A Listed Life

Dear Tom,

2011-08-31T08:34:00.000-05:00

I remember when we first met. Me, so full of expectation; you, so full of promise. I was in a place in my life when you seemed like just my type--natural, trustworthy, safe. And you talked such a good game. I knew that our relationship would go one of two ways: either it would be all I ever hoped for, or it would stink.

Well, you let me down, Tom. I was embarrassed and hurt, and I felt as if I had been duped.

But, when we ran into each other again a few days ago, my weakness for your promises came flooding back. I thought, "Maybe this time will be different. Maybe things have changed." I was so optimistic, so full of hope, so eager for our return to each other.

And you, Tom, you failed me again. Big time. But, I won't waste my time being ashamed...I will tell the world how you lie, how you never live up to your squeaky-clean image, how you disappoint so completely.

Truth: It is not long lasting, smells only slightly bearable, and you spend 24 hours protected from contact with other human beings, due to your smelly self. Courtesy of Tom.

Tom, you burn me once, shame on you.

Your burn me twice, shame on me!

Dad's Retirement--Round 1

2011-08-29T06:00:00.001-05:00

Over this summer, a magical, long-anticipated event happened in our family:
My Dad retired.

Now, this has been particularly anticipated in the last couple of years, since Dad had to go all the way to Canada to finish out his time with his employer when they moved out of our area. If you haven't read about the adventures of my family while the parents were away, read any of my posts filed under "brother" or "homecomings," and you will be up to date.

So--retirement. We had a surprise party for Dad. The surprise was that we were able to keep straight faces while lying through our teeth for weeks in order to get the party together. And the bonus was that, for once in our lives, Mom told us to lie to Dad. Fun.

The cake.

Memorabilia from his working years.

My personal favorite: his lunch box.

My dad took this small cooler to work every day for many years. The contents would vary, except for two things: Tums and ibuprofen. Tough job.

Shop talk.

Women folk. Oh, if you could listen to this particular group of ladies.

They are too funny.

Brother--remembered his side kick, forgot his shoes.

Priorities, people.

The guest of honor, best father in the world, hardest working man I know.

So, in his retirement, Dad has done the following, so far:

~ Got a dog and developed the most severe case of puppy-love I have ever witnessed.

~ Torn down a shed and built a new one out of the scraps. Isn't that how we all do it?

~ Repaired vehicles for everyone in a fifteen mile radius.

~ Planted a massive garden, including a crazy amount of corn and pumpkins, which he sees as a perfect background to take more photos of his dog.

~ Went back to work. Seriously.

So, Dad is now semi-retired, semi-OK with that, and completely enamored with his dog, Bruiser.

But that love is for another post :)

Where I am in the Word

2011-08-28T06:00:00.002-05:00

(source)

I must admit that I have been struggling to get back on track with spending time in the Bible daily, until just recently. There was a time when it was automatic for me to start the day with a cup of coffee and an hour in God's word, soaking up the strength to go on with the day. I got out of the routine, and, as with all good habits, it has been difficult to get back in. But, I am making progress.

For the past week, I have been reading the book of Hebrews. I usually read two chapters a morning, right after waking up, and write my thoughts on the reading in a notebook. It has been wonderful, so focusing. I found these wise words:

"...pay more careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away." Hebrews 2:1

We have to pay attention, or we risk drifting away. When I stopped getting up early, spending time in my Bible, and praying before I began the day, I wasn't paying attention. And I drifted. But, there is hope for me:

"He rewards those who earnestly seek him."

Hebrews 11:6

I need only to seek Him again, and He will be there, ready to reward my efforts. He has never stopped speaking, I only stopped listening. It feels wonderful, peaceful to be seeking, paying attention, and drifting back to the Father.

Let's not...

2011-08-27T13:10:00.000-05:00

...do the thing where I tell you why I haven't been blogging. Hi, there!

So, here is my life in a picture:

Core D--We started our school year the first of August. This year we decided to go with Sonlight curriculum again, after taking two years off from using it. I am so glad we revisited the idea! Sonlight is so complete, totally planned out, and structured. I love those aspects, but sometimes I let the "box check-er" in me get all freaked out about deviating from the schedule.

Magazines--I am still serving on the city council. It has been challenging, rewarding, and humbling. I have so much to learn, so much growing to do. I am grateful for the opportunity, so I am trying to make the best of the situation, make the best decisions I can, and never forget who I serve.

The English Novel--My fall college course has started! I am doing a directed study on the novel. I think it will be very interesting, and I am grateful to be studying under one of my favorite professors. He is intelligent, thoughtful, and has always believed in me. Let's hope I don't disappoint him this semester ;)

I hope to be back to a more regular schedule of blogging!

Mothers and Friends

2011-05-08T21:15:00.000-05:00

If you tell me everything that is wrong with the world,

I will feel small and wonder why I should try.

But, if you show me how I can do anything if I work hard, I will do it with all my heart.

If you berate me for my failures and flaws, I will berate myself for them too.

But, if you encourage me to try again, I will, and I will like myself for it.

If you tell me all the reasons I "can't," I will believe you.

But, if you tell me the reasons why I can, I will believe in myself.

We all need a cheerleader, a person who believes in us, hopes for us, holds us up, and hears us out.

I need that person.

And I got two.

Mom, thanks for knowing that if you just remind me of where I come from, I will remember where I am going. Thanks for seeing the good in me when I made you look really hard. Thanks for encouraging me when I discouraged you. Thanks for being my friend.

Mother-in-law, thanks for loving me like I am yours. Thanks for always being there to help, always reminding me that hard work is hard-won worth. Thanks for being my friend.

Thank you both for teaching me how to mother by mothering me.

And thanks for still mothering this 32 year old woman who sometimes still feels small, scared, and unsure of herself.

I love you with all that I am.

Little Ladies?

2011-05-07T10:15:00.000-05:00

"A lady wears appropriate makeup, enhancing her features without making it appear too obvious."

If it is possible to enhance the sight of missing teeth, I think they are on target.

"A lady chooses the proper attire for the occasion."

The occasion was trotting across the road to check out the neighbor's tractors.

I think we've taught them well, don't you?

A Simple Face Lift

2011-05-05T19:12:00.000-05:00

I wish.

However, the blog did get a simple face lift because:

I have too many books in my house, and my blog sidebar was reminding me of that each time I logged in. So, instead of decluttering my home, I decluttered my blog. Totally logical.
I haven't touched my blog in a month, so I felt like I needed to reclaim it. Who knows what it has been doing while I was away.

Things have been crazy around here. I was recently elected to public office in my city, which is very interesting and educational. It also comes with the occupational hazard of neck/ear pain from holding the phone with my shoulder while I do laundry. Such is the life.

I also decided that it was the right time to finish the four classes I need to get my bachelor's degree. I know, the timing seems a little illogical, but I have decided that I work best under greater demands...at least that is what I keep repeating to myself when I go to sleep at night. I figure it will be true soon.

So, how are the ladies feeling about all this excitement?

Tiny Love is skeptical.

Curlyjo is too busy with more pressing matters to form an opinion.

So, some things are still the same around here :)

A Pain Worth Feeling

2011-03-22T21:59:00.000-05:00

Sometimes, when I am flipping mindlessly through the hundreds of channels on the TV, I come across something that doesn't just move me, it shakes me.

Many times, it happens when I end up on the Documentary Channel. Tonight, flipping through the channels while watching the Food Network (irony of ironies!), I caught the last half of the above documentary, Crayons and Paper. The reaction I had to the suffering in Darfur, the loss, the hopelessness, the hope, was physically painful. It is a pain that is familiar to me.

Call me sentamental, call me dramatic, call me a wimp if you want to, but when I see the real suffering of real people, I ache inside. I think about my comfort, my America, my obsession with my American comfort, and I feel ashamed and helpless. And something in me wants to turn the channel, or the page, and just recoil from the painful pull I feel on the strings of my heart. But I don't. I tell myself,

"Don't. Let yourself feel this. If it pains the very heart of God, let it pain you."

I think the moments when I am closest to who God wants me to be is when I hurt for the pain of others. Others I know, or don't know. When I look at their lives, and I refuse to turn my head, I acknowledge the realness of it. And how can action come if we first refuse to feel, to look, to hurt?

I don't know what to do. I have no plan. I have no answers. But I know that with tears in my eyes, I want a plan to do something to get answers. I want God to answer my questions:

Why is there so much pain in the world of innocents?

What can I do?

What will You do?

When?

Moments after the documentary was over, with me curled up in the fetal position in the corner of my couch with tears coming freely, a commercial airs. To sell me an Ab Roller, so that I can feel good about myself and my rock-hard abs. Futility of futilities! Show me something real, something painful, even. But don't show me how to like myself more...I think I have too much of that already.

Call Me the Lunch Lady

2011-03-16T13:03:00.000-05:00

No, I do not own a hairnet or look much like Chris Farley, but it is a funny thought, no?

School lunch here at our home school is my favorite meal to cook. Mainly because I don't have to please the Husband (that carnivore), and since the kids don't get to decide what they have for lunch in schools, I figure that applies here. So I make what I want, and the kids usually like it. It is known that I love to cook vegetarian, not only because it is healthy and tasty, but because vegetarian food is pretty. Sorry, but meat just ain't pretty.

Today's lunch was sooo good, and came together "zippity quick," as Tiny Love would say.

For the salad:

baby mixed greens
baby spinach
1 green apple, chopped
shredded carrots
golden raisins
feta cheese
sunflower seeds
red onion
black pepper
store-bought Light Raspberry Walnut Vinaigrette

There are no amounts, because I just threw it all in a bowl. Use more or less of whatever you want.

For the sandwich:

Arnold Whole Wheat Sandwich Thins
hummus
sliced mushrooms
red onion
garlic
dried thyme
2 tbs. white wine
provolone cheese

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Put the sandwich thins on a baking sheet and toast them for about five minutes. In a medium pan over medium high heat, cook mushrooms, onion and garlic, and thyme in a little olive oil until softened. Add wine to deglaze the pan. Cook until the moisture evaporates. Spread the toasted buns (heh heh) with hummus, top with mushrooms and cheese, and heat in the oven until the cheese melts. Serve!

The whole meal took about 15 minutes to make, and we all loved it! Veggies are fancy fuel :)

I'm Having a Moment...

2011-03-14T14:23:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I need a "shining moment." Moms often do. While the work of raising children and home schooling is rewarding, it is often a delayed gratification. We sow now and reap later. The challenges are many:

Will Curlyjo ever learn to tell time?

Will Tiny Love learn to channel her persistence into something other than begging for more snacks that include sugar?

Will I ever convince them that their room should not look like an episode of "Hoarders?"

Am I doing enough?

Are they doing enough?

Are we...enough?

And then, the moments come. The ones I need to keep me going, keep me focused, and keep me from throwing rocks at innocent trees.

Last week they were told to come to church Wednesday night dressed as what they wanted to be when they grew up. They both decided they wanted to dress up as "Moms." I was infinitely proud to have the only two girls in the crowd who dressed up as mothers. Because that is what the Women's Movement is all about, people...choice. Not eliminating choice, but allowing it. It is honorable to want to be a mother. It is desirable, noble, and responsible. Now, let it be known that Tiny Love also wants to be a veterinarian, teacher (public and home), and a doctor. Curlyjo wants to be a doctor just so she can "look at strep throat germs under the microscope, and then retire." Obviously, in the grand scheme of things, they don't know what they want to be. But they know that they have a choice.

Another shining moment came today.

Curlyjo has struck a deal with the Husband that an 'A' on a test will earn her a quarter in the jar. She made a sign that proves such.

If 'A' = 25 cents

Then A + A = 50 cents

What time is it?

Who cares.

I am calling this an early algebra skill and depending on the invention of the digital clock to save her from a lifetime of tardiness. We must look for our moments, and when we find them, we must hold onto them for dear life. For the trees.

What a Month!

2011-03-09T16:27:00.000-06:00

It has been a full month since I last blogged??!! Lest you think it is because I have been sitting on my couch whining over my bout with strep throat (OK, there was some of that), or driving Curlyjo to the doctor for her two bouts of strep throat (some of that too), I will give you a "Quick Takes" post to catch you up on my life...because you care, or you wouldn't be reading this.

Quick Takes!

1. We are using a new home school curriculum that requires a lot more student responsibility. Curlyjo is reluctant but not totally disagreeable to the idea of having to take some interest in her own learning. Tiny Love is never reluctant to being in control of anything. We are using the ACE program, and I love it!

2. I have been much more productive in my reading, since I recently took a Face book hiatus that made me realize that perhaps a Face book absence is in the best interest of my brain cells. Highlights have included:

The Great Divorce by C.S. Lewis. Seriously, get me around a table with Jesus, C.S. Lewis and John Piper. I might get this whole thing figured out.
Woman at Point Zero by Nawal El Saadawi. Totally haunting. Nightmares for days. You must read it.

The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey. I read it once, but I violated all of the habits by forgetting most of it. So, I read it again.
The Complete Guide to Robert's Rules of Order Made Easy by Rita Cook. No, not for leisure. And Robert, your rules are not easy, no matter what you say.
Things I've Been Silent About by Azar Nafisi. I am just about to finish this one, and I highly recommend it. It is like a history lesson and a touching memoir all in one. Love.

3. Mom and Dad moved home permanently from Canada, which makes one less international connection that I have, which puts me at zero. Hmmm...

4. Brother has flown the nest and moved into a rental house with a friend. He is growing up, which makes me happy and sad. It also makes me have an uncontrollable urge to stop by his house and leave my socks in a random place, like the kitchen table, just to level the score. But I won't.

5. And last, but not least, I am running for city council in the wonderful little part of America in which I reside. I now know how much I don't know about city government, which only makes me want to know more. I hope to be elected in April, at which point I will have a vast knowledge of Robert's Rules of Order, a heart full of hope for my community, and many legal pads full of information that I hope will make me of service to the people in my town. I am full of interest and optimism, and I hope I retain both no matter what happens.

Now, excuse me while I go and take some photos of my kids and some food, since that what my blog is really about :)

Asian Lettuce Wraps

2011-02-03T06:30:00.000-06:00

After a recent trip to the holistic doctor, I have been looking for new ways to consume meat, ways that won't leave me thinking of rotting flesh and factory farming. You see this most-times vegetarian has been told that the vegetarian lifestyle is not for me. But, I just don't know much about cooking meat without using lots of fat and carbohydrates (which, sadly, I am not supposed to have much of either). So I made Asian Lettuce Wraps...think Asian flavored taco in a lettuce leaf. Or don't, because that sounds gross. But these were good, and everyone in my family was happy.

Asian Lettuce Wraps

1 lb. ground turkey breast

2 carrots, peeled and diced

1 small zucchini, diced

1 rib celery, sliced

1 clove garlic, chopped

1 tsp. Chinese Five Spice Blend

2 tbs. lite soy sauce

Lettuce leaves (we used romaine, but butter lettuce would have been better)

Hoisin sauce, for topping (optional, but encouraged)

Heat a skillet over medium high heat. Coat pan with a small amount of canola oil. Add meat. When it begins to brown, add veggies. Cook for about 10 minutes, until meat is cooked and veggies are softening. Add spice and stir to coat. Then add the soy sauce. Cook another couple of minutes. Remove from heat, spoon into lettuce leaves and top with a drizzle of hoisin sauce.

Serve!

Even the Husband liked this, and it was so pretty. We had a summer day on a plate when the wind, ice, snow and sleet were pounding the prairie outside.

Give it a try!

Isn't that Pretty

2011-02-02T18:48:00.000-06:00

Ice is pretty.

Snow is pretty.

Winter itself is pretty.

And I am pretty much over it.

The End is Nigh

2011-01-31T10:04:00.000-06:00

Here in the Midwest, we are bracing for a massive winter storm. Even if I did not have 24 hour access to the Internet, television and Facebook, I would still know that the weather is about to go crazy. How? Because my animals are going insane today. They have been chasing each other and fighting horribly over one common interest:

The pink doll that Daisy Dog received in her Christmas stocking. Oh, and it squeaks when she bites it, so there is that to contend with as well.

Guarding the turf. Waiting for Stella to just try to take dolly.

But Stella has lost interest. Instead she has employed the age-old method of predicting the weather.

"Nothing yet! But I think it might do something soon."

So, if the predictions are right, whatever will the family do when we remain stuck in the house for days without power?

Well, we will fire up the generator, cuddle around the fireplace (in which we will burn our furniture, I suppose, as we have no firewood), and read aloud together from a fascinating book.

Ok, I will save that one for silent reading and just bust out the Little House books.

Stay warm everyone!

Simple Woman's Day book

2011-01-24T11:58:00.000-06:00

FOR TODAY: January 24, 2011

Outside my window...the sun is shining on the snow that covers the ground. It sparkles. Normally this would be beautiful to me, but the migraine I have makes it painful.

I am thinking...about how one decision leads to another, and this can be good or bad.

I am thankful for...Excedrin and naps.

From the learning rooms...school work is finished for the day, aside from some read aloud time, which will happen when my eye stops feeling like someone is stabbing it. I noticed today that teaching reading and how to tell time have been vastly easier with Tiny Love than with Curlyjo...there is much to be said for the "better late than early" philosophy.

From the kitchen...tonight I wanted to make Salisbury steak, but I have no red wine. So, chili, maybe.

I am wearing...yoga pants, t-shirt, and hoodie. I need to branch out a little :)

I am creating...a mess in some areas of my life, and order in others. I am a walking contradiction.

I am going...to my sister's house for lunch. She is making me soup, which warms my heart and makes me feel loved.

I am reading...When I Don't Desire God: How to Fight For Joy by John Piper.

I am hoping...to figure out how to fight for the joy I am lacking.

I am hearing...Tiny Love narrating a conversation between two Lego men. Apparently there is a disagreement between them about where to sit on the Lego bus.

Around the house...things are quiet and neat. Daisy Dog is snoring on the couch, lying in the sun. Smella is in the basement, thinking about why it is wrong to pee outside the litter box.

One of my favorite things...my sisters and my brother, who encourage me and show their love to me. If there is even a hint that I am struggling, they call, visit or send flowers. I am so blessed to have them in my life. Even when brother's text says only, "I hope you are ok, gay. Brother is here for you," I feel the love.

A few plans for the rest of the week: PE time with the kids at a local activities center, a trip to the holistic doctor, and school work.

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...no reason. I just love it. And I relate with it.

Photo credit

Get Out Your Soapbox...

2011-01-10T10:30:00.000-06:00

because I am getting on it. You see, I don't have one for this topic, because my opinions and values have been silenced in the interest of "keeping the peace" and not seeming "judgmental." Well, I am going to say a few things. What I have to say will almost certainly make some angry, hurt their feelings, and perhaps change their opinions of me. Well, welcome to my world. I feel this way often, and yet I stand there, dumb but not deaf, hurt but smiling politely. So, maybe those people can just do what I do...tolerate the opinions of others.

I home school my children.

No, I do not do it perfectly and I could certainly do more. And you know what? Neither is the public school, and they could step it up a bit too. My kids won't graduate high school at twelve. And you know what? Neither will yours. I have a hard time accepting most of the reasoning behind why people think my kids should be in school.

I often hear that home schooled kids are antisocial.

Mine are not.

I hear that they are behind their peers.

Mine are not.

I hear that I cannot teach them everything the need to know.

Neither can the public school.

I hear that I have to do it perfectly or send them to school.

Where is the public school planning on sending them, because they have been unimpressive for YEARS.

Let me tell you a story:

Little Sally gets up at six every morning, hurries to the bus stop and rides for half an hour to get to school. Then she has her highly processed, impersonal, nutrient-sparse breakfast in the cafeteria. Then she goes to class for seven hours, learning more from her peers than she does from her teacher. She does the worksheets, gets good grades, and doesn't really know what she is even interested in. She leaves school and rides the bus to daycare, where she stays for another three hours, watching TV or learning more helpful hints from her peers. Sally goes home, eats the quick dinner that her tired parents have to offer her, and then goes to bed. The rest of the week is much the same, except for weekends, when Sally spends her time in the car, going from one activity to the next and waiting for her over worked parents to have time to play with her.

Feel sorry for Sally.

Feel sorry for the millions of kids who are uninspired, frustrated and alienated by their public school experiences.

Feel sorry for the multitudes of teenagers who think school is a boring place, seeing their classes as just an unwanted break in their social lives and their parents as these annoying people who feed them.

Don't waste time feeling sorry for us.

Public school is not the cure for all that ails my family. And homeschooling may not be the cure for all that ails your family. And that is the beauty of democracy, of freedom. I get to make the decisions I think are best for my family and you get to do what you deem right for yours.

But, you know what? I think home schooling is a wonderful, respectful, real way to learn about life.
I don't think public school is any of those things.

Freedom of speech is alive, people. Even for creepy home schoolers.

Now, I would give you your soapbox back, but my weird, uneducated children took off with it and are currently cutting it up, making a doll house out of it, complete with hand sewn curtains for the windows. And then we are going to play with it.

Look--we turned your soapbox into an education.

Imagine that.

Leek and Potato Soup

2011-01-09T18:34:00.000-06:00

I think Potato Soup always tastes better than it looks. Case in point:

The potatoes get all shy and flee to the bottom of the pot, while the parsley puts on a slinky show with the butter.

But this potato soup was amazing in its simplicity and had a slightly more sophisticated taste.

Leek and Potato Soup

2 Leeks, trimmed of the dark green tops and root tips

5-6 medium potatoes, peeled and diced

4 cups of water

2 tbs. butter

4 chicken bouillon cubes

1 clove of garlic, chopped

1 can of evaporated milk

1 tbs. dried parsley

Now, leeks are a little fussy. I think that since they look like the upperclassmen version of the green onion, they think they have the right to boss everyone around and be difficult to handle.

But we can do it.

Slice the leeks in half, lengthwise. Then slice them crosswise into little half moon shapes. Fill the sink with a little water, place the leeks in a colander in the sink and let them soak so that the sandy dirt will fall to the bottom of the sink (so Rachel Ray).

Heat the butter in a soup pot over medium heat. Add the leeks and the garlic. Let them cook until they get all soft and lazy. Then add the chopped potatoes, water, and bouillon cubes. Crank up the heat and bring it to a boil. Boil until the potatoes are soft, maybe 12 minutes.

Once the potatoes are soft, turn down the heat to medium low and add the evaporated milk and parsley. Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve.

It is so good.

I served it with homemade chicken salad and crackers.

Oh, and when you make chicken salad, add a couple of tablespoons of capers to the usual mix.

But, don't tell me you did.

Because I might show up at your house and lick the bowl in front of your family.

And that would be weird for all of us.

Good Morning, Snow

2011-01-07T07:14:00.000-06:00

Oh, what a beautiful sight...the freshly fallen snow, the glisten of light in the neighbors' darkened windows, the peaceful silence that follows snow as the world pauses to admire all that is lovely.

And then the silence is broken by a woman, oddly dressed in pajama pants, an offensively large, orange sweatshirt, and fluffy pink snow boots belonging to a child, screaming around the neighborhood a word that doesn't fit the landscape:

"DAISY!"

Someone, who is normally terrified by snow, got all brave and decided to take a solitary stroll around the neighborhood.

Good morning, dignity.

No need to stick around here.

My New Addiction

2011-01-06T20:28:00.001-06:00

I have serial addictions...before you go all "Intervention" on me, listen.

I am rather fickle in my addictions, so I don't feel they ever become a real problem.

And most of my needs can be met at your local Wal-Mart, where we are told we can "Save more and live better," so I am sure there is no danger here ;)

I have had obsessive thoughts about:

Oatmeal
Post It Flags
Almond Butter (as you well know)
Coffee (OK, this one isn't so fickle)
Cigarettes
Steno pad notebooks
Coupons
Sylvia Plath's writings
Charlotte Mason Methods
Laundry soap
Exercise
Zebra F-301 Ink pens
vegetarianism
Presidential elections
Intertextuality

The list could go on and on. I know this behavior isn't necessarily "normal," but it could be much worse. I saw a show this week about a woman who could not stop eating Comet kitchen cleaner, so I figure I am in the clear. And these little mind ruts don't usually last long.

Right now, I am hyper-focused on obtaining and ingesting this:

I think I need to figure out where to buy it in bulk.

I only drink coffee and water, and I can't stand soda or artificial sweetener, so my drink options are limited.

But this mineral water (especially the one with lime in it) is soooo good.

I left some on my counter the other day, and I think my Dad thought it was alcohol.

It was the jumbo size bottle, and it was nearly empty.

I promise, Dad. I only drank water.

And this time you can believe me.

Errand Girl

2011-01-01T11:59:00.001-06:00

Yesterday morning, the Husband informed me that he had neglected to pay his union dues (which were due that day), and he would need me to go to Springfield to pay them for him.

Confession: I don't drive on the interstate. Ever.

I know, I am over thirty years old and need to get over such a silly and infantile fear.

Maybe I will make that my New Year's Resolution in 2045.

So, I called my mother and asked her to drive me to Springfield.

Yes, I did.

I am a little ashamed. Wait...ok, I am over it.

So, since we were already there and all, I went to the happiest place on earth to use my gift cards:

(source)

Can I just interject here...I find a certain joy and satisfaction that when you begin to enter "Barnes & Noble" into the Yahoo search box, the bookseller comes up first, after only entering "b-a-r." Barack Obama is a distant third.

*chuckle*

I have had my eye on a certain cookbook for quite some time. It was a bit expensive, so I never purchased it for myself.

Enter gift card.

It is amazing. I can't wait to post some photos of the yummy things I am going to make from the recipes in this cookbook!

This fits in perfectly with a certain New Year's Resolution that I have made for 2011.

I will share those soon!

Christmas Recap

2010-12-31T06:47:00.000-06:00

See, if I would just sit down and organize my thoughts into blog posts each day, I wouldn't have to do a big recap and spend an hour trying to understand the many intricacies of Picasa Web Albums.

Resolution 2011: Blog more often.

Christmas this year was very nice for our family. It began on a sour note, as the kids reasoned out that Santa is a farce. This didn't really make me too sad, as Santa (along with the Easter bunny and the Tooth Fairy) just creeps me out. Come on, parents. We are always telling the kids not to let strangers in the house, and then we leave cookies out so a creeper in a red suit can come into our house while we sleep to "bring gifts" to our children? How does this fit with our parenting philosophy? Plus, Christmas is about JESUS. Anyway, the truth is out, and the kids called me Santa all week before Christmas....I did not like that, as I kept picturing myself portly with lots of facial hair. The first gift my children received from us was:

A kitten! Her name is Stella, and she came to our home complete with an intestinal parasite, which has made us consider changing her name to Smella.

Then, Christmas morning, our neighbors left the girls a gift on the front porch:

It was pretty much a better surprise than if Santa had brought it. Our neighbors are better than Santa...and way less creepy, I might add.

God gave us a lovely Christmas gift also:

Snow! He also gave us Jesus and the hope of eternal salvation, but the pictures people paint of Jesus creep me out almost as much as the pictures of Santa. Come on, people, Jesus was from the Middle East! Why is he always white skinned and gazing beseechingly into the distance? Apparently, I got another rant for Christmas.

The girls opened their gifts,

and we headed out to my parents' house for Christmas Breakfast, the highlight of the season.

Brother and I...by the way, I don't know what my brother-in-law is doing behind us.

My niece, whom my grandmother refers to as "Beauty," which is obviously befitting.

I don't have many photos from that morning, because everyone was giving me this look:

The "I am in my pj's, put away the camera" look.

Breakfast was fun and delicious, and we spent the day with our family. We spent Christmas Eve with the Husband's family, but I forgot to take my camera at all there (bad blogger).

I will close by sharing two of the wonderful gifts I received this year:

Hello, dutch oven!

Be still, my heart...

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas, full of the hope of Jesus Christ, the love of family and friends, and the blessings of the joy and peace that come with the season...at least they do when that Santa-creeper stays on the other side of the street ;)

Happy Anniversary, Mom and Dad!

2010-12-21T08:47:00.000-06:00

On this day, 36 years ago, two people pledged to love one another, in sickness and health, for richer or poorer, to never part. They vowed before God to honor and protect one another.

And they have.

My parents have honored and held to one another through so much.

For example:

Job changes and financial difficulty
Moving to another country to support one another
Difficulties with extended family
Surviving four teenagers and their sinful choices
The death of their beloved fathers
Physical infirmaries
Differences of opinion
Loving their grandchildren
Building AND remodeling houses
Times of no money and times of plenty

I can't begin to do justice to the challenges they have faced. In doing so, they gave my siblings and I an example of what it really means to honor your spouse, to love them as Christ loves us. They showed my through their example how precious marriage is, how important it is to CHOOSE love, choose commitment, choose honor. To love someone even when the going gets tough, giving up seems easy, and marriage seems pressed on every side...but never crushed. Never abandoned.

Thank you, Mom and Dad, for giving me a godly example of marriage, for loving my when I have been unlovable, and, above all, for loving and honoring Jesus Christ by loving and honoring each other.

What a legacy I get to be a part of.

And all because two people fell in love and chose one another all those years ago.

Our Project

2010-12-19T20:02:00.000-06:00

Tiny Love and I spent the afternoon making and packaging two of the products we will be selling at a local store:

All-Purpose cleaner

Bath Salts

Later, Curlyjo and I worked on label designs. Obviously, we are amateurs.

So, we decided to go the ~~cheap~~ smart route and order pretty address labels online for our products. I think I like the rustic look, so we will keep the rest of the simple packaging.

We had so much fun working on this project together, and the girls are anxious to deliver them to the Market on the Square. I am proud of what we have made, and excited to see how much the girls are learning from it. On a Sunday afternoon, we covered art, home economics, graphic design, chemistry, math, and spelling. Just by making little jars of homemade products.

Isn't that sweet?

She looks well to the ways of her household, and does not eat the bread of idleness. Proverbs 31:27

If you...

2010-12-18T18:50:00.001-06:00

If you let your daughter have access to too many Junie B. Jones books, she will call everyone "Lucille" and "Meanie Jim," and she will want to go to the store dressed like this:

If you get to the Market on the Square, look for my homemade, all natural body products and cleaners. I will be selling:

deodorant
all-purpose cleaner
tub and tile scrub
bath salts

When I get the packaging created, I will post pics. I am not very good at that part, so it should be interesting. But, I am very excited to share this little business venture with my little helpers! Curlyjo and Tiny Love have been helping me make all of the products in our very own cozy kitchen. We like to put aprons over our pajamas...you know, for professional reasons ;)

Crafty Girls

2010-12-15T13:25:00.000-06:00

Hello, all! I have some things to share, so let's get started.

We moved Curlyjo back into the same bedroom as Tiny Love in order to make room in our tiny house for a "craft room." This room will eliminate the need for cleaning up the sewing project at the end of every craft session, as our home is just too cramped for leaving the machine and everything out. Now we have a solution! Thanks for the idea Flip Floppin' Mamma!

The sewing table.

Couponing/blogging table.

Craft table for little hands.

There is also another table for cutting out patterns, scrapbooking, etc.

Thank you to the Husband, also, for giving us this wonderful early Christmas gift!

Tiny Love's side of the room. She claims that she now sleeps better because she is by the wall.

Interesting.

Curlyjo's side of the room. She claims she sleeps better because she is not alone.

So sweet!

2. Daisy Dog is adjusting to life without Chins Monroe, who has succumbed to his cancer and is at peace now. We miss him terribly.

Poor Daisy...she just doesn't understand.

3. I have been cooking lots of yummy stuff. Case in point:

So yummy! Thanks for the idea, Country Simplicity!

4. My house is getting cleaned on a much better schedule, thanks to an awesome little website.

Great post, Time-Warp Wife!

5. Homeschooling is also going really well lately. I am growing more disciplined with our routine, and feel very encouraged by the products and ideas at the Vision Forum.

6. I could not express how much I am being blessed by studying the Bible every Tuesday afternoon with a sweet, wise, and godly woman.

Thanks, friends at Living Door!

Make sure you check out the links above. They will introduce you to people who have enriched my life with their creativity, friendship, encouragement, and provision.

Have a great day!

Happenings

2010-12-13T12:37:00.001-06:00

Lately we have been attempting to get into the Christmas spirit around the house. We got a real tree for the first time! We had to, as our fake tree had a busted stand and rusted branches. Not very merry. So, here is the finished product:

Can you tell that it is an extremely tight fit in our living room right now? Oh, well. 'Tis the season.

We also had a lovely visitor:

A sweet friend of mine stopped by to get her picture taken before she attended winter formal at the college in our town. She looked amazing. Then she told me that her dress was a bargain buy from the thrift store, her shoes were borrowed from a friend, and the whole ensemble cost a mere fifteen bucks. Oh, a girl after my own heart!

Plus, she is gorgeous. No amount of money can buy a charming and intelligent personality, and she has that as well. What an amazing woman she is becoming!

The rest of the week, we have been trying to overcome insomnia (me), trying to read 24 hours a day (Curlyjo), and trying not to get caught throwing stuff down the furnace registers (Tiny Love). Dad has had his hands full, too.

He has been enjoying some hunting in his down time, which hasn't been often. But, this weekend our area received its first accumulating snow, so hunting was in order. The Husband says snow makes the birds stupid, so they are easier to hunt. Hmmmm. Sitting out in the snow with wind whipping around, in a boat in the middle of a lake, no less. Which one of us gets a little silly in the snow? Anyway, the registers around our house have been hard at work drying the husband's hunting gear. That is, when they aren't being used as a trash can. Not that anyone around here would do that (Tiny Love).

Conversation with God

2010-12-08T07:00:00.000-06:00

What has been going on in my life?

Many things that I cannot share here, out of respect and love for others.

But, God and I have been chatting about all of it, so I will share a little of our conversation.

It usually goes something like this:

Lord, I am so tired. I just want to get some sleep.

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

Okay, that would be really nice.

Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

Yoke? Oh, I get it. If I just submit to Your ways, I will find rest. I guess that means I have to give up my sin, plans, worries, and fears? I am not sure...

For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.

Easy and light...I could go for that. So, could you go ahead and make it easy to do what I need to do?

My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.

Yeah, I heard that. But I just feel weak.

No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And I am faithful; I will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, I will provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.

So, I have to go through some struggling. I have to stand up under it. But, I am just so tired.

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

Oh, that would be so nice.

Take my yoke...

Thank you, God, that you never roll your eyes at me. I so deserve it.

Scriptures adapted from 1 Corinthians 10:12-13 and Matthew 11:28-30

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-11-29T17:33:00.000-06:00

FOR TODAY, November 29, 2010

Outside my window...it is dark and pouring down rain.

I am thinking...well, I thought all day that it was the 28th of November, so I think I lost a day somewhere.

I am thankful for...the blessings of a wonderful Christian mother and father who taught me to love and fear the Lord.

From the learning rooms...school work has been sporadic the last couple of weeks, but Tiny Love is reading and writing for fun, and Curlyjo is as well. Between that and the multitudes of UNO games that have taken place in recent days, I figure we have several subjects covered ;)

From the kitchen...I served "That's Italian" soup and turtle bars from a Betty Crocker mix. It was delicious and sweet enough to induce a raging sugar headache. Thanks, Betty.

I am wearing...more skirts. I get a lot of weird looks, but I feel feminine and modest, which pleases the Lord and keeps me from being hyper-focused on whether or not my jeans make my bottom look big.

I am creating...memories.

I am going...to start a Bible study with a sweet and wise friend tomorrow. I am very excited!

I am reading..."Little Women." I just love this book! I am also reading the book of Isaiah.

I am hoping...in the Lord for deliverance from some bad habits and self-defeating thoughts.

I am hearing...my kids laughing at "America's Funniest Home Videos."

Around the house...there is laundry, toys, coats, and books. It is time for evening clean up!

One of my favorite things...hot tea, shared with a friend, on a rainy afternoon.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Women's Bible study here in my house, lunch with my siblings, Christmas shopping, and fitting in school!

Here is picture for thought I am sharing: all I want for Christmas is this!

For more simple women, visit www.thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com.

Just In Case...

2010-11-22T18:50:00.000-06:00

Just in case you wondered if you were loved...

you were.

Just in case you wondered if you were special...

you were.

Just in case you wondered if you would be missed...

you will.

Just in case you wondered if it was hard for me to hold your sweet head when you left me...

it was.

Goodbye, Mr. Chins Monroe.

No need to wonder if you will be remembered...

you are.

To learn more about Chins' story, click here.

Slow Cooker Fancy Chicken

2010-11-18T07:04:00.000-06:00

OK, I totally didn't remember to take a picture of this dinner, so you are just going to have to trust me...it is sooooo good!

Slow Cooker Fancy Chicken

3-4 Chicken breasts, thawed

1/2 c. chicken broth

1/2 c. white wine

8 oz. fresh sliced mushrooms (I used baby bellas)

1/2 a red onion, chopped

1 tbs. chopped garlic

1 tbs. dried parsley

1 1/2 tsp. dried rosemary

2 bay leaves

salt and pepper, to taste

1/2 c. heavy cream

2 tsp. corn starch

Place all ingredients except the cream and cornstarch into the slow cooker. I literally just piled it all in there, didn't even stir. Cook on low for about 6-7 hours or high for about 4 hours.

When the chicken is done pull it apart in the slow cooker with a fork. Just stir it all up, making sure to leave the chicken chunky. If it isn't on low, turn it down now and leave the lid off for a few minutes.

Stir the corn starch into the cream. Add the cream mixture and stir. Let it cook on low for about 30 minutes.

Serve over brown rice.

Oh, my. This was wonderful.

My husband (who hates rice and barely tolerates chicken) loved this. I fed it to four kids, and they all thought I was amazing.

And I was. Because I made three chicken breasts feed six people really well.

Look out.

A Perfect Afternoon

2010-11-17T10:23:00.000-06:00

Yesterday we had one of those peaceful afternoons that remind me why I love homeschooling. Just living life, enjoying each other, and spending time learning together is what makes all the fights over math, struggles with spelling, and frustrations with sight words all worthwhile.

It was cold and gray yesterday, a reminder that winter is on its way. It was a perfect day for reading. We made a trip to the library, then came home to prepare the perfect setting for spending the afternoon lost in our books.

Big, comfy pillows, snacks, hot tea, and good books. Well, I don't know if Barbie's adventures qualify as intellectual prose, but we will go with it.

We took turns reading aloud parts of our books that were funny or interesting.

Curlyjo gave us the low down on the trials of being a Pioneer.

I shared a wonderful prayer by St. Francis of Assisi.

Tiny Love flipped around all over the floor and ate copious amounts of grapes.

It was wonderful.

Good for the mind, good for the soul.

I will depart for now, leaving you with a little inspiration.

"Lord, make me an instrument of your peace!

Where there is hatred, let me sow love;

Where there is injury, pardon;

Where there is doubt, faith;

Where there is despair, hope;

Where there is sadness, joy.

O Divine Master, grant that

I may not so much seek

To be consoled as to console;

To be understood as to understand;

To be loved as to love.

For

It is in giving that we receive;

It is in pardoning that we are pardoned;

It is in dying that we are born to Eternal Life. Amen"

St. Francis of Assisi

A Whole Box of Gratitude

2010-11-16T06:30:00.003-06:00

It seems to me that the Thanksgiving holiday has simply become a time to anticipate Christmas and begin crafting the list of things we want to receive this holiday season. I am just as guilty, as I have already received my Christmas present from the Husband, that sweet man:

While I am very grateful for the thoughtful gift, as I am a complete nerd and will be using it all of the time, I don't want to see this season as just another opportunity to add things to my house. I want to use this season to add gratitude to my life.

So, in the spirit of not being totally materialistic this Thanksgiving, I have created a Gratitude Box. Oh, the things the we can do with shoe boxes.

The idea is that we will simply write things we are thankful for on a slip of paper and add them to the box in the days until Thanksgiving.

Then, on Thanksgiving day, we will open the box and read all the wonderful blessings we have recognized in our lives.

Some of us are totally into it.

I wonder what hers will say, as she is just learning to write. I am guessing "Mom" and "Dad" and "Curlyjo" will be easy enough, but whether or not she will stick to other short-vowel words remains to be seen.

I know I am thankful for the privilege of being there to teach her those words and then watch her use them to thank the Lord.

What a blessing.

Hello!

2010-11-15T15:01:00.000-06:00

So, I haven't posted because:

I have been really busy?
I don't have anything fun to talk about?
I haven't been taking any pictures?
I can't focus long enough to put together a coherent sentence?
I had a lull in creativity?
I have some weighty things on my mind?

Pretty much all of those apply. But, I miss my little boggy, so I will try to show up on here as often as possible. Now, if you will excuse me, I need to get my camera out and force my children and my pets to look adorable and engaging. See you in the morning!

Get the Tape

2010-10-26T19:51:00.000-05:00

Well, I haven't blogged much lately, because all I would have had to say would be something like this:

I got up. I took my temp. I ate ibuprofen. I went to bed.

*cough, cough*

But, I am finally on the mend.

Today was a cool and breezy fall day.

The girls decided to get some fall exercise while I sat around and coughed.

I think flip flops are the perfect attire for raking leaves, don't you?

*cough*

Then Tiny Love, our resident connoisseur of field guides, spotted this book at the library:

Well, Tiny loves all things natural, but practical? I don't know. She once tried to keep some cicada shells as pets.

*cough*

Inside the book, she zeroed in on a picture that represents two things she adores:

Bringing yard waste into the house and finding reasons to use copious amounts of Scotch tape.

So, we made our own color wheel out of leaves and taped it to a pizza box.

Then we posed with it, which is both natural and practical.

We actually had a lot of fun looking for our leaves and getting the project ready.

Now a perfect fall day comes to a close, one that will live on in our memories, shining, unmarred...

*cough, cough, cough*

Well, almost.

Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-10-11T07:37:00.000-05:00

FOR TODAY, October 11, 2010

Outside my window...the sun has yet to peek above the trees, but the birds are singing. It is cool and comfortable. I can hear the world waking up.

I am thinking...about my "To Do" list for today. I think I may have over estimated the hours in one day.

I am thankful for...beef, which always entices Brother to come and visit me.

From the learning rooms...we are having school today, as we don't observe Columbus Day. Not because he is a legendary farce...well, that may have something to do with it.

From the kitchen...we will be having burgers on the grill, oven fries, and salad. Come and get it, Brother.

I am wearing...men's boxer shorts and a men's undershirt. Maybe I am having an identity crisis.

I am creating...balance in my life. Starting with desserts. Today I will balance the amount of desserts in my life. No, one for each hand is not the direction I was headed with that.

I am going...to Beaver Dam with friends for lunch.

I am reading...The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People. It is awesome, in that "Wow, I have no idea what I am doing in life" sort of way.

I am hoping...that the weather begins to reflect that summer is over.

I am hearing...cars driving by, little Daisy Dog feet trotting on the wood floors, and the bell on Chins' collar.

Around the house...there is lots to do. Today I will mop the kitchen floor and clean the bathroom. When the kids get up, they will find out that they have a chore list, too. I am sure it will be a welcome surprise.

One of my favorite things...watching the sun come up and touch the tops of the trees in my back yard. I love that the top branches of the trees may be the ones that feel the wind first, but they also get touched by the sun first. God is very good that way.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Dinner out with my friends, Awana, chores, school, hayride on Saturday!

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...Mom and Dad will be home in three weeks! I am so ready. I miss them terribly.

Mom will be with her kids, smiling and happy.

Dad will be sitting in his rightful place, at the head of the table, which will make his children smile and be happy.

To participate in The Simple Woman's Daybook, click here.

Ladies' Day of Laughs

2010-10-10T08:03:00.000-05:00

Yesterday my sisters and I spent the day at a "Ladies' Day Out" event that was hosted by the WMU.

I fear that most of the hilarity that took place will be lost in translation, so I will just stick to the photos.

The event offered workshops on parenting, scrap booking, and Zumba.

Zumba is dancing.

We were in a Baptist church.

That alone was enough to lend laughter to the day.

We began with donuts, coffee, and chatting with friends.

Baptists don't do much without donuts and coffee.

In case introduction is necessary, meet The First Born, my sister.

She earns the title of first born by more than position; she is serious, studious, and responsible. Well, she is until we sisters get together and take a workshop that should have been titled "101 ways to wear a scarf from Salvation Army: Cover Your Cleavage."

But, I digress.

Meet Baby Sister. You will know her better as the mother of The Roo, which is her claim to fame. Well, that and her hilarious personality. She is funny, outspoken, and hardworking. I cannot help but have fun when she is around. Especially in a workshop called "101 Ways to Wear..."

You get the point.

Baby sister decided to take advantage of the Women's Health booth and get her blood pressure checked.

After taking her blood pressure three times, with two different devices, the nurse declared that Baby Sister should see her doctor, as her blood pressure is much too high.

Her response?

Mirth and disbelief.

I think the nurse was afraid that we spiked the coffee.

Workshops and lunch, followed by a wonderful group speaker, and Ladies' Day Out was over.

So we did the natural thing and hit Rural King before heading home.

Because these girls know how to have fun.

My Favorite Photos

2010-10-08T08:19:00.000-05:00

I had a lover's quarrel with the world. ~Robert Frost, The Lesson for Today, 1942

Some of my favorite photos of my kids are the crying ones.

I am not sure what that says about me as a mother.

This may be the only time in their lives when their grief is not only cute but easy to remedy.

I will enjoy it while I can.

Cool Kiddos

2010-10-06T21:15:00.000-05:00

Curlyjo went to spend the night with her best friend on Monday night.

Curlyjo's best friend, we will call her The Bug (a nickname granted to her by her own mother), has a little sister, who we will call Leeny.

Leeny and Tiny Love are also best friends.

And they are TROUBLE.

They have been known to go streaking naked across the yard, lock themselves into an abandoned vehicle, and plan their future "mudding" adventures.

Where are their parents?

So, when Tiny Love and Leeny decided to have a sleepover Monday night at my house, I was on the lookout for deviant behavior.

They were deviant, alright.

Leeny is home schooled, and she and Tiny Love use the same Math curriculum.

They decided to play Math games--for FUN.

Who says we didn't do school work???

Then they watched two movies, which significantly reduced their newly exercised brain cells.

Who says home schooled kids aren't normal???

Then they sacked out for the night.

"Leeny, you are hogging the covers. Now we have no choice but to spoon."

Ah, friendship.

The next day, after stuffing baby dolls under their shirts and "giving birth" ten times apiece by pulling said baby out from under the shirt by the legs, Leeny headed home and Curlyjo returned.

And we had another visitor.

The Roo came to visit his Auntie, complete with backed up bowels and three spare pairs of undies.

After a cup of apple cider, we used all the undies.

And had to take a bath.

And if I give the Roo a bath, he will end up with a Mohawk.

'Cause he is too cool for school.

Aren't we all?

Sunday Fun

2010-10-04T08:58:00.000-05:00

Yesterday we went to visit the Husband's parents.

Naturally we toured their yard in a horse-drawn carriage.

Doesn't everyone?

That mammoth beast is Sadie.

I admit to being a little scared by the carriage ride. I kept having flashbacks to a certain carriage ride as a child when our feisty pony, Rusty, spooked by the lawn mower, tore the cart up with me in it hanging on for dear life.

Here is some great life advice:

If the carriage ride starts to go awry, JUMP OUT. Don't hang on.

But Sadie did well.

I jumped out anyway.

Daisy Dog played with her friends.

Well, they played with her.

She checked out Sadie.

Whoa.

Then I decided to take a few pictures of the kids, because my mother-in-laws yard is just one big photo opportunity.

Please disregard the jelly stain on her pants.

Then we went in to have dinner, and I ate meat.

When my mother-in-law makes turkey breast, I eat it.

Because it is that good.

We had a great visit!

And some great memories.

Though next time I may skip the carriage ride.

Just to be safe.

That Poor Tree

2010-10-02T08:37:00.000-05:00

Let's reminisce.

This week I have been thinking about how awesome God has been to us in home schooling the girls. Curlyjo and Tiny Love are doing so well, they are both so intelligent in their own ways, having so many talents and gifts.

Lest you think I am taking credit for their success, let me take you back to year one of homeschooling.

This photo was taken the first year of home schooling.

Aren't they precious?

See that tree behind them?

I spent the first year of homeschooling stoning that tree.

Literally.

Confession: I hate teaching children to read.

The incessant confusion between "b" and "d," the sight words that obey none of the given rules, the sounding out of every word that begins to sound like a bad case of Turrets.

I had so little patience for it.

Then there was Math.

Curlyjo hated the traditional Math we used. The stupid flashcards and worksheets.

She was way behind in Math, and I felt that my whole worth hinged on her ability to pass a timed addition test.

So, we spent the first year leaving the table after home schooling with Curlyjo in tears and with me in the driveway throwing rocks at the trees in frustration.

Mature, I know.

Fast forward three years, and things are so much better.

Curlyjo is catching up in Math, and I am much more gentle in teaching Tiny Love to read.

Well, we haven't gotten to sight words yet, so this could still go south.

But, I see how God is blessing our faithfulness, His grace is covering my mistakes, and He is equipping us all for the task He has given us.

And I stopped throwing things.

I enjoy them so much. I love that Curlyjo still wants to take her doll to the grocery store.

I am so grateful that God has grace for me in this endeavor, that He continues to be faithful when I am discouraged.

I threw rocks at the tree.

And Heaven laughed.

And sent me more help.

Spice It Up

2010-09-26T20:49:00.000-05:00

Mr. Chins has come to live out his final days in our home.

While he seems to be doing well, we believe that he still has cancer. So, we brought him with us, and he is spending his precious time left with us, lounging on my couch, shedding fur all over the spots touched by the sun. He also enjoys sleeping in Daisy Dog's pillow, when available. It isn't often available.

Tiny Love has acquired the job of feeding Chins his daily meals.

Last night, she obviously felt that his dinner needed something extra.

She emptied in the usual fare:

"Hmmm, Rotisserie Chicken and Gravy? Sound good, but I think it needs a little something..."

She scurried out back to this:

My lovely little thyme plant.

Dinner is served.

Chicken is better with thyme. I agree.

Chins was not impressed.

I was totally impressed--matching the herb with an appropriate food (well, cat food) and knowing how to strip the leaves off and make it pretty.

OK, I was also a little grossed out.

If it is true that we eat with our eyes first, Chins must have shut his.

He waited for a less fancy dinner.

"Chicken and gravy, straight up. No garnish, please."

Roast Chicken Dinner

2010-09-24T09:03:00.001-05:00

I made a stellar dinner for the family this week! Brother was happy, especially since there was a leftover chicken carcass to pick at. He likes meat for a snack.

Roasted Chicken and Potatoes

1 whole chicken, rinsed and patted dry

6 Yukon Gold Potatoes, quartered

For the Chicken:

2 tsp. paprika

1 1/2 tsp. Garlic Salt

1 tsp. onion powder

For the potatoes:

2 tbs. olive oil

garlic salt, to taste

1 tsp. thyme

Mix all the chicken spices. Sprinkle over the chicken and rub it in the skin. Sprinkle some of it in the cavity of the chicken.

Place in a Ziploc bag and refrigerate for 6-8 hours or overnight.

Coat the potatoes in olive oil and seasoning. Pour onto a baking sheet.

Place the marinated chicken on a broiler pan.

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees.

Roast the chicken and potatoes in the oven for 30 minutes. Then turn the heat down to 350 degrees, flip the potatoes around a little, and bake another 45 minutes.

Let stand for 10 minutes when done baking before cutting.

It was totally pretty and juicy. But I don't eat meat. So I made this little vegetarian stove top dinner to have with the salad and bread I served along with the meal:

Garlicky white beans with spinach, tomatoes, and Parmesan.

Everyone left the table full and happy.

Brother left with the carcass.

Truckin'

2010-09-23T07:49:00.000-05:00

Brother (aka, Mr. Responsible) got himself an new truck.
*insert hillbilly accent, because I know you will*

Yes, he's a grown-up now.

Complete with truck payment and laundry duties.

With Mom and Dad in Canada, brother was on his own to test drive, haggle the salesperson, and sign the agreement to pay, on time, for this beauty.

In the interest of proving to Dad that he got a good deal, Brother would like me to include the following picture:

Some people want to please Daddy with monetary success or fancy degrees.

Our Dad is far more impressed by getting a good deal on a truck with a low odometer reading.

We all define success a different way.

He is proud.

I am proud of him.

Dad will be very proud.

His son is growing up, taking responsibility for his future.

But, inside, he is still the little boy who wanted to wear his boots to school every day, even when they were way too small.

See?

Congratulations, Brother!

Safe Little Sheep

2010-09-21T06:00:00.000-05:00

(source)

I am struggling.

Some of my most treasured relationships have been under siege, attacked by the enemies of my soul:

Pride

Criticism

Bitterness

Anger

I have felt without an anchor, to hold me in the place I should be.
But, I am held.
And you know what?
I shall not want.

I shall not want for kindness.

For mercy.

For friendship.

For love.

For correction.

For power.

For family.

For protection.

For direction.

Psalm 23

A psalm of David.
1 The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
3 he restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake.
4 Even though I walk
through the valley of the shadow of death, [a]
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
5 You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
6 Surely goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD
forever.

You, there. Fear, condemnation, torment, sadness. You better watch it. I brought my Shepherd, and if there is a dark alley around here, you don't want to meet Him in it.
'Cause I shall not want.
For any good thing.

Setting In

2010-09-20T08:14:00.000-05:00

We are settled into our house again, and regular life has commenced. I still wake up every morning grateful for the home I have been given, feeling more at peace, knowing that my God will not test me beyond what I am able...as He has shown Himself to me time and time again. But, there is a sadness that is new. A pain that was dull, covered over by the joy of home. Now as the newness wears off, the pain is more pronounced.

I miss Brother.

He is part of the fabric of our family in a different way than he was before.

You know how you define the eras of your marriage by events?

The years before kids.

When we had Curlyjo.

When we lived on Charles street.

When we had Tiny Love.

During Tiny Love's surgery.

When we moved to our house.

When we lived with Brother.

He is part of our story.

And right now, I miss his quirky ways, seeing him every day, sharing life with him, watching him grow and mature into a man.

He comes to see us here, at our home, to have dinner.

But it is different.

The landscape has changed.

Brother, I love you so much. I think you are a fine young man, that you will be a wonderful husband and father someday. I see through your struggles, your faults, your terrifyingly messy bedroom, and I see a man I can respect. I see a man who loves his parents and sisters.

I am blessed to have you as part of my story.

Back from the Abbey

2010-09-19T07:35:00.001-05:00

My absence from the blog was viral.

Curlyjo has been plagued with fever and tummy ache for two days.

I have been plagued with the sound of the television for two days.

That would be The Sound of Music--again.

"How do you solve a problem like Maria?"

Easy...MUTE.

I love that movie, but seriously. I am over it for now.

What does Curlyjo need when sick and watching enough TV to cause muscle atrophy?

Popcorn, extra salty. You know, for the electrolytes.

I tried to sneak in some healthy food.

Some people like to exploit sister's illness, watching TV while flipping all over the place and taking over any uneaten snacks.

Thankfully, Curlyjo is on the mend, and Tiny Love has not contracted anything from sister.

And the TV is off.

Ahhhh, I can hear myself think.

"The hills are alive, with the sound..."

*sigh*

It lingers.

Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-09-15T07:50:00.000-05:00

To participate in The Simple Woman's Daybook, click here.

FOR TODAY, September 15, 2010

Outside my window...the sun is rising, the fog is lifting, the new day has begun. Funny, that is exactly what is happening in my heart.

I am thinking...about someone who is very important to me, but also very upset with me. I am praying that God will heal that relationship, because I don't want to be without it.

I am thankful for...God's grace, deliverance, and assurance in times of trouble.

From the learning rooms...Tiny Love thinks she can't read yet, but can. I remember this phase with Curlyjo, and the amazing moment when she realized that she could indeed read.

From the kitchen...tonight we are having dinner at the church before Awana. On the menu: hamburger horseshoes with fries. I don't think that is going to work.

I am wearing...workout clothes, as I have already walked the dog and will be going to the gym, come hades or high water.

I am creating...a budget for the Financial Peace University class I am taking. Ack, I hate this process.

I am going...to get things done today. Yesterday felt like a total bust.

I am reading...Where the Red Fern Grows to the kids. I love it!

I am hoping...in the Lord.

I am hearing...the bell on Chins' collar as he wanders around the house, waiting for the girls to get up.

Around the house...there is animal hair. I need to vacuum again.

One of my favorite things...walking Daisy Dog, even though she has to smell every blade of grass and wait until we get REALLY close to home to do her "business." My neighbors are going to hate me.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Visiting with a friend and her new baby this afternoon. I can't wait to hold that sweet baby! Then Awana starts tonight (so excited!), and we may take a field trip to the apple orchard later this week.

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...the sweet little reasons I vacuum daily.

Cuddle time for Chins Monroe and Daisy Dog.

My fur babies.

Weekly Menu and a Treat!

2010-09-14T15:43:00.000-05:00

Happy Menu Plan ~~Monday~~ Tuesday! So, I am behind schedule, which seems to be my new schedule.

This week's menu:

Meal 1: Tacos (which I made with Morningstar Farms Veggie Crumbles, and no one knew ;)
Meal 2: Crockpot Turkey Breast, Roasted Vegetables, Brown Rice
Meal 3: Homemade Pizza
Meal 4: Lasagna, Bread, Salad
Meal 5: Eggs, Turkey Bacon, and toast

One night we will eat at church and one night will be leftovers. Brother will be here for the turkey night and the lasagna, I am sure. I bet he will be glad he dodged that "veggie crumble" bullet.

In other news, I had a killer sweet tooth attack today. I wanted to keep it pretty healthy, so I decided to try No Bake Apple "Cupcakes," an idea I found here.

Sweet tooth remedy:

Pumpkin Butter from our local orchard...bliss.

One apple, halved, topped with Pumpkin Butter and chopped walnuts.

The cupcake thing would have been better executed by a larger apple bottom.

My apple was a runt.

But, this was just what I was craving!

Out Like a Lamb

2010-09-12T08:40:00.000-05:00

Our quaint little town has little carnival every year, the Lions Carnival (hosted by the local Lions Club). It is a carnival only in the sense that there are games, such as "Dunk-your-pastor-in-the-Dunk-Tank" (fun for kids and adults alike); rides, such as "Mini-Ferris-Wheel-located-just-under-the-power-lines;" and local food, such as a Napoleon-Dynamite-esque selection of Prairie Farms Ice Cream. It is cheap, the kids love it, and I get to see pretty much every person in our town.

We began our Lions Carnival fun with the "parade." Why the quotes? The parade is only a parade in the sense that a few otherwise strange looking objects follow each other down the street hurling cheap candy at onlookers while cops follow, watching. Here, see for yourself.

Parade = Tractors

This is the "Bucking Bronco," a trailer with saddles and a messed up axle that simulates a three-legged pony ride. As a rule, I never ride anything with a saddle, but peer pressure is a pain--even when you are over thirty. So, last night I "rode" it. I stood in the middle, holding on tightly to a terrified five-year-old boy, and still managed to get off of the three minute ride with lower back pain.

Can you say "old?"

Where is the cop when you need to discuss child restraints?

Hey, aren't they supposed to be at a game? Watch it boys--the only thing we take more seriously than tractors is football.

"Dude, I know. "

He looks how I felt: resigned.

Here is how The Husband spent the four minutes of the parade:

Baby Elyse wanted to come along, but like a good mother, Tiny Love arranged for child care before hurling herself into the street for smashed Tootsie Rolls.

Reactions once the fun was over? (Wow, that was fast.)

"What was that? Where is the CHOCOLATE?"

I tried to explain the word "recession."

Never miss a teachable moment.

Ever the optimist, Curlyjo just looks at the bright side: Dots.

We ended the evening (you know, five minutes after it started) by watching The Husband pose on government property outside "The Million Dollar Courthouse."

I have been looking for teachable moments with him, too.

Sarcasm aside (no, really?), we had a great time.

But, like Randy Jackson, "That was just weird for me."

Sweet Potato Oven Fries

2010-09-09T08:53:00.000-05:00

Tiny Love said something to me yesterday that all mothers long to hear:

"Mom, your cooking is better than McDonald's."

Be still, my heart.

What did I make that was cause for such a compliment?

Better-Than-McDonald's Sweet Potato Oven Fries

1 large sweet potato, sliced (you can do a half moon shape like this or more of a French fry shape)

1 tbs. olive oil

garlic salt (to taste or maybe 1/2 a tsp.)

paprika (to taste or maybe 1 tsp.)

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees. Toss all ingredients in large bowl. Line a baking sheet with foil and spray with nonstick cooking spray. Bake for about 20 minutes, turning once halfway through the cooking time.

Serve!

Ronald has nothing on me.

My Two Fathers

2010-09-08T09:39:00.000-05:00

I hesitate sometimes to write about things that are highly personal, deeply held. But, after meditating upon God's Word and praying through my thoughts, I am going to share. Because anything that causes an increase in one's understanding of who God the Father is, is a good thing to share. So, here goes.

I have an amazing earthly father. This side of heaven, they don't come much more devoted and stable. Still, as a young girl, I didn't always understand him...he was elusive, complicated, so big in my mind that he seemed inaccessible. Sometimes when I think of the women out there who have had such difficult and horrible relationships with their unstable, abusive fathers, I feel guilty for having the audacity to need to understand my relationship with my Dad. But, over the years, I have come to recognize that my relationship with my Dad was paramount to my understanding of my Heavenly Father. I looked at Dad and thought, "God is like that."

What a heavy weight we parents bear. What a terrifying weight.

This morning in my Bible study time, I read this:

"One thing God has spoken, two things have I heard:

that you, O God, are strong,

and that you, O Lord, are loving."

Psalm 62:11-12

All of this time spent trying to wrap my mind around my earthly father and my Heavenly Father, and this simple concept is all I really needed.

Is he loving? Yes.
Is he strong? Yes.

Is HE loving? Perfectly.
Is HE strong? All-powerful.

It is best to approach Daddies, earthy or Heavenly, with the mind and heart of a child. Don't pick it apart. Don't try to understand them perfectly.

Just rest in the strength and love that is God...that is Father.

Man to Man

2010-09-07T19:07:00.000-05:00

Chins: So, I never got to thank you for what you did.

The Husband: That isn't necessary.

Chins: Well, I just feel like a little display of gratitude is in order.

The Husband: I am not really one of those "cat people."

Chins: That's OK. I am totally one of those "people cats."

The Husband: Maybe this isn't so bad.

Chins: See...so, thanks

The Husband: Sure.

Crock Pot Mulled Cider

2010-09-03T20:46:00.000-05:00

Today was such a lovely day! The temperature was cool and so much like fall that the kids and I piled into the car and hit the local apple orchard for some cider. Then we came home to MULL IT while we worked in the yard all day (thanks for everything, Mother-in-Law!). At the end of a busy fall day, I had hot cider on my pretty little front porch. Perfect.

Crock Pot Mulled Cider

2 quarts apple cider (our orchard has the BEST)

4 tbs. pure maple syrup (more or less, to taste)

2 cinnamon sticks

1 tsp. whole cloves

1 tsp. whole allspice

2-3 inch peeling of lemon rind

Pour all ingredients into a small crock pot:

Heat on high for two hours, or on low for four to five hours.

You can put all the spices in cheesecloth and tie it for easy removal, or use a tea ball for the allspice and cloves.

Or you can throw it all in because you have landscaping to do, and you don't have time to hunt down the tea ball.

Then just fish it out later with a slotted spoon.

Serve!

The only thing missing is a campfire...and s'mores.

Okay, two things.

Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-09-02T08:06:00.000-05:00

FOR TODAY: September 2, 2010

Outside my window...it is gray and wet. Not a good day for dog walking.

I am thinking...about how to keep my dog from peeing in the house while it rains. I am also thinking about the AWANA meeting that I will be attending tonight, my friend who had a new baby yesterday, and how to celebrate our 13 year wedding anniversary this weekend.

I am thankful for...the last 13 years, even the really difficult ones.

From the learning rooms...we are back to school! It is going really well, though in true back-to-school fashion, the kids have caught a cold. Germs do not discriminate between public and home schools.

From the kitchen...tonight I will be serving pasta with bacon and peas, one of my favorite dishes. The husband will pick out the bacon and avoid the peas.

I am wearing...my glasses, so I hope no one comes to the door.

I am creating...a stack of note cards on which I have written all of the verses I need to memorize for AWANA.

I am going...to the gym, even though I don't want to, especially because I don't want to. Flexing the old "self-discipline muscle." If it gets strong enough, maybe it will push away the brownies.

I am reading...Transforming Children into Spiritual Champions by George Barna.

I am hoping...that fall will set in soon, and that my grocery store will start carrying canned pumpkin soon. I NEED some pumpkin in my life...pumpkin oatmeal, pumpkin bread, pumpkin yogurt.

I am hearing...the fridge humming, the dog snoring, my fingers tapping the keys, and my brain chattering.

Around the house...things are so neat and clean :) I love it. Yesterday I went to do laundry and didn't have enough for a load. It was strange.

One of my favorite things...my parents, who will be home exactly two months from today...for good.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Getting cable TV, which goes against my personal convictions, but not enough to not get DVR. I am so mainstream. We will also be cleaning Mom's house for Brother (ewwwww), walking the dog too often to mention, and (hopefully) going out to eat for our anniversary WITHOUT the kids this year (last year we took them with us).

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...

Almost 13 years already?

Love you, Husband.

In Memory

2010-09-01T06:30:00.002-05:00

In honor of the wonderful friend I lost:

We had this lovely rock engraved to mark the place of her burial.

It was an inexpensive way to make a memorial to the pet we all loved.

Well, love...

I know, Tiny Love. Me, too.

First Day of School

2010-08-31T15:07:00.001-05:00

The first day of school went great! The students this year:

Tiny Love, who is would be in kindergarten or first grade.

Curlyjo, who would be in fourth grade.

I say "would be" because they are homeschooled, and I don't really know what the public school is doing. I know that my girls are bright, curious, fun, and busy. That is good enough for me!

After lessons are over for the day, I do this:

Settle in my chair with a cup of tea, my planner and a book. And my cell phone...I have a friend who is due to have a baby any day now, and I want to know when he arrives.

The girls do this:

Visit Webkins World, the place where brain cells and patience go to die.

They are allowed 15 minutes apiece.

Daisy Dog does this:

We all have our own version of relaxation!

What a wonderful and peaceful first day of school.

Menu Plan Monday

2010-08-30T06:43:00.000-05:00

For more menu ideas, visit orgjunkie.com

Moving is (mostly) behind us now, and we are so happy to be in our home again!

Today is our first day of school here at the Campbell Homeschool. I will post "First Day of School" photos tomorrow.

Here is what our menu looks like for the week. Brother, you may want to review this and see what nights you will be joining us for dinner...my guess is the nights that include beef.

Monday: Beef Stew, Whole Wheat Beer Bread (see you later, Brother)

Tuesday: Italian Chicken Sandwiches, Fresh veggies with Ranch

Wednesday: Potato and Ham Rosti, Salad, Multigrain bread

Thursday: Pasta with bacon and peas, salad

Friday: Homemade Pizza, veggies

Saturday: Grilled Cheese Sandwiches, Tomato soup

Sunday: Leftovers

Now, a little peek inside my cozy castle:

I don't know what the deal is with the weird lighting in this photo, but you get the idea. Just picture it without the jaundiced look. See that lump on the ottoman?

Kitty Friend would have just been livid.

My kitchen:

Cheerful, no?

I even commemorated the move by buying myself some flowers. Because, why not?

Men, you should check out Aldi for all your flower needs. Cheap and so cute.

Have a great day!

Home

2010-08-23T10:47:00.000-05:00

This weekend I got my dining room all set up at my house. My new blogging station:

This is also our homeschool area.

Talk about multi-tasking.

Some may call it small.

I would call it just right.

The next room I hope to finish is the living room:

So cozy.

The entry way is almost done, packed with books, just the way I like it.

Now, I am off to wash windows.

I love how my old house feels new again, in that exciting way, but not in that "doesn't-feel-like-home-yet" way.

Have a wonderful day!

What a Great View

2010-08-20T12:30:00.000-05:00

I like it when I can look out the window and see this beautiful sight:

Seeing my kids happy and enjoying each other just makes me feel this weird and overwhelming sense of well-being.

It gives me the encouragement I need to press on. Just like working outside the home, being at home full time has its struggles:

loneliness and isolation.

A feeling that everything you do today, you have done before, and will need to do again tomorrow.

The fear that no one notices or values what you do all day.

The guilt of not getting it all done, thus proving your worth.

The need for being self-motivated, self-governing, and balancing it all with a huge amount of God's grace and direction.

But this makes it all worth it.

This reminds me that the value I have in their lives is unable to be measured by clean floors, huge stockpiles of home-canned goods, and perfectly filled out homeschool worksheets.

Those things are wonderful, even fulfilling at times. But home is more than a house where I keep busy all day. Homeschooling is more than worksheets and tests. Life is more than an endless list of things to achieve.

Home is where I make my kids feel safe and loved by letting them be themselves and enjoying them in the process.

Homeschooling is learning through life AND books.

And life has one central gaze point:

to glorify God, not myself.

Cookies So Good, Your Teeth Fall Out

2010-08-19T08:37:00.000-05:00

I baked cookies on Saturday, and the recipe made the most delicious Chocolate Chip Cookies EVER.

I sent some over to each of my sisters' houses to welcome them home from their mission trip to El Salvador.

And to keep myself from eating the whole batch by myself.

Sharing is good for everyone.

Smitten Kitchen's recipe! Go here to get it.

Now, don't eat too many, or your teeth might fall out.

Take it from someone who has endured a sugar-induced tooth loss:

Someone who doesn't consume sugar like the favored form of addictive stimulants, and she still lost a tooth last week (ah, rites of passage, how I love you for letting me think Curlyjo is still just a little girl):

Here, Curlyjo, I will let you have the last cookie.

Too slow, girl.

Maybe next time.

"Growing" Good Character

2010-08-18T06:30:00.006-05:00

There was at one time a belief that we all have cancer cells in our bodies. Blink and you may have missed this news, because it was quickly defamed and called "alarmist." Turns out the science was inflated. (Or as I like to call it, Darwin-ized). So, this physical truth is an untruth. But, I wonder if it may be a spiritual truth?

I am currently plowing through (i.e., reading rapidly between chapters of another book) Have a New Kid By Friday by Dr. Kevin Leman.

I don't want new kids per se, but I do like to hone the old parenting skills. Plus, the cover was all in primary colors, which we all know is attractive (McD's). I digress...

What if we all have "bad character cells?" What if my sweet babies were born with the potential to be rotten, disrespectful, mean-hearted punks and my job is to help those "cells" die...at the cross of Jesus? I wonder if I am creating an environment that encourages the growth of bad character or good?

The exasperated sigh when they need something while I am ON THE INTERNET????? The refusal to be inconvenienced by what is BEST for THEM? Eye rolling, venting at the driver in front of me, grumbling when life doesn't go my way? They see it all. And all of those things are like McDonald's for the soul. And I fed it to them.

I don't do everything right as a parent...I don't do everything wrong, either. But, if I don't like what I see in them, maybe I better take a good look at myself.

1 Corinthians 15:33 reminds me,
"Do not be misled: Bad company corrupts good character."

The company they keep most is ME.

I don't want to corrupt--I want to instruct.

I don't want to mislead--I want to guide wisely.

Good thing I have an ever-present encouragement, guide, and admonition in the Word of God.

Thanks, Dr. Leman, for reminding me that parenting is heavy stuff, God-sized work.
And I need to get in.

Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-08-17T08:09:00.002-05:00

FOR TODAY: August 17, 2010

Outside my window...birds are singing. My windows are open, and I can smell a hint of fall on the breeze.

I am thinking...about how strange it will be to wake up in my own home again.

I am thankful for...the hardest two years of my life...2009 and 2010. God has taught me some difficult and amazing lessons that will remind me to be more like Jesus. It wasn't fun, but praise God for it.

From the learning rooms...I am excited to begin school in earnest the first week in September. We are going to be starting American history!

From the kitchen...tonight there will be steaks on the grill for the "menfolk." The Husband and Brother will not have to ask THE question: "Is there meat in this?"

I am wearing...the usual.

I am creating...a home. I went to my house yesterday, and while I cleaned my bathroom I prayed that God would keep me this grateful for a home to clean. I just have an overwhelming sense of joy when I walk into my house, though just months ago I could not go there for the sadness that filled my heart.

I am going...to miss Brother.

I am reading...the Bible. And other, less important things.

I am hoping...that the next two months pass quickly for Mom and Dad (and Brother), so that we can all be together again. And I hope that Brother doesn't burn the house down.

I am hearing...silence. I am NOT hearing the school bus driving by, though today is the first day of school in our area. That sound is another thing I miss about living in my house. I miss the little, insignificant predictabilities of town life.

Around the house...boxes. Laundry. Broken air conditioning. No Kitty Friend :(

One of my favorite things...coffee! It has fueled my early mornings, soothed my soul, and been enjoyed around the table with family and friends.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Packing, cleaning, visiting with a dear friend that I haven't seen all summer, praying, and getting up crazy early to workout with DVDs filled with perky instructors with strange colloquialisms ("Burn butter?" Seriously? So, what do vegans burn?)

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...Brother, who I see every morning doing exactly this at the kitchen table. How I will miss your profound thoughts, overuse of condiments, and propensity to calling me a homosexual. I hope you will come to town and have coffee with me.

For more Simple Women, visit here.

I Have to GET UP!

2010-08-16T07:38:00.000-05:00

I have been struggling to get in my workout time lately. It is really important to me that I stay physically active because without daily exercise, I struggle with depression, anxiety and weight problems. Like everyone else, I have 24 hours in a day, and some of them are more full than others. Some of them are more productive than others as well! I used to exercise from 9:00 to 10:00 AM, Monday through Friday. I kept this schedule for about three years. When I moved, it became harder, not just because I lived out of town, but because life was crazy! I can see the results of this crazy life and not enough exercise, and it isn't pretty. With homeschooling, etc. how can I fit it in?

One savvy blogger came up with the challenge to "Maximize Your Mornings." This means working toward getting up early enough to have workout, Bible study, and planning for the day done by the time the kids get up. Difficult, yes; impossible, no. Totally worth it!

My wonderful Mother-in-law has been maximizing her mornings for years. She gets up super early to get to work two hours before everyone else, just to get things done before the day gets busy and people need her. So diligent :)

Why can't I bring the same concept to being a stay-at-home-mom and homeschooler?

So, in the words of Charlotte Mason:

"I AM.

I CAN.

I OUGHT.

I WILL."

This is day two for me. I have succeeded thus far in having a workout, Bible study, planning time and breakfast before the little ladies awaken. I am working toward getting up at 5:00 AM so that I can go to the gym again and be home before The Husband leaves for work, as the gym will only be a couple of blocks from my house when I move it two weeks.

I am tired.

But, oh, so proud.

For more information on "Maximize Your Mornings," click here.

Changes...

2010-08-14T10:52:00.000-05:00

My sisters, my brother-in-law, and my niece are currently in El Salvador on a mission trip. They travel with an organization that digs wells in impoverished communities, teach health and hygiene information, and share the gospel of Jesus Christ with the people. It is such a wonderful project! For more information, see here.
So, with my younger sister out of town, I have been enjoying this face for two days:

Oh, Roo, how I love you.

I have also been in charge of harvesting tomatoes from the ~~Amazon~~ garden.

That just says "summer," no?

All while collecting free stuff from Walgreens.

I don't know how Nivea makes money...I get stuff free from that company all the time!

In my free time, (as if...) I have been packing.

My family and I will be moving back to our own home at the end of the month. Brother will be here by himself for about two months until Mom and Dad come home for good! I will be coming over to clean for him and generally make sure he doesn't die/mold/starve/cry. This arrangement should make for some interesting blog material. Please watch for future blog posts titled "Brother, why..."

Meanwhile, I will be happily making a home out of our house again, eagerly anticipating my parents' move back to the good old United States.

Happy days are yet to come :)

Busy Hands Two/Too

2010-08-12T20:16:00.000-05:00

I am not the only one in this house who has busy hands! Curlyjo has been reading this (for FUN--I love homeschooling):

In the book, she found instructions for building a loom from cardboard. So (naturally) she did.

She used yarn on her loom, and was kind enough to demonstrate the weaving to her fascinated mother.

Sweet little hands.

The finished product was a lovely little woven basket for her doll.

Poor-quality picture of high-quality workmanship, I assure you.

I must say, the coolest part of homeschooling is watching them learn so many wonderful things that I didn't and couldn't teach them.

What a blessing.

Busy Hands

2010-08-11T06:30:00.001-05:00

I have been working on my bread making skills for a couple of years. I just love making bread. I like the kneading, the thinking that naturally happens when your hands are busy with a redundant task and the mind is free to wander. I like the skill that comes with knowing, by sight and touch, that the bread is done being kneaded. I used to just set the timer and knead it for however long the recipe recommended. Now, I just know. I like that. My latest attempts have been with High Protein Whole Wheat Bread from the More with Less cookbook. Oh, my. If you are on a low-carb diet, please look away. This will be obscene for you.

Yeah, I made those.

I can't put the recipe on here, because I didn't make it up. But, the cookbook is so worth the money!

This bread is not too dense, slices beautifully and is super nutritious. It is not, however, vegan, if that is a concern. It is a concern for me, when visions of this book come a-haunting.

But, who could resist?

"Bring me the jam, stat."

(What does "stat" mean?)

The way my mind is wandering, you would think I was kneading something.

Goodbye, My Friend.

2010-08-10T17:59:00.000-05:00

Today, I said goodbye to my Kitty Friend. We have been friends for almost thirteen years. Kitty snuggled me through:

~ Many sleepless nights, when I was eighteen, newly married, and my husband was working midnights. I had never even slept in my own room as a child, so I was scared and lonely. She was a great comfort to me.

~ A near-collapse of that same new marriage.

We moved out together.

Then we moved back in together.

~ Several years of repairing said marriage.

~ The birth of our children, and my subsequent depression after the first one.

What a wonderful treasure was her company through my many tears.

~ Moving, several times.

~ Many cold winter evenings in front of the fireplace, her favorite spot.

~ Through the last two years, when nothing felt familiar, she was.

Thank you, my Friend, for all the memories, cuddles, and the puddles.

I have loved you so.

Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-08-10T08:20:00.000-05:00

FOR TODAY: August 10, 2010

Outside my window...there is sun, heat, and condensation on the windows. It is going to be hot today!

I am thinking...about my Kitty Friend, who is having surgery today.

I am thankful for...wonderful friends and family, who love me enough to care about my cat.

From the learning rooms...Curlyjo learned Roman Numerals in one lesson. I was so impressed. Tiny Love has discovered that adding can be fun, so she wants to do an addition worksheet at odd times...like bedtime.
From the kitchen...I am making Garden Minestrone today, because soup is good food, even when it is over a hundred degrees outside.

I am wearing...my glasses. It promises to be an emotional day, and crying dries out my contacts. It is good to plan ahead.

I am creating...a beautiful apron. I began this sewing project three years ago, and I have decided to finish what I started.

I am going...to the vet to visit my Friend, to have coffee with a friend, and to Walgreens to get free stuff with coupons.

I am reading...too many books at the same time. I am also reading 1 Samuel for my Bible study.

I am hoping...for good news for Brother about his job situation. I am also hoping that my sisters, brother-in-law, and niece are doing well in El Salvador, digging a well and telling others about Jesus.

I am hearing...quiet. Outside it is quiet. Inside me, I wish there was more quiet.

Around the house...I am about to see more boxes. I will begin packing this week, as the big move back to our own house is coming soon.

One of my favorite things...is the Bible, which gave me so much encouragement this morning.

A few plans for the rest of the week: attempting to find time in my schedule to get to the gym. The treadmill is my stress management apparatus, and we need some time together. I will also be keeping my nephew, The Roo, for a couple of days this week. I am very happy to get to see him!

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...my Friend, when she was happy, healthy and taking a nap in her favorite position. I hope she will be again soon.

Menu Plan Monday...and a Request

2010-08-09T12:35:00.001-05:00

When I do a menu plan, I almost always end up improvising at some point in the week. Things just never go quite as planned! So, I have decided to tweak the way that I menu plan a little. I made a list of five meals (leaving one night for leftovers and one for simple food), and I grocery shopped accordingly. Now I have a list of meals that I can make with what I have on hand this week.

Dinners:
1. Hamburgers/veggie burgers on whole wheat buns, oven fries, zucchini
2. Quiche, bread, and fruit
3. Chicken wreath and salad
4. Crock pot BBQ chicken, macaroni and cheese, frozen or fresh veggie
5. Garden Minestrone and Whole Wheat Beer Bread

Other things to make this week (for breakfast/lunch/snacks):
1. High Protein Whole Wheat Bread (also from the More with Less cookbook--it is amazing!)
2. Granola Bars
3. Tuna salad

If you don't have a copy of the More with Less cookbook, I highly recommend it and its philosophy on cooking and eating.

And now, on a more somber note, I have a request. I don't know what the rules are about praying for pets, but if you could keep my Kitty Friend in your thoughts, I would appreciate it greatly.

She is very ill, on IV fluids, waiting to gather enough strength for surgery. They think she may have a tumor in her abdomen, and she has lost thirty percent of her body weight in just two weeks. She is weak, and I am not sure she will do well in surgery, or that they will be able to do anything for her. She has been my friend for thirteen years, and my heart is just breaking that it may be time to let her go. Remember us today. I am aware that she is an animal, not a person, but I think God cares about ALL of my tears, and there have been many today from my beloved Kitty Friend. If nothing else, I pray He will comfort me...and her.

"Holy Women" by James W. Knox

2010-08-08T11:30:00.000-05:00

It is Sunday! I have been to church, which was awesome, and I have picked up the Sunday newspapers for this week (great coupons this week!). How about you?

I want to share a link to the Bible study that I have been doing in my quiet time every morning. It is called Holy Women, by James W. Knox. At first I thought, "Why does a man write a Bible study for women about how to be holy (set apart for God's purpose)?" Oh, ye of massive feminism. Well, I think his teaching is valid for several reasons:

1. The study is based on God's Word about holy womanhood, not some guy's version. So that guy can teach God's Word to whomever, male or female.

2. God is masculine. The Bible says "He." And He tells me what womanhood really is. I don't care to argue about the rest.

3. I, as a woman, should be willing to be taught...even by a man. Especially by a man (my husband).

So, now that the knee-jerk feminist response has been duly dealt with in my heart, I can approach the Bible's teaching with a ready mind. And this study has been speaking to me in so many ways.

The Bible teaches in a way that counter-cultural. Or the culture teaches in a way that is counter-biblical. Whichever it is, if I obey God's commands for womanhood, or marriage, I will have to walk against popular culture, in heart and in deed. But first I must know what God says womanhood is, and be willing to believe Him, obey Him, and declare Him in my life. This study has helped me with the former; I am still working on the latter. Join me?

Holy Women by James W. Knox (pdf file)

Vacation Part 3: I really was there.

2010-08-07T09:33:00.000-05:00

I think there are literally two pictures of me on our vacation. I took 150 pictures.

So, let's play a little game of "Where's Waldo: Vacation Edition."

Only look for me. Not that creepy Waldo guy.

There I am.

Yep.

Hey, that's my ring!

Sure looks familiar.

See! I really was there.

And it was wonderful.

See you tomorrow with a link to an awesome Bible study for women!

Vacation Fun: Part 2

2010-08-06T08:09:00.000-05:00

To try to describe how we felt about seeing the ocean just reminds me how limited words are in communicating what happens inside us all.

The kids thought it was the most beautiful sight they had ever beheld. I agree. Something about the ebb and flow, the vastness, the beauty is just spiritual. It just cries out of a Creator. So, I will just share some pictures I took and leave the words out, because they would be wholly inadequate anyway.

What a lovely land is our America.

Vacation Fun: Part 1

2010-08-05T08:53:00.000-05:00

We went to Florida!

We haven't had a vacation in nine years, so it was absolutely wonderful to spend time together and see a part of our lovely country that I had never seen before.

The trip started off poorly, considering that both of our girls had vomited before we had even spent an hour on the road. And post-Dramamine. There is no hope.

But things turned around. We drove all day without incident, and arrived safely at our hotel...better known as "The Roach Hotel." We will forever call it by that endearing name, even though we didn't actually see roaches. We did, however, see this:

Unless someone had a serious Hawaiian Punch incident, it looks like someone bled out on the rug.

Seriously...this is how you know you have stopped at the wrong hotel.

Add mold in the bathroom and vomit in the pool area, and you have our lodging for the night.

It felt a little like that show "Martin," where one man plays most of the characters. The guy at the desk when we came in seemed to be the only employee. I kept seeing him all around the hotel, doing everything. It was just weird.

But, at long last, we arrived at the townhouse we rented. It was amazing!

The dining area/kitchen.

Living room area/upstairs balcony.

Our bedroom.

Kids' bedroom.

(Okay, some of those kids aren't mine. My cousin and her family went with us.)

Lower balcony, out to the private pool!

Second master bedroom.

There were also three bathrooms and a laundry area, and the whole place was fully stocked with towels, toiletries, and kitchen essentials. It was amazing.

I really enjoyed it, but would have enjoyed it more if I hadn't spent my time around the pool reading this (which is, by the way, one of the best books EVER. So haunting.) and feeling guilty about the decadence that was our vacation.

Maybe I should have chosen lighter reading.

Still, our family had a great time, and the best is yet to come: THE BEACH.

More tomorrow...

I Don't Iron

2010-08-04T12:23:00.000-05:00

Well, I didn't iron. For all of our married life, the husband has been a plumber. His job requires that he wear jeans with glue stuck all over them, t-shirts with no sleeves, flannel (when necessary), and steel-toed boots. And a belt...because, you know. With his recent big news came a new work wardrobe. He is still in the same field, just in a different capacity. This is true for me also, as I am now in charge of ironing his collared shirts and nice pants. I don't know how to iron. At all. But, Cheryl Mendelson does, and I am reading up on the "Ironing" section of her book today. Ms. Mendelson is just as domestic as Martha Stewart, but less smug. (Sorry, Martha.) I have enjoyed her book immensely, as I love books that treat homemaking with the importance and fascination it deserves.
Check it out!

Join me tomorrow for a vacation recap...

Francis Chan: Lukewarm and Loving It

2010-08-01T08:30:00.000-05:00

source

Francis Chan totally gets in my face.

Not really, because we don't know each other.

But figuratively, through reading this and this, he does.

Here are two links to check out. There is a long link (about 30 minutes), which shows the whole "Lukewarm and Loving It" sermon, and short link (about five minutes) which just shows a really cool part of it.

Check it out!

Francis Chan--whole sermon

Francis Chan--short illustration

Couponing Link

2010-07-31T08:30:00.000-05:00

Coupon users are making the news! This news link has great information, and proves that couponing is all the rage!

photo source

Tina's Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies

2010-07-30T08:30:00.000-05:00

Those yummy cookies in the picture? Those are the creation of a genius: Tina @ Carrots & Cake. I have made them many times, and they are as delicious as they look! Even non-vegans and healthy-food-haters think they are wonderful!
Give them a try. And check out Tina's blog for more great recipes.
Thanks, Tina!

Recipe: here.

Scripture Memorization Tip!

2010-07-29T08:30:00.000-05:00

Part of our home schooling curriculum is to memorize scripture. I found an excellent tip for making it and easy, quick part of our day that really works! Click the link below to start doing this today, whether you home school or not!

Simply Charlotte Mason: Scripture Memory Box

Just Because...

2010-07-28T08:30:00.000-05:00

I just love this picture.

It was taken on Easter Sunday, at my Grandmother's house, after a huge dinner with all of my wonderful family.

Which I also love.

Funny how a simple picture of nothing at all, really, can bring up visions of things that mean so much.

Modest Swim wear?

2010-07-27T08:30:00.000-05:00

I wasn't sure what "modest swim wear" would look like, but I know what immodest swim wear looks like, and I am not cool with it.

When we decided to take a vacation that would entail lots of swimming, I started looking for a swimsuit that wouldn't feel like I was parading around in front of strangers dressed in only my undergarments.

I found a suit that is well-made, flattering, and feminine.

And covered.

Check it out!

Yeah, that is obviously not me. The picture is courtesy of the link below.

My suit actually has an adorable rouched skirt. The top is the same, and it has the genius little hooks that keep the top and bottom linked together, so the top won't ride up.

I love it!

Go to Christa Taylor online to order.

I am Almond Butter

2010-07-26T08:14:00.000-05:00

Food for thought, anyone?

source

I stumbled onto an interesting "bloggersation" when I went "e-wandering" the other day.

Is what we eat a stewardship issue?

The comments at the end of the post are interesting.

Check it out!

Click here:

Breathing Grace, A Life in Bloom

John Piper: Make War

2010-07-25T08:30:00.000-05:00

I am a huge fan of John Piper. This is a short, powerful sermon that is just amazing.

Take some time to look at it...then go make war on your "stuff."

Click here.

Stuff I Like

2010-07-24T08:32:00.000-05:00

I love it when I get a photo that displays a myriad of things I love...and I love to use a sentence that enables me to say "myriad." In this picture, I love:

1. The Roo, my nephew
2. The Kitty Friend
3. Popcorn (in the red bowl)
4. My ugly pink chair (it is just the right height for me)
5. Fleece blankets
6. Books...of course

"We Are Having Our Time..."

2010-07-23T15:38:00.000-05:00

They have "their time" every day, just to catch up and reconnect after a long day at work.

He is single.