on the counter were the best $3 I've spent in a long time,
and what many thought was a chalkboard is actually my latest painting.
I wanted it to look like a chalkboard...
silly, as there is a chalkboard in nearly every room of this house. :)

My shadow, Sofi, was home sick for two days.
She had to be in the same room the entire two days.
She is not one to sit still and rest.
It was a LONG two days for both of us.
She's fine...just sniffles, and did have a fever.

She went back to school today.
Guess where I went for the morning?
To school...to make up my volunteering.

I love being there.
Love the kids.
Love the teachers.
Love the whole deal...
except for one thing...
the copier.
I swear it knows when I enter the room.
Today I helped kids, and then faced the dreaded pile...
Two and a half hours later,
I was ready to stick my head in the nearest snowbank.

The house that was clean,
is now a pit again.
Every room needs a wee bit of my attention...
and here I sit with my back to the disasters.

Lucky I have an amazing salad right here with me.

Three ingredients....

Romaine, sesame sticks, and the dressing, thanks to the sample lady's suggestion.

Amazing...and you can add chicken, or tofu, or more veggies like broccoli slaw.

I've been eating it all week.

I have one hour to blog, clean, and plan my weekend.

What would you do if all of your children were gone for 26 hours?
They are headed to Disney on Ice and a sleepover with Grandma and Grandpa.
I'd like to head to somewhere warm.
Looks like the farthest I'll get will be the steam room and sauna at the gym.

I have a billion ideas of what I'd like to do...
paint my bathroom,
reorganize the pantry and the "out the door drawer,"
paint for fun,
sit at Borders or Barnes and Noble,

take a few classes at the gym,

move into Anthropologie,
clean my closet,

dinner with Mark,

clean the art room,
the list is a mile long.

Time to come up with a plan.
What would you do if it happened to you?
-julie, aka Dr. Seuss....

One Year of Blogging

2011-01-27T09:07:00.006-06:00

Started this blog on a whim last January.

I had no idea what I was doing.

I still have no idea what I'm doing.

It was a cold, dark Winter day.

Today it's a cold, dark Winter day.

It's been a place to share my thoughts,

be spontaneous,

be bold,

be thankful

be original,

and just be myself.

Kids had been home sick, and the walls were closing in.

Today Sofi's home day two...and we're going a little stir crazy.

This blogging thing has made a difference in my day.

I didn't think anyone would read it.

I really didn't care.

I just wanted a place to think,

and to share pics and thoughts,

like I did when I used to scrapbook.

I've met people around the world.

I've felt part of a community.

I''ve felt encouraged as a wife, mom, artist, and junk loving decorator.

A year ago, I never dreamed I could call myself an artist.

I never dreamed I'd have my work in a gallery or even a store.

(Little Luxuries, Naperville, IL...more coming on that another day)

This blogging thing has helped me dream,

and remember that anything is possible.

I'm hoping to make some changes in my blog design in 2011.

What would you like to see more of?

Why do you stop by and read?

I'd love any feedback...please!

Thank you from the bottom of my heart,

-julie

The Pioneer Woman Won

2011-01-25T06:41:00.002-06:00

Hands down.

Best. Cinnamon. Rolls. EVER.

58 rolls.

Gave away 2.

Generous huh?

56 rolls.

6 people.

4 days.

Gone.

I'm hitting the gym this week.

Every day.

No excuses.

Running extra laps to knock these babies off.

It was worth it.

Give them a try.

-julie

Branching Out

2011-01-23T06:50:00.002-06:00

My family tree...

a little lopsided,

some branches are dying,

others removed,

but this branch is blooming....

I worked on this piece throughout the Fall,

Layered,

Tattered,

Antiqued,

Rough,

and painted deep from the heart.

Found a spot for it, here in this nook

Where I blog,

pay bills,

edit the crazy calendar,

and think...

...all closed up....

Just thought I'd share a little bit of my home that makes me happy...

Enjoy the day!

-julie

Happy Birthday Izzy

2011-01-22T11:50:00.005-06:00

Last Sunday we celebrated your 7 years!

Your brother even sat by you!

Mommy has been taking a walk down memory lane.

Here's the first glimpse we had of you,

delivered via fed ex truck....

Home from China and bonding with your sister....

best of buddies,

dancing,

playing at a campsite,

hugging a little bit too hard,

celebrating,

sharing secrets,

playing staring games,

and just being,

together....

Here is to you Izzy.

I love you and the person you are becoming,

each and every day.

I love your style,

your laugh,

your ability to light up a room,

the way you care for others,

and that you are my daughter.

Love,

Your Mom

Please Don't Stop By

2011-01-19T12:28:00.004-06:00

If you did,

There would be no way to hide your gaze from this disaster....

My word for 2011 is "Clean."

I'm doing it.

It's not pretty.

See that cute purse on top?

I'd like to take it and run,

anywhere.

Now.

Today's tackle was my desk area

and the big black beast,

also known as "the black cabinet."

Mark stays away from this beast,

and truth be told,

never wanted it here in the kitchen.

One child's bin was overflowing.

Most was recycling.

I'm going to stay here in Blogland for a few minutes more,

and only look at this picture...

It's my kitchen,

right now,

with the mess cropped out of view.

Looks perfect doesn't it?

Back at it,

-julie

Ding Dong

2011-01-15T16:25:00.002-06:00

The Wicked Witch is Still Alive....

or so my son says anyway....

He asked where my ruby slippers were...

and why I was still standing....

I'm still here,

plodding along,

Cleaning,

Sorting,

Cleaning,

Reading,

Cleaning,

Purging,

Cleaning,

Creating,

and Trying to do anything to make January tolerable,

and Fun!

-julie

Too Quiet Today

2011-01-11T12:16:00.002-06:00

The whirr of the dishwasher and washing machine,

pale in comparison to the noise we had this weekend...

Izzy's band made a few performances,

and my 4 kids played hard with their 3 cousins in from CA for Grandpa's funeral.

Missing the laughter,

and their energy today.

Missing my big brother,

and remembering with some humor the events of Saturday post funeral.

A 40 something man,

wearing a suit and overcoat,

returning with me from the burial,

making a quick decision,

remembering Grandpa's farm,

reliving the fun of his youth,

checking out silos....in 10 degree weather,

exiting the woods,

surrounded by 8 policeman...

and a very freaked out sister (me) inside of his car,

after being interrogated by three men in uniform....

I think I am breathing again,

and the quiet feels pretty good again.

-julie

And the Winner is...

2011-01-07T12:08:00.002-06:00

Megan! Send me your mailing info. to mjcljohnson@yahoo.com!

Thanks for all of the great cleaning tips!

Turning off the computer is a great one.

I've hauled off 6 bags to Goodwill,

another bag to a teacher friend,

and am feeling good about my word of the year....clean.

Now that I've purged some things around the house,

I need to purge sugar out of my diet AGAIN.

Tips?

Anyone want to join me?

-julie

My Word of the Year

2011-01-05T13:01:00.002-06:00

...Came to me on Sunday,

after I cleaned the kitchen so I could ichat with my sister.

Yes,

I cleaned so I could ichat.

Yes,

I cleaned only the area directly behind the computer,

so she would have the appearance of a clean kitchen.

Yes,

I moved it all to the counter outside of her viewing area.

Perfect right?

Nope, pathetic.

Yes,

my word of the year is....

Clean.

A few definitions from the web...

free from dirt or impurities; or having clean habits; "children with clean shining faces"; "clean white shirts"; "clean dishes"; "a spotlessly clean house"; "cats are clean animals"
free of restrictions or qualifications; "a clean bill of health"; "a clear winner"
(of sound or color) free from anything that dulls or dims; "efforts to obtain a clean bass in orchestral recordings"; "clear laughter like a waterfall"; "clear reds and blues"; "a light lilting voice like a silver bell"
(of a record) having no marks of discredit or offense; "a clean voting record"; "a clean driver's license"
ritually clean or pure
not spreading pollution or contamination; especially radioactive contamination; "a clean fuel"; "cleaner and more efficient engines"; "the tactical bomb is reasonably clean"
(of behavior or especially language) free from objectionable elements; fit for all observers; "good clean fun"; "a clean joke"
make clean by removing dirt, filth, or unwanted substances from; "Clean the stove!"; "The dentist cleaned my teeth"
uninfected: free from sepsis or infection; "a clean (or uninfected) wound"
morally pure; "led a clean life"
houseclean: clean and tidy up the house; "She housecleans every week"
(of a manuscript) having few alterations or corrections; "fair copy"; "a clean manuscript"
cleanse: clean one's body or parts thereof, as by washing; "clean up before you see your grandparents"; "clean your fingernails before dinner"
blank: (of a surface) not written or printed on; "blank pages"; "fill in the blank spaces"; "a clean page"; "wide white margins"
be cleanable; "This stove cleans easily"

It's perfect for my family of six with two dogs.

...And I may be the only one to have chosen it!

In honor of this word, I have a fabulous giveaway...

Your very own copy of....

Leave me a comment with your best cleaning tip.

I'll pick a winner on Friday morning.

-julie

Note to My New Years Self

2011-01-04T07:33:00.004-06:00

Head to the gym early the Monday after New Years.

Every parking spot will be gone.

You'll park a mile away.

Do not try the piyoxing (pilates+yoga+kickboxing=weird).

Not worth it.

There will be newbies.

Smile.

Encourage.

Don't give the huh look when they ask if they can trade showers...

even while in your towel,

and they ask if you need a shower.

Your younger two children will be trainwrecks.

They will want to stay home and play all day.

They will be trainwrecks after school too.

Smile.

Encourage.

Be patient some more.

You will not like the feel of your clothes today.

The wine,

the chocolate,

the cookies,

the extra food will all catch up post New Years.

Keep parking a mile away.

Keep heading to the gym.

Do not make cookies.

Do not make brownies.

Do not make coffee cakes....

especially when there is nobody home to eat it!

Don't grumble about the cold.

Wear your snuggy 24/7 if necessary.

Wear tight fitting clothes under it so as to discourage weight gain.

Wear your cute warm boots, in the house if necessary.

Spring will come.

In about 120 days.

Wah!

Make lists.

Get that tree down.

Buy some paint.

Buy some fun new cleaning supplies.

Tackle each room a day at a time....

not all rooms in one day.

It will only be a bigger mess.

It took 31 days to make the mess of December.

Allow yourself at least half that time to undo it.

Phew.

Feel better now.

-julie

Sweet Dreams

2011-01-02T16:07:00.003-06:00

I don't think so.

Especially when you find your youngest,

holding this,

dressed in this,

doing this,

to her siblings,

when they should all be nestled in their beds.

"I was just helping them out mom."

Thank you Dentist Izzy.

Not sure how thankful I am yet for this gift...

Thank you to Linnea for photographing these moments before I entered....

Sweet dreams,

-julie

In A Blink

2011-01-01T13:52:00.004-06:00

It's all over.

Happy New Year to Everyone!

Linnea took this pic on Christmas Day with her new ipod touch.

Thanks for following me on this blogging journey.

I started this on a dark Winter day in 2010,

and have found it to be a huge blessing.

I had no idea I'd meet so many new friends in cyberspace.

Thank you to those of you who leave comments and endure my ramblings.

I treasure each of you!

Anyone else get melancholy on the first of the year?

The decorations all look a little silly,

clutter is at an ultimate high,

kids are sugared out,

kids are way off schedule,

rooms are messy,

and we all need a little space...

I'm ready to get back into a routine,

and not eager to have 3-4 more months of Winter...

I found these boots to help me through...

perfect for trudging through the slop back and forth to school,

warm,

comfortable,

a tad ridiculous looking,

but they put a smile on my face.

Did a little shopping with Christmas money,

and bought this little dress I've had my eye on....

Ok,

I'll be honest,

it's not a dress.

It's labelled loungewear.

The hemline is a little goofy.

Linnea even said so.

I don't care.

I'm wearing it with striped leggings,

boots,

and when cold,

a sweater.

Comfortable,

cute,

and puts a smile on my face.

It's the little things....

-julie

Merry Christmas

2010-12-24T22:20:00.002-06:00

This is an odd pic to show on Christmas,

but perhaps you've come to expect the unexpected on my blog page by now...

This is a post-cookie decorating party pic...

The girls had some friends over a few weeks ago.

They frosted,

sprinkled,

ate,

giggled,

played,

and it was over.

Kind of like Christmas.

We decorate,

bake,

eat,

laugh,

spend time together,

and then it will be over.

There will be sweet spots

and sorrows too,

and then it will be over.

While Mark puts presents around the tree,

and I clean and prepare for tomorrow,

Dad is sitting at the bedside of his father-in-law.

Grandpa is 97,

a sweet, gentle, strong man.

Thankful for his presence on our family tree.

Thankful for the memories I have of a visit with him last week.

Remembering how he couldn't wait to come home for Christmas.

I've busied myself waiting for more news...

nothing yet.

Thankful for the day...

zumba to rocked out Christmas tunes,

hiking with dogs,

last minute wraps with eager children,

giggling in the snow,

champagne brunch with dear friends,

time together,

playing with toddlers in the nursery,

dinner at Grandma's,

the ups and downs,

the sweet spots,

the messes,

the giggles,

the excitement,

and knowing that tomorrow,

it will be over.

Ready to hug everyone a wee bit tighter in the morning,

spend some time with family,

and just enjoy the many blessings we have...

Merry Christmas to you and yours,

Love,

-julie

Notes To Self for Next Christmas

2010-12-23T12:05:00.002-06:00

1. Do not stick a little tealight under this cute tree.

It will start a fire.

All is good.

Nothing like a smoke alarm during a Swedish smorgasbord with 32 people.

2. Don't make cookies without a purpose,

You will eat them.

3. Go to the gym,

Every day your children are home.

4. Wear a turtleneck in cases of extreme social anxiety,

It will save yourself embarrassment of possible allergic reaction.

5. Make meatballs.

You don't eat them, but everyone else does.

There is never ever enough during the above smorgasbord.

6. Make chore lists for your children,

Make it long,

every day.

7. Plan a date night for Dec. 22 with your husband.

and maybe the 23rd too.

The children are very strung out post Sofi's perfect Dec. 21 birthday.

8. Plan activities over break with each child,

Two of the four will inevitably be bored....making each day very long.

9. Start the Christmas cards in October,

Mail in early Dec.

10. Do not engrave any Christmas presents,

Will save you $ later on when a return is necessary.

11. Have presents wrapped before children are home on break,

This will save you from wrapping until 2 a.m.

12. When starting the wrapping of presents,

make sure you have tape that you have hidden from children.

13. When ordering presents online,

read the small print,

make sure all of the pieces are included,

and no starter kits need to be purchased,

this will save dear husband from heading to store at 11:30 p.m.

14. Do not make presents two days before Christmas.

If they aren't done,

they aren't done.

15. Be flexible.

16. Be patient.

17. Be flexible some more.

18. Be patient some more.

19. Keep your own private stash of dark chocolate well stocked.

20. Have fun,

it only happens once a year.

-julie

It's a P Day

2010-12-16T06:28:00.002-06:00

P is for Parties, Pajamas, Poinsettias, Police Station, Pilates, and more Parties.

Yep,

That's my agenda for the day.

I'm between the police station visit and pilates right now.

Huh?

Let's start at the beginning....

P for Parties....5 today....

1. Sofi's school birthday party...cupcakes delivered. Check.

2. Preschool party at church....helped serve. Check.

3. Sofi's Christmas party at school. 20 gingerbread men made, and 20 bags of "kitted"toppings. Why? Please don't ask.... I never want to see a gingerbread man again.

4. Izzy's Christmas party at school. I get to show up and see her smile. A beautiful thing....

5. Carl's Christmas piano recital. Still need to make skor bars. Yikes...not sure when I'll fit that in....

-Pajamas...should have been wearing to the preschool party, but I opted out of that.

I don't wear pajamas.

Huh?

I don't have a pair I like,

and I wear a variety of things.

The other day I wore my ski vest and mittens.

Hey, I was cold.

So romantic too.

Get your mind out of the gutter.

Back to my day....

-Poinsettias...had a sweet visit with an old friend in assisted living,

brought a poinsettia from the church....total bright point of the day

-Police Station

I got pulled over last night.

First time in 22 years of driving.

I've had some other issues with driving over the years,

like the car wash incident of 1988,

but I've never been pulled over.

Sofi started to cry, "my mommy's going to jail!!"

Fabulous way to start the evening.

En route from train to a church dinner.

Pulled over right in front of the church.

I thought I was too fast at the stop sign.

I wasn't.

The problem?

She wanted to see if Mr. Johnson was driving?

Huh?

He was in the passenger seat.

Good thing.

Turns out his license expired last month.

Whoops.

One more thing I don't keep track of.

Then she wanted the insurance docs...

Madly fumbled through the glove compartment...

five years were there, not this one.

Whoops again.

Got a warning.

Brought the insurance docs in today,

we had them.

All is good.

No Sofi, mommy is not spending Christmas in jail.

-Pilates

A billion things I could do,

including the making of the aforementioned skor bars....

(saltines, butter, brown sugar, chocolate chips...deadly)

I've made two batches.

I've sampled a few to deal with stress.

There,

said it.

When stressed,

I bake,

clean,

create,

or head to the gym.

This week has been very stressful,

and will continue to be for a few more days.

Since I've baked,

cleaned,

and created this week,

it's time to employ strategy number 4...

head to the gym.

Pilates vs. the skor bars.

May pilates win.

Phew.

I feel better.

Have a wonderful day...and check your drivers license, and glove compartment today.

That my friends, is my public service announcement for the day.

-julie

Three Things That Make Me Happy

2010-12-14T06:29:00.003-06:00

There are a billion things really,

but,

I'm loving the applesauce maker turned Christmas tree...

Mark's idea actually.

He didn't think I'd use it.

He's probably right.

It' s much more functional this way.

Resting on a candleholder and a little two tiered tray....

My sled.

-18 with the windchill yesterday.

The kids are dying to sled.

Hmm....

not until it gets above 5 degrees.

I'm pretty sure my Swedish ancestors settled here in the Fall.

It's beautiful then.

Who would move here in the Winter??

My skis.

Pure bliss heading up the stairs.

In the midst of bows,

shopping,

laundry,

cleaning,

and baking like a fiend,

it's good to have some things that cause me to pause....

-julie

Sledding to Dinner?

2010-12-12T22:08:00.002-06:00

Goodwill candle holder meets curbside sled for a wild ride on the dining room table..

It's a wonderful conversation piece,

and has a sense of humor too...

something that is important to maintain during the holidays....

The chandelier above is sporting some ribbon and pine cones...

Simple and rustic.

I'll add some greenery and berries to the table this week.

We're hosting a big family gathering on Sunday.

Here is my Pottery Barn knock-off...

The little girls put these together with me...

Five minutes of crafting,

and they were done....

the crafts and the girls.

They found a home on the corner hutch...found curbside a few years ago.

I haven't done any Christmas shopping.

Whoops.

Plenty of time still....

Any teacher gift ideas?

I have 4 days to figure it out.

Any good gift ideas for women?

Something thoughtful but not too impersonal for someone you don't know very well?

I'm stumped.

14 days and it all needs to be done.

Yikes!

Any ideas would be greatly appreciated...

-julie

The Best Christmas Present Ever!

2010-12-08T06:36:00.003-06:00

I woke up and my antique skis were hanging in the staircase!

We haven't had a railing up for a few years...

since I painted.

I wanted something unique,

and a while back thought these would be perfect!

The only problem?

I had no idea how to make it work.

As always,

Mark did,

and I am so very thankful!

I have my crazy ideas...

the window seat canoe,

the piano innards hanging on the wall...

the branch in the staircase....

I could go on and on...

and he always makes it work!

Now the next step is to paint the sides and risers....

I may spend the day sitting by my front door in bliss!

Yippee!

Bring on the snow!

-Julie

Snow

2010-12-07T21:52:00.002-06:00

Is here to stay in IL....

Arrived just in time for our trip to cut down a tree....

Carl had fun throwing snowballs at his sisters.

Mark and Linnea cut down the tree....see them working hard in the background?

They make a perfect team.

The rest of us played.

They hunted and were successful.

Sofi helped too...

Why did we give him the saw?

Highly recommend Larson's farm out in Sandwich.

We will be heading back there next year!

-julie

Decking the Kitchen

2010-12-02T11:38:00.003-06:00

Added this little chandelier above the sink...

a wedding gift from a family friend that's moved around the house....

Loving it here...

Made a little cork and music tree...

Had this urn in the corner with a white pumpkin all Fall,

and wanted a little something for Christmas...

Took some posterboard,

a few Christmas songs,

and some old corks.

Love making 5 minute projects that make me smile!

-julie

Ah, what a day

2010-12-01T21:09:00.005-06:00

Vino and blogging...

a wonderful end to a crazy crazy day.

I bet you didn't ride on a bus with a trumpet, trombone, cello, and percussion set today.

I did.

With a busload of excited middle school musicians,

performing at a nearby mall.

A mall...

what a novelty...

our closest is a ghost town.

Had a wonderful group of 4 girls,

shopped, watched, lunched, and just enjoyed being with them...

Came home,

tutored,

cleaned,

dined with the family,

helped direct a kid's choir at church,

cleaned some more,

helped with homework,

read...

a bunch,

cleaned some more....

....should be cleaning my room (what a disaster....dumped the Christmas decorations there),

or the floor,

or making birds,

or folding laundry,

or cleaning a toilet,

or prepping for tutoring,

or doing paperwork,

or decorating for Christmas,

or making lunches,

or cleaning off the countertop behind me....

But I'm not,

I'm here trying to figure out why my text is underlining,

trying to figure out how it can possibly be Dec. 2nd.,

contemplating why I live here in the Midwest,

when I could live somewhere much warmer,

trying to figure out how to juggle the tasks of tomorrow,

when I put them all on hold today.

Off to the bedroom,

hoping to find a few more homes for Christmas decorations.

I don't like the cluttered feel of the decorations right now...

it's stifling.

I may be going for a minimalist approach for a change.

I think it would be a breath of fresh air,

but I'm not sure the family would approve.

I'll leave you with a bird.

She's at Little Luxuries in Naperville...a lovely boutique, along with 4 others.

A beautiful story for another day....

Off to find " a sense of order" amongst the everyday clutter of our busy family....

-julie

Help Me Pick Our Christmas Pic!

2010-11-29T20:00:00.004-06:00

HELP!

Which would you choose??

2.
3.

4.
5.
6.
7.Or should we try again?

This is exhausting!

Thankful

2010-11-28T17:54:00.002-06:00

every day...

for my life,

Mark,

and these four...

Every year I feel a little scrooge in me around Thanksgiving...

some years it brews into the New Year.

I try to stifle it,

but usually have at least one good cry in the closet during this season.

The root of the scrooge is primarily the empty chairs around the table.

Missing too many that are no longer with us,

or live too far away to come home.

Missing the traditions of the past,

and trying to make new memories for the kids.

Like everything,

it's a balance.

Thankful for last night.

Our Friend's Thanksgiving Tradition.

Night to relax, eat, and be merry together...

roaring fire,

candles ablaze,

goodies we didn't bring to our Thanksgiving table,

vino,

laughter,

and good times.

Wonderful week,

just being family.

Visit from Papa,

playing Twister,

pet sitting,

drawing,

making Christmas cards,

reading,

chilling out,

Together.

So very much to be thankful for....

Hanging

2010-11-18T10:53:00.002-06:00

With this sweet girl in her classroom this morning.

So fun to be Picture Person today.

Thanks Izzy for working so hard in school.

You make me smile.

Love,

Your Mom

My Girls

2010-11-16T07:03:00.003-06:00

Really aren't always this innocent.

But they sure are cute.

Last night they had their first big fight.

Sounded like two cats.

Why is it always during the dinner hour?

Tears from both.

Apologies.

More tears upon seeing vegetables.

Really?

Why does the sight of broccoli always move Sofi to tears?

ALWAYS!

I need to start hiding veggies again.

Ridiculous since her mother is a vegan.

Today's agenda?

Zumba.

A trip to the attic....long story for another day.

More birds.

Clean the bathrooms.

Meal plan.

Groceries.

Need to head to the store AGAIN.

My 13 year old has a hole in his leg.

I can't keep food in the house.

Maybe I need to hide it all.

Recipes with hidden veggies anyone?

Anyone recommend the cookbook Deceptively Delicious?

Bye Bye Birdies...

2010-11-14T21:49:00.006-06:00

"You'd think they were your children or something, Mom,"

said my oldest daughter today.

Three birds.

Are gone.

Flown away to new homes.

They're not my children, but they are a little piece of me.

My pencil moves so easily.

The texts are so fun to find.

The feathers, bits of my fly-tying days...

Lace,

buttons,

pearls,

velvet,

things I love.

Four more to complete,

and they'll fly away too.

Last night's show was amazing.

Fabulous turnout.

Met wonderful people.

I couldn't sleep last night.

Too excited.

Wired from the energy.

Creative wheels spinning.

Now it's back to reality.

Piles of laundry.

Floors to clean.

Grocery shopping.

Paperwork.

Piles.

Reality.

Monday morning.

Quiet in the studio again.

I'm staying up late to tackle the mess,

so I can play again tomorrow.

We Have a Winner!

2010-11-11T07:58:00.003-06:00

Carl picked Natalie in Florida.

Natalie email me at mjcljohnson@yahoo.com and send me your address.

We'll send some happy mail your way!

There is he is...

my boy.

I had to tilt the camera up since I wasn't wearing heels.

If only time would stand still for a bit....

julie

Wings and Giveaway Reminder

2010-11-09T15:01:00.004-06:00

I'm wrapping things up for a show on Saturday night.

Here are a few sneak peeks of the wings....

I can't even begin to describe how much fun this process has been.

The artists that I'm working with.

The gallery space.

The time I'm devoting each day to drawing, painting, and creating.

Good stuff.

Don't forget to leave your name, and state (or country!)...

I'll have my kids pick a winner of happy mail at breakfast tomorrow!

julie