The New Boys' Room

For those of you who might not have heard, my cousin Elizabeth is going to bless us this summer by coming and staying with us for several months for the latter part of the pregnancy.  We are desperately praying she is still here when Baby S decides to arrive. But that is another post...

Anyway, since we need to have a place for Elizabeth to stay, and eventually a place for Baby S to move upstairs, we decided to get a couple new beds and make what used to be the nursery (years ago...back when we first started having kids) into the BOYS ROOM!

Now, Nathan and Jonny have already been in this room for years, but now there is ONE MORE BOY!  

Yes, we do have the play room, and yes, we could use that as a bedroom instead, but for now, I like the idea of having a bunk room and a play room.  So, here is E on his new bed:

This is actually one of the bunk beds in single form that I grew up with.

 At the end of his bed, we have a little 'cove' for the boys to play in...or store their bean bags in...anyway, it gives them some breathing room.

Bean Bag storage - hang out space

 Then we have the new beds...we got full size bunk beds so that the older boys have growing space.  I saw these at the Ashley Furniture store in Kearney when I was there with my sister...and when I went to the local furniture store they only sell Ashley Beds...so I got them!

Jonny on the bottom...Nate on top!

They will actually work great for singluar beds too if and when we decide to use the play room or some other room for the boys.

And yes, the beds are in front of the closet but we really don't use the closet in the boys room for much other than storage and the second closet is still accessible if they truly need it...and to be honest, we can still get into the closets via Jonny's bed if we desperately need to get into the closet space.  AND, Nathan has a great little space up on the top bunk where he can put his sippy cup or other 'private' items that he wants to keep for himself.  It truly worked out great!

Now we will take Ethan's room and start working at getting it cleaned out and the twin bed set up in there for Elizabeth's stay.  I think we will plan to take the crib down, though I'm not totally sure yet. At first I thought we might need to for Ethan's sake...easier transition for him if his old bed wasn't around...but he seems to be adjusting just fine to having a new bed.  So, we'll see.  We might just put both beds in there for now. I'll have to see how much room we have once I get it cleaned out!

Copyright © 2012 All Rights Reserved MMFarmlife - Melanie Schlatter

Chapter 9 - Section 3

One thing about sleeping outside is that it is difficult to miss when the sun rises. Though Rayna felt a bit stiff and sore from the night's events she didn't hesitate for a moment when she first sensed the light on her face. She had made sure she was facing the sun just in case she fell asleep - which she had. Quickly, yet quietly, she glanced around to see where everyone was. Austin and Cayden still slept on their bedrolls - facing away from the sun - and Bryant sat at the table head bowed eyes closed.

What a great watchman he is - falling asleep on duty. The thought hit her without warning. Reigning in her skepticisms, she quietly removed the covers and found her shoes tucked under the cot.  As quietly as she could - taking glances towards the table every so often - she put her shoes on and moved to the tent behind her. Right in front of her was the shovel where she remembered seeing it the night before. Quickly grabbing it, she rushed out of the tent door and let out a shocked gasp when a hard hand snachted her arm quickly and then released her just as quickly - effectively stopping her.

With steel eyes of green, Bryant stood in her path and demanded, "What do you think you are doing?"

Stunned into silence it took her a few moments to get her bearings and put some space between them. "What I am doing is none of your business. Do you forget to whom you speak?" She started to move around him when he blocked her departure with his body, clearly not wanting to touch her.

Glancing up at him, she noticed the hardness of his eyes increased - if that were even possible - and he replied, "I do not forget, but even the CherRené is not permitted to steal from others, and I do believe that is my shovel. Not to mention Austin put your safety under my care while he rested."

At the mention of Austin, Rayna’s voice softened though her ire was barely contained at the accusation of her stealing. Still she managed to tightly state, ”I am not stealing the shovel only borrowing it. Neither it nor I will be out of your sight.” At his questioning glare she continued in an almost pleading tone, ”You have my word.”

Hesitantly, he stepped out of her way and watched as she made her way quickly to the ruins. Though it was light out, it was still a bit difficult to see. She made her way to the middle of the foundation where the door would have been and then tried to count in small steps like Austin had, but the ground didn’t look right. Still, she didn't care, she began digging figuring she had to start somewhere.

After only a few digs, her hands hurt and she needed a break. Not to mention she needed to use the necessity of the woods for relief. Glancing over her shoulder, she saw Bryant watching her intently. Great, how was she supposed to get around the watch dog? She didn't know why but his intense glare bothered her. She had been kept under watch all her life, but for some reason being so by his ever changing green eyes disturbed her.

Turning her back, she stuck the shovel in the ground. Well, she was the CherRené and by golly she’d do what she needed to without answering to him. So she quickly made her way behind a nearby tree. Once she found a good spot, she looked back towards the camp and was surprised to see Bryant had stood and started toward her.

Irked, at not having any privacy or trust, she stepped back around into sight and peevishly waved him off. Apparently he understood because he retreated to his spot at the table - keeping an eye toward where she stood.


Copyright © 2012 All Rights Reserved MMFarmlife - Melanie Schlatter

Chapter 9 - Section 2

As Bryant retreated into the shadows to check on the horses, he rubbed his arms and took deep cleansing breaths - not because he was cold but in an effort to rid himself of the lightening sensation that errupted when he reached out and touched the CherRené.  The deep breaths were of no help in stilling his heart from the pounding in his chest which resulted from the look in her eye when she had looked at him. It was insane, these feelings.  Glancing back over his shoulder he watched as Austin attentively spoke with the CherRené brushing a stray hair from her eyes. It was clear his friend had deep feelings for this woman, but he couldn't shake the sensation that ran clear through him, nor the deep concern that arose as he had watched her stir and then fall.

Pushing those thoughts aside, he determined to rid himself of any further thought of what had transpired in those few seconds of contact because no matter what had happened to him, he had a mission to complete. And despite all the platitudes and high opinions of his friend, this woman was a CherRené - the RioArd's daughter.  And his mission was one he was sure she would not approve of. He had begged Austin not to reveal their plans to the CherRené for if she knew about it, she would have the power to stop him dead in his tracts - literally.

After checking on the horses and circling the perimeter again, he made himself comfortable at the table not far from where the CherRené slept. He could tell from her breathing she was asleep again and his thoughts betrayed him as he wondered what had stirred her before - there had been a breif darkness that surrounded her - he had felt it in his spirit.

Thinking back to how Austin rushed to her aide, how he gently held her as they had approached him earlier, and how his eyes shone when he spoke of his assignment to her, Bryant could feel the anxiety rising in his chest. He couldn't deny she was beautiful, his mind suddenly retreated to the moment she'd stepped out from behind Austin dressed in the simple woven frock she slept in. She was more beautiful in that simple dress with her hair down in a paysons braid than she had been dressed in that haughty travel suit.  The vision of her had caught his breath and it had taken great will to speak the few words to her he had.

Sensing the tingling in his stomach he determined once again to keep his mind off of this woman who stirred him unawarely. Therefore, he forced himself to recall the shiver of coldness that crept through him at her dismissive tone, the fact that she was a valued member of the Corté - and not just a member but the RioArd's daughter. And then there was the fear she invoked by the power she held - knowing if she disapproved of what he and Cayden were doing she could stop his mission in a heart beat and that she would have to use his best friend against him if she did.

Turning his eyes again to where this conflicting woman slept, he wondered at the purpose for their paths crossing. He was a devout believer in the Divine and His influence in His people's lives - so what was the purpose?

As the glow of the rising sun shone above the trees he determined to spend the rest of his private time in meditation and prayer - seeking the Divine in the mysteries of his heart.



Copyright © 2012 All Rights Reserved MMFarmlife - Melanie Schlatter

Piano Recital

After last year, several people indicated they would like to know when Abigail's next recital was.

The 2012 End of the Year Piano Recital will be April 22, 2012 at 3:00 p.m. at the Downs Music Room.

Abi will be playing two songs this year, one on her own and a round with her teacher, Mrs. Lynn Koops.

I will again try to get pictures and a video of the event like I did last year to post for you all to share with us in.

Copyright © 2012 All Rights Reserved MMFarmlife - Melanie Schlatter

New Growth Around the Farm

Spring has sprung here in Kansas (and I'm told in many other areas too).  Though it is so early for all the flowers and trees to be blooming and turning green, we have been so blessed by the changes in weather and surroundings.

The kids have been thoroughly enjoying the nice weather and spend much of the days outside.  

Because everything is so beautiful, I just had to share some of the things going on around the farm house.  First off, we have a new tree. 

A few years ago, we had to have our locus tree cut down on the corner due to interference with the electrical lines going to the house.  We had the stump removed and nothing has been growing in that area for some time, but when we were driving through Salina the other day, we stopped off to get another apple tree for Marion's growing orchard and I saw this:

A Magnolia Tree

 Marion isn't sure if it will really survive in our area or not, but I'm told that the climates have changed enough that they are now adapted to our area.  We will see.  We have one year to see if it will live.  If it dies in that year, we can take the dead part back and replace it with a red bud.

The Magnolia Tree is only to get 10' high so it should be safe from the electrical lines and bring a bit of beauty to the property!  I am just so excited about it...I really hope it lives.

Second off, we have our renewed flower bed:

Newly planted flower bed

Do you remember what it looked like last year?  I dug up all those bulbs and tubers and divided and replanted.  It was quite the project, but I'm very pleased with how the bed is much more diverse and less clumped together.  You can't really see the iris yet but they are JUST coming up along the left side of the flower bed.

The tulips are just now starting to bloom and are gorgeous!

pink tulip

Tulip grouping with daffodills

red tulips

 And the last thing that is new to the yard are two blueberry bushes.

We tried to plant blueberries a few years ago, but they were purchased and brought back from Michigan.  They didn't survive.  I found some locally and thought I'd see if they were better climated to our area.

We added them into the end of the Strawberry bed so they had good drainage and then added peat moss to help with the acidity around them.  If you look close you can see the two little plants at the end of the strawberry patch.

blueberry bushes

Marion did take his McIntosh Apple Tree out to the Brooks Place Dam where he transplanted his Apple Trees and is going to try for a small orchard. Of course it will be YEARS away from actually producing any apples, but our peach trees are doing good.  I should try to get a picture of the blooming trees for you and post that too...but these are at least the new things we've added!

Copyright © 2012 All Rights Reserved MMFarmlife - Melanie Schlatter

Around the Farm

Okay, so my Mother-in-law asked me to take a few pictures of the boys feeding the bucket calf for a project she is doing.  Oh yes...we have a bucket calf right now.  Our calving comes and goes, so when we have a bucket calf, the kids really get excited.  

So, out we went this evening to feed the bucket calf...and play with the chickens.

Ethan playing with the Chickens

Jonny trying to get the calf to drink it's bottle.

laughing so hard he could hardly hold it.

Nathan getting the job done.

Almost done...trying to hold it still

I love that my kids have these opportunities to be apart of the farm.

Copyright © 2012 All Rights Reserved MMFarmlife - Melanie Schlatter

A visit with Heidi and an update

Well, we had a visit today with our Midwife Heidi!

We had a really good report and we were so excited to get a good listen to the baby's heartbeat (at the rate of 156).  I was also measuring right where I was supposed to be at 19 weeks and my blood pressure was good.

Next time we meet, we'll go to Wichita and have our sonogram done.  That is scheduled for May 8th.  We are excited about that.  I don't know yet if Marion will want to find out what the sex of the baby is...so we will have to see what he thinks by May!

We absolutely LOVE Heidi and look forward to visiting with her each time we see her.  I've gotten some great helps from her like Papaya Enzymes for heart burn...GREAT STUFF!  And since it seems that I am getting everything that I'm even remotely exposed to...we've now started on a Probiotic and I'll be getting a Vitamin D supplement as well.  Hey...I'm so sick of being sick...I'll try almost anything right now...lol!

Speaking of that...I think we are all - almost healed.  I hear Marion cough every once in awhile, and Ethan still has a runny nose, but I think everyone's temps are normal and Abigail is her usual self, doing school and activities around the house again.

I think tomorrow is our last day of antibiotics and I have to say that other than a bit of a cough myself and low energy, I think I'm doing just as well as the rest of the family.  I do think it will take some time to build my endurance up again as I tried to go for a walk the other day and by 1/4 of a mile my lungs hurt!  But I'm sure as we continue to get better and work on the exercise we'll be doing better before we know it.

It has been so amazing outside with all the flowers and trees blooming that I spent most of the day yesterday outside and it was SO nice.  I've got several small projects I am going to try to get done of the next few days...I'll see if I can get some pictures and post them for you.  Of course, I still have A TON to do in the house with the kitchen renovation still needing the second coat of yellow in a few areas and all the trim done, but I just can't refuse being outside when it is so amazing!

Well, I'm pretty exhausted after a day away so I'm headed to bed...see you again soon!

Copyright © 2012 All Rights Reserved MMFarmlife - Melanie Schlatter

Chapter 9 - Section 1

Rayna awoke with a start and a gasp, followed by the most humiliating thud as she fell from the cot to the ground. Before she knew what was happening, two strong arms were lifting her back away from the fire and stamping out the corner of the blanket which had fallen into the live ashes when she fell.

Turning to her rescuer, she expected to see Austin, but was stunned to see two deep green eyes completely darkened with worry looking back at her. ”Are you alright, CherRené?” Bryant spoke softly.

Not trusting her voice or the words that would come forth she just nodded. Before anything else could be said, Austin was by her side and Bryant backed off into the shadows. Watching him leave, she turned her attention to Austin as she heard him ask, ”...was it another dream?” She nodded but could not go into further explanation. Austin rubbed her arms bringing warmth to her soul as well as her physical body. ”You had best lie back down under the covers before you catch a chill. Would you like me to sit with you awhile?”

She appreciated his attentiveness, but she just wanted to be alone so she shook her head and managed, ”I’m fine now, thank you. I’ll just go back to sleep”. Austin was uncertain, but nodded his agreement and went back to his bedroll on the other side of the fire.

Huddled under the blanket, Rayna stared at the dying flames and recalled to mind what she had been dreaming before she tumbled off the cot.

In her dream she had left the royal family and was living in a village. But the payson did not welcome her as one of their own as she had hoped. Instead, she had been shunned and lived as an outcast, everyone fearful of her and the power she had set aside to be with them. The feelings of loneliness and failure were too much for her to bare and she was forced to return to the royal life, but Sage made her life miserable confining her to quarters and preventing her influence. Just before she awoke, Sage mocked her in open Court with the explaination for her failure "You couldn't find the ancient stone - you failed the Divine in His calling - now He has abandoned you!" It was that statement that shook her core and caused her to gasp and tumble out of the cot.

Would the Divine abandon her if she failed in her mission? The thought wrecked havoc on her senses, truth and lies warring inside her. She HAD to find that door. She HAD to succeed in the assignment the Divine had given her. Though she did not understand what was expected of her past finding the ancient stone or what the ancient stone even was - she HAD to find it. She became even more determined to not let anything prevent her in her task. She could not fail. Her very future depended on finding the box below the pine chest and resurrecting the contents of that secret place.

Bringing her attention back to the fire, she estimated that by its dying embers and the glimmer of light above the trees, dawn was not far off. She purposed in her heart that as soon as it was light enough to see she would locate the shovel she saw in the tent behind her and start digging. Even if she had to dig the entire spanse of foundation, she would not fail at this!



Copyright © 2012 All Rights Reserved MMFarmlife - Melanie Schlatter

Chapter 8 - Section 3 & 4

Rayna watched in pure wonder as the man on the left bolted from his saddle and embraced Austin in a hug and back slapping that would have shaken a lesser man to his boots. Standing just a few inches shorter than Austin and slimmer but still thick on his build, the man had a striking resemblance to Austin and Rayna wondered if they were some how related.

Turning her gaze to the other man who joyfully but yet calmly dismounted, she judged that he was nearly a foot shorter than Austin and of a medium build but what caught her attention was his sharp green eyes and wavy brown hair. There was something familiar about his appearance but she couldn't place it. After a moment of standing by the side, the man who looked like Austin introduced the other man and with some awe and disbelief Austin just as warmly greet him.

Seeing that none of them were paying her any mind, Rayna turned her attentions back to her search - Where was that door? After a few moments she heard a bustle of activity and she again turned her attentions to where the men had been. She was shocked to see they were setting up camp - tents, cots, a fire, and venison cooking on a spit were all being efficiently constructed.

Once Austin noticed she was watching them he approached her, “Are you willing to stop for the evening and have some dinner?” When she hesitated he continued, “CherRené, it will be dark soon and you won't be able to see anything. Please, come...meet my brother and have some dinner.”

“Your brother, that is your brother?”

He nodded, “I haven't seen him in two years, he’s filled out since I saw him last.” Noticing the nostalgic look on his face, Rayna dusted off her hands and tried to straighten her hair in preparation to meet someone so very important to Austin.

Rayna was taken off guard as the bubbling in her stomach increased as they approached the two men hard at work with dinner preparations. What Rayna couldn't understand was why. At first she assumed it was because Austin was such a good friend and she knew his family was important to him. But as they approached the men, she realized it was the other man that was the cause of her anxiety, and when he looked at her - meeting her gaze - her knees went weak and her heart raced.

Austin must have sensed a change in her as he quietly put a bracing hand to the small of her back in an effort to support her. She quickly felt his strength and the reminder that she was a CherRené - the daughter of the RioArd - and she would not faint or falter in her course. Sternly scolding herself for being so thin skinned, she reminded herself of all the hundreds of people she had met and hosted back at home and resolved to use the same decorum now.

But as soon as the young green eyed man stood and bowed before her - never taking his gaze from her - all cognitive thought left her and she stammered, “Please, don’t...I mean, you don't have to...we’re not..." The smile that crossed the man’s face silenced her completely - was he laughing at her?

Shooting a look at Austin, she was stunned to see him fighting a smile as he explained, “I believe, Bryant, that our most esteemed CherRené is trying to give you leave from bowing in such an informal setting.” However, being unable to hold back a full smile now, he aimed his glee solely at her as he continued, “Though I must confess I have never seen her so tongue tied in all my days of service to her.”

Fully embarrassed and unable to form a proper retort Rayna replied more haughtily than intended, “Where is your brother, I thought that was who I came over here to meet.”

Fully shunned now, the man named Bryant, formally bowed again and went back to his roasting of the venison - not at all trying to hide the smirk that crossed his face - while Austin’s pure shock resonated clearly on his. Finally speaking, he replied sharply, “Yes, well, that was my dear, life long, childhood friend Bryant whom you just thoroughly dismissed, and over here,” Austin almost hesitantly led Rayna over to where his brother was setting up a makeshift table and bench, “...is my brother, Cayden.” Holding his breath in anticipation to her response, Austin waited.

Not noticing Austin's hesitancy, Rayna immediately reached out her hand, “It is a pleasure to meet you Cayden. I have heard a lot about you.”

Cayden stood, gave a partial bow in acknowledgement, and kissed her hand, hesitant himself to say anything to receive the welcome that Bryant had received. Bryant saved Cayden from any further attention by quietly announcing the venison was done. Quickly the men acted as one - a blur of activity - finishing the table, setting it, carving the meat, and adding it to the other preparations for the meal. Before she knew it, Austin was guiding her to sit before the banquet they had prepared.

Chapter 8 - Section 4

Dinner had been awkward. At first the men were not going to eat with Rayna - which preturbed her - but upon her insistence they eventually succumbed to her demands and joined her, reluctantly, but then the conversation which followed suit was strained. Rayna had wondered at the difference for she had sensed and seen the camaraderie and ease between the men earlier. It wasn’t until far after she was in bed that she realized it was her - and the way she had treated Bryant.

When the meal was over, Rayna stood uncomfortably by the sidelines and watched as the men cleaned up dinner and put things away. Here she was - a woman - and totally useless! She had tried to offer assistance but was denied at every effort. It urked her and wounded her pride terribly. Feeling all the more irritable as the night had worn on, she had irrivocably demanded where she would sleep so she could retire. The Divine help her - she was not making a positive impression but was powerless in stopping her rant.

Seeing that there were only two tents and the food and cooking gear was being stored in the tent to the right. She assumed the left tent to be hers, but upon entering it found more supplies and no cot! Austin stuck his head into the tent after her and apologetically explained that everyone would have to sleep out in the open for the tents were not big enough for sleeping and storage.

He tried to reassure her though that she could use this tent for her care and dressing - he would stand guard while she prepared. Reluctantly she nodded and went to the leather satchel Austin had indicated was hers. Rayna had been surprised to find that the men had come upon Captain Shalome’s camp in their travels around the country side and upon inquiring if Austin was in the party was asked to deliver some supplies to him. Among those supplies we're some of Rayna’s own things...clothes and personal items. Captain Shalome had also sent food to supplement what Cayden and Bryant already had knowing Rayna and Austin had nothing.

Rayna had changed from her riding outfit into a simpler woven frock given to her by the family she had stayed with while Nikélon and Onevé were at their honeymoon cabin. Feeling a bit more like she fit in, she exited the tent after braiding her hair as she had seen the payson women do. The first person she saw after stepping around Austin was Bryant - setting up a cot close to the fire for warmth. Seeing her, he froze in his duties and stared agape. Coming to his senses, he replied, "For the CherRené, it should help keep you warmer tonight."

She glanced at Austin and saw his reluctance in how she would respond. Pasting a smile on her face she thanked Bryant and crawled under the woven wool blanket facing the flames. Austin knelt in front of her and again began to apologize. She reached out her hand and touched his lips silencing him. "I'm the one to apologize. I've been horrible tonight and I have no excuse. I hope your brother and your friend can forgive my actions."

Austin nodded and reassured her, "I'll speak to them. I won't be far, we are taking turns guarding the camp, one of us will be awake all night if you need anything. The other two will be sleeping there." Rayna turned her head to see two bedrolls laying on the ground on the other side of the fire aways off. She was effectively placed at the center of the camp, clearly humbling her yet again.

Austin stood and joined the other men at the makeshift table as Rayna turned her eyes toward the fire and her self loathing which only worsened as she listened to the men softly laughing and joking. The last thing she remembered that night was hearing Bryant’s reply to Austin’s apology, "Considering she is a CherRené, I shouldn't have expected anything different. We’ve always been received with harsh treatment from the local Corté, why would the RioArd’s daughter see us another way."

Copyright © 2012 All Rights Reserved MMFarmlife - Melanie Schlatter

Update on us...

MORE UPDATE: We took Abi in to the doctor this afternoon and he discovered both ears infected and some respiratory concerns. She is now on an antibiotic. With Abi having a secondary bacterial infection, I asked the doctor if I could as well and upon looking at me gave me an antibiotic too! So, hopefully we will all be on the road to recovery with no more complications! Thanks again for all the prayers.

Well, it has been almost a week since Abi was diagnosed with influenza a, and we have had quite the week.

Abi is still struggling. She still has a fever though it is in the lower numbers 101-102s. Her cough is still very active and she says her head hurts when she stands which makes her nauseated. We have been seeing some improvements and today may be a more normal day than most...let's pray!

I was the second to get sick and for the first few days it wasn't so bad. Mostly a hard cough and headache. On Saturday though, I started with an ear ache and as you know...that is not good! We praise God that it only lasted about a day though. I still don't have full hearing, but the ache is gone. My biggest issue now is the headache and exhaustion.

Nate was the next to get it and he was down for a day! The next day, he still had a fever and cough, but he didn't want to be laying around so he got up and played around. By the next day, he was his normal self with a cough. He has now had two days of no fever, and I think his cough is only bothersome at night.

Marion got it about the same time as Nate and had fever, cough, aches, etc...but not the real headache stuff. He mostly took DayQuil and Motrin and was able to stay on top of it. He had one really bad night that was his turning point, but is now doing a lot better. I hear him cough every now and then, and he said he still gets tired, but feels like he is recovering.

Ethan was the next to get it with a 103 fever in the middle of the night. He had a tough 24 hours but walked away with only a runny nose left. I rarely hear him cough, and I'm so thankful he didn't hang on to the fever long.

Jonny is our marathon avoider. With all of us sick for the past week, he JUST got a fever yesterday and doesn't seem to be bothered at all. He is still just as active as he was before, maybe a bit more testy, but acting perfectly fine. I think I saw a runny nose too.

We can't express our appreciation for the prayers and support we have received. The few meals brought to us we're a huge help and we truly believe your prayers helped avoid a more serious trip to the doctor for me.

Well, I better go, I'm getting tired again. I think we might have a ways to go for recovery still!

Ethan's 2nd Birthday Party

Due to the flu, Ethan had a very small birthday party this year.  

Marion said that it was probably the saddest birthday we'd ever had, but as you can see...there were still smiles too!

You can see Abi made it for the blowing out of candles and singing,
but then she retreated right back to her bed!

The boys enjoying the cake!

Presents came next:

I just didn't have it in me to wrap the presents...sorry E!
So he got to open the BOX!

A Melissa and Doug Train set....he loves to hitch things up and put things together
this toy offers him both things in one!

He also got his own dump truck since the big boys don't like to share!

Though it was a small affair, I think he still enjoyed his birthday.

Copyright © 2012 All Rights Reserved MMFarmlife - Melanie Schlatter

Happy Birthday Ethan!

Our baby boy is TWO today!

Can you imagine that!  I know...he's not our baby anymore, but it is a hard habit to break - calling him baby!

Still, it was two years ago today that Ethan William Schlatter joined the M&M family.

We can't imagine what life would be like without his rambunctious little self as a part of our family.

Though we will be having a small family celebration this year because of the flu and wanting to keep it isolated to our family, I will try to get some pictures of him enjoying his cake and opening his presents.

Blessings to all - I need to go rest now!  :0)

Copyright © 2012 All Rights Reserved MMFarmlife - Melanie Schlatter

A Birthday Cake & the FLU

So, I was having a hard time figuring out what to do for Ethan's 2nd Birthday cake...I went through all the options and finally decided on Monday to do the Spiked Dinosaur from Wilton's, using the Bear Pan I already have.  But since Monday was laundry day, I didn't get it started.  

Then Tuesday, Abigail came in after lunch and was complaining of a 'heat headache' because she had been outside playing and it was HOT...so I told her to go lay down and try to cool off.  She ended up falling asleep.  And when she awoke...she had a 102.9 fever!  I gave her some medicine and checked back in half an hour...it went UP to 103.4!  We did a sponge bath and pushed the fluids but she just didn't want to move.

By evening we had it down to 100.1 and she was doing much better.  But during the night, her cough started up again - she would cough when her fever was high and quit when it came down. I gave  her some Motrin at 11 pm and she slept until around 4 - coughing again.  When I checked her temp at 5 am, she was at 104.6!  Needless to say, we were headed to the doctor as soon as we could.

But, the doctor didn't really see anything wrong - I mean save the fever and cough - nose, throat, chest, all clear and she was acting alot better.  So we headed back home...only to get home and have the shakes set in with a 103.3 that a climbed to a 104.3 after I gave her the Tylenol!  So I called back in per the doctor's orders.  And we ended up waiting until about 3pm before going back in...after we saw that her temp wouldn't respond to the Motrin again.  

After a chest x-ray and some blood work, it was determined that she has Influenza A - I don't know which strand - but the whole family is now exposed to it!  And of course, I'm the most at risk being pregnant!  I had started coughing around 1:30 that afternoon and I could tell I was starting to get something...YUCK!

Well, at least now we knew what we were dealing with and how to proceed - its viral so treat the symptoms and wait it out!  By the time I got home, my head hurt, so I took some tylenol and looked at the bear cake that had been baked but nothing else done with it.  Could I get that done still tonight since Ethan's birthday was the next day?

I sat down and rested a bit, and the tylenol helped my head so I decided to give the cake a shot!  My Sister-in-law tried to encourage me that if he didn't get a perfect cake this year - he wouldn't remember and it was okay to miss a birthday - especially under the circumstances.  But I really WANTED to do it and since my headache let up, I decided to give it a shot.  

It isn't as NICE as I would have done had it been under normal circumstances, but he has a spiked dinosaur cake nonetheless...don't look too closely or you'll see the cake showing through in spots...lol!

Spike!

If I had been doing it earlier, I would have had the two different tones of green and made the arms and stuff more defined with frosting instead of outlining them.  And I wouldn't have just smeared the frosting on...I would have done the stars and other piping to make it really stand out...but I'm grateful for a dinosaur cake to share with my TWO year old tomorrow...that is what was important to me.

Now if we can just keep everyone else from getting the flu and keep Abi and I on our feet!  :0)

Copyright © 2012 All Rights Reserved MMFarmlife - Melanie Schlatter

Great Weekend - Great Savings

So, on Thursday I headed out to Gothenburg to kidnap my sister!

I had been working with my brother-in-law (BIL) for a few months to find a time when I could come whisk my sister away to spend a few moments just her and I.  We see each other on holidays, and occasionally here and there, but usually there is so much going on that we don't get to just BE together.  So that was the purpose of this two day trip...just spend time with my sister!

So I arrived on Thursday morning around 10:30 am and told her she had 10 minutes to pack an overnight bag...she asked for 15 and I said sure...but I honestly never timed her!  It wasn't long and we were headed to Kearney.

I actually had debated on where to take her.  Her family was going to come pick her up and go to the State Basketball games on Saturday, so I thought about going all the way to Lincoln, but when I couldn't find a place to stay that I thought suitable, I changed my plans to Kearney.  I actually looked at several places, but one thing I wanted to do was get a massage.  Doesn't that sound like fun?

So, I booked us a spa day at the Bang in Kearney....GREAT PLACE!  Highly recommend it for all kinds of spa and salon stuff!  We got massages, manicures, pedicures...the works...and just had a great time visiting and relaxing.

Then we went to the movies...I had researched what they had playing and thought THE VOW would work the best for what we were trying to fit into our schedule and all.  She was ecstatic because she'd been wanting to see it and my BIL hadn't taken her yet...so it was doubly fun!

After the movie, we just hung out at the hotel and talked and talked...we had some GREAT conversation and I really felt like we reconnected.  I could see her face not just hear her voice and that was very meaningful to me.  We stayed up WAY too late for a 4 month pregnant woman...but it still well worth it!  Then we got to sleep in in the morning...though I think we were both up by like 8!

We ate our free breakfast, and hung out some more talking until we had to check out of our hotel.  Then we went and ran some errands and I got to help her pick out her BRAND NEW BED!  The first one since they'd been married...going on 18 years now! That was fun!

Then I got swangled into doing some shopping for myself too.  Anyone who knows me knows I don't like shopping, but it was fun with my sister...our tastes are WAY different that is for sure :0).  But I got some cute new things to help along with baby...the most amazing thing was that when I got home, I  looked at my receipt and I noticed that I spent around $140 BUT I SAVED $130! Now THAT was fun! One item on the ticket was originally $41 and I got it for $8!!!!!!!

By the time we were done with all that, I was pretty WHOOPED!  We managed to make a mad dash to the Bath and Body Shop where my sister blessed me with a new scented body spray that I really like.  Then we went to meet up with my sister's family and we said our good-byes.

It was a GREAT time...and though I was pretty tuckered out...I wouldn't have traded it for anything!

A huge THANK YOU to all who made it happen...from my husband who agreed to let me go...to my Mother-in-law who helped with the kids...to my BIL who allowed me to steal his wife away!  Truly, we can't thank you all enough!

Copyright © 2012 All Rights Reserved MMFarmlife - Melanie Schlatter

Chapter 8 - Section 2

**An early release due to a busy weekend!**

After the soldiers left, Austin stood holding the reins of his horse watching Rayna unsure of what he should do now. Finally she spoke without so much as glancing his direction, “You might as well make yourself comfortable, we’ll be here until I find what I’m looking for.”

Shifting a step closer he inquired, “What is it that you are looking for, maybe I could help.”

Rayna just shook her head and kept at her search. How could he help when he couldn't see the inside of the building like she could. How could she explain which room she was standing in when he had never before been in the cabin. Or had he? Stopping for a moment and looking directly at him she asked, “You grew up around here?” He nodded. “Do you ever remember seeing this cabin in tact?” He nodded. “Were you ever inside it before...?” He nodded again. Scrutinizing him, she hesitantly asked, “Do you remember where the chest sat?”

Finally he spoke, “What chest?”

Nodding, she turned her back to him and started searching again - of course he wouldn't know what chest. But what she heard next caused the hair on the back of her neck to stand at attention and she slowly look hard at him. For he had asked, “Do you mean the oak chest in the bedroom or the pine chest in the main room?”

They stood locked in their gazes for what seemed like hours but was actually only minutes. Each wondering how the other knew so much about a cabin that long ago burnt down and was no more. Finally Rayna answered him, “The pine one in the main room. I can't seem to find exactly where it would have sat now that the walls have burned down.”

Leading his horse to a nearby tree he tied him off and approached what would have been the front of the cabin. Without moving, Rayna watched him. Taking small steps, he went in about ten and then turned left for about another five. Looking at her, he stated, “Should be right about here.”

Rayna looked at him and declared, “No, that would be right under the table.”

“I respectfully disagree, CherRené. You have gone too far in and are standing at the wall between the main room and the bedroom.”

Looking around her she weighed his input, “I don't think so, I’m certain the room was at least twenty by fifteen.”

Without skipping a beat, Austin asked, “In whose feet, a woman’s or a child’s?”

As she weighed that input with what was in her minds eye, she backed up more closely to him and began searching anew. “What are you looking for?” Austin repeated his question. “This cabin burnt down nigh thirteen years ago...anything that was here would be long gone now.”

Rayna ignored him and continued searching, sifting the dirt and weeds with her foot. Since she wouldn't answer him, he made his way to a portion of the foundation wall and sat. Just when he was beginning to wonder what they we going to do for dinner and accommodations, three riders appeared at the edge of the meadow. While Rayna continued her search, he stood and prepared to greet the riders.

At the edge of the clearing, the three riders halted and one who appeared to be one of the soldiers from earlier pointed across the meadow at them and then turned and left. The other two riders came straight for them, leading a third pack horse behind them.

As they rode, Austin thought the one rider looked familiar. They were both dressed as payson but not poorly so - whomever they were their family had done well for themselves. When they were still a few yards out, he finally realized who had come and with a gasp he bolted to his feet and ran to greet them - thoroughly scaring Rayna in the process.

Copyright © 2012 All Rights Reserved MMFarmlife - Melanie Schlatter

Who Am I ?

Today as I was out walking I was listening to some new music I got. One of the songs was by Jason Gray - Remind Me Who I Am. Here are the lyrics:


When I lose my way,
And I forget my name,
Remind me who I am.
In the mirror all I see,
Is who I don't wanna be,
Remind me who I am.
In the loneliest places,
When I can't remember what grace is.

Tell me once again who I am to You,
Who I am to You.
Tell me lest I forget who I am to You,
That I belong to You.
To You.

When my heart is like a stone,
And I'm running far from home,
Remind me who I am.
When I can't receive Your love,
Afraid I'll never be enough,
Remind me who I am.
If I'm Your beloved,
Can You help me believe it.

Tell me once again who I am to You,
Who I am to You, whoa.
Tell me lest I forget who I am to You.
That I belong to You.
To You.

I'm the one you love,
I'm the one you love,
That will be enough,
I'm the one you love.

Tell me once again who I am to You.
Who I am to You.
Tell me lest I forget who I am to You,
That I belong to You, oh.

Tell me once again who I am to You.
Who I am to You.
Tell me lest I forget who I am to You,
That I belong to You.
To You.

So...who are you? Who am I?

I'm the one HE loves,
I'm HIS beloved,
I'm a child of the Most High God,
I'm saved by grace - HIS grace,
I'm special - unique - created by the Master Craftsman,
But ULTIMATELY - I'm HIS!

Copyright © 2012 All Rights Reserved MMFarmlife - Melanie Schlatter

Chapter 8 - Section 1

Austin's thoughts were interrupted by the sound of hoof beats on the path behind him. For an instant his defenses rose within him and he frantically searched for Rayna across the meadow, but when he discerned the sound of only two horses he relaxed a bit focusing on Rayna fifty yards away searching the ground around her. Glancing over his shoulder, he found two soldiers approaching, apparently sent by Captain Shalome.

Reigning up beside him, the lead soldier confirmed this thought, “Captain Shalome sent us to follow your tracks and discover the fate of the CherRené.”

Austin nodded. “She’s over there, the pursuers...” What could he say, that they just vanished - that the threat wasn't real? These men wouldn't believe him, so he simply replied, “...are gone.” Knowing his explanation was lacking and not wanting to face more questions, he kicked his horse into motion and headed for the CherRené. Though he believed what happened was of the Divine, he had no desire to explain himself to these soldiers and he had no idea how to explain what they were about to do to Captain Shalome. Therefore, he thought it best to be silent and see what Rayna had to say.

Rayna stood - halting her search as she heard the approach of the men. She waited in the middle of what used to be a cabin. All signs of the dwelling were gone except for the rubble of the stone foundation and chimney. Still, Rayna felt she was looking for something, something significant. Not having any desire to remove herself from her search or the bewildering fact that she could see each of the rooms as they had been, she stood stone still and watched the approaching men. What shook Rayna harder than anything so far was that she never remembered dreaming about the inside of the cabin, only the outside - but here she stood seeing each room in tact and fully furnished. How could that be?

When the men finally got to her location, Austin dismounted and explained, “Captain Shalome sent these men after us.” Rayna acknowledged them but didn't say anything so Austin continued, “I wasn't sure what to tell them. What your plans are now?”

Rayna looked past Austin into the depths of the meadow, he followed her gaze but saw nothing. Soon she addressed the two men, “Please inform Captain Shalome 
that I am no longer in need of his services and that Austin and I will be moving on by ourselves. His mission now is to assure the safe return of the Morat CherRio in time for the treaty finalization.”

Interrupting her, the soldier on the right boldly declared, “Pardon me CherRené, but Captain Shalome is not going to accept that message, and it will be our hide that takes the blunt of his displeasure.” 

Austin glared at the man as if his look would call down fire from the Divine for his presumption to speak to and question the CherRené in such a manner. Austin had noticed as of late that those residing in the camp had suffered from too much familiarity between them despite rank. He intended to set that straight right now, but Rayna came beside him and placed a calming hand on his arm before he could say anything.

“If the Captain is disagreeable with my instructions, please remind him to review his orders, the last statement in particular and he will be fine. Austin will send a missive when our whereabouts are established and secured. You are dismissed.” And with that, she turned and began searching the rubble again, giving them no further mind.

When the soldiers hesitated, Austin barked, “You heard the CherRené, now GO!” 


Copyright © 2011-12 All Rights Reserved MMFarmlife - Melanie Schlatter

Chapter 7 - Section 4

Rayna rode hard but glanced frequently over her shoulder to assure her plan had worked. Indeed, it appeared the group of men in pursuit of them had abandoned the pursuit of the carriage and had taken off after her. With only Austin between them, Rayna could see them quickly gaining ground. She pressed on, following a sense inside of her as to which path to take and which direction to go. After what seemed to be only a few moments Rayna broke into a clearing and pulled her horse to a complete stop.

Austin was upon her quickly, "What are you doing? Move!" He reigned his horse around her and prepared to face the pursuers to give Rayna time to get moving again, but they were GONE! For a split moment, he couldnt' believe his eyes - surely they had split up, gone off the road, circled around them - something. But as he searched around with his eyes, followed the trail a ways back, and listened - they were simply GONE! There was no sign of anyone but them, but the thing that got Austin's attention more than anything was the look on Rayna's face.

Reigning up beside her he asked, "What is it CherRené?"

Finally she looked at him, “We are safe, the pursues are gone.”

Skeptically he asked, “How do you know?”

In a matter of fact tone, she declared, “The Divine sent them to force me down this path alone.” After a few moments she continued, "I've been here before. I've seen this very meadow. This is the place in my earliest dreams, when I was that child. I stood here and watched that cabin burn down, over there!" She pointed and started moving in that direction.

Still on guard, Austin kept glancing around him, waiting for the pursuers to resurface, but upon hearing Rayna's explanation, he froze studying her - a peace enveloping her. Not willing just yet to let his guard down, he inquired, “How do you know it was the Divine?”

She stopped and leveled a matter of fact gaze at him, again, “His messenger told me. When I rounded the corner he stood in the middle of the road. That is why I stopped so suddenly. At that very moment, the pursuers disappeared too. He told me I must take the journey by myself from this point on - well, with the exception of you - you are to come with me.” Rayna could see Austin was questioning what she said, so she added, “Ask Him yourself...seek the Divine. He’ll give you the same answer.”

Suddenly Austin saw a man, gleaming in white off to the side of the meadow a ways. Peace and assurance consumed him and he no longer doubted. Rayna had continued on toward the far side of the meadow, but Austin sat still, seeking the Divine with his heart - yearning for direction.

Finally glancing around him, he realized he knew this meadow too, but only because he had grown up not far from this very spot. He played with many friends in this very meadow, and suddenly he remembered a story from the past - could it be - could Rayna be the one from the legends?

Copyright © 2012 All Rights Reserved MMFarmlife - Melanie Schlatter