Handwoven Dreams

Our Sunday To-Do List

2011-11-27T12:14:00.001-08:00

1. Sunday School and Church this morning (lovely service)

2. Run by Target to get the (nearly) last of our Christmas presents

3. Eat Lunch

4. Celebrate the first Sunday of Advent
(with candles, scripture and songs)

5. Have a Family Sing Off (Christmas songs)

6. Put up the Christmas Tree

7. Finish addressing Christmas cards

8. Play a Game

9. Watch The Next Iron Chef on Food Network
10. Have Bedtime Ritual by the lighted Christmas Tree

My Seven Wonders of the World

2011-11-23T21:24:00.001-08:00

My Seven Wonders of the World are:
- experiencing love, deep and abiding
- experiencing soul cleansing forgiveness
- experiencing grace, unmerited
- experiencing unspeakable joy
- experiencing peace that passes understanding
- experiencing miracles, with eyes wide-open
- experiencing hope found only in Christ

Happy Thanksgiving to you and your loved ones!

The Wonder of WonderMaps!

2011-09-10T08:45:00.000-07:00

Oh. My. We have been blessed to try out an awesome new resource called WonderMaps from Bright Idea Press! With this program, you can print over 350 maps, ranging from world, regional, historic and state focus, each customized with the details of your choice. It is so much fun to use and very user friendly. The possibilities of use with this program are endless. Not only do the producers provide an list of several creative and exciting potential cross-curriculum uses, but the system also coordinates with both

The Mystery of History and All American History curriculums.

This year we are using Veritas Press' Old Testament and Ancient Egypt Series and I can see many opportunities to utilize WonderMaps to augment our study. Also, we are currently reading Little House on the Prairie as part of our night time ritual. I printed each child a map of the "Heartland" of the United States. I had them color the states that the Ingall's family have traveled through. They had so much fun with this and it helps bring into focus the reality of the distance and struggles of the Ingall's journey.

So, so many fun and creative possibilities! You can learn much more about this incredible educational resource by checking out the following sites:

http://www.timberdoodle.com/WonderMaps_CDp088-950.html

http://www.brightideaspress.com/

http://www.timberdoodle.com/Homeschool_Geography_s/30.html

http://www.becausemomsaid.com/2011/09/wondermaps-reviews

Request a free educational resource catalogue at http://www.timberdoodle.com/Articles.asp?ID=139.

As a member of Timberdoodle's Blogger Review Team I received a free copy of WonderMaps in exchange for a frank and unbiased review.

The Blessing ~ a book review

2011-08-29T16:15:00.000-07:00

I recently finished a book that I have long wanted to read - The Blessing by John Trent and Gary Smalley.

from the front cover - "Giving the Gift of Unconditional Love and Acceptance"

from the back cover - "Children of every age long for the gift of "the blessing" - the unconditional love and approval that come from a healthy relationship with their parents. This lift-changing gift, essential for instilling a deep sense of self-worth and unshakable emotional well-being, contains five essential elements......"

This updated edition of the book, originally published in 1986, thoroughly outlines implementing the "five essential elements." It details the application of each element and offers real-life examples of both individuals who experienced that element and those who suffered the lack of it. Utilizing personal anecdotes and scripture, Trent and Smalley present their strategies both with clarity and compassion. In addition, the authors pepper the chapters with noted links to further resources online at their website http://www.theblessing.com/ The reader is left confident that they too, can offer "the Blessing" to each of their own children and to the other significant people in their life.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. As mentioned earlier, I have long wanted to read it and count it an honor to have it as a parenting/life resource. It is thorough, but very readable.

I received a complementary copy of this book for review from http://www.booksneeze.com/

The opinions are my own.

in praise

2011-08-22T15:25:00.000-07:00

1921. bedtime ritual again

1922. the comfort of rituals

1923. always grace

1924. reading aloud Little House on the Prairie

1925. Stevia in the Raw (I like my coffee even better now, Jennifer!)

1926. rearranging furniture

1927. my office space

1928. our school room

1929. the freshness of repurposed spaces

1930. kids journaling in their night-time journals

1931. looking at their journal entries with them

1932. today's early morning walk

1933. being drenched with sweat

1934. the blessing of a cool shower

1935. new lotion

1936. in our 3rd week of school

1937. antibiotics for strept throat

1938. the sound of my kitchen fountain

1939. the tapping of my computer keys

1940. shutting my eyes

1941. getting a letter in the mail
1942. a dad's homeschool prayer group for my husband to be a part of

our 2011-2012 homeschool schedule

2011-08-05T07:38:00.000-07:00

As always I really, really enjoy designing and planning each year's homeschool schedule. The grade levels that I am teaching this year are 6th, 3rd, and 1st. This schedule is what we are aiming for on Monday through Thursday.

8:00 - 8:30 Morning Devotions
8:30 - 9:00 1st Silent Reading (each child will read out of a pre-chosen grade level book)
9:00 - 12:00 Grammar & Math Instruction/Seatwork
12:00 - 1:00 Lunch
1:00 - 2:00 History (M/W)/Science (T/Th)
2:00 - 2:30 Mom Read Aloud Time (probably history/science related)
2:30 - 3:00 Peer Spelling Drill/3rd graders read aloud to me
3:00 - 3:30 2nd Silent Reading

Friday's schedule looks like this:
8:00 - 8:30 Morning Devotions
8:30 - 9:00 Silent Reading
9:00 - 10:00 Math Testing (all)
10:00 - 11:00 Comprehension Quizzes/Handwriting (completion of a History Review Sheet in their best handwriting - doing double duty here)
11:00 - 12:00 Art Activity or additional History/Science Project
12:00 - 1:00 Lunch

I have also come up with a Daily Rhythm for which to aim. I have never tried this before, so we will see how it works.

- Good Morning! + Breakfast (7:30 A.M.)
- Morning Devotions
- Homeschool
- Daily Chores (Desk Ready, Public Rooms, Bedrooms)
- Free Time
- Supper + Kitchen Cleanup
- Free Time
- Night-time Ritual (8:00)
         TV off
         Pajamas + Brush Teeth
         Prayers + Monthly Memory Verse
         Journal + Story
- Bedtime (9:00 P.M.)
- Good Night! Lights Out! (9:15)

I really enjoy reading other's schedules and plans, so I thought I would put mine up!

Desiring God

2011-06-29T10:18:00.000-07:00

I have recently finished reviewing Desiring God, a DVD Study, by John Piper. Quoting Piper, "God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him." So simple, yet so profound. Piper supports this premise scripturally and it is a result of many years of study. John Piper is the Pastor for Preaching and Vision at Bethlehem Baptist Church in Minneapolis, Minnesota. This DVD presentation is set up as a 5 hour topical study to a small audience. While the trappings of this presentation were a bit less sophisticated (use of overhead projector as opposed to powerpoint), Piper's delivery was both personable and engaging. I found the message of this text both challenging and thrilling.

From the back of the study guide - "This study guide companion to the DVD version of Desiring God - the classic explanation of Christian hedonism by John Piper - will help individuals and groups understand that the supreme calling of life is to "glorify God by enjoing Him forever." "

I received a complementary copy of this book for review from waterbrookmultnomah.com The opinions are my own.

Growing Up Amish ~ a compelling read

2011-06-17T17:34:00.000-07:00

When I was a young girl, I checked out biographies by the stack, laid across my bed and read my summer days away. When I was in my early twenties, I read through the published diaries and letters of Anne Morrow Lindbergh. Since that time, my taste has shifted more to prefering fiction titles. Then, I read Growing Up Amish by Ira Wagler. I have read many fictional accounts of Amish life, all of which have been written by women. Most of those women had a least some real connection to people of

Mennonite or Amish backgrounds, lending credibility to the accounts.

Never have I read a like book from a male perspective.

This non-fiction story is an autobiographical telling of Wagler's childhood up until his mid-twenties. He recounts details of Old Order Amish life and many challenges he faced. This work was both compelling and provocative. Even though the back of the book tells you clearly that Wagler leaves the religious background of his youth, even knowing how it would end, I could barely put the book down. Wagler has such a gift for capturing his experiences in words, that the end result is a life-story that is both honest and yet tender.

I recieved a complementary copy of this book for review from mediacenter.tyndale.com

The comments are my own.

from the gratitude journal

2011-06-13T13:08:00.000-07:00

1363. friends enjoying Gracie in Sunday School

1364. focusing

1365. setting boundaries on commitments

1366. sunlight spearing up and down on a strand of cobweb

1367. M and J cleaning laundry room on their own

1368. Gracie sleeping

1369. coffee ready to drink

1370. a day spanning before me unmarked by outside obligations

1371. being able to work on projects

1372. being reminded - nothing matters more than each interaction - careful attention to words and attitudes

1373. 14 years of marriage marked today!

To learn more about the joys of journalling gratitude visit aholyexperience.com !

Please Pray

2011-06-05T19:20:00.000-07:00

Please pray for my dear homeschooling friend Marie, who blogs at justcallmerei.blogspot.com She is having surgery Tuesday. Please pray for peace and healing. Thank you!

may book of days

2011-06-02T21:40:00.000-07:00

Papa has been playing and repairing his clarinets.

S learns to ride her bike without training wheels!

We celebrated Mother's Day.

We visited our local agricultural museum.

We also visited our local science museum!

The children have discovered the wondrous possibilities of hot glue!

We celebrated the end of the school year with our homeschool group.

E, M, J and S participated in the homeschool play.

J won first place in the derby car races!

We all signed up for the summer reading program at our library.

E played beautifully in her piano recital!

We watched our nephew/cousin graduate from high school.

Papa was promoted to Captain in the State Guard and participated in the security detail for the annual

Trail of Honor.

Also during this month, as a family, we learned Matthew 6:9-13 and read The Ordinary Princess, poetry of A. A. Milne, and continued The Hobbit. Last week, we brought home our ninth foster baby, Gracie!

It was truly a fun and busy month!

Happy Birthday M!

2011-05-29T16:05:00.000-07:00

We celebrated M's 10th birthday in April - double-digits!!! She is an active girl who loves riding her bike and rollerblading. She also has a great sense of style. Quick, inquisitive and compssionate, M is a treasure and we are blessed to have her as our daughter!

Money Secrets of the Amish ~ a book review

2011-05-28T12:20:00.000-07:00

I just completed reading Money Secrets of the Amish - Finding True Abundance in Simplicity, Sharing, and Saving by Lorilee Craker. Cracker is of Mennonite heritage and is a New York Times Best-Selling Author. This book was a response to the strained economic times in which most Americans are now finding themselves. Yet despite these economic challenges, many of the Amish, though not immune to the "economic downturn" themselves, seem to be keeping their heads above water, financially, more than many of their "fancy" counterparts. Cracker divided up her narrative into 12 chapters that challenge the reader to rethink how they shop, how they do gift-giving, and bartering services among many other topics. Included at the end of each chapter are specific challenge prompts to engage the reader in trying out these savvy spending, sharing and saving ideas.

I enjoyed reading this book and have come away inspired to rethink many areas of my own spending and saving. I want to look into buying some food items locally (fruits, vegetables, eggs, etc.) and possibly learn the canning process. Just typing that last sentence makes me a little nervous - as I have hardly ever canned anything in my life and from what I have seen is always a time consuming activity. I am thinking of how I can be more creative/economical in my gift-giving and how I can greater utilize local thrift stores to make our dollars go further.

I received a complimentary copy of this book for review from booksneeze.com The comments are my own.

Pondering

2011-05-25T12:32:00.000-07:00

“To allow oneself to be carried away by a multitude of conflicting concerns, to surrender to too many demands, to commit oneself to too many projects, to want to help everyone in everything, is to succumb to the violence of our times.”

— Thomas Merton

Top Ten Treasures from Our Camping Trip

2011-05-23T20:13:00.000-07:00

1. submerging in a nature-filled setting, while having the comfort of an air-conditioned cabin

2. staring at the water

3. gazing into the green of the trees

4. listening to my kids and husband as they built sand castles

5. disconnecting from the internet/computer and clock

6. the biggest decision facing me - whether to read, crochet or nap

7. feeling myself, literally unwind

8. the kid's freedom to wander

9. walking in a new setting

10. roasting marshmallows

Come join the listing fun at ohamanda.com !

Desert Gift ~ a book review

2011-05-19T19:38:00.000-07:00

I recently finished the book, Desert Gift, by Sally John. This book is a part of John's series, Side Roads. The main character of this book, Jillian Galloway, is a popular marriage expert, who is on the brink of even greater acclaim. She has a large radio following and a newly published book. Marriage expert though she may be, her own marriage appears to have fallen apart, as the book begins with her husband asking her for a divorce. The story follows Jillian and her husband as they seek to find new footing in this phase of their lives.

I wanted to like this book, but I did not. While some of the characters were well developed and showed authentic depth, the character of Jillian's husband, Jack, was a critically weak link to the whole story. I could neither relate to his responses to the situation that he caused, nor find his character even believable. He came off as shallow and nearly, if this could be possible as a main character, as an afterthought. He simply made little sense in this story, yet by virtue of his position in the story, could not be overlooked. For me the character of Jack ruined the story.

I received a complementary copy of this book for review from mediacenter.tyndale.com The opinions are my own.

Plain Wisdom ~ a book review

2011-05-11T11:01:00.000-07:00

I recently completed the book Plain Wisdom by Cindy Woodsmall and Miram Flaud. This non-fiction work is a collaboration between an Englishcer, Woodsmall, and an Old Order Amish woman, Flaud. Over a period of several years, Woodsmall, has spent time visiting with and living in Flaud's world. The camaradarie between these two unlikely kindred spirits brings a gentle sweetness to the book. Throughout the book the authors recount various life experiences and how their faith impacted these experiences. The readings are broken down into short essays. The section headings are "The Rhythm of Life," "Timeless Blessings," "Challenges Great and Small," "Laughter in Odd Places," "Beauty, Ashes and Things Between," " In His Hands," and "The Shape of Tomorrow."

Having previously read most of Beverly Lewis' Amish-themed works and some of Woodsmall's I have always been fascinated by the details, especially the running of the home and kitchen, that make up this particular lifestyle. I have visited Lancaster, Pennslyvania and surrounding towns. While there I tasted recipes unique to their culture and got a small veiw into the Amish world. While I would never personally want to live under the seemingly rigid religeous/governmental order that they embrace, I find the simpler, "close to the earth," lifestyle fascinating. Therefore to have a birds-eye veiw into the thoughts of a modern day Old Order Amish woman's heart, was too exciting to pass up. I found this book easy to read and engaging.

I received a complementary copy of this book for review by waterbrookmultnomah.com/bloggingforbooks. The comments are my own.

Nick of Time

2011-05-05T16:41:00.000-07:00

Nick of Time is a suspense novel in the "bug man" series by Tim Downs. Downs' main character, Nick Polchak, is a renowned forensic entomologist. He is also delightfully quirky man who maintains a dry sense of humor throughout the book. A forensic entomologist helps solve murders through studying bugs found at the crime scene. This book begins with less than a week to go before Nick is to be married. A colleague requests Nick's help in solving an old case. The two agree to meet up at the monthly Vidocq meeting. Once Nick arrives, however, things quickly fall apart. True to his nature, Nick becomes absorbed in the details of this case, leaving his fiancee, Alena, to wonder if Nick can commit to this marriage. And, will Nick return in the "nick of time" for his own wedding?

This is the third book that I have read by Tim Downs. Like the others, I found Nick of Time engaging and easy to read. There were times that I busted out laughing while reading it. (Which means that I will be reading this one out loud to my husband!) The plot is tight and fast paced. This book was definitely a delight to read.

I received a complementary copy of this book from booksneeze.com The comments are my own.

Thank You!

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

I want to say thank you to each one that has been praying for my mom! The NG tube was removed on Monday morning because the blockage had cleared. She was discharged from the hospital yesterday and is recovering well at home. Thank you for your prayers!

Please Pray For My Mom

2011-04-30T21:06:00.000-07:00

My mama is in the hospital recovering from a complete hysterectomy and the removal of an adrenal mass. She has developed a small obstruction in her small intestine. She has been in misery since early this morning. The nausea has been relentless and is not responding to the medicine she is being given. It is so hard watching her suffer. On top of that they had to insert an NG tube, which, of course, is causing her much discomfort. Please, please pray that the obstruction will quickly pass and that my mama will soon have relief from the nausea.

Thank you so very much.

Max on Life

2011-04-20T12:05:00.000-07:00

I just completed reading the book Max on Life - Answers and Insights to Your Most Important Questions by Max Lucado. In this book Lucado responds to many questions which are organized under the broader formats of Hope, Hurt, Help, Him/Her, Home, Haves/Have-Nots, and Hereafter. The questions are numbered (there are 172 of them) and there is a topical reference section in the back of the book, thus making this book VERY user friendly. Among the questions addressed are ones dealing with the purpose of our lives, dealing with disappointments and pain, handling personal finances and a myriad of other questions common to most people. In addition, at the back of the book, Lucado offers pointers on the need and value of well written words.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. This is the first book that I have read by Max Lucado. His gift of expression, explanation and harnessing the written word is literally astounding. I read the book, cover to cover, even though typically, one would probably locate the particular question and just read from there. Lucado's work is backed up with scriptures throughout. His answers are compassionate and thoughtful, yet succinct. This is most definitely a book I will treasure keeping and one that I know will be a valuable reference tool. I would highly recommend this book as not only a great read but also as a great resource for ministry.

I received a complementary copy of this book for review from http://www.booksneeze.com/ . The opinions are my own.

Top Ten Tuesday ~ Reasons I Love Foster Parenting

2011-04-18T20:53:00.000-07:00

1. It is an exciting adventure, each one unique and of eternal impact.

2. There is the excitement of getting the initial call from the social worker, asking if we could take a baby!

3. It is neat being a part of the process of growing families.

4. There is the inexpressible joy that is new life.

5. My heart melts watching my husband tenderly talking to a fussy baby in the middle of the night.

6. I am humbled by the God-made changes (increased patience and tolerance, for example) in each person in our family. These changes make fostering possible for our family.

7. I am thankful for each painful lesson that God is teaching me about limited control and letting go.

8. There is nothing quite like the feel of a newborn snuggled up on your chest.

9. I cherish the opportunities to pray over each baby and pour love into their precious life.

10. Lastly, I love being involved in something bigger than myself and something bigger than my capacity to accomplish apart from God's enabling grace.

I'm truly humbled and privileged to be living a God-sized dream.

Please join the listing fun at ohamanda.com !

Nest Swap Show and Tell

2011-04-18T17:06:00.000-07:00

I thoroughly enjoyed participating in the recent "Nest Swap" hosted by Monica at thehomespunheart.blogspot.com and Carrie at watibg.blogspot.com

My swap partner was Ruth Odell, Monica and Carrie's mom. I had so much fun preparing items for the box that I sent her (you can see a picture of what I sent on Monica's blog). I sent 2 gift books, 2 handmade bookmarks with charms, 3 dish clothes that I crocheted, 2 sets of hand stamped cards, a springime bowl of chocolates, 2 candles and a coupon holder. I had received a wedding gift in the container in which I put Ruth's happies. With the chicken wire on the sides, it seemed to go perfect for the theme!

It was a delight to receive my special box also!

I received a hymn cd, shopping pads, flower seeds, post-it notes, a flower gift tag, pink pens, flower pot stakes, peeps for the kids (thanks!), a gift book, a ladle, a purse pack of kleen-ex, "HE IS RISEN" out of scrabble pieces (love, love, love this!), chapstick, a candle wrapped like a lolly-pop (so cute!), packets of tea, a journal, ideas for putting together a Easter basket (so neat) including the linen cloth, a burp towel for our foster babies (how sweet!), and a new sponge (it is always such a treat to get a new sponge!). It was all placed in a beautiful, nature-inspired photo box.

Thank you so much, Ruth, for your thoughtfully put together box!!!

The Corruptible

2011-03-31T19:42:00.000-07:00

I just completed the book, The Corruptible, written by Mark Mynheir. This book follows The Night Watchman, both of which make up his Ray Quinn mystery series. This book was everything that I love in a book! Great characters and suspense. Dry sense of humor and law enforcement. A main character, who though not a Christian yet, you feel very likely to later become one. It always greatly enhances my reading experience when the author writes from his personal experience. Mynheir has worked as an undercover narcotic agent, on a SWAT team and as a detective - all details which appear in The Corruptible. Good stuff.

The book centers around the main character, Ray Quinn. Quinn is a former police officer and martial artist. He has since become physically handicapped and is trying his hand at being a detective. He is offered a potentially highly lucrative job, which he accepts. Things quickly go awry, however. The characters are well developed and the story line moves quickly along to an exciting conclusion. I am DEFINITLY going to read his earlier, The Night Watchman and look forward to his works to come!

I received a complementary copy of The Corruptible, from waterbrookmultnomah.com for reveiw. The opinions are my own.

Top Ten Tuesday - Why I Enjoy Celebrating My Children's Birthdays

2011-03-22T05:49:00.000-07:00

Just choosing pictures for this post got me soooooooooooo excited!

1. It gives me something super fun to focus on.

2. It is permission to celebrate one of my children at a time.

3. It is a creative outlet.

4. It is an opportunity for my children to choose details that represent who they are and what they like.

5. The birthday child and I love to plan for days ahead for the celebration.

6. I love how the color, texture and design of the details work together.

7. We get so excited about the birthday table itself!

8. I enjoy scrapbooking about each birthday.

9. We enjoy maintaining certain birthday traditions, while also exploring new ones.

10. The celebration allows time for me to slow down a bit as I reflect on the what makes my child unique and the milestones they have accomplished.

Just one more picture!!!!!!!!!

Come join the listing fun at ohamanda.com !

Top Ten Tuesday - Random Items I Enjoy in My Day

2011-03-15T06:48:00.000-07:00

1. Lotion containing shea butter

2. My Crochet bag nearby

3. Ponytail holders

4. Flipflops

5. Our Coffeemaker

6. A good book in hand

7. Sharpened pencils that still have the eraser

8. Black ink in my printer

9. Clean, lined paper on which to make lists or capture my thoughts

10. Germ-x

Come join the listing fun at ohamanda.com !!

Eat Your Peas Daughter

2011-03-14T19:35:00.000-07:00

Today I received and completed reading Eat Your Peas Daughter by Cheryl and Mom Karpen. It is illustrated by Sandy Fougner. This is a gift book from a mother to her daughter. Taking just three minutes to read, the pages are filled with simple but inspiring messages to girls. The page quality is very impressive, more thick than typical and lightly textured. The illustrations are sweet and quite girly. I quickly got the impression that this book would be like getting many birthday cards in one collection. The messages are encouraging, uplifting and simply sweet.

From the back of the book: "Between the covers of this tender little book are words to grace the relationship between mother and daughter. They are words of affirmation and praise, encouragement and love. But most of all, a promise...a promise to be there whether going through joyful times or painful setbacks. It's a 3-minute celebration giving voice to a mom's love and gladness to a daughter's heart."

I received a complementary copy of this book for review from booksneeze.com The opinions are my own.

Top Ten Tuesday - Reasons I Enjoy Scrapbooking

2011-03-08T06:44:00.000-08:00

1. I enjoy taking pictures.

2. I treasure the act of chronicling the story of our family.

3. My husband and kids enjoy the end product.

4. It is a super creative outlet for me.

5. It is something fun to do by myself and with other scrapbookers.

6. I enjoy composing each layout.

7. I enjoy the challenge of mixing the various patterned papers in one layout.

8. Simply trimming the pictures is oddly soothing to me.

9. I enjoy how scrapbooking organizes my thoughts regarding when to take pictures and certain shots to get.

10. Lastly, I enjoy seeing how in someways my scrapping style has changed throughout the years and in other ways stayed the same.

Come join the listing fun at ohamanda.com!

february book of days

2011-03-03T16:43:00.000-08:00

~ a field trip to a local newspaper office

~ Happy Birthday, Papa!

It all began with Dream Books for the kids. They do keep a bedtime journal in which they draw while the bedtime story is being read. We do not end up reading out loud every night, but their journals from last year are a treasure to me. Anyway, I had the idea at the end of last year for them to make dream books. These would be composition notebooks for them to list or draw about what they wanted to do when they grow up. They have listed cupcake maker, fashion designer, mama, papa, missionary, etc. I, too, still get excited about dreaming of new habits to accomplish, or new skills to learn. So I also have a dream book. However, mine is set up more like a list of goals that I want to acheive this year, with space to journal each month.

Earlier this year, I was also enchanted by Ann Voskamp's 100 day calendar. You choose three goals/habits and commit to do each of them for 100 days. It has been a good discipline for me to have a limited number of things to focus on for a sustained amount of time. I tend to have a good idea about something and attempt it for a week or two, lose motivation, etc. My three goals have been to excercise, practise my guitar and read 2 chapters from the New Testament daily.

How We Marked Some of Our Days in February:

GAMES: Go Fish, Trouble and Marbles

WALKS: the kids and I got some walks in this georgous weather!

KID CRAFTS: Valentine bags and Valentine boxes

the older three children took a painting class offered at our awesome local library

MOM CRAFTS: one dishrag and 2-3 scrapbook pages

MOM'S MEMORY VERSE: Isaiah 40:28-31

MOM'S BOOKS READ: from the Bible - Romans, 1st and 2nd Corinthians, Galations, Ephesians, A Long Obedience in the Same Direction, Charlotte Figg Takes Paradise, Regret Free Parenting, Blind Hope

E'S BOOK: Where the Red Fern Grows

M'S BOOK: Alice in Wonderland

J'S BOOK: Pinocchio

BEDTIME STORIES: The Hundred Dresses, Make Way for Ducklings, The Hobbit (still working on)

CELEBRATIONS: Papa's Birthday!

I hope all is well with you and your precious family!

Blind Hope

2011-03-01T11:02:00.000-08:00

This past weekend, I completed my first book to reveiw from "Blogging for Books." The title of this book is Blind Hope and it is written by Kim Meeder and Laurie Sacher. It recounts the true story of a young woman and the dog she rescues. The young woman, Laurie, sets out to do something noble by taking in an abused dog, yet ultimately finds that she, too, is in need of hope and healing.

A relatively short book, it was easy to read. It did cause me to see, in a new light, the great parallel in our personal (master/child) relationship with God and Laurie's relationship with her dog. So, there were moments of "I've never thought of it that way!" However, I did find the book a bit repetitive. I DO think this would be a SUPER book marketed toward pre-teens/teenagers. The story doesn't shield the reader from certain harsh realities (animal neglect, young adult issues, and loss of a pet), but does keep those realities appropriately restrained for a younger audience. And I do think that a younger targeted group would find the "moral of the story" fresh, engaging and at times, profound. I plan on letting my 11 year old daughter to read it soon.

I received a complementary copy of this book for review from waterbrookmultnomah.com. The opinions are my own.

Tuesday's Top Ten

2011-03-01T04:51:00.000-08:00

I am a library girl. But, there are some books and/or series of which I want my very own copy. These are among my Top Ten fiction books/series to keep in my personal library. The fiction books that I want with me if I ever find myself on a deserted island!

1. Up a Road Slowly by Irene Hunt

2. The Pink House by Nelia Gardner White

3. The Blue Castle by L. M. Montgomery

4. The Miss Read Series

5. Julia's Hope by Leisha Kelly

6. Emma's Gift by Leisha Kelly

7. Sarah's Promise by Leisha Kelly

8. Plaguemaker by Tim Downs

9. Deception by Randy Alcorn

10. The O'Malley Series by Dee Henderson

Jump in and join the top-ten-tuesday fun at ohamanda.com

PLEASE PRAY

2011-02-23T07:12:00.000-08:00

Please be in prayer for 2 week old Crosby, nephew of my homeschooling friend Marie. He is to have heart surgery this morning - Wednesday, February 23. Thank you!

Regret Free Parenting

2011-02-20T15:37:00.000-08:00

I just completed my third book to review from Book Sneeze. Regret Free Parenting by Catherine Hickem is by far and away one the absolute best non fiction books I have ever read. I found I could NOT read it without a pencil in hand. There were numerous points that I underlined and notes made in margins. As opposed to leaving me overwhelmed with where to begin in my journey to grow as a parent, it left me feeling empowered and motivated.

Don't let the title mislead you. The author is not proposing that anyone can parent a child and never make mistakes. What she is saying, is that by knowing and keeping the vision for how you want to raise your child, you can have nothing to regret. To be honest, I struggle with the title, as I tend to regret my mistakes! But the content of the book - oh. my. goodness.

Hickem stresses the importance of knowing the emotional and spiritual characteristics that you want to cultivate in your children. That is easy enough. The kicker, however, is that, well, you as the parent have to possess those attributes. You cannot just tell your children how they should be or act. They have to see it in their parent's daily walk.

Among the other principles Hickem illustrates are really knowing your child, being present with them, establishing a strong foundation of trust with your child, believing in them, and always seeing the big picture. Included in the book is a plan (that you personalize) for implementing these principles. There are also numerous resources listed in the back. This is book is truly a keeper. It is one that I plan to read each year.

I received a free copy of this book to review from Book Sneeze. The opinions expressed are my own.

memorizing scripture

2011-02-11T07:56:00.000-08:00

Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God. ~ Matthew 4:4

For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. ~ Hebrews 4:12

One of the most encouraging and soul-satisfying things I have ever done is memorizing scripture. Among the passages I have learned are Psalm 23, Psalm 100, Isaiah 41:10, and Psalm 139:1-18. In January, I finished up Psalm 139:1-18. I have been working on this one off and on for many years and it felt so good to finally nail it! This month of February, I am working on Isaiah 40:28-31.

I cannot tell you the times that saying these passages over in my mind has brought such comfort! I distinctly remember saying Psalm 23 over and over as I was getting my epidural prior to the birth of S. While I was sitting in the hospital with baby Daniel, who had stopped breathing, my stomach clenched with fear, God breathed life and peace into my spirit through Isaiah 41:10. Psalm 139 has long been a passage held dear because it establishes God's soveriegnty, His continual presence in my life today and throughout all my days. Upcoming passages that I what to learn in the coming months are Psalm 27, Luke 2:8-14, and Romans 12.

My method of study has generally been to print out 2-3 copies of the passage and put them in different places, so I can refer to them throughout my day. Bible Gateway is the online resource that I use to find the passages that I want to print. I want to begin going through each of the ones already memorized once throughout each day as I continue working on the new one.

What scripture passages have been particularly precious to you? Which ones have you learned or are learning?

january book of days

2011-02-02T18:51:00.000-08:00

I am endeavoring to live more intentionally this year. There are certain activities that I want to fill my days. Do things that make my heart sing. Do things that draw our little family together. Do things that mark the days. As a scrapbooker, I will be scrapbooking each month with pictures of activities that we did, books read, scripture memorized, etc. As a blogger, this space is largely for an added source of accountability and also to offer encouragement to others, who like me, find ourselves at the end of the month not remembering where the month went. Doing certian things intentionally each month, is my way of marking our days. Dedicating moments of our time with good things. Creating our own book of days.

I want to fill our days/weeks wisely by keeping to a simple homeschool schedule, lots of reading, scripture memory work, much crafting, family games and walks.

library stuffed animal sleep-over

reviewing different types of lines

fingerprint caterpillars

our family of yellow belts

button snowflakes made at Keepers

scrapbooking

crocheting dishcloths

The Inheritance of Beauty

2011-01-29T16:17:00.000-08:00

I just completed my second book for review from Book Sneeze. The title of this book is The Inheritance of Beauty and it is written by Nicole Seitz. The setting of this book is primarily a nursing home in the southern United States. The story pulsates back and forth between the present and the main character's past. George and Maggie Jacobs are an elderly couple, blessed to still be together, but caught in the throughs of failing health and lost independence. And yet, their lives are are kept aglow by not only memories of a childhood shared, but also an abiding love for each other. Maggie, though bound by her lack of speech and her limited ability to express herself, sees and feels all that is around her. George is free to speak and express himself. Yet, they both bear the burden of trusting each other both through the physical changes they are experiencing and toward the resolution of unanswered questions from their past.

Not only did Seitz draw from her own memories in the development of this story, but also, as an artist, created to cover art. I LOVE these things about any book and the author did not disappoint! Her characters are thoughfully created and yet transparent. The story line is tight and well composed. You are quickly drawn into the story and find it hard to stop reading until all is resolved in the end.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

a glimpse at our homeschool

2011-01-29T14:20:00.000-08:00

We usually begin our school days with Bible Study Time. I. love. this. time. To me it is just one of those times that makes homeschooling so precious - just me and my kids, the word of God - good things, eternal things. Each child has a folder that has both copy paper and lined notebooking pages. We are working through the major Bible stories chronologically. Right now I am reading straight from the Bible. In the past, because of the age range of my children, I have used Bible story books. Now, they just seem ready for straight-from-the-Bible-reading . I read a passage from the Word and have them draw a picture or write a dictated sentence about what we are reading. If the picture/writing is more involved, then the next day, I reveiw our past readings with them while they finish up their page. On the occasions, when I choose for them not to do a picture for a particular reading, I have them go back to a previous picture and add color or detail to it. Afterwards we sing one of the songs we've learned from hymn study.

Then I pray with them and our day rolls forward.

PLEASE JOIN ME IN PRAYER

2011-01-12T23:02:00.000-08:00

The author of one of my very favorite blogs has suffered a massive stroke. Her name is Joanne Heim and she writes at thesimplewife.typepad.com She is a very vibrant person, whose faith resonates with passion and authenticity. Please pray for her, her husband Toben, daughter Audrey and daughter Emma (who was the one who first found her after her stroke).

Living With Confidence in a Chaotic World by Dr. David Jeremiah

2010-12-28T18:53:00.000-08:00

I just finished reading Living With Confidence in a Chaotic World by Dr. David Jeremiah. As the title suggests, this book provides a detailed overview of our world's current state of affairs and how to effectively approach its challenges and trials. Dr. Jeremiah was very thorough and thoughtful in his writing proposing Biblically sound responses to the challenges we face.

I found this book both challenging and inspiring. At times I found it hard to read because it is so thorough. That being said, upon completing this book, I know it is one that I will want to re-read. It is just the type of read that needs be be digested slowly and methodically. Dr. Jeremiah peppers his work with personal accounts that help do help lighten and yet keep real this subject of world chaos that hits us all so close to home. As I am in listening to him preach, I was deeply impressed by Dr. Jeremiah's passion and focus on doing God's will. I will definitely be re-reading this book again in the future and would encourage others to read it also.

I received a completmentary copy of this book from Book Sneeze to review.

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-23T16:05:00.000-08:00

Wishing you

and your family

a peaceful,

joyful,

worship-ful,

Merry Christmas,

from our family!

our days

2010-11-16T16:44:00.000-08:00

celebrating 3 years home

October and November have been busy months for our family. Homeschooling continues well, the younger three are reading more and more strongly, and E is making strides in grammar. We've been blessed to have twin foster babies during this time! The kids and Ira have pitched in graciously and tending them has truly been a family affair :o) Fall is my most favorite time of year. I love the cooling temperatures, the glorious colors in the trees, increased reminders of all I have to be grateful for and many family celebrations. These celebrations include my birthday and that of E, J and S. We also just celebrated M's 3rd year home. The girls are enjoying their Keeper's group as am I. I continue to read voraciously, and am enjoying being a part of a book club. I am trying to be more intentional about trying new hairstyles on the girls, in an effort to help celebrate their uniqueness as young ladies. I am also trying to be more intentional about memorizing scripture. Throughout my life it has brought me immense comfort reciting the Word of God, both in my mind and out loud. My current focus is Psalm 139. Our days, right now, are filled with babies, listening to children read, meal planning, coffee drinking, lighting of candles and dreaming. We are blessed indeed.

Hoping this finds your family well and joyful ~

2010-10-26T18:38:00.000-07:00

201. freshly sharpened pencils

202. drinking in the Words of God

203. neatly written school work

204. cool, blustery days

205. a baby nestled in the crook of my arm

206. library cards

207. fellowship of friends

208. brilliant blue skies

209. breathtaking cloud formations

210. respite

211. my children reading aloud

212. reading stories to my children

213. my husband reading the Pooh stories

214. grace from my husband

215. my husband graciously changing diapers in the night

216. my children enjoying crafts

217. creating

218. organizing

219. our Keeper's group

220. book club

221. the community of bloggers

Click on the picture above to join the fun!

happy, happy birthday

2010-10-25T06:54:00.000-07:00

We celebrated the births of these two precious children this month! Time is passing by so quickly - it seems like every time I turn around, it is someone's birthday or Christmas! E, our oldest, turned 11 and J, our only son, turned 8. We all enjoyed a trip to the fair as part of the birthday celebrations!

Daybook

2010-10-23T15:09:00.000-07:00

For today....Saturday, October 23, 2010

Outside....it is perfectly breezy and such a pleasant temperature. I've had the window open all day!

I am wearing.....a green knit shirt, capris and flip-flops.

I am hearing....my different windchimes, chiming.

I am thinking.....how deeply blessed that I am.

I am reading......Living With Confidence in a Chaotic World by Dr. David Jeremiah and Like Dandelion Dust by Karen Kingsbury.

I am creating.....beautiful spaces in our home, scrapbook pages, our monthly meal plan

God has shown me recently.....that being a good parent is less about trying harder and more about being transformed by reflecting on the character of God, all the grace He has shown me and the fleeting-ness of childhood.

From the learning rooms......continued studies in grammar, math, reading....

A few plans for this week......Keeper's meeting, church, grocery shopping, prepping meats for this month, schooling, lots of reading (both personally and with the kids)

Just click on the picture above to join the fun!

2010-10-18T15:57:00.000-07:00

182. quiet moments

183. boisterous moments

184. the weight of a newborn baby (or two) in my arms

185. kind words

186. patient words

187. a new printer cartridge

188. a working printer

189. the wind in the trees

190. open windows

191. rearranged spaces

192. favorite movies

193. new movies watched together

194. a new day

195. school work completed

196. new concepts to be taught

197. reading blogs

198. our new homeschool group

199. children wanting to be near

200. aired up tires

on my heart...

2010-10-09T09:38:00.000-07:00

....birthmothers who voluntarily relinquish their parental rights to their children in a timely fashion. So many times when we are out and about with our foster babies, the question gets asked - "How could any mother give up her own child?".

The mother of our current foster babies just signed away her parental rights. And she is unequivacably devasted. She is now bereft of the sight, touch and knowledge of the futures of the children of her own womb. Why? How could she? I beg to propose she did it BECAUSE SHE WANTED MORE FOR THEM THAN SHE COULD GIVE AT THIS TIME. I also propose that it was by the grace of God and from the great stores of her own mother love that she had the strength to go through with it.

She has chosen rather to bear the horrid personal sacrifice of not having them in her life, in order to offer them life more abundant.

I beg your compassion and support for all who have so chosen for their children. I beg your prayers for like birthmothers and birthfathers everywhere, for personal healing and for life more abundant.

a place of prayer

2010-09-26T06:25:00.000-07:00

There is a sweet woman who has a ministry surrounded around encouragement and prayer. Her name is Holley and I have been blessed abundantly, many times, from the words God gives to her. Each Sunday, her site is a place of prayer, where people gather to let their heart spill forth in need. A place where it is agreed that each will commune in prayer for the other. A good place. Feel free to subscibe to her blog, thus recieving her short, timely devotions in your inbox. http://holley.dayspring.com/

meal planning

2010-09-21T13:16:00.000-07:00

Being intentional about meal planning is something I've been trying to do for the past couple of months. I am still working out some kinks, but so far it has been a good thing for our family. This months entrees include:

Pasta Salad (twice)
Grilled Cheese/Soup (twice)
French Dip Sandwiches
Orange Garlic Chicken
Asian Marinated Chicken
Southwest Marinated Chicken
Three Bean Chili
Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole
Pork Loin
Swiss Steak
Meatball Subs
Beans, Coleslaw & Cornbread
Nachos Supreme
Pizza (twice)
Rustic Chicken Fritatta
Cowboy Casserole
Shepard's Pie
Black Beans and Sausage

Other than having the items needed for these entrees on hand, I prep all the meats ahead of time and bag them accordingly. This afternoon, I am putting together mixes for cornbread muffins, mix and match muffins and peppery cheese bread. It has been lovely also having on hand many of our other food and side items. This is definitely a work in progress for me!

our camping trip

2010-09-11T15:16:00.000-07:00

fresh air, perfect weather, lush green trees, blue skies, tubing, splashing, roasting marshmallows, grilled hamburgers, impomptu concerts, laughter, good times

back to home school

2010-08-30T11:41:00.000-07:00

Our Home School got underway earlier this month. I can truly say that we have gotten off to a GREAT start! Some things, we are doing differently and other things, the same. I have really felt the benefit of S being one year older. Her attention span has increased and she is able to entertain herself better this year.

E is in fifth grade, M and J are in second grade and S is in kindergarten. My educational goals for our school this year are to keep things focused, relevant, and fun.

recent happenings

2010-08-08T13:16:00.000-07:00

J at the Derby Car Race

rockin' out together

My Father-in-law teaching how a guitar is built.

This is my "purple" guitar being built.

I went with E to Centri-Kid Camp

the kids and I at our local library for the summer movies

Papa, M and J at 1st and 2nd grade church camp

M, J, S and I built a "junk" boat at the library

fireworks on the Fourth

lots of reading

lots of Lego building

roasting marshmallows at our firepit

S with her friend at Kindergarten church camp

petrified wood

S lost her first tooth

Blessings Counted

2010-05-30T18:57:00.000-07:00

161. living in America

162. visiting Ira's family

163. routines

164. feeling refreshed from church this morning

165. good, dear friends of many years

166. extended time spent with said friends

167. the joy of new friendships

168. kindred spirits

169. reading aloud to my children

170. stunningly amazing cloud formations

171. sun rays peircing the sky

172. rainbows

173. God's promise represented by rainbows

174. my children understanding said promise

175. the life found in scripture

176. fresh inspiration

177. simplification

178. order

179. meals planned

180. second chances

181. mericies new every morning

Daybook ~ May 30, 2010

2010-05-30T18:50:00.000-07:00

Outside.....it is dark.

I am thinking.....how blessed that I am that so many brave men and women chose to defend my freedom.

I am wearing....a black shirt, tan pants, and sandals.

I am creating....routines.

From the kitchen.....spaghetti sauce and pasta.

From the learning rooms.....the learning rooms are very quiet! I do need to familiarize myself with some of our new curriculums.

I am excited about.....seeing more of our family this week.

I am reading....The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane with the kids.

Memory Verse....O LORD, You have searched me and known me.

You know my sitting down and my rising up;

You understand my thought afar off.

You comprehend my path and my lying down,

And are acquainted with all my ways.

For there is not a word on my tongue,

But behold, O LORD, You know it altogether.

You have hedged me behind and before,

And laid Your hand upon me.

Such knowledge is too wonderful for me;

It is high, I cannot attain it.

I am fixing to....do our bedtime ritual (I treasure this time so much!).

serendipity ~ spring edition

2010-05-25T14:08:00.000-07:00

During the past couple of months we celebrated Easter, E began attending Keeper's at Home, we went to see How To Train a Dragon with my mom and sister, began learning the music and motions for this year's VBS, the kids began a card ministry to our senior adults at church, Ira and I got re-certified in infant cpr, the cousins spent time together, my FIL began helping me build my guitar, I experienced Mother's Day sweetness, E had piano recital, our nephew graduated high school, M celebrated her 9th birthday and we celebrated Petecost during children's
feature at church! Precious Times!

Endless Blessings

2010-05-24T17:32:00.000-07:00

134. the hope of summer

135. a respite from normal school schedule

136. performing the motions to vbs songs

138. crisp new t-shirts

139. coffee brewing

140. a new devotional

141. my husband's compassion towards me

142. mercies new every morning

143. bedtime stories

144. meeting a friend for lunch

145. prayer partners

146. delighting my children

147. meals in the freezer

148. neatly clipped nails

149. peace

150. rest

151. well composed words

152. rituals

153. daily provision

154. clean surfaces

155. newborn life
156. forgiveness
157. dreams
158. new textbooks
159. accomplishing goals
160. my camera

freezer cooking

2010-05-18T12:20:00.000-07:00

In March I completed my first attempt at freezer cooking. This is otherwise known as "once-a-month" cooking. Meal planning is an area in which I am trying to improve. This is my game plan for meals this month:

(4) Pizza Kits
(2) Taco Kits
(2) Beef Stroganoff (complete)
(2) Chinese Dumplings (complete)
(2) Asian Chicken in marinade
(2) Honey Mustard Chicken in marinade
(2) Southwestern Chicken in marinade
(14) individual Chicken Pot Pies
(2) Stir Fry Chicken Kits
(2) Ground Meat bags
(1) Meatloaf (complete)
(1) 3 Bean Chili (complete)
(1) Spaghetti Kit
(1) Lasagna Kit
(3) Grilled Cheese Kits

Some of these items I made in March and some are new to me (like the marinades). As for meals to fill in around those I plan on doing are breakfast type meals and pasta salads, both of which come together quickly for me. There are several really good blogs out there that go into all the specifics of this type of meal management. I'll let you know how it turns out!

I Could Not Ask for More

2010-03-25T19:47:00.000-07:00

I dream BIG. I am always open to changes in my self, how I manage our home and our homeschool. I dream of adopting again. I dream of getting involved in other areas of ministry. I DREAM. Dreaming is good. However it often leaves me re-evaluating my effectiveness as a wife, mother, teacher, Christian, homemaker, friend. Over and over again. And this re-evaluation often casts the illusion that my current life is not as exciting or fulfilling as it could be.

This could not be more wrong.

I am living all the dreams I have ever had for my life. That is the truth.

I wanted to have living, breathing peace with my God. I do.

I wanted to feel free to worship God. I do.

I wanted to be happily married. I am.

I wanted to be a mama. I am.

I wanted to bring a child into our family through adoption. We have.

I wanted my children's hearts to be tender for God. They are.

I wanted to foster parent. We are.

I wanted to feel free to be myself. I do.

So, quite literally, I could NOT ask for more in my life. Dreaming is nice, but not to the extent that the reality of the treasures present in my life is distorted. I am LIVING my dreams. And it is all because of God. God is good. So good.

Blessings Counted

2010-03-15T06:00:00.000-07:00

116. another day of life

117. my husband's kind words

118. that my children care about my opinion

119. twilght

120. windows open to fresh air

121. having mental and emotional space

122. children intent upon their journal drawings

123. children fresh from a bath

124. when my girls feel beautiful

125. the pride in my son's eyes when he knows he's done a job well

126. quietness

127. soft clothes

128. daily provision

129. revisiting cherished passages

130. the feel of the guitar strings under my fingers

131. the smell of my guitar

132. the deep, deep comfort of roots

133. mountains and mountains of laundry, folded and put away

May the love of God touch each of us so deeply, daily, that even the most humble acts of our lives are alight with His glory.

Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-03-13T16:12:00.000-08:00

For today ~ Saturday, March 13

Outside my window ~ it is twilight and cool.

I am wearing ~ jeans, a long sleeve black shirt and a sweatshirt.

From the kitchen ~ Sour Cream Enchiladas, Corn and Rice

I am hearing ~ the oven running and a DVD the kids are watching.

I am thinking ~ how blessed Saturdays feel at the end of our busy weeks.

From the learning rooms ~ continued studies in grammar/phonics, math, reading.

I am going to re-read ~ Danger in the Shadows by Dee Henderson.

I am creating ~ scrapbook pages about S's 5th B'day party.

I am going to ~ think about how I want to do the girl's hair in the morning, get clothes ready, paint fingernails and try to find our bed under a mountain of laundry and turn all the clocks forward one hour.

I am researching ~ freezer cooking.

Some plans for this week ~ homeschool some, plan 30 meals, have the girl's finish their string art projects and continue practising the guitar.

This project is sponsored by http://www.thesimplewomanshandbook.blogspot.com/
Come join the fun!

Blessings Counted

2010-03-08T06:00:00.000-08:00

101. a husband happily playing with our children

102. the gift of play given to my children by their father

103. a break from routine

104. clear, sunny skies

105. the anticipation of a new project

106. the lovely rhythm of routine

107. the opportunity to share the love of Jesus with a friend

108. being ministered to by a friend

109. God's gracious giving of wisdom

110. serving a God who is with us and for us

111. the sublime joy of music

112. the smell of coffee

113. the warmth of the coffee cup in my hands

114. God's faithful provision

115. stories

116. listening to God's word

117. being loved on by my kids

118. a kitchen, cleaned

119. being inspired by a friend

120. peace, sweet peace

121. the gift of being given a guitar

122. my oldest child using her talent to worship God publically

123. daily grace

Thank you, Jesus. Thank you Jesus for the blessings you unfold in my life daily. You are faithful, always, and have blessed my abundantly. Thank you, Jesus.

Daybook ~ March 6, 2010

2010-03-06T18:21:00.000-08:00

For today ~ Saturday

Outside my window ~ it is dark, clear and cool.

I am wearing ~ my uniform :o) ~ jeans and long sleeve black shirt

I am excited about ~ the scrapbooking I've just been working on, M reading more fluidly, the upcoming Keeper's meeting, homeschool curriculum plans, the beautiful weather.

From the learning rooms ~ continued regular studies, a nature walk with journalling, art time (hopefully)

I am creating ~ scrapbook pages, the weekly menu.

From the kitchen ~ grilled cheese sandwiches, wild rice, peas, milk.

I am reading ~ the same books as last time.

I am hearing ~ the Nancy Drew audio book we've borrowed from the library, the rest of the family playing the "Star Wars" Trouble game and the dishwasher running.

I am looking forward to ~ starting Karate, as a family, this April and learning to play the guitar.

A few plans for this week ~ continue schooling, get groceries, piano and church midweek, possibly helping at the CPC, a fun B'day party Friday night.

My Long Obedience in the Same Direction ~ continue daily personal devotions, 6 days of exercise, homeschooling, doing the child of the day's Special Activity, and keeping our

Bedtime Routine.

The creator of this project is http://www.thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

Also, visit http://www.dayspring.com/pray-share/ for encouragement and prayer!

Blessings Counted

2010-03-02T15:16:00.000-08:00

81. the completion of another school day
82. M becoming more fluid in her reading
83. new concepts dawning in young eyes
84. libraries
85. the resource of an online library
86. cropping pictures
87. piecing together a scrapbook layout
88. my husband, happily playing with our children
89. the faithfulness of my heavenly Father
90. a week's menu planned out
91. twilight in the evening
92. moments of quiet in our home
93. candle light
94. gathering together for our bedtime ritual
95. the excitement of birthdays
96. taking hot showers
97. being clean
98. good words
99. receiving personal emails
100. the warmth of blankets

Thank you, Jesus.

serendipity ~ winter edition

2010-02-23T16:13:00.000-08:00

~ Devotional we are using for Lent ~

~ Lenton Salt-dough Crown of Thorns, sand representing Jesus' desert sojourn,

and beans to count the days ~

~ Lenton mantle decorations ~

~ Dutch braiding ~

~ scrapbooking love ~

~ the commander clone rex snowman ~

~ Snowgirl Judy ~

~ Valentine cupcakes ~

~ a Southern Miracle ~

~ Mimi and Valentine Happies ~

~ Hugo takes possession of the swing ~

~ amazing Lego pirate ships ~

~ a much cherished foster baby boy ~

Blessed. Abundantly blessed.

May the love of God touch each of us so deeply, daily, that even

the most humble acts of our lives are alight with His glory.

Daybook ~ February 23, 2010

2010-02-23T15:56:00.000-08:00

For today...Tuesday

Outside my window...it is twilight and cool.

I am wearing...my scrapbook girl sweatshirt and jeans.

I am excited about...creating new posts for the blog.

From the learning rooms...continued studies from the past weeks.

I am creating...scrapbook pages, plans for next year's curriculum and an exercise regiman.

From the kitchen...hamburgers and smothered potatoes.

I am reading... A Long Obedience in the Same Direction by Eugene Peterson and Chinese Cinderella and the Secret Dragon Society by Adeline Yen Mah.

I am hearing...the dishwasher running (what a blessing!), the music from my blog, my children playing in the living room.

I am looking forward to...a quiet evening at home, reading to the kids, journalling and scrapbooking.

Spiritual Motivation...remains the same as the last daybook entry.

Memory Verse...And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. Romans 12:2

The creator of this project is http://www.thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

Blessings Counted

2010-02-22T18:21:00.000-08:00

62. Respite, again.

63. Hearing the kids and my husband chatting while building with legos.

64. The joy and inspiration my family finds in legos.

65. The warmth of my home, when it is cold outside.

66. The satisfaction of organizing my thoughts.

67. Menus planned out.

68. Menu plans executed.

69. Working on this blog.

70. Scrapbooking.

71. Capturing my thoughts onto the pages of my journal.

72. Introducing the kids to journaling.

73. Reading bedtime stories to the kids.

74. Music, always.

75. My husband at home.

76. The peace of God.

77. The everpresent Hope found in His Word.

78. The privilege to Home School.

79. The thrill of planning the next year's curriculum choices.

80. Candles burning.

Thank you, Jesus. Thank you, Jesus, for the daily blessings you unfold in my life. You are faithful, always, and have blessed me abundantly. Thank you, Jesus.

Blessings Counted

2010-02-02T12:41:00.000-08:00

46. the baby napping

47. the kids having so much fun getting out of doors

48. the hope found only in Christ

49. the anticipation of visiting with a friend

50. a homeschool day completed

51. agile, healthy bodies

52. grace given

53. abundance of clean drinking water

54. the comfort of music

55. God's word, freshly read

56. the anticipation of an unread book

57. the opportunity to scrapbook

58. an husband who works so hard for our family

59. children eager to learn

60. studying hymns with my children

61. hearing their voices lifted, acapello, in praise to God

Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-01-31T13:45:00.000-08:00

For today: Sunday, January 31, 2010

Outside my window: It is sunny, clear and chilly.

I am thinking: how blessed respite is.

Counting Blessings:

35. my five senses

36. quiet moments

37. moments of great inspiration

38. appliances, functioning properly

39. a husband who graciously tends our foster baby

40. a husband who takes the time to hear my heart

41. the absence of pain

42. the opportunity to exercise

43. sweatshirts

44. respite

45. the encouraging words of a friend

From the learning rooms: We are continuing to catch up in grammar/phonics, reading, math and handwriting.

I am creating: Scripture Memory Books, with a monthly passage that will be read in unison by our family at suppertime.

I am going: to exercise and drink coffee shortly.

I am reading: Resurrection File by Craig Parshall and A Long Obedience in the Same Direction by Eugene Peterson. I am also listening to each day's date in Proverbs.

I am hearing: E practice the piano and I, M, J, and S playing with lego pirate ships that they created.

Some of my favorite things: lotion, painted toenails, music, watching movies.

A few plans for this week: continue homeschooling, spiritually training and loving on all my children.

Spiritual Motivation: Is the same from last week - to become increasingly aware of the nature and direction of my thoughts. It is to bring my thoughts into subjection to the truth of Christ. I also want to endeavor to remain on the same course of action, faithfully. I want to not be distracted by all the possibilities, good possibilities. I want to practice "A Long Obedience in the Same Direction." (taken from the title by Eugene Peterson)

My Memory Verse: If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. John 8:31-32

The creator of this project is http://www.thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com.

Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-01-24T11:24:00.000-08:00

For today: Sunday, January 24, 2010

Outside my window: It is sunny and warm.

I am thinking: how very blessed I am.

Counting blessings....
24. Respite from pain.
25. Falling into a routine.
26. Full bellies.
27. Appliances that work properly.
28. Good friends.
29. The hope found only in Christ.
30. Fresh inspiration from God's Word.
31. A wonderful vehicle.
32. Contented children.
33. Kind and thoughtful words.
34. Sunshine.
35. Respite from rain.

From the learning rooms: hoping that we are on the tail end of some mighty challenges, I am endeavoring to this week, just get back to the basics in grammar/phonics, math and reading.

From the kitchen: Chicken Bundles and Applesauce.

I am creating: a plan to incorporate monthly scripture readings at suppertime. Inspiration to try this was found at www.aholyexperience.com

I am going: to finish putting lunch together and fix coffee.

I am reading: a novel by Craig Parshall and am going to begin to A Long Obedience in the Same Direction by Eugene Peterson.

I am hearing: Ira and the kids digging through the lego box and S singing.

Some of my favorite things: reading, coffee, a massage.

A few plans for this week: Continue personal devotions, exercise daily, get back to homeschooling.

Spiritual Motivation: become increasingly aware of my thoughts, both the sum of them and the direction they are heading. Also, come to more quickly lay aside all thoughts and thought patterns that fall short of God's truth. I want to daily take on more of the mind of Christ.

My memory verse for this week: Isaiah 26:3-4
You will keep him in perfect peace,
Whose mind is stayed on You,
Because he trusts in You.
Trust in the LORD forever,
For in YAH, the LORD, is everlasting strength.

The creator of this project is www.thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com

Counting Graces

2010-01-18T17:06:00.000-08:00

11. Newborn babies.

12. Music.

13. Digital Photography.

14. Sunny weather.

15. A school day completed.

16. An understanding husband.

17. A husband, who though weary, speaks tender words to the baby.

18. The availability of God's Holy Word.

19. Respite amidst chaos.

20. Sweet words from my children.

21. Seeing maturity emerge in my children.

22. Witnessing faith blossom in my children's hearts.

23. My children turning to prayer so naturally.

This project was created by Ann Voskamp at http://www.aholyexperience.com/

Counting Graces

2010-01-14T19:22:00.000-08:00

1. Salvation.2. God's Holy Word.3. The absence of pain.4. Hearing clearly.5. My husband.6. A husband who is back home after traveling.7. Each of my children.8. Our foster babies.9. Our home.10. The promise of a new dishwasher.This project was created by Ann Voskamp at http://www.aholyexperience.com/.

Daybook ~ January 11, 2010

2010-01-11T16:48:00.000-08:00

For today: Monday, January 11, 2010

Outside my window: it is dark and cold.

I am thinking: about peace.

I am thankful for: a computer that works.

From the learning rooms: catching up on math and language arts. Continuing to practice reading skills and handwriting.

From the kitchen: pizza.

I am wearing: knit pants and a brown sweatshirt.

I am creating: school plans, scrapook pages and goals.

I am going: to drink coffee shortly.

I am reading: The Battlefield of the Mind.

I am hearing: the music from the blog playlist.

Some of my favorite things: hot showers, socks, journalling, hymn study with the kids,

reading to the kids.

A few plans for this week: Continue schooling, tend the baby, work on goals,

spend as little money as possible.

The creator of this project is http://www.thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/. Come and join the fun!

serendipity

2010-01-08T14:51:00.000-08:00

I have just been struck with a personal blogging goal that is pure serendipity for me. Once a month, this year, I am going to endeavor to do a post, with pictures, which will include the following:

1. Pretty hairstyles I have tried on the girls
2. A recipe that the kids and I have cooked up
3. What we are studying in our Spiritual Training Time
4. A service project that we have done together
5. An art project we've completed

We enjoyed a lovely Christmas with our family and are getting back into the swing of things with our school work. We wish you and your family all the best in this New Year!

Sweet Christmas Times

2009-12-16T19:06:00.000-08:00

~ visiting a "live" nativity

~ Christmas doughnuts from Krispy Kreme

~ writing Christmas notes to Sunday school, choir and missions teachers

~ kids wrapping presents for each other

~ our Christmas picture

E playing Light the Advent Candle at church.

~ our Chrismon wreath

~ counting down the days until Christmas

~ making a daily chain depicting the events of Advent

~ celebrating the Sundays of Advent

We LOVE Christmas and are enjoying all the sights, sounds and traditions of this most precious season. We wish everyone all the joy and wonder of these sweet Christmas times!

F-I-V-E!

2009-11-23T12:42:00.000-08:00

Our baby girl turned five years old today! S is spunky and super-creative :o)

I told her that she's a whole "hand-ful" now! Her Papa says that she already was one!

We love you baby girl!

Today With M!

2009-11-05T07:14:00.001-08:00

One Year Ago Today

2009-11-05T07:06:00.001-08:00

Two Years Ago Today - Kunming City, Yunnan Province, Republic of China

2009-11-05T05:59:00.000-08:00

Two years ago today, my eyes first beheld the living form of this precious child. She was scared, overwhelmed and in survival mode. We were incredibly excited, overwhelmed and in wonder that this day had actually arrived. Our daughter is bright, energetic, creative, brave, thoughtful, patient, and talkative. Our family is blessed. Tremendously blessed.

Birthday Celebrations!

2009-11-04T20:30:00.001-08:00

Look Who's SEVEN!

2009-10-14T01:00:00.000-07:00

Our only son, J, turns SEVEN years old today! He is active, creative and thoughtful. His favorite things include playing with legos and bionicles, Star Wars, drawing, digging in the dirt and riding his bike. He is in the first grade this year and is excited to have learned to read! He is tender-hearted, but as rough as they come. We are so proud of the

little man he is growing into being!

Look Who's TEN!!!!!!!!!!

2009-10-13T01:00:00.000-07:00

Our firstborn, E, turns TEN years old today! She's beautiful, thoughtful, and smart. Her favorite things are reading, doing art projects, school (just kidding!), playing games, and spending time with her friends. If you want to be comforted or encouraged, she is the girl to seek out! She is in the fourth grade this year and doing well in all her subjects. Also, she is continuing to take piano and has played in church. We are so proud of the young girl she has blossomed into.

Our Season of Wonder

2009-10-08T18:29:00.000-07:00

It is Fall. I love, love, love this season of the year! It is fraught with so many very special occasions and memories for our family. It begins with my very own birthday in September! Every one who knows me, knows that I am absolutely CRAZY about my birthday. The 13th of October, TEN years ago, we welcomed our firstborn into our family. Two years later, on the 14 of this month, our son joined our family. Two years ago, in the first week of October, we received a most thrilling email - our LOA from China was on it's way, bringing an end to sight of the long wait for our chosen child. On October 18 of that same year, we got notice of Travel Approval from China and booked plane tickets! The joy of this season continues on into November! We laid eyes on and arms around our chosen child on November 5th, 2007.

Our family was reunited on November 18. And finally FIVE years ago,

on November 23, our baby was born.

Truly a season of thankfulness and unbridled blessings!

Daybook ~ September 28, 2009

2009-09-28T16:41:00.000-07:00

FOR TODAY...September 28, 2009

Outside my window...twilight.

I am thinking...I am glad that the busi-ness of this day is nearly over.

I am thankful for...peace.

From the learning rooms...the eldest will begin typing tomorrow and is adding the memorization of the states of America to her studies. The youngest are

continuing on their studies and we all are beginning a study of clouds.

From the kitchen...three bean chili, rice and applesauce.

I am wearing...a tee-shirt, knit pants and tennis shoes.

I am creating...plans for E and J's Birthday parties in October.

I am going...to do our bedtime ritual soon.

I am reading...the book of Isaiah, Knowing God by His Names (Dick Purnell)

and The Wizard of OZ (aloud to the children).

I am hearing...the dishwasher run.

One of my favorite things...lying in my bed reading.

A few plans for the rest of the week: get in a really good

school week and focus on my priorities.
The creator of this project is http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/ Join the fun!

40 Gifts

2009-09-23T18:31:00.000-07:00

S's sweet card with hugs and kisses!

Sweet, sweet party planners!

A secret desire fulfilled!

M's homemade gift that she spent a lot of time on!

E's homemade friendship bracelet!

J's stuffed dragon that we will now share!

Today was my best birthday yet! These are 40 gifts in my life.

1. Life itself.

2. God's great love.

3. Growing up in a stable family.

4. God's faithfulness.

5. A love of reading.

6. God's mercy.

7. Big dreams.

8. God's soveriegnty.

9. Salvation.

10. God's grace.

11. Meeting Ira.

12. God's compassion.

13. Giving birth to E.

14. The Living Word of God.

15. Moving into our home.

16. The power of God.

17. The birth of J.

18. The dream of adoption.

19. The birth of S.

20. The pursiut of M.

21. The loyalty of good friends.

22. A God that grows bigger daily.

23. Journalling.

24. Finally holding M.

25. God's patience.

26. More big dreams.

27. Finding our current church home.

28. Growing in faith.

29. Scrapbooking.

30. E accepting Jesus as her Saviour.

31. Music that leads to the foot of the cross.

32. Good health.

33. The call to come pick up a foster baby.

34. The peace of God.

35. Blogging.

36. That a holy God pursues a relationship with me.

37. Holding a newborn baby.

38. Feeling God carry me through giving a baby back.

39. Being called mama.

40. Birthdays.

I have had a lovely 40th birthday. God is so good to me.

Our Life in Pictures

2009-09-22T17:34:00.000-07:00

We've had a baby in the house!

E making paper doll clothes at the tea party birthday
celebration of a friend.

S falling asleep mid-sucker!

M being creative with her babies.

J making his Papa proud with the BB gun.

Daybook ~ September 22, 2009

2009-09-22T17:20:00.000-07:00

Outside my window.......it is night-time and raining.

I am thinking......about our school day that went well and a sweet foster baby that was placed with his forever family yesterday.

I am thankful for......a husband that blesses me so much and the joy of mothering.

I am wearing......jeans, a red knit shirt and sandels.

I am creating......plans for E and J's upcoming b'day parties.

I am anticipating.......my birthday tomorrow!

I am going.......to journal before I do our bedtime ritual.

I am reading.......the book of Isaiah.

I am hearing.......my husband playing the trumpet and my son wondering aloud just exactly how many more minutes he has to clean!

One of my favorite things.......my birthday.

A few plans for this week: continue on with school, teach Young Musician's Choir tomorrow night, our homeschool kick-off this Saturday and Sunday's services.

The creator of this project is thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com Come join the fun!

Our Home School

2009-08-03T12:38:00.000-07:00

The kids start their day at 7 in the morning. We have breakfast and then start our Spiritual Training. I am trying to incorporate several aspects into this part. The kids look at Children's Bibles, while I read in mine. Then they say morning prayers silently. This is followed by our weekly focus. These focal areas are Hymn Study, Worship, Real-Life Applications and Bible History. So one week we learn about and sing a particular hymn (our first one was Holy, Holy, Holy). The next week, I utilize ideas from Teaching Kids Authentic Worship. The following weeks, I read out of Sticky Situations and The Child's Story Bible, respectively. Throughout it all, we work on a monthly memory verse, review the hymn and a protestant catchism. Then we begin with the rest of our curriculum.

E - 4th Grade
Grammar - Rod and Staff
Math - Abeka
Spelling - Spelling Power
Penmanship - Abeka
Comprehension - Christian Liberty Press readers &
Abeka Read & Think Skill sheets
Writing - Writing with Ease
Vocabulary - Wordly Wise
Required Reading
Science - Apologia Sea Creatures (Co-op)
Geography - Beautiful Feet (Co-op)

M & J - 1st Grade
Phonics - Abeka
Reading - Abeka readers
Math - Abeka
Penmanship - Abeka
Writing - Writing with Ease

S - Preschool/Kindergarten
Phonics - Abeka & Rod and Staff
Math - Rod and Staff
Penmanship - Pentime
Bible - Rod and Staff

I am ever grateful for the privilege and honor that it is to Home School.

We are all ever learning in this household!

Homeschooling Joys

2009-07-30T13:38:00.000-07:00

~ being intimately involved in curriculum choices for your child
~ sitting side by side with each child on our couch, going over new concepts
~ seeing understanding dawn in your child's eyes when a concept is grasped
~ teaching my children about God and His Word
~ my children feeling no shame or hesitation in talking about God

We are in our second week of Home School. This is my first year to be teaching three grade levels simultaneously. I was quite nervous about this. But with God's great mercy and hours of careful planning, things are running smoothly. Right now, I am just so thankful for the great privilege of schooling my children at home. Polishing treasures indeed.

Finding My Footing

2009-07-20T14:29:00.000-07:00

In my continued struggles with control (over my life, our children's lives and my daily schedule), God has revealed two things to me.

1. The single most important item on my daily agenda is intentional time spent with God in prayer, Bible study and listening to Him. Personal Holy Communion. The end.

2. The single most important act (of mine) as a wife, mother, teacher, daughter, and friend is to be so in tune with the Holy Spirit and so aware of God's character, that it not only keeps me moving in the direction of my Father's will, but also that it transforms my response to all people and every situation. The end.

I cannot express how deeply relieving this is to me. It lets so much else that tends to clutter up my mind and my to do list to fall away. Released. Centered. Blessed.

Glorious Day

2009-07-01T07:54:00.000-07:00

On May 30, E accepted Jesus as her Savior! I cannot really describe what this means to us as her parents. To know that our child has made the single most important decsion FOR Christ is nothing short of thrilling.

More Pictures

2009-06-28T14:10:00.001-07:00

Mama with her baby at time of placement.

Mimi finishes M's Good Wishes Quilt.

M & S at the campground.

Art at the campground.

Sophie, the baby.

Our Life in Pictures

2009-06-28T13:54:00.001-07:00

Cedric

E at AHG ceremony

PawPaw & E with her guitar

PawPaw & J with his new guitar

E at her piano recital

We say YES, YES to Vuh, Vuh, Vuh, B, B, S!

2009-06-01T19:58:00.000-07:00

I'm sorry, but I AM just absolutely CRAZY about VBS. It is exhausting but such incredible fun. I have absolutetly NO pictures to post tonight! Please pray for the workers and students of all the VBS programs running this summer, that multitudes of children would accept Christ as their Savior.

Our Life in Pictures

2009-05-18T11:44:00.000-07:00

~ playing in the rain

~ playing at the park

~ we LOVE Sonic

~ enjoying Sonic "Zoo" tots

The Simple Woman's Daybook ~ 17 May 2009

2009-05-17T19:58:00.000-07:00

For today......May 17, 2009

Outside my window.......it is night-time and cool.

I am thinking......how good it is to have a break from school.

I am thankful for......the freedom to worship, the blessing of fellowship with my church body.

I am wearing......jeans, a red mock turtleneck and tennis shoes.

I am creating......plans for more focused spiritual training for our children.

I am anticipating.......a possible new opportunity to minister to at risk birth mothers and starting a cross-stitch sampler for J.

I am going.......to journal before I do our bedtime ritual.

I am reading.......Phil. 4, and a book by Kathy Herman.

I am hearing.......John Waller's "While I'm Waiting" (I just cannot get tired of this song.) and my family winding down from the day.

One of my favorite things.......rituals.

A few plans for this week: put away this year's school materials, finish cleaning our bedroom, continue learning the music and motions for this year's VBS.

The creator of this project is thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com Come join the fun!

Lessons From My Faithful God

2009-05-10T12:17:00.000-07:00

In the fall of last year, Ira and I decided that we really wanted to become liscenced to foster infants. So, we began the process and were finished by the end of February this year. I knew that it would probably be hard when it came to giving the baby back. But NOTHING prepares you for reality, but reality itself. We had our first baby a couple of weeks ago. He was so sweet. E, M, J and S were ALL over him. I was reacquanted with the unnatural-ness of having to be mentally alert every three hours during the night. But with each of those feedings and each diaper change, I was looking into the eyes of a precious little one. There is nothing like the feel of that little bundle against your shoulder. There is nothing like the sweet way their body balls up into the fetal postion. I fell in love. And so we neared the end of our time with him. I would spontanously burst into tears at any given moment. I learned how hard it was to intimately care for someone, but have NO control over what would be happening to him in just a couple of days. I looked at Ira and asked, "So WHY did we want to do this thing?" It is hard.

People would ask me how I thought my kids would do when the baby was gone. I had no way of knowing. What I did know and kept saying was, that if it was indeed God's will for us to foster infants we would all be okay. We might cry, but we would all be okay.

So we came to the day of giving the baby to his adoptive parents. Ira was out of town. I took the kids to my mom's before I took the baby to the office. I was depending on God to help me to feel the way I needed to feel, whenever I needed to feel it. I had no confidence in my flesh. God kept telling me, My grace is sufficient, My grace is sufficient. And it was. It surpassed my expectations. It gave new meaning to the scripture - I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me. I CAN do ALL things through Christ. All things, through Him. By His grace I was made strong. Through Him and only Him, I was able to be strong for the new parents. I was able to encourage them. I was able to let the baby go emotionally.

And so we came to our second baby. I was encouraged by the fact that we had all lived past the giving up of the first. But, the closer it got to the end with this one, the more I dreaded it. Today, Mother's Day, we would be relinquishing this little girl back to the social worker. Yesterday I found myself in the grip of God's grace. My mind parked in His faithfulness, His soveriegnty. This morning we took the little one to church. I didn't know if I would be able to make it through without losing it. But God was faithful.

Things that God is teaching me - His faithfulness in all situations. His grace to help me let go. His peace in accepting that our time with the baby is OUR time with the baby. Ours alone. Given the opportunity, I would always keep the baby longer. But that choice is not mine to make. We play a part in the little one's life that is timely. We will rarely know how long we will have any given baby. It could be a couple of days, weeks or months. I am not by nature an emotionally flexible person. But my God is faithful. My God is faithful. And He always provides. His grace is sufficient for me. I can do all things through Christ. ALL things.

This Mother's Day I am thinking of mothers who have given their baby up for adoption. A mother, indeed, but with no baby in their arms. I am thinking of women who foster children, nuturing a child as if he or she was their own. I am thinking of M's foster mother who took care of her for FIVE years. How did M's foster parents even breathe, when she was removed from their care? I am thinking of all women, everywhere, having given birth or not, who have invested themselves, long or short term, in the life of a child. You have had the impact that makes a woman a mother. Happy Mother's Day.

Happy Birthday to my Daughter

2009-04-20T14:28:00.000-07:00

Today is my middle daughter's birthday. A daughter that turns eight years old today. A daughter on whom I had never laid eyes on until a couple of years ago. A daughter. A daughter. As much my child as if she were born from my body. What a wonderous blessing.

Unspeakable blessing.

Only our great God in Heaven could have orchestrated the union of her life into our family structure. Our God truly REIGNS.

The Simple Woman's Daybook ~ 24 March 2009

2009-03-24T18:33:00.000-07:00

FOR TODAY...March 24, 2009

Outside my window...it is dark and breezy.

I am thinking...my Redeemer lives.

I am thankful for...good health and opportunities to bless others.

From the learning rooms...the little ones are doing well on their reading and the eldest creates the BEST sentences with her spelling words.

From the kitchen...the kitchen was quiet, we ate from Sonic.

I am wearing...my exercise shirt, capris and tennis shoes.

I am creating...a stable home for my children.

I am going...to bed shortly.

I am reading...the Love Dare devotional, Taste of Home and Country Woman magazines.

I am hearing...my children talking and playing and the fans running.

One of my favorite things...reading.

A few plans for the rest of the week: get in a really good school week and focus on my priorities.

The creator of this project is http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/ Join the fun!

The Simple Woman's Daybook - 19 March 2009

2009-03-19T20:33:00.000-07:00

FOR TODAY...March 19, 2009
Outside my window...it is dark and cool.
I am thinking...what a lovely idea the simple woman daybook is.
I am thankful for...my family, and for peace.
From the learning rooms...the teacher and her students are taking Spring Break.
From the kitchen...we enjoyed dirty rice, french bread and bananas.
I am wearing...a black t-shirt, capris and flip-flops.
I am creating...scrapbook pages.
I am going...to bed shortly.
I am reading...the book of Esther, Taste of Home and Country Woman magazines.
I am hearing...my husband play the violin, my children playing and the air conditioner running.
One of my favorite things...scrapbooking.
A few plans for the rest of the week: plan two weeks of meals and get organized for the next school week.

The creator of this project is http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com
Join the fun!

Handwork

2009-03-16T12:10:00.000-07:00

Sometimes when life gets harried, I find it spirit-nourishing to do handwork, be it with paper

or a needle and thread. These are a few of my projects recently finished!

What are things that nourish your spirit?

Visions of Loveliness

2009-02-27T19:03:00.001-08:00

Beautiful daughters. My Bridal veil. Visions of Loveliness.