snails & puppy dog tails

What I'm Reading

2012-01-26T10:26:00.000-08:00

In the still of the night when everyone is tucked tightly in their own beds, I turn on my tiny kindle light and read until I can't hold my eyes open anymore.

I started reading Reshaping It All. A very delightful read, and truly encouraging to get in control of food you eat, thoughts you have, and decisions you make. To live by the Spirit and not let the flesh win. Whichever one you feed is the one that wins.

It's like speaking to a big sister who has heard all your excuses (and has been there herself) and basically telling you to grow up a bit and live your life the way God intended. All in a wonderfully loving and graceful manor.

I have learned a tremendous amount about myself. Which has helped me step up and take the necessary actions to let my body know it is no longer in control. That it is now Spirit led, and I make healthy decisions based on what God designed my body to need, not everything it wants. And when I want something like say a brownie fudge sundae? Get it, but split it with the boys, or my hubby. Remember...Spirit led to do what is best.

Today, for instance, I wanted a burger and fries. I'm not a big burger and fries girl, but my body sure wanted me to know that that's what it wanted today. I always like a a large coke with it as well ;). Well, we headed out, and before I went, I made myself chose whether I wanted the burger and fries, or the coke...a medium coke. I choose coke and a grilled chicken wrap..no fries. I ate until I was full (a little more than half)and was done. In the end, I survived...and feel much better than if I would've if i had given into my flesh and ordered a burger, fries, and a large coke.

What a journey this has been, and it is hard, but the more I stay focused, the better it will get.

Gal. 5:16
So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature.

Checking In and Lessons Learned

2012-01-25T08:35:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to take a quick minute to check in. This month/year so far has had a rough start. We have been abnormally busy, and for the past week our family (each and every one of the boys...hubby included) has been sick. And yesterday we put our house up for sale. Praying for everyone too feel 100%, and a quick sell, because I'm already ready to settle down! ;)

One great thing about selling the house is that it.is.spotless. I REALLY love that. Right now we have it for sale by owner and it goes in the paper tomorrow. We have already had 3 calls and some showings set up just by people driving by, so that's always exciting.

I am trying to catch up on my blog posts. Also, trying to keep up with school. We are back to reading, writing, Bible, math and the occasional History and Science. The thing I've learned over the past 2 years, is that when life is busy (which we really try to keep how busy we are under control) we take the rest of life at a lighter pace. Right now, with sickness and house selling, school gets lighter. To some this may seem crazy, but I feel as long as he is getting his Bible, reading, and math, we are doing well and can pick up on the rest as soon as our busy spell is over. I know our family well, and this is just a busy season and we will soon settle back into a slower paced life.

The thing that is really hard for me in busy seasons is my time spent with God. I feel as though I talk with Him throughout the day all the time, but some of that is all me talking and never me listening. Never being still in Him. I hate that. I don't mind doing our school lightly, but should never let my time with Him turn light.

Have you ever prayed this scripture in Psalm 139?

23Search me, O God, and know my heart;

test me and know my anxious thoughts.

24See if there is any offensive way in me,

and lead me in the way everlasting.

When you do, He will. It is a hard wake up call to know your heart. I have had a few instances in the past few weeks that were very hard for me, and my reaction was less than admirable. I've learned that I've become much stronger than I used to be, but have also learned that if I want to speak my mind to someone who is hurting me, to do it with grace, as God would me. And I did not that. I teach my boys that if one is not being nice, it's not okay to not be nice back. I didn't even follow my own rule. I never want to hurt someone, but the thoughts in my head were what caught me off guard, and that, to God is the same. The thoughts I have when I have to see them again are not graceful. The words I spoke about them to my husband after they had upset me were not okay.

The very fact that I even called my husband first before turning to God was indication of my anxious thoughts.

It's hard when people you love hurt you or someone else you love. But God can take things like this and show you a bigger picture if you let Him. He can also show you that maybe you are seeking others' support over just trusting and going where God is leading you even without their support.

Big wake up calls if you pray that prayer my friends.

In the end, I know, I can NOT do this life without Him. My number one goal in life is to be with Him. He will never leave me. So why do I turn to others, thinking I need their approval to do this life. Their approval won't lead me to life with Him. Others may even leave on some level, but He won't. Why do I forget this?

I'll leave you with this amazing song, that just makes me weep. The most powerful words in it say:

I am the thorn in Your crown
But You love me anyway
I am the sweat from Your brow
But You love me anyway
I am the nail in Your wrist
But You love me anyway
I am Judas' kiss
But You love me anyway

We have all been there. Every single day we are there on some level. But He loves us anyway.

Quick Laundry Redo

2012-01-15T11:57:00.000-08:00

I have no before pictures of our laundry room, so you'll have to imagine a white room with 80's style brown wood cabinets, doors, and drying rack, and a white linoleum floor. I wonder why I never got a picture of it?!

About $100 and a day later (not including the floor that we did a year or so ago)the room is fresh and feels bigger. I use it as our mudroom as well since it is right off of our garage.

Painted the walls a light aqua, trim and cabinets white, and the doors black.

Space behind the door holds iron and board.

Not a big space at all, but love how good it feels to walk into this room now! AND all the laundry is done ;) Wish we had done this years ago...

Miss Bella and Her New Do

2012-01-13T14:16:00.000-08:00

Bella got her first haircut today. It has been a year since we got her, and I decided that it's time she look like a Westie. ;)

I have heard horror stories about how hard Westies are to groom. They are quite stubborn and can be a pain to sit still for the THREE hours it takes to groom one. They have special hair and it just takes a long time.

I have been making her lay down to get her hair brushed daily for a while now, so I was thrilled when we picked her up and they went on and on about how well behaved and sweet she was!

We picked her up and the boys...including my hubby just went crazy for how beautiful she looked. They couldn't take their eyes off of her ha! I have to say, she does look just lovely, but she is a bit sad that the boys now don't want her to go outside to play for fear of her rolling in the dirt.

She is not quite as girly as she looks.

Isn't she a DOLL?!

Then she perches up on top of the couch like a big lazy cat...

Cooking With Kids

2012-01-13T13:59:00.000-08:00

This week, I had the boys help make Broccoli Beef and Stir Fry for dinner. They LOVED it, and spent several hours after they were done playing chef.

They got to use their new Curious Chef knives. These babies worked so well, I'm thinking of buying a set for myself.

Cut the steak:

Make the marinade:

Check our recipe for Stir Fry:

Chop those veggies:

Make some sauce:

Add a little oil and cook the veggies:

Cook the steak and serve over rice:

YUM!

Weekly School Overview

2012-01-08T16:58:00.000-08:00

This is what we have in store for the week ahead:

Bible Reading and Copy Scripture: Jesus' Crucification in Mark 15:21, Resurrection John 20, Luke 24, John 21, Ascension of Jesus Acts 1

Reading Lesson and Write New Words: Delightful Reading lessons with Bible Reading and Free Reading.
(learning the words we are reading in the Bible and other books) -
EXAMPLE:the word LIGHT can make other words like right, knight, night, lightning...

Read Alouds:

The Aesop for Children
The Blue Fairy Book
Among the Forest People

History:

Pocahontas
Colonial American Craft- 3D Jamestown Map

Math: Review long addition and subtraction. Review and add to multiplication.
Guess and Group activity from Family Math book.

Grammar: Lessons 5 and 6 From English for the Thoughtful Child Vol. 1

Monthly/Term Fine Arts:
poetry: The Moon by Robert Louis Stevenson; Child's Garden of Verses Robert Louis Stevenson
Beautiful Stories from Shakespeare, Midsummer Nights Dream

folksong: Carrigfergus

hymn: What A Friend We Have in Jesus

Artists: Albert Bierstadt (1830-1902) American; Hudson River School

This term's composer: Mendelssohn, Romantic

Art:

Source: artprojectsforkids.org via Jeana on Pinterest

Nature Study:
Birds
Project Garden (a book filled with garden activities for every month)
*this month we are planting Herbs and making plant markers, using lemon in our baking and treats (lemon snow ice cream anyone?!), and seed catalog card for my grandma's birthday.

***********************************************************************

Preschool will be added soon.

well hello...2012

2012-01-08T10:42:00.000-08:00

One week down and I think I'm still in 2011...or possibly 2001? I'm not quite sure!

Update: my friend (from the last post) found his daughter...a week later...in CA. She is safe. She is home. Praise God! Thank you for your prayers.

We are starting back school tomorrow. I'm SO excited! I have felt out of the routine for over a month, and I just can't handle that for long anymore.

I wrote a post about my yearly goals. I haven't finished it yet, but will. THIS week.

One of my biggest goals this year is to GIVE. Give time, give friendship, give to people in need. I want our focus to be on others as much as we can. Even the littlest things to make someone smile.

There are MANY ideas and ways to show someone you care. I love the 52 Smiles idea. Pick one thing a week and make someone smile. Here are a few of the ones I love:

make little care packages to give to the homeless. Just make some and leave them in the car.

Source: kwavs.blogspot.com via Jeana on Pinterest

Here is a whole list of ideas. Fun!

Source: katherinemariephotography.com via Jeana on Pinterest

This is just beautiful for May Day, or Mother's Day, or ANY day!

Source: katherinemaries.com via Jeana on Pinterest

I love Pinterest also, because if you follow your friends you can see little things they post that they love and maybe pick it up for them for no reason at all.
I will update throughout the year. Let me know the things you all come up with this year to show others they are special!

Urgent Prayer Request Please

2011-12-29T14:37:00.000-08:00

This week has been really hard on my family and friends. Please pray for my brother and his family for some personal stuff.

I also ask you to take a look at this video. If you live in the area on the map, please keep you eyes out for our friend's daughter. She ran away Monday, Dec, 26. These are precious friends of ours. Please pray for them.

Cooking With Kids

2011-12-26T10:08:00.000-08:00

I have received quite a few comments on here that appreciate my getting the boys in the kitchen with me, so I thought I would try and share more of what we do (when I remember to grab the camera)!

For Christmas, we bought them a set of the Curious Chef Knives, (I'll let you know what we think of them when we use them) and we got them the Kid's Fun and Healthy Cookbook.

After looking the book over, I can tell it will be a big hit! This morning we had left over Christmas ham, and decided to put our cookbook to the test. I asked Tristin to help me this morning. He quickly jumped in for the chance to cook breakfast for us!

We wanted to make the baked Eggs in Ham.

We lined our muffin tin with slices of ham and broke an egg to put in each one.

He set the timer and in 12 minutes we had breakfast!

The boys claimed this is one of the best breakfasts they've ever had! :) It is definitely a plus to have them help out!

Christmas Joy

2011-12-24T11:19:00.000-08:00

I mentioned the other day that we had signed up to deliver presents to kids who wouldn't otherwise be getting any. We woke Saturaday morning and headed out to load our car full of gifts to be hand delivered to these kids. We knocked on the doors and were greeted by children who couldn't contain their smiles! They had NO idea, and boy were they thrilled!

Our boys loved it. They were happy to be spreading joy this Christmas. It was such a blessing.

Boys squished together so we could fit all the gifts in the back of our car.

One shy to have his picture taken.

Then we came home to Chritmas movies and make gingerbread houses. We were so excited to have Uncle Seth stop by and make one too.

(no pictures of the process...I misplaced my camera...) But here are the results!

I also can't get the pictures to turn the other way...but this is Brighton's)

Jaiden's

Mine

Uncle Seth's

Tristin's

And my hubby's ....I think he was trying to show us up!

Merry Christmas!

Happy Birthday Jaiden

2011-12-23T16:15:00.000-08:00

This year our Jaiden turned 10. TEN.
What happened?!

He woke up to his favorite...the donut cake.

Opened some presents.

And later in the week we took him to celebrate at Great Wolf Lodge! We met some friends there and had a wonderful time!

Our view:

Breakfast

And swim. ALL day...3 days!

And this little guy. The birthday boy spent most of his time on all the water slides with his daddy! Having friends there helped us switch and take turns with little ones and older kiddos. Jaiden has a blast! He loved it. Happy Birthday my sweet young man.

Nature Study Inspiration

2011-12-09T11:46:00.000-08:00

Part of Charlotte Mason's method (a large part) is nature study. I have to be honest. We live in a flat, treeless, and windy city. Nature study is a hard thing to get motivated about, especially when I long to see beauty all around me. But, my friends that is not my reality (or the reality of many really) and is NO excuse to give up the study of nature.

I'm always up for a challenge, so I challenge myself to find the beauty where we live. After all, God made this land too, so there is beauty to be found.

My other challenge is the weather. Just as above, I'm sure I could use it on every occasion as an excuse not to go outside (especially in the cold), but am challenging myself NOT to.

Plus, this life, this having children, and choosing to raise them, and school them in the comfort of home allows us the opportunities to show them God in everything. And what is more evident of God than His own creation?

Fist of all, I'm finding that having a bag prepared helps when we want to observe more carefully. Pack a backpack with pencils, sketchbooks, magnifying glass, baggies, books, and paints and a paper towel, and some trail mix just in case. You may not need the bag every time, but it's good to have.

Next up...go outside. Some days we go on a walk in our neighborhood and collect pine cones, berries, leaves, and acorns. Some days we look at the trees and talk about what kind they are or or how they change each season.

Other days, we may sit in our front yard and listen to birds, watch squirls, play with sticks, find bugs, or climb trees.

Some days we head out to a park with a creek, or ducks, or the Canyon to hike and climb.

We used to do this about 4 times a week. Now that it's been so cold, I haven't been motivated. I came across some wonderful ideas to help with studying nature, even when it's cold out!

1) Loved this whole post at the Common Room. I loved the idea of catching snowflakes with black gloves on and quickly observing.

2) I also love making a weather calender and writing what the weather is like each day. She mentions taking note of the moon too!

3)This post at The Educational Life is extremely helpful with getting started and fitting it in your routine.

I loved this idea of creating a bird watching station especially for the colder days.

Source: playfulearning.com via Jeana on Pinterest

And you could put a bird feeder right on your window.

Source: store.imaginechildhood.com via Jeana on Pinterest

Collect items and use them! There are so many neat ideas to put in your journal.
From leaf rubbings, to drawings, or even actual photographs with observations writtin in.

You can even make fun and beautiful crafts!

Source: childinharmony.com via Jeana on Pinterest

Source: kokokokids.ru via Jeana on Pinterest

Have fun with it. It shouldn't feel pressured or hurried. Just enjoy God all around you!

Giving

2011-12-08T16:06:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, I posted gift ideas for the little ones in your life. Although those are fun, we always want to include our children in making, picking out, and delivering gifts for others.

It's importnant for them to know that it means so much others when we think of them.

Our city has a huge project every year that gives gifts and coats to kids all around our city that otherwise wouldn't have any. Last Saturday was our homeschool day to meet at the huge warehouse and fill the boxes and wrap them. Brighton was very sick and so we did not make it, but THIS Saturday our church is delivering some of those packages to the kids! We have signed up to help deliver, and are getting really excited!

I've mentioned this before, but World Vision also has a catalog filled with gifts that help children and families all over the world! These gifts include goats, chickens, cows, water, soccer balls, and much more. A wonderful way to give!

Source: donate.worldvision.org via Cecilia on Pinterest

Then, we will be thinking of friends, family, and teachers/therapists. We are headed to the store tomorrow to pick up ingredients and supplies for all these fun treats! We are looking forward to spending the weekend together making these treats for our loved ones.

Source: cupcakesandcrablegs.com via Jeana on Pinterest

Source: food.com via Tammy on Pinterest

Source: beckyhiggins.com via Wendy on Pinterest

All packed into:

Source: sarahhearts.com via Jeana on Pinterest

Gift Ideas for Kids

2011-12-07T12:24:00.000-08:00

It's the time of year when MANY gifts are given. In our house we have a birthday in October, one in December, Christmas, and a birthday in February. I don't like to buy stuff for the sake of buying stuff. I like gifts that mean something and toys that will encourage these boys of mine to use their imaginations!

Some of our favorite gifts have been:

The racetrack I got for Tibby for his birthday. It is just like this one, but ours glows.

Snap Circuits are always fun:

Below are some of our favorite toys and games:

Amazon.com Widgets

This year, we are adding cookbooks to go with those knives for kids. The whole line of Curious Chef items look great!

We got a bike for our almost 4 year old.

We also threw in a few audio books for our roadtrips etc.

I am looking into these for Brighton's birthday in February:

Source: fab.com via Kim on Pinterest

Source: saltwater-kids.com via Jeana on Pinterest

Source: kiwicrate.com via Jody on Pinterest

I hope these give you some fun ideas for the little people in your lives! Have a beautiful season with your family and friends!

On Being a Mother and a Family

2011-11-29T10:40:00.000-08:00

I have been so encouraged lately from a few posts I've read and videos I've watched. We are in the process of learning and listening to God and how He would want us to live our lives. It has brought us through some major (but exciting)changes that I can't wait to share with you over the next few months.

I am right now, so encouraged to stand up and be the mother God created me to be, and I wanted to share what I've been encouraged by with all of you!

Sarah writes a guest post today called The Three Important Lessons About Being a Mom. Number 3 melted my heart into a huge puddle of love.

Sally wrote a beautiful post about giving time to each child.
"I was pondering this event–him sitting still for this long and talking and talking and talking, and suddenly it dawned on me–”He is an extravert and he needs people, activity and wants to talk and be heard.”

I have a boy just like this, I know time being heard would win and keep his heart.

Just last night, before I ever read this article, I revamped our evening routine.
We ate dinner, helped clean up, the boys picked up toys, and one of the two little ones got in the bath. (Jaiden always takes his in the morning)

While one was enjoying his bath, playing with the tub toys all to himself, the other boys went on a night walk looking at lights with their daddy. We all met with brushed teeth and pajamas in their bedroom and read a book and a Proverb. 2 fell asleep and one was so happy. He had time, time spent with dad and all was well.

It's so important. Our role in mothering. We help mold these children. We help create a family. We have this one chance with each child, not that there isn't room for mistakes, but the overall objective is to know them, to love them, and to train them. It takes a LOT of time and a huge amount of dedication. It takes self denial. The end result will prove worth it. The time you spent with them will never have been wasted time.

This video was precious to me! I'd love to watch the whole thing. I hope this encourages you today as it has me. Be blessed!

It Is Your Life: The Moss Family from Moore Family Films on Vimeo.

How to Choose Life

2011-11-28T07:36:00.000-08:00

I've read that our thoughts are the very thing that choose how our life goes. If we think about bad things, lazy things,or have defeated thoughts, then that's what we reap.

If we fix our thoughts on whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy. (Philippians 4:8) Then our lives will reflect that.

We have a choice on what are thoughts are. We have a choice in choosing life:

This day I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live. Deuteronomy 30:19

It's so easy to move through life without a thought of the blessings in our lives. It's so easy to focus on something we don't have. But that is not chosing life. It favors death.

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. John 10:10

So, I choose to begin my week in gratitude. To fix my thoughts on these blessings He has given me. I choose life. And I'm thankful for that choice.

436. A lovely weekend spent with family and thanksgiving
437. planning for our guys' 10th birthday
438. being in a warm house on a cold and windy day
439. having a choice in LIFE
440. finding a habit and thanksgiving and life choosing
441. the elderly couple out on their morning walk
442. a big glass of orange juice
443. boys that believe the power of God
444. a warm cardigan
445. learning how wives and mother's lived in the past

Simple Holiday Decor

2011-11-27T10:52:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we spent a COLD and WINDY day inside decorating. But not before we went out in that weather to pick out a tree.

Keeping it simple this year we picked a small tree and decorated with stuff we had around.

Had a great helper:

A here it is, sweet and simple.

Wreaths on the doors:

You have to have a train..

A little bit of vintage love.

Then, I took some paint to these terra cotta pots and added ribbon and twine and a dried lime or cin. stick. Idea via pinterest.

Then we were all tuckered out:

We are keeping it very simple around here this year. We want a nice holiday for our boys, but not getting so much into the material and worldly ideas of it all. I hope you all have a beautiful season with you family and of course time spent with God. Enjoy!

FRUGALLY SUSTAINABLE

HOME STORIES FROM A to Z

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T09:43:00.000-08:00

Making my grandma's yummy pink salad, rolls, and buttermilk pie.

Hanging evergreen.

Sipping apple cider.

Remembering all I have to be thankful for.

Thanking God gor His gifts.

Listening to this:

Have a beautiful day friends!

Thanksgiving Learning

2011-11-23T08:36:00.000-08:00

I can't believe we're right at Thanksgiving! Man, I have noticed how time flies more and more these days.

We've been reading and learning all about Thanksgiving lately, and I wanted to share what we've been up to.

We have really been enjoying these books:

Amazon.com Widgets

Today we are taking a virtual field trip to the Plimoth Plantation.

We also love this fun project to create a little book of all we've learned.

Source: thefirstgradeparade.blogspot.com via June on Pinterest

Thanksgiving Scripture:

Psalm 136
1 Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good.
His love endures forever.

1 Thessalonians 5:18
18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

Thanksgiving Crafts:

Thankful Turkey Craft

Love this little turkey

Source: allfortheboys.com via Jeana on Pinterest

Paper Glitter has a HUGE packet of free printables for you Thanksgiving table. I printed the "I am thankful for" page and let the boys fill it out. I think it will be fun to look back on every year.

Writing Scripture Practice: My help comes from the Lord. Psalm 121:2

I just thought this was beautiful. Free printable found via pinterest:

Source: silverboxcreative.com via Jeana on Pinterest

Happy Thanksgiving!

When All Else Fails

2011-11-22T13:20:00.000-08:00

Have you ever had one of those days when it just seems school is not going to happen? We have those more often than I'd care admit...

I do know a little boy that needs reading practice everyday. No.Matter.What. Today, we just skipped our regularly planned schedule and did a little Starfall. It was a nice and welcomed change.

He did that while his little brother read him Swiss Family Robinson...*grin*

It was VERY exciting!

Then we had cake. (the one we made yesterday)

Sometimes you just need a change...and some cake.

Cold and Rainy Day Activities

2011-11-21T10:35:00.000-08:00

We have had a few very cold, windy, and rainy days over the past few weeks. And although I prefer my boys outside:

Getting dirty...and man do they get dirty!

As I have explored the internet I have come across some of the neatest ideas and printables. They are WAY too much fun not to share.

GREAT for days when you can't spend so much time outside.

Have you met Joel over at MadeByJoel

He has come up with such simple and fun paper toys. Yes, you just print and cut them out. These have provided hours of fun for our boys!

See? it even inspired our boys to make some of thier own paper houses to go along with it.

There is also the neatest woodpecker toy I've ever seen! Easily amused I know...but really this thing is fun...because it works! You print and cut out the woodpecker, cut a straw and put it in the fold, tape, string a rubber band through, and watch the woodpecker do his thing!

Take some time to explore Joel's site. You'll love it!

Another site I just came across is properly named All for the Boys.

Filled with tons of diy projects boys will love! We had fun with making these strawplanes. They are really simple and work very well!

First we worked on measuring:

With our pb&j in hand of course...

Almost ready!

Time to race:

The boys have loved these projects while it's cold and rainy. We are trying the tiny bow and arrow next...since we now have a boy with his own swiss army knife...;)

Enjoy those boys!

Hope, Joy, and Peace

2011-11-21T08:01:00.000-08:00

422. a dark and cloudy morning sending hints of rain
423. knowing that the word of God never returns void (Isaiah 55:11)
424. making lists...and crossing things off the list
425. a boy working hard to save his money to buy his first Swiss Army knife
426. the same boy giving his hard earned money to his little brother so he can buy a toy
427. an open Bible
428. piled on the couch and reading with 3 boys
429. planning a vacation with friends
430. eating out with cousins on a Friday night
431. thumbing through a gift catalog....for a goat or water for Christmas
432. hearing the geese fly overhead
433. trying new recipes. all wonderful!
434. plans of making Pumpkin Cake with Orange Frosting with my boys today
435. being filled with Hope, Joy, and Peace.

Using A Kindle in Homeschool

2011-11-20T13:04:00.000-08:00

(via flickr)

I mentioned the other day that we would be purchasing a Kindle for easy options on our booklist. If you are new to Charlotte Mason then you should know now it is heavy in literature and reading "living" books. Books that don't speak down to children. The greatest example of a living book is The Holy Bible.

I saved up our extra money and purchased our Kindle touch yesterday! It has shipped, so hopefully it will be here before Thanksgiving! I get very excited about these things ha!

Now, I mentioned that a lot of the books on our list are FREE in the Amazon store. So, I will be filling that baby up!

Here is a peek at the books we will be putting on it. Most for this year, some for next year...or me.. *grin*

The Aesop for Children

The Burgess Bird Book for Children

Beautiful Stories from Shakespeare

The Blue Fairy Book

Just So Stories

The King of the Golden River

Pinocchio

The Velveteen Rabbit

Beatrix Potter Collection

A Child's History of England

Among The Forest People
Among the Pond People
Among the Meadow People
Among the Night People
Among the Farmyard People

Heidi

Around the World in 80 Days

Fifty Famous Stories Retold

Robin Hood

Five Little peppers and How They Grew

My Father's Dragon

The Wind and The Willows

Teddy's Button

The Wide, Wide World

Grandfather's Chair

Thanksgiving

2011-11-14T05:00:00.000-08:00

401. that you Father are the same yesterday, today and forever
402. a smooth weekend
403. the peace You have covered us with
404. a safe trip for my parents
405. endless hours of boys playing
406. toys scattered across the floor
407. feeling creative
408. warm cozy fires in the fireplace
409. the scent of a great smelling candle
410. laughing with our boys
411. a warm bed with clean sheets
412. the quiet after 3 little boys are asleep
413. an open Bible
414. audio books
415. Fall colors
416. finding a yellow scarf
417. starting a scripture journal
418. being lost in The Word
419. an early morning
420. healing
421. sharing thanksgiving with so many today

Creating an Atmosphere of Learning

2011-11-12T11:35:00.000-08:00

We have revamped our homeschooling. It was going well, but seemed a bit rushed and forced to just finish. I spoke about character study and Charlotte Mason style a while back. I have always loved her method but never fully put it into practice.

So, I took a few weeks just getting in Bible, math, reading, and writing to really explore CM and this time apply what I was learning.

We started about 2 weeks ago, and are days have been SO much nicer. The work is gentle and fun for all of us. It's a perfect fit.

We still get up and do chores first thing in the morning along with breakfast and Bible reading.

Reading and Copywork
(We dropped Explode the code, because after 2 years, my son was starting to hate it. We had already finished our first ETC book of the year, I didn't buy the next one).
*While we do this, I play our hymn and composer of the month in the background, simply saying the name of the song or composer and just listening while writing). This has added to a pleasant atmosphere to learn.
Our composer study found here
Our Hymn Study Found Here
We enjoyed Dear Lord Father of Mankind the last few weeks.

We also loved the folksong: The Ash Grove

I have him read small books or poems and write them from memory sentence by sentence. He also copies scripture.

We are working through Delighful Reading. He is doing so much better with this approach!

Math
We have started MEP (Mathematics Enhancement Programme) free online math. I printed the year 1 lessons and we've been doing a few lessons a day. It's pretty easy for Tristin, but we do come across some things I find is good for him to work on. We still supplement with Singapore Math.

History
We have still been reading the books I had lined up for History this year.

Amazon.com Widgets

The boys absolutely LOVE reading these books. I have him narrate back to me.

Science
We have pretty much dropped any Science curriculum. We are sticking with Nature Study and Ambleside's schedule and are stuying mammals as we go.

We do have science afternoons or evenings to do experiments and such.

Grammar
I picked up English for the Thoughtful Child for a few bucks. I had a hard time deciding between that and First Language Lessons. I decided to stick as close to the CM style for now and see how we like it. A few lessons in and Tristin is doing great! We are doing it orally for now. It's gentle and simple enough for him to comprehend, but teaches a lot more than I would have imagined.

Art and Fine Arts Study and Geography

I have to admit I haven't done much at all with these. We are slowly working it back into our schedule.

Reading List

The Aesop for Children

Beautiful Stories from Shakespeare

Parables From Nature

Little House in the Big Woods

We have read or are currently reading:
Charlotte's Web
Pocahontas
Peter Pan
A Child's Garden of Verses

We are also saving to buy a Kindle

I know! We love books and building a library, but I read a post by Quinn about all the free books you can get for the Kindle that are on my list. Plus when we bring Jaiden home for school, this will be nice to have him sit and listen while I work with the other boys.

Just for fun Reading List
Heidi over at Mt. Hope Chronicles has a great book list. Definitely books our boys will love!

Habit Training
We are continuing right along in our habit training. Here is a great article on habit training.

Preschool
We are still working on ABC's, 123's, and shapes etc. Mostly through reading and some crafts. He is mostly learning through just living through our daily lives. We do chores, color, read, cook, and play. He is learning a lot and is happy.

This is one of my favorite videos of why I love Charlotte Mason's method so much. I do love homeschooling, but this school looks dreamy, and Fredericksburg (here in Texas) is one of my favorite places on earth! It sets a pleasant tone that inspires me in my own home.

If you are interested in reading more on the Charlotte Mason method, please stick around! I'll be posting more about what we're doing. For now, you may want to read these wonderful articles about it:

Charlotte Mason @ Practical Pages

Jimmie's Squidoo articles are always a huge help

Reformation Acres' CM series is always a delight.

And of course Ambelisde Online

Our Desire vs. God's Desire

2011-11-05T13:19:00.000-07:00

I have spent many weeks in prayer and study in The Word on what God's desire is. If I am to be one that loves God with my heart, mind, and soul, I need to know God and His desires so I know how to love Him.

Can I read His word and know His desires and then turn my back to go on and live out my own desires? I CAN, but why choose to?

You can't claim to know Him when you turn to your own desires.

1 John 2:4-6
4 Whoever says, “I know him,” but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in that person. 5 But if anyone obeys his word, love for God is truly made complete in them. This is how we know we are in him: 6 Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.

How about having a different spirit? A different spirit will be one influenced by God, not others who claim to know Him. One who is concerned in offending God, than one who is concerned others will catch him in sin. One who is afraid of grieving God's Spirit, than one who is afraid of losing friends. One who longs to do what God desires, not what the church requires.
(adapted from Gary Wilkerson)

God is showing us His desires, because we are seeking Him. We don't have all the answers, but have realized that His desires in all things look different than our own. There is freedom in knowing Him and living fully for Him.

Creating a Home

2011-10-31T09:22:00.000-07:00

When Fall comes around I seem to start nesting. It's something about the crisp air that makes me realize we will be spending a lot more time indoors and particularly in our home.

I love creating an atmosphere that will leave my children nosalgic. A comfort when remindecd of the home they grew up in.

When I was a little girl I would spend at least a week visiting my grandparents every year. I looked forward to that week more than anything. It was a time that I was surrounded by much attention and comfort.

I would wake up at 6:30 AM to smell coffee brewing and bacon crisping in the cast iron skillet. My Pa would be in his overalls and green John Deer cap heading out the back door for a day of hard work on the farm. My grandma, in her peach robe would be sipping coffee and reading the Bible.

I would sit in the little nook surrounded by windows at the table my dad had made with his own two hands. After breakfast, my grandma and I would set out for our morning walk. Walking on the brick paved streets we would wave at the women tending to their gardens in the cool early morning right before the sun came up. We would talk about what we would do that day and listen to the singing birds. We would take the long country road leaving the small town to say a quick good morning to the horses. Then heading back up the long country road peering through the trees at the big old houses behind them.

(a peek at those brick paved streets)

Arriving home she would tend to the ironing, bedmaking, and cleaning the kitchen, while I got out her teapots and china for endless hours of tea parties and pretending to own a restraunt. She would place her order and leave a tip for me as she cooked her second meal of the day.

In the afternoons she would tend to the garden and make sweet treats for that evening's dessert. We would carry some of the goodies through the dirt alley to the lady that lived behind her.

I would spend some afternoons with the girls next door, playing in their backyard, walking to get slushies, or swimming in the town pool.

(picture taken last year in the area they used to live)

Other afternoons we would drive out to Pa's farm where I would climb bales of hay and ride the three wheeler around the fields. Some days we would pick peas and I remember praying for at least the smallest breeze. I loved seeing my grandma in her big garden hat and loved the afternoons on the front porch; a big glass of iced tea with turquiose tinted bowls of peas to shell.

On the Friday of my week there we would head to a small nearby town to Ona Mae's. Ona Mae owned a tiny little beauty shop behind her house. It had two sinks and a hair dryer and smelled of permanents. It had a little sofa with a homemade afghan,a pile of magazines, and a little glass jewelry case sitting next to it with tiny rings and necklaces. My grandma would often buy one for me. She would also offer me a cold soda pop while I waited.

(old gas station)

After a dinner of fried chicken and gravy with a side of mashed potatoes and fried summer squash, we would clean up the kitchen and go in the living room with it's window unit air conditioner on full blast. They would turn on Wheel of Fortune and a few other evening shows until the 10:00 news came on. When the news came on, I would slip outside in the dark to sit on the big front porch swing and look at the night sky. I could hear the weatherman on the tv inside and knew that when he was done talking my grandma would join me outside. She would sit beside me and I would lay my head in her lap while she scratched my back and sang Animal Fair, Bushel and a Peck, and an array of old hymns.

She would then tuck me in the back bedroom on a nice, cool, and comfortable bed with clean sheets. And in the middle of the night I would sneak into bed with them. A few hours later, talk radio would blast from their radio alarm. My Pa would lay in bed listening an hour or so before getting up to start the fresh new day again.

Those memories sit in my mind like an old friend. I love to think of those days. The sounds, that white house with tons of windows and the big front porch, the smell of her laundry.

I want our children to see our home in such a comforting way. To create an atmosphere that they want to bottle up and share with their own children some day.

The days were slow paced and simply lived in. No need to rush and always time to lend a helping hand or make a treat for the neighbors. Time to strengthen relationships. Time with God. Time to sow and reap the harvest. Time to make a home.

I loved this post about Creating a Pleasent Atmospehre in the Home. It really doesn't have to be complicated. It's an amazing way to show your family love. A way to honor God. It's a new focus of mine.

Goodbye Fall?

2011-10-27T07:34:00.000-07:00

This morning we over slept. Our alarm was set for 6:30. I kept hearing it go off and my husband would reach over and push snoooze. I didn't bother getting up, I was so warm and cozy under our down blanket and in my favorite sweats. Soon after, a certain little 7 year old runs in. "GUESS WHAT?!" We sleepily turned to him in wonder. "It's SNOWING!"

Wait....what? I hopped out of bed and opened the curtains and peered out to our snow covered lawn and trees. And it was still coming down.

The boys quickly threw on some clothes and headed out for a bit just to see before they nearly froze.

And Miss Bella. She was THRILLED. She rolled and played until she too nearly froze.

As you can probably tell, we were in the middle of putting a fence up. The man of the house and the boys are already out getting it finished, while I am inside with a big sweater, fuzzy socks, a cup of coffee, and a fire in the fireplace....just like I like it.

As I was posting the boys came in. Done helping dad for now I guess. Requesting a cup of hot cocoa and warming their toes by the fire...*grin*.

I am making this roasted chicken and gravy for my man today.

7 Years

2011-10-25T15:25:00.000-07:00

Last week we celebrated Tristin's 7th birthday. We aren't too big on parties much anymore unless they really want one. He REALLY wanted to go shopping for his own presents. That was his wish haha.

We did pick up a few gifts to surprise him and make his day extra special.

He woke up to a room full of streamers and a floor covered in balloons.

When he went to breakfast he had a HUGE CARS balloon and a present waiting for him.

He was SO excited to find a race track he had never seen before. It is easy to snap and the cars have black lights so it glows. Hard to take a picture of but you get the idea.

After a morning of shopping, we came home to make a cake. He wanted chocolate with cars and a number 7 of course.

As we headed to bed that night we said we wanted one last picture of him.

We really wanted a picture of this:

Yes, he has found a new passion. He LOVES to play tennis. He was thrilled!

Happy Birhtday sweet boy.

Finishing Up Christopher Columbus And Native Americans

2011-10-25T08:23:00.000-07:00

It's been a few weeks since I posted about school. We have been doing the minimum around here. That basically consists of Bible, Explode the Code, Singapore Math, and Reading.

We did however, finish up Christopher Columbus (for grade 1) and Letters E and F(for preschool - which I will put in another post).

After we finished our book about Christopher Columbus, we watched an Animated Hero Classic via youtube.

And we just loved this clip.

Lot's more fun info over on Heart of Wisdom Blog. We made a page to put in our History Notebook with what we learned about Columbus (will post our history notebook soon)

We also continued with our study of Native Americans. We discussed Totem Poles and their purpose. We watched the video and did the project over on Wonderopolis.

Tristin was in a bit of a hurry to finish school so he didn't take much time to make his totem pole...that's what we get when he has other things he wants to do on his mind...

We all loved studying Christopher Columbus!

Liebster Blog Award

2011-10-19T16:31:00.000-07:00

I was thrilled when I recieived a message from my new beautiful friend Liz over at The Quick Journey. that she had nominated me for the Liebster Blog Award!

Liz has two super adorable kids that she stays home with. This year is her first year to homeschool, so if you get a chance please stop by and give her some love and encouragement! She also has the custest style in decor and fashion and she loves family and God, so even if you don't homeschool you will find her blog lovley.

Okay, so now I get to pick 5 people (with less than 200 followers) who I believe deserve this award! These are truly wonderful women and encouraging blogs. Hard to choose just 5, but am so honored to know these fabulous women and read their blogs!

The Liebster blog award is given to up and coming bloggers who have less than 200 followers. Liebster is a German word meaning dear, sweet, kind, nice, good, beloved, lovely, kindly, pleasant, valued, cute, endearing and welcome.

To keep this award going and pass it along to other new deserving blogs, the recipient must now recognize five other bloggers with less than 200 followers that have really stood out in the crowd.

The rules for the Liebster Award are:
1. Thank the giver and link back to the blogger who gave it to you.
2. Reveal your top five picks and let them know by leaving a comment on their blog.
3. Copy and paste the award on your blog.
4. Have faith that your followers will spread the love too!

Take a minute to visit these great, up and coming blogs!!!

Tricia over at Autism and Salvation. A new friend of mine who has 3 CUTE little boys and homeschools them. She shares how their weeks are going along with tons of fun ideas and encouragement!

Rachelle over at Little Wife on the Prarie. A wonderful friend of mine and one of my favorite ladies! She and her family let God lead them in all they do. She loves her family and gardening. Everytime I go to her blog I wish I had a garden...and chickens.

Heather over at This Journey. Another wonderful friend of mine! This woman is full of love for God and her family. She encourages me to strive to be a godly woman. A beautifully inspiring blog of her life homeschooling her children and her love for her family and God.

Lusi over at Mama's Place. I am pretty new to Lusi's blog, but love everything about it. She just had her 5th baby at home and he is just precious! Lusi's blog is full of love and learning. She homeschools her children and they celebrate God. I go there often to learn more
about our Hebrew Roots.

Unplugged Sunday. A newer blog created to encourage time spent with your family, unplugged on Sundays. It is a wonderful read full of ideas and a peek into others' who are unplugged on Sundays.

Please visit these blogs and show them some love!

Thank you Liz!

Science Night

2011-10-14T14:58:00.000-07:00

The other night we piled pizza on a plate and went out on the trampoline to eat it. It was a beautiful evening and as it got dark and cool we decided to head inside for for an evening of Snap Circuits Jr. The boys LOVED it! Snap Circuits is a hands-on education in how electrical circuits work to run everyday devices.

They snapped away and followed the simple instructions anticipating what would happen after everything was connected and they flipped the switch. LIGHT!

Even Jaiden enjoyed it. (He really was smiling, but I was trying to help him hold it up so we could see the light...takes a lot of concentration)

We made light, a fan, and sirens. The boys had the best time with this!

It was time and money well spent, the boys have been fascinated with how everything works ever since. What a fun family night!

Oh Precious Is the Flow, That Makes Me White As Snow

2011-10-09T07:03:00.000-07:00

Nothing But the Blood Of Jesus

This is LOVE

School Update

2011-10-05T10:07:00.000-07:00

Well, it's been a few weeks since I've posted updates on school. Doesn't mean we haven't been busy though! I haven't gotten as much done as I had hoped every week, but it's been simple and fun.

For Preschool, we have been learning the letters C and D. For letter C, we focused on cookies and castles. We had so much fun reading these books. Our favorite for the week was Who Stole the Cookie From the Cookie Jar. I've been reading it to the boys since Jaiden (10) was 2, and they still LOVE it!

Brighton colored cookies that would go in the cookie jar.

He also did a cookie number match for number recognition. He did this much better than I ever thought he would...which shows me he knows more than I think he does!

For the letter D, we focused on ducks. We read Make Way for Ducklings (which they loved) and Five Little Ducks which all of our boys have always loved.

I cut out these sweet little ducks and let Brighton play and count along.

Don't know if you can tell from that picture, but Brighton fell on the tampoline and fractured a tooth at the root. They pulled his tooth and we're hoping the root dissolves so he won't have to have it cut out. It was scary with all the sreaming and blood, but he did remarkable through it all and at the dentist, he was perfect!

He has also been working on his colors and more counting and number recognition. I made these cards with dots on the numbers and let him place little markers on each for practice.

For first grade, we have been doing our Singapore math, Explode the Code, and Delightful Reading which are all going great! For History, we have been reading about Leif Ericson and Colombus. Tristin has absolutely loved these books and stories. We will be making a timeline notebook and history notebook, I hope to share soon!

Since we learned about Native Americans, I had Tristin try weaving with a loom. He caught on quickly and loved it, he made several little pot holders.

We started the book Family Math, which has many fabulous ideas for hands on "living' math. Tristin enjoys this so much, and I'm not even sure he realizes it's math. It has many levels, so I'm sure this book will be used for many years to come!

Tristin has also started soccer. He is wonderful at it, and this year we tried a little more competitive league. He was new to the team, but has quickly joined in and made new friends and works really hard. They all love him and he thanks God for them in his prayers every night.

This part of homeschooling happens to fall into the category of handicrafts and real life. Tristin threw a large tantrum last week and broke the boards that are holding up his bed (top bunk). He has been working away, saving money for the Cars 2 movie that he has to pay for on his own, but quickly learned a consequence to having a bad attitude and breaking things when he is mad. He had to use some of his money to buy new boards and help dad cut them and put them back under his bed.

Brighton had fun helping. He is SO silly!

Here is a picture of Jaiden since he isn't at home when we homeschool the other boys. I miss seeing his sweet face in these updates.

Today is beautiful out! It's cool and rainy. The windows are open letting a cool breeze in while I listen to the rain fall and the birds sing. It's dark inside so the lamps are turned on and a chicken is roasting in the crockpot. HELLO Fall!

180

2011-09-27T12:58:00.000-07:00

I have been anxiously waiting the release of the new 180 movie. God revealed that in America, we have our own holocaust to me a few months ago, so I couldn't wait to view Ray Comfort's movie on abortion.

It's available to view for FREE and takes 33 minutes of your time.

Sometimes, I think it's important to take a stand. It's time to stand up for God. The God who created all life. The One who gives you every breath you take. He did it for you and me...couldn't we do it for Him?

**some content not for children**

frameborder="0" allo

A Focus On Gratitude and Joy

2011-09-26T08:52:00.000-07:00

I woke up yesterday got the boys breakfast and dressed for church. I then got myself dressed and it started.

Melt down city! Whoa. Jaiden would not keep his clothes on. I mean NONE. I got him dressed again and tried to direct him to the car for church. He fell to the floor, a dead weight. I couldn't pick him up.

I thought I'd go to the car and pretend I was leaving so that he would join me. I waited 5 minutes and he came out....no clothes on.

I went inside to see papers all over the floor, his clothes, and food out of the fridge.

I cleaned it up quickly and went out to the car to tell the boys we wouldn't make it to church, and found my purse dumped in the car and he was pulling his brothers hair. Oh man.

He ran in the house and scattered the papers I had just cleaned up. I cried. I cleaned. I prayed.

Hours passed and I had cleaned up a jar of marbles thrown on the floor, a bowl of cereal thrown on the floor, 2 drinks...thrown on the floor.

The tv was locked, computer unplugged, all the doors locked, and I had rigged up a lock for the fridge. I hid bananas and a bowl of oranges and apples in the top of our closet. He had finally settled for wearing his swim trunks and sat for a few hours looking through magazines ripping out the inserts, while I sat reading to him.

2 Chronicles 20:17
You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the LORD will give you, O Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the LORD will be with you.

You see, I felt Him with me. The whole day through, like I was outside looking in. I never felt angry. I never yelled. I did feel disappointed, but never defeated. He was with me, and that's all I needed.

Deuteronomy 31:8 The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.

I felt joy, I felt happy. When Dan came home, I smiled and wrapped my arms around him. We talked, but I never complained or whined. This is different from before, and he took notice. If I had reacted in defeat and crying and complaining, that would break my husband's heart and make him feel helpless in his ability to protect me while he works. He knew God was with us and carried us through the day full of joy.

John 16:33 I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.

Romans 8:37 But in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us.

He loves us and is with us! So no matter what we go through, if we allow Him to go through it with us, our days will be blessed!

He is my joy. My true desire is to love and honor Him in all that I do.

My joy is overflowing.

Links I love

2011-09-21T15:01:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I've posted links I love. I like to post links to things I want to go back to. I post new ones at times in the sidebar -------> but like to post some here as well.

I have been very into reading about parenting lately. Godly parenting, and of course raising boys to be men. I thought this post was very encouraging, and I'm glad I read it while my boys are the age they are. Aren't they such a blessing!?

Like I've mentioned earlier, we have felt strongly led to observe Sabbath (Shabbat), I had a few emails and comments about some of you being led to abserve it as well. I loved this post on how to prepare for The Day of Rest. Great tips!

I LOVE this post on simple way to decorate for less. I just love posts like this!

Dealing with Challenging Behavior? Sometimes it starts with you (me). I find this to be true too many times.

Need some outfit inspiration? I LOVE some these so much! I hunted down and ordered the maxi dress the second I saw it, can't wait until I can throw that outfit together! My favorites? The red and grey. The yellow and turquoise. The maxi dress with the boot of course! The purple and grey (love purple these days...someone even asked me if it was my favorite color) The green and white...green IS my favorite color. Have fun looking!

Scripture memory doesn't need to be complicated. "Words take root in repetition"
This post about a man "His name is Helmer. He’s 86 years old. He carries a narrow-tooth comb in his front pocket, a work-worn Bible in his farmer hands, and Truth tucked deep into marrow." touched my heart. May it also touch yours?

I've often struggled with the "things" we own and why we own them. Why we even buy them to begin with. I am trying to learn a balance. I often get so consumed in how to live, that I don't stop amd think about why I live. This post led me to think about when we have enough.

I'm going to end on that note, I hope you all had a day FULL of blessings!

Let's Just Choose

2011-09-19T12:22:00.000-07:00

Preparing for another weekend with my little guys, I was anxious to see how it would go. I was starting the weekend with my parents at a Chonda Pierce concert. We all need to laugh...and ...um cry.

Words stuck out to me when she mentioned being a guest on Wanda Sykes' show. Wanda told her that she was the only christian that had ever been nice to her.

Why? Why is who we choose to represent in this world not being represented at all? People will never know Him if all they see is us. We have to let Him be what they see, NOT us.

I think it comes down to a choice. A single choice. You choose to follow Him and choose the way of righteousness. Or don't. But not both. You see, if you "choose both" you have turned you back on what is Holy.

It would have been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than to have known it and then to turn their backs on the sacred command that was passed on to them. 2 Peter 2:21

We can't afford to turn our backs on rigteousness. We pay a price. If we turn others' from His love, His mercy, His grace, His laws, then we have turned from it all as well.

Ezekiel 18:24 "But if a righteous man turns from his righteousness and commits sin and does the same detestable things the wicked man does, will he live? None of the righteous things he has done will be remembered. Because of the unfaithfulness he is guilty of and because of the sins he has committed, he will die.

Why not, intead of condeming others who are in sin (and not even counting our own sin) carry their burdens with them. Then, they could see HIM.

Galatians 6:2 Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.

When we fall away from who He has given us knowledge to be, we crucify Him all over again. The people we condem see Him as they see us. Are we representing Him or us?

Hebrews 6:6 if they fall away, to be brought back to repentance, because to their loss they are crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting him to public disgrace.

You see friends, we are all in the same boat. We are all stained. We can all be cleansed by the same blood. The One who loves us all the same.

James 4:17 Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins.

If we choose Him, let's hold on to who He is and let others see Him.

Hebrews 4:14 Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has gone through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess.

Movie Night Picks!

2011-09-15T11:29:00.000-07:00

The days keep piling up on top of each other, I can't quite keep up! I had the boys all to myself last weekend. I was a bit nervous to have them all on my own (you know...in case we had a crazy 6 hour long meltdown) but it went fabulous! We had fun, rested, went to church, and just enjoyed the weekend together.

Now, gearing up to do it again this weekend =]

I have been doing tons of planning and organizing. I can NOT wait to share, but I want to upload pictures, so that may have to wait until the weekend.

We have been doing school, but again need to upload the pictures.

Now on to Movie Night! We have weekly (Fridays)movie nights, but are currently switching them to Saturday night in order to observe the Sabbath.

Over the past few weeks we have watched some really great movies. I like to give a little rundown so you can see if it's something your family may enjoy. Sometimes we love the movie, sometimes not so much.

We did have a movie night outside to end the summer!

#1) A Bear named Winnie. It's based on the true story of a bear named Winnie of course and that inspired The Winnie the Pooh Series.

It sounded like it would be a fun topic. It's an old movie, and while it was good, it seemed to drag on for a long time and was honestly a little boring. Good story, just boring.

#2) Moondance Alexander. This happens to be a favorite in our house. About a quirkly little girl with no friends, Moondance starts cleaning stalls for a man so that she can learn to ride one of his horses. Very predictable and cheesy at times, but really a good quality film for all.

#3) The Secrets of Johnathan Sperry. I mentioned this one last week. This one touched our 6 year old so much and left him in tears. The story of some boys in the 60's or 70's mowing lawns, riding bikes, and having crushes on girls, meeting a man who taught them to bring out their Bible and use it to change their lives. Many life lessons, I highly recommend this one! When the movie was over, I turned and asked Tristin if he was okay. Wiping tears he said, "I'm just thinking about what a wonderful man Mr. Sperry was."

#4) A Shine of Rainbows. I am a sucker for movies taking places in other countries. I love the scenery and the culture. This movie takes place in beautiful Ireland. About a boy who is adopted by a woman and her husband. The little boy absolutely loves his mother, but doesn't bond well with his father. This movie includes some refrences to a difference in what we believe when it comes to praying. No mention of God. We did love the story line and thought it was still a beautiul story. Our boys know that people practice different religion and some not at all. With our firm biblical upbringing we felt this was an enjoyable film. We are sure to talk with them when we see others depending on anything but God.

* There is mention of magic in the summery of the movie. There is no magic (as in super power type stuff) Only finding wonder and love in a boy that had nothing.

Multitudes of Gifts

2011-09-05T10:56:00.000-07:00

400. listening to little boys singing in the shower
401. renewed hope
402. the new crisp morning air (a welcomed change!)
403. a hardworking husband
404. a consistent fellowship with our Creator
405. embracing every minute at home with my boys
406. endless hours of giggles, hide and seek, and playing
407. cookout with grandparents
408. a big pile of new books
409. watching Netflix movies of my choice after boys are sleeping and husband working
410. God leading on a new journey...trusting beacause I know He holds the future
411. evening with the boys on the trampoline
412. storm in the night
413. simply praising...all the days of my life
415. wonderful update!

Today and an Amazing Update!

2011-09-03T15:16:00.000-07:00

Today I have no plan but to praise. (quoted from Ann Voskamp)

I am currently listening to Rebuilding A Culture of Virtuous Boyhood: Raising Boys to be Godly Men of Courage. A lot of the intersting topics covered are:
*every boy who wants to get married should be reading scripture
*Fear God. God holds you (men) first accountable for the raising of you children
*Be ready to receive the blessing of God when you marry (children)
*Be ready to provide for your wife and family
*Do not be a slave....to debt
*Instead of focusing on your future job, focus on your life purpose
*Teach them to treat girls as their sister NOT your buddy
*Teach them to look out for the honor of women and children (a boys' mother and sisters)

**How and why to train your boys to honor authority
**Boys need vision and dad's need to nurture and protect this vision of raising virtous boys

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In other news. Remember the challenge God has placed on my heart? This is an update.

Just so you know how hard it was getting in our home...Jaiden would come home and HAVE to watch tv for about 1 1/2 right after school and still throw a fit when it was turned off. Then I would have to keep him busy for the next 1 1/2 until my husband would come home. I would have to lock the tv, hide remotes, phones, watch him because he would climb on counters pulling out food, go outside and take off all his clothes, and ask about 200 times is he can watch tv. Let's just say that was a hard few hours!

I won't get into all the details on what we started a few weeks ago (you can read that here) but I wanted to update you and please know all the glory goes to God. He is faithful.

The first week was hard. The second was better. Still a little on edge and he was noticing I was shortening the tv time. We are now watching about 15-30 min after school and turning the tv off. When he is done HE turns the tv off and usually goes outside to play!

We started word cards to help him learn to read. I let him pick the words he wanted, and they were mostly peoples' names. He loves people. He will bring me the words daily to learn.

Right now (Saturday) we have not even turned the tv on. He hasn't asked once to watch tv! He has gone outside to play by himself. He has sat down and "read" about 5 books.He has participated in both of our Bible Studies so far today. He is happy, he is engaged.

Lastnight he helped me cook and unload the dishwasher. He was up at 5 AM this morning ready to watch tv, but I sweetly asked him to go back to sleep. He did . When I woke up at 8:00 today, he was outside jumping on the trampoline.

This morning when we were about to sit for breakfast he was thrilled about the banana bread he helped me bake. He also grabbed our Bible for Bible reading time and pointed at the word Bible and said. "BIBLE!" (one of his words) He is doing wonderful, Praise the Lord!!

In other news about our character training. It is going beautifully! Our boys are learning and applying what they're learning about obedience. Today for example the boys asked to go play with their friends. I only allow about an hour a day due to the habit training we're trying to do, I notice if allowed longer their moods change and they quicky become influenced and disrespectful.

So I told them to come check in in about 30 min. They come home about 50 minutes later to check in and ask if they can play with their friends in the front yard. The tone our son used was a bit demanding not to mention they were 20 minutes late. I simply told him no. He knew immediately that he had been disrepectful in 2 ways, and said, "yes maam, I'm sorry I didn't honor you."

I'd say something is sticking!

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Lastnight we watched a wonderful movie for Family movie night. I will post about it in the next few days. Let's just say it touched our 6 year olds' heart. Can't wait to share!

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Our Lord has brought a few things to my attention lately. Some things that may seem crazy to others, but I know when He is speaking clearly to us and I know to not ask questions, but to simply obey.

One is our keeping the Sabbath (Shabbat). It is the 4th Commandment, and one most people don't keep. We are starting to work towards keeping the Sabbath. I start at the begining of the week to keep our home maintained, and yesterday we spent the day finishing up laundry, cooking meals, and baking bread. It was wonderful! My husband had to work, so we will ease into it until he can be home for a full Sabbath. I said blessings over our boys, and today we have had Bible studies, read books, did some puzzles, and played outside. I am planning to move our movie night to Saturday nights (later in the evening) in order to observe, and will not be in any way "plugged in" on this day in order to keep it holy. Like I said we are easing into it since changing our son's routine on a whim is not easy. God will bless our efforts and will help him through it though!

In a nutshell, this is what he has been showing us. It didn't start with this video, but this sums it up.

Watch here:

Yeshua answered him, “If someone loves me, he will keep my word; and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him. Someone who doesn’t love me doesn’t keep my words — and the word you are hearing is not my own but that of the Father who sent me.

- John 14:23-24

Week 3: B is for Bear

2011-09-01T11:32:00.000-07:00

B week! We mostly read books and did activities about bears, berries, and buttons.

Books we read this weeke were:
Jamberry
Going on a Bear Hunt
Blueberries For Sal

Bear Cutting Practice

Along with gluing and puzzle making

Sorting Buttons

Drawing the other half of the bear

Bear Counting

Matching the bear to his house

Ending the week with yummy bear claws!

The boys also found a toad in our backyard! We NEVER find anything because of our dog. We were excited and observed it a while before letting it go.

The lifecycle and sketches. We talked about the lifecycle and where they live when tadpoles and in winter. The boys determined that this one was a girl beauce she was silent the whole time ;)

Then the little gal was ready to go.

It was great fun!

Step Into Our Day

2011-08-24T11:48:00.000-07:00

I love reading about how other families schedule their days, so I though I'd share ours. Of course we are flexible, but this is pretty much our day.

I try to wake up by 6:00-6:30 to read my Bible and shower/dressed

7:30 we do breakfast & Family Bible Reading and memorization

8:00 Get dressed and brush teeth (boys)

8:10 take Jaiden to school

8:45 chores (make beds, feed dogs, pick up, start laundry)boys help with these

9:00 start school Tristin does Explode the Code and Singapore Math (skipping something if he needs help) while I read to and start Brighton on projects

9:30 Brighton does tot trays while Tristin and I work on reading

9:45 History/Greek or Nature Study/Geography (depending on the day) Fridays: fine arts

10:30 Break (I either finish chores or we go on a walk or bike ride etc.)

11:00 finish up any projects or reading

11:30 Lunch

12:00 free time for boys while I finish up chores or blog

1:00 quiet time

2:00 play outside

3:00 J home from school. snack and 30-45 min tv time

4:00 playtime/friends/homework if needed

5:00 clean up house

5:30 start dinner (boys set table) and help clean up after

7:00 baths/teeth/reading/prayers

8:00 alone time with hubby if he's home

That's our day!

School Week 2: A is for Apple

2011-08-22T17:33:00.000-07:00

A says ah! Last week we learned the letter A. Our main study was apples. Brighton caught on quickly and enjoyed the weeks activities.

We read the book How to Make An Apple Pie and See the World

Finding the letter A in the apple.

Cutting apples and pasting. Gotta work those fine motor skills!

Counting practice and number recognition.

Fine arts picture study: A is for apple.

Sorting

And finally! Making an apple pie.

Tristin and I started our native American study by reading North American Indians

We used the Draw Write Now Book 3

And we made a Spiked Club Tomahawk. He LOVED this simple project. And see the longhouse he drew on it?!

We again did our Grapevine Biblical timeline lesson.

Then, we started our new reading program. Delightful Reading is from Simply Charlotte Mason. It's an extemely gentle approach to reading, and this was our first lesson. He was working on spelling the word falling all by himself, he almost had it and that smile remained on his face as we added the "n". MUCH better than our past lessons!

A Boy Room

2011-08-19T10:06:00.000-07:00

The boys wanted an orange room....(well, ONE boy wanted an orange room) I opted for an orange bedspread. Three boys in one room has certainly proved to be hard to decorate. We wanted it simple but playful.

I still need stuff on the walls, but I'd never get around to showing you if I waited until that was done, so here we go!

The room is a beautiful blue/aqua color. The furniture is black except the bedside table which I painted yellow and lined with a map. Still needs knobs.

You may be wondering how we fit 3 boys in this room. A few years ago we tore down the double closet and made a little more room.

This is what it looked like about 4 years ago...

After:

We built a little, well organized closet at the end. And we painted the doors black. LOVE them!

And, if you look back the other way we have an old antique armoir from my parents house that we have used for art storage in the past, now hold their toys.

A Tiny Kitchen

2011-08-16T11:04:00.000-07:00

I have been encouraging the boys to play outside as much as possible. I have to admit, I get a little discontent when I look around at our hot, dry, flat, treeless surroundings. Not what I call inspiration for exploring, but knowing it's what we have to work with....well, you just have to make it work!

I came across some outdoor kitchens and was so inspired to create one for the boys. Of course only wanting to use what we had on hand, I went digging around our shed and found a cart in the back corner. I CAN NOT believe it, 6 years here and this is the first time I've noticed it?!

I quickly hosed it down and added old kitchen pans we had. Add some mud, and a few little boys and you'll have the best quality mud soup, pies, and muffins you've ever ~~laid your eyes on~~ sunk your teeth in!

They LOVED it, and have been playing for hours the past few days in their kitchen. This has truly opened a whole new world of creativity and exporlation to them.

Muffins ready to bake!

Collecting more ingredients.

A place to make messes.

An invitation to dinner.

A nice and cozy spot full of wonder.

More beautiful kitchen inspiration here and here.

Family Movie Night Picks

2011-08-13T04:56:00.001-07:00

Since we have Movie Night almost every single Friday night, I thought each weekend I'd share the movie and treat we had.

Sometimes the movie we watch is not so great, but most of the time we love it. I'll do my best to post them all, and what we truly thought of them.

We make pizza most every time using NieNie's whole wheat pizza dough. It turns out wonderful.

We also make the whole wheat waffles on Saturadays too ;)

The past few weekends we've watched some pretty great movies. I like older movies that are just plain good and family friendly, but I've found with some of the older ones, you'll find a few colorful words that kids would say back then.

When we come across stuff like this we simply tell our boys that those words aren't okay to say. If for some reason it's just too much we turn it off and pick something else (Dan and I have usually seen most of the movies when we were younger, but can't recall how the language was in the movie).

Movies we've enjoyed lately:

Where the Red Fern Grows. This was a fabulous family movie especially for our boys. Billy (the boy in the movie) shows great character and hard work. Just keep the tissues near by (if you've read the book you know why). I can't wait to read the book in a few years with the boys, it has a lot more emotion, but the movie was wonderful! There is an older version we may watch one day.

The Adventures of Ociee Nash. We knew nothing about this movie, but really enjoyed it. About a young girl named Ociee who is a complete tomboy. Living with her daddy and brothers since her mom died, her dad sends her to live with her Aunt to learn to be a lady. She gets into mischief and ends up winning the heart of her Aunt and her town.

The Indian in the Cupboard. I loved this book as a child and watched the movie a long time ago. We got it for the boys to watch and we all really enjoyed it. However, this would be one of those movies with a few colorful words and a scene with the boys falling asleep watching tv with women in bathing suits for a few seconds. Wish those few parts weren't there though we did really enjoy the movie.

Stuart Little 1 and 2. We LOVE both of these movies. It's been a while since we've watched both, I love just love the feel of them. What I really love about them is how it shows to love and accept others (your brothers) even if they are different. In our family that is SO important and I love how these movies teach that. I also adore the house they live in....I look at every detail of houses in every movie... In the second one, the kids do tell a lie by having their friend say Stuart is at his house when he really isn't.

Treats!

I usually make cookies or cupcakes. I am going to be trying a few other things like pies, cakes, and flavored popcorn in the future.

We have enjoyed Crinkle Cookies...yum!

These Butterscotch Brownies were REALLY tasty and so easy to make. Mine were a little flat, but so good.

This weekend we made these wonderful cookies, I think they turned into my favorite cookies EVER.

Enjoy your family this weekend!

Philippians 4:11-13
I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

Week 1- School

2011-08-12T14:16:00.000-07:00

We went ahead and started school this week...I told you I would start early again this year. I just can't help myself!

Brighton: PreK (3) kicked off the year with Rod and Staff color, cutting, and counting.

All week long we read Alphabet books (and many others), but our main book was Chicka Chicka Boom Boom. He cought on so fast, I was just so proud of him!

Taking it nice and easy, we did one project per day while I worked with Tristin on anything he needed help with. The first day he piled magnetic letter on his coconut tree. I was delighted to see how much he enjoyed this.

The next day, we took the same tree and stamped all of the letters on. I let him do this freely also.

On Wednesday, we took school outside and he made a Counting Coconut book by gluing brown coconuts on the tree.

He ended the day mowing the lawn for us:

Thursday, we talked about circles, and how coconuts are in the shape of a circle. He made a circle wheel of circles.

I'm excited that he has learned the Alphabet this week and about circles. He did a wonderful job!

His scripture memory verse was Psalm 3:5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart.
He has learned it, so I will move it to our weekly review and add a new scripture next week!

Tristin- 1st

He started his new Explode the Code Book, and has not complained about it yet! HA. He does 3 pages a day, while I work with Brighton. Then he does his Math (Singapore 1B)

He then practices reading for about 20 min.

Once a week, after our main Bible Study we do Grapevine's Timeline. We both REALLY enjoy this, I think it's a wonderful way to learn.

Our geography lesson right now is on map skills and we read Me on the Map and are currently making our own Me on the Map Book. He took it outside to work on and it started raining on him! It's the 2nd time this year we have had rain!

Brighton had to go dance in it =]

His scripture has been Isaiah 40:31

31 but those who hope in the LORD
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.

He also knows it, so we will review it once a week and add a new one next week!

We learned about our Solar System (more on that next week) and will be starting the rest of our curriculum next week which includes Native Americans, Greek, and a gentle reading program I ordered today (more on that soon also).

We are now settling down to our family movie night with chocolate-chocolate chip cookies and whole wheat pizzas. YUM.

Activites found on Homeschool Share

Habit/Character Training

2011-08-09T10:43:00.000-07:00

I absolutely LOVE Charlotte Mason. I heard of her a few year back while reading up on homeschooling methods. Her's has stuck out to me more than any others. However, I really didn't quite know how to apply what I was learning until now.

I've been praying over certain aspects of our lives. Two very important ones, and God has led me to 2 really wonderful places to start.

The first one was getting to "know" the Duggars a bit better by watching the show and reading their books. Funny thing is, I know God wanted me to read their books, because I had just gotten into watching their show about a month ago, and a week later my friend said, "hey, do you watch the Duggars? We should each buy one of their books and then trade." Boy, am I glad we did. They have inspired me to dig deeper on training our children. I have really learned so much from them and have deep respect for them.

The 2nd place God led me to (again) was Charlotte Mason. Only this time around somehow He filled my mind with ways to apply her method.

One of my favorite books about her is For the Children's Sake. I read it about a year ago and thought I loved it then...I pulled it out the other day, and it was like I was reading it for the first time. I just couldn't put it down. I underlined things and then went back and reread it to my husband. He seemed to enjoy it. I think *grin*

Okay, so back to the 2 things I've been praying about.

1) Jaiden being homeschooled. That tug has never left my heart. As much as I've needed the break from the crazy year we had last year, we're definitely feeling he should be home again ONE day, and that's where God is leading us. I love this article on homeschooling special needs children.

My only problem is: TV. He loves it, I don't. I long for my children to play, to read, to use their minds. Children don't do that while they're watching tv, him especially. This problem has been caused by using tv as a rewarding system used by his old school using an ABA type therapy. He didn't get that type of reward at home, and that caused MAJOR meltdowns.

One of the first chapters in For the Children's Sake is about tv. She talks about children having space to play. Outside. Making mud pies, climbing trees, riding bikes. They need to make noise, make messes, and have access to raw materials like old clothes for dress up, and tables and sheets for forts. They need boudaries of course but they also really need space to be children.

We are now on a path to doing much better, but he still "needs" the tv to be "happy".

I had asked God, to help us with this tv situation and finding new things that he could be interested in at home like reading possibly?! Then I read this book and it just hit me right then.

He get's about an hour or so after school to watch tv. I would justify that he has been working all day at school and needed the break. Well, I'm sorry, we can all find ways to unwind without tv and so can he. Without quitting tv cold turkey, I am going to take it down 15 minutes at a time each week until after about a month it will be no tv and just playing. I'm praying it will have been so gradual he won't depend on tv and might not notice the transition as much. While we're doing that I have come up with plans to work with him on reading, baking, play games, outside time, and natural toys such as blocks, jump rope, playdough, legos, garden work etc. We started yesterday, and I could tell it made him a bit anxious, but we'll just keep going.

Please, if you don't mind, be in prayer with me about this?

The second thing I've had on my heart is character training. Charlotte Mason believes that children need to be trained for a about 2 months for each character trait. This could take years to finish all character traits, but she says they should be mastered. Once you master some of the most imporatent ones, the others will make easier habits.

The most important one? You guessed it...obedience. So, we are starting obedience training in our home and will be working hard on that for the next 2 months or until mastered. Meaning, when I ask them to do something, they do it, happily and quickly. Sound like a big goal? It is. It has been done by others many times, and I know our children are quite capapable of being obedient. It's biblical. Now, if you know me personally, you will say, "your kids are VERY well behaved." People say that to us all the time, but this runs deeper. At home, they are not in the habit of being obedient without whining most of the time.

Charlotte Mason also makes it very clear that children are people and should be treated and valued as such. I absolutely agree.

The two major things we will work on over the next 2 months is MY attitude towards them. Making sure I have their hearts. If I have their hearts then they are much more willing to be obedient. This depends more on the level of my heart than theirs. And I know it STARTS with my husband and me.

The second thing is reading and applying ideas and training in obedience.

Doorposts has a wonderful article with ideas and lessons from Deuteronomy.

First Time Obedience Really? I love that post. It really touches on the heart.

Love this blog, and this post about having your child's heart. It really is a huge aspect of raising children.

I've used this FREE character study before, but we will dig a little deeper this time around.

Notes From Sally Clarkson's Parenting Session

Books I hope to read/use soon:

Hints on Child Training

Plants Grow Up by Doorposts, I've heard great things about this!

Laying Down the Rails

Ephesians 6:1-4 ESV Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.
- Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.

Proverbs 23:13-14 Do not withhold discipline from a child; if you strike him with a rod, he will not die. If you strike him with the rod, you will save his soul from Sheol.

Proverbs 1:8-9 ESV Hear, my son, your father’s instruction, and forsake not your mother’s teaching, (9) for they are a graceful garland for your head and pendants for your neck.

Going On A Bear Hunt

2011-08-02T07:46:00.000-07:00

The other day we read We're Going On A Bear Hunt together, and decided we need to recreate the obstacles they went through in the book. It was a fine sensory experience!

We took a cardboard tube and wraped rubber bands around it and painted it green. We rolled the tube on our paper to create swishy grass.

Then, using finger paints, we made a lake.

Next up was mud. We have been so dry here, mud was a hard one ;) plus our boys saw NO fun in getting their hands covered with mud, so they quickly scooped some mud and smeared it on our page before running to wash off.

Next we created a forest. Using old leaves from our nature table and sticks, they had fun making their own version of the forest.

I have no picture of the snow storm, but they glued cotton balls all over the page. It was a BAD storm...

And next we found the bear! I drew a simple bear and cut it out. They traced the outside of it with pastels and we turned it over and pressed hard.

What a project! we now have a big accordion style bear hunt book. They sure were proud of it.

Our School Room

2011-08-01T09:45:00.000-07:00

I've been working hard to organize and make our school room a pleasant place to be. We don't do all of our work in in here, but we do some. And, I personally love having a place for everthing.

We painted the bottom a cheerful apple green. It really is a happy and soothing room.

This is the other wall. We have a reading corner and a chest full of my supplies, extra notebook paper, and folders. On top we have our new art station with items that are used most often. A roll of paper, crayons, glue, scissors, and that huge red bucket full of markers I picked up at a garage sale for $3.

The red basket beside the chest is my organization for school. (Like the workbox system) We have folders labled with numbers, and I slip the work in order for the day.

Here is a closer look at our reading corner. It has a big comfy chair, and a small book shelf (holder) my wonderful husband made out of pallet from our new grass. I found a beautiful fabric for the windows, but I don't want to spend the money, so maybe later. These work just fine.

Here is our nature table. It holds all of our treasures, a magnifying glass, nature kaleidoscope, books, and our journal.

Our little shelf holds a writing center with pencils, notebooks, dry erase boards, magnetic poetry, notecards, and a picture dictionary.

Along with some early readers.

This is the other wall. Dress up clothes, a closet, and a shelf with manipulatives, fine arts, and preschool trays.

The closet holds books and projects we'll be using through out the year. It also has the items I use for the preschool trays.

That's it! The school room is finished and ready to be used. We usually do reading and small activities in there. Our main studies are simply taken (in the red crate) to the kitchen so I can cook, or clean while we are working.

See other beautiful rooms at the Not Back to School Blog Hop

Our Curriculum 2011-2012

2011-07-25T13:07:00.000-07:00

My favorite time of year is getting ready for school! I just love everthing about it. We have most everthing organized, and planned out. I have to say, I CAN NOT wait to get started. I always end up starting a week earlier than planned. I have no doubt this year will be the same. *grin*

Okay! For preschool:
Brighton is still really young, so we will not be doing a "formal" curriculum.
Our school is extremely literature based.
*We are going to use a few Rod and Staff workbooks for writing, counting, and cutting practice. I like these because they are very simple and not expensive.

*I will also have some fun activites out for him daily.
cutting, playdough, stickers, puzzles, coloring, lacing etc

Then we will read a lot of our favorites and make little units out of them using Homeschool Share

Here are the ones we will be reading:

Amazon.com Widgets

Okay, for 1st Grade:

*I'm really excited to try Contenders for the Faith this year for developing biblical boyhood skills. He will go at his own pace through the projects.

* Writing: we will continue on with Explode the Code this year. And, we will be doing copywork from the Bible.

*Reading: we are making this as simple for him a possible. No formal lessons as of right now. We will be reading Bob Books,McGuffey's, and many Early Readers to build his confidence. We also have a few games, like Word Memory and Word Bingo we will play. He is doing really well with this right now.

*Math: We are starting Singapore Math workbook 1B and will add more hands on, and games. Our goal this year is to master telling time, and start muliplication. He already does these pretty well, we'll just keep going at his pace and add more as we go.

*Science: we are using our free copy of Considering God's Creation, along with Answers in Genesis for Kids, and My Nature Journal for weekly Nature Study/Walks.

Amazon.com Widgets

*History: Last year we used Story of The World. We really liked it. This year though I was really wanting to study American History. I put my own curriculum together using books from the library, online, and some I picked up at garage sales. I am so excited at the material we are going to cover. We will go in order of history and do many projects and read many great books.

Amazon.com Widgets

Fine Arts Fridays and Extra Stuff
We will still learn one artist and composer monthly. We are starting a child introduction to Shakespeare, and we will have an actual art lesson this year.
We are also starting Greek. Simple decoding for now, and will build up next year.

The last thing we are doing is Geography and map skills. We are using a beginners Geography workbook, and will be making a cereal box city, and painting a map of our street. FUN!

Amazon.com Widgets

This may seem like a lot, but we have it planned out to about 3-4 hours Mon-Thurs/ And Fridays are for Fine Arts and finishing up projects, and field trips etc.

Our schedule goes like this:
M-Thurs.
Bible/Memory Work
Writing
Reading Practice
Math

Modays & Wednesday:
Science/Nature
Geography

Tues. & Thurs:
History
Greek

Friday:
Bible
Art
Fine Arts
This year is going to be so much fun!

Today

2011-07-22T19:51:00.000-07:00

Today I am happy. I am thinking about so much.

Starting about 7 years ago, we got on a health/organic kick. Our house had healthy food, snacks, and homemade goodies. Even our soap and shampoo had no harsh chemicals. About a 1 1/2 years ago, we decided to save money. I still bought healthy food but less and less. Now, as I look at our groceries I see sale items that (while helpful and easy) are not healthy.

Over the past 1 1/2 yearsI have gained weight, lost energy, and been sick more than I have in a long time.

I have felt a gentle push to get back to the healthy. Lastnight as I lay awake until 3AM, I watched a netflix movie on being vegan. Although, I'm not up for being completely vegan, I knew that I had to get back to healthy.

I know it's better for us in the long run, and I never feel more proud to feed my family than when I bless them with wholesome food with no chemicals.

So, I'm getting back on track. Starting today, with what I have.

Tonight is our family movie night. We always have a pizza (take out or frozen usually) and a treat. I could NOT stand the thought of grabbing a pizza, so I made our own whole wheat pizza and fresh baked chocolate chip cookies. Just like we used to. Not the healthiest foods, but I know every ingrediant in it, and that matters to me!
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The next thing that has really been on my mind is dressing feminine and modest. I need to revamp my clothes a bit. Not a complete overhaul, but a move toward feminine. I'm a pretty modest person, so no problem there, but I'm looking for budget friendly ways to dress while still being a stay at home mom. I love the thought of my husband coming home to a beautiful wife everyday. My problem is finding realistc clothes. For example: I love Shabby Apple and Anthropologie, but I can't see myself wearing that type of stuff daily. I would love to, but I have to be realistic. So, while I may have a few really wonderful pieces, I need some everyday/affordable pieces as well.
*******************************************************************************
I'm excited for tomorrow. Can't wait to spend the next two days with my wonderful husband. Pssst....I get to go on a date with him on Sunday. Yay! Oh and, I'm so very proud of him. He got a promotion at work, and starts a whole new job/training/schedule Monday. Congratulations handsome!
******************************************************************************
My cell phone quit working a few weeks ago, and although I love hearing from my sweet friends, I have loved life without it. No mindless game playing or checking in with facebook. It's not holding me down and making me "available" whenever to whoever. I got my new phone in the mail today. I chose a Blackberry. I don't know how to use it really, but I do know there will be no facebook added to it. I just don't want it there.
*******************************************************************************
I have been really tired lately. I blame it on the endless heat. Last week I got really sick to my stomache on Monday. Then again on Thursday. Dan *joked* that maybe we were having a baby. I really hoped it was true, and come to find out Dan was hoping too (even though he has had surgery, we both hoped). After a few days, we knew I was not....I was really sad, but it's okay. It's a choice we made.

Those thoughts have been running through my head today. **I hope God blesses your socks off this weekend.** Can't wiat to show you our new rooms!!

What's Going On and What's Coming Up

2011-07-19T12:13:00.000-07:00

How's that for a title? We have been picking out carpet, painting walls, furniture, and doors, picking out fabric, AND planning for the new school year!! Curriculum is here, school room will be done soon, and I have some posts coming up.

Upcoming posts starting hopefully by next week:
*Boys' room remodel...includes painted furniture, curtains, and more!
*School room update
*Curriculum for the year
*How our days work (our schedule)
*Also coming soon: how I budget clothes for 3 little boys. Goal...getting their clothes for the YEAR for around $100?! 3 boys. One year. $100.
* update: doors on a budget

Can't wait to post pictures!

New Years Goals Update

2011-07-12T19:31:00.000-07:00

So looking back to the first of the year, I wanted to see the goals I wrote out and see if I've made progress.

My goals for the year:
Purge and organize our entire house.
**I have done this including the garage and I'm starting all over again tomorrow. I've heard that it can be addicting, well I think it may be. Here's to round 2!

Read the Bible.
**I have NOT read the whole Bible, but have read the Bible more than ever. I dig deep into the books I'm reading and meditate on what God would like me to know. I do however still want to read the whole thing. Did you know that 90% of Christians haven't read the whole Bible?

Limit my love for coca cola...to 1 a week.
**This has been off and on, but if I'm honest drink an average of 3 a week...

Spend more time with friends.
**I have spent much more time with friends this year, but would now like to invite them with their husbands over for dinners and such. Usually we meet at the park for a picnic or something which is good, but I'd like to do more family things.

Learn to sew.
**Nope. I've got nothing to say about this one....at least the year isn't over!

Have a garden..
**Did not do one this year, we got new grass and my husband may croak if I dug any of it up this year haha.

Fix the not so fun to fix stuff in our home. (fence, new carpet, doors etc)
**WELL! We got new grass. Carpet coming next week, and instead of new doors we are going to paint ours blcak I think.

Date my husband once a week.
**We are doing really well with this! Usually at home dates, but so much fun to have time with him!

Workout.
**Better this year than the past few years. I am working out at least 3 times a week. That's good for me.

Take more mini road trips and explore.
**So far we've been hiking in the Canyon, to the lake, to Austin, and are planning 3 little trips for the remainder of the year.

The updates look much better than normal years. My "motto" this year was to finish what I start. I'm really excited to see that things are getting done!! How are your yearly goals going?

A Nice and Slow Sunday

2011-07-11T15:38:00.000-07:00

We try to prepare for Sunday early. Maybe on Thursday. I think of what we will wear. Is it clean? What will we eat? Some Sundays we stop at a small local diner behind our house. A favorite of ours, they know us there.

Yesterday we wake to clean laid out clothes and showered the night before boys. We head to church to serve and then to worship. I feel absolutely blessed. After, we chose the diner and take it home to eat together and watch a family movie.

We then head out in the heat of the afternoon for our annual water fight. We slip on swim suits, load water guns, and fill a bucket full of water balloons. It's on!

After all that we head out to the park to meet up with others have praise and worship in the cool of a summer evening. We don't know the others there but soon meet most of them. We had a lovely time.

392.nothing but family time
393.praising with those we don't know. But HE does.
394.a beautiful summer evening
395.a shy boy who eagerly answered a question at church "because mom...no one seemed to know"
396.seeing him love his brother again. a prayerful plea from a mother who longs for a restored bond.
397.a line of swim trunks hanging to dry
398.a broken dryer...using a clothes line and seeing whites sheets blowing in the breeze
399.volleyball in the park

a Slipin' and a Slidin'

2011-07-08T06:55:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we pulled out the ol' slip n' slide. Always a big hit around here, and gurantees an hour or so of uninterrupted water fun. Also guarantees sleepy boys.. :)

4th Of July: Memories and Traditions

2011-07-07T06:41:00.000-07:00

We LOVE the Fourth around here. It's one of my all time favorite holidays! Every year we grab an unhealthy drive thru breakfast and head to the parade. We get there at least an hour early to set up our seats, eat our breakfast, and do some exploring, picture taking, and soccer.

Every year it's the same, but I know I'll look back over the years at the same pictures taken at the same place and see how they've grown each year.

For example these pictures were taken last few years:

2008

2009

2010

2011

And for the few years he did this was so precious to me. It took Jaiden several years to figure out this man was not real. He always said hi to him.

Okay, so back to this year!

Love this picture...even with our "sun in the eyes" boy.

The little pioneer house open and ready to explore.

We waited and waited for the parade to start. Tristin asked Dan how long until it started, when Dan said 10 minutes Tristin turned to me and said, "10 minutes?! Mom, lets count to 60 ten times." Haha.

The parade is starting!

Smokey the bear came since we've had so many fires.

Jaiden LOVED seeing Mickey Mouse there.

I loved this shot, since we will be studying Early American History this year.

Then we headed home for a cookout and homemade ice cream and cupcakes before heading to the City Park before the light show (since fireworks were banned this year) It was such a nice day!

Vacation Part 3

2011-07-06T15:33:00.000-07:00

After the park in my last Vacation post, we headed to Hula Hut. Man was it gooood.

And then we headed back to our friends' house and enjoyed and afternoon and evening of playing in the creek.

After dinner, we headed the kiddos off to bed and my friend and I floated the evening away in the creek until dark. We met up with our husbands at the end of our float and saw a snake in the creek to which our husbands JUMPED out quickly leaving us behind....those scaredy cats ;)

Thankful For Freedom

2011-07-04T05:58:00.000-07:00

382. This day, and what our country was truly founded on.
383. new niece welcomed to the world!
384. celebration with friends and family
385. RAIN!! 2 nights this week!!
386. a husband's planning for a change. God is stirring for our family.
387. summer evening walks
388. Jaiden going swimming with his friend every Saturday!
389. the coolness morning and evening
390.enjoying coffee on the patio
391. red, white, and blue

Have a blessed Fourth of July my friends!

Vacation Part 2

2011-06-29T07:15:00.000-07:00

The thrird day we were there, we drove into Austin and went to a park to take the boys on a little train ride through a beautiful park in the middle of the city. It was full of people playing, exercising, swimming, and kyaking. Loved it!

Praise!

2011-06-28T15:15:00.000-07:00

Remember a month ago when I asked you to pray for rain? Well, last night I woke up at 1:00 AM, I thought I heard thunder so I jumped out of bed and looked out the window. Nothing. I got right back in bed and heard it again...this time for sure! I jumped back out of bed, looked out the window and it was pouring!

We had a pretty big thunderstorm come through, and it lasted a few hours. I was SO excited, because this is the first time it's rained ALL year (for longer than 1 minute). The first storm! Plus it was 111* this past weekend. We were all drained from the heat, the rain was such a fresh and cooling blessing for us!

We did however wake up this morning to our flowers turned over, our grill dumped out and turned over on the ground, and our patio cover....well it was upside down on TOP of our roof. I really wish I had a picture, but I don't. It took me all day to realize that I was missing a hanging Boston Fern from the backyard. I happened to look out a window on the side of our house and there it was, and a few feet over was the pot it's supposed to be in. Whew, what weather we have.

After all of that, I am still just most thankful for the rain! Thank you for your prayers, keep em' comin' please?!

Vacation Part 1

2011-06-27T14:19:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago we headed to Austin to see some precious friends. We stayed for 3 days at their GORGEOUS home. Really, stunning.

The boys had so much fun playing with their kids, and talk about them everyday. Great friends!

They spent the whole first day exploring the property.

This is the view from our room!!! Oh my!

More fun for the boys.

We spent the evening outside around a campfire, roasting marshmallows and chasing fireflies. It was simply wonderful.

Small Entry Makeover

2011-06-22T07:38:00.000-07:00

A few years ago, we put down a wood floor and spent hours painting our entry. Last year, I found a bench I loved, and put it in the entry.

THIS year, I wanted to add some color to it all. I searched garage sales and found a giant frame for $2.

I dug through some fabric I had on hand, and chose my favorite one. I recovered the bench pad, and chose a color from the fabric to paint the frame, leaving some of the natural wood to show through.

I added some pictures to the frame. (My handsome husband tells me everytime he walks in the entry how much he loves the frame and pictures...yay!)

And...the fabric. Bright and colorful.

So for under $5, we have a whole "new" entry. It has added color and has a playful touch that I love living in a house full of boys!

Thankful

2011-06-14T08:21:00.000-07:00

370. my precious family
371. getting to see and visit friends we haven't seen in years!
372. brothers reading together

373. summer time! (pretty much)
374. eating outside daily
375. new, green grass
376. this beautiful, playful pup, who just LOVES to roll in that grass

377. time to be still
378. serving such a faithful God
379. fun ideas that turn into reality
380. little boys asking to give all the money in their piggy banks to those who need it
381. a cool summer night

Lake Part II (Who We "Ran" Into)

2011-06-13T07:58:00.000-07:00

Like I said in the first part of our lake adventure, we made one last stop before heading home. We happened to see something that caught our eyes, and man were we thrilled!

Isn't that SO fun!! They're parked right in front of the local drive-in theater.

And guess who?!

Saturday Morning Breakfast-Alfresco!

2011-06-11T11:30:00.000-07:00

This morning I woke up and made homemade waffles for the boys. It was a surprise, so they had to stay out of the kitchen! I had them set the back porch table and I brought them these simple and sweet watermelon waffles.
We're getting to that Summer Bucket List of ours! If you missed our lake adventure...here ya go!

With chocolate chip seeds:

And our morning Bible study

Watermelon waffle credit here (much cuter)

Day At The Lake

2011-06-10T11:57:00.000-07:00

The other morning we opted to keep Jaiden home from school (year round school) and pack up a picnic, life jackets, and the boat. We headed for the first lake trip of the season, and man did we have a good ol' time!

Of course, it wouldn't be a lake trip if our boat didn't die on us in the middle of nowhere OR we didn't get stuck. This time we got stuck. We were unloading the boat into the water and one of the trailer wheels just sunk right down into the sand... like quick sand. We tried everything we could think of, and the people who were parked next to us came in off the lake and offered to help us push our boat (which is NOT in the water at this point) into the lake so that our heavy load would be off the trailer. We pushed for about 5-10 minutes and the boat went in the water, and we easily pulled the trailer out of the sinking mud. Nice.

After that, we headed out for hours of boat riding and raft pulling fun.

Then we parked it on Sandy Beach and played and snacked for a while.

I was realizing that I was in a LOT of pain. You see, I did put on sunscreen, but right when I was in the middle of putting it on Brighton had to go potty. When that kid needs to go...well you'd better get going! I slathered the little bit of sunscreen on my hands on to my thighs and headed to the potty. When we came back, I forgot to finish my legs...SO needless to say almost three hours in the 103* sun I was in serious pain. I literally begged to go home...I couldn't stand it any longer.

So, we stopped at Dairy Queen and headed home. I've been in my pjs ever since. We DID happen to make one small stop. Stay tuned and I'll show you who we "ran" into...

On My Mind (links I love)

2011-06-09T12:20:00.000-07:00

I just can't quite get over this...haha oh my! This had me cracking up...in tears. <-----Click it. really.

Been waiting to see this room...and boy o boy I love it!

A habit that can change your life.

Homemade bug spray. Can't wait to try!

Can't wait to taste test sun tea with the boys!

Started praying for these boys in our lives.

As usual I add more fun links and inspiring things in the sidebar ---->

Father's Day Gift

2011-06-06T11:26:00.000-07:00

Our boys are outside playing on the trampoline with the sprinkler on and I have a watermelon to hand out as their snack, but I wanted to share what I was up to over the weekend really quickly!

I've been thinking about a truly thoughtful gift for my husband for Father's Day. I came up with 2, and started planning and saving up for the supplies I needed. The first thing is what I'm going to share today because, he already got it. Yep. I planned on totally emptying and cleaning and organizing the garage for him. We had so much stacked up in there. Stuff to donate and stuff to organize. No organization whatsoever. None.

Well the other day I overheard him telling his mom that he was going to clean the garage when he was off next. SO that made me panic a bit, so while he worked on Friday I went out and bought the supplies I needed ($40 worth) and Saturday the boys and I woke up bright and early and set out to do some cleaning.

I made a place for every single thing in there. I also made a place for pet supplies, to hang our ladder, a shelf for garden stuff, and auto stuff. (that is on the side of the garage not pictured below)

But here is the before....I'm so sorry you have to see this hehe

Yes. I have to say, that was completely out of hand.

My little helpers really did help me out so much....for about an hour...

And here are the afters which include and old table we had in our backyard used for tools on top and under. The peg board actually put to good use. And just a good cleaning and organizing and stuff that needed donated, actually donated =]

It took me 5 hours. My husband was really thrilled when he got home! My car battery died, so when he came home he needed the jumper cables to give it a boost. He walked into the garage and said, "oh wow!" Haha, then I showed him where everything was. It is so nice to go in now!

A Hard Days Work

2011-06-03T07:00:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday we worked together as a family to lay sod in our backyard. We could've paid someone to do it, but we wanted our kids to know all the hard work it takes and that as a family we can do it together. The boys worked SO hard. We started at 11:00 AM.

He couldn't find the extra rake...

We shoveled a ton of dirt.

After a few hours, it was finally time to lay the sod. I brought the sod to him, he cut it if needed and pieced it together.

Halfway done. 100* outside...whew!

And finally, 7:00 pm. We.Were.Done.

Miss Bella

2011-06-02T10:17:00.000-07:00

She is a delight. She is so much like a child with her curiosity.

She plays and plays and plays. She cracks me up because she digs her head in a basket full of toys until she find what she wants to play with. (sorry for the fuzzy picture)

Then she conks out.

Stop and Smell the Flowers

2011-06-01T10:16:00.000-07:00

I love how he smells every flower he finds....even when it has no smell. He is my garden buddy. He loves to help and I love having him there.

He also likes to use the iron decoration as a sword at times.

I love how children keep you young. In the sense that they explore and are curious. They're in no hurry to get on with life. I'm learning that what is important to them should be important to me.

Love this post on Proverbs 31 and What your children think of you.

**Thank you for your prayers, we had a good chance of rain last night and it never came. Please keep praying for rain. My parents are okay, but 6 houses were lost in their area.

Urgent Prayer Request

2011-05-29T19:51:00.000-07:00

Please, please pray for rain in Texas. And no wind. The wind gets up to 65 mph. Right now my where my parents live has been evacuated because of fires. Please pray for them and their neighborhood, and the whole city. There has been fires off and on all season, and one near them that has taken 3 days to put out. 4 homes in their neighborhood have burned tonight. Thank you for praying. Rain and protection please Lord.

http://amarillo.com/

Monet and Fine Arts Study

2011-05-28T14:39:00.000-07:00

We have been doing some fine arts study when we have time. The boys really seem to love Monet.

We read storied about his life, watch movies, and try an art project. We did a smaller version of this last year, but this year I decided to start again. We have yet to do our art project, but have had alot of fun so far!

This is our Fine Arts Board. It's hanging in the dining room where we can see it and study. Each page protector has addition pictures or worksheets. I got this idea from Mt Hope.

Exploring Monet's Garden

Products we've really enjoyed while studying.

Bible Study Reflection: Philippians

2011-05-27T19:38:00.000-07:00

I started reading the book of Philippians last week. It's not a long book at all, but I am slowly digesting it, and just letting it all sink in.

I joined in with Inspired To Action and have really REALLY enjoyed it.
I also found Time Warp Wife's Study on Philippians and am using her guide and questions too.

What God has shown me about Him in the first part of Ch 1.
*He is always working to finish what He has started in your life.
6 being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
*Jesus longs affectionately for us.
8 God can testify how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus

What God wants me to apply to my life.
*To long affectionately for others.

*To pray for them like Paul did.
3 I thank my God every time I remember you. 4 In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy 5 because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now

*To consider the good I do. Does it stem from a love for God, or a desire to be good?

Paul truly cared for people. That is how you know you know God. When you love others, because that is the true character of God. Paul prayed for them every single day, with joy. No matter his circumstances, and even recognized that everything that happened to him turned out for furtherance of the gospel. He shared the gospel no matter what!

Paul loved others and prayed for others, but he also focused on ridding his life of sin. He knew he was a sinner, and because he loved God, he focused on ridding his life of sin. He didn't focus on all the good stuff he was doing. He lived in a humble manner.

I just love the example Paul is. I love that he loves God and others. I love that he prays for others, and truly deep down inside cares for each person. I love that he made sure others heard the gospel no matter what.

Silly Little Fellas

2011-05-27T09:50:00.000-07:00

This kid is always making the silliest faces. He cracks me up!

Tibby has been busy losing teeth. He lost the other one since this picture was taken.

The other day I walked outside to see these pirates and their crew headed out to sea. They said I was too slow and missed my chance on the ship. We do have a pirate costume, but these were special pirates I guess? Cowboy pirate ans space pirate... ;)

AND. A whole city creation, with a farm.

Teddy Bear Babies and Tiny Things

2011-05-26T14:31:00.001-07:00

The boys pretended the bears were their babies. The "kids" have to to sit and watch the boys play...haha

We made milkshakes....play dough milkshakes.

This was my book when I was little. Look at how tiny it is compared to my phone!

Lovin' life with all my boys!

Thoughts

2011-05-24T18:25:00.000-07:00

I have a bunch of thought jumbled in my head, and I can't seem to figure out how to write all of them out. I ask that you say a prayer for our family. We have had a crazy past few days. Everything is and will be just fine, but please pray for hearts and strength, and please please pray for salvation and a relationship with God for some of our family. Thank you!

The next thing I want to say is that we are so busy getting our yard prepared for new grass, and our home (walls and some furniture painted) prepared for new carpet. We are also in the planning stage of 2 vacations this summer, and as much as I love vacation....this year it has all overwhelmed me just a bit. A part of what makes me overwhelmed is not being able to actually make plans. My husbands' schedule can change at any moment, and it's very hard to make a plan and reserve hotels etc. I know it will all turn out and be wonderful though!

I can't wait to show you pictures of what all we've been up too! And, thank you for your prayers.

A few fun things: Key lime cake.....yum!

Need some organizing inspiration? I just found this blog...and can't quite get off! I did get off long enough to do some organizing ;)

Do you need to Spring Clean your Facebook account? I did a few weeks ago, and I just happened on this blog post that was so very encouraging.

Enjoy your evening!

Summer Bucket List

2011-05-17T15:47:00.000-07:00

It's that time again! Planning for summer activities is one of my favorite things to do all year! When I was little, I would round up my own outdoor activities and stick all of them in a basket so that I would always have something to do. I'm not kidding. I would do that for myself and my friends haha. I was also the one who decorated/organized my room with any money I had instead of buying a toy...hmmm.

This is ours from last year.

Summer List 2011

Backyard Smore's Homemade Icecream Visit a Snow cone Stand Mud pies Outside Movie Night Backyard Campout Watermelon On Trampoline Eat Breakfast Outside Water Gun Fight Play In Sprinklers 4th Of July Dessert Flashlight Walk In The Dark Play at The Lake Nature Camp Weekly Craft Jump Rope Farmer's Market Fresh Strawberry Pie Make Strawberry Lemonade Handmade Boats to Play with At Creek Create A Flower Tent Make Sun Tea Free Movies At Theater See The Play TEXAS Ride Horses Make Popsicles Have Friends Over for a Cookout and Icecream Visit a new Place to Explore Outdoor Family Game Night Slip N' Slide Serve In The Community

Butterfly Study

2011-05-16T14:15:00.000-07:00

My dad ordered us some caterpillars. We has so much fun learning about them and watching them carefully.

To learn more about Painted Lady Butterflies visit: http://www.earthsbirthday.org/butterflies/butterfly-lifecycle
http://earthsbirthday.org/butterflies/butterfly-facts-links/

Links I'm Loving

2011-05-13T09:36:00.000-07:00

Don't forget, I add more fun links and inspiring things in the sidebar, that change often. --------->

A sunrise in a bubble? These pictures are stunning.

A fun way for kids to learn Proverbs. We started the other day (more on that soon)

I used to always dream I'd grow up and throw party like this one.

Prayer Book...love this idea

Free Children's Book Recordings

No Rushin' I love this post about living slowly, taking it all in. I make it a point in our lives not to have too much going on. I like to be home. with my family. serving. No need to "be rushin" * I also love what she says about unplugging. I REALLY don't want a tv in our house...soon maybe.

I've been using this schedule as a guideline to clean our home everyday. I love it...and the blog!

I love this post about good "old fashioned" housewives. A way to create an atmosphere of serving your husband.

World Autism Awareness Day

2011-05-11T09:36:00.000-07:00

April was Autism Awareness Month. We had an autism walk on World Autism Awareness Day. Some of you may recall a few years back when my husband and I started an Autism Day to support the local public schools' Autism Units. We did two of those before we started home school and private school. The people who helped us get that one started are still doing them to this day!

This year was our new programs' first event. Dan and I had discussed this with the directors last year, but then we home schooled for the year. Well, this year they got together and started organizing the event. Dan and I came in near the end of all the planning and looked over everything. They really did a wonderful job, and everything went well!

Here are some of the photos of the day. It was windy. I mean 25 mph winds are nothing around these parts. A few weeks ago I went on a road trip with the women's ministry. The 4 hr trip took 6 hrs, and on the way we saw 12...yes 12!! Semi trucks and rvs turned over by the wind...the 60mph wind. Okay...so on to the "windy" pictures!

My hubby on the news.

Getting ready to say the Pledge:

I don't really like clowns, but I like this picture:

I always look like such a giddy school girl haha...he's not even paying attention to me ha!

My wonderful friend:

Cousins =]

My dad with Jaiden, checking out his sign:

The green team:

Goofy guys:

My boys:

Showing off his medal:

His old teacher...he adores her!

Him with my cousin...he absolutely adores him too!

What a wonderful way to honor those we love!

An Easter Party

2011-05-10T14:52:00.000-07:00

I have had so many issues with photos lately....hints why my posts lately haven't had any. I think it's working again, so I finally get to share our Easter photos!

We had an early morning brunch, all set up outside. It was so lovely!

This is what the table was set up like:

Aren't the glasses precious?!

That's it, that's all we did as far as bunnies/candy etc. We spent the rest of the weekend as a family and remembering the sacrifice our Savior made. It was such a nice weekend.

After our party, we headed to the park and gardens. We had never been, and thought it was really beautiful.

I have a ton of pictures on my camera, because Tibby thought it was just beautiful and he HAD to get all the pictures he could. I love that he appreciated the beauty. I think we all did.

After that, we went to the opening of African Cats. We happened to drive up at the same time as our cousins and man did that make the boys' day!! And, just so you know the littlest one (1 yr old) calls me Aunt Nina!! Melts my heart...I just may change my name for that kid.

All in all it was a wonderful, wonderful weekend!

Blessings

2011-05-09T06:44:00.001-07:00

357. a beautiful weekend spent with family
358. character building
359. morning coffee...it's a new thing for me =]
360. a hair cut
361. browsing my absolute favorite antique store
362. one of the best days of my life
363. having my best friend by my side, raising our children together. i love that man!
364. kids riding bikes and playing in water
365. teaching 2 year olds about God
366. uplifting words from friends
367. serving my family with clean clothes and good food
367. finding wonderful curriculum!
368. a cool house after being out in 90 degree weather
369. being showered with breakfast and homemade cards...and songs on Mother's Day/Birthday

Mother's Day

2011-05-08T17:49:00.000-07:00

I have been so spoiled over the past few days...because today is my Birthday! Yay!
The boys picked out gifts for me. They piled them all in the car as we headed to meet my in laws at Chili's. J got me a balloon, Brighton got me a water squirter and a CARS puzzle, and Tibby, my sweet little guy got me candles and a green (my favorite color) lei. He looked at me with those big brown eyes as I cheerfully put it around my neck, and said, "mom, it's for your wedding". He was SO proud, and I melted. I don't think I will ever throw that thing away.

My husband spoiled me with a date (he wanted to teach me to shoot...I think I knocked his socks off with my skills ;)) Then we headed to 6th street to do some antique shopping and ate at a place called Cowboy Gelato...man was it gooood!

I am so very thankful for my life. . God graciously reminds me of how rich I truly am!

To my boys who made me a mother: You are more than enough. You are beautiful. You are my joy, my life, my gifts. You are precious. You are so loved.

To my sweet husband who is my partner. I could not be the mother I am today without you by my side. Your love amazes me. You bless. You gave me our gifts, I will forever be thankful.

To my momma: You are my most wonderful friend. Your strength inspires me. Your thoughtful and giving heart blesses. You encourage me to give the shirt off my back if needed. Your love for God encourages me. You are more than wonderful.

To my mother in law: You raised the most wonderful boy in to a man that a woman could ever ask for. You taught him hard work. You placed a desire in his heart for a family, and he loves us fiercely. Thank you for loving us.

To my grand mamas. One in heaven, and one still here with us: You are the definition of love. You inspire me to work hard and serve my family. Your example lives in me. Your time and patience grace us. Thank you.

To my beautiful godly friends: I am so encouraged by your friendship. I am blessed to be here by your sides, training and watching over our children. I love how you each passionately love Jesus. I love how he placed each of you in my life.

Happy Mother's Day!

Well, Hello

2011-05-03T15:33:00.000-07:00

May is here! One of my favorite months of the year because of my birthday, Mother's Day, and we'll be celebrating our 9th Anniversary! I guess you could sum it up to a whole lot of spoiling for me *grin* but don't worry....I don't mind. haha

I'm not sure what exactly happened last month?! I wrote a post at the beginning of the month stating my 30 day plan with Jillian Michaels, and turned around and it's May 1. All that embarrassing stuff I didn't want to say, well, I pretty much have to now...
No, I did about 1/2 of the month. For some reason, my body senses exercise and decides to get sick. I'm NOT kidding. Every year I stay well through the winter (getting nice and plump while I'm at it). Then, when I finally get the motivation to workout, I get sick. This year was no different, except that right when I felt better and jumped back into my workouts, I got sick again. I have now had the worst cough I've ever had, along with no voice for over a week now. I sound like a frog.

I have decided though, I will not use that as an excuse. I will tell you, the days I did 30 day shred, I felt wonderful all day long! I lost 3 lbs, but still have a ways to go. So, I will continue to push through this month because, well I just have to. I refuse to enter the pool, lake, vacation without haven't worked my bottom...and tummy off! Or at least, made a habit of working out.

*********************************************************************************
I have spent so much time with God. I am at a place in my life I've always dreamed of. God has faithfully brought me here. I remember doing a Beth Moore study years ago, and she said she had gone through her spiritual life like a yoyo. Never consistently with God. She longed for a consistent walk with Him. Then, she had the worst year of her life.

When I heard her say that, I wanted to pretend I had never heard her say that, because I just knew I was in the same boat. You see, she had some things in her life that needed dealt with, and God wanted her and Him to deal with them together. It took about a year for her to get out of the pit she was in, and start living a life of joy and freedom. A consistant life with God. Now, her life isn't perfect, but she has a relationship with her Creator that the had longed for.

As, I stated before, I wanted to pretend I never heard her say that. And I did for a while. I avoided "dealing" with anything as long as I could, but I still prayed for and longed for a closer relationship with God.

Well, guess what? Our God is such a faithful gentleman and honored my request for a closer relationship with Him, but just like any daddy, He helped me deal with and put away my past bit by bit. I have found why this is totally necessary. The inconsistency in my life WAS my past. My past thoughts, guilt, shame. I couldn't have such a divine romance with my King with my past still linguring over my head. After all, this was all about Him. Not me. Not my sins. Not my shame. And when those things brought me down and filled my mind, they pushed Him away.

I hate to say this, but all that dealing took me over a year. The worst time in my life. But worth it. Absolutely worth it. And He makes things turn out beautiful for those who love Him.

I know you maybe wondering what this has to do with exercising? Nothing really. I just wanted to update you on that, but as I sit here typing, I realize that it kinda has a lot to do with that. You see, I struggle with that. I'm not a really active girl. I'd rather read than go to the gym. I'd rather watch a movie or cook than workout. I pretty much rather do anything than run for any length of time...*grin*

But, I'm not opposed to swimming, walking, biking, or hiking. It's just actually getting me to just do it is the problem.

I think God cares about that. He cares that I have a desire in my heart to be healthy and active, and I think He wants me to know that just because I've never been successful in the past with these things doesn't mean I still can't do it. Remember? He is showing me how to LIVE. Every step we will take together. So, no, I didn't finish my 30 days, but they aren't over....I just have to do what He's shown me when it gets hard. Let Him lead me right through and we will finish together!

Simply Gratitude

2011-04-25T07:22:00.000-07:00

341. weekends with friends
342. digging deeper in His word
343. much needed Monday. a time to fall back into routine.
344. celebration of our Savior!
345. waiting on a spring thunderstorm
346. afternoon nap
347. Sunday roast at parents'
348. amazon packages at the door...=]
349. mornings at the park
350. saving money on groceries
351. rest after a long, hard day
352. feeling inspired again
353. pulling out shorts and flip flops
354. dresses...for me
355. a wonderful parent teacher conference
356. getting back on the rails

Weekend Reading and Plans

2011-04-09T16:01:00.000-07:00

Our weekend starts today! I'm am so overwhelmed with today, I'm very excited to have my sweet husband home.

Today I baked my sweet friend's homemade bread bread. It is wonderful!
I also made some jam to go with it. Yum.

I surfed blog land a while and found some of the most fun ideas! All posted in my ever changing list of fun and inspiring things------------------------>

Tonight the boys are watching Nascar, while I retreat to my room with good books and movies!!

I have a special blog post, that I can't seem to get posted. Soon.

Tomorrow is rather busy for us. I think that's okay on occasion. I am one who purposely keeps our schedule open to practice the art of doing nothing. Slow living. But tomorrow is busy for us. *Volunteering in the nursery.* Church after that. *Jaiden's invited to a party from a kid in his class!! This is the 2nd time for him! *And possibly a Gospel Meeting with my cousins in the evening.

Monday? Date night with the love of my life!

I hope you all have a great weekend, and check out my sidebar if you need some extra reading.

Autism Awareness Month bloggers who are joining together to make you aware of autism:

Organizing Made Fun

Earth Monkey Moms

A Bowl Full of Lemons

Hello House, Goodbye Home

Pieces of My Heart

Caffeinated Autism Mom
Mom's Flight School

This Journey Through Life

Helping My Boys
My Thirty One
Life with Lissy
Frou Frou Britches
This Journey Through My Life
Endless Crafting
Loving In This Life with 5

A 30 Day Challenge

2011-04-02T10:27:00.000-07:00

I'm always up for a challenge. I hardly ever finish them, but this year my goal is to finish what I start. That's maybe why I've hesitated to actually say anything about this challenge....subconsciously I'm not sure I even want to start this one...much less finish it!

BUT after reading Meg's post this morning and the link she shared, I thought NOW is the time. You see when I think about working out, I feel I'm the only one having to do this or the only one dreading it every morning, but after reading her post and comments I realized that almost everyone feels the same as me. The difference is the ones who actually push through that and stick with it aren't the ones who just LOVE to work out, they're the ones who...well pushed through!

I want to be one of the ones to push through. To finish.

30 Days. Finish.

So here I am. April 1 (well the 2nd). I already own 30 Day Shred. So that's the one I'm using. I will wake up every morning and ~~drag myself~~ happily shred. And if I don't...well I get to tell you all on May 1 how I just ignored Jillian and turned the dvd over as I walked on past her every morning stuffing my face with blueberry muffins. And that would be embarrassing.

So here we go. A 30 day challenge. An opportunity to change and challenge my body...oh and ride in my handsome husband's boat while he stares at his rock star of a wife! I think I'm up for that *grin*

Let's do this!

A Nature Walkin' Kind of Day

2011-04-01T10:26:00.000-07:00

I haven't updated on our home school lately. Some weeks we seem to average 2-3 days instead of 4... We love spring and have been studying birds, trees, clouds, and butterflies.

We got our caterpillars in a jar and the boys just LOVE watching them and learning more about the life cycle of a butterfly. (I will take and post pictures of that next week)

While doing lessons with Tibby, I let Brighton work on trays I have with activities on them. I set up 5 trays but sometimes one just seems enough.
Using different color objects to put in our kaleidoscope.

Sharing with brother.

This is what we saw!

We read some books.

Checked on our plants.

After science, writing, and math we headed out for a nature walk.
Bella checking out the falling blossoms.

We were on a mission! The boys enjoyed searching for the items on their nature walk scavenger hunt.

All the colors were breath taking!

And a lovely pose from the nature walkn' scavenger hunters!

Healthy Living

2011-03-30T12:49:00.000-07:00

Having a child with autism and after much research we believe that toxins play a HUGE part in the way these children function and react to things, we have taken a big step over the past few years to live a healthy life.

We started with detoxing our home. We only use natural cleaners. We make our own using vinegar, castile soap, lemons etc or use Mrs. Meyers or Seventh Generation I've heard is good. We even make our own laundry detergent (except when I just miss the other stuff, but there are still clean options)

The next thing we did, was switching our soap, hair care, toothpaste etc over to natural products. Our favorite kids personal care is Truekid (below). They smell good and are gluten free (yes even shampoo etc. has gluten) some other favorites are listed below.

The next thing is food. This one is one of the most important to me. Being a mother and wife, I feel it is my responsibility to provide healthy nourishing food for my family.

I do my best to buy local and organic, but that is not always the case. We do a lot of our shopping twice a month at Sam's. They have some organic produce (carrots, tomatoes, salad, spinach) and milk and whole wheat bread and cheese, and we buy thick skinned produce there as well. Our children eat a ton of apples and grapes and strawberries, so those are for sure organic and purchased at a Natural Grocery Store as much as we can. We also purchase honey, yogurt, and eggs at that store.

I know you may be thinking that is too expensive, but that is why we took baby steps to get here, and after our shelter we spend the most on food. It's what is most important to us. I can't describe the feeling I have when I purchase food and prepare meals for my family with the healthiest and most fresh ingredients I can find. I enjoy that so much.

I will give you some examples of how we eat, and some of my favorite reads on healthy living.

Breakfast:
granola
fruit

smoothie
grainy cereal with fruit
toast with honey and slivered almonds
toast with basil pesto and an egg topped with parmesan cheese
blueberry pecan waffles

Snacks:
popcorn
homemade smoothie pops
tortilla chips with homemade salsa or guacamole
fruits or veggies
chocolate chips with walnuts or pecans (for your sweet tooth)

Lunch:
leftovers
rice with tomatoes, beans,cheese
strawberry spinach salad
avocado chicken salad sandwich (shred cooked chicken with a mashed up avocado, salt and pepper, and garlic salt. I like it on a crescent roll...yum!
veggie or chicken nachos (i like to bake up a whole chicken or whatever I have and use throughout the week.

Dinner:
Burritos (with whatever you have on hand) chicken, beans, rice, cheese, lettuce, tomato, avocado, salsa, corn) there are so many ways to make these we have this often. My favorite rice recipe.

Enchiladas are also wonderful. I boil the chicken and shred it. Then make a sauce. For a white sauce I use butter, milk, flour. Use veggies if wanted (spinach and mushroom) with cheese on top.

Spaghetti can be made several ways too. You can bake it with red sauce topped with cheese. You can make it with just a red sauce, using tomatoes, onions, mushrooms, peppers, italian spices pureed. Or you can make a white sauce made with cream, butter, garlic, and lemon topped with parmesan cheese.

Soup. There are so many ways to make soup, but a fast simple one a friend shared with me a few years ago is Tomato Basil Soup:
Start with tomato soup, add about a cup of milk, a cup of cream, 1/4 c of basil, 1/2 cu parmesan cheese..
Let simmer on low as long as you need (an hour is good, but longer if wanted)
Before serving add fresh basil and parmesan cheese.

Open face Chicken Parmesan Sandwich

Homemade Pizza

Roasted/baked chicken with roasted tomatoes topped with basil and mozzarella

Southwest Pasta Salad

Love this pork carnita recipe! EASY and SO good!

Okay, so I hope I got you started on some good ideas for healthy living and some good simple food. I just basically use the same ingredients all the time, adding only a few extras here and there.

So our main grocery list looks something like this:

granola
fruit
bread
eggs
milk
tortillas
flour (whole wheat)
veggies (including tomatoes, onion, and garlic for salsa, soups, and pasta sauces)
chicken
pasta
beans
herbs (unless you have them growing in your kitchen, which I just started)
cream
rice
cheese
honey
yogurt
nuts
olive oil

We are still on steps. Some day I'd like to bake more bread or make my granola or yogurt. But for now this is what we are doing.

Enjoy the process. Might as well. It feels wonderful to know that you are giving your family the best you can. Start slow and with what's most important to you. It can be such a blessing!

So crank up some music, put on your apron, and get to work ;) OR if you're like me...do a bunch of planning and list making first....

Oh and my favorite food inspiration right here.

Wonderful Uses for Coconut Oil

Washing you face naturally

Great post on avoiding sugar

I liked to make our boys' playdough when we were trying gluten free (because regular contains flour) and we use regular ol' art supplies, but I just LOVE to look at these and maybe one day, Ill buy some for their birthdays or something.

Green Smoothies

Eat Well and Spend Less. A new series starting next week!