Tag Archives: children

Boredom produces old harvest picture gallery

by nebraskawheatie

gpa-gma-h-001Grandpa & Grandma Hancock (not sure of the date)

I finished getting my numbers together for the tax man. It was too early to go to bed, I didn’t want to clean my house (yet), and it was too early to pack for the US Custom Harvesters convention. So…now what? Hmmm, let’s go through this “old memory” drawer. The “old memory” drawer holds little keepsakes my Grandma gave me before she passed away. I found some loose old pictures and decided it would be fun to go through them. These were pictures she had saved in a wooden cigar box. When I started looking, it made the ‘ole tears start. The first few I saw were of Grandma as a young woman. She did so many things and went so many places! I am in awe of all she did. She was definitely not scared to go on her own. She was 19 in the following pictures. She took a train by herself to California to stay with her Uncle in San Diego. While there, she visited Tijuana, Old Mexico. This was in 1938

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gma4-001 Now I know where my love for fishing came from.

 Then I started seeing old harvest pictures and decided I needed to share.

harvest-001It was in this combine and in the corn field that I remember standing in the cab with Grandpa and “helping”. I was little enough I would take a nap on the ledge behind the seat.

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harvest5-001Notice who’s “helping” on the header? Yep, that’s me. 🙂

harvest6-001And this very skinny young man is the guy I later married.

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harvest13-001Me and Grandma posing for a newspaper article while in Lodgepole, NE. She looks a whole lot more excited about doing it than I do!

harvest8-001In 1989, Jamie, Jenna and I visited the harvesters in Lodgepole, NE. Jamie would have been 3 and Jenna 16 mos.

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harvest11-001Our first year on the road as Zeorian Harvesting & Trucking. 1990 – Lodgepole, NE

harvest12-001Jenna helping her Daddy.

Another yearly event is about to come and go. The US Custom Harvesters convention is next week. As I’ve said before, our family counts down events ’til harvest rather than months and days. So, we’re nearly through them all. After we’ve celebrated Jenna’s birthday, the next thing to do will be pack the trailer to get ready to head south. When the convention is here, harvest is right around the corner! Are you ready to follow the adventure?

Being a mom to many at #D2S2012

by nebraskawheatie

“Our children will also serve him. Future generations will hear about the wonders of the Lord. His righteous acts will be told to those not yet born.   They will hear about everything he has done.” (Psalm 22:30, 31 NLT)

This was the fifth year I’ve been to the Dare2Share event in Lincoln, NE.  The first year I went, Cindy and I took approximately ten kids. The year before, she only took three. This year…we took nearly 30 kids and 6 adult sponsors. OUTSTANDING! Especially if you knew how small our church is. However, the kids of the community are HUNGRY for what Greg Stier and the people of Dare2Share are offering them – the GOSPEL. It’s pretty straight forward and blunt but it’s the TRUTH spoken with a great amount of passion and love for the next generation.

I’ve seen it before in years past…the ones who have never participated in the event will hold back and take it all in with some hesitation and quite a bit of intimidation. By the time Saturday night rolls around, these same kids are on fire! They are on fire for the Lord and are ready to take Him into their world. Don’t you dare tell them they CAN’T do something! It does my heart good to see them pumped and ready to take THE cause (to multiply disciples globally) to their mission field – their schools. According to what I learned from Greg, Scientists at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have found that when just 10 percent of the population holds an unshakeable belief, their belief will always be adopted by the majority of society. – Science Daily, July 26, 2011.  The auditorium held 5,000+ jr. and sr. high students ready to fight the good fight. These kids come from all parts of the midwest and from different churches to worship the ONE true God. They learned it’s not about a religion…it’s about a relationship. Know what’s interesting? The kids that went this year represents 10% of the number of kids in our jr./sr. high school. God is good!

Can I just say…these kids got it! Thank you, Greg Stier, and all the others that make this event work.  They teach and equip our children with the tools they need to fight as they head into a world waiting to gobble them up! My one prayer for all the kids who attended would be they could remain on that mountain top long enough to make the difference in their world.  “God will gain a maximum of armies by using NOBODYS.” Greg Stier

When the end came on Saturday night, I was the one who was blessed! It’s one thing to be a youth leader and talk and talk and talk. It’s another when you get to witness something so powerful and so good. I was able to see the fire that was lit in each of those kids in our group. I would be willing to bet they will take what they learned and will share it with SOMEONE in their school this week. They’ll surely suffer rejection and be made fun of, “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” Matthew 5:11-12  My prayer for them is they do not quit…not now…not ever!

I feel like such a proud mamma!

our “Little House on the Prairie” evening

by nebraskawheatie

I wrote this little diddy back in 2012 (February 5 to be exact). Its been nearly three years ago already but I remember the night as if it were tonight. It’s times like this that you aren’t expecting but when they happen, it turns into one of those memories that just never go away. The girls and I had a wonderful evening due to the heavy snowfall! I think we all three slept in our bed to keep warm. Jim was doing snow removal. Sometimes…it’s the little things that just mean the most! And, to top it off, I’m certain we had a snow day the next day rather than school!

Lost power again about 5:30 last night. What do you do then? Well, start out with finding as many blankets as you can. Next, was the kerosene lamps. From there, whatever you can find to do by the light of the lamps:

Made soup and grilled cheese sandwiches for supper.

The camera flash gave us a few seconds of light 🙂

Callie reading “The Hunger Games” to me…just enough to get me hooked!

Our wintery wonderland!

P.S. We got our electricity back about 3:00 a.m. Heard some places around here will be without any power for up to 3 days. Glad it’s not us!

Winter…it found us.

by nebraskawheatie

Hello from very snowy Nebraska!

Almost exactly one month ago today, I wrote about how Eastern Nebraska has lucked out with the winter cold and snow. I had a feeling it was too good to be true.  For the past several days, the weatherman has been warning us of the impending snow storm coming from Colorado headed right for Eastern Nebraska before continuing its trek Eastward. My Grandpa always said that when we experience a strong wind from the East we should be watching for a bad storm. He was certainly right! The wind blew like crazy yesterday – straight out of the East. Branches that had been protected from previous winds found their way to the ground. Because I knew the storm was headed our way, I took a picture from the kitchen window to show you what it looked like prior to the storm. I couldn’t take a picture from the exact spot this morning because the window was wet from the snow.

We woke up to 12+ inches of snow. More than we’ve had all winter.  And no power.  The house was a little on the chilly side! Good thing the temperature outside wasn’t  below zero. What do you do when there’s no way to make coffee? Improvise. We’re lucky enough to have gas appliances in this old house so I heated some water for hot chocolate and instant coffee.

Callie’s enjoying her cup of hot chocolate.

Right after this picture was taken, the power came back on – for a short period of time. Then, it went back off again. Rather than sitting in here trying to stay warm, Callie and I went outside and shoveled for a while. The snow is wet and heavy – perfect for a snowman!

A Random Re-post

by nebraskawheatie

I’m in dire need of something that reminds me of summer. Eastern Nebraska has had a WONDERFUL winter as far as severity. Maybe a little too nice. We’re in need of some moisture and it sounds like it may be on the way starting Friday. For now, though, I’m really missing summer and the harvest. I started this blog late in the 2011 harvest season so I don’t have a lot to choose from.  I know I have fun reliving the crazy days of harvest:  Click here to read Finished with Winter Wheat in Jordan

Now I can start thinking SPRING!

by nebraskawheatie

I know we could have a lot more winter yet. As a matter of fact, March is sometimes THE WORST month for measurable snowfall in Nebraska. At least we know when it snows then, it won’t stick around very long.  Nebraska has been in a roller coaster pattern all winter with very little moisture – really nice for several days and then a blast of cold. Today, we’re headed toward another upward trend with mid 40’s in the forecast.  However, Nebraska weather also has a trend being after the warmer days…watch out! (I think that may be coming on Friday)

I know you’re probably going to laugh but guess I’ll fill you in anyways. I took down the Christmas tree yesterday. Yes…the tree (and all the other Christmas decorations). I decided that it was time to get the living room back to normal again, regardless of just how much we have enjoyed the tree this year. As a reminder, here’s what it looked like and this is how it came to be part of our family:

It felt good waking up this morning and walking into the living room knowing I didn’t have that job ahead of me.

Last fall, I sold our summer home on wheels. Jim felt it was time to look for something that had more “livable” space for the rainy days (or when we find ourselves inside the trailer for longer periods of time). The other trailer house was beautiful and I loved it but it did lack in space for everyone just to hang out.

When we knew it was going to be a long day inside, Jim would just head upstairs and lay on the bed most of the day. So…now the search has begun. Finding something that fits both of our likes and “requirements” is a little tough. Last weekend, Jim and I decided to take a quick trip to Wichita to look at a specific toy hauler that had caught my eye. He likes the idea of the 3 axles and I want something that feels like home when you come in from the field at the end of the day. Pretty hard to find that in a toy hauler. I thought the one we went to look at would be “the one”. No. We visited a couple other RV lots while we were there and found a 5th wheel we both liked. Now, we wait to hear if the salesman can do his job and make the price somewhat reasonable and maybe worth a second look. I hope he comes through because it would be PERFECT for our family. When we finally find our next “cottage on wheels”, I’m sure I’ll be sharing with pictures. Until then, the days just keep clicking away.  We need to have one in the driveway the first of May so I can start the packing process.

Another sign that spring’s on the way is the long awaited (by my family) US Custom Harvester’s convention. This year, it’s in Grand Island, Nebraska and will begin for me the end of February. We’re talking days away now. The kids LOVE going! It’s the time when they can be around people who know what we do and don’t have to ask the question, “what’s a combine?” or “how was your VACATION?” When we get around the good folks who call themselves custom harvesters, it’s like being with family again. LOVE IT and we can’t wait. Curious about what happens at the USCHI harvester’s convention? Check out the pictures you can find at http://www.3-deerphotos.com/  You can also visit the USCHI website at www.uschi.com After the harvest convention, it seems the spring harvest preparations begin and wheat harvest is right around the corner. The Zeorian household is ready for the day when the “train” is headed south again!

Now that February is nearly here, I will be watching and waiting for the first Robin I see. When that happens, I KNOW spring is right around the corner!

The things you learn from Saturday morning tv

by nebraskawheatie

This past week, I have been “babysitting”. I’m not sure it’s really considered babysitting when you’re with kids who are part of the family. Mom and Dad are in the Bahamas…  I told them I think the scenario is backwards. I should be in the Bahamas and they should be home 🙂

At the start of this adventure, it was a little more stressful not knowing schedules, etc. However, it’s all good now and I’m relearning what it’s like to be with and “in charge” of 5 and 8 year old girls. I’m LOVING it! The hardest part is keeping two households in order and getting the little girls in bed by 8:00. After they get on the bus in the morning, I close up their house and head for home for the rest of the day. It’s working and we’re finally into a routine – just in time for mom and dad to get home (Tuesday).

This morning, Brook woke up and decided she needed to make us scrambled eggs. Her dad has done a great job of teaching her to throw things together. She made them herself and included bacon bits, cheddar cheese, and black olives. They were really tastey! And above all else, she knew where the coffee was.

Brook and her special recipe.

 Jilllian wanted her picture taken too.

After breakfast, Jillian and I were watching Disney. The following came on during a commercial break. If it doesn’t inspire you to do something to change your world, nothing will!

Happy Saturday!

Wine and birthdays.

by nebraskawheatie

Not sure how we got ‘er all done, but the festivities certainly made the weekend go much faster than I like. It all began Friday night with Jamie, Jenna and Callie. Last summer, Jamie had sent me a link for a “Living Social” coupon from the Slattery Vintage Estates winery and I thought it sounded like it would be something worth purchasing and taking advantage of. The deadline for the coupon was ever so sneakily creeping closer and closer so we decided to partake in our cheese,crackers and wine tasting adventure. We were missing Taylor. She is the HS girls basketball student manager and was at a ball game. It was a LOVELY evening. It got even better as we were leaving – the owner of the winery asked if I was the older SISTER. That was definitely a boost for the ‘ole ego!

P.S. Callie was NOT drinking wine. She was enjoying an icy cold Pepsi in her souvenir wine glass.

 My poor starving children.

Jamie giving us her famous “Jamie” look.

Me and Jame.

Jenna, Me and Callie

Slattery Vintage Estates winery is a beautiful place – inside and out. In the summer, they offer some fancy tents to spend the night in, featuring wonderful old antiques. I think it would be quite the adventure hanging out there on a summer evening – as long as it wasn’t 102 with 90% humidity and lots of bugs.

On Saturday morning, I got up and drove the High School Art Club to Omaha (in the school bus) to tour the Joslyn Art Museum and the Latino Museum in South Omaha. I had never been to the Joslyn before. I’ve been to more art museums this year than I have in my entire life. In February, Jim and I were at the Louvre. In December, I very briefly walked through the National Art Museum in DC. Omaha’s Joslyn is not as big (of course) as the other two but it’s a very nice art museum. I was excited to see a couple Charles M. Russell paintings and also Currier and Ives. My harvest Grandma was the one who introduced me to both of these artists. Seeing them immediately took me back to a time and place when I was much younger. I appreciate the fact that Grandma passed the love of so many of her favorite things to me. The funny part is, I wasn’t even aware of it when it was happening.

Taylor just inside the door of the Joslyn.

“The Weeders”

 Charlie Russell painting – A Montana resident.

Taylor and I in front of the Joslyn.

When we got home from Omaha, about 3:00, the day wasn’t over yet. Callie and I decided we’d get her room painted. So, we have been painting a little here and little there with hopes of finishing before basketball practice starts (10th of Jan.). So, when I got home, I changed clothes and headed upstairs with her to paint a while. We had a little bit of time before needing to head to Mark and Candi’s for Brook’s 8th birthday party. When it was time, Cal and I cleaned up our paint brushes, changed clothes once again and headed to the Rathe’s house for supper. As usual, Mark put out a spectacular “feed” and we all ate till we were ready to burst. The little kids, though, were having way too much fun to waste much time eating!

 Happy birthday, Brook! Brook was showing us the matching nightgown she and her doll shared. CUTE!

Taylor and her beau, Nick.

This is what birthday parties are all about!

After church on Sunday, Callie and I once again changed our clothes and headed upstairs to paint for a while before it was time to go party once again. This time, we would be celebrating Jim’s mom’s 88th birthday. We gathered for pizza and birthday cake. I think she enjoyed her day! This is the same woman who was struggling so very hard to breathe on Thanksgiving morning and ended up spending several days in ICU. She’s recovered quite nicely!

The gang!

Mom and her grandkids – notice…ALL GIRLS – except for her great-grandson.

 Added the grandson-in-laws.

And now, her kids – Jim and Maureen. and me and Harv.

Jim and his big sis, Maureen.

Happy Birthday to Mom Z. and Brooklyn! We celebrated being 8 and being 88. It’s always fun celebrating a birthday and eating birthday cake!

 AND, Callie and I got her room finished!

P.S.

by nebraskawheatie

P.S. There were no noisemakers coming from this house last night. I think the day has come before I was ready! However, the new year still made its way into our world. Happy January 1, 2012!

Now, for a little interesting information to pass along. I have been posting since August. Yesterday, WordPress sent a note to inform me of the top rated blogs since that very first one. I thought maybe this would be of interest to you – my dear, loyal readers:

#5. “And I wonder why it takes me so long to get back in the groove!” – September 2011

#4. “The visible results of the 2011 Missouri River Flood” – November 2011

#3.” When can I breathe?” – October 2011

#2. “My first posting on my brand new blog” – August 2011

And the #1 read posting goes to:

“On the road…again“-  August 2011

So…if you’re really bored today, check them out and see why so many read these particular posts. Have fun! 🙂

Happy New Year!

by nebraskawheatie

We’re about to say goodbye to 2011 and ring in a brand new year. As I look back on the past year, I think about how each day brought new challenges and joys, bad days and good, lots of miles under the ‘ole belt and a new son-in-law. 2012 is anxiously being anticipated. One thing is for sure, there will be changes.

New Year’s Eve has never been a big deal to me and Jim. Most years it seems the girls (whichever ones are here) and I sit in front of the tv watching the ball drop. We quickly run to the kitchen, grab a couple of pans, spoons and start banging on them to make noise – lots of noise – to bring in the new year. And to help make them feel like they’re doing something special while everyone else in our little piece of the world is having fun. They enjoyed it – I enjoyed it. We usually had a meal of finger food and sparkling grape juice.

The day is coming, though, when I won’t have anyone to run outside with me and the “noise makers”. I’ll miss that. I’ll miss the traditions of this night when the final girl has realized there’s more to the night than what they’re used to. I hope one day, they will look back on the New Year’s Eve’s of the past and smile. Maybe even grab a pan and a spoon. head out the door and start ringing in the new year. I love that I’ve been able to share these past Eve’s with the girls, having our own special way of celebrating and looking forward to the new year ahead of us.

I expect your 2012 will be filled with good days and bad (just like any year). I pray the bad days are made a little easier with the help of family and friends and the good ones are so awesome you HAVE to share them with family and friends! Happy New Year!