Monthly Archives: July 2010

July 30, 2010

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So while the older boys are planning their camp out in the backyard, it’s Friday night and the littles are planning a camp out of their own in the library floor:

What is so magical about tent sheets and floor sleeping? I remember loving it when I was younger too…I just don’t think my back loves it too much these days.

Well, what’s new around here.

Let’s see.

Bernie, the second of our two turkeys (Burt and Ernie–we weren’t sure which had died so we combined their names), was found dead this morning.

I’m not sure what to think- we’re wondering if it’s the food they were eating. We were just preparing to butcher this guy– it was a shock to see it on the ground this morning.

I’m not sure I’m settling into this part of homesteading, I think I may be too attached. It sounds strange I’m sure, but there is just something sweet about a turkey who tags along at your side in the morning when you are walking the garden.

They really are like a pet!

I’ve been spending my time planning various projects and sewing.

I have felt such a draw lately to really organize our scrapbooks, photos, and mementos. That’s a big job!!

Before, I didn’t have a lot of space to work. Now, I certainly have more space but the amount that I have to organize seems a bit overwhelming.

I have decided to use a digital scrapbooking service for my digital prints rather than having them printed and then placing them in albums.

Of course, this dial-up connection can make that on a little challenging. We’re still trying to figure out some creative ways around that obstacle.

…and just because, this is the misc. box of stuff that we found in the house and thought we would keep but haven’t found a place for just yet.

I just thought I would share…imagine 9,000 square feet of this, *smile*

Prayer Requests

  • My feet. My feet. My feet.

  • My two brave men sleeping in the backyard this evening

Today I’m Thankful For

  • Beautiful Weather

  • A mirror that I love…I just can’t decide where I want to hang it- on the porch, maybe?

  • An understanding (*VERY* understanding) walking partner
  • Joshua’s time away to help friends build their chicken coops
  • Dinner out with my dearest, Paul

Today’s Scripture Meditation

“You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.”- Matthew 5:14,16

With my love,

Just an Update

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We’ve unpacked our boxes- each and every one!

It’s something I never thought would happen- I’m so glad it’s done!

At this point, we’re organizing our school day, creating laundry routines, and refocusing efforts on making things generally more efficient.

In this area, I imagine I’ll be spending more time. These details require tweaking, as I’m sure you know.

So, here are some things I’m looking at- (I’ll share more details in the coming weeks).

FotoFusion isn’t working so well with our internet connection- we’re going to have to figure out a way around this!!

I’m very thankful for space to try a version of this with my family!

Walking Shoes…Again.

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*Thank you* Barbara, Marcy and Aunt Judy for your response about my shoes.

I’m guessing since all of you seem to think that’s why my feet are hurting, I’m going to have to buy some new shoes and see if that will help.

My New Balance shoes aren’t more than three months old and the same size and style I’ve always worn.

I’m heading to the New Balance store in my area this time to ensure they fit properly. The Lord willing, that won’t be more than three or four weeks from now. Until then, please pray for relief. I’m ready to be back on my feet. I’m still walking regularly (though Paul asked me not to walk on Wednesday and today), but after my walk on Monday, I was sitting for the next couple of days with my feet propped up and packed with ice.

*Sigh*

Birthday Blessings

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Thank you for the numerous birthday greetings this week!

You all helped make my week extra-special. I had the best birthday–

Here are some highlights…

Gifts and cards from the children…all planned with such care!

…and amongst others, a really beautiful teapot cozy and coasters:

these were handmade by my sweet Mom.

It was definitely a birthday to remember!!

July 22nd, 2010

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I started this week with grand plans…

We’re finishing two (count ‘em TWO) websites. One is just for homeschoolers, the other for our church–

We’re almost done with the church site, and the other at least has a header graphic (thanks to Courtney).

One of my biggest plans, was to finish really fleshing out family goals for the older children in our home.

It’s always funny to see where each year will lead– last year, I felt our family focus was aimed more towards hospitality. We invited folks over for dinner, and tea, and tried to form better habits where letter writing is concerned.

This year, we seem to be really learning to plan our time more efficiently, and to set goals.

Paul and I have two graduating seniors this year (if you know us personally, be expecting an invite in the coming months!).

I’ve been focused on helping them to set goals for their own lives– much more than a “to-do” list, but rather something that will focus on their plans for things they want to accomplish prior to marriage and perhaps even further into their adult world.

We’re starting small, one year and five year goals- what types of projects they would like to try, things they would like to experience, Scripture they would like to memorize, etc., etc.

For now, they’ll be written into a composition book so that we may make notes and keep records. We’re still trying to decide how we will eventually organize these written plans.

It’s meant to be a list that Paul and I can pray over and perhaps provide assistance as needed to obtain these goals.

What a joy it is to have older children–Paul and I were certainly not expecting how exciting and what a blessing they would be during these years.

In the coming weeks, I’ll try and share some of our goals and plans for these children in our home.

I would hope it would be of help to those of you thinking towards the important teenage years!!

Prayer Requests

  • The coming months in our home- we are making very specific plans, in many areas. We would appreciate your prayers!

  • Paul’s cousin, Lisa
  • My feet!

Today I’m Thankful For

  • New Shoes!

  • Onesies on clearance this morning…and in cute colors!

  • Big, ice-cold bottles of water on super hot days! (Thank you, Pauley!)

  • Sewing projects, cut out and ready to stitch

  • A new book that arrived today from a recent canning class.

Today’s Scripture Meditation

“But what about you?” he asked, “Who do you say I am?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”- Matthew 16:15-16, NIV

With my love,