Rutabaga Buffet!

Long time no-see!

2011-10-07T23:33:00.000+02:00

It's been a long time

Since we've typed a word

Sharing nothing new,

Exciting, or absurd.

Our digital footprint

Was threatened indeed.

Our blog time filled

With more needful needs.

Here are some pictures

And new thought or two

I'll try to keep a post on here

If it proves good to do.

Fun with Grandpa Jay

Nothing Gold Can Stay

Nature's first green is gold,
Her hardest hue to hold.
Her early leaf's a flower;
But only so an hour.
Then leaf subsides to leaf.
So Eden sank to grief,
So dawn goes down to day.
Nothing gold can stay.
-Robert Frost

And Sometimes It Snows

2010-02-25T19:50:00.003+01:00

And now, a feeble attempt to ~~ketchup~~ catch up.

We celebrated Jason's birthday and the end of January.

It was a low-key celebration, although Orin, Adam and I did decorate and dress for the occasion. Ok, and there may have been party hats involved. Oh, and Orin wanted to decorate Dad’s chair with Christmas lights.

We had bison burgers and sweet potato fries and a flaming (vast number of candles) carrot cake for desert.

For some BIG news, Jason was given command of Headquarters and Services Battery at Second LAAD Battalion (Low Altitude Air Defense). There was a traditionally quick change of command ceremony.

This is a great opportunity; congratulations Jason!

This a picture of the man at work. Watch him go!

Also of note recently, I was accepted into Norwich University for their Master of Arts in Diplomacy program. It’s all online except for a “residency” which I have to attend in order to present my work, meet the great people I’ve been working with, and graduate with a ceremony involving a hood.

I’m fired up to say the least.

We mourn the passing of our only ivy plant. Yes, I hear you, “how in the world did you manage to kill an ivy plant?” Well, you see we put it up in one of those fancy spots that builders of impractical houses place high near the ceiling area. The idea was that we’d get the ladder out and water it once a week. I believe you know the rest of this story.

Orin and Adam are well. Orin likes to count to 20 in different ways and using different things (anything Mom can find for the moment) and read/hear stories. He sings a lot and makes up words to suit the sounds he feels like making. Adam enjoys taking things apart, scattering them dramatically with whooshing noises, and cuddling.

This is us and our friend, Brian having built the first (and probably only) snow man of the year.

A free piano!

A friend of ours had bought a used piano for his grandson, but the young man was disinterested to the point of taking a saw to the side of it. Our friend offered to give it away. We accepted the offer and had it repaired and tuned. So now we have a piano. It’s a nice addition to our family and we’re starting to learn songs and technique bit by bit. While the gentleman, Donald Bunch, was here working on it, Orin invited him to lunch with us. We had so much fun with Don that we exchanged information and hope to go paddling with him around here sometime.

Well, I think this is enough for a post, don’t you?

Here's a few more pictures:

Love,

Kimberly

First Post of 2010!

2010-01-07T03:58:00.001+01:00

Jason and I are going to kick off this new year with a little more salsa.

Yes, not only more of the delicious condiment, but also more of that spicy Latin dance.

Good times!

In other news, we've been thinking (and acting) more purposefully toward the hungry, cold, sick and elderly in our community. They're not very far away, and it sure doesn't take very much effort to warm someone's heart and belly. Since November, the amount of food going out of our home his taken off a bit; and there's still so much more that could be done. North Carolina has one of the highest jobless rates right now, and it's visible, even in this area.

Our Christmas was tenderly quiet, reverent, and very spiritual. Our guest of honor this year was Linda Bennet, hailing from Oriental, NC. We ate ham, played with toys, shared some music, and had a great time. This is one of our family traditions, now in it's 3rd year.

Conversely, our New Year's celebration was loud, obstreperous, and fun. We started with a festive dinner then threw confetti around on the back porch while laughing and dancing; celebrating the new year at about 7:00 with the children shouting. Jason and I wound it back down, put them to bed, and passed out. Ahhhh. . .the blessings of a good night's sleep!

Not many pictures to speak of. Where is the camera when the moment is HERE!

Love and happiness to you!

Jason'n Kim

Peace and Quiet

2009-11-09T16:13:00.000+01:00

It's been peaceful around here.

Orin, Adam, and I run off to play in the forest often.

I also tend to make a lot of picnic lunches and dinners lately so we can eat while we're out exploring.

I finally joined the local homeschool group; although they don't have much to offer for pre-schoolers.

My favorite books right now on raising, teaching, and nurturing children are:

The Well Trained Mind

Whole Child/Whole Parent

The Mother's Book
Parenting the Strong-willed Child

In other news, I can hardly contain myself for all the excitement I feel for Jason's coming home in the coming days. I feel that many things have been suspended in time for the last 7 months--waiting to be launched back into action when we two are reunited. This has been a time of intense growth, which I'm indeed very grateful for, but the bottom line is that it's simply not good for us to be apart from one another if we can at all avoid it. So, after he returns we're going to begin the deep search for what's next (what's best) for our little family.

I've been itcing to begin an online master's degree program. There is $6000 available to military spouses towards their education right now, and it would be unwise not to capitalize. One problem is that I would much rather participate in an actual classroom and campus environment where students and professors bond in the learning experience together (I know, I'm a HUGE dork). But, at this point, with my purpose and focus being on the children, I really should just take what I can get/ do what I can do and be happy. The other question is whether I should continue in International Relations, Military Intelligence, or get an MBA like everyone else I know.

My interests and passion lies with intelligence, however for that much money, time and effort, this degree needs to be the one with the most utility. I'm open to insight if you should have some to offer:)

I've been enjoying this poem by Ralph Waldo Emerson; you might have read it before. I think about it so often this month. I should probably just commit it to memory.

Forbearance

Hast thou named all the birds without a gun;

Loved the wood-rose, and left it on its stalk;

At rich men's tables eaten bread and pulse;

Unarmed, faced danger with a heart of trust;

And loved so well a high behavior

In man or maid, that thou from speech refrained,

Nobility more nobly to repay?-

O be my friend, and teach me to be thine!

I'm finishing a quick painting of the mountains in Utah that we saw while visiting there. It's not exciting, but it's something I guess. When it's finished I'll put a picture of it on here.

That's my report. If there's anything I'm not telling that you'd like to hear or see about, just send me a message.

Love you guys,

Kimberly

An August in the Simple Life

2009-08-24T18:13:00.007+02:00

Good, good, good!

We're all doing very well on this side.

The boys are napping as I type this; just plain wore out after working in the garden this morning. After secretly despising the sandbox and the mess it causes, and after it filled up with rain water, I dumped it out today and made it into a pool. All present accepted and enjoyed this change.

I found a few bugs I've never seen before in the garden today. One of them is a Milkweed Assassin Bug. I also found Squash Lady Beetles. My squash is done, my cucumbers are done also. My tomatoes are trying to reach the top of the house, but not turning out an enormous amount of fruit (probably due to the varieties I chose). They are yummy though! My jalapeno plants are really popping them out now. So this ends my garden report.

Is anyone else planting right now?

I have a guitar lesson today. This is the last lesson on the batch that we paid for a while back, and now I'm trying to decide whether or not to continue. It's so cheap that there's no financial reason not to--it costs just as much to go see a movie, to rent several movies, or similar activities. The benefits far outweigh the cost; so it just makes sense to continue on for a little while longer I suppose. My technique is really improving.

We had Ward Temple Trip on Saturday, which was extremely special. I rode with a couple of other ladies, including my friend Sharon who volunteered to play with the boys while I went in. Orin and Adam had a great time (at Chic-fil-A and the park), and we returned home safely even through some heavy rain. Thank you Sharon:)

We have a new family of neighbors who moved in last week right across the street from us. They have twin girls who will be two years old on Orin's birthday! I made them some apple/pear/peach crisp this morning that I'll take over later with flowers. It's nice to get to know them. I thought to host a small party for all three children, but we will not be around for that. Maybe next year.

Here are some pictures.

For those who don't know, Orin is also known as "The Rinsing Boy".

Here's a hungry lady bug blessedly gobbling up some aphids on our palm plant.

Love,
Kimberly

Keeping the Lamp Lit, Fire Blazing

2009-07-29T13:05:00.004+02:00

Now, is a time for blogging.

Things have been good. The boys are healthy and happy. The garden is doing well (although I had a bout with stink bugs and water stress on our tomatoes). I'm glad that our home is peaceful inside and that our vehicles work. I'm grateful that Jason has work and that I'm able to stay home with Orin and Adam.

I went to meet a naturopath last week and found out some great things.

This is the boys at the hotel on our trip.

I've finally been able to effectively change the way I feed our family. I've been waiting and praying for this for a long time. I've believed that it's possible to only feed the body what it needs--not just shovel food at it, or only entertain the sense of taste--but really nourish and strengthen it every time we eat.

I have found spelt flour to replace whole wheat and white flour in our kitchen. I've found ground flax seed that I can throw into just about any bread-like thing I'm cooking. I've found agave nectar!! I love this stuff because it replaces sugar and honey--being very low glycemic level and tasting GREAT! We use it instead of syrup, honey, brown and white sugar. It's pure, organic, and good for the belly. Now, the boys don't get sugar head when we eat pancakes and waffles!! Hoorray!! I feel great lately, enjoying even more vitality. This is a great support because I have many interests, and many play and adventure ideas for the boys.

Besides all this, I'm still taking a classical guitar lesson on Mondays, and enjoy art/painting with a good friend on Wednesday mornings. The boys have a good time, also. I'm going to meet with a friend this Friday at a park where our children can play while she teaches me Spanish. I hope it works out and we can do it every week. I've been picking it up bit by bit here and there, but now I want to gain actual skill in the language.

Jason is doing well. Things have been very busy and heated at work. He is doing his best, although he admittedly doesn't enjoy his work and is considering other options. I gave him a pot, some dirt, and enormous sunflower seeds to grow at work, and he and his co-workers are having fun with them. Yes, they're all machismo there, but somehow find it entertaining to be farmers on their lunch breaks. Jason has stopped watering them because some one else is doing it, too, and he doesn't want their roots to rot. Good fun.

This grew in our garden! It's a cucumber the size of an eggplant! It's a yellow submarine cucumber from Burpee.

Just Fabulous!

That's all of our news for now!

I Looked to My Right, and Here Comes June!

2009-06-01T02:19:00.010+02:00

Hello!

Time doth softly, sweetly glide . . .

Ok, maybe it bursts through the sound berrier like a fighter jet. . either way,
here comes June!

Updates?!

You bet!

We've got a garden growing--although it needs some work this week. I planted the squash and cukes neatly in rows (I thought) but somehow they've wandered around and replanted themselves in other places. I dream of delicious black crim tomatoes some day in the future.

Jason is doing well, mostly. Things are changing in such a way at work that the environment will be more enjoyable for him. He is a little sick right now, he's not sure what it is. He'll get it checked out this week if it doesn't pass.

Orin's brain is grasping new and exciting concepts. He loves to come ask me, "You and Daddy married?" I usually say something back like, "YES!! We are married! Sealed together; and YOU are our first son!"

Here's a picture of him when we went berry picking.

He was sitting in my lap the other day and looks at me a little puzzled and asked,

"Mom. You brown?"

"Yes, I'm brown."

Then he just smiles so big and says, "I love you Mom!" and hugs me.

We have good friends who are distant relatives on the Bingham side. They have a baby, a 2-year old, and a 4 year old. Orin and their toddler, Hannah, have become very sweet pals. Pictures will come!

Adam decided that after the first two teeth came up alright, he would just go ahead and try to push up 4 more at one time. Grummmmmmpy! Other than than that, he's a cute little fire cracker. He took his first step around the beginning of May, but finds it more safe and efficient to just walk on his knees. My friend Sharon calls him 'Adam Knee-Walker'. The poor baby's kneees are pretty ratty, though. Pavement, asphalt, grass, whatever, he will come charging on his knees. His first word is a breathy, enthusiastic, "Hiiiieee!"

Here's a picture of my brother, Roy, and his new wife Marquita.

I was called to be the Visiting Teaching Coordinator in April. It's a lot of gooooood work. I love it. I have found no greater joy than being a member of the LDS faith. The anniversary of my baptism was May 1st. It was the most important day of my life (since my original birthday), and a wonderful step on a sacred path. There is a lot to be said about light, truth, joy, doctrine, faith, covenants, history, future and how they all relate to our Savior. But! I'll instead direct you to http://www.mormon.org/ for more (if you desire more, of course).

Pictures taken in April, a couple months late now.

Love you!

--Round On The Ends and High in The Middle

2009-05-01T02:57:00.011+02:00

Finally, the last installment regarding our Journey.
We visited Ohio.

But, this time, we didn't head to my hometown. Instead, we went to Kenton where my Mother is living. This town is her home (again) because she quit her job and moved in with my Grandmother to provide loving care for her during the last part of her journey here on Earth.

A true errand of Angels.

Mary Edith Wortman passed away on the 1st of February, only days before we left Norway. I was actually at our good friends' house for dinner when I received a phone call from my Father with the news. I had been anxious to get back and have the chance to wrap my arms around her once more while we're both on this side of the veil,

but I will have to save it for later.
She was a timelessly classy and kind spirited woman.

I'm glad to know; I am excited to know that she still exists and her life here was not meaningless.

It is because One who was perfect, able, and lovingly willing to, came here and conquered death.

Because of Him, death does not own my Grandmother.

She does not belong to the dirt in the ground, she belongs to Him.

And I know I can see her again because of His promises.

This is very good news.
My Grandmother touched my life, and I'm grateful for every smile and hug she ever gave me. I'm still such a little girl when I think about her. She gave me my first taste of freshly squeezed orange juice. She would put my pictures on her refrigerator, and I fancied myself to be artful--because she appreciated my work. She'd often wink at me and tell me, in response to some obnoxious thing my Mom or Aunts said, that she "didn't raise her girls to talk like that". She was the grandparent that I was closest to.

I just love her, what else can I say.

Also, while we were in Ohio, we had the opportunity to visit with my Brothers, Aunts, Uncles, cousins, and nephews. We had a good time seeing everyone again, and it was nice for everyone to meet Adam. I do have more pictures, but I will have to add them later.

My Aunt Betty wanted to do something nice for Orin, and insisted on taking him to the Build a Bear Workshop. For those that know me well, this is very close to what a bad dream would consist of (sensory overload). But, it wasn't so bad; they put a lot of cleverness into the experience.

Orin was a little young to understand much of the idea behind it, but he had a lot of fun. And best of all, he got a really cool stuffed friend named Espen the Elephant, who he loves to play with.

Thanks Aunt Betty.

I made a video about it--it's at the end. It's by no means anything exciting, but it's something.

My younger brother, Roy is getting married this coming Saturday to the girl of his dreams, Marquita Turner.

Congratulations guys!

Jason is doing well and would have me tell you all hello.

I'll write more in the REAL UPDATE in the next blogging session.

Love ya!

PART II: Land of the Free, Home of the Texans

2009-04-16T14:42:00.007+02:00

Yes.

There was a little culture shock (at least for me). Everything seemed to be moving way too fast. I felt like we were flying down the highway. Peering out the back windows of Mom Bingham’s minivan, it seemed like everyone drove gigantic SUVs while slurping from straws poking out of ginormous cups in between bites of quickly obtained burgers and fries. Whoa! Is this what we look like to others?

Either way,

I got over it quickly in favor of dancing the jet lag jitter-bug. The kids and I were up at 4:00 am ready to go for the day. It took about a week before we were able to have some sense of a normal sleeping schedule again. Jason didn’t have much of an issue after the first 2 days.

As a planning exercise, we loaded up the kids in our (Jason’s) Dodge Dakota pick-up truck to see if we would all at least fit in the cab. We did not fit. Not well at all. So, we began a search to find a used Honda Odyssey. We found one within our target price range.
Yay!
The next time we loaded up, we all fit much more comfortably. Yes, giving up the "vehicular masculinity" was worth the sheer practicality of the minivan. *Special thanks to Julie Phipps for sharing the results of her rigorous vehicle comparison research.

Adventures?
A few! Our favorite is our trip to the San Antonio Temple. Mom Bingham works there on Thursdays, we loaded up and went along. It is one of the most beautiful temples I have ever been in. It was wonderful. Dad Bingham was very generous in his offer to play with Orin and Adam while Jason and I were inside. Thanks Dad!!

We also visited the Story of Texas History Museum. It’s very well done, and engaging. I can’t say that Adam had a great time, though, and Orin lost interest after the first 30 minutes. But, Texas has a very interesting story to tell anyone who will listen; and I did. It’s always rousing for me to learn about and/or remember the spirit of those who fought (and hard!) for what was right.

By the way,

I am now officially a Texan. It says so on my sparkly new driver’s license. But, as strong as it beats, my heart was forged in Ohio, “the heart of it all”.

We had plenty of rest and playtime. The kids LOVED meeting their cousins. Jason’s sister, Jill, and her family stayed there also a bit, and this allowed us to get a little closer and have more fun before it was time to go. Orin still talks about playing with Ethan, and Shilo, and “Bracky Boo”.

We had a lot of fun.

Other highlights include a geocache, a Valentines Dance, and a trip to the Whole Foods market.

Thanks. We love you.

From Way Over There to Right Back Here--PART 1

2009-03-10T22:03:00.007+01:00

Hello!

We hope you're all doing well.

We’ve made it safely back to America. We are in the final stages of “being settled”. Transition is difficult, but offers many opportunities for growth:) It's been a long time since I've blogged, but I promise you that I have not been lazy.

Here’s our story.

Well, the full story of our journey and associated adventures will be very long, so I will break it up into installments.

We first moved out of our house with the help of good friends Frode & Anita and our Visiting Teachers Moses and Leo. We lived in a hotel downtown for about 10 days, the boys adapting as well as can be expected. We moved out of the Thon Hotel, 8 suitcases in tote, with the help of our friend, Julie. She and her family live close to the airport and generously allowed us to come spend our five hours of waiting with her and her family. We had a great time hanging out with her and her family, and she even made us delicious dinner before hauling us and all of our baggage to the airport. Check in was not smooth, but accomplished. Orin had an orange “airplane bag” loaded with fun and healthy treats to keep him positively excited about the journey.

Thanks again Julie!

Onto our first plane headed to London.

We knew that we’d have to stop somewhere in Europe before heading to America, so we figured that it would be nice to visit a Temple on the way home. So, we planned to go to the Temple for one day, and then continue our Journey the next morning.
As we approached the door of the plane, Orin began to resist the gentle guidance of my hand, and the tension built from there. Unfortunately, the two flight attendants were lacking experience with small children, as well as assisting a family that has two of them in tote.

From my perspective: Put the car seat next to the window, got it. What? Move the baby next to the window instead, got it. Yes, regulations are important. Right. What? Ok, I’ll sit here. . . (bustle and wrestle with stuff). What? Jason sits where now? What now? The baby? You want the baby on my lap with a special seat belt. . .Ok, I’m getting frustrated, but got it. WHAT NOW? You want the baby in his car seat (again) and Orin on my lap instead with a special seat belt. YES! OK! WHATEVER IT TAKES TO GET THIS LITTLE PLANE IN THE SKY!!!

From Orin’s perspective: It was now bed time, a time when he should be snuggled in his bed, packaged in cozy PJs, hugged, kissed, and wrapped in sweet security. He began to wonder what in the world was going on; why was it necessary that we wrestle into this noisy machine that smells funny? Who are these people and why are they smiling at me? That’s it, I don’t want to be here.

From Adam’s perspective: ZZZZZzzzzZZZZZzzzzzZZZZZ. This was very, very convenient.

From Jason’s perspective: This is not very fun.

In a desperate, pleading voice Orin clearly and definitively stated, “no airplanes”. Then, in case we didn’t hear his request, repeated it several more times loudly. There was only room for 3 of us to sit together, so I sat in between the boys. Here we go!!
Orin did not calm down until he was permitted lay on the seat next to me and lay his head on my lap. He then fell asleep, waking only after the plane had landed. Upon his realization that the ride was over, he boldly exclaimed, “ I conquered it! I conquered airplane! I did it!”. What else could we say but, “Yes. You did it.” Phew!

LONDON
After we retrieved our baggage, we sought after our rental car. Jason had made reservations so long ago, planning ahead so wisely, that neither of us had actually remembered which company the reservation was with. Ha! This shouldn’t be a problem because there are 5 companies right here at the airport. . . Well, we checked with all of them, and none of them had our cool name on record. What’s more. . .4 of the 5 companies were completely sold out of all vehicles. We approached the last company, with hope and prayers in our hearts. Yes. . they had a couple cars left and one of them might fit all of our baggage. We did fit; after about an hour of wrestling, and as long as Jason could hold onto the stroller in the front seat, we made it work. It was now 11:00 PM. Tired, stressed, and now endeavoring to feel confident with idea of the steering wheel on the right side of the car and driving in the left lane, I inserted the weird little card to start this weird little car. No, after the card was inserted, I had to press the “start” button. I would say that this vehicle was interesting, but I really just thought it to be uncomfortably strange. I couldn’t help but notice how dark and moist it was outside, and I kind of felt as if we were

on a different planet altogether.

After a while, we arrived in the vicinity of the Temple. As soon as it was visible, my heart felt like bursting. I felt renewed and hopeful; joyous and giddy. The grounds were closed, but the security guard had been expecting us. We got bedded down in the guest house and gave thanks that we were able to come, and that we had arrived safely. We had a wonderful visit and took our leave after a day of worship there.

Jason & the boys at the temple

Picking up our fish'n'chips:)

We left out of London, Heathrow airport.

I desire to be kind, so I will only say that it was not our most favorite airport to have visited. We lost contact with each other for a while because Jason had to return the rental car while I tried to get the kids and gear to a gate . . . somewhere. I hired a porter who ended up working for me for at least 40 minutes. The boys were generally content as long as I kept the snacks coming.

Finally onto the plane that would take us all the way to Texas, we all settled in. Orin, still fresh and confidant from having “conquered” the last plane, was amazed at the small movie screens on the back of the seats. I was struck by how each passenger is now offered the opportunity to avoid any possible contact with others. You could put the head phones on and play games, watch movies, watch TV shows, etc. for the entire 11 hour flight. What happened to the days when you’d sit next to someone and get to know them a bit before the plane lands, having gained a new acquaintance for the trouble of being friendly? In the airport before we left, we did happen to meet a young robotics engineer who was returning to Mexico City with a large and very cool map of the world when all believed it to be square (not round). But, we didn’t meet any of the others sitting near us on board the plane. I tried to read to Orin more to satisfy his needs without nurturing a mind-dulling, life-sucking addiction to entertainment.

Orin was happy, Adam was happy, Jason was very happy. . . so I was pretty happy myself.

We landed in Houston without incident, only to find Mom Bingham's smiling face there waiting for us. Hoooray!

Our Quiet Holidays

2009-01-09T09:55:00.005+01:00

Hello!

Updates, updates!

Well, first we had an adventure to a large rock called
Ruggesteinen. It's the largest movable rock in this area of the world, weighing around 70 tons!. Yes, this the idea to visit the rock was totally conceived by Jason. It was a fun trip. Even Orin was able to make it wobble. Very cool.

Then came Christmas.

Jason and I are trying hard to develop good traditions that are centered on the Lord. It's very hard to find traditions not centered on presents or. . .or. . .or a strange midnight home invader dressed in red velvet with a fake mustache and beard, who may or may not hold you accountable for the quality of your behavioral achievements throughout the year. Ha!

We were grateful to have Elder Holst, Elder Phillips, and Torbjørg Sæther as guests for Christmas dinner. Torbjørg was with us last year also. We all enjoyed ourselves.

This is Elder Holst and Orin entertaining each other. He' from Finland.

Torbjørg Sæther

Then came New Years!

Anita came over and helped us celebrate. We celebrated the new year about 7:30 by shooting off some fireworks in the driveway. What's funny is that they were way more powerful than any of us were expecting. It shocked us all, but especially Orin, as you can see.

After the first one exploded high in the sky with a clapping boom and glittering trails of smaller explosions, Orin simply and clearly said, "Daddy. Come. Let's go inside." Then he stood by the door telling us all to come. Jason had 2 more to let fly, so I comforted Orin while they went off, then we played with sparklers for a bit.

We put the children to bed and hung out for a while longer, playing a game.

Now, much of our focus is on moving.

As of yesterday, our house is empty except for the temporary living items, the things we're trying to get rid of, and our luggage.

Press onward!

Adam Eating Oat Cereal

2008-12-24T15:35:00.003+01:00

Julebyen II

2008-12-15T18:36:00.006+01:00

Hello,

Prompted by what we think was a hint about the lack of photographs of our Julebyen plunder, we decided to post with the details.

We are still debating which is Joseph and which is the shepard.

Here we have an angel cut from olive wood.

Below is a traditional Norwegian Christmas heart basket ornament. This one is made from clothe, but I (Jason) have made them from paper before. The hang them on the tree them put chocolates inside.

Book ends.

~Julebyen~

2008-12-15T08:08:00.007+01:00

Hello!

We don't have much in the way of news.

Really all we have to share with you is our day trip to Egersund to visit their Julebyen (or Christmas Town). Little shops were set up and decorated to entice even the scroogiest shopper into spending a few cheerful kroner. They had all kinds of crafts and decorations for sale. We bought a nativity set made of olive wood from Bethlehem, two ornaments, and some bookends.

It was very cold out, but it was fun and worth the drive.

Ok, this is a little funny. We decided to put Orin on this merry-go-round to see if he'd like it. We put him in there and watched for some sign of enjoyment, or fear, or any kind of reaction. If he didn't like it, we were prepared to get him off quickly. So, he's on there, makes no sound or protests, but LOOKS MISERALBE! We took some video, and you can see that he doesn't appear to be really enjoying himself. Right.

Well, as soon as we got him off, he yelled, cried, and was SO VERY SAD that he couldn't stay on. Everyone was watching and it was one of those famous moments with toddlers that happen from time to time. One moment I felt bad about putting him on there, the next moment we look like mean parents for not letting him ride again. Bah!

Here's another clip just to get a general idea of what it was like. Check out Jason's Russian hat. This is actual field footage of the hat in action.

So, you can see it was crowded, a bit cold, with lots to look at and buy.

Afterward, we headed home, bought a Christmas tree, then went to a Christmas concert at church. We had forgot about the concert altogether until right after we bought the Christmas tree. So, we went dressed as we were, with the kids a little spun up. But, it was still worth going! The music was very, very good.

Love you all!

The REAL picture

2008-12-10T10:31:00.004+01:00

We finally received this picture in the mail taken at the birthday ball back in November. I think we'll put it on canvas, frame it, and hang it somewhere in the house. Might be nice.

Love you guys!

Falafel and Bananas

2008-12-08T20:49:00.005+01:00

Hello!

Hope you're all doing well.

Things have been good here.

I'll try to remember all the things we have to update you with.

We had the opportunity to have our friends, the Ravonsheeds over for dinner last Sunday. It was so great! We prepared everything we could on Saturday, so it wouldn't be stressful on Sunday. We had falafel, humus, tzadziki, lots of olives, and tabouli. For desert we ate dates stuffed with walnuts, figs, and burnt almonds. This is one of our favorite meals. It's fresh, tastes great, and you feel really good after you're done eating.

What really made the meal yummy was the company. We love the Ravonsheeds! Helgunn is my visiting teaching companion and is a wonderful woman. Two of their daughters joined us also, Rachel and Ingrid. We enjoyed being with them so very much.

The Relief Society held a Juleaktivitet on Tuesday. It took a great deal of preparation, but the result was well worth it. It was a nice evening. The last thing on the agenda was a white elephant gift exchange. It was hilarious to witness the tension as gifts were "stolen".
Good times.

Jason went to a Julebord on Saturday. Sorry, but there are no pictures to show you. He didn't take a camera along--and I forgot to remind him. Originally, I was supposed to go with him (sort of a date type of thing:) but, after having had a very busy week, it didn't feel right in my gut to leave the kids (especially Adam) for another evening.

Jason and I went last year while I was still pregnant. There's unfortunately a lot of drinking at these things, and someone actually called us teetotalers! I thought, at the time, that the person was trying to make us feel uncomfortable. But, since the guy was slobberingly intoxicated, I doubt that he had the required neurons firing at the time enough to intend any real insult. Yes, we love Word of Wisdom.

In other news, we gave Adam bananas! He liked them, AND they didn't make him explode. Hooooray! His first tooth is in also, as I discovered one morning with a yelp.

Here's a couple more pictures of Adam.

We hope you will have a good week!

Snow & Turkey

2008-11-28T12:50:00.006+01:00

Hello!

It snowed a lot last week.

Orin enjoyed it while it lasted.

Jason might have enjoyed it more than Orin.

We made pepperkake (traditional Norwegian, ginger-bread-like, crispy cookie) for our family home evening treat last monday. In the video below, you can hear Adam grumping in the back ground. We can feel his first tooth just barely coming up through his gums. He's been more cheerful the past few days.

Then came Thanksgiving.

We gave thanks to our Father in Heaven for all that He's given us, including His Son.

We didn't invite any guests initially, because we weren't sure how it would go. This was our first as a small family, or rather, the first time I tried my hand at all the cooking. At the last minute we decided to invite the missionaries, but they had appointments during that time. So, we decided to invite our neighbor, Karine.

She excitedly accepted the invitation, but then came by just before dinner to tell us that she probably shouldn't come over because she has the flu. So, we loaded up a plate and brought it over to her while she rested.

It all worked!

Traditional foods with no surprises.

I admit that I need a remedial class in gravy making. It was tasty and good, but not quite what I was hoping for. Maybe next year.

Jason's favorite was the stuffing. He said it was "the best he's ever had."

I believe that could be because he chose the bread we used.

Just ask the little red hen!

We hope you're all happy and safe.

Fun With Packing Material

2008-11-21T12:28:00.003+01:00

Birthday Persimmon? What?

2008-11-17T12:04:00.010+01:00

Howdy!

We hope everyone is doing well.

I was pretty grumpy last week, but thanks to a great Sunday, I've finally snapped out of it. I had 3 cake orders and a lot of crafty stuff going on. So far, things seem to be turing out OK.

Orin and I have been doing some painting (for art fun, not home improvement). One of the things I love about this boy is that he's not a very "messy" child. He knows that some messes need to happen, but he's not the kind that smears goo all over himself and furniture. Love it! Wonder if this will change.

Orin looks like he's putting the paint brush in his left nostril.

Jason has been busy at work. Shockingly, delightfully, busy. Usually he's bored out of his goard, but a new project has him buzzing a bit more. Next time we'll have more info on that.

My birthday was Wednesday, I'm 31 now!

I know what you're thinking, and you're RIGHT! I do share a birthday with Auguste Rodin! We had Thai take-out to celebrate, after which Jason presented me with a birthday persimmon. We'll let you imagine the story behind this weirdness.

Well, that's our news for now. We're getting things ready to head back to the states in a few months. Our newest update in that area is that we are NOT, I repeat NOT going to San Diego like we had believed. We are instead heading to Cherry Point (again). Ahhhh the crystal coast!

Love you all!

Happy Birthday Marine Corps!

2008-11-10T14:32:00.014+01:00

Well, having met the challenge of fitting into a dress not provided by a fairy-godmother, I was blessed to not have to buy another in order to go to the ball.
Jason and I loaded the kids up in the Jeep and traveled to Oslo where we attended the Marine Corps Ball held in celebration of it's 233rd birthday. Held on Saturday, 8 November at the Holmenkollen Park Hotel, it was a little more high brow than either of us were expecting (more so than any other ball we've attended). The guests seemed to be more local leaders and diplomats than Marines--hence the higher brow.

We had a great time. The guest of honor was Benson K. Whitney, the U.S. Ambassador to Norway.

**Note: It's good etiquette to know who the guest of honor is before attending such events if you're able. This may save you some embarrassment should you find yourself talking face to face with such an individual. Ooops. I had no idea who this man was, but Jason and I spoke with him for several minutes before I figured out that HE IS THE GUY THE MEN IN SUITS WITH EAR PIECES ARE HERE TO WATCH OVER. Good thing I didn't say anything stupid.

He delivered an excellent speech. He hasn't served in the armed forces, however spoke with deep respect for the profession while sharing his connection with two very special Marines. He compared the vast differences in their experiences, one being a decorated general who recently passed away, the other being a newly commissioned 2nd lieutenant from his home town. Different indeed, but they share some strong and honorable character traits that Ambassador Whitney projected upon all Marines. It wasn't nearly as cheesy as it sounds here; it was quite engaging.

This is the ceremonial cake sacrifice; meaning it's not just pretty, it's dessert!

The cake is cut using a traditional Marine NCO sword and giving the first piece to the guest of honor, the second to the oldest Marine present, and the third to the youngest. This is symbolic of the Corp's past and future joining together and showing honor and respect. I suppose having the two Marines dance the tango would NOT be appropriate. The cake thing works.

We enjoyed the company of the other guests at our table. Ok, for the most part. The sergeant at our table got a bit too snickered and, sitting with a drunken lean, kept loudly pleading that no Norwegian be spoken at the table. Mildly amusing. Here are the pictures of the guests.

The hotel room was fantastic! They gave us a very large room, sufficient enough to accommodate Orin's hopping habit. The website for the hotel has better pictures than the ones we took.

Orin loved the extra large bathtub, and was apparently so relaxed by the immensity of warm water that his bowls released what they could into the tub. A potty training toddler in a 4 star hotel sure can add a little something to the experience.In this picture, you'll see Carrie Olsen. She is a wonderful woman and a good friend who agreed to come to the hotel and watch over our treasure for us while we were downstairs. She did so great! I was more worried about Adam, this being the longest I'd been away from him, however it was Orin who freaked out a bit. A friend of ours that we met while in D.C. wanted to have a peek at Adam, so I came up with her to check on them just in time to help Orin settle down and get to sleep. Thanks to Carrie for helping us. We really couldn't have gone if not for her help. We were able to hang out with her and her husband, Kjetil, a little bit before the ball enjoying a geocache and some lunch together. Here's a picture of Jason mingling.We didn't stay out too late. We were very tired after all of the traveling. We left before midnight;)

2008-10-31T08:05:00.003+01:00

Hello!

Hope we're all ready for next week. Election day is coming! Jason and I both have already filled out our absentee ballots and mailed them in with time to spare. I suppose we'll see what will happen in this "historic election". It's all very exciting. I have been typing out many different sentences trying to carry the topic of politics without being too opinionated. I couldn't do it to my satisfaction, so I'll just change topics. I deeply enjoy a good political discussion, however the one-sided, soap-box effect of blogging just isn't very stimulating.

A conference was held last weekend for the Norway Mission at our Stavanger meeting house. It was so uplifting. . .no, it was more ENGERGISING and MOTIVATING. We had two visitors staying with us from out of town. Ronny Stulen, who is a teacher by profession and father of eleven children, and Ik Boon, who is origianlly from South Korea. They are from the Arendal, Norway.

ELEVEN CHILDREN, WHAT?!

Yep, that's what he said. They built a slide in their house along side the stairs apparently, for the children to slide down. What fun!

It was great having them both visit.

Jason went away for a week on business to a city north of the arctic circle called Bardufoss for a planning conferance for Norway's winter military exercise. He says that trip was pretty uneventful except for some geocaching in his off time. His plane got back at midnight on Thursday a week ago. Friday morning he ran in a Norwegian Army combat race thing. It was about 9 miles long and had all kinds of events. He came home pretty busted up, but recoverd quickly. A few weeks earlier he completed an 18 mile (3okm) march with a 25 pound pack in 3 hours and 52 minutes. Oh, the blisters he had after that!

Orin and Adam are both doing well. Ok, except for Adam's teething pain. He's getting his first tooth in on the lower right side. I was expecting that it would be coming in more in the center, but what do I know. Poor guy is SUPER grumpy.

Well, that's all we have to report at this time.

Love Ya!

Bees Don't Complain About It. . . .

2008-10-22T09:07:00.012+02:00

Hello!

It's been a while. We are so busy here, although I don't like saying that because most EVERYONE says their busy. I guess this is what happens when you're trying to accomplish many things, when you enjoy many people, when you make many messes, when you're not playing video games, and/or when you have children.

I like it; 'keeps me busy:) Seems to work well for the bees.

Yes, yes, I can hear you already saying,

"Don't forget to slow down and relax!"

Ok. We'll keep some of that in the plan too.

We went geocaching last week at this sculpture park in Bryne. The pieces were a bit strange and we didn't really connect with what the artist was trying to accomplish with each of them, however we enjoyed being there. There is a sculpture of a girl with antennas that is whimsically strange, which is more along the lines of what I find delightful. There were black swans swimming in a pond. We've never seen these before. Quite nice.

Jason found the cache under this old mill in the park. It was fun to find!

I'm not such a good subject for pictures. If I could only control my ridiculousness, things would turn out better.

We had some friends over for breakfast last Saturday, the Gulbrandsen family. That was fun. We exchanged funny stories and ate some pancakes.

.
Orin enjoyed playing with their three children; he loves having friends over.

It's been raining more lately and darker days are setting in. We need to keep a full stock of belly laughs to keep from becoming grumpy, hibernating bears. Grrrrrrrr.

We love you,

Kimberly, Jason, Orin, and Adam

Ball Gown Challenge Update!

2008-10-09T11:09:00.013+02:00

It's going good. Slow, but good. Slow is healthy, though.

I guess that means slow = good.
The dress came in the mail last Monday.
It did not fit.

But, I didn't really expect it too just yet, I have 31 days left. Today, the zipper goes up 5 inches higher than it did when it came-with only 4 more to go.

No, I won't cry if it doesn't fit in time, but I'm almost there.

I've lost about 5 lbs since I started; well on my way back to a healthier target weight for my height and body type. I do not have any disorders that would make this an unhealthy pursuit, and am absolutely NOT robbing Adam of nutrients.

But, I do have some strategy to my method. This is what I've been working with so far:

1. I threw out the junk food and everything I could with hydrogenated oils in it. Just threw it (aggressively) in the can because that's where it all belongs! These foods make us more unhealthy. I've also re-engaged the practice of eating efficiently to give the body specifically what it needs, and cut out excess. *Good bye icky-for-your-body but yummy to eat packaged treats! I will miss your flavors!

2. I stay as active as I can, but also plan good quality rest time. To help me be more active, I try to plan my day better (in 30 minute increments if I have to) so I can accomplish everything on my to-do list. That's right everything! Of course, this also forces me to be completely realistic with myself about what can really be accomplished in one day, and what is really worth getting done. Challenging indeed! Although, I should mention that my list is almost completely of things around the house, and it inlcudes a lot of playing with Orin & Adam.

3. 100 Jumping jacks sometime in every hour (when I can). Not on Sundays, of course. I also do light, exercises while I'm cooking, brushing my teeth, etc. Steam engines, wind mills, and crunches are getting me there also. I won't need to keep this up when I'm back in shape--once I meet the target, I'll maintain it with 3 one-hour workouts per week and walking with our family.

4. I try hard to keep a good attitude about my body. Throughout my life, whether playing sports for fun, relieving stress, or performing under orders, it's always been my attitude that makes my body do what I hope it will. It feels good and makes me smile to jump and stretch my arms. I feel silly, vibrant, and childlike--and this makes all the difference. I think our bodies are beautifully made and are capable of amazing things. *When I was the captain of the base rugby team in Cherry Point, we were preparing to play a team that was extremely talented and much better than we were. The girls were a bit intimidated and discouraged. So I incouraged us not to just go out and do our best (that's boring, cliche, and doesn't do much for real motivation), but to go out and do amazing things with our bodies (yes, although unlikely, it is possible to score against these veterans--so lets just do it simply because it's possible). Of course, they thought I was ridiculous, but we laughed and really pushed ourselves for our own enjoyment. We lost the game, but had so much fun and the other team truly respected our 'heart'. This sure did beat the 'getting slaughtered' feel that we started with.

5. I pray for help, and don't give up. One of the missionaries that came to dinner a few weeks ago (Elder Kerr) encouraged us in his message to include the Lord in everything we're working on, or every goal we're working toward. That's an excellent idea/reminder about what we're supposed to be doing here. The truth is, this is something I need to do because I love this body that's been given to me . I want to care for it well, and give it the freedom to do as many of the things it's designed to; fitting into the dress is something for me to focus on within the big picture. I'm also happier when I'm healthier--and our Lord wants us to be happy. *Even further, heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes all run in my family. From what we know, these are all curses that are avoidable through proper care of oneself. I won't ignore the warnings of those that have gone before me. I'd have to be crazy. . . or simply lazy.

So, the next update on the challenge will tell you if I made the target in the time I hoped for.

I greatly appreciate the tips and encouragement everyone has offered, you've helped me keep momentum and eat more efficiently. I'm still open for more if you have something to share.

Love,

Kim

Weekend Feast

2008-10-06T08:04:00.003+02:00

GENERAL CONFERENCE!

This is the biggest news we have to talk about. It was held Saturday and Sunday and broadcasted all over the world via satelite. It's the same conference that folks in Brazil, China, Figi, Russia, Thailand, and even Iceland watched. Members of hundreds of nations meeting together via technology, and all sharing one faith. We were all celebrating the very same doctrine without disputations, chaotic clamoring, or infighting.

Our hearts were filled with hope when we left for the church where we joined our Norwegian brothers and sisters in watching this special broadcast. Jason and I were excited to hear the words of the Prophet of God. As found in Amos 3:7, "Surely the Lord God will do nothing but He revealeth His secret unto His servants the prophets."

Yes, as President Thomas S. Monson spoke to us, I could feel and hear the Savior's voice speaking directly to my heart. I felt the Spirit witness to me that this humble, sweet man is truly the prophet of our God on earth today.

Results of this knowlege? AH! My heart wants to explode and Iwant to shout

H A L L E L U J A!

Oh, to think how much He loves us! He gives us His Spirit to witness truth in our hearts! To give us instruction on what is expected of us as His diciples!

Our Heavenly Father LIVES. Our Lord Jesus Christ LIVES. And we can all rejoice and take courage that He keeps His promises and has given us a PROPHET who serves us in HIS name and with love. As found in Deuteronomy 18:15,
"The LORD thy God will raise up unto thee a Prophet from the midst of thee, of thy brethren, like unto me; unto him ye shall hearken."

Jason adds that he feels greatly strengthened and uplifted by the talks given by the Prophet, Apostles, and other leaders. We're all a bit more smiley around the house, and more specifically motivated to follow all of the commandments of God, to lift up the weary arms, to mourn with those who mourn, to honor all of the covenants we've made, and to endure our trials with a firm and steadfast faith in our Savior.

As it states in our Articles of Faith 1:9, "We believe all that God has revealed, all that He does now reveal, and we believe that He will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the Kingdom of God."

Amen

If you'd like to hear some of the wonderful things said, here's a link to BYU TV where you can click on the tab towards the bottom that says "LDS Church Broadcasts" and watch either the sessions in their entirety, or select individual speakers. If you've never heard an LDS General Conference before, I especially invite you to check it out. If you'd like to know more about what else the members of our faith believe, you can check out www.mormon.org.

Love,

Kim & Jason

Toddler Soiree

2008-09-28T17:44:00.016+02:00

Hello!

Our biggest news lately is that ORIN IS TWO YEARS OLD! WOO HOO! So, we threw him a party in order to celebrate with his friends. No, two year olds don't really need a party in order to have fun. Especially when they're so entertained by cardboard boxes. But, it was a lot of fun for us all and well worth the effort. I planned out far in advance so as not to stress about it too much.

THE GUESTS

We invited 8 children; 7 came, 3 boys and 4 girls; all of them were 3 years old except for one four year old. Four of them were Norwegian, and 3 were American. So, I guess it was an international affair. I was amazed at they way Orin and the Norwegian boys played together. they don't speak the same language for the most part, but yet they did. Laughter, play, food, and fun. What else do you need really?

THE ACTIVITY

Some brown paper from grocery bags, burned around the edges and smothered with elmers, feathers, colorful moths, and beautiful leaves. I think they had the most fun with the feathers. The pictures came out like beautiful autumn moments caught on paper.

THE CAKE

I "photo-shoped" a picture I took of Orin into a picture of a big puppy. It took a lot of effort to keep him out of the cake until it was time. He really liked it, though, which is all I was really hoping for. He had some trouble getting those blasted candles out, but Jason provided some reinforcing wind (not saying that he's full of hot air, but he did have some to spare:P).

THE GIFTS
I specifically stated in the form of little poem included in the invitation that they only needed to bring a beautiful autumn leaf. I thought I'd try to prevent the busy, loving Mothers from having several more items added to their to-do list (going to the store, buying a gift, wrapping it, etc). But, the generosity was not skimped on for Orin Bingham. They brought lovely leaves, AND gifts. Very sweet. Orin really enjoyed the things they brought.

Here's a movie about Orin and his party.

Hope you enjoy it!

I suppose that's all the news we'll report this round.

Thanks to everyone who helped us celebrate!

Pancake Revival

2008-09-22T09:04:00.012+02:00

Hello!

We've had some busyness this week.

Jason went on a camp out with the young men that challenged them all a bit. Surprisingly, they actually want to go hiking and camping again in the near future. It was so enthralling that Jason didn't snap any pictures. Jason is determined to help them become great campers.

In other news, we had friends over for breakfast this past Saturday. A wonderful man named Kjell Husebø, his sweet wife Kirsten, and their daughter. Jason became friends with Kjell while coordinating a museum visit and battle ground tour for the Marine Corps Expeditionary Warfare class that visited Stavanger last April. They had us over for "middag" several months ago, and we felt that they are extraordinarily nice folks. When they came to our house for breakfast last weekend, they brought yellow roses, a wooden fire truck for Orin, and a wooden car toy for Adam.

I KNOW!

SO GENEROUS AND SWEET!

We had such a good time. Kjell has amazing stories; he's spent much of his life in service and is extremely talented in many ways. I was very glad that everything turned out well. Despite the fact that my pancakes were NOT perfectly round (I'm on a quest for the perfect pancake--perfectly fluffy, perfectly brown, perfectly round and perfectly delicious), they really enjoyed the food.

I made 2 cakes this week, and one was for the North Sea Baptist Church. A man named Robin Roewe was visiting Stavanger from Katy, Texas and was holding some kind of musical event Saturday evening. The cake was to honor him at this get together. I read the man's bio and thought that it might be fun (and I hoped he might sing something from Handel's Messiah). Jason had his reservations, but decided to go along and check it out with me.

Well, there was no Handel, but praise music instead.

The highlight of the event for me was when he started taking requests. I requested "I Need Thee Every Hour" and it sounded GREAT! Orin enjoyed the large legos in the play room, and Adam slept most of the time we were there. Jason witholds his comments.

Sunday, we were invited to Helgun and Mark Ravonsheed's home for dinner. They cooked a yummy leg o' lamb. Their other guest was a gentleman named Barry who was very excited to discuss current American campaign politics. He also expressed a great deal of interest in a guy named John Titor. Apparently, some people believe that Mr. Titore was a time travelor from the year 2036 who was here in 2000. Hmmm. . . interesting; or is it?

Either way, here's a picture from dinner.

That's all of our news for now.

We wish you all a lovely day.

The Marine Corps Ball Gown Challenge!

2008-09-13T15:42:00.003+02:00

Hello,

So, we've decided to go to the Marine Corps Ball being held in Oslo, Norway in November. We're very excited about it, even though there is a great deal of logistics to iron out first. Also, having so recently given birth to Adam, there's some physical things I, Kimberly, need to do to make this happen.

I bought a dress. I ordered it online. Sounds great so far, right?

Well, when I'm not pregnant or postpartum, I wear a certain un-named size. Being postpartum now, I'm 4 sizes larger than that particular size. I ordered the dress only one size larger than my starting size.

Yep. I know, I know. CRAZY!

In the moment, I called it "being committed to change". Not Barak Obama style change, but something way harder. I won't be able to return the dress by the time it gets here.

So, here I go.

Tips, pep talks, and general encouragement are all welcome.

Sounds of Our Home

2008-09-13T07:29:00.011+02:00

Welcome to our home!

We're posting some sounds that you might hear while visiting with us. We've taken the liberty of excluding the not-so-pleasant ones, you know, the ones no one really wants to hear.

Jason says this is a little artsy (meaning weird). But, that's just the kinda gal I am.

Hope you enjoy.

Hope you guys are having a great day. If you're not, I invite you to begin improvement immediately.

P.S.

Here's the random Adam pic of the post:

Our Wedding Anniversary was September 4th!

2008-09-05T07:22:00.008+02:00

I Would Live in Your Love
Sara Teasdale

I would live in your love as the sea-grasses live in the sea,

Borne up by each wave as it passes, drawn down by each wave that recedes;
I would empty my soul of the dreams that have gathered in me,

I would beat with your heart as it beats, I would follow your soul as it leads.

Believe Me, If All Those Endearing Young Charms

Sir Thomas Moore

Believe me, if all those endearing young charms

Which I gaze on so fondly today

Were to change by tomorrow and fleet in my arms

Like fairy gifts fading away,

Thou wouldst still be adored as this moment thou art

Let thy loveliness fade as it will

And around the dear ruin each wish of my heart

Would entwine itself verdantly still.
It is not while beauty and youth are thine own

And thy cheeks unprofaned by a tear

That the fervor and faith of a soul can be known

To which time will but make thee more dear.

No, the heart that has truly loved never forgets

But as truly loves on to the close

As the sunflower turns to her God when he sets

The same look which she turned when he rose.

---

Here's a video I made on our first anniversary. I'll do another one next year.

We're not so into emoting online, but we're very much in love with each other.

Love you all!

A Baby, Some Fur, and a Pinch of Dansehage

2008-09-02T14:21:00.012+02:00

Hello,

Just a quick post to get out some of these media files we have from this week. We're trying to keep a good pace taking pictures of Adam and Orin as they grow. It really does happen fast! So, when the moment presents itself, the results will be posted here at the Rutabaga Buffet.

Here are some pictures of Adam:

Orin was invited to a birthday party on Saturday. Lars is 4 years old now!

Orin, Adam and I went to an "open kindergarten" called dansehaga today. It costs about $7 and is open to kids up to 6 years old. For the first few hours, the kids play on their own for a while. Then we all go into a large room and dance and sing together. It's a lot of fun for Orin.

These are 2 very quick movies I threw together out of clips I had taken.

Love you all!

The Amazing Flying Month!

2008-08-24T15:48:00.015+02:00

Hello!

We hope everything is well with you. . . .all of you.

Things are great here, although it seems we've misplaced many of the days of this month. Where did they go?

Well, I think our most exciting news is that Jason and I both received new callings last Sunday. Jason was called to be the Young Men's President. He has already begun to make exciting changes in the Young Men's program. His time as a counselor gave him a bit of a headstart. I've been called to be the First Counselor in the Relief Society. I had been serving as the Librarian beforethe change. I'll miss being the librarian. No really, I'm not kidding. I loved it, zero sarcasm. Maybe I'll be called again somewhere someday. Ok, I was also terrified of being in the Relief Society Presidency, but there's a lot of good to do. Besides, the President is a wonderful woman to work with. All that being said, I'm grateful for every calling extended to me. So, it's a bit busier around our quiet little home lately.

In other news, Jason and I decided to try out some new shoes. They're quite ugly, but they simulate being barefoot and work to strengthen your feet and leg muscles to work as they were designed. They're called Five Fingers ; check them out.

We both genuinely enjoy them. They allow you to feel as if you're walking around barefoot, but without the pain of hazards on your tender feet. What do you think?

We got outside to play numerous times over the last two weeks because the weather has been so beautiful. Once, we went to this small lake near mountains. Yes, I know, this isn't very different from most places we visit here. We hadn't planned on getting in the water. But, apparently small children love the stuff. The tricky part was that Orin didn't want to take off his shirt or his shorts and ended up tripping and getting completely soaked. There was this very funny (and sadly chaotic ) moment when Orin was yelling because he was upset at being so unintentionally wet, and Adam was wailing because he had a huge blowout and yellowed both layers of his clothing. Jason was rinsing the mustardy baby clothes while I struggled not to drop Adam while chasing after Orin. I think the other families on the beach wished we would leave soon. We did; well at least we headed back to the car. We put the wet clothes on the roof to dry them out, took a break, and readjusted. This all would've been great had we not forgotten some clothes were still up there when we drove off. Only after some of them tumbled from the roof did we realize our mistake. Arghh!

These pictures were obviously taken before it all went crazy.

Then we went to a geocache; Jason and Orin found it while I fed Adam. Jason took this picture near where he found the treasure.

Jason, my true and everlasting love. . .

Here's the Adam pic of the posting:

Love you guys!

Nina Simone and Dutchy Dump Cake

2008-08-09T09:43:00.030+02:00

Heloooooooooo!
(as said by Orin, in a happy voice decending in pitch, with the head cocked to the side)

Things are good with us.

The first week of August was quiet. Orin and I washed the car and went to hear a concert by a Norwegian woman named Astrid Kloster . She sings Nina Simone songs as one of her vocal projects. It was compelling to watch this woman take on songs like "Strange Fruit". A bit unusual, but still entertaining. Jason had to work and couldn't justify skipping out to attend. Orin loved the excitement of the crowd and music.

We've been away this past week to a cabin in the mountains of a town called Hovden. This post is so late because I was hoping to get some pictures the other families took to add on here, but I think we have enough already. The weather was brisk like an Ohio fall most of the time. But, we had an "indian summer" on wednesday. We shared the cabin with our friends, the Sheley family. They have three children; two boys of 7 and 5, and a sweet little girl who's 3. Another family of friends stayed in another cabin near by. I thought for sure that Orin might follow the big boys around and possibly get in their way of playing. I was very wrong. The kids actually loved him, and fought over who got to sit by him at meals. We were amused (relieved). Adam was a pretty quiet baby; he's very easy going. Jason did a lot of the dinner cooking in the dutch oven outside. The group favorite was the peach dump cake for desert that was made twice because it was so yummy.

We were able to go kayaking one day. The Dad's took the kids out, while we Moms got things ready for lunch. Then, after we joined them, the Moms went out-- just us. Very cool. The scenery was amazing, and everything was peaceful.

Jason went on a hike with Dave Sheley to the summit of a nearby mountain. It was a bit wet, but they both said it was great fun. Jason also led a nice walk to a geocache. I chose to stay at the cabin and catch some cozy bits of napping (in between nursing and burping).

Also on the Hovden adventure list was a visit to an indoor waterpark called Badeland. Between the kids and the parents, I don't know who had more fun. It's a pretty cool place. This picture doesn't have us in it, but we didn't take pictures while there because of the water flying everywhere.

By Friday, we were cooked and ready to go. And go we did. On the way home, we had to stop once because a herd of goats had taken over the road. Orin LOVED petting the goats, and also took some enjoyment in watching them poop.

We also saw another old wooden church.

We're back home now, and are taking it easy this week.
Hope you're all healthy and happy.

P.S. Here's our random Adam pics.

Having Fun Like It's Our Job

2008-07-27T15:04:00.015+02:00

Hello,

Hope you're all well and safe. We've had some happenings this week.

There's an annual food festival here in Stavanger called Gladmat. At first, it seems silly to have all the local restaurants out with food stands and things, but it really is a clever and fun event. They sell small portions of their specialties, and you walk around eating bits here and there. There was a huge crowd of us would-be foodies, as well as a few live bands for entertainment. Jason especially enjoyed eating some Russian delights and seeing a family of Russian musicians (Jason became familiar with Russian culture while on his mission).

He tried with all his might to get me into a traditional soup that's made with beets, but there was no way. Beets and Kim just don't tango. For me, the best was finally getting my hands on some yummy sushi! Oh, how I love fresh raw fish decorated with rice and spiced up with wasabi! Orin's favorite part was getting a free balloon. We actually went to the festival twice, once on Thursday, and then again Saturday.

We have some friends that form a Neil Young cover band called "The Real Neils".
Here's a link to their website: http://www.therealneils.com/?lang=eng&PHPSESSID=c8867241c86c3d2b5b53584930c1900c

We went to hear them give a free concert in the Stavanger Cultural Hall Saturday (Ok, so we missed the first hour due to 'domestic priorities'). Almost all of our friends from church were there (including the members of the band), and after the show we took another shot at Gladmat, this time sharing some cold rhubarb soup with Else Hanson and some Indian food with the Helgesons. This picture is Frode and Anita, with a special appearace by Adam.
During the walk downtown, we were able to pass through Gamle Stavanger (Old Stavanger), which is the city's historical district; the houses there are the oldest in the city and also the most expensive. I could imagine a really cool art studio there.
In other news, Jason had part of a tooth break off (we think because his fillings expand as they age) and had to go to the dentist. The put a new filling in and he is thoroughly pleased with it; it's smoother than his others, and practically invisible. I guess the technology has improved.

Well, I believe that's all of our news. If there's anything I missed, Jason will edit this post and get it in here.

Love You!

P.S. Random Adam Pic of the week:

Nothing Much, Really

2008-07-16T12:01:00.004+02:00

Jason is on leave for a few days this week. We've got no specific plans, just taking it easy.

Things are quiet and peaceful around the house. Especially now that Orin is starting to grasp the idea of "inside voices" and what is considered noisey. The weather is quite rainy, so no big out door adventures. Good thing Jason was able to get Orin out a great deal last week and the week before. That boy absolutely needs to get out in the fresh air. When he gets bored enough, he starts to beg for a ride in the car--as if to say, "Can I just go SOMEWHERE?". Talk about cabin fever! We'll have to make inside time more fun some how when the weather is bad.

Anyway, here are some pictures. We hope you guys are having a great day.

Sleepy Adam

Orin and the elephant

My Daddy's Boots (backwards, but still somehow fun)

A Name and a Blessing

2008-07-06T19:56:00.009+02:00

Hello,

We had a nice, quiet 4th of July. We invited the 4 missionaries over for dinner. Jason did just about everything since: a) He is the Grilling and Barbecue Officer of the house, and it was an official 'grilling day' b) I certainly didn't feel up to putting on a big party and c) I spent a lot of the time nursing. It turned out well though, and the food was yummy. Jason cooked a tri-tip roast (Jason says this triangular cut of beef is the lowest tip of the sirloin, is popular in California, and is served much like barbeque brisket is in Texas) in the dutch oven after marinating it in vinegar and rubbing it down with salt pepper garlic and lime juice. He found out that the AAFES Shopette here just started carrying mequite chunks, so he grilled the hamburgers and hot dogs over a real mesquite fire. Of course, we had the typical cookout sidedishes, as well. The missionaries shared a very pleasant message relating to the worth of our souls in God's eyes and our worth from our own perspective when enlightened by the Gospel of Jesus Christ. One Elder mentioned that he gets down sometimes when people reject the message of the Gospel---even though it would cause them to know more about themselves and their worth. He only wants to help them find more happiness. It was nice to have them over.

Today, Adam received a name and a blessing at church. It was very special, as you would hope it would be. Ten minutes before we left for church, Jason says, "We should bless Adam today."

"Can we just do that without prior notice?" I replied.

"I think so." Jason said.
So, I changed his clothes and off we went. He wore the same outfit Orin wore when he was blessed, courtesy of Mom Bingham (THANKS!).

Anyway, that's all of our news.

This other picture is of Orin getting a cookie for being really sweet while Dad cut his hair. With a little assurance, he quickly got over his fear of the clippers.

Love,

Just Ducky

2008-07-05T14:19:00.002+02:00

Here are some pictures of Adam. Things are going well. He's very calm and sweet, although he isn't even two weeks old yet so it's probably not real accurate to guess on lasting personality traits. Recovery for me has been slower than it should due to some un-fun complications with my episiotomy, but slow is better than not at all.

Orin just LOVES Adam. He calls him "Amam" and gives him sweet hugs and kisses. I'm pretty relieved that he accepts him so easily. Orin didn't feel well this morning, giving us a bit of a scare, but seems to be better now. I let him lay down in our bed, and took this picture.

Baby, Oh, Baby!

2008-06-26T15:16:00.007+02:00

Adam Eirik Bingham
Born 11:45 pm 23 June 2008 Stavanger, Norway
7.5 lbs 19 inches

This is a lengthy, some what graphic account of the birth. If you don’t like birth stories, are a bit squeamish, or simply don’t care quite that much, feel free to stop reading here.

___________________________________

Ok, so Saturday morning we went to watch the Norway 7’s Rugby tourney. I was beginning to feel contractions at regular intervals. By 8 that night they were 5 minutes apart, so we called our good friends, Frode and Anita Helgeson, who came to the house to watch Orin. We went to the hospital, but my contractions were not moving things along; they just weren’t strong enough. So, they sent me home with a pain killer and a sleeping pill and told me to try and get some rest.

I was able to get a few hours of sleep, but they were getting much stronger although only 10-15 minutes apart now. The midwives at the hospital advised that I didn’t come in until I couldn’t talk through the pain of the contractions. So, we went to church. They were getting stronger and stronger, but I could still talk through them. All day and night Sunday they increased in strength, duration, and closeness. By Monday morning, I was tired, sore, and angry. So, we went to the hospital around 12. They said that I had started to dilate, but they wanted me to go home until I was further along. Again, sent home with a pain pill. I “labored” all over the house for the afternoon, we left Orin with our good friends, Trude & Stien Sande, so he didn’t have to be around while all this was happening. Apparently, he didn’t even miss us, he had so much fun with their children.

Finally, I just couldn’t take the pain anymore, and they were now 3 minutes apart. We went BACK to the hospital at 5:45. By this time I was in so much pain that I stopped the midwife before she could finish checking how far I was dilated. She finally asked if I would like to stay. Jason and I both said sternly, “YES.” I asked her if I could have something for the pain. She said, “What would you like?”

I was a bit confused by this, because I thought there must be some standard procedures they go by automatically. Guess not. “What do you have?” I asked hopefully.

After that, we went to the room where the rest would take place. There was a huge bath tub in the room. I tried that for some time, it helped a little. My water finally broke at 8:00. Then I tried laughing gas. I didn’t find anything funny at this point, although it did leave me a bit light headed. Finally, I asked her, “At what point do I receive an epidural?” She responded, “When do you want it?”

“NOW?!”

She calmly walked out of the room and within a few moments the anesthesiologist was there with her assistant introducing themselves to me. “God bless you” I replied. Things drastically improved after that. For some reason, however, it didn’t quite work all the way, but it sure was better having it. I was cooked! I now found myself chanting, “EPIDURAL. . . .EPIDURAL. . . .EPIDURAL” with the contractions which didn’t seem to stop at this point. Also at this time was a change of staff! Hooooraaaaay!!! The new midwife was empathetic, professional, and took quick decisive action. Just the woman I needed in the room at this point. She brought in an assistant and immediately got the doctor involved with things.

Time to push. The baby’s heart rate was dropping, and NOW is when they decided to hurry/help things along for us. She gave me petosin(sp?) in a drip and instructed me on what to do next (push hard). By this time my poor uterus was tired and my contractions were not very strong—not as strong as they needed to be. The doctor explained to me that they needed to use a suction device to help pull the baby out. I was fine with it---until I saw what the device looked like (a metal drain for your sink? A bell? Very strange nonetheless) But, the baby had to come out. I pushed as hard as I could, they pulled on his head with the suction device, but he was still not moving fast enough. Jason took note when he saw the doc cut me (episiotomy) and I looked down to watch some of my insides splatter across the doctor’s face and shoulders. Ahhh!

What happened next no one ever told me about, and I haven’t read about it in any book, blog, or article. The midwife used both of her forearms and bore down on the top of my stomach in time with the contractions, the pushing, and the suctioning going on. Some of you on the east coast may have been able to hear me if all was quiet there. But, after a few rounds of this, he was out and laying on my belly at 11:45. He had a big welt from the suction device. All was normal after this. He scored fine on the tests and we were taken to the hotel that attaches to the hospital, it was about 3 am Tuesday now. I had been praying a lot all day, and now that I was overwhelmed with joy, relief, amazement, and exhaustion, I had even more to be thankful for.

Jason stayed with me the remainder of the night and picked Orin up later in the morning. They both came to visit Adam and I for the afternoon, then stayed at home Tuesday night. Adam and I came home yesterday, Wednesday. I made a little video about it.

So that’s how it all happened. Whoa! What a miracle childbirth is!

Love,
Kimberly

Still Waiting. . . .

2008-06-20T14:43:00.004+02:00

Well, they say our due date is Monday. So, I guess these could be the last few days of being pregnant with this baby boy. Yesterday, I had a visit with the midwife who has been seeing me. She said from the looks of things, I could end up going another week.

Last week, I was very excited and wanted him to just come out already! But, I've settled down a great deal. The 23rd of June, the due date, is the day President Gordon B. Hinckley was born. What a great, loving, and wonderful man to share a birthday with! I'd be delighted if he came on Monday.

Here in Norway, they will wait until the 12th day after your due date before they induce you. This puts another one of my favorite days within reach for the baby's birthday. Independence Day! That would be pretty awesome. I love America. I mean I really, really love America. I've taken to learning all three lines of the Star Spangled Banner, in case there's ever an occasion to sing it. I figure it will help teach our children respect and love for our country also.

Anyway! Still waiting. Feeling great. Nesting like a crazy mama bird; I've cleaned everything, and re-cleaned it again for good measure. Of course we'll post again when he comes out finally.

Official Nordsjørittet results

2008-06-16T09:28:00.001+02:00

Jason's official time was 3:41:09, yeilding a 1732nd place finish out of 3317 men. Other stats reported are minutes per kilometer at 2:40 and average speed at 22.52 kmph. This is in the 53rd percentile of male participants.
If we are here for the race next year, he hopes for a sub three hour time with a better starting seed, training, course familiarity, and equipment preparation. Lots of time was wasted on the course waiting at choke points and jockeying through crowds. He also spent nearly five minutes stopped making an adjustment to some loose equipment. Better prep and seeding will go along way to aliviate these porblems.
You can check out a video presentation with footage from the race at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D3LOU4JICnM

2008-06-15T16:17:00.007+02:00

Nordsjørittet (Nor shu ritteh, The North Sea Ride) went fine. The day started partly cloudy in Stavanger. We left about 0820 CEDST with a prayer. We drove wondering what the riding conditions would be for the weather forecast had called for clouds and rain with a tail wind. One out of three aint bad! We got the tail wind! Arrived in Egersund at 0920, about 2 hours before I had to in the starting area. We went to the sporting goods store in the mall across the street from the starting area. We bought a helmet for Orin and a bright fluorescent green rain jacket on sale along with a rear fender for me, still wondering if the weather might turn foul before the race was over. Orin threw a fit when we would not let him ride the tricycles. We had plenty of time still so I coordinated with a local geocacher with access to the internet to help me harvest a webcam picture so I could claim a web cam cache there in town. Then I went back to meet Kim and Orin, who had recovered from his fit with the help of a banana, and we proceded to the starting area. My tire went flat while entering the chute at the staring line. I had to pay $10 for a new inner-tube, but thankfully, they had very helpful people on-site ready to quickly address last minute repairs and adjustments. The first part of the course was the most hilly and crowded. This was not a good combination, especially considering trial surface was loose and sometimes deep gravel. I fell three times on going up those hills mostly caused by the people in front of me suddenly stopping and dismounting to walk up the hill. This was somewhat frustrating and resulted in one bruised knee and one skinned knee, but know permanent injuries. The weather was beautiful for the first 60 or so km, before the wind switched to a headwind and started to get cooler and cloudy toward the finish line. Luckily, we only got a few drops on the course right before I reach the end and then it dried up again for a while. It had apparently rained significantly in Stavanger and, to some extent, in Sandes where the finish line was before I arrived. After riding 83 km (51 miles), I was pretty exhausted mentally and physically when I crossed the finish line about 3:40 after beginning, about 40 minutes faster then I expected. For this reason, Kimberly had not yet arrived. I had lost my seat bag on the trail with my phone in it. I was pretty hazy, but managed to inquire about lost and found items and getting some free food from the refreshment tent. I started to get a little hypothermic while waiting for Kimberly to meet me at the finish line before finding someone to let me borrow a cell phone to call her. Luckily, she was just down the street looking for a place to park. I flagged her down and directed her to an unseen lot behind a building where I would meet her after retrieving my bike. Kim had thoughtfully brought some warm clothes, which I was too tired to put on. Instead I just got into the car and out of the wind. We prayed for help recovering the bag and then started to retrace the route looking for my seat bag. We sent a text message to my phone with Kimberly's number in it, hoping that the whoever found it would call and return it. We got halfway back to the starting line before one of the volunteers who had been manning the route called us. We met him in a town called Bryne between where we were and Stavanger. He had found the bag on a trail called Kongeveien, the Royal Road, overlooking the beach on the North Sea. The phone and bag and its other contents were intact. He would accept no reward. We thanked the Lord for his help in the form of the volunteer in recovering the phone, ID, cash, and bike equipment.
My back and neck were a little sore by the end of the race,. My legs were a little wobbly, but they all recovered soon.

Week of 1 June 08

2008-06-08T19:18:00.006+02:00

Howdy All,
This week Jason got off work early on Monday to take Kim to her midwife appointment Monday followed by a blood test at the lab in the hospital to try to clear up some confusion about antibodies in her blood. It appears that all is well, though. She has another test this Tuesday.
Tuesday through Thursday, Jason took part in an Operational Planning Process staff exercise and seminar at work this week. This is unusual because the Norwegians don't usually involve him in much at work that does not not deal directly with the Marine Corps. This usually leaves him with out much to do, so staying at the office until 1800 was a bit of a change.
The weather here has been especially fine. Today is the first day in about a month that we have had clouds during waking hours. Jason has been increasingly riding his bike to work to take advantage of the good weather and to get in shape for the North Sea Ride, which is an 83 km bike race from Egersund to Sandnes, Norway. you can glimpse the route under the løypekart tab at http://www.nordsjorittet.no/. It has links to let you view the route in Google Earth, too. The race is Saturday, 14 June 08. Unfortunately it looks as though the weather will be overcast with at least some rain most of the week.
Jason rode 50 km Saturday, 7 June 08, in the morning and found a geocache along the way. He was pretty worn out by when he got back.
Later that day, we went to a beach near the home of some friends of ours about 20 minutes away on on the North Sea on the other side of the peninsula. The beach actually has the same name as their family, Sande. It was great fun despite Jason dropping the juicer on his toe while looking for the beach blanket in the basement before we left. The toe has a nice bruise on it now.

Rutabaga Buffet!

Long time no-see!

And Sometimes It Snows

First Post of 2010!

Peace and Quiet

An August in the Simple Life

Keeping the Lamp Lit, Fire Blazing

I Looked to My Right, and Here Comes June!

--Round On The Ends and High in The Middle

PART II: Land of the Free, Home of the Texans

From Way Over There to Right Back Here--PART 1

Our Quiet Holidays

Adam Eating Oat Cereal

Julebyen II

*~Julebyen~*

The REAL picture

Falafel and Bananas

Snow & Turkey

Fun With Packing Material

Birthday Persimmon? What?

Happy Birthday Marine Corps!

Bees Don't Complain About It. . . .

Ball Gown Challenge Update!

Weekend Feast

Toddler Soiree

Pancake Revival

The Marine Corps Ball Gown Challenge!

Sounds of Our Home

Our Wedding Anniversary was September 4th!

A Baby, Some Fur, and a Pinch of Dansehage

The Amazing Flying Month!

Nina Simone and Dutchy Dump Cake

Having Fun Like It's Our Job

Nothing Much, Really

A Name and a Blessing

Just Ducky

Baby, Oh, Baby!

Still Waiting. . . .

Official Nordsjørittet results

Week of 1 June 08

~Julebyen~