tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5199162541296113722011-10-11T09:59:35.685-07:00It's A Good ThingMama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.comBlogger761100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-40929893518197712822011-01-08T11:53:00.000-08:002011-01-08T12:11:03.068-08:00

'Daddy, what do want to be when you grow up?' 'I want to be a teacher.' 'Oh yeah, I want to be a dinosaur when I grow up.' I am very proud of my husband. After many years dedicating himself to the craft of carpentry, the recent lull in construction and contemplation about how he wants to spend time with his family; my husband has decided to go to school. He goal is to become a High School Math

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-33261977401547830792010-12-12T22:49:00.001-08:002010-12-12T23:27:09.075-08:00

The Christmas tree finding adventure begins! The best tree was found and Daddy began to saw it down. Clay was invited to help but he preferred playing with the mud and chasing pretend bears up and down the rows. Baby's first pole saw. He was quite impressed.

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-8994937611406626822010-12-03T23:12:00.000-08:002010-12-03T23:20:31.696-08:00

Syrendell is a fantastic source for handwork, waldorf and homeschooling. This link will led you to a blog with a giveaway of their e-book on dyeing. Take a moment and browse their blog, etsy shop and if you are in California you have the opportunity to attend workshops. I was blessed to attend one that was a gentle introduction to Waldorf homeschooling, handwork,and wet on wet painting.

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-59896488597027403962010-11-26T17:25:00.000-08:002010-11-26T17:31:29.391-08:00

Word play with Clay is his ability to unknowingly misuse or mispronounce a word that makes me have to hold back giggles! Here are some of my current favorites: Hangleburger with cheese please! (hamburger) Mommy, Can you do me a favorite? (favor) Coughing..."I've got drama' (This is what he says when he coughs after his father pointed out that his dramatic production of fake coughing was drama.

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-3718372815604914792010-10-12T21:25:00.000-07:002010-10-12T21:43:02.239-07:00

Clay has been on a dinosaur kick lately. Last night at the dinner table he started singing, "I don't know what's going on with the dinosaur, dinosaur, DINOSAUR". It's an original piece that impressed his father and myself. We all rocked out to his song the rest of the evening. Today I thought I would be a super cool mom and make dinosaur cookies with him. I had made the sugar dough for cut out

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-42060872623293931332010-09-27T12:34:00.000-07:002010-09-27T12:34:00.665-07:00

My DH read the other day that instead of using jared spagetti sauce we should use stewed tomatoes to make our sauce. The reasoning is that whole tomatoes are used for stewing so the better ones are choosen. The rest, including the kulls, are pured are jared for sauces. Making sauce from stewed tomatoes is as simple as pouring the can into the food processor and hitting the button to puree. Then

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-35325754969608348242010-09-04T12:58:00.000-07:002010-09-04T13:02:33.465-07:00

The new autumn issue is out for Rhythm of the Home! If you have not seen this yet, it is a treat to be inspired from. Also check out the blog for a massive giveaway. Enjoy your weekend.

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-3757469857335863332010-07-25T12:00:00.000-07:002010-07-25T12:05:02.026-07:00

Clayton on pregnancy and labor: 'Baby brother is getting bigger and bigger and bigger, bigger and bigger. Yay, he's getting bigger, bigger, bigger and bigger, bigger.' I asked him what would happen next and he said, 'He gonna hatch out your belly egg.'

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-76548388544578054472010-07-13T17:07:00.001-07:002010-07-14T13:58:59.819-07:00

While I attacked the endless bag of paperwork to be shredded, Clay played with our newest batch of play dough. The noisy shredder was a constant distraction. Then when he saw the bag of shredded paper his dinosaurs had to jump in and out of it making a trail of paper shreds on the floor. Suddenly, I had an idea! We could take this play outside, add water to the paper and make mush for the

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-85961029752596234122010-07-07T22:26:00.000-07:002010-07-07T22:42:17.992-07:00

I must confess, I was stressed today. Not at you, my child, but outside things that should not affect you. I was stressed and tired. I only half heard you talking. I was only half listening and slow to respond to you. It was then I realized I am going to fail you in ways I did not expect to. I have never strived to be a super mom and in fact I try to pride myself on being only human. But as I

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-2583796702686912612010-06-17T13:18:00.000-07:002010-06-17T13:18:00.316-07:00

Pregnancy has gifted me many wonderful things. Not the least of which is the absence of my brain and memory. The other day I was watering the plantings out of reach of the drip system and forgot to turn off the hose. It ran all night and left quite a puddle by the garlic and newly planted tomato seedlings. Clay and I went out the next morning and he found the mud first. It was an irresistible

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-3917154982157654862010-06-14T20:09:00.000-07:002010-06-14T20:17:24.058-07:00

Today Clayton took off his diaper and went into the bathroom only to take off most of the animal stickers on his potty board and decorate his naked body. He then proceeded to his bedroom with his belly covered with stickers and a large lion sticker on his butt to take them off and put them on his bed sheet. I can only assume that he did this, because it was necessary. Moments like these are

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-56966491176242657562010-06-11T13:04:00.000-07:002010-06-11T13:10:40.585-07:00

Riverdance Organic Farms in Livingston

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-17216133760961159612010-05-31T15:07:00.001-07:002010-06-01T00:04:05.922-07:00

Last week I finished something I started 15 years ago. I graduated from Junior College. I am well aware that AA degrees do not hold much value nowadays, but I finished it. It feels great to have it completed, to be able to check the box next to 'Completed College' instead of wishing there were a box for 'Some College Completed' or 'Lots of Units-no degree'. I believe it will also show my children

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-15187785820422305732010-05-20T16:26:00.000-07:002010-05-20T16:31:45.658-07:00

Dearest Little One to Come, I dreamt of you last night. You were long and lean. You had long arms and long legs that kept in slow but constant movement as I looked at you. Your hair was dark and a little wavy, or perhaps that was just the afterbirth. Your eyes were closed but I could still see how big they are. I woke with a peaceful calmness and smiled. You were mine. Love Always, Mom

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-735238251249363032010-05-11T20:36:00.000-07:002010-05-11T20:51:53.891-07:00

My mom passed away in 2000. Most times I think of her and smile, but there are other times I am overcome with tears. This past sunday, Mother's Day, I was in church listening to my niece sing in the choir. I prayed that my children would truely know their Grandma Mary. It was one of those overwhelming moments where tears fall. How do show my children how incredible their Grandma was, how much she

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-55835677665465293282010-04-21T13:14:00.000-07:002010-04-21T13:19:45.515-07:00

Little Acorn Learning is hosting a giveaway of their May Childcare program. I first became intrigued with LAL when looking into Waldorf Education. I am a preschool teacher by trade but am currently a SAHM. I am also also on the founding board of a new Public Charter Waldorf School in our county as an expert in preschool education. LAL is a wonderful resource of rhythm, curriculum and food

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-81390901362832298412010-04-03T16:18:00.000-07:002010-04-03T16:23:30.956-07:00

The blossoms have come and gone on the plum tree leaving fresh green leaves. The fig is budding. The lilac tree is in bloom. Spring has sprung and so have I! I am halfway through my second pregnancy. In early August we will be blessed with another little boy. I love being pregnant. What's not to love? The nurturing of life, the science of growth, and the incredible changes to my body all to bring

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-19324980962936216742010-01-16T09:00:00.000-08:002010-01-16T09:18:02.435-08:00

We attempted making a snowman earlier in the day with little success. But we had great fun making a snow head on top on a snowy rock. Clay requested a nose, eyes, hat and eyebrows. He was very proud of his creation. We found a quiet area away from the snow pack and sleds where he happily played with snow. He made lots of snow balls and then became very determined to wipe away all the snow on

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-30889515941858292692010-01-05T14:10:00.000-08:002010-01-05T14:44:31.949-08:00

This sweet little turtle is my addition to the Wellness Tree. It will arrive a little late but it was made with love and determination. I struggled to make an ornament for Kelly. I wanted it to be right for her, make her smile, make her feel good and well...I wanted it to be 'visually pleasing'. I tossed around ideas using fabric, yarn and felt in my head for weeks. None of them seemed right. I

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-81682477752096008052009-12-17T17:11:00.000-08:002009-12-18T07:31:03.059-08:00

The wind blew hard and invited us to create our new nature table (bowl) setting. We gathered the tree pieces that had fallen on the ground and built our forest. Then we found some wooden animals that live in the forest and finished it off with a couple more trees. This time the nature bowl rests on top of his book shelf. We take it down upon request. This is working much better than our first

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-40329966753691261052009-12-09T08:12:00.000-08:002009-12-09T08:12:00.147-08:00

***Barefoot Books giveaway on mamasmiles ends December 10th*** This is an amazing offer from Barefoot Books! It is the best offer I have ever seen from Barefoot. 30% off the entire website and Free Shipping on all orders! The sale starts today and ends Tuesday, still in time for holiday shipping. All you have to do is enter SNOWY as the special code at checkout time. I already know what is on my

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-21899310148061226882009-12-07T05:00:00.000-08:002009-12-07T09:12:07.321-08:00

***Barefoot Books giveaway on mamasmiles ends December 10th*** Inspired by a post on Likely Classroom I set out to create a Hungry Caterpillar for Clay. I used an oatmeal box, construction paper, and a glue stick. To make him more durable I used clear laminating sheets because it is what I had but a brush on sealant like Modge Podge would of worked better. I had fun creating

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-11850680022496885752009-12-01T04:00:00.000-08:002009-12-04T10:11:07.953-08:00

***Barefoot Books giveaway at mamasmiles!*** Clayton and I played with stickers, our own 'homemade toddler stickers'. This super complicated activity (just kidding) is done with cut out or ripped shapes and tape. With young toddlers I suggest Mom or Dad put the tape on the shape and hand it over. If this is not working, dial it back by taping down the shape once your little one has placed in the

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-45268322319310838252009-11-26T00:06:00.001-08:002009-11-29T21:49:01.432-08:00

20% off and FREE SHIPPING on orders over $35!

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-77700834905737395872009-11-23T00:34:00.000-08:002009-11-23T00:41:42.189-08:00

Clayton: Oh look, poop Me: That's not poop, that's a cookie Clayton: It's kinda poop Me: Well...I guess it could kinda look like poop Clayton: It's big poop Me: It's a cookie! We made cookies this past weekend. Yummy pumpkin cookies from this recipe I found online. Soft Pumpkin Cookies 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-7395184384501043152009-11-20T12:59:00.000-08:002009-11-17T14:41:47.859-08:00

I had a moment of quiet 'Me Time' while camping this summer. I strapped on the camera and set out to capture the beauty in the details of nature. Enjoy It was a nice reminder to stop and enjoy all the beauty that surrounds us from head to toe.

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-45674081338636698282009-11-11T22:18:00.000-08:002009-11-15T13:38:23.592-08:00

The mail carrier left our doorstep and I heard a thumping. It was a soft thumping coming from the mailbox. A package! With a somewhat shaky hand I lifted up the package. I heard a mumbled and gurgled voice say 'Play with me' coming from inside the package. My curiosity had a tight grip on me now! Clay and I decided that opening it outside would be best. Clay slowly reached in and then quickly

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-64439722687556539022009-11-10T22:29:00.000-08:002009-11-11T22:58:51.714-08:00

My dad, Papa, and his wife, Lita, recently took the train to Seattle and up to Canada. My son and I had the privilege of picking them up at the train station at the end of their trip. We got to the train station early armed with leche and an old fashioned unglazed donut. We promptly went outside to wait for trains. There was an older gentleman and his 4 year old grandson also waiting to see the

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-85707194841651813732009-11-02T00:22:00.000-08:002009-11-26T00:59:27.008-08:00

Barefoot has a new book release, Driving My Tractor. Watch the animated illustrations through the link below. Clayton has already had me read it four times plus he has watched the video twice! Driving My Tractor: Chug along with a farmer and his tractor on this multi-season animal adventure! A busy farmer picks up fifteen animals along his route, but when his trailer hits a stone, chaos ensues.

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-68178852036047327662009-10-28T17:28:00.001-07:002009-10-28T18:12:48.668-07:00

I cut out some pumpkin shapes and had them out for a week for him to color or paint on. I separated the harvest colored crayons and set them out for him to decorate his pumpkins anytime. Next we strung them up across the window. You can his pumpkins from the front yard! We painted 'Round and Round' orange circles together. This was inspired by Clayton always wanting to stir whatever is

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-3566544939625965682009-10-19T09:35:00.000-07:002009-10-19T10:52:57.527-07:00

My sister-in-laws invited us to a pumpkin patch on Saturday. I had already planned on taking Clay to a pumpkin patch with a Moms Club at a sweet place with a big red barn, story time in a corn field, and lots of local fall squash to drool over. But family time is important and we have not been together for a couple of months so I packed Clay in the car and drove an hour to meet them at the '

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-57663703262591614992009-10-12T10:01:00.000-07:002009-11-23T15:16:55.763-08:00

My blogging adventure has opened up so many doors to explore. There are some wonderful blogs out there chalk full of inspriation. Whatever your niche, whether it is cooking, crafting, homeschooling, trading, writing there is inspiration and support to be found in Blog land! I have been inspired lately to start creating something. Anything, really, I just needed to create. I have projects set

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-47608173619730276432009-10-09T14:28:00.000-07:002009-10-09T14:28:00.420-07:00

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-50614439723933558752009-10-08T22:36:00.000-07:002009-10-08T22:39:59.714-07:00

The French Factrice: Diaper Changing Mailmen in 1913 - Postcard Friday #41 For a daily bit of history tied to vintage postcards head to this blog. A vintage postcard is posted everyday along with some background information in short, sweet posts. Enjoy!

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-21446221366338955812009-10-02T08:45:00.000-07:002009-10-03T22:46:54.960-07:00

The other day I turned to hear, "Look Mom, poop!" Clayton proudly exclaimed this with his hand stretched out to show me the nugget of poop he was holding. I managed to say, "Yes, that's poop" as I stoically shuddered inside and grasped the situation. Poop nugget in hand, diaper off, missing rest of poop. Then I said, "Show Mommy the poop" and we were off in search of the missing deposit. He lead

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-3458586601444799362009-09-11T06:33:00.000-07:002009-09-13T22:38:28.823-07:00

On a past camping trip when we were surrounded by majestic redwoods I could not help but notice all the Forest fairy homes. Some of them were quite large and might of been homes for gnomes. I grabbed my camera and went off in hopes I could capture a picture of a magical creatures. The following are photos of the chance encounters and dwellings that I did find. Click to enlarge the photos and if

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-52827705964403089452009-09-03T08:46:00.000-07:002009-09-07T12:50:41.167-07:00

Warning: Somewhat graphic experience while preparing poultry. My main man and I just celebrated our 3rd wedding anniversary. They have been wonderful years that have whizzed by faster than they should of. The date landed in the middle of the week so we planned a special dinner to make. Rotisserie chicken, sweet potato fries and a spinach salad was the menu. I had spent the day with Clay picking

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-25018399388222834202009-08-21T17:10:00.000-07:002009-10-03T14:12:12.295-07:00

Some sneaky things have been happening in our garden lately. Not the cute sneaky gnomes that you would hope to see but pests, poison and mold oh my! The garden and flowerbeds are admittedly overgrown. It just breaks my heart to pull out or cut down a full grown plant. I usually come up with a grooming plan during the summer and then try and remember it once all the blooming has stopped. But I

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-56691328472416307692009-08-11T17:40:00.000-07:002009-08-18T21:02:14.696-07:00

Hello I am a first time mom with a background in Preschool. Which would of come in handy if I had given birth to a toddler! I am currently working with Breastfeeding Support to local moms, selling Barefoot Books and Sarah's Silks. I also wash dishes, run errands, and kiss boo boos. But somehow those last ones aren't quite as glamorous!

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-67285993849497994762009-08-11T15:31:00.000-07:002009-09-03T23:33:41.924-07:00

Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday Dear Clayton, Happy Birthday to you! Today is the day, it's Clayton's 2nd birthday! Today we had a Mommy and Clay day. I asked him what he wanted to do and he said, 'Eat pasta and cheese. Go to da zoo. See animals' And so we did! This past weekend we had a BBQ in the park with Chris's family and close family friends. Tomorrow he is

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-11613774696791127232009-08-02T17:10:00.000-07:002009-10-03T22:45:39.306-07:00

On a heat scorched day this summer, Clay and I were resting in a darkened house, fans blasting and AC spurting moments of cool air while watching Caliou. On this episode he helps his Grandma make juice with oranges, lemons and grapefruit and the secret ingredient of sugar. Clay was so excited to watch this. He kept turning and saying 'Juice Mama'. Which was strange because he had never had juice.

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-65141438255847346092009-07-28T01:57:00.000-07:002009-09-03T23:37:04.406-07:00

Clayton constantly surprises me by what he says or does first thing in the morning. Some of it really catches me off guard and I have to imagine he is sharing his dreams with me. Today he woke up saying, "Tiny poop. Mouse tiny poop. Elephant tiny poop. Clayton poops." You might recognize the wording from Everyone Poops. It is a book that is definitely one of his favorites. But it was not read to

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-63931709267983648752009-07-19T23:39:00.000-07:002009-07-20T15:08:57.597-07:00

My dog, Pappas, passed away yesterday. He was 11 years old. Seemingly young for a dog, but as a Shar Pei he lived a full life. He had been with me since he was 4 months old. A faithful friend and protector. Today I walked into the backyard and it was lonely.

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-29491216252939738452009-07-09T11:10:00.000-07:002009-07-14T11:55:31.475-07:00

Barefoot Books has a new website and to celebrate they are offering a 20% discount until July 16th. Enter the special code HAPPY at checkout.

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-49355937019336563262009-07-06T15:11:00.000-07:002009-09-03T23:36:07.492-07:00

This past 4th of July weekend our family enjoyed a camping trip with Uncle F (owner of previously mentioned Chuck Wagon) and MamaRose's family. Clay is now almost 2 and Tyler is 2 1/2. It was their first time camping together. There were moments that I felt like I might need a t-shirt that said, "I went camping with a 2 year old and survived". Clay and Tyler ran, climbed, played with trucks,

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-59836052361157362342009-07-02T15:04:00.000-07:002009-07-09T11:09:46.044-07:00

Painting with Children by Brunhild Muller recently arrived in the mail and is now off of my wish list. I often use the phrase, 'That will have to go on our wish list'. One day I wondered just how big our wish list had become so I actually made the list! Be warned this is a material list, nothing but 'I wants' are on it. I can't say that many of items have been or ever will be acquired. But seeing

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-52881215061664311452009-06-23T06:40:00.000-07:002009-06-23T06:40:02.591-07:00

As I have mentioned before, I am new to the blogging world. I am still trying to find my identity in all of this. I have changed the colors and format of my blog a couple of times. The name has been changed, the description too. I chose 'A Better Tomorrow' because a friend and I were talking about opening up a shop with conscious parenting products and handmade goodies. We were going to call it '

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-34983598246045017902009-06-22T06:10:00.000-07:002009-09-03T23:39:07.896-07:00

The 'Loves You' list is something we started to help calm Clay down when he was a newborn. We would cradle him close and start down the list. Mama loves you, Daddy loves you, Grandma loves you, Grandpa loves you, GG loves you. The list goes on to include aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. When I would tell Clay that I love him I always felt like I was leaving so many out. He is loved by many

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-91341593005041295792009-06-08T13:36:00.000-07:002009-07-11T00:04:16.931-07:00

My sister in law, Amanda, is currently in the Peace Corp serving in Nambia. She blogs about her experience at TIN-THIS IS NAMBIA. She is the first Peace Corp worker to ever be in the area. She works at the local hospital, does HIV outreach programs, started a garden project for the HIV support group and coordinates Camp Glow which is a leadership camp for Namibian youth. Her mother, Leslie, is a

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-70644280505713786672009-06-07T06:51:00.000-07:002009-09-03T23:46:51.683-07:00

You say its your birthday. Well its my birthday too yah! Da na na na na nah I love birthdays! Although I am getting to the ones that make me question age, youth and use phrases like, "When I was young...". Oh well, Happy Birthday to me. And you, if it is your birthday too!

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-27474192461087272009-06-06T07:50:00.000-07:002009-09-13T13:00:48.292-07:00

Part Deux: I completely over packed. We had spent the weekend before horseback riding with Uncle and I had barely unpacked from that trip. We packed for the entire camping trip the night before and shoved it into the car the morning of. I had a bag of toiletries for the family, including Clay's emergency bag. I packed a backpack of board books, scratch paper, crayons, bubbles, one soft animal

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-38787726683624818872009-06-05T10:08:00.000-07:002009-09-13T13:01:55.706-07:00

It was fun! We survived and it was fun. We went camping with Clay twice before, but he was not walking or crawling yet. This was the 2nd annual memorial camping trip for John Taylor. He was my husband's friend, mentor and best man at our wedding. He was like family to us. Johnny wanted to be scattered among the redwoods. Let's just say he got his wish. Now we go camping around his birthday

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-18255330553627539612009-06-04T14:27:00.000-07:002009-06-04T16:26:02.566-07:00

I found a blog that is using the 'The Outdoor Hour' for homeschooling and journaling their adventures. You can read about it at this link Handbook of Nature Study . Homeschooling is something that my DH and I have been discussing since I was pregnant with Clay. I have written about it before. There is an e-book with the first 10 challenges available that I might check out. Anyone have any

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-38325307055598934572009-06-04T11:49:00.000-07:002009-06-04T11:53:08.475-07:00

Trees and Tots is running a giveaway contest. They could use a little love promoting it. You browse their store, pick your favorite item and post a comment. The contest ends June 17th. If you get a chance, check it out!

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-22168492661026533522009-05-31T01:36:00.000-07:002009-06-04T23:46:50.884-07:00

I ate chicken last night after 11 1/2 years of being a vegetarian. I am still trying to wrap my head around my choice. Allow me to give a little background on my choices. When I was in my second year of college I worked 3 jobs. I worked in the food court at Target, a cafe inside of a printing press and as an art model. We will concentrate on the first two jobs. My shift at Target was from 4pm to

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-76587723447426030852009-05-30T14:13:00.000-07:002009-05-30T14:18:15.581-07:00

Flipflops and Applesauce! Well, actually Simple Mom introduced me through her giveaways. Flipflops and Applesauce is a mama and an artist. She has created her own creative coloring books! Her posts are very grounded. I enjoy the children's books posts, but that is no surprise.

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-14438558718749861522009-05-29T08:03:00.000-07:002009-09-03T23:47:27.328-07:00

May I just say...er rather write, that I get such a rush from receiving and reading comments. For some the computer and Internet have a stigma of being cold and not personable. I will admit I thought this also. As I dive into different a applications on the computer I am constantly surprised on how personal it can become. When you write, you share. Your thoughts, triumphs, sorrows, and knowledge

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-81811159044105185962009-05-27T23:31:00.000-07:002009-07-11T00:04:46.456-07:00

We spent the weekend with my DH's maternal Uncle and his wife. Uncle is a true cowboy. He is blacksmith, shoes horses, breaks horses, makes his own chaps, and packs mules amongst other very cowboy things. I am not a cowboy. Nor am I a cowgirl. Growing up on a small farm, we were not allowed to have horses because you could not eat them! Back on track now...My son loves animals. This is not an

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-3007284786777810152009-05-26T18:23:00.000-07:002009-05-27T23:17:18.650-07:00

Oh Great Blogger One. Please show me the way to have comments posted on the page for all to view. I have gone into settings and layout too. But no comments show from me or you. And if it is not to much to ask I'd like pages to organize my thoughts and rants. Thank you, Mama Ruck

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-51686259264821440852009-05-26T17:02:00.000-07:002009-05-27T23:17:47.537-07:00

Simple Mom is having a week of giveaways. If you have not checked her out, you should. Each giveaway has a question to comment on. http://simplemom.net/summer-week-of-giveaways I commented on the literacy question. Of course I got so carried away I passed the 'one tip limit'. Here was my comment: I think literacy is a gift. My DS is 21 months old. We have been reading and singing to him from the

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-17900417806785259042009-05-21T10:53:00.000-07:002009-07-11T00:05:10.489-07:00

Today Clay and I went to the library to catch storytime. I had the time wrong and was an hour early. We looked at books and checked out a couple. He was too impatient to wait for storytime so we left. For those of you who are not familiar with Los Banos, the library is right next to the highway. There is an overpass walking bridge that connects the schools across the street to the library and

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-50810081961186822032009-04-19T19:41:00.000-07:002009-06-04T16:24:43.552-07:00

http://vintagechica.typepad.com/the_life_and_times_of_thi/how-we-learn.html I just finished reading this post from the link above about how children learn and the public school system. It struck a chord with me. I had a great public school experience. My high school experience lacked in educational value, but I take responsibility for that. My DH did not enjoy his public school experience.

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-40530332750229236632009-04-19T17:24:00.000-07:002009-05-27T23:19:51.919-07:00

Today was the first warm day in awhile. Clay and I played outside for a bit in the morning and his arms got pink! My DH just left to be with a family member for a couple days. My mind is frazzled. I have many unfinished things on my plate and I can't seem to concentrate on what to do first...I want a popsicle.

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-75787485032427723582009-03-26T14:51:00.001-07:002009-09-03T23:48:33.199-07:00

I am absolutely beaming! Today, for the first time my son told me he had poop. The magic happened not once but twice and he did actually have poop. I am so proud of that little guy!

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-17729660015528971562009-03-19T23:56:00.000-07:002009-05-27T23:15:53.240-07:00

Just for fun sites, because your time is limitless! http://www.humanclock.com/ http://www.bemboszoo.com/Bembo.swf http://www.nymbler.com/

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-74888813065471320732009-03-12T22:26:00.000-07:002009-05-27T23:20:43.393-07:00

Just for kicks! Clay has become very adventurous with his words. He tries to repeat most words we say. He has this new trick if he comes across a word he can't quite say correctly. Example: grasshopper is gas ppt ppt ppt uh. Any part of a word that he is not sure of he just inserts the ppt sound with his tongue out and poker face on!

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-86771309320857543442009-03-12T22:15:00.000-07:002009-09-03T23:53:07.306-07:00

I can't believe it! The school that I had the priviledge of teaching at before moving and becoming a mom is turning 50! I am so impressed with Brush Creek. The staff, standards, play space, children and families are all amazing. Of course Brush Creek will always hold a space in my heart for more than just those reasons. Chris and I were married under the big redwood in front of the school in an

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-39908379469009903192009-03-07T13:23:00.000-08:002009-10-03T13:28:24.154-07:00

I was running the water for a bath and Clay was standing naked in the bathroom waiting. I was testing the water when I hear a second source of water happening. I turn to see Clay trying to 'catch' his stream of urine. He looked up at me and said, "Oh, aqua!" I love this kid!

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-79148988182946272282009-02-21T08:47:00.000-08:002009-09-03T23:49:34.642-07:00

My girlfriend Rose's son, Tyler, is turning 2. He is having a Yo Gabba Gabba birthday party today. For his gift I had my sister in law, Holly, make a Brobee cake. Yesterday Chris picked it up in Modesto and safely transported it home. Brobee looked great! He was so vivid and cute. After ogling for a bit I cleared a shelf in the frig and went to put him in for the night. Brobee fell. The cake

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-14993902879583692402009-02-19T09:20:00.000-08:002009-09-03T23:51:38.618-07:00

I have been meaning to update the post about a couple of things but I never seem to have the time. I guess I will have to work it in like the gym. So I have decided to post multiple blurps in one post. Here it goes... Clay went the beach for the first time! Chris had a long weekend so we planned a family day at the park. I went to get the two up for the day and Chris said the Clay

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-27882998685999065282009-01-23T09:45:00.000-08:002009-09-03T23:52:07.498-07:00

This morning Clayton woke up saying 'Cow, Cow, (pause) Cow'. When he sat up I noticed that his, full to the max, diaper had become unfastened during the night and had leaked through his pj's and onto the bed. I quickly removed the diaper. Clay is now in his pj's and naked butt. I proceeded to take him to the diaper station. He started fighting that immediately, because he wanted cow. He screamed,

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-66928178963445375522009-01-20T13:34:00.000-08:002009-07-11T00:05:45.687-07:00

We visited Great Grandma Helen the other day. Clay was all smiles. Everywhere we went at the assisted living home he was met with a smile and hello. As you can tell from the picture, he loved listening to GG Helen read him a book.

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-87194518029380452642009-01-20T10:36:00.000-08:002009-05-27T23:24:34.177-07:00

The winter sale continues until February 2nd. There are some amazing deals! I have already recieved my first order. It is so exciting to open the door to a brown box marked 'Barefoot Books'. Clay and I stop whatever we are doing and pour ourselves into each book, puzzle, puppet and CD. Popping the bubble wrap is an added bonus!

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-9972879622525607242009-01-04T22:44:00.000-08:002009-09-03T23:52:41.675-07:00

Clayton has taken up 'gardening'. I have had to relinquish the corner flower bed to him. He is consistently drawn to the dirt. He scoops it up and sprinkles it just outside of the flower bed. On this day he decided to investigate the dirt a little closer and put some in mouth. At least it was organic!

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-519916254129611372.post-7751717559227186032008-11-29T00:47:00.000-08:002009-07-14T14:58:21.235-07:00

Welcome to the Mommy Club! I am a very proud mama of an amazing little boy. He still takes my breath away when I watch him play. But I have been slow to fully accept my role in the Mommy Club. Is there a mommy club? There must be...we seem to have a secret language, understood looks and raising of the eyebrows and a sensitivity to any item of clothing that will need special care when washing. I

Mama Ruckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469607770971644361noreply@blogger.com0