Misti's Musings

I know alot of people are doing this, but since I haven't written in awhile and have been busy, I thought I'd update on my thoughts and our lives.

I think I'll do it in a list form because I'm in a "list" mode tonight. :)

I'm thinking:

1. I have much to do with people coming to look at our house in one week. I need to make more lists!

2. I love having an avenue in which to write my thoughts and feed back, but I don't feel I keep up with everyone and even my own blog enough. I want to write more next year and be more faithful.

3. I still haven't tried the homemade laundry detergent although I did get my first ingredient for it - Sweet Orange Essential Oil. It smells so invigorating, and I know I'm going to love doing laundry while smelling that!

4. We still aren't expecting a baby, but I think maybe with the possibility of moving and all it is best. We are talking about adopting in the future. Just something we are considering.

5. My sister-in-law is getting married in 3 months and I wish I could help her more with planning all the details, as I'm the matron of honor, but with trying to get all of our house back in order and set up for the appt. I feel stretched thin.

6. I want to invite a friend and her hubby to our Bible Study, when I think she's ready.

Our Lives:

1. We arrived home on Sunday from our Christmas week of being with family. We were in Minnesota for a few days and it was very nice. We went ice-skating, on a sleigh ride, made ice cream, played games, sat around the fireplace and enjoyed everyone so much.

2. Chris is just about done with the sitting room off of our bedroom, and all kinds of little projects. Nothing motivates like company coming! Or potential buyers!

3. I am making more and more aprons and items. I hope to display them at a spring craft show, and once I have some pictures I'll show what I've been busy with.

4. I've been working with Rebekah on her letters and numbers. It's so rewarding to teach your child something that is so important in life.

5. Trying to not give in to the temptation to get a pup for Bekah. :)At least not until we get our farm!

Other than that, we are just trying to be patient, wait on the Lord and appreciate everyday He gives us.

Dreams and Desires...

My mom shared this blog with me that would describe where I want to be in 10 years. Although it doesn't seem possible to have 7 going on 8 kids by then...I would love to get as close to this as possible. I'm so ready to get out of town, to have our own land, and the freedoms that go with that.

I love the idea of creating my own materials to clean, wash clothing and such, and I feel that living where we do squelches that. Maybe it's just that I'm looking to move and so I don't have a desire to produce those creative things here. That's probably it.

I was pretty excited that all would happen so much more quickly than it has, but I'm sure most people have those initial thoughts when setting out on the real estate adventure. I have been listening to the news, and I know the economy isn't the best, but I have felt that God can bring someone regardless. So then it leads me to think it's just not His timing. My how impatient I can be.

This past week has been a bit of a stretching time for me and a great time to reflect on my character flaws...well maybe not character flaws, but definitely areas I must try harder to reform. Like my patience, humility, trust in God, and contentedness. Not just with having another child, or selling the house, but also learning to trust Chris that God will work through him and that he is the one with the final say...and letting things go- not having to be right all the time. :) Yeah..I struggle with this one. Not that I don't know that I'm not always right...I'm not that hip on myself, but it's the letting things go if I AM right that I need to just accept. Sometimes people aren't ready to hear or see what is right in front of them and no amount of arguing or pouting will open their eyes if they aren't ready.

Some other of my thought...

Bekah turned 4 a couple weeks ago and loving the fact that she's older. I'm not. Maybe I'd be if I had another to baby, but it's hard to see your only child grow up and be so independent.

I want our house to sell! I'm trying to think about other things, but my mind always takes me (my mom doesn't help sending me blogs like the one I linked to) to living off the grid, being more self-sufficient, the Amish lifestyle, etc. which leads my mind then to think about how much we'll be able to work toward if we get that acreage...and then I'm lead full-circle into thinking I want our house to sell! Oh my...

Should we have an open house in January? Lower our price? when? what? incentives for anyone that brings us a buyer?

I want to make laundry detergent, it seems really easy, but I need to remember to put it on my list - the ingredients.

I want to learn to make skirts. I love the clothes on this website and would love to reform our wardrobes to mimic this. I think it's lovely and feminine and simple. - Well they look simple...not that the making is simple :)

I guess that's enough ramblings for now.

Sales, Sales, & more Sales!!!

I have some exciting news...being the Christmas and Thanksgiving season...I've been searching for some meaningful, timeless, and inexpensive gifts...

Since we have a certain amount for gifts, I must fit everything I wish to get our many family members into a seemingly small budget. I have made purses, aprons, scarves, and shopped for sales on different items, but now I have come to the end. I want to buy books.

I typically dislike trendy books, warning anyone hoping for one...I like to buy books that teach, heal, and grow with a person's life. A profound treasure that ministers to different situations we find ourselves in. Something that will build us, and make us better humans. No, I'm not talking about the Bible...:)The typical US citizen probably has 4 to a house.

I plan to spend money on books from Vision Forum. There's a great sale going on and I mean great!!!

Over $20 and they will ship it for free
They didn't charge me sales tax
I spent 53.60 and they offered a new book at 50% off


Alot of the books, videos, & cds are about 20-30% off

Another great book site that offers about 30-40% off is www.abunga.com

GREAT site!!!

Happy bargain shopping!

Update on our lives...

Unfortunately I've not kept up with this blog as I had originally hoped, because of computer malfunctions, and the like. But, here's an update on our happenings...and lack of:)

We've not sold our house yet. It's not that we expected to be moved into a new place before Thanksgiving, especially in our current economy; however one does tend to get a bit disappointed when things don't work as quickly as hoped. In this time of wanting to get out of town and become self-sufficent I've set myself up for disappointment by dreaming and planning a bit too much for practicality. However, what is life without dreams and passions, hopes and plans for our future? As long as we expect the Lord's timing to win in the end. I've become indifferent with our present home to the point I've had to remind myself that I've very blessed even having a roof over our head and heat on our cold nights. Food to eat and clothes to wear. I have the Lord and peace knowing that He knows our desire and dreams and as long as I trust in Him, He will help us get them, or give us a thorough contentment to stay where we are.

We are still hoping for another child, but all in God's timing as well. Bekah will be 4 next week and although she's thrilled to be growing up, I have to admit I'm not enjoying it near as much as when she was just going to be 1. She's become so much more independent, and such a young lady that she's doesn't take much energy from me. She is a young lady.

Chris and I started a Bible Study with a few friends and although we only had our first one this past Thursday, I can tell it is going to be great. Our group, be it small now, is so ready to experience what the Lord has for us and grow in our relationships with Him, that it's so refreshing as well as encouraging. It'll be interesting to see where God leads us and what He does through each person in our group. We have started Pastor Cymbala's When God's People Pray (The Brooklyn Tabernacle's pastor) and I can't imagine a better place to start then learning how to communicate and the importance of that with the Lord. It's been such a blessing.

The Finished Back Entry

Here's the finished project...

Latest project of mine...

Here is our little back entry.

I have left it for so long because I didn't know what I wanted to do with it, and then one day an idea came to me. I bought the red broom in Pennsylvania, and the rug at an antique shop in Louisiana. I won't be laying new carpet or any kind of new floor anytime soon, so the rug fit well in there since it had blue.

It may look cluttered with the baskets, but I love baskets. I think they are functional, cozy, inviting, and romantic. I love to use them to hold all kinds of different items from produce, to yarn, to flowers...I like having them there waiting and ready to be used. :)

The mum I bought recently for 2.50 on clearance. I thought it'd look lovely on the back porch and this way it'll survive the frost and get ample light as well...at least I'm hoping! :)It looks pretty all the same. :)

~ We've been quite busy with finishing remodel jobs, creating new ones...and I'll add more pictures later. My computer has been a pickle with the Blogger and I'm not sure why...hence my lack of updates.

I have much to write about since I've figured out how to get around the "pickle".

It's turned quite cool, and I'm loving it. Bekah and I have been collecting red, orange, and yellow leaves that have fallen. I've let her use a needle and thread to make garlands out of the leaves. She's quite pleased with herself. She'll be 4 next month and is so excited about all the things she'll be able to learn once she's 4. :) Like ironing, sewing, and playing the piano. It's been my goal to start more domesticated lessons then since my friend Laurel's mom did that, if I remember correctly. I always loved the idea and now that I have Rebekah and she is very coordinated I'll be starting her in real lessons, then as well. :)

A verse I've memorized lately...

Isaiah 26:3

Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed upon Thee, because he trust in Thee.

God's grace is sufficient...

We've had a little rough week. Nothing I want to share as it involves
others. I do want to say that reading God's word and keeping in
constantremembrance of Him, His word, and His promises can not be advised enough.

Isaiah 26:3

Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed upon Thee: because he trusts in Thee.

Isaiah 55:8 & 9

For
my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith
the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways
higher than your ways and thoughts higher than your thoughts.


Other than that, we haven't sold our house yet...ha-ha. We have had interest in the way of people viewing the fsbo.com and taking fliers,
but we haven't had anyone come to look at the house. Which....I have to
say we are still a little unprepared in our eyes to show it. I am
finding in this little adventure ways that I need to improve, simplify,
organize, and it's interesting that I'mlearning about myself as we go.

For
instance, I would love people to stop by to visit, unannounced,
whatever...except that now that our house is publicly displayed and
screaming "come look at me" I'm slightly nervous about the idea of
someone doing just that. Why? Because my kitchen has been overwhelmed
with dirty dishes, (not that I'm not doing them!! They just keep
coming!) my daughter's room looks like awar zone (case being that I'm putting a fresh coat of paint on it to cover a mural I'd painted with her name on it), our 4th bedroom is uninhabitable because my husband sheet rocked it etc. (it's almost done though! YAY! and actually that's about it. Everything else is clean, and ready to be seen.
What
I have learned about myself, is that I like to think I'm always ready
for company and sometimes I am. But lately I've been too occupied with
making everything perfect that my aura andmindset have not been on having company to any extent and I'm certainly not prepared to "entertain angels unaware".

Now
that I've recognized this, I can start cleaning what needs to be done,
and get everything to a point that it'll only take a 5-minute walk
through before someone walks inside.

**I started writing this on Sun. which is when the post will show, but now it's Wednesday. Some updates...

The 4th bedroom is painted and I'm preparing everything for Chris to affix the trim. Where does all the dust from the sheet rock come from? I've mopped 4 times, swept 3 and there's still a nagging layer of it!!! URGH! Oh well, it can't keep coming...can it;)

My
brothers have secured an apt. and are moving into their own place as we
speak. It's been lovely having them here, and relationships have grown
stronger, however since we are trying to sell the house, it will be
easier to show all the space off, with less stuff and people in the
home.

Today's weather is a bit gloomy, and it's probably only 65-ish...out,
but nevertheless, my love for fresh air has won over my need to be warm
. :) I do have the windows open! In a couple months I won't be able to
for the temperatures will dip to low, but for now..augh...breeze blow,
breeze blow! I love the fresh air, the smell, the feel of fall, the
crispness, the coffee aroma wafting into every room...Mmmm.

Well,
I'd better wrap this up. I have a few pictures of the last two projects
to post, but for now, onward and upward to suck up more dust!

For Sale...YAY!

Well, we've done it. We listed our house in
hopes to find someone who wants to live in a great small town, so that
we can start our life in the country. It's such a waiting game, and
it'll be especially difficult on me, since I tend to be so impatient
once I've had time to plan everything out! :) We'll see!

It's
funny how that when you know company is coming, or in our case
potential buyers, how a person "sees" areas that have been neglected
over time. When something needs fixing it stays on our mind and we know
we need to get it done, but the more we procrastinate for whatever
reason, the more comfortable we get with the "item" (whatever that may
be) being in disrepair. After time we don't even see it anymore. It
becomes part of the home, our life, and the disrepair,nicks, scuffs, and troubled spots blend into what's accepted.

How does this relate to our spiritual lives? When one becomes a new Christian, or has a breakthrough, we become more cognisant
of what areas aren't pleasing to God, what ways we are blending into
the world too much, maybe our lack of sincerity in some areas, and even
our insensitivity to the Holy Spirit's leading. If we don't renew
ourselves daily with the Word of God, which reminds us and shows us the
separation between His ways and the world's, we lose the urgency and
seriousness of the matter.We can not allow ourselves to get to the
complacent position in life, that we aren't ready for the Lord to come
back in the twinkling of an eye, and unexpectedly.

Just like
with selling our home, I must be ready and constantly aware of how my
life is pleasing God or not, and not let my life get into a state of
"disrepair". Unlike potential buyers, God won't call to set up an
appointment.

Actions speak louder than words.

I have just been thinking, after
listening to a sermon by Doug Philips, about how much we miss by not
being constantly in the Word of God and following it. It has been such
a blessing for my soul to hear him speak of THE
FAMILY TABLE. I see the correlation to the Scriptures in what
he says, and the logic behind the methods, and I'm uplifted and
encouraged to try to produce the same in our family.
If Chris and I
work this into our home rituals, I can see how we could be blessed,
become more united as a couple and as a family unit. I also can see the
good that would come from others witnessing the apparent changes we'd
make, and the changes in attitudes, etc. I see all the benefits and get
excited thinking about working to that end.

But...what if I never get to it? What good does it do to just hear something good and uplifting, but then put it on the back burner
and think, we are too busy to implement that. It would be as pearls
thrown to pigs. I don't want to be as such. I want to learn and grow in
the Lord and make changing our family according to the Bible, a
priority. I can not make my priorities different from what the Lord
commands in the Bible and expect to follow what He's commanded, and get
those desired results. Such a situation would turn out as the Little Red's story with the bread. You can not expect to get the
same results unless you put in the work that is required to get those
results.

I can not expect to have a household that runs like
Doug Philips', without implementing the Biblical standards, rules, and
balance of love as he does. Such would also be like me wanting my
grandmother's lovely rose garden, but not willing to do the work to
make it happen here. I, of course, could start to work on it, and even
buy roses, dig up a plot and even plant the roses. But if I don't water
them, feed them, and weed them, my efforts will be lost. I may be lucky
to get an occasional rose, if they don't die all together, but I
wouldn't have what I originally had wanted, because I didn't do the
work she did, that was required to get the same results.

We
are all familiar with James, but it's one thing to be familiar, and
another to read it, be in the moment, and then apply it to our lives.
That is my prayer. I want to be fully given over to the Word of God,
and to apply it to my life and the lives in my home, and to not just be
a hearer of the Word, but a DOER.

James 1:19-27 "19.
Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to
speak, slow to wrath: 20. For wrath of manworketh not the righteousness of God. 21. Wherefore lay apart all filthiness, and superfluity of naughtiness,and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls. 22. But be ye doers of the word,and not hearers only deceiving your own selves
. 23. For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like
unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: 24.For hebeholdeth himself, and goes his way, and straightway forgets what manner of man he was...."

I also have had it on my mind that once we have a priority...(speaking of following God's ways and not man's)it is imperative to seek Godly advice through His word, and those who are following His word and have the same priorities.

The
women whose blogs I read, and the other links I've listed have been
such an encouragement to my daily walk and priorities as aSAHM
(stay-at-home-mother). I must feed my need for Godly wisdom and
encouragement with those who are reaching for the same goal. If I don't
weigh the spirits and goals of all I listen to, and do not read God's
word, then I will not get vital instruction and encouragement that I
need to make choices that will lead me to the end I want. It'd be like
me wanting that same flowerbed and when having questions, going to a
welder or astronaut to ask what I should put on my roses to give them
the nutrients they need. Why would we do the same thing in spiritual
matters? And as Doug Philips said on the sermon this morning, the
Spiritual is not removed and separated from our everyday lives and
tasks. It is all wrapped up and applies to everything!

I
guess, one question I'd have for anyone trying to do what's right and
follow God, is: "Do you believe with all your heart that the Bible is
God's Holy word? If so, then we must believe all the consequences and
blessings to real as well. If it is a Living Word of God, it's ever
changing to be always current to everything that applies to us. In each
of our lives, in all our activities, in all our ups and downs, it isrelevant
. If we believe that God's Word is true in One aspect, then it must be
true in every aspect. Otherwise who's to know what is true and what
doesn't apply, and to whom?

Just a couple Scriptures that encouraged me today:

1 Timothy 6:3-8 If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to
wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the
doctrine which is according to godliness; He is proud knowing nothing,
but doting about questions andstrifes of words, where comes envy, strife, railings, and evil surmisings. Perverse disputings
of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, style="font-style:italic;">supposing that gain is
godliness: from such withdraw thyself."
It goes on
to say: Godliness with
contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and
it is certain we can carry nothing out. Having Food and raiment let us
be therewith content.

Also, 1 Timothy 6:20 & 21
O
Timothy, (I would replace this with my name, yours, etc.), keep that
which is committed to thy trust, style="font-weight:bold;">avoid profane and vainbabblings
, and "oppositions of science" falsely so called: which some professing
have erred concerning the faith. Grace be with thee. Amen.


2 Timothy is a wealth of instruction and training for Christians...

1:7
For the Lord has not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and a sound mind.

2:15,16
Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needs not be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness.

3:1-7
WOW! This know also, in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, truce breakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, traitors, heady, high minded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God. Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof; From such TURN AWAY.
For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away by diverse lusts.
EVER LEARNING, AND NEVER ABLE TO COME TO THE KNOWLEDGE OF THE TRUTH.


So,
as a conclusion...We must guard our hearts, and look to God and not to
men. When we find someone who has the same goals as we, then it is in
our best interest to "takeahold " of that person. We must encourage and
not just be encouraged. We must grow in God's Word, and not just be
Hearers, thinking "oh, that's lovely"; but be Doers as well!

May God be with you, leading you to deeper understandings of His word and Will for your lives!

Love,

Misti

Is Autumn upon us?

Oh, my. It's absolutely perfect weather. It couldn't be nicer, or more pleasant. It's about 70 degrees out. The air is breezy, and dry, so it feels wonderful to have a cup of coffee in hand while making my grocery list, etc.

I've really enjoyed this summer, but I'll say I'm looking forward to fall. Not for winter yet, but I love the cool breezes, the crisp, fresh air, and the mums that show their beauty this time of year.

Right now, we are quite busy working on readying our home for sale. I do hope it sells, because we feel this is our next step to getting on an acreage. I'm not sure if it'll sell, but if it's the Lord's will and He's changing our hearts towards this matter, then all will work out according to His perfect will, right?

I am looking forward to seeing people's comments and interest, or lack of interest. I have to admit it's a bit of an adventure for me. :) I do love our home and Chris has made it almost completely as we'd like it to be, however the adventure of moving to
another place, new decorating plans, gardening plans, animals and an even simpler life is calling me.

Well, I'd better make this day productive! I started off good, so I'd better keep it going!!!

Psalm 62:1-3,8
"My soul finds rest in God alone, my salvation comes from Him. 2. He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress, I will never be shaken.8. Trust in Him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to Him, for God is our refuge."


The Lord is so good!

Home Sweet Home

Have you ever felt in a complete state of peace? I don't know if I ever have before...but I did when I arrived home.

During
our visit there were a number of events, discussions, and episodes that
normally would have led me to be frazzled in spirit, as they have
before. However, this trip was different because I was different. I've
been reading my fellowbloggers ' writings, and reading the Bible and I
even read the Bible frequently while on vacation. I will have to admit
that usually is something I don't do when away from home...:(. This
time though, when I'd get to a point where my soul needed refreshing,
I'd read God's word and would feel a complete peace. Our stay wasn't so
much different, but the way I felt was. Isaiah 26:3-4 "Thou wilt keep
him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusts
in Thee. Trust ye in the Lord for ever: for in the Lord JEHOVAH is
everlasting strength."

Having been gone for two weeks, I've been able to reflect alot on things here on the home front. It is rejuvenating to go somewhere and be inspired and thrilled to get home.
When
I was gone, I thought about ways to be more productive, creative, and
even resourceful. I even came back LOVING Nebraska and appreciating
things I hadn't noticed before. Not that I didn't have a grand time
visiting family, enjoying the flowers ofLouisiana , and shopping...but
getting back home was sweeter this time than ever. And for my relatives
that are reading...that DOES NOT mean I don't miss you!!! :)

As
I'm writing I have the windows open over the computer and a cup of
coffee at my hand. The 70 degree crisp breeze blowing in is a tease of
fall, for we haven't seen the last of summer yet. It's only about 50%
humidity or less so it feels as though fall has arrived.

My
tomato plants have produced a bountiful harvest and more this year than
ever before do I appreciate God's provisions and see blessings where
before I saw work. I have picked 3 heapingbasketfuls of the gorgeous
red fruit and have made sauces and will dice them today. I know there's
a debate in some hearts about whether it's really worth it or not, but
yesterday while I was cleaning and pureeing tomatoes I made myself
aware of what I was doing and what was going on.I listened to the birds
calling to one another, feeling the delicate breeze of summer passing
over my face, and smelling the juicy ripeness of the perfect fruit God
has made. I enjoy the thought of knowing my freezer is starting to fill
up with fruit that had no chemicals, and so therefore better to feed my
family with.

When I am not "busy" I enjoy doing things for my family rather than buying predone
stuff. There's a wonderful satisfaction in being able to put together
something with love and while doing it be relaxed and praise God for
what He's blessed us with. Not only the fruits themselves, but with the
knowledge and wherewithal to be able to do it.

In the pictures above you'll see
1. My first basketful of Tomatoes and my surprise lilies that appeared while we were gone on our trip.
2.
My cream and sugar set that I took out of my china hutch and decided to
use. (Thanks Aunt Holly for the idea!!!!) The green base is USA pottery
I found at a store for $1 and the cream and sugar set were Chris'
Great-Grandma's.
3. My Great-Grandma and Bekah are on the profile
picture...Oh how we can learn so much if we are taught to be patient
and sit at the feet of those who came before us.


The trip was a wonderful break from the everyday life; it opened my eyes to alot of new thoughts, ideas, and the wonderful blessings that God has provided for our family.


It's
wonderful to be home....yes....I still do miss my relatives and still
think a commune would be a great way to live. The only fault is that
you have to have more than one family that believes that way!

on vacation...

Sorry, I've not been posting...Rebekah and I have been in Louisiana visiting family and will continue to be for another week.

In the midst of our time here, the Lord has been faithful and kept us safe. It's neat how that even while we take a break from our routine, I know that He is still watching over us, and not taking a break from us!

So many thoughts running through my head and so many things to talk about, however I'm off to help my Aunt make a tote.

Best Wishes to all my visitors,

Misti

My Lovely Day - Why I most like Garage Sales...

So, today I set out our last bit of extra stuff and had enough for a
garage sale. Pretty sad since I've had 4 in the last 3 years. I have an
issue with getting, keeping, storing, and getting more. So, I'm done
with it and have successfully cleaned out all our rooms of anything
that doesn't make me happy or have a definite purpose and place. I was
doubting myself as to if I had enough, but put it out anyway.
I
did sell enough to make it worth it if you just look at the monetary
gain (what I didn't sell is by the curb for someone to have), but what
was even better about today was our front porch atmosphere. This had to
be one of the best sales I've had. Not for the money, but for the
company.
It started with a gentleman coming to see what we had. He
is a bachelor and stops every year, but more for the company than my
tired home decorations, or toddler swimsuits! He comes and talks and
this time expecting him to stop I had chairs ready and coffee going. We
were selling a guitar and so having played the guitar a long time ago,
he picked it up and started playing. Bekah picking up on his sweet demeanor took to him right away and sang and danced while he played. We had a regular show going!
A little while later (all the while selling stuff)a son of my parents' friend
happened to be in town because his daughters were in a swim conference.
He happened to be driving by and saw the same guitar propped up and
decided to stop. That's when we realized who he was! He lives and hour
and a half from us and we just so happened to be having a garage sale
when he was in town? Small world huh? and ironic...
He then stayed
and played the guitar (at this time the older gentleman had gone to his
car to get his guitar.)with the first gentleman. Again there was a show
going! :)
After a couple hours of this wonderful entertainment and
making money, we had a break, everyone went home for lunch and Chris
made us pizza. Later, we had another visitor...a young man whom I met a
little while ago. And if that wasn't enough, my cousin whom I rarely
visit with stopped by and we had a sincere heart-to-heart.
The passing people seemed to welcome the chance to sit and chat.

Thinking
about that, I long for an open front porch to sit on and greet our
neighbors as they go by. I've heard of "Front Porch" ministries, but
only after today have seen a vision of what could be, if we just take
the time to listen and care.

Here's what went on today:

1. Friendship
2. laughter
3. old and young connecting and having a mutual respect for the other
4. clean conversation
5. relaxation
6. counseling
7. counseling
8. and more counseling

There's
so much that we can impart on people as seeds of biblical truths, and
God's love and grace, even when they stop at a garage sale.

As
Christians we must be aware of our actions at all times. We are
ambassadors of Christ and to act in any other manner would be to shame
and bring reproach on the name of Christ.Colossians 4:6 "Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man".
Philippians 2:14-15 "Do all things without murmurings and disputings:
That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke,
in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as
lights in the world"

How many people happen across our path
trying to find their place within this world. They are looking for
(even unknowingly) an answer to their problems and seeking someone who
believes something worth sharing.

I love the idea of even
sitting out on our front yard, making ourselves available to those who
need to talk, need compassion, or maybe just a little girl dancing and
singing "you are my sunshine"!

Right now we are living in town
and if we ever move to the country then we won't have the access to
people as we do now; for right now, though, I need to remember there
are people here in close proximity that need a little friendship and
care and that this is where God has us for a reason.

The best thing about garage sales are the people to whom God brings by and the acquaintances that can fast grow into very close friendships.

Praise the Lord for this wonderfully productive day.

Thrift Store Treasure & My Obsession...

The first two pictures are of a
little jar I found for 1.50. I'm not sure how old it is, but the owner
of the thrift store thought maybe it was from the 1920's. I'd love to
know if someone knows it's worth and specs. I loved it for it's unique
shape and of course color! I have it sitting on my window sill in the
kitchen. I had plan on using it as a vase but I really like the top and
decided to just leave it as is.

The Checker set I found for
3.00. I am particularly fond of this because it screams Southern front
porch...ferns hanging, white wicker furniture, and large glasses of ice
tea. I do plan on using this on our back porch most likely. Once Winter
hits I'll transfer it to the basement where our game room will be
eventually.

The last pictures...(just forgive the last little
painting I need to do behind the fridge...) are of my recent
experiment. I LOVE labels on things and I also love stuff to be easily
accessible for me and company. So, I started labeling my cabinets with
sticker words. The one I started was obviously the "Special Occasions"
- that's those dishes that I like to have for none other than...special
occasions. I wanted to see how it would look and now I'm convinced I
love the turnout. I plan to put one on each upper cabinet door.
Glasses, Bowls, plates, goodies, dry goods, bakery, etc.

I love labels and if I could I'd have cute labels on EVERYTHING! :) I just love the way it looks.

Easy Alfredo

Hi all,

Unfortunately I don't have a picture. :(sorry!

Here's a simple recipe for alfredo that includes what most of us have on hand. It'll feed 6 easy with leftovers for lunch. Start with a large pot.

1/2 c. cornstarch
1/2 c. water

mix until sort of pasty

3-1/2 c. milk - heat until soft bubble around edges of pot.

Add cornstarch mix and mix well. This mixture will thicken and then take a 1/4 c. or so of the hot liquid and add it to 2 eggs.

Add the egg mixture to milk.

Add 1 c. parmesan, 1/2 tbs pepper, 2 tbs +/- garlic, and salt to taste.

Wha-laa!

Add your noodles, and meat if you like and it's Great.

Around Thanksgiving turkeys are cheap so it's a great time if you have extra room for the meat to buy and boil/bake a turkey and then debone and freeze the meat.

I use this meat in my "chicken" alfredo if I don't have chicken on hand. Shh....Nobody knows the difference.

To Be Content, We Must First Have Faith and Give Thanks

Last night my husband and I were
talking about our rising electric bill, among the other rising costs of
gas, food, etc. I began getting a frustrated, unfortunately my first
instinct is to do drastic things like not run the a/c at all even
though it would get to 90+ in our house, stop using hot water, or stop
using electricity completely. Sad to say that I went to bed racking my
brain at everything we could possibly do with out, and praying that the
Lord would give me wisdom in using our money wisely... regardless of
the amount of money we have.

Then I got up this morning. I got
ready for the day, made pancakes with my daughter, and read the Bible.
Here's what we've been listening to and the Scripture I read:

The Song from my daughter's cd
- "I like to think about the Goodness of the Lord. He gives me
everything I need and so much more, so I just want to lift my hands and
say that I love him, and I want to lift my heart in praise...I want to
be thankful, I want to be grateful, I want to remember what the Lord
has done....I want to be thankful, I want to be grateful, I wanna be, I
wanna be"

Here's the Scripture that I coincidentally flipped
to: 2 Corinthians 12:9 "And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for
thee; for my strength is made perfect in weakness."

I remembered that the children of Israel, in Exodus, complained alot
because they had forgotten what God had delivered them of and through.
How many of us think if we were delivered out of slavery, walked
through an ocean on
dry land, or had food fall from heaven, or any of the other tremendous
happenings the Bible records, that we would never be unthankful or
unfaithful again? I know I have thought that on occasion, but the truth
is that we do the same thing. Even though a few thousand years or more
separate us, we still have the same struggles, desires, victories, and
the same God that watches over us.

As I was reading the verse
about His grace being sufficient for us, it made me think about how
blessed we are. Even if things do get more expensive, and I have to be
more creative as to how I stretch things, God is still looking out for
us. If I believe that He is watching out for us, I am doing my best to
follow His commands and ways, then I should also rest in the fact that
He knows how much we NEED, and will provide accordingly. It may not be
Sketchers, or a T-Bone Steak, and we may not drive aMaserati, but that's not needed.

How
do I be thankful, when I am discouraged by the news which leads me
to discontentment with not being prepared - in this case?

I then
pray and turn to God's word, and it reminds me that (1 Timothy
6:6-8)"1. But godliness with contentment is great gain. 2. For we
brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing
out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content." It did
not say if we have so much food we have leftovers, it does not specify
the brand of clothing we must wear, and it does not tell us that we
must have these things in order to be thankful. We must be thankful in
all our circumstances (iThessalonians 5:18)and after we start counting our blessings we'll find there isn't any room for discontentment.

I
know that in our economic circumstances we may have less fun foods, we
may get fewer clothing less often, maybe even have to stay home
more...but regardless of this I will be content. I will praise the Lord
for He knows what our family needs, and He knows the way that He will
provide for us. I can rest assure of that. So, when I hear there's a
rise in prices again (as we know there will be)and feel a bit panicky,
I will be content with what the Lord as blessed us with, thank Him for
watching over us and look forward to seeing how He'll will provide for
our needs.

Matthew 6:25-34 Tells me to not worry about
tomorrow, because if the Lord watches and takes care of the sparrow,
won't He do the same for us who are more important?

So, before I go to bed tonight, here's what I'm thankful for:

1. Knowing that I have a relationship with the Almighty God,
2. My wonderful husband who strives to grow close to God, and take care of his family
3. My daughter; her health,
4. Our home
5. Food to eat and share with others
6. Family support including in-laws whom I am so happy to say I love dearly
7. People that share about their ways of doing things and love for God, which encourages me
8. My Mennonite friend in Pennsylvania who encourages me to live simply
9. Our health
10. Being in my right mind and having peace of mind that all will turn out well because Jesus has everything under control,
11. the "pupcakes" (cupcakes) in the kitchen that are calling to be eaten!
12. Our window units that slightly dry and cool the air this summer
13. Our little pool that cools us when the a/c isn't keeping up

So, when I feel discontent I'll count my blessings and and there won't be room for anything else.

Are
you having a rough time? What are some of the things you've been
blessed with? If need be it's great to keep sticky notes where you'll
have to read the things you are blessed with if you are having a very
low moment and can't bring anything to mind!

The Big Picture...

How many times do we wipe smudges off a window and look over
the picture of a family drawn with fingerprints? Or see the toys on the
floor as a chaotic mess, but in actuality it is a congregation
listening to our child preach last Sunday's sermon? Or maybe we are
rushing about our duties and thinking, "Augh! if I could just have my
own time!" and then our child comes up and hugs our legs and looks at
us with those vulnerable eyes...This is just a piece of what our
purpose is as mothers.
Each day can be consumed with monotonous duties like, spit-up rags, diapers, sippy cups, baths, commands, and demands. But in these simple duties we must tend, we are preparing our children for greathood.
A place as a preacher telling 1000's of Jesus' love, maybe a soldier
fighting for his country and home, maybe we are preparing our son to be
the next President. Maybe we are equipping our daughters with the patience to care for their own little ones and homes.
The
list goes on as does the potential of our children. It's up to us
mothers to prepare the children God has given us for the life that He
may have for them. The sooner they learn patience, work ethics,
selflessness, humility, compassion, and perseverance , the better their reactions to them will be better.

We have been given
an awesome opportunity as mothers to create a peaceful, inviting, home
for our families. To nurture them and teach them, and show them God's
laws, and love through us. We must never forget that women are not just
moms...they are precious vessels of God, if allowing themselves, can be
wonderful catalysts for a better and brighter tomorrow, starting just with our own children.

I know
for myself I've had times that I knew I wanted to stay home, or that it
made more sense financially for now, but when I would only focus on those
reasons, I was missing the bigger picture of what my life is worth and
what God has for me. If I only focus on the mundane daily tasks, and
have a bitter heart towards them, I am missing the joy and happiness
that can be mine. Just as the disciples were trying to shoo the
children away from Jesus, missing that they were worth something to Him
as well, we must not look at our children with disdain for keeping us
from becomingmore.


We do not have a higher calling than the one that teaches and cares for the ones He's blessed us with.

We
have a great job ahead of us, mothers. But through that "job" we can be
refined, beautified, up-lifted and unique when we minister and take
care of our families, as God has instructed.
Proverbs31:Who can find
a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies. The heart of her
husband does safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of
spoil. She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life....
It
goes on to say...Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall
rejoice in time to come. She opens her mouth with wisdom; and in her
tongue is the law of kindness. She looks well to the ways of her
household, and eats not the bread of idleness. Her children rise up and
call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her. Many daughters
have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all. Favour
is deceitful and beauty is vain: a women that fears the Lord, she shall
be praised. Giver her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works
praise her in the gates.


I can not say enough how important
it is for mothers to be there for their children and husbands. To
nurture and be an example of what our children should be. It is one of
the most important jobs a woman can have.

Colossians 3:17 & 23 (the Scriptures in between are relevant as well)
17. "And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by Him. 23. And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men. "

Good For You Products...

I have had the privilege of using most of the products offered through
Countryside Pleasures, and have been very pleased. The Goat Milk soaps
are great as they do not get gummy, they hold their shape until the
very end and have magnificent fragrances.
The lip balm is my absolute favorite to date, as it is a less expensive but comparable version of Burt's Bees. The ingredients are all good for you, so they
pose no harmful threats in case your child decides to eat them, or paint their whole face, as my daughter has done!

I am trying to revolutionize my cosmetics and soaps, and here is a fabulous place to start!

Thank
you Alicia at
Countryside Pleasures for taking on this endeavor to provide
better skincare and beauty products to those of us who are ready for a
change!

Author ...my dad? Say What?!

This book was published just a week
ago by Tate Publishing. Yes, you see correctly, my father's the author!
Kind of surreal, seeing his name in print, besides the "Letter to the
Editor" he's done in the past. This is the real thing. I'm pretty proud
of him.

He's held fast to the belief that there's something
more regarding sexuality in God's eyes than our churches and world
leave everyone to believe. And finally at 53 he's gotten the message
out and has in my opinion done an excellent job conveying what the Lord
has revealed to him so many years ago.

The book is a
wonderful, strictly Bible-based, explanatory "text-book" have you,
about what intimacy is to God. As well as Scriptures explaining the controversial topics that plague people today. Alot
of people "know in their hearts" that homosexuality is wrong, as well
as fornication, adultery, incest, etc. but can we really explain why it
is wrong in God's eyes and against nature, with more than "God said
it's wrong"? How do we combat the ever growing tolerance that has taken
over many of our churches?

Some are trying to stand for abstinence,
but in our overly perverted society it is becoming harder and harder to
stand for what we "know in our hearts" is right. Wouldn't it be easier
to know exactly what God thinks and what His laws are about our intimate lives? How bad in God's eyes are our actions if we choose to follow society as a standard and not His ways?

This
book really opens up a topic that has never been touched among
Christians that I know of. The topics are difficult enough for many to
even talk over with their children let alone preach to the
congregations. I feel that this book has been a blessing. Yes, my dad does
explain (with Scriptures for everything!) the laws and will of God, but
it is so encouraging to know that there is a standard, we don't have to
be swallowed up by society's tolerance and only refute why we believe as
we do because of traditions. There is a standard and the standard is
the Bible. It has always been that way and always will be. Praise the
Lord!

Sometimes I get saddened at how perverse our world is,
and worry about raising my children against something so accepted.
However, there is a standard and God's law will prevail. I can rest in
the Lord. His Word is solid and trustworthy and all I need to do is
believe and follow Him. Of course you must start somewhere, and a great
place to do that is with "It's
Good For A Man Not To Touch A Woman". One of our very first
commandments here on earth is to "Be fruitful and multiply" it is an
innate desire of most everyone (unless called to celibacy ) to be
intimate and from the very beginning this needs to be taught to our
children what is appropriate, and acceptable in God's eyes and the
ramifications if we choose Satan's lies rather than God's truths.

I
am very glad that he followed his dream and has published such a easy
to read, yet full of wisdom, truth, and riches to behold...why? Because
it is Biblically-based and not taught anywhere else.
I feel there may be hope for the world
yet. Not because my dad is special above another, but because he was a vessel used
by God to bring out a truth in the Bible that almost everyone either is
not equipped to broach, or forgoes the truth in God's word to be
tolerant of our culture's sad acceptance of a counterfeit way of life.

To
change our nation, Christians with a heart to follow God's word above
what is popular, the norm, and acceptable, must adhere to what God says
in II Chronicles 7:14 "If my people, which are called by my name, shall
humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their
wicked ways; then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin,and will heal their land."

Fellow
believers, it's up to us to change things. We aren't much "good" when
our family and relationship statistics are no different then the
world's. If we are supposed to be different so that God knows us from
the world, then this is a good place to start. We must know where we
stand to ward off the false theories of tolerance and humanism that
pervades our society. One way to do that is get back on track with what
God sets as a standard for our life and press forward in victory,
knowing we've been redeemed and we need to say so! We are bought with a
price and no little price at that. Shouldn't we know what God's views
are on such a common topic as this, since there appears to be another
way? A more holy way, and God-ordained?

If you are interested in reading the book, and having Scriptures to explain the "Why it's so" answers to back you up on the controversial
issues that are pervading our churches, schools, and families today,
then you can get the book (for only 12.99)from me, my father, or with credit card
through Tate Publishing. If you have questions about defending your beliefs, seeing God's
design on things like, marriage, and Is there really NO pre-marital
sex? then I highly suggest you read the book. It's very enjoyable and
quite the page turner. It will open your eyes to a whole new world.
God's World.


Thanks for reading!

I'm still learning, but I feel so far behind!

I was just reading a friend's blog
and
realized I'm spending WAY too much on groceries. I think I'm on the
right path, but feel so far behind still. I will have to say that we do
not have the bountiful, long harvest up north that the southerners
enjoy, but I'm sure there's more that I can do.

One thing I started a month ago, was before I make any grocery lists, I take a
complete
inventory of what I have. Therefore not buying any duplicates. Then I
went through my list of food items I have and realized I had 3-4 meals worth
of stuff if I used it the right way. Excited, I then looked up recipes to use my other
items and then went through the shopping ads to fill in for meals we
still needed. I definitely felt accomplished.

Then...I didn't do that this past "pay period". I noticed right away what a
difference, because even though I had a list of food to buy, I hadn't
checked my inventory and ended up spending at least $10.00 on groceries
I already had in the pantry or freezer. I was pretty bummed. But, it
was a lesson learned.

Some other lessons I'm learning...

#1 Venture out and actually try new recipes! (picture of banana bread and vegetable tart/quiche)

#2 I learned to sew about 5 months ago and am loving it!!! I now make
quite a bit of stuff as long as I designate the time to it. Or should I
say make it a priority.I'm having a blast finding sales on material and creating new things from the old!

#3 The Ole Time smokehouse! This is such a cool way to get around spending a lot of
money on a smoker (if you already have a small shed on your property),
yet preserve your meats! I was so impressed, unfortunately Chris wasn't
as much. All they did was line the floor with stone, then the put down an outer layer of old ashes. The center is where the fire goes. I think that there's alot to be learned from the old ways...so much that it gets overwhelming to me.

#4 The black cast iron "dutch oven"(on the back corner. This was one of my
favorites and although not many of us cook over fires anymore unless we
are camping, it's a great techique to know just in case you have one handy and need food! You place hot ashes in the bottom and then a trivet, on the trivet sits
your dish/bowl of food and then you put the lid of the dutch oven over
the food. Lastly you place hot ashes on the lid and let it bake. There's some kind of odd looking meal in the dutch oven, but it sure smelled delightful!

#5 Tart cherries from our tree. I've learned I don't like cherries. Or at least the way I've attempted to make them. I've tried pie (the crust was excellent!) and cobbler and couldn't hardly eat either. It felt so wasteful, after spending the time
to hand-pit and bake it and then both still be so tart they were not enjoyable. I wish I'd just let the birds enjoy them...but I've learned to either put double the sugar the recipe calls for, or let someone else enjoy them!Blawck! - and I really am not a picky eater!

So, after reading about my friend who only spent
$120 the last 5 weeks on groceries...I'm challenged to be
even more careful, yet provide wholesome, EDIBLE food for my family!
Let's see!

I Love Letters, ....the Old kind.

The art of paper-letter-writing still exists!!!

I received a letter from a new friend in Pennsylvania. The Mennonite
woman who so graciously spent time answering my questions and showing
us her farm wrote me! I sent her a Thank-You card, half expecting her
not to respond since we were so vastly different...our new car, worldly clothing and short hair....uncovered even! But, to my surprise she responded very quickly!


I miss the old days when things were more personal. Our new
technologies have definitely made some things easier...but I think it's
allowed us to be less intimate with people. I admit sometimes it's nice
to call someone back later if you know they've called, and it's
very fun getting email...real email - not the forwards. It's also nice
that we have so much information at our fingertips and can find
anything we want...and don't want via the net. But how much is being
lost when we have machines that do our work? Granted sometimes in a
pinch it's nice to have, but over all if we weren't so rushed all the
time...would it matter? And how many of those "pinches" would happen?

I remember when a friend's family had purchased the latest high-tech gadget
"The Answering Machine". I was about 10 when these first machines were
the latest rage. I remember calling and calling to ask her to come play
because all though we lived a street apart, I couldn't walk to her
house. Most of the time when I'd call I'd get the answering machine
since her parents screened calls. At that time it was frustrating because I couldn't get a live person to answer my little question. However now, how many times do we think..., "Ohhhh, I hope a machine picks up because I don't want to talk!" and then much to our disappointment "a REAL voice" answers.

Or what about the Internet? It can certainly be a tool for destruction, but for the sake of my point I'm not going to address that. The Internet
is the gateway to the world. When we used to go to the library to find
information, we now type in a question...never mind if it's spelled
right, and there we are, usually more answers than we need. While
this is nice if you are looking up your health concerns at 3:00a.m.,
for the most part it actually robs us of our people skills and learning
processes.

For example, when we go to the library we have to speak in a lower tone, greet our librarian, and fellow patrons. Not to mention we have to learn how to use the library, and to look something up it generally has to have correct spelling, etc. The Internet on the other hand is able to be used by the most uneducated and demands no people skills whatsoever to find what you need.
Don't get me wrong, I do enjoy this avenue of information and in this blog's case recreation, but I think that beyond the obvious perils, there is more that is lost like commradory and refining social behaviors of people, as well as not demanding a certain level of education. I believe one will rise or be lowered to the
standards which are placed upon them.

As for the answering machine...I enjoy the aspect of seeing who has called when I was gone and being able to call most of them back. I also have to say that yes, I too am guilty of just not wanting to get the phone, regardless of who is calling...but for the most part I do try to still answer and speak with the caller.

And before this gets too lengthy, I want to say how much I love and long for the old fashioned pen and paper. I love to write letters and I love to read them. I would much rather after all is quiet in the house, sit in an overstuffed chair, lamp lit, drinking my tea or coffee reading the latest happenings, joys and concerns of a close friend, then to try to sit at our computer with the monitor blazing in my face, hearing the clacking of my keys, just to be denied access to my e-mail after typing the wrong letter. I also would rather hold the paper that they held and feel closer to them, than to read an email that has common fonts, colors, and script as any other form of communication over the computer.

For many the Internet has opened up a world of convenience and speed, yet it lacks the personality of special stationary chosen by a friend; the scents of their home; and maybe even a tear drop or two shed in a most intimate time (knowing a friend will sympathize, pray, and care).

Although I may not write letters often, I do want to try to keep alive such an old form of communication. Everyone in my family knows that my Great-Grandmother loves to get letters and write them too. I never understood why it was so special, I loved getting that surprise letter in the mail, but didn't grasp the intimacy that a letter brings until now. After receiving my prized letter from my new found penpal, I vow to write less emails, unless absolutely necessary, and open up more of myself in a way that's being lost in our society. Infact, I'm leaving the computer for now...I have some beautiful cards that I've picked up and a great steady pen. I'm going to write my great-grandmother who will be as excited to get my letter as I was my new friend from Pennsylvania.

To the Pen & Paper! Hooray!

Budget, Budget, Budget!!! Finally pays off!

Today Chris and I went to the bank to see if we should even think about getting a loan for this next house, or if maybe we should just wait awhile before selling our home and moving on. It was wonderful to actually hear the banker say he didn't think there would be any reason we couldn't get a loan. (And for how much we want.) We've worked hard to improve our credit and spend wisely.
Of course here in Nebraska we aren't looking for anything too extravagant, but definitely a step forward from what we have now. I won't say much about the place we are interested in right now, but I do want to congratulate my hubby on making us go on the "envelope" system of budgeting.
The first 3 months were difficult adjusting to, but then I started finding I had more money to do extra with because we knew where our money was being spent. Have you ever thought about how many .60 candy bars and 1.30 beverages you buy and how often? Multiply that by the amount of days you do that in a month then multiply that by 12 and you have how much you spend on just two different items in a year. Then do that with the amount of haircuts (and tips) and any "entertainment" you have etc. etc. and you'll find you are spending excess money and have no idea while you are doing it that you are spending such a heinous amount. We did. Then we'd wonder why we didn't have money left over at the end of the month for extras, or milk. Silly. Then my husband found this great website.
He was able to figure out all our bills and then track everything according to the personal finance help they have. Then he put us on the envelope system! Yes, we now have envelopes designating our;

1. Beauty (haircuts, makeup)
2. Clothes
3. Misc. (anything like movies, fairs, whatever)
4. Auto Maintenance
5. House Maintenance
6. Gifts
7. Gas (autos)
   
8. Short Term Goal (Night out just the two of us, mini-trips, water park vacation, etc.)
9. Health (prescripts and co-pays, etc.)
10. Vacation
    

Now I know my grocery money goes just for that and I have money for other things as well. If I know there's something special we can save a month or more and have the cash to put towards it rather than putting it on the credit card. It's been lovely and more rewarding than I could imagine. We started with listing all our bills and necessaries then allotting a small, but reasonable amount to each of the extras like misc., short term goal, vacation etc.
We are still tweaking and learning to live on just what is in each envelope...and yes, I'm guilty of borrowing from an envelope, but as long as I pay it back it's OK. It does take discipline, but it's been so worth it, because we aren't going negative, we aren't using our card, and we are even getting our debt paid off rather quickly. I think knowing that we even have a little money for things help us avoid those mad spending sprees.

One of our priorities have been for me to stay at home and not have an outside job. We feel this is Biblically right and in doing so we have to live on one income, and one income alone. It is my job to be my husband's helpmate and responsibly use the income that he brings in to take care of our family. I could sell my items as the Proverbs 31 woman does, and that would be OK, but for me to have an income to actually support the family, would be more burden than I was prescribed! (Genesis) So, since this is something we have chosen to do, it required me to learn to live on what Chris makes and be content with that. I will have to say he has been blessed with a great job, but it still takes discipline to only live on what we have.

Today was another one of those gratifying experiences when I was so glad that we chose to implement a budget and follow it. The sacrifice was worth it.

So, for anyone that is struggling with their finances, or wants to stay at home and have the freedom of only being subject to your husband, it's doable. It just has to be what you want more than anything. But it's SO worth it!

Breathe Deep.....the best moment of the day

I was reading a book that has different ideas on how to de-stress, simplify, etc. and one of the things that it said was to "Breathe Deeply". Sounds unnecessary to remind a person to breathe deep, but since actually thinking about it, and then pausing....inhaling as much air as possible, then slowly releasing the air, I have decided that I must remember to breathe more often. That moment of pause in my life makes everything seem more manageable and puts things into perspective. It relaxes my muscles (with a couple of deep breathes), and lets me take in things that I normally miss. Like as I sit here, and breathe, (and even better with my eyes closed) I am made all the more aware of the rustling leaves in the trees and the birds chirping, and the breeze as it dances across my arms and face. I'm instantly rejuvenated. Even if I'm having a "moment" with my daughter, or mad, sorrowful, or frustrated; it amazes me at what just pausing, and calming myself to take a deep breath does.

Maybe it is silly to tell someone to breathe, but I have noticed it's one of my most important moments in my day.

Please Give me Patience...NOW!

The Beauty above is a "Mountain Laurel". - From Pennsylvania.

Why is it so hard to be patient? I try and try not to think about this property we want, yet, I am failing miserably. I have the house cleaned, our furniture moved in, gardens planted, cows in the pasture waiting to be milked, chickens in hunt for dinner, and a pot roast in the oven, clothes on the line, .....Oh yeah, we haven't even put in a offer yet. One small technicality. :)

I don't know if it'll work out but we are praying the Lord's will...I feel we are in line with what He'd want, but then again I don't know what He has in store...we'll see.

I think I have moving fever...or "self-sufficiency" fever, or maybe it'd just be nice to be out in the country to let Bekah and whoever else is at our place run free to explore with out the threat of getting in the road, or walking off with a stranger.

I want a cow to make our own dairy products...or at least alot of them, and the milk! Agh....raw milk, free of unnatural ingredients and things that have adverse effects on our bodies...
Chickens. I would love to have our own chickens...well at least for the eggs and natural pest control. I am really not keen on the idea of butchering....That's one chore I really think I've done my share of. Although, knock on wood...I also thought I'd never find myself antsy to move out to the country!!! Eeks.

Well, on to chores that acutally need to be done, rather than anxiously awaiting the decision on getting our acreage...of which I can do nothing about at this time...

Agh....the Simple Life...

Our family recently returned from a reunion on my husband's side in Pennsylvania. I've been very blessed to have married into such a great family and don't take it for granted at all. But, (as I give a wistful sigh at missing them) I have another thought to write on... The Amish.

The first few pictures are some I took in Pennsylvania as we rode a steam train. The First 3 pictures are special to me because... The reason's number corresponds with the picture.
#1 The fathers and sons were home with their families. Although working as they must, they are really following the Biblical mandate for the Man to be the ultimate providers.

#2 The Women are home, tending to their family's needs as well, not to others' purposes, families, and rules. To their own husbands and families is their duty. Another Biblical mandate.

#3 I loved their pulley system of drying their clothes. It's a great way to maximize the space you have for hanging out laundry. It's so refreshing to see your handiwork. Unfortunately I'm not there yet, but this is one of my goals. Start hanging our laundry out and keeping abit more of our income to ourselves! ~Not to mention I agree with the idea that sometimes it's the chores that we take the time to do, that gives us that few minutes of peace from crying kids, or anything else that challenges our sanity as mothers.

The other two pictures are self-explanitory. Bekah in a Betsy Ross hat we purchased at Christ's Church in Philedelphia, and our little family. We had hiked with Chris' step-sis and her little family to this waterfall.

~It was so much fun seeing the way the Amish & Mennonites lived and even getting the rare chance to spend 2 hours at a Mennonite Family's home. Asking questions and learning about them. Their family and church practices as well. I joke now that the only thing I forgot to ask is how to convert!

Chris and I were so smitten with their lifestyle and close family ties, that we are trying to purchase an acreage in attempt to try our hand at "being Mennonite". Hmmmm.......

Large tasks for little hands

I'm trying to incorporate Bekah into more of my tasks that I know she can do. Some of them include dusting (even the breakables as long as they are in easy reach and not too heavy), folding clothes (washclothes, and all her clothes), sweeping the kitchen with her childsize broom, and picking and washing spinach for supper. Of course there are other tasks she does like setting the table and wiping up spills etc. but this one of late (pictured above) has been such a help to me and so much fun to her.

How many times do I take on too much and then it results in my getting frusterated because she gets under foot and I feel like I'd go faster if she'd just go in the other room while I finish all my tasks. Which in reality isn't desirable because she's not learning, I'm not teaching, and there's usually stuff left undone.

I'm working on my patience with her and realizing each day that she'd rather wash spinach with me then play with her dollhouse. Not only is she doing a "big girl's job", she's getting attention from me whom she idolizes, as do all children this age. Of course I may correct her on a technique and it may not be all fun, but this is one step in teaching her the responsibilites of being an adult.

I want Bekah to learn the responsibilities and joys of being an adult, a wife and a mother, and the only way I can do that is to have her at my side....most of the time. As long as I continue to see this as my purpose and goal my patience will grow, along with her desire to fulfill the role that God (Lord Willing) has for her as well.

We as moms (since we are to be the primary caregivers) have a duty to raise our children yes, for the Lord, but also to set examples for our children to be content and industrious within our roles God has created for us, as wives and mothers; husbands and fathers.

Whether they go to school, or are homeschooled, it doesn't negate our responsibility from teaching them the way of the Lord if we are Christians. I am striving to do this with Bekah. Many days I fall short of what I had in mind, but through the grace of God, I hope to show her how to be content and find fulfillment by following Jesus' teachings on how to be as a woman, wife and mother if the Lord allows her to be. To see her do this and find her place in Him, would be the utmost joy I could hope for.

So, on to the next task....