Our Team

'daDad (38 yo), the Mama (36yo), FarmerBoy (19 yo ds), Gypsygirl (17 yo dd), Miss Petite (16 yo dd),LionHeart (14 yo ds), Red (12 yo ds), Belle (10 yo dd),Nae Nae (7 yo dd),Bunny (2 yo dd), Little Britches (3 months)







Monday, December 20, 2010

God is SO Good

Today is the 2 year anniversary of the fire. God really does work everything for good to those that love Him, to those who are the called according to His purpose. As I sit here, in this wonderful house He provided, I know He does all things well. I have been very ok all day. I hope the rest of my family has felt the same way.
One thing that helped was a visit from a friend. She and her children came up to see Little Britches.
They brought some clothes for him, a turkey, a ham, and approx. 3 ricks of wood! We just never know what to expect from them.
They will be having another baby soon, too. I am looking forward to seeing her new one.
A mix-up at Farmerboy's school got straightened out. Now he can re-enroll for school once the administration office opens.
We started school back up last week. I'm not sure how great an idea that was, considering we may have more company this week. The children are all doing well. NaeNae finished McGuffey's Primer, and has read 9 lessons in McGuffey's 1st Reader.

Proverbs 20 Hebrews 8&9

Saturday, December 11, 2010

Baby, it's cold outside!

Wow. It has decided to be December here. It's supposed to drop to 19 degrees (not counting the wind chill) tonight. The snow is falling, and tomorrow is the church Christmas party.
All the girls and I finished baking cookies and making cards for the church family today. It should be a lot of fun. Last year, we were very blessed with the music and testimonies people shared.
Our family read "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever"this last week. It really challenged our family's perspective on the Christmas story. I would encourage any Christian family to consider reading it around the holidays. Another book we have enjoyed is "The Bird's Christmas Carol" by Kate Wiggins(?).
The children will be starting school on Monday. Everyone seems to be looking forward to it, b/c they have run out of things to do:). Some folks are more excited than others.
I will also be easing back into my normal work routine. My biggest problem is not doing too much.
Right now I am trying to watch "It's a Wonderful Life" as I post. This is my favorite movie of all time, especially at Christmas time.

Luke 1&2

Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Don't Feel Sorry for Me

Today my husband and I went out w/ new baby. Every once in a while we go out to breakfast at the same restaurant. Usually, we have the same waitress, a thirty-something, mom-looking woman. I realized while talking w/her that she had never seen all of our children w/us. Farmerboy had come in a bit before on his way to school. I mentioned that he was our oldest and she commented that was quite an age gap. I then told her not really because we had 9. Her reply was "You poor thing." I, of course, said" no, it's actually a lot of fun."
Yes, I really mean that. It is hard work, it is tough sometimes, but I am always glad we have ALL of them. Life would be pretty boring with out them.
Please don't feel sorry for me, I am blessed.

Psalm 119

Monday, November 29, 2010

Thankful

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving with 'da Dad's family. This is usually the holiday we host, but my sister-in-law graciously took on the responsibility. Baby boy got to meet his other grandma and his aunts. They've decided he's a "keeper",too!
Families from church have been blessing us w/ suppers since his birth. This is such a blessing. Supper is the meal I normally fix. It makes one less of my jobs the children have to pick up. Sometimes, there's even enough left over for lunch the next day!
There's not much else going on. I'm just enjoying God's blessings and trying to behave myself:).

Psalm129

PS-kdk- tell J we're sorry we missed his b-day!

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Baby News

Corban Gabriel joined the family this past weekend. He weighed 8# 3 oz. and was 21" long. He was born joyfully at home, and is being a great delight to everyone. Thanks to the many friends who prayed for a nice delivery and a healthy baby. We gratefully received both. Praise the Lord!
Psalm 118

Thursday, November 18, 2010

Back Home

Yes, that's right! We moved back home the 29th of October ! God blessed us with just enough help to be really efficient. There were about 4 young men (14-19), 2 young ladies from our church, and our family. The move was completed in less than 6 hrs! Praise be to God!
Thanks to all who prayed, gave, listened, and loved us during this time. God blessed each one of you!
BTW, anyone facing a move should go to flylady.net and use the ideas on there for moving. That really made a lot of difference. I've never had an easier move.
Now we're waiting for baby;).

Psalm 118 Proverbs 18

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

Update

Just a little update. We have 4 things left to do before we move in. I big, three small. 3 'da Dad has to do (one w/help) and 1 others can do. Keep praying.
Baby and I are both doing great. I am looking forward to nesting for this little darling:)
Got to go!

Proverbs 27 Psalm 106

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Change of Focus

We have been busy around here. We are planning to move before baby arrives, so we will have a bigger nest to bring him/her into. So, we have been working on packing, decluttering, and cleaning in earnest. I made up a schedule for how to get the things in our current home ready ASAP (thank you Flylady!)
I am trying to work in last- minute preparations for the baby and ,yes, we are still home schooling.
I just try to apply the "do-it-now" principle to most things. I may decide to divide my days up, though.
Something like do my portion of the packing/cleaning (the big girls are helping pack and the boys haul it out for us) before school while Gypsygirl does her dishes, then schoolwork after, then baby prep in the evenings. Fitting in normal work, such as dishes and putting laundry away, that's the tricky part. Please pray that we can balance it all and that everything we need to do, gets done.
The men did get some work done last week. I cannot tell you all about it b/c I was not there. 'da Dad gave some of us the day off, so we went to a local state park festival. We all had a great time.
I may be spending a lot less time on here, w/ the prep for the move, the move, and baby coming. But, I'll do what I can :).
Be blessed.

Proverbs 29 Revelation 14-15

Monday, September 20, 2010

Random Meanderings and House Update

It's been a while since I've posted anything, but I've had a lot of ideas cooking in my mind.
God has been teaching me some interesting things, largely through my children. As we teach them, and help them through their difficulties, God is also revealing Himself. He is, after all, the best, most perfect parent.
As a family we are studying disobedience/obedience from an outline in For Instruction in Righteousness (available from Doorposts). One of the things that has become clear to me personally is that obeying God means that I am saying Him and His will are the most important thing. If we love Him we will obey Him. Our pastor has been preaching on John 14-17 and His sermon yesterday dovetailed perfectly with what we were reading about last week. It's really neat how God works things out like that.
Another thing I've been mulling over is the Biblical command that the older women teach the younger women. This almost never happens anymore, but it is really worth it if you can manage to find a mentor. Having said that, are we ready ourselves to come along side another younger lady? One of my older girls was discussing with me how she feels a special responsibility to a friend b/c she takes her opinion very seriously, often adopting her views on various things. What most of us don't consider is that we are all that older woman to someone else, even teenagers.
I remember the day I realized I had influence in a young girls life that I did not know I had. I was then teaching Sunday school and this little girl was in my class. In those days, I wore make up, permed my hair, and typically wore heels to church (those of you who know me, please don't choke laughing). Well, one day her mom told me that she was parading around her house with heels and pearls on saying she was "Ms. A". Wow. I was shocked b/c I could never have imagined anyone wanting to be like me, and I realized what I did mattered, even in the small stuff. Someone is always watching us. Maybe they need help, and maybe you're the one God wants to use to aid them along their path to glory.
I was reminded last week to pray for God's viewpoint when dealing with my children, not leaning on my own understanding. Oh, how I needed that fresh perspective on the situation. God is so good to give us people who love us enough to tell us the truth?
I am now reading Proverbs and Revelation. Proverbs b/c it has so much direction on how to live a blessed,Christian life (yes, I know it's OT, but the same God directed the writing of the whole Bible, so the whole thing works together :). Revelation because I've really needed to focus on the victory at the end-remembering Who is really in charge.
Since I last posted we have done more insulating upstairs (approx. 1/2), painted areas on the cabinets we could not get to before, finished the soffit on the front of the house, set the toilet, built some scaffolding, and started building the bathroom vanity. We are getting there. Please keep praying.


Proverbs 20, Revelation6

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

If I Were a Feminist...........

I knew that would get you!
If I were a feminist I would hate abortion. It kills women (at least 1/2 of all abortions are female). It victimizes women, because it causes long-term mental and physical health issues. Lastly, it encourages the one thing feminists hate most-men using women and then allowing them to dump the "responsibility" on women. Feminists who are anti-life are not consistent in their world view.
I am not a feminist. I do believe abortion is wrong because it kills children, hurts women and men, and encourages people not to take responsibility for their actions. I just happen to believe what God says about children in Psalm 127-8-they are a blessing.


A while back I said I canned some grape juice. All of the seals popped, except the 2 I water bathed. Never again. Always water bath.
Then, i had an opportunity to can 1/2 a bushel of peaches. The big girls and I worked on those, and that gave us 10 quarts of peaches.
On Saturday, a friend sent over a box (approx. 1/2 bushel) of pears for us. We put those up, and now have 8 quarts of them.She called a little later to say she would have access to another tree come October. We'll see where we are at by then.
Not to bad for a lady with no garden, who didn't think she'd be putting any home grown food by?
We finally got some good rain here. It sure has been dry. Pastures have been burning up, and some cattlemen have already started feeding hay. It's a pity b/c beef prices have been better (for them) and now they have increased overhead. One of the most thankless and risky jobs is farming/ranching. I hope we are all as thankful as we should be, and treat those folks with some respect. Prayers would be good,too.
Nothing got done on the house last week due to commitments at church.
Everyone is doing well, progressing in school. Farmerboy is faced with some tough classes, but is working hard to persevere. I am very pleased to see him putting forth the extra effort needed.
I have added in some exercise for Lionheart and Red during the school day, just to help them manage their "wiggles". They are a lot more able to concentrate when the y have had some physical activity.
I also read on The Robinson Forum that it is helpful to have a routine of sorts to help them know when you are shifting to "school time". We have one that we use irregularly, but I am going to try to be more faithful in this area to see if it helps the littles.
I was thinking a while back that our clothing was getting a little shabby. I sort of passed it off to my vanity. 'da Dad brought it up yesterday evening while he was sorting out some clothes, so it probably is for real. Good thing city wide yard sales are coming up.

Be blessed.

Psalm 110 Proverbs1

Wednesday, August 25, 2010

Update on Our House and Another New "House"

Well, last weekend the men from church came to work on the exterior of the house. It was wicked hot-104 degrees with who-knows-what for a heat index.(BTW, we are this week enjoying 80's for highs and 50-60's overnight.)
They got the front almost completely sided, and part of the soffit up. The south side is just over half sided. The North and west sides were already nearly finished, they are about ready for the soffit and fascia.
A lady from church came out for a little while to help put shelf paper in the kitchen cabinets. That was all the "girl" wok available. We didn't get to finish that job b/c we spent the rest of the day running for the men and helping set up and clean up after lunch. Several ladies at church planned and provided most of lunch. This was a real blessing for us. The older girls and I usually just handle it ourselves.
Last week we were privileged to attend a very special wedding celebration. One of the young men who did so much to help us get moving on the new house got married. The lady he married is also a friend to Gypsygirl. Part of what made it so special was their dedication to a pure, God-driven courtship and marriage. We got to sit on the groom's side of the room, and it was very difficult to see where the bride was going to enter, so I just made up my mind to watch him.
The look on his face was so awesome. You could see so many emotions sweep across his face, hidden by a boyish grin. When she stepped in, he actually took a step forward and then contained himself. He was eager to take his bride to himself. As I was observing all of this, I realized that is how Jesus feels about me (us), his bride. Just as S. had waited many years and had prepared a place for R., so Jesus is longing to be united with us and has been preparing a place for us. It just made me cry. What love.
"Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife,even as Christ is the head of the church:and He is the saviour of the body.Therefore,as the church is subject unto Christ,so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing.Husbands love your wives,even as Christ loved the church,and gave himself for it;That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, That he might present it to himself a glorious church,not having spot, or wrinkle,or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself. For no man yet hateth his own flesh;but nourisheth and cherisheth it,even as the Lord the church.For we are members of his body,of his flesh,and of his bones. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. This is a great mystery;but I speak concerning Christ and the church." Ephesians 5:22-31
It's going to be neat to watch them build their spiritual "house".
This week is fair time, so different members of the family will be involved in various activities. Farmerboy also started school. It seems to be going very well, but he sure is gone a lot b/c of the way his schedule worked out and the distance he travels. I'm glad he's so resilient, and able to try new things.
I was looking at a couple of other blogs today, and few mottoes stuck with me. "I'm going to miss this." -talking about the things that we get tired of that we'll miss when our children are grown. "For mothers the days are long, but the years are short."
Psalm 100-103 Proverbs 25

Friday, August 20, 2010

Tired and So Much to Do....

Last night I did not sleep well. Bunny woke up at 1:30 and I could not get back to sleep. Partly it was b/c I was hurting (did too much somehow) and also b/c I had too much on my mind. I finally got up, had a snack, and read for awhile. I looked at one of the local shopping papers, read this week's info from "Your Pregnancy Week By Week", and then read some from the Bible. My problem was focusing on some "what-if" situations. *sigh* I knew I needed to take my mind to God's word. The Bible I picked up happened to be The Evidence Bible. I remembered a section in the very back that I read right after the fire. It is called "Closing Words of Comfort". In it Ray (Comfort) talks about trials & fears and how we can deal with them in a Biblical fashion. I re-read this last night, and I was reminded that it really all boils down to trusting Him. So, sinceworrying won't make me any taller (5'3"), it won't change anything else either. As His children, we are promised that all things work together for those who love Him, who are the called according to His purpose.
As for today, I need to do laundry, teach school,do some food work for the work day,go to the bank, do home blessing, and just take care of the normal things required everyday.( Did I mention I was tired :) I'm sure we'll get it all done. I say we b/c I don't do it all myself. Some of it only I can do,but I only have 2 rooms to "bless", some of the food stuff can be done by one of the big girls or even Lionheart. I really do need a nap later though, b/c we have plans this evening.

Be blessed.
Psalm 101 Proverbs 20

Thursday, August 19, 2010

Crazy Busy

We have had a busy week. Monday, I had to pick my aunt up (27 mi one way) and bring her down here to get her eyeglasses fitted. Then, we stopped by the house we're living in, so I could pick up Lionheart and so my aunt could give my dad some papers and visit w/ our other children. After that I was supposed to take her back and then go grocery shopping. Well, that's not what happened.
When I got back here, Farmerboy said they had been visited by the police while I was gone! Apparently, there had been a robbery at one of the businesses behind the railroad tracks in the backyard. While investigating it, they discovered Lionheart's "fort" and decided to look further into it. Two officers questioned the three boys (praise God Farmerboy handled things perfectly, and stayed with his brothers the whole time!) and then requested that I come down for questioning. So, needless to say,I didn't go anywhere after that! I called 'da Dad and he decided he would call the pd and ask what this was all about. He really blessed me by doing that, b/c I'm kind of hormonal and pretty much nuts when it comes to feeling my children are being threatened! Anywho- all it boils down to is that they want us keeping an eye out for suspicious activity. It was very creepy to have them patrolling 6+ times the next day. That seems to have stopped, but we do have a lot of patrolling here anyway, b/c it's a low income area, and of course that has to mean crime (insert sarcasm here).
Can't wait to get home, town life is crazy. We have had 4 visits from police officers since we moved here. We never had 1 when we lived at home. Maybe that's because we aren't doing anything wrong?!
Tuesday, we went and picked grapes at a friend's house. With so many helpers it didn't take long. Then, we came home and I made grape juice. This same lady gave me the recipe. 1 c. of grapes and 3/4 c. sugar (I used evaporated cane juice crystals) and then boiling water to cover. This makes 1 qt. She said to just put the flats and rings on tight and they mostly seal themselves. Well, 2 of them didn't, so I water
bathed those for 20 minutes. You are supposed to let this set for at least a week, but I am planning longer. This is really more like punch to me, but I'm sure we will enjoy it. I may save some for after baby is born, as I always grape juice right after.
Last night, 'da Dad and Gypsygirl, Ms. Petite,and Lionheart, went to work on a project for the upcoming fair. I stayed at home with the 4 youngest and did dishes and sorted laundry. The laundry took quite some time, b/c there was 4 days worth (12 loads ?) to sort. Putting that away is priority 1 today, even before school.
Right now this is our laundry schedule:
Monday-Gypsygirl
Tuesday-Red
Wednesday-Ms. Petite
Thursday-Lionheart
Friday-Mom
Saturday(if we're home)-1 load each-Mom, Gypsygirl, Ms.Petite
Sunday-off (unless we're desperate)
3-4 loads must be done daily, and the person washing is supposed to wash the bedding laundry from their room on that day.
Farmerboy went up to the new house and did more dirt work, so it will be smooth for scaffolding this weekend.
Also planned for today, is school, Lionheart's laundry,making some phone call for dh (*me), Farmerboy is helping my brother this a.m., going to pick books up for school (starts next week), and finish his day completing the dirt work. He sure is blessing us with that. His dad is working so much ,that working this in would have been extremely difficult.
Tomorrow, we have all the usual things plus a wedding. We are all looking forward to that.
I need to get off here and get to inspecting their work.
Be blessed!

Psalm 100 Proverbs 19

Monday, August 9, 2010

What's Up

The men worked on more plumbing. I got the hinges cleaned and 1 coat of flat black paint put on them. They look much better.
I did not do any mending this weekend. I washed,hung, and put away a load of towels.
Yesterday, I made some beef broth (only b/c we had a roast for lunch) and another batch of kombucha. Mostly, we rested.
The children and I have been packing more non-essential stuff to be taken down to storage. Saturday, 'da Dad went down to the unit w/ me. It is getting pretty full, and I teasingly told him that when it gets full we have to move! He just looked at me & laughed.
Public school starts here on the 18th. That means going back to keeping the children in from 8-3. The last few days of last week I worked on switching them over to that schedule. There are good things about it though. Their house chores are usually completable during that time also, so when 3 o'clock rolls around, they are totally free.

Psalm 114

Saturday, August 7, 2010

Nothing Much

What to write about.......
Not much going on around here. Went to see the midwife and all is well with babe and I. Soon I will start collecting birth supplies. After my next prenatal, I will be seeing her every 2 weeks!
Some work will be going on this weekend at the house. I'll post more on that later.
I plan to sort laundry and do some mending today, if I can get moving :).

Monday, August 2, 2010

Bearing One Another's Burdens

The last few weeks I have been either the one needing wise counsel and/or a listening ear or the one listening. We all need to be able to be truthful about our pain,struggles,etc, with someone. We can always depend on God, He is our ever present help in trouble. There are times when we need a human face, someone we can count on telling us the truth (God's perspective) and who won't blab. I have a few of those people in my life, I hope you do too. In the Bible (NT), we are admonished to bear one another's burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ. We should remember each other in prayer and consider each other's needs, challenges, and struggles. No one lacks these things. Often, we get so selfish and focus only on our life, how bad we have it and how Sister So-and So doesn't have any problems or worries. It's just not true. Last night, at church we had a time of prayer and share with the ladies. Everyone of them had their needs and problems, most of them I knew nothing about. I am so glad I know now b/c I can pray for them more easily and I can extend them more grace.
This last week we got more work done on the plumbing and the girls put in the last of the downstairs insulation. Maybe next week we'll get an indoor toilet :).
On a side note, Lionheart was weed eating the path to the "necessary" and hit a nest of ground bees! I don't think I've ever seen that child move so fast! Thankfully, he only got stung 4 times. I know that sounds bad, but this type of bee is extremely aggressive, so 4 is actually pretty good. We treated the welts with chewed up broad leaf plantain.
A few people have asked what we need to have done before we move home, so I am going to make a list here, and ask you all to pray it gets done so we can move home before baby comes:).
-siding and soffet on exterior of house
-back door installed
-kitchen finished
-downstairs bath finished
-upstairs walls insulated
-upstairs ceiling finished
-attic insulated
-attic fan installed
-floors sanded and painted
-one bedroom window upstairs fixed and installed
That's it :).
Also, the church men are planning on coming up one Saturday this month to finish the exterior of the house, so please pray for clear, cool weather for them to work in. Thanks.
Be blessed.

Psalm 87-88 Proverbs 2

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Eating the Elephant, One Bite at a Time......

I just got done reading a story on flylady(.net)'s daily email. It was about her dh dismantling a car one piece at a time until it was gone. It was funny, you should look it up.
Anyway, it got me thinking. Yesterday, I had a bad "I don't want to be here anymore (stomps her feet, acts like a two yo throwing a tantrum)" kind of day. It didn't help that I ended up with the stomach "bug" in the afternoon, either. But, oh, my attitude stank! God forgive me. (Back to the ranch...) The house is like that. Most weeks we get a few bites out of the elephant. Actually, according to our tax appraisal, already half of the elephant has been eaten. So, why should I complain? My problem is, it's not going along with my time frame. Me,me, me,and I,I,I. *sigh* I don't know how God, my husband,family, friends put up with me. I'm going to try to keep the elephant in my mind and look at this glass half empty ( as in, less to be done).
It sure has been hot. I'm trying to find some reason to thank God for this weather, maybe it's vital for some crops? Any way, fall is less than 2 months away. Fall is my favorite season and fall is when the baby comes!
Psalm 82 Proverbs 27

Saturday, July 24, 2010

Thanks

Thanks to those who prayed for our dirt work. It was completed last night, with no delays! I could pinch myself!
Yesterday, I went to see the chiropractor about some numbness I have been having in my hand and arm. He adjusted me, which always helps, but it didn't fix it. My problem has to do with my thyroid not working correctly, so he upped my kelp. If it doesn't get better after that, i guess we'll try another supplement he sells which has other things + the kelp. A few other nutritional issues have come up and he recommended going off carbs (no toast-boohoo) and adding in probiotics. So, today I am making kombucha ( fermented tea), and lacto-fermented sauerkraut. Both of these have probiotics, the kraut has enzymes and the kombucha has an acid that helps with detoxifying your body. I have also bought plain yogurt, which I will be eating....plain. Food is a lot cheaper source of these things than supplements, and they work as well and sometimes better than supplements. Now, if I can just avoid the coffee and chocolate....

Psalm 80 Proverbs 24

Thursday, July 22, 2010

Prayer Please

This evening the man who is doing our major dirt work will be bringing his equipment up and possibly starting work. This is a crucial step to getting some other major things done on the house. Please pray that the weather will cooperate and for safety and easy work for this man. Hopefully, he will be able to finish it this weekend.
We are doing pretty well. The heat has been hard on everyone (100+ heat indexes for almost 2 weeks). Farmerboy works out in the heat all day. So far he has done alright, he drinks plenty of fluids. He is pretty grateful to come home to the a/c. It's not real fun be pregnant during all this, but I'm glad to be looking forward to cuddling a new little person when cooler weather hits.

Psalm 78 Proverbs 22

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Things No One Wants to Talk About

(I hope I can remember everything I was going to talk about.......)

So much of the time bloggers only post the good stuff. I do not want to come off as having it "all together", because I don't. Occasionally, I seem to have my (and all the family's) life under control, but then life changes or circumstances occur that require adjustment. There is still peace, but life cannot continue on at the same rhythm.
Right now, our family is blessed with 8 children. Our oldest is 18, moved out to work, lost his job, and is now living with us again. Just yesterday we got him enrolled in college (he is actually working for 2 technical certificates). So, needless to say, it has been a challenge for him and us to acclimate. Our two older daughters are trying to finish high school and are learning to be home keepers. They have their needs and frustrations, too. Then, there is my 13 yo boy. He is just sort of starting to mature, so I have to think about how to enable and encourage him.
Of course the younger ones have needs too, but they are at times easier to meet, because as their physical needs are met, so are their emotional ones (this is less true for Red and Belle). Bunny is toilet training, and it's ..um..messy. I feel so inadequate at times. I am inadequate. But, I know the same God who gave us these children will enable us to raise,train, counsel, and encourage them. I merely need to ask for wisdom, which God gives liberally and does not make me feel dumb for requesting. Then, I have to obey Him.

I have been trying to gain extra understanding/refreshment regarding scriptures related to parenting. That is why I have camped out in Proverbs. I have also started reading a book "The Heart of Anger" by Lou Priolo. This book deals with the issue of anger from a biblical, no psychology perspective. It was written for parents so they can deal with their own sin and then their children's. It has been eye-opening. There are things I have been doing that contribute to my children's struggles, and I am trying to work on them.

Yesterday, as we were working on Andrew's enrollment I realized that some of his classes could have been avoided by accomplishing more in his High School years. When Home school parents purchase curriculum,they need to consider what that $50-100 book might save them. Classes are $95 per credit hour, not including books, fees, or travel expenses. Suddenly, those books just don't seem very pricey, do they.
Also, find out what your state graduation requirements are (or the state where they will be attending school) so you at least know what colleges are expecting your student to have completed. Just my 2 cents.

Be blessed.

Psalm 76 Proverbs 20

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

Struggles and Answers

The last few weeks I have been struggling with feeling very inadequate as a mother. I have looked at others, and have found myself and my children lacking. This is something that plagues most (all) moms at one time or another.
I have been praying some about this. The Holy Spirit brought to mind the scripture about "judging themselves by themselves". This started me thinking, just who am I and my children supposed to be judging ourselves and modeling our life after? Why, it's Jesus! So, I asked the Lord what He thought, and asked Him to show me where I was failing. I have felt so condemned, as the enemy of my soul flung (some true, some half-true, some out right lies) accusations at me. I was listening and hearkening more to his voice than God's. But, you know what? God didn't do that. He reminded me of what I needed to be doing, and I realized I (really 'da Dad and I) have been doing it,mostly. So, if God is for me and my husband is pleased (he is- I asked, no one else's opinion/comments matter. We are not to fear men, but God alone. Also, please note how many times I used "feel" in the above. Feelings are not truth. Only Christ and God's word are truth.
Some scripture that came up in my quiet time reminded me that I need to be taking my refuge in the Lord when satan comes at me with his charges.
"In You, O Lord, I put my trust; let me never be put to shame. Deliver me in Your righteousness, and cause me to escape;incline Your ear to me, and save me. Be my strong refuge, to which I may resort continually;You have given the commandment to save me,for You are my rock and fortress." Psalm 71:1-3
"For You are my hope, O Lord God;You are my trust from my youth.By You I have been held up from birth; You are He who took me out of my mother's womb. My praise shall be continually of You. I have become as a wonder to many, but You are my strong refuge. Let my mouth be filled with Your praise and with Your glory all the day." Psalm 71: 5-8
That really helped my focus yesterday. I actually have these posted on the bathroom mirror ( a pregnant lady's favorite place) so I can memorize it. It helps so much to break the "crazy cycle" in my mind to switch over to God's thoughts, expressed through His word.
School is going well. I had a hard time getting much else done yesterday, so I need to work on that. (ok the computer won't go off italics.)

Be blessed.

Psalm 72 Proverbs 14

Monday, July 12, 2010

Moving On

Another weekend has passed. Saturday the big girls and I did a load of laundry a piece, and then, we went to the park. I think we all enjoyed a change of scenery. They played for a while and then we investigated the garden, fish pond, and creek areas. It's always fun to go on walks with children. It wasn't really planned to be a "nature walk" (as per Charlotte Mason), but it turned out to be one. Nae Nae has chosen 3 trees she wants to keep an eye on for the next few weeks. I believe that they are ginko, tulip, and a fir or pine. I was considering setting up a shared nature journal, where each of the children can add their "collections", notes, pictures,etc. to it, sort of as a nature through the year book. This might be a less laborious way to do nature study, by sharing their interests, and the responsibility of keeping it.
'da Dad worked half a day (at work) Saturday, so he could take Gypsygirl to her livestock auction. She did very well.
Sunday was good. I was out of church with Bunny. I need to ask the children what they remember:). We had 2 guests for the day yesterday. 'da Dad's mother and Farmerboy's friend were with us for lunch, and visited for the rest of the day. I think my honey really enjoyed playing cards with his mama. I plan to have her over more often. I know the children had a good time with their other company, too.
We are going back to a full slate of school work this week. I am excited and I hope the children are as well.
I have been trying to do some extra educational reading. Right now I am reading "The Charlotte Mason Companion" by Karen Andreola. It is pretty good. I realize from this book, why the Robinson Curriculm fits this method of teaching so well. It is all about getting the student to find meaning and knowledge by themselves (self-teaching, advocated by both Robinson and Mason). She would have the lessons much shorter (ours are, but not as short as she would suggest) than Robinson, but much of their ideas are the same. Actually, the first book I read about the Charlotte Mason (or living book) method was "For the Children's Sake" by Susan Schaeffer Macauley (Sp?). It is a very good book, but made me feel very guilty, because of all the suggestions to "diversify" their education. Andreola's book has been a breath of fresh air. I have decided that just having some things available to them, instead of trying to build them into our program would be better. They will pick them up as interest and time allows. This way I can focus our attention on the basics.
I am planning on reading the "Original Homeschool Series" by Charlotte Mason. It is available free online (to read or print at Ambleside Online or An Old Fashioned Education). I will probably print mine, as soon as the internet works at the house again.

Be Blessed.

Psalm 70 Proverbs 12

Thursday, July 8, 2010

What We've Been up To

I am just about finished writing up the children's course of study. I may post it here (another day), just in case anyone is interested, or needs some fresh ideas. We have been doing schoolwork "lite" this week, because of Gypsygirl's 4-h fair.
She showed 4 goats, got 3 blue ribbons, a grand champion and one red ribbon. She seems pleased. She really enjoys working with animals.
I am helping with a wedding quilt. It is an Irish Chain, in black, white, and cream. There are some embroidered square between the chains. I have pieced 2 blocks, and Ms. Petite did 1 embroidered block. It is a poem taken from an Amish wedding invitation. Maybe I'll try to post it later.
We worked on the house this weekend. 'da Dad got 1/2 of the plumbing in and he and Farmerboy also got the treated boards put up for the porch. Once the flashing is on, the siding can be hung!
The ladies in the family were busy, too. Ms. Petite, Gypsygirl, and I finished painting the cabinets and cut and hung more insulation. After that, Gypsygirl fixed some fence (so we can move their ponies home) and Ms. Petite and I cleaned and reorganized the tool room. Of course, the littles helped with these projects as well, fetching and so on.
Today is my mom's birthday, Happy Birthday Mom! I love you! Thanks for always being there for me.
I need to scoot.
Be blessed.

Psalm 67 Proverbs 8

Thursday, July 1, 2010

Great News!

I was gone for a little while this morning . When I returned, Belle had a secret to tell me. She gave her heart to Jesus today, with Gypsygirl's help! This is so awesome, and generally made everyone's day at our house. She has been asking lots of questions during Lord's Supper (observed weekly at church) over the last few months, so we new she was getting close. Praise God!
On a side note: a few clarifications seem to be in order. A dear friend of mine has asked me about a few details on some recent blog entries, that she felt were giving the wrong impression. So, here goes. We do not home church. When I say "home church" I mean the one we are members of, and
attend regularly. We fellowship in an unbaptistical southern baptist church with a more or less family integrated congregation. This means that they support what we are doing as parents instead of complicating or competing with it. Our family is growing in the Lord and we are blessed. We consider ourselves Christians who happen to go to a baptist church.
Hope that clears any confusion.

Psalm 58 Proverbs 1

Monday, June 28, 2010

Food Storage Helper

This is an LDS site ( we are not LDS), but I had a friend interested in it. The address is foodstoragemadeeasy.net. We are not currently doing this, but I am intrigued at the idea of having a years' worth of food and supplies on hand at any given time.

Saturday, June 26, 2010

Work to be done

Last night the children and I met 'da Dad at the new house. We did chores and helped unload some supplies. We ended up having an impromptu wienie roast. Farmerboy's friend came up, too with her little brother. The older girls worked in the garden some, planting some raspberry plants for me.
We returned today, to work on clearing out the area around the house so we can have someone come in and backfill (put dirt in the remainder of the foundation hole, around the outer edge) it.
'da Dad and Lionheart did weed eating so they could find the rest of our siding material (overgrown weeds). Sometime soon the men from church will be helping finish the exterior of the house.
Once the girls and I were done helping them move things, we went inside to paint the cabinets again. I had originally bought a $5 bucket of mistinted paint for this. After we put the first coat on I realized there was no way I could ever make myself like it. It was a nasty hot pink/dusty rose hue. So today,we went to WalMart and bought the color I had picked out to begin with. It's a nice dark berry shade. The new color is perfect, just what I had in mind.
Be blessed.

Peoverbs 26

Thursday, June 24, 2010

New Every Morning

At church, we have been doing a Bible study (Sun. nights) on our thought life. This has been eye opening for me. Why is it so easy to accept satan's lie, but so hard to embrace the truth God gives us? We all sin and fall short. But God has made a way for us to be free ( confessing our sin, accepting Christ Jesus as Savior and Lord). Those who are saved are no longer condemned by God, but satan is the accuser of the brethern. What he says is often true, or partially true, but God is no longer holding it over us. We need to focus on our forgiveness and our position before the Lord, and rebuke satan (tell him in Jesus' name to be quiet!). God's mercies are new every morning! Praise God! I know I need it!

Psalm 50 Proverbs 24

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Wow, it's hot!

Yesterday the children and I went up to the place to do chores and play for awhile. 'da Dad worked late and I didn't want him having to stop and do chores afterwards. When we left town at 4pm, it was 102! Of course, it was probably cooler at home, because there is no concrete or buildings. It also is windy out there. Anyway, the house was not too bad, but it was still hot.
We did chores first, and then I gave the children some jobs.
Ms. Petite swept the floor downstairs. Our dog had rubbed all over it, working to remove her winter coat. When that was done, she and I planned the kitchen layout. We purchased used cabinetry and had to re-think how to best use them. This replaces our original plan.
Gypsygirl weeded her little garden. It has volunteer squash or pumpkins and sunflowers in it.
Lionheart made a path the the pigeon coop and the "necessary". It is getting kind of grown up out there. The youngers entertained themselves and Bunny.
After that, we stopped and visited a few minutes with one neighbor. We were picking up supplies to make 2 pieced blocks to go on her brother's wedding quilt. Gypsygirl and I will be sewing those. Ms. Petite has been working on an embroidered one to go with it. She has the talent and skills to do that, I don't.
Then, we went to our neighbors we buy milk from. They had 3 gallons for us. Mmm.
I am feeling pretty good now. The baby seems to be doing well. I do seem a little (LOT) more emotional, but I am just trying to lean more on the Lord and my husband.
Psalm 48 Proverbs 23

Thursday, June 17, 2010

Who Do You Go to for Advice?

This past Sunday we had a family reunion of sorts, and due to the timing, planned to attend church in that town. We went to a baptist church that some of our friends attend. I enjoyed the more traditional service, but I am glad for how our home church does things,too.
The thought that has stuck with me most is a comment the pastor made during his sermon. He was discussing 1 Samuel 28, where Saul consults with the witch of Endor. He mentioned that a lot of people ask why they can't play with ouija boards, follow their horoscopes, use tarot cards, have their palms read, etc. It is because when you consult these things, you are asking satan for direction! We should ask God for direction.
This got me to thinking about what the Bible says about God and satan's "feelings" toward us.
God-" I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me,and gave himself for me."
(The computer now wants to remain in bold **sigh**, I am not yelling.)
satan- " Be sober,be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour."

Now, I don't know about you, but I sure don't want to be taking life suggestions from someone who is out to kill (destroy) me. I believe I'll be praying to the Maker of the stars who loves me.
Just something to ruminate on.
Oh, btw, Christians are not immune. Watching horror movies, reading horror novels, listening to demonic music, playing role playing games, pornography and dabbling in any of the previously mentioned activities will affect you spiritually because you have given satan permission to invade that part of your life. He always wants more ground. He will make you miserable, scared, unloving, and completely ineffective in your Christian walk. Remember, he is bent on devouring you.
Not to be all doom and gloom here :). We have had a very good week. It has rained here twice. It kind of looks like it might storm today. I guess we'll see.
My dad got the internet working again (yay Dad!), and so I am able to blog here again. Very nice.
Gypsygirl had a birthday a while back, and 'da Dad and I are planning to take her out. It should be fun. We do not always get a lot of alone time with each child, so we grab what we can. She is now 17, and is very much the young lady. She is such a blessing.

Psalm 45 Proverbs 17



Monday, June 14, 2010

WhooHoo!!!!!

Just got a phone call from Farmerboy. He finally received his GED results..........and he...........passed! Praise the Lord! Our first one is now graduated!

Wednesday, June 9, 2010

Adjustments

First, an addition to yesterday's post. When I was writing about the way we homeschool, I by no means was saying this method was they only/best way. We have used unit studies and textbook only approaches as well. They served us at the time, but don't work well anymore. If something is blessing your family and helping educate your children in the way God has led you, then go for it!
I am struggling with adjusting to the changing needs of one of my children. I am so glad that God knows him and me inside out, and that His word says that He will give wisdom to those who lack it and ask for it. Not only that, but He won't make me feel foolish for needing it in the first place! Thank you Lord!

Psalm 33 Proverbs 9

Tuesday, June 8, 2010

The Children

Yeay, blogger is working today! I was going to post yesterday, but I couldn't use blogger while I was over here at my parents'. So here I am today.
I can't remember anything I was going to blog about either :p.
School is still going very well. All but 2 of the children are done with this year's school work (school year runs from July 1 to June 30 of the next year here). I am so proud of the hard work they have put in. The others are all now working on "next" year's books. These will not actually count toward next year's hours, but it does put them ahead in their level of work. We are expecting to take a bit of a break for the move and the baby's birth, so continuing full speed ahead right now makes sense.
We use several different teaching methods with our children, but we are largely Charlotte Mason/living books/life experiences folks. Our children do some "delight directed" study and exploration on their own, but we would not want their entire education to be that style. We believe that life is full of things we have to do and they may as well learn that early. Don't feel sorry for them, though. Robinson teaches the basics and they enjoy nature, read encyclopedias voraciously, and have access to all kinds of art projects, and they have plenty of time to play outside and imagine. They also work hard and enjoy each other. These things and a thorough exposure to God and His word are what we consider an education.
Sometimes I forget to just really enjoy and appreciate my children. They are such neat people. They have gifts and abilities that God can use. They really like to bless others by making cards or singing, or just saying I love you. I am trying to be more focused on them and less focused on all the "stuff" I think I need to do. Life is more than a to-do list. All that stuff will be forgotten, but my children will remember what kind of mother I was. Did I point them to the Saviour, or did I shuffle them out of the way so could get things done?
My growing family is growing up.
We were unable to hang laundry yesterday, due to rain. It was cool enough not to run the a/c, so we used the dryer. Today it is supposed to be warmer again, and then rain later in the day. Little Red has to get his laundry done early, or it won't be dry on the lines before the rain comes. Yes, even my boys have laundry days. It is a good life skill.
I have been re-reading "Passionate Housewives Desperate for God" by Jennie Chancey and Stacy Mc Donald. My dear husband bought it for me last year. I devoured it in 2 days. This time I am reading it slower, a chapter a day, with my quiet time. I am getting a lot more out of it this time. If you need encouragement as a stay-at-home mom or your wife could use it, it is available from Vision Forum.
Be blessed.
Psalm 34 Proverbs 8

Tuesday, June 1, 2010

Settling Things

If anyone decides to try my padded panties idea, I would suggest leaving your "pads" separate and pin them in. I am having a hard time getting them dry in a day's time on the line. The dryer doesn't dry them well either, because the sensor thinks it's dry because the thin fabric is.
Well, I got our first post-a/c, post- line drying electric bill. Yikes! If it weren't for the line drying, we could not afford the a/c! The bill is the same as it has been basically every month since we've lived in town. Earlier today I was working on a cost comparison of expenses of living in town to living at home. We could be saving about $200 a month!
'da Dad and I had a date/meeting last week and were able to settle a few things. We are not taking time off school until the move,and I am going to print next year's school books ahead of time. We also set a budget for the baby, birth supplies (we home birth), school supplies, and the things we need to finish the kitchen and bathroom in the new house. It was nice to look ahead together and make some plans. I am so blessed to have a husband and friend all in one.
I am pretty sure we are not putting a garden in. I will probably still have some tomatoes in buckets, but that will be it.
I have been doing a little sewing for myself. Most of my clothes are no longer comfortable. Baby is doing well and so am I.

Proverbs 28

Saturday, May 22, 2010

Making Do

I worked on a project Thursday that kind of just hit me all at once. Bunny is needing to potty train. I have tried to find training pants (cloth) on the used market (not to be squeemish, that's what hot water and bleach are for ;)), to no avail. I don't like the price of the new ones either. I have been dragging my feet about starting her because I just didn't want to pay the price for new, when she was just going to well, you know on them! Anyway, I was working on some laundry when I noticed a package of 9 prs of girls underwear, the wrong size for any of our other girls (they had been a gift). So, I decided to sew them down small enough for her and added some "padding" in the form of strips taken from an old towel. They are working just fine, and were basically free, except for my time.
Why do I mention this? I just wanted to say that tightwad choices are not always about not having money. Sometimes, like this one, I wanted to apply that money to something else more lasting.
Besides, I enjoy the challenge of making do with what we have (useless underwear and old towels, in this case).
Now everyone who reads this blog knows for sure that I am crazy!
I have been super busy today. I guess I made up for "ma" of "Abundant Life" not having any "go" today.
I did 5 loads of laundry, hung 4 of them, made a grocery list, shopped,scrubbed the bathroom sink, swept my bedroom floor,chased the little girls, fielded several phone calls, and now I need to go home and sort the laundry and do my Bible reading. Tonight it will be Psalm 22 & Proverbs 22. 'da Dad and I listened to the book of Romans on MP3. It was OK. I am not an auditory learner, though he is. The recording is not very good. It came from Dollar Tree and it sounds like the man reading has never read the KJV before. It does help you test how well you are listening and how well you know a passage ;).
I am doing much better with my pregnancy, and am having a lot more energy.

Monday, May 17, 2010

The Little Things

Last week, Nae Nae was very intent on helping me in the kitchen with breakfasts. She did a really good job. I almost forgot how much fun a 6 yo can be as a helper. Then, of course, that always makes Bunny (2yo) want to get in there too.
One day, she helped make bread. We took turns stirring, and of course she had to taste the flour and then, the dough (no eggs). After we finished kneading it, she wanted to help with the dishes!! What a mess! I was much less patient with the water all over her, the counter, the floor! I was thinking to myself, "Child you are a piece of work!" The Lord gently spoke to me, "She is My workmanship, and very precious in My sight, be careful with how you treat her."
All my impatience just melted away as God allowed me to see her (and her siblings) through His eyes. It can be easy for us moms to forget what a precious treasure comes in those earthen vessel we call children.
Farmerboy is doing well. This job is really growing him. It is really neat to see how his relationships with the men in his life are changing. He is willing to seek out the advice of others, but I can see that he is definitely now a man in his own right. Praise God for His work!

Psalm 16-17

Thursday, May 13, 2010

A Relaxing Day

Today was really nice. After 2 weeks of crazy, busy insanity, I got to rest and the only phone call we received was from Farmerboy! Very nice.
We have been covering Genesis on Wednesday nights at church. Last night, one of the elders taught on Genesis 2:1-17. This chapter is a recap of ch.1 and adds in some important details. One thing that he mentioned that I hadn't really thought about was that Adam and Eve could have chosen the Tree Of Life or the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. They could pursue life or knowledge. Knowledge is not wrong in and of itself, but knowledge that sets itself against God is sin. The Bible tell us that professing themselves to be wise, they became fools. A great many people are educated, but there education leaves no room for a supreme being other than themselves (idolatry). Also, did you consider that before they took of the tree of Knowledge, that they only new good? This is where sin came in, thinking they (we) knew better than God. That was satan's lie, "you shall become as God." See what God was trying to protect them (us) from with His few commands? Brokenness, pain, separation, every bad or evil thing you can think of. He loved them so much, and us too, and now we blame Him for the pain we created (why does God let bad things happen to "good" people,etc.).
Just thinking.

Psalm 13 Proverbs13

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

Adjusting

We got Farmerboy moved last week. He seems to be doing well. The job is a challenge, and he really enjoys trying and conquering new things.
I had a really nice Mother's Day. Church was good. One of the elders preached our of Proverbs 31. We had lunch as a family, then 'da Dad and I went out to help Farmerboy with a few things at his house. When we finished there, we went out and spent the evening with his mother and extended family. I was definitely ready for bed.
My younger brother brought over his Kent Hovind DVD's. He is a creation evangelist. We have seen his seminars before, but the children will watch them over and over again. They are great for helping see the fallacies of evolution and for giving ideas to challenge those you might witness to.
Everyone else is doing great. We are still doing schoolwork. I haven't made up my mind for sure about whether to take a month off or not. I'm thinking I probably will. That way I can get all the printing and binding done for the year, so when the baby comes (it will be in the middle of the school year) I won't have to try to keep up with that and be caring for the baby. Everybody's needs would be better met that way.
I'm going to check out my favorite blogs.
Have a blessed day!

Psalm 11, Proverbs 11

Tuesday, May 4, 2010

Many Happenings

A lot has been going on since my last entry.
We found out we are expecting a new baby in November! All of us are very excited. The children and daddy are hoping for a boy. I'm just glad to be looking forward to a new little one in the house. I love babies.
Farmerboy will be sitting for his GED on Thursday, and will move out on Friday. He got a job working at a hotel, and it requires living on-site. There is a good chance that school will have to wait till next fall, as his classes are already full and the entry-level ones are only offered in fall semesters.
We will miss him. He'll still be close by ,though.
We have done more work on the house. Last week, we put up paneling to partition the upstairs rooms off. This will give us some privacy even though it won't be "finished".
We still haven't put in the garden.
each thing in it's turn, I guess.

Psalm 2-4

Saturday, April 3, 2010

School Progress, plans, and miscellani

I have been printing out more Robinson books for school. The children are doing very well this year. I was reviewing the course of study I designed for each of them and all are either right where they should be or a little ahead of schedule. I am very grateful to see them doing so well.
Lionheart will be starting "Pathfinder" by James Fenimore Cooper. This type of book is perfect for him, as he loves action and history. Red will be reading "Rover Boys in Southern Waters by Arthur Winfield. It has a geography focus. Belle will be moving into "Reddy Woodpecker" by Arthur Scott Bailey. The main theme of that book is scientific information about birds.
"da Dad and I very happy with this method of homeschooling. It combines some of favorite methods (Charlotte Mason-also known as living book, classical education, principal approach) into one extremely user friendly curriculum. We tried unit studies, and all text-book approaches and they were just too "Mom-dependent". This curriculum does not eliminate the need for my involvement, but it could. My hubby and I just prefer that I continue to "help" with math and Language Arts. This means they try it first, then ask for help if they can't figure it out. I know the children are learning a lot more because they are not so dependent on me. All but NaeNae read fluently, so, of course I spend more time with her.
I'm not sure when/if we'll take time off this summer. We'll just have to see.
We still don't have our garden in. I hope we manage to get that done. Fresh vegetables are so nice.
I am planning on writing out an exit strategy for moving. Wish me luck!
Today, I get to make 3 dozen biscuits and some sausage gravy for church breakfast tomorrow.
That should simplify things tomorrow. I will just put the gravy in the crockpot on low to warm up when one of the kids wakes me up during the night.
I finished reading Genesis the other day. It is great to do that. It helps correct what we think we know, to what the Bible actually says. Now I am in Exodus.
It is getting green around here. For several weeks (before the last snow!) ,the spring peepers(frogs) have been calling. I so long to be back home. You cannot hear those sounds in town. They and the crickets give you music to drift to sleep with. Here, there is mostly noise.
Still, I am grateful to have someplace to stay till the house is finished.

Exodus1-3 Thank You Lord

Friday, March 26, 2010

Busy Week

Well, it's been an interesting week. (She understates here.)
Last Friday it was 74 outside, Saturday and Sunday we had so much snow that church was canceled, and two of my friends had babies this week! Pretty neat.
Today, we will be doing school and laundry. I have been doing a lot of running today, and am looking forward to a day at home. I think the children are going to enjoy it also.
Within the next week, Bunny will turn 2. Then she won't be a baby anymore:(. Oh, well, we don't raise them to stay little, do we?
Hopefully, we will be working on the house some over the weekend. I guess I need to check the weather when I'm done here.
We haven't started working on the garden yet. It is to wet, but I do need to finalize the layout so I can buy seeds. I'm ready to get out in the soil again. There's nothing quite like being outside.
On another note: our state democratic representative voted against the healthcare bill. If you appreciate him (for once, imho) doing the right thing email or call one of his offices to say thank you. It's not enough to complain at them. We should encourage them when they make good decisions that actually represent the will of their people. A lot of reps didn't do that. BTW, I'm not usually a fan of his, and have never personally voted for him, so I have no bias in his favor. :)
Please do be praying for our leaders, and that God would be glorified in the choices they make and the ones the American people make in November.


Genesis 40-42 Blessed Assurance

Friday, March 19, 2010

Alive and Kicking

Just a quick post to let everybody know that we're still alive. Several of us have had a slight (some more than slight) touch of tummy "yuck". Nothing too serious though.
We will probably not do much at the house this weekend, as the forecast is calling for 30's and maybe 3-8" of snow tomorrow. Did I mention it was sunny and 74 today? So much for global warming!

Psalm 33-36

Tuesday, March 9, 2010

Balance

I've been thinking a lot about balance here lately. I don't have this one mastered, but I guess I'll just have to keep working on it. :)
Mostly, I have been pondering balance between the sexes, particularly husbands and wives. Men are bashed constantly for being "unrespectible". But, the Bible tellsthem to love us as Christ loves the church. That means when we are unlovely. Wow! I can be pretty "ugly" sometimes, how about you? We respect because we want to respect our husbands in honor of Christ.
Another thing, there is much talk among conservative circles about a man being able to provide for a family when he marries. But, where is the discussion about wives being wise with their husbands gain and content with whatever circumstances she finds the family in. Doesn't it make sense to teach and expect these things to go hand in hand, each strengthening the other?
I guess I'm ranting. Life is full of double standards. As Christians, we should each strive to hold the standard we are given , male and female alike. She should work to be that Titus 2 and Proverb 31 lady. He should work to be that Psalm 1 and Ephesians 5 man. What a blessing that would be.
Next subject.
The weather here is very beautiful. The sun is shining, though it is a few degrees cooler than yesterday. No matter, at least there is the sunshine.
Most people are tilling there gardens in preparation for potatoes, lettuce, and radishes. If we put in anything soon,it will only be potatoes. I generally wait until the last chance of frost is past before I plant anything else. This is especially important since we are not there to cover the tender plants.
Genesis 16-18 Psalm 24

Saturday, March 6, 2010

The Blessings of (coming) Spring and Other Things

The weather here has been fabulous! Today it was in the high 50's , cloudy, but no rain.
I noticed earlier this week while walking with Gypsygirl, that the leaves of the daffodils are pushing up. Then yesterday, while I was hanging out laundry, Ms.Petite and Bunny brought me a tiny blue flower. I also noticed the first dandelion of the year. Very exciting! Spring is definitely in the air.
Two of the older children have signed up for the next age group in basketball. We will still not be as busy as we were with upward.
I had a very nice birthday celebration with my honey. The children also made me a lovely card and chose some pretty and practical gifts. I am blessed. The children and I enjoyed the brownies, but I don't think I will make that type again. I am a fudge brownie lover and these were kind of dry. Well, at least we learned what not to do!
I still have not touched that 2nd quilt. I hope to work on it tomorrow after church.
I haven't worked on the LR curtains either.
I did get some stuff we don't currently need packed away. Now I just need to move it into storage.
This weekend we got some insulation put in, work done on 2 doors, a wall moved to better fit the upstairs bath sink, and all handles removed from our "new" cabinets. I think we are going to have to remove the hinges too, and paint them to match our new handles :). It was really nice to make some progress in that direction.
It was very peaceful and quiet at the place. We all really enjoyed it.
God is good.

Genesis 13-15 He Leadeth Me

Tuesday, March 2, 2010

The Next Thing

Upward season is now over. Awards night was held last night. It was very good. I am interested to know what the response was. Some of it we may not know this side of heaven.
BTW, thanks for those praying for the testimony time. God was good.
Today will be a busy day. We will be doing school and the usual things associated with keeping a house up. There is also a fundraiser for upward that a few may be helping with later.
I need to get my part of the second quilt done today, because I'm supposed to be passing it on. This will be my golden opportunity to visit the R family.
My birthday is this week. 'da Dad and I will be going out sometime. I haven't decided what I want to do yet, but I did get the stuff to make my dessert. I am having turtle brownies. It's a really good thing I have so many children to help me eat them. I like chocolate way too much for my own good!
I finished ordering our school materials. Now we are just waiting on math. We actually had much less to purchase than other years, due to using the Robinson Curriculum. Mostly, I ordered toner, a new drum, and Math-U-See. Paper I am buying at Walmart by the 10 ream case, because it is the cheapest I have found. (Yes, I have checked online:)
I would like to get the curtains sewn for the living room of the new house, as they will be real nice for privacy when we first move in. Some other rooms can wait, but that one is pretty important.
I have been noticing a lot of buzz on a couple of forums and another blog about giving out too much personal info. Please use good judgment. There are a lot of things I do not share on here, partly b/c I am fairly private, and partly b/c there are a lot of people out there with evil intentions and I don't wish to give them access to my family. We also do not facebook, so don't be offended if you aren't added to our "friend" list. We don't have one. After seeing what others are dealing with (which I am not), I am all the more convinced I don't want it.
Just my $.02.

Genesis 7-9 All the Way the My Savior Leads Me

Monday, February 22, 2010

We are definitely gearing up for more work on the house. Farmerboy, Lionheart, and I purchased more material last Friday. Eventually I think we will be dividing up our days, spending half at the place working and the other half here at the temp/ house doing school and housework.
I am currently working on pieces for two friendship quilts. One is for a wedding. I think we will possibly be doing another one later in the year, as I have gotten wind that another of the young men back at home is courting. It sure is nice.
Usually, we let the couple pick colors and then we divide the # of blocks amongst the various families. Sometimes we only do pieced, embroidered, or appliqued blocks, but this time we get to do what we want. It is to be a western themed quilt in muted colors. I'm always anxious to see how these turn out.
Maybe I'll post my contribution.
I did finally get to finish Job yesterday evening. It was just hard to get more than one chapter read this weekend.
'da Dad pointed out to me that this week I'll be sharing my testimony.
Just last week one of our former teachers came up to Robert to talk to him about his testimony. God is working.
We seem to be having colds at our house. Nothing really seems to help, it just kind of runs its course.
Someone (;) has asked for more pictures. Well, our other camera died. We have gotten another one, so I hope we can soon share some pictures. The house has changed a lot since the last ones we took.
Have a blessed day!

John 9 Blessed Redeeemer

Friday, February 19, 2010

Busy, busy, busy

I want to finish reading Job today. There is a lot to do, so it may not be until bedtime. I was hoping to read the last of it this morning, but little tummies started growling ;).
I need to help the children with school, do laundry ( a bit behind here), take Ms. Petite shoe shopping, chore at the place, and maybe do some more house shopping. (She smiles here.)
Busy times.
Belle had a birthday a while back. She is now 9. We bought her a family of giraffes and took her out to Chick-fil-A. She is now too tall to play in the play area, bummer.
She is very precious to us, and has always been a little ray of sunshine. Her smile just lights up the room.
Well, upward season is drawing to a close. Please continue praying that hearts will be softened and lives will be changed for Jesus. In a couple of weeks I will get to share a testimony after a couple of games. Would those of you who know me please pray that I will speak right words? 'da Dad shared a lot of our story when he gave his testimony, so I don't know which thing I will talk about. God has just been so good to us. I could talk for hours about how God has intervened in my life.
One of the things I most appreciate about God is that His mercies are new every morning. Oh, how I need His mercy and the mercy of the other people around me. I step in the hooey more times a day than I can count. Thanks to all of you who give me grace. I only hope I can be as gracious to others as they are to me.
It is so neat to see God working in the lives of our children. God doesn't have spiritual grandchildren. Our young 'uns have to have their own walk with Jesus. This week one of ours will be baptised by her daddy. It will be a very precious time.
Isn't God good?

Job 33-36 I Will Sing The Wonderous Story

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Bits and Pieces

Just a few comments tonight.
Yesterday we picked up some used cabinets for the kitchen and bathrooms. We bought them cheap. I plan on painting them country red and switching out the yucky 70's hardware to some more "country-fied" black hammered metal handles.
We also purchased the insulation for the upstairs walls. That, we bought at Lowe's. The rest of the insulation and the soffit, fascia,etc., will be purchased at the local lumber yard. It actually had the best prices. Who says bigger is better?
Our schedule will definitely be getting an overhaul, as we adjust to make more time to work on the house. Life will be very busy.
Things are a little wild around here. Lots of changes going on as the children grow up. I am trying to treasure life as it is now, with all of us together. It won't last forever.
Well, that's all for now.

Job 25-27 I Will Call Upon the Lord

Thursday, February 4, 2010

I'm Over It

God is just so good and patient with His children.
The very same evening after I wrote the last post, several of us were listening to christian radio on the way to church. The announcers were discussing the plight of the Haitians.
We still have each other, shelter, clean water, and plenty of food. What do I have going on that is worth complaining about?Please pray for and support the people of Haiti.
We will be gearing up to start working on the house in earnest soon, so keep an eye on the blog to monitor our progress. Who knows, maybe we'll even get some more pictures posted!LOL!

Job 9-11 Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing

Monday, February 1, 2010

Discontent

In the last 2 months, two families we love very much have moved into larger homes. I am very happy for them, but have struggled with feeling envious, too. I am glad they have been blessed, I just wonder, "When will we get to move into our house?"
I know God has not forgotten us, and that day is coming. We are closer than before.
I think of the verse that says godliness, with contentment is great gain. (I'll look that one up later, I'm blogging @ my parents' and don't have my good Bible with me.)
One of the things I know God is working into our character is contentment. The last of Phillipians 4 Paul is talking about knowing how to have little or much (be abased or abound). We need to be like that.
A friend of mine once said that she thought it was easier to be grateful when you had the least. I believe she is right. When we have a lot, we want MORE. When you have little, you can be thankful for what you DO have b/c you know it could all be gone in a flash.
That is probably one of the most vivid lessons we have gleened from the fire. Stuff is just stuff. It does not love you. It will not be with you forever. It could all be burned up, stolen, blown away or lost. Even if you have insurance, grandma's buffet will go and you will never be able to replace it again. The only things that last forever are PEOPLE. So, we choose to focus on people, especially our family. Those relationships are ETERNAL. Don't miss this. Work and invest in what lasts forever!
I have been lead to read the Bible in the order it was written, so I will be working on Job.
Have a blessed day in the Lord!

Job 1-3 I Will Sing of the Mercies of the Lord

Sunday, January 24, 2010

More on Phillipians 4

Well, life sure is interesting.
Since I last blogged, the weather has been up to the 50's and rainy off and on. The roads to church are pretty bad. It was cold again today though. The weather here is fairly unpredictable.
The last few weeks we have been dealing with a stressful situation. It got resolved on Friday, Praise the Lord! His faithfulness never ceases to amaze me!
That is why I have been meditaing on Phillipians 4 so much. It has been very important to focus on those things.
" Let your moderation (self-control) be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful (worried) for nothing ; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding , shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally ,brethern, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest (honorable), whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure,whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report,; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things." Phillipians 4:5-8 (Open Bible KJV- items in parenthesis denote a clarifying definition given after the verse in the text)
So, Paul's advice to Christians is to think on true, honorable , just , pure, lovely, things; things that are well reported of, virtuous and praiseworthy before the Lord.
For my situation it meant not focussimg on the "maybes" and the "what-ifs" or listening to the accusations of the adversary (satan). It meant concentrating on the truth and putting my eyes on Jesus and being obedient to following HIm.
THis is the reason I could keep on smiling, being kind to my family and others around me. It is why I could still serve the Lord, sing HIs praise, read His word. He didn't get less worthy b/c we were having a difficulty. He became more real and intimate because of it.
Today is the anniversary of Roe vs. Wade. Please be praying for Moms and babies hanging in the balance. Pray that hearts will be changed, and that there will be no more reason for the abortion industry to exist.
be blessed
Proverbs 23 Philippians 4

Thursday, January 7, 2010

Thankful Thursday

A number of other bloggers do this, and it's the only title I could come up with :).
The weather here is brutal. It's supposed to be about 11 degrees for a high today, with a wind chill of -15! Tomorrow the high is forecasted to be 5 degrees, with a wind chill of -20.
So, I am grateful for warm clothes, a house with heat, water that is still running, and hot coffee!
I am also glad to have a wonderful family to enjoy the snow with (though I think they should probably not be out much, if at all today. We are all starting to feel cooped up, however.)
The last couple of days I have been meditating on Phillipians 4. Verse 4 says, " Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice." (KJV) We can always rejoice in our Savior no matter what is going on. This verse does not say be happy about your problems or circumstances, it says be joyful because you have the Lord with you. What a comfort those words are! In any circumstance we can still smile, knowing our God is with us! Praise to His holy name!
Have a blessed day!
Proverbs 7, Phillipians 4 God's Grace