We all went camping yesterday. It was such fun. We hadn't been in such a long time. We used to go quite often but then we had little boys. I remember our last camping trip. We spent most of the time chasing little boys keeping them out of the fire, out of the water, or falling off the rocky ledge. Honey looked at me and said "Is this fun?" Not so much. We sold the camper and took a break.
The boys are a little older so we tried it again. We just went for the day and made it out there around lunch time. Everyone had fun except Baby Girl who did not enjoy it at all. She did take a nap in the pack and play for 3 hours and we were all glad. She had a hard time. Honey took everyone hiking and fishing while I sat with her while she napped. It was a very quiet time for me too! I read my new book and planned my upcoming week.
It was pretty cold but the kids didn't seem to notice that until dinner time. Our picnic area didn't have a fire pit but the pavilion had a big grill. We built a nice fire on top of the grill and roasted hot dogs and marshmallows. 5yo LOVED roasting his own marshmallows! That was the highlight of his trip. Baby boy was content just eating them out of the bag. I liked having the fire higher up where the little ones couldn't reach it. Falling into the camp fire is one of my biggest camping fears. We went home after dinner just in time for everyone to take baths and climb into their warm beds.
It was a fun day.
Sunday, November 19, 2006
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Tis the Season for Sharing
Today we went shoe box shopping. Ever since my older kids were little we've done the Samaritan's Purse shoe boxes at Christmas. If you're not familiar with it, it is a christian organization that collects shoe boxes full of gifts for children and delivers them to underprivledged countries with the gospel message. My kids love participating and I think it's one of the highlights of their holiday season. They've saved their money and today we took all our shoe boxes to the dollar store to fill them up.
This year 4yo and 5yo got to do one too. What fun they had picking plastic snakes and bouncing balls and all kinds of little boy toys for some little boy that they don't know. Their favorite is the elephant mask. 14yo did two boxes this year...one for a girl and one for a boy. They brought them home and rearranged them half a dozen times. Tomorrow we'll take them to church.
Our library is collecting food through the month of Dec. We go every week to story time and I'm letting each little boy take one food item every time. I picked several things from the pantry, lined them up on the island and let them pick. Decisions, decisions..It was great fun for them to drop their stuff into the big box.
I've enjoyed this time of teaching them to share with others in a different way. The holidays are so good for that. I'm thankful for these great organizations. Hopefully they will catch on to the idea of it is better to give than receive.
This year 4yo and 5yo got to do one too. What fun they had picking plastic snakes and bouncing balls and all kinds of little boy toys for some little boy that they don't know. Their favorite is the elephant mask. 14yo did two boxes this year...one for a girl and one for a boy. They brought them home and rearranged them half a dozen times. Tomorrow we'll take them to church.
Our library is collecting food through the month of Dec. We go every week to story time and I'm letting each little boy take one food item every time. I picked several things from the pantry, lined them up on the island and let them pick. Decisions, decisions..It was great fun for them to drop their stuff into the big box.
I've enjoyed this time of teaching them to share with others in a different way. The holidays are so good for that. I'm thankful for these great organizations. Hopefully they will catch on to the idea of it is better to give than receive.
19 weeks and counting!
I went to my appt with Dr. Bell, but after waiting for almost an hour and a half they said he was called away to delivery. Oh well, I didn't mind. I know I've done that to many ladies over the course of 8 deliveries. When I went to reschedule, he was on vacation. I had to see Dr. Rainwater. I've never seen her before but she was really nice too.
Nothing new. All is good. Nice strong heartbeat and 21 more weeks to go which means I'm almost half way done. I've gained 10 pounds so far. I feel great except for the usual swelling. With the holidays, spring birthdays, and spring soccer season I expect it'll go pretty fast. All of a sudden my belly is so huge. Honey has commented on it for the past couple of days and marvels at how it happened all at once. He's the king of fat jokes when I'm pregnant. He makes me laugh. Baby's kicking and it feels like popcorn popping in my belly. I can't wait until the kids can feel it too. They like that. A couple of more weeks until our 1st ultrasound! Girl? Boy? I never know and I'm always wrong when I try to guess. I think Honey's thinking Boy. We'll see.
We're working on some Christmas shopping. I wanted to get the boys the old Batman shows from the 60's. I loved those. But Honey says that Catwoman was too immodestly dressed for our boys' eyes. I never even noticed that, but then again I'm a girl. BTW, my b-day is the same as Adam West's. That bit of info didn't change his mind. Oh well, we'll think of something else.
Nothing new. All is good. Nice strong heartbeat and 21 more weeks to go which means I'm almost half way done. I've gained 10 pounds so far. I feel great except for the usual swelling. With the holidays, spring birthdays, and spring soccer season I expect it'll go pretty fast. All of a sudden my belly is so huge. Honey has commented on it for the past couple of days and marvels at how it happened all at once. He's the king of fat jokes when I'm pregnant. He makes me laugh. Baby's kicking and it feels like popcorn popping in my belly. I can't wait until the kids can feel it too. They like that. A couple of more weeks until our 1st ultrasound! Girl? Boy? I never know and I'm always wrong when I try to guess. I think Honey's thinking Boy. We'll see.
We're working on some Christmas shopping. I wanted to get the boys the old Batman shows from the 60's. I loved those. But Honey says that Catwoman was too immodestly dressed for our boys' eyes. I never even noticed that, but then again I'm a girl. BTW, my b-day is the same as Adam West's. That bit of info didn't change his mind. Oh well, we'll think of something else.
Valentine's Day Idea
I know it's a little early to think of these things but it just came to me anyway. I was making hot chocolate for everyone and every kid was telling me which cup he/she wanted. Everyone has a favorite.
So I thought that might be a fun gift idea. We always get everybody a little present for Valentine's Day. I want to start a new tradition where we buy everyone a new coffee cup. There are always holiday coffee cups for whatever holiday it is. Also I might pick them up throughout the year at thrift shops. Maybe I can find a couple of soccer ones for my little stars or piano ones for my musicians. Maybe I'll take COW to Hue and Me to make one for Dad. Then for the next Valentine's day we'll pack up the previous year's cup in their special box in the attic and they will get another new one. By the time they get married they will all have their own collection of special coffee cups. Honey liked the idea too so I'm already looking forward to it.
Speaking of hot chocolate....here's a great recipe. I've looked for 2 years for the perfect homemade hot chocolate recipe that is easy and healthy. Sorry, but I didn't come up with anything healthy. I tried but we didn't like them. However I did come up with the easy and yummy one...here it is.
2 C. powdered milk
1 C. sugar
1/2 C. instant creamer
1/2 C. unsweetened cocoa
1 dash of salt.
Big family version: Buy one of those big cans of hot chocolate mix at Sams and use it all. When it's gone, double this recipe and shake it up in that can.
Use 1/3 C. mix to 1 mug of hot water. It's so good in cold weather!
So I thought that might be a fun gift idea. We always get everybody a little present for Valentine's Day. I want to start a new tradition where we buy everyone a new coffee cup. There are always holiday coffee cups for whatever holiday it is. Also I might pick them up throughout the year at thrift shops. Maybe I can find a couple of soccer ones for my little stars or piano ones for my musicians. Maybe I'll take COW to Hue and Me to make one for Dad. Then for the next Valentine's day we'll pack up the previous year's cup in their special box in the attic and they will get another new one. By the time they get married they will all have their own collection of special coffee cups. Honey liked the idea too so I'm already looking forward to it.
Speaking of hot chocolate....here's a great recipe. I've looked for 2 years for the perfect homemade hot chocolate recipe that is easy and healthy. Sorry, but I didn't come up with anything healthy. I tried but we didn't like them. However I did come up with the easy and yummy one...here it is.
2 C. powdered milk
1 C. sugar
1/2 C. instant creamer
1/2 C. unsweetened cocoa
1 dash of salt.
Big family version: Buy one of those big cans of hot chocolate mix at Sams and use it all. When it's gone, double this recipe and shake it up in that can.
Use 1/3 C. mix to 1 mug of hot water. It's so good in cold weather!
Saturday, November 11, 2006
I'm No Rachael Ray
She's my favorite Food Network chef. I love watching it this time of year to see all the holiday shows and foods. She makes all her meals in 30 minutes from start to finish. I always try to do that too but I never can.
I tried again today. I had 45 minutes before nap time was over and I almost always make dinner during naptime. Tonight's menu was chicken spaghetti, creamed spinach, salad, and breadsticks. I cooked the chicken earlier in the crockpot and our salad was leftover from last night. I felt ahead of the game before I even started. The first problem was the creamed spinach recipe. It was a new one from a baby food cook book and I wasn't familiar with it. Even though it was an easy recipe, I kept having to go back and read over it. I went to start the dough in the bread machine for breadsticks and discovered that we had no flour in the freezer. I had to stop and grind it. Now I'm behind.
Honey came home from a photo shoot just in time to get little ones up from their naps and keep them out of the kitchen so I could finish. What I thought should take me 30 minutes, really took me way over an hour. I guess that's why Rachael has a show and I don't.
Here's the new Food Network show that I wish they'd show...."30 Minute Meals For A Big Family Including Clean Up"!
I tried again today. I had 45 minutes before nap time was over and I almost always make dinner during naptime. Tonight's menu was chicken spaghetti, creamed spinach, salad, and breadsticks. I cooked the chicken earlier in the crockpot and our salad was leftover from last night. I felt ahead of the game before I even started. The first problem was the creamed spinach recipe. It was a new one from a baby food cook book and I wasn't familiar with it. Even though it was an easy recipe, I kept having to go back and read over it. I went to start the dough in the bread machine for breadsticks and discovered that we had no flour in the freezer. I had to stop and grind it. Now I'm behind.
Honey came home from a photo shoot just in time to get little ones up from their naps and keep them out of the kitchen so I could finish. What I thought should take me 30 minutes, really took me way over an hour. I guess that's why Rachael has a show and I don't.
Here's the new Food Network show that I wish they'd show...."30 Minute Meals For A Big Family Including Clean Up"!
Thursday, November 09, 2006
Shopping with Honey
It was time for the big Sams shopping trip. Did you know that you can e-mail them what you want and they'll pull it and you can just pick it up? I just learned that and I'll be trying that next time. What a great time saver.
Anyway, I needed dog food and laundry soap so I asked Honey if he'd go with me to be the muscles. We took everybody. The kids think it is such fun to shop with him. I speed down every aisle as quickly as possible getting it done. He goes up and down every aisle, pushes every button, and changes all the radio stations on the stereo displays. When he found the drum set display, it was a good 15 minute delay.
He also likes to get more fun food than I do. Actually he did great on this trip...only one unauthorized purchase and it was a cheap one. My kids have been waiting all year for egg nog season. It's finally here! They were thrilled...so was Honey. He says, "Only $2.64 for a half gallon. OK, kids grab four of them." He noticed my face turn pale and changed his mind to only two. I think they wish that Dad would go to Sams every time.
When it was time to check out we had the flat bed cart plus a regular cart. The clerk was trying to transfer the dog food but needed help. Where was Honey? I looked around and he was gone. He was back watching a show on the TV aisle. So funny.
#1 said "Dad's a slow shopper." I agree.
Anyway, I needed dog food and laundry soap so I asked Honey if he'd go with me to be the muscles. We took everybody. The kids think it is such fun to shop with him. I speed down every aisle as quickly as possible getting it done. He goes up and down every aisle, pushes every button, and changes all the radio stations on the stereo displays. When he found the drum set display, it was a good 15 minute delay.
He also likes to get more fun food than I do. Actually he did great on this trip...only one unauthorized purchase and it was a cheap one. My kids have been waiting all year for egg nog season. It's finally here! They were thrilled...so was Honey. He says, "Only $2.64 for a half gallon. OK, kids grab four of them." He noticed my face turn pale and changed his mind to only two. I think they wish that Dad would go to Sams every time.
When it was time to check out we had the flat bed cart plus a regular cart. The clerk was trying to transfer the dog food but needed help. Where was Honey? I looked around and he was gone. He was back watching a show on the TV aisle. So funny.
#1 said "Dad's a slow shopper." I agree.
Sunday, November 05, 2006
A Word in Jeremiah
I've studied my Bible in different ways. One year I read through it chronologically. Actually it took me two years to finish. My favorite way is to take it one book at a time, reading and taking notes with a commentary.
J Vernon McGee is my favorite.
Now I'm in the book of Jeremiah. I don't have the commentary though so I just pray that the Holy Spirit will be my guide. Today I learned something neat.
Jeremiah 25-30 is a great section on how God disciplined the Israelites and is a good practical example to me of how I should discipline my own kids.
First He was very patient with them giving them opportunity to change. When they didn't, he issued the discipline of captivity to Babylon. But it doesn't stop there. In Jer 29 He tells them how to behave when they are in captivity...."Build houses and settle down, plant gardens....." It reminds me of the speech I've sometimes had to give about how to sit in the corner or get ready for a spanking.
Later in chapter 30 (the one I read today) He encourages them telling them it will not last forever but that it was needed. "I will discipline you but only with justice; I will not let you go entirely unpunished." And then He reminds them of the reason for the discipline.
Here's my favorite verse. Jer 30:24 "In days to come you will understand this. " When my older kids were little I did not require so much of them, thinking they were too little to understand and be expected to obey much. I was so wrong! As I learned and had more kids, I learned how to train them early and teach them (and me) that they can obey at a very early age. There have been times when we've had guests that thought we were mean to make our baby sit in the high chair or to not scream a fit. I've learned that even if they don't understand all that I ask of them at first, if I keep working with them in time they will understand and try to obey.
I don't know if that would've been in the commentary or not. But I thought it was a neat way to apply it in a practical way.
J Vernon McGee is my favorite.
Now I'm in the book of Jeremiah. I don't have the commentary though so I just pray that the Holy Spirit will be my guide. Today I learned something neat.
Jeremiah 25-30 is a great section on how God disciplined the Israelites and is a good practical example to me of how I should discipline my own kids.
First He was very patient with them giving them opportunity to change. When they didn't, he issued the discipline of captivity to Babylon. But it doesn't stop there. In Jer 29 He tells them how to behave when they are in captivity...."Build houses and settle down, plant gardens....." It reminds me of the speech I've sometimes had to give about how to sit in the corner or get ready for a spanking.
Later in chapter 30 (the one I read today) He encourages them telling them it will not last forever but that it was needed. "I will discipline you but only with justice; I will not let you go entirely unpunished." And then He reminds them of the reason for the discipline.
Here's my favorite verse. Jer 30:24 "In days to come you will understand this. " When my older kids were little I did not require so much of them, thinking they were too little to understand and be expected to obey much. I was so wrong! As I learned and had more kids, I learned how to train them early and teach them (and me) that they can obey at a very early age. There have been times when we've had guests that thought we were mean to make our baby sit in the high chair or to not scream a fit. I've learned that even if they don't understand all that I ask of them at first, if I keep working with them in time they will understand and try to obey.
I don't know if that would've been in the commentary or not. But I thought it was a neat way to apply it in a practical way.
Saturday, November 04, 2006
A handy tip
Maybe everyone knows this already but it was new to me.
My dishwasher was so dirty, especially behind the silverware basket. I bought one of those dishwasher cleaners at the grocery store. What a waste of money! It didn't do anything. Tonight I poured bleach into the soap holder and ran it through. It sparkles white! So easy and cheap.
Honey is out-of-town for the last night this season. YIPEE! Actually I can't complain. We've only had 2 out-of-town tournaments that required overnight stays. Anyway, he doesn't like soup so I took this opportunity to make soup for us. It was yummy potato soup. Baby girl loved it. I'm glad that cooler weather is here and I can make soups again. They go so far.
I'm down to 1 1/2 gallons of milk for the rest of the week. Breakfasts this week will be eggs, muffins, quick breads, etc. It'll be a good time to work on LB's cooking skills. She's COW this week.
As I looked at the calendar for the upcoming week I noticed that I have another Dr. appt. I can't believe it. Could it have been a month already?! Seems like I was just there! Time is going by so fast I feel like I'm speeding through life on roller skates. I don't like that idea. What is worse is that I have such a bad memory that I know I won't remember it. I'm trying to write more things down. I don't want to forget my little boys learning to arm fart or Baby Girl "running" (in a crawl) down the hall when we chase her. So many good things to savor and I want to enjoy them (and remember them)!
My dishwasher was so dirty, especially behind the silverware basket. I bought one of those dishwasher cleaners at the grocery store. What a waste of money! It didn't do anything. Tonight I poured bleach into the soap holder and ran it through. It sparkles white! So easy and cheap.
Honey is out-of-town for the last night this season. YIPEE! Actually I can't complain. We've only had 2 out-of-town tournaments that required overnight stays. Anyway, he doesn't like soup so I took this opportunity to make soup for us. It was yummy potato soup. Baby girl loved it. I'm glad that cooler weather is here and I can make soups again. They go so far.
I'm down to 1 1/2 gallons of milk for the rest of the week. Breakfasts this week will be eggs, muffins, quick breads, etc. It'll be a good time to work on LB's cooking skills. She's COW this week.
As I looked at the calendar for the upcoming week I noticed that I have another Dr. appt. I can't believe it. Could it have been a month already?! Seems like I was just there! Time is going by so fast I feel like I'm speeding through life on roller skates. I don't like that idea. What is worse is that I have such a bad memory that I know I won't remember it. I'm trying to write more things down. I don't want to forget my little boys learning to arm fart or Baby Girl "running" (in a crawl) down the hall when we chase her. So many good things to savor and I want to enjoy them (and remember them)!
Another new noise
Seems there are so many of them with cute little boys. It is a very chilly morning and 4yo comes upstairs wearing only his underwear. "Watch what I can do!" I'm thinking, whatever happened to "good morning Momma"?
It quickly becomes clear why he is undressed. He has mastered the art of arm farting. He's sooo proud! Honey said he figured it out last night when he was tucking him in. Somehow I don't think that would've happened if I had been the one tucking him in. Daddys are a different kind of fun aren't they?
So he taught his big brother how to do it too. 5yo is just as thrilled and also likes to show it off. They haven't figured out how to tuck their hand inside their shirt yet....the whole shirt has to come off every time. It has been their entertainment of the day.
It quickly becomes clear why he is undressed. He has mastered the art of arm farting. He's sooo proud! Honey said he figured it out last night when he was tucking him in. Somehow I don't think that would've happened if I had been the one tucking him in. Daddys are a different kind of fun aren't they?
So he taught his big brother how to do it too. 5yo is just as thrilled and also likes to show it off. They haven't figured out how to tuck their hand inside their shirt yet....the whole shirt has to come off every time. It has been their entertainment of the day.
Saturday, October 28, 2006
It's over!
I know how David felt when he prayed for the Lord to destroy his enemies. I lay in bed last night praying for the Lord to kill this mouse...and his family!
Last night was pizza night. I went in to start the dough in the bread machine when the king of the kitchen runs out to greet me. Well, no pizza for us.
When I couldn't wait any longer I sent in an older child to flush the rat out but of course he only likes to visit with me and would not show his face. Not knowing where he was certainly made dinner prep go quick! I made some quick tomato soup and salad.
Honey came home and he and my oldest 3 headed to Tulsa for the weekend. I was dreading my men being gone and not available to deal with this MOUSE. They sweetly loaded another trap for me before they left.
So as I lay in bed last night I heard a beautiful sound. SNAP!! Oh yeah, God is good! I run downstairs to get my 9yo daughter and 5yo son. They are eager to see. Hum...now what to do with it? I thought of waiting until the morning to get my neighbor to come and get it but my daughter volunteered. Can you imagine that? She didn't want to touch it with her hands though. Good girl. It took about 30 minutes but with a dust pan, fly swatter, an old shoe, and her little brother cheering her on she finally got it to the garage trash. Then she did what any smart woman would do...she threw everything away. Dust pan, fly swatter, mouse trap all in the trash. We decided not to throw away the shoe b/c it was Honey's. If it were mine, it would be in the bottom of the can too.
We had cinnamon rolls this morning to celebrate. It's good to be the queen of the kitchen again.
Last night was pizza night. I went in to start the dough in the bread machine when the king of the kitchen runs out to greet me. Well, no pizza for us.
When I couldn't wait any longer I sent in an older child to flush the rat out but of course he only likes to visit with me and would not show his face. Not knowing where he was certainly made dinner prep go quick! I made some quick tomato soup and salad.
Honey came home and he and my oldest 3 headed to Tulsa for the weekend. I was dreading my men being gone and not available to deal with this MOUSE. They sweetly loaded another trap for me before they left.
So as I lay in bed last night I heard a beautiful sound. SNAP!! Oh yeah, God is good! I run downstairs to get my 9yo daughter and 5yo son. They are eager to see. Hum...now what to do with it? I thought of waiting until the morning to get my neighbor to come and get it but my daughter volunteered. Can you imagine that? She didn't want to touch it with her hands though. Good girl. It took about 30 minutes but with a dust pan, fly swatter, an old shoe, and her little brother cheering her on she finally got it to the garage trash. Then she did what any smart woman would do...she threw everything away. Dust pan, fly swatter, mouse trap all in the trash. We decided not to throw away the shoe b/c it was Honey's. If it were mine, it would be in the bottom of the can too.
We had cinnamon rolls this morning to celebrate. It's good to be the queen of the kitchen again.
Friday, October 27, 2006
The Hunt Continues
I'm feeding the baby last night when the stupid MOUSE runs right under her highchair! Inches from my feet! Aren't mice supposed to be afraid of people? The kitchen was full of people with the light on and everything! Well, apparently that spot wasn't all that he thought it would be b/c seconds later this guy zips past me again (even closer to my feet!) running the opposite direction! What is wrong with this thing?
I decided that Baby was full and we left the kitchen immediately. My men were not home but my girls looked for him with no luck. As soon as the guys came back they set out more mouse traps. I'm running low.
The morning came...no mouse. I guess he doesn't like cheese. The next try is peanut butter. My son found another trap in the garage that was still set from about a year ago. It had a piece of cookie on it. I guess it's true that store bought cookies have an indefinite shelf life. This morning the trap was still set....minus the cookie. Hum....it was one of those fancy $6 kind that enable you to dump a dead mouse without touching it. Good idea but there's NO dead mouse, only a free lunch! I'm going to go buy more of the 50 cent old fashioned, old faithful wood and metal kind. I envision setting a whole bunch of them all over the kitchen floor only leaving a narrow path to the frige.
I decided that Baby was full and we left the kitchen immediately. My men were not home but my girls looked for him with no luck. As soon as the guys came back they set out more mouse traps. I'm running low.
The morning came...no mouse. I guess he doesn't like cheese. The next try is peanut butter. My son found another trap in the garage that was still set from about a year ago. It had a piece of cookie on it. I guess it's true that store bought cookies have an indefinite shelf life. This morning the trap was still set....minus the cookie. Hum....it was one of those fancy $6 kind that enable you to dump a dead mouse without touching it. Good idea but there's NO dead mouse, only a free lunch! I'm going to go buy more of the 50 cent old fashioned, old faithful wood and metal kind. I envision setting a whole bunch of them all over the kitchen floor only leaving a narrow path to the frige.
Thursday, October 26, 2006
He's back.
The mouse was in the kitchen again last night. He ran right in front of my son's feet! Obviously he's not a very smart mouse. #3 runs downstairs to get his dad. Honey and 2 oldest sons grab the bb gun and that light thing that straps on your head and head to kitchen to hunt. Honey took a shot but missed. They were up there a long time and I could hear them moving things around. No luck. They found a spot where he might be getting in and blocked that off. They set more traps in hopes of getting him in the night. Still no mouse. Apparently he's smarter than I thought.
Monday, October 23, 2006
I am reading Reflections of the Gospels by Vance Havner. Good book. Last week when I was reading it was talking about how Christians make themselves unattractive to the unbelieving world. He listed a few examples. One of the ways is by making our services so dreary and lifeless that there is no joy in them at all. When I read those words "dreary and lifeless" I thought of my own Bible time with the kids. It has gotten to the point where I just read and they just listen. Not a lot of pizzazz there. There aren't even many questions anymore.
I wanted that to change. I prayed to the Lord to give me something new....a new book, a new idea, a new spark, something. I looked through sales books but nothing really caught my eye.
We went to a garage sale this weekend. I found some clothes for Baby Girl and #3 got a Christmas present for his sister. I noticed on the side a box of books. They were a set of 12 hardback Bible story books that were brand new and unopened. They weren't necessarily childrens' books though, it looked as though they would appeal to any age. The price on the box was $50. That was way more than I could spend. Plus, I wanted to look at them but didn't want to ask to open the unopened books. The guy came over and told me a little about them and said that he would take $25 without my even asking! Even though it was a good deal, it was still money I didn't have.
#2 and I ran an errand later in the day and she wanted to stop by the g-sale too. I took her by there and those books were still there. The guy came up to me and said I could have them for 50 cents a piece! I couldn't pass up a deal like that! I was so excited as we carried them home.
They are far more than I expected. Once I opened them I saw that they are perfectly age appropriate for all my older kids. They have beautiful pictures scattered throughout and it even came with a 4 year reading plan. It includes a lot of Bible history as well as missionaries. KJV Scripture is throughout every chapter.
We started the first one this morning and my kids asked me to read more. There's the spark I was hoping for! Thank you Lord for providing just the right thing!!
I wanted that to change. I prayed to the Lord to give me something new....a new book, a new idea, a new spark, something. I looked through sales books but nothing really caught my eye.
We went to a garage sale this weekend. I found some clothes for Baby Girl and #3 got a Christmas present for his sister. I noticed on the side a box of books. They were a set of 12 hardback Bible story books that were brand new and unopened. They weren't necessarily childrens' books though, it looked as though they would appeal to any age. The price on the box was $50. That was way more than I could spend. Plus, I wanted to look at them but didn't want to ask to open the unopened books. The guy came over and told me a little about them and said that he would take $25 without my even asking! Even though it was a good deal, it was still money I didn't have.
#2 and I ran an errand later in the day and she wanted to stop by the g-sale too. I took her by there and those books were still there. The guy came up to me and said I could have them for 50 cents a piece! I couldn't pass up a deal like that! I was so excited as we carried them home.
They are far more than I expected. Once I opened them I saw that they are perfectly age appropriate for all my older kids. They have beautiful pictures scattered throughout and it even came with a 4 year reading plan. It includes a lot of Bible history as well as missionaries. KJV Scripture is throughout every chapter.
We started the first one this morning and my kids asked me to read more. There's the spark I was hoping for! Thank you Lord for providing just the right thing!!
Thursday, October 19, 2006
More rain! I love it! We are one small step closer to finding the leak. We cleaned out the computer area cabinets and could hear the rain coming down the wall. That means it is NOT coming from below. That's good. Now the problem is finding where it's coming in from above. At least one thing is eliminated and Honey is trying a new idea with this rain. He found a suspicious spot and has covered it with a big tarp. I just stuck my head in the cabinet and I don't hear water but it hasn't rained very long or very much yet...we'll see. If this is it, it will be an easy fix. That is what I'm praying for.
My mom and g'mother are visiting. You should see my g'mother. She looks incredible! At 76 she has no gray hair and does not color it. She's full of energy and lots of fun. She doesn't complain about being old or about aches and pains, but has a huge smile and laughs a lot. She is not afraid to be silly. Honey wants to take a bunch of pictures of her before she leaves. I hope I'm like that at 76.
Speaking of pictures...Honey is off the rest of the week! He's taking yearbook pics today and will be home tomorrow editing them. There's only about 110 kids so it won't take him too long. We're thankful for this business. The WASA pics are almost done! He also has one senior picture shoot coming up and I think 2 family portrait shoots too. We're trying to decide what to wear for our own family Christmas picture. He just got a new stand for the yearbook shoot and was so excited. I like watching him when he gets something new. He's just like a little kid. He must have been a lot of fun at Christmas when he was a little boy.
The clothes exchange is almost done. I prayed about this asking the Lord to give me a clear mind to know what to keep and what not. This was the easiest so far. All the big kids were not only able to exchange their own clothes but do the big cleaning as well! All I did was to look over and point out some finishing touches. All these years of them helping me has paid off. They know the system and just took off. They helped me a bunch with the little boys' clothes. It looks like everyone has plenty of clothes for the winter w/o having to buy very much. Only Baby Girl has immediate needs, but her clothes are still cheap and easy to find at the resale shops.
One more thing. I'm going to pass along my tip for potty training. With 7 kids potty trained so far, you would think we would have this one down...NOPE! We've tried it all from infant potty training (yep, I tried that one) to letting them do it themselves. Because they are all different, no one thing worked with every one of them. Now when #3 was little he would NOT use the potty. No about of bribing, praising, threatening, or coercion would work. Nothing. In desperation I gave it over to the Lord and gave up on my own. I decided that if we went from diapers to Depends, then so be it, but I was done. I only prayed. This was not easy for me b/c he followed 2 sisters that were very easy to potty train and this left me wondering where I was failing and what else was in store when raising little boys. In no time he was potty trained w/o me doing another thing! Last week I found myself once again up against a resistant potty trainer. I was getting frustrated with him and remembered #3. I let it go and prayed. He's hardly had a accident since. He even asked to go at the soccer fields this week.
When people find out I have 9 kids they say things like, "You must be so patient/organized/etc. I want to laugh out loud!! That is so far from the truth. The truth is that what the Lord calls you to do, He enables you to do. His strength is made perfect in my weakness and He never leaves me to do anything alone....even potty training little boys.
My mom and g'mother are visiting. You should see my g'mother. She looks incredible! At 76 she has no gray hair and does not color it. She's full of energy and lots of fun. She doesn't complain about being old or about aches and pains, but has a huge smile and laughs a lot. She is not afraid to be silly. Honey wants to take a bunch of pictures of her before she leaves. I hope I'm like that at 76.
Speaking of pictures...Honey is off the rest of the week! He's taking yearbook pics today and will be home tomorrow editing them. There's only about 110 kids so it won't take him too long. We're thankful for this business. The WASA pics are almost done! He also has one senior picture shoot coming up and I think 2 family portrait shoots too. We're trying to decide what to wear for our own family Christmas picture. He just got a new stand for the yearbook shoot and was so excited. I like watching him when he gets something new. He's just like a little kid. He must have been a lot of fun at Christmas when he was a little boy.
The clothes exchange is almost done. I prayed about this asking the Lord to give me a clear mind to know what to keep and what not. This was the easiest so far. All the big kids were not only able to exchange their own clothes but do the big cleaning as well! All I did was to look over and point out some finishing touches. All these years of them helping me has paid off. They know the system and just took off. They helped me a bunch with the little boys' clothes. It looks like everyone has plenty of clothes for the winter w/o having to buy very much. Only Baby Girl has immediate needs, but her clothes are still cheap and easy to find at the resale shops.
One more thing. I'm going to pass along my tip for potty training. With 7 kids potty trained so far, you would think we would have this one down...NOPE! We've tried it all from infant potty training (yep, I tried that one) to letting them do it themselves. Because they are all different, no one thing worked with every one of them. Now when #3 was little he would NOT use the potty. No about of bribing, praising, threatening, or coercion would work. Nothing. In desperation I gave it over to the Lord and gave up on my own. I decided that if we went from diapers to Depends, then so be it, but I was done. I only prayed. This was not easy for me b/c he followed 2 sisters that were very easy to potty train and this left me wondering where I was failing and what else was in store when raising little boys. In no time he was potty trained w/o me doing another thing! Last week I found myself once again up against a resistant potty trainer. I was getting frustrated with him and remembered #3. I let it go and prayed. He's hardly had a accident since. He even asked to go at the soccer fields this week.
When people find out I have 9 kids they say things like, "You must be so patient/organized/etc. I want to laugh out loud!! That is so far from the truth. The truth is that what the Lord calls you to do, He enables you to do. His strength is made perfect in my weakness and He never leaves me to do anything alone....even potty training little boys.
Thursday, October 12, 2006
Today
It's that time again and today it was so cold that I decided I couldn't put it off any longer. It's time for the fall clothes exchange. Every year it's different. Last season I knocked it out in a record-breaking 3 days. I don't think that'll ever happen again...certainly not this season!
Right now this is such an overwhelming task to me that I'm taking small bites out of it. Very small...I cleaned out one drawer. Oh well, it's a start I guess. Oh wait, I also gave the girls a job in their room. During the clothes exchange, I also deep clean and clear out junk in each of their rooms. The girls' room is always the worst. Why is that? Aren't girls supposed to be neater than boys? Maybe it's b/c I'm in the boys' room with them so much and can keep a tighter handle on it. I don't know. My initial game plan was to do the worst first and tackle that room. I chickened out. Plan B is to give them a specific job a piece everyday until I am brave enough to start overseeing it. I didn't get much done and I didn't even get anything out of the attic.
Maybe I'll do more tomorrow.
I had my 2nd appt with Dr. Bell today. All is good and my blood work is done until the glucose test months from now. Yippee! I've decided that his scale is not as friendly as the one I have at home.
Right now this is such an overwhelming task to me that I'm taking small bites out of it. Very small...I cleaned out one drawer. Oh well, it's a start I guess. Oh wait, I also gave the girls a job in their room. During the clothes exchange, I also deep clean and clear out junk in each of their rooms. The girls' room is always the worst. Why is that? Aren't girls supposed to be neater than boys? Maybe it's b/c I'm in the boys' room with them so much and can keep a tighter handle on it. I don't know. My initial game plan was to do the worst first and tackle that room. I chickened out. Plan B is to give them a specific job a piece everyday until I am brave enough to start overseeing it. I didn't get much done and I didn't even get anything out of the attic.
Maybe I'll do more tomorrow.
I had my 2nd appt with Dr. Bell today. All is good and my blood work is done until the glucose test months from now. Yippee! I've decided that his scale is not as friendly as the one I have at home.
sharing the wealth
We have a new 4yo in our house. #6 just turned 4 this week and is so proud of it. We had a lot of fun with him on his b-day. It just doesn't take much to thrill him and he was thankful for every little thing. He made his cake with #2 and decorated it himself. I'll have to ask Honey to post some pictures later.
Our neighbor across the street gave him a card with $5 in it. My little boys are fascinated with money. I told him we should put it in his bank but he asked if he could hold it in his pocket "to save it" for awhile. I agreed, planning to get it from him later and let him put it in his jar himself. Later he runs upstairs with a huge smile on his face and his big brother (5yo) following right behind. "Look! I shared my money!" he says. They both stand in front of me each holding HALF of the $5 bill that they had cut with sissors to share. So sweet....
Our neighbor across the street gave him a card with $5 in it. My little boys are fascinated with money. I told him we should put it in his bank but he asked if he could hold it in his pocket "to save it" for awhile. I agreed, planning to get it from him later and let him put it in his jar himself. Later he runs upstairs with a huge smile on his face and his big brother (5yo) following right behind. "Look! I shared my money!" he says. They both stand in front of me each holding HALF of the $5 bill that they had cut with sissors to share. So sweet....
Sunday, October 08, 2006
The life of a 2yo
Awww, my energy streak didn't last. Today I am overwhelmed thinking of what all I need to do in the next couple of weeks. I am praying for clarity of vision, motivation, and energy!
It's chilly and we're still wearing shorts. The winter clothes are in the attic calling my name. I have a feeling this will bring a new challenge for 2 yo. Wearing shoes other than his spiderman sandals bring him lots of grief. Today I put tennis shoes on him. He hates the shoe strings. They are never the right length. They are too tight or too loose. Too long (not a bit of them can touch the ground) or too short and they don't make a big enough loop. Hum....I wonder what kind of sorrow jeans and long sleeves will bring him?
I think it must be hard to be a 2 yo. Nothing is ever right for you. You aren't big enough to do lots of fun stuff that everyone else can do. You still have to take a nap. You have to learn to use the potty. You still can't play with marbles or eat chips. Shoe strings are awful. Nothing but the spiderman cup will suffice. You're big enough to talk but not mature enough to discern when you should be quiet. You must speak your mind on every issue and are obedient to every bad idea that comes into your head! All this adds up to a LOT of trouble!!
The good part is that you're still little enough to be carried up and down the stairs if someone is willing and to sit on Momma's lap when she reads a story. Life is good as long as there are popsicles in the house and the spiderman cup is clean.
It's chilly and we're still wearing shorts. The winter clothes are in the attic calling my name. I have a feeling this will bring a new challenge for 2 yo. Wearing shoes other than his spiderman sandals bring him lots of grief. Today I put tennis shoes on him. He hates the shoe strings. They are never the right length. They are too tight or too loose. Too long (not a bit of them can touch the ground) or too short and they don't make a big enough loop. Hum....I wonder what kind of sorrow jeans and long sleeves will bring him?
I think it must be hard to be a 2 yo. Nothing is ever right for you. You aren't big enough to do lots of fun stuff that everyone else can do. You still have to take a nap. You have to learn to use the potty. You still can't play with marbles or eat chips. Shoe strings are awful. Nothing but the spiderman cup will suffice. You're big enough to talk but not mature enough to discern when you should be quiet. You must speak your mind on every issue and are obedient to every bad idea that comes into your head! All this adds up to a LOT of trouble!!
The good part is that you're still little enough to be carried up and down the stairs if someone is willing and to sit on Momma's lap when she reads a story. Life is good as long as there are popsicles in the house and the spiderman cup is clean.
Saturday, October 07, 2006
Today
#3 played the Ozark Classic in Fayetteville today. They left early this morning and got back this afternoon. His team won one and lost one and plays again tomorrow. So today I stayed home with the 4 little ones and LB to help. She likes being the big girl of the house. I've had a lot more energy today than I have had in a long time and was able to get some things done. Thank you Lord!
We started the morning by baking bread which was done around 10am for a snack. I am frustrated with this new organic grain. Seems like the non organic makes better bread. Even after adding extra gluten, it's not what it should've been. Even so, it's the first time I've done the big bread baking in weeks and even with ugly bread I'm glad it's done. I got chicken in the crockpot for dinner later. Since my 3 biggest kids were gone, that left a lot of chores for us to do. We all worked together when Baby went down for a nap and knocked them out. We got a ton of laundry done today. I still need to vacuum my room.
After Baby woke up we went to the circle park to play for about an hour. It's so close to home and we're usually the only ones there. We came home, put Baby down for another nap, and the 4 other kids headed outside with sandwiches. What a beautiful day!
The painter came today. I was surprised b/c I didn't think he worked on the weekends. We talked about the color again. He painted another section for me to see. I just don't know. This is a hard choice but he's being patient with me. I have to have it nailed down soon. I'm not good at this.
We got another order of WASA pics in so I got them sorted and sacked and ready to deliver this week. That's my favorite job of the business. I did a few more chores around the house, some more laundry, and tried to take a nap. Nothing doing....2yo kept having screaming fits outside and needed some attention. Oh well.
When Honey came home he crashed on the bed and took a nap. He hardly ever takes naps. It was funny though b/c I don't think he even took his shoes off. He lay on the bed and was out in about 2 seconds.
After dinner, he took the big kids b-day shopping for #6's b-day on Monday and to buy his b-day meal supplies.
Here are his meals...
breakfast: donuts and deviled eggs
lunch: mac and cheese
dinner: pizza, carrot cake, and ice cream. (Sounds like 4yo foods, huh?)
After they left, I read to the little boys and worked on their sign language.
Now I've gotten the 4 little ones to bed, sort of. 2yo takes a little more time than others but we're almost there. I'm waiting for the shoppers to return and show me the goods. The good news is that I don't think we have any picture work tonight b/c I got it done today. That means Honey and I can watch a movie and drink hot chocolate or something.
This day was so good. I think I got more done today that I have in weeks. That feels good. It's funny how I take my energy levels for granted until I have none. The only thing I wanted to do but didn't was to do manicures with LB. She's COW and likes to do that. Maybe tomorrow....
We started the morning by baking bread which was done around 10am for a snack. I am frustrated with this new organic grain. Seems like the non organic makes better bread. Even after adding extra gluten, it's not what it should've been. Even so, it's the first time I've done the big bread baking in weeks and even with ugly bread I'm glad it's done. I got chicken in the crockpot for dinner later. Since my 3 biggest kids were gone, that left a lot of chores for us to do. We all worked together when Baby went down for a nap and knocked them out. We got a ton of laundry done today. I still need to vacuum my room.
After Baby woke up we went to the circle park to play for about an hour. It's so close to home and we're usually the only ones there. We came home, put Baby down for another nap, and the 4 other kids headed outside with sandwiches. What a beautiful day!
The painter came today. I was surprised b/c I didn't think he worked on the weekends. We talked about the color again. He painted another section for me to see. I just don't know. This is a hard choice but he's being patient with me. I have to have it nailed down soon. I'm not good at this.
We got another order of WASA pics in so I got them sorted and sacked and ready to deliver this week. That's my favorite job of the business. I did a few more chores around the house, some more laundry, and tried to take a nap. Nothing doing....2yo kept having screaming fits outside and needed some attention. Oh well.
When Honey came home he crashed on the bed and took a nap. He hardly ever takes naps. It was funny though b/c I don't think he even took his shoes off. He lay on the bed and was out in about 2 seconds.
After dinner, he took the big kids b-day shopping for #6's b-day on Monday and to buy his b-day meal supplies.
Here are his meals...
breakfast: donuts and deviled eggs
lunch: mac and cheese
dinner: pizza, carrot cake, and ice cream. (Sounds like 4yo foods, huh?)
After they left, I read to the little boys and worked on their sign language.
Now I've gotten the 4 little ones to bed, sort of. 2yo takes a little more time than others but we're almost there. I'm waiting for the shoppers to return and show me the goods. The good news is that I don't think we have any picture work tonight b/c I got it done today. That means Honey and I can watch a movie and drink hot chocolate or something.
This day was so good. I think I got more done today that I have in weeks. That feels good. It's funny how I take my energy levels for granted until I have none. The only thing I wanted to do but didn't was to do manicures with LB. She's COW and likes to do that. Maybe tomorrow....
Thursday, October 05, 2006
Revival Part 1
We've had revival at church this week with Bro Bill Stafford. It was fantastic! He is 73 years old and is so obviously in love with Jesus. He was very insightful and had a thankfulness to the Lord that was contagious. It was a joy to sit under his teaching this week. We took all the kids and they looked forward to going every night. I'm glad they got to hear him too. I am planning on getting a tape from the church so that I can watch it at home. I had to miss a little bit and want to catch up. Last night was the last night. I did NOT want to miss any of it, but we knew that Baby probably would not last. She sang with all her heart with the choir but when it was time to be quiet, she wanted to preach too. I had to take her out. The great thing is that I took her to the hall where the tv is and (this is a miracle!) no one was talking in the hall! There were 2 other people sitting in chairs watching and NO noise! So I did get to still watch it.
I want to post over the next few days some of the great message he preached. Here are my favorite highlights for now...
Your sin will not get send you to Hell, not coming to the cross will.
He spoke out against those pastors who preach the unoffending message so as not to make anyone feel bad but the fact is....we ARE offenders!!
He had a bold way of speaking the truth straight up....no feel good stuff.
He invited everyone to come up front, or step out into the aisle, or knell in the pew to come to Jesus or to pray for revival.
It was just what I needed at just the right time. God is timely and I'm thankful for this week.
I want to post over the next few days some of the great message he preached. Here are my favorite highlights for now...
Your sin will not get send you to Hell, not coming to the cross will.
He spoke out against those pastors who preach the unoffending message so as not to make anyone feel bad but the fact is....we ARE offenders!!
He had a bold way of speaking the truth straight up....no feel good stuff.
He invited everyone to come up front, or step out into the aisle, or knell in the pew to come to Jesus or to pray for revival.
It was just what I needed at just the right time. God is timely and I'm thankful for this week.
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
Love is....
I can't sleep at night. I usually wake up around 2am and am awake for a couple of hours. I do hope this passes soon. I lay there thinking, thinking, thinking. That doesn't help. I try to stop thinking and concentrate on my breathing, or listen for the clock to chime, hoping I won't hear it again. Usually, I fall back to thinking and that keeps me awake. Here is what I've thought about tonight...
What is love? We have the 1Cor 13 example. But I am talking about how those things are played out in every day life. First I started eliminating a few things...
1. The business aspect of love. Example: when you have a baby you are immediately thrown into a business type of relationship w/o even realizing it. Family business. Now there are schedules to coordinate...feeding schedules, church, work, so forth. I know that you can have this type of relationship without kids, but it's just what came to mind first. Washing clothes, making dinner, running errands....those things fall under family business and do not count.
2. The decision type of love. Jesus tell us that we have to love our enemies. That has to be a decision. Not meaning to oversimplify that command, but that's not what I'm talking about either. My neighbor and his wife do not get along. They have been married 50 years. He told me once about how they considered breaking up, but it wasn't right. He speaks out all the time about divorce and how people do not understand the importance of decision...how that decision affects others even more than you.
3. Physical attraction. It's not love and since God says "beauty is fleeting", it will all pass away.
4. The concern over well-being love. This love does not want you to be run over by a car or break your leg when you fall in a ditch. Since I have this love even for my dog, I don't think it counts either...at least not for this musing.
These things are important (except #3) but I'm talking about the real love that is not the basic "Love your neighbor" love that those things fall into. So strip these away and what is left? Here's what I came up with.
1. If you love someone, you will be there for them if they need you or want you whether it is convenient for you or not.
2. You pray for them, a lot.
3. This one is hard to put into words. Honey has taught me this by example and I'm trying to figure it out. It goes something like this...when you know that you have great influence over someone else, you are careful what you put into them. There are times when I know exactly how he is feeling but I notice that he's careful about what he says as so not to influence me to a destructive way of thinking too. Especially if it is a family issue. I have a tendency to vent everything and tell him what I think on every point. I've noticed that he is more careful. He says that I'm not allowed to practice this type of love with him, though and that I have to tell him everything! I think that's funny. (A little double standard?) But it makes sense. If you are carrying around baggage, it's easier to dump it on someone else. You feel lighter, but they are weighted down. Jesus says that we are to carry each other's burdens so this one is hard for me to figure out how it fits in. Balance and discretion I suppose? I'm rambling...
4. You can tell them what others will not. "The wounds of a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses."
5. Ok, this one is a little silly, but here goes....you know how to make their favorite sandwich! Well, it doesn't have to be a sandwich exactly, but you know those special things that they like (and you do them!). Usually they are very small and don't even cost much if you buy it at the store. But the neighbor doesn't know them and that is the kind of set-apart love that I'm thinking over tonight.
What is love? We have the 1Cor 13 example. But I am talking about how those things are played out in every day life. First I started eliminating a few things...
1. The business aspect of love. Example: when you have a baby you are immediately thrown into a business type of relationship w/o even realizing it. Family business. Now there are schedules to coordinate...feeding schedules, church, work, so forth. I know that you can have this type of relationship without kids, but it's just what came to mind first. Washing clothes, making dinner, running errands....those things fall under family business and do not count.
2. The decision type of love. Jesus tell us that we have to love our enemies. That has to be a decision. Not meaning to oversimplify that command, but that's not what I'm talking about either. My neighbor and his wife do not get along. They have been married 50 years. He told me once about how they considered breaking up, but it wasn't right. He speaks out all the time about divorce and how people do not understand the importance of decision...how that decision affects others even more than you.
3. Physical attraction. It's not love and since God says "beauty is fleeting", it will all pass away.
4. The concern over well-being love. This love does not want you to be run over by a car or break your leg when you fall in a ditch. Since I have this love even for my dog, I don't think it counts either...at least not for this musing.
These things are important (except #3) but I'm talking about the real love that is not the basic "Love your neighbor" love that those things fall into. So strip these away and what is left? Here's what I came up with.
1. If you love someone, you will be there for them if they need you or want you whether it is convenient for you or not.
2. You pray for them, a lot.
3. This one is hard to put into words. Honey has taught me this by example and I'm trying to figure it out. It goes something like this...when you know that you have great influence over someone else, you are careful what you put into them. There are times when I know exactly how he is feeling but I notice that he's careful about what he says as so not to influence me to a destructive way of thinking too. Especially if it is a family issue. I have a tendency to vent everything and tell him what I think on every point. I've noticed that he is more careful. He says that I'm not allowed to practice this type of love with him, though and that I have to tell him everything! I think that's funny. (A little double standard?) But it makes sense. If you are carrying around baggage, it's easier to dump it on someone else. You feel lighter, but they are weighted down. Jesus says that we are to carry each other's burdens so this one is hard for me to figure out how it fits in. Balance and discretion I suppose? I'm rambling...
4. You can tell them what others will not. "The wounds of a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses."
5. Ok, this one is a little silly, but here goes....you know how to make their favorite sandwich! Well, it doesn't have to be a sandwich exactly, but you know those special things that they like (and you do them!). Usually they are very small and don't even cost much if you buy it at the store. But the neighbor doesn't know them and that is the kind of set-apart love that I'm thinking over tonight.
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