Hello friends.
I am really sorry I haven't been on in a few weeks. Months? Our littlest boy had some health issues for a few weeks before turning into pneumonia that he battled for almost 2 weeks. We have been to the dr 6 times in the past few weeks, but he is doing much better now! Thank God!
Dan and I went to New Mexico for a John Mayer concert about 2 weeks ago while the boys stayed with my parents. We don't do things like that often so it was really nice to have a few days with him all to myself! I sure love that guy.
The boys have been in Fall soccer and we joined Upward this time and we are LOVING it! Especially the no games on Sunday. I think it's so important to have a day to really rest in God and to be with your family. It's not very popular these days, but we love it. Brighton has only got to play 2 games since he was sick and sadly there is only one game left, but we're just thankful he's back out there.
There have been quite a few changes in our lives lately that we are adjusting to and more to come! The biggest is Dan has started a company (spray foam insulation) that is keeping him very busy along with the full time job he already has. We've also had some things come up that have made us very thankful for that business. It's funny how God chooses to take care of things we never saw coming!
I have been challenging myself a lot this year. I have had a really tough time in the past dealing with life in general. It's a lot to get into but depression and insecurities played a huge part of my life. God is gently taking me on a journey to be who He created me to be. To be a strong women because of His strength in me. To not depend on others' opinion of me for my self worth.
I'm pretty hard on myself and God is breaking me of that. He's putting me in situations that force me to be who He created me to be, not who I settled to be because of a lifetimes worth of lies I chose to believe. He's showing me what can be done through Him that I used to couldn't bring myself to do because of the rut I was in.
So just maybe it's Him that's been challenging me? Yes, I believe so.
So this blog? It needs to get it's act together don't ya think?? I can't help if some things come up that keep me from this space, but when it's just "life" I will be here sharing our days and memories, because I love to look back on them. And sharing how God is working in our lives, because friends, He is working! And that is worth sharing!
Here we go :)
Showing posts with label journal. Show all posts
Showing posts with label journal. Show all posts
Monday, October 14, 2013
Saturday, July 13, 2013
Summer of the Birds
Sometimes I have a hard time with nature study. We don't live in a place with just a whole lot going on, but just like the old saying goes, if you "stop and smell the roses" you will find some interesting things.
God really does have a lot going on no matter where you're at.
One morning I went out to water my hanging fern and a little finch flew out and right over my head. So I gently lowered the plant down and sure enough, inside were the four sweetest little eggs. I called for the boys to come see, and from then on we watched that nest like a hawk. :)
At first we thought this was a sparrow, but after seeing the beautiful daddy with red markings drop by we researched and found that this was a House Finch couple.
I never got a picture of him, but he really was beautiful.
A week or so after the discovery we peeked in and there they were!
We thought there was only three. A few more days went by before we finally noticed the forth little one was in there.
We loved watching the fledglings as they were developing their wings...and fuzzy heads.
And just like that, they were ready to go.
Our boys have learned so much about birds this year. They are loving every bit of it, and so am I! We picked up Thornton Burgess' Bird Book and can't wait to read it!
Linking with Nature Study Mondays!
Show and Share Saturday
God really does have a lot going on no matter where you're at.
One morning I went out to water my hanging fern and a little finch flew out and right over my head. So I gently lowered the plant down and sure enough, inside were the four sweetest little eggs. I called for the boys to come see, and from then on we watched that nest like a hawk. :)
At first we thought this was a sparrow, but after seeing the beautiful daddy with red markings drop by we researched and found that this was a House Finch couple.
I never got a picture of him, but he really was beautiful.
A week or so after the discovery we peeked in and there they were!
We thought there was only three. A few more days went by before we finally noticed the forth little one was in there.
We loved watching the fledglings as they were developing their wings...and fuzzy heads.
And just like that, they were ready to go.
Our boys have learned so much about birds this year. They are loving every bit of it, and so am I! We picked up Thornton Burgess' Bird Book and can't wait to read it!
Linking with Nature Study Mondays!
Show and Share Saturday
Monday, July 8, 2013
Loving Our Children
We go back and forth with the things we need to work on. We go from bad attitudes, talking back, and complaining to helpful, obedient, and patient. And I'm not just talking about the children. :)
We called the boys to do bible study one evening. They "paused" their playing as they quietly grumbled to the table. Honestly? It broke my heart. What are we even doing all of this for? They don't want to be here right now. They are full of their own selfish desires. I can assure you though it's not just them.
I got to thinking. It doesn't matter how much of God's word we read to them, how much I quote, or how much we memorize. We could do all this and God could still say, "I never knew you." We could read the Word until we are blue in the face, but that won't make them love God. It certainly never made me love God. Not until one understands God's love does he then truly love and know God. It's at that time when you want to open His word and get to know Him even more.
This humbling thought came across me. There is not one thing I can do to make sure my children love God, except them seeing God's love toward them in me. Even that's not me, it's all Him.
“Any obedience that isn’t motivated by his great love is nothing more than penance.” Elyse Fitzpatrick, Because He Loves Me
I've poured over countless books and even scripture trying to figure out how to correct and train our boys. I I soon realized that if I love them through the eyes of God, only then will their hearts turn to Him.
I read a post by Ann about Katie that captivated me. Talking about this 24 year old mother of 13 girls she said, "You mother as well as you know your Father. I look at Katie and all I can think: She mothers like she’s memorized the face of her Father. It is a holy witnessing."
Their is no secret to raising children who love the Lord. They see Him and feel Him through us. I don't want to move in any way with these boys unless it has the face of God all over it.
"Jesus did not save us so that we could do motherhood on our own, apart from him; he saved us so that we would be forever connected to him, forever dependent on him– on the sustenance that flows through the cord of his unending love. Jesus was cut off from the Father that we might not be cut off from him." Ruth from Gracelaced
We called the boys to do bible study one evening. They "paused" their playing as they quietly grumbled to the table. Honestly? It broke my heart. What are we even doing all of this for? They don't want to be here right now. They are full of their own selfish desires. I can assure you though it's not just them.
I got to thinking. It doesn't matter how much of God's word we read to them, how much I quote, or how much we memorize. We could do all this and God could still say, "I never knew you." We could read the Word until we are blue in the face, but that won't make them love God. It certainly never made me love God. Not until one understands God's love does he then truly love and know God. It's at that time when you want to open His word and get to know Him even more.
This humbling thought came across me. There is not one thing I can do to make sure my children love God, except them seeing God's love toward them in me. Even that's not me, it's all Him.
“Any obedience that isn’t motivated by his great love is nothing more than penance.” Elyse Fitzpatrick, Because He Loves Me
I've poured over countless books and even scripture trying to figure out how to correct and train our boys. I I soon realized that if I love them through the eyes of God, only then will their hearts turn to Him.
I read a post by Ann about Katie that captivated me. Talking about this 24 year old mother of 13 girls she said, "You mother as well as you know your Father. I look at Katie and all I can think: She mothers like she’s memorized the face of her Father. It is a holy witnessing."
Their is no secret to raising children who love the Lord. They see Him and feel Him through us. I don't want to move in any way with these boys unless it has the face of God all over it.
"Jesus did not save us so that we could do motherhood on our own, apart from him; he saved us so that we would be forever connected to him, forever dependent on him– on the sustenance that flows through the cord of his unending love. Jesus was cut off from the Father that we might not be cut off from him." Ruth from Gracelaced
Saturday, July 6, 2013
A New Direction
For the past few months until about 3 weeks ago, I was in such a dry spell spiritually. I decided on a whim to join Good Morning Girls Bible study and book club reading the book Anything by Jennie Allen. I have been listening to the book on audible while I take notes and then do the bible study that goes along with it, and let me just tell you, God is speaking to me. He's moving me and making me realize things I guess I was too prideful to even recognize.
It started with the realization that so many (me) say that we would do anything for God. But, when anything is truly broken down into everything, I realized that I indeed was a liar.
Do we even know what we're saying when we say we'd do anything? Jesus did anything.
How grateful I am that he did because I can't or is it...won't?
Then it came. What God wanted me to hear:
"Everything is keeping you from anything"
Here I've been sitting for months making plans and goals. Lose weight, and here's how I'm going to do it.
Keep the house clean, and here's the schedule. Home school, and here's the curriculum. All these are the everything keeping me from anything. I remember earnestly wondering how people do this. How do they have a healthy balance? How can I balance God and all this other stuff like everyone else seems to? But the truth is, these goals were my gods. There is no balance.
*Mathew 6:24 "No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth."
*2 Kings 17:41 Even while these people were worshiping the LORD, they were serving their idols. To this day their children and grandchildren continue to do as their ancestors did.
*James 4:4 You adulterous people, don't you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.
Have we come to a place where, "God's gifts become gods themselves?"
We've become accustomed to thinking that if we love Jesus then we (rightfully) will be blessed by Him and our lives will become simple and easy. And isn't that what we all want? If we have a problem we lay on our faces crying out to God. We are keenly aware that He is the only source that could relieve us and comfort us. But, we pray for Him to take away our burdens, and without even realizing, we are praying to be at a place in life that we don't even recognize our need for Him.
I remember a few years ago when I was homeschooling Jaiden while he was having severe meltdowns lasting 6+ hours. I just knew God had lead me to home school him and couldn't believe it was taking such a toll. I would sit in prayer and tears those 6+ hours every day. A friend stopped by one day and as I was crying, she said to me, "I think that if this is God's will you would feel peace and it would be going smoothly." When she said that I felt such relief both physically and in the fact that most everyone thought I was crazy for having him home. Soon after, we enrolled Jaiden in a private special needs school and though I got physical relief the hours he was at school, I quit praying and needing God those 6+ hours a day.
You read in the Bible all the stories of people who loved God. Truly love God, and well their lives were never easy or simple, and yet, those are the ones God said had hearts after Him.
Proverbs 21:1
The king's heart is in the hands of the LORD, like the rivers of the water He turns it wherever He wishes.
Have you ever read the book of Job? :) Job suffered most because he feared God the most.
What about Paul? During the hardships of captivity, he says in Philippians 4
11 Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am.12I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need.13I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.14 Nevertheless, you have done well to share with me in my affliction.
Every person that loves God wrestles. It's okay to wrestle. After all, we don't know what is truly good or bad. Only God really knows. And I trust Him.
The other day I sat down to write in my journal. I usually write goals for the month, but this time I asked God. What are the things you'd like to help me with this month? Turns out they had nothing to do with saving or making money, decorating, home school curriculum, losing weight, or cleaning house. He wants me to spend time getting to know Him and hear what he has to say, and to train our boys the way they should go. Two plans for me, though not simple, but most important.
It started with the realization that so many (me) say that we would do anything for God. But, when anything is truly broken down into everything, I realized that I indeed was a liar.
Do we even know what we're saying when we say we'd do anything? Jesus did anything.
How grateful I am that he did because I can't or is it...won't?
Then it came. What God wanted me to hear:
"Everything is keeping you from anything"
Here I've been sitting for months making plans and goals. Lose weight, and here's how I'm going to do it.
Keep the house clean, and here's the schedule. Home school, and here's the curriculum. All these are the everything keeping me from anything. I remember earnestly wondering how people do this. How do they have a healthy balance? How can I balance God and all this other stuff like everyone else seems to? But the truth is, these goals were my gods. There is no balance.
*Mathew 6:24 "No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth."
*2 Kings 17:41 Even while these people were worshiping the LORD, they were serving their idols. To this day their children and grandchildren continue to do as their ancestors did.
*James 4:4 You adulterous people, don't you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.
Have we come to a place where, "God's gifts become gods themselves?"
We've become accustomed to thinking that if we love Jesus then we (rightfully) will be blessed by Him and our lives will become simple and easy. And isn't that what we all want? If we have a problem we lay on our faces crying out to God. We are keenly aware that He is the only source that could relieve us and comfort us. But, we pray for Him to take away our burdens, and without even realizing, we are praying to be at a place in life that we don't even recognize our need for Him.
I remember a few years ago when I was homeschooling Jaiden while he was having severe meltdowns lasting 6+ hours. I just knew God had lead me to home school him and couldn't believe it was taking such a toll. I would sit in prayer and tears those 6+ hours every day. A friend stopped by one day and as I was crying, she said to me, "I think that if this is God's will you would feel peace and it would be going smoothly." When she said that I felt such relief both physically and in the fact that most everyone thought I was crazy for having him home. Soon after, we enrolled Jaiden in a private special needs school and though I got physical relief the hours he was at school, I quit praying and needing God those 6+ hours a day.
You read in the Bible all the stories of people who loved God. Truly love God, and well their lives were never easy or simple, and yet, those are the ones God said had hearts after Him.
Proverbs 21:1
The king's heart is in the hands of the LORD, like the rivers of the water He turns it wherever He wishes.
Have you ever read the book of Job? :) Job suffered most because he feared God the most.
What about Paul? During the hardships of captivity, he says in Philippians 4
11 Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am.12I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need.13I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.14 Nevertheless, you have done well to share with me in my affliction.
Every person that loves God wrestles. It's okay to wrestle. After all, we don't know what is truly good or bad. Only God really knows. And I trust Him.
The other day I sat down to write in my journal. I usually write goals for the month, but this time I asked God. What are the things you'd like to help me with this month? Turns out they had nothing to do with saving or making money, decorating, home school curriculum, losing weight, or cleaning house. He wants me to spend time getting to know Him and hear what he has to say, and to train our boys the way they should go. Two plans for me, though not simple, but most important.
Wednesday, June 5, 2013
Summer Reading: Homeschool
I'm still stuck in May. Does that surprise anyone??
We went on vacation at the beginning of May so you can bet I have a lot of pictures to share. Soon.
I have (for the past few months) been preparing for our summer schedule.
We are almost done with our Math and reading programs. We already finished spelling, but I'm debating whether or not to keep it going through the summer on a new level or not.
For now we will just review, at least until mid July.
Our summer schedule is going to be short and sweet. For math we will review with games and activities.
I'm bringing out Family Math. A wonderful book with games for helping in math for all levels. The boys have always loved this book, and I can't wait to see what new games are in store for us this summer!
I'll be reading Ray's Arithmetic aloud to the boys while they work on our chalkboard wall. You can use it for free here.
I'm also going to purchase a few games to play weekly with the boys.
Speed, for multiplication review.
Zues on the Loose
and I'm bringing our Sum Swamp for teaching Brighton to add and subtract. Tristin loved this game at his age!
And then we have reading!!
I am so thrilled about this summer and all the reading activities we have lined up. I mean, really excited about this haha.
First of all, have you heard of Thriving Family? It's a magazine from Focus on the Family, and this summer they are offering a summer activity called Around the World in 60 Days. It's a free "trip" around the world! You'll have the opportunity to explore 27 different countries on six continents. For each day of the trip, they have a biblical lesson and an activity that will give you glimpse into another culture.
Along with that, I came across a FANTASTIC summer reading list all about adventure at Redeemed Reader!
Seriously, you do not want to miss this! They have a wonderful list of books and alternate books for all ages. Be sure to check out the current posts like this one, that include activities and journaling ideas.
I am going to buy or make a summer reading notebook for the boys. Hopefully it will be full of interesting and wild adventure by the end of the summer. And they would have learned history, geography, art, science, writing, and reading without really even knowing it! Pretty sneaky ;)
Some books and activities we will be reading and journaling this summer are:
We are going to read The Green Ship, and along with creating our kid friendly backyard I will be using Se7en's green ship inspiration. Oh my!
Around the World and will be doing the discussion questions and note booking ideas that I mentioned already.
How to Make an Apple Pie and See the World
Toot & Puddle Top of the World
Dodsworth series is so much fun.
The Middle of Somewhere (after Around the World)
The Penderwicks :A Summer Tale of Four Sisters, Two Rabbits, and a Very Interesting Boy (bedtime reading)
Mr. Poppers Penguins Audio CD
The Wind in the Willows
Mercy Watson (we sure love this pig!)
Library Lion
Nate Saint
Continue our reading through Little Pilgrim's Progress. Tristin LOVES this book.
How God Used a Thunderstorm for family devotional.
Pippi Longstocking
Little Tim and the Brave Sea Capitan
My Father's Dragon Series
Nature:
The boys are very big into constellations right now, so we will be spending most nights sitting outside looking and seeing what all we can find! I may pick up a copy of Find the Constellations.
They are also loving learning about birds (part 2 coming soon). I have an incredible bird app that we love to explore and listen to. And we will be reading the Burgess Bird Book on our kindle. Cards to go with the book. And these beautiful birds would be wonderful for nature journals or hanging on the wall.
If you follow me on instagram (Jeana B) you know that we were observing the sky one day. While doing that we talked about the clouds, rain, and then how a rainbow is made. It was so much fun just to sit on the back porch and discuss all of their interests! We then got the hose and made our own rainbow. They just loved it!
A Drop of Water look like a beautiful book I'd love to get my hands on.
On lazy days I am thrilled to have found The Magic School Bus episodes on netflix. Woohoo!
What are your plans for the summer? What's on your reading list?
I'm working on a book list for myself. I'll share that one when I'm done!
Have a great summer! Grab a glass of tea or lemonade, sit outside in the sunshine, and bring some books along!
We went on vacation at the beginning of May so you can bet I have a lot of pictures to share. Soon.
I have (for the past few months) been preparing for our summer schedule.
We are almost done with our Math and reading programs. We already finished spelling, but I'm debating whether or not to keep it going through the summer on a new level or not.
For now we will just review, at least until mid July.
Our summer schedule is going to be short and sweet. For math we will review with games and activities.
I'm bringing out Family Math. A wonderful book with games for helping in math for all levels. The boys have always loved this book, and I can't wait to see what new games are in store for us this summer!
I'll be reading Ray's Arithmetic aloud to the boys while they work on our chalkboard wall. You can use it for free here.
I'm also going to purchase a few games to play weekly with the boys.
Speed, for multiplication review.
Zues on the Loose
and I'm bringing our Sum Swamp for teaching Brighton to add and subtract. Tristin loved this game at his age!
And then we have reading!!
I am so thrilled about this summer and all the reading activities we have lined up. I mean, really excited about this haha.
First of all, have you heard of Thriving Family? It's a magazine from Focus on the Family, and this summer they are offering a summer activity called Around the World in 60 Days. It's a free "trip" around the world! You'll have the opportunity to explore 27 different countries on six continents. For each day of the trip, they have a biblical lesson and an activity that will give you glimpse into another culture.
Along with that, I came across a FANTASTIC summer reading list all about adventure at Redeemed Reader!
Seriously, you do not want to miss this! They have a wonderful list of books and alternate books for all ages. Be sure to check out the current posts like this one, that include activities and journaling ideas.
I am going to buy or make a summer reading notebook for the boys. Hopefully it will be full of interesting and wild adventure by the end of the summer. And they would have learned history, geography, art, science, writing, and reading without really even knowing it! Pretty sneaky ;)
Some books and activities we will be reading and journaling this summer are:
We are going to read The Green Ship, and along with creating our kid friendly backyard I will be using Se7en's green ship inspiration. Oh my!
Around the World and will be doing the discussion questions and note booking ideas that I mentioned already.
How to Make an Apple Pie and See the World
Toot & Puddle Top of the World
Dodsworth series is so much fun.
The Middle of Somewhere (after Around the World)
The Penderwicks :A Summer Tale of Four Sisters, Two Rabbits, and a Very Interesting Boy (bedtime reading)
Mr. Poppers Penguins Audio CD
The Wind in the Willows
Mercy Watson (we sure love this pig!)
Library Lion
Nate Saint
Continue our reading through Little Pilgrim's Progress. Tristin LOVES this book.
How God Used a Thunderstorm for family devotional.
Pippi Longstocking
Little Tim and the Brave Sea Capitan
My Father's Dragon Series
Nature:
The boys are very big into constellations right now, so we will be spending most nights sitting outside looking and seeing what all we can find! I may pick up a copy of Find the Constellations.
They are also loving learning about birds (part 2 coming soon). I have an incredible bird app that we love to explore and listen to. And we will be reading the Burgess Bird Book on our kindle. Cards to go with the book. And these beautiful birds would be wonderful for nature journals or hanging on the wall.
If you follow me on instagram (Jeana B) you know that we were observing the sky one day. While doing that we talked about the clouds, rain, and then how a rainbow is made. It was so much fun just to sit on the back porch and discuss all of their interests! We then got the hose and made our own rainbow. They just loved it!
A Drop of Water look like a beautiful book I'd love to get my hands on.
On lazy days I am thrilled to have found The Magic School Bus episodes on netflix. Woohoo!
What are your plans for the summer? What's on your reading list?
I'm working on a book list for myself. I'll share that one when I'm done!
Have a great summer! Grab a glass of tea or lemonade, sit outside in the sunshine, and bring some books along!
Friday, January 25, 2013
Everyday Life
Everyone in our house was sick last week. I just wasn't feeling good, but the rest had what I'm guessing was the flu. It really seemed like the longest, quietest week. We didn't go anywhere, no homeschool, the boys weren't even up to playing. I thought Jaiden had escaped the sickness until I got a call from school Thursday morning that he was indeed sick.
This week has felt more like recovery mode. We were all still tired, and I had a migraine for a few days. Today, I'm happy to report everyone is what seems back to "normal"!
I had a nicely clean and quiet home for a few days and I was so happy to take care of everyone. I didn't need to cook much because we weren't eating much. I honestly had nothing much to do but rub backs, do a lot of laundry, and run warm baths for achy bodies. After a day though I missed the loud, playing boys. I missed everyone doing all sorts of things all over the house. I missed cooking for this little family of mine.
It's funny that it can all seem like so much sometimes, and when you get a tiny break from it all you miss it. It really showed me even more than I already knew, that I need to savor these moments. To stop and enjoy these boys of mine. The quiet can get lonely. Fast.
This week has felt more like recovery mode. We were all still tired, and I had a migraine for a few days. Today, I'm happy to report everyone is what seems back to "normal"!
I had a nicely clean and quiet home for a few days and I was so happy to take care of everyone. I didn't need to cook much because we weren't eating much. I honestly had nothing much to do but rub backs, do a lot of laundry, and run warm baths for achy bodies. After a day though I missed the loud, playing boys. I missed everyone doing all sorts of things all over the house. I missed cooking for this little family of mine.
It's funny that it can all seem like so much sometimes, and when you get a tiny break from it all you miss it. It really showed me even more than I already knew, that I need to savor these moments. To stop and enjoy these boys of mine. The quiet can get lonely. Fast.
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
A Day in My Life
I know. Very interesting.
5:45 AM Wake up to dogs barking. I love when they do that..
Check a few emails, say a prayer for our day and wisdom for Obama, and for Israel.
6:15 Fall asleep. I will regret this.
7:30 Get up. notice that the boys have turned on Curious George. Also notice the boy who LOVES tv is not in there...regret starts now. Find him laying in his bed. He wet the bed. If you don't make him get up in the morning...this is what you get.
7:35 Put him in the bath and go get dressed.
7:50 Boys get dressed and I make them breakfast.
8:10 Hop in car to take oldest to school. Get GIANT hug from his friend! Drop them off and stop by sonic for a coke and burrito...I know I know. Turn up NeedToBreathe extremely loud on my way home.
8:45 Come home start laundry, start watering outside, while boys pick up their room and feed dogs.
9:15 Play a math game with Tristin, he reads to me, writes some new words. Brighton listens to a story online and practices writing his numbers.
10:30 Send boys outside to clean dog poop and trash cans while I put brisket in crockpot and clean kitchen.
11:00 Do grammar lesson with Tristin, read History book, and a few Read Alouds.
12:00 Lunch (chicken salad sandwich) and Bible Study.
12:30 Make grocery list, while boys play outside with friend Jack.
12:45 Realize that I left the water on in one spot a little too long...I set the timer, that didn't help. I, apparently ignore sounds.
1:30 I straighten rest of house, do my laundry, and make grocery list.
2:20 Go for a walk with the family.
3:15 Go out for ice cream...
4:00 Boys play with friends while I pin...as in pinterest
5:00 Straighten up...again
6:00 Eat dinner, clean up, start baths.
7:30 Read to boys
8:00 Take a bath myself. My kindle comes along. Les Miserables.
8:30 Settle down for an evening of Downton Abbey!
Probably fall asleep somewhere around 11:00.
5:45 AM Wake up to dogs barking. I love when they do that..
Check a few emails, say a prayer for our day and wisdom for Obama, and for Israel.
6:15 Fall asleep. I will regret this.
7:30 Get up. notice that the boys have turned on Curious George. Also notice the boy who LOVES tv is not in there...regret starts now. Find him laying in his bed. He wet the bed. If you don't make him get up in the morning...this is what you get.
7:35 Put him in the bath and go get dressed.
7:50 Boys get dressed and I make them breakfast.
8:10 Hop in car to take oldest to school. Get GIANT hug from his friend! Drop them off and stop by sonic for a coke and burrito...I know I know. Turn up NeedToBreathe extremely loud on my way home.
8:45 Come home start laundry, start watering outside, while boys pick up their room and feed dogs.
9:15 Play a math game with Tristin, he reads to me, writes some new words. Brighton listens to a story online and practices writing his numbers.
10:30 Send boys outside to clean dog poop and trash cans while I put brisket in crockpot and clean kitchen.
11:00 Do grammar lesson with Tristin, read History book, and a few Read Alouds.
12:00 Lunch (chicken salad sandwich) and Bible Study.
12:30 Make grocery list, while boys play outside with friend Jack.
12:45 Realize that I left the water on in one spot a little too long...I set the timer, that didn't help. I, apparently ignore sounds.
1:30 I straighten rest of house, do my laundry, and make grocery list.
2:20 Go for a walk with the family.
3:15 Go out for ice cream...
4:00 Boys play with friends while I pin...as in pinterest
5:00 Straighten up...again
6:00 Eat dinner, clean up, start baths.
7:30 Read to boys
8:00 Take a bath myself. My kindle comes along. Les Miserables.
8:30 Settle down for an evening of Downton Abbey!
Probably fall asleep somewhere around 11:00.
Friday, December 9, 2011
Nature Study Inspiration
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.
And you could put a bird feeder right on your window.
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!
Have fun with it. It shouldn't feel pressured or hurried. Just enjoy God all around you!
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!
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
On Being a Mother and a Family
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!
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.
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Our Desire vs. God's Desire
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.
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.
Friday, April 1, 2011
A Nature Walkin' Kind of Day
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!
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!
Monday, September 20, 2010
To Remember
There is so much floating around in my old noggin that I want to remember. So of course I want to jot it down here.
The way the littlest man say "mom" at the end of his sentences. Kinda reminds me of an annoyed with over-bearing mom teenager.
me: "do you need to go peepee?"
B: "no MOM"
********************************************
me: "we have to hold hands in the street"
B: "let goooo MOM"
********************************************
B: "snack please?"
me:"after nap"
B: "k MOM"
********************************************
Tibby. The way he just loves for you to play with him, tickle him, play jokes on him, and read to him. He gets very upset when it's time to stop. Poor guy.
He has a fantastic personality. We went for a drive the other night. Went and got an ice cream cone, and I could hear him all the way in the back of the car singing "you can bring a mug...you can bring a jug...but just don't bring.....A SIPPY CUP!" to that my sweet husband glanced over at me and whispered"don't bring a sippy cup?"
A few days later he was singing it again while getting ready for dinner. I asked where he learned that song and he replied "on veggie-tales" with a giggle he then said, "then he spills his water and says, I'LL TAKE THAT SIPPY CUP"
It delights me to see him getting the humor in that.
*********************************************
Jaiden has been speaking in sentences. SENTENCES! Really, I am thrilled that the other morning he said"can I have some cereal?" I said "yes" ....."great words J!" then he said, "can I have a banana too?" to which I replied, "YES! Wow, J your words are wonderful!" .....then I forgot what what I was getting and said to myself..."what was I getting?" to which he replied "a banana"
Now I bet he only wishes he could have a conversation without his mother saying how great his words are....
**********************************************
I am reading this man I love it. So many ideas on creating a stylish home with kids.
It is 2:35. I ah-hem am still in my pjs. And the boys? Well they are half dressed if that counts for anything.
We did school today...mostly reading and writing and they did WONDERFUL! I am proud to announce I will have two boys reading on their own very soon!
************************************************
Funny story....?
We went to Walmart the other day. I really do not like it there, but we needed some things we could get it all there so ya know one stop shopping.
We paid and put our huge jug of water on the bottom of the cart and headed to the car. We unloaded the kids and were unloading the items we had (when I noticed that a man who was driving behind us as we were walking drove by starring at us) I didn't think too much of it...I mean look at me. Really. oh yes this is still the same woman who is still in her pjs and hasn't had a shower today. SO, then we notice our water is gone and it must have fallin off the cart. Which then our sweet boy just so happens to inform us that the man in the jeep took it.
We looked and the man has parked his jeep by this time and instead of heading into Walmart (where he would have to walk past us) he heads to a fast food joint at the opposite end of the parking lot. oh yes he did.
Now, I'm not a fiesty girl and am by no means looking for trouble, but that man sure was. *grin*
So I headed after him. Oh yes I did. To which he ran. RAN. Into the fast food place to use the restroom.
My husband...poor guy finally realizing I was not giving my water up told me to get in the car and he would go in and talk to the man.
He did, and THAT poor guy went alllll the way back to his car to return the water scared to death. And then proceeded into Walmart.
All I have to say is..you barked up the wrong tree that day buddy! No. I'm not really sure what got into me, but I really just wasn't in the mood. My hubby was not mean at all, just said" hey man, you think you can give us our water back?"
**************************************************
I am working really hard on creating a photo book with shutterfly. A big book for us and smaller ones for grandparents for Christmas. A few pages I'm working on...
The way the littlest man say "mom" at the end of his sentences. Kinda reminds me of an annoyed with over-bearing mom teenager.
me: "do you need to go peepee?"
B: "no MOM"
********************************************
me: "we have to hold hands in the street"
B: "let goooo MOM"
********************************************
B: "snack please?"
me:"after nap"
B: "k MOM"
********************************************
Tibby. The way he just loves for you to play with him, tickle him, play jokes on him, and read to him. He gets very upset when it's time to stop. Poor guy.
He has a fantastic personality. We went for a drive the other night. Went and got an ice cream cone, and I could hear him all the way in the back of the car singing "you can bring a mug...you can bring a jug...but just don't bring.....A SIPPY CUP!" to that my sweet husband glanced over at me and whispered"don't bring a sippy cup?"
A few days later he was singing it again while getting ready for dinner. I asked where he learned that song and he replied "on veggie-tales" with a giggle he then said, "then he spills his water and says, I'LL TAKE THAT SIPPY CUP"
It delights me to see him getting the humor in that.
*********************************************
Jaiden has been speaking in sentences. SENTENCES! Really, I am thrilled that the other morning he said"can I have some cereal?" I said "yes" ....."great words J!" then he said, "can I have a banana too?" to which I replied, "YES! Wow, J your words are wonderful!" .....then I forgot what what I was getting and said to myself..."what was I getting?" to which he replied "a banana"
Now I bet he only wishes he could have a conversation without his mother saying how great his words are....
**********************************************
I am reading this man I love it. So many ideas on creating a stylish home with kids.
It is 2:35. I ah-hem am still in my pjs. And the boys? Well they are half dressed if that counts for anything.
We did school today...mostly reading and writing and they did WONDERFUL! I am proud to announce I will have two boys reading on their own very soon!
************************************************
Funny story....?
We went to Walmart the other day. I really do not like it there, but we needed some things we could get it all there so ya know one stop shopping.
We paid and put our huge jug of water on the bottom of the cart and headed to the car. We unloaded the kids and were unloading the items we had (when I noticed that a man who was driving behind us as we were walking drove by starring at us) I didn't think too much of it...I mean look at me. Really. oh yes this is still the same woman who is still in her pjs and hasn't had a shower today. SO, then we notice our water is gone and it must have fallin off the cart. Which then our sweet boy just so happens to inform us that the man in the jeep took it.
We looked and the man has parked his jeep by this time and instead of heading into Walmart (where he would have to walk past us) he heads to a fast food joint at the opposite end of the parking lot. oh yes he did.
Now, I'm not a fiesty girl and am by no means looking for trouble, but that man sure was. *grin*
So I headed after him. Oh yes I did. To which he ran. RAN. Into the fast food place to use the restroom.
My husband...poor guy finally realizing I was not giving my water up told me to get in the car and he would go in and talk to the man.
He did, and THAT poor guy went alllll the way back to his car to return the water scared to death. And then proceeded into Walmart.
All I have to say is..you barked up the wrong tree that day buddy! No. I'm not really sure what got into me, but I really just wasn't in the mood. My hubby was not mean at all, just said" hey man, you think you can give us our water back?"
**************************************************
I am working really hard on creating a photo book with shutterfly. A big book for us and smaller ones for grandparents for Christmas. A few pages I'm working on...
I love life right now. We are blessed beyond measure and most of all, I love my Father for being with us in this life every single day if we invite Him. I adore my love. He makes me smile, I anxiously wait to hear the phone ring every day, and to sleep in his arms at night. I am delighted and honored to spend my day with three handsome little boys who make me laugh, keep me young, and are just so cool to hang out with.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Count Your Blessings
Almost everyday, I write in a journal. I will write about how I'm feeling, what we're doing as a family, goals I have, and the boys and their accomplishments.
At the end of the month I go through and write down all of our blessings that month, and WOW, how blessed we are! I've also recently started writing 5 things every few days that I'm thankful for. Anything from my family to my favorite song.
Going over your blessings and what you're thankful for is such a positive and healthy thing to do for yourself. One thing that can NEVER be bad for you!
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