yes, it is true and next thing we know school is out for the summer. I say it all the time but where does the time go? It obviously passes by so quickly as I can find more grey hairs on my head, and both girls keep on growing. To me it is a little like a double edged sword - I love seeing them grow, getting more mature and independent but somewhat on the other side I want them to stay innocent children for as long as possible. Don't get me wrong…I think {or at least hope}it must be a dilemma many parents face.
All of us have been super busy these last few weeks. Mia Rose participated in the Talent Show at school dancing with two of her friends to Roar…oh yes, this Mama is quite proud
Alena on the other hand has been enjoying Girls Inc. and was so inspired that she set up shop in front of our house to sell her handmade Rainbow loom bracelets. She sold quite a few and no, not just to our friends :) I watched everything from the inside, as I - bad me - caught myself starting to micro manage her little store…
The parental units have been busy with work; and now I almost forgot - yesterday was the day that both ladies finally got ear rings. They had talked about it for so long, asked and they just caught Ron at the right time when he promised them "yes, Wednesday after work we will get your ears pierced". Lucky girls - their Mama was not quite ready yet :) Anyway we made our way down to the piercing studio, met Ron and now both of our girls have earrings. Yes, they are super proud…and Daddy scored a lot of points from his girlies…
Showing posts with label Mommy stuff.... Show all posts
Showing posts with label Mommy stuff.... Show all posts
Thursday, May 8, 2014
Friday, April 11, 2014
Things & Red Pepper Corn Chowder #Vegan #Dairyfree
How is everyone? All is fine here - I just have been in a - for lack of better words - little "lull"; you know just part of life, right?!
Now are you ready to hear about some delicious Red Pepper Corn Chowder? Courtesy of delicious frozen corn, you are able to bring summer to your table anytime of year now. I made it on a particular grey, cool, and rainy - albeit spring - day; it certainly brightened everyone's mood plus it is super easy, quick, and satisfying.
Red Pepper Corn Chowder
Time here seems to just fly by - please tell me that everyone is feeling like this. How can it already be April? I love spring but at times it all just runs a little too quickly for me; it probably has always been as fast but I never paid as much attention to it. My hair keeps getting more grey strands and the girlies are growing by - as you say - leaps and bounds. No longer are they little girlies, but big girls…Wow!!! It is all good and I am certainly not complaining to see our girlies grow into little ladies. Now please do not tell them that I referred to them as little…especially Mia Rose would be super upset :)
We have had another visit to our metabolic clinic, another blood draw, and Alena - now that she has turned ten - has had her first bone density scan. Our visit was - as usual - great; the fantastic news is that new guidelines will be coming out allowing a lot more cheeses and casein will be okay. I cannot wait to see them..both of the girls GALT levels were good {YAY} however the Vitamin D was off the chart as in off the chart low :(. That certainly was not the result we wanted to see but we are boosting Vitamin D with daily drops and another draw next month will {fingers crossed} show increased levels.
The result of the bone density level was not as expected and it really did throw me for a loop questioning myself…I was so surprised because both girls eat quite a bit of cheese, Alena drinks at least two large glasses of fortified Chocolate Almond Milk everyday, takes a supplement and still the bone density was not were it should be. The metabolic clinic however told us that they were not surprised since the Vitamin D level is so low. The good news is that there another ten years to build up Alena's bones. So boosting Vitamin D, more {soon} cheeses, and running {Ron started to take both girls with him} should bring us there. Fingers crossed…
Now are you ready to hear about some delicious Red Pepper Corn Chowder? Courtesy of delicious frozen corn, you are able to bring summer to your table anytime of year now. I made it on a particular grey, cool, and rainy - albeit spring - day; it certainly brightened everyone's mood plus it is super easy, quick, and satisfying.
Red Pepper Corn Chowder
- 2 Tbs Olive Oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 large carrot, cleaned and diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 1 - 2 large red pepper(s), seeds removed and diced
- 4 C diced potatoes
- 1 bag frozen corn
- 5 C water {or more}
- 1 vegan bullion broth
- 1/2 untreated lemon; zest & juice
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- Green onion diced for garnish
- Heat olive oil in a large stock pot. Add onions, carrot, and celery together with a pinch of salt.
- Sautee until onions begins to turn translucent.
- Add pepper and sauté for another minute or so.
- Add potatoes together with the corn and stir it all up for another minute
- Add water, as well as the bullion cube. Bring to a slow simmer, and cover.
- Simmer for about 20 - 25 minutes until potatoes are soft
- Using a hand blender, puree the soup to desired consistency. When blending be very careful not to burn yourself as the liquid will splatter.
- Add lemon zest, together with lemon juice and pepper. Adjust salt to taste.
Garnish with diced green onion; serve with a large side salad and some crusty bread!
Friday, February 28, 2014
Empowerment pays off… {#Galactosemia}
The other day Alena and I were at store to pick up a couple of items. Alena stayed by the front and this is what she was doing when I got back…
…there were snack samples - really yummy looking ones too - and Alena wanted to try it; so to determine whether she can eat she picked up the package and read the ingredients. It did make this mothership quite proud and it showed to me how empowering our kids has helped them to grow. They need to understand that not all foods are safe for them, that it is not just Mama & Daddy verifying whether it is safe, but they must do so themselves. It is so important that our kids learn this - because let's face it they all grow up :) This is also why I think that they need to learn that not all food at home is "safe"; we have learned this important lesson from our dear friends in Italy and we forever grateful for it. Karin and Eberhard - the parents of Lisa and Philip - told us, if they do not learn this at home where will they learn? Yes, so our kids know that there is food in our fridge that is just for us parental units, or those eating dairy and there are foods that are not safe. The kids read labels at the store and if there is no label, or they cannot verify that it is "safe" they will not eat it. Yes, this is not to say that they are not a little sad if there is not a treat for them…but you know what it is manageable. At least that is what I think; we are just so very lucky!
I have written on this topic before when the girls were much, much younger - if you have a chance you may enjoy these posts from four years, and three years ago. It was certainly fun for me - it is hard to believe how fast time flies…
Oh, and the yummy snack label Alena was reading? They were not safe…Alena put it back, and said "oh, that is too bad that I cannot try them…"I We am are so very proud of my our girlies...
…there were snack samples - really yummy looking ones too - and Alena wanted to try it; so to determine whether she can eat she picked up the package and read the ingredients. It did make this mothership quite proud and it showed to me how empowering our kids has helped them to grow. They need to understand that not all foods are safe for them, that it is not just Mama & Daddy verifying whether it is safe, but they must do so themselves. It is so important that our kids learn this - because let's face it they all grow up :) This is also why I think that they need to learn that not all food at home is "safe"; we have learned this important lesson from our dear friends in Italy and we forever grateful for it. Karin and Eberhard - the parents of Lisa and Philip - told us, if they do not learn this at home where will they learn? Yes, so our kids know that there is food in our fridge that is just for us parental units, or those eating dairy and there are foods that are not safe. The kids read labels at the store and if there is no label, or they cannot verify that it is "safe" they will not eat it. Yes, this is not to say that they are not a little sad if there is not a treat for them…but you know what it is manageable. At least that is what I think; we are just so very lucky!
I have written on this topic before when the girls were much, much younger - if you have a chance you may enjoy these posts from four years, and three years ago. It was certainly fun for me - it is hard to believe how fast time flies…
Oh, and the yummy snack label Alena was reading? They were not safe…Alena put it back, and said "oh, that is too bad that I cannot try them…"
Tuesday, October 29, 2013
Trick-or-Treating tips for #kids {#allergy #Galactosemia} #halloween
![]() |
Mia Rose carving her Jack-O-Lantern |
Here is a question that has was on my mind when our girls where not old enough to go trick-or treating. How will that work? Will they be sad if they cannot eat the candy? Or will we just not allow them to go? {Yes, I honestly entertained that question once for about 10 seconds...what on earth was I thinking?!}
![]() |
Alena carving her Jack-O-Lantern |
When trick-or-treating the girls always pick a piece of candy even if there are only "unsafe treats"; they are - of course - super excited about the houses that have safe treats, or special treats just for them...At home each girl empties her treat bag onto the table and they separate by safe/unsafe treats. Next we exchange the unsafe candy for safe candy. I always buy a bag of "safe" candy which we keep at home for this purpose only. This year, I am thinking that we will also exchange some candy for nickels...you know because how much candy does one really need, right?!
Now here are Alena's & Mia Rose's tips for a fun Trick-or Treating -
- See if there is a piece of candy that is safe, if not
- are there other treats like pencils, erasers, tattoos, if not
- choose the piece of candy that is the prettiest .
- Have lots of fun!!!
Now here is how it happened in the past....
Thursday, September 19, 2013
Look who is climbing a tree...
Friday, May 10, 2013
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio, lemon dressing & school lunch helpers
Time has just been flying by. I guess that is what happens when you are having too much fun :) We have been enjoying amazing weather - truly just wonderful hopefully I will not jinx it. I have been busy at work, while the girls are kept busy at school. Weekly dinner updates have been posted to the Facebook page of The Not So Cheesy Kitchen.
Beautiful weather calls for easy dinners, so last night it was Spaghetti Aglio e Olio and a side of red leaf lettuce mixed with fennel in a lemony dressing.
At the dinner table everyone shared their day, and Alena talked about how she was the lunch helper at school. The lunch helper works in the school kitchen and passes out food to the other students. On Wednesday she was in charge of milk, and yesterday she was in charge of pizza. Alena and Mia Rose are well aware that they cannot have either, but to them it is no big deal at all. Neither girl is sad that the other kids get to eat pizza at school and I must tell you that I am so proud of them. And honestly, this is something that as little as four years ago would have scared me beyond belief. It does sound silly now - but having them handle milk, and cheese pizza without me was unimaginable. That thought process sounds so crazy to me today because what could happen?! In any case, we came to find out that both of our girls love, love, love to be lunch helpers and giving out milk is both of their favorite job.
Now on to the dinner...
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
Lemon Dressing

Beautiful weather calls for easy dinners, so last night it was Spaghetti Aglio e Olio and a side of red leaf lettuce mixed with fennel in a lemony dressing.
At the dinner table everyone shared their day, and Alena talked about how she was the lunch helper at school. The lunch helper works in the school kitchen and passes out food to the other students. On Wednesday she was in charge of milk, and yesterday she was in charge of pizza. Alena and Mia Rose are well aware that they cannot have either, but to them it is no big deal at all. Neither girl is sad that the other kids get to eat pizza at school and I must tell you that I am so proud of them. And honestly, this is something that as little as four years ago would have scared me beyond belief. It does sound silly now - but having them handle milk, and cheese pizza without me was unimaginable. That thought process sounds so crazy to me today because what could happen?! In any case, we came to find out that both of our girls love, love, love to be lunch helpers and giving out milk is both of their favorite job.
Now on to the dinner...
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
- 1 lb. thin Spaghetti {I like Barilla}
- 1/3 C Olive Oil
- 6 cloves of garlic peeled, and cut into fine slices
- 3 tsp Italian Herbs {I like Herb Hunter}
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes {optional - you can use more or leave it out}
- zest of one untreated lemon {use the lemon for the dressing}
- 3/4 C reserved spaghetti water
- Salt & Pepper to taste
- 1 C grated Parmesiano Regiano {optional}
- Cook pasta according to directions - while pasta is cooking
- heat olive oil in a deep pan and when hot
- add garlic, watch garlic carefully you do not want it to burn then
- add herbs and - if using - red pepper flakes
- add the water from the spaghetti and when it is is reduced
- add lemon zest, salt and pepper
- add cooked pasta to the pan and toss it with the olive oil/garlic/herb mixture
Lemon Dressing
- Juice of one lemon
- 4 Tb of Olive Oil
- salt & pepper to taste
- pinch of sugar
- 3 green onions cut into small rings
- Mix lemon juice with olive oil,
- add a pinch of sugar as well as salt and pepper to taste. Mix it well into the dressing then,
- add green onions

Labels:
#WeekdaySupper,
daily life,
dairy free,
Easy dinner,
milk free,
Mommy stuff,
Mommy stuff...,
pasta,
picture,
Quick Dinner,
School and Food,
School Mommy stuff...,
Vegan,
Vegetarian
Monday, May 6, 2013
Sunday at the Oregon Coast {Short Sands Beach - Oswald West}
The weather has gone a little crazy - at least so I think...please do not get me wrong I we are not complaining about the summery temperatures we have had this weekend. Yes, summery temperatures I am not kidding; summery as in mid to high eighties (yes, 80s+) and yes, this is Portland, Oregon :) Perfect time for a family excursions to the Oregon Coast; fresh air, beach....
The weather and temperature at the coast can be so different compared to Portland, but I prepared. It generally {note generally} is quite a bit cooler, and blue skies are not guaranteed. Let me tell you, I prepared!!! Yup - the mothership - unlike the rest of the family - was dressed appropriately. Long pants, short sleeve shirt, cardigan...you know, it is the Oregon Coast. The girlies and Ron on the other hand were in shorts {dress}, and of course short sleeve shirts; do not worry, this mothership prepared. Warm leggings, long sleeve shirts, and jackets were brought along for everyone. Being cold is just no fun - right?!
We decided to go to Oswald West and take the hikelet {= a very short hike more a walk}through the magical forest to Short Sands Beach. This is a surfer's beach and in a beautiful cove. We have been there plenty of times and it is always so worth the visit. As a side note, we {pre kids} have gone on a couple fantastic longer hikes there - magnificent views, and a beautiful hike {Cape Falcon}.
1-1/2 hours later we arrive at Oswald left and the temperature is...eighty-seven degrees {yes, 87F} at the Oregon Coast. Ahhhhmmmm, yes it was hot at the beach and I was dressed completely inappropriate plus {of course} I did not bring any swim suits for the girlies. Again, this is the Oregon Coast and no, I we would never ever allow my children to swim in the Pacific at the Oregon Coast but we do like to frolic in by the the water and in the "lakes" on the beach.
A beautiful hikelet through the magical forest where a couple of fairies walked with the girlies....truly magical...
Putting on sun screen - Playing in the sand
Playing in the "lake"
Can you see the elephant?
The weather and temperature at the coast can be so different compared to Portland, but I prepared. It generally {note generally} is quite a bit cooler, and blue skies are not guaranteed. Let me tell you, I prepared!!! Yup - the mothership - unlike the rest of the family - was dressed appropriately. Long pants, short sleeve shirt, cardigan...you know, it is the Oregon Coast. The girlies and Ron on the other hand were in shorts {dress}, and of course short sleeve shirts; do not worry, this mothership prepared. Warm leggings, long sleeve shirts, and jackets were brought along for everyone. Being cold is just no fun - right?!
We decided to go to Oswald West and take the hikelet {= a very short hike more a walk}through the magical forest to Short Sands Beach. This is a surfer's beach and in a beautiful cove. We have been there plenty of times and it is always so worth the visit. As a side note, we {pre kids} have gone on a couple fantastic longer hikes there - magnificent views, and a beautiful hike {Cape Falcon}.
1-1/2 hours later we arrive at Oswald left and the temperature is...eighty-seven degrees {yes, 87F} at the Oregon Coast. Ahhhhmmmm, yes it was hot at the beach and I was dressed completely inappropriate plus {of course} I did not bring any swim suits for the girlies. Again, this is the Oregon Coast and no,
A beautiful hikelet through the magical forest where a couple of fairies walked with the girlies....truly magical...
Putting on sun screen - Playing in the sand
Playing in the "lake"
Can you see the elephant?
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Corn Chowder {#dairyfree #vegan} & the Tooth Fairy sent a letter
Alena has been loosing teeth two weeks in a row. Each week another molar came out and this meant that the Tooth Fairy was kept very busy in our little house. One night Alena left a glass of water out for her because she had heard that the Tooth Fairy likes to dip her wingtips, and/or her magic wand into some water when she visits. At the visit - apparently - the color of the water changes to the color of the visiting Tooth Fairy. Guess, what?! Yup, the Tooth Fairy did visit and the water in the glass turned a beautiful green. Oh yes, the amazement was magnificent :)
Alena also left a letter each time with her tooth, and she was hoping to hear back from the Tooth Fairy. Guess what happened earlier this week? Yes, you probably guessed correctly - both girls got a letter each from the Tooth Fairy. Magical little letters, that even had fairy dust in them. Can you say magic?!
Both girls were so excited; it was the very first time that Mia Rose has received a letter from the Tooth Fairy...so there was a LOT of excitement. Take a look at the girlies...
Now on to the Corn Chowder we are having for dinner tonight. It is easy, quick, satisfying and delicious. All in one. - I also made a loaf of quick no knead bread {today with Whole Wheat Flour, 1/4 C Sunflower Seeds, as well as 3 TB of Sesame Seeds} to accompany the dinner.
Corn Chowder
Alena also left a letter each time with her tooth, and she was hoping to hear back from the Tooth Fairy. Guess what happened earlier this week? Yes, you probably guessed correctly - both girls got a letter each from the Tooth Fairy. Magical little letters, that even had fairy dust in them. Can you say magic?!
Both girls were so excited; it was the very first time that Mia Rose has received a letter from the Tooth Fairy...so there was a LOT of excitement. Take a look at the girlies...
Now on to the Corn Chowder we are having for dinner tonight. It is easy, quick, satisfying and delicious. All in one. - I also made a loaf of quick no knead bread {today with Whole Wheat Flour, 1/4 C Sunflower Seeds, as well as 3 TB of Sesame Seeds} to accompany the dinner.
Corn Chowder
- Splash of Canola Oil
- 1 onion diced
- 1 medium carrot cleaned - cut into pieces
- 2 celery stalks - cut into pieces
- 1/2 red pepper - cleaned and diced
- pinch of salt
- 1 16oz bag of frozen super sweet corn kernels
- 4 medium to large yellow skin potatoes - thoroughly washed and diced
- 5 C of water
- 1/2 C of Wildwood Soy Creamer
- 3-4 green onions cleaned and cut into rings for garnish
- Salt, Pepper, Chef's Shake by The Spice Hunter to taste
- In a stock pot heat oil, when hot add onions with a pinch of salt. Sautee until onions are soft, then
- Add carrots, celery and red pepper. Sautee until fragrant and vegetables turn bright in color
- Add corn, mix it under the veggies and sautee for another couple of minutes
- Add potatoes mix them under the veggies before adding water.
- Bring to a slow simmer and simmer until potatoes are soft
- Adjust spices before adding the Soy Creamer
- Ladle into soup bowls and garnish each serving with green onion rings
Friday, April 5, 2013
Fun Field Trip to the Rice Museum....
Happy Friday!!! Today Alena's class went on a field trip. You know what that means, right? Yup, it means that I chaperone. Parent involvement at our school is amazing; many parents help in the classroom, some organize and manage the weekly running club, others organize the science fair, while others work on fundraising programs...but I copy - which I am quite good at :) - and chaperone on field trips....
All the 3rd grader went on the field trip to the Rice Museum in Hillsboro, Oregon. It is about a 45 minutes bus ride - yes, I did get to ride on the school us today - at least from our part of town. So what is the Rice museum? Well, it is not about rice - as far as I know Oregon is not one of the major rice producers ;) - but a museum founded by the Rice family and it is all about rocks and minerals. Wow - let me just tell you that this place is major fun as in FUN. Really, exhibits with amazing rocks, fossils and minerals are stacked wall to wall. in the exhibits There is an exhibit with rocks that glow in the dark, a room of petrified wood and shelves lines with polished "slices" of it showing off their amazing colors as well as textures, a meteorite gallery {yes you get to touch them}. . Plus let me not forget to tell you about the room with packed with huge emerald formations, amethyst, rubies, sapphires, diamonds and so many other crystals formations...just amazing. Take a look at some of the exhibits...the pictures are courtesy by no other but Alena :)
Yes, the 3rd graders - as well as the chaperons - had so much fun. We ate lunch, Oregon style outside
and at the end of the tour all kids got to search for their own treasure in the large rock pile outside. Can you see how much fun Alena and her friends are having?
The next time we go out to the beach we will definitively have to stop there. Ron and Mia Rosie will love this place...ahhhhm yes it will not just be for me :). Alena loved it just as much. Here she is :)
All the 3rd grader went on the field trip to the Rice Museum in Hillsboro, Oregon. It is about a 45 minutes bus ride - yes, I did get to ride on the school us today - at least from our part of town. So what is the Rice museum? Well, it is not about rice - as far as I know Oregon is not one of the major rice producers ;) - but a museum founded by the Rice family and it is all about rocks and minerals. Wow - let me just tell you that this place is major fun as in FUN. Really, exhibits with amazing rocks, fossils and minerals are stacked wall to wall. in the exhibits There is an exhibit with rocks that glow in the dark, a room of petrified wood and shelves lines with polished "slices" of it showing off their amazing colors as well as textures, a meteorite gallery {yes you get to touch them}. . Plus let me not forget to tell you about the room with packed with huge emerald formations, amethyst, rubies, sapphires, diamonds and so many other crystals formations...just amazing. Take a look at some of the exhibits...the pictures are courtesy by no other but Alena :)
Yes, the 3rd graders - as well as the chaperons - had so much fun. We ate lunch, Oregon style outside
and at the end of the tour all kids got to search for their own treasure in the large rock pile outside. Can you see how much fun Alena and her friends are having?
The next time we go out to the beach we will definitively have to stop there. Ron and Mia Rosie will love this place...ahhhhm yes it will not just be for me :). Alena loved it just as much. Here she is :)
Monday, March 25, 2013
Mia Rose's tribute to her lost cat...{#video}
You may remember that we lost one of our cats in September of 2012; Mia Rose still misses our Zeppy and in her class she wrote a little book as a tribute to Zeppy. Me - the mothership - thinks this is so sweet and this is why I am sharing it with you today...
Saturday, March 23, 2013
Catered school lunch - What would you do?
This year the entire school in the Pennies for Patients fund raiser from the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society for schools. Each child had a little box to collect change, and over the course of a week each classroom counted their total collected funds. Alena's class raised the most money and as a result - this was a surprise to all - won a catered lunch from Olive Garden. The entire class was so excited; catered lunch for the entire class for lunch in the classroom. Yay, right?! So here was the question the teacher asked me. Will Alena be able to eat, or will she bring her own lunch as every day? That was the big question....What would you do? There are two options, right? One, have her be the only kid in class eating from her regular lunchbox and in ways single her completely out, or two, figure out a way to have Alena join the lunch. So what do you think I did?
Yes, you are right. I figured it out - our fantastic teacher was able to give me the contact information at the Olive Garden catering the lunch. I called and found out that the kids were going to be served pasta with marinara sauce, salad, and breadsticks. Now, did you know that the marinara sauce of the Olive Garden contains dairy, and that none of their dressings are "safe". Yes, that is right! I was quite surprised to find out - well, I have not been to an Olive Garden since leaving the Mid West - and expected that they would not be able to accommodate for Alena. Was I wrong! The manager swiftly asked if she could eat pasta with olive oil, and whether salad with olive oil together with balsamico would work for her. Next she asked how to spell her name and promised to have two extra containers just for Alena. One with her pasta, and the other with her salad. And you know what, that is exactly what happened. The kids had lunch catered this last Thursday; a huge dish of pasta with marinara sauce, a huge dish with salad along with "unsafe" dressings, and two dishes with Alena's name on it one containing pasta with olive oil and the other her salad along with olive oil and balsamico. Let me just tell you that my child was just so thrilled to also eat the catered lunch.
Tell me, if you have children with dietary issues what would you have done? I would love to hear from you...
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
#Video Mia Rose sings Gong Xi Gong Xi Gong Xi Ni Ya
Have I ever told you, that Mia Rose loves all things Chinese? Well, she does and has it all figured out. When she is grown up she wants to live part of the time in China, part of the time in Porltand, and part of the time in Germany. Yup - that is her plan :)
In school she gets about an hour of chinese lessons a week and for the Chinese New Year's Celebration the Chinese teacher performed this song with a bunch of 1st graders. Since this has been Mia Rosie's favorite song and she sings it all the time. Ron captured her perfectly - and if you watch until the end you can also see her Cross Country Skiing :) Thank you! ~ Signed by one very proud Mothership Bea
In school she gets about an hour of chinese lessons a week and for the Chinese New Year's Celebration the Chinese teacher performed this song with a bunch of 1st graders. Since this has been Mia Rosie's favorite song and she sings it all the time. Ron captured her perfectly - and if you watch until the end you can also see her Cross Country Skiing :) Thank you! ~ Signed by one very proud Mothership Bea
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
Sunriver Fun - Playing in the snow & treats
Last weekend we drove out to Sunriver for a long weekend. Time to play in the snow, soak in the hot tub, swim in the pool, and just hang out. Sunriver is the perfect spot for that. Well, at least in my opinion :)
We rent a cabin {oh yes, complete with hot tub :)} and play outdoors. This was the first time we have gone in the winter; prior to that it always either late, or early summer. The driving over the mountain pass has actually held us back in the past...you never know whether there is a snow storm up on Mt. Hood.
![]() |
It was raining in Portland - snow storm on Mt. Hood - dry in Bend - snowy in Sunriver |
Because of the snow storm on the mountain we left town {that is Portland} without any groceries, except you know Pasta, Earth Balance, a couple of packs of Oat Milk, and - yes - chips as a snack for the girlies...I have to admit so, that the last time we went out to Bend we realized that there is a Trader Joe's on the way. Otherwise, I would not have left without our essential food items as sometimes it can be a little challenging to get "safe" foods for the girlies :). In any case needless to say our first stop was at Trader Joe's where we stocked up on Soy Yoghurt, Chocolate Soy Milk, bread etc. - After dinner it was the perfect time for a soak with snow falling on our heads - such a nice change :)
We woke up to winter wonderland and decided to give Cross Country Skiing a try. Do you remember our snow shoeing day? If not, Mia Rose was not so excited about hiking on snowshoes, so it was time to give another winter sport a try. We honestly, did not know how the ladies would like it. It could go either way, right? Well, if you know us a little bit you understand that we have to spend time outdoors. We love the outdoors...anyway we rented skis, drove towards Mt. Bachelor to "Meissner" Sno-Park, and gave it a try...
I think that we have found our winter sport! Yes, we all loved it - serene, beautiful, a good workout....the girls did such a fantastic job. The first day we skied 2 miles, and the second day we went out for 3 miles. Take a look...
and you know what? There was even a little coffee shop trailer at end of the trail and - now that IS the really big news - they had Vegan Hot Chocolate for the ladies. We were so, so excited. Alena asked first "Oh, I really wish I could have hot chocolate..." we asked and voila...THE perfect treat for both ladies as well as for both parental units...But you know, that it would have also been okay for both girls had they not been able to have a treat at the coffee trailer on at the Sno Park.
Thursday, February 14, 2013
Happy Valentine's Day and a very Happy Mama
Did you have a nice day, or are you still having a wonderful day? We sure did. The girls were so excited this morning as Alena said "Finally it is Valentine's Day". The girlies do get in the spirit of things. We had a card, a foot long pencil {yes, I know absolutely silly}, and a dairy free chocolate bar for each girl. It set the day off right for the entire family...
At school there was a party in each classroom. So we did, what probably most of you with school aged children did as well...make Valentine's earlier in the week. For the parties I volunteered to bring the treats - juice boxes, fruit roll-ups, and Skittles. Each classroom had made mailboxes to hold the Valentine's for each kid. They each came home with packed full mailboxes and more treats...We looked together at the treats at home and I am so proud of our girls. Alena sorted out all of the candy that contain milk; she just said "they must not know that I cannot have milk" and passed it off to me {yes, I certainly do NOT need any additional candy}. Alena then helped Mia Rose sort through her Valentine's...
Oh, and I do need to tell you what one of Mia Rosies' best friends told her at school "I am so sorry I brought chocolate and forgot that you cannot have it" they hugged and Mia Rosies' response was "that is okay". It was no big deal - they just know that Mia Rose cannot have products containing milk...
Honestly, I cannot tell you how happy it makes me that both girls are able to manage school parties with confidence and ease. They are not singled out, and it makes me so, so very happy. Thank you for reading!
At school there was a party in each classroom. So we did, what probably most of you with school aged children did as well...make Valentine's earlier in the week. For the parties I volunteered to bring the treats - juice boxes, fruit roll-ups, and Skittles. Each classroom had made mailboxes to hold the Valentine's for each kid. They each came home with packed full mailboxes and more treats...We looked together at the treats at home and I am so proud of our girls. Alena sorted out all of the candy that contain milk; she just said "they must not know that I cannot have milk" and passed it off to me {yes, I certainly do NOT need any additional candy}. Alena then helped Mia Rose sort through her Valentine's...
Oh, and I do need to tell you what one of Mia Rosies' best friends told her at school "I am so sorry I brought chocolate and forgot that you cannot have it" they hugged and Mia Rosies' response was "that is okay". It was no big deal - they just know that Mia Rose cannot have products containing milk...
Honestly, I cannot tell you how happy it makes me that both girls are able to manage school parties with confidence and ease. They are not singled out, and it makes me so, so very happy. Thank you for reading!
![]() |
Mia Rosie and her Valentine's |
![]() |
Alena and her Valentine's |
Thursday, January 10, 2013
Taco Night & Blood-draw results...
...yes both on one day :) - Alena's favorite dinner. She has been asking for me to make Taco's now for at least a couple of weeks. Both girls were quite happy as I made pancakes for breakfast, and Taco's for dinner...
Almost like a celebration, right?! Well, that is how Ron and I felt when we opened the letter with the blood-draw results for the girls. You may remember, that we went up to the hill {a.k.a. OHSU} after Christmas for the dreaded blood-draw to measure the GALT levels {to measure the Galactose in their blood}, as well as their Vitamin D levels. Things can change, so for some reason I am always a wee bit nervous...good news, their GALT levels remain stable and well controlled and we are so happy! On the other hand, their Vitamin D levels had been way too low and we have been working to improve them now for quite a while. And...the result is Alena finally meets the minimum, and Mia Rosie is almost there. I think the difference is that Mia Rose only drinks fortified OJ {and not as much} and Alena drinks a lot of fortified Soy Chocolate Milk. Also, we have been giving the girls the Vitamin D drops every morning...I am one happy Mama!
Almost like a celebration, right?! Well, that is how Ron and I felt when we opened the letter with the blood-draw results for the girls. You may remember, that we went up to the hill {a.k.a. OHSU} after Christmas for the dreaded blood-draw to measure the GALT levels {to measure the Galactose in their blood}, as well as their Vitamin D levels. Things can change, so for some reason I am always a wee bit nervous...good news, their GALT levels remain stable and well controlled and we are so happy! On the other hand, their Vitamin D levels had been way too low and we have been working to improve them now for quite a while. And...the result is Alena finally meets the minimum, and Mia Rosie is almost there. I think the difference is that Mia Rose only drinks fortified OJ {and not as much} and Alena drinks a lot of fortified Soy Chocolate Milk. Also, we have been giving the girls the Vitamin D drops every morning...I am one happy Mama!
Monday, December 31, 2012
Alena's #story in #song {#Newbornscreening} #video
You may have read Alena's story before on my blog, or at another site - just in case you are not familiar {and are interested} here is our story again. For the full story please click on this link, in a nutshell at 6 days of life Alena's Newbornscreening test came back positive for Classic Galactosemia. We were already in the hospital, the diagnosis came in, she was taken for a spinal tap, and by the next morning E.Coli had grown in her spinal fluid. She seized, was transferred to the PICU {Pediatric ICU} where she was diagnosed with E. Coli Mengengitis which can {does not have to be} a effect of Classic Galactosemia, and the baby's exposure to Galactose {at least that is how I understand it - I am a Mom a layperson so double check with your physician}. As far as I understand it is not understood why some babies with Classic Galactosemia develop E. Coli Mengengitis. Let me just say that was THE worst moment of our lives. We are so thankful for the Newbornscreen because without it Alena would most likely not have survived.
Now, what does this have to do with a song? Well, Ron {my dear husband} makes New Years Resolutions {unlike me} and his 2012 goal was to write one, and publish one song a month. Congratulations, Ron because you did it yay :) - I am not off topic - really just bear with me....for the December song of 2012 Ron put his recollection and memory of this frightful event into words. You know, unlike me, he really does not like to talk about that time. I am so glad he got it out - it is a song for me, for us, for our kids, and also to tell the world about the importance of Newbornscreening. In his song, he put our fears into words and beautiful music. It brings me right back to that time and yes, it makes me cry....and yes, we are the lucky parents because our child survived. Both of our children are alive because of Newbornscreening...Please share our story with your friends, those that are expecting babies, or those who just like to listen to music.
Alena's story by my dear husband...
Now, what does this have to do with a song? Well, Ron {my dear husband} makes New Years Resolutions {unlike me} and his 2012 goal was to write one, and publish one song a month. Congratulations, Ron because you did it yay :) - I am not off topic - really just bear with me....for the December song of 2012 Ron put his recollection and memory of this frightful event into words. You know, unlike me, he really does not like to talk about that time. I am so glad he got it out - it is a song for me, for us, for our kids, and also to tell the world about the importance of Newbornscreening. In his song, he put our fears into words and beautiful music. It brings me right back to that time and yes, it makes me cry....and yes, we are the lucky parents because our child survived. Both of our children are alive because of Newbornscreening...Please share our story with your friends, those that are expecting babies, or those who just like to listen to music.
Alena's story by my dear husband...
Thursday, December 27, 2012
Christmas recap & last blood draw of 2012
I know, I know strange title...but my brain just could not come with anything better than this. In my mind I have written at least five different posts since Christmas but as you can see it just did not work out. I mean getting it out of my brain onto the screen. So now, a bunch of posts wrapped into one.
We had a very nice and relaxing Christmas this year. I missed my family dearly this year since we have celebrated the last couple of years with them. Mylittle sister is in Finland, my Mom is on a fantastic trip to Vietnam, and my dear friend Beate stayed in Europe. We spent Christmas Eve baking cookies for Santa,
making dessert {Vegan Mousse Chocolate - it will be a future post}, and having a nice, relaxing day. And yes, there was Swabian Potato salad and Fleischkaese for dinner :) Take a look at the girls toasting {with sparkling cider}
It has been our tradition to roast a goose for Christmas Day, as it was only going to be us we changed the meal to a beef roast. I did make Kartoffelkloesse {potato dumplings} - it happens once a year and that is at Christmas. We took our Christmas Day family walk {yes, in the pouring rain}
and were thrilled to have guests join us for dinner - there is something wonderful about having friends or family around the dinner table for a holiday :) - Take a look does it not look cozy...
Today we went up to the hill {OHSU} for the girl's last blood draw of 2012; I did not tell them until this morning to keep the anxiety level down. I am not complaining - honestly - or whining {even if it sounds like it} because it really is not a big deal b u t it still takes out a lot of me. Both girls are anxious - Alena more than Mia Rose - and I try to stay positive. "Magic creme" {anesthetic creme} makes it all better but still...I know our diet is great and GALT levels have always been good, there is however always this underlying nag. You want to know the truth? Internally I am shaking because it always brings me back to when Alena was an infant in the NICU. I sound so silly and absolutely self absorbed, yes this is nothing in the grand scheme of things we are SO SO lucky. In any case, I just needed to get it off my chest. Thank you for listening!!!
The draw today was taken in a regular visitation room - Alena sat on my lap and Mia Rose sitting on the chair next to me watched - in horror - the entire procedure. For the first time Mia Rose cried - almost hyperventilating - during her blood draw {she sat on my lap}. Let me just tell you, that this Mama had the hardest time keeping it together...In any case, after the draw Alena needed to lie down and both girls needed juice...I could have used something stronger than that...but yay, it is done for 2012. Fingers crossed that the levels come back great!!!
Oh, and for a treat we had lunch at HopWorks...
We had a very nice and relaxing Christmas this year. I missed my family dearly this year since we have celebrated the last couple of years with them. My
![]() |
Baking cookies for Santa |
making dessert {Vegan Mousse Chocolate - it will be a future post}, and having a nice, relaxing day. And yes, there was Swabian Potato salad and Fleischkaese for dinner :) Take a look at the girls toasting {with sparkling cider}
Toast on Christmas Eve |
It has been our tradition to roast a goose for Christmas Day, as it was only going to be us we changed the meal to a beef roast. I did make Kartoffelkloesse {potato dumplings} - it happens once a year and that is at Christmas. We took our Christmas Day family walk {yes, in the pouring rain}
![]() |
Family walk, Christmas toast, and visit to Santa 2012 |
Christmas Day 2012 |
The draw today was taken in a regular visitation room - Alena sat on my lap and Mia Rose sitting on the chair next to me watched - in horror - the entire procedure. For the first time Mia Rose cried - almost hyperventilating - during her blood draw {she sat on my lap}. Let me just tell you, that this Mama had the hardest time keeping it together...In any case, after the draw Alena needed to lie down and both girls needed juice...I could have used something stronger than that...but yay, it is done for 2012. Fingers crossed that the levels come back great!!!
Oh, and for a treat we had lunch at HopWorks...
Tuesday, December 25, 2012
Perhaps it means a little bit more...
"Maybe Christmas," he thought "does not come from a store! Maybe Christmas perhaps means a little bit more" quote from The Grinch who stole Christmas. A couple of weeks ago we watched the Grinch and this is my favorite quote, because it is so true. The feeling of joy and happiness is not something that can be bought in a store, it is the feeling we get from within us. Something that we feel when we spend time together, help others, and just be kind. This is something we try to teach our children. I think it is important. They got presents from the Christkind as well as from Santa but not - at least what I think - ton's of them. Still plenty of presents...
We spent quite a bit of time at home last week. Doing crafts, drawing, reading, and - yes - there was some television time as well {too much}. We also visited a couple of girls that go to school with Alena and Mia Rosie. It was not a regular playdate; the two girls live at Providence Center for Medically Fragile Children. You see, at Alena and Mia Rosies schoo school has a classroom for medically fragile children. The children attend school daily, and for certain classes are integrated in the neighborhood classroom {along with a medical aid}. For the past year, Alena and Mia Rose, have wanted to visit. We went last Friday. Alena decided that she wanted to read to each of the girls from one of her Fairy books...Everyone was happy! My girls as well as their friends. You could see the joy in their eyes...Alena and Mia Rose decided that they would like to visit again next week. This is what I mean by finding the happiness and joy in your heart. It is not about the presents {ok they matter as well :)}, it is what you find in your heart!
Merry Christmas - Froehliche Weihnachten - Happy Day from the four of us to all of you.
Let there be peace on earth!!!
2012 Christmas Eve Dinner |
We spent quite a bit of time at home last week. Doing crafts, drawing, reading, and - yes - there was some television time as well {too much}. We also visited a couple of girls that go to school with Alena and Mia Rosie. It was not a regular playdate; the two girls live at Providence Center for Medically Fragile Children. You see, at Alena and Mia Rosies schoo school has a classroom for medically fragile children. The children attend school daily, and for certain classes are integrated in the neighborhood classroom {along with a medical aid}. For the past year, Alena and Mia Rose, have wanted to visit. We went last Friday. Alena decided that she wanted to read to each of the girls from one of her Fairy books...Everyone was happy! My girls as well as their friends. You could see the joy in their eyes...Alena and Mia Rose decided that they would like to visit again next week. This is what I mean by finding the happiness and joy in your heart. It is not about the presents {ok they matter as well :)}, it is what you find in your heart!
Merry Christmas - Froehliche Weihnachten - Happy Day from the four of us to all of you.
Let there be peace on earth!!!
Friday, December 21, 2012
Visit to Santa
the Advent Calendar Fairy - okay the girls know that is me - keeps on going and earlier this weeks the girlies got a ticket to go see Santa.
We all like to go downtown and the plan was to go to Santa Village downtown. Before heading to see Santa we saw the large Christmas tree at Ron's office, met him for lunch, and then headed to Santa Village. Lucky for us, there was no line at all and the girlies got to visit with all of the Reindeers before telling Santa what they were hoping for...
We all like to go downtown and the plan was to go to Santa Village downtown. Before heading to see Santa we saw the large Christmas tree at Ron's office, met him for lunch, and then headed to Santa Village. Lucky for us, there was no line at all and the girlies got to visit with all of the Reindeers before telling Santa what they were hoping for...
Visiting with Rudloph |
![]() |
Mia Rose visiting Donder & Blitzen |
![]() |
Alena visiting Dasher & Dancer |
2012 visit to Santa |
Friday, December 14, 2012
at a loss of words...
...this week was very hectic and I had planned to write a fun post with a round up on our dinner's this week. It is not going to happen. I just cannot write and pretend nothing has happened; I cannot just sweep the horror that happened today at Sandy Hook Elementary School underneath the table. It nags on me as I am sure it does on everyone. My heart breaks for all the families that now have to endure such unimaginable pain...who goes out and shoots innocent people, children?! There is something very, very wrong. Just earlier this week another shooting happened right here at Clackamas Town Center in the metro Portland area. When will it stop? It makes me sick to my stomach that now, the lives of children - innocent, little children - have been taken by a senseless act of violence. My heart goes out to everyone affected; I weep for all the lives, hopes, and dreams lost.
Today we will join all parents as we hold our kids tighter and hug them until they tell us to stop...
Today we will join all parents as we hold our kids tighter and hug them until they tell us to stop...
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)