An evening walk in the snow...

Mark and I decided to explore our neighborhood this afternoon...boy did we get a lot of snow! I was about to walk out the door this morning when my district canceled school. I was glad since we live on a hill and my route to work is also full of hills. Mark stayed home too, so we had a fun day of relaxing, finishing my holiday baking from yesterday, and a nap. A GREAT nap. :)

I am sad we didn't have school today because we were going to have a party in class, my parents and Mark planned to come, my mom was going to teach my class a craft I did when I was in elementary school, and I had gifts for my students and staff. :( Oh well, I guess I can't complain about the early introduction to winter break!

So, back to the walk...it was peaceful out and a fun time with my hunk. :)

The MONSTROUS house being built up the street. The houses in our neighborhood were all built in the 40's, so this one really sticks out. Notice the roof line of the house next to it. Yup, it's THAT tall!

We were so amazed to see the UPS guys out, we just had to take their picture.


A little fuzzy, but this documents that we were actually out. :)


Our cozy house with my newly-painted red door!


Mark snowboarding...in front of our house. :)

I'm looking forward to another relaxing day tomorrow, getting laundry and cleaning done- hopefully I can get out at some point because I still have lots to finish before Christmas! Hope you are all staying warm!

What we've been up to...

It's been a while...hi, how are you? :) There has been a lot going on in the Pearson home that I should have been blogging about, but in the midst of the last month, which was full of school functions, conferences, report cards and the like, well...I've been tired. Sometimes, blogging just feels like work- maybe some of you agree. I do love sharing what our life is like, and peeking into yours as well, but sometimes we all need a break. But here I am, sitting on the couch with a cup of coffee, enjoying the gift of time that has been given to me in the form of a late-start day because of the snow- I wanted to take this time to check in.

These are quite random pictures, but they all made me smile, so I wanted to share...




We've fallen in love with this little dog. My parents got him last summer and he's been a great companion. Here is Coco after his weekly bath. My dad treats him like a baby- this is the closet thing he has to a grandchild right now...we'll have to change that soon. :)


And just for kicks, this is me enjoying the last day of summer with Mark, dining at the Newcastle Golf Club. If you've never been, it is unbelievable. The view is out of this world.


This is some of my staff at our holiday party over the weekend. It was a blast! I love these people- God has truly blessed me with an amazing place to teach and friends in the faces here...

Having fun with the creepy moving hand that was a white elephant gift. It had a remote control and the fingers wiggled. egh.

A view of our tree from the front yard. We've really been taking a different perspective with Xmas this year, as are a lot of people I think. I love to shop, give and receive as much as anyone, but I really wanted this year to be more about Christ, and the family traditions we have. It's a gift alone to have this life, and to spend it with those we love, to live in a country where we can worship the Lord freely and to not live in fear of persecution...these are the gifts we receive each day of the year, and honestly, it's been a huge load-off to focus more on that than anything else. Also, with the remodel we're planning/hoping to do in 2009, we wanted to stay on budget with our gifts, and it's been fun to have to sit back and actually think about what would be great for each person, instead of rushing out and trying to buy as much as possible, as fat as possible. We've also had a lot of fun adopting kids to buy gifts for- it was one of my favorite memories this year so far...a great date night with Mark to do something meaningful for others. :) Thanks, honey, for doing that with me! I'm looking forward to a wonderful holiday season!

Also- I'd love to send Xmas cards to my blogging buddies! Email me your address at robincpearson at gmail dot com. :)

Hoping that December is treating you all well!

Continuing the struggle...

From our trip to Rosario last fall, gray but peaceful.

...but with some help.

I must say that since I last wrote, I have been lifted up in the prayer, thoughts, and conversations of people close to me, and those I have not even met. The Bible tells us that when two or more are gathered in prayer, great things will happen. (I'm paraphrasing there) =) Well, I have found that to be true this last week, so to my blogger friends, thank you.

Since I last wrote, I went to see my doctor who, after listening to me blubber and sob, trying to think of any other way to overcome this in my life, prescribed me with a little "help". I really didn't want to start it, but after feeling totally "out of my skin" from Friday to Wednesday, I gave in. I tried medication about 2 years ago during the time when I was applying to graduate school. I was on it for about 6 months, but then after I got in and was well on my way, felt great and decided to kick it. After an episode, like I said before, I easily forget how paralyzing it was and move on. Well, this time, I felt inconsolable for 6 days straight, which is the longest I've ever experienced. I tried during that time to really remember exactly how I was feeling so I could relay it to my doctor.

I've wondered before why other people can pray about God taking away a struggle in their life and why it works for them and not for me. I think, like I said before, that God has given me this to bear, and He will bear it WITH me, for as long as He wants me to learn from it. Even though I hate the feelings I get during an attack, when I'm in a time where I can reflect on my struggle, I realize it has actually brought me more good than evil. It has deepened my relationships and conversations, forced me to "be real" with people, especially during an attack, created connections with other people and made them feel comfortable to share their experiences, and has given me a different perspective on life and what is important. It has also forced me to lean on the Lord and reflect on Him in a way I never have. I think we all have something in our lives that gives us that "true" perspective on what truly matters, and for me, it is this.

There's a part of me that didn't want to start medication because of the effect I've experienced before of causing a person to be "emotionless". No highs, no lows. Even though this "thing" I have is terrible, it brings the outpourings above...what if I can't feel? Do I really want my conversations and thoughts to be carried out in the past-tense because of this side effect? This has been my fear, and it has been revealed to me as I write that maybe even the action of swallowing the pill each morning will be a reminder of this struggle and not the end, but simply a part of what I'm doing to contain this enough to carry on a normal life.

I am feeling better already and I praise the Lord for the way He works through these things and allows us to be a part of it. =)

Not feeling so great...

...but trying to rejoice in this time.

So, without writing forever, I'll say that I've dealt with panic attacks and anxiety for the past 6 years. If you're not familiar with the symptoms, they include heart palpitations, hyperventilating, feeling like you're going to pass out, dizziness, nausea, and basically just feeling sure you're going to die, right now. It's terrible and though I've dealt with this on and off for these years, there's a part of me that's never quite convinced that anxiety is all it really is. (I think that's probably the anxiety talking, since all tests I've ever had have come back normal) I'm not a person that is big into taking prescription drugs if there's another way- I've tried everything else I can think of and these attacks continue to plague me.

What it all boils down to is my human fault of not trusting the Lord at ALL times. When I pray for Him to intervene, I want it down in my time, like right now! What I fail to realize is that there is something to learn from these panic attacks. I feel like the "after" feeling is similar to what my girlfriends have said of childbirth..."once the baby is out, the pain is easily forgotten". After a panic attack, I think "that wasn't so bad, I'm not really going to die, I can get through it on my own". But as soon as it comes back again, the fear is real again. I don't know why I bear this condition, but of course there are so many things that are worse. Unfortunately, I have a job where I can't just take a break, get some fresh air, or lay down. If I did, I'd have 29 4th graders bouncing off the walls!

The point of this post is really just for me to see myself write this reminder: Robin, trust the Lord your God in all times. Good times, times of sadness, and times of stress and confusion. Do not doubt His love for you and that He is with you every step of each day. As it is written in James 1, "consider it a blessing when you face trials of many kinds, for it brings you closer to the Lord your God." He is with you always, you are never alone. Jeremiah 29:11 says "For I know the plans I have for you, to prosper you and not to bring you harm, to give you hope and a future."

((big sigh))

So there is it. I am to consider this trial a blessing. I'll do the best I can. To start, here are 5 things these panic attacks have brought me:
-A realization that I cannot do it alone. The more fervently I pray, the more immediate peace I feel.
-Gratefulness for my husband. The Lord has a master plan indeed, because Mark is so patient, loving, and understanding of me.
-A connection with one of my students who struggles like I do.
-It makes me notice and appreciate simple things like breaths that are easy to take, time spent with friends and family, uninterrupted by anxiety, and the times when I feel really good.
-I am more realistic about the things that are out of my control. What tomorrow brings, how others choose to live their lives, to name a few. Why worry if I can't do anything about it?

I'm grateful for this blog being my "sounding board" today. Thank you all for listening with your eyes. :)

What I've been up to (list format)

I've decided lists are more efficient sometimes, so here we go:

This weekend/last week I...
-Freaked out about getting a sub for the first time.
-Stayed at school til 10pm on Wednesday to make sub plans for 3 days while thinking to myself, "there's no way I could do this with kids at home".
-Drove to Oregon on Thursday with Mark and my in-laws.
-Drove to California on Friday and met my uncle Bob on the way at a rest stop on the side of the road in the middle of nowhere (it doesn't take much to impress him) :)
-Went to a really fun rehearsal dinner and ate delicious walnut prawns with Mark's extended family, who are SO much fun!
-Thought about how full my school email inbox probably is.
-Enjoyed a fabulous time hanging out with Mark's family and attending a wedding for one of his cousins.
-Had a bbq in 80 degree weather.
-Wanted to see the Tangens while we were there, but ran out of time. After experiencing the 80 degree weather in October, understood why they moved there.
-Decided to fly home Sunday night so we could spend more time with family instead of taking Sunday and Monday to drive home.
-Endured a smooth flight. (I don't appreciate flying...at all.)
-Since we came home on Sunday and I still had a sub for today, got to hang out at home- bonus!
-After pacing for a while, deciding whether or not to open my school email, I did it and realized why I didn't want to.
-Went to Starbucks and Ikea with Mark to look at kitchen cabinets- if only I didn't have a job, Ikea is a great place to hang out on a Monday!
-Did lots of laundry.
-Looked at photos from our trip. I'll post more later so you all can see how the Pearsons party.
-Now enjoying a cup of tea (I practiced my british accent all weekend) before heading to bed early.
-Browsing blogs and seeing that so many of you have been to the pumpkin patch- fun!

Hope everyone had a great weekend!

Something worth blogging about!

The last few weeks have been busy, for sure. And it took me a while to get over my heart-break of not being pregnant. :( About that, I know it's all in God's timing- Mark and I are doing everything we can this year to prepare our home, finances, and hearts for a child and I look ahead with anticipation of what is to come very soon for us. (hopefully)

School is awesome. I have such a great class and I can't believe we're almost to November! That means parent conferences and report cards are looming, but I'm excited to experience it all since this is my first year with it! (can you say "naive"?)

We're going to California for a wedding next week. Mark's parents rented a minivan, so we'll be driving...and I'll be cracked up (or down, depending on how you look at it) on Dramamine the whole way! I'm looking forward to the break from school and time with extended family- but NOT looking forward to making sub plans for 3 days- blech!

So...for the "something" worth blogging about- if you've followed my humble blog for a while, you know that we are embarking on a rather large remodel this next year and plan to do it without financing a dime, so we have a lot to save for! I went to the Tacoma Home Show with my parents last week and entered a drawing for granite countertops...

my mom said to me, as I filled out the form, "Robin, you should write 'pick me!' on the form so they know to make the right choice!" Well, it was a funny joke, but guess what?

WE WON! Whoohoo!

We won a credit towards the material/installation that pretty much (from my calculations) covers the whole deal! We are going to look at the showroom this weekend and peruse what they have to offer. This is such a motivation for us because we've lived in this house over a year and haven't put ANY of our personal stamp on the place. I love to decorate and Mark and I enjoy collaborating on these projects. He, being a graphic designer, has such a great eye for color and form and I feel like we really "got it right" with our condo that we remodeled. We're anxious, but so very thankful to the Lord for providing us with such an amazing home to raise our children and host our friends and family in...we see this as a blessing from Him to keep us motivated towards our goals in the next year.

In other news, my hair from a few weeks ago turned out great. :) More of a natural look than what I've previously had going, but I'm having this inner-struggle about my hair and getting pregnant and the chemicals/money used to keep it up.

Did you moms worry about hair color when you were pregnant?

It would take a while to get my hair back to the natural state because I'm much lighter now than my roots are. For now, I'm happy with it. The new lady is great and she charges less, which is REALLY great! I know you've all been waiting for an update on that situation. :)

And lastly, I'm just so thankful for this little blog community. It's so fun to keep in touch with my family and friends that have blogs, and also it's been so great to "meet" new faces and hear the challenges and joys that others out there are experiencing...I love to check up on everyone and feel so encouraged by many of the words you all write. I think my brain is so shriveled by the end of the day that any of my deeper thoughts worth blogging about get lost in my thoughts of "where are my sweats?" and "was that my second or third glass of wine?" (actually, that last thought only occurs on a REALLY bad day!). But thanks anyway for checking in on me- you girls are great!

Found out yesterday...

...That I'm not pregnant. :( Last time I saw Aunt Flo was July 24th. After a blood test, it's been confirmed.

So...

I'm going to have a glass of wine. :)

When the hubby is away...

I play!

Mark is away at "Man's Weekend", which began Thursday and will go til tomorrow. My poor brother, who broke his leg and had to have surgery on Thursday, will be surrounded by all his "man friends", doing all the things that men do best. :)

Yesterday, after being at work until almost 8pm, I had a very exciting evening. Here's what I did:
- ate leftovers
- played with my new label-maker (don't be a hater)
- baked cookies
- went to bed at 10

Now, I'm enjoying a cup of freshly brewed coffee (btw, I've noticed that all bloggers seem to love a fresh cup of coffee) and then I'm off in a bit to get my hair colored and have lunch/go shopping with my dad. :)

I'm trying out a new salon and I'm a bit nervous. Is it appropriate to ask for prayer for my hair?

After that, I'm probably come home and scrub toilets this afternoon. I know, thrilling. Ever since school started, it's been so crazy during the week that I forget to make plans for the weekend- I need to work on that because I don't want my friends to think I'm lame.

Sunday I'll go to church and then meet up with Mark for his dad's birthday celebration.

I hope everyone enjoys a wonderful weekend! I'll post pictures of my new 'do later!

Probably only 3 of you will care about this... =)

...But, after seeing blogger friends talking about missing episodes of "The Hills", I have to tell you that I now exclusively watch it online. It's only, like, a 20 minute commitment because there's only 1 commercial during breaks instead of 3 or 4. And the best part? Because it runs on "Eastern" time, the show is available to watch at 7pm on the MTV website instead of 10pm on tv!

I know, I know, you're thinking, "Robin, why do watch that terrible trash-of-a-show?!" The answer is that I really don't know...it's like a black hole- I get sucked in every time. It's so bad that it's actually to the point where it's like a chore I do on Monday night...I was almost MAD when I noticed this Monday night that 2 episodes were posted- I was so excited to go to bed because I was exhausted...but NO, I had to watch 2 episodes of "The Hills" before then.

So, that's all. Pretty lame, I know...but like I said, about 3 of you will care. =)

A new truck- for good reason.

Mark and I have been talking a lot lately about how we can do a better job preparing financially for our future. We've been listening to Dave Ramsey lately and he has some pretty radical ideas, some of which are a bit extreme (like selling your brand new car), but we decided to do it. Mark bought a brand new black Honda civic last summer when the car he was driving (my old civic from high school) finally got a bill that was more than it was worth.

Well, in thinking about how to prepare for kids in the near future and just the overall picture, we decided to do something to get rid of that pesky car payment, quick. We thought about just getting an older car (we saw several nice BMWs in our price range) =), but ultimately thought a truck would be great because we're always borrowing my dad's for house/yard stuff. Mark is riding the bus now to work, so he'll just be driving it to the park-and-ride. He found this truck and fell in love with it. It's in great shape and has such a classic look to it...well, I guess it IS a classic, and that's why. =)

So, we feel really good about it and as soon as we sell the civic (anyone interested???) we'll have one less bill each month-yay!

Tonight's indulgences...

Savoring chocolate-espresso gelato and watching "The Hills" online. It's been a looooong day.

Lists are more efficient, and that's what I need these days...

What's been happening:

- Mark and Aaron (bro) built fire pit behind garage- lots of "man stuff" happening there
- Lots of ripe berries and apples, but no one to pick them =(
- GOT THROUGH MY FIRST WEEK OF SCHOOL WITH 4TH GRADERS!
- I have a fabulous class, all very smart and helpful
- Made calzones with Mark last night
- Made 2 loaves of pumpkin bread and 1 batch of chocolate dipped biscotti
- Lots of pregnant moms/new babes around here
- Bbq with Mark's extended family at his parent's lake house
- Birthday party for Pam at Joey's
- Enjoying the summer sunsets from our living room
- Really looking forward to fall- my favorite season!

Hope you're all well!

Sigh. Labor Day Weekend.

-Sat/laid on the couch WAY too much this weekend
-Tomorrow is the first day of school- my first day in my own classroom
-29, count 'em, 29 4th graders
-Thinking about what I'm going to wear tomorrow
-Dreaming about the future...
-Bit into a REALLY weird tasting red pepper
-Hoping, praying I'll be able to sleep tonight
-Fun times with family
-FOUR hour coffee date. That was fun. =)
-Ethiopian food with friends
-Laundry
-Light yard work
-Rejoicing with the news of new baby boys in 2 different families

8 things

8 things I am passionate about

• My faith in Jesus Christ
  
• My hubby
• My career
• Food, cooking eat, eating it, sharing it....
• Intentional relationships
  
• My memory foam mattress and pillow
  
• Helping others
• Preparing for/being the best wife and mother I can be
  

8 books I've read & enjoyed

• The Undomestic Goddess- so fun!
  
• Anything by Augusten Burroughs
  
• Pride and Prejudice
• The Power of a Praying Wife
  
• The Bible
  
• Let Your Life Speak (changed my life)
  
• The Other Boleyn Girl
  
• What to Expect While You're Expecting (no harm in preparing early, right?)
  

8 words/phrases I say often

• I love you
  
• Go ask 3 other people, and if you still don't know, ask me. (talking to students)
  
• I already gave directions for that. (talking to students)
  
• Totally (bad habit)
  
• Not right now (to students...seeing a theme here?)
  
• Wanna go for a walk? (are you smiling, Mark?)
  
• Does that seem like a reasonable answer? (again, students)
  
• Did you lock the doors? (to Mark)
  

8 things I want to do before I die

• Make babies with my hot husband
  
• Go on more mission trips
  
• Zipline in Kauai
  
• Taking a cooking class with Ina Garten (and eat with her after, she seems nice)
  
• Sing at the Metropolitan Opera
  
• Learn to play guitar
  
• Become a grandma
  
• Run a marathon...okay maybe a half marathon
  

8 things I've learned over the past

• People are more important than things and money
  
• The American cultural Christmas is over-rated
  
• Mark is truly the love of my life
  
• It's okay to recognize the gifts I have and use them
  
• No one cares whether my house is clean...except me. =)
  
• I am saved by grace through faith
  
• Debt isn't a necessary evil, it's just evil.
  
• It is more important to be who you are than who everyone else thinks you should be

8 places I want to see.

• Italy
• Jerusalem
• Point of Arches
  
• Fiji
• Egypt
• Inside the White House
  
• Africa
• Amish country
  

8 things I need

• To lose 10 more pounds (getting there!)
  
• A Mexican vacation
  
• A haircut...well, maybe just a trim
• To get used to my new glasses
  
• To get the clean sheets out of the dryer
  
• To go for a run
  
• To be thankful
  
• To stop getting so excited for fall decorating/baking- it's kinda out of control

Sunday night update...

Mark snapped this shot from our upstairs deck the other night- beautiful!

So, I've been a bad blogger, but as I skim through my blogging friends' pages, I see the same theme, so I don't feel quite as bad. =) It's summer, everyone's busy, and in the life of a teacher, the month of August is full of training, training, training, setting up a classroom, orientations, trainings and the like. I'm really enjoying it- spent all last week at math training and though it was exhausting to sit all day, it was so valuable and fun. I'm looking forward to a great school year, but before I begin in 2 weeks, I have a lot to do!


One thing I've really, truly enjoyed this summer is taking advantage of time with good friends and rekindling relationships that have been put on the back burner for whatever reason. I get so much out of a good conversation with a friend, even if/especially if all I do is listen. My friends truly are an extension of my family, and especially because I don't have a sister of my own, my girlfriends have become my sisters in spirit. I am nervous about finding the time to keep in touch once the school year starts up, but a few of my close girlfriends and I decided that we're going to just call each other, even if we only have 2 minutes to talk, rather than not call at all. I often find myself in that place of...

"I want to call ________, but I haven't talked to them in so long, I know it's going to be a long conversation and I only have 10 minutes and don't want to be rude and cut them off."

Do you ever feel this way or is it only me?


I'm realizing that I'd want to hear from a friend, even if it's just a two-minute call or one-sentence email...it's makes me feel connected and in tune with what's happening in their lives. I also love hand-written notes and cards and plan to do more of that, since it doesn't impose on anyone else's time but my own.

So, a lot of babble hear, but the main point is that I'm grateful for reconnecting with friends this summer and so happy about all the memories that were made!

In other news, Mark and I hope to embark on some remodeling this fall...I can hardly wait to put our own stamp on this home. We've been here for a year now, but haven't even painted because we know we want to make some pretty major changes and would have to re-paint anyway. It's been fun scoping out new flooring and stuff. The Lord has blessed us with a home that's way too large for just Mark and me- I just sit and look around sometimes and envision the hustle and bustle of little ones, family and friends in this place...
...but without the green carpet. =)

That's about it; I hope you're all surviving the heat around here- I want to also say hello to our friends, the Weiseths. They are embarking on a journey of adoption from Ethiopia- please pray for their family, which consists of two little ones of their own- they are a couple after God's own heart and are a powerful force for His glory in this world. I've put a link to their blog on the sidebar.

What I'm doing right now...

Enjoying a latte in my new mug...yesterday was my last day teaching summer school (WOOHOO!), so after packing up my room this morning, I ran some errands and have been putzing around the house doing chores ever since.




Getting ready to wrap this birthday present for a good friend and fellow wine-lover who is having a bday bash tonight at a fun place in Seattle! What's in the bag, you ask? Two funky wine glasses and a card...


Getting REALLY excited for these! Look how cute they are! No joke, when I planted this ONE tomato plant, it was like 6 inches tall. It is now taller than me and full of tomatoes, although they aren't all ripe yet.
LOVING this fun book! After all the hours I pour over curriculum books, teaching books, cookbooks, gardening books, etc., it's so nice to "watch a movie in my head" with a book like this! It's such a page turner and I'd recommend it to anyone- better yet, you can borrow it when I'm done!
It's also been really cool watching the Blue Angels practice right outside my window! I couldn't get a picture because they fly too fast. I love our little city by the lake!

Family Fun!

We had a great time with my cousins and parents over the weekend. We missed the Warren family =(, but I think we ate as though they were there! K and N just returned from serving in the Peace Corps, and are about to become "New Yorkers" as N will be teaching in (what sounds like an amazing school) the Bronx. We wish you both the best and were so happy to enjoy the day with you!

Driving Range!

So, Mark took me to the driving range tonight- I was PRETTY horrible...to give you an idea of just HOW horrible, I had about 40 balls...I hit exactly 4 of them. Yea. I'll get better, right? =) It's amazing how hard it actually is to hit that darn ball! It's a great workout (well, maybe this is just because I had so many practice swings- ha!) and fun to be outside! The best parts were when I got all psyched-up to hit the ball and then, after a really powerful swing, slammed into the ground with my club-hitter-bat-thingy. I tried to dress real cute and golf-like, so at least I could possibly fool the people walking by...I think it worked. Mark did an awesome job- this was only his second time; the first time he went with my bro who is a great golfer and was able to teach Mark a few things. We are looking forward to doing this more often and having something else fun to do together! I'll let you know when I actually (consistently) hit the ball...

Robin's ABCs

This was the greatest winery we visited in Walla Walla...Tertulia Cellars- the wines were awesome and reasonably-priced!

A- Attached or single: Attached to Mark, aka "Tall, Dark and Handsome!"
B- Best friend: Tisa (she's the big sis I never had)
C- Cake or pie: Ice cream cake from DQ with lots of frosting...delish.
D-Day of the Week: Any day during school breaks!
E- Essential item: Cell phone...I know, lame.
F- Favorite color: Blue, although anyone who has seen my wardrobe would guess black and brown. I need to go shopping.
G-Gummi bears or worms: Which one has chocolate in it? =)
H- Hometown: Federal Way, Federal Watts, F-dub, The Dub, Fed Way, FW, The Hood...any of those work.
I-Indulgences: Watching "E" with Mark...yes he likes it.
J- January or July: I feel bad for January because everyone picks July...January is good for being cozy and baking.
K- Kids: Soon, I hope!
L- Life is incomplete without: Joy
M- Marriage date: June 28, 2003
N- Number of siblings: One- Aaron (25)...he's cute, musical, funny and SINGLE!
O-Oranges or apples: There's nothing like a Honeycrisp apple in the fall smothered in peanut butter or havarti...yum.
P- Phobia or fears: That I won't be able to have children, and losing people I love.
Q- Quote: "Big gulps, huh? Welp, see ya later!"
R- Reason to smile: I know my Savior
S- Season: Fall...it's when my pumpkin obsession is at it's height...seriously, who wants to pick a date for a night at my house full of pumpkins? =)
T- Tag three: Mandy, Jenny, Bree
U- Unknown fact about me: I have a silver whisker that grows out of my chin. No joke. What's that you say? You've never seen it? Well that's because I'm very careful to pluck it several times a week...yes, it grows that fast. I know, I'm gross. Someone please promise to pluck it for me when I'm 90?!
V- Vegetarian or oppressor to animals: I just ate meat stew for dinner.
W- Worst habit: Mark says I "toot and belch like a man". Nice.
X- Xray or ultrasound: I've had both, and they both answered questions I had, so I think they're both great, but annoying because you have to be still...why is it at those times you itch the most??
Y- Your favorite food: Don't get me started, don't EVEN get me started.
Z- Zodiac sign: Aquarius, and I read it every day and try to make sure things happen just as they are written...sense the sarcasm.

I promise I didn't forget...

Remember my "Pay it Forward" post? Well, I'm finally getting to announce that Christy, Mandy and Krista will be receiving something fun and homemade in snail mail! Girls, please send me your mailing address to:

robincpearson(at)gmail(dot)com

Don't forget to "pay it forward" in whatever way you choose, to whomever you choose, whenever you choose!

Summer fun!

We look as good as we felt. =)

So, time has been passing quickly with all the STUFF going on around here! I have found myself panicked and almost paralyzed when confronted with the idea of updating this blog, because I don't know where to start! I think I have to realize that I'm really just doing this to keep in touch with others and no one really wants to know ALL the details of the Pearson Prose, right? =)

Since I last posted, Mark and I enjoyed a fabulous long weekend in Walla Walla, celebrating our 5 year anniversary. Seriously people, Walla Walla is the new Napa. =) It's such a cute town, with breath-taking vineyards, and amazingly good ice cream cones. Despite the heat, and it was hot, we had a great time...we haven't been away together in a couple years and we have realized how good it is for our marriage- wouldn't you agree?

I started my 4 week journey of teaching summer school and it's a blast...I was so burnt out at the end of the school year and also frazzled about prepping myself for the fall, that I was not looking forward to teaching during the summer, but it has been super easy and fun so far and a great way to earn a bit more- I'm saying it goes towards my new kitchen. =) Hopefully, those "before" pics will be on here in a couple months!

We just returned today from spending the 4th at our family cabin in Eastern Washington...my mom is touring Europe with her choir and her absence was sorely felt! We did have a wonderful time, though...family bonding is always "good times".

Other than that, our days have been filled with keeping up on our house and yard, visiting friends, keeping up with all those who are expecting (which is fun for me because I'm enjoying making things for them with my sewing machine!) and just trying to take it easy this summer. I love keeping up with everyone and hope you're all enjoying a fantastic summer! I've got the burnt shoulders to prove that I am! =)

50 posts!

I feel like I've really contributed something special to the blogging world with my modest 50 posts, don't cha think? In all honesty, I just like feeling connected to so many out there! I've reconnected with friends from college, and bumped into their friends on the way as well- it's always more fun for me to read other people's blog than write on my own, but I agree with C and Tiffany when they have said that this is a great way to journal what life looks like at any given point.

The last month has been insane with school winding down and finishing (praise God!), gearing up for summer school, my mom's retirement and all the events surrounding that amazing accomplishment...all these things worthy of posts including pictures. Alas, the reason I haven't posted in so long is because we've lost the camera power cord. Grr. I have great pictures from my masters graduation ceremony in May, all mom's retirement shindigs, and fun with friends...hopefully they will appear very soon!

On another note, Mark and I will be celebrating our 5 year anniversary this weekend...I can hardly believe it's been so long, and yet it seems like he's always been at my side (aww). We're taking a getaway to Walla Walla for a long weekend and we're super excited! It's a place we've always wanted to go, and it's getting so much press for what a blossoming city it is...we look forward to lots of wine tasting, great food, sleeping in, and exploring!

There are so many things happening in the lives of my blogger friends, mostly, it seems, in the realm of babies! =) Congrats, again, to all who are expecting...the funny thing is, there seems to be a pattern of "unexpected # 2's" around! Super exciting for those families- what fun is in store for you!

I will be back, and with pictures next time! =)

This one's for Auntie Vicki...

My Auntie Vicki is the best! She is so supportive of my career thus far and is such an encouragement to me, so I'm posting this blog to say a public "thank you!" to her...AND also to share some GREAT news!

I HAVE A JOB FOR NEXT YEAR! Yay! I'll be teaching 4th grade at the school where I'm currently working. I'm so excited to know this so soon in the year- now I can prepare and plan with the current 4th grade teacher who's leaving, and also just relax! Usually, first-year teachers get a probationary-type contract their first year, but because I've taught at the school since January, I'm getting a continuing contract, which means I won't have to apply next year- I can just stay in my current position!

This is such an exciting step in my career- who knows how long God will have me in this role, but I do know that I see His work so clearly in my life and am praising Him today and always for being so faithful to me and Mark. Yes, I've worked really hard for this opportunity, but it's by the grace of God that I'm even here and that I've heard His calling to teach!

Pay It Forward!

I got this idea from a stranger's blog, and I just love it! The first THREE people to comment on this post will receive a little handmade something from me- the only catch is that you have to be willing to pay it forward in some way!

*UPDATED* You don't have to pay it forward in the same way I am! Just promise to do something nice for someone else at some point in the next 365 days! =)

I have lots of fun things to update on (including my new sewing machine- C, it was a GREAT deal and super easy to use for a beginner like me!), but I can't find my camera battery to take pictures of them...hmm...so I thought it would be a great time to post this challenge instead!

So c'mon now, don't be shy...you don't have to be a blogger to leave a comment. I'll announce the winners as soon as the posts start coming in!

The Grocery Game: week one

Okay, here it goes...thanks to C, I signed up for the Grocery Game...and thanks to the curiosity from Mandy, I'm now going to document my savings. :)

The basic idea of this thing is you pay for a list of advertised and unadvertised sales at your local grocery store (you put in your zip code and it tells you what store lists are available in your area. I like to shop the produce stand and a couple of local, small grocery stores in our town, but for the purposes of this trial, I'm shopping at Safeway). In addition to the list that tells you what's on sale, it also tells you where to look in the Sunday paper for coupons to add to the savings. In some cases, when something is on sale and you also use a store coupon and a manufacturer coupon, you can get an item for free!

This week, I saved $50 off my grocery bill with the combined savings of the store sales and coupons. I think I'll save more in the future because this week's list wanted me to use coupons from the Sunday paper of the last few weeks, where I only had the ones from the most current issue. A couple of the best deals I got were on meat- NINE huge natural top sirloin steaks for $14! That's the price I usually pay for two! I also bought 4 organic chicken thighs for $2! That's more than half off.

I have to admit, I was a little clumsy this time, making sure I pulled out each coupon as I selected a product so I wouldn't have to go through the coupon file at the register...but it was pretty cool to watch the cashier scan all the coupons and the total kept going down and down!

The main idea of this thing is to stockpile products...it's helpful to have a freezer and a place to put extra dry foods, so that when you have a coupon for 10/$10, you buy all ten items and then don't have to buy them again for a long time.

I'm looking forward to keeping this up...all my friends who are doing this are saving a lot more than me, so I'm hopeful that next week will be even better!

On a side note, it's nice to get the Seattle Times on Sunday...it was fun to sit with my coffee, peruse the paper and clip my coupons....wait, that sounds SOOOOO lame...who have I become? Clipping coupons?!

Sigh.

A couple things...

1. I will hopefully have really exciting news on the job-front very soon!

2. I am going to be walking in my graduate commencement this weekend! Yay! I'm so excited! Even though I officially graduated in December, actually walking across the stage will feel so good!

3. Thanks to many people, including blogger friend C, I signed up for the Grocery Game today. Even though it's only me and the hubby at this point, I love to cook and entertain, and eat organically as much as possible...so we spend probably at least $100 a week on groceries. I wasn't convinced that this would help me save money on the things we like to eat, but I just got my first list today, and it's full of organic items, fresh produce and meat! So we'll see! I won't shop til Sunday, so I'll let you know how it goes!

An ode to some of the raddest moms out there...

To my mama: You are the most fun, loving, and kind mom a gal could ask for. Your vitality and love for "doing things" :) energizes me.  I love to laugh with you. I'm so glad that we have so many things in common- I love hanging out with you! Thank you for always being present in my life and loving me in the way that only a mom can!

Susan: Your creativity inspires me. I love coming over to see what new project you've been working on. You raised an incredible son that I now gladly call my husband. He is is loving and attentive- the apple doesn't fall far from the tree! :) Thank you for welcoming me into your family!

Auntie Vicki: You are so fun. When I think of you, I can hear your laugh in my head- it's contagious! You have raised two great kids who are on their way! I love your emails and phone calls- they encourage me and brighten my day...our relationship is a special one to me!

Auntie Cindy (with an "I"): I love that you let me play with your hair and makeup, trusting that I won't make you look like Cher...or that crazy TV evangelist lady. You are such a strong woman and have given so much of yourself to raise great children. I respect you so very much for that and I love spending time with you.

Auntie Jessi: You're the best! You are SO fun and always make me laugh. Thank you for always being so encouraging and wanting to know what's going on in my life. Oh yea, and thanks for letting me drive your Maxima to learn how to drive a stick...I'm still not very good. :)

Toni: Your spirit is strong and and is such a present force in my life and so many others. Your love for life and people is something I aspire to everyday. Though you call another place home now, you gave your all as you lived and you will always be in my heart. We miss you.

Tisa: You are my friend, my sister...but also a wonderful mother with your boys. You've always had a "get up and go" way about you, and I love that. I love that we both need lattes at about 2pm, and that I can come to you and be who I truly am. You are loved.

Umm...I just ate two helpings of ice cream. Is that bad? Afterall, it is "light" ice cream.

Just checking in...

I have to just pop out of the pile of sweats and blankets and kleenex I've been under for the last 5 days to give a "shout out" to my fabulous husband. I've been so sick and feeling really guilty about not being at work, and he has taken such good care of me. He has picked up dinner, groceries and is so sweet when I ask him to bring me more kleenex, more nose spray, more cranberry juice (there...that should enlighten you as to ALL my ailments). I have to stop myself sometimes to be thankful- even for sick days. I'm lucky enough to be able to call in sick to work, lucky to be able to just take care of myself and no one else for a few days. I know in the future with kids and such, this will be harder and more stressful...but for now, I think it's very possible to be positive in this state. Okay, off to take a nap. *sniff, cough, sniff*

Through my kitchen window...

One worded answers

Anyone else up for this one? :-)

1. Where is your cell phone?....... kitchen
2. Your significant other? ........... handy
3. Your hair? ............................... long
4. Your mom?.......................... optimistic
5. Your dad? ............................ fine
6. Your favorite thing? .................. sunshine
7. Your dream last night?.............. husband :)
8. Your favorite drink?.................... coffee
9. Your dream/goal?.................. mother
10. The room you're in?................ family
11. Your hobby?........................... cooking
12. Your fear?............................... strangers
13. Where do you want to be in 6 years?....... home
14. Where were you last night?...... nap
15. What you're not?...................... skinny :)
16. Muffins?.................................. yum
17. One of your wish list items?....... bling
18. Where you grew up?................ FW
19. The last thing you did?............... dinner
20. What are you wearing?.............. sweats
21. Your TV? ................................. Juno
22. Your pets?............................... ah-choo!
23. Your computer?........................ Mac
24. Your life?.................................. blessed
25. Your mood?.............................. anxious
26. Missing someone?.................... friends
27. Your car?.................................. Honda
28. Something you're not wearing? ..... earrings
29. Favorite store?........................ World Market
30. Your summer?......................... free!
31. Like someone?.......................... always
32. Your favorite color...................... blue
33. When is the last time you laughed? today
34. Last time you cried?.................. hmm...
35. Who will resend this? ................ bloggers?

Boys will be boys...

So, do any other blogger wives out there have to share their hubbies with video games like I do? Hmm...so many of you have kids, so I kinda doubt it. Where's my support group?! Today was a very important day in our home...Grand Theft Auto 4 just came out and Mark, my brother, and our good friend Branden came over to share in the glory of the first play together. Even though this is such a violent, not-ok-for-kids kind of game (luckily, we have none yet!) I have to say, watching the bonding between these boys is pretty fun. They are so excited about playing this game together that it helps me to forgive the hours they play, the language that streams from their mouths when it is on, and the really gross snacks they choose to devour while basking in this other world. Sigh.

*This is my 3rd post today- check below for more!*

It's been documented...

I made Mark do a mask...and use face cream. I think he liked it- what do you think?

Catching up...

It has been a busy week in the Pearson home- below is a pic from the night we celebrated my mom's 39th birthday...we dined at a delicious restaurant on the water and had a fabulous time laughing, looking at the view, and talking about my mom's upcoming "graduation" from the teaching profession.

Meet a few new members of the Pearson family. We've always been a charcoal grill gang, but having a gas grill is so much easier and convienient...we bought one over the weekend and have used it 4 times this week already!

Funny, even though we have a large yard with plenty of room for a vegetable garden (which I do want to start someday), I feel intimidated by the amount of time it takes to maintain such produce...so, I decided I'd start some fresh herbs (lemon thyme, basil and cilantro) and a tomato plant right outside my back door. I've read in my new Organic Gardening magazine (great, by the way!) that for beginners, grape tomatoes are the place to start. They are just smaller and it's apparently so much easier to get used to how to care for them. We shall see! I'm envisioning salads and pastas tossed with my fresh herbs and tomatoes all summer! Who wants to join us for dinner, al fresco?

It was so beautiful outside tonight, Mark, my brother and I ate outside on the patio! I made homemade tortilla soup along with some spicy barbequed shrimp (YUM-O!)- the spicy stuff is a theme lately with Mark and my brother...it's weird, but I suppose I'm glad they are addicted to seeing how much spice they can handle than, say, gambling or something...whatev- and we sipped gin n' tonics...so fresh and delicious! Can't wait for more warm evenings!

Things that are getting me through this day...

1. The knowledge that today is Friday.

2. My morning workout on the tredmill while watching "My Super Sweet 16" on MTV...it was either that or my choice of infomercials on all the other channels. Nothing good on tv at 6am.

3. What I'm currently drinking: grande nonfat latte bought at Starbucks during lunch.

4. Small piece of dark chocolate bought at said Starbucks.

5. All the entertaining students I've spent the day with so far!

6. My current daydream about tonight: me and the couch. :)

Post #2

We had a fabulous weekend! It started off with a visit to our old church's high school lock-in. Mark and I used to be leaders for this group, and we can no longer endure all night lock-ins...well, Mark can. :) We wanted to see our good friend Luke and his band perform, as well as catch up with all the young adults...fun times!
On Saturday, my mom-in-law attended a beautiful baby shower for this girl. J is due in June and she is gorgeous and practicing already! This will be the first child for her and hubby, R...they are surrounded by so much love and support!



Me, J's sister J (funny, but true), and S. Thanks for including us in such a fun event!

The weather was sooooo beautiful on Saturday, and I know everyone agrees because all the blogs are talking about it! Mark and I had a spontaneous date night in Seattle, enjoyed delish food and are getting excited for summer!!! What is your fav downtown restaurant?