I have 2 daughters, one is 6 and the other is 2.
The older daughter is a gem - you couldn't ask for a better child. She is sweet and fun, silly, smart, and loves Jesus with all her heart. When she was a toddler she insisted on having well-dressed baby dolls. Each morning we would dress them from head to toe - only to redress them in the jammies when the sun went down. Each doll had multiple outfits and she loved to dress them up. Flash forward to today....Nicole is our "modesty police." She is grossly offended by immodesty. Even Dora the Explorer (with her belly-button showing top) isn't off the hook. She was horrified to learn that...a long time ago...her mommy was one of those "not modest" cheerleaders she sees on television. Yup, the modesty police....
The other daughter is, well...2 and taking full advantage of it for a few more months. Any and all baby dolls withing her reach MUST be NAKED. In fact, the first thing she does to a baby doll is strip them down. And now that I mention it...she likes best to be naked as well! A neighbor commented to me in the fall that Abigail was outside in her undies...I quickly pointed out her clothing which was strewn about the yard. I dress her ~ she undresses herself. What it a mom to do?
My husband and I were discussing the vast differences in the personalities of our daughters when he pointed out that....if Nicole's baby doll preferences led to her obsession with modesty...we'll be lucky if Abigail doesn't end up a stripper.
I'm not sayin' ...I'm just sayin'.
12/7/10
10/20/10
Theological Smackdown!
My beloved 6 year old is too smart for her own good...
We were in Home Depot the other night with my husband....waiting for my husband, I should say. Home Depot happens to be the one store in the whole world that sells my childrens' most favorite gum in the whole world...mentos gum with the green stuff inside. As we were waiting for Daddy, the children hunted down and recovered 3 packages of said gum. They of course asked to open them right away...to which I said...
NO! I said, "Let's keep them right here in the cart until you prove yourselves WORTHY of the gum by your good behavior."
Nicole looked me square in the eyes and said,
We were in Home Depot the other night with my husband....waiting for my husband, I should say. Home Depot happens to be the one store in the whole world that sells my childrens' most favorite gum in the whole world...mentos gum with the green stuff inside. As we were waiting for Daddy, the children hunted down and recovered 3 packages of said gum. They of course asked to open them right away...to which I said...
NO! I said, "Let's keep them right here in the cart until you prove yourselves WORTHY of the gum by your good behavior."
Nicole looked me square in the eyes and said,
"Mom, we are not WORTHY. We will NEVER be WORTHY...only God is WORTHY and you should never compare us to Him.
Now can I please have my gum?"
Now can I please have my gum?"
Yes, Nicole, you may have your gum.
9/29/10
The Simple Woman's Daybook
Wednesday, September 29th, 2010FOR TODAY
Outside my window...the sun is shining and we are enjoying some warm weather before the cold is here to stay.
I am thinking...I wish I was able to take a nap today. We have Awanas tonight and I am going to be very tired! Praying that the Lord will give me the energy I need to get through the rest of the day!
I am thankful for...Awanas and the scriptures that my children are committing to their hearts. It is priceless!
From the learning rooms...we had to take a few sick days this week while everyone got over their colds. I am looking forward to getting back to business!
From the kitchen...made my first ever gluten free/ dairy free apple pie this week. It was so yummy. I have been too intimidated to try making them but it was really easy.
From the garden...glad I waited to pull the tomatoes off the vine (see last week's post). Hopefully this warm weather will ripen them up a bit!
I am creating...still plugging away on the afghan.
I am going...to Awanas tonight and the city on Friday, exciting!
I am reading...The Bible and On the Banks of Plum Creek (with the kids). I found a new Bible Reading Schedule that is really renewing my passion for the Word...each day you read one chapter from 4 different books of the Bible... one historical, one devotional, one prophetic, and one doctrinal. You can read more about it at Perpetual Bible Reading Schedule by Michael Lancto.
I am hoping...that the children are over being sick and we can all be healthy again!
I am hearing...the landscaper "blow out" the sprinklers - a sure sign that winter will be here sooner than we hope!
Around the house...finally got it clean again - now here's to hoping it stays that way!
One of my favorite things...leaves changing colors for the fall!
A few plans for the rest of the week: the usual ~ Awanas, school, church, and checking out a new pediatrician in the city.
Here is picture for thought I am sharing...
One year ago...the time is going way too fast!
To see the original Simple Woman's Daybook click the link!
9/22/10
Wednesday, September 22nd, 2010FOR TODAY
Outside my window...it is definitely fall in Montana, even if the calendar says that fall starts tomorrow. We have already had our first snowfall and the wood stove is already earning it's weight in gold.
I am thinking...I need more coffee before I can think!
I am thankful for...my family. I am so blessed.
From the learning rooms...we are learning the words to the Star Spangled Banner this week. It is fun to listen to the kids sing it while they run around the house. I am pleasantly surprised by how well both Joshua and Nicole are doing this year. Nicole is becoming quite the little reader and Joshua is very motivated to learn, despite his challenges. I am so proud of both of them!
From the kitchen...found a wonderful recipe for homemade gluten free "flour" tortillas. Yum.
From the garden...I need to pull the tomatoes off the vine since the weather is getting colder and colder. Hopefully my neighbors are right and they will ripen inside. Our corn was a bust this year ~ it never got hot enough for it to grow. Oh well, maybe next year!
I am creating...an afghan that seems it will never end! I think I need to take a break for a while and work on something smaller till I can get motivated again!
I am going...to Awanas tonight. The kids are so excited for a new year of Awanas.
I am reading...The Bible and On the Banks of Plum Creek (with the kids).
I am hoping...for my mother-in-law to wake up today, that would be a great Birthday present!
I am hearing...my husband teaching (or trying to) my kids how to play chess. This has been a good lesson in patience for him :)
Around the house...wrapping up projects outside before winter and then we'll turn of focus back inside.
One of my favorite things...sleeping in!
A few plans for the rest of the week: starting Awanas, school, and church.
Here is picture for thought I am sharing...
Rock ClimbingTo see the original Simple Woman's Daybook click the link!
9/2/10
A Little Special Needs Learning...
Jump over to 4 the Love of Josh to see some of the adaptations we are making for Joshua's Apraxia of Speech while he battles his way through Kindergarten! Go Joshy, Go...we are proud of you!
8/31/10
A thief on the loose...
We recently had the pleasure of hosting the "Modern Day Bonnie & Clyde" here in Northern Montana. No one knows for sure where they were staying or how long they were here...but everyone knew they were close at hand. I got the dreaded phone call one evening from my husband at work..."Are you going anywhere tonight?" Me, "No, why?" Him, "Make sure you lock up and keep an eye on your surroundings." I always know what that means...there are bad guys on the loose. It is amazing how quickly we batten down the hatches when we know that evil is close by. Suddenly we are aware of every car that passes by and every unfamiliar face in town (and when you live in a town of 500...well, you can guess).
And last fall, when our puppy was stolen right out of our front yard...we made it our personal mission to find her. We searched for hours for her. The next day we made signs and called the radio station. By noon we had her back. We soon learned from our new neighbors that the hot handed thief was a habitual thief in our town. We kept our eyes open and our doors locked much more after that. Yes, he was most likely harmless, he was young and mostly a petty thief ~ but we certainly did not feel obligated to share our hard earned bounty with him.
And yet all the day between the town thief and the murdering fugitives...we went back to our complacent lifestyle. We live in a town of 500 people...we generally feel safe. Our biggest threat here is a grizzly bear coming in to town. How concerned do I really need to be? Well... I was reading from the book of John the other day and came across this so familiar passage...
And last fall, when our puppy was stolen right out of our front yard...we made it our personal mission to find her. We searched for hours for her. The next day we made signs and called the radio station. By noon we had her back. We soon learned from our new neighbors that the hot handed thief was a habitual thief in our town. We kept our eyes open and our doors locked much more after that. Yes, he was most likely harmless, he was young and mostly a petty thief ~ but we certainly did not feel obligated to share our hard earned bounty with him.
And yet all the day between the town thief and the murdering fugitives...we went back to our complacent lifestyle. We live in a town of 500 people...we generally feel safe. Our biggest threat here is a grizzly bear coming in to town. How concerned do I really need to be? Well... I was reading from the book of John the other day and came across this so familiar passage...
"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy;
I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full."
John 10:10
I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full."
John 10:10
Ladies, there is a thief among us ALL THE TIME. And he is far more cunning than some runaway fugitives (who were thankfully caught far far away from my home) or some petty puppy stealing teenagers.
He is the king of LIES and he wants our joy, our peace, our patience, our trust, and anything else he can get from us. He is swift, sometimes hard to trace, crafty, and most certainly deadly. And chances are...he is hanging out right outside your door...or worse...he is already inside your home.
The good news is...if you have accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior...you have the most effective home and heart security system available to man. When the enemy is knocking at your door ~ the Holy Spirit sounds the alarm and all you have to do is hit your knees and pray to the One who has already overcome (John 16:33). He comes swiftly to your defense...faster than any local sheriff ever could...and He rescues us from the enemy. Thank you, Lord that you are my personal security team!
Pondering all of this has also made me realize there are things I need to be doing to continually safeguard my home and my children from the enemy. We cannot become complacent in our walk with Jesus or our lives. As my Pastor mentioned this past Sunday...the enemy works best when we THINK we are safe.
Do I assume that just because I home school my children will be safe from the enemy? I may have allowed that thought to cross my mind once or twice...
Remember ~ he is sneaky and he will darn sure try until he finds a way to get to them. My initial reaction to this thought is to panic...but Pastor also reminded us that, "...God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of sound mind." 2 Timothy 1:7
So what do we do? We use that sound mind to call upon the power of Jesus to protect our children and our homes. Do we do this once? Or twice...and call it good? Nope, daily my friends. Every single day.
I have also been convicted to re-examine the media we allow into our minds. Now....let me first day that we are very strict about what they are allowed to watch on television. My kids consider Sponge Bob to be evil and Phineas and Ferb not much better. They are restricted to Clifford and Curious George, Dora the Explorer and Mickey Mouse Club House (plus a few other hand selected titles). They also have TONS of Veggie Tales videos and my personal favorite, Signing Time. So my biggest conviction lately has been just to turn it off.
And for the radio...I mostly listen to Christian music but I must confess I do like my country music too. And since the ONE and ONLY radio station I get here is the local station and it happens to be country...that is usually what I turn on in the car. Recently, the kids have been asking me questions about the songs...like the song, "I Run to You" (by Lady Antebellum)... Nicole asked me if they were singing about Jesus. Gulp. And my favorite...when Joshua asked me the other day what a "Mississippi Hippie" was (She's Country by Jason Aldean). I decided we should probably turn off the radio and listen to christian music, hymns and Bible verses (to music) on my iPod. The kids love it and I find myself singing the hymn (or verses) as I go through my day. Don't worry, I still have my country music playlist on my iPod and I will listen to it when the kids are not around...which is never...so oh well.
And that leads me to a last thought (before I fall asleep on the keyboard)...I need to remember to stop what I am doing and pray with them when they tell me about things they are struggling with. For example ~ I heard Nicole talking in her bed tonight and when I went in to check on her...she told me she had bad dreams in her head and she was telling them to get out. I stopped and prayed for her...and the other 2 as well...out loud and asked Jesus to remove those bad dreams and replace them with sweet ones. I want them to learn to stop what they are doing and seek the Lord when they come again struggles (especially ones that are suspicious of the enemy).
OK, so I gotta admit this post took a completely different turn than I had intended. I wanted to tell you how I've become so content and at peace with life here but after reading John 10:10 I realized that I do not experience that "full life" that Jesus died for me to have. I am not sure when the enemy stole it from me...or if I ever really took hold of it when He offered it to me...but I'll be praying about that one and I'll let you know what I find out.
In the meantime..."Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour." 1 Peter 5:8 Don't let it be you...or your kids!
Many blessings to you all,
Leah
He is the king of LIES and he wants our joy, our peace, our patience, our trust, and anything else he can get from us. He is swift, sometimes hard to trace, crafty, and most certainly deadly. And chances are...he is hanging out right outside your door...or worse...he is already inside your home.
The good news is...if you have accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior...you have the most effective home and heart security system available to man. When the enemy is knocking at your door ~ the Holy Spirit sounds the alarm and all you have to do is hit your knees and pray to the One who has already overcome (John 16:33). He comes swiftly to your defense...faster than any local sheriff ever could...and He rescues us from the enemy. Thank you, Lord that you are my personal security team!
Pondering all of this has also made me realize there are things I need to be doing to continually safeguard my home and my children from the enemy. We cannot become complacent in our walk with Jesus or our lives. As my Pastor mentioned this past Sunday...the enemy works best when we THINK we are safe.
Do I assume that just because I home school my children will be safe from the enemy? I may have allowed that thought to cross my mind once or twice...
Remember ~ he is sneaky and he will darn sure try until he finds a way to get to them. My initial reaction to this thought is to panic...but Pastor also reminded us that, "...God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of sound mind." 2 Timothy 1:7
So what do we do? We use that sound mind to call upon the power of Jesus to protect our children and our homes. Do we do this once? Or twice...and call it good? Nope, daily my friends. Every single day.
I have also been convicted to re-examine the media we allow into our minds. Now....let me first day that we are very strict about what they are allowed to watch on television. My kids consider Sponge Bob to be evil and Phineas and Ferb not much better. They are restricted to Clifford and Curious George, Dora the Explorer and Mickey Mouse Club House (plus a few other hand selected titles). They also have TONS of Veggie Tales videos and my personal favorite, Signing Time. So my biggest conviction lately has been just to turn it off.
And for the radio...I mostly listen to Christian music but I must confess I do like my country music too. And since the ONE and ONLY radio station I get here is the local station and it happens to be country...that is usually what I turn on in the car. Recently, the kids have been asking me questions about the songs...like the song, "I Run to You" (by Lady Antebellum)... Nicole asked me if they were singing about Jesus. Gulp. And my favorite...when Joshua asked me the other day what a "Mississippi Hippie" was (She's Country by Jason Aldean). I decided we should probably turn off the radio and listen to christian music, hymns and Bible verses (to music) on my iPod. The kids love it and I find myself singing the hymn (or verses) as I go through my day. Don't worry, I still have my country music playlist on my iPod and I will listen to it when the kids are not around...which is never...so oh well.
And that leads me to a last thought (before I fall asleep on the keyboard)...I need to remember to stop what I am doing and pray with them when they tell me about things they are struggling with. For example ~ I heard Nicole talking in her bed tonight and when I went in to check on her...she told me she had bad dreams in her head and she was telling them to get out. I stopped and prayed for her...and the other 2 as well...out loud and asked Jesus to remove those bad dreams and replace them with sweet ones. I want them to learn to stop what they are doing and seek the Lord when they come again struggles (especially ones that are suspicious of the enemy).
OK, so I gotta admit this post took a completely different turn than I had intended. I wanted to tell you how I've become so content and at peace with life here but after reading John 10:10 I realized that I do not experience that "full life" that Jesus died for me to have. I am not sure when the enemy stole it from me...or if I ever really took hold of it when He offered it to me...but I'll be praying about that one and I'll let you know what I find out.
In the meantime..."Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour." 1 Peter 5:8 Don't let it be you...or your kids!
Many blessings to you all,
Leah
8/30/10
The Simple Woman's Daybook
Tuesday, August 31, 2010FOR TODAY
Outside my window...it's beginning to look a lot like fall here. Is the summer gone already? Is it really almost September?
I am thinking...about a million things that feel overwhelming right now...and wishing I was in bed instead of fretting!
I am thankful for...access to God's Word ~ it gets me through the day!
From the learning rooms...school has been in full swing for about two weeks now. I have 2 students this year ~ 1st grade and Kindergarten. The days are longer but so far so good!
From the kitchen...hubby's smoking a brisket for us today. Can't wait to sit back and enjoy tonight! Believe it or not...I actually sat down and planned my menu for the WHOLE month of September. What a relief!
From the garden...lots and LOTS of zucchini and green beans. Still waiting for the tomatoes to turn red. Looks like we will have a few pumpkins too!
I am creating...a "patriotic" crochet blanket.
I am going...to reorganize the school room a bit. Need to move some cabinets so I have a little more room for my growing students.
I am reading...The Bible and about to start "Girl Talk" with Nicole (as recommended by my pastor's wife)
I am hoping...that my Mother-in-Law will wake up today. C'mon Grandma, it's time to play! Oh yeah, and that Abigail will get this potty-training thing down soon!
I am hearing...complete and utter silence. That's because I am typing this the night before I post and everyone else is in bed (or at work)...
Around the house...trying to keep things organized now that we are back to school. It can get out of hand far too quickly!
One of my favorite things...the complete and utter silence of after bedtime!
A few plans for the rest of the week... hubby's weekend starts tomorrow so a little family time then lots of school and a trip to the library!
Here is picture for thought I am sharing...
Nicole and Joshua whitewater rafting near Glacier National Park.
8/26/10
Our Circle Time
Well, school is in full swing here as we muddle our way through week #2. For the first time I have 2 students ~ Nicole is in 1st Grade and Joshua is in Kindergarten. We are using My Father's World Curriculum (for both K and 1st Grade) and we love it! Nicole and Joshua are able to do quite a bit of school work together and then I spend about 45 minutes one-on-one with Joshua and about 2 hours one-on-one with Nicole (much of which happens when the younger 2 are sleeping).
My most favorite time of the day is Circle Time. I first learned about "Circle Time" from Kendra over at Preschoolers and Peace. She is amazing/ inspiring/ and quite personable. I read all of her archived posts about Circle Time and downloaded her e-book about it as well. I have even asked her questions and she has answered them all! Anyhow - my circle time looks very different from hers but that is the beauty of it...you can make it be whatever you need!
Our Current Circle Time Activities:
ACTS Prayer Time
Sing and Sign (ASL) Hymn
Define Pledge of Allegiance
Say Pledge of Allegiance
Calendar (Months of Year/ Days of Week/ Today)
Number of the Day
ACTS Prayers
I made a poster of the different parts of the ACTS prayer model. I wish I could post a picture of it but I am just not that savvy. Anyhow, I explained it like this...(words in parenthesis are actually clip art pictures of that word)
ADORATION... (heart) ...I love you, Lord
CONFESSION... (sad face) ...I am sorry, Lord
THANKSGIVING... (happy face) ...Thank you, Lord
SUPPLICATION... (child praying) ...Please help, Lord
After we discuss the aspects of the prayer model, we use the poster to help us pray through each element around the table.
Sing and Sign Hymn
We are currently learning the hymn "This is My Father's World." The kids sometimes perform hymns with Sign Language at church, so I figured we would incorporate the American Sign Language with each hymn we learn. It is such a beautiful way to worship and it helps us keep up on our vocabulary. See Joshua's blog to find out why we sign...
Define Pledge of Allegiance
My kids have been saying the Pledge of Allegiance for several years now. But I realized that they really have no idea what they are saying. So...I decided to break it down into vocabulary words for them to learn and teach them what the Pledge actually means. Do you know it means?
Pledge: Promise
Allegiance: to be loyal, faithful and true
Republic: form of government where leaders are elected by the people to represent them
Indivisible: cannot be divided
Liberty: Freedom
Justice: Fairness
For all: Citizens
In other words...
My most favorite time of the day is Circle Time. I first learned about "Circle Time" from Kendra over at Preschoolers and Peace. She is amazing/ inspiring/ and quite personable. I read all of her archived posts about Circle Time and downloaded her e-book about it as well. I have even asked her questions and she has answered them all! Anyhow - my circle time looks very different from hers but that is the beauty of it...you can make it be whatever you need!
Our Current Circle Time Activities:
ACTS Prayer Time
Sing and Sign (ASL) Hymn
Define Pledge of Allegiance
Say Pledge of Allegiance
Calendar (Months of Year/ Days of Week/ Today)
Number of the Day
ACTS Prayers
I made a poster of the different parts of the ACTS prayer model. I wish I could post a picture of it but I am just not that savvy. Anyhow, I explained it like this...(words in parenthesis are actually clip art pictures of that word)
ADORATION... (heart) ...I love you, Lord
CONFESSION... (sad face) ...I am sorry, Lord
THANKSGIVING... (happy face) ...Thank you, Lord
SUPPLICATION... (child praying) ...Please help, Lord
After we discuss the aspects of the prayer model, we use the poster to help us pray through each element around the table.
Sing and Sign Hymn
We are currently learning the hymn "This is My Father's World." The kids sometimes perform hymns with Sign Language at church, so I figured we would incorporate the American Sign Language with each hymn we learn. It is such a beautiful way to worship and it helps us keep up on our vocabulary. See Joshua's blog to find out why we sign...
Define Pledge of Allegiance
My kids have been saying the Pledge of Allegiance for several years now. But I realized that they really have no idea what they are saying. So...I decided to break it down into vocabulary words for them to learn and teach them what the Pledge actually means. Do you know it means?
Pledge: Promise
Allegiance: to be loyal, faithful and true
Republic: form of government where leaders are elected by the people to represent them
Indivisible: cannot be divided
Liberty: Freedom
Justice: Fairness
For all: Citizens
In other words...
I promise to be loyal
to the flag of our country
The United States of America
and to the elected government the flag represents
one nation, under the authority of God,
that cannot be divided
and offers FREEDOM and FAIRNESS
to every CITIZEN of this country
to the flag of our country
The United States of America
and to the elected government the flag represents
one nation, under the authority of God,
that cannot be divided
and offers FREEDOM and FAIRNESS
to every CITIZEN of this country
This morning we spent some time discussing the freedom that we so often take for granted. We want our kids to know that our freedom is precious and cannot be taken lightly - or it will be taken away. They know that is other parts of the world ~ Christians are being killed for worshiping the one true God. And other parts of the world ~ children are being taken away from their parents because their parents choose to home school (and that is Germany, and possible soon the UK...scary). If you are not up to date on the UN Rights of the Child Treaty - please go to ParentalRights.org to learn more. Our rights and freedoms are in grave danger folks. We MUST take this seriously. Our children will know and understand what we are fighting for!
After discussing the pledge, we stand and say the Pledge of Allegiance facing the American Flag in our school room. I am hoping to soon have a flag pole next to the school house so we can raise and lower the flag each day.
The rest of Circle Time is pretty self-explanatory. Our curriculum has lots of great ideas for the # of the Day. We also discuss the calendar and all the good stuff that goes with it. Today I made a section in my Lesson Plans binder for future "Circle Time" activities...So far I have written down memorizing the Lord's Prayer, the Fruits of the Spirit, Hymns such as Holy, Holy, Holy and How Great Thou Art, and a series of Patriotic Songs to learn. I am sure that as the year goes on our Circle Time will change and become more in-depth...but I think we are off to a great start so far!
Hope your school year is starting well! May the Lord bless you as you teach and train your little ones!
After discussing the pledge, we stand and say the Pledge of Allegiance facing the American Flag in our school room. I am hoping to soon have a flag pole next to the school house so we can raise and lower the flag each day.
The rest of Circle Time is pretty self-explanatory. Our curriculum has lots of great ideas for the # of the Day. We also discuss the calendar and all the good stuff that goes with it. Today I made a section in my Lesson Plans binder for future "Circle Time" activities...So far I have written down memorizing the Lord's Prayer, the Fruits of the Spirit, Hymns such as Holy, Holy, Holy and How Great Thou Art, and a series of Patriotic Songs to learn. I am sure that as the year goes on our Circle Time will change and become more in-depth...but I think we are off to a great start so far!
Hope your school year is starting well! May the Lord bless you as you teach and train your little ones!
8/21/10
An Update of Sorts...
Since my last post, I have driven over 7,000 miles. Impressive, huh? OK maybe not. But add the fact that there were 3 children under the age of 6 in the car at least half of those miles were just me and them - I am considering it impressive.
So we rewind. May brought warmer weather and garden planting. June wrapped up the end of our first year of homeschooling, Vacation Bible School, a visit from a dear family friend, my husband's birthday and a call from my parents that my grandfather's health was failing fast. You know the call - if you want to see him again you need to make some travel arrangements. That left 2 options...$4,500 in plane tickets or start driving. So we did. Just me and the kids. 2,600 miles. We drove 600 miles per day. We used the DVD player. We stopped at hotels that had a pool and a continental breakfast. My dad was gracious enough to fly to Chicago to meet us and help up drive the rest of the way in to Maryland. We made it. And just in time. (If you are considering driving from Chicago to the Eastern Shore of Maryland in one day with 3 small children in the car...reconsider. It was a long day.)
The kids saw my grandfather (affectionately known as Pop-Pop) one time before he was too sick for them to see. I was able to spend one night at his bedside before he died - I shared the gospel with him one last time and asked him some questions about his faith. He was able to answer yes and no questions and after praying with him...I am certain that he is with Jesus right now. Thank you Lord for your sweet assurance. Pop-pop passed away on July 4th. He had a really good view of the fireworks that night...and the Orioles actually won a game in honor of him (I am sure that was it cause they can't win a game when they try).
The next week was the hustle and bustle of funeral arrangements and time with family. Just as we were hoping to turn our trip into a vacation we got a terrible phone call - my in-laws were flying their single engine plane from Colorado Springs to their home in San Diego when their plane crashed. They were outside a small town in New Mexico. My father-in-law sustained severe injuries and was transported to the local hospital for surgery. My mother-in-law was life-flighted to U. of New Mexico hospital with multiple would and TBI (traumatic brain injury). She has been in a coma since the crash. My husband flew from Montana to New Mexico early the next morning. I tried to make arrangements to meet him there - but he told me to stay put. He didn't want me driving back across the country under the circumstances. So we waited. Days passed and my mother-in-laws condition waxed and waned. Some doctors thought things were hopeful...others disagreed. On June 29th they were able to transport her via helicopter to a facility in San Diego so she would be closer to home. At that point - we all headed home. My mom was kind (or crazy) enough to drive as far as Denver with us....which is where we met my husband and he drove us the rest of the way home. Boy were the kids glad to see their daddy. We had been away from home for 5 weeks.
Fast forward to the end of August and we are home...harvesting the little bit of garden that survived the cold Montana summer and the lack of care it received from us being gone. Surprisingly - we have harvested quite a bit of zucchini and green beans. We will also have tomatoes and pumpkins before the cold takes over (I hope). We also celebrated Joshua's 5th birthday last week and started school. Joshua has been dying to start "real school" when he turned 5...so we decided to dive in. So far so good.
My mother-in-law remains in a coma. We are praying desperately for her to wake-up. None of us are ready to lose her. I can't begin to tell you the number of times we have gone to pick up the phone and call her...for a recipe or to tell her the latest hysterical thing that Nicole has said...only to put down the phone and cry. The grand kids need their Grandma. Please Lord, wake her up! Not our will though ~ but Yours Lord. You can keep up with her condition on her Caring Bridge Website
I am working on a post right now that has been brewing in my head for days...just figured I better update ya'll before I hit you with some heavy theological thinking :)
Many blessings,
Leah
So we rewind. May brought warmer weather and garden planting. June wrapped up the end of our first year of homeschooling, Vacation Bible School, a visit from a dear family friend, my husband's birthday and a call from my parents that my grandfather's health was failing fast. You know the call - if you want to see him again you need to make some travel arrangements. That left 2 options...$4,500 in plane tickets or start driving. So we did. Just me and the kids. 2,600 miles. We drove 600 miles per day. We used the DVD player. We stopped at hotels that had a pool and a continental breakfast. My dad was gracious enough to fly to Chicago to meet us and help up drive the rest of the way in to Maryland. We made it. And just in time. (If you are considering driving from Chicago to the Eastern Shore of Maryland in one day with 3 small children in the car...reconsider. It was a long day.)
The kids saw my grandfather (affectionately known as Pop-Pop) one time before he was too sick for them to see. I was able to spend one night at his bedside before he died - I shared the gospel with him one last time and asked him some questions about his faith. He was able to answer yes and no questions and after praying with him...I am certain that he is with Jesus right now. Thank you Lord for your sweet assurance. Pop-pop passed away on July 4th. He had a really good view of the fireworks that night...and the Orioles actually won a game in honor of him (I am sure that was it cause they can't win a game when they try).
The next week was the hustle and bustle of funeral arrangements and time with family. Just as we were hoping to turn our trip into a vacation we got a terrible phone call - my in-laws were flying their single engine plane from Colorado Springs to their home in San Diego when their plane crashed. They were outside a small town in New Mexico. My father-in-law sustained severe injuries and was transported to the local hospital for surgery. My mother-in-law was life-flighted to U. of New Mexico hospital with multiple would and TBI (traumatic brain injury). She has been in a coma since the crash. My husband flew from Montana to New Mexico early the next morning. I tried to make arrangements to meet him there - but he told me to stay put. He didn't want me driving back across the country under the circumstances. So we waited. Days passed and my mother-in-laws condition waxed and waned. Some doctors thought things were hopeful...others disagreed. On June 29th they were able to transport her via helicopter to a facility in San Diego so she would be closer to home. At that point - we all headed home. My mom was kind (or crazy) enough to drive as far as Denver with us....which is where we met my husband and he drove us the rest of the way home. Boy were the kids glad to see their daddy. We had been away from home for 5 weeks.
Fast forward to the end of August and we are home...harvesting the little bit of garden that survived the cold Montana summer and the lack of care it received from us being gone. Surprisingly - we have harvested quite a bit of zucchini and green beans. We will also have tomatoes and pumpkins before the cold takes over (I hope). We also celebrated Joshua's 5th birthday last week and started school. Joshua has been dying to start "real school" when he turned 5...so we decided to dive in. So far so good.
My mother-in-law remains in a coma. We are praying desperately for her to wake-up. None of us are ready to lose her. I can't begin to tell you the number of times we have gone to pick up the phone and call her...for a recipe or to tell her the latest hysterical thing that Nicole has said...only to put down the phone and cry. The grand kids need their Grandma. Please Lord, wake her up! Not our will though ~ but Yours Lord. You can keep up with her condition on her Caring Bridge Website
I am working on a post right now that has been brewing in my head for days...just figured I better update ya'll before I hit you with some heavy theological thinking :)
Many blessings,
Leah
4/13/10
Tuesday, April 13th, 2010
FOR TODAY
Outside my window...dreary day. It looks like winter again! Forecasting up to a foot of snow today!
I am thinking...about my friends who lost their little girl, Lauren, to cancer this past week. My heart is so broken for them and I wish I could be there to wrap them up in a big hug.
I am thankful for...the promise of heaven and knowing that we will see those who believe and have gone before us once again.
From the learning rooms...getting my curriculum order in place for next year. For some reason that is really exciting to me!
From the kitchen...lots of baking~ gluten free/ dairy free doughnuts, zucchini bread, biscuits and sandwich bread.
From the Garden...in light of all the snow, I am so glad we haven't planted anything outside!
I am creating...a prayer shawl for Caroline, Lauren's grandmother.
I am going...to the post office to mail our taxes today. Sure hope I don't forget...better write a note!
I am reading...The Bible, Believing God (R.C. Sproul, Jr), and Little House on the Prairie with the kids.
I am hoping...for God's mighty hand to work in several areas of our life. I need to keep reminding myself that He is faithful!
I am hearing...Josh's helicopter. It is a rather monotonous and maddening sounds at the moment :-)
Around the house...decluttering.
One of my favorite things...a good night's sleep!
A few plans for the rest of the week: school, housework, Awanas, and spending the night in the city Friday night so we can get hubby to the airport Saturday morning.
Here is picture for thought I am sharing...
Ice Waterfall...Amazing!
To see the original Simple Woman's Daybook click the link!
4/7/10
Easter 2010
Nicole has a knack for saying the funniest things you could ever imagine from out of the blue. Last night, we were cooking dinner when then oven alerted me that it was done preheating. I was over at the computer so Nicole yelled out, "Mom, the timer is going off!" I walked over and said, "Thanks hon, it's just telling me that the oven is ready..." She looked at me with wide-eyed amazement and said, "WOW MOM, You can speak timer?!?!"
3/23/10
The Simple Woman's DayBook
Tuesday, March 23th, 2010FOR TODAY
Outside my window...the sun is shining and there is a slight frost covering everything. Beautiful!
I am thinking...it was sad to return the puppy to her breeder but it was the right thing to do. Much less stress here this morning. And Samson is much happier now that she is gone...
I am thankful for...God's many blessings...there are too many to count!
From the learning rooms...finally back to the grind. We stalled last week after I got a migraine. Glad to finally be back in the books!
From the kitchen...Mother Hubbard's cupboard is bare...headed to the city for some groceries!
From the Garden...getting some seeds and supplies today in the city. Yeah!
I am creating...crochet bandannas. Great for bad hair days and they don't slip! So fun!
I am going...90 miles to the city for a month worth of groceries with 3 children. Walmart, Sams Club, Health Food Store, Pet Store. Should be a long day!
I am reading...The One Year Bible, Mere Christianity (C.S. Lewis), and Little House on the Prairie with the kids.
I am hoping...for God's mighty hand to work in several areas of our life. I need to keep reminding myself that He is faithful!
I am hearing...our morning dose of Dora the Explorer. This morning Nicole tried to convince Abi that she couldn't be Dora if she still sucks on a pacifier...Abi didn't like that!
Around the house...finally managing the mess. Mopped floors, some de-cluttering, and lots of laundry!
One of my favorite things...a clean house :-)
A few plans for the rest of the week: Groceries, school, cleaning, Awanas, and lots of outside play in the sunshine!
Here is picture for thought I am sharing...
The Splendor of the King...To see the original Simple Woman's Daybook click the link!
3/18/10
Days Like These...
It's days like these that I love the most...
Daddy gave us a job to do and we decided to tackle it with gusto, determination, and creativity! We conducted "outside school" in the backyard this morning as we picked up rotten apples off the newly exposed ground. Yeah, sounds fun, right? Let me go back for a minute...
We moved into our home November 1st last year and the crab apple tree in the back yard had been unattended for several months. Soon after we moved in ~ as we were unpacking and getting settled ~ the weather quickly turned cold. The remaining apples on the tree fell off the tree and were covered in snow in what seemed to be overnight. I figured that snow would melt and we'd be able to pick up the apples before winter really set in...but I was wrong. The ground is now exposed for the first time since then and boy is there a mess! Not only are the 100's of rotten apples on the ground (I really don't remember there being that many before....it's like they multiplied under the snow), but the puppy has made a habit of eating them and the make her stink in a way you cannot even imagine! And that's why Daddy challenged us to pick them up.
We set out this morning with gloves and buckets to get the job done. I pulled a large garbage can from the garage to empty our buckets into. While we worked, the school lessons and creativity came naturally. We counted apples as we put them into the buckets, talked about seasons and life cycles and even recited verses we have memorized about working hard for the Lord. We pretended to be our favorite characters from "The Little House on the Prairie" series...our current read-aloud selection. After about an hour, I could tell they were wearing out and I had to run inside ...so when I came back and heard them talking about picking up seeds, I figured they needed reminding that we were supposed to be picking up the apples. They explained that they were birds - specifically a mommy and daddy bird and they were collecting seeds (which were the apples) for their baby birds (who were in the large garbage can). Oh...I get it! We sang birdie songs and even flew away to birdie school where we talked about the many differences between flying birds and penguins (we learned about penguins just before Spring Break). This went on for another whole hour!
We still have a few apples to pick up this afternoon. The large garbage can is almost FULL...I can't believe how much work we accomplished in such a short time. After lunch, it's back to work then into the school house for a wee bit of "inside school." This morning has made me look forward to gardening with the kids this summer....and all the things we can learn in the process.
Daddy gave us a job to do and we decided to tackle it with gusto, determination, and creativity! We conducted "outside school" in the backyard this morning as we picked up rotten apples off the newly exposed ground. Yeah, sounds fun, right? Let me go back for a minute...
We moved into our home November 1st last year and the crab apple tree in the back yard had been unattended for several months. Soon after we moved in ~ as we were unpacking and getting settled ~ the weather quickly turned cold. The remaining apples on the tree fell off the tree and were covered in snow in what seemed to be overnight. I figured that snow would melt and we'd be able to pick up the apples before winter really set in...but I was wrong. The ground is now exposed for the first time since then and boy is there a mess! Not only are the 100's of rotten apples on the ground (I really don't remember there being that many before....it's like they multiplied under the snow), but the puppy has made a habit of eating them and the make her stink in a way you cannot even imagine! And that's why Daddy challenged us to pick them up.
We set out this morning with gloves and buckets to get the job done. I pulled a large garbage can from the garage to empty our buckets into. While we worked, the school lessons and creativity came naturally. We counted apples as we put them into the buckets, talked about seasons and life cycles and even recited verses we have memorized about working hard for the Lord. We pretended to be our favorite characters from "The Little House on the Prairie" series...our current read-aloud selection. After about an hour, I could tell they were wearing out and I had to run inside ...so when I came back and heard them talking about picking up seeds, I figured they needed reminding that we were supposed to be picking up the apples. They explained that they were birds - specifically a mommy and daddy bird and they were collecting seeds (which were the apples) for their baby birds (who were in the large garbage can). Oh...I get it! We sang birdie songs and even flew away to birdie school where we talked about the many differences between flying birds and penguins (we learned about penguins just before Spring Break). This went on for another whole hour!
We still have a few apples to pick up this afternoon. The large garbage can is almost FULL...I can't believe how much work we accomplished in such a short time. After lunch, it's back to work then into the school house for a wee bit of "inside school." This morning has made me look forward to gardening with the kids this summer....and all the things we can learn in the process.
Thank you, Lord, for the opportunity to homeschool my children for your Glory. Thank you for showing me ways to teach them more about you in the everyday chores of life!
3/15/10
Happy Birthday Nicole!
My precious little girl has turned 6...I never could have imagined this day! She is so full of life, creative, thoughtful, and FULL of love for the LORD! I am so thankful for Nicole.
3/14/10
The Simple Woman's DayBook
Tuesday, March 16th, 2010FOR TODAY
Outside my window..."Tut tut~it looks like rain!" That must mean that spring has reached Northern Montana.
I am thinking...I would really like to go back to bed today. Our company left last night and it is time to recuperate. Guess I'll have to turn to more coffee instead!
I am thankful for...my eldest daughter. She is such a blessing to me!
From the learning rooms...Spring break is over and we are getting back on track to finish the school year strong! This week is the Letter Z and zebras as we finish studying "wild animals."
From the kitchen...baking more gluten free bread today.
From the Garden...still planning and hoping that I will have a successful garden for the first time ever! Got a book from Home Depot last night to read-up and learn some more.
I am creating...a home that is a safe-haven and place of rest for my family and friends.
I am going...to take it easy this week and catch up on life!
I am reading...The One Year Bible, Mere Christianity (C.S. Lewis), and Little House in the Big Woods to the kids.
I am hoping...that Lauren's MRI brings good news this week (Mar 17th)!
I am hearing...a lot of whining this morning...kids need to catch up on rest!
Around the house...mess, mess, mess!
One of my favorite things...Chili's chips and salsa. Yum!
A few plans for the rest of the week:clean, school, rest, and grocery shop at some point. Boring, I know, but necessary!
Here is picture for thought I am sharing...
To see the original Simple Woman's Daybook click the link!
3/9/10
The Simple Woman's DayBook
Tuesday, March 9th, 2010FOR TODAY
Outside my window...a beautiful fresh snowfall...confirming that winter is indeed not over yet!
I am thinking...I am not sure if the puppy was a good idea. She is quite a handful and the last time I checked ~ my hands were already full! My husband would like me to spend more time training her, but I am not sure where to fit that time in...
I am thankful for...the God of all comfort and strength who gets me through each and every day!
From the learning rooms...currently transformed to Wolfie and Grandma's guest house. We are on Spring Break so we can fully enjoy their visit.
From the kitchen...still battling with homemade gluten-free bread. I am not satisfied with the end product so I will keep trying!
I am wearing...my pajamas!
I am creating...memories with my children and their Grandparents.
I am going...to the other side of the mountains later this week! Can't wait...I hear they have good shopping there!
I am reading...The One Year Bible, Mere Christianity (C.S. Lewis), and Little House in the Big Woods to the kids.
I am hoping...that the rest of the week goes smoothly!
I am hearing...a rare moment of quiet since Grandma just took the kids over to the school/ guest house for an hour.
Around the house...a bit messy since we have company and have not stuck to the "routine." Oh well, we are making memories, right?
One of my favorite things...my own personal quiet time in the morning. Doesn't always happen but it did today and I am very thankful for it!
A few plans for the rest of the week: go with the flow...we follow the lead of my husband and his parents so they can see and do all they want to while they are here.
Here is picture for thought I am sharing...
Never got this picture posted after Abigail's Birthday...now we are getting ready for Nicole's 6th Birthday later this week. Hope her cake turns out as well as Abi's did!
Never got this picture posted after Abigail's Birthday...now we are getting ready for Nicole's 6th Birthday later this week. Hope her cake turns out as well as Abi's did!
To see the original Simple Woman's Daybook click the link!
2/4/10
Training the Littles...Olympics Style!
Since we started moving late last summer - I have absolutely blown it when it comes to training my children. I was reading the other day that if your children disobey you in public it is because you are not expecting 1st time obedience at home...ouch. They were right. Not that my kids are bad...my mother regularly calls me from stores to thank me for having such well behaved children :-) But I think that is because she is their Mimi and she overlooks some of their less than desirable qualities!
Part of our new "rural" living experience involves a daily trip the post office to check the post office box. Usually we just visit the side with the boxes, but some days (like today) we have to actually see the postmaster to pick up a package or to send something out. The postmaster just smiled politely as my children acted like a bunch of wild animals in his tiny post office this morning. That just didn't suit me. I was not a happy momma.
Thus begins our Winter Olympics training....
When we got home I made my children stand in the middle of the living room for 5 whole minutes....hands in their pockets with their mouths SHUT tight. And you know what...they did it! I think they were just as surprised as I was. One time I had to tell Joshua to stand still but that was it. Abigail stood with them for the first two minutes then sat down - but she was quiet and still the whole time as well. I was happy enough with that.
Then, while I had their undivided attention...I decided to tackle another pet-peeve of mine - getting in the car. Why on earth does it take my children 15 minutes to get out the door? I grabbed my timer and told them we were going to have a race to see how fast we could get our shoes and our jackets on and get into our car seats. The older two got their jackets and boots in record time (they had just taken them off so they were easy to find) and headed for the door. I thought...great! But by the time they got to the car, Joshua had forgotten the mission and decided to get in the drivers seat and pretend to drive the car. Mission....failed. I explained that they had failed the test and that we would have to try again later. They were disappointed but I think they got the idea.
Later in the afternoon we repeated the drill. This time their boots and jackets weren't close at hand so they had to look for them. Nicole was very upset that she couldn't find her boots. I told her to get any pair of shoes and in to the car -we would find the boots later. When the timer stopped it had taken them (all 3 of them this time) exactly 3 minutes and 10 seconds to get ready and in the car in their appropriate seats. Now that is what I'm talking about!
Our second run presented a great opportunity to talk about why we put things away where they belong. If Nicole had put her boots away when she took them off she would have known right where to find them! A lesson I could probably stand to remember as well...
Not only is this good for mom's sanity - it is great training for emergencies. My children should be given a command..."get your boots and jackets and get in the car" and they should do it...without question and right away! I would have to say this is training with eternal benefits as well - isn't that what the Lord expects of us as well? Wouldn't you like to be disciplined enough to say, "Send me, Lord!" when He asks?
I guess you probably won't see "endurance standing still and quiet" teams or "sprint to the car" teams in the Olympics anytime soon...but we are preparing for life and Godliness and that is far more important! Our "gold medal" will come from the King of Kings when we get to Heaven!
I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Phil 3:14
Children, obey your parents in everything,
for this pleases the Lord.
Col 3:20
for this pleases the Lord.
Col 3:20
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