Camping: Barnes Style

Stephen and I really like to go camping.  However, we do not like to stay in a tent and sleep on the cold ground.  We also do not like to use latrines or go with out a kitchen.  So, we rent cabins with hot tubs and play outside all day, then go back to our comfy cabin and sleep.  Is that really camping? 

We spent a few days in Taos Ski Valley and loved every minute of it. 

 

Grandma B

We sure do love Grandma!  She stopped by for a quick visit last weekend and the boys had a blast.  We didn't really do much or go anywhere, like we usually do; however, sometimes that is just what we need.  We read books and talked and laughed. 

With-out Television

Well, I have been off facebook now for almost 4 weeks.  I get on Saturday mornings or if I have something to post (which is rare) and I feel FREE!  I do miss updates that are important such as life events in my friends lives.  Most people don't call or text when something happens, they just post it and missing it isn't fun, but oh well.

 I also turned off the television for good.  I KNOW!  HARD!  It was really hard.  REALLY HARD!  I love having play in the back ground so the boys can get distracted by it and I can have some alone time; however, it was taking over our lives.  We watched EVERY Disney movie.  We watched early morning cartoons.  We watched whatever was on. 

4 Weeks later... Edward started using his imagination.  He might just be at the age where he should be using it, but I really think it has to do with NO television.  It is so quiet around here now.  I can actually think.  I want to read more books and spend more time with my boys.  I am not constantly thinking that the computer or television need to entertain me and the boys.  We have had so much fun.

Edward pretended to be a bird.  Then he made a nest.  Then he started buying birds at the pet store and setting them free after he fed and watered them.  It was just so cute!  What a difference this last month has been with out the television. 

We still use the i-pads once a day.  The boys love to play the educational app's and, well, I approve of that.  At least for an hour or so, but then they need to get right back to playing.  Children need more time to play and less time sitting. (In my opinion). 

If you have some spare time, pick up "The phases of Learning" and read it.  Might just change your mind about what you allow your children to do or NOT do.

Edward and Nolen's ABC Book

Click here to view this photo book larger

Photo books are the perfect gift for any occasion.

Kingman in September

I took a drive to Kingman to end the summer with a bang.  Driving by myself isn't "so" hard anymore.  I just listen to an audio book and try really hard to ignore the boys.  We had such a fun time playing with cousins and taking pictures of Sharla.  We made quilts for the boys and even made a quilt for Sharla.  I almost finished the quilt for my bed.  My parents have so many little projects that needed to be done, so we helped out as much as possible. I am, always, grateful to my parents for their example and their love and support.  They are the true superstars of my life.