intern year....resident years....and now officer years

Master of Puppets aka: Wall Street

2012-01-10T21:33:00.000-05:00

In case we have forgotten that money talks...Read this

Don't be fooled! Any candidate that wins the presidency of the United States (historically or presently) is tolerable (democrat/republican: "they" don't care) to those who supply the money! Sorry to be such a cynic, but America's leadership unfortunately has become/or maybe always has been mere puppetry in my opinion. :o)

The auctioned election process is designed to reduce the field to two candidates who will each receive hundreds of millions of dollars apiece from the same pool of donors. Just take a look at the lists of top donors for Obama and McCain from the last election in 2008.

Obama’s top 20 list included:

Goldman Sachs ($1,013,091)
JPMorgan Chase & Co ($808,799)
Citigroup Inc ($736,771)
WilmerHale LLP ($550,668)
Skadden, Arps et al ($543,539)
UBS AG ($532,674), and...
Morgan Stanley ($512,232).

McCain’s list, meanwhile, included (drum roll please):

JPMorgan Chase & Co ($343,505)
Citigroup Inc ($338,202)
Morgan Stanley ($271,902)
Goldman Sachs ($240,295)
UBS AG ($187,493)
Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher ($160,346)
Greenberg Traurig LLP ($147,437), and...
Lehman Brothers ($126,557).

Final week of 2011

2012-01-01T20:51:00.004-05:00

This past week my brother Caleb and his family blessed us with a visit. Janelle and I agree that it was too short, but the most meaningful well spent 48 hours together possible. Thank you!

Thaddeus and Uncle

Oh how sweet it is was to hear these strings proclaim His Holiness, as Caleb played O Holy Night

Johannes was mesmerized

Our last day of 2011

Spent on Virginia Beach

Johannes sporting his new Christmas hat

Digging like only boys can

Enjoying life, parenthood, and beach

In the summer this same view would be thousands of beach umbrella's

Conquering the slide all by himself

Johannes is loving that he can nearly keep up with Thaddeus nowadays.

Sneaking a photo of the supermodel on the beach...

Thaddeus thoroughly enjoying the spiral slide

A great place to reflect on the past year...

Dec 31, 2011 Sunset

James River

God is still my favorite artist

We left this magnificent scene and gathered with believers for a shared Nacho Bar and crossed over into 2012 while worshipping Christ.

All in all it was a wonderful closeout to 2011.

Christmas in Virginia 2011

2011-12-25T11:58:00.001-05:00

2011-12-13T21:31:00.001-05:00

2011-12-13T21:18:00.001-05:00

Goodbye Constitution...Hello Senate

2011-12-13T20:58:00.000-05:00

Freedom LOST

November in Virginia

2011-11-28T19:21:00.001-05:00

Sunset a few nights ago

View from our front door

Last of the fall leaves

Our local super hero loves to help in the kitchen these days, especially when the end result is apple crisp!

This year's Thanksgiving was shared with many dear friends and the delicious turkeys were prepared by the Ham's (ironically) :o)

Whether I have any skill or not, being resident surgeon, I often get asked to carve the meat

Shirlene and Bella window shopping on Janelle's Birthday in historic Smithfield

Us Window shopping

Look who Janelle got to meet!

Fun together in the backyard

Crisp leaves provide ample entertainment for us all, as of late

Williamsburg for Janelle's Birthday Weekend

2011-11-13T09:40:00.001-05:00

Veteran's Day Trip to Colonial Williamsburg

Thaddeus in the gardens sporting a new haircut

Spent Sunflowers

Equally yoked

Our first time in the Cabinetry shop

The furniture is made by hand with old world tools.

Some of the pieces made involve 700 working hours to complete.

Awe...It's autumn!

Janelle's Birthday Bouquet

Our dining room two weeks ago...

Now with "Misty Surf" paint job

It feels much more colonial...we think.

Fall Photos thus far

2011-11-06T19:59:00.000-05:00

Pictures from this Fall

Colonial Brothers

Thad exclaims, "Look Dad, Fire Leaves"

A tender moment

Our confident 3 year old, who already is concerned about what number comes after three...Why do they have to grow so fast?

Johannes has skills

Hiking the Noland Trail just minutes from our home

Autumn evening light hitting our home

We went apple picking near Charlottesville, VA on Carter Mountain yesterday as part of a weekend camping trip with many of our dearest friends

Janelle is ready to reach for the high ones

Johannes was more than happy to be our quality control monitor.

He was pleased with the quality of the crisp in these mountain grown Fuji apples

I'm a caught fish

"Uhh, you caught me...I'll give it up"

Despite the look,

this is one of the Lord's tender warriors who loves to serve and make his dad proud

Fresh Fruit

Feeling Tempted?

Dave and Paula

Radiant Ellie

Sisters

"Will" Power

Thaddeus is sporting the Jedi look...

Hair cut is likely coming soon

Where life happens

Thaddeus and Bella

Shirlene's Birthday Dinner

Vintage Tavern

Janelle's latest additions to the porch

She hand-made the sea shell wreath from recent beach combing with the kids,

and the metal work chandelier that holds tea lights (candles) is a recent find from the local consignment shops and gifted to us by Janelle's mom.

Vaccines: For the Greater Good...

2011-11-03T21:22:00.000-04:00

Go to www.greatergoodmovie.org To watch the full feature documentary free on Vimeo through November 5.

Good bye Freedom! We got scared, became complacent, & you were quietly taken from us

2011-10-28T22:02:00.000-04:00

I promise "soon" to stop being so political with this blog...but in the mean time...you have to read this article...
Follow the politics of food and you will quickly learn that someone much bigger than you is not looking out for you...so don't be fooled by there logos and names. ie. The "Food Safety Act" passed in congress this year is anything but being about your safe consumption of food...

http://farmtoconsumer.org/quail-hollow-farm-dinner.htm

How safe is our "Homeland Security"

2011-10-27T20:50:00.000-04:00

Just asking...

click on the below quote for the entire article

"I'm just absolutely devastated that someone who did two tours of Iraq and came home safely is now lying in a US hospital because of the domestic police force," Carpenter told the Guardian.

Beware! Congress is not trying to protect our health with the food safety act

2011-10-26T22:03:00.001-04:00

Farmers: In Their Own Words from Patrick Christell on Vimeo.

Support Ron Paul, who supports the Constitution...Right down to your Right to Eat/Drink What you WANT

2011-10-25T19:38:00.002-04:00

http://tinyurl.com/rawmilkfreedom

"Most Americans understand that if you don't want to drink unpasteurized milk you simply do not buy it. But the federal government solution is pre-dawn raids which destroy the livelihoods of honest, hardworking families in this time of continued economic hardship.

I am outraged by [the April 2011 FDA armed] raid [on a peaceable Raw Milk producer] and the many others like it, and that is why last week I introduced HR 1830, a bill to allow the shipment and distribution of unpasteurized milk and milk products for human consumption across state lines. This legislation removes the unconstitutional restraint on farmers who wish to sell or otherwise distribute, and people who wish to consume, unpasteurized milk and milk products.

Many Americans have done their own research and come to the conclusion that unpasteurized milk is healthier than pasteurized milk. These Americans have the right to consume these products without having the federal government second-guess their judgment or thwart their wishes. If there are legitimate concerns about the safety of unpasteurized milk, those concerns should be addressed at the state and local level.

I am hoping my colleagues in the House will join me in promoting individual rights, the original intent of the Constitution, and federalism by cosponsoring this legislation to allow the interstate shipment of unpasteurized milk and milk products for human consumption.

If we are not even free anymore to decide something as basic as what we wish to eat or drink, how much freedom do we really have left?"

Dr. Ron Paul, Member of Congres

Rejoice in HOPE (CHRIST IN YOU)

2011-10-17T21:21:00.000-04:00

I wish I had hope for America...

I don't really, but it would sure be grand to see this man in office, prior to America's collapse

Rather than place my hope in politicians...

Romans 12 reminds me daily how I am to live and to rejoice in hope

CHRIST in YOU, the HOPE of glory

9Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. 10Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. 11Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit,^g serve the Lord. 12Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. 13Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.

14Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. 15Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. 16Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly.^h Never be wise in your own sight.17Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. 18If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. 19Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave itⁱ to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” 20To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” 21Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Outer Banks, North Carolina Columbus Day Weekend

2011-10-12T22:22:00.000-04:00

This past weekend we (Lambert's) enjoyed a getaway to the Outer Banks of North Carolina with the Wood family and Bobby's super fun mother, Nancy

Wake up face after being weathered by the beach

Thaddeus 3

Wake up face after being weathered by the beach

Johannes 18mos.

Playing on the Dune

Bella

Everyone enjoying the view from top of the dune, called Jockey's Ridge in Nags Head, NC

Thaddeus...

jumping or is he levitating?

Kinda scary looking, but I assure you he is only jumping

Maybe levitating...

just praising the LORD!

Currituck, NC Lighthouse

I couldn't pass up this autumn scene

Thaddeus posed for me! A rare event these days.

Thanks!!

Ethan...

Is football in his future?

Johannes is often referred to as our viking...

Now we see where the viking gene originates... :o)

I love my Vikings!!!!

OshKosh Baby

The Beach Becomes You

"the one more glance back"

Love is alive

Glowing beauty

Son, Mother, Grandson

Should Bobby trim his toenail?

Beneath the Pier

Sunset at the Pier

Chillin' in arms of love

Denim days at the beach

Ellie shining for the camera

Hey! What's you lookin' at?!

Now that is the face of laughter Ethan!

Janelle and her boys...

Our boys decided to give the

Ralph Lauren or Calvin Klein "face"

My daily dose of JOY

Bodie Island Lighthouse

Big stuff

Brothers

Friends

Johannes' feet

student & teacher

Bobby caught some sand crabs

Hard to see, but it is in the back right corner of the bucket

Worship on the porch prior to packing from the fun filled weekend

End of a great weekend of R&R

Thad & I both agreed

First thing Thaddeus did upon returning from the beach...

Dress up of course! ;o)

2011-10-02T14:03:00.002-04:00

This film can be viewed for free until October 8th...

http://foodmatters.tv/screeningeventcinema

Food Matters Official Trailer from foodmatters on Vimeo.

2011-10-02T12:08:00.000-04:00

One of the many fun things we have been able to take part in here in Virginia is our local chapter of Weston A Price Foundation...

Yesterday we hosted the local chapter meeting at our home!

Thanks to a dear member loaning us their rental tables for a party they were having the following day, we were able to host the meal in the backyard, and the meeting in the living room. For a foody like myself, the best part of these meetings is the potluck dinner, which is all Nourishing Traditions prepared food.

The Backyard

The cottage in the background is our garage converted into a quaint guest cottage, where the Wood Family is currently residing

This $2 mini-wagon from a Michigan garage sale has served its time well, and last night was the hit toy amongst all the kids.

The raised bed gardens with the fall planting coming on...

It is so surreal to have two growing seasons for gardening!

Everyone enjoying the food, on our first chilly evening of the fall, which finally killed off the horrific mosquito population that has been thriving on our blood these past two months! It is not all Paradise in Virginia :o)

View from the back porch.

We got to enjoy lighting the Tiki Lamps last night as well.

Drink Buffet

Trader Joe's Coffee, Kombucha, and Kefir Water

Dinner was a Potato soup by Shirlene, Turkey Wild Rice Soup by Janelle, and everyone brought a side dish from Nourishing Traditions Style food Prep.

The topic of learning for the night was Bee Keeping, so there were raw honey for the tasting.

Listening to local Bee Keeper educate us on "chemical free" hive maintenance

Wake UP!!! AMERICANS

2011-09-25T23:27:00.000-04:00

One common misconception about Nazi Germany was that the police state was solely a creation of the authorities and that the citizens were merely victims. On the contrary, Gestapo files show that 80% of all Gestapo investigations were started in response to information provided by denunciations by “ordinary” Germans.

“There were relatively few secret police, and most were just processing the information coming in. I had found a shocking fact. It wasn’t the secret police who were doing this wide-scale surveillance and hiding on every street corner. It was the ordinary German people who were informing on their neighbors,” wrote Robert Gellately of Florida State University.

Gellately discovered that the people who informed on their neighbors were motivated primarily by banal factors – “greed, jealousy, and petty differences,” and not by a genuine concern about crime or insecurity. This is precisely the kind of environment the ‘See Something, Say Something’ law, and the campaign itself, is designed to create.

Kitchen update and Atlanta, GA

2011-09-25T15:14:00.000-04:00

While I was away for my oral boards...

Bobby was home tearing out our kitchen sink and counter top.

The stainless steel sink with drainboard was salvaged and used in the new construction of the cottage

A few decades of treasures found behind and underneath the sink cabinet...NASTY!

Janelle and I got to enjoy this view from our hotel in Atlanta for 4 nights

I got to come home to this view...

What a gift of love from the Woods

Hurricane Irene and Will's Baptism

2011-09-21T21:02:00.001-04:00

Lots has been happening at the Lambert's this past Month

We made it through Hurricane Irene with only 6 days of power outage and lots of small branches on the ground. No major property damage occurred on our place.

Janelle reading by candle light

First time to board up openings in our buildings

The kids helped with the clean up

Our dear New brother in Christ

"Will"

One of the gathers for the witnessing of Will's baptism

James River

The Baptism

Days of Summer Bliss with The Woods Family in Virginia

2011-08-10T21:47:00.008-04:00

Bobby, Shirlene, and family came to Virginia for 10 blissful days of reconnecting, visiting, sharing in the joys of parenting, praying, worshipping, sharing wonderful meals, and reinvigorating one another's passion for life, faith, and community.

Fun along the shore of the James River

Come to Virginia for fresh crab

Swimming was enjoyable though the warm

80+ degree water brings multitudes of jelly fish which are being examined in the bucket

Father and Son

Fun in the sun

Ellie is such a dear young girl, who is responsible well beyond her years

Such a great friend to Thaddeus throughout the week

Thaddeus took notes and now is a better caretaker of his little brother...

Thank you Ellie for your good influence :o)

Playing together at the Virginia Living Museum

Reprieve from the heat with front yard slip 'n slide

Pool time

Exploring the local park

Grinding corn at the Jamestown Settlement

Thaddeus says they were playing "David and Goliath"

More interacting with history

Exploring the ships at Jamestown

Our dear neighbor loaned us his RV!!!

We got to enjoy camping with children in air conditioning, what a gift!

Johannes was in his element the entire time, endless dirt and food...

Bobby providing endless comic relief

"Hillbilly grin"

Time for a cool down and rinse of at least one layer of dirt

Johannes wasn't always happy with my methods, but it worked quite well

Beaching it at Yorktown waterfront

York River

The prehistoric looking Helmet crab came floating by us

Pure summer fun in Virginia

We love the Woods!

Vacation to Michigan July 2011

2011-08-10T21:21:00.005-04:00

This past July we took a week long reprieve to Michigan to reconnect with our dear friends, as well as bring back our guitars, which were left in Michigan because of humid conditions and inability to store them during the transition to Virginia last summer.

We headed out in our "swagger wagon" midday on Friday after a morning of operating and arrived at the door of Rick and Victoria the following day before noon.

Our first afternoon we got to spend reconnecting with my former boss and his family. Their home had experienced a significant fire during the past year, so the home had many changes and beautiful modifications.

It was quite unique to be discussing our surgery cases, no longer as residents, but now all as attending surgeons. Trung and I felt more grown up I guess...

The beautiful family

Our gracious hosts for the entire week

Known by our kids as Auntie Victoria and Uncle Rick

Thank you two for all the fun and hard work of hosting not just us but all our friends that week.

Thaddeus and Amelia reconnecting

Amelia and I reconnect

We share the same birthday, and I got to hold her on her first day of life

We have always bonded well

Amelia's beautiful parents

We got to spend 3 full days enjoying the Lake Cabin in Northern Michigan

We are throwing our personal pizza dough

Rick doing it with style!! He must be italiano...

The Pizzas

Thaddeus was thrilled to wear a pair of "gobbles" weather swimming or not

First day in the water was mostly sounds of stress and fear, but by day three the boys had transitioned to confident water boys

Learning to relax in the water...

Not an easy skill to obtain as a three year old boy

Stepping into the boat

Celebrating my "34th" Birthday

We had a delicious grilled salmon dinner

The smile that brings a smile to us all everyday!!!

One of Thaddeus' many enduring looks

My surfer dude in his dino shirt

Kindred spirits on the water together

Yes I married a JCrew model

Lucky ME!!!

Our boys in front of their birthplace

Our first home

A Flavor of Polyface

2011-07-23T16:15:00.003-04:00

I went to Polyface farm a couple of weekends ago...

It was awesome to say the least.

This video will give you a quick flavor of Joel Salatin

The stream of people hiking the hill to hear the farmer preach

The Broilers

are raised in these mobile shelters

which are moved to fresh "salad" every morning at sunrise

This building is one of many canvas laden industrial tents which house

rabbits and laying hens

in a symbiotic relationship to one another.

Rabbits above, Chickens below

Ever seen hogs raised like this?!

He discusses his method in the above video.

Watch out...I am being enticed away from medicine...:o)

2011-07-14T21:17:00.000-04:00

4th of July 2011

2011-07-04T18:43:00.005-04:00

Virginia is for lovers...

Virginia is for patriots...

Virginia is for families...

Let's Celebrate

We started our morning at a friends house for a potluck brunch along the parade route...

Then we walked the parade route with our patriotic "flare"

Seth then went off to make hospital rounds while others rested up for the big night of crowds and fireworks at the Historic Yorktown waterfront

We joked about what happens were you are the 3rd child...

you can't even wreck a kodak moment.

We have had a wonderful week of being spoiled by Nana and Papa Davis

Lots of free babysitting for Janelle and I :o)

Johannes was ecstatic over this dog his size and fortunately the dog, "Rumble" was very tolerant of Johannes' lovin'

Our lovely neighborhood gets very creative with their Radio Flyer "Parade Floats"

In the afternoon another parade route came down the street we live on, so I took the opportunity to take more pics...

Our house in the background...

Mt Vernon

2011-07-04T18:38:00.004-04:00

We made it to Mt Vernon a couple of weekends back...and got to meet up with our wonderful Washingtonian friends, no pun intended :o)

Tuckered out, but great travellers

Our Resident SurperHero & Car Races with Papa Davis: Langley Track

2011-07-02T14:51:00.004-04:00

My son is a SuperHero!

Last night Thaddeus got to be enamored with race cars at the Langley Speedway.

It was a great time, especially being with Papa.

Thaddeus acted so old...he ate a whole hamburger, snacked on cashews, onion rings, and gummies from Trader Joe's, and stayed wide awake until 10:30pm.

A night he will remember I am sure.

Fireman-Thaddeus

2011-06-30T17:54:00.002-04:00

Thaddeus' Uncle (Fireman) Rick gifted him with a REAL Fireman's Hat.

Thaddeus has worn it everyday, no matter how hot it is outside.

Cousins Visit Virginia

2011-06-30T17:14:00.002-04:00

Memorial Day Weekend Home improvements

2011-05-28T10:18:00.009-04:00

Instead of spending money on gas, we ultimately decided to have a four day weekend at home this Memorial Day and do home improvement projects.

This evening we our hosting a chicken BBQ for 27 lovely friends and siblings in Jesus, thank God for Costco!

Sunday after church we are getting a piano (free from a friend in the neighborhood), and plan to start Thaddeus on Piano lessons this Summer/Fall.

Monday we are going to another BBQ and Pool Party.

Janelle's vision for the downstairs 1/2 bath finally reached its fruition.

Janelle found the Chandelier at The Land of Nod.

Janelle made the pink hued Roman blind, by seeking out a local who makes them, but was willing to teach Janelle for the same price as purchasing one.

Janelle puddied and painted the window white.

Seth dug deep into his upbringing from working with his amazing do-it-yourself father, to replace a 1950's huge 16 inch can light plastered in to the plaster ceiling, with the delicate and femine chandelier.

Diningroom chandelier is now on a dimmer switch!

Floral painting is thrift store find a month ago.

Hydrangeas are in near full bloom in the yard

Our once single light dark kitchen is now a 8 light Kitchen Studio!

With the quality of meals coming forth from this room, it truly is

"Nelle's Studio"

This birdcage was a gift to Janelle from a friend.

Originally it was dark stained wood with green and maroon painted highlites. After two coats of white paint and installing a chain, it is now a beautiful accent piece on the screen porch.

This morning's sunlight on the porch.

The door has a new screen replacing the large holes from having "little boys" crashing through

Our Garden has been treating us well

Enjoying lots of salads, beet greens, chard, and nasturtiums.

Soon to be enjoying green beans, carrots, zucchini, leeks, turnips, beets, tomotoes, and peppers

The lilly's started to bloom yesterday

Hydrangea variant in front of house beginning to bloom

Johannes experiencing a bit more than a plumber's crack this morning...

OOooh, "Can't touch this!"

We have finally completed our Conversation/Morning Coffee/Devotions Corner

A long work in progress...

Chairs found on Craigslist (drove 3 1/2 hours (round trip) one evening after work to ensure they would not be sold before we could see them.

Retro green ottoman found last weekend at neighborhood garage sale, along with the side table which is an old fashion dough box.

We plan to replace the lamp currently there with this one (see next pic) found on Craigslist and being held for us until we can drive to Chesapeake next week.

2011-05-09T19:48:00.002-04:00

Saturday afternoon we made a quick trip to Grandview Beach

Our friend Julie from Wisconsin is visiting us this weekend as she is in the area for a graduation and to catch up with friends, including us! We are so lucky!!

Thaddeus says he likes the feel of the sand getting sucked away from his toes

Johannes feeling the moment..."Hang Loose"

Thaddeus found a rope and is trying to do some beach excavating

2011-04-27T20:53:00.029-04:00

This may be my longest post ever...

These photos comprise the past two months from Janelle's camera, her mom's camera,

and my camera.

We begin with Janelle's Parents Visit during SW Washington's Springbreak

Papa & Grandson

Entrance to Virginia Living Museum (Thaddeus' favorite place to explore, especially now that he knows the place so well).

Papa Davis

Truly playing down at their level

Early Spring walk

Their day together at Williamsburg

Williamsburg Garden

Thaddeus getting to know the Colonial kids and guns

Thaddeus struck up a long conversation with "Thomas Jefferson"

Thaddeus found the letter "T" in the colonial alphabet cards

Backyard farmers

Hanging out with mother-in-law

Family photo on the front stoop

Back when Thaddeus and I were building our raised beds

We enjoyed a "King Cake" party with our Louisiana Friends down the street

King Cake is the traditional cake you see in the picture for Mardi Gras

Monster pot of jambalaya enjoyed by over 150 people at the party

Janelle's Mom's group took a trip to the Newport News Fire Dept.

My boys were in heaven

This photo reminds me of a political campaign poster with the natural light casting an aura and all. :o)

Johannes with his laughter sneeking out between his thumb sucking

Johannes turns "One"

He is excited

His Elmo card from Grammy and Grandpa Lambert

Janelle took the boys to the Air and Space Museum

Operation Jumbo Sized

Virginia Beach

Thaddeus helping Papa build shelves for Janelle

Celebrating Dave and Jan's Birthdays

Thaddeus getting his groove on

Practicing his left handing pitching with a dirt clod

Nice form, and thankfully the camera is a safe distance thanks to zoom lens

Dogwood in the yard with our dead tree in the background

View of our home from the neighbors yard

A trip to Hampton's International Children's Festival

A traveling bandwagon in the background

Thaddeus loves to give hugs to anyone in costume

When you are a beautiful woman showing interest in your surroundings...guaranteed target for an interview with the local media

She was awesome, of course!

Easter time

Thaddeus sporting gifts from Nana

John Deer hat and Cowboy boots

Those boots have gotten rave reviews everywhere he goes.

One of those looks from Thaddeus that lets me know he is a "Big Boy" already!

And he is reading up on what he can expect out of me...

Thaddeus in the arms of one of the "pillars" of the church we attend

Ted

Getting ready for an Easter Egg hunt

Church friends

Taylor

At our friends house on Easter Sunday

Thaddeus and his friends are always superheroes...

Even without T.V. the commercialism is out there hounding the youth at a young age...amazing to me!

Our friend Will captured all the attention with his "nerf" rocket industrialized via the air compressor from the garage. Supercool!!!

Thad finds the "coolest" toy in the backyard

Easter Sunday

The Morin Family

Thaddeus stayed pretty clean in his "Easter Attire"

Hooray!

The humidity is in the air--

It gives Thaddeus great hair days!

I am vain for my kid :o)

I think he inherited some vanity though, as he needs a mirror for all his new clothes these days.

Local Vacation

2011-04-03T20:58:00.007-04:00

This weekend we stole away for a local vacation...

We went to Virginia Beach, got a room at the Westin and enjoyed two days of Virginia Beach attractions. We now know where the best crab cakes in Tidewater are to be found :o)

This Cardinal in the aviary at the Virginia Aquarium

seemed quite intrigued with my camera as I took multiple photos of him.

A Komodo dragon yawning

Did you know...

Although the Komodo dragon doesn't breath fire, it's mouth contains death. The saliva of the dragon contains at least 4 types of toxic bacteria. The dragon's tooth serrations harbor bits of meat from the dragon's last meal. Komodo dragons also frequently bite through their own gums as they eat. The saliva and blood combination and the protein-rich residue in the teeth provide an ideal culture for the bacteria. These make the dragon's breath quite foul! A Komodo's bite causes profuse bleeding and are slow to heal. Although a dragon is not always successful in immediately bringing down a large animal, the bitten animal usually dies soon after, usually within a week. Infected by the bacteria, its wounds become infected and turn septic (septicemia). The Komodo dragon tracks the weakened animal, harassing it until the animal finally dies.

However, if a Komodo is bitten by another Komodo, it doesn't suffer any ill effects. The anti-coagulating properties of the Komodo's saliva, and natural immunity to each other's saliva is being investigated for human medical applications.

Thaddeus entering an underwater world

Thaddeus quickly loving life as a nearly 3 year old...if there is a platform,

then of course it is for jumping off of.

Notice the Sting Ray to the left

Truly a beautiful aquarium

We caught the tail end of the divers show, but Thaddeus stayed extra and got some

one on one time with the diver.

The diver came up to Thaddeus later in the day,

as she was quite smitten with him.

Jelly fish tank with black lights

The typical reaction I now get when I ask the boys to look at the camera

Playing in the burned out log "canoe" in the state park

Another cold, but sunny day at the beach

Thaddeus

Recent Project and trip to beach

2011-03-17T21:14:00.004-04:00

After 3 weekends, 2 trips to lumber yard, 1 trip to Ace Hardware, 2 trips to Mayo's (neighborhood hardware), two deliveries of rock and topsoil, and borrowed tools from 2 neighbors we have our raised bed vegetable and herb gardens completed and seeded!!!

Janelle giving the oh so sexy, pouty lips...she must remember that I said her lips were ever so attractive on our wedding video. :o)

Thaddeus acting so old these days, and successfully potty trained!!

Can you believe that this is my wife...I am too lucky!

Brother's Interlude

2011-03-17T21:03:00.003-04:00

Brother's Interlude

Thad: "uh oh, little brother has my beach ball! I can fix this...

Thad: Hey there Bro, let me help you with that....

Hans: It's cool, Bro. I got it right where I want it...

Thad: See I can throw it up...and away from you...nice....

Hans: Awe, defeated again, but a day of reckoning is coming...

Thad: A finish kick to be sure it is out of reach...

Hans: Nice kick, but I don't think you accomplished much...

Thad: (crying)...daddy the ball went in the water and now is wet and dirty...save me in my distress...

Watching your children....

Priceless.....education

Celebrating Johannes @ One!

2011-03-17T20:48:00.005-04:00

Johannes

b. 3/16/2010

The ever smiling, affectionate one in our family has turned one this week.

Johannes you give us so much joy.

Thank you Jesus for giving us a child with a contagious laugh; a cuddler that warms the soul and shares with us the feeling of being embraced by our heavenly Father.

We are sand people now

New sun hat

Taste bud explosion and saliva fest, as he enjoys "junk" food at his Birthday Celebration last weekend.

His first cupcake

Carrot cake with cream cheese frosting

(all Organic ingredients except the sprinkles, we leave that to Shanea to find those) :o)

Seth will have you know though, that organic or not, sugar is still of the devil...;o)

That contagious smile/joy

Immediately followed by moments of security to reset the mood

Hooray!

2011-03-08T20:30:00.001-05:00

Rick and Victoria Visit Virginia

2011-02-12T18:15:00.014-05:00

Our photos (three cameras) during the past week in no particular order

Rick and Victoria spent a week with us

We had a glorious time exploring the historic triangle with them

The boys loved reconnecting, as did Janelle and I, with two of the dearest people we know

Monticello on a cold February day

Duke of Gloucester St, Williamsburg

Strolling

Victoria

Lovely Janelle

Blacksmith

Governor's Mansion

Governor's Mansion Backyard

Johannes 10 months

Victory Center

The Kitchen

Happiness

Can you guess what Thaddeus' favorite activity is right now?

Jovial

Representing

Thaddeus enjoying the ships at Jamestown

Governor's Mansion in background

Kindred spirits

Life giving couple

Loving life & each other

Pretty in Pink

Come to Virginia and experience the lightness of being...

Johannes: security in two things

Mommy and thumb

Reunion of friends

Colonial Thaddeus

Dress up time

Rick's Tour Guide

Does it look like we enjoyed our turkey?

Oven Roasted

Alice Waters style

Boys with their turkey bones

Rick reading to Thaddeus

Jamestown

Strolling Williamsburg

Johannes maturing daily

Getting better at playing together daily :o)

Our happy Johannes

Thaddeus knows his letter

USDA responsible for mass poisoning of millions of birds - NaturalNews.tv

2011-01-24T21:17:00.001-05:00

THANKS USDA. You make me feel so SAFE!!!!!!

USDA responsible for mass poisoning of millions of birds - NaturalNews.tv

Not all the mysterious bird die-offs that have been witnessed around the globe recently are due to unexplained causes. A recent mass die-off event witnessed in Yankton, South Dakota was traced back to the USDA which admitted to carrying out amass poisoning of the birds.

After hundreds of starlings were found dead in the Yankton Riverside Park, concerned citizens began to investigate. Before long, a USDA official called the local police and admitted they had poisoned thebirds. "They say that they had poisoned the birds about ten miles south of Yankton and they were surprised they came to Yankton like they did and died in our park," says Yankton Animal Control Officer Lisa Brasel, as reported by KTIV (http://www.ktiv.com/Global/story.as...).

TheUSDAthen confirmed the story and explained it was all "part of a large killing" in Nebraska. Some of the birds that ate thepoisonapparently flew all the way to Yankton before succumbing to the poison.

USDA mass-murders birds on a regular basis

So why was the USDApoisoningbirds in the first place? A Nebraska farmer was apparently complaining that the starlings were defecating in his feed meal. The answer to this conundrum apparently isn't tocover your feed mealbut rather callthe USDAand ask them to poison thousands of birds.

The USDA complied, apparently agreeing this was a brilliant idea. So they put out a poison calledDRC-1339and allowed thousands of birds to feed on that poison.

Carol Bannerman from USDA Wildlife Services ridiculously claimed the bird kill was also to protect "humanhealth."

"We're doing it to address, in this case, agricultural damage as well as the potential for human health andsafetyissues," she said. That's just a lie, of course. In what universe do starlings pose a threat to human health and safety?

The USDA Wildlife Services website, by the way, ishttp://www.aphis.usda.gov

The USDA even has a name for this mass poisoning program:Bye Bye Blackbird. Through the use ofpoisonssuch as DRC-1339, the USDA has killedmore than four million birdsover the last several years, reports Truthout (http://www.truth-out.org/bye-bye-bl...).

They even proudly publish an online spreadsheet showing just how many they've murdered with poison:http://www.aphis.usda.gov/wildlife_...

Remember, these are mass bird killings that are funded with your tax dollars. It all makes you wonder whether thegovernmentis, in fact, responsible for many of the other mysterious animal deaths that have been reported across the country (and around the globe).

It also makes you wonder: If the federal government thinks nothing of murdering 4 million living, breathing birds, then what else might they be capable of doing out of atotal lack of respect for wildlife?

And if the USDA poisons birds because certain groups become too populous, what do you suppose is planned for whenhuman populationgrows too large?

2011-01-23T15:52:00.002-05:00

I don't know about you all, but we are already anxious for spring...

Janelle's recent arrangement from our beach combing treasures

Thaddeus and I are eager to play catch without cold hands and stocking caps on

For now we squeeze in 5 minute sessions until the days become warmer

I think Thaddeus will be a fast learner...

Our "new to us" swagger wagon.

2004 Toyota Sienna XLE Limited Edition

Now we can tour the historic triangle with "you" our visitors all in one comfortable ride

2011-01-17T13:34:00.005-05:00

We just returned from our late Christmas Visit to family in the Northwest.

It was a wonderful time of reunion.

Much too short as always.

Our boys suffered jet lag, colds, and Thaddeus got Pneumonia buying himself his first trip to the ER after his doctor-dad decided that 5 days of high fever was pushing the limits of "just let it run its course."

We are all happy to say that our Thaddeus is back to his normal self as of this morning.

(Talking, Playing catch with his dad in the backyard, and enjoying his abundant Christmas stash from way too generous a family!)

The smile that we were all longing to see after seeing him lethargic and listless with a fever of 105.2.

Thaddeus with his baseball mit.

He is so excited. We have already been playing catch in the backyard twice since being home.

Brothers

With Nana and Papa

Sunrise on Mt Baker

Taken from Shanea and Marshal's new place in Whidbey Island

Davis Family Photo

Heather and Ryan

Des and Rick

I had to post this, sorry...Jan

A sight not even her own children thought possible...

I hope her son-in-law is not the cause of this :o)

Sunrise Trout Lake

Mom and Dad Lambert

Dave and Sierra and Virgil (6weeks)

Had to take another picture with the "whole" family

Jesse and Megan Pearson Family

Caleb and Katie Lambert Family

Marshal and Shanea Harpe Family

Lambert Clan

26 plus 2 with buns in the oven

Kim and Luke

Engaged as of 1/5/2011

Happy Couple

The Announcement

All Eyes on the Prize

Megan and Jesse's Eldest

Aunt Janelle with Caleb and Katie's youngest

(for a couple more months anyhow)

Thaddeus has found his calling

2010-12-31T19:08:00.003-05:00

Today, Dec 31, 2010, we bundled up and went to the beach.

We discovered a new beach to explore about 30 minutes from our home, called

Grandview National Park

We had a splendid time beach combing, as we enjoyed finding natural sea sponge, agates, and beautiful "pearlized" delicate sea shells.

Natural sea sponge in the foreground.

And just caught a sea gull in flight in the upper right corner

Sand, Snow, Sun, Wind, Rocks, Wood, and Water

A Great Day had by all

2010-12-29T12:39:00.002-05:00

Thaddeus Up Close...December 28, 2010

2010-12-29T12:36:00.001-05:00

Snow and Ice in Virginia

Catching the droplets as they cascade off the icicles

2010-12-27T11:21:00.002-05:00

B&W

Christmas Party 2010

2010-12-27T11:14:00.000-05:00

Janelle's latest knitting endeavor

2010-12-27T10:48:00.003-05:00

Christmas Eve Dinner

True to Lambert fashion...I have to describe the food, take pictures of the food, and yes constantly remind myself that food can become an idol (see Passionate Homemaking Blogs).

In 1985 the term "gastroporn" was used for the first time in writing, and has since become a real word used frequently since 2007 for describing the succulent world of gourmet cooking and food photography.

Thus...Our Menu

Braised & Boiled Beef Rump Roast, raised at the Full Quiver Farm,

with sides of Brown Mustard & Cornichon Pickles

Oven Roasted Organic Golden Beets

Homemade Sourdough Bread

Garlic & Walnut Oil Sauteed Mix Greens

(Swiss chard, beet greens, and mustard greens)

Roasted Garlic, Green Onion & Creme Fraiche Purple Mashed Potatoes

Hearts of Romaine with Sharp White Cheddar Cheese & Walnut Oil/Dijon Mustard Dressing

Kumquat and Pomegranate

2010-12-27T10:44:00.002-05:00

We got a Whirley Popper for stovetop popcorn,

so now I won't scratch the plated stovetop surface with the pots anymore...

Thaddeus learning about Brussels Sprouts

Very fun to pull them off their stock

2010-12-27T10:41:00.001-05:00

Our Boys are so blessed to be loved and cared for by these young ladies

Jenn & Johannes

Bri & Thaddeus

2010-12-27T10:26:00.002-05:00

Thanksgiving 2010

Thankful for our marriage

Thankful for Thaddeus

Thankful for Johannes.

This is the look of satisfaction/delight we get from Johannes when he accomplishes a new task (this time it was pulling himself up on the stove drawer... "Great!"

Our early Christmas present to ourselves...The City Mini double stroller. LoveIT

Shameless me...

I have some growing to do it appears.

Broken chair event!!!

Note to self, don't seat your guest in 5+ year old Ikea chairs, unless you don't mind them limbing out feeling like they need to lose some weight...

Thaddeus helped Mommy make Seth's favorite cookies for Christmas...

Mauravian Ginger thins

Brotherly love.

At least we try to reinforce those feelings/actions often...

Janelle's handiwork

Christmas hats for all the nieces & nephews & friends children

2010-12-27T10:21:00.001-05:00

Johannes discovers the joy and pain of the box...

Excited/intrigue phase

Let the fun begin...

Stuck/scared...I need rescuing phase....

2010-12-27T10:13:00.002-05:00

Johannes being his friendly self with Santa

(Tommy from church)

Johannes waving to us at bedtime, his first time to wave intentionally

Thaddeus' new kitchen

One of Janelle's second hand finds this year.

2010-12-08T22:18:00.002-05:00

No run out there and buy your microwavable lunch, or "kid tasted, kid approved" chicken nuggets with good conscience :o) NOT!

Christmas Decorations

2010-12-05T15:38:00.001-05:00

A Nativity for the Boys to play with

2010-12-01T15:24:00.001-05:00

THADDEUS & I

Huntington Beach

2010-11-26T15:24:00.001-05:00

Ron Paul Last Week...still speaking truth

2010-11-24T20:43:00.000-05:00

Ron Paul said it so well in 2008.

Worth listening to again, again...

the lamberts

2010-11-21T18:33:00.000-05:00

This is a video of a photo shoot from last night, thanks to our talented friend Drew Swartz

the lamberts

2010-11-20T21:52:00.001-05:00

Eye Like & I Like

2010-11-14T20:40:00.012-05:00

Janelle's Birthday Weekend

Wednesday Night I came home with these to start an early weekend of celebrating Janelle.

I had Thursday off for Veteran's Day so we took a family trip to Colonial Williamsburg.

Governor's Mansion in Colonial Williamsburg

Thaddeus loved watching the beautiful horses

Thaddeus laying claim to his apple

Contemplative Thad

GORRRGGGEOUS!

Thank you God for the beautiful autumn back drop

This picture made the whole day worth it for me :o)

My bald self

Johannes playing in the sand on Janelle's Birthday.

8 months this week and has 8 teeth

Huntington Park (5 minutes from our home)

Thoroughly Enjoying Life Together

The "CrabShack" in the background is where Janelle and I enjoyed her birthday dinner the night before.

Sunset over the James River

November 14, 2010

Boy with Kite

Johannes has the beach pose down

I felt like I was catching a movie star on film

2010-11-11T08:54:00.001-05:00

Farmageddon Trailer from Kristin Canty on Vimeo.

2010-11-09T20:33:00.003-05:00

An Autumn Evening in Virginia

with my family

2010-11-06T16:41:00.002-04:00

Our living room is beginning to take shape as we were able to sell our big blue sofa and loveseat this morning (thanks to Craigslist) and have replaced it with the antique white sofa.

We also bought the piece behind the couch against the wall this morning.

Still looking for two wingback chairs and a small table for a "conversation corner" in the corner of the room not pictured.

A clock, a ship, a mirror, a larger rug with color, and some frames for a couple of paintings we have should put the finishing touches to the room.

Sunset over the James River

Johannes Laughing

2010-11-06T12:04:00.001-04:00

2010-10-16T22:44:00.005-04:00

A Practically Perfect Fall Day 4 All Today

The morning started with a Finnish Pancake (Thank you Janelle for how you love me so...)

We finally found and purchased a Farm Table which we have been seeking out since moving to Virginia, and it was delivered to our home for free, and it was half the price of many that we had seen or attempted to purchase previously.

We then spent the afternoon enjoying our neighborhood shops, purchased a sleeper sofa ***so we are now ready for visitors! Don't worry we have a memory foam mattress topper so you won't be sleeping on springs :o)

We then stopped for Ice Cream much to Thaddeus' delight!

Johannes testing out the durability of our new table and showing his autumn spirit with his sweater knit by Janelle

Farm Table

Made from barn lumber from early 1900's

Johannes has been giving us lots of indelible smiles as of late

"Brother's don't shake hands, Brother's Hug"

Thaddeus reminds me of cousin Matt in this photo

Our Dining Room

The plan is to have two benches made of the same lumber and stain and then two ladder back arm chairs for the ends.

These two pieces of furniture were completely different looking when we found them in a store. After much sanding, painting, and again sanding them to "shabby chic" they are now in our living room to help give it a beachy feel.

This is the same barn window frame we had in our Michigan home, but now it has been sanded down to be more shabby chic and the photos are from my archives of beach photos comprising trips to Brazil, Pacific City, Florida Keys, San Juan Islands, and Lake Michigan

Thaddeus enjoying his "Uhm keem" as he prefers to pronounce it

Enjoying the final drops of ice cream warmed in the autumn sun

I'm 2!

Johannes only gets a rattle this time...

His smiles tell me he is okay with that for now

Fall in Virginia is hard to beat

2010-10-12T16:52:00.001-04:00

Be informed...need I say more

Click here for your Non-GMO shopping guide