Ode to my Home

As I walk from the wheelbarrow, arms loaded with fresh firewood, I know there's no place like my home. For, you see, my home is special enough to have a wood burning fireplace as its main source of heat.
As I open the screened door that needs to be replaced, the ever-familiar creak and slap! of the door reminds me, there's no place like my home. For, you see, my home is special enough to have a screened in front porch, complete with old rockers.
An aroma greets me as I enter my living room--the smell of fresh bread mixed with equal parts fireplace smoke--that reminds me, there's no place like my home. For, you see, my home is special enough to have a mama who stays home and bakes fresh bread because she knows she has some little young uns (and husband) who are delighted when Mama's bread machine buzzer goes off.
I stoke the fireplace, renew the blaze and head off to give my children a surprise, when I notice the pieces of Play-doh all over the table and floor. Kids' creations don the table as food never has before. I'm reminded, there's no place like my home. For, you see, not ever home has children to make 'culinary' creations with colored dough. My home does.
I get my children settled, head to take a soak in the bathtub, and really take a glance around. An old-fashioned tub--one that you could get bubbled up to your ears in--and still not get any on the floor--that's my home.
Ah, the clothesline. How could one find such pleasure in a handmade, wooden clothesline with ropes connecting? Why? Because it's here. Here I feel the wind on my face, cool wind bouncing off of wet clothes. It's here my eyes glance heavenward and I see the bluest sky around. Not a cloud in site. It's here I gaze out over acres of field lying dormant until spring's plow slowly turns over soil. It's here I envision a chicken coop, hear goats bleating, see more children playing. It's here I do see the beautiful pines and cedars swaying in the breeze, wood stacked neatly--reflecting hours of strong man's work. It's here at my haven. My home.
The back screen door opens with a familiar sound. I look up and see a familiar face. My husband. 'Just came by for a few minutes'. Drove several miles for a few minutes at his home. And, you see, not any home has a husband and father. My home does.
Home calls. I answer. Happiness reigns.

Lord, you know my home is not a castle by far. In fact, others may have to pick and prod to see what I see, and still some may not see it. But, my home, dear Lord, is a castle to me. A shelter from the biting cold and evil forces of this cold, dark, and self-centered world. A shelter for my children. Lord, you know I am the keeper of my home. Help me, dear Saviour, to care for my home as I would a tiny infant. Thank you Lord for the inhabitants in my home. Lord, you are the greatest inhabitant. Ever abide here, Lord. Thank you, Jesus for our home.

Dinner Guests

I will getting the house extra spiffied-up today. My brother and his family will be coming over for supper tonight (if noone gets sick between now and then...). I have a slight idea about what we will be having, but it's definitely not set in stone. (probably a roast and the trimmings... think, new slow-cooker...;o)
I will not be posting a Tuesday's Topic today because I frankly don't have time, but I might do it tomorrow. I have read through the Bible this year (minus a few chapters when I wasn't so faithful) and so I'm in Revelations. Hence, all that is on my thoughts throughout the day is vials, beasts, seals, angels, torment, etc. Not much for a good topic, eh? I guess just, "Be Ready". :o)
Have a good day, folks. Amy, I'll be looking forward to seeing you very soon at our New Years' Bash at your mother's. :o) Don't worry about procrastinating with the gifts--YOUR present still isn't wrapped. Your's and Emma's. I'm not really procrastinating--I just know that it will probably be tomorrow or Thursday before I wrap. Better yet, I will have a nice gift bag for you. :o)
I will still be decluttering some. I only made it to 80+ items yesterday, so I've got some catching up to do!

Update on Decluttering...

I'm about to head out of the house for the first time in a few days, but first I wanted to update that I've already purged 74 items this morning just from my bedroom. Old underwear, pajamas (who needs 12 pairs of pajamas?), t-shirts (I never wear t-shirts), old pantyhose, Old things of dear husband's, things like old shorts were the elastic was rotten, etc.
I knew I could get to 100!

Updating on my condition...

I am loads better--almost normal. The flu really wasn't that bad this time around. Way worse back in February when I had the flu. This time I took Flu Homeopathic tablets around the clock and took Elderberry Syrup as well--so I don't know, but they sure seemed to help. Then there's this nagging thought that I wonder if I did have a severe kidney infection? I don't know. It sure seemed like the flu just not as long in duration. My back hurt so much during the course. Anyway..I hope you and yours stay healthy. I'm ready for our house to be pretty close to normal!!
Next week will find me decluttering, preparing for the new year. I aim to throw away or Goodwill (don't you like how I've turned that into a verb) 100 items a day. I'm not kidding. I wish I had the time and energies to Ebay things, but I don't.
Want to join me? I would love to have a simple, clutter-free home. I guess my house is simple, but not clutter free. Definitely not after Christmas.
Sigh. I know my Living room floor is under here somewhere.

PS. Like my new look? It is so me. I just love it. I keep coming back to my page so I can look at it. :o) Silly me.

Sickies for ME!

No wonder I felt so disoriented this morning. Around 10:30 or 11 I felt the flu come on me with a attitude! Chills, fever, aches, headache (awful headache), etc. Dear husband came home a little after 2, I think. I've been in the recliner with blankets, a heating pad, a hot water bottle and nearby are my flu tablets, water, tons of tissue, and some hot and spicy soup I made earlier this morning in my new Slow Cooker. My fever broke about an hour ago so I have been up and about for a few minutes.
I do have to report that youngest son, who was the sickest, is feeling SO much better now. He has been in here playing, playing, playing. I'm sooo thankful that he is back to his normal self. It's been a long road for him...
Well, my suspicions are confirmed that I believe my children did have the flu last week. And you know that the Lord did care enough for me to hold this off until after Christmas! He is so mindful of us.
Well, going back to my tissue and blankets....

Joy

Well, this morning finds me very sleepy (I'm out of coffee) and pretty disoriented. I did my quiet time, but I was so sleepy, that I may try to squeeze it in later on today. I'm coughing tons this morning (leftover from a sinus infection) and that is pretty aggravating. Anyway, it wouldn't seem that I would be posting on a subject like joy, but I wanted to do a hopefully, quick, post before I head into the kitchen to clean it up from yesterday's baking (the cinnamon rolls weren't the best...I didn't leave the dough sticky enough and the icing was too thick).

I have noticed over the past few days that I haven't seen many smiles around. In fact, if I were keeping a record of smiles vs. frowns, I'm sure frowns would win over. This is what I've noticed during the Christmas season.

Now, I don't feel joyful all the time and sometimes I'm sure my joy is hid inside and may not show on the outside. I'm praying daily that it will show on the outside. I don't want to be fake about being happy. I want to be genuinely joyful.

From the scriptures I've found that JOY can be found in:

1. Serving--Nehemiah 8:10

2. Salvation--Psalm 51:12

3. Loving--John 15:11

4. Temptations/Trials--James 1:2

5. God's Presence--Psalm 16:11

First, as Mother's we serve more than anything else I believe. This can be cumbersome and tiring, or it can be joyful because of the servitude of our heart (This goes against what you will find in popular magazines with articles like, "How to take time for YOU", etc). Next, we can find joy in loving our husband and our children. We can also find joy in loving other people. It seems in these days we live in (days of selfishness) that it is hard to love people like we have been commanded in the Bible. I'm praying for the love I need to have for my fellow man. I think that is why it's hard for us to witness sometimes--because we don't love others like we should. Anyway... I won't stray off the subject too far. :o) We can even find joy in trials. According to the Bible, the trying of our faith worketh patience--something we mothers can use a heap of! We can be joyful over a bad day. We can glean wisdom from certain situations that arise--learn from experiences--and gain patience. And the last two are my favorites.

We can be joyful in our Salvation. Glory to God! Just think of what was done for the sins of man and rejoice in the God of your salvation. Send up your "Hallelujahs" and "Praise Gods" throughout your day and you will fill joyful right quick.

We can be joyful in God's presence. In His presence is fullness of joy. The ultimate joy. I want to stay in His presence. I remember back in the summer, I remember praying that the Lord's presence would just fill me even while I'm in the laundry room putting in dirty clothes. Whatever we do, we can stay in God's presence.

So...a cure all for the blahs? I believe so. Now, if I could get this message out to the world, namely some gloomy family members I saw lately...:o).....

I know ppl hurt and this message isn't really for them. This message is for all mothers who have children at home and who have had children at home. Mothers who have lost their joy.

Be joyful. Always looking unto that blessed Hope....

Just a note...

It's hard for me after being at my Savior's feet not to do a huge post about His goodness and how He is so meeting with me in my early prayer, but I really just wanted to drop in and say a huge to my dear readers! If you don't celebrate the actual Christmas holiday then I still hope that you will reflect on the birth of our dear Saviour and that the Lord will bless you on this day.

I will be posting some pictures over the next day or so of our festivities. As for this morning, I have cinnamon rolls to make (my first...I hope they turn out well), a few more presents to wrap (we, too, do the 3 present per child thing, Amy) and a bit of straightening to do. Who can feel the *peace* of Christmas in a unkempt home? :o) Then we'll venture over to the in law's (we'll miss you, Amy, sniff, sniff) and do a bit of Merry Christmassing with them. Lastly, we may go back down to my parents and eat leftovers from yesterday.

I hope you are having a wonderful day. Oh my, it is a busy time. But, here in the quiet of the morning, all the babies asleep, nothing on except a small lamp and my Christmas tree, it is ahhhh...peace and how my heart is so joyful after I've just been at my Redeemer's feet.

The Babe who is the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords.

The Groom who is getting ready to come back for His Bride.

A Bride who is spotless, without blemish. A direct contrast from this world.

If you don't stand out from this world, are you a part of His Bride?

Just as a Bride prepares for her wedding, sometimes taking months to get everything ready, daily I want to be preparing my heart--searching, seeking, removing any dross--for my Groom. Just as a Groom is breathless when His bride walks down the aisle, I want my Saviour to be pleased with me. We have communed together many, many times through a glass darkly. But when we finally get to meet face-to-face, I want my Saviour to look upon me as a Groom looks upon his bride as she walks down the aisle.

"She's mine."

"Doesn't she look beautiful."

I want to be a part of this Bride.

Merry Christmas!

Procrastination Unmasked

Before I get into Tuesday's Topic, I will update on my childrens' sicknesses. They are slowly getting better, but getting better nonetheless. We are still hearing sounds of coughing, ill temperaments, and complaints of taking medicine, again, but we are getting better...just in time for Christmas. Dear Daughter just had a bad cold, but it was a mean one. One with fever for 4 nights, stomachache, headaches, etc. She *may* have had the flu, but the dr. didn't test her for that, so I don't know. Oldest Son had the same, but did get an antibiotic for a staph infection on his stomach. I don't know how he got staph, but he had a place on his leg last year (that took *forever* to get well) and this place is on his stomach. I hate to give antibiotics and know all the nasty things it can do to one's good bacteria, etc., but I also don't want to *play* with staph infection. Youngest son had the stomach virus (FIVE days of it) and a left ear infection. He has never had an antibiotic (but I know he has had an ear infection before now) but I went ahead and got it filled since he is so sick. They both are taking a Probiotic for kids to hopefully combat the bacteria issue. I went ahead and got them a good *whole foods* multivitamin and my mom ordered them some chewable Elderberry tablets, so hopefully we are on the road to better health! This past week, I changed about 20 diarrhea diapers (4 avg per day for 5 days...he still is having a spot of it) cleaned up vomit 4 times (twice in the vehicle) and felt of feverish heads countless number of times. Any good mother would have done it, I'm not bragging, but I just look back and see how God gave me strength and his grace was sufficient and his *strength* made perfect in weakness. He also kept me from getting sick during that time (and my husband) so I could take care of my babies. We all know how contagious the stomach virus is, so I know it was the Lord's grace that sustained me.

Anyway....now something I'd like to discuss with you is a topic that has been in the back of my mind for some time now. Procrastination. First of all, I think procrastination mostly affects those *naturally* most organized and those who like perfection. Sounds totally wrong, doesn't it? Where things go wrong is lack of self discipline. Self discipline to do things now. Putting things off until it can be done perfectly or at a more convenient (perfect) time.

Case in point, you are walking from your room after laying your child down for a nap. You see two toys in the hall, a shoe without a pair, but you just walk over them because you know that eventually you will clean up that hall and you will pick up the stuff then. You want to wait until you can sweep the hall, mop, and just have a set *time* to do that chore. Next scenario, you open the door of the refrigerator and see that something has spilled in the bottom of the refrigerator. You shut the door and don't worry about it because you know that you will get to it when you clean the refrigerator out, of course including taking everything out, checking expiration dates, dumping out leftovers (that have been there for a month because you are going to get to it). You see the trash piling up in the bathroom, but you just know that you are going to clean up the bathroom, including bleaching the tub and scouring the sink, so you will take it out then.

You are not lazy, dirty, or a messy person. In fact, you can't cope with things messy. You thrive when there is order in your home. You are cheerful and you think more clearly. You don't have a 'don't care' attitude. You just put things off to a more *convenient* season (like Felix in the Bible)--a time when you can do things perfectly and right. Procrastination is making you stressed. Procrastination is keeping your home from being presentable to those dreaded drop-in guests.

I've viewed both my mother and my mother-in-law *in action*, so to speak, with their cleaning of both my home and their homes. When I was still at my childhood home, I never remember our house being messy and chaotic. I never have seen dishes on the counter waiting to be washed. My mom was always cheerful (except for a small season of depression due to hormonal imbalance). My mom always hummed while she worked. She never, ever snapped at us because she was so stressed at the house being a mess. A dear friend of mine and I have mentioned a few times about how we are just amazed at what our mothers can get done when they come to our homes to clean or how we don't remember our childhood homes ever being a mess. Well it isn't that they have extra hours in the day. It is this: They just *dive in* and get it done. They don't walk over shoes and toys and put it off to a more convenient season. If my mom (or MIL) is taking my trash to the *master* trash can in the kitchen and walks into a toy or a piece of clothing that has lost its place, she will pick it up then, put it away, and keep on the the trash. Let's see how much time has been lost. Bending down to pick up toy: 2.5 seconds. Putting it away: 10 to 15 seconds. Total time lost: 12.5 seconds. Achievement: a clear, straightened hallway in 12.5 seconds! Wow! Amazing! Someone should write an advertisement about how to acheive results in 12.5 seconds! :o)

I watched my MIL the other day in my kitchen (bless her, she had come over to clean since I had been holding sick babies for 4 days). She tackled a clutter spot that I had been putting off to a more *convenient* season and it took her maybe 5 minutes. The other day I watched my mom (who was here visiting the kids but can't help but to help me with a chore or two--one that has been put off due to procrastination), take the trash out and wipe down the trash can (another yucky chore that gets put off) which took maybe 3 minutes.

My challenge to you today is do something as you see it needs doing. If the baby has fallen off of the couch and you trip over a toy getting to the baby, please go to the baby, by all means. But if you are going about your duties and you see something that needs doing, do it then. Your house will always stay straightened. Don't put things off until you can do it perfectly. Don't wait to pick up the toy until you can Lysol it and change the batteries (hey, we procrastinators love perfection and things done right). Don't wait to sweep the rug until you can get under it and get the crumbs. If you have company, who is going to look under the rug? But that nosy visitor (supposing you have one that is not a *kindred spirit*..smile) just might inspect the top of the rug. :o) You will be ready if you don't procrastinate.

And by all means, do it for yourself over visitors. You will be stress free and happy that your home is presentable most of the time.

On a personal note, after my mother and MIL came Saturday to clean up, I've vowed that I will not procrastinate. My home has stayed orderly and I've tried to do things as I've seen their need of doing. I have found that I'm not going around cleaning all day--in fact I've had more time with my children. Try it--you'll see.

I think this is the secret, ladies. The secret that our mothers have kept because in fact, they don't even know that it's something they hold secretly. They just do it without question, without thinking. It's the trait of a hardworker. A trait most procrastinators have. They just have to get the spirit of procrastination out of them to get to the hardworking spirit. :o)

I know because I am the chiefest of procratinators.

PS I would love to hear your comments on this issue, including any advice or tips you have on conquering this issue that I believe the devil may be using to sap our joy as homemakers.

Sickies Day 4

Well we are off to the dr today...babies are way sick...update later.

More Sickies...

Well, today is Sick Day part 2! Thank the Lord, He has blessed me to be well to take care of my sick babies! Evan is still having a small bout of diarrhea, but has felt better today. He has eaten just barely today and I'm nursing him pretty regularly. It is a blessing that I haven't weaned him already, because I'm glad to have the extra nourishment to give to him at a time like this. Erin ran a high fever last night, felt pretty good today (played outside some), just had a bad runny nose, cough, and hoarseness. Well, tonight her fever got back up to 103.0 and she is a sick girl! Emory stayed in bed all day with a stomachache and a fever of 103.8 (at one point). He hasn't had diarrhea, just lots of bloating, some coughing and congestion. It is so weird all of these different bugs striking at once! Dear husband stayed home with us today to help out. I felt strenghthen by his being here. We slept in until 8am because we (I) were up and down all throught the early hours of the morning. I did so miss my quiet time and look forward to it in the morning! Now, if I could just get on up at 5am! :o)
It was very warm, almost hot today and we enjoyed the varying of the temps. I *do* hope that Christmas Eve/Day is a bit cold, though. Anyways, the kids played outside and such (sans Emory) and enjoyed dressing like summer! :o)
The last 2 days have found me frantically finishing my Christmas shopping, mostly online via Ebay and Vision Forum.com. I really hope all of my Ebay toys & such get shipped by Christmas. Such a risk I have taken. I have been really pleased with my deals for the most part. Have you finished yours??
To change the subject, I read that Michelle Duggar gave birth to baby #18 today! A girl, Jordyn-Grace Mikaya Duggar. Cute name. I also didn't know that their eldest son had gotten married. You can go to http://www.duggarfamily.com/ and click on his son and wife's website. Pretty cool. I love reading about good godly young ppl making god-centered decisions. It's a breath of fresh air in this evil day!
Another thing I wanted to share is that yesterday while surfing, I found a really inspiring blog at http://www.aholyexperience.com/. Check it out and let me know what you think. Be prepared to stay there for awhile! :o)
Keep us in your prayers. My home is pretty much a wreck and I'm fighting the procrastination spirit. lol. I hate when my house gets really destructable...it affects my inner being. But, sick children come first and I have tried not to focus too much on my house. I *could* do better, though. I know that within my spirit. I just have a procrastination problem. I believe I'll blog on that pretty soon. :o)
Here's hoping that you and yours aren't sick during the Holidays!

Sick Day....

Well, today everyone is sick, so we are taking a sick day. We are piled up in my bed, with a stack of movies, eventually a stack of books, and my computer. On the nightstand is a roll of tissue for runny noses, honey lemon water for hydration, plenty of wipes and diapers (Evan has the virus), and the phone. Mine and Em's symptoms are sinus infections, Erin's is tonsilitis (she has horrible tonsils) and Hubby has borderline pneumonia. He went to dr yesterday, so he is at work today.
It is sorta fun and cozy lying here resting, watching Beverly Hilbillies, but I would rather not be sick--esp Evan.
Hope YOU and yours are well.

Monday's My Day...

Hello, everyone! I hope you had a pleasant Monday. The weather was fairly warm today. Actually it was one of those days in which you go out and feel nothing. Not a chill or heat. The sun wasn't out or the breeze blowing. We spent a good bit of time out of doors and I really enjoyed getting out without freezing! :o)

Well, my day started a little after 6 this morning. It was nice to get up without having to build a fire. I do *so* enjoy sitting by the fire, reading my Bible, but it was nice not freezing until the fire catches up! :o) I really love my old-fashioned home! :o) My devotion this morning was from 2 Timothy and after a quick prayer, I started on my day. My goal is still to get up at 5 consecutively and I know I would really reap rewards. Anyway...

The house was pretty messy a gift from our Sunday's being so busy now (Christmas play practice on Sunday afternoons), so I had my work cut out for me. Making bread, cleaning the kitchen, straightening and sweeping the Living Room/Dining Room...whew! The kiddos got up...Evan officially pitter-pats into the living room now instead of calling me until I come in to get him. It is sooooo stinking cute! Erin is a really late riser, which works out fine because she is no-napping right now (except on days where I know she will get into bed late). We had hashbrowns for breakfast, which were really good, but once again, I didn't cut up enough potatoes. Mental note to self, *use 4 potatoes instead of 3*. Yours truly got the slighted plate. :o)

During Evan's nap, we did our Bible reading and Read Aloud. We have 2 more chapters in Black Beauty. That book is really, really good. I don't know if the children have followed every single happening, but for the most part, they are attentive (not as much as with Pinocchio). The next book we will read is The Call of the Wild by Jack London. I have never read that one before, so I'm excited! :o) Oh, I fogot to mention that while I was doing some of my usual kitchen/Lr/DR straightening, the kids pulled all the cushions off of the couch, sheets off of the beds, comforters, pillows, etc. and made *caves*. Do your kids do this too? It drives me crazy if it is not laundry bedding day! (But of course, I just let them be kids, but inwardly it is driving me bonkers). Today happened to be laundry day for our bedding (oh and that is so *not* today's laundry pic above...it was definitely not a clothesline kind of day) so they had a good time playing on the bedding.

Daddy came home during this time to get our van to take it to get the brakes fixed. They were scrubbing something horribly. This took a nice chunk of Christmas spending money, but oh well, I'm just glad we had it! Poor hubby, he is having to eat liquids and broths for several more days now! Please pray for him that the Lord will give him strength to make it through these next few days.

We spent a lot of time outside, playing with Emory's remote control airplane and swinging and such. At one point we played freeze tag and even Evan would join in (*unfreezing* us). We had a 3 car pile up one time--with all 3 kiddos on top of yours truly! I got to do a little bit of yard work which is something that *desperately* needs doing. My yard is very unkempt right now. I love being outside, but preferably with the conditions are favorable. :o)

We did our schoolwork in spurts, with Reading taking the longest. I really am having a problem with losing my patience with Emory during Reading. I am having trouble deciphering whether or not his trouble with deciphering is legit. Some words like *has* and *had* or something like that, he has been saying for several months now. All of the sudden, he will have trouble with it. He spilled the beans to me one day a few weeks ago that he had *known the word, but just didn't want to say it*. I have been leary of his ability since then. He is definitely the *son of Adam*. :op Anyway, it took us an hour to read our lesson. Really. I was so tired and frustrated, but the Lord helped me with most of it. ;o) Science and History were a breeze. Daddy did his Language with him (English buff that he is). I still love homeschooling! My goal is to get homeschooling to where I just do *that* during the day (like from 9-2pm or something). I'm sure that's what I'll do when I have 2 or 3 in school at one time.

I got my favorite magazine, No Greater Joy, in the mail today, so I read it while the kids and I ate Spaghetti for a late lunch (did you get your magazine?). It proved wonderful yet again. So encouraging--the articles were so timely. Praise God for a ministry like they have--unashamed to bodly proclaim what we *must* hear for the sake of our families!

This evening was spent cleaning off my porch while the kids played in the *ahem* mud outside. They weren't literally *in* the mud, but they had toy horses, cows, etc., who were *drinking* the muddy water. They did get a bit dirty! :o) So....my porch got clean. :o)

We didn't have supper, because I'm having somewhat of a reprieve in my cooking since hubby can't eat just *anything*. I'm enjoying it because I know I will be ready to cook again when it is time. The kids and I had applesauce or yogurt.

They got baths and after a few stories *told* by daddy and read by me, they are tuckered out. Another day, more memories. Speaking of one, I was on the phone talking to a dear, dear friend (our pastor's wife who has become a wonderful friend to me) when I suddenly didn't hear my littliest one and I suddenly remembered that we had been painting in the living room which prompted my thoughts to the paints lying *open* on the chair. Evan had *painted* the chair and had spilled the water that we were dipping our brushes in. He had streaks of paint on his face and of course, was looking so innocent! It was a video moment. :o)

Well, as for me, I'm feeling a bit under the weather today. I've pressed on, ignoring the bulging sinuses and scratching throat, but I'm scared at what I might be feeling like tomorrow (some faith, huh?). My mom has the, get this...FLU, so I'm really, really unsure of what tomorrow might bring. I have my cup of Elderberry/Peppermint tea and have gulped it down as if I've *found the cure*. :o)

Well, I hope you've had a lovely day. Thanks for reading about mine. You would've had lots of smiles and laughs had you been here today. I would've had you folding laundry or something! :o) Which, wait....you probably had lots o' laughs at your place and probably a *spot* of laundry folding as well????

Good night and God bless!

Friday's Fotos

Just a quick blog here with some photos...the fire has gone out, everyone has gone to bed, and I'm just starting to shiver! :o)

Erin with my neices, Reilly, and Chloe. This was taken after my grandmother's funeral yesterday.

My sister and I decided to get us and the kids together to make some gingerbread cookies. Here are a few pictures of the kids decorating them.

My pretty neice, Chloe, showing off her gingerbread man.
Erin, really doing some serious decorating!

Voila!

Now...onto a few Christmas decorations....

*THE tree*--I think it is soo pretty! I hope it has been kept from any further dying, thanks to a few more inches cut off of the bottom of it. It hosts mostly felt ornaments, so it is really kid friendly.

Daddy, recovering from recent weight-loss surgery, continues the story of Beauregard. He is a superb story-teller. I love this man!

And a pic of my current obsession: wearing an apron! Oh, and *I* am my son's current obsession! :o)

Blessings!

My Grandmother....

...passed away Tuesday evening at a little after 6 pm. She was 84. *Granny* was one of the godliest women I ever knew and her ultimate desire was to give praise to the Lord. I remember staying with her some during my childhood and it was not uncommon to here her going around her duties praising the Lord. She was a believer in modesty and godliness to the ultimate. She thought women should even wear pantyhose always to church. :o)
I so appreciate the heritage she left me. Because of her and my grandfather (mostly her, because he didn't get saved until later on in life), my mom is a godly woman and I, in turn, desire to be godly and holy toward the Lord.
Praise the Lord for my wonderful Grandmother! The funeral is today at 2pm. We have nasty weather here (may snow, but it has been really rainy and cold) and the two oldest has nasty colds and coughs. Should make for a bitterly cold graveside service.

Updates and such (with pictures)

Hello, dear friends!
I hope each of you are enjoying this *extremely busy* holiday season. I've not enjoyed my lack of blogging, but I did have a somewhat good excuse. My internet connection wouldn't work for a few days and since we've been back online, I haven't taken the time to blog. So, I decided that I would spend just 10 minutes blogging and if I don't get done, I will save it and come back to it later. Ya gotta start somewhere! :o)

Since I've been away, my eldest has turned 6 years old. Wow, isn't that something? I will add pictures of his cake and his small party with a couple of his newest friends.

Also while I've been away, we made the Advent craft that I posted about in a few posts back. It turned out GREAT. I was surprised that I had that crafty side in me. :) Since this craft, I've had a few more ideas to pop in my head. We'll see how that turns out. :o) The sad thing is we haven't actually *done* any of the Advent activities yet. :o( I need a few more hours in the day! Anyway, we have put up the Christmas tree and the kids really helped with that. Erin (3 yr old) didn't put 5 ornaments per branch like she did last year (so cute!). She really did great! Evan has ignored the tree, pretty much, so that is a relief. I am ready for the *training sessions* should he start to throw the ornaments or such. :) Speaking of training, he is ripe for that now. I can't believe I was so dumb to think that kids couldn't be trained (or had never heard of such) when Emory was Evan's age). Evan will pretty much come when called and obey really well. It's so exciting to see this--really amazing. I'm soooo thankful to the Lord for allowing books like "To Train Up a Child" and "Raising Godly Tomatoes" to come in to my life. Thank you, thank you, Lord. I want to tell others about them, but sometimes ppl just don't want to hear what you have to say about things they look to the 'experts' on, ya know? Anyway, that is *so* off topic. Then again, I guess this post doesn't really have a specific topic, huh...

My dear husband is about to have a really big change happen in his life. A good change, we hope. :o) More about that maybe later. Just say a prayer for him next week....
Every year on my children's birthdays we try to weigh and measure them. We write it on a spot in their closets. At Emory's birthday he had grown 1 & 5/8ths inches and gained 3lbs since last birthday. We were proud of that--especially the weight. That boy sure does like to eat! :) So far since the last birthday he has: started school, memorized passages of Scriptures (like Psalm 1 & 23), learned to dress himself/wipe himself *smile*, learned to speak more clearly (this time last year he was saying, chuch for church, Ewyn for Erin, etc.) and he really behaves more pleasing. Just recently he has been admiring our new pastor's daughter, Maddie, who is a beautiful little girl age 7. He pretty much has *spoken* for her hand when the time comes. :o) I can't believe the crush bug bites so soon. :o/

My two littles have started playing really well together. Evan *adores* his sister!!! I mean he worships her, per se. He can be in the grumpiest of moods and she can say anything to him, or even come in the room and he is a different child! :o) I figure in a few months, they will be playing together as well as she and Em do now! Funny how they grow SOO fast.

As for me, the Lord has been so moving in my life. I'm still getting up early to seek Him and to read His Word. I have fallen in love with His Word! My prayer time is wonderful as well. Now, honestly, there are some mornings where I just can't *feel* it--other than my head nodding into my lap...lol...but a couple days a week, the Lord's presence comes by and I just bask in God's goodness. He is so real to me. I somehow *know* he has something for my family to do. Or, perhaps for my children. There is some reason He has led me into homeschooling, and other things that teach my children about God. It's exciting to know that God may use us in the Last Days! I read the other day in Acts how the disciples were being persecuted for Christ and they counted it an honor to suffer for Christ--they were actually happy to be beaten for Christ. I pray that I will love the Lord so much that I would do anything for Him--no matter what. I really am determined to go forward in God. If you've never had an *experience* with the Lord, I encourage you to seek Him, earnestly!

I will try to upload my pictures so I can send this and go to bed. I truly trust that all of my friends are having a wonderful holiday season. Be sure to blog about some of the things you and your children are doing. Let me know about your baking! :o) I love to bake--I may add a pic of hubby's early birthday cheesecake. It is delish! Also, other things I have made may be added (I guess I'm the only weird person who takes pictures of their culinary creations?).

Update: It has taken me several days to finish this post, as things have been really busy, so pls forgive my slowness at blogging! Here aare a few pictures to leave you with:

Working on the Advent Calendar:

Erin had fun taking all the matches out of the boxes and she and Emory also helped glue on the end pieces.

And Evan had fun putting the matches into the Coke, which by the way *wasn't* his..I got `verybody a drink that day for a rare *treat*.

And the final result! I love it--it turned out very festive! (Now we have got to start using it...I have been so unfestive this year, so far!) :o(

Now, some pictures of Em's party and cake:

A close-up of the cake, made by yours truly! :o) It was really good. I made the cake with a cake mix (but added 2 mystery ingredients to it) but I did make the icing from scratch.

Just some general baking pics (baking done over the past 2 weeks or so...I love to bake):

American Beauty cake made to take to an elderly sick man (I hate not being able to taste of something before I send it--so I don't know how it tasted!)

An old Fashioned pound cake--never had made one before--it turned out tasting delicious, but I took it out of the pan before it had completely cooled--the result--it almost came apart)

Cheesecake for *Daddy*--early birthday present--a tradition going on for about 7 years--this is a 3-layer cheesecake--white chocolate, chocolate, and strawberry! :o)

Chicken-on-a-stick, a very good, easy supper! Kids love it! Well, that's all! It's taken me forever to finish this post--have a great day!

Tuesday's Topic--What is a Lady?

From www.keepingthe home.com

This article speaks mainly to the woman who is married and has children, but some of the below is applicable to all women in all walks of life.
A lady doesn't nag or complain to her husband: It is better to dwell in the wilderness, than with a contentious and an angry woman. -Proverbs 21:19 A continual dropping in a very rainy day and a contentious woman are alike. -Proverbs 27:15

She is a keeper of her home and submits to her husband: To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed. -Titus 2:5 She chastens, trains, and keeps her children with her: The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame. -Proverbs 29:15

She wears beautiful, flowing, modest clothes (like dresses):In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel [katastole], with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; -1 Timothy 2:9 Katastole - long, flowing garment. (Pants are generally not long and flowing)
She may be beautiful, but she is wise:
As a jewel of gold in a swine's snout, so is a fair woman which is without discretion. -Proverbs 11:22

She does not partake in gossip, tale bearing, slander, or other forms of frowardness of the tongue: Thou shalt not go up and down as a talebearer among thy people: neither shalt thou stand against the blood of thy neighbour; I am the LORD. -Leviticus 19:16 Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out: so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth. -Proverbs 26:20 The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable: but the mouth of the wicked speaketh frowardness. -Proverbs 10:32

A lady wears beautiful clothing that draws attention to her face and countenance. She takes her job of taking care of her husband, children, and house very seriously, and does her best to bless them, as if she were doing her domestic duties for the Lord Himself.She is not idle, for she knows that idle time leads to idol time. She instills this principle into her children as well.A lady knows that nobody and no day is perfect. She greets each day as a brand new day, with brand new unknowns. She looks to the Lord as her source of peace, comfort, joy, and wisdom, and faces each day with a smile, knowing that her Redeemer liveth, and He careth for her.

Friday's Fotos

Yay, it's Friday again! :o) One of my favorite days! We have had a good day thus far. The kids woke up a little grumpy from going to bed late. The fireplace really wouldn't get too warm this morning either, so it was a little bit cold. They didn't like that too much. :o) But, we have had fun today. Yesterday I caught up on laundry and dishes and so I have just hung out with the kids today. We have had a lot of fun being silly and it seems the Lord has just given me some extra *joy* today! I love Him so much!
Here are some pictures from our day or another day this week...

Emory, just coming inside, getting his creative juices flowing. *He favors me on this picture*

Erin, apprehensive about trying mom's new breakfast dish, Apple Dumplings. *Also looking like childhood mom in this picture*


New recipe, Apple Dumplings (from Amish cookbook)---they took a while to make but I would say they were worth it.

Erin, looking especially beautiful, before leaving for church.

Daddy, aka "scratching tree", tells the continuing saga of SeeMore and SeeLess, Raunchy and Nasty Skunk Family. :o)



It may be corny to post a pic of my laundry detergent, but my mom gave me this--she ordered a case--yay, I won't have to make any for a while! It is, of course, natural and it has a smell! That's the exciting part! :)


This is an awesome picture Emory drew today--probably my favorite so far! These are outer space creatures from the planet RobotLand. You can see WooWee, Gus, and a GeeBer, and a few more that hadn't been named yet (at this drawing). My favorite character is the alien over on the lower left. He comes out of the crater and that is his smile face he is holding. He has taken his smiley face off at this drawing. The alien on the planet at the top is sliding down the ring. That is Earth on the right. Pretty imaginative, huh? He took me on a 'tour' of this drawing and I was so amazed.

Erin's new puppy, Gabby. This is the 3rd Gabby we've had, so I hope that name doesn't bring bad luck. She is the sweetest puppy and is so clean and cuddly. We got her last night. She was supposed to be a Christmas present, but my dad got it for her and told her early. She is a Rat Terrier. That was what our previous dog was and she was the *best* with kids.






Just wanted to show off my holiday shirt! :o) It is so comfy and cute. I got it for about $4.00 at a burnt out type store. :o)

"The Mouse takes the....er...mouse" I don't know what the thing above is...a decorative cloud, maybe?? Another creative masterpiece today. :o)

About to attempt a nap--that is cake batter on her face. I made a cake (sort of like Red Velvet Cake) to take to a very sweet elderly man from our church because he has been really sick. They had fun eating the icing on the beaters.

Now I must do a few things before the really cold temps come down hard (22 degrees tonight). I also need to icing the cake. Hope you had a fun Friday and enjoyed my photo tutorial!PS. Sorry no pics of Ev Man--he was sorta sick today and wasn't feeling well, so I somehow didn't snap pics of him. He has a new haircut and is looking esp boyish, so I'll try to get him a shot on here.

Thursday's Tip--Advent Activity

Today I thought I'd share an activity I wanted to do last year but didn't have the time (due to my non Stay-at-Home status). You might enjoy doing this with your family as well. I can't wait to get started.

Matchbox Advent Calendar

You will need:

• a lot of match boxes• strong glue• spray paint• colorful paper• numerical stickers• advent activities, sweets or trinkets to put inside (optional)

Directions

1. Glue together 24 matchboxes to form a bank of drawers.

2. Paint or decorate around the outside of the boxes.

3. Glue small rectangles of colorful paper to the match box drawers (can use a scrapbooking page).
4. Number the drawers and pop your advent activities inside each of them. (To make them easier to open, you can use paper fasteners or glued-on buttons instead of numbers)

*Pictures and activity from KidCraftWeekly.com

Some Advent ideas are:

1. Put up Christmas tree

2. Make Christmas ornaments (I'm thinking of maybe something edible??)

3. Bake Christmas cookies (we'll probably do this several times)

4. Purchase a toy to send to a needy person or give to a charity (I thought about looking into doing a shoebox full of toys to send to a child or organization)

5. Have a picnic

6. Go out looking at Christmas lights after dark

7. Write a letter to Santa (If I do this I make sure my children understand that Santa is not real because I do not lie to my children or mislead them)

8. Sleep in the living room in front of the Christmas tree & fireplace

9. Watch a Christmas movie (can do this more than once)

10. Play games all evening

11. Bake something for Great grandparents and go visit them

12. Sing Christmas songs by guitar music

13. Make homemade hot chocolate with peppermint or cinnamon sticks

14. Take the kids to the mall to see Christmas decorations and to ride the carousel

15. Read the Christmas story and watch the movie about it (we have one)

16. Make a cake for Jesus' birthday

I'm about out of ideas for now and if you have any to share, please let me know! I would love to hear some of your ideas or traditions.

hope you enjoy the craft. I'm already enjoying listening to Christmas music all day as we are going about our daily routine.

Have a great day--I have a messy house to tackle! :o)

What Went on Wednesday..

Got up: 6:40am...I slept a little later today because my husband had to go out of town, so he left about 4:30am...needless to say, I *didn't* get up that early..I had ironed for him the night before.

Had my quiet time...read from Acts 19-20...loving Acts...so appreciate the disciples' (esp Paul's) dedication to telling others about Christ, amidst persecution.

Had just enough time to get some wood from the woodpile and go to the mailbox to mail some letters (it was COLD doing all of this) before child #1 woke up (Erin) immediately followed by child #2 (Evan). The rest of the morning prior to Child #3 waking up (Emory) was spent folding and putting away laundry, rebooting laundry, hanging up laundry, etc. I'm still not caught up, but things are better.

Breakfast was: Waffles...they were soo good, but I made half the recipe and *I* ended up with only a tiny waffle. I had forgotten that I'm fixing Evan his own food now on his own plate so that made up an extra waffle. :o) Oh, and a small tip inserted here: If you're like me and don't like *artificial* foods, then you probably stay away from pancake syrups (read: high fructose corn syrup). I've always bought Maple Syrup, but it is soooo expensive. Last time I grocery shopped, I got Pure Cane Syrup instead because it was $2 and some change cheaper. It is really good and not much difference in taste than the maple syrup--maybe just a bit bolder in flavor, not as sweet. Anyway, just thought I'd share that.

After breakfast, the kids made their beds and got dressed. I made a big batch of chili and got a shower while the kids watched a bit of educational cartoons. I made a feeble effort to wash some dishes, but that didn't get far. :o)

Now, here's the good part: I met 2 other friends for a breadmaking bash. We met at our church's fellowship hall, ate chili, and baked 4 loaves of bread. My kids played with their kids (well, one friend has a 7 month old, so he slept mostly) the whole time--in the church gym--so it was so nice to talk and bake our bread. This was sort of a tutorial for them and their bread turned out better than mine! :o) Beginner's luck! :o) J/K. Wish I had pics to share, my batteries had died in my camera. Anyway, it was fun and we had a good time. I talked to one of the gals (my pastor's wife who is becoming a great friend!) and she said that a whole loaf was already eaten by tonight! :o)

The kids had so much fun playing with her kids so they were really tired tonight at church. Emory wrote a love note to the little girl he played with, Maddie. :o) I think he may have a crush! :o) Anyway, my mom took them home with her tonight, so I'm looking forward to another cleaning/organizational project tomorrow! Be sure to come by to see what I'm up to! Have a great night!

Tuesday's Topic--Early Mornings

She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens. Proverbs 31:15
Love not sleep, lest thou come to poverty; open thine eyes, and thou shalt be satisfied with bread. Proverbs 20:13

I'm really not sure what to title this, but what I want to talk about probably briefly is the need for mothers to get up early for various reasons. First of all, I don't want to sound like I've done this for ages, because I haven't. Several months ago, after feeling frustrated about not getting my quiet time done and always behind on housework, I felt the Lord leading me to get up earlier. I tried it for a week or so and it was wonderful. I would get up around 5 or before even and have my quiet time & tea, etc. Well, old Satan can't stand progress so he slyly caused me to fall back into the old routine of just waking up with the kids, succumbing to the love of slumber.

Well, last week after having several bouts of frustration with not getting things done, including my quiet time, I felt the Lord gently reminding me about getting up early. It was like he was whispering, "5 oclock--you know what you need to do". So, we started it back again. I am so enjoying my quiet time and the Lord has been so near to me this week. I don't get too much done, housework wise, but I do get my prayer and Bible reading done. My husband gets his clothes ironed and....ahem...breakfast! :o) Every morning, the Lord reassures me that I'm doing the right thing--this is the right thing. It is SO worth the sleep missed to sit alone, well, me & God, reading his Word, sipping my coffee, and getting the fire going for my family.

So, are you up to the challenge of getting up early? I feel like this will become a habit for me that I'll follow for the rest of my life. I pray that I don't let Satan subtely lull me back to the routine of sleep. For you know he doesn't barge in on anything, he *lulls* you into something where you don't really see him moving in. He is so sly, isn't he? But, God is so good to be so mindful of us. He shows us a better way.

Well, off to do the chores with the kids, make dinner, do our schoolwork, and have rest time. The afternoon will be so full.

Hope you are having a terrific Tuesday. We are enjoying our fireplace today and having children's Christmas music playing from WebRadio. I have bread making in my breadmaker (an early Christmas present from my in-laws) and the childrens' laundry in the washing machine. Currently, Evan is taking everything out of my wallet, so I'd better attend to that. :o)