What Mookie Thinks

So Long... Farewell...

2011-07-10T13:15:00.000-07:00

Saying goodbye to favorite friends and places has made me appreciate our experience here in Austin all the more. I know we will be back for many visits. A few things I'll miss the most...

Swim team -- our girl swam like a champ six days a week for the Ramsey Red Fish. She won 1st or 2nd place in every race. While she practiced I got to sit in the shade, sipping ice tea, sampling breakfast tacos with one of my best and most hilarious friends K.

free style

spectators

tacos

Frousins -- you know those friends that you've known so long and well -- they are so dear that your children feel like cousins? Well, here are some of our frousins and boy are we going to miss them.

C, S, Q & E

This moment in time -- our kids are sweet and loving and our beloveds are healthy and optimistic about the future.

stay sparkly

catch you on the flip side

New Digs!

2011-07-06T08:31:00.000-07:00

We wrap things up in Austin on July 21st. This sweet rental on the lagoon is waiting for us in Alameda. I can already smell the salty bay!

Schlitterbahn

2011-07-04T07:28:00.000-07:00

World's Best Waterpark check!

Last Hurrah

2011-06-05T13:05:00.000-07:00

I will miss the tangle of scooters, bikes, shoes, helmets, towels and goggles on my front porch. Part of our crew is moving today and we will follow in a few months. I had good friends growing up but never a roving, multi age neighborhood gang like the one my children have enjoyed. The security and confidence that develops out of this kind of experience is indeed priceless. I know they will all keep this goodness in their hearts and share it with the new friends they meet.

summer porch & crew

Welcomed Downtime

2011-05-29T08:42:00.000-07:00

If this beer were a woman I'd be out a husband.
Movie Night!

Thunder Storm

2011-05-21T15:13:00.001-07:00

Almost there

2011-05-13T10:00:00.000-07:00

We've had such a good time crafting the character of this house! More pictures coming soon on our house website/blog.

new paint and landscaping!

Mookie Jones RIP

2011-04-30T11:39:00.000-07:00

Cancer got our boy. The joy and comfort he brought us was immeasurable.

big mooks

Dollies

2011-04-09T14:07:00.001-07:00

On free play days at home it feels like Bridget and Ruby are additional members of our family. When Ella's girlfriends come over with their charges the dramatic play really heats up. Cyrus is in on the dolly action too. Often he describes his plans for Bridget and Ruby when Ella is not around to protect them. Other times he falls in with the casual chit chat about their general adorableness and clothing options. Precious.

ella & bridget

ella & ruby

girlhood rules 

girlfriends too
for the dollies

Muffin Feet

2011-03-23T07:59:00.001-07:00

Cyrus and I made up a song about baby S's feet because they are adorable and little and tan and pudgy. They are the kind of feet you want to nibble and so they reminded us of muffins. She and her mama came for a visit from Santa Cruz, CA over spring break.

Her muffin feet are often a blur in photographs due to her frequent and joyous leg and arm flapping. See Ella's baby doll in the picture too. Ella and her girlfriends are in a major baby phase right now and so our wee guest was an extra special treat.

Minneapolis Nuptials

2011-03-07T12:29:00.001-08:00

Weddings are fewer and farther between in this season of our lives and so we were especially excited about C & K's glorious union. It gave us a chance to chum around with old friends, make new ones, walk cold city streets, lounge on high thread count hotel sheets, see a movie, try foie gras meatballs, meander around the Walker Art Center and Sculpture Garden and dance.

Thank you Grandma Roberta for caring for the chicklets so that we could enjoy this opportunity without a bit of worry.

guests with yam ceremony yam

The brides mother, a dear heart and late 18th and early 19th century American history scholar read this letter during the ceremony. Isn't it romantic?

Zadoc Long to Julia Davis

February 1, 1824

Dear Julia,

I would go ever so far on foot to see you, tonight. I feel sad when I don’t see you. Be married, why won’t you? And come to live with me. I will make you as happy as I can. You shall not be obliged to work hard; and when you are tired, you may lie in my lap, and I will sing you to rest with, “There’s Nothing True but Heaven.” I will play you a tune upon the violin as often as you ask and as well as I can; and leave off smoking, if you say so. I will supply as much molasses as you want to make candy, when Sister Persis Blanchard comes to see you. I would be always very kind to you, I think, because I love you so well. I will not make you bring in wood and water, or feed the pig, or milk the cow, or go to the neighbors to borrow milk. Will you be married? Little time is allotted to us in this world. Let us make the most of it while it holds out.

L O V E

2011-02-11T16:05:00.000-08:00

There is nothing like sugar and love and giving to motivate children to create.

Snow Day

2011-02-04T09:54:00.001-08:00

Puerto Rico

2011-02-01T14:58:00.001-08:00

CJ and I adapted easily to Island life. Beach stroll or snorkel? Conch or lobster? Beer or blended rum sweetness? Nap on the sand or sheets? Ahh... decisions... decisions...

rincon sunset
rincon is for lovers
old city san german
grandma holds down the homestead

White Christmas

2011-01-01T19:44:00.000-08:00

Boy did we have a good time over winter break!!!

let it snow, champaign illinois

new cousin!
canine cousins

sledding

scooting

chicago, chicago
lincoln park views
lincoln park zoo
millennium park

I developed a monster crush on the Midwest. I'm sure it had everything to do with the company I kept. Thank you, thank you to...

Bro & Sis Jones for everything !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Grandp Joneses for the swanky digs and sleep ins.

Frago brood for the good time break from the road.

Kitzmiller for coming to visit and the head lamps.

Wooly sisters for their hospitality.

Hubby for the lovely city date.

J & P for keeping the kitties safe.

Five Years Old!

2010-12-12T09:06:00.000-08:00

Our baby is not such a baby anymore.

birthday party grin

Just us chickens

2010-11-26T08:52:00.000-08:00

Anticipating an extra extroverted holiday season ahead we opted for a supremely low-key Thanksgiving. Keeping things simple created more flexibility in our schedule and time to enjoy play and preparation.

The Thanksgiving menu discussions have been underway for weeks. Topics include the difference between chicken and turkey, the ingredients in stuffing, the merits of pumpkin vs pecan pie, and the utter brilliance of marshmallows on yams. Since Cyrus has always had a keen interest in poultry the turkey salt bath was very exciting.

post brine turkey and poultry enthusiast
I look forward to the pre feast snack of shrimp cocktail and bloody marys almost as much as the main event.

salty, crunchy, spicy, sweet

children set a cheery & rustic table
The afternoon unfolded with Cj in the kitchen working his magic and the rest of us noodling around outside. We played volleyball, kickball, chased falling leaves, watched butterflies mate and built a fairy house.The weather changed from sunny and warm to windy and cold in a matter of a few hours which felt exhilarating.

playing in the street
dinner jacket and wheelbarrow
fairy house
butterfly love
After a satisfying feed we retired to the backyard to enjoy a crackling fire.

stoked

Baby Girl

2010-11-18T18:14:00.000-08:00

Good news!!!! Ella and Cyrus have a new cousin! Naturally, we are over the moon about this little peach.

j jones
In other news...

A long weekend in California was very, very good to me. JUST ME, sans offspring or kindergartners. Still feeling the love Mom, Sis y Amigos!!!

me as an impressionist masterpiece from the musée d’orsay at the de young, san francisco

Grandma R's visit over Halloween and Wurstfest in October felt like a tradition in the making.

wurstfest grandma
wurstfest coaster
Hubby's test kitchen and food reviews made for many memorable bites.

backyard fryer smorgasbord

Cranks

2010-10-07T09:30:00.000-07:00

Cyrus started PreK at our neighborhood public school this year. He is all smiles when we pick him up despite the song he composed the first week that goes "PreK is hot and boring... boring... hot and boring...." It is hard to compare his current situation to his previous preschool which boasted trampolines and a swimming pool. When we kept him home from school one day due to a cold, he told his teacher upon return that he "missed school because he had a special swimming lesson." The questioning look on her face as she told me the story lead me to believe that he can be pretty convincing when lying to his teacher.

The Napoleon complex has also gained momentum at home. He likes to lord around, grumbling orders. He also tries to work in conversations about wieners whenever possible. When left to his own devices he makes large-scale, trailing messes and then denies they are his when it comes time to clean up. Mookie gets blamed for much of his havoc. That leads me to the other crank in the Jones family right now, Mookie, or as Cyrus has taken to calling him at times, Dookie.

Mookie and Zito turn nine this month. Mookie is showing his age. He's lost much of his girth and his signature meow has changed from a resounding wail to a rusty whine that humors passersby but breaks my heart a little bit every time I hear it. He has not lost his swagger however. He must be let out of the house before 7 am or he'll start marking his territory indoors. He has the perimeter of our property thoroughly guarded from invaders with his scent. Our neighbor Herm, bought an enormous water gun to keep him away from his new kittens. I was wondering why Mookie sometimes returns home wet.

Zito on the other hand, who has maintained his girlish figure all these years and keeps away from potential confrontations at all times, looks and acts like a youngish cat. He has taken to riding around on Chris' shoulders whenever the opportunity presents itself. I've never met a cat more enamoured with a person. Zito sits near or on Chris as he works on his computer and stares at him with the most longing look you ever did see on a cat face. Perhaps they were lovers in a past life.

Both cats long to sleep on our bed and I have a hard time denying them the luxury. Cy likes nothing more than to find Mookie or Zito in a state of repose, so that he can establish a firm grasp for transport or give them a vigorous round of kisses. Mookie and Zito like nothing less. They often seek the peace and seclusion of Ella's bunk, where they are generally left alone or receive the gentlest pets from their mistress.

lovable crank #1
lovable crank #2

Sports

2010-09-24T14:33:00.000-07:00

We've officially made the switch from gymnastics to pursuits more fitting a leggy competitor like Ella. She smiled through basketball camp last spring, reveling in her 'only girl' status and now she has embraced volleyball, despite their losing streak. With Big CJ assisting the coach and little CJ retrieving balls, it has become a family affair.

Activities involving a ball and a tangible score are so much more engaging for me than the performance variety, and truthfully I'm not the sort of mother that can sustain extracurricular activities that don't provide enjoyment for the family players too. Like every loving parent, I hope that my children find something that steals their hearts and brings them joy and success and a feeling of purpose -- and if all goes well it will be something that I like too.

joneses take to the gym

Blanco es bueno

2010-09-06T14:56:00.000-07:00

Similar to the way Californians have ties to ski lodges and beach houses, most Texans have a ranch somewhere in the friends and family tree. An untold number are dedicated to hunting, but not this gorgeous stretch of ranch land on the Blanco River. This parcel is for peace and pleasure. The stair-stepped limestone ledges and shelves made for the perfect ascent into the warm, clear water. For shade we had Juniper, Oak, Mesquite, Cedar, Bald Cypress, Oak and Elm trees to thank. There were NO mosquitoes. I repeat NO mosquitoes -- and an actual breeze. I haven't felt a breeze since last May, so just sitting outside without sweating or swatting was a joy. Thanks P for sharing this little slice of heaven.

look a perch
hundreds of tiny frog friends

mesquite on the grill
+ breeze - bugs = : )

My new gig!!!

2010-08-20T22:07:00.001-07:00

Teachers flock to the coveted Central Austin schools for jobs, so I feel blessed to be working at Gullett Elementary this fall with the beloved veteran teacher (Mrs B). She'll be retiring in December and I will take charge of our spirited kindergarten class.

Mrs B made the video below to welcome our ducklings to school. She was the first to discover Gully, the school cat, and incorporate him into the culture. I am sure Mookie minds sharing the spotlight. It is also posted on our class blog.

This post would not be complete without a shout out to all those that supported me through this career change. Namely....

CJ, my partner in most everything -- without whom this endeavour would have never been possible.

Grandaddy Ridley, who as legend has it, taught in a one-room schoolhouse at the age of 14 and instilled the importance of sharing knowledge and inspiration.

My Mom, for so much and this too.

My Dad, who always encouraged altruism for me and my career.

Marie, Roberta, Larry and Lisa, who said "why not" at just the right time and then treated me to something special to take the edge off.

Kim N., for leading the way and for reminding me to "put my big girl panties on" when things get rough.

Alyson, who made it look fun way back when.

gully the school cat w/ mrs b providing the voice over

West Texas

2010-08-15T10:25:00.000-07:00

I didn't expect the soul soothing experience that goes along with traveling to remote and majestic locales on our humble family vacation to West Texas but that is exactly what happened. It was the snorkeling with catfish and turtles in cool spring water at Balmorhea, lunching in Marfa with sophisticates, hiking to sublime vistas and driving through ancient land formations in Big Bend, mud bathing in the Rio Grande, gazing at clouds by day and stars by night, drinking G&T's in a cave tavern in Terlingua, sighting javelinas, jack rabbits, deer, road runners, blue-winged crickets, swallows, bats, tiny toads, lizards and muskrats, playing with my kids, hubby and Bartlett crew, and being off the communications grid that did it.

mud baths, rio grande
un par de tortolitos
mountain guinea pig game
vista
in bloom
floaters & goggle pop, balmorhea
ella, high dive
cy, low dive
pop, real dive
vacation mama
the ballroom, marfa
5 miles from mexico
Not a bad way to close out the summer. Sigh...

Camp Life Adieu

2010-08-05T18:19:00.000-07:00

The final day of Camp 1609 has come. One sweet camper innocently said to me the other day, "Ms Lynne, you look stronger." I think he is right. I am also a little weary and weepy but mostly content. I wanted to put down a few thoughts about the experience so that I remember how fun it was when it comes time to plan next summer.

On recipe Thursdays we started with a final discussion about food fixings, followed by a trip to Whole Foods for supplies. The "free" snacks and samples take the bite out of the price tag. I feel we owe a small admission for ogling the produce, fish, meat, chocolate fountain and cake display as well.

"free" snacks

samples

ogling

I was very proud of my campers street smarts. They filed in and out of the van with ease (mostly), fed parking meters, rode elevators, waited for traffic lights to turn, kept track of their partners in crowded city pools, museums, grocery stores, bathrooms, libraries, bowling alleys, restaurants, etc.

meter line

I was always moved by the campers response to beauty. They recognize the extraordinary and fantastic -- like when they got their first glimpses of the pennies at the Blanton Museum, and the blue and green water at Barton Springs, and the wide staircase at The Texas State Capital, and the beetle and gem displays at the Texas Memorial Museum.

texas state capital steps

on the capital grounds, crew with cannon

Most days we got wet. Our top hot (or rather cool) spots were Deep Eddy for the rejuvenating spring water and jims jims (Italian Ice), Northwest pool for the diving board, Ramsey pool for the privacy, pristine water and thrilling pre 1990 playground equipment, and finally, West Enfield pool, where we were likely to meet up with our buddies from the hood.

west enfield

that summer feeling

Snow Cone & Lemonade Sale

2010-08-01T12:19:00.000-07:00

For the past few years our community in Austin has participated in Lemonade Day. This program is sponsored by an organization that aims to introduce kids to entrepreneurship. I'd say it has been a success because when Ella proposed the idea of a "sale" to buy a camp pet the campers had a pretty good idea about how a "sale" worked and diligently planned, marketed and enthusiastically set up and served their customers with little prompting and/or guidance.

In Ella's world more is always more and so selling just lemonade was far too simple -- very much like the Lemonade and Chrystal Sale of 2009. The snow cones really did set the sale apart from your average run-of-the-mill lemonade stand. The campers were super proud of themselves and spent their money on supplies for the donated (thanks Jackson) beta fish.

advertising

little'er ones poor

bigger ones make the snow...

...and handle the coin
camp pet naming deliberations

lucy & rover

Pennies & Bones

2010-07-21T06:13:00.000-07:00

Camp1609 enjoyed the Cildo Meireles' How to Build Cathedrals installation which has been seen at the Tate Modern in London and other museums. With 2,000 beef bones hanging from the ceiling and a carpet of 600,000 shiny pennies, a pillar of 800 communion wafers stretches through the center symbolically joining the heaven and the earth. The best part, the campers could reach in and touch the copper.

blanton museum of art

Gas

2010-07-20T06:42:00.000-07:00

Grandma R, retired math and science teacher, used a yeast-air balloon experiment to help the campers understand how carbon dioxide is produced.

grandma, camper, expanding balloons

Sun Art

2010-07-17T07:38:00.000-07:00

This is a fun project for crafty campers.

armadillo love

July

2010-07-08T15:24:00.000-07:00

First full length Tejas summer in progress here. So far so good.

banner
oobleck
cobbler bottom
piggyback
Wii war

White Bread

2010-07-05T12:42:00.000-07:00

The Camp 1609 cooks have made icebox pickles, peach & raspberry cobbler, chicken noodle soup and white bread. The bread project was hands down the most popular. This Joy of Cooking recipe below is a winner.

kneed
little loaf

Quick Rising White Bread

Combine in a large mixing bowl or in the bowl of a heavy-duty mixer ( I didn't use a mixer, just my hands) and let stand until the yeast is dissolved (give it a little stir), about 5 minutes.
1 package active dry yeast
1/4 cup warm (105-110 degrees) water

Add:
3 cups bread flour
2 cups warm water
1 tablespoon melted butter
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon salt

Mix by hand or on low speed for 1 minute. Gradually add 1/2 cup at a time until the dough is moist but not sticky. Knead for about 10 minutes by hand ( I did 5) or with the dough hook on low to medium speed until the dough is smooth and elastic. Transfer the dough to an oiled bowl and turn it over once to coat and then cover and let rise until doubled. Usually an hour.
Punch down dough on a floured surface and either divide into two loaves, or hand push it out and cut out circle shapes for rolls. Cover and let rise again for another hour until doubled.
Preheat oven to 350 and cook for about 20 minutes or so. Just until lightly brown on top.

Enjoy!

Donuts & Lucky Charms

2010-07-02T09:46:00.000-07:00

and so much more awaited the rabbits at their grand P's house.

sparkly new friends & boats

a dog, a dock and a ball
engines, some fast some functional

Friends Flags

2010-06-27T07:17:00.000-07:00

Camp 1609 worked on these 'friends' flags last week. I love watching them flutter on my front porch. This project was inspired by the creative forces over at Future Craft Collective.

Camp 1609 rules!!!

2010-06-24T14:23:00.000-07:00

If I do say so myself.

"i went to a chinese restaurant to buy a loaf of bread, bread, bread...."
giddy a lot

My dad

2010-06-20T08:32:00.000-07:00

My dad taught me how to drive a car, bait a hook, pack for a trip, savor food, swim in the ocean, walk for miles and miles, seek good company, read for pleasure, embrace my age at every age, sleep in airports or cars or on cramped, lumpy beds without complaint, be sweet but not too sweet, enjoy a party and know when to leave one, never cry for help unless you mean it, laugh at jokes, treat animals and folks that need a hand and to cherish everyday in some way.

dad at sea, circa 1980

If art reflects life....

2010-06-05T07:29:00.000-07:00

....I'd be lounging poolside.
Ella would be at a disco with pet sitting services.
Cyrus would be screaming around in a fast car.
And CJ would be touring with the band.

Still here

2010-05-16T19:04:00.000-07:00

This is the longest I've lived in one place since I left Orange County for Chico in 1989. The gypsy in me pines for change but another part is beginning to mentally unpack and appreciate the stability and the subtle rhythms that come with it. The habit of maintaining this blog also helps me observe the simple details of this uncomplicated chapter of our lives.

Maybe this realization has to do with...

...harvesting caterpillars from the community garden...
...or harvesting limestone rocks for the front yard...

or finding the final resting place for our dear sotol...
or the small plantings looking less small.
...or replacing scheduled play dates with neighborhood free-for-alls.

Spring Themes

2010-05-11T13:25:00.000-07:00

Fiddles. Wildflowers. Sea beans and monk fish. Digging in the yard. Cocktails on the porch. Friday night soccer. My lovely mom. Being a mom. Dates! Dreaming of New Orleans and Buenos Aires and Uruguay and San Onofre Beach. Fennel munching caterpillars. Kindergartners. Cake. Construction paper. Spa Django. Goya tapestries. Roasted Quail. Little boy sings songs. Flank steak with kimchi. Sparkly ring and owl box. Rediscovering paint. Summer camp coming. Thyme. The Donkeys. Glitter. Skateboards. Dallas. Mosquitoes. Sore Muscles. Board games. Clean sheets.

trail walk with grandma liz
favorite femmes
chillin'
bug castle
acrylic

Fairy Dust

2010-05-02T14:19:00.000-07:00

My fairy friend flew into town this weekend and sprinkled her magic on all the things that matter most. This is her way -- she impacts big things like developing drugs to end malaria and non-profit pharmaceuticals that will bring medical solutions to women and children -- and smaller things like helping people find focus and direction their lives. It is difficult to articulate how much I love and miss her. Fortunately she has a transcendent laugh and a Buddha smile that stays with me long after she's flown away.

Thank you M for your generosity, wisdom and easy like Sunday morning companionship.

m and her enchanted cabana

Lucky Number 8

2010-04-26T11:01:00.000-07:00

I dare say that we look more alike now than in the early years -- and more in love too.

us

Rockport ...

2010-04-19T09:11:00.000-07:00

... is said to be "a quaint little drinking town with a fishing problem." Thanks to my new and dear friend K and her gaggle of gals I had the opportunity to enjoy this sliver of Texas coast. We stayed on K's family compound on the Lamar Peninsula just around the bend from Rockport. The locals, affectionately know as Lamartians, generously shared their daily catch. The wild flowers, ancient windswept live oaks and blue herons were abundant, as were the games of pool, cold beer and bloody marys. I even saw an alligator swimming near the dock. The best part, as always, was the conversation and companionship.

shrimp boil
long dock

Kitchen Cut

2010-04-13T08:45:00.000-07:00

When Cy was a little nugget, friendly folks around town would ask "what is your name?" He would reply "I'm a guy." Personally I love the long, shaggy look for little Austin dudes but my aesthetic has been overruled.

New Bamboo

2010-04-09T13:28:00.000-07:00

After multiple cold fronts this winter we were afraid they were goners.

measuring sprouts

Style File

2010-03-26T10:27:00.000-07:00

My girl lobbied unrelentingly for over a year for highlights and pierced ears. It has been hard for me to embrace these choices but I can't deny her chutzpah so over spring break she got her wish.

SXSW 2010

blond streak

flower power
form and fashion

Lil Bro wanted to get in on the action so he started wearing his "handsome" clothes which consist of a blazer and clip-on tie whenever possible.

male model

Barbie Baubles

2010-03-19T09:16:00.000-07:00

Looks like Ella Rae got the jewelry making gene.

notice the necklace

The Country

2010-03-17T12:34:00.000-07:00

Exploring Rocky Hill Ranch was a real treat for us city slickers this past weekend. Collecting rock crystals, talking to cows, the golf-cart-athon, geocaching, UNO, train play and the perfect quiet was a welcome reprieve from the hubbub of Austin during SXSW. Thanks for the memories K and family.

the motherload

The Field

2010-02-19T06:40:00.000-08:00

F ree-range kids in the hood expand their territory.

room to roam
natural resources
teeter
totter
field fort
green roof

CAMP 1609

2010-02-08T21:53:00.000-08:00

Greetings! Summer is my favorite season and I'm excited about this opportunity to share my enthusiasm with a few special friends. As a working parent I always fretted about choosing the right camp/childcare for my kids. After completing my teaching credential I decided to create the summer experience I always wanted for my children. We are calling this adventure Camp 1609, a home-based program guaranteed to make summer 2010 one to remember.

My two children and I look forward to an engaging summer spent with three camp friends. Maintaining a low camper:counselor ratio (5 to 1) provides the opportunity for increased interaction to meet the needs particular to each child. It will also allow us to experience hands-on, meaningful projects and explore an array of activities in Austin.

Camp programming is based on my experience and interests as an educator and parent. Our time together will be focused around physical exercise, language arts (reading, writing, speaking, listening and visual literacy), field trips, nutrition, arts and crafts, and old-fashioned free playtime. Activities will be adapted to fit the developmental stages and interests of each camper.

We will begin our days at West Enfield Neighborhood pool. All campers are encouraged to join the swim team which practices Monday – Friday 8:00 am to 10 am from June 7 through July 16th. As summer approaches I will post details about our planned activities and field trips. Here are a few resources that I'll be using to develop our summer fun schedule.

About town:
Neighborhood Swim Team Program
Parks and Playgrounds
Swimming Pools
Alamo Drafthouse Cinema
Austin Children's Museum
Austin Nature & Science Center
Texas Memorial Museum
Boggy Creek Farm
Highland Lanes
Austin Public Library
Blanton Museum of Art

Projects and Inspiration:
Building Miniature Structures
Sculpting and more sculpting
Hope wish prayer flags
Cooking and reading recipes
Talking about eating good food
Baking bread and more bread
Terrariums
Reading
Quality Screen Time
Pretend play
Gardening

Dates & Times:
Weekdays from June 3rd through August 20th
7:30 am – 5:30 pm (extended evening hours available upon request)

Ages: 5 and above

Base camp: 1609 West 9th Street – conveniently located near MoPac Expressway

Contact:
Lynne White
camp1609@gmail.com
510-468-0271

Important Dates:
March 26th – Final day to turn in Camp 1609 applications
March 30 – Notification to Camp 1609 applicants
April 1 -- Neighborhood Swim Team (West Enfield Water Moccasins) registration
June 2nd – Last day of school -- AISD
June 3rd – First day of Camp 1609
June 7th – Swim team practice begins
July 16th – Last day of swim team practice
August 20th – Last day of Camp 1609
August 23rd – First Day of School – AISD

Applications:

Applications will be reviewed to best match age, gender and interest for an optimal camp dynamic. Priority will be given to families seeking a full-time / full summer program. Please apply by calling or sending a note with the following information for each child:

Name
Age/Grade
Gender
Interests
Swimming level
Special Needs
Parent Guardian names and contact information
Preference for dates and times of attendance

Fees:

$180 per week for each camper
$15 per week for supplies, field trips and wholesome snacks
$70 (optional $10 t-shirt) Swim Team, one payment to The City of Austin on April 1st

*campers will need to bring a packed lunch and water bottle daily.

Little Miss

2010-01-28T08:13:00.000-08:00

Circa 2002
photo credit stick gardner

Science Fair 2010

2010-01-22T07:49:00.000-08:00

2nd place...
... for ms ella rae's gem stones and crystals project
blue ribbon pal citlalli covets crystals too
alex, ella and cy's most constant partner in crime also places
my personal favorite

Laguna Beach

2010-01-19T10:36:00.000-08:00

jo & lynne together again

jo, mary, keely and a perfect sunset

Horse Charm

2010-01-12T12:43:00.000-08:00

I found this charm in my jewelery making stash and tied it on a hemp cord for my budding equestrian.

Clan Update

2010-01-05T14:28:00.001-08:00

Sure did miss my Sis, J and handsome nephews this holiday. Poor dears went gallivanting around South America.

adam impersonating galapagos iguana
Speaking of unfortunates, the Grand P Joneses are heading for the Bahamas on their catamaran with Tango the Bengal. Check out Travels with Tango blogspot for details.

tango the boat cat

winter break part deux

2010-01-02T19:41:00.000-08:00

With all my lurking around trying to get candid pictures of Buggets, Cy Cy and gang I've ended up with a hodgepodge of shots. I think the picture collage approach captures the essence of these lovely vacation days tho.

horse camp
biker gang
mookie and our temporary dog mozart
new years eve
new clubhouse fun and indoor projects

Days of Christmas

2009-12-29T18:41:00.000-08:00

Documentation was lean on account of the belly bug Cyrus brought home for the holidays. Safe to say there was an abundance of...

family
and critters
books and music
toys
friends AND a fancy new fort
and fine wine and food

...to make our Christmas bright.

Immigration Celebration

2009-12-17T08:44:00.000-08:00

Ella Rae and her fellow 2nd graders interviewed immigrants, made posters and prepared speeches to present to their parents, peers and educators. Undoubtedly I was more nervous than Ella Rae when she took the stage. To my great joy she smiled wide, spoke clearly and seemed to genuinely enjoy the experience.

A big thank you to our delightful friend and interviewee Dorte, who helped ease the inherent challenges of multi-step projects and public speaking.

poster

Cyrus Lee Jones turns 4

2009-12-11T06:04:00.000-08:00

birthday suit other birthday suit and balloons
signage
friends & food
sparklers

Blue Santa Parade

2009-11-28T11:59:00.000-08:00

I have such vivid memories of my Girl Scout troupe strutting in procession through the streets of downtown San Juan Capistrano for the Swallows Day Parade, circa 1977. Flash to 2009, I find myself on the other side of the rope cheering on our girl and her gymnastics team.

snazzy no?
ella rae fan club president and co-chair
more images of blue santa 2009

On my way

2009-11-25T06:53:00.000-08:00

Saying so long to my kinder class was bittersweet. My student teaching assignment is complete YIPPEEE!!! but I have grown so attached to my eighteen little learners. I can hardly wait to have a class of my own.

keepsake

Hambone Halloween

2009-11-01T10:17:00.000-08:00

That holiday season tingle struck early this year. By "tingle" I mean that special moment when you feel a volt of gratefulness for the life that you have mixed with excited anticipation for the life to come. The pomp and circumstance of the holiday season usually elicits this feeling sometime after I finish wrapping the presents and position them under the tree. Some years it requires a dose of Bing Crosby's immortalized "White Christmas" or the like to draw it out. Not so this time around. While I was lighting candles arranged around miniature pumpkins for a surprise dinner with Uncle Craig I got the tell-tale shiver. I think this bodes well for the year to come.

bat, wolf, witch
bat, ham
flaming pumpkin

More GivingCity

2009-10-28T16:06:00.000-07:00

When Mr Mooks isn't weaving scintillating marketing and PR yarns he rustles up articles like this one for GivingCity, about the Lance Armstrong Foundation (LAF) and its new cancer patient navigation center.

Mr Mooks and Doug Ulman, president LAF

Prep Team!!!

2009-10-24T09:13:00.000-07:00

Our little hot shot has progressed to the next level. She was proud as punch after her performance last night. We celebrated at our local pizza joint with a pie and a gazillion games of Frogger and Pacman.

Empty Bowl Project

2009-10-19T19:30:00.000-07:00

I can't think of a better way to spend a Saturday morning than making art with friends and family. Cheers to Mathews Art and Philanthropy patrons for bringing projects like this to life in our community. These lovely bowls will be auctioned off (and filled with yummy soup) to raise money for the Capital Area Food Bank's Kids Cafe Program.

photo credit: elizabeth breston

Camping

2009-10-18T15:38:00.000-07:00

The Papas took the pigeons for a romp on the Guadalupe River this weekend. They came home tired, dirty, fire ant bitten, smelling of smoke and talking a mile a minute about their adventures in the wild.

bonfire
bonding
fishing

A little bit of this and of that

2009-10-06T16:28:00.000-07:00

The unstructured moments spent close to home are often the sweetest.

bugs sewing doll clothes
fetch with new pal chubaka
fresh air before supper

Fall and Friday Night Lights

2009-09-26T09:23:00.000-07:00

Finally a break in the heat. We sat on the porch wrapped in blankets to watch the rain. Ella wore her new hat courtesy of our sweet friend and beloved early years nanny. She brought us some delightful and unique gifts from her stint in Korea. Thank you C!

What would fall be (especially in Tejas) without football? True to the spirit of Austin the high school bands were in fine form. The back and fourth between the horn sections almost upstaged the game. Mr Mooks snapped a picture from the stadium of the gorgeous fall sky at sundown and the tower that marks our little patch of turf on earth.

Pickem UP games

2009-09-22T16:17:00.000-07:00

Neighborhood soccer and such....
before the big kids come along
stretch jones
flirting
high

New sheriff in town

2009-09-18T06:54:00.000-07:00

The ragamuffin quotient may have gone up a notch but the ducklings are thriving under the new regime. Exciting and long sought-after opportunities have taken me away from the nest more often, leaving daddy duck to rule the roost.

Rainy Day and Sculpey
Jedi vs Hulk
Rocket Launch

Roller Girl

2009-09-08T18:48:00.000-07:00

If only she could sleep in them.

Sister's Stuff

2009-08-30T14:19:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday night Cy snuck his toy saber and silly putty into my bag before we set out to see Ella Rae's BFF perform Ballet Folklorico at Zilker Park. Despite my best efforts little bits of grassy putty ended up in hair and the saber nearly blinded our unsuspecting neighbor, who also got a few fingers stomped when Cyrus joined in on the Dance of the Matchetes finale.

On Sunday Cy broke into Ella's Bendaroos stash. Bendaroos are second only to Floam on Ella's hierarchy of creative play options. In a not-so-distant past this behavior would have ended in fisticuffs but to my surprise Big Sis decided to make a Bendaroo mask for her Little Bro. And then she painted his toenails.

BOOdaroo
Blue little piggies

Changes

2009-08-30T13:31:00.000-07:00

After the summer hiatus we've had such fun reconnecting with our school time buddies. My how everyone has grown. This theme continued as we observed the larvae/caterpillar/butterfly life cycle with the help of the Butterfly Garden Kit. When Ella learned that the Painted Ladies live for only two weeks after emerging from their chrysalises she was anxious to set them free.

School Shoes

2009-08-25T15:53:00.000-07:00

2nd grader feet here. It gets only the teentsiest bit easier saying goodbye at the start of every school year.

Ellascapes

2009-08-19T14:38:00.000-07:00

Ella's been whipping up hand-drawn thank you notes inspired by the recipient's environment and adorned with her signature sparkly gem in the right hand corner.

Pools & Boats

2009-08-13T09:04:00.000-07:00

A few more summer pics to post before attention turns back to school.

not a care in the world
front flip
desert cacti, dog, ball, goggles, superman towel
on the river
sailing camp -- ready to rig
speed boat scamp on scamp

What would the world be without grandmas?

2009-08-09T08:24:00.000-07:00

After decades of practice these angels on earth have honed the art of love and care. Thank you Grandma's for the countless kindnesses and generosity! WE LOVE YOU!!!

Grandma LizGrandma Roberta

Diverted and Delayed

2009-08-05T12:25:00.000-07:00

While Mr Mooks drove the minivan back to Tejas from California, the chickens and I flew to North Carolina for the loafing, eating and sailing leg of our summer sojourn. Due to a major storm over Atlanta we endured a marathon adventure before the pleasure began.

Ella Rae took to commenting on flight updates with dramatic flair, "Mama! He just said that we are going to run out of fuel?" or "Why are we landing on a runway WITHOUT a terminal?" while Cyrus was busy creating a road block in the isle with his arm. He also gave passengers standing in line for the bathroom the evil eye, sometimes pointing and scrunching his nose for emphasis.

Once we landed tho, the chicks did me proud by running with their rolly totes and stuffed animals, holding steady on the jam-packed train and escalators to our connecting flight gate. I can't believe we made it -- seeing all those bodies lined up at customer service or resigned to the hard, dirty floor made my heart sink. We were all elated as we plopped into our seats, buckled up and broke out the last few, coveted tic tacs for take off.

Go Fish

2009-08-02T20:49:00.001-07:00

Dog Days of Summer

2009-08-01T12:23:00.001-07:00

If only they could talk....

"I love you, I love you, I love you... sshhh.. stop yelling my name.. and dragging me around by the collar... and teasing me with your chips and cookies... and putting that dumb hat on my head... and yelling my name... and chasing me and pulling my tail and ears... and hiding my toys and hiding your toys and... I love you, I love you..." Sophie Jones, Oriental, North Carolina
"Okay buddy, one more tow around the pool and then I need to get back to guarding my ball."
Boo Ridley, Tuscon, Arizona
"You must all stay together now! Wa..it...WAIT... not that way, all in a big pack together! Get back to the heard YOU.... Come back HERE... no... no... not like that... together in a nice, neat pack... NO, NO... together..." Coco Hartley, Pleasanton, California
"Time to put down the margarita and rub my belly!"
Pablo Papa, San Diego, California

Summer of Love

2009-07-30T14:09:00.000-07:00

We are home! After 38 days on the road I am happy to report that the children have all of their digits and Mr Mooks and I are still married. More to come...

West Enfield Water Moccasins

2009-06-11T11:47:00.000-07:00

have their first swim meet Saturday morning! Teeth chatter, lips turn blue and they make huge strides in ability and confidence every day!

Smiling with anticipation
Cold but still smiling
Spring water pump'in
Kick boards
Starts
Non Moccasin activities featuring earache art

Schools out for Summer!

2009-06-07T09:27:00.000-07:00

My Grandaddy's wake and funeral in Georgia renewed my faith in the goodness and generosity of people. Like the preacher said, LBJ looked forward to returning to his Texas Hill Country ranch after living in the White House because, "in the country, people ask how you've been doing when you are sick and cry when you die." The folks that loved my Grandaddy were many and they all came to pay their gracious respects.

Sweet summer is in full swing in my own Hill Country home....

Cruising town
Leveling for the pool
Pool pony
Sandcastle cake

Ella illustrates early in the morning
... and spies a baby rat snake outside her bedroom window
Daddy day at the nature center

R.I.P. Grandaddy

2009-05-31T12:17:00.000-07:00

My Grandaddy died at age 96 yesterday. He had a girlfriend, a house with a hot tub and a fast car. He loved nice cars and driving fast. Too fast. I've been thinking about the day he showed me how to widdle a dogwood tree branch into a tooth brush and how he looked like a little boy when he tipped his head back for a nap. And how sometimes his temper got the best of him -- especially on the golf course. And his voice and his stories and his colloquialisms. And cold cucumbers, sweet tea and fried chicken at his Sunday table. His humor and his intelligence and his bottomless optimism and how tight he would hug me to himself to say hello or goodbye or I love you.

The Center
With all us Grandchildren

Not a dry eye

2009-05-27T06:26:00.000-07:00

If you know me even a little then there's a good chance you've seen me cry. I've embraced my tendency toward tears and have found many worthy weeping opportunities of late.

For one, The International Festival at Ella Rae's school in all its idyllic glory, where 32 countries are represented in the student body.

Flag ceremony
Pretty in pink
Beloved teacher and best friends
Ballet Folklórico
Attentive brothers
More tears shed during The Grapes of Wrath at Zach Theatre. Janelle Buchanon, A+ classroom parent and "the heart of this production" set a new bar for strong female characters with her portrayal of Ma Joad. I've never read Steinbeck's novel but the majority of the dialogue was taken directly from the text. The language is folksy and full of force. Nothing like a dust bowl saga to put the current economic climate in perspective.

My hero Ma Joad and brood
Last but not least Wilco's live recording of California Stars took me for a teary-eyed ride. The lyrics written by American folk legend Woody Guthrie and music composed by Wilco and Billy Bragg wash over you like a warm wave. Just a few days after this goodness gush I heard news of the untimely death of Jay Bennett, musical genius and former member of Wilco. Our friend Don, who shared musical collaboration and a roof with Jay eloquently wrote about his life for the press and on his blog Greedy Love. Certainly I'm not the first or the last to feel deep emotion while listening to this song, or the many others that Jay Bennett helped coax out and set free during his time on earth.

Jay and Woody

Memorial Day

2009-05-25T14:12:00.000-07:00

Thank you Dad and the many like you that have faithfully served our Country.

Fred S. White -- Vietnam
purple heart and sandbags

The Dirt

2009-05-22T14:16:00.001-07:00

This special mix of compost, granite and soil is destined for the backyard berm. Mr Mooks big and little are smitten. Big Mr Mooks wistfully uttered "isn't it pretty." As for Mr Mooks little....

gemme 10!
joy + drool = mud kings of the hill

Happy Mama

2009-05-10T17:57:00.000-07:00

Mamarama weekend included....

*Ella Rae's gymnastics performance and award ceremony! You rock Hotshot!!!
*Construction site play and pilfer. We couldn't resist a few souvenirs (rebar, pipe, rock).
*Late night dinner prepared with great skill and love by Mr Paparama (farm raised lamb chops, roman artichokes and oliver hill shiraz).
*Sleep in and killer breaky.
*Hamilton Pool hike, swim and multiple water moccasin sightings.
*Good tunes and interior mexican food at Polvos.

Lemonade and Crystal Sale

2009-05-03T18:24:00.000-07:00

and other images. Ella Rae and her pal Citlalli each banked $14 and change. Next entrepreneurial endeavor Pizza and Biscuits.

advertising
setting up shop
hearts
more digging

Sleepers

2009-04-26T18:31:00.000-07:00

I feel so "home on the range" when I look at my chickens asleep in the same bed. The upper bunk is cushy and warm but for these precious, numbered nights, big sis demonstrates that the bed is too big without little brother.

...(whistling ensues) where seldom is heard a discouraging word and the skies are not cloudy all day....

Smash

2009-04-26T08:46:00.000-07:00

The original owner of our house built a concrete ping pong table specially equipped to accommodate his disability. He was crippled due to injuries acquired in World War II. The subsequent owner (a contemporary of R Crumb) used the concrete table for art projects. Our gang has enjoyed the slab too for messy creative play and picnics but the time has come to make way for native grass and a hugantic blow up pool.

hunky hubby sludgehammer time
rubble

Creepy Crawlers

2009-04-26T08:18:00.000-07:00

Ella's first grade class just completed their study of the Tribolium Beetle life cycle. Ella brought home her specimens which include a live beetle and larvae in a plastic cup. This project has inspired a fascination with little critters dead and alive.

Lizard Carcass
Carcass with Skink Tail

Palaestra for Preschoolers

2009-04-15T18:35:00.000-07:00

Cy proudly gave buddy Austin a tour of his Preschool.

Balance Beam
The Pit
Trampoline
Trampoline hair
Swimming pool

"Mama, are you the Easter Bunny?"

2009-04-13T17:34:00.000-07:00

A fair question considering the tooth fairy failed to provide a "picture or self portrait" along with cash money under Ella's pillow as requested. I explained that she was free to believe whatever she wanted but that the Jones family party line is strictly RABbiT -- especially where little brothers are concerned. Obviously the urge to believe in mythical characters is powerful and so our girl decided to suspend disbelief for another year.

Colored eggs and hair
Khaki and Clancy's Annual Easter Egg Hunt and Brunch epitomizes Austin hospitality.

The Hunt

Cascarones aka confetti egg response

Plate of Bacon

Pineapple Pinata of course
off season santa

Farewell Marvelous March Madness

2009-04-01T08:59:00.000-07:00

March gets a gold star for being the best month of the year in my book. A few reasons why this March is no exception....

Standing NUMBERO UNO: Cy was conceived in March! During the Fighting Illini's Final Four tournament no less.
2. South by Southwest! I found that the joy diet of good music permeates every interaction you have all over town. Good times include The Mother Hips (of course), nothing like seeing the college band you fell madly, deeply in love with still playing music after all these years. AND The Hold Steady, think a youngish Woody Allen does post punk encouraged by a very enthusiastic fan base. Mr Mooks was my charming date. I always feel like he's my boyfriend again when we see live gigs together. He grieved his press pass of yesteryear but managed to enjoy himself with the peons this time around. Picture from the East side day party experience...
3. Houston Road Trip with the Perez's: We adore spending time with C and C. They generously showed us around their old stomping grounds. Good times include talking uninterrupted, the Afghanistan: Hidden Treasures from the National Museum, Kabul exhibit at the Museum of Fine Arts, a drive by the prep school where Rushmore (one of my all time fav films) was shot, roman artichokes at Da Marco (a dish I hope to master) and Soul Food at The Breakfast Klub.
4. Domestic Bliss: To ease sibling rivalry we've created a little top bunk oasis for Ella. Mookie and Zito are welcome playmates. As for Cyrus, he is technically not even allowed on the ladder.

Enchanted Rock

2009-03-18T08:46:00.000-07:00

... a huge, pink granite dome brought out the Indian spirit in our tribe. Cyrus used his "claws" to climb up about 45 of the 450 foot incline and insisted on "hold you" for the additional 405 feet. Ella, our pony girl effortlessly scrambled up the rock and huffed at my calls to "wait for us!" At the top we enjoyed the Central Texas Hill Country view and waded in the shallow pools until Cy's rock and water play threatened our good mood. On the way home I resisted the urge to stop in Fredericksburg for a pint at one of the many enticing biergartens. The sunburn and sore muscles feel good this morning. I'm so grateful for this precious time with the youngins.

Breakfast for Dinner

2009-03-15T07:17:00.000-07:00

Over french toast last night Ella filled me in on a secret.

"The secret to being strong and fast is lots of cartwheels, handstands and vegetables and only sometimes eat treats to wind you up."

as evidenced
In other news...

Mr Mooks is carousing SXSW with our good buddy and Wirednews reporter M.Calore. See some of the action including: G-Strings, Frostings Make Perfect Pair at Burlesque Cupcake Cookoff.

nude biker
zito up a tree

Goings On

2009-03-07T21:33:00.000-08:00

Fabulous Farmhouse Delivery party complete with delectable gumbo, artisanal brew, animals, music and friends old and new! I may have to defect from Johnson's Backyard garden to Farmhouse Delivery for the local good stuff.

One view
Nice Chicken
Here comes that kid in the orange jersey again
The Beds
In other news we are still working on house projects with the Grand P's and enjoying longer days with friends.

Manicure
Father and Son

Keeping up with the Grand Joneses Part 1

2009-03-02T19:54:00.000-08:00

Grandpa and Grandma are visiting. With them they brought handmade wooden planes a la Larry and Summer 08 memory books a la Roberta for Ella and Cyrus. They also brought their unbelievable know-how, phenomenal energy and mid western way of making it all seem unremarkable.

Planning
Supplies
Cold front and insulation
News of Hardware Store replacing Shopping Mall
Grandma facilitates messy projects
...and desserts
Somomores please
Yea Bamboo in the ground

Good Times

2009-02-21T19:40:00.000-08:00

For my Birthday this year my dearest, sweetest most generous friend Mary came to Austin for a visit. Over the last twenty some odd years Mary and I have shared sun kissed days in SoCal, cool urban nights in NoCal, collegiate romps in Chico, awe inspiring sojourns to Europe and countless soul bearing conversations and belly laughs. We were traveling very light and did not take a single picture this visit but here are some shots from previous adventures followed by a summary of our brief but delightful Austin experience.

Fountain and Italians Austrian Horses and Wind
Sweaters and Hats Golden Gate Park
We Started with a nosh at Mullberry followed by a show at Lambert's where we caught the tail end of Gary Clark Jr's (one of the most accomplished young guitarists in the country and star of John Sayles movie Honeydripper) charming set and the beginning of the too loud Latin funk band Brownout (subset of Grupo Fantasma who recently backed the artist formerly known as Prince).

The next day before we looped the trail around Lady Bird Lake we witnessed a shaggy handcuffed dude running at full speed down an embankment and through the creek shouting "Viva Revolution... I love my Dog." While the cop took off his shoe's to cross the creek the dripping wet escapee passed us and kindly said, "Howdy. This probably doesn't look too good."

Our afternoon delights included lunch at Cafe Luz's for macrobiotic eats under the shade of a big Oak tree and a spa manicure at Polish. We then checked in at our downtown hotel where we primped for the night. Parkside Restaurant's rooftop patio provided the perfect vantage point to view 6th Street's Mardi Gras preparations. The food was delicious as always but the waiter was too eager to join our private girl party. Our jaunty walk across town to La Zona Rosa gave us a few more precious minutes to chat and gear up for the Lucinda Williams show. Awwhhhh.... Lucinda, whose backing band opened with instrumental covers including Erotic City by Prince and Led Zeppelin's What Can I Do, which was a delightful tease. Lucinda's set was peppered with songs and anecdotes related to her experiences in Austin. At fifty-five Lucinda has earned her rock star stripes and put on a hell of a show. Mary and I sang and danced and hooted are heads off.

After a long sleep in a dark hotel room we headed to East Austin to catch up with Mary's friend from her elementary school days in Dallas. We were treated to a tour of her urban farm where we met a hipster chicken farmer that was due to give a "chicken processing" demonstration to some richie, foodie, greenie folk with the chef from Dai Due supper club. I am delighted to know this gang of gardeners and look forward to spending my Thursday evenings at the farm. Starting in April they'll be hosting a farmers market with music and cocktails by the Tipsy Texan 's.

After Taco's at Pan y Vino (YUM) I bid Mary farewell at the airport and drove away, humming last nights tunes and thinking how unbelievably thankful I am for our friendship. Even tho I'm turning 38 with Mary I feel like I'm 17.

Sickies

2009-02-17T15:23:00.000-08:00

Runny noses and wet coughs and high fevers Ojoy! I hate to see them suffer and I complain about all the things that are not getting done but I do love having my little bunnies all snug in the den.

Veggie Box!

2009-02-12T10:54:00.000-08:00

After months on the waiting list we finally received our membership to Johnson's Backyard Garden and its luscious bounty.

DIY Chore Charts and Placemat

2009-02-11T07:01:00.000-08:00

Ella Rae and Cy have taken to checking off their completed chores with dry erase markers. The laminate chart allows us to change the list as needed.
I'm afraid the portable placemat gift for our buddy Miles was not as well received. To add insult to injury our gift also included an arty book "When Louis Armstrong Taught Me Scat." The DIY Joneses were slightly redeemed by the plastic, lighted spinie thingie attached to the hand stamped recycled craft paper present.