Tomato staking is a new term I learned this year in training children. The jist of it in a nutshell is keeping the child with you all throughout the day in order to be always available to train them up instead of leaving them to themselves to play. Much like a tomato is tied to a stake in order to grow up straight and not sprawl out all over the place with fruit rotting on the ground.
I am used to having the 3 little boys with me all day but my older kids are at a point to be trusted pretty well. At least I thought so. My sweet 8 yo daughter is having trouble staying on task, remembering a directive, and working diligently. I decided to "stake" her for these next 3 days.
She was so disappointed with this decision. She considers that a baby thing and thinks that she is too old for it. I explained that age is not as important as maturity and she needed some time to mature. She still isn't crazy about it but I think as the days go on she'll realize it's not so bad.
She will get to work with me in the kitchen more, go more places, and generally just be by my side. For her that will mean more talk time. Boy, does she love to talk!! If I have her go off to do an errand apart from me, she will have to report back as soon as she is done and I will check it. Her chores will take a little longer this way but I think she'll find herself in less trouble.
For the most part, it will be harder for me than her. It requires great discipline for me to stick with it and lots of patience...especially when my ears are tired!! I lack both of those. Isn't it funny how much training our children actually trains us? So after this week, I told her we'd talk about it again and I'd evaluate how she's done and consider unstaking her. I have a feeling she'll do well as she is easy to correct and very teachable. I hope I will say the same about my patience!!
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
I did it!
I tried grilling again...with SUCCESS!! My friend gave me a great tip. Turn the grill OFF after you put in your food. I made nachos and put them on a cookie sheet. When the grill was nice and hot, I put the cookie sheet on the grill, shut the lid, and turned it off. In a few minutes they were melty and toasty.
When I was preparing these in the kitchen, my son had just come home from speed training camp. He is always famished after that and was drooling over these nachos. They did look good. When he found out I was planning on grilling them, he started begging...I mean really begging me not to try it with these! Such little faith. Actually I was worried too b/c we both knew that there wasn't much else to have for lunch. It's time to go shopping.
When I was preparing these in the kitchen, my son had just come home from speed training camp. He is always famished after that and was drooling over these nachos. They did look good. When he found out I was planning on grilling them, he started begging...I mean really begging me not to try it with these! Such little faith. Actually I was worried too b/c we both knew that there wasn't much else to have for lunch. It's time to go shopping.
Saturday, July 15, 2006
I'm On Vacation (Sort of)
Soccer Star is playing in Dallas this weekend. Honey took #1 and so graciously took little boys #'s 5&6. That means I only have 4 kids this weekend...daughters that are 12, 8, and 7 mos and Baby Boy who is 2. It is like a mini vacation. Here are some things we've done.....
The girls love having time to themselves. They've painted the desk in their room, played action figures, read aloud a new garage sale book to each other, and swam until dark.
The babies have been low-key. I've read lots of books to Baby Boy, stacked dominoes with him, worked on his sign language, sang songs, and watched Buzz Lightyear. He even took a nap today. I may regret that later!
We went to LB's soccer game (they lost) and got drinks at Sonic. We popped popcorn since #1 is gone. She can't have it with her braces so that means no one else can have it either. Boy, did the girls like that! I got cheese crackers for Baby Boy as a fun surprise since he can't have popcorn.
The house was already clean from Friday so there hasn't been much to do. I only had to make 1/2 of the bed since Honey was gone. We've done no cooking except that I made LB some ramen noodles as a surprise--her favorite. I also did a scrapbook page in Baby Girl's book. I took a nap, organized books in my school room, and posted books to sell. I updated my budget and worked on my blog. I took LB to pick out her new school supplies and buy snacks for her soccer team.
I plan to stay up late tonight, make myself some juice, get bread started in the bread machine for tomorrow, and watch Star Trek or my favorite cooking show (30 Minute Meals) that I taped while we had the satellite. It's been a good day.
Honey called to say that #3 won all three games today!! He goes to the championship tomorrow! Yippee!! I'm so happy for him. The Dallas teams are good and very competitive. It was a good win. Everyone was having fun, the boys were being good, and he was going outside to play soccer with the little ones. He didn't mention it, but I bet his mom is cooking steaks tonight too!
When we were making plans for the weekend I REALLY wanted to go to TX too. I like to be with my in-laws. All week I was hoping that it would work out so that I could. However, there wasn't room for all of us to stay there w/o getting a hotel room since his sister's family is there too. Now I'm so glad I stayed. Although I would've loved to have watched CT, the heat would've been hard on the babies. #1 taped it for me and CT will enjoy showing it to me at home.
It's been a good vacation.
The girls love having time to themselves. They've painted the desk in their room, played action figures, read aloud a new garage sale book to each other, and swam until dark.
The babies have been low-key. I've read lots of books to Baby Boy, stacked dominoes with him, worked on his sign language, sang songs, and watched Buzz Lightyear. He even took a nap today. I may regret that later!
We went to LB's soccer game (they lost) and got drinks at Sonic. We popped popcorn since #1 is gone. She can't have it with her braces so that means no one else can have it either. Boy, did the girls like that! I got cheese crackers for Baby Boy as a fun surprise since he can't have popcorn.
The house was already clean from Friday so there hasn't been much to do. I only had to make 1/2 of the bed since Honey was gone. We've done no cooking except that I made LB some ramen noodles as a surprise--her favorite. I also did a scrapbook page in Baby Girl's book. I took a nap, organized books in my school room, and posted books to sell. I updated my budget and worked on my blog. I took LB to pick out her new school supplies and buy snacks for her soccer team.
I plan to stay up late tonight, make myself some juice, get bread started in the bread machine for tomorrow, and watch Star Trek or my favorite cooking show (30 Minute Meals) that I taped while we had the satellite. It's been a good day.
Honey called to say that #3 won all three games today!! He goes to the championship tomorrow! Yippee!! I'm so happy for him. The Dallas teams are good and very competitive. It was a good win. Everyone was having fun, the boys were being good, and he was going outside to play soccer with the little ones. He didn't mention it, but I bet his mom is cooking steaks tonight too!
When we were making plans for the weekend I REALLY wanted to go to TX too. I like to be with my in-laws. All week I was hoping that it would work out so that I could. However, there wasn't room for all of us to stay there w/o getting a hotel room since his sister's family is there too. Now I'm so glad I stayed. Although I would've loved to have watched CT, the heat would've been hard on the babies. #1 taped it for me and CT will enjoy showing it to me at home.
It's been a good vacation.
Friday, July 14, 2006
Summer Grilling
In an attempt to save $$ on my electric bill I decided to learn to grill. I've always considered it man's work and so it fell under Honey's jurisdiction. I didn't even know how to light it. I asked him to show me how it worked.
The first thing I grilled was portabella mushrooms. They turned out ok but overcooked. Next I tried frozen pizzas. You were right, Mom, that wasn't a good idea! The bottoms were black, the top undercooked. Next, were burgers. I had to call them "blackened burgers". After that I was about to give up but gave it one more shot. I tried the mushrooms again. This time I realized that "high" is not the only setting. That helped.
I decided I do not like grilling. It's scary to push that button to light it. I imagine a big flame shooting up even though it hasn't happened yet. It's hot outside and opening that hot lid to feel that hot air on my face is no good. Then there's the going in and out of the house to keep checking on it. How is that saving electricity when I'm air-conditioning the whole backyard? Did I mention the night when I had to go back out at 10:30 in my pj's b/c I remembered that I forgot to turn the gas off?
I was right the first time...grilling is man's work!
The first thing I grilled was portabella mushrooms. They turned out ok but overcooked. Next I tried frozen pizzas. You were right, Mom, that wasn't a good idea! The bottoms were black, the top undercooked. Next, were burgers. I had to call them "blackened burgers". After that I was about to give up but gave it one more shot. I tried the mushrooms again. This time I realized that "high" is not the only setting. That helped.
I decided I do not like grilling. It's scary to push that button to light it. I imagine a big flame shooting up even though it hasn't happened yet. It's hot outside and opening that hot lid to feel that hot air on my face is no good. Then there's the going in and out of the house to keep checking on it. How is that saving electricity when I'm air-conditioning the whole backyard? Did I mention the night when I had to go back out at 10:30 in my pj's b/c I remembered that I forgot to turn the gas off?
I was right the first time...grilling is man's work!
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
A Messy Night
Baby girl is quick with her hands these days. During dinner, I'm holding her in one arm, my plate in the other and sitting down at the table. I wasn't even all the way in my chair when she reached out, and knocked my plate to the floor! Messy food all over my favorite pants. A huge mess all over the floor.
We're having a wonderful storm after dinner. One of those with big thunder, lightening, and huge sheets of rain falling from the sky. While cleaning up the dinner mess, a couple of excited kids rush into the kitchen to tell me we have a leak in the parlor ceiling. That's bad news. They are grabbing towels and pots and running out. I was thinking "I just shampooed that carpet last night!!"
I start to mop the floor when Honey runs into the kitchen with a serious tone of voice telling me I left the grill open and it needs to be shut! Oh no. You wouldn't believe how the rain is coming down. Sweet LB offered to do it for me but I just couldn't let her. I run out there and slam the lid shut all the while thinking how very "un-husbandly" it was for him to ask me to do that. I grab the doorknob and .....it's LOCKED!! Honey is standing behind the glass grinning ear-to-ear with little kids around him laughing hysterically!! Oh yeah, real funny.
He tells me later that the rain won't hurt the grill and it didn't matter at all that the lid was open. Well, I won't fall for that one again!!
We're having a wonderful storm after dinner. One of those with big thunder, lightening, and huge sheets of rain falling from the sky. While cleaning up the dinner mess, a couple of excited kids rush into the kitchen to tell me we have a leak in the parlor ceiling. That's bad news. They are grabbing towels and pots and running out. I was thinking "I just shampooed that carpet last night!!"
I start to mop the floor when Honey runs into the kitchen with a serious tone of voice telling me I left the grill open and it needs to be shut! Oh no. You wouldn't believe how the rain is coming down. Sweet LB offered to do it for me but I just couldn't let her. I run out there and slam the lid shut all the while thinking how very "un-husbandly" it was for him to ask me to do that. I grab the doorknob and .....it's LOCKED!! Honey is standing behind the glass grinning ear-to-ear with little kids around him laughing hysterically!! Oh yeah, real funny.
He tells me later that the rain won't hurt the grill and it didn't matter at all that the lid was open. Well, I won't fall for that one again!!
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
Little Shadows
It is my week to carpool for speed training camp. I dropped off #3 and his friend at the door and parked. It takes awhile to unload my little 2 and 3 yos out of the car and make our way to the building. As we were walking I said, "Hey boys! Look at our shadows!" For the rest of the walk 3 yo sang a shadow song that he made up off the top of his head with his little brother trying to copy. I just watched our shadows and listened to their voices.
It was so cute. My shadow is balancing 2 lawn chairs, my planner, and holding 2yo's hand. Little 2yo's shadow is a 1/2 step behind. He can not hold my hand back b/c both hands are full of matchbox cars so I am actually holding his wrist. His thin little legs are walking and trying to keep up while his mind and mouth are trying to copy his big brother. My big 3yo's shadow is a couple of steps behind being the big boy carrying his own lawn chair and making up his own silly song.
It put a smile on my face as I thought about what our shadows might look like next year. Mine might not change much...then again maybe it will. But my little boys' shadows will be bigger and different. They will sing a different song (with words that I will probably understand) and both will be able to carry their own chairs. Life changes so quickly.
Lord, please enable me to enjoy every single day with these little guys as though it were my last!
It was so cute. My shadow is balancing 2 lawn chairs, my planner, and holding 2yo's hand. Little 2yo's shadow is a 1/2 step behind. He can not hold my hand back b/c both hands are full of matchbox cars so I am actually holding his wrist. His thin little legs are walking and trying to keep up while his mind and mouth are trying to copy his big brother. My big 3yo's shadow is a couple of steps behind being the big boy carrying his own lawn chair and making up his own silly song.
It put a smile on my face as I thought about what our shadows might look like next year. Mine might not change much...then again maybe it will. But my little boys' shadows will be bigger and different. They will sing a different song (with words that I will probably understand) and both will be able to carry their own chairs. Life changes so quickly.
Lord, please enable me to enjoy every single day with these little guys as though it were my last!
Monday, July 10, 2006
Slow and Steady
When my oldest daughter was 2 and still an only child I went to my first homeschool meeting. I really thought she was the most beautiful and the smartest kid to ever breathe. Everyday I was amazed at how fast she could learn something. I just knew homeschooling was the thing! I did not want her held back in a classroom situation with other kids that were not as bright. Eagerly I went to my first "mom's meeting". It was not at all what I expected.
In this room were lots of veteran homeschoolers with children much older than mine. They were sharing stories and laughing over "failures". They were not at all stressed that their 5 year old could not read or that their 3 year old could not write his name. I could not believe these ladies were so casual over something so serious. The lady next to me was wearing awful perfume and I was pregnant with daughter #2. I knew this was not the group for me and I couldn't wait to get out of there!
I am at such a different place now. I have the unique advantage of being finished with preschoolers..... and getting to start again. What a blessing! I do so enjoy the preschool/kindergarten stage. This time I am enjoying it so much more b/c I've learned a few things from the first time around.
When my older kids were little I was so stressed out over potty training, shoe tying, reading, oh just everything! I felt like such a failure if they didn't get it right away. I can't even count the number of times I brought a child to tears over learning what I wanted them to know RIGHT NOW!! My poor children. I'm so glad they are resilient and forgiving.
Then life changed. I had 3 little boys in a row all 18 mos apart! They are all so different with different gifts and talents. I have learned that it's ok if my 5 year old doesn't tie his shoe yet or read. The joy is in teaching him!! And watching him learn! It's much more fun to watch them teach themselves and discover and learn new things all on their own. Did you read Honey's blog about them riding their bikes? #6 potty trained all by himself. #5 just learned to swim. They both learned to swing themselves very early. The success is all the sweeter b/c it is theirs and not mine. I am so much more laid back and I enjoy them ever so much.
I am NOT advocating the unschooling approach!! I am very much a believer in structured school time. I'm just saying that I think all the things I worried about (and worried my kids about) when my first set were little they probably would've learned just as well if I had backed off and given them time to grow. So I wonder what I would think now if I sat in on that same homeschool meeting today? It would probably be ME laughing over the fact that my 3 year doesn't write his name!! It's too bad I could not learn from their wisdom then. I'm glad I have another chance and this time I plan to pay attention when I have the opportunity to listen to those who have already traveled this road. As the saying goes...Live and learn.
In this room were lots of veteran homeschoolers with children much older than mine. They were sharing stories and laughing over "failures". They were not at all stressed that their 5 year old could not read or that their 3 year old could not write his name. I could not believe these ladies were so casual over something so serious. The lady next to me was wearing awful perfume and I was pregnant with daughter #2. I knew this was not the group for me and I couldn't wait to get out of there!
I am at such a different place now. I have the unique advantage of being finished with preschoolers..... and getting to start again. What a blessing! I do so enjoy the preschool/kindergarten stage. This time I am enjoying it so much more b/c I've learned a few things from the first time around.
When my older kids were little I was so stressed out over potty training, shoe tying, reading, oh just everything! I felt like such a failure if they didn't get it right away. I can't even count the number of times I brought a child to tears over learning what I wanted them to know RIGHT NOW!! My poor children. I'm so glad they are resilient and forgiving.
Then life changed. I had 3 little boys in a row all 18 mos apart! They are all so different with different gifts and talents. I have learned that it's ok if my 5 year old doesn't tie his shoe yet or read. The joy is in teaching him!! And watching him learn! It's much more fun to watch them teach themselves and discover and learn new things all on their own. Did you read Honey's blog about them riding their bikes? #6 potty trained all by himself. #5 just learned to swim. They both learned to swing themselves very early. The success is all the sweeter b/c it is theirs and not mine. I am so much more laid back and I enjoy them ever so much.
I am NOT advocating the unschooling approach!! I am very much a believer in structured school time. I'm just saying that I think all the things I worried about (and worried my kids about) when my first set were little they probably would've learned just as well if I had backed off and given them time to grow. So I wonder what I would think now if I sat in on that same homeschool meeting today? It would probably be ME laughing over the fact that my 3 year doesn't write his name!! It's too bad I could not learn from their wisdom then. I'm glad I have another chance and this time I plan to pay attention when I have the opportunity to listen to those who have already traveled this road. As the saying goes...Live and learn.
Thursday, July 06, 2006
I'm 4125!
http://thetaggs.smugmug.com/gallery/1638875/1/80007231
I just turned 37. At our house that is 4125. Did you see the picture? My girls made me decorated brownies. Whenever we have a birthday it seems we never have the right number candles and I never remember to buy new ones. We like the candles that are the big numbers. That has made a funny little tradition. Now when we have a birthday cake we have to add, subtract, multiply, or divide whatever numbers we have to make the right age. This year I am 41 25 . Last year my cake had 3 single candles each representing 10 plus the numbers 51. So last year I was 351. Isn't that fun?!
I just turned 37. At our house that is 4125. Did you see the picture? My girls made me decorated brownies. Whenever we have a birthday it seems we never have the right number candles and I never remember to buy new ones. We like the candles that are the big numbers. That has made a funny little tradition. Now when we have a birthday cake we have to add, subtract, multiply, or divide whatever numbers we have to make the right age. This year I am 41 25 . Last year my cake had 3 single candles each representing 10 plus the numbers 51. So last year I was 351. Isn't that fun?!
Wednesday, July 05, 2006
Baking Bread and Raising Kids
Here is a funny thought I had this week. I'm not sure how to write it without rambling though, sorry! Here goes...
The other night I made 2 loaves of bread in the bread machine, put them both in the loaf pans, covered them with a towel, and put them in the refrigerator to rise overnight. Because of space, one had to go in the garage refrigerator the other in the house. In the morning I pulled them out to bake them. The one that had been rising in the house was beautiful with a full round top but the one from the garage had fallen and was lumpy. I have no idea why. I thought there must be a lesson in this somewhere and asked the Lord where to put it.
Later in the morning I overheard a conversation that #1 and #3 were having in the kitchen. They were talking about a friend of ours.....we'll call him Frank for privacy reasons. It went something like this:
"Frank is really a good boy with a soft heart but he just has a bad family situation. I bet if he were in different circumstances, with better opportunities, he'd do really well. "
I thought about how that related to my bread. If the lumpy loaf had been in the house, would it have done well? I don't know. If you take a sweet-hearted kid and place him in a destructive family with harsh influences will it harden him? If you take a boy that is easily angered, and place him in a loving family full of encouragement will it soften him?
Well I think the answer would be "yes" in both cases. Here's another thought: I've been baking bread for a few years now and sometimes, for no reason that I know, the bread does not turn out right even though I use the exact same recipe, same oven, same cooking time, same everything. I wonder if that is like having a family of 3 children where 2 of them grow up to be responsible adults who love the Lord and the other one is the "black sheep".
I know there is no sure formula in raising kids except to seek the Lord. Maybe I should say the same thing about my bread.
The other night I made 2 loaves of bread in the bread machine, put them both in the loaf pans, covered them with a towel, and put them in the refrigerator to rise overnight. Because of space, one had to go in the garage refrigerator the other in the house. In the morning I pulled them out to bake them. The one that had been rising in the house was beautiful with a full round top but the one from the garage had fallen and was lumpy. I have no idea why. I thought there must be a lesson in this somewhere and asked the Lord where to put it.
Later in the morning I overheard a conversation that #1 and #3 were having in the kitchen. They were talking about a friend of ours.....we'll call him Frank for privacy reasons. It went something like this:
"Frank is really a good boy with a soft heart but he just has a bad family situation. I bet if he were in different circumstances, with better opportunities, he'd do really well. "
I thought about how that related to my bread. If the lumpy loaf had been in the house, would it have done well? I don't know. If you take a sweet-hearted kid and place him in a destructive family with harsh influences will it harden him? If you take a boy that is easily angered, and place him in a loving family full of encouragement will it soften him?
Well I think the answer would be "yes" in both cases. Here's another thought: I've been baking bread for a few years now and sometimes, for no reason that I know, the bread does not turn out right even though I use the exact same recipe, same oven, same cooking time, same everything. I wonder if that is like having a family of 3 children where 2 of them grow up to be responsible adults who love the Lord and the other one is the "black sheep".
I know there is no sure formula in raising kids except to seek the Lord. Maybe I should say the same thing about my bread.
Tuesday, July 04, 2006
A Good Girl Book
Tomorrow, Lord willing, I will read a new book aloud to my girls. We call it "girl time" in the afternoon. I read aloud and they work on a stitching project and listen. We just finished a book on hospitality that wasn't very good. This new one, however, is great. I know b/c I've read it a lot. I bought it many years ago and I have pulled it out several times over the years whenever I want something girly to read. After the hospitality book flop, I figured this would fit the bill. It is called The Gentle Ways Of The Beautiful Woman by Anne Ortlund. It is really one of those treasury type books that's actually 3 books in one. All 3 are great. Tomorrow I am going to start with the first one called Disciplines of the Beautiful Woman.
Every time I pull this book out it speaks to me in a different way. I guess b/c every time I am at a different place in my life. I started reading the introduction tonight and found something that I hadn't noticed before. At least it wasn't underlined and marked all over anyway. Mrs. Ortlund is writing this book in the hospital following a major surgery. She quotes Romans 12:1 that says "I present my body as a living sacrifice.". She says that it is ridiculous to give God your heart, allegiance, or whatever, and not your body. She felt perfectly at peace to allow the Lord to do with her whatever He wished.
That stopped me in my tracks. You see, my baby is now 7 months old. This is about the time when people start asking me if I'm pregnant yet. I don't care for that question. I don't want to be pregnant even though I want a baby. I don't like what it does to my body. And right now I'm enjoying every minute of NOT having a pregnant body. I don't want to take away this joy by wondering "what if" and worrying about tomorrow.
Mrs. Ortlund gave her body to God and considered it a living sacrifice "holy and pleasing to God". Big sigh.....I want that to be ME!! I want to be at perfect peace b/c my mind is fixed on the Lord and I trust Him. I do not want this internal struggle battling to keep what is not even mine. I appreciated this word tonight so much.
So tomorrow I look forward to reading this to my girls and sharing my thoughts. I know this book will not be a flop like the last one. I hope that even in their youth they can glean something wonderful. My bookmark for this book is so pretty. My oldest daughter made it for me when she was about 8. It has pressed flowers on the front, a pink ribbon on the top, and on the back she wrote "God is Love...To Mommy From (her name). It's sweet.
Every time I pull this book out it speaks to me in a different way. I guess b/c every time I am at a different place in my life. I started reading the introduction tonight and found something that I hadn't noticed before. At least it wasn't underlined and marked all over anyway. Mrs. Ortlund is writing this book in the hospital following a major surgery. She quotes Romans 12:1 that says "I present my body as a living sacrifice.". She says that it is ridiculous to give God your heart, allegiance, or whatever, and not your body. She felt perfectly at peace to allow the Lord to do with her whatever He wished.
That stopped me in my tracks. You see, my baby is now 7 months old. This is about the time when people start asking me if I'm pregnant yet. I don't care for that question. I don't want to be pregnant even though I want a baby. I don't like what it does to my body. And right now I'm enjoying every minute of NOT having a pregnant body. I don't want to take away this joy by wondering "what if" and worrying about tomorrow.
Mrs. Ortlund gave her body to God and considered it a living sacrifice "holy and pleasing to God". Big sigh.....I want that to be ME!! I want to be at perfect peace b/c my mind is fixed on the Lord and I trust Him. I do not want this internal struggle battling to keep what is not even mine. I appreciated this word tonight so much.
So tomorrow I look forward to reading this to my girls and sharing my thoughts. I know this book will not be a flop like the last one. I hope that even in their youth they can glean something wonderful. My bookmark for this book is so pretty. My oldest daughter made it for me when she was about 8. It has pressed flowers on the front, a pink ribbon on the top, and on the back she wrote "God is Love...To Mommy From (her name). It's sweet.
Monday, July 03, 2006
A Little Bit Of Sweetness
It's nothing huge but it made me smile...
It's been a good day. After dinner Honey was wrestling with the little boys. #3, the one I wrote about yesterday came to get his 5yo brother to help with the kitchen work. I don't think Honey heard him b/c he was attacking Baby Boy. Unaware, he then turned to grab 5yo as he was following #3. #3 pounced on Dad to rescue 5yo then whispered in his ear "That's ok, I'll do it. You can keep wrestling with Dad." He is such a sweet boy. I am so happy that he has a sweet heart toward them. They look to him as their example and he is proving to be a good one.
This is a big victory. 12 yo daughter is getting contacts! I'm so excited for her b/c I remember how glad I was to finally get them. She doesn't actually get them until Wed. If you've ever had contacts you remember how hard it is at first. The eye doctor said she could practice with mine so we started tonight. She got them in AND out in less than 30 minutes!! This is weird...left handed! She's right handed so I don't know why she did it that way. Oh well, it worked and that's all that matters. We were both thrilled. Actually I should say we were all *three* happy b/c #3 was sitting right beside me cheering her on.
It's been a good day. After dinner Honey was wrestling with the little boys. #3, the one I wrote about yesterday came to get his 5yo brother to help with the kitchen work. I don't think Honey heard him b/c he was attacking Baby Boy. Unaware, he then turned to grab 5yo as he was following #3. #3 pounced on Dad to rescue 5yo then whispered in his ear "That's ok, I'll do it. You can keep wrestling with Dad." He is such a sweet boy. I am so happy that he has a sweet heart toward them. They look to him as their example and he is proving to be a good one.
This is a big victory. 12 yo daughter is getting contacts! I'm so excited for her b/c I remember how glad I was to finally get them. She doesn't actually get them until Wed. If you've ever had contacts you remember how hard it is at first. The eye doctor said she could practice with mine so we started tonight. She got them in AND out in less than 30 minutes!! This is weird...left handed! She's right handed so I don't know why she did it that way. Oh well, it worked and that's all that matters. We were both thrilled. Actually I should say we were all *three* happy b/c #3 was sitting right beside me cheering her on.
A Heavenly Marriage
My Bible reading was so insightful this morning. I was reading in Mark chapter 3. Verses 24-27 says:
" If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. If a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand. And if Satan opposes himself and is divided, he cannot stand; his end has come. In fact, no one can enter a strong man's house and carry off his possessions unless he first ties up the strong man. Then he can rob his house. "
As I have mentioned before, I am going through the book Created To Be His Helpmeet with a couple of my friends. As I was reading though this I thought of how this relates to our marriages. In a heavenly marriage there can be no divisions. We must stand as ONE. Wives cannot allow satan to tie us up and rob our houses of the peace, joy, contentment, and harmony that God would have for us.
James 4:1-2 says :
"What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don't they come from your desires that battle within you? You want something but don't get it. You kill and covet, but you cannot have what you want. You quarrel and fight. You do not have, b/c you do not ask God. "
Isn't that so true? I know I certainly enjoy getting my own way!! When I don't it is easy for my selfish desires to manifest themselves in some sort of discord. This causes a division in my heart whether or not I even speak it out loud. Further down in verses 7-11 God gives us His gracious answer:
"Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, your double-minded. Grieve, mourn, and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up. "
When we submit ourselves to God, He says the devil will flee! He will have no power to divide or steal. We will be too strong in the Lord for him to tie us up and carry off our possessions of joy, love, peace, and contentment.
It just makes the whole day good to get some special word from the Lord. And it's barely 7 :00! I am blessed already.
" If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. If a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand. And if Satan opposes himself and is divided, he cannot stand; his end has come. In fact, no one can enter a strong man's house and carry off his possessions unless he first ties up the strong man. Then he can rob his house. "
As I have mentioned before, I am going through the book Created To Be His Helpmeet with a couple of my friends. As I was reading though this I thought of how this relates to our marriages. In a heavenly marriage there can be no divisions. We must stand as ONE. Wives cannot allow satan to tie us up and rob our houses of the peace, joy, contentment, and harmony that God would have for us.
James 4:1-2 says :
"What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don't they come from your desires that battle within you? You want something but don't get it. You kill and covet, but you cannot have what you want. You quarrel and fight. You do not have, b/c you do not ask God. "
Isn't that so true? I know I certainly enjoy getting my own way!! When I don't it is easy for my selfish desires to manifest themselves in some sort of discord. This causes a division in my heart whether or not I even speak it out loud. Further down in verses 7-11 God gives us His gracious answer:
"Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, your double-minded. Grieve, mourn, and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up. "
When we submit ourselves to God, He says the devil will flee! He will have no power to divide or steal. We will be too strong in the Lord for him to tie us up and carry off our possessions of joy, love, peace, and contentment.
It just makes the whole day good to get some special word from the Lord. And it's barely 7 :00! I am blessed already.
Friday, June 30, 2006
His good summer
I was thinking today about our oldest son and thought what a fun summer he is having. Actually we are all having a fun summer but he was the one I was thinking about in particular.
#1 son (#3 in birth order) is doing a speed training camp for 5 weeks that he LOVES. He had to take an athletic physical. He does not love that part of it. He has 20/20 vision, is 70% in height and 40% in weight. Lean and tall. Healthy in every way. Thank you Lord!!
Our nephew spent a week with us and it was especially fun for #3. We've also had a lot of recent company from the G'mas. Everyone loves that.
He's had great fun with the pool and even enjoys cleaning it.
Summer 3v3 soccer is his all-time favorite. He is on a formidable team and travels many weekends with his dad and a sibling or two.
His coach hooked us up with a temporary satellite so he can watch the World Cup. He also brought him back a World Cup t-shirt from Germany. It's his favorite.
He was the first one to discover Baby Girl's new tooth. I'm so glad he has a baby sister to love on. He was too little to remember LB when she was born but has always loved our friends' baby girls. He finished his work early today and watched her while I finished mine. Later he commented on what a good day he had with her. She's crazy about him too.
He and his big sister have many jobs feeding pets and watering plants for out-of-town neighbors.
I know all little boys are in love with their Momma but I do so enjoy his sweetness. The other day I was standing in the family room and the fan was on. He said "Momma you look so pretty when the fan blows your hair like that." Aaawwwww..........isn't he a love?
#1 son (#3 in birth order) is doing a speed training camp for 5 weeks that he LOVES. He had to take an athletic physical. He does not love that part of it. He has 20/20 vision, is 70% in height and 40% in weight. Lean and tall. Healthy in every way. Thank you Lord!!
Our nephew spent a week with us and it was especially fun for #3. We've also had a lot of recent company from the G'mas. Everyone loves that.
He's had great fun with the pool and even enjoys cleaning it.
Summer 3v3 soccer is his all-time favorite. He is on a formidable team and travels many weekends with his dad and a sibling or two.
His coach hooked us up with a temporary satellite so he can watch the World Cup. He also brought him back a World Cup t-shirt from Germany. It's his favorite.
He was the first one to discover Baby Girl's new tooth. I'm so glad he has a baby sister to love on. He was too little to remember LB when she was born but has always loved our friends' baby girls. He finished his work early today and watched her while I finished mine. Later he commented on what a good day he had with her. She's crazy about him too.
He and his big sister have many jobs feeding pets and watering plants for out-of-town neighbors.
I know all little boys are in love with their Momma but I do so enjoy his sweetness. The other day I was standing in the family room and the fan was on. He said "Momma you look so pretty when the fan blows your hair like that." Aaawwwww..........isn't he a love?
Thursday, June 29, 2006
In My Kitchen Today
I made up a new recipe. It is an adaptation of an old favorite plus a twist of Frugal Gourmet. I called it Tuna Sauce. Here it is..
2 cans of tuna
1 can of artichokes, drained and chopped
1/4 C. diced onion
1 cup of corn
1 Cup of mayo
1 Cup of sour cream
1 1/2 C. Parmesan cheese
Mix all together and bake at 350 until the top is a little toasty and it is heated through.
I served this with garlic bread and sliced boiled eggs. We also had broccoli and roasted potatoes and apples with cranberry dip.
Since I was using the oven I wanted to bake as many things at the same time as possible. I had some ripe bananas and made a banana cake for breakfast tomorrow. It was hard not to break into it tonight!!
Tomorrow's menu looks like this...
Breakfast: banana cake
Lunch: vegetable soup -- I know, I know it's summer. But soup goes a long way and feeds lots of little mouths. I'll also get some bread started in the bread machine to bake along with the pizzas and tea snack.
Tea: zucchini bread
Dinner: Pizzas...one cheese, one veggie
2 cans of tuna
1 can of artichokes, drained and chopped
1/4 C. diced onion
1 cup of corn
1 Cup of mayo
1 Cup of sour cream
1 1/2 C. Parmesan cheese
Mix all together and bake at 350 until the top is a little toasty and it is heated through.
I served this with garlic bread and sliced boiled eggs. We also had broccoli and roasted potatoes and apples with cranberry dip.
Since I was using the oven I wanted to bake as many things at the same time as possible. I had some ripe bananas and made a banana cake for breakfast tomorrow. It was hard not to break into it tonight!!
Tomorrow's menu looks like this...
Breakfast: banana cake
Lunch: vegetable soup -- I know, I know it's summer. But soup goes a long way and feeds lots of little mouths. I'll also get some bread started in the bread machine to bake along with the pizzas and tea snack.
Tea: zucchini bread
Dinner: Pizzas...one cheese, one veggie
Budget Idea
This year Honey has trusted me to do our budget. I've really had fun with it. I enjoy the challenge of finding places to save money.
I was having a hard time staying within my grocery budget. I usually shop at Walmart and Sams and buy everything else I need there besides groceries. I decided that that was where my trouble lied. I intended to separate the receipt when I got home and put the "others" in the appropriate category but sometimes I forgot. My new idea was to put all my food money on a shopping card.
My food budget is $800 a month for food, cleaners, diapers, and paper products. I put all of that except $50 on a Walmart/Sams card. This month's budget is going great! When I went shopping this week and bought food plus other things like storage containers I paid for all the food first with my shopping card then paid for the others separately. I think it's going to work!
I was having a hard time staying within my grocery budget. I usually shop at Walmart and Sams and buy everything else I need there besides groceries. I decided that that was where my trouble lied. I intended to separate the receipt when I got home and put the "others" in the appropriate category but sometimes I forgot. My new idea was to put all my food money on a shopping card.
My food budget is $800 a month for food, cleaners, diapers, and paper products. I put all of that except $50 on a Walmart/Sams card. This month's budget is going great! When I went shopping this week and bought food plus other things like storage containers I paid for all the food first with my shopping card then paid for the others separately. I think it's going to work!
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
Different Dinners
My cooking had gotten into a rut. I was making the same ol' things over and over again. Also, I noticed that my kids were getting a little picky and starting to turn their noses up at things. I needed something new.
While I was at story time at the library, we went upstairs and found 2 cookbooks. One is a vegetarian cookbook for good side dishes, the other is by the Frugal gourmet. I've enjoyed pouring through both of them looking for new ideas.
Tonight we're having grilled portobello burgers. Basically it's just a portobello mushroom grilled and eaten on a bun like a burger. It also has a special mayonnaise. I tried this a long time ago but it didn't turn out right. After reading this recipe, I think I know where I messed up and I'm hoping tonight's dinner will turn out better. We're also having twice baked potatoes (with potatoes out of PawPaw's garden) and salad. Sound yummy? I hope so, I'll let ya know!
While I was at story time at the library, we went upstairs and found 2 cookbooks. One is a vegetarian cookbook for good side dishes, the other is by the Frugal gourmet. I've enjoyed pouring through both of them looking for new ideas.
Tonight we're having grilled portobello burgers. Basically it's just a portobello mushroom grilled and eaten on a bun like a burger. It also has a special mayonnaise. I tried this a long time ago but it didn't turn out right. After reading this recipe, I think I know where I messed up and I'm hoping tonight's dinner will turn out better. We're also having twice baked potatoes (with potatoes out of PawPaw's garden) and salad. Sound yummy? I hope so, I'll let ya know!
We got a pool!
G'pa and Nana and G'ma and PawPaw got the kids a pool for a summer present. It's one of those 16x4' pools from Sams. What fun it is!!
Of course the big kids are having a blast playing sharks and minnows and diving for the dime and swimming all over the place. The little boys, on the other hand...need LOTS of supervision. #5 can doggie paddle with his face under but screams a fit if water goes up his nose, #6 is scared to death and holds on to you like a big crab, #7 would rather just take the swim suit off and go swing. Baby girl hasn't gone it yet. I can't get her floatie blown up without the pump. That'll be dad's job tonight.
I guess my big goal of the summer now is to teach my little guys to swim. That'll be fun!
Thank you G'pa & Nana and G'ma & PawPaw!!
Of course the big kids are having a blast playing sharks and minnows and diving for the dime and swimming all over the place. The little boys, on the other hand...need LOTS of supervision. #5 can doggie paddle with his face under but screams a fit if water goes up his nose, #6 is scared to death and holds on to you like a big crab, #7 would rather just take the swim suit off and go swing. Baby girl hasn't gone it yet. I can't get her floatie blown up without the pump. That'll be dad's job tonight.
I guess my big goal of the summer now is to teach my little guys to swim. That'll be fun!
Thank you G'pa & Nana and G'ma & PawPaw!!
Saturday, June 24, 2006
Our beautiful one
Last night was LB's dance recital. Oh, how beautiful she was!! We had her hair in rollers all day and it was so bouncy and pretty. Her HUGE smile was gorgeous!! It was so fun watching her dance. She was perfect. Her solo was beautiful. I loved seeing her sing the song as she danced. You could tell that she really enjoyed it and was not just going through the motions of the steps. Did I mention that she was BEAUTIFUL??!! Maybe I did. I'm not just saying that because I'm her mom. If you don't believe me, ask her dad! Well, I don't know how to post pictures here but I'll ask Honey to do it tomorrow so check back to see our beautiful one.
Thank you Lord for LB's dance lessons and her perfectly beautiful recital last night. You've made such a pretty girl in her!
**She begins to show up in photos starting here:**
http://thetaggs.smugmug.com/gallery/1594718/10
Here's a favorite...
http://thetaggs.smugmug.com/gallery/1594718/18/77377293
Monday, June 19, 2006
a bad weekend
Have you ever had one of those weekends that was so bad you were actually glad it was Monday? Well, I'm glad it's Monday. Weekends like this make me think of the verse in Ecc that says "The end of a matter is better than its beginning." Thankfully we don't get many of these weekends so I can look forward to the next.
Honey and I had a big disagreement...ok it was a fight. It was all his fault. Well, maybe a little bit was mine but it was mostly his. ;-) We've been married almost 18 years and I'm still trying to figure him out. Most of the time I understand him pretty well and when I don't, it throws me for a loop and messes up my whole day.
I love the book Created To Be His Helpmeet by Debi Pearl. I have read this book backwards and forwards and find it so helpful everytime I open it. I am going through it again with 2 friends of mine once a week. So anytime I have a new "learning opportunity" in my relationship with Honey I ask myself "What would Debi say?".
After asking myself this question all weekend I've come to the conclusion that she would say it wasn't all his fault afterall. It never really is, is it? I have a tendency to be quite selfish and ignore Jesus' words of "deny yourself". That is a hard one for me because my self is very strong. If I had, the weekend would've been much better.
Thankfully the weekend ended well. We had a pretty good day yesterday and I had a lot of fun playing tennis with him in the street. We had our usual date night last night and it was fun as usual. Dinner, movie, snow cones, a little bit of shopping, and a lot of talking and laughing. I wish I could rewind the whole thing and do it again. I can think of plenty of things now that would've made the weekend better and blessed Honey instead of being a thorn in his side. Why couldn't I think of them Saturday? Oh well, hindsight is 20/20. I will write this off as another learning opportunity. If I were never challenged, I wouldn't grow. I hope I'll do better next time and try to make Debi proud.
Looking forward to next weekend......
Honey and I had a big disagreement...ok it was a fight. It was all his fault. Well, maybe a little bit was mine but it was mostly his. ;-) We've been married almost 18 years and I'm still trying to figure him out. Most of the time I understand him pretty well and when I don't, it throws me for a loop and messes up my whole day.
I love the book Created To Be His Helpmeet by Debi Pearl. I have read this book backwards and forwards and find it so helpful everytime I open it. I am going through it again with 2 friends of mine once a week. So anytime I have a new "learning opportunity" in my relationship with Honey I ask myself "What would Debi say?".
After asking myself this question all weekend I've come to the conclusion that she would say it wasn't all his fault afterall. It never really is, is it? I have a tendency to be quite selfish and ignore Jesus' words of "deny yourself". That is a hard one for me because my self is very strong. If I had, the weekend would've been much better.
Thankfully the weekend ended well. We had a pretty good day yesterday and I had a lot of fun playing tennis with him in the street. We had our usual date night last night and it was fun as usual. Dinner, movie, snow cones, a little bit of shopping, and a lot of talking and laughing. I wish I could rewind the whole thing and do it again. I can think of plenty of things now that would've made the weekend better and blessed Honey instead of being a thorn in his side. Why couldn't I think of them Saturday? Oh well, hindsight is 20/20. I will write this off as another learning opportunity. If I were never challenged, I wouldn't grow. I hope I'll do better next time and try to make Debi proud.
Looking forward to next weekend......
Thursday, June 15, 2006
#6 too
#5 turned 5 recently...however, and to those that don't know, he's got a little brother that's also his best friend. #6 is a three year old that doesn't really understand the difference in ages, what his limitations are, or why he can't do things his slightly older brother (#5) can. There are many things that #6 is not allowed to do because he doesn't understand responsibility or we (the parents) don't believe he is mentally mature enough. However, if #5 physically does something that #6 can't... the parents are a little more lenient (with a watchful eye).
For example, earlier this year #5 learned to swing all by himself. Within a week, #6 learned to swing all by himself. #5 can unbuckle his carseat (at the appropriate time) all by himself (a condition of being COW). #6 worked and worked until he could do the same. Well, recently I posted the success that #5 had deciding to ride a 2 wheeler. As expected, #6 would want to do the same....here are the results:
Our happy and victorious 3 year old conquering the 2 wheeled bicycle!!
He starts himself and while not quite as daring as his slightly older brother, has become very steady.
I really look forward to the years ahead with these 2 boys. I am very proud of them both!
Cleaning Tools
I'm generally not a fan of disposable type cleaning products but I love the new quick cleaning tools available now. They have been invaluable in training my little kids to work happily and cooperate. I like for them to be included in the Friday housecleaning day.
Swiffer has those dusters on the plastic hand-held wand that even my 2yo can use. The Swiffer Carpet Flick is not such a good cleaner but my little guys think they are vacuuming. It has a see-through top and they like to see how much dirt they've collected. It's light-weight and they can maneuver it easily. I like the Clorox Quick Mop best b/c I can refill the bottle with my own cleaner. Again, it's easy for my vertically challenged helpers and it actually does a pretty good job for the in-between cleanings.
I know I sound like a commercial but if you have little helpers at home, I think the cost for the disposable products are a good investment in teaching little ones to have a good work ethic.
Swiffer has those dusters on the plastic hand-held wand that even my 2yo can use. The Swiffer Carpet Flick is not such a good cleaner but my little guys think they are vacuuming. It has a see-through top and they like to see how much dirt they've collected. It's light-weight and they can maneuver it easily. I like the Clorox Quick Mop best b/c I can refill the bottle with my own cleaner. Again, it's easy for my vertically challenged helpers and it actually does a pretty good job for the in-between cleanings.
I know I sound like a commercial but if you have little helpers at home, I think the cost for the disposable products are a good investment in teaching little ones to have a good work ethic.
Sunday, June 11, 2006
We Can't Afford It
My neighbor just called and gave me 5 sacks of girls' clothes! LB and I just went through them and they are wonderful. Most of them are from Children's Place and Gap and other places that I can't afford. What a great provision from the Lord! MG will be able to wear them for the next couple of years b/c they are sizes 24 mos -4T.
I hardly ever have to buy clothes for my kids b/c it seems that even before I need them, someone offers their hand-me-downs. I think I probably spend less for my 8 kids than most people spend for 2.
When people hear that we have 8, I get the same questions over and over again. One of the most asked is "how can you afford it?"
One day I was standing in line at Sams. I noticed in the line beside me a guy with a flat bed cart piled high with foods that was obviously for his vending machine business. I looked at my own and it was just as full! Out of nowhere, panic seized my heart. Thoughts went through my head like:
"This is how much we need just for 2 weeks!"
"This is just food--there isn't even any 'extra' here."
"What if Honey lost his job, how would we buy all this food?...food for my KIDS?"
Just as quickly, I felt the Lord speaking to my heart saying:
"This all comes from My hand, not Honey's."
"I am the One who takes care of you."
I left Sams so thankful. My shopping trips have never been the same. No longer do I dread the grocery store. Now I am glad I GET to go.
So my answer to the "How can you afford it?" is... "I can't, but God can!" Whether it is food for my pantry or clothes for my kids, the Lord has been more than generous.
I hardly ever have to buy clothes for my kids b/c it seems that even before I need them, someone offers their hand-me-downs. I think I probably spend less for my 8 kids than most people spend for 2.
When people hear that we have 8, I get the same questions over and over again. One of the most asked is "how can you afford it?"
One day I was standing in line at Sams. I noticed in the line beside me a guy with a flat bed cart piled high with foods that was obviously for his vending machine business. I looked at my own and it was just as full! Out of nowhere, panic seized my heart. Thoughts went through my head like:
"This is how much we need just for 2 weeks!"
"This is just food--there isn't even any 'extra' here."
"What if Honey lost his job, how would we buy all this food?...food for my KIDS?"
Just as quickly, I felt the Lord speaking to my heart saying:
"This all comes from My hand, not Honey's."
"I am the One who takes care of you."
I left Sams so thankful. My shopping trips have never been the same. No longer do I dread the grocery store. Now I am glad I GET to go.
So my answer to the "How can you afford it?" is... "I can't, but God can!" Whether it is food for my pantry or clothes for my kids, the Lord has been more than generous.
Saturday, June 10, 2006
The garage door works!
It has been several weeks now since the garage door opener broke. Although it was an inconvenience, it wasn't too bad b/c I have a strong son to open and close it for me. Then the spring broke. There was NO opening or closing after that. We even had to bring the trash cans through the house on trash day. eeewwwww....
No more!! The guys came and fixed it this week. We even have a nifty key pad on the outside of the door so we can even open it without getting into the car. Isn't that neat?
It was funny how we took the garage door opener for granted. Just push a button and, like magic, it opened or closed with the greatest of ease. Once it broke, I looked at my neighbor's garage doors opening and even thought it was fancy!! Isn't that funny?
Well what I once considered necessary, I now am very thankful for. I feel rich with a "magic" garage door opener.
No more!! The guys came and fixed it this week. We even have a nifty key pad on the outside of the door so we can even open it without getting into the car. Isn't that neat?
It was funny how we took the garage door opener for granted. Just push a button and, like magic, it opened or closed with the greatest of ease. Once it broke, I looked at my neighbor's garage doors opening and even thought it was fancy!! Isn't that funny?
Well what I once considered necessary, I now am very thankful for. I feel rich with a "magic" garage door opener.
My mom makes the BEST potato salad. It is one of those foods that doesn't have an exact recipe, you just have to know how to make it. She makes it GREAT! It's one of my favorite foods and whenever I visit her house she usually makes it for me. I eat it for every meal until I leave.
I like to make it too but it doesn't taste the same. Mom uses the right ingredients, I use whatever I happen to have. No wonder it's not the same! The funny thing is that most people don't really like it. I guess it's an acquired taste, or a quirky family taste bud because my kids love it too.
I made extra mashed potatoes today for lunch and chopped up all the rest of the stuff to go into my potato salad tomorrow. Guess what? There aren't enough leftover potatoes even though I made extra. Too bad!!
Mom, are you still coming next week? If so, would you pleeeaase bring me some potato salad? Make a lot so my kids don't eat it all!!
I like to make it too but it doesn't taste the same. Mom uses the right ingredients, I use whatever I happen to have. No wonder it's not the same! The funny thing is that most people don't really like it. I guess it's an acquired taste, or a quirky family taste bud because my kids love it too.
I made extra mashed potatoes today for lunch and chopped up all the rest of the stuff to go into my potato salad tomorrow. Guess what? There aren't enough leftover potatoes even though I made extra. Too bad!!
Mom, are you still coming next week? If so, would you pleeeaase bring me some potato salad? Make a lot so my kids don't eat it all!!
Friday, June 09, 2006
Summer School Program
Have you ever read Dale Carnegie's book How To Win Friends And Influence People? I read it years ago and I am re-reading it again. It's a great book to help you with husbands and children. ;-)
Since my nephew has been visiting it has made my kids wise to the summer vacation idea. We've always schooled through the summer with no problems. Now there is a spirit of discontentment. I'm sure I sound like a tyrant, but I just hate the idea of wasting 3 whole months just playing and being lazy.
In his book he talks about getting people to do what you want them to do without them knowing it. I decided to do a summer school incentive program.
I put a dollar amount on every item of school work or every book read. By the end of June, we would add up everyone's earnings and I would put them into individual envelopes to be used for Christmas money. (They always love buying Christmas presents) I gave them the option to participate or not. They jumped all over this idea! Even Nephew!
I think they will even do more school work than if I had assigned a regular day. There is no discontentment and they are using their time well. I'm SO excited....although I may be broke by the end of June!
If you haven't read this book, grab a copy. It's a great read!
Since my nephew has been visiting it has made my kids wise to the summer vacation idea. We've always schooled through the summer with no problems. Now there is a spirit of discontentment. I'm sure I sound like a tyrant, but I just hate the idea of wasting 3 whole months just playing and being lazy.
In his book he talks about getting people to do what you want them to do without them knowing it. I decided to do a summer school incentive program.
I put a dollar amount on every item of school work or every book read. By the end of June, we would add up everyone's earnings and I would put them into individual envelopes to be used for Christmas money. (They always love buying Christmas presents) I gave them the option to participate or not. They jumped all over this idea! Even Nephew!
I think they will even do more school work than if I had assigned a regular day. There is no discontentment and they are using their time well. I'm SO excited....although I may be broke by the end of June!
If you haven't read this book, grab a copy. It's a great read!
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
Colossians 2:8
We had a family meeting last night to re-visit the dog food thing. I think it went well. We can laugh about it now. This morning in my quiet time I was reviewing my new verse and realized how perfectly it fit.
"See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ. " Col 2:8
Isn't that perfect!? I had that verse before the dog food incident. God knew.
I haven't introduced this one to the kids yet so this morning I will. I'm glad to have an example to tie it to! That verse is a perfect warning against peer pressure. I plan to explain to them that peer pressure never ends. It does not seem to be exclusive to children or teens even though that is how we usually think of it. I, like them, have to be careful of being led astray in actions or thoughts.
It also brings to mind what my pastor says about some people "catching" their world view. It is those who watch way too much news, listen to the folks at work, the nay sayers, etc. and just adopt their ideas without checking them out for themselves or measuring them against God's Word. I don't want to be like that and I especially don't want my children to be like that.
How can we guard against it? The verse right above that one says
"So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness."
Isn't that wonderful? I can't wait to show this to my kids this morning!
"See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ. " Col 2:8
Isn't that perfect!? I had that verse before the dog food incident. God knew.
I haven't introduced this one to the kids yet so this morning I will. I'm glad to have an example to tie it to! That verse is a perfect warning against peer pressure. I plan to explain to them that peer pressure never ends. It does not seem to be exclusive to children or teens even though that is how we usually think of it. I, like them, have to be careful of being led astray in actions or thoughts.
It also brings to mind what my pastor says about some people "catching" their world view. It is those who watch way too much news, listen to the folks at work, the nay sayers, etc. and just adopt their ideas without checking them out for themselves or measuring them against God's Word. I don't want to be like that and I especially don't want my children to be like that.
How can we guard against it? The verse right above that one says
"So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness."
Isn't that wonderful? I can't wait to show this to my kids this morning!
Monday, June 05, 2006
Followers or Leaders?
Like all parents, we strive to make our children leaders instead of followers. We had a good life lesson yesterday.
LMT(12) and CT(10) are taking care of neighbor's dogs while they are out-of-town. We have a 9yo nephew visiting. Yesterday LMT and CT took him with them to do dog duty. They came home laughing hysterically. When I asked what was so funny, I was surprised at the answer. They were eating dog food.
Dog food! I remember that CT had this problem when he was a nine month old but I thought he had grown out of it. I was especially surprised that my 12 yo daughter ate it. I can see where a 9 or 10yo boy would think that eating dog food was funny.....but my daughter!??!
So I started asking questions. I know my kids well enough to know that they wouldn't have thought of doing that on their own. It was nephew's idea and they followed. When I questioned nephew, he said his brother had done it before and he didn't die. By this time Honey was in on the conversation and posed the question "If nephew licked the dog's bottom would you do it too?" It was starting to sink in. We told them it was not about eating the dog food, it was about following the foolishness of others.
I hope they got it. You never really know until next time. The thought occurred to me..."What if they were in public school? or Sunday School? Would they be the followers or leaders?" I think I would've said leaders before yesterday. Now I will say that I just don't know. Being a mom sure keeps me humble!!
Honey confessed to me in bed last night that he once ate a milkbone. I guess it runs in the family.
LMT(12) and CT(10) are taking care of neighbor's dogs while they are out-of-town. We have a 9yo nephew visiting. Yesterday LMT and CT took him with them to do dog duty. They came home laughing hysterically. When I asked what was so funny, I was surprised at the answer. They were eating dog food.
Dog food! I remember that CT had this problem when he was a nine month old but I thought he had grown out of it. I was especially surprised that my 12 yo daughter ate it. I can see where a 9 or 10yo boy would think that eating dog food was funny.....but my daughter!??!
So I started asking questions. I know my kids well enough to know that they wouldn't have thought of doing that on their own. It was nephew's idea and they followed. When I questioned nephew, he said his brother had done it before and he didn't die. By this time Honey was in on the conversation and posed the question "If nephew licked the dog's bottom would you do it too?" It was starting to sink in. We told them it was not about eating the dog food, it was about following the foolishness of others.
I hope they got it. You never really know until next time. The thought occurred to me..."What if they were in public school? or Sunday School? Would they be the followers or leaders?" I think I would've said leaders before yesterday. Now I will say that I just don't know. Being a mom sure keeps me humble!!
Honey confessed to me in bed last night that he once ate a milkbone. I guess it runs in the family.
Sunday, June 04, 2006
Our House
I know, I know, I already typed the praises of our backyard. But today as it is a beautiful day and I have 4 little kids to play I am thankful for it all over again. Actually I am so thankful for my whole house. I just love it! There is hardly anything that I don't like about it.
Since it is such a perfect day, we will spend the whole of it outside. Since I have little boys, they don't even need to go in to the bathroom! .......Was that too much information?
I will serve us lunch outside, and of course LOTS of popsicles! Yesterday I made banana ones with over-ripe bananas. I can't wait until they try them. We will not even need to come in until Honey (he said I can't use first names anymore) and everyone else comes home.
Here's a little about my house....
When we first bought it I thought the outside was so ugly. Well, I still do. But it's mine and that endears it to me more than any beautiful fancy new house ever could. Plus it's very unique and easy to describe when giving someone directions. That's good.
My bedroom is upstairs away from everyone else's. It's a nice quiet place for me when I have too many little boys underfoot or too many hard math problems to figure out. That's a perfect set up for an only child with 8 kids!
Speaking of being an only child....I don't like to share! I have my very own closet that I don't have to share with anyone. Oh, I do love that! It's the perfect size too. Not too big so that I put lots of junk in it, but plenty big enough for what I have....and then some.
I have 2 separate living rooms, upstairs and down. I can have a quiet visit with a friend upstairs while my little ones are downstairs. There are even lots of pocket doors to close to keep out noise. That's also great when Honey lets me sleep in sometimes.
Well I could go on and on but I'm needed outside. Let me just say that I LOVE my house and I'm so thankful for it. If I designed it myself it could not meet my needs and desires more than this one that God is providing now. That thought really excites me when I think of my home in heaven. How much more perfect will it be? I can not even imagine.
Since it is such a perfect day, we will spend the whole of it outside. Since I have little boys, they don't even need to go in to the bathroom! .......Was that too much information?
I will serve us lunch outside, and of course LOTS of popsicles! Yesterday I made banana ones with over-ripe bananas. I can't wait until they try them. We will not even need to come in until Honey (he said I can't use first names anymore) and everyone else comes home.
Here's a little about my house....
When we first bought it I thought the outside was so ugly. Well, I still do. But it's mine and that endears it to me more than any beautiful fancy new house ever could. Plus it's very unique and easy to describe when giving someone directions. That's good.
My bedroom is upstairs away from everyone else's. It's a nice quiet place for me when I have too many little boys underfoot or too many hard math problems to figure out. That's a perfect set up for an only child with 8 kids!
Speaking of being an only child....I don't like to share! I have my very own closet that I don't have to share with anyone. Oh, I do love that! It's the perfect size too. Not too big so that I put lots of junk in it, but plenty big enough for what I have....and then some.
I have 2 separate living rooms, upstairs and down. I can have a quiet visit with a friend upstairs while my little ones are downstairs. There are even lots of pocket doors to close to keep out noise. That's also great when Honey lets me sleep in sometimes.
Well I could go on and on but I'm needed outside. Let me just say that I LOVE my house and I'm so thankful for it. If I designed it myself it could not meet my needs and desires more than this one that God is providing now. That thought really excites me when I think of my home in heaven. How much more perfect will it be? I can not even imagine.
Thank you GOD, and thank you Honey for being such a sweet provider and giving me these extras that I don't really need. I love you.
Saturday, June 03, 2006
LB's Day
This weekend will be one with my bigger girls out-of-town. That means LB is the oldest for 2 whole days! She had the choice of going out-of-town too, but she loves this responsibility that she doesn't get very often. She loves being my "go to girl".
LB is a tremendous help! Not only did she help me with little boys, poopy diapers, and dirty dishes but she even stayed up and helped me do some extra cleaning to prepare for a get-together Monday. My day would've been much harder without her.
I'm glad that she approaches work with a cheerful, helpful attitude. If she can hang on to that it will serve her well her whole life.
I love you LB, you're a good girl!!
LB is a tremendous help! Not only did she help me with little boys, poopy diapers, and dirty dishes but she even stayed up and helped me do some extra cleaning to prepare for a get-together Monday. My day would've been much harder without her.
I'm glad that she approaches work with a cheerful, helpful attitude. If she can hang on to that it will serve her well her whole life.
I love you LB, you're a good girl!!
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
The Morning Meeting
"And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ--to the glory and praise of God." Philippians 1:9-11
This is the verse we're memorizing right now...as well as the current prayer I am praying consistantly. Wouldn't it be wonderful to always be able to discern what is best and be pure and blameless?! I find that whatever verse I have to memorize, the Lord will show me countless ways in which it can be used and so many different situations to pray it.
This is a big part of our homeschool. Every morning after breakfast we move to the parlor (my fancy name for the living room) and I dictate the verse we are memorizing for the kids to write. God's word is so good for all things. I use this for spelling, grammer, vocabulary, penmanship, and great conversation starters. Writing the verse everyday really helps us to memorize it.
This kids bring me their paper when they are finished and I check and correct it. While we talk about the verse, they correct their spelling by writing the misspelled words 5 times. We discuss whatever phrases or words that are unclear like "depth of insight". I am always surprised at what I take for granted that the kids know that they really don't. It's a learning opportunity for all of us.
As we get further along in our grammer studies we will use the verse to pick out prepositional phases, direct objects, and the like.
I will usually give them a chance to repeat however much of it they have memorized. It's really fun to hear a little boy repeat some of it just when I think they never pay attention!
I like to keep the same verse until everyone can spell all the words without mistakes. It gives us plenty of time to memorize it and look for ways to apply it to everday life. This time in the day is what we call "the morning meeting" and I think my kids would say it's their favorite part of the school day. We also read the Proverb of the day, or whatever else I might want to read. I tell them what we're having for dinner, and anything different or unusual on the schedule. I also give them any list of extra jobs they need to do. It's a nice way to start the day!
This is the verse we're memorizing right now...as well as the current prayer I am praying consistantly. Wouldn't it be wonderful to always be able to discern what is best and be pure and blameless?! I find that whatever verse I have to memorize, the Lord will show me countless ways in which it can be used and so many different situations to pray it.
This is a big part of our homeschool. Every morning after breakfast we move to the parlor (my fancy name for the living room) and I dictate the verse we are memorizing for the kids to write. God's word is so good for all things. I use this for spelling, grammer, vocabulary, penmanship, and great conversation starters. Writing the verse everyday really helps us to memorize it.
This kids bring me their paper when they are finished and I check and correct it. While we talk about the verse, they correct their spelling by writing the misspelled words 5 times. We discuss whatever phrases or words that are unclear like "depth of insight". I am always surprised at what I take for granted that the kids know that they really don't. It's a learning opportunity for all of us.
As we get further along in our grammer studies we will use the verse to pick out prepositional phases, direct objects, and the like.
I will usually give them a chance to repeat however much of it they have memorized. It's really fun to hear a little boy repeat some of it just when I think they never pay attention!
I like to keep the same verse until everyone can spell all the words without mistakes. It gives us plenty of time to memorize it and look for ways to apply it to everday life. This time in the day is what we call "the morning meeting" and I think my kids would say it's their favorite part of the school day. We also read the Proverb of the day, or whatever else I might want to read. I tell them what we're having for dinner, and anything different or unusual on the schedule. I also give them any list of extra jobs they need to do. It's a nice way to start the day!
Monday, May 29, 2006
Vacation
Mike is on vacation this week! I'm so glad. We really don't have anything special planned but the week is filling up fast with little things. The top thing on his list is to work on the broken garage door. I don't think it'll be an easy task. We've wanted to replace that door since we moved in almost 5 years ago, now with it broken we have the perfect opportunity.
I'm really looking forward to this week with him home. I have my own list of things to do too. Isn't it always nice to get those nagging things out of the way?
Meaggy and I went thrift store shopping Saturday. We had so much fun! We came home with a huge sack of clothes for only$23! We got something for almost everybody. Next we went to a consignment store where she got 2 shirts for $6. On the way home we hit a g-sale and got just a couple of things. Maegan bought 10 men's ties for her friend who is collecting them to sew onto a skirt. It was a good day full of bargains.
Have a great week,
Love,
Sandy
I'm really looking forward to this week with him home. I have my own list of things to do too. Isn't it always nice to get those nagging things out of the way?
Meaggy and I went thrift store shopping Saturday. We had so much fun! We came home with a huge sack of clothes for only$23! We got something for almost everybody. Next we went to a consignment store where she got 2 shirts for $6. On the way home we hit a g-sale and got just a couple of things. Maegan bought 10 men's ties for her friend who is collecting them to sew onto a skirt. It was a good day full of bargains.
Have a great week,
Love,
Sandy
Saturday, May 27, 2006
Saturday morning photos
I have added to our May photos....the latest stuff starts here:
http://thetaggs.smugmug.com/gallery/1419938/22/71837974
http://thetaggs.smugmug.com/gallery/1419938/22/71837974
Monday, May 22, 2006
This weekend
This was such a fun weekend. CT's soccer team went to Conway for the President's Cup. Mike's mom came and stayed with the kids (thank you, thank you, thank you!) and we only took CT and Mal. I'll try to summarize without bragging too much......
It started out a little rough b/c Mike had to work late. We had a 3 hour drive and didn't leave until after 9pm. We were pretty tired that night and had to be on the field at 8:15 the next morning. Our hotel room was 30 minutes away so it was an early morning.
The first game we tied. That was a disappointment but better than a loss. They played again in the afternoon and WON!! We made it to the semifinals on Sunday and then lost. Too bad. Even though we lost our team played great and Christian was especially fun to watch. My favorite play was in the last game when he got this big break away, faked out several players, took it up the field, and got off a shot. His foot work is so impressive. Can you tell I'm a proud Momma?
It was disappointing to lose on Sunday but nice to get home to see everyone else. We had a nice afternoon at home spending time with G'ma. What a great weekend.
It started out a little rough b/c Mike had to work late. We had a 3 hour drive and didn't leave until after 9pm. We were pretty tired that night and had to be on the field at 8:15 the next morning. Our hotel room was 30 minutes away so it was an early morning.
The first game we tied. That was a disappointment but better than a loss. They played again in the afternoon and WON!! We made it to the semifinals on Sunday and then lost. Too bad. Even though we lost our team played great and Christian was especially fun to watch. My favorite play was in the last game when he got this big break away, faked out several players, took it up the field, and got off a shot. His foot work is so impressive. Can you tell I'm a proud Momma?
It was disappointing to lose on Sunday but nice to get home to see everyone else. We had a nice afternoon at home spending time with G'ma. What a great weekend.
Monday, May 15, 2006
#5 is 2 wheelin!
View more pictures of this event and other stuff here: http://thetaggs.smugmug.com/gallery/1419938/3
While I (dad) was cutting down limbs in the infamous "backyard", #5 decided that he wanted to take off his training wheels. I told him that I was kind of busy and that if he could get them off that I would help him out a little. I don't quite know how he got them off...but he did. :-) He did fairly well in the back yard and was able to pedal for short distances. Seeming happy with his accomplishment, he moved on to something else. As I finished up trimming in the backyard we migrated toward the front. #5's eyes lit up again and asked if he could take his bike and try it on the street. I agreed and here are the results from his attempts.
As the day went on, he became more daring and ventured to the neighbors driveway. It's a fairly steep driveway that propels him at quite a good clip into the street and down the hill. Fun! Well, since this is a relatively new skill he's acquired let's just say his speed to turn ratio is a bit out of specification. These next few photos will show his progress in this adventure.
as you can see....a definite miscalculation.
Here's his next attempt (got to give him credit for not giving up!!)
He made it a little further. But still the same result...whack! Right into the van. If you know #5 then you know he is very intelligent and it doesn't take him long to figure out a problem. So, he looks at me and says, "Dad, we need to move the van."
lol...
While I (dad) was cutting down limbs in the infamous "backyard", #5 decided that he wanted to take off his training wheels. I told him that I was kind of busy and that if he could get them off that I would help him out a little. I don't quite know how he got them off...but he did. :-) He did fairly well in the back yard and was able to pedal for short distances. Seeming happy with his accomplishment, he moved on to something else. As I finished up trimming in the backyard we migrated toward the front. #5's eyes lit up again and asked if he could take his bike and try it on the street. I agreed and here are the results from his attempts.
As the day went on, he became more daring and ventured to the neighbors driveway. It's a fairly steep driveway that propels him at quite a good clip into the street and down the hill. Fun! Well, since this is a relatively new skill he's acquired let's just say his speed to turn ratio is a bit out of specification. These next few photos will show his progress in this adventure.
as you can see....a definite miscalculation.
Here's his next attempt (got to give him credit for not giving up!!)
He made it a little further. But still the same result...whack! Right into the van. If you know #5 then you know he is very intelligent and it doesn't take him long to figure out a problem. So, he looks at me and says, "Dad, we need to move the van."
lol...
Tuesday, May 09, 2006
Our backyard
When we bought this house the only thing I noticed about the backyard was that it was flat (easy to mow) and big enough for kids. Little did I know all the fun it would be.
We have one big shade tree in the middle of the yard. The kids named it Greenland. The little boys try to swing really high and touch their toes to the branches. They can't reach it just yet.
The gate is named The Black Gate of Mordor. Ever see Lord of the Rings?
We have a big overgrown tree/bush in the back corner. The kids named it George Bush and claim that it's the best thing about the whole yard. I have to admit it is a great place to play. You can duck and walk under it and you are totally surrounded by the leaves and branches. It's sort of like a hide out. The branches are low enough yet strong enough to climb into. Underneath there is dirt to dig and roots that make a little stream when it rains or when you pour water into it.
Now there is a robin's nest in George Bush. It's just low enough that you can barely see two baby birds in there when you stand on your tippy toes. The funny part is that whenever the little boys go over there to play the mamma bird swoops them! They run out laughing and squealing. She has taken over George Bush!
See more photos (Mallory included) on the May photo site....
http://thetaggs.smugmug.com/gallery/1419938
We have one big shade tree in the middle of the yard. The kids named it Greenland. The little boys try to swing really high and touch their toes to the branches. They can't reach it just yet.
The gate is named The Black Gate of Mordor. Ever see Lord of the Rings?
We have a big overgrown tree/bush in the back corner. The kids named it George Bush and claim that it's the best thing about the whole yard. I have to admit it is a great place to play. You can duck and walk under it and you are totally surrounded by the leaves and branches. It's sort of like a hide out. The branches are low enough yet strong enough to climb into. Underneath there is dirt to dig and roots that make a little stream when it rains or when you pour water into it.
Now there is a robin's nest in George Bush. It's just low enough that you can barely see two baby birds in there when you stand on your tippy toes. The funny part is that whenever the little boys go over there to play the mamma bird swoops them! They run out laughing and squealing. She has taken over George Bush!
See more photos (Mallory included) on the May photo site....
http://thetaggs.smugmug.com/gallery/1419938
Saturday, May 06, 2006
Victory!!
Anger is something that I've been praying about for our family this year. God says that anger doesn't bring about a righteous life. I want that righteous life that God desires and I want to be able to control my emotions.
I am usually not the kind of person to be loud and yell. Usually I will give a longer-than-necessary speech (complete with "the tone") or roll my eyes. I also do not call it "anger" in most cases, but frustration. I have learned that frustration is just a prettier word for the same thing and I should just call it what it is. In any case, it's a bad example to my kids. My heart's desire is to be able correct them in love, without a hint of pride or an I-told-you-so, and to remember that repetition is the mother of learning.
Today I was put to the test. Without mentioning names, a child of mine had a great idea that did not turn out so well. It also had the potential of making a lot of unnecessary work. Thankfully the unnecessary work did not materialize. I was mad and wondered how this child could have overlooked such an obvious (to me) outcome. It was a situation where the child knew the wrong but my pride wanted to "let 'em have it" anyway. I prayed and the Lord gave me restraint with my words. I wanted more. I wanted my voice to not even betray my emotion..... so I was quiet and just kept praying!
When I did speak, it sounded sweet! I can't tell you what a victory this is. My child's heart was right, the action just didn't turn out right. If I had spoken in anger I think it would've done much to discourage, not much to help. I really want to judge the hearts of my children more than the blundered actions. I praise the Lord for this victory!! I am going to start praying now for the next test!
I am usually not the kind of person to be loud and yell. Usually I will give a longer-than-necessary speech (complete with "the tone") or roll my eyes. I also do not call it "anger" in most cases, but frustration. I have learned that frustration is just a prettier word for the same thing and I should just call it what it is. In any case, it's a bad example to my kids. My heart's desire is to be able correct them in love, without a hint of pride or an I-told-you-so, and to remember that repetition is the mother of learning.
Today I was put to the test. Without mentioning names, a child of mine had a great idea that did not turn out so well. It also had the potential of making a lot of unnecessary work. Thankfully the unnecessary work did not materialize. I was mad and wondered how this child could have overlooked such an obvious (to me) outcome. It was a situation where the child knew the wrong but my pride wanted to "let 'em have it" anyway. I prayed and the Lord gave me restraint with my words. I wanted more. I wanted my voice to not even betray my emotion..... so I was quiet and just kept praying!
When I did speak, it sounded sweet! I can't tell you what a victory this is. My child's heart was right, the action just didn't turn out right. If I had spoken in anger I think it would've done much to discourage, not much to help. I really want to judge the hearts of my children more than the blundered actions. I praise the Lord for this victory!! I am going to start praying now for the next test!
Maegan's Good Day
I have to brag on Maegan today. It's been a good day for her.
We started off the day with a cold and rainy soccer game for Joshua. No matter how miserable the weather conditions they never complain. Everyone was just happy to be there for Joshua and cheer him on. They are good examples to me.
After the game, Maegan bought everyone hot chocolate and popcorn at the concession stand. She remembered to bring her money to do this. It was sweet.
I had her make bread today and she did it start-to-finish with no help from me! That was a first. She also managed to get 6 loaves out of the recipe where I usually only get five.
Because of Maegan, I could go to Christian's games later in the afternoon and we didn't have to get little ones out in the windy cold. While we were gone and the little guys were napping, she and her sisters made up a dance. A good use of time I think.
I had dinner in the crockpot to have ready after the games. The games went long and I called home to have them start dinner without us. When we got here everyone was eating nicely at the table. It was nice and peaceful when we joined them.
It is a blessing to have such a sweet daughter. Thank you Maegan, you're a good girl!! I love you.
We started off the day with a cold and rainy soccer game for Joshua. No matter how miserable the weather conditions they never complain. Everyone was just happy to be there for Joshua and cheer him on. They are good examples to me.
After the game, Maegan bought everyone hot chocolate and popcorn at the concession stand. She remembered to bring her money to do this. It was sweet.
I had her make bread today and she did it start-to-finish with no help from me! That was a first. She also managed to get 6 loaves out of the recipe where I usually only get five.
Because of Maegan, I could go to Christian's games later in the afternoon and we didn't have to get little ones out in the windy cold. While we were gone and the little guys were napping, she and her sisters made up a dance. A good use of time I think.
I had dinner in the crockpot to have ready after the games. The games went long and I called home to have them start dinner without us. When we got here everyone was eating nicely at the table. It was nice and peaceful when we joined them.
It is a blessing to have such a sweet daughter. Thank you Maegan, you're a good girl!! I love you.
Wednesday, May 03, 2006
See our May photos!
Here are some photos we have posted for May of the kiddos. We will use this same location for all our updates during this month...so, check back often!
http://thetaggs.smugmug.com/gallery/1419938
Here are April's:
http://thetaggs.smugmug.com/gallery/1386280
http://thetaggs.smugmug.com/gallery/1419938
Here are April's:
http://thetaggs.smugmug.com/gallery/1386280
Sunday, April 30, 2006
My new phone!
I got a new cell phone!! It's a cute silver flip phone will all kinds of fancy options. The best part is that it was free! My old phone was so old that my phone company had to send me an upgrade. I didn't have to change plans or phone number or anything. It has been fun trying to figure it out. Right now I have the Scooby Doo theme song for my ring tone. It's not the old SD song though so I guess it must have come from the movie. I didn't see the movie so I don't know. I really would've preferred the George of the Jungle theme song...remember that cartoon? It's my favorite and we have a couple of the old VHS tapes so my kids (and me) can still watch them. Anyway, that song wasn't an option. If you have my cell phone number call me so I can hear it ring!!
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
Surprise!
It was too cold to have Mallory outside at the soccer game last night so I brought the little kids home early. SURPRISE!! There was my mother-in-law's car in the driveway! We knew she was planning on coming Friday but to come on Tuesday was a special surprise.
Today she is out shopping with Maegan, Laney, Joshua, and Jesse and getting caught up on b-days. They will all go out to lunch and have a fun day. Tomorrow she is going to do it again with the ones that stayed home today.
This promises to be a fun week with G'ma here.
Today she is out shopping with Maegan, Laney, Joshua, and Jesse and getting caught up on b-days. They will all go out to lunch and have a fun day. Tomorrow she is going to do it again with the ones that stayed home today.
This promises to be a fun week with G'ma here.
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
Merry Christmas!
Today is the 25th and everytime the 25th falls on a school day we celebrate Christmas. We don't do anything big, although I'm thinking it is a good excuse to make some special breakfast. We just read about the birth of Jesus for our Bible reading and revisit the topic again. We may sing a Christmas song or two and I might read a Christmas book to the little boys. I know it is a little strange but I got the idea from a conference I went to with a friend of mine. Repetition is good and it is a good excuse to celebrate Jesus again and any other month that it falls in the middle of the week.
I would like to expand this mini celebration but, like everything else, it seems to "sneak" up on me even though I've written it on the calendar. I would like to get out the little fiber optic tree we have to decorate the table and make a special breakfast. Oh well, maybe next month....if it is on a school day.
I would like to expand this mini celebration but, like everything else, it seems to "sneak" up on me even though I've written it on the calendar. I would like to get out the little fiber optic tree we have to decorate the table and make a special breakfast. Oh well, maybe next month....if it is on a school day.
Home Improvement Day
I declared yesterday "Home Improvement Day". That meant we put the school books away and worked on home improvement projects. It was a good change of pace.
Mike has been reminding me about the unfinished painting project that I began so I thought I'd get moving on it. I picked another color called Toasted Cashew. Why do they always look better on the sample card?! Well I started painting and it looks so similar to the original color of my walls (off white) that it was nearly impossible to tell where I painted. That was quite a disappointment. I'm NOT doing this again so Toasted Cashew it is. At least I got rid of the dark green trim. However, when I painted over that the room looked a little like a public restroom or a hospital room. Big sigh..... SOOOO that just means I need new stuff to perk up the room, right? I have lots of ideas but the budget doesn't agree with me right now. Too bad. I will just do little stuff for the time being. I bought a couple of new frames on sale at Hobby Lobby so that's a start.
We also planted flowers yesterday. I thought it would be a good time since it was supposed to rain. I had Laney, Laura, and Joshua working on raking and planting. They look pretty.
The rain was wonderful and it tested the leak in the basement. It's still there. I was hoping that the unclogging of the french drain fixed it but it didn't. I have calls into two irrigation guys today. We'll see what they say.
Tonight is piano, game, and practice. That means lunch boxes! It also means no dinner dishes.
Mike has been reminding me about the unfinished painting project that I began so I thought I'd get moving on it. I picked another color called Toasted Cashew. Why do they always look better on the sample card?! Well I started painting and it looks so similar to the original color of my walls (off white) that it was nearly impossible to tell where I painted. That was quite a disappointment. I'm NOT doing this again so Toasted Cashew it is. At least I got rid of the dark green trim. However, when I painted over that the room looked a little like a public restroom or a hospital room. Big sigh..... SOOOO that just means I need new stuff to perk up the room, right? I have lots of ideas but the budget doesn't agree with me right now. Too bad. I will just do little stuff for the time being. I bought a couple of new frames on sale at Hobby Lobby so that's a start.
We also planted flowers yesterday. I thought it would be a good time since it was supposed to rain. I had Laney, Laura, and Joshua working on raking and planting. They look pretty.
The rain was wonderful and it tested the leak in the basement. It's still there. I was hoping that the unclogging of the french drain fixed it but it didn't. I have calls into two irrigation guys today. We'll see what they say.
Tonight is piano, game, and practice. That means lunch boxes! It also means no dinner dishes.
Tuesday, April 18, 2006
Col 1: 28-29
In my Bible reading this morning was this verse..
"We proclaim him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ. To this end I labor, struggling with all his energy, which so powerfully works in me." Col 1: 28-29
This verse has spurred me on this morning. My goal in life is summed up in these two sentences. I have 8 little people under my teaching and protection and I so want to present them to the Lord as perfect in Christ. That word "perfect" means mature or complete. And I strive to bring my children to maturity in Christ.
I get discouraged when I see a lack of maturity. Like when my 3yo growls at our dinner guest, or my 5yo does not seem to be able to read when I think he should. Reading this verse gives me renewed hope as I remember the reason why I persevere.
Did you see the last part? The part that says "struggling with all his energy". That part is especially exciting b/c it is His energy that powerfully works in me. That is good on these days when my morning starts at 4:30 with a baby girl that doesn't want to go back to sleep. I was surprised when I woke up this morning to her stirring and found that I wasn't very tired. When I read this verse this morning I understood. God has given me His energy to do this work He's given me.
Will I get tired today? Probably so. Will I get frustrated with that lack of maturity that I'm working on all day? Oh yes. But I have hope b/c of this precious word from the Lord and that helps me to look forward to getting started.
"We proclaim him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ. To this end I labor, struggling with all his energy, which so powerfully works in me." Col 1: 28-29
This verse has spurred me on this morning. My goal in life is summed up in these two sentences. I have 8 little people under my teaching and protection and I so want to present them to the Lord as perfect in Christ. That word "perfect" means mature or complete. And I strive to bring my children to maturity in Christ.
I get discouraged when I see a lack of maturity. Like when my 3yo growls at our dinner guest, or my 5yo does not seem to be able to read when I think he should. Reading this verse gives me renewed hope as I remember the reason why I persevere.
Did you see the last part? The part that says "struggling with all his energy". That part is especially exciting b/c it is His energy that powerfully works in me. That is good on these days when my morning starts at 4:30 with a baby girl that doesn't want to go back to sleep. I was surprised when I woke up this morning to her stirring and found that I wasn't very tired. When I read this verse this morning I understood. God has given me His energy to do this work He's given me.
Will I get tired today? Probably so. Will I get frustrated with that lack of maturity that I'm working on all day? Oh yes. But I have hope b/c of this precious word from the Lord and that helps me to look forward to getting started.
Lunch Boxes
Today is Tuesday and that means so much at our house. Tuesday is our very busy day. The girls have piano, Joshua has a game, and Christian has practice. Mike and Christian will not be home until around 8pm. The rest of us will be home around 7pm. Can you believe that we all actually like Tuesdays? We do!
I'm not sure if my girls like piano because of piano or because of their friends that they get to visit with when it is not their turn. I'm betting it is the latter. Everyone likes Joshua's games. He's such a go-getter and he always scores at least twice. That makes it really fun. Then there's Christian who loves anything SOCCER.
The problem with Tuesdays is that there is no time for dinner. Our solution....lunch boxes! When I first started this I had no idea how much my kids would like it. I guess when you homeschool a lunch box is a big deal b/c you don't get to do it often. Everyone has their own fun lunch box that they've picked out or gotten as a gift. They usually get to make their own lunch but sometimes Maegan chooses to make everyone's so that she can put a surprise in each one.
Since we've recently seen G'ma and G'pa we have lots of fun lunch box goodies. Laura's favorite is V8. If we don't have anything fun then I will try to make cookies or granola bars. Everyone likes having their very own ziploc bags of food. For some reason that is more fun than Mom just bringing a box of crackers for everyone to share. Who knows?
We will have our lunch boxes at the piano teacher's house. She has a big front yard with a great rope swing. I pull out the little boys' lawn chairs and they eat their lunches on their laps. It's even more fun for them b/c they never know what is packed in their lunch box!
Christian's soccer is very busy right now b/c they are gearing up for the State Cup in May. This means that we won't get to have dinner together so often. Eating together and talking around the table is so important to a family. Lunch boxes to the rescue! Mike's office has a pretty pond with a fountain. My boys call it "the ocean". They love going to the ocean for lunch. If we have a particularly busy week, we will take our lunch boxes up there and eat lunch with Dad. The kids look for frogs and throw rocks in the pond while Mike and I sit on the bench and talk. There's plenty of grass to play ball or frisbee. It's a fun time and a good alternative if you can't always have the traditional dinner evening.
I'm not sure if my girls like piano because of piano or because of their friends that they get to visit with when it is not their turn. I'm betting it is the latter. Everyone likes Joshua's games. He's such a go-getter and he always scores at least twice. That makes it really fun. Then there's Christian who loves anything SOCCER.
The problem with Tuesdays is that there is no time for dinner. Our solution....lunch boxes! When I first started this I had no idea how much my kids would like it. I guess when you homeschool a lunch box is a big deal b/c you don't get to do it often. Everyone has their own fun lunch box that they've picked out or gotten as a gift. They usually get to make their own lunch but sometimes Maegan chooses to make everyone's so that she can put a surprise in each one.
Since we've recently seen G'ma and G'pa we have lots of fun lunch box goodies. Laura's favorite is V8. If we don't have anything fun then I will try to make cookies or granola bars. Everyone likes having their very own ziploc bags of food. For some reason that is more fun than Mom just bringing a box of crackers for everyone to share. Who knows?
We will have our lunch boxes at the piano teacher's house. She has a big front yard with a great rope swing. I pull out the little boys' lawn chairs and they eat their lunches on their laps. It's even more fun for them b/c they never know what is packed in their lunch box!
Christian's soccer is very busy right now b/c they are gearing up for the State Cup in May. This means that we won't get to have dinner together so often. Eating together and talking around the table is so important to a family. Lunch boxes to the rescue! Mike's office has a pretty pond with a fountain. My boys call it "the ocean". They love going to the ocean for lunch. If we have a particularly busy week, we will take our lunch boxes up there and eat lunch with Dad. The kids look for frogs and throw rocks in the pond while Mike and I sit on the bench and talk. There's plenty of grass to play ball or frisbee. It's a fun time and a good alternative if you can't always have the traditional dinner evening.
Sunday, April 16, 2006
Happy Easter!
Praise the Lord! Resurrection Sunday is such a powerful day. We all went to church this morning and got to sit on the front row b/c we weren't early enough. The church was so full, the music was great, and I love the front row! We were able to meet a friend of Mike's from work and we had friends over for lunch.
Our pastor preached a bold message on Jesus. If you don't know Jesus and do not have the promise of eternal life and would like to, here's how....pray something like this...
"Lord Jesus, I confess I am a sinner and need you. I believe you are the Son of God, that you died for my sins and rose from the dead. Please come into my life to be my Lord and Savior. Amen" I know it sounds so simple and it is!! Isn't that wonderful!?
This friend of ours just returned from a mission trip to Mexico. He brought pictures and souvenirs and told us about his trip. It was a nice time.
Here was our Easter lunch menu...
Chicken and stuffing
Mashed Potatoes and gravy
Creamed spinach
Salad and corn
cheesecake and peanut butter pie
Tonight's dinner is DATE NIGHT!! As is every Sunday night at our house.
This is a little strange but it happens to me every year. I forget Easter! Can you believe it? Sometimes I forget Thanksgiving too! I turn the calendar page on the 1st of the month and see that Easter is only a couple of weeks away. I come up with a quick mental list of what I will do with the kids to prepare and celebrate. Life goes on but my plans don't. I forget!
I took the kids to the park for lunch Friday. I was surprised that it was so crowded. Mike reminded me that it was Good Friday and kids were out of school. Of course! Still that didn't really register with me until last night when I realized that Easter was tomorrow and I didn't do any of those things with the kids that I wanted to do.
As I said this seems to happen to me every year so it is nothing new. Another advantage of homeschooling is that I can still do it after the Holyday. That is what we will do...again.
Here are my plans that we WILL start tomorrow...
I will read aloud from my Bible the story of the resurrection. I also have a children's book titled Jesus Is Alive that I will read. We will sing some of the same songs we sang in church this morning and pray and thank Jesus again for his unfathomable grace and mercy toward us. I love the resurrection eggs and we will do those 2 or 3 times for the rest of April. I also have coloring sheets for my younger kids. We'll color eggs (too bad they aren't on sale THIS week!) and talk about new life. These are very simple things that we'll include with our regular school work for the rest of April....if I don't forget!
Do you know about the Resurrection Eggs? They are a dozen colored plastic eggs each containing a small plastic toy that represents a part of the resurrection. Each day you open one egg and read that portion of Scripture. They are fun b/c every egg is a surprise. You can buy these at Walmart.
God Bless you and Happy Resurrection Sunday!!
Our pastor preached a bold message on Jesus. If you don't know Jesus and do not have the promise of eternal life and would like to, here's how....pray something like this...
"Lord Jesus, I confess I am a sinner and need you. I believe you are the Son of God, that you died for my sins and rose from the dead. Please come into my life to be my Lord and Savior. Amen" I know it sounds so simple and it is!! Isn't that wonderful!?
This friend of ours just returned from a mission trip to Mexico. He brought pictures and souvenirs and told us about his trip. It was a nice time.
Here was our Easter lunch menu...
Chicken and stuffing
Mashed Potatoes and gravy
Creamed spinach
Salad and corn
cheesecake and peanut butter pie
Tonight's dinner is DATE NIGHT!! As is every Sunday night at our house.
This is a little strange but it happens to me every year. I forget Easter! Can you believe it? Sometimes I forget Thanksgiving too! I turn the calendar page on the 1st of the month and see that Easter is only a couple of weeks away. I come up with a quick mental list of what I will do with the kids to prepare and celebrate. Life goes on but my plans don't. I forget!
I took the kids to the park for lunch Friday. I was surprised that it was so crowded. Mike reminded me that it was Good Friday and kids were out of school. Of course! Still that didn't really register with me until last night when I realized that Easter was tomorrow and I didn't do any of those things with the kids that I wanted to do.
As I said this seems to happen to me every year so it is nothing new. Another advantage of homeschooling is that I can still do it after the Holyday. That is what we will do...again.
Here are my plans that we WILL start tomorrow...
I will read aloud from my Bible the story of the resurrection. I also have a children's book titled Jesus Is Alive that I will read. We will sing some of the same songs we sang in church this morning and pray and thank Jesus again for his unfathomable grace and mercy toward us. I love the resurrection eggs and we will do those 2 or 3 times for the rest of April. I also have coloring sheets for my younger kids. We'll color eggs (too bad they aren't on sale THIS week!) and talk about new life. These are very simple things that we'll include with our regular school work for the rest of April....if I don't forget!
Do you know about the Resurrection Eggs? They are a dozen colored plastic eggs each containing a small plastic toy that represents a part of the resurrection. Each day you open one egg and read that portion of Scripture. They are fun b/c every egg is a surprise. You can buy these at Walmart.
God Bless you and Happy Resurrection Sunday!!
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
My baby's *new* bed
My new baby is not really considered new anymore. She is four months old. I love all the things associated with new babies. I love the smell of the teeny tiny newborn diapers, I love the alcohol preps on the belly button, I love that thin breath on my neck. Those days are gone already and I miss them. I especially miss the naps on my chest.
Nathan is consistently sleeping in the boys' room now. It was time to move Mallory downstairs to sleep in the crib. For the first few nights we just kept everything the same and sort of exchanged one baby for another. Since she did so well I decided to make it more permanent. It was time to put on her (new pink!!) bedding and move the mattress. Bending down to the bottom to pick up a heavy baby is a killer on the back!
When Mike finished moving the mattress up to the top my heart leaped for joy! An unexpected new baby thing that I forgot I loved!! I love having the mattress all the way up to the top of the crib. Everything about it means new baby. It doesn't last long b/c as soon as baby starts pushing up you have to lower the mattress. But for now the mattress is up at the top and I absolutely LOVE it.
Nathan is consistently sleeping in the boys' room now. It was time to move Mallory downstairs to sleep in the crib. For the first few nights we just kept everything the same and sort of exchanged one baby for another. Since she did so well I decided to make it more permanent. It was time to put on her (new pink!!) bedding and move the mattress. Bending down to the bottom to pick up a heavy baby is a killer on the back!
When Mike finished moving the mattress up to the top my heart leaped for joy! An unexpected new baby thing that I forgot I loved!! I love having the mattress all the way up to the top of the crib. Everything about it means new baby. It doesn't last long b/c as soon as baby starts pushing up you have to lower the mattress. But for now the mattress is up at the top and I absolutely LOVE it.
My New Organizational Tool
At our house we hate putting away clean laundry. Everyone is responsible for putting away their own clothes plus their little buddy's. I think Christian and I dislike it more than anyone else. We do laundry throughout the day and as soon as I put away my stack it seems that there is another stack right behind it!
I went to Walmart and bought everyone their own laundry basket and put their name on it. For the little kids with little clothes I found small baskets at the dollar store. In the morning we line up all the baskets in birth order in the parlor...that is where we fold all the clothes. Throughout the day we fill the baskets with clean clothes as well as whatever else is lying around that belongs to someone else....shoes, toys, etc.
Around 4pm we straighten up the house before Mike comes home. At that time everyone takes their own basket, plus their little buddy's, and puts away whatever is in them. They are responsible for making sure their basket and little buddy's basket gets back up to the laundry room for tomorrow. Since they have names on them it's easy to tell who forgot!!
The first day of the new system didn't go so well. There were baskets everywhere! It took some fine tuning but I think we all got it now. Of course there are still baskets out all day but they are lined up neatly and don't look so disorganized. Also there are not stray socks or 9 different piles of clothes all over the room. The house is also neater b/c there is a central place to dump daily clutter. The best thing is that we only have to put away laundry once!! Christian and I really like that one!
I went to Walmart and bought everyone their own laundry basket and put their name on it. For the little kids with little clothes I found small baskets at the dollar store. In the morning we line up all the baskets in birth order in the parlor...that is where we fold all the clothes. Throughout the day we fill the baskets with clean clothes as well as whatever else is lying around that belongs to someone else....shoes, toys, etc.
Around 4pm we straighten up the house before Mike comes home. At that time everyone takes their own basket, plus their little buddy's, and puts away whatever is in them. They are responsible for making sure their basket and little buddy's basket gets back up to the laundry room for tomorrow. Since they have names on them it's easy to tell who forgot!!
The first day of the new system didn't go so well. There were baskets everywhere! It took some fine tuning but I think we all got it now. Of course there are still baskets out all day but they are lined up neatly and don't look so disorganized. Also there are not stray socks or 9 different piles of clothes all over the room. The house is also neater b/c there is a central place to dump daily clutter. The best thing is that we only have to put away laundry once!! Christian and I really like that one!
Monday, April 10, 2006
Happy Birthday Nathan!
Have you ever been part of a two-year-old's birthday? It is so precious. Maegan made him an adorable turtle cake that turned out so cute. When it was time to blow out the candles, he knew just what to do. He waited until the Happy Birthday song was over and blew with all his heart. His little lips were inside out and he spit all over his cake. Candles were still aglow. After a few more tries, his big brothers helped him out. Jesse could barely contain himself as he considers himself to be the official candle-blower-outer of the house. It was a fun and sweet time.
Happy Birthday Nathan!! We love you!
Happy Birthday Nathan!! We love you!
Sunday, April 09, 2006
Nathan's Last Day
Today Nathan is one. Tomorrow he will be two.
I know that his birthday will be fun and I am looking forward to having a two-year-old in the house again. The problem is that I will miss my one-year-old. It is always the day before the birthday that I think on the most. I ask myself questions like ... did I use this year with him the best way that I could? Did I spend enough time with him? How can I be a better mom to him next year? I also spend the day calling him "one year old" since I will never be able to do that again. Lord willing, I will have another one-year-old since Mallory is right behind him but she will not be the same one-year-old as Nathan.
Here's some sweet stuff about my one-year-old....
~Nathan likes to sleep with his glow worm, red blankey, and a couple of cars.
~He speaks in sentences, signs, and can use the potty.
~He can sit nicely through a whole church service.
~He likes to ride in the car.
~He has been known to stuff the potty with toilet paper.
~He is starting to sing....what a joyful noise it is!
~He loves talking on the phone and reading books.
Here are is b-day meals
breakfast: orange rolls and juice
lunch : vegetable soup and crackers
dinner: Pizza
dessert: a turtle cake with strawberry ice cream
Tomorrow I will be the mom of a two year old. Today I'm enjoying my one year old.
I know that his birthday will be fun and I am looking forward to having a two-year-old in the house again. The problem is that I will miss my one-year-old. It is always the day before the birthday that I think on the most. I ask myself questions like ... did I use this year with him the best way that I could? Did I spend enough time with him? How can I be a better mom to him next year? I also spend the day calling him "one year old" since I will never be able to do that again. Lord willing, I will have another one-year-old since Mallory is right behind him but she will not be the same one-year-old as Nathan.
Here's some sweet stuff about my one-year-old....
~Nathan likes to sleep with his glow worm, red blankey, and a couple of cars.
~He speaks in sentences, signs, and can use the potty.
~He can sit nicely through a whole church service.
~He likes to ride in the car.
~He has been known to stuff the potty with toilet paper.
~He is starting to sing....what a joyful noise it is!
~He loves talking on the phone and reading books.
Here are is b-day meals
breakfast: orange rolls and juice
lunch : vegetable soup and crackers
dinner: Pizza
dessert: a turtle cake with strawberry ice cream
Tomorrow I will be the mom of a two year old. Today I'm enjoying my one year old.
Saturday, April 08, 2006
Mom is visiting this weekend. It is the perfect time since Mike is out of town with the boys. I don't really care for the weekends at home without them so I'm especially glad that she is here now.
It will be a fun weekend of shopping, eating out, and playing with babies. As a matter of fact, Mom is out at the mall with the girls now. The babies got tired so I had to bring them home for a nap. I know Maegan will especially enjoy this b/c I don't like the mall. She LOVES the mall. Having G'ma take her to the mall is a huge treat b/c G'ma will shop around and take her time. When I go to the mall, I get what I'm getting and get out!!
Mike, Christian, Joshua, and Jesse are in Little Rock at a soccer tournament. This is the first time that the little boys have gotten to go. They will have a great time, especially since Mike might take them to the zoo!! I'll let ya know.....
It will be a fun weekend of shopping, eating out, and playing with babies. As a matter of fact, Mom is out at the mall with the girls now. The babies got tired so I had to bring them home for a nap. I know Maegan will especially enjoy this b/c I don't like the mall. She LOVES the mall. Having G'ma take her to the mall is a huge treat b/c G'ma will shop around and take her time. When I go to the mall, I get what I'm getting and get out!!
Mike, Christian, Joshua, and Jesse are in Little Rock at a soccer tournament. This is the first time that the little boys have gotten to go. They will have a great time, especially since Mike might take them to the zoo!! I'll let ya know.....
Saturday, April 01, 2006
The Great Clothes Exchange
It is time to take out the winter clothes and bring in the shorts. I can not tell you what a big job this is! I am in the middle of it now.
After years of practice I finally have this down to a minimal of work. Before, I would have clothes upstairs, downstairs, and everywhere inbetween. It would take about 3 weeks to finish and I would be in a bad mood the whole time!
Last year something changed. As I was going through the mountain of clothes that had been in the attic I was complaining in my heart the whole time. I felt that gentle word of the Lord that said "Be thankful." Thankful! Of course. As I began to look through the clothes I realized that I had not purchased ANY of them. All of them had been given to me by someone else! We even get the socks and underwear that G'ma finds on sale occasionally! What is NOT to be thankful for that? I realized what a great provision this was from the Lord. My whole attitude changed as well as the way I did my work.
I can now do the big exchange in about 3 days with no grumpy attitude. I am glad for all these cute clothes that we did not have to buy. Mike is glad b/c there are not clothes in every corner for weeks. The kids are glad b/c Momma is smiling and not fussing at everyone. Mike calls that the "splash effect".
After years of practice I finally have this down to a minimal of work. Before, I would have clothes upstairs, downstairs, and everywhere inbetween. It would take about 3 weeks to finish and I would be in a bad mood the whole time!
Last year something changed. As I was going through the mountain of clothes that had been in the attic I was complaining in my heart the whole time. I felt that gentle word of the Lord that said "Be thankful." Thankful! Of course. As I began to look through the clothes I realized that I had not purchased ANY of them. All of them had been given to me by someone else! We even get the socks and underwear that G'ma finds on sale occasionally! What is NOT to be thankful for that? I realized what a great provision this was from the Lord. My whole attitude changed as well as the way I did my work.
I can now do the big exchange in about 3 days with no grumpy attitude. I am glad for all these cute clothes that we did not have to buy. Mike is glad b/c there are not clothes in every corner for weeks. The kids are glad b/c Momma is smiling and not fussing at everyone. Mike calls that the "splash effect".
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