For One Another

Follow Friday Four Fill In Fun

2012-02-10T08:00:00.001-05:00

Join the hop from

Feeling Beachie

This week’s statements:

1. I don’t understand ___ and probably never will

2. I prefer ___ to ____

3. My favorite smell is ______________because ___________________

4. I suspect my neighbors of _________________

Fruit or Vegetable?

2012-02-09T08:00:00.003-05:00

I learned something interesting in science today concerning the difference between a fruit and a vegetable.

Let's see how many of YOU know a fruit from a vegetable.

Come back next week sometime and I will post what I learned and the answers.

*you may have to use the scroll bar on the right of the poll to complete it and submit your answers.

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A baby story...

2012-02-08T08:00:00.001-05:00

It happened February 8, 1998...a Sunday, just like any other Sunday....

NO WAIT...

Back up a sec....

it was NOT like any other Sunday.

A couple of weeks before a not-so-friendly visitor descended upon our peaceful home.

The FLU

This flu lasted for days, it wasn't the 24 hour variety. First one, then another dropped to it's strength. Until every last one of our family of 6 was either crawling for the bathroom or moaning in bed with sickness. For a week, I nursed each one, cleaned the bathroom, sprayed the lysol, opened windows to air out the germs, washed sheets, made soup until this I wearily succumbed to it also.

UGH....why, oh, why is this happening NOW?

Finally by Saturday the 7th, most everyone was on the mend. Beginning to get their strength back, except dad. This flu still had him!

Crawling into bed alone, I was eager for a good night's sleep only to be awakened at 1 am with stomach pains. OH NO! It can't be. My first thought was, "I thought I was done with this"...when I realized this was a different pain. One I had felt only 4 other times in my life:

LABOR

Yup, I was 37 weeks pregnant and just getting over the flu. Convincing myself that I was NOT in labor, I attempted to roll over to go back to sleep. A few minutes go by and I am again jerked awake in pain....oh boy, it really IS labor! Not wanting to bother hubby who is still sick and sleeping downstairs, I lie there praying it isn't so. As the hours pass and the pain increases I think about how precious this child is.

A year before, in March, I remember the pain of losing a child after 12 weeks of carrying her/him in my womb. Never realizing how empty one could feel, I mourned this loss quietly.

Thankfully, by June of that same year, God blessed me with another pregnancy. So when October rolled around when that lost child would have been born, I could smile as I caressed my ever growing belly.

Now that ever growing belly was ready to burst 18 days before due date AND while I is still recovering from the flu.

By 8 am I realize I'd better get to the hospital. Waddling down the stairs slowly, I ask hubby if he's ready to have a baby today....

He groans "you're kidding?"

With 4 kids in tow, we all climb into the van. Arriving at the hospital 30 minutes and many hard contractions later, hubby drives up to the ER. I look quizzically at hubby who says "I'm still sick, I can't do this today"....

WHAT???

"Well, I have NO choice" I fume as I slam the door!

Before anyone who is reading this, especially you women, want to strangle my hubby, I must tell you that an hour later a nurse friend arrives to help. He called her as soon as he arrived home asking if she would be able to be with me. So he's not a TOTAL loser ;)

After 5 hours of crying "I'm too sick to do this" and the doctor saying "too bad, you have to" baby #5 joined our family. When the doctor placed that child into my arms, I felt complete.

For years people had been asking me how many children I planned on having and I never knew. But I had been told that I would 'know' when my family was complete.....I didn't believe them, but it happened just as they said. I 'KNEW'.

We had decided that if the baby was a girl her name would be Julie Ann. I don't think we had a boys name. Yet, when she was born I called my mom and told her Julia Rose had arrived.... So Julie Ann was Julia Rose for a couple of hours ;)

Today my 'baby' Julie Ann,aka--Julie-bug, turns 14! A beautiful young woman is emerging right before my eyes. A part of me is so very sad that in just a few short years my nest will be empty, while the 'saner' part continues to realize that our family was complete when God gave us Julie Ann.

I love you Julie-bug!

ESV GROW! Bible Review & Giveaway

2012-02-07T11:34:00.000-05:00

Just the facts, please:

English Standard Version

1680 pages

5.5 x 8.5 hardcover

geared toward ages 8 - 12

published by Crossway

$27.99

7 interesting features:

Who, What, Where, When, Why, and How boxes throughout the test
4U (For You) This box will explain what a certain passage can mean FOR YOU to help you apply it.
Cross Connections shows how a passage point to the cross
Articles and Charts are full pages loaded with information
Section and Book Introductions give details about each section/book
Glossary
Timelines and Maps

IMHO-In my humble opinion:

This is a nicely done Bible for children..Or even a new believer.

The 5 W's & H boxes throughout really help bring understanding to what was read. The chapter introductions are brief, yet complete.

I like the overall look to it also. It is colorful and appealing.

All in all I would recommend this Bible.

A few unrelated thoughts:

I'd like to share my feelings about all the different versions of the Bible. First, I am NOT a KJV only person. Not at all....BUT I am distressed over the number of different versions that have been published during my lifetime.

I remember when I was a kid, I brought my Bible to church as did everyone else. We read together collectively, we searched for the verses being taught so we could read along, we USED our Bibles, we got to know where the books were, etc. etc.

Times have changed... today I see most people don't even carry a Bible. I have asked 'why' and have received this basic answer:

"I don't need to because all the verses are put up on the screen."

Or this response:

"I can't follow along because I have a different version than the preacher."

I feel so many different versions has become more of a detriment than a help. We are no longer using our Bibles and getting to know 'how' to use them.

Call me old-fashioned (I've been called worse), but I think we need to re-think and question if we are helping the cause of Christ or hindering.....something to think about.

*I received a complimentary copy of the ESV GROW! Bible from Crossway in exchange for my honest review.

My Memories Review & Giveaway

2012-01-31T08:00:00.002-05:00

I have been working on this review for a 3 weeks. There is just soooo much to say about this program. I am having a hard time condensing it into a post that can be read in a short time.

So, put away all that scrapbook 'stuff' and get ready to see scrapbooking with 'new' eyes...

I found this great tutorial that shows many great features:

I can't even begin to tell you how much you can do on this digital scrapbooking software....if you like to scrapbook, then you will LOVE this software. It's scrapbooking on steroids.

From My Memories.com:

You can make a beautiful scrapbook an interactive memory experience for anyone who sees it. Use simple one-click options to enhance your scrapbooks, with music, narration, video, and even the Internet. Go beyond pictures by showing off video of the birthday party, or record a narration to capture the memories that pictures alone cannot. With My Memories Suite you simply don't look at a scrapbook-you experience it!

I'd love to show you what I have been working on BUT, alas, I cannot figure out how to get a pic onto the blog....technically challenged, YET even I can use this software ;) Yup, it's THAT easy once you start clicking around and playing with it....there's a lot to discover.

Now I have 2 offers for you:

1. Can't wait and want to purchase your own copy RIGHT NOW???

Use this code:

STMMMS81699

to receive $10 off the purchase price of the newest version of My Memories Suite Scrapbook software, You can buy it as an instant download OR a mailed CD. Plus this code will give you another $10.00 off the purchase of any other item at the online store. There is a wide variety of items to choose.

2. My Memories is offering a giveaway. One winner will receive a code to download the software for free! Please enter below:

Making Home School a part of LIFE

2012-01-30T08:00:00.004-05:00

As with most home schoolers when I began over 20 years ago I thought I had to do it all.....just like 'regular' school. We bought the desks, set up calendars, hung posters and purchased a complete curriculum. I thought this is what I was 'supposed' to do.

For me, this only brought frustration, especially as more children came. The 2nd child didn't work well with this 'complete curriculum' I had purchased. Why wasn't this working the way it did when I was in school.....every student learned exactly the same way, no adjusting because someone else learns differently. I dreaded getting out of bed because we HAD to school. What I thought was going to be a great experience, turned into just adding another 'chore' to accomplish each day. I thought Time passes and mom/teacher gets totally worn out. More kids come, more planning, more, more, more....I can't DO ANY MORE!

Basically I had brought school home,

I wasn't HOME schooling.

I discovered that each child learns differently. The curriculum that works with one may very well flop with another. Yearly adjustments are necessary. So I researched, bought books, tried them, failed, sold them, bought some more until I found what worked best for US! What worked best for each one of my children. I found out years later that this is called 'eclectic homeschooling'. Using a variety of curriculum to fit your student's needs.

After years of trying to figure it all out for myself (poor kids) I finally decided that if my children left my 'school' with these basic ideas, then we were successful:

Make God #1 in their lives

Learn HOW to learn

Know where to find the information on the subject you wish to learn about

Twenty years have passed Four of my children have graduated. All four are living productive lives beyond our home. Each one has taken what they learned under my roof all those years and are now living it. Each one has taken the basic ideas and made them their own. We have been successful !!

The ONLY thing I can think of at the moment that I would do differently is for mom/teacher to ENJOY the time more. Rather than looking at the education of my children as another 'thing' I had to do, I would embrace it, enjoy it, and love EVERY minute. Yes, even the bad days...because all too soon you'll be wishing even for one bad school day.....JUST so you could have them all home again.

Read what other homeschoolers have to say about the "nuts & bolts" of their homeschool

Weekly Homeschooling Schedule by Julie @ HighHill Homeschool
http://highhillhomeschool.blogspot.com/2012/01/weekly-homeschooling-schedule.html

Virtual Curriculum Fair: Week 5: The Nuts & Bolts: Pulling it all
Together by Leah @ The Courtney Six Homeschool
http://courtneysix.blogspot.com/2012/01/virtual-curriculum-fair-week-5-nuts.html

Our Schedule's Working! by Eunora @ All Things NoriLynn
http://allthingsnorilynn.blogspot.com/2012/01/its-working.html

Homeschooling: How do I do it all? by Debbie @ Debbie's Digest
http://debbiesdigest.blogspot.com/2012/01/homeschooling-how-do-i-do-it-all.html

Virtual Curriculum Fair--- Wrap-up Angie @ Petra School
http://pebblekeeper.wordpress.com/2012/01/28/virtual-curriculum-fairwrap-up/

Virtual Curriculum Fair: 5 Ways to Use an iPad in Your Homeschool by
Pam @ Everyday Snapshots
http://everydaysnapshots.blogspot.com/2012/01/virtual-cirriculum-fair-5-ways-to-use.html

A Peek Into Our School Day by Melissa @ Grace Christian Homeschool
http://www.gchomeschool.com/2011/11/peek-into-our-school-day.html

A Day in the Life... by Nicole @ Schooling in the Sun
http://schoolinginthesun.blogspot.com/2011/08/day-in-life.html

Homeschool and Life: How we get it done by Jen @ Forever, For Always,
No Matter What
http://www.foreverforalwaysnomatterwhat.com/2012/01/homeschool-and-life-how-we-get-it-done.html

Homeschooling at My House by Jessica @ Modest Mama
http://www.modest-mama.org/2012/01/homeschooling-at-my-house.html

Getting a Grip on Things by Susan @ Homeschooling Hearts & Minds
http://homeschoolheartandmind.blogspot.com/2012/01/getting-grip-on-things.html

Making Home School a part of LIFE by Cindy @ For One Another
http://for-one-another.blogspot.com/2012/01/making-home-school-part-of-life.html

Now Where's That Pencil Again? by Beth @ Ozark Ramblings
http://oramblings.blogspot.com/2012/01/now-wheres-that-pencil-again.html

Something About Homeschooling I Really Didn't See Coming by Letha @
justpitchingmytent
http://justpitchingmytent.blogspot.com/2012/01/something-about-homeschooling-i-really.html

Curriculum, Kids, and a Frazzled Homeschool Mama leads to Controlled
Chaos! by Laura O from AK @ Day by Day in Our World
http://daybydayinourworld.com/2012/01/curriculum-kids-and-a-frazzled-homeschool-mama-leads-to-controled-chaos/

The Virtual Curriculum Fair – Nuts and Bolts by Kristen @ Sunrise to Sunset
http://sunrisetosunsethomeschool.com/2012/01/30/the-virtual-curriculum-fair-nuts-and-bolts/

Staying on Top of Everything by Brenda Emmett @ Garden of Learning
http://myhomeschoolgarden.com/2012/01/30/staying-on-top-of-everything/

How Does This Homeschooling Thing Actually Work? Fitting it all
Together by Joelle @ Homeschooling for His Glory
http://homeschoolingforhisglory.blogspot.com/2012/01/how-does-this-homeschooling-thing.html

Nuts & Bolts: Pulling it all together by Christa Darr @ Fairfield Corner Academy
http://christadarr.blogspot.com/2012/01/nuts-bolts-pulling-it-all-together.html

2012 Contentment Reading Challenge

2012-01-28T08:00:00.001-05:00

I came across this blog Legacy of a Writer by Katie McCurdy.
She has laid down a challenge to readers everywhere (or maybe just readers who cross her path via her blog). Not one to shy away from challenges, especially ones that I feel I can be successful with, I decided to join up, jump in, make a go of it, sign up...ummm...do some reading.
Here's Katie's challenge:
What is the Contentment Reading Challenge? Well, it's based on the idea that we, as avid readers, have many books scattered around our homes--on shelves, in the closet, under the bed, etc.--that we hope to read again "some day", but have not made the time to do so. Or maybe you are continually purchasing new books and never take the time to be content with the ones that are currently on your bookshelf.
- This IS a challenge, so there has to be some goals/levels to set. There's no pressure--just choose whatever level you think would be good for you to try and accomplish in this coming year.

            * Floating: Skimming the surface, you re-read 5 books you already own.
            * Wading: Getting your feet wet, you re-read 10 books you already own.
            * Swimming: Immersing yourself again, you re-read 15 books you already own.
            * Diving: Going deep into the stories you love, you re-read 20 or more books that you already own.

- This challenge officially starts on January 1st, 2012 and officially ends on December 21st, 2012.
Well, Katie, (and whoever else cares or is reading this post) I have decided to begin by wading with the possibility of diving in head first for a swim depending on how brave I am after wading a while!

My first book has been taken off of my overflowing book shelf, dusted and enjoyed in 2 days...
"Critical Care" by Candace Calvert. Book 1 in her Mercy Hospital Series.

That's one book down and 9 OR 14 to go. With 340 days left in this challenge, at this rate I'll be able to read 170 books in 2012....
that's more than wading or swimming
that's drowning!

Follow Friday Four Fill In Fun

2012-01-27T08:00:00.000-05:00

This week’s statements:

1. Nothing is better than.____

2. I ___my ___ in ___but never ____

3. Those _____ that are always _____ make me want to ___________

4. My favorite _________________ is when __________________________.

Wednesday's Hodgepodge

2012-01-25T12:01:00.001-05:00

Beauty in Home Schooling?

2012-01-23T08:00:00.003-05:00

Here's our assignment this week for the Virtual Curriculum Fair in our fearless leader, Susan Anadale's, words:

"January 23rd---Seeking Beauty: the Arts and Everything that Brings

Beauty to Our World. This theme can include any of the arts, as well

as handicrafts.

Or really anything that you feel brings beauty into your homeschool."

I'm so glad that she added that last part: "Or really anything that you feel brings beauty into your homeschool", because I am NOT crafty or artsy at all!

So what do I feel brings beauty into our home school?

Let me go back to the why behind my decision to home school. When I held my first child, I had such a feeling of love, connection, and responsibility! WOW, I am responsible for this little life. It is up to me to nurture, provide the physical needs, emotional and spiritual needs of this child. Then came the 2nd and the 3rd...now I've 3 little lives to look after.

A very close friend decided to home school her children...mine were no where near schooling age yet, so I thought she was totally out.of.her.mind! Then the time came for ME to send my little girl to school....WHAT? are you kidding me? I was there for her first cry, her first diaper change, her first word, her first step, her first boo-boo...well, you get the idea. So why stop there...why not be there for her first of everything, including first word read, first understanding of 1 + 1 = 2, and so on. THAT was when I KNEW homeschooling was the thing for me.

So the beauty in homeschooling....being with my children. Enjoying (and sometimes not so much enjoying) the process of growing and learning new things. This is why I've had such a tough time of them moving on...doing those 'adult' firsts without me. Thankfully, we have a good relationship and they do include me as much as is possible.

Probably NOT what you were expecting in a 'curriculum fair' BUT hey, I was given permission ;)

Memory Making by Christine @ Crunchy Country Catholic
http://crunchycountrycatholic.blogspot.com/2012/01/memory-making.html

Learning Art at Our House by Jessica @ Modest Mama
http://www.modest-mama.org/2012/01/learning-art-at-our-house.html

history, up close by Jennifer @ a glimpse of our life
http://glimpseofourlife.blogspot.com/2012/01/history-up-close.html

Fitting in the Arts When Homeschooling by Laura O in AK @ Day by Day
in Our World
http://daybydayinourworld.com/2012/01/fitting-in-the-arts-when-homeschooling/

The Art of Exploration by Susan @ Homeschooling Hearts & Minds
http://homeschoolheartandmind.blogspot.com/2012/01/art-of-exploration.html

Appreciating the Arts by Cindy Horton @ Fenced in Family
http://www.fencedinfamily.com/blog/2012/01/appreciating-the-arts/

Beauty in Homeschooling? by Cindy @ For One Another
http://www.for-one-another.blogspot.com/2012/01/beauty-in-home-schooling.html

Heart of Dakota- The Fine Details- Part 4 Poetry & Bible by Lynn @
Ladybug Chronicles
http://ladybug-chronicles.blogspot.com/2012/01/heart-of-dakota-fine-details-part-4.html

The Art of Art by Brenda Emmett @ Garden of Learning
http://myhomeschoolgarden.com/2012/01/23/the-art-of-art/

The Beauty of the Arts - Where Does It Fit? by Joelle @ Homeschooling for His Glory
http://homeschoolingforhisglory.blogspot.com/2012/01/beauty-of-arts-where-does-it-fit.html

Week At a Glance 32

2012-01-21T08:00:00.002-05:00

January 14 -20

Trying to keep up with this every week shows what an uneventful life I really do have :)

Not much exciting happened this week. I was involved in the usual stuff....cooking, cleaning, blogging, reading, sleeping, almost cutting off my thumb (well, thankfully, that's not 'usual')

So here's the story: I have a part-time job as a merchandiser. This is basically just someone who goes into a retail store and sets up displays, or stocks new items, or just whatever is assigned. This week I had to set up a spinning accessory display. I was having a very difficult time taking apart the existing display (which was perfectly fine, didn't need replacing). As I was pulling, banging and prying with one hand and holding the pieces in place so they didn't crash on the floor with the other, one metal piece decides to quickly dislodge on one end and swivel down and close onto my thumb....OUCH! If it was a little sharper, or a bit heavier, I would have severed my thumb. Being the brave, diligent worker I am, I continued fighting with said display while I bled all over it. I'm glad to report that even though I lost a couple of battles and bit of blood, I won the war and the display is completed.

Other than that exciting story, the rest of the week was spent in a sea of emotion. Stupid hormones!

Click here to read about one of my emotional days.

Oh yea, I almost forgot to share with you my latest quilting project.

A black and white quilt:

Now I can move onto my mom's Remembrance Quilt made from my dad's flannel shirts. I'm thinking this one will not help with the emotional mess I've been lately :/

Follow Friday Four Fill In Fun

2012-01-20T10:47:00.001-05:00

This week’s statements:

1. I used to enjoy ______ but now I don’t really anymore except for when I____

2. My first job was ______

3. I am a bit obsessed with ________ at the moment

4. If I don’t have my ___________ at night, I don’t sleep well

Wednesday's Hodgepodge on Thursday ;)

2012-01-19T09:45:00.000-05:00

1. A new Miss America was crowned on Saturday night-did you watch? If you were a contestant what would your talent be?

NO, I would much rather watch FOOTBALL!!! Not only would I never be a Miss American contestant, I would also never play football ;)

2. Do you have houseplants? Real or fake

Let's put it this way....if the plant wishes to live, then it doesn't want me to care for it. BUT I do actually have 3 plants that have lived for longer than one month: an aloe (can't kill those), a new Christmas cactus (must not be able to kill that one either cuz I've been trying since November) and some kind of a leafy thing that I don't know what it is, but it was given to my dad while at the hospital so I am trying to stay away from it so it stays alive.

Yes, that's me ;)

3. When you were in school did you speak up or were you more of the hide your face, avoid eye contact, and pray the teacher didn't call on you type of student?

Well, let's see....you decide. More than once I had a letter sent home from the teacher praising what a great student I was, but I talked too much AND I was voted class clown my senior year....

4. Next Monday marks the Chinese New Year....what do you order when someone suggests Chinese food?

I order myself to another restaurant....I don't like Chinese food.

5. How would you define a miracle? What would it take for you to consider something a miracle?

A miracle is something that only God does. Create life, provide needs, give health....

6. What's your favorite Disney song? If you're stuck you'll find a list here.

Disney is not a favorite of mine, don't like it much at all....BUT there probably is a song I like and don't even know it is a Disney song

7. I should have __________yesterday.

Read my Bible. I am part of a group of ladies who are reading through Ephesians, but I didn't read or share yesterday because I left my house early and got home late.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

There are things about menopause that I hate, yet other things I like. AND I can't believe that I am old enough to even know the difference.

Wishing for the past...

2012-01-17T14:47:00.001-05:00

I caught the last 5 minutes of "A Baby Story" today and it made me cry :(
The family had just given birth to their 2nd daughter. It showed the dad, mom and their 2 little girls just enjoying life.

It brought me back to 20 years ago or more when we had our 2 little girls. And I cried and cried! Oh to hold that baby and snuggle that 2 year old....my heart aches for those days.

Yet, I am no longer the young mom to babes or toddlers but the older mom to adults and teenagers.

Back then they were always with me...now, I've got to schedule time with them.

Then I had no time for phone calls...now, everything gets put aside when they call to chat.

I've gone from wiping bums to helping plan weddings...

I try to enjoy what is now and not wish for years gone by....then something reminds me and gives me that longing once again and my heart hurts and the tears fall.

Walk with me....but bring the tissues !

look at those tiny feet

For the love of books

sibling love

country kids

And then there were FIVE

Memere with the grandkids

THEN

and

NOW

Probably 20 years from now I will be wishing for now, so I will dry the tears, give thanks for now and smile at the blessings God has given and continues to give me!

GrapeVine Timelines review & giveaway

2012-01-15T08:00:00.002-05:00

Wow, this is really good....

was my initial reaction when I was looking over the copies of the timelines created by GrapeVine for both the Old and New Testaments.

There are 2 styles to choose from:

Wall Timelines

These come in downloadable and printed formats in both Old and New Testaments and even blank timelines.

When completed they are each 10 feet long.

A great way to decorate your room with a overview of God's Word!

Timeline Booklets

Also in downloadable and printed formats in both Old and New Testament.

This is my preferred style ;)

Whichever style you choose, both provide a complete overview using simple-to-draw stick figures.

The Old Testament format has 2 'special' symbols to explain the gospel and how it is shown throughout the Old Testament. I LOVE THIS!!

A third symbol to show the gospel is introduced in the New Testament timeline.

This is a great way to study the Bible chronologically. A great tool while reading through a Chronological Bible. My daughter and I are doing a survey of the Bible. I have incorporated the booklet style into that study. It is much more visually appealing than simply a fill-in-the-blank workbook. And much more fun too!

Here are our first 6 pages: (can you find the special 'gospel' symbols?)

These are all sold for under $10.00 each. BUT the month of January they are on sale! I recommend you get on over to GrapeVine Studies and order some.

I can even offer you a coupon code for free shipping on the printed format. This is a GREAT savings....NO SHIPPING, NO PRINTING, NO 3-HOLE PUNCHING necessary...It will come to your door ready to use!

Use this code

JANFS

BUT HURRY

THIS COUPON EXPIRES JANUARY 31, 2012

Now for the giveaway...oh yes, A GIVEAWAY.

Dianna at GrapeVine Studies is offering one reader a Teacher and Student wall timeline in your choice of e-book or printed copy. Giveaway ends 1/29/12 at midnight EST.

Never Too Old to Play Tag!!!!!

2012-01-11T09:41:00.000-05:00

Since I began blogging I have met some very interesting people. People I never would have crossed paths with either because of location or just life situations. Blogging has changed the rules.....and this is a GOOD thing.

One person with whom I have 'met' is Pam @ Empty Nest and she has 'tagged' me...so I guess I'm IT

The rules are:

1. Post these rules.
2. You must post 11 random things about yourself.
3. Answer the questions the tagger set for you in their post.

( I shortened the 'rules')

11 is such an odd number, but here goes....

11 random things about myself:

1. I have home schooled 4 of my children all the way through high school. That has taken 20 years. I have one left and we only have 4 more years to go :/

2. I live in a log house (cabin is definitely NOT the word to describe this place!)

3. I HATE WINTER AND BEING COLD!

4. I was an MPK (missionary/pastor's kid)

5. Because of #4 I had rebellious teenage years which I am NOT proud of

6. Thankfully, even though #5 is very true, I have a loving, forgiving God who gave His Son as a ransom for me :)

7. I'm not all that into music, never was.

8. I wish I kept up with my piano playing...then #7 would be different, I'm sure

9. I spend WAY too much time on the computer, but I do enjoy it very much ;)

10. I DO have a brain and have pictures and a doctor's visual of this brain to prove it

11. I was once referred to as "one of the guys" and took it as a compliment!

Here are the 11 questions, with my answers from Pam:

I am currently on a weight loss journey. What is your current journey? Deep question....I guess my journey is to allow God to lead my life and stop having to be in control of everything, all of the time!
Do you fear change, welcome it or do you simply not think about it? I'd have to say it would depend on the situation. For instance, changing the arrangement of furniture in a given room is a welcome change. Yet, I fear the change when I no longer have kids at home and homeschooling is a part of my past...so I try not to think about it
How's your patience level? Again, this depends on WHO I am to have patience with.....
Do you journal? Why or why not. I sorta consider this blog my journal
Do you have pets? If so, do you spoil them? NO pests...I mean pets! I am not an animal person whatsoever
Do you prefer a quiet night at home or a night out on the town? Either, depends on my mood.
What is the last movie you saw at the theater? Let me ask my daughter....."Hey.Julie-bug, what was the last movie I saw in a theater?" "Uhhhh, I have no idea". Well, there you go....I have no idea
Do you like sports? If so, what's your favorite? Playing or watching???? I've always enjoyed playing softball, tennis and others, but am not very good at any. Watching...only football.
Will you watch the Super Bowl this year? Most likely
Did your team (if you have one) make it to the playoffs? Oh YEA!!!! GO PATS!!!
What about March Madness? Will you be filling out a bracket this year? Nope, basketball is not one I enjoy to watch OR play....unless someone I know is playing. Then I will watch, yell, scream, embarrass them all night long ;)

Math Anyone?

2012-01-09T08:00:00.003-05:00

Let's talk Math!

Some kids have a mind for math, others, not so much! When you have a child who doesn't really 'get' math, it makes it very hard to find a curriculum that really works.

As with most homeschoolers, I started with Saxon. It was THE math program when homeschooling was new to me. I liked the spiral method and used this curriculum for many years. Then I hit algebra! UGH!! When I was in high school I did very well with Algebra 1, but Algebra 2, not so much. I attribute the understanding of Algebra with the teacher. I had a fantastic Algebra 1 teacher but the Algebra 2 teacher understood it well enough, but couldn't TEACH it. I fell under the category of 'couldn't TEACH' it. SO when it came time for Algebra we used Key To. This has worked very well for us. It introduces algebraic concepts without delving into it too far.

I didn't have math lovers..I knew not one of my children was going to need further math so I concerned myself more with everyday math: checkbooks, budgeting, insurance, saving, even some accounting. The REAL LIFE stuff!

My husband and I took a Dave Ramsey Financial Peace class online. We followed Dave's game plan and were able to become debt free. It took a lot of sacrifices, but we did it! We decided that our children HAD to learn to manage their money the Dave Ramsey way.

When he came out with a high school math course, I was thrilled and immediately bought it!

This is what is our high school math curriculum...it is a MUST in our home school.

Here are other blogs with ideas for math:

Math Lapbooks---Virtual Curriculum Fair Week 2 by Angie Wright @ Petra

Week At a Glance 31

2012-01-07T08:00:00.001-05:00

December 31 - January 6

Our New Year's Eve party was a great success. We had 37 people! So much for keeping it small this year ;)

Here are some pics of 'Minute to Win It' games we played:

Oreo cookie is placed on forehead...using only facial muscles, move cookie into mouth :)

How about stacking 6 dice on a popsicle stick held in your mouth?

Be a houdini and pull out the index cards so the cups drop inside each other:

Now let's flick some paper footballs into the bowl without knocking over the goal post cups.

Move and stack 3 soda cans with only a partner, a spaghetti noodle and your mouth.

I had some trouble with this at first: All I needed was my glasses...Thanks Emillie ;)

Move your toothbrush from one holder to another ten feet away using only the brim of your hat:

We played these games for a couple of hours. We had a lot of fun and even more laughs.

There was also ping pong, round robin, video games and other card/board games played throughout the evening.

Can't have a party without food....well, we had PLENTY!!!

By midnight we we all outside to bring in 2012 with a song, a prayer and a bonfire!

HAPPY NEW YEAR !!!!

Follow Friday Four Fill In Fun

2012-01-06T08:00:00.002-05:00

This week’s statements:

1. ________ is not my strongest virtue

2. _________ is my favorite meal of the day

3. ___________ is my ____________

4. Whenever ____________ happens, I always _____________.

Serenity for Your Soul Review

2012-01-05T20:19:00.001-05:00

February 2011 I did my first review of a newsletter I received from Eternal Encouragement. I didn't know then that a year later I would still be reviewing items from Eternal Encouragement and actually enjoy doing so....go back and read last year's review to see what I mean ;)

Not only my attitude has changed in a year...but the newsletter, too. It looks a little different but the content is still the same. Every Thursday I find words of encouragement when I open my email. And I find a friend, who is very much like me! A wife/mom/homeschooler, sister, friend wanting to serve God and encourage others to do the same.

Lorrie is not afraid to be REAL....she shows her flaws, warts and the not so pretty stuff. Today's newsletter she confesses how when she was first married she was not a 'suzy homemaker'...not even close! Here is how she describes herself:

Truth be told, I more closely resembled The Horrid Homemaker or Psycho Suzy. Randy was better at cooking and cleaning, while I excelled at reading, relaxing, and getting the maximum amount of chores done in a minimal amount of time. Another description for this would be doing nothing all day and in the late afternoon making it look like I'd been gainfully busy all day.

She then takes this and pulls a lesson out of it for the reader.

Why was I such a horror? I was overwhelmed and focusing on what I didn't have, while forgetting what I did have. Here's the truth. In Philippians 4:13, God says some words that should give all homemakers hope: "I can do all things through Him who gives me strength."

A great reminder to all of us to rely on God's strength not our own. We can't do a thing without HIM.

Do you need to be reminded of what God says to us? I know I do, and I am very glad I can have Lorrie come into my home twice a month and do just that.

GUESS WHAT???? You don't have to be a Gabby Mom or write a review...you, too, can receive this e-newsletter FOR FREE!!!! Click on over to Eternal Encouragement to sign up. Just fill in your name and email on the form at the home page.

Wait, there's more: you will receive a free e-book called "Organizing Happiness" when you sign up. But hurry!...I don't know how long the free e-book will be included.

“I am reviewing Serenity for your Soul as an official member of The Gabby Moms blogging program for Eternal Encouragement magazine. I did not receive compensation for this post and all opinions are solely my own.”

Wednesday's Hodgepodge

2012-01-04T08:00:00.002-05:00

1. What are three words you would use to describe your 2011?

bittersweet, poignant, emotional

2. Do you like shrimp? What's your favorite way to have it prepared?

nope, nada, no, naw....not at all

3. Is your house de-Christmased? If so when did you tackle that job? If not, when will the decorations come down?

That'd be a BIG 10-4 good buddy ;)

4. Do you like to watch scary movies?

Before I had children I did, but no more....since the children I always think of how those things could happen to them :/

5. ice skating~sledding~skiing~snowboarding~of the four listed which wintertime activity do you most enjoy?

Well, seeing that there is not a choice of sitting inside, staying nice and warm by the fire and watching everyone else do any or all of the above...then I'd have to say: NONE OF THE ABOVE!

6. Did you have a childhood hideout? Describe it.

Anywhere my brothers couldn't find me....which never existed ;/

7. What's a place or space that motivates you?

Christian Book Distributors warehouse. I go there twice a year to get re-motivated for homeschool and it works every. single. time. I wish I could go once a month...only problem with that is I wouldn't have enough $$$ left over for the month the buy food ;)

8. Insert your own random thought here.

My favorite holiday is New Years Eve. For many years we have had a fun get-together with friends and family. This year was one of the best parties, IMO, to date!

Playing with Words, The Language Arts

2012-01-02T08:00:00.015-05:00

I am part of a Virtual Curriculum Fair started by Homeschooling Hearts & Minds. Every week in the month of January, I will be posting about a home schooling topic. This week is on Language Arts.

This is my all-time favorite subject. It's such a wide range of studies...of course, grammar, but also, writing, reading, logic, spelling, speech, literature, poetry and more!

I have been a home school mom for 20 years. I've done A LOT of different curriculum in the above subjects. I'll share a few of the 'winners' in our family.

The first that comes to mind is "Learning to Write the Novel Way" by Carole Thaxton of Konos fame. My oldest daughter used this and LOVED it! It took her step by step into the writing process. She was able to complete a novel using just this guide.

For grammar, Easy Grammar is a staple. Using the preposition approach makes dissecting sentences a breeze. In my opinion is this best in the younger grades and for remedial older students. Easy Grammar gives the students a good grasp on the parts of speech. Which lays a wonderful foundation for future grammar study.

In the higher grades, I found Jensen's Grammar a good fit. This builds upon the simple parts of speech and moves the student deeper into grammar skills.

Critical Thinking books are a MUST in every homeschool. We have used their Building Thinking skills, Editor-in-Chief, Reading Detectives and Daily Mind Builders. These books make the learning of these subjects fun and enjoyable.

I almost forgot Wordly Wise books. We used these for vocabulary beginning around 6th grade. Although my children never really 'enjoyed' them, I found them a good way to broaden my kid's vocabulary.

A couple of times I tried a Latin course...but quickly discarded it. The only 'benefit' I could ever see was knowing the roots of our English words... Wordly Wise covered some roots so it was introduced to them.

For a couple of years when my older children were younger we did a monthly newsletter that we mailed to friends and family. (no internet then) It is great fun to look back and read their entries into that newsletter. This project covered many areas of Language Arts...writing, spelling, editing, envelope addressing, critiquing, and more!

We called it "Life At The Lemay's".

Today a similar idea would be a family blog. Consider the possibilities here...and the readership!!! hmmmm wish I still had a house full of kids!

Take a look at other bloggers participating in the Virtual Curriculum Fair:

On Learning to Spell by Susan @ Homeschooling Hearts & Minds
http://homeschoolheartandmind.blogspot.com/2012/01/on-learning-to-spell.html

Reading on Time by Cindy Horton @ Fenced in Family
http://www.fencedinfamily.com/blog/2012/01/reading-on-time/

Playing with Words: the Language Arts by Christa Darr @ Fairfield
Corner Academy
http://christadarr.blogspot.com/2012/01/playing-with-words-language-arts.html

Reading and Beyond: Language Arts in Our Homeschool by Laura O in AK
@ Day by Day in Our World
http://daybydayinourworld.com/2012/01/reading-and-beyond-language-arts-in-our-homeschool/

Language Arts that Work for Us by Melissa @ Grace Christian School
http://www.gchomeschool.com/2011/12/virtual-curriculum-fair-language-arts.html

Learning Language at Our House by Jessica @ Modest Mama
http://www.modest-mama.org/2012/01/learning-language-at-our-house.html

Virtual Curriculum Fair: Language Arts by Christine T. @ Our Homeschool Reviews
http://ourhomeschoolreviews.blogspot.com/2012/01/virtual-curriculum-fair-language-arts.html

The Learning of Language by Dawn @ tractors & tire swings
http://tractorsandtireswings.blogspot.com/2012/01/learning-of-language.html

Reading and Spelling: Modifying the Magic by Pam @ Everyday Snapshots
http://everydaysnapshots.blogspot.com/2012/01/reading-and-spelling-modifying-magic.html

An In Depth Look at All About Spelling by Missouri Mama @ Ozark Ramblings
http://oramblings.blogspot.com/2012/01/in-depth-look-at-all-about-spelling.html

Virtual Curriculum Fair: Let's Talk About Words by Debra @ Footprints
in the Butter
http://debrakb.blogspot.com/2012/01/virtual-curriculum-fair-lets-talk-about.html

Why We Love Classical Conversations Essentials (and how I know that is
not a complete sentence!) by Nicole @ Schooling in the Sun
http://schoolinginthesun.blogspot.com/2012/01/why-we-love-classical-conversations.html

Virtual Curriculum Fair---Playing with Words: the Language Arts by
Angie @ Petra School
http://pebblekeeper.wordpress.com/2012/01/02/currriculum_lanuage-arts/

Whole Language vs. Phonics by Christine @ Crunchy Country Catholic
http://crunchycountrycatholic.blogspot.com/2012/01/whole-language-vs-phonics.html

It's All About the Art of Language by Brenda Emmett @ Garden of Learning
http://myhomeschoolgarden.com/2012/01/02/its-all-about-the-art-of-language/

Watching Movies for Language Arts Class by Debbie @ Debbie's Digest
http://debbiesdigest.blogspot.com/2012/01/virtual-curriculum-fair-playing-with.html

Only 5 Spelling Tests a Year! (Can we do that?) by LP @ justpitchingmytent
http://justpitchingmytent.blogspot.com/2012/01/fyi.html

Playing with Words by Chrissy @ Learning is an Adventure
http://learning-adventures.blogspot.com/2012/01/playing-with-words.html

Language Art at Our House by Joelle @ Homeschooling for His Glory
http://homeschoolingforhisglory.blogspot.com/2012/01/language-art-at-our-house_02.html

Virtual Curriculum Fair Week One Playing with Words: the Language
Arts by Leah Courtney
http://courtneysix.blogspot.com/2012/01/virtual-curriculum-fair-week-one.html

Language Art at Our House by Joelle @ Homeschooling for His Glory
http://homeschoolingforhisglory.blogspot.com/2012/01/language-art-at-our-house_02.html

Virtual Curriculum Fair Week One Playing with Words: the Language Arts by Leah Courtney @ The Courtney Six Homeschool Blog
http://courtneysix.blogspot.com/2012/01/virtual-curriculum-fair-week-one.html

Heart of Dakota- The Fine Details part 1- Language Arts by Lynn @
Ladybug Chronicles
http://ladybug-chronicles.blogspot.com/2012/01/heart-of-dakota-fine-details-part-1.html

My Week At A Glance 30

2011-12-31T08:00:00.002-05:00

December 25 - 30

After an extremely busy week last week, this one brought payback fatigue....

do you know what that is?

It is burn-out,

a body that says: "you overdid last week, I'm resting this week"

Ummmm...yea. So I spent most of the beginning of the week catching up on Gabby Moms stuff, blogging, paperwork and sleeping, a lot of sleeping!

I did watch my 9 year old nephew 2 days. He's on school vacation so his mom asked if I would help so my 86 year old mom-in-law wouldn't have to watch him everyday. He's a good boy, but a BOY and NINE...need I say more?

My daughter and I were discussing the people we expect to attend our New Year's Eve party (more on that next week, with lots of pics). She asked me what she should call those people who are more than friends but not really related. We decided to call them:

FRELATIVES

It means: special people in your life who are much more than friends, but didn't have the 'pleasure' of being born into your family! The ones you've decided to add to your family tree.

We have many of those, do you?

The second half of this week involved continuing to get ready for New Year's Eve party with making up more beds (6 to be exact), vacuuming, mopping (why we mop BEFORE people come in to mess up the floors is a mystery), shopping, baking, wash towels, clean bathrooms, put away extra jackets, boots, etc to make room in mudroom, plan games, buy items needed to play games, and sleep....a lot of sleep as I don't plan on getting much of that this weekend!

I expect the beginning of next week will be another time of "payback fatigue" for me :/

Follow Friday Four Fill In Fun

2011-12-30T09:57:00.000-05:00

I'm finally back ;)

This week’s statements:

1. Lately, I have been feeling a little___________

2. I am usually a ______

3. ________________________is always the best feeling at the end of the day

4. _________________________is the first thing I do in the morning

A year of Gabby Moms

2011-12-29T22:07:00.001-05:00

I never would have thought one year ago that a blogging program would impact my life so dramatically. In fact, if anyone would have said that I would be organizing a blogging program for an organization that encourages women, I would have laughed and laughed and laughed.

But here I am....

the question is...

It all began with an email from the person who got me blogging in the first place, Mrs. White at The Legacy of Home. She came to the church I attend, we talked. I later discovered she had a blog. I was intrigued about blogging and wondered how to begin. The next time I saw her, I asked...and thus began my life in the blogging world.

Now back to the email from Mrs. White. She told me about a blogging program looking for moms to review products and write about them on their blog. She was unable to participate as she was involved in another blogging program and felt she would not have the time. I was interested, so I filled out the application. A few weeks later I received an email welcoming me to The Gabby Moms. I was to begin reviewing products for Eternal Encouragement (formerly called TEACH) in January 2011.

When I opened the package to the first product I thought, "Oh no! What have I gotten myself into!" Read that review here to find out what I 'really' thought!

Month after month...more products, more challenges, more changes, more conviction, more spiritual spankings, more encouragement...yes, I received so much MORE than I think I gave.

God used each and every product to show me myself...sometimes it was not pretty, other times I didn't look too bad :) BUT each time, I was challenged and encouraged.

Lorrie has a way of coming alongside and gently showing the way. I like that about what she writes...no condemnation, just "I've been there, and here's how I do better, why not give it a try?" Thank you Lorrie for your passion for godly women!

Anyway, back to how I came to be the 'organizer' or Head Mama of The Gabby Moms.

I had been feeling, LOST...AFRAID....LONELY as my 'nest' was becoming more and more empty. Children growing, moving out, leaving me! I cried out to God to fill the void in my heart with something that has meaning. I dedicated my LIFE to my children and now they were leaving. With two still at home, one graduating this year, I only have one left...the years of home schooling are few....

I began asking....

After a couple of months, the Head Mama asked for some help. The job of Head Mama was much more than she realized. There was just too much to do and not enough time. I offered my help and was asked to oversee the Gabby Moms blog. Ok, this was a start to my 'next'.

A couple of months later, the Head Mama had to resign. Lorrie sent out a plea to the moms for someone to take the Head Mama position. I prayed about this for a few days. I felt a strong sense that God wanted me to do this. But I felt inadequate. (sound like Moses, don't I) I am far from a godly wife/mother/woman. (Anyone who knows me is smiling right now and shaking their head in agreement). Yet, I couldn't stop thinking about how much I WANT to be godly in all those areas, how much I WANT to help other women who struggle just as I do...so I sent off an email to Lorrie telling her that even though I didn't feel "qualified" I did have a desire to encourage women.

I am at a time in my life where I am now an 'older' woman. Time is not an issue as I only have one child still in school. Therefore I felt that I could put the time necessary to help make this program a success. I had been praying for God to show me what was next....is this it?

For now He says

"YES!"

And here I am humbled at how God can still use me and fill that empty space in my heart with purpose.

I look forward to serving with Lorrie, The Gabby Moms and most of all my Savior in 2012!

Come and join the Gabby Moms in 2012 and have an adventure that will change your life,

You can apply here.

Perplexus?

2011-12-29T00:01:00.001-05:00

What could this be?

was my question when I received a box addressed to me with my blog name on the address.

I don't remember ordering anything to review. But then again, I don't remember a lot of things!

Upon opening, I find 2 boxes encasing round balls with what looks like mazes in each ball.

What is this?

I was....perplexed, confused, mixed up, baffled, befuddled, bewildered, discombobulated, jumbled, mystified, stumped, surprised, and even puzzled!

Then I opened the boxes and began 'playing' with the ball that states "Rookie"...

now I'm even MORE perplexed, confused, mixed up, baffled, befuddled, bewildered, discombobulated, jumbled, mystified, stumped, surprised, and puzzled....this 'rookie' ball is not easy.

So what is it I am holding in my hands causing all this craziness in my head???

It is

PERPLEXUS

(very aptly named)

My 13 year old daughter couldn't wait to get her hands on this! She just knew she could do it...and, of course, she did, but it took a while. She spent the rest of the evening turning, twisting, moaning and starting over until she conquered the Rookie!

Here is a description from the Perplexus website:

"PERPLEXUS is a maze game where players maneuver a small marble around challenging barriers inside a transparent sphere. Unlike traditional flat-surface mazes that are composed of one path, PERPLEXUS houses various challenging tracks with 100 barriers providing a frustrating three-dimensional experience. Players select the track they would like to attempt and must work with gravity to carefully shift, flip, and twist the sphere to guide the marble."

I can tell you that Perplexus has been popular with everyone we have shown it to. My friend's son wanted one so badly that she has already purchased 2. She wanted one for a family get together over the holidays. When she couldn't decide which to choose, she decided on TWO!

Notice the picture on the blue box that shows one person attempting to solve the maze with others standing behind watching, oohing and ahhing? That is EXACTLY what happens. My son brought ours to a gathering we attended...he was the most popular kid there :)

Here's a video that was used the Dallas toy preview in October 2009:

I am pleased to be able to offer 2 giveaways from Perplexus.

One is for the Rookie, the other the Epic! Enter both and maybe you can win one!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Wednesday's Hodgepodge

2011-12-28T11:56:00.000-05:00

Wow, it's been a very long time since I posted with this hop....

1. Share something you loved about your Christmas day.

Quietness....yup, very quiet :)

2. You get to put five items in a time capsule to be opened in 100 years, what items would you choose and why?

1. Bible. So people can see we used to carry one with pages that we had to turn to read it

2. pencil and paper. Most likely everything will be technology related

3. picture of family. Maybe my future family will want to know what we looked like in 2011

4. can of gasoline. I hope they don't drink it!

5. lightbulb. I'd love to be there to see what is done with that.

3. What do you like on a cracker?

Grape jelly, that's it

4. Do you make resolutions? How'd that work out for you this past year?

I know better than to make resolutions...I figure I'll hit them every time if I don't make any!

5. What's a song or song lyric you'll associate with 2011?

I Can Only Imagine by Mercy Me

Surrounded by Your glory, what will my heart feel
Will I dance for you Jesus or in awe of you be still
Will I stand in your presence or to my knees will I
fall
Will I sing hallelujah, will I be able to speak at all
I can only imagine

This is where my dad is today.....

6. How will you ring in the new year?

Every year we either attend or host a New Year's Eve get-together. This year it is our turn to host it. I was planning on having a smaller party, but it just keeps growing. That's ok, it will be what it to be.

7. What is something you look forward to in 2012?

My Sampy-June's wedding in August...and all the planning beforehand ;)

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Losing a parent is much, much harder than I ever thought it would be.....

My Week At A Glance 29

2011-12-26T08:00:00.001-05:00

December 17 - 25

Sunday afternoon I spent at a friend's house helping her to attempt to complete the 7 Christmas gifts she is making. They are all the same thing....table runner made in green/red. A beautiful pattern using a Bargello pattern.

Here's one I completed last week in fall colors:

My sister-in-law introduced me to Bargello this summer. I love the patterns that can be created.

I plan on making my daughter and her future husband a queen size quilt for their wedding next summer. As I looked over the pattern, I thought it would be wise to begin with something smaller and get the idea of it goes together. I am very glad that I did that. This table runner was quite a project itself...not hard, just more steps then any other piece I've done.

We had another day off from school this week. This time it was because my husband and I had to go to a lawyer over a property dispute we are having with our neighbor and the town. Because of where we live, it was a 2 hour drive there, 3 hours in his office (ka-ching,$$$$, ka-ching) another 2 hours home with a stop at the grocery store. We left at 6:30 am and returned by 2:30 pm. Can you say "long day"?

I had a very productive Tuesday. After school I was able to completely clean the spare bedroom downstairs (all except the bookcase, that is still on the list), rearrange the living room so that my feet don't freeze while I sit at my desk. The desk was on an outside wall and with temps falling into the single digits, my feet froze, but no more! Organize our game shelf and vacuum game room. Clean/dust/vacuum my room and wash windows in all 3 rooms. I'm attempting to get a head start on the major clean I'll have to do before our New Year's Eve party. Why I clean before is a mystery, it will really need a good clean after, but that is what we do, isn't it?

There is a consignment shop 30 minutes from my home. I take clothes there, earn a little money and then buy some new clothes with the money earned. Last month I earned $30.00. I share this with my daughter as she consigns clothes there also. I was able to purchase 2 sweaters, 3 shirts, 2 tank tops, 3 necklaces and a snazzy pair of pants I plan to wear at our New Year's Eve party.. Not bad for my 1/2 of the earnings!

Sometimes my family can be so fussy when it comes to the meals I prepare. Do any of you have that problem? I attempted a new potato recipe which NO ONE would even try. You've heard of potatoes au gratin? I thought I'd put a different spin on it....I call it potatoes au glass:

Yea, well the steak in the broiler underneath didn't appreciate being spiced with glass....thankfully we had a fridge full of leftovers!

Enjoyed a fun party at a friend's house Friday night. We played "Name that Tune" and a question and answer game about the birth of Jesus. My team won both games. I am a bit competitive and can get quite loud while playing games. This evening was no exception. I think I surprised a few people who don't know me very well with my enthusiasm :)

Saturday night was our usual pizza night. This time my brother-in-law, 2 sisters-in-law and my mother-in-law came over. Eating pizza and visiting with family...a great way to spend a chilly night!

Are you still sleeping?

2011-12-25T08:00:00.002-05:00

Motherhood is a Special Task

2011-12-24T08:00:00.000-05:00

This was taken from the book "Max on Life" by Max Lucado. Something to contemplate....

Motherhood is a Special Task

QUESTION:
More than anything in the world I want to be a good mom to my kids. How can I be the mom God wants me to be?

ANSWER FROM MAX:
The virgin birth is more, much more, than a Christmas story. It is a picture of how close Christ will come to you, a mom, as you also bring a child into the world.

Imagine yourself in that story found in Luke 1.

God comes to you and says, “I have a special task for you. A child. A special child that I want to entrust to you. Are you willing to raise this one?”

You stammer, take a breath. “This sounds scary.”

“Don’t worry. I’ll be there with you. This child is special to me. He will be a great child.”

You shake your head. “Such an awesome responsibility. I don’t know if I can do it.”

“Nothing is impossible with me.”

You smile. “I am your servant. I’ll do it.”

Do we think only one child received God’s special attention? Sure, only one was his Son, and an angel sent out those special birth announcements, accompanied by an angelic choir singing “Happy Birthday.” Of course God pulled out all the stops for Jesus’ birth.

But children aren’t randomly born to parents. God orchestrates the right children to be born to the right parents.

Being the mom God wants you to be starts with the understanding of how important your job is in God’s eyes. He entrusts you with one of his own children. He chose you out of all the moms in the world for this one child.

Remember, you, too, are highly favored by God himself to receive such a special gift.

PetCakes newest animals review & giveaway

2011-12-20T00:01:00.002-05:00

PetCakes...the adorable pets in a cupcake wrapper home!

I had the pleasure to introduce you to the first edition PetCakes back in February last year.

Today I have been given the privilege to share their newest additions to the PetCake collectible family: Series 2-Forest Animals!

Once again these cuties will brighten anyone's day, young or old!

Let me introduce them to you:

Bamboo Berry™

Honey Cakes™

Nutty Nicky™

AND FINALLY

MY FAVORITE:

Roco Coco™

Each comes with embroidered eyes and features a frosting hat with a cherry on top. Nestled down in a cupcake wrapper.

Right now Well Made Toys is offering a special:

Buy (4) or more Petcakes® Collectibles plush toys and receive the PetCakes® Collectibles Minis -Series 1 in 4 pack FREE. You only pay an additional $1.99 shipping and handling.

Enter to win one PetCake chosen by Well Made Toys below:

My Week At A Glance 28

2011-12-17T10:01:00.004-05:00

December 10 - 16

Trying to get back to a semblance of normal after a couple months of adjusting to changes in schedule is not easy. Actually, I can't tell the difference between normalcy or lunacy!

Last week I got home on Tuesday evening after being gone for 5 days to be with family and attend my dad's memorial service. Honestly, I had a very hard time concentrating on daily tasks last week. I found it odd----yes, my dad is gone, but I wouldn't have been 'seeing' him anyway. He winters in Florida, so it's not like I could drive to see him, but I still found myself missing him terribly.

This week I was determined to get going again...school, housework, paperwork....we did well until Tuesday evening when my daughter became ill with the flu. Well, that puts a hold on school yet again! Thankfully, I know that one of the benefits of homeschooling is that we can and will catch up. Maybe not this year, but eventually!

Friday was 'someone who I can't mention here' birthday. As usual in our house the birthday person gets their favorite meal: pork pie, applesauce, chips, beets and cole slaw with chocolate cream pie for dessert. The kids bought him a Keurig coffee thingy which we will be returning because as he opened it he stated that he was giving up coffee...to which I replied, "again?"
Michigan Rummy and Spades was enjoyed by all even though I lost miserably :)
A little t.v. time and then bed....

Please share a highlight from your week

Square Shooters Review

2011-12-16T00:01:00.003-05:00

This is the first of it's kind ....it is cards on dice! 9 dice comprise all 52 cards with 2 jokers. You can play almost any card game with these dice.

To give it a try directions are given for a certain game called Square Shooters. To play each player, in turn, flips a card with a poker hand on it. They then have 3 rolls to match that hand to win chips. At the end of the game, player with the most tokens, WINS! It's that easy...and very fun. You can read more detailed instructions here.

The best hand I rolled to win 12 chips

We enjoyed learning this new game playing with friends. The only 'negative' about this game is there are not enough chips for the game to last very long. We were out of chips before we were ready to be finished.... An easy fix though, we just searched for more chips among our other games and used them also.

To read the instructions to play more exciting games with these 'card' dice click here.

You can own this one-of-a-game by purchasing it here

by entering below to win one!

An unexpected compliment

2011-12-15T13:46:00.000-05:00

ON YOUR BLOG!!!

I've heard these words from someone I live with more than once. Sorry, honey, but I just HAD to write about this one......

A 'certain someone' came home the other day from helping his sister move out of her apartment into our rental cabin.

He approached me with a serious look on his face.

I was a bit taken back and wondered, oh no, what did I do?

He looked me in the eyes and said, "thank you".

I chuckled and asked, "for what?"

His next words nearly gave me a heart attack!!! Seriously....

We've been married for almost 30 years. To say he is neat and orderly would be like saying Obama is an American (sorry, I just couldn't help myself)

Ummm.....yea, I have had a 30 year battle with his JUNK! In the yard, in every room of the house, in his truck.....just about anywhere and everywhere he goes.

For many years this is what my yard looked like:

I am NOT exaggerating

Anyway, back to what he said to me that nearly ended my life!

Four little words that I will keep tucked away for future ammo:

"for being so neat"

An a-ha moment

2011-12-14T10:58:00.001-05:00

I had an a-ha moment last night while watching a Hallmark movie...yea, I know how lame!

The story was about a newly divorced mom and her son. They recently moved cross-country and the son was lonely because he had no friends and an un-involved father. For a school project he wrote to a soldier who wrote back and they developed a relationship. (I bet you can guess where this is going...it's a Hallmark movie after-all) Yes, the mom and soldier fall in love while he is home on furlough. When it is time for him to be deployed, they decide to break-up...but both are miserable and miss each other terribly. So the son says to his mom, "If you didn't break up do you think you would miss him as much". The mom replies, "No, because I know he would be coming back to us."

That's when it hit me! I've been wondering why I miss my dad so very much and think of him all. of. the. time. It's not like I would be seeing him or even talking with him much. He would be in Florida. I may call and talk to him two or three times until he would return in the summer. I now realize why I miss him so much because deep down I realize he will not be coming back to me. EVER!

This may seem obvious, but I really hadn't 'gotten' it yet....

My dad will NOT walk into my house next summer.

I won't ever hear him say "come back when you can't stay" again.

Or shake my head when he purposely mispronounces words like knife

We won't play cribbage together

I won't be able to count how many times he says "Lord" while he's praying.

Or hear his singing in church

Sit on the lawn looking at the clouds to find objects they form

Watch football with him

I will never hug him again and say "I love you dad" and hear "I love you too honey"

Time be thankful for all those times I did have these things. Treasure the memories, the good and the bad as they both were part of who we were together.

If your dad is still with you, tell him how much he means to you. I'm thankful I was able to do this a week before my dad died. For a few moments he was lucid enough to talk with me over the phone. We shared our final "I love you's, I'll miss you". I think I knew that would be the last time I would hear his voice......

The Barber Who Wanted to Pray review

2011-12-12T12:46:00.000-05:00

This is my first review since my father's death a few weeks ago. How appropriate that this book is about prayer. My dad was faithful in daily prayer. During this past summer, while he was living with us, every morning I heard quiet murmurs coming from his room as he and mom prayed together. Sometimes I would join them. I was brought to tears as I listened to his passion as he prayed for his entire family by name everyday. As I sit typing this review, I miss the sound of his voice......

This book tells the story of why Martin Luther wrote the book "A Simple Way to Pray". (click here to read online for free) When a humble barber asked Martin Luther to teach him to pray, Mr. Luther went home and wrote out a small booklet on the importance of using the Lord's Prayer, the Ten Commandments and the Apostles' Creed as guides in our prayer life.

This book by Crossway, The Barber Who Wanted To Pray, is a MUST in every Christian library. Although this is a children's book, it is FOR all believers. If we would take what is recommended in this book into our prayer lives....WOW, we would change dramatically.

Listen online here.

Now I'm sure you want a copy of your own! OR to give as gifts!

Crossway offers this hardcover book for $17.99 or as an e-book for $11.99.

Give a gift that will change a child's (and parents) life!

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Crossway for my honest review

Week At a Glance 27

2011-12-10T13:49:00.000-05:00

I had this post all ready to share on Monday, November 21st but never posted it as that is the morning my dad died.

I've got to say, I didn't feel much like keeping up with my blogging since then

BUT

life moves on even though there are changes....

I am planning on getting back on my blogging schedule with weekly

giveaways, My Week At A Glance posts and some blog hops.

WELCOME BACK !

November 11 - 18

You can read my birthday post here

Another picture of the 3 happy sisters:

Saturday the 12th I did one of my favorite activities,

I went to CBD warehouse sale

(Christian Book Distributors)

This is an event I enjoy twice a year. I travel 4 hours, 250 miles...yup, I love CBD!

Here's the box of my 'spoils':

Sunday the 13th, I traveled to Leyden, MA for my Aunt's 90th birthday party.

She is the matriarch of my mom's family. Growing up we visited her every year during our annual family vacation. She made my wedding dress, too. A very special,loving, kind wonderful woman! I am blessed to have been able to attend her celebration....

Auntie Doris, Me, My Mom

Here's a little gift that was waiting for me when I returned home from my travels:

My van has rotted away and won't pass inspection, so this little girl will replace it. It is going to take some getting used to because it's much smaller than a van. But I think we will get along just fine!

My sister-in-law gave me this beautiful Christmas cactus for my birthday. I am a plant-killer, but she seems to think that I won't be able to kill this....we'll see ;) There were no blossoms when I received it. It's looking good here, now isn't it. Not sure how long it will stay this way, but I will enjoy it while I can !

Pillow or Pillar?

2011-12-02T09:34:00.000-05:00

I read this yesterday in an email newsletter, Serenity for you Soul, I receive from Lorrie Flem of Eternal Encouragement Magazine. God has used this ministry in my life so many ways this past year as I have been a part of Eternal Encouragement's blogging program, The Gabby Moms.

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Memories can be strange

2011-11-23T16:36:00.000-05:00

Since his passing on Monday, I haven't really had many thoughts of my life growing up with him. I mostly remembered the recent past. There is a good reason for that.

The above picture was how our relationship was when I was a child------

He was daddy, I was his pumpkin

but then I became a teen...ummm, yea!

I was amazed when a kitchen table brought a memory from my teen years. A not so pleasant one.

My brother owns the table and chair set that we had growing up.
Today I was setting up my sewing machine at my brother's house on this kitchen table. As I threw back the table cloth I was assaulted with a memory of a time around that table.

It was when I was a rebellious teen. (yea, I know hard to believe that I was ever rebellious) My younger brother was teasing me about something during the meal. I was NOT happy and turned to him and called him a nasty name...a word that was NOT allowed in our house. My dad reached across the table slapped me in the face. OUCH!

Yea, at the time I was insulted and angry that he would do such a thing. He never ever hit me. Now, as a mom, I get it. I'm not saying that what he did was right, not at all, BUT I did deserve some form of discipline. Let's just say that as a teen, I did not like my dad one. little. bit.

Thankfully as I became an adult my attitude changed. He became my daddy again. And now my daddy is gone. No more phone conversations, no more hugs, no more cribbage, no more Father's Day cards, no more daddy....and THAT makes me sad :(

The Final Call

2011-11-21T09:29:00.002-05:00

For weeks I've been wondering, where will I be? What will be my reaction? How will I do this?

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Say Anything family game review

2011-11-16T12:09:00.004-05:00

North Star Games has created yet another fun, laughter-filled family game,

Say Anything Family

Really??? Another Birthday?

2011-11-14T09:10:00.001-05:00

Week At a Glance 26

2011-11-10T20:05:00.000-05:00

November 5 - 10

I am posting early this week (I'm making up for being late last week) because tomorrow is my birthday. I have a very special day planned. I am going wedding dress shopping with my Sampy-June! I am hoping that I will be able to buy her the wedding dress of her dreams on my birthday. Wouldn't THAT be a special gift?

After shopping my children are taking me to The Olive Garden for dinner to be followed by hours of laughter and fun playing games together. I am looking forward to a wonderful day ;) I'll be sure to post pics and tell y'all about it next week ;)

Last week's Week At A Glance post I told about the ladies conference I went to at Word Of Life in Schroon Lake, NY. But I forgot to mention that in order to get there I had to board a ferry. The old Champlain Bridge connecting VT and NY was demolished in 2009 because it was deemed unsafe after 80 years of use. We were 3 days too early to experience the opening of this newly constructed bridge.

This is what we saw as we entered NY on the ferry:

Even though we were only on the ferry for less than 5 minutes, I prefer to keep my feet on dry land, thank you very much!

Driving home from the fun task of weekly grocery shopping, I noticed something interesting on the lake. So I drove down to the boat access area and climbed out of the van to get a better look at what it was. As soon as I opened the door I heard very loud honking sounds....This is what I saw:

There must have been 500 Canadian geese on the lake, taking a break as they head south. I so wish I could hop on their backs to join them! But no, I have to stay here in the cold north :(

Well, I'm off to pack my bags for a fun-filled weekend!

My Week At A Glance

2011-11-07T13:44:00.000-05:00

Week 25

October 30 - November 5

I'm a couple of days late with this weekly (stop laughing, I try!) post as I was away from Friday until Sunday evening at a ladies conference at Word of Life in Schroon Lake, NY.

Which was the only thing I did last week worth writing about!

Really, I'm not kidding.

How does one make house work, school, grocery shopping, cooking, etc, etc, sound exciting? Something that someone would care to read about, especially if that is what their life consists of also!

I had the pleasure of sitting under the teaching of Elyse Fitzpatrick. If you have NO clue who she is you can read everything you ever wanted to know about her by clicking on her name.

I had no idea that I had actually read one of her books until I got there. I did a blog review (click to read it) on her newest book, which she wrote with her daughter, called Give Them Grace.

The subject of the weekend was the same as the premise in this 'parenting' book:

The 'gospel' is for everyday life.

We are sinners in desperate need of a Savior....daily!

And because of what Jesus did for me on the cross as my Savior, when God looks at me He sees Jesus. I am 'hidden in Christ'.

God doesn't see me as I see myself...

unworthy

a failure

lazy

useless

negative

alone

NOPE, He sees my Savior, JESUS...the perfect one who makes me perfect in God's sight! And what God thinks of me is the only opinion that matters!

Here is a quote from The Heidelberg Catechism that sums it up:

"..even though my conscience accuses me of having grievously sinned against ALL of God's commandments and of never having kept any of them,

and even though I am inclined toward ALL evil,

NEVERTHELESS

without my deserving it at all, out of

SHEER GRACE,

God grants and credits to me the perfect satisfaction, righteousness, and holiness of Christ,

as if I had never sinned nor been a sinner,

as if I had been as perfectly obedient as Christ was obedient for me.

All I need to do is to accept the gift of God with a believing heart."

As God says through John in 1 John 4:9 & 10:

"In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him.

In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation (wrath-bearer) for our sins."

All of this not just for our salvation, but for our continuing sanctification!

The gospel of Christ is for every believer to lean on every single day.

This is GOOD NEWS!

Thank you, God, for loving me by Max Lucado

2011-11-01T08:00:00.001-04:00

Oh yes, you've read this right....Max Lucado also does children's books.

This book is only one in his "Hermie" series. Hermie is a common caterpillar. He was introduced by Max many years ago. This year he has a new look and an addition to the previous series for children ages 4 - 6.

These board books are new in the Hermie series featuring Hermie as a 'baby' caterpillar. Geared for children ages 2 - 4. They teach biblical lessons in a fun way. Teaching children that God loves and God listens, even to them as children.

Done in beautiful color and written in a pleasing, rhyming format. You will enjoy curling up with your little one and sharing God's love as shown to them through 'lil Hermie'

**I was sent the above board book from BookSneeze as part of their blogging program in exchange for my honest review

My Week At A Glance Catch-Up

2011-10-29T08:00:00.002-04:00

Catch-Up

My last "My Week At A Glance" told the story of how one phone call changed my week....little did I know that it would change my life!

I spent the next 2 weeks at a hospital with my mom and dad. He entered the hospital after having fallen and breaking his hip. After enduring hip replacement surgery it was discovered that his hip broke due to cancer and THEN he fell. And that cancer was throughout his body, which led me to write this short post and a few days later this one.

What we thought was going to be quick, turned into 10 days when I wrote this. Since then I have been quiet. So MUCH has happened, so many emotions that it's hard to even write about it.

Two weeks from the time the hip broke, dad entered a rehab. The idea was to work with him to allow him to be as mobile as possible as his desire was to return to his home in Florida to spend his last days. After 3 weeks, it was decided that it was time for him to be discharged and go to Florida. So on Tuesday, October 18, I said 'see ya later' to my dad as I left him in my brother's care at the airport. Yea, not the easiest day of my life :(

In the middle of all this, I spent a week with my oldest daughter in a different hospital. Read that story here.

Now I am home trying to get back to a routine, normal life, quiet....we'll see how long that lasts :) But I will take one day at a time, as I always should. Thanking God for his plans and His preparing me for what is next.

While I was 'elsewhere', life at home continued. Hubby worked and got our firewood ready. Julie-bug kept the house in order in my absence. My Zekey-boy worked with his dad and finished the body work on his 1989 Ford F150.

Nice ride!

A few days after I came home to stay, a neighbor asked if we'd be willing to watch his two girls, ages 3 & 4, for 4 hours-3 days a week. So now Julie-bug has herself a little job with me as the 'supervisor'. She is even doing a little school with them every day. What a great opportunity!

Wednesday I had the pleasure of attending a 97th birthday party for a neighbor. It was nice seeing some town people that I don't see all that often.

Honestly, I don't care to live that long, I've a better place to be :)

This is what is seen when coming out of Canada from American customs....just so those Canadians aren't confused as to where Maine and Florida are! I did a double take when I first saw this and had to take a picture! Really????

located 1/2 mile from my house

I've been working on another quilt this week. It is black and white. I'm liking how it is coming out. Here are the 2 basic squares:

there will be 15 of each

After putting these together I wish I would have used the darker checked fabric on the 2nd square as the 'windmill' on the first square...but there's no turning back now!

I was able to complete my 10th Gabby Mom review this week. It was for a great book by Lorrie Flem called "Welcome Home, Daddy". I have enjoyed working with Lorrie Flem, publisher of Eternal Encouragement magazine, this year and am looking forward in becoming even more involved in this ministry in 2012.

Now to end this My Week At a Glance Catch Up, here are some great foliage pictures I took during the many miles I traveled the past month:

What 'news' do you have?

Women's Bean Project Review & Giveaway

2011-10-25T08:00:00.001-04:00

Soup and Cornbread Bundle

I have something very exciting to share with you just in time for your holiday gift-giving. Not only will you bless the person you give the gift to, but you will also bless an organization that's purpose is to help women.

Welcome Home, Daddy Review

2011-10-24T11:33:00.001-04:00

How familiar is this scenario?

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Raising Real Men Book Review

2011-10-22T08:36:00.000-04:00

Yes, if you have boys this is a MUST READ book!

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