Danglish

2010-02-04T20:45:00.005+01:00

The cat now sleeps in the old hospital bag. Welcome to Dixie, Skeeter and Puss' newest sibling: Emerson Lane Everhart.

2009-12-27T12:34:00.010+01:00

Shelby is changing fast and so is her desire to do new things. No more baby for this young tot. This Christmas Simon and I took Shelby's "grown up mentality" into consideration before toy shopping.

I thought I could add a little spice to this retro orange color dollhouse from the 1960's. I took many different styles of wrapping paper and stuck them on with decupage glue. She got the 1950's dollhouse furniture from my mom which I am trying to decorate with some of the same kind of patterns for a more realistic effect. Though Shelby is too young to appreciate it now, I look forward to doing small projects like this with her in the future!

Ironing is a fun household chore of mine,

so when I saw this miniture ironing board

and toy iron at a flea market,

I knew I had to have it for

Shelby's room!

Shelby has a keen sense of organization.
When she is in our kitchen she likes to help
us wash dishes and mix things in the blender.

Hence the new kitchen set complete with frying pan

and tea kettle.

Shelby loves dolls. I love blue and red. I have a friend who makes fabulous things for
kids. She made all of Shelby's bedding and then some.

Recently she made Shelby a duvet cover

and a pillowcase with our taste in mind. For more of Julie click here.

All kids love to tumble around hence the wheely bug she got from her grandparents. Though she can't reach the floor on it now, it is sure to be a hit! And what would we do without Pooh?
She has adopted a few friend in the midst of the holiday season! Hope you all had a very Merry Christmas!

Dinner

2009-12-27T11:26:00.003+01:00

2009-12-19T20:33:00.001+01:00

2009-10-17T20:30:00.006+02:00

Note to self: When winter comes, get out of the house.

2009-08-10T08:49:00.004+02:00

Home again. Life is continuing at rapid speed. I have started work, Shelby is being baby sat by a close friend and Simon is approaching his last year of school. If I wasn't smart I would say I can almost see what is in the horizon, but I'm smart and just like the earth our lives are always moving and our plans are usually too far in the distance to see if they will turn out the way we want them too. So I will just say we are happy living life one day at a time where there is a constant hope of a future. mmmm bye bye. Pictures are from a hike that I can't remember the name of.

2009-07-02T14:44:00.003+02:00

Danes and Americans: I am updating our USA adventures on my Sommerland blog! Check it out!

2009-06-29T13:49:00.004+02:00

Polar Bear, Polar Bear what do you hear? Shelby enjoyed her first birthday at the zoo in copenhagen.

We are on the Outer Banks visiting for a month, which is a MUCH needed trip for the both of us. We hope to get some quality time with friends and family and some relaxation. The first week we are staying with my parents awaiting the arrival of chad and april on tuesday. They will be here until Saturday. The second week we are moving to the cottage and expect yawl to get you fannies over there :) Third we are flirting with the idea of Boone depending on the Everharts calender. And the last week we are back with my parents for the remaining days until we depart for home again the 27 of July.

We look forward to seeing all of you! We are getting ready to venture out to the beach so I'm outtie! Can't wait to see yawl!

2009-05-22T08:28:00.006+02:00

We just celebrated Inger's 27th birthday at a lovely restaurant on the edge of a forest by the sea. There was a buffet full of greasy, traditional Danish food, and it was so YUMMY. There were many highlights of the day including an aggressive chiwawa and a man that could not throw a ball, but the main attraction aside from shelby was the youthful looking Inger who paid for our dinner ;) We love you farmor! and it is alway, always hyggelig being with you. You are not only the best grandmother (aside from you mom, of course) but the very best mother inlaw anyone could wish for! (and I am not just kissing your butt for more of your homemade falafels again). Thanks for a great day!

And fyi, shelby has learned how to point at everything and then say what it is in a whispering foreign tongue that neither of us can understand. She is pretty social and very busy watching the world go by, trying if she may, to emerge herself into her enviroment as much as her body and parents will allow. Shelby is on the verge of walking and testing her boundries and us every step of the way. Tantrums on the homefront are frequent at the moment, but when she is out and about she tends to be quite polite. Simon and I can't wait to take her to the states to show her off!

As for us (the parents), we have a wedding tomorrow and aunt Charlotte and our friend from the faroes are coming to stay so I best get myself to the grocery store and do some shopping for a new cardigan for my wedding outfit. Simon says it reveals too much otherwise...bye bye now!

2009-04-20T18:48:00.005+02:00

Shelby's first siting of Dart Vaper. And her first words or name: bob dole.

2009-04-18T07:40:00.003+02:00

Another awesome birthday gone by. This is what I recieved from my husband and his parents! A bike trailer, so the little one and I don't have to be constrained to a car this spring and summer. Don't get me wrong, there is nothing that I love more than my car, but when the weather is nice outside, and I need the exercise (and I need the exercise) this is where it's at. I love it!! Thanks to my wonderful inlaws and my dear husband who knew that I needed this more than an iphone!

2009-04-08T10:24:00.004+02:00

Baby and parents are approaching spring with high spirits. Wow! What a winter we had! It was pretty difficult adapting to the harsh weather and difficult reality that baby raising is not all changing diapers, eat and sleep. We believe that Shelby has been exposed to every sickness known to man and would like to hope that her immune system is a little stronger as we look ahead to next year's winter. Thankfully, she just dodged chicken pox, but we found that she had fluid in her ear, which didn't make for a fun month. Simon and I were exhausted! Now, we think that is taken care of, but she still gets some teething pains from time to time. Shelby has six pearly white teeth that she loves to tear through crackers, bread, paper, keys and pretty much everything else she puts her hands on. Some of her favorite past times are: reading (Polar Bear, Polar Bear, what do you hear?, "Colors" and "Numbers" by Scholastic Reader) bath , singing and dancing with dad, pram walks, pram sleeps, getting out in the world period., watching Baby Einstein or Into the Night Garden, and watching other kids play. She loves to eat! Both from mommy (still) and from the table. Her favorite "dinners" are: potatoes, broccolli and meatballs and lasagna. She also enjoys pears, prunes and bananas and likes to get her nibble on with some crackers. About twenty five percent of Shelby's day is spent at the table.

The pictures below are some of the first few days we really felt the warmth and enjoyed extra daylight hours. The pictures from Vallø are our favorites! Two ducks decided to come picnic with us. As soon as we bit into our dinner here came Mr. and Mrs. Begster wanting to join along. Simon was mad because I gave them some of Shelby's salmon and potato mash and then couldn't get rid of them. Shelby laughed and laughed so we decided to get her down to their level. Since she can't walk yet we thought we would assist her in chasing them with just the wheels from her pram which she LOVED. Parenting can be so much fun! Today it is 70 and we will be picnicing in our own park tonight. See you soon!

2009-03-14T14:00:00.009+01:00

Wow! What a week the Chercka family has had!! The Everharts came to visit and we were BUSY! It was so much fun, but went by far too fast. Some of the things we got to do were firsts for Shelby including a train ride, a hike down and up Mons Klint, and getting to see her uncle Chad.

Shelby had some great sleep habits during the day allowing April and I some serious shopping time and tea time in cafes. Can't really say the same about night time. Lately mommy and daddy have been dealing with frequent night wakings because of teething. Ugh! To think she only has four. This means a mouthful awaits her. And us! Anywho... Some of the activities we got to enjoy:

Koge (the town Simon and I live in)

Copenhagen (DK's capital)

Arken (our favorite art museum)

Mons Klint (a rather large cliff made of chalk just south of us)

a trip down to Vallo castle just minutes from our house

April and I went down to Stroby Strand to look at the houses

A trip out to Simon's School (has a lot of modern architecture)

Inger and Jorgs house for dinner

Mosehuset (a charming cottage in the woods that sells all you need for a cozy, warm household)
and we are not sure where we would be without our media center (Chad's daily Star Wars viewings were just what the doctor ordered to fill the hole that Mt. Dew left so empty, cold and alone.)

Now as the lovely couple flies over the ocean, Simon and I are trying to find our way back to normality. The pictures are taken out on Billesborg's playground where we parttook in some family time...the three of us, once again. For pictures of the five of us, visit my facebook page.

(Thanks April for the extra hand with Shelby and doing the dishes. OOOOO, they were SO appreciated. Thanks Chad for the continuous amount of chocolate and cookie flow throughout the week. Between that and the morning coffee I think I will go murder a brown snake now.)

visiters

2009-03-11T08:15:00.001+01:00

well, april and chad made it to denmark and all is well. we have seen many sites but the most welcoming has been the sunshine! today, we are going to m?ns klint a big cliff made out of chalk that overlooks the baltic. otherwise, we have been to copenhagen, k?ge, and simon and i's favorite art museam, arken. and who can forget a da-lish dinner at inger and jorg's. i have truely enjoyed visiting with my sister and having the extra hands around the house.

still to come: sweden, ikea and more of h&m!!

just shy of spring

2009-02-27T10:23:00.001+01:00

hmmm, what am i going to do today? i have minute to regroup and think about it while shelby takes her 45 min. morning nap. its going to be around 50 today and the sun is gonna shine. p.to the t. to the l.

simon had his study group up in our crib at 7:00 this morning...holy lord! we had a feast of a breakfast. it was so wonderful to have more people around at that time of day...i am so excited for chad and april to come in just short of a week! wonderful.

in other news shelby has tiny little spots on her while the chicken pox epedimic at billesborg continues. well, she has to get them sometime, because denmark sure the heck has no vaccination for them. o well. life goes on.

still...what should the little one an i do today? i have been on every walk in denmark. maybe we will adventure to kbh. too far. hmmmm....

i miss blogging. it feels good to chat to a digital audience again!

iGoogle

2009-02-24T16:24:00.001+01:00

For those of you who havn't discovered iGoogle and use it for their home page, should really consider it! I can access just about everything from one web page (Facebook, CNN, FoxNews, BBC News, Google Translate, youtube, eBible and the weather) without using bookmarks. I am even writing this blog from my this page. Such a great service!! Those who already have it, yeah, I have been a little slow these days, and I'm just catching up, but those who don't, you are missing out on an incredible feature!

I basically just wrote this blog for the sake of seeing if it really works :)

2009-01-24T22:41:00.004+01:00

To see more of Shelby's favorite time of day click here

Stay tuned for further updates on the days of our lives.

2009-01-03T11:29:00.006+01:00

olympic replays are on right now. they are focusing primarily on the losers: those participants that lost by mere hairs and those that didnt even make it over the first hurdle. the olympic losers made me think back to our christmas. we were in great anticipation of the big day. we decorated or "practiced" christmas weeks in advance, lossed some weight for the big feast, and even were nervous over the spectators that would be watching shelby unravel her first big celebration while all 5 of her senses were in overdrive. all this and more in order to be ranked last place. this years christmas reminds me of one of the hurdle jump races: gun echos, the particpants take flight and while many others are taking their 4th and 5th leaps a swedish girl doesn't quite make it over the first hurdle. in other words: i get sick, followed by my six month year old daughter, followed by my husband. we are losers.

(rewind)

december 21, 10:00pm: shakes come over me while playing xbox with my husband. i have a high fever and deep cough and i can't sleep that night.

december 22, 8:30am: simon calls the doctor to reschedule shelby's vaccination appointment but they tell us both to come in. doctor is a little nervous for my cough sending me home with penicillin. shelby gets her vaccination, we both go to bed with a fever that night.

december 23: this will be the first day we meet with the family. what a shame we can't go! i am sick as a dog, fever is not breaking, but shelby and simon are fine. i am in bed with a deep cough and high fever all day. at about 11:30pm shelby wakes up with a high fever. she barely sleeps the rest of the night.

december 24: my fever subsides but shelby has a fever and is coughing very bad. her nose runs and runs. she only sleeps when she is curled up in my arms. we go to the hospital because all the doctors offices are closed and they say she has a cold. tell us to take a childrens pain medicine. we don't have any so we call around until we find someone who does. shelby sleeps peacefully for about 10 hours.

december 25: shelby is worse. coughing, nose running. we keep giving her pain medicine and plenty of fluids. she is able to take naps, though, and sleeps the majority of the day. she wakes up several times at night to drink.

december 26: shelby is better. we finally decide to celebrate christmas and go to the grandparents. not sure we should have let her sleep outside. she has a high fever again when we get home. now simon too has a cold.

december 27: shelby is sick again. spend the day at home where fortunately she sleeps all day.
goes to bed with a fever.

december 28: go back to the doctors. they are a little nervous about her cough. they put her on penicillin. we are under the impression that shelby has pneumonia. her fever is gone but she is coughing pretty hard.

the following days shelby continued to get better. she still has a slight cough, but we have gotten out of the house in the meantime. i am usually trying (trying) to see the brighter side of things but it was VERY difficult to say to myself "this too shall pass" this time around. especially at christmas when all you want to do is sit around with family and eat all day long.

after embracing the fact that we weren't doing ANYthing during the holidays i started thinking about what was important, which was easy because i didn't have the merry distractions that i normally have during christmas. actually i think i thought about it more this year than any. of course, we are all losers in comparison to the one thing that matters, the one thing that gives us meaning during the holiday in the first place, without this grace from god we would be losers forever more stumbling over more than just hurdles. but because away in a manger a little child was born we have now recieved a way out...a way out of loserdom and sickness and all the other garbage mankind can recieve from this world. i owe my family's health to it. thank god for jesus...else i would be bitter ice cold angry right now.

after i watched the olympic replays i listened to an interview with the swedish hurdle jumper. she, despite her loss, was looking ahead. i lift my head up, not as high as if none of this had happened, but just enough to see some hope:) to see more pictures please go to my facebook's christmas album . i havnt had time to make an album:( hope all of you had a blessed christmas.

2008-12-02T20:08:00.007+01:00

Brooke, my sister returned to Denmark for a second glance. This time things were a bit different since I am no longer foot loose and fancy free. Brooke hooged a bit on the couch and watched A LOT of tv. As a career driven woman with three jobs and a remarkable job well done as Aunt Brooke, I think she deserved every second of qt she spent in front of the boob tube. Other activities included a trip to Copenhagen, Thanksgiving with the Chercka's, snow portraits, a walk to Vallø, pretty much catering to 50 people on her vacay (Seriously?) and of course shopping Køge. I enjoyed every minute of it! (Absolutely!) Click here to see more pictures.

2008-12-02T15:36:00.008+01:00

Simon and I finally made the decision to have Shelby dedicated to the Lord and the church that we have been involved in for almost four years (Simon a couple of years longer.) My father inlaw professed a meaningful word over his granddaughter and attempted to offer her up to our loving Father and eager church by lifting Shelby up to the high heavens. The child took on the role of Mufasa instead of Simba and let out a powerful ROAR as she was recieved into the "Circle of Life."

Thank goodness my sister Brooke was here in Denmark to help me with the party after. I have concluded that I am not much for being a hostess, but am very willing to help prep. Inger, my mother inlaw, and Brooke did an amazing job on the american finger-food cuisine and the flowers that decorated our "church hall." After the reception the immediate family came up for some "hygge" or "hoogs" as Brooke and I like to call it (which means coziness, pronounced in danish hoo-ga). We had a great day. God has really blessed Simon and I with our church family and we are so lucky that Shelby can be apart of it! Click here to see more pictures of Shelby's dedication.

2008-12-02T15:10:00.008+01:00

After reviewing these pictures, I am suddenly aware that this may contribute to my child's self esteem! Ever since she has been sitting in this chair, Shelby's attitude has become more and more "mature" shall I say.

After a visit from our "sundhedsplejerske," we found out that Shelby may begin solids. She was quite a happy girl after she took about ten babyspoons of rice porridge yesterday. High chairs and big girl food = a swollen head for Shelby.

And, Simon and I are speculating that she may be teething which has made for an unsettling past couple of days and some night disturbances. Who said parenting was easy? Click here to see more of Shelby stor pige (big girl).

2008-11-19T16:14:00.003+01:00

Look at all the babies! This is mothers group and these are Shelby's friends! After I gave birth to Shelbs I didn't know if I would make it out of postpardum gloom. These women and their babes have been inspirational! Today, Shelby had her first baby conversation when the mothers showed up at our house for the first time. Dumb me was sitting there with the video camera in my hand but no impulse. I was a little preoccupied with excitement! Click here to see more pics.

Side note: I am giving up putting pics on facebook for awhile. It was only because it was so easy that I did it before. Now, that I have adapted to motherhood I would like to return to my blog again. Forgive me, however, if the thought and writing behind my posts lack creativity!

2008-11-16T13:27:00.003+01:00

Mortensaften is a holiday celebrated in Denmark that comes around the same time as Thanksgiving. It has pretty much become my Thanksgiving, though this year I will be celebrating it 3 times. One time while my sister Brooke is here and another with the residence here at Billesborg along with a crowd from a ship that has been docked in Køge's marina called Logos Hope. Our church has recently been taken over by Logos Hope (not really but they have been a HUGE help) who are a bunch young people from all over the world...something that both Simon and I are happy about. This month Simon and I will be coming aboard for a demonstration of how Christmas is celebrated in other countries...exciting!! Anyway, here are some pictures from Mortensaften, first Thanksgiving celebration. I just went on a tangent didn't I?

Sveinung og Shelbs

Kathrine og Shelbs

Charlotte og Sveinung

(Proof that Simon and I can take pictures other than Shelby)

Simon og Mille

(...and sometimes we get in shots with people other than Shelby)

2008-11-14T08:57:00.004+01:00

This is one of the first days we arrived home. I have NEVER seen Shelby sleep as long as she did the first three days back in DK. I don't think she slept that much even as a newborn. I guess she knows her own bed!

2008-11-10T22:05:00.005+01:00

We are so glad to be home! I hope that most of you enjoyed the pictures of my time on the ob on facebook. Here are some pics from the past couple of days. When we got back to DK, Shelby's jetlag was going strong for about 10 days. Finally, after the past 2 or 3 days we are back on schedule. 9:30pm is the new 1am and 8:30am is the new 12pm. Phew! Simon was excited to get his family back and has been taken little videos with our new camera ever since we walked in the door. I will have to post a little movie soon! Until then, I leave you with only these (the ones above).

2008-10-13T09:25:00.005+02:00

In this picture you will notice that I am sitting on my own couch with my suitcase and baby...AT HOME! rrrrrrrrrrrip!

Suitcases packed-check
diaper bag packed with TEN changing diapers-check
passports-check
money-check
tickets-check

Well, what went wrong? We forgot to recheck the times on the tickets and just when we thought we were at the airport 2½ hours EARLY we found out that we were only 25 minutes early, which was NOT time enough to catch our flight. Since we got the tickets cheap, we agreed to something that waived our rights to refunds or any later flights, therefore Simon and I lost the $2,000 we spent on our tickets and are now forced to buy new ones.

The good news? On a positive note, we believe that there is a greater purpose for this happening. Though it has been VERY disappointing there is a reason for everything, right? right? Just agree with me here. Shelby and I are still coming Sunday the 19th and staying for a full two weeks. Simon had to give up his trip because he would have to take too much time away from school. (Please pray for him. He is beating himself pretty badly because he believes everything is his fault.)

The situation could not come at a better time. Simon has a full week off for fall break, therefore we get to spend much needed quality time with each other before I leave. For Shelby and I, anytime is perfect to travel because we have a pretty open agenda:) Simon and I are agreeing that money is just paper, buuut it still pinches a nerve every time we look at our suitcases that are still packed and our jackets that we still have to wear outside because its not 75-80 degrees here like it is on the OB, which Simon won't get to experience now anyway. Does anyone feel sorry for us now? Did I mention that the airplane was still there when we got there and they would not hold it for us? A blog's a blog, right?

Anyhoo, to the OBers, see you soon, just not this week. To the Danes: We are here if you wanna hang;)

2008-10-07T12:57:00.007+02:00

This Sunday will be Shelby's first time in the states! Stay tuned for updates on Sommerland. Click here for more pictures of Shelby throughout her first three months of life!

2008-08-29T12:30:00.007+02:00

We concluded Hank's stay with us by touring Copenhagen. Simon, who was already in CPH, was meeting us there while the rest of us, however, got a little confused by the driving directions and took a detour to Sweden. Hank, a sweet southern boy, used his charm to get us in and out of the country free. Otherwise, it would have been $50 bridge toll both ways...OUCH! It was an awesome adventure, though, and it added another country to Hank's list!

After we finally joined Simon and Copenhagen and had a bite to eat, Hank and I really wanted to go to this hippie suburb called Christiania. I have never been to this village but have heard tons about it. Christiania, known for its extremely liberal lifestyle, is a huge attraction among tourists. Danes bring their guests here to see something that cannot be witnessed anywhere else in the world. The village is known for it "greenness" and I am not just talking about nature preservation or dollar bills. The main street is called Pusher Street, if you catch my drift. Out of mere curiosity, to see if the books and tall tales were true, Hank, Simon, Shelby and I took a little tour around. At first, I was captivated by the coziness. There are the cutest funky cottages and quaint little resteraunts. The road is nothing but dirt and there are no cars anywhere. You arrive by foot or bike. An Outer Banker could quickly compare this town to Ocracoke, but there is at least one HUGE difference. Around every street corner, in nooks and crannies, in public bathrooms or just in open air, a scent in the form of smoke lingers...and it isn't cigarettes or incense. After rounding the corner of Christiania's preschool and catching a huge whiff of mary jane, I became a little more aware that I wasn't in Kansas anymore. I began to wonder if they taught their kids to roll doobies in home ec class. Aside from this, I was astonished a great deal by how different it was to all the other suburbs inside Copenhagen. Like all these towns it is illegal to smoke weed. In contrast however, it is tolerated more in Christiania. I found out that the village is quite frequently raided by the police, as well, but people didn't seem to mind at all. NUTS! It was quite an experience for us and the books and people who had forwarned us proved to be true. I, unfortunately, didn't get many pictures, though Hank got quite a few. (Scroll down to the link below to access his blog.)

After this, we returned to Copenhagen's Center and hit up Ben and Jerrys. I ,of course, cannot leave CPH without going to H&M. After buying Shelby some hip new clothes it was time to go home. It had been big day for us all and we were excited about going to a peaceful apartment in Køge, eating a big meal and watching TV for the remainder of the evening and that we did!

Hank left the next morning. Simon, Shelby and I are now sad. We all had a great time making dinner, talking iPhones, watching TV, driving around, getting lost, smelling Hank, taking pictures, shooting film, talking about WB, having Hank night, and much more. Can't wait to see him again in October. We miss you Spank!

Driving to get Sushi
Uncle Hank
Arriving to CPH after our detour to Sweden

Us four in Christiania.
The family at Billesborg.

2008-08-28T19:01:00.005+02:00

A game that Shelby and I like to play!

2008-08-27T12:59:00.010+02:00

Hank smelled for a day until his bags came.
Hank blends in well in Køge square.

Hank's couch!
Hank's view of Shelby.
Hank and Shelby: BFF!

He likes her so much he reads a book about her that Aunt Kem gave her.

Uncle Hank is here and Shelby and I couldn't be more happy! Hank is a old friend of mine whom I met through Whitney Hines and Kem. He is a funny guy. Hank got here on Monday and is here for a couple more days. We have enjoyed riding around seeing Denmark. Yesterday we went to Køge to walk around town for a little while. Hank was suprised, a little, at the different lifestyle we have here. The whole I-leave-my-baby-outside-while-I-enjoy-myself-inside thing was a shock to Hank just as it was to me when I first visted here. Yesterday we saw about 5 prams outside a restaurant in the rain. Hank took a picture, which you can see on Hank's Travelblog. Since Shelby isn't ready for mommy to do whatever she wants, Hank went into Copenhagen today with Simon to see the sites. They are going to a hippie village called Christiania, The National Museam and taking a climb up a HUGE church tower (Rachel, you know the one!). I, who am right now being a mother to a sleeping baby, am looking forward to hearing all the details.

2008-08-24T18:57:00.009+02:00

Brunch with the girls before the wedding.

Charlotte had to dress up and parade the streets of Copenhagen and beg for money (The danish way)

This is the rehersal dinner in my brother inlaws backyard. It was so hyggeligt (cozy, Whitney).

The only good picture of me.

Shelby dressed to kill. This was actually my dress that my mom brought me home from the hospital.

Sveinung and Charlotte's wedding day (The head table).

This is where Simon and I spent most of the day because we forgot our baby alarm. Shelby was constantly awake and then asleep because she didn't want to miss out of the festivities. At the end of the day she was a VERY tired baby. However, she went to bed early and we all got a good night sleep!

2008-07-30T18:02:00.002+02:00

We are hiking again! Woohoo!

2008-07-29T14:31:00.006+02:00

Yesterday, in attempts to pamper myself, I went to Koge, bought a foot file, foot cream and a new dress. The dress is cute, the foot cream is rich, but let me tell you how WONDERFUL a foot file is!

During pregnancy I developed a HA-UGE callus on the bottom of my foot. It was aaa-disgusting. (I also gained an entire shoe size, but that is another story...I got my size six back after delivery.) So, in pursuit to get rid of this hard, dry mass at the bottom of my foot, I bought this foot file that cost me about $30. It looks like one of those cheese/salad/coleslaw/cucumber grater. So, I grated my foot for about 15 minutes on each side and I am now looking at a clean, smooth, soft surface right now. It is a site to see, I tell you what.

Women: I can not explain the glory of pampering oneself after an entire month of not focusing on yourself. I recommend you go on out to your local Wal-greens or what have you and get you something that not only pampers you, but you can marvel at when you are all through. I did it and it worked for me! Now, my husband says I act like a whole new woman. "You make me feel..."

2008-07-27T15:33:00.001+02:00

2008-07-26T15:32:00.002+02:00

Shelby is one month old! She really has been a joy to be with. Right now, Simon and I are trying to develop some good sleeping habits for her, which we hope will come eventually. In other news, we enjoyed a nice long visit from Grandma Suki. Suki is Shelby's way of calling her Grandma Sue.
Grandma was a big help with the burping and especially my needs. I had the need for popcorn balls and grandma whipped them right up!
The past 5 days Simon and I enjoyed a vacation in the countryside at Inger and Jorg's (they are in Spain). Time was spent in the garden sun and simply lounging around. Simon took his eyes off his child and I in the evenings to watch Tour de France. I got jealous and started training for it so he will look at me sometimes;)

Shelby made the most of being a summer-born baby by sleeping outside. It's been fun! Challenging but O, the joys!! A wee bop!

2008-07-15T09:59:00.003+02:00

This is the traditional weighing method here in DK. It doesn't hurt but Shelby will tell you that it ain't comfortable either.

Here the doctors examines her rear only to find traces of Mongol on her (black and blue spots). That means dear dad (Otis) you have Asian, Eskimo or Native American in you. Don't try to deny it!
Shelby visited her dad in bed and told him to get up! so mom can get dressed. Daddy couldn't resist!

Here we are in the bath AGAIN! It is an all around favorite among the household. We LOVE it!

2008-07-08T14:45:00.003+02:00

Grandma Suki is here! You can see pictures here.

2008-07-05T09:52:00.006+02:00

Shelby is almost 2 weeks old now. She has been a very pleasant baby and has grown excessively FAT! When the doctors weighed her the first time at the hospital, Simon and I had a nine pound baby on our hands. She managed to lose about a 1/2lb the first 3 days but now she has surpassed her birthweight again weighing in at about 10lbs! That is a BIG baby! A vey big baby!

So far Shelby has had her first pram walks, which she loves. She has also slept outside in it three times. She has had her first bath giving to her by mommy alone which she seemed to like but hated coming into the cold afterwards. She got her heel pricked at the doctors and didnt even cry and has so far been to two BBQS. She was a snob at Charlottes birthday, however, and wanted nothing but mother's milk. Manners, hello!

I have been OK. Mothering is no is 9 to 5 job. It is a round the clock...ummm...whole new life. Keeping up with Shelbys pace is like being a college party animal all over again. Your up all night, wake up early in the morning, eat little, drink a lot (water that is) forget your name, forget you husbands name, laundry builds, forget to bathe, you sleep more in the day than at night...I mean, rewind to my junior year of college and you would be looking at the same person (only on the outside). I guess the only difference is that my spirit is alive and full regardless of the shape my body and mind are in. God has really blessed Simon and I with a beautiful little hobbit. We are grateful. Now if you will excuse me as I go express more milk for miss fatty boomsticks.

Looking forward to Grandma Suki's arrival next week. A woo wee! View Shelby's first week here.

2008-06-26T17:08:00.007+02:00

Shelby Lucille Chercka is here. Born on June 23, 2008 at 12:05AM weighing 8lbs and 8oz (4100grams - 54cm long). She is a big fat! See all the pictures here.

2008-06-16T21:58:00.007+02:00

a afternoon walk

field hill

sunset

This will be my last blog until the baby is born (unless there is another duck story). Right now, Simon and I are looking forward to our trip to the hospital. Our bags are packed and the baby seat is in place for the trip. Now we are just in waiting mode.

My days consist of sleeping to 10 (I know this is a bad habit that will soon be broken), watching television, making one trip to town a day, watering my garden, a afternoon walk (to get'er down) and finally Eurocup soccer. The finals are on my due date, of course. Simon is praying for a birth before or after (tee hee).

We have a name!! And we both are very satisfied with it. Most of you have heard it before, and the first name isn't Lucille. We can't wait to reveal to you her identity:)

That's all on this side of the ocean. My brain, as you can imagine, is pretty consumed with baby right now. Please pray for us as we approach this HA-UGE adventure that will be with us for the rest of our lives. We love you and look foward to the day you get to meet miss what's her name!

2008-06-05T12:00:00.009+02:00

Some of the best things in life have happened to me in the midst of the unpredictablilty of nature. I was terrified of tornados when I was about ten. Later that year, I was in a tornado that cured my fear and caused a great obsession with them. I went scuba diving once only to be threatened by a shark that was used to people feeding it all the time. The thrill of that dive made it the best of my life (right off the coast of NC, even). Then there was this time, that me and my dad went fishing off the shore of Nags Head, KDH and Kitty Hawk. It was right before I moved to DK and the water was electric with fish. On that day my dad and I were charged by two huge whales coming straight for us. As they approached my dads 17 foot Whaler they appeared on both sides spitting air while sending my dad and I in complete amazement. On the boat ride home we were met by what I thought was a great white. Later, after doing further research, we found out it was only a basking shark (no wonder it didn't have sharp teeth). Still, I have never seen that much sea life on top of the water before in my 30 years of fishing. Nature both calms me and brings me to life. If I didn't mind pain so much and didn't fear spiders, I would love to be the next Steve Irwin.

Recently I was allowed to experience one of these occassions with my husband. It was one of those days where I was utterly bored from being jobless. He was cooking dinner and I was pacing the kitchen floor. Suddenly, from out our window on the third floor, I heard a, "PEEP, PEEP, PEEP, PEEP." I looked at Simon and asked if he heard something that sounded like a baby bird. He said no, but as we investagated our roof we were shocked to find a baby duck running to and fro in our gutter. CRIKEY! What were we to do? As we panicked and opened a window the poor little bird lept off our building. I just looked at Simon and pretty much gave up. Simon, on the other hand, was having none of my attitude. Instead he ran out the door while I waddled after. When he got down to the bottom of Billesborg's stairs we both saw the yellow puff on the ground...not moving. Simon ran, picked up and gave it to me. The poor little chic just stared at me in great shock. I hate even thinking this, but I was actually wondering if it would be best if Simon took care of it. Simon, however, thought it might have a chance and told me to hold on to it. Suddenly, again, "PEEP, PEEP, PEEP." We heard another one, but this one was coming from the ground. Simon began to search again for possibly a second baby duck that had attempted flight. Meanwhile, my little baby, had heard his brother or sister and also began to cry out. I was thinking the entire time, "Where is your momma? Did she abandon yawl?" It was actually pretty difficult for me to be witnessing all of this, but I guessed it was better to be helping than letting nature take it's course. (I'm glad they saved that polar bear in Berlin.)

After a couple of minutes, Simon found the second baby duck. He had slid down the gutter pipes into a underground drain. Simon had to lift a huge lid out of the ground and scoop it up with a net. Now we had two baby ducks and had to think about what to do.

Simon told me to go up and look up how to nuture and care for baby ducks on the internet while he went around Billesborg looking for more. I went up to our apartment and provided an old wooden box for them. Then I shredded some cucumber, gave them some water and made a nest for them from an old pillow. I could see that the one that had slid down the pipe was a little healthier than the one that had jump off the roof, but both were really happy to see each other. I got both of the ducklings to drink when Simon came in with a third. At this point, I had become pretty dag on attached and could tell my motherly insticts were rushing in.

I told Simon he had to call Falck (the equivalent of the fire dept. or animal control in the states) but at the same time I was dreaming of raising them in my garden. Simon said this was a bad idea since we would be starting to raise something else in a couple of weeks. I agreed and we phoned Falck who encouraged us to wait it out. They said that the birds had a great chance of finding their momma again, but that meant we had to leave them alone outside to do this. Flashes of foxes, cats, dogs, and mean birds called magpies raced through my head. But I knew the best thing that we could do is just what the Falckman said, but I'll be dag gone if I am not going to sit there and guard the poor things from a distance. And that's just what I did.

First, we started in the park, behind Billesborg. Dinner was still cooking in the house so as I sat in the school part of Billesborg staring out the window at the peepers, Simon went up and finished our meal. After about 30 minutes of them calling to momma from the pillow nest and her not answering, we moved them to the front of Billesborg right in the middle of an unaccessible driveway. We ate our dinner while we watched from the stairs. O, they were apeeping, but momma wasn't acoming. Good news was that the one that had jumped seemed to be at peace and enjoying the comfort from brother and sister. After about 45 minutes of sitting in the driveway, I went hunting for momma. We have a river that runs down behind the school's playground and soccer field and I thought it was likely that she might be down there. I didn't find momma duck but I found two male ducks. I came back to Simon with a new direction.

After we moved the chicks down to the river, I went upstairs to do the dishes and just prayed for a miracle. Simon stayed on watch. It was about 9:30 and getting dark outside. When I came back downstairs, Simon and I agreed to take one more walk around to find momma duck. We went to the bridge that overlooks the river, looked first on the left side and then on the right side. I could not see anything, but then Simon spotted her...and two other ducklings. I freaked, but had to be quiet about it. Simon already had a plan. We were going to chase her up the river to her babies, because the reunion was something that we couldn't interfere with. We began to walk along the river bank. Momma spotted us and led her and her babies always several yards ahead. The plan was working. Finally we reached the point where baby and momma could reunite, but there was a little distraction. The two male Mallards were lookin for a booty call. Momma started quacking at them to lay off, and the babies heard this and started peeping like crazy. Momma heard her little ones so she came up on shore but that's when the males thought it was an oppurtune time to get busy. Momma had to get back in the water to protect the little ones and keep the males off her, but that didn't stop the chicks. Momma was calling now and the babys were coming. Simon and I were spying from a distance on the other side of the river, when we saw momma and not two but three, then four, then five of her babies all in the river swimming around. The miracle had happened and the family was finally reunited again! Momma was so excited. She began pecking at them and teaching them how to eat. I have tears just writing about it.

This was an amazing experience for Simon and I. We have told the story about a hundred times. Every time I think of these experiences with nature, I am reminded that there is something far greater than us out there. Something that not only has the power to overtake us with fear and unpredictability but has the desire to overwelm us with beauty and adventure. This is just another story to add to my list. "Our Creator is not a careless mechanic..."

the first two

my four babys

waiting for momma duck
to come back as the babys
call and call and call.

no response for over an hour:(

then we moved them down to the river and there she was! calling them too! (unfortunately, it was too dark for pictures).

2008-05-20T10:51:00.003+02:00

I have a lot of time on my hands now so here is something that I created as a thank you offering to all you who attended my shower on the outer banks. Just a little tour of the nursery and a look at where and what your gifts are being used for! Sarah, it would have taken the entire 8 minutes to show all the Breastfeeding and diaper stuff you gave us. I love it!

2008-05-19T13:51:00.006+02:00

I don't know if I can get any bigger! Even if I do get bigger I don't know if I can let you see me bigger:) This is week 34-35 (almost to my ninth month, Whit!)

Breaking News: I was supposed to stop teaching the first of June but because of some slight (nothing to worry about) pregnancy stuff I stopped today, Monday, May 20, 2008. I must say that I have enjoyed being pregnant and working. Time ZOOMED by. Now I really get
to cut loose and spend some time tying up some loose ends around the house, enjoying Simon and I's last time in solitude etc. We have been reading book after book, preparing for our little girl to arrive, but I'm beginning to understand that there is really nothing we can do to prepare for this special time in our lives. There are no formulas to raise a child. One must just do the best they can and learn from the journey. Half the books I read contradict each other anyway. Crapfire. Don't kids come with an instruction manuel... a little tag hanging off their big tow (toe) upon delivery would be nice.

So: no more language school, teaching, or church activities aside from attending. Hurray for freedom. Even though she's still heavy and I am not quite as free...I had to cut vaccuming the kitchen in half because I got too tired. Do the rest of it later.

These pictures show what we have been doing in the mean time. I can't believe the weather has been so nice!! Last Sunday we were at the beach for about 3 hours in about 80 degree weather...luxus package thank you! Well, I'm going to go take nap now. Miss yawl! O yes, Simon handed in his bachelor paper today. Freedom, a woo wee!

2008-05-12T08:52:00.008+02:00

I thank my God every time I remember you... I flew home so that the outer bankers could throw me a baby shower. I don't remember what anyone said to me because it was so hot outside and I was having hot flashes. Didn't I look pretty though. The baby has dropped and now my stomach looks like a square. Thank you ober's for your love and support! It has blessed Simon and I more than you will ever know. We know that it is only the Lord that brings people such as you into our lives! Thanks Whitney and Brooke for the pictures! There are about 12 more, so click here to see them!

2008-05-04T19:17:00.007+02:00

This weekend started summer for us. We made it to the beach where I laid out in my bra and underwear. Don't worry there was no one around and the reason I didn't choose a bikini is because I didn't realize it would be that warm. Sorry no pictures of that one. Simon and I also got together with his parents for a german treat. We ate real german aspargus, potatoes, butter sauce, ham and drank som delicious german Beck's...well not the little lady.

2008-05-01T15:53:00.006+02:00

Our nusery is finally complete. I love it! It looks so yummy. I'm reminded of a candy shack everytime I enter it. Julie did an awesome job on everything. All of the European sizes are different from the American sizes (Americans=supersize me) so being that she had to convert everything and draw up new patterns based on our standards, by email contact alone, I stand in awe and am utterly amazed that everything fit like a glove. Thanks for the thousandth time, Juls! I also want to thank my mom and two sisters again for making this gift happen (they shared the wealth). I can't wait till they see it in person...in use!

In other baby news, Simon and I's baby bil (the pram) came in. Many people here in DK helped chip in to make this purchase possible. (They are over $1000.) Prams are designed especially for babys to lay down and sleep while mommy is on the go a lot. Most Danes use them to let their babys sleep outside as well. The first time I visited Simon here I was walking around the place where we live now (Billesborg) only to be disturbed and terribly confused by a baby sleeping alone, outside in a pram. No mommy, daddy, little brother or big sister. Just baby and pram. I later found out that it is completely normal around these parts and considerably healthy for babes to get some fresh air by sleeping outside. (Mom turned out to be close by, just inside.) One can let their little one sleep outside from about mid March to mid November as long as they are dressed appropriately. Many women often leave them outside restaurants while they are eating in or shops while they are looking around. Looks like we are not in Kansas anymore, Toto. That was a BIG culture shock for me!

Well, that's it for now. Today begins my 33rd week (8 months and a week, Whit). My feet are swollen and tired as I just completed many long days on them. We now have a four day weekend. Baby is sitting on my ribs, too which makes it a bit uncomfortable. Hopefully she will be dropping soon. O well, just 8 more weeks. Miss you all!

Love, Us

2008-04-27T11:17:00.007+02:00

Yesterday, Simon and I went hiking around in some woods next to a fjord. It was very beautiful and the weather here has been nice as well. It is supposed to be around 70 here today. Beach time soon! I am getting ready to go outside to prepare for my week ahead, which only consist of three days! We have yet ANOTHER holiday. I love it.

Soon, in about 2 weeks, I will be stopping with language school to relax and finish my nest:) I will continue again if and when I get a "baby routine". Futhermore, only one month until my work leave begins. Hopefully, I won't be too tired and rolly polly to get some time at the beach and be out in my garden during that last month.

For Simon: he will be finishing his bachelor paper which will make him a university graduate around the same time I start my work leave. He is continuing with his masters after the summer. Exciting stuff.

We are so thankful that we have been here for 3 years and have had so much love and support from those around us. We really couldn't be enjoying life the way we do without the people in it. God is good! Enjoy the pics from our hike!

2008-04-20T18:04:00.003+02:00

That was week 31. For some reason I am very excited about the approach-ing week. I am not sure if it is because this marks the longest I have ever let my armpit hair and leg hair grow or perhaps because I know that "betty" is almost ready for her kayaking trip towards the light at the end of the tunnel. Either way, I am ready to shave and get this thing into the real world.

2008-04-20T17:19:00.009+02:00

this, my friend, is 31 weeks worth of growth. may god bless sue and all her friends who sneak a peak.

2008-04-13T19:34:00.002+02:00

2008-04-08T11:03:00.008+02:00

Here is a look at our new nursery. It is still under construction, but my friend, Julie Neher, all the way from Omaha, Nebraska is doing an incredible job on the new additions. Julie has had her baby business, Chuli Buli designs by julie, for a couple of years now. She creates and designs marvelous things for your little one who is on the move or loves to be stimulated. She is even patient enough to make custom designs based on your selection of colors and pattern preferences for an entire nursery. With her tremendous selection of hip fabrics for adults and children, Julie has created a little paradise for our child who lives on the other side of the ocean. I commend Julie for her communication and her patience (we conversed only through email and messenger). It's not all the time that someone gets to do business with someone like that!

In other news, I am doing well. I will try to put a picture of myself up this week, but the baby is growing so quickly and momma's appetite is not getting any smaller. We are enjoying our new vehicle and all the things that we have been blessed with. I love checking your blogs and other social networks to see how your is doing, so keep them updated!! (The pictures above are some of Julie's finished projects that are coming around the time the baby is born. The videos below are what I have gotten put together on my own so far.)

2008-04-02T13:07:00.018+02:00

Started with a fea-Started with tea,
Candles, coffee-Already, I have to pee.
Gifts, gags, Dirty diapers-bags,
Feel the baby kick, hear Rosie laugh-Glee-
Full is the diaper, filled with Coco,
Round and round we watch it go.
Music stops, then plays again,
Jesus? Hvor er han?
Blue dress with red blomster.
Green, brown, white bukser.
Penge: watch me spende.
Every runway model needs a pram.

There are over 100 pictures. The best are here.

2008-03-25T11:07:00.003+01:00

Finally!!! A picture in week 27 that looks

decent! Where is my jawline, please?

2008-03-17T17:11:00.010+01:00

I am sitting here trying to write my blog but I can barely write anything because one of my dreams has finally come true. To all of you Americans, this may not seem much, but to me who has gone 3 years without a car, buying one today just about topped my list of answered prayers. Simon and I have been saving up money for the past 6 months to buy a car. My attitude was ok to start with, but over the past month...month and a half I have been pretty much Paris Hilton unable to match her purse with her hair color. In other words, I have been an impatient, spoiled brat (forgive me Paris) to my husbands expense and many others. Finally, this week, the week that we had the money, the week we have the energy and the time, THIS WEEK we found the deal that we were looking for. To top it off the owner of the 1999 station wagon we bought took a thousand US dollars off and threw in a baby's crib. I have three words for this miraculous occassion: Praise the Lord.

Thanks for all that prayed for me and my patience, or lack there of, and thanks for all of you, Kenneth Friis, Jorg and Eric Jakobsen, who enhanced our knowledge within the world of cars. The bird cage is finally opened...

Here I am in my 26th week (still 6 months) of pregnancy for those that are interested.

2008-03-05T17:26:00.005+01:00

24 weeks and feeling sexy...o let me tell you!

2008-03-01T15:12:00.008+01:00

You must wonder if I sit at home all the time and just think about what lies in the future with a bopper on the way. Well, I do plenty of that let me reassure you. When I am not at home, however, I am happily working away at school. Just two weeks ago, Melanie, an arts and crafts teacher and myself, an English teacher, teamed up to make an American-Danish quilt. We spent about 8 hours of classroom time with my fifth grade English class discovering what is intresting to us and instead of writing about it, we sewed it.

The kids had to gather their thoughts during a normal English class and draw on a sheet of paper what represents them as an individual. Afterwards, Melanie came in and instructed the students on getting their thoughts and ideas over to fabric. In the midst, my lovely 5th grader Anne (who is an amazing videographer and English student) and I did some filming. Melanie wrapped it up by sewing each student's patch together and I finalized it by giving each kid a chance to describe what he or she did in front of the class with the quilt itself.

I created this film so that you can get a glimpse of my everyday and to show my intelligent English class just how much they have learned. BIG thanks to Melanie for her craftswomanship! It's a long one, so get yourself a cup of tea/coffee and soak up a biscotto/scone for about 8 minutes. A fireplace creates a nice ambiance, as well.

2008-02-19T21:08:00.009+01:00

The baby's room is painted now. We are anticipat-ing a crib, which will go over those two green boxes you see in the corner. We are turning one of our old antik cabinets into a changing table/dresser. And the basket will be painted red. Hard to imagine, but we will keep you updated!

The picture above is me at 22 weeks and the beginning of the baby's room!

2008-02-18T10:33:00.000+01:00

2008-02-18T09:53:00.003+01:00

I am deciding not to be selfish for one minute to focus on our latest and greatest arrival to the family.

We have about a 7 foot 2 inch man weighing in at about 170 lbs 3 oz. He is ummm 27? years old and my sister in law, Charlotte's, now life long play mate. They met each other at the Vineyard Church in CPH and after a few play dates they decided to be boyfriend and girlfriend. Sveinung likes the drums, frozen pizzas, soccer and is soon to have a professional career as an architect in one of the these lovely scandanavian countries. One to favor Homer Simpson, Sveinung has been nominated as the Most Likely to Bring Sexy Back on world acclaimed Facebook. He has traveled around the world including places like Eygpt and Ethiopia and just last year attended a university where he studied architecture in Austraila for an entire year! So let's hear for this years tallest and flawless man ever to woo Charlotte's Heart. Welcome to the inner circle, Sveinung...did I get the spelling right this time?

2008-02-18T09:42:00.004+01:00

Our inner circle's newest addition

YES! Finally:)

Fatty

One love

2008-02-15T22:56:00.002+01:00

Girl, you'll be a woman soon!

2008-02-09T15:34:00.000+01:00

Anticipat-ing the day ahead (Scanning Day)

20 weeks (a week ago) I am trying really hard to poke her out.

2008-02-09T14:18:00.000+01:00

Momma is sitting here devouring a bag of popcorn.

Everyone knows what is going on in our life right now so I am not going to pretend that something else is on our minds...because there isn't really anything else. Of course, we think about each other, but really, now that there is a little bambina on the way we think about what we have created: nothing short of sugar and spice and everything nice because everyone knows that's what little girls are made of. (She just kicked:)

That's right baby. We are now proud parents-to-be of a potato peelerette and a dish washette. Women belong in the kitchen, right? Wait till you hear that daddy can cook WAY better than mommy and who does the grocery shopping? Big pappa. Women are free now baby, and I can barely wait to get you on a surfboard. (She kicked again.) And when dad comes away from making us dinner, he can show you some fancy footwork with a soccer ball. (Double kick.)

One thing to jot down in your calender: grandma Sue will be visiting in July for TWO whole weeks, something your mom is overjoyed about. Grandma Sue has special bonding previledges during this time. Also there are thoughts and prayers going out to Aunt Brooke who is considering spending some time with you, but we have to make sure that Brooke and mom get to IKEA and Mango at some point. You are definitely invited!

Ok, now that most of you are about to gag at my blog adaptation I will just add this final dry heave: Mommy and Daddy are greatly anticipating life with you!

To the rest of you: Look at you! You're a good reader! goo goo ga ga!

I love it when you call me "Big Momma"

2008-01-16T18:38:00.000+01:00

2008-01-16T14:01:00.000+01:00

Simon and I are back on Danglish again. Fulfilling our Danish/English destiny. Transition from the states was again very easy even though saying goodbye was a little hard. Every time I come back to DK, however, I am in awe at how much Simon and I have made a life for ourselves here. Not only with friends and family, but with each other. As cheesy as this sounds, "Home is where the heart is," so I guess wherever my husband goes I find my greatest love. Whenever I come back to Denny, Simon knows I am extremely sensitive and finds ways to make me feel comfortable and secure again. This time to ease me back in he brought 4 things of peanut butter so it's safe to say that pbjs are in the bag for the time being. Sue will have to restock us again in the summer.

I don't think I ever officially announced on this blog, but those of you who don't know, I am knee deep reading informative books such as: The Breastfeeding Book, What to Expect When Your Expecting, Ida May's Guide to Childbirth, Baby Wise and about 12 baby websites a day. Everyone tells me that all the stuff I read I will probably forget when I actually experience it. (O, by the way, I'm pregnant,) but at least I will know when the baby is "latched on" properly, that hemorrhoids go away soon after delivery, and during labor one can actually experience ecstasy. Yeah, now that is a strong proclamation, but one that I am most seriously considering leaning towards:) Things are going well with junior and myself. We will find out what we are having February 8th, but as long as it can peel potatoes I don't care what we have. Simon says it has to be able to wash dishes. Fingers crossed.

That's it on the oceanfront for us.

At the moment I am completely engulfed with the story that maybe some of you have seen on Whitney Hine's blog. Trisha and Nate's story has captured my heart and the hearts of about 10 of my English students. We are all praying for them, believing God's nurturing hands will strengthen Trisha and her new baby in the days, months and years to come. I check their website quite regularly and I can honestly say I am compelled to pray for them all the time.

Well, I am off to the tub. I am usually filthy after working with kids all day. I cleaned the house as well, so I am especially bott.

Peace my midatlantic friends and for the rest of you that think I'm a decent person or pretend to care...
Courtney

Crossing the Wright Memorial Bridge

2007-12-12T12:00:00.000+01:00

Attention Dansker! Nu, kan I se på min Sommerland blog af min tur til Outer Banks.

Attention Americans! Those of you who still read this blog will be living the experience with me so there is no need to keep you updated. However, if you want to see pictures of yourself you may also look on Sommerland .

Your favorite Wommie

2007-12-01T22:16:00.000+01:00

Thanksgiving/Christmas 2007

2007-11-12T20:19:00.000+01:00

Marianne's Birthday Party

2007-11-02T11:30:00.000+01:00

A brisk walk after a wonderful brunch

Many presents and so much charm!

Fast Times with that Guy

2007-11-02T11:11:00.000+01:00

I will explain the title, but first I must explain the event. We went over to Andre and Kathrine's house one of the last few days of our fall break. Here I met and petted Frederick, Mille's half rabbit half Barbie consultant, ate pizza and played buzz. (Rachel Beacham, I schooled them all so hard at buzz that they would not let play the last round:) I was a good sport, I promise.)

Now I can explain the title. Things were going good, lights were dim. We had just made ourselves so dag-on full of pizza and coke but we were winding down nevertheless. Suddenly, during the question; "What was Bon Jovi's sister's boyfiend's ex-girlfriend's name?" Andre got on the floor, threw his legs in the air and lit a fart. The air outside his pants enflamed so large that we almost had to call the fire department.

Now I would like to take a moment of silence to compliment Kathrine's devotion to her man. (Stand by your man is playing in the background.)

Thanks you guys!

Billesborg News

2007-11-02T11:02:00.000+01:00

Simon some-times asks me to take pictures of some of the kids for Billes-borg News.

Here are a few pictures I took for this issue.

Picture-taking skills

2007-11-02T10:54:00.000+01:00

Sometimes I have the oppurtunity to do something for others. About a week ago I decided to take pictures of The Larsens.

Note: Anything eye-catching you see in the pictures is due to the decent camera I
have and the runway models I used. Everything else was just because I know how to push a button. Simon says I need to work on my crooked horizons:)

2007-11-02T10:48:00.000+01:00

Getting ready to go out

Fall Break: Hiking Kullen, Sweden

2007-10-16T18:38:00.000+02:00

k s

ku sw
kul swe
kull swed
kulle swede
kullen sweden

Here are some pics for you!

2007-10-16T17:28:00.000+02:00

radiate
empty streets
checking out what we are getting ready to hike

picnic

caves
engraved
stairway
thats what im talking about

yikes

smooching

as if

precipice my

rear

Modest Mouth

2007-10-05T16:23:00.000+02:00

My art class working in Photos.

My 5th grade English class

SFO

P.E.

SFO meeting

Morning devotion

2007-10-04T13:52:00.000+02:00

Yes, yes! I hear you, but you also know how life is! We are so busy with much going on right now. I will try to fill you in the best that I can. I just want to let you know that I am sitting right now in the SFO room and a child is farting beside me. For me to be at my job writing this tells you that I don't have that much time to myself these days and when I do the last thing I want to do is read or write. Vege...staring blankly at a television, playing SIMS or watching Simon pick his nose have become my favorite hobbies. Now that I have defended myself...

Here are my new daily routines: I have around 6 hours a week of English classes, an art class, P.E. and SFO. I love my English classes and would like to start studying again to, at some point, to be a full time English teacher. As those of you who have worked in a school system know, being a teacher is not an easy job, but being a part of a child's learning process is very rewarding. I gave my fourth graders a test the other day and had around 6 A's and nothing under a 76. They are magnificent...learning a new language at the ages 10 and 11! The kids are not the only ones that are learning, however. I have discovered a great deal about myself as well:) We'll save that for another blog. Attached are some pictures of my classes, meetings etc...

I have moved up a level in Danish, meaning the Tuesdays and Thursdays nights I attend pay off. You can imagine at the end of the day I am pretty tired but it's a "must have" kan man sige.

(Finally, the farting child took the bus.)

I joined the gym with a group of fabulous women. Though I don't get the thrill of wave riding, I actually look at it as my surfing substitute. It is a way I can fellowship, de-stress and stay healthy. We usually meet on Mondays and Friday nights and sweat our problems away while watching the muscly guys stare at themselves in the mirrors. (Meaty men, put politely!) Perhaps another reason I do it is so that my surfing muscles will be ready to surf again one fine day.

(Great, it's the girl that breathes heavy.)

Simon has decided his study focus. Well, it is a choice of two really, both involving, you guest it! Computers! He will either be applying his Bachelor in Anthropology and computer skills to Digital Design Communications or E Business. DDC consist of working with and studying digital media. For example, podcast, Internet, cell phones, text messages, blogging etc. E Business, on the other hand, consists of studying a particular organization's use of information technology (IT). These two areas combine Simon's interest of social studies and IT providing you and I better communication!

Speaking of communication. I have discovered (a little late) Facebook. This is a place where you can catch the small things in our life. My blog is still up and running and you can find pictures of the bigger events we experience. We are still enjoying life in Denmark though it has become quite demanding at the moment. I am certain and at peace with where God has us right now. We'll cross the next bridge when it comes.

"That is that and this is this. You tell me what you want and I'll tell you what you get." And this is what you got. SFO is over and the heavy breather has now left the building.

With all my love, Court @ Billesborg

Bon Bon Land

2007-08-12T14:23:00.000+02:00

Bon Bon Land with Melanie and Daniel Sommer 2007

OB meets DK

2007-08-12T13:49:00.000+02:00

As many of you know, Simon and I had visitors last week. Brad and Rachel came to stay with us for six adventurous days and we had a time that I doubt neither of us will soon forget.

Denmark had just faced the wettest summers EVER (true story) and the day they arrived the sun came out. It didn't go away until they day they left. How great is our God! I think you could say that we spent about 90% of the time outdoors while the other 10% was used for inside sleeping purposes.

We visited: Koge, Vallo, Sweden, Helsingor, Copenhagen, Mons, Stevns and Rodvig all small towns with big attractions. In Sweden, Mons and Stevns we got a chance to hike around and take advantage of nature. The the other towns, however, offered us shopping or just some plain ole sight seeing.

The best part of it all, was spending time together. I love me some outdoor time and I'm usually restless if I'm not doing much, but I found my favorite time to be our evenings when we could sit and laugh about our day's experience or reminisce about the past. God blessed us with some great company:) Thanks guys and we'll see you come Christmas!

Enjoi the pics everyone!

2007-08-12T13:40:00.000+02:00

Me and Rach

The Little Mermaid

Overlook-ing Cph

Kronborg Castle

2007-08-12T13:34:00.000+02:00

Vallo Castle
House in Vallo
Brad and Rach
Swedish Windmill

Swedish Church

2007-08-12T13:29:00.000+02:00

Hiking Sweden

Wrong dress code

2007-08-12T13:23:00.000+02:00

Us and our car

Mons Klint

Famous Danish windmills

Sommerhus 2007

2007-07-25T09:32:00.000+02:00

Ever since this past Christmas I think the Chercka family talked about going to the Sommerhus (Summer house). I have only been one time because I usually go to the lovely Outer Banks every year. But this was the year to stay home because every person with a last name Chercka (and then some) would be staying at the cottage that stands high and proud on a dune top overlooking a magnificent sea of splendor. I lived with 9 people for 7 days. On the sixth day I was looking for DTS sign up sheets. We lived, and we lived well, actually.

Adventures include:

Sommerland Fårup -In this amusement park my niece stood up on the bars that keep waiting lines in order and screamed in front of about 50 people, "I like to move it, move it!" from the hit Madagascar film. Nowadays, she is my biggest hero.
Visiting Vitskøl Kloster-This is a beautiful place overlooking the sea where Inger's mother grew up. Monks sometimes reside here, as well, and recently the Queen featured an exhibit of her very own paintings. One can smell the farting plant in the healing herb garden just beyond the sleeping quarters. Or was that me?
Playing Strawberry Shortcake on a gameboy during a glorious sunset
Admiring Andres stylish get-up featuring camo shorts, a wife beater and a Chicago Bears baseball hat. You might be a redneck if...you dress like Andre!
Beach soccer and Battlefield- games the men played to keep the "man" in "manhood".
Mille rapping-I filmed this actually...10 minutes of it, but you would have to watch the first few minutes crooked and as a merciful kind person I will spare you.
Culture night- every night we had a picture or film offering, sharing with the others our encounters from other parts of the world (Thailand, Germany, Norway and Madeira)
(My favorite) Helping save a bunny from one of the biggest bridges in the world. Dreadful situation that has a wonderful ending. It's better if I tell it in person so you can see the tears in my eyes:)

So that concludes, yet again, an amazing journey. Now, you tell me if you wouldn't be looking for a DTS registry form yourself...

God is fun!

2007-07-24T18:58:00.000+02:00

On the way to the Sommerhus
Playing trivial pursuit with Mille
Breakfast

After dinner

2007-07-24T18:19:00.000+02:00

Vitskøl Kloster (this is where Inger's mother grew up)
Charlotte and I are not blood related...I repeat we are not blood related!
Farfar saw a monk dressing:)
Sommer-hus 2007

Dansk Sommer

2007-07-24T18:03:00.000+02:00

heart shaped rock
kun farfar
circle in the sand

22
(nuh-uh)

Madeira

2007-07-13T18:01:00.000+02:00

A levada is an irrigation channel or aqueduct on the island of Madeira in the Atlantic Ocean (about 500 miles Southwest of Portugal).
To see more pictures of our trip to Madeira please go to our new and improved photo gallery.
Here you will get a better idea of our activities on this magnificent island.

Blessings!

Poppies

2007-06-27T21:28:00.000+02:00

July 4th is Charlottes birthday but we celebrated a little earlier since all of us will be out of Denmark.

Charlotte is a 25 year old young woman who is currently in a relationship. She enjoys reading, music and long walks down Strøget. While studying Hebrew and Greek Charlotte takes time out of her busy schedule to make her family brunch for her birthday. Her birthday flower is the poppy. When she isn't studying Theology she can be found at the Vineyard networking. As a child Charlotte enjoyed listening to "Take That," eating crushed Oreos and Vanilla Waffers while dreaming of Brandon Walsh and Dillan McKay. Sometimes she travels to the country side to take a break from her fast pace lifestyle. She has a place deep in our hearts always.

(This is extremely exaggerated.)

2007-06-27T21:09:00.000+02:00

happy b-day lot!
i have a rabbit!
teaching mille ballet...
"is that also ballet?" asked a curious mille.

Eye scream

2007-06-18T14:59:00.000+02:00

What's about as good as Santa Claus? The ice cream

man! As long as you have an allowance, it doesn't

matter if you have been naughty or nice...

...about 15 kilometers

2007-06-11T08:10:00.000+02:00

Simon and I are gearing up for our Madeira wander ture. We have been increasing our heart rate by some intense frisbee throwing, fulbold and Pilate's (me). While we are in the lush garden of the Atlantic, the rest of the Chercka family will be endeavoring other countries around the world. Charlottes will be visiting National Geographics Traveler's most beautiful country, Norway, while Andre and Kathrine venture to Asia's Thailand. The other wanderers, Inger and Jorg will be doing much of the same thing as Simon in I in Germany. Therefore, we decided (Simon, Jorg, Inger and I) on this lovely day in June, the temperatures reaching the mid 80's, it was time to train ourselves for the many kilometers we would be walking on our adventures. For those of you who don't know, Simon and I opted the Drive, Fly and Walk package for Madeira...God help us!

Yesterday, we walked along a beautiful path along the sea, through fields, prairies and forests. It was an amazing Sunday afternoon, not a cloud in the sky. We started our hike about 40 kilometers south of Koge and ended it about 7 kilometers further. We picnicked on beaches and cliffs, farfar swam and made out with his wife, Simon thought he was a hippie, we came across a snake that was about a foot long, heard the coo coo bird, and found some stones with perfect holes directly through them. I found out that it takes thousands of years for this to take place and took a couple home for decor. We also saw where the illustrator for the Harry Potter books lives: A beautiful picturesque cottage that we didn't take any pictures of. We had fun walking about 15 kilometers (around 7 miles) and discovered there may be hope for us after all:)

We are all meeting up at a summer house on DKs west coast in mid July to share our journeys. Of course there will be more for you to see then, as well. Until then, celebrate good times, come on!

2007-06-10T20:43:00.000+02:00

woodstock is fun

du må ikke være med!

"simon, tell your parents to quit!"

2007-06-10T20:38:00.000+02:00

shower curtain helper
little house on the prairie

farfar swims to sweden

anaconda

Summer School

2007-06-09T17:00:00.000+02:00

80 degrees today with the water temp. not far behind...

beautiful!

Top Action

2007-06-02T14:34:00.000+02:00

Over the past three years I have gotten to know and enjoy a special class here at Billesborgskolen. I have taught them English on various occasions, been to 3 different countries with them, and enjoyed many culture weaving moments I like to call: Danglish Lessons. (By now I think they have gotten the hang of English while I have become a little better at Danish, as well.) This year they graduate and try to become adults. By looking at these pictures and witnessing their last day here it is hard to consider, but I am rooting for them:)

Even though we have about 3 more weeks left of school Billesborg takes one entire day to celebrate and appreciate the 9th grader's years gone by. Yesterday (the last school day for them) started out with breakfast the 9th graders dedicated to their teachers. Then, after about 45 minutes of hygge, the class prepared the caramels. This, on the Outer Banks, would be referred to as Salt Water Taffy, which is used in Denmark for a small torture party. (Basically they throw the candy at the kids really hard:) After many had recovered from minor wounds and injuries (they played pretty dirty with the 6th, 7th and 8th graders) the entire school headed to the schools "auditorium" for the 9th graders last words prepared for their teachers. Most of these words are humiliating, but there is ample amount of time for the teachers to get their revenge during a teachers against student fodbold match and a water fight at the end of the day. To say the least the 9th graders schooled us!

I am honored to know these kids and I pray for their best in the years to come. They have been "top action" students and have more charisma than an American, if I humbly may say so myself. For more fotos of the last school day or other Billesborg Adventures go to Billesborg Billedgalleri and choose from one of many foto albums available. (These pics will be under Sidste Skoledag 2007.)

2007-06-02T14:06:00.000+02:00

the pros and x-cons
this, my friends, is patricia formly known as patrick

2007-06-02T13:57:00.000+02:00

throwing carmel to the under-grads

one last foolish feat

bill gates takes on cindy lauper

2007-06-02T13:43:00.000+02:00

christian puts his red alert face on
kids tempt to wash the grey out of our principal's hair
sibling love

the boy in the green took this very seriously...as if he were a real G.I.

This is Why We're Hot

2007-05-29T15:55:00.000+02:00

This weekend it rained and we needed a place to hang so the entire family met at inger and jorgs for a wonderful, relaxed weekend. Simon and I have tons going on in our daily life so it is exactly what we needed. Right now, in fact, I am preparing to go to language school and simon is in cph with his study group. One day, when I have really good pictures I will write in detail what is up (there is much!!!). Until then, were healthy and sound. Miss the OB...esp. the surf!

Welcome Jaida Isabel Snyder to the family!