Chronicles of Farmia

ABC's

2008-10-02T13:20:00.001-07:00

This really needs NO intro...just a cute moment caught on camera...

Nice...

2008-09-26T07:19:00.000-07:00

This is a such a refreshing and non-self-focused approach to the all-too-common blog.

Operation Nice

Gotcha Day 2008

2008-08-20T13:59:00.000-07:00

Two years ago today, our lives changed forever. A sweet little lady named Yang Fu Bin made her way 6 hours in a sweaty bus with so many other babies - all in matching outfits - was placed into our arms in a VERY cold hotel meeting room - and stared with her big brown eyes straight into our soul.

We will never forget that day - the day that the families that traveled with us were changed forever too.

Here is a video to celebrate that moment and the journey that came with it.

We love you Bin-Bin!!

Modbe for You, Modbe for Me

2008-07-28T05:56:00.000-07:00

Loyal Readers (ie All 3 of you :))

As some of you may already know, I have recently undertaken a new venture that I completely believe in.

Modbe Clothing is a modest clothing line and although for many of you, that brings to mind the ever-stylish denim jumper and possibly an array of turtlenecks, this hip and fun company has in their arsenal long-fit camisoles, capsleeve t-shirts as well as an array of retro-ish swimsuits!

I stumbled upon this line on a recent trip to Indiana where the youth minister's wife where we were had recently begun selling it. I loved the suits so much, I bought two. They are long in the torso and the best description I have is that you feel "strapped in." :) I ended up loving the jeans as well (made high in the back while still maintaining the hip low-front fit as to avoid an appearance of "crack" :)) and their camisoles and capsleeves. So, in a nutshell, I was a customer before I was a consultant. It took a lot of prayer and discernment to decide if selling this would be in God's plan for our family's life. I was overwhelmed in that time of discernment by the idea that our young ladies need this kind of option so badly!! THIS is the reason I do it. NOT to make a extra buck, but to spread the word that "modest" doesn't have to be a word our young people shy away from - or not understand the meaning of why it is important.

In addition, since I know quite a few of you are in the midst of creating and adding new little people :) they offer a great maternity line as well as a line for kids and the selection is awesome!

I would invite you to visit my website and see this for yourself! You can order online through the website, or, if you're feeling the urge for socialization and live close to the Denver area, we can set up a party at your house. You can see the website at:

https://www.modbeclothing.com/joiafarmer

One word of caution. We are at the tail-end of the summer line and when the new line of clothing makes an appearance in early September, I will create another post letting you know all about the new stuff!! However, UNTIL then you can still order some great swimsuits and essentials such as the camisoles etc. Take a look!!

Let me know what you think!!

Joia

Together with the Sisters again...

2008-07-23T06:13:00.000-07:00

We were together again with some families who we traveled to China with and had dinner at our friend's house.

Miss Katelyn Mae

Cassidy Tao

Miss Ava - hey, little miss, you got a little somethin' right there...

Jack - and Mr. Larry

Jack's First Baseball Game

2008-07-23T06:07:00.000-07:00

First EVER organized sport. He was on the KC Royals team and just received his end of the year trophy and a word from the coach that he was "the fastest on the team" and a "natural born athlete." Yep...we're proud.
Here is one of his first times to bat...

Indiana

2008-07-23T05:59:00.001-07:00

Our trip to Carmel, Indiana to visit some good friends.

One of the coolest lightning storms we've been through. The lightning flashed constantly for about 2-3 hours. Here is ONE of those flashes.

Fun on the lake on Sunday

Caed is very secure in his manhood.

Ava is prepared to fly away - but still doesn't want to look.

Trip to Louisiana

2008-06-10T13:23:00.001-07:00

Long time - no write...I know. We have been a bit busy. First the trip to Baton Rouge...then to Indiana...then off to Steubenville Conferences for Mom & Dad. We don't like relaxing summers, apparently.

So rather than blog about EVERY trip (that would get long and tedious for everyone) - I am planning on posting the highlight pictures of the summer...with maybe a word or two...

These are our pictures of our trip to the great state of Louisiana!

The kids on the slip and slide. Ava, John William & Caed

We just GAVE her those beads...no flashing required.

Yes...we did eat these...yum!!

So Sad....

2008-05-22T06:55:00.000-07:00

For all who have adopted and even those who haven't - this will break your heart.

http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5hCX0xYfGnwKXZ56bJKPQoZGnyBKgD90QGLL80

First Grade - Here I Come!!

2008-05-22T06:48:00.000-07:00

Jack has graduated from Kindergarten....thankfully...we were really worried about his entrance into an ivy league college.

Okay, not really...but some parents had gigantic bouquets of balloons and big gifts for their little ones. Yet, Jack was complete with a Happy Meal and we were too...with the answer the question asked of him, "What do you want to be when you grow up?"

Watch the video...

Ava Eats...

2008-05-15T18:45:00.000-07:00

So, we just spent 6 days in Baton Rouge with some good friends while Brad and Gene ministered at a parish mission. (more pictures to follow of this trip)

And so, Ava, our brave little adventurous eater of anything non-green or resembling of a vegetable ate...

Crawfish Stew and rice!

you go, little miss...

Houston...we have a loose tooth

2008-05-14T17:28:00.000-07:00

I know some of you who know we don't have dental insurance were tempted to think it was Brad or I...but...it's not (thank the Lord)...

JACK HAS A LOOSE TOOTH!! And, really, not just Houston should know about this.

Pictures to follow...

Sunday Morning

2008-04-14T13:27:00.000-07:00

No need to say anything else...

Good Review - Wait, MORE than good

2008-04-10T07:12:00.000-07:00

A couple months ago, I uploaded my CD to a website called CD Baby. It is the leading website for independent artists and brings the capability to Joe Schmoe to download my CD from iTunes.

Yesterday, I received this email:

"We love your "JOIA FARMER: Before & Afterlife" CD so much that we're
featuring it in our Editor's Picks section from now on.

We're REALLY picky about what we feature. We get about 200-250 new
albums a DAY coming in here now, (about 200,000 total), and yours is
one of the best we've ever heard.

HERE'S OUR REVIEW
The opening riff from "Water & Air," the first track on this strong
sophomore album, begins quickly, jumping into a steady and pressing
tempo that is flush with intention, clearly building to something. A
few bars later, the drums push things forward a bit more, making way
for the vocals, which mark the moment when this record really takes
off. This is Christian rock, if you have to classify it as such, but
get this: it actually rocks. Farmer lets her voice loose but locks in
on melody, climbing on top of tumbling bass lines and driving guitar
riffs, belting out lyrics that avoid cliche and embrace sincerity.
With a backing band that can jump from steady chugging beats to
funkier, more feel-oriented numbers (check out "Live For You"), she
has a rock solid foundation of sound to springboard from. It all
works, and she finds a way to maintain a spiritual message in her
music while never losing sight of the power of the music itself."

Yay....

And on that note, I want to plug a friend's new album. Matt Maher really sprung onto the major christian music scene when Chris Tomlin covered his song "Your Grace is Enough." Well, he just released his newest CD "empty and beautiful" yesterday and I am impressed! It is really and truly, in my opinion, his best.

You can google and buy it pretty much anywhere OR download it off of iTunes.

Train Ride - Ava EATS...

2008-04-07T08:34:00.001-07:00

On Friday evening, my sister, Brandi and her husband, Tyler were in town with the cutest Ladd nephew, Jude. They came for Tyler's birthday to see a concert downtown and stay at a hotel - and generally get out of small town McCook, NE.

One of the last minute ideas we had was to take the LightRail downtown and have dinner with them. 40 minutes on a train was starting to worry me once we boarded the train, but except for the fact that the Rockies game had just ended once we got off the train and there were drunk people as far as the eye could see - we had a great time!

So fun! A Train!

The end of the ride. When does this thing ever stop?!?

Aunt Brandi & Ava

And here it is. AVA EATS #2. We went to an Indian Restaurant. Ava ate Chicken Tikka Masala (all over her face), Naan, and part of the indian dumpling we had. She is SO multicultural...

Haircuts, Pirates and Cheese - OH MY!

2008-04-04T12:12:00.000-07:00

The last 24 hours have been rough on Caedmon.

First, a 102 degree fever yesterday morning that left him less than his usual mischievous self. Then, last night, while playing with his Uncle Ty, he threw himself somewhere in the vicinity of the couch (no one saw this occur) and obtained for himself a nasty shiner. This morning was the most traumatic, the most horrifying and the most terrible thing that has happened to Caed. It was a haircut. (insert dramatic music here) The moment I dropped his little caboose in the chair, he screamed. I'm sorry that didn't quite describe it...he actually SCREAMED!! And writhed like a madman - it took three of us to hold him down. It took about 5-7 minutes and a lollipop to get it over with -
but I'm pretty sure it took 5 years off of my life.

Caed, a black eye (his right - your left) and newly buzzed head
(Don't let the smile deceive you)

And because I took a picture of Caedmon, Ava (the Cheese Monster) attacked the camera.
If you can't tell - she is screaming CHEESE!!

And that brings me to Jack. Whose Hero persona changes by the week. This week its a combo. Prince Caspian AND the Man in Black (princess bride).
Don't ask me why he is wearing a white t-shirt.

Life is an adventure...

SpiderGirl

2008-03-29T07:42:00.000-07:00

Who says girls can't have muscles?

Fun with the Rogers

2008-03-28T06:42:00.000-07:00

It is a rare occurrence, yet a good one, when you "get" to spend time with friends - and even when you don't see them, say, everyday - it's been a year - you can pick up where you left off. These are true friends.

Not to mention, they went through the trouble of documenting and blogging about it.

http://therogerszoo.blogspot.com/

Easter 2008!

2008-03-28T06:35:00.000-07:00

Easter Basket Fury

Mara-Bunny

HE IS RISEN!!

Our second favorite holiday (Christmas being the first)...a time of renewal and joy...

We attended church in the morning and spent the afternoon with loved ones. As you can see, it is almost impossible for us to get a picture when one of the kids isn't 'in action.'

Santa Fe Excursion

2008-03-24T15:53:00.001-07:00

Last weekend, I had the fortunate privilege to hit the road with my sisters in on-the-road ministry. We journeyed the 5 hours to Santa Fe, NM where we luxuriated (is that a word?) at the Inn and Spa at Loretto. It was an awesome time of laughter, fun, relaxation and car troubles. I haven't been able to find the words to describe the entire weekend - just snippets. Here are those snippets:

1. It's really funny to tell your female roommate that you are willing to spoon with them :)

2. Enterprise Rent-a-Car's, Chad, is a now a broken man.

3. It is possible to have too many Joia Farmer's in the world.

4. It is ENTIRELY possible that out of the four of us women - I would be the one to get the man to massage me at the spa.

5. A bath is better with a fruit plate.

6. The largest turquoise nugget is less than impressive.

7. When you tell someone you are going to a TAPAS restaurant - make sure you emphasize the fact that there are no L's in that word.

8. There is nothing more fun that to go the Georgia O'Keefe museum with a bunch of giggling women.

9. Guacamole is better made table-side.

10. Journaling SOUNDS fun.

11. A miraculous staircase is also very magical.

12. A surprise bridal shower at the Olive Garden lunch rush is WAY more fun with tiaras and a large sprinkling of purple heart-shaped glitter.

13. There is nothing like starting the trip dressed to the nines and ending it in a junkyard.

See my friend Anne Marie's posts... one of the funniest people I know (who I also did spoon with)...She's got one of the best (and most entertaining) blogs around.

http://www.getoverthetop.com/chronicle/

Ava Eats...

2008-03-21T10:43:00.000-07:00

So, I've decided to post an occasional update here and there about what Ava WILL eat.

The girl has decided that ANY fruit and vegetable not in pureed form is not worth trying. In addition, anything green, remotely green or with green specks is an immediate 'no.' Yes, it frustrates me...but I refuse to let the negative rule!! So, I will only be posting the new things that shock and surprise me that she will eat.

Today's surprise: Guacamole.

Bogged down by the thought of Blogging

2008-03-21T10:40:00.001-07:00

Man, I stink at this blogging stuff. I promise I will get better - those three of you who might still check this blog - because there really is so much to say.

Two Farmerling birthdays. New Countertops, furnace and dental work going right along with the possibility of returning to a 9-5 job. A girl's trip to Santa Fe. And Easter - one of my two fave holidays.

More to come...

People who gave AKA Affirmation Circle

2008-01-25T16:01:00.000-08:00

9 days in the same sleeping quarters, buses, planes and small huts with the same people could get annoying...but luckily we were traveling with some stellar people. And, now we miss them. Yes, like a bad summer camp movie, I miss my friends. Here is a tribute to those who gave of themselves.

From Clockwise Top Left to Right (besides us):

Elaine: Mom of two. Diocesan Youth Director. Fierce advocate for the poor complete with a cute giggle. Non-complainer.

Rox: Mom of Gene and two others. Retired and now professional advocate for those who need advocating. Fast talker and fast learner. Mama of the group and owner of the hairdryer that somewhat saved my life in Chimbote.

Lindsay: Walking encyclopedia and compliment-giver. Fellow Barista and considering her options for the future. Great conversationalist and iPod listener. Caring, generous, loving and one of two (she's a twin).

Jessica: Fellow music-lover. Teaches piano and violin. Optimist and adventurous eater. Devoted daughter of God and a beautiful tall drink of water. Also, one of our resident translators and volleyball players.

Kim: As you will notice from her picture, distracted probably trying to translate something for us. Mental therapist for at-risk youth and legislative assistant for the Puerto Rican congressman. Awesome laugh and contagious optimism.

Kris: Gorgeous smile. Advocate for missing and exploited children. Hard worker and not afraid to get a little dirt on her. Bearer of bobby pins. Master of sand tic-tac-toe and skin-peeling. :)

Kristy: Manages a law office...but Sweet. I'm pretty sure possesses most the attributes of Mary. Unassuming presence with a great smile and a tan to match. A true heart for kids and a ready tear for mourning with those who mourn.

Laura: Tattoo artist. My space-mate for 9 days. Calm, peaceful and loving. Open-minded to things that aren't familiar. A true artist who wears the same proudly. Originator of the term "thongist," and contagious giggler.

Gene: One of my bosses. Last but certainly not least. Close friend couldn't describe it. Resident veteran. Information processor. Mountain-climbing-bus-terrifying savior. Wonderful organizer and personal trainer in poverty-witnessing. Love.

Jack: Rockstar extraordinaire. Tryer of all foods. Survivor of developing country animal attacks. Friend of those who need friends.

More later....

Home but Unfinished

2008-01-24T19:13:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we saw a bit of the wonderful city of Lima, capital of Peru. We then flew through the night back to the States, ran through Houston airport to make our connection, barely made it, two and a fourth more hours in the air, followed by a four hour car drive (round-trip) straight from the airport to pick up Caed and Ava from Grandma Cheryle. (We were so blessed to have Grandpa Randy & Grandma Cheryle take excellent care of them so we could be a part of this experience.) Needless to say we are exhausted. The story is far from being told as it should, so even though we are back in Colorado, stay tuned for the rest of the experience (including more pictures, more perspective on the slums of Chimbote, Our Lady of Guadalupe Espresso, skulls underneath Lima, and a place where you can make contributions to the church that will directly benefit the people of Chimbote). Thank you for your prayers and continue to keep Fr. Jack, those he serves, and all those who go without basic human necessities today in your prayers!

Last Work Day in Chimbote

2008-01-21T19:41:00.001-08:00

OK, so even from Peru we have heard of your complaints about pictures being loaded. The problem is with our software to resize the pictures, and we can't load large size ones due to slowness of the internet connection. We can do it with Gene's help on his laptop, but by the time our day ends and I begin writing, everyone is exhausted and in bed already. We haven't had the luxury of spare time in the morning to do this and siesta time has been consumed with needed rest. Don't worry, they are coming.

Today was our last day in Chimbote and it was a full day of work. More room and roof building and repair in the hot Peruvian sun. Even just standing around can be tiring at times. We directly did significant construction in three homes and bought materials for repairs in a fourth. In each situation the families were there and we had plenty of interaction with them and the construction workers hired by the church. These people are wonderful... they are an inspiration!

At times we experienced a frustration of having to just stand around and wait... sometimes because it was a portion of the job that had to be completed before moving on that didn't require group effort, sometimes because there was only one person who how the job needed to be done and forthcoming steps weren't communicated well (or at all). There were times toady and previously when it felt like a lot of waiting and watching the locals work. This was frustrating to everyone in our group because we saw how much needed done and didn't want to waste time, we didn't come here to just stand around... we wanted to be useful. In those moments I learned a lot. Being "useful" is not our mission here. We have to get over ourselves and realize we're not the first group to come here (they've been coming regularly for decades), and we certainly won't be the last (a group of 24 from all over the US arrives tomorrow). Our time here is helpful... this sort of mission is invaluable and many more people need to get out here, but there is more involved than just "work". We are here being educated in this reality of the world in a way no multi-media presentation can get across, not to fix everything in a few short days... Yes, it is absolutely important to address with passion and full energy the effects of poverty while working to eradicate the causes of it!! But it is also important to have an encounter with a person, with a people... to tell their stories, to PRAY for them, and to know the world is better for having them in it, and to come away with more conviction and passion to change what should never be allowed to happen to another human being.

I also learned to re-evaluate my sense of "usefulness" in the moment. While "just standing and waiting" you can still pray! They also proved to be great opportunities for conversation with the other people in our group. (And if I spoke Spanish it would have been an incredibly rich opportunity to hear the stories of the families we met.) It is also more important to let the homeowner step in front of you and take over without being offended by them. It is their home, let them own it. Give them the dignity and ownership they deserve in the project. (Not to mention letting the workers make sure the job is done right. It's one thing for me to tire myself out, get all sweaty, pat myself on the back for feeling "useful", but quite another to make sure these families have a properly constructed home, built as they desire to meet their needs that they will spend their days and nights in long after I'm half a world away.) Eventually I came to enjoy standing in their homes, putting my muscle into it when I could, but also silently praying while in that physical location. NEVER underestimate the power of your prayer!

Tomorrow we have another l-o-n-g bus ride to Lima. We'll have a day to see that city, and then back to our homes... at least physically.

Dirty and in love. Site of our house re-building. This is someone's bedroom.

View of Chimbote from Our Lady of Perpetual Help

This is Quiara (pronounced like "Kee-ar-ah"). She was the almost 3 year old who charmed us while we worked on her home. Behind her is her mother's stove and kitchen. Please take a moment to pray for her mother who struggles to raise 3 children while taking care of her ailing mother.

A Wider View of Chimbote

2008-01-20T19:17:00.000-08:00

Today (Sunday), a day of rest (as well it should be! Many people are shocked that anyone would not make it a day of Sabbath... something US culture unfortunately doesn't get), began with another Apex juggling presentation after morning Mass. Very shortly after our show, while everyone was in the courtyard, Jack went back to our dormitory to get something, and was bitten by one of the dogs the kitchen staff keeps here! Completely out of the blue. That wasn't a great way to start the day and needless to say Fr. Jack and his staff were very upset by the situation. In the end, Jack the Adventurer was OK... a small wound, some torn pants, and a bruise.

Then it was off to the nearby mountain, where a gigantic cross overlooks the entire city. (Pictures soon to be uploaded... Keep checking!) The ride up in a packed mini-bus was even more intense than drive to the top of Mt. Evans outside Denver. Sheer drop-offs from a single lane gravel road with no guardrails. It proved to be a bit much for Joia, so we tried walking the rest of the way to a chapel beneath the cross and a beautiful panoramic view of Chimbote. (Again, pictures to follow shortly!) Even the walk was intense (no trees, no vegetation, no shade, gravel roads in a stone mountain), and Gene escorted Joia down the hill. Jack and I continued the climb to the top on foot (evidently his dog bite wasn't a problem). The view was worth it...

The cross had been the project of over 27,000 youth over several weeks. Fr. Jack told us of how Saturday after Saturday... even before the road was widened to what it is now (still only one lane today... it must have been just a foot path)... 1,000 people lined the way to the top creating an assembly line. In buckets the size of tin paint buckets, they would pass a bucket of sand, a bucket of gravel, a bucket of water, and a bucket of cement until they had made this huge cross that can be seen from anywhere in town. They used to have massive processions (20,000 people as recently as 3 years ago) to pray the Stations of the Cross every Good Friday where the people would walk all the way to the top, stopping along the way remembering the events of Christ's Passion and praying!

After the sketchy descent, Fr. Jack again joined us, taking us past the dump the the cemetery for the poor. The place is sand and the tombs are on right on top of one another. Each grave is marked by a simple wooden cross, except for the very few families that may have gotten some more money along the way and could dress it up a bit. It mostly looks like a huge sandy desert of makeshift wooden crosses.

We drove through the neighborhood bordering this part of town, and Fr Jack pointed out that anywhere else in the world that location would be prime real-estate. There was a breath-taking view of the bay and the ocean... islands in the distance... but even more breath-taking, and the reason it's the hill by the dump and poor cemetery, was the toxic orange cloud floating over from the iron factory. We then passed what appeared to be an ancient temple or adobe building of some sort in the side of the hill. Again... "Any other part of the world, this would be a MAJOR tourist attraction... That structure is pre-Inca! Hopefully some day it will be restored and its story will be told as it should, but for now many of the adobe bricks have been taken to build the houses here."

We saw a bit more of the city today, and I don't mean just from the mountain top. Not everyone in Chimbote is poor (we are just here to serve the poorest of the poor, and that's been our perspective so far). Fr. Jack pointed out where there is a house as big as any you would find in Denver... it just happens to be owned by the local drug-lord. They have a big, beautiful cathedral (built by the Italians), clubs, shops, markets... Some people seem to be fairly well off... but there is a HUGE seperation between the haves and have-nots. Very few feel any sense of solidarity. There happens to be a circus in town, a stretch down the road from the Church with tigers, jugglers, tight-rope walkers... the flyers said it was Barney and Friends (yes, the purple dinosaur)! I sure every upper and middle class home has a television. Even many of the poor have gotten their hands on a really old black and white TV (sometimes requiring a spoon to change channels). In one home we visited earlier in the trip I heard familiar cartoon sounds. When I looked at the TV, it was SpongeBob Squarepants in Spanish. Do you think the writers and creators of that show have any idea of the reach of their influence?

We went to a fantastic park for lunch. This place was called "The Lungs of Chimbote." It had a nice restaurant, more vegetation than we've seen since arriving in Peru (big trees, grass, shrubs... the works), an ampitheater, rides and games for kids, penguins, monkeys, and I'm sure much more. We stopped at a market on the bay on our way back to peruse the local crafts and support the local economy. The day ended back at Our Lady of Perpetual Help with rest, great conversation, and Mass.

Jack's Slide Experience

Jack & Roy (never understood a word to each other, but loved each other anyway)

Top of the Cruz de La Paz

Cemetery of the Poor

Father Jack, Gene and Jack feeding the fish

Dirt & Plungers

2008-01-19T19:04:00.000-08:00

January 19, 2008

(From Brad's perspective:) Today was another day of work and getting dirty (some more than others). We spent much of the day at the two homes with rooms and roofs we demolished on Thursday rebuilding them with fresh materials (thatched reeds, bamboo, and wooden posts... the old ones were rotted pretty well, a brief but extravagant bonfire waiting to happen, especially since they do run electricity into these places).

I am a big fan of the mid-day siesta (from about noon to 3pm). Of course, the sun and heat get so intense it would be senseless to continue working through it. But once rested you can return to work with more efficiency and a brighter disposition.

The language barrier is still frustrating (Go Diego Go didn't teach me all I needed to know here), but I have noticed how much we communicate non-verbally. We really can communicate and understand a lot with only a little common language. So much of our shared humanity translates without having to use words. I guess here we can truly take to heart St. Francis of Assisi's message, "Preach the Gospel at all times. If necessary, use words."

After Mass tonight (and we will again after Mass tomorrow) Gene and I put on a small show for the church goers. (For those reading this who don't know, we are full time jugglers/comedians/Christian evangelists throughout the US and Canada.) I brought some balls and beanbags to juggle, but the clubs took up too much room in our luggage and had to stay behind. As when we were in China, we found the next best substitute... six plungers. (See joiafarmer.com/ava for the China story.) Once again we found plungers to be an adequate substitute for juggling clubs. Interestingly enough we found the Peruvian plungers to be a bit more managable than the Chinese plungers. One of our favorite parts, as well as a crowd favorite, was passing six plungers around Fr. Jack.

And, after our show... the real show... the rock-star... Jack Farmer was once again mauled by Peruvian kids who wanted to touch, poke, or just say "hola" to him. Little did they know he had a bit of a sunburn from the beach... Ouch!

For another perspective and maybe some more info, check out Gene's blog at brblue.org.

More pictures will be loaded in the morning...

Brad's Thoughts

2008-01-18T19:57:00.001-08:00

I think ever since living in Washington DC, and probably even before that, I’ve had a pretty firm understanding of poverty. And beyond what I’ve seen in the states, I’ve seen the videos and heard the stories for years about third world countries. But I don’t think you really grasp it… I don’t mean just understand it, something that happens in your head… I mean you don’t REALLY get it until you have stood in their homes and shaken their hands and smelled their air… A video or documentary can never convey what it’s really like to be there. And having been there you can never see our world quite the same. It can be overwhelming at times, but I am reminded of Bl. Theresa of Calcutta (Mother Theresa)’s perspective. She used to say that if she looked at the masses of those in desperate need she would become paralyzed. What difference could one person possibly make? But if she looked into the face of the one person in front of her, she could not help but do something.

The Church here, Our Lady of Perpetual Help, and a priest from Fargo, ND, Fr. Jack, and Sister Peggy have made incredible strides over the past 30 years to implement real change in these people’s reality. They work to change the systems that keep the people in poverty and despair, and at the same time deal with the symptoms of those systems that need changing until they are changed. (That’s what Catholic Social Teaching is all about.) As we walked through the streets of the poorest parts of Chimbote, getting a glimpse of the reality of people’s lives here, and the bright spots of Fr. Jack’s and the Church’s work in the midst of it I kept thinking, “What can I do? What gifts do I have to bring to this?” That was frustrating to me when I considered one of my strongest gifts to be interaction… communicating, joking, teaching… I couldn’t share this at all as I don’t speak more Spanish than what Dora the Explorer has taught me.

Our fellow pilgrims are wonderful people, as are those who live and work here more permanently in Peru. The local Peruvians are an awe-inspiring people with a difficult history, and most of them live incredibly inspiring lives. We have been richly blessed in this voyage already.

Work at the Beach

2008-01-18T19:40:00.000-08:00

Today was a full day…of play. Yes, I know…we are supposed to be here helping the poor but Father Jack rarely gets out to rest, so we took him to the beach. So I guess you could say we were helping the poor in spirit. Every priest needs a day off and he rarely gets one, so it was nice to watch him rest.

The beach we went to is about a 45-minute ride from the church and truly beautiful. The sand is soft and the shells that wash up are relatively untouched…I guess unlike U.S. beaches, people don’t find value in collecting shells. Father Jack had fun showing us around his favorite place and after a lunch of ceviche and fresh fish, we all headed into our food comas. Father Jack took a nap and we just sat around and watched the people on the beach. Jack was a fish!! He loved jumping the waves, getting knocked over by waves AND we even saw a porpoise in the water! The beach on this particular day was very breezy and the temperature seemed cool…which sorta led to our skin’s doom. After leaving the beach, and even though we all applied sunscreen, we all realized we were burned in some way. My ears are toast. Jack has a little cute sun kissed face. But so worth it.

Jack’s favorite thing today: I liked getting splashed by the waves and landing on the beach. I liked the cave we climbed in and the crab that Miss Rox found. I also found some shells to give to my kindergarten class when I get home. I also liked the chicken that Miss Kim gave me at lunch.

Mom and Jack being silly

A sea cave and everyone...but Brad

The hostage crab

Jack eating Ceviche

Ceviche. Raw seafood soaked in lime. Sounds gross...but actually VERY good

Suburban Royalty

2008-01-18T05:57:00.000-08:00

Today was our first full day in Chimbote. Full isn’t even the word to describe it. It seemed like four days crammed into one. This morning Father Jack took us on a walking tour of his parish. We were greeted with dirt streets, garbage and stray dogs (covered in disease) everywhere. Jack did a great job of really entering into the community and when a volunteer who only spoke Spanish asked him “Cuanto Anos” which is ‘How old are you?,” he said, “cinco.” Ah a proud moment for a mother…my son knows the word ‘five’ in espanol.

We were followed by a couple of volunteers of the parish (who Brad thought were bodyguards) and one of the church residents, Jaime, who is mentally challenged and has a couple of other handicaps. They joke that he is a ‘ladies man” as he likes to pat all the girls and tease them. Very sweet.

We entered several projects of the church we are here to work for. 3 soup kitchens of which only 3 days are subsidized by the church – the other days people have to come up with the money themselves. 3 boys clubs in which there are members of different gangs – and effort to keep them out of trouble, in school (only a very few even get out of grade school), and to keep violence to a minimum. One shelter for battered women…a severe problem in Chimbote. A hospice for dying people which was the nicest building I’ve been in since we’ve been here. Another youth center in the works. A compound where young men come to get out of drugs and alcohol and into another trade. This compound is where animals are raised (cows, goats, guinea pigs, fish, ducks, turkeys, one sheep and a bunch of roosters and chickens), and men work in carpentry building tables, chairs and other furniture.

By this time, it was very hot and humid here in Chimbote and we were all sweaty and tired, but no more than Jack. The walking tour took its toll on Jack and he begged to “go back to the hotel”…So Uncle Gene took him to get a 7-up and a good rest.

The next portion of the tour is where I struggle to explain. It is very hard to express the severity of the poverty here if you are not here. This I know, because it has been explained to me, but I couldn’t grasp it until today.

We entered several people’s homes in which the floors are dirt. They have maybe 1-2 very small rooms. The walls and ceiling are made out of woven reeds. Their toilet is a hole in the ground. There is no sewer so they usually throw their raw sewage into the streets. Their kitchen is a cinder block with a burner in the hole that they put their one pot over to cook with.

Yet, these people are proud of what they have and greeted us all with a warm smile. The kids would follow us and ask us our names and just want to touch us. They would all run to Father Jack and say “Buenos Dias Padre!!” and greet him with a kiss and he to them.

After lunch and a short ‘siesta,’ we gathered our work gloves and proceeded to the home of people in the parish. There are two families that we will be helping. Their woven-reed walls and ceilings are caving in and so we will be helping to construct new ones. Today we spent our time ripping down the celings and walls. Seemingly easy, until you figure in the fact that Chimbote is VERY dusty. We were all COVERED in dust (see pics below). Jack got bored pretty quick and some of the neighbor kids started swarming Jack and asking him, in spanish, to play soccer with them. To my surprise, he jogged right out there and played a game he has never really played with kids who don´t speak his language. I was a proud mom. The kids begged us to take their picture and fought over who would sit next to Jack.

I have never been so proud to have a floor in my home. And a stove to cook on. And a toilet to flush toilet paper in (not allowed here in Peru). I take for granted so many things in my life and have missed the thankfulness for basic needs met. I have never ever felt like a suburban princess until today. I have too much and give too little.

Jack’s favorite things in his own words: The soccer game and practicing to play soccer.. The meeting (don’t know what this is). I liked church. Liked playing with the kids but got kinda embarrassed when the girls picked me up.

Jack and Father Jack

The house we have demolished and are rebuilding.

Jack cleaning up the house.

Jack with the boys he played soccer with.

This is what dirty looks like.

A couple days here...a couple days late

2008-01-18T05:46:00.000-08:00

The lateness of our post will be made clear once I explain the past couple days. After a somewhat normal flight from Houston to Lima (I say ‘somewhat’ because we encountered some pretty severe turbulence somewhere over the Gulf of Mexico – the kind that makes me white knuckle Brad’s arm), we arrived somewhere around 11:30pm. Our luggage came out right away, but, as we were informed later, we were on “Latino Time” which basically means that we waited for another 45 minutes for everyone else’s luggage to come out as well.

We then were escorted through Customs and were greeted by HUNDREDS of people behind a rope waiting for their loved ones. Luckily, Gene was waiting there too – a good head taller than everyone – white – and with a big cowboy hat. We were lead to the bus where we waited for our one last person to arrive…that took until about 1am. THEN it took another 45 minutes to get to the Gemina Hostal where we were staying for the night. Walked in, surrendered our passports, marveled at the smell of pot lingering in the hallways J and then off to bed at around 2:30am. These were rooms with two twin beds in each, so I shared a room with Christie from Florida and Brad and Jack shared another. After waking at 5am and then for good at 8am, we left to get breakfast, walk around a bit and then on to another bus to be taken to ANOTHER bus to Chimbote. Halfway there, it became apparent that the transmission in our bus was going…and going fast. We made the last 5-10 minutes of the trip in 1st gear…but made it and cheered for our driver.

We grabbed some lunch at the bus station, checked our luggage, and boarded our bus to Chimbote. Not just ANY bus mind you…we walked into our ‘cabin’ and were greeted by plush first class type seats, pillows, blankets and a television in the front of the cabin. How glad we were since we discovered that our 4 ½ hour bus ride was really going to be 6 ½ hours.

We arrived in Chimbote at 6:30pm and were greeted by the most horrible fish smell. Chimbote is a city of about 400,000 people and Father Jack informed us that this is the “smell of money.” Mostly what is being ‘smelled’ is anchovies. Stop and imagine that. After a short ride to the church compound, we were met with a warm familiar meal of spaghetti and bread.

Jack’s Favorite things: I liked the food on the airplane. I liked the long bus ride and playing my Nintendo for so long. I liked relaxing with Dad and seeing the ocean and I liked the spaghetti when we got to Chimbote.

The whole group in Lima at 3am

Lima Oh Lima

2008-01-16T07:41:00.000-08:00

Just to let everyone know...we made it!

Nothing exciting to report...well, there is...but we will have to do that later.

We arrived at the hotel at 3am last night and I woke up bright and early at 8am (sleep anyone?) Lima is on Eastern time...but still.

Very interesting city, Lima. But very cool vibe-wise...but warm climate. (sorry friends who are getting snowed on today....it is warm and humid)

We are about to board a bus for a 4 1/2 hour ride to Chimbote. Hopefully, we will be able to put some pictures up tonight...

Love to all...

Goodbye Caed & Ava!!

2008-01-14T15:26:00.001-08:00

Tomorrow we leave on a flight to Lima, Peru. Another country.

We are taking Jack, but left Caedmon and Ava with Grandpa and Grandma in Wyoming today.

The house is TOO quiet right now...its disturbing.

Enjoy the pictures of these little mischief-makers.

A week of injury

2007-12-31T15:12:00.000-08:00

In one week, we have had one case of strep, one ear infection, two cases of stomach flu, one case of possible strep - but more likely a sinus infection complete with vomiting - and a week like this wouldn't be complete without two stitches in one tiny girl.

And now your next question would be - who? what? Jack - strep/ear infection, Brad - stomach flu, Caedmon - stomach flu/sinus infection/possible strep, Ava - two little tiny stitches. Me - NOTHING

And NOW your next question would be? Stitches? From what? Well, from me. Now before you go reporting me, let me explain.

Ava has been experiencing the joys of two - and also the sorrows of two. And the tantrums of two. Wild ones. With flailing and screaming and such. Run of the mill two-year-old stuff. Well, our philosophy as parents is that when these tantrums rear their ugly heads, the best thing is to put them in another room and monitor the situation occasionally. So, this past Saturday morning, Ava let it loose. I promptly picked her up, put her in the bathroom and close the door part way. Bathroom, you say? Yes, bathroom. Its right off the living room and we can keep an eye on her while still giving her her own space. There is a step stool in there that doubles as a time out bench. So, anyway, I hear her yelling and carrying on and something that sounded like something being thrown...so I ran over, threw open the door...into her face. Oh the horror!! She had launched herself off of the stepstool and lay their facedown on the tile floor. I cried with her as I wiped the blood running down chin and called our friend, a doctor, to come over and tell me if we should get to an ER. He came, said we should have it looked at by our pediatrician and, after an hour of crying by yours truly thinking "they" were going to take her away, arrived there with an appointment within the hour. Two stitches was an eternity. Listening to her cry brought tears of sorrow and guilt to my eyes as she watched me with the one good eye coming out from under the surgical paper. That one eye felt like it was staring into my soul. She survived and so did I. Within the hour she was her happy go-lucky albeit two-year-old self.

Spreading the cheer...one foot at a time

2007-12-27T21:01:00.000-08:00

This is so random that I'm posting this...but I must spread the good news.

I know it seems VERY strange that I would post any other picture besides pictures of my kids, so here goes.

Although I found myself a bit "anti-gift" this year, my favorite gift that I received this Christmas, other than an exceptionally awesome panini grill, was a pair of Heartside Slippers from LL Bean. So warm. So cute. So comfortable. Good things come in threes you know...

But HOLD ON!! As I was searching for a picture of these puppies ('hush' not needed) it looks as though they are temporarily sold out. However, keep a watchful eye for these pillows of gladness.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

Ava's Birthday

2007-12-08T15:10:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the lateness of this post...computer issues...now that we have NEW computer and have converted to the Almighty Apple...we are much happier AND more efficient :)

Here are pictures of a beautiful, feisty, smart, precocious and completely wonderful 2 year old.

A BLUR of action when the wrapping paper starts flying. Cute panda a gift from Ava's "sister" Cassidy and family...

Cassidy and I were just showing her how...and she loved it

Beautiful face...

The girls together again....me, Ava, Cassidy and Kyndra...

Halloween 2007

2007-11-02T07:42:00.000-07:00

For those of you who don't know what they're supposed to be...

Sonic the Hedgehog
(Mom's non-crafty try at putting together a costume)

Cutest Pumpkin
(Trick or Treating was her favorite)

Saddest Puppy

(Let's just say this didn't stay on for long)

Little Cowboy

2007-09-30T21:29:00.000-07:00

I feel like anything I COULD say would draw away from this picture.

However, I love it. This is my boy.

Arkansas

2007-09-23T09:37:00.000-07:00

The band...in a moment of fatigue-induced stupor...

Last weekend, somehow, I braved taking all three kids BY AIRPLANE to Arkansas to do a retreat for junior high kids. Does this seem like craziness upon craziness...well, maybe. Luckily, two other members of my band and my drummer's wife, braved the trip with me.

Actually, I was feeling very calm about the whole thing at first. I surprised myself by having everyone packed, laundry done, house reasonably clean, and kitchen sink cleaned (a miracle) and ready to go BEFORE we needed to leave. Got to the airport in plenty of time, checked everyone in, got through security and down to the crappy commuter terminal of DIA. The kids, mostly Caedmon, were getting cranky so for our 4:20 flight, carried on McDonalds. Ava had her own seat next to me, Jack seated next to my guitarist, and then Caedmon in my lap. Happily munching on McDonalds, it seemed as though I had defeated all reason and expectation of every passenger on board.

Oh (ha ha ha), I definitely thought too soon. By the time we had about 45 minutes left, Caedmon was getting antsy...Ava was still happy in her seat as well as Jack in his. Just as the engine began to change "hum" to descend, and almost as if he knew something was different, Caedmon started to FREAK out...and I mean, freak out...I was the mom every person on the plan either (a) felt sorry for; or (b) wanted to throw off the plane. For 35 minutes Caedmon screamed and screamed and thrashed and writhed...I was exhausted, ready to snap and I'm pretty sure I pulled something in my back during this time. Once we got off the plane, you'd think it would stop...oh no. We got our luggage, waited for 40 minutes for our rental car (yes, you read that right), got into the car, packed all luggage in and still 10 minutes into the ride, Caed was still screaming. Our last ditch effort was to play the Pirates of the Carribean theme music...miracle of all miracles...he dropped off to sleep.

We arrived safely, and then had to play a 30 minute set. But, for a bunch of energizing excited junior high kids...love it...they are my favorite.

The next day, in the beautiful Smoky Mountains, we had some free time to explore...we really didn't find anything except the Museum of Automobiles, which had a cool fountain the kids loved to play in or stare at.

The rest of the day went great, we went to bed around 11pm and woke up at 3:15am to drive back to Little Rock and then on to Denver. And on THAT descent, Caedmon did the same thing...ugh.

Oh well, albeit a little stressful, we had a great trip and I love to spend time with my kids...

Enjoy the fountain pictures!

Gotcha Little Bird

2007-08-28T06:33:00.000-07:00

Larry & Cassidy - Brad & Ava

August 22nd, 2006

One year later...

So...its a little late to be posting this...but it was one year that we got Ava last Tuesday on August 21st. One year already! One year ago, we were handed the most beautiful, serious, strong-lunged baby girl in the VERY hot, VERY humid, VERY polluted city of Chongqing. And we watched her change over that trip. First showing us the smile that said "There's more where this came from" then sitting up, then showing us her first sweet little laugh. Then we brought her home and watched her transform before our eyes. What a privilege to witness. Rolling, then crawling, then, finally, walking. All the while, charming us with her coos and her singing and her LAUGH...what was a serious and quiet baby, turned into a very silly little girl.

So, in celebration of this sweet silly little bird, we dined on chinese food (american style of course) with our friends Larry, Kyndra and Cassidy Georgeson. Cassidy is Ava's "orphanage sister"...meaning they were both brought to the orphanage around the same time and spent the first 9 months of their lives together. We met Larry & Kyndra in the San Francisco airport moments before we boarded a flight to Beijing. I knew they would be great friends when I cried about, oh, 3 minutes into our conversation about leaving my boys and they weren't scared off. :) Good people. In addition to the picture above, here are some pictures of that night.

So BIG!! (and cute, yes)

We just had to bring this hat and make Larry & Kyndra wear it. We bought it for a dollar in front of the Foribidden City. Imagine about 20 tall, white americans wearing this hat.

Proud Mommies...

Ava, we love you so much, little bird. God has put you into our nest, trusting us with your gentle & silly spirit. We pray that we only help you grow and become the girl you were meant to be! And that will be something great! You are going to be the change that we need in this world. Spread your wings baby girl....

First week of school...

2007-08-17T13:23:00.001-07:00

Wow!! How time does fly! I mean, if there is one piece of wisdom I've heard from countless mothers it is to "enjoy them while they are young because it goes by so fast!" Now I see this bit of wisdom play out in one of a mother's hardest days known as "First Day of Kindergarten."

Jack is so big - and smart - and big - and yet so little at the same time. I see him walk up the sidewalk with all the big kids and can't help but see him in those kid's shoes in too short of time. I just want to soak it up...every minute of it.

Thank you God for such an amazing 5 years with Jack! It is hard to believe that the day You gave him to us, and he was wrapped like a little cute burrito in our arms, that someday we would walk him up that walkway to Kindergarten. We can't wait for the next 12 years and beyond!

And, Jack, thanks for being our little hero, miracle, smile, and joy. We love you so much it hurts...be good Bubba.

Summer Fun

2007-08-08T13:19:00.000-07:00

Okay, people...we're back! In case you may be wondering what our summer has looked like, above is a picture of me in Texas (one of two times this summer) doing a concert...So needless to say, we traveled A LOT. We were going to try to take more pictures of what it meant to be us this summer, but those pictures are not of the kids and therefore, boring. But if we did, the pictures would look like this:

1) all of our luggage which we used a lot and never seemed to leave our hallways and foots of our beds
2) checks being written out to overnight babysitters (which we also used a lot)
3) Brad staying up late typing on his laptop for his new school endeavor while I try to watch what I tivo-ed
4) My severely UNCLEAN house
5) my 'bad friend' award that should be hanging on the wall :)
6) my very empty refrigerator
7) me in a Starbucks apron

Yes, you read that right...I gave it a four month try in an attempt to latch onto this EXCEPTIONAL insurance that they have...yes, its good, if you can get 20 hours a week. But our schedule and the management didn't see eye to eye, so instead of being aptly insured, I just ended up being completely and utterly exhausted most of the time from my shifts ranging in starting times from 4:15am to 6am. All in all, a good experience (I know how to make the drink I like for much CHEAPER) but my kids are more important to me.

We did take up family biking this summer - which we have loved but don't have NEARLY enough time to do it - so here are the babies in all their biking finery (minus their eye-blinding spandex outfits :))

One thing we did get to do this summer was see Ava's "orphanage sisters" at the Chinese Children Adoption International's Annual Reunion. What a great time! The below picture was one of about 10 that I took...this one turned out somewhat the best...Its hard to get five sweaty, energetic kids to sit still and look to one place. From left to right - Katelyn, Ava, Cassidy, Marisa, and Joscelin...

Well...we figured this attempt at getting back on track would be a good effort, albeit short, and we look forward to keeping you all more posted as we go along!

Cute pictures

2007-05-27T09:34:00.000-07:00

Be assured our loyal readers (which has dwindled severely as of late), that we are working on a new LONG post. Here are some pictures to tempt the eye...

Just a little version of our goals for the past 4 months...a la The Chinese...

Hear No Evil...

See No Evil

Speak No Evil...

Caedmon John Farmer

2007-02-26T09:20:00.000-08:00

Attention all blog readers!! Cutest baby boy was born one year ago today on 2/26/06. Caedmon John was born on Sunday February 26th, 2006 at 7:14pm. Much like his labor, he is such an easy baby...so loved and so full of surprises (much like his conception :))...a little master of cool facial expressions.

For the pictures of the day o' his birth, go to http://apexministries.com/Caedmon/pics.html.

Here are some pictures to capture his first year:

Big Brother Jack and little peanut, Caed.

This looks like he is flipping us the bird...baby bird.

First visit to the studio with Mom!

God's baby Caed.

Wild man.

Wild animal.

Grandma Kaleen and Caed - 1/07

Cake-eating is hilarious! 2/2/07

Eating sand is not hilarious...but crunchy.

Our lil' buckaroo...we love you.

Ping Pong, Nixon, and Us

2007-02-21T20:03:00.000-08:00

What could ping-pong have to do with the possiblity of Ava ever joining our family? Perhaps more than we realize. Listen to this story from PRI's "The World" to find out more.

Nixon in China ping pong report (7:00)
"Thirty-five years ago today, President Richard Nixon got off a plane in Beijing, China. That began a new era in US-China relations. The opening for it came with something that's now called ping-pong diplomacy."

California Dreamin'

2007-02-02T07:24:00.000-08:00

So, last weekend, Brad and I and the kids got on a plane and traveled to Oakland. Now, you'd think we would be crazy to get on a plane with three kids...well...after this trip - I think we agree. They're all crawlers, walkers, movers and shakers and can't seem to sit still - much less hang out in one seat on a plane. The 'plus' was that we were going to a place with NO SNOW ON THE GROUND! Novel idea to us Coloradans.

We flew into Oakland, rented a car, and drove to my mom's house in Marysville (she would tell all of you that it is a little known fact that Marysville was the first city in California) and checked into a hotel.

The next day we drove to the "gold country" in the Sierra Nevada mountains. Nevada City, to be exact. On our way there, we made a quick stop to see Bridgeport, which has the longest (and possibly the oldest) single-span covered bridge. I felt like I was Laura - ready to run down the grassy hill - in Little House on the Prarie. My mom had painted the sign at the entry of the bridge and relayed a funny story of how one woman was looking at the sign (a mock-up of the tolls back in the day) and asked where she should pay to cross the bridge. Anyway, the kids loved it - especially Jack - as they were sick of planes, trains and automobiles. Nevada City was very cool and feels like you are transported back to the Old West. We shopped a bit, ate a $4 truffle, sampled some wine from a local winery (and bought a bottle) and had some good Mexican food.

My grandmother came to visit that afternoon. She is 87 and still VERY spry. She is doing awesome. She attributes her nimble abilities to the 100 push-ups she does every morning! Yikes! She is my hero...The picture below is 4 generations of women in my family.

That evening we all went to a Chinese buffet. I would have to say that it was less appetizing than most of the buffets we had in China (I can't believe I'm saying that)...but it was still good. However, my little brother and step-dad apparently had the "teriyaki poisoned chicken." They didn't feel too good after the fact.

The next morning - my mom, Brad and I and the kids left for Santa Rosa. The Diocese of Santa Rosa's youth director, Stan, gave us directions to go through Napa and Sonoma. Loved it! I discussed fleeting ideas with Brad about the fact that we were going to retire here...that is, until my mom picked up a real estate flyer and we figured we could probably afford a shack in someone's back yard (ah, life in ministry). But what a beautiful drive! Once we arrived in the Sonoma Town Square for lunch, we quickly realized that we have a knack for taking our kids to places that most people don't! Las Vegas - no fun with kids. Wine country - really, no fun with kids. Wait...I should rephrase that. Not to mention, not too many kid-friendly restarants. We did, however, find one that beckoned us in with another double-wide stroller in the entry way. After a good lunch, in which Ava discovered the wonders of the "french fry" and Caedmon cracked us up with his "lemon face," we traveled on to Santa Rosa.

Do I like it?

Yes, I do!!

When life gives you lemons....eat them! Wanna bite?

The next day was crazy. We were up early in the morning, ate breakfast, got the kids ready, and traveled to the church for the leadership. We were pretty much on (either Brad & Gene or I) from 12pm until Mass was over at 11:00pm. Brad had left early with the kids before Mass, so I could sing...When I finally rolled in at 11:30, Caedmon was screaming...and I mean, SCREAMING! He did so until about 12:15am...and then fitfully drifted off to sleep. He woke up 2 more times until we all had to wake up at 4:15am. I think I had maybe 3 hours of sleep before it was time to leave for the airport. Fun!

Finger Update

2007-01-17T13:25:00.000-08:00

Houston, we have a fracture.

That's right...she broke the very tippy top bone of her tiny little finger on her tiny little hand. Poor baby. She now will wear a splint for a month...

Can't wait to see our medical bills...

Nebraska Happenings

2007-01-14T09:26:00.000-08:00

This past weekend, we made a visit to my sister and her husband in McCook, NE.

They made a huge and life-altering decision to move to McCook (small town - such as that of Douglas, Wyoming - where we grew up) from the bustling outskirts of Washington, D.C. after my brother-in-law, Ty and his family decided to open a grocery store. The store is called Schmick's Market and their only direct competition is none other than the retail giant, Wal-Mart SuperCenter.

We decided to leave earlier on Thursday because, yet again, another storm was headed this way. With bags mostly packed the night before, we woke up on Thursday morning to Ava's 102 degree fever. First, off to the doctor, to rule out an ear infection since Caedmon had made a visit to the ER the week before for a croup attack and then an ear infection. Nothing was seriously wrong with her (no infection to speak of), so we set off to Nebraska. We were not daunted by the fact that MapQuest was telling us that we were to spend 168 miles on a two-lane road...no. But, man, that was a drive with a whole lot of nothin'.

McCook itself is a great little town. Everyone is really nice, it has a fair amount of stoplights, cute little shops including a kitchen store that had all sorts of neat stuff (I bought a few things) and a great little bakery that serves lunch with the best sandwich I've had in a while.

My sister and brother in law's house is another interesting feature of McCook. When they were first married and still lived in Virginia, they bought a house for a fair amount, completely renovated it themselves and sold it for an outstanding profit. They bought their house in McCook - a turn of the century-style home - for cash. Not very much cash. And you can tell. Wood paneling covers the living room...white wood paneling...with the most hideous teal blue "custom" curtains I've ever seen. The house had not been lived in two years. And, this could be because I watch too many supernatural shows, but I suggested they get the house blessed before they moved in. They've been there for a year or so and as you can imagine with the two of them running their own small businesses, there hasn't been a ton of time to renovate. 4 rooms have been done. The kitchen (awesomely beautiful), their bedroom, my sister's office and a really cool slate covered bathroom. They had added an addition to the back of their house and this is where their dog-children sleep. The addition has not been caulked at all. And the cold front/storm that was predicted hit on Friday. I think the high that day was 16 degrees. COOOOOOOOLLLLLD!! brrrrr....

Anyway, Ava's cold got progressively worse. Snot-factory-child that she was, she was obviously not a happy girl. Sleep was fleeting for everyone involved. Caedmon woke up screaming both nights about 3 times, Ava cried intermittently in the office (we keep them separate) and Jack slept in with Aunt Brandi and Uncle Ty. Doggies heard us in the living room and whined here and there, but the real issue was the crying babes. On Friday night somewhere between one of the multiple crying jags of Caedmon's and Ava's I told Brad, "I think we should go home." So on Saturday morning we told Brandi and Ty we were going to think about traveling home because of the babies. As we were sitting around the breakfast table, Ava was crawling into the newly redone kitchen and grabbed something around the corner that we couldn't see. It was a metal step ladder that promptly slipped on the beautiful hardwood floors and smashed down on her little hand. I jumped up, rushed over and saw that her hand was already gushing blood. SCARY!!! She was crying, of course, and I could see that her pinky finger was completely cut open from the nail bed down to the second knuckle. We jumped in the car to the hospital.

McCook Hospital. Very nice. We were the only people there, I think, with the exception of the two nurses, receptionist and the doctor we saw. I guess the new thinking is to not stitch finger wounds because of the greater risk of infection, so they just bandaged her finger, as they told us, "like Fort Knox." We were given instructions to go see our pediatrician once we returned home. This gave us the decision we were struggling with. Let's go home.

We got back to my sister's house and as Brad is trying to put a shirt on Ava's (her old one was covered with blood), her "fort knox" bandage came off. So, while I packed, Brad returned, yet again, to the hospital. 45 minutes later, he returned with this poor little girl and her new white boxing glove. At least that's what it looks like. Poor baby....I will post pictures later this week.

Even though she is snotty, having coughing fits and wears a boxing glove, she is in great spirits and it's interesting that she is already so adept with just one hand. Tomorrow we find out what the next step is, but we know for sure, she will lose her nail.

I'm really praying this is the end of our ER streak.

One small step for man...and womankind

2007-01-04T19:21:00.000-08:00

The babies took their first steps today. Within minutes of each other. Need I say more??

God's Christmas Gift for Us

2007-01-03T16:09:00.000-08:00

We had a great Christmas! Most of you who were either (a) watching the weather for the Rockies region or (b) LIVE in the Rockies region, know what a tumultuous white Christmas we had. It was GREAT! There is something about being snowed in that makes you feel like you could live in the backcountry as a twice-yearly emerging hermit.

We traveled so much as a family in November and December, that it was really a frantic chase to get all the Christmas shopping done, attend all of Jack's activities for school, decorate, unpack, and generally toe the line of insanity. When all the snow started, we ran to mall (mind you, INSTEAD of the grocery store) to finish up our list of people-to-buy-for. Kids in tow, we pushed our gigantic double-wide stroller through the muck to Park Meadows Mall. Apparently, several hundred other crazy people had to same idea. It was fun. The kids had a blast - we got things done. Win-win. Driving home was another story...just as Brad pulled up the curb so we wouldn't have to walk to the van, he slipped putting Ava into the car. Luckily, with little more than a bruised ego, he was uninjured. This, however, was an omen that the drive home would be a fun one. (note the sarcasm here) It took us twice as long to get home (a 20 minute drive turned into about 40 minutes) and there is a reason that people who are not used to driving in the snow, should not. Cars were sliding all over the place and the jerks who think they can conquer with an SUV and four wheel drive, were speeding too fast for everyone's comfort. However, we did make it home...in one piece...but then that was the last time we ventured out for 48 hours.

Our little town received 33 inches of snow thereafter.

Meanwhile, Jack played out in the front while Brad shoveled the driveway (about 5 times) - we walked to our friend's house in knee deep snow for grilled cheese and tomato soup where we theorized how we would get our friend Shaleane out if she were to go into labor (she is 7 months pregnant with twin baby girls) - I baked cookies...real ones....from scratch...with sprinkles - We watched movie after movie - I cooked with what I had in the freezer/pantry (tuna casserole a la Joia) .....we had a blast. All of this told us that what we needed was to slow down and enjoy each other...enjoy the season...enjoy the solitude and the beautiful gift of snow we were given. I plan on writing God a 'thank you' note...

Christmas itself was wonderful. We drove (once the snow cleared up and roads were finally opened) to Wyoming for Ava and Caedmon's first Christmas...They were cute...we got to see a couple of movies (a Christmas miracle)...and we got some great time in with family.

Highlight presents:

Jack - Toss-up. either his Nintendo DS or his Playmobil Pirate Ship

Ava - Any piece of wrapping paper she could get her hands on

Caed - Any piece of wrapping paper he could put in his mouth

Mom & Dad - NEW TV!!! (our first since we've been married)

Our greatest gift has been this year we have been given. Without getting too mushy and blogging too hard, it has been irreplaceable, memorable and life altering. We are more completely who we are supposed to be. Enjoy some pictures!

Love & New Year Blessings! J & Crew

This is only the beginning....the first night out of our backdoor

The kids enjoying the snow...okay okay...with the exception of Ava

Pretty Girl - pretty cute

Our sweet babes in their Christmas morning finery

Celebrity Look-Alike

2006-12-31T08:40:00.000-08:00

So, I was a little bored today. My friend, Sarah, told me about this website where you can upload your picture and it gives you a list of celebrities you look like. The good news?? I think I can safely say my panel of celebrities is very multi-cultural.

Hopefully this week I can blog something a little more meaningful.

J

We've Moved!

2006-12-28T16:39:00.000-08:00

Websites, that is. We know some of you want more frequent updates about our family, mostly Ava, and how she is growing and changing, and our other website - well, let's just say that it didn't work out. (too many COMPLETELY inappropriate comments left by jerks in the "skin industry" and we have no way to monitor them)

Anyway, stay tuned for baby pictures, hilarious blogs (left mostly by Brad - not Joia), and the Chronicles of Farmia (new term :))

Peace,
The Farmers