Friday, December 30, 2005

A winning team!

Though they won’t take the winner’s stand in the Indy 500, they’re champions in my book. Today, the Eides and Bulthuis’ hit the race track at a high speed go-cart track. The Bulthuis’, including me, kept the bottom places filled, but we had fun. These go-carts really go fast! We raced three times with 30 laps each time. My nephews, Mikal and Zachary, consistently took the top places. Brother-in-law Mike was pretty proud of his fastest lap time, which beat everyone else. The ladies kept the cameras and cheers going. We wrapped up the evening with a dinner at Outback Steakhouse.

Thursday, December 29, 2005

Catching it on the right day

This past week's weather has not been kindly to skiers and snowboarders. But today was the exception. The temperatures dropped last night and today, so there was fresh snow on the slopes and partial sunshine. My sons (-Bjorn, due relational priorities) and I made the trip up to Crystal Mountain and had a blast. There were a lot of people that had the same idea, so we had to fight the crowds at the lifts. Tonight we are driving to Lynden to be with family for a few days.

Wednesday, December 28, 2005

vacation project

The last couple of days have been fairly lazy: reading, running and shopping. I decided to be a little productive. After painting the master bathroom this fall, there was one part that needed finishing. Above the shower the wallpaper was too moldy and torn to paint, so I ripped it off and installed some pine wainscoat material. Because it always stays damp up there with four showers a day, I stained and varnished the wood so that it can be easily wiped off. I also repainted the ceiling with a semi-gloss enamel. Hopefully, this will be easier to keep clean of mildew.

Sunday, December 25, 2005

Merry Christmas!


Christmas Eve
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor.
A Merry Christmas from the Bulthuis family to all you who frequent this blog. We hope that each of you are enjoying your loved ones and celebrating the birth of our Lord.

Friday, December 23, 2005

Bulthuis' Break into the 21st century


Wireless Wife
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor.
After dragging our heels for ten years, we finally joined the cellular world. I had refused to get into a contract and Esther had refused to do the pre-pay thing, so we have been at a stalemate for a year. We found a company that has competitive monthly rates with no contract, so we took the plunge. So far we have been pleased. We signed up on-line and got the phone in three days. We had a couple of customer service calls that went great. My sister has been with this company for seven years and been very satisfied. Plans start as low as $10/mo. So if there are any other hold outs out there, you might consider Consumer Cellular. If you do, mention me as a referral and we each get $10! (bulthuisp@mac.com)

Thursday, December 22, 2005

Bulthuis Boys Band


Bulthuis Boys Band
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor.
Every December, the chords of carols echo through our house. It's the one time of the year that I heat up my Cornet and abuse my lips. Bjorn is a little rusty on his clarinet, but Calvin is in shape with his saxophone. I was struck tonight that over the years, I quickly went from leader to flunky in the band. It didn't take long for my sons to surpass my meager skill level. We tried to get Esther on the piano and Markus on the drums, but we couldn't convince them. The four of us boys watched 'King Kong' in the theatre this afternoon. It was long but I enjoyed it

Bulthuis Christmas Celebration

Yesterday, we were in Monroe at my nephew Aaron's house for the Bulthuis Christmas celebration. We all opened gifts from Mom which we had purchased ourselves, as well as gifts presented to her. It was fun catching up on eachother's lives. A new generation is emerging as Jorren has recently been joined by brother Caden and cousin Anika. The commotion eventually got to mom and she needed to retreat for a while to the quiet basement. It was great to have sister Ellen at our house for a couple of days. She is up from Sacramento for the holidays. She will spend the next week or so with mom in Lynden.

Sunday, December 18, 2005

the prodigal buoy returns


buoy returns
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor.
As I was admiring the view once again this morning, I noticed that my lost buoy had returned! Some of you may be thinking. - "The dummy was just looking yesterday at a high tide, and now it's low tide, and the buoy is snagged on something" - wrong. The buoy was absent all day yesterday, even at low tide. My best guess at this point is that during the lowest evening tide, the chain snagged on something, submerging the buoy yesterday. Then last night, during the next low low tide, it worked the snag free. Whatever the cause of the mystery disappearance, my mooring system is still intact.

Saturday, December 17, 2005

the lost buoy


the lost buoy
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor.
As I was admiring the beautiful view this morning, I noticed that there was something missing. The buoy which I use to moor my boats has disappeared. It must have floated off to some nearby beach where some happy boater will retrieve it and use for himself, compliments of a negligent Southworth Sailor. The last time that inspected the line, I felt confident it could make it through the winter. Evidently not! Well, this means that I will have a little work this spring a some low tide, trying to retrieve my anchor line. This evening we helped out with the Angel Tree banquet at church, where children of incarcerated parents receive gifts that are requested by their parent and purchased by church members. It was a great evening of joy and appreciation.

Tuesday, December 13, 2005

Ninth time's a charm


Calvin at Band Concert
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor.
Every year Mr. Nathan and the Sedgwick music program put on a great Christmas concert. Tonight was our ninth and final year of this concert, as all three of our boys cycled through Sedgwick band, one at a time. The highlight of the concert is always the advanced band, which this year is exceptionally good. They played a medley of the Nutcracker which was impressive for a junior high. Calvin plays first chair saxophone, but denies being the best in the school. We are crossing our fingers, hoping that our last son will try high school band.

Sunday, December 11, 2005


narnia poster
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor.
Calvin and I watched Narnia this evening. I really enjoyed it. Since I have been reading the book to my class, I was aware of the little differences with the book narrative. I think that they are minor, and the movie portrays the book's message in an authentic way. My favorite actor/actress is Lucy. The Stone Table scene was powerful and so suggestive of the crucifixion. This afternoon was such nice weather. Esther hauled us down to the beach to drag up some driftwood for some decorations.

Wednesday, December 07, 2005

Up and at it again

This summer, our good friend Tom started a blog which captured his wit and random penetrating thoughts. After an extended hiatus, he is back at it again! If you have not enjoyed his verbal musings yet, it's time you check him out. Click on 'Tom's blog' which is on the left of this page. And while I am promoting blogs, I will mention that my favorite resource for the emerging church is tallskinnykiwi.

Saturday, December 03, 2005

Chilly Chores

There are certain December outdoor chores that fall upon the shoulders every American husband. I completed the two biggies in one day. The nice weather on a Saturday was the determining factor which made it all possible. Today I counted all the aggravating things about stringing lights and I think I know why most men have an aversion for the project. 1) untangling the mess of wires and bulbs (and keeping them untangled.) 2) bulbs breaking as one tries to move them around the roof. 3) bulb hooks get caught on shingles. 4) strings fall in wet gutter as one works 5) hooks break off and bulbs hang funny 6) one never has the right extension cords to do the job. I could go on, but I might discourage some delinquent husband who still has to do it. The other 'biggie' is getting the christmas tree. When the boys were younger, it was a traditional family outing. Now, it is left to me to do myself. It is certainly a more efficient operation. I was back at the house with a freshly cut tree in a little less than an hour.

Friday, December 02, 2005

Peter Powder

Markus and I took the opportunity of a day off from school to go snowbaording at Crystal Mountain. The snow was super - better than I have ever seen at Crystal. There was at least 18" of powder. There were quite a few skiers on the mountain for a Friday, but even by the end of the afternoon, we were still finding untouched powder to plow through. Sore muscles were screaming at both of us after our first day on snowboards this year. I felt like I redeemed a day that had been stolen from summer. You see, unfortunately, most teachers in our district would rather have a day for 'grading' after each trimester, than a day of summer; not to mention a host of other 'non-student days.' I would rather do my grading at night, during the long winter evenings. Our union has pushed the school year to the 23rd of June :(

Sunday, November 27, 2005

A busy weekend with the Eides

After debating about hitting the slopes on Saturday, the gang opted for the Museum of Flight and the supermall. The kids went to the supermall, and the adults went to the museum. It had been about ten years since I'd been to the museum and it was great. They have added a new building with lots of WWI and WWII fighter planes, all very neatly exhibited. We also got to go in the Concorde and Air Force One. We all met up at Ikeas for Swedish meatballs. Today we went to Saltys in Redondo Beach for brunch, where we met Jenny, who was coming back from Oregon. Saltys supposedly has the most extravagant brunch buffet in the Puget Sound, and I believe it. The Eides particularly enjoy the seafood twist to it. We said good-bye to Bjorn and Jenny and all headed back to our quiet homes and our weekly routines.

Friday, November 25, 2005

Thanksgiving with the Eides


Ready to dig in
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor.
Esther's brothers and their families are in Southworth this weekend. The house is full of laughter and activity. It seems like we go from one meal to another in one long procession. Calvin and the Sedgwick marching band earned the 'spirit award' at the Macy's Day Parade this morning. They got real wet, but had a lot of fun.

Wednesday, November 23, 2005

the faux maestro at work


sponging on faux glaze
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor.
The last couple of nights I have been working on repainting our master bath. The existing wall paper is pretty wild and 70's like. We have been putting up with it for two years now, but Esther said it was time for the new look. I basically used the same colors for the base and glazing that I had in the bedroom, but it turned out a lot darker. It's a good thing the bathroom is large and very light with a skylight. Tonight we are preparing for company, as we will have the house full for the next several days. Bjorn is even returning home late tonight.

Monday, November 21, 2005

Don's Dangerous Dakar Donkey


Don's new toy
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor.
Don recently purchased a motorcycle for his daily commute to work. It is a sweet machine! A BMW 650 GS. Though the bike is more fitted to negotiate the trails of the Andes Mountains than the pavement of Highway 16, Don does enjoy his new mode of transportation. Maybe someday he'll tackle the Alaskan tundra or the Baja desert. The smart looking riding gear hides a cautious middle aged school teacher.

Sunday, November 20, 2005

Negotiating a tight corner


Now what?
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor.
Positioning my 23 ft boat beside the garage is somewhat of a delicate feat. Last year I was able to do it with a stressed out wife and patient teenage sons. This year I decided to do it with a little more finesse- I bought a come along. Everything worked like a charm, and the boat is safely stowed away next to her sister and out of sight.

Saturday, November 19, 2005

Sister Saturday

Esther and I had lunch with my sisters. Ellen just flew in from Sacramento this morning, and Sue picked her up from the airport. We met them in Tacoma at Applebees. We had a good time and overstayed our welcome at the restaurant. We enjoyed discussing everything from parenting to real estate. Since we are all in the education profession, we have a lot in common. Ellen will be spending the week with mom in Lynden as Sacramento schools have the whole week off. I was able to mow the lawn this morning, hopefully for the last time this year.

Friday, November 18, 2005

Lessons in Love and Logic


Love and Logic
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor.
For years I have heard things about 'Love and Logic,' but today Don and I had the opportunity to go to a one day seminar in Shoreline instead of our usual teaching duties. It was presented by Charles Fay, the son of the founder of L+L. He was very entertaining and easy to listen to. The principles that were presented were very simple and practical. Love and Logic is an approach to discipline which helps kids own and solve their own problems. Some of my favorite 'sound bites' were "Plug the holes before you launch the boat" and "The more I worry about another person's life the less he has to." He did wet my appetite to read the book for teachers. Their material looks like a great resource for parents as well.

Thursday, November 17, 2005

cyber word


netbible
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor.
I have been exploring a new release of an online Bible available at bible.org. It was put together by conservative scholars and has great textual notes regarding manuscripts and lexical information. It is also has an innovative approach to copyright issues. Tommorrow will be a different day as Don and I were given a professional day to attend a seminar in Shoreline. Don't forget to check Bjorn's blog about New Orleans. He's written more in the last weekend than he has this whole semester.

Saturday, November 12, 2005

The Bishops pay a visit

Today is my sister Susan's birthday and we had the opportunity to host a celebration with her children and grandchildren. Jack and Sue came from Olympia; Aaron, Jen and their two boys Jorren and Caden came down from Monroe; and Sarah, Mike and Anika from Bellevue, all came over for a midday meal. It was great seeing everyone, especially Mike and Sarah in their new role as parents. Our house received a preview of future grandchildren as the grandneice/nephews explored the environment. Caden is following in his brother Jorren's footsteps and Anika is a bundle of energy.

Bjorn and Jenny's New Orleans Adventure

Bjorn and Jenny are having a unique opportunity this 'reading break' as they are part of a ministry team working in New Orleans. Bjorn is blogging quite faithfully so it is fun to follow their daily adventures. You can read a lot more about it by clicking 'Bjorn's blog' under links. To see more of his pictures, click on the photo in his blog and then click 'photostream'.

Wednesday, November 09, 2005

picking up the pieces


old mac laptops
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor.
Some of you may remember that last spring we had several laptops stolen from our classroom. It was very discouraging to me as I had been collecting these ten year old laptops off from eBay and loading them with math software to use in our math program. After they were stolen, I just did not have the motivation to start over again. However, recently I have started to collect and fix some more computers. Most of them are Powerbook 5300s which was the last model before CD drives were installed. Therefore, they are not that valuable to the main market, but fit our needs quite well. There is plenty of educational software that will work on them, and with an external floppy connected to my eMac, I can print any of their word processing. So if you have any or know of any old Powerbooks, and you want to donate to a good community cause, just let me know.

Tuesday, November 08, 2005

the winch saga continues

What I thought was the last resort for my keel problem turned out to be another adventure. I was confident that a haul out in a sling could easily be dropped on the trailer. Unfortunately, they could not drop it, because as they tried to lower it, the boat would lean one way or the other. So when I went to pick the boat up last night, it was still in the sling and I was told that I needed to replace the winch overnight or the they could work on it the next day at $75/hour. Needless to say, I spent last night at the boat yard putting in a makeshift winch in order to retract the 600 lb. keel. Fortunately, things worked as planned and I was able to retract the keel. The haul out seemed like a waste since I could have installed a winch in the water. One good thing was that I was able to attach a new cable to keel which I could not do on the trailer or in the water. Well, tonight I hauled the boat home and it is safely on the property, though it will be another adventure getting it beside the garage.

Sunday, November 06, 2005

hauling out Ellen Maria

This morning we awoke to a power outage. It was pretty widespread. We had church services without electricity and without pastors (all were at a retreat this weekend) After church, (power back on) we enjoyed a brunch with nephews, Mikal and Zachary, who were here from Lynden for a short visit. Since I had been unsuccessful at raising the keel on the sailboat, I made arrangements for a crane haul out in Port Orchard for tomorrow. But that meant I had to get the boat to PO by tonight. Yesterday was a miserable weather day, and today promised to be a little better. So I spent this afternoon motoring Ellen Maria the ten miles through Rich Passage and to Dockside Marina. The sun was out most of the time, but it was windy and cold. I reminded myself that I am a summer sailor for good reason. I was a little apprehensive about the little old Mercury outboard, but once again 'old faithful' came through. It took me about two and half hours, and I made it before dark. The picture of Ellen Maria is from about a month ago. I didn't take my camera today, though I should have.

Monday, October 31, 2005

trick or treat wannabees

Some friends of Markus came over tonight and started pulling out childhood costumes of Bulthuis fame. They left the house to terrorize the town with their horrifying attire. We had our traditional pigs in a blanket and chili for supper. Then sent the boys off while we kept the gas fireplace running and the front door solicitors happy.

Wednesday, October 26, 2005

Blasphemy or Evangelism?


iBelieve
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor.
This is a replacement lanyard for the iPod shuffle available from iBelieve for $13. There's a 'biblical' quote on the website, taken from "2 Jobs 3:15." It reads: "But now bring me a man who plays music. And when the man played music, the groove came upon them." (i.e. 2 Kings 3:15) The designer was asked if it was genuinely Christian, or a comment on the popularity of ipods. He replied: "It is both. People will see what they want in it. They may want to visibly show their faith in a more fashionable way. The intertwined meaning is what is interesting. I think we are obsessed with objects today and none more than maybe the iPod. The idea was too funny, controversial, sad, not to visualize." While it borders on sacreligious, I can see someone using it to get people into a conversation about Jesus. By the way, I had my hands on the new iPod Video today. Wow! the picture quality is amazing! But such a tiny screen.

Sunday, October 23, 2005

Fading memory


mom at Silver Lake
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor.
The human brain is a wonderful and complex creation of God. Just consider all of the tasks that it performs in a day: all of the memory it carries, not to mention the affective activity of volition and emotion, Yet, it is fragile. An injury or tumor can totally change a person's life. Recently, my mother was given a preliminary diagnosis of Alzheimer's. There is no doubt that her memory is slowly fading. Having watched Esther's mother suffer from Alzheimer's for eight years, we know the sadness and strain that it puts on a family. As I watch my mother slowly begin a similar journey, I am reminded again of the subtle cruelty of this disease. Mom will face it courageously and with dependence on her Lord. On Friday, my sister, Susan took mom to some of her favorite recreational sites. I like this picture at Silver Lake because it seems to reflect what's happening to her.

Saturday, October 22, 2005

October Sailing

I had planned to spend most of the day getting the boat out of the water, but the conditions were just too tempting to pass up a sail. Since there was a nice breeze out of the southwest, I headed down Colvos Passage. It is always hard to make much progress at the north end of the passage, as the current is pretty strong. Eventually I made southward progress and enjoyed a sack lunch before heading back. Since my keel winch is broken, I tried to retract it using the 'grounding' method close to the beach; but it didn't work. Plan B is going to be an attempt to replace the winch at anchor. I need to retract it before I can get it on my trailer and out of the water for the winter.
On a different note, our friend, neighbor and music pastor, Steve DeKorte is very ill. They can't seem to identify the problem. He spent last night in the hospital and they ran several tests; but as of yet, they don't have a diagnosis. Please pray for him and his family.

Saturday, October 15, 2005

Misplaced Innovation


video iPod
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor.
Sometimes I think that Apple has forgotten that it is a computer company. I am using a five year old iBook and don't feel like Apple has produced a significant laptop to compel me to upgrade. On the other hand, in the same amount of time, Apple has released atleast ten versions of the iPod. I jumped on board with an iPod mini about two years ago and I already feel like it's outdated! The newest release (Tuesday) is the much anticipated video iPod. While watching a movie on a 2 inch screen seems ridiculous, Apple has tried to highlight a more appropriate use of portable video. With their latest version of iTunes you can download TV shows, video podcasts and short movies. It will be interesting to see if this catches on. SInce downloading iTunes 6 this week, I have discovered the pleasure of viewing video podcasts, which are basically short video broadcasts on a variety of subjects. If my daily routines didn't place me next to a computer all the time, I would probably be very tempted to buy a video iPod. While I don't blame it for riding the wave of success with the iPod, I can only hope that Apple will put it's creative genius back into computers soon.

Sunday, October 09, 2005

The mystery of a woman's soul

I am leading a study of this book in our parenting teens Sunday School class. The book is very thought-provoking and we have a lot of great discussions. So you're asking: what is a father of three sons doing teaching about fathering girls? To put you at ease, I'm just the facilitator of a discussion group. What's really ironic is that the authors' don't have daughters either! This is the woman's counterpart to the men's book: "Wild at Heart" The authors postulate that every woman's heart longs for three things: to be romanced, to play an irreplaceable role in a great adventure, and to unveil beauty. They base this on social and cultural observations as well as on the creation account in Genesis. Whether you think that it is hogwash or revelation, the book makes for great contemplation and discussion.

What is that?


What is that?
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor.
I thought antennas went out with black and white TV? Well, in an effort to economically experience high definition TV, I hoisted one of these ugly things on my roof. (the only house with one as far as I can see) Since we are situated directly across the water from Queen Ann Hill, reception is at a premium for the distance. It works great! We get about a dozen stations, six or so which are HD. Actually, the antenna is experiencing a new surge in popularity as more and more stations have a digital broadcasts. The nice thing about digital is that there is no 'snow' or fuzziness. You either get the signal or you don't. So dust off those antennas and join the Jones'.

'Kaysadila' feed


hungry teenage boys
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor.
What's a man to do when seven hungry teenage boys show up at his door-- and his wife isn't home? Panic! Then heat up what frozen burritos you have left and shred up some cheese for some quesadillas. Esther is gone for the weekend to a conference: 'Women of Faith,' and the boys and I have had a fairly quiet weekend until Sunday afternoon rolled around. Church always gives the boys the opportunity to make connections with their friends. I value the friendships from church which all of our sons have made over the years. While they each have casual friends outside the church youth group, their closests friends have always been buddies from church. Empty refrigerators are a small price to pay for the social and spiritual stability of your children!

Friday, October 07, 2005

Super volleyball


Jr. High games
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor.
Sometimes all you need is a slight variation to a common game to add a little excitement. On Wednesday evenings I help out with our church junior high youth group. This week we played blind vball with an exceptionally large ball. The teams couldn't see eachother because of a makeshift wall, which added to the fun. We have been having a great turnout of about 45 kids each week. While I enjoy the evening of interaction with this high energy group, I'm thankful for my elementary classroom! Hats off to junior high teachers.

Monday, October 03, 2005

Carrie's Classic


piano - family heirloom
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor.
This past weekend we moved this piano from Esther's parent's house to our living room. Much to my chagrin, Esther insisted that this heirloom be transported and installed in our house. No one in our family plays the piano, but Esther would like it to stay in the family. It was Esther's grandmother's (Carrie) piano. She was a piano teacher and it was her intention that her only granddaughter should take possession of it someday. In order to move it, we rented a Uhaul trailer and arranged for masses of teenage boys at both ends. The toughest part was going down the steps to the living room. I'm hoping that it will stay here a LONG time.

A visit to Langley


Bjorn's dinky room
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor.
We spent Sunday in Canada with Bjorn and Jenny. We got to see Bjorn's new living arrangements. He lives with four other guys from Trinity. It is a four 'bedroom' apartment on top of some commercial property. Bjorn's room is really small, but he loves it. He found a loft bed and is using a small fold down desk that he got from Esther's folk's house. We also saw Jenny's apartment, which is in downtown Fort Langley. It is a very unique living quarters behind a restaurant. It is very handy as there are a lot of amenities just a short walk away. We spent a couple of hours enjoying the shops and setting of Fort Langley. We were almost envious of those 'college days.'

Saturday, October 01, 2005

Dinner with mom

We came up to Lynden last night and I rented a Uhaul trailer this morning. Markus and a bunch of his friends came up separately to visit a friend at Western. So they all came over to the Eide compound for brunch. John grilled pancakes on the outdoor grill. In the afternoon, we went over to see mom and take her out for dinner. We took a drive to Blaine and ate at an Italian restaurant. She seems to be doing well. It's funny how she enjoys talking so much, after being out-talked by dad for 50 years.

Sunday, September 25, 2005

Pasta Party


Jack and Sue
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor.
Last night, Esther and I went out to dinner with my sister Susan and husband Jack. (Sorry about the photo, Jack) It was great to catch up on one another's lives and families. Their quiver of grandchildren is growing, and they are thriving in the grandparent role. Sue had recently made a couple of custom photo books feauring the grandchildren using Snapfish. We commented how much Dad would have enjoyed seeing his new great grandchildren. It has been just over a year since he passed away and we miss him much.

Thursday, September 22, 2005

New Life for old iBook


New Sony HDTV/monitor
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor.
I recently purchased a 17" high definition TV/ PC monitor. It's primary purpose is a TV for our bedroom. About the only thing Esther and I watch is the nightly news; and with such a monster of a bedroom, this will give us a little more reason to spend time up there. I purchased a high definition tuner on eBay, but I haven't received it yet. It is a widescreen and works great with DVD. It also doubles as a computer monitor. It has breathed new life into my four year old iBook. 17" beats 12" though the lazyboy is a lot more comfortable than the desk.

Sunday, September 18, 2005

September Sailing


Josh at the helm
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor.
The 2005 sailing days are numbered, so when I have a free afternoon and favorable conditions, I am on the water. This afternoon, Josh DeKorte joined me for a relaxing sail to the central sound and back. Josh is always eager to join me and he is a great deckhand. Conversation is never lacking as his inquisitive mind keeps the dialogue active.

Saturday, September 17, 2005

Anniversary


28th Anniversary
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor.
28 years of marital bliss! Well, almost. Today, Esther and I celebrated our anniversary by going to Port Townsend for the day. She enjoys poking through the shops, and I enjoy poking around the docks. We decided not to make it an overnighter this time, as the Texas trip is still fresh in our minds. We are thankful for an adventurous and rewarding life together so far.

Tuesday, September 13, 2005

A Dastardly Duo


dastardly duo
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor.
It's one thing when your son needs a haircut and you can't convince him; it's another thing when your teaching partner needs a haircut and you can't convince him! Seriously, I am very blessed to work side by side with a colleague who shares a faith, a value system and a vision for education. Few teachers work in as close a relationship to eachother as we do. We share the same classroom, the same students, and same teaching responsibility. While we do have points of frustration while working together, we value the benefit of the team which we create together. We are excited about this school year. We have a great bunch of students that need our encouragement and direction to experience significant academic and spiritual (shh) growth. Thanks for putting up with me, Don.

Sunday, September 11, 2005

Lunching with Larsons


Luke and Amy
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor.
This morning the worship service consisted of the youth presenting their mission trip to Mexico. Markus and Calvin along with the other youth shared their experiences of how God worked through them. Luke and Amy came over for dinner and a sail. Esther and Amy joined us for the nautical adventure. The wind was mild but steady and Ellen Maria performed well. Luke and Amy are still looking for an apartment, so we took a little drive in the evening and toured the area. We found one that Esther liked on Beach Drive, and I'm a little worried she might move in if they don't take it.

Saturday, September 10, 2005

Back to School


drawing lesson
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor.
It was good to get back to the teaching routine this week. Don and I have fifty-four students this year, half of whom were with us last year. It's nice to have all the fifth graders used to the routines and able to help the fourth graders adjust to their unfamiliar new setting. We know that there is a purpose that each child is in our class, and we have the opportuntiy to help shape their life for two years. The school year started with an open house the night before classes started. About two-thirds of the parents showed up, which is much better than typical open houses. It seems that every year some parent is uncomfortable with this 'multiage thing' and pulls their child. This year it has not happened, though a couple of new parents were a bit skeptical at first. We look forward to a great year!

Tuesday, September 06, 2005

Weekend in Whatcom

We spent Sunday and Monday in Lynden with Esther's family. It was good to catch up on eachother's summer activities. Bjorn and Jenny spent Sunday afternoon with us. He had been in his first accident that morning. Fortunately, it was a minor accident and it wasn't entirely his fault. His bumper is all messed up, but it doesn't effect performance. On Monday, the adults went to Anthonys and then for a walk in Fairhaven where we made and interesting aquaintance with a young man. (see Flickr pic) The weekend was a nice getaway before the school routine begins.

Saturday, September 03, 2005

Wedding at the Woodmark


Wedding at the Woodmark
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor.
Last night I had the opportunity to officiate at a beautiful wedding. Nicole Yoder, daughter of some long time friends of ours, was married at the Woodmark Hotel, on Lake Washington in Kirkland. I enjoyed counseling Nicole and her fiance, Ben for the last few months. They will be moving to Eugene, where Ben will pursue a masters in sports business. The ceremony went well and the reception was extravagant, including a chocolate fountain. Esther and I were given a room to stay in for the night. It was quite a contrast from the 'budget' motels that we were accustom to on our Texas trip. I didn't get any pictures of the ceremony since I was occupied and my photographer was too self-conscious to take any pictures. This morning, we walked around the point and enjoyed the setting.

Wednesday, August 31, 2005

Ellen Maria makes it to her mooring

After waiting all summer to get in the water, Ellen Maria (a.k.a. Piccina II) finally gets to sit on the mooring line. Hopefully, she will get to play in the wind and waves occasionally before I dry her out again in mid-October. After school meetings today, Bjorn and I took her to the launch. I was a little concerned about her through holes, as they leaked a little last time she was in the water. I had placed a fresh sealant on the joints and was hoping that would do the trick. Unfortunately, as soon as she was in the drink, water seeped in by the joints. I agonized about whether to haul her back out. After waiting a half an hour, I decided to go for it. As we motored over to Southworth, we didn't seem to take on any more water. I will have to keep an eye on her the next few days.

Saturday, August 27, 2005

The 'cost' of 'free' mooring


scrubbing the scum line
Originally uploaded by Southworth Sailor.
I am determined to get Ellen Maria (the bigger boat) into the water this year. But that necessitated the retrieval of Blue Wing (the smaller boat), and cleaning her up. The Puget Sound is a healthy aquatic environment; and mooring for four months produces an abundance of marine growth on the hull of a boat. The bottom paint protects the bottom pretty well, but where the waves splash the sides a 'scum line' grows. After hauling the boat home this morning, I spent the afternoon scrubbing Blue Wing and getting her ready for winter storage. Hopefully, this means I will get Ellen Maria out on the mooring in time for a month or two of sailing before winter.