Thoughts, Actions, Habits, Character, Destiny

You've heard it before....

Thoughts produce action,
Actions produce habits,
Habits produce Character,
Character determines Destiny.

It's New Years Eve, I'm listening/watching 'A Christmas Carol' (at my mother-in-law's house with my family, and enjoying a warm, cozy fire.) And of course one begins to take count of one's life, when watching/reading stories like this. We've been reading the unabridged version of 'A Christmas Carol,' and taking thought of why such spirits would come to a single man. What were the spirits trying to tell Scrooge. Even a 6 year old can understand it's important how we spend our time,what thoughts we put into our minds, what we allow into our souls, via the images and words available for our consumption. What we allow our souls to dwell upon...

This year....
I will continue to be thankful for One Thousand Gifts & wanted to take note that I have a voice to read to my children.(16) So often I take it for granted. Stupid of me. It takes 're-programming' one's thoughts to look at such simple things differently. To stop negative 'voices' in my head-- I call it 'smack talk' that leads to serious negativity. I can do it all on my own,... that's the bad news. The Good News is He will help me to 'take every thought captive'.

I haven't determined one word, but this writer has been doing this for 3 years, and has presented her 'word' for 2010. Go there. Last year Mt. HOpe Academy (see her in my favorite blogs in the sidebar) presented us with 'Lovely'. It was inspiring to me. Amazing how contagious thoughts are...

New Year's Eve 2009

We've been away from the bayou during the holiday, enjoying some really good times in Georgia. Our family here has been extremely accomodating, as we have also worked on our previous residence, maintenance & updates alike. Along with our holiday festivities, I have peeled wallpaper till my fingers are numb & painted with Eric basement walls that needed to be painted from the day we purchased this house. I have made the endless home depot runs, purchased 2 new toilets as well as paint brushes.
We have done some wonderful reading around the fire, the unabridged version of 'A Christmas Carol'. We finaaaalllly, finished 'Dr. Doolittle', not that I'm complaining, but it did take all semester. But we've hummed through 'Carol', faster than lighting. Could it have something to do with NO CABLE TV???
I have a ton of pictures, but am away from the home computer. So, for now, I'll just wish you a New Year blessing, and a prayer for all things good and profitable.
May God be glorified in all things. He is worthy of our praise.

Tis' the Season...

Thankful for (13) friends that stop by, and you end up praying over

what's really important to you both.

Thankful for (14) friends that stop by, and bring goodies for your boys, and a

special gift, just for me.

Thankful for hugs from those friends, most of all. (15)

So thankful for my friends.

Blessings

I've struggled for years with the concept of blessings. And now that I'm counting them, I'm beginning to see a pattern. Yes, these are from God. All blessings, I believe flow from God, but are all blessings directly handed from Him to us? After I mentioned adoption, in this post, I began to develop a thesis in my head. It goes like this. A blessing may be directly from God, such as His Redemptive work through Christ, Christ giving his life ransom for ours. No small thing. Undoubtedly the Greatest Gift.

But seeing a blessing, such as adoption, the conveyance of the responsibility of care for a child from one human to another, is all human kindness-- or is it?

In our home at night we sing 3 songs, You are my sunshine, I see the moon, & twinkle twinkle. Then we pray. But back to the songs... I started thinking about that moon song... why are we singing about the heavenly lights? One of them doesn't even shine on it's own... ah.. there's the thesis. Blessings conveyed through humans are a reflection of the Light shining on us. All along the way, when you adopt, you run into people who look at the bigger picture, who bend over backwards, to do the right thing, to be a part of the blessing, because of goodness shining in their heart, whether they know it or not.

So as I count my blessings, along with the Grattitude Community--One Thousand Gifts this is what I'll be thinking about. This may seem so obvious, so obvious to others, but Ann was right, counting gifts can open your eyes, and make you think, not about the gift, but the Giver and how He works in our lives. Today.

p.s. Go there today to see a journal & insights from one who has reached 1000.

Heart and Soul Reflections: Advent Calendar

Heart and Soul Reflections: Advent Calendar

If you are looking for a great variation on Advent style activities this looked like a really good one, from Cherie at Heart and Soul Reflections. It addresses the Names Of God and offers opportunity to reflect on this with your children.
We just received Ann Voskamps book via Lulu, The Jessee Tree Advent book. The Glorious Coming. So excited about this. Our church does not prescribe to advent activities so I'm a little unfamiliar with this as a tradition at Christmas. However, this book is amazing, showing the activities in daily reflection through the Christmas season to be one I'm sure will become a tradition in our household.
Thanks Ann.

By the Bushel: My 'Adoption' Dream - Thanksgiving & Laughter

By the Bushel: My 'Adoption' Dream - Thanksgiving & Laughter

A while back I had a funny dream, than got me to thinking about adoption. I don't talk much about that on my blog. I think because it's a little more difficult to navigate a post about something very personal. It's not on our table at present, and I usually blog about what is in the immediate future to help me think & communicate with friends who are thinking usually about the same things.
But it is a part of my list of blessings - so you may want to track back through the link above to dec 3... and get a laugh and or encouragment, whatever the case may be.

Home Tour: Multitude Monday - One Thousand Gifts

I spend alot of time in my laundry room. So I tried to make it pleasant.

I'm so thankful for a huge laundry sink.
And my washer & dryer. I love 'doing laundry'. I just don't like to fold it. (That's an antique laundry poster from Colgate... I'm a textile major. I know how to get stains out.)

So the other 2 pictures are of things I see when I fold laundry. That's my bedside table, I see while I fold the mounds of laundry I didn't show you in this post. And that's the 'blue bird' I love that I see when I put the clothes away. Also the dragonfly & bumble bee that match the butterfly by my bed. And my bee skep that I've never used... but would like too.

I'm thankful. These are favorite collectibles, that don't break when my kids crash into the furniture, or carry the bunny around(which is cast iron). I'm catching on to parenting wild boys.

I share these picts because 2 of my favorite bloggers challenged me. One to seek 'Lovely', and the other to be thankful.
These beautiful things, to me, in my home(3) remind me of outdoors(4), rambunctious boys(5), lots of muddy laundry(6), laundry to fold(7) detergent that smells good (8) and a comfy bed with flannel ticking sheets to rest in when the long day is over(9).

When putting Jack to bed to night, he said "I'm so happy."
I said "It's nice to have a comfy bed to rest in." He said, "Somtimes, the Sleep Army wins against the Awake Army." I'm thankful for warm, comfy beds for my kids.(10,11)

I'm Making These Tomorrow

Tomorrow I get to make these with my kids. We've been looking forward to this for about 3 weeks. We scoured neighborhoods looking for good pinecone's not squished and useless but perfect in everyway, ready to become elves. We'll see whatelse we make. But thanks to Martha Stewart, as mentioned in this article from The Inspired Room, a few of these little elves are comin' home with me. Might even take one to the ladies ornament exchange. Visit over at the 'Room' for 6 ways to simplify and refocus from the holidays. I like hot chocolate idea & Christmas Music myself. Check out Pandora.com for a personalized selection right from your own computer. I love using it to find music I never knew I liked. It's also free.

His Peace through His Presence

"What shall I render to the Lord for all His benefits toward me? I will take up the cup of salvation and call upon the name of the Lord."

"I will wash my hands in innocence, so I will go about Your altar, O Lord, that I may proclaim with the voice of thanksgiving, and tell of all Your wondrous works."

Psalm 116:12 & Psalm 26: 6

Lord, let me love the habitation of Your house, and may our home be where Your glory dwells.

December is Here but I'm still Giving Thanks

I won't repeat everything I've read at other amazing sites(see my blog roll), but I must say, this season seems to be one for change. I've been given reason for pause, to consider what really matters. We all have these days/months/years... I'm not unique. But I started a list like many in cyber-blog world, a while back, even if informally, & un-numbered(with Ann at Holy Experience)

About 6 years ago, and a couple of months, we started expanding our family through adoption. I just wanted to share 0001 & 0002 in one of their first ever photos together as well as the most recent. Brothers by providence. Giving thanks today, with high hopes for a blessed & peaceful Christmas season.

My 'Adoption' Dream - Thanksgiving & Laughter

Years ago, 6 to be exact, I used to compare having a dog & training it to having a child. There are similarities. Yet to say this to a mother of 4, ranging from 6-6mos... don't go there... really. She's exausted, tired, working overtime, wondering if her body will ever recover, considering how she will prepare dinner, while she nurses a baby. And yet... she will dream of another baby, (?) It's just in us. We can't help it. Even through physical & emotional exaustion, to hold a baby just triggers something.

Studies are out there regarding the similarites that adoptive mother's experience. I read one just last week in The Advocate, our local paper, not a scientific journal, about post-adoption blues, similar to the feeling of being overwhelmed, post adoptive process. I remember the feelings. It makes sense to me. I did not of course have the pregnancy related hormonal influences that a woman who gave birth did, but I remember wondering how I'd ever get pictures sent out, how I'd actually raise this child, as well as the similar things that bio-mother's experience and then the ever present exaustion from feeding, changing, & simply holding a newborn. But I wouldn't change the opportunity this experience presented for learning what it means to be a parent from the very, very beginning of a child's life.

When we met with our first social worker, she asked all of the appropriate questions including but not limited to, the age child we wished to specify we were willing to adopt. There are so many other questions, but this must be specified. One thing the social worker expressed as we discussed this, was the importance/opportunity of first time parents to experience a newborn/infant. I am laughing as I write this, with that exausted laugh, realizing now what she meant. There is no way to feel the weight of sole responsibility for a child without experiencing it. Neither is there a way to know the exaustion of newborn behavior, without experiencing it-- including, including but not limited to- sleepless nights, and all of the things that go with it--constant, seemingly unappreciated tender care... It's an experience that is different than havng an older child. One I might add often seems easier than the challenges that brave adoptive parents face when they open their hearts to older children for adoptive purposes. But no matter-- each stage strips you of the pretense one has that 'I'll do it differently, and get it right too. I'll even look pretty while doing it.' (Big Hahahaha)

So when I read articles about post-adoption depression, I don't laugh. The overwhelming sense comes from the physical work of having a newborn, but also from the added work of sorting out the details that don't come with physical delivery. And the absence of physical appearance 'that you just had a baby'. Yes, my hair went gray, but no one knew it, except my stylist. My weight didn't change, but my muscle tone did. And unfortunately, by the time a woman realizes kids aren't going to happen the 'good ole'fashion way', she's old. And things just aren't operating like they used to.

Don't hear complaint, don't even hear me making a stand, it's just not there, please don't read more into this than a good laugh. GOD is Good, His blessing's came to me in a ruddy skinned, borderline red-headed, chocolate- eyed, soon to be 6footer, and a blondy-haired, blue-eyed, sun-tanned sweetheart, than may never pass 5'8. The stars God made has made have nothing on the precious amazingness they are. Thanks be to their birthmothers, and birthfamilies who made it possible. Their choices made the blessing possible.

But perhaps for someone who is not currently a parent who is considering adoption, and is wondering, if it's selfish to consider an infant first, it can actually be a blessing to that child and all the other children adopted at whatever age, to have memories in your personal hard drive of how much that child needs you and your always present attention.

So, when I hear about difficulty in the adoption process, from a friend, I have to laugh, so hard (my old body) might wet it's pants, at the dream I had the other night, and her reaction when I told her about it.

Presently, not in the process, I dreamed I went to outer-space, on a jet rocket, with my husband, to get a baby. Yes that baby was human, not alien. Beautiful, precious as any other baby. We cut right through the clouds, landed and it was just like any other infant adoptive situation.... But my friend's response was priceless. 'I think it would be easier to adopt in outerspace, than what we're dealing with...'

You see, as a seasoned adoptive parent told me once, 'I have 4 healthy, precious children, but I still yearn to be pregnant.' God made us that way, and even if our bodies don't cooperate, we still have those dreams. And our dreams follow the path of success, to add more to the quiver.

I'm thankful, like Marlo Thomas says on the St. Jude Children's Hospital advertisements, I'm thankful for the healthy children in my life, but God put it in our hard drive to yearn, even in our dreams, for children to love and nurture. So today I am so thankful for the blessing of adoption(12). I am grateful for a social climate that is more accepting of this method of growing a family, and the resources, as daunting as the effort may seem, to share a life with children.

Delayed Cooking - Oven Timer

I made this with my oven. I just can't seem to get going with a crock pot. I'm sure it has to do with watching my Mom trust that the oven would not overheat while we were at church, but it always smelled amazing when we returned home, and I don't think I've ever seen my Mom use a crockpot. Roast (beef )of any cut, 1/2 cup prepared, unflavored coffee(left over sunday morning), 1/4 soy sauce, salt pepper, one onion sliced and fill roasting dish(pyrex, pan, roasting dish...)with water and cover w/foil. Put in oven, allow for about 2 hours time cooking and set the timer. Test it while you'll be home, if your faint of heart.

I added carrots & red potatoes to this dish & served with Mrs. Shuberts rolls. Delicious Sunday Roast. Btw, these are my responsibility creating, Pier 1 , 1.99/ dishes. See other Works for Me Wednesday ideas at We are THAT Family.

Contemplation & Reflection

I was priviledged to attend a funeral today, as unwelcome as the event was. I have been blessed with a new friend as this school year started, whose mother was taken abrubtly, through tragic accident, from this earthly walk just 4 short days ago. It seems unreal that the events have transpired, yet they have. My heart has been broken, for the loss she feels, but blessed by the sharpened focus I gained on the blessing of mothers & the example hers was in this life. 'Oma'(Dutch for grandmother) was so many things to so many. There was no dry eye in the room. No heart not touched. So many kind things said by those who knew her best and those who knew her even only a little while. But each person expressed their observation of her as a servant/leader. She was. She was a wife, mother, grandmother, sister, friend, mentor, civic volunteer-- demonstrating the love of Jesus, in every action, in each role.
I am convicted, yet again, to try harder, to trust in my Lord only, and to do what I can as the Lord makes opportunity. May the Lord bless this family, as they pick up the pieces and face the day tomorrow. May God hold them, each one in His powerful hands, to comfort them, when the moment of need comes.

Fun Blog by Former Pre-school Teacher

I think before I had kids, I'd have been as fun as this pre-k teacher- turned- homeschooler. I love the examples of simple math activities, especially non-standard measurement & money. It's really as simple as that, just neat to see someone doing it. If you are like me, and need inspiration sometimes, check out The Snail's Trail. Very sweet.

Computer Fasting

Computer overload... now my schedules on my computer too. What I could learn from this experiment....(20 Things I learned in a week without a computer.)

They Call Her 'The Chicken Whisperer'

If you know my brother's family you recognize the youngest of his 4, Hope. She is the beacon that her name describes, and a joy to all her know her. This is 'so Hope', an expression we hear often, because her personality is so distinct. She has been seen practicing her violin to an audience of her feathered friends, in their barn, as well as reading a book to the willing listener. Words don't cover it, but the picture is a start (yes, that is a hen in her arms). So I share with you a precious part of my life, Hope, enjoying her schooling at home, her chickens, her dogs, Cleburn & Scout, her sister's and Mom & Dad, missing her big brother while he's at school away from the beauty of the rural New York. (wish the picture was just a little larger, but she's still cute as a button.)

The Civility Project: George Washington Meets the 21st Century

Reading the book Character Matters has precipitated quite alot of thought devoted to manners & civility. The book is excellent in it's discussion of the need for civility, but doesn't stop there. There are numerous suggestions for both home & school for developing character & manners in children for a better home, classroom & community.

One primary source it recommended for reference was the list that George Washington wrote for himself at the age of 16 regarding manners and civility. I have combined it (modified to make sense to a child) with the ABC's of manners listed in Character Matters to create a book of our own in a super duper black composition notebook.

Linked to the text from George Washington is a very interesting Civility Project at the University of Virginia to see what contributions could be made for suggested modern day rules of civility & manners. My favorite was to pass carefully and quickly past an automobile accident so as not to cause further danger or gawk at another's misfortune. I think I would add to be sure you vehicle is located between the lines in a parking space, or the old faithful, don't litter. What would be yours?

Silhouette Project - Ornaments

I have been contemplating how to do this, whether in a framed format or this ornament style. Found this at an on-line crafty party at Just a Girl(she's over in my favorite's list). This example seems to provide the detail I've been missing-- how to get the actual picture into profile format, to create the silhouette. Can't wait to give these a try. Thanks Roots and Wings for this idea.

God is Good at Water - Scritpure Meditation

While reading over at Walk with Him Wednesday at Holy Experience, I realized I wasn't memorizing scripture as often as I am trying to draw on it right now. (Here comes the excuse- new to homeschooling). However, it is crucial. The thought often crosses my mind when I'm not feeling physically, so great, that I'm thirsty, I need to drink more water. So with my effort to drink more water, I'm working on making it more meaning ful. I keep a icy glass of water on the counter throughout the day, and meditate even for a moment on the thought related to water from scripture for the day. The thought is random (some go like this -- 'day 1 woman at the well, never thirst again jn4 -- day 2 sea of galilee, calms the storm -- day 6 ocean here and no further, seemingly unmanagable). It's not planned- remember I'm a beginning homeschooler, and my planning time is already maxed out. But by the end of the week, I can see a scripture that needs to be put to memory. My memory, not the kids.

So here tis -

John 4:13 'Whoever drinks of this water will thirst again, but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water sprining up into ever lasting life."

My body is not the only thing that is often dehydrated. Often my soul is, its feeding on all the wrong things. While looking at the other links to this particular Wednesday in the Word, I stumbled upon this book title in a link.

REDEEMING THE TIME: Keller's Counterfeit Gods
This is a link to another bloggers book review. It happens to be about one of my favorite topics, modern idolatry, ie; the wrong things on which my soul is feeding. I have enough to read but may just have to check this one out. It pays to check out other's favorite blogs & links.

So this is what the method looks like, provoking me to memorize scripture so I'll have it in my memory bank. I have a stack of 3x5 cards, and as I fill my glass I think of what strikes me about water in the Bible. I write it down, as the day progresses, I might add a thought on paper, or I might not be able to think of the scripture right off, and don't have time, but I'll make the time somewhere. Drink the water as I go, and the meditation has taken place. No my knees are not crossed in the lotus position(I don't think I could do that anymore...), but my heart/mind is for a moment, and the connection is made, my heart is focused on God's ability & not my own.

One more connection. If you teach Bible class or school at home, you may wish to check out some material that has an entire series of lessons on 'God is Good at Water', as well as an entire sequential Bible study on 'Our Spiritual Heritage.' This is good stuff. Excellent & simple. This material can be used on all ages. I learned more while teaching this, synthesizing all of the material, it seemed from the years before. When I post schoolroom pictures, you'll see the 'purple' cards on the wall. Those are the time-line cards for 'Our Spiritual Heritage.'

Be sure to check out this post at Holy Experience today for tips on memorizing scripture. She has posted excellent resources that are available as well as many techniques. Be sure to enjoy the precious story about the generations of men memorizing scripture.

Cortez Day- the end of Analysis Paralysis

Analysis paralysis has overtaken me in a painful way. I haven't posted because there are a few things that are taking precedence over blogging. But I'm still out here, read your's everyday, and often checking your favorite blogs that have now become mine by visiting yours. I am grateful for cyberworld, but I'm grateful too for friends and sisters who are there (Jesus' physical representatives- with skin) who give a hug, share even briefly the same angst, the same look that says 'I get you', and 'you're not alone.' and when you ask for prayers, you know they will. You know they will.

We burnt the ships today. Do you remember that story? I love Steven Curtis Chapman's retelling of this. (Who am I kidding, I love SCC...) But when a decision is made the relief alone is worth celebrating. God be praised.

I'm sure if you're reading, you've had these kind of days. So we're celebrating, enjoying the peace of the moment. The peace that needs to be there.

Here's a teaser... pictures of our schoolroom to come! Pictures of some of my recent 'lovely' moments, as well as my list begins- 1000 blessings.

But for now #0001 Peace, Peace, Peace. Thankyou, Lord for Your relief, the comfort of knowing the complications of this life will not hold us forever, nor do they need hold us in this life. You are trustworthy and will deliver. You have, will and continue to bless us. Thank You Lord.

(Btw, the video's are not from our church, but don't you love the guy coming out of the water when he's been baptized!

Go here for another great, get-up-and-move song from SCC.

River Rock Cottage: All Flours Are Not Created Equal

River Rock Cottage: All Flours Are Not Created Equal... Rachel, this one's for you. This is a lovely site, and this post is very informative about flour & therefore, BREAD. She has laid out a mission for me ('pick one flour',and get it right.) Thought you as well as many others, might enjoy, too.
p.s. School table came, it's put together, and now off to do 'Word Groups'! photos to follow soon. :)

Fear - Not

With Halloween everywhere, it has been necessary to address, GHOSTS.

(See Suzzanne @ Blessed Among Men on a for a link to a healthy commentary on Halloween) On a regular basis, I shoo ghosts from the upstairs, and stomp to clear the room. I do not perpetuate this nonsense, or at least I don't start it, but it's a part of our world. But last week I put an end to it, at least took it head on. There are so many fun frivolous things in our world that sometimes I feel I'm the grinch of all socially acceptable imaginary things. But I have a very literal child. (He's raised by geriatrics, what can I say?) But he has addressed many topics that I thought would come much later, but there they are. Well, he doesn't do 'scary' ... at all. And the other night, he asked if I was afraid of ghosts and did I really believe in them. And this was my answer:

'I have never been afraid of ghosts. I think if a ghost is present, he is like all other spirits in this world, [subject] to God. God is in control of all things, and if God will allow anything unseen to be here, it will be something good. God loves you and me, and we serve Him. We love Him, and He loves us. He will protect us if in fact there are any spirits present. " I think I pretty much sealed the deal with the first line. But that's the facts. I'm afraid of crazy people, folks that seem threatening when I'm unprepared or dealing with 2 small children & have my hands full in the parking lot. I'm afraid when my husband runs late. But I figure if there are any spirits hanging about, God is in control of the situation. My faith is in Him. He won that Victory a long time ago, when Christ conquered death & took His rightful place in the heavenly realms.

A short time back we visited a fort at Ship Island in Biloxi, MS. This is a huge fort, but is no longer in use. We climbed & hiked all over it. At one point we came to a door that seemed to be a dungeon like enclosure. I told Jack to go in, be brave. But I didn't want to go in either. I went, & after my eyes adjusted we realized it was an amunitions hold. And was no bigger than the doorway. There was nothing to be afraid of but the unknown. This event in our lives came to mind when I visited Holy Experience~Never Fear Shadows. This post is beautiful, as are so many of her other thoughts & photos. She also hosts a beautiful challenge to consider the blessings of our lives. It is called a Gratitude Community and is hosted on Multitude Monday. I think I'm going to try it. I need to keep counting my blessings to maintain the confidence that I have in this God who will protect me and my family, when I'm concerned over shadows, darkness or unwelcome spirits.

Halloween Pumpkin Soup from Simply Recipes

I didn't plan for Halloween dinner! Oops! but here it is, I'm adapting a recipe to use what I have-- we'll see how it goes! I am going to use this on-line recipe from Simply Recipes. Isn't her photo beautiful!

Easy Halloween Costume

I'm not a Halloween enthusiast, by any stretch, but dressing up... I'm all over that. The boy's are into superheros, Jack was a knight at fall fest, and H was Batman (the pre-made version), but I dressed as the Hungry Caterpillar.(the easy costume I mentioned above)

I sewed straps on the shoulders & took the smily face ends (that come with the crawl tube toy) & sewed them together to make the head. Took about 5 minutes. Really. The boys wouldn't let me cut holes for arms so I had to make it a little shorter. But little kids enjoyed, and big people got a laugh. :) I'm sure if I'd spent a little more time, I could have come up with a better 'head'. Maybe you can come up with an easy idea for improvement! I'd love to hear it.

Tonights our Trick or Treat in neighborhood, so I'm deciding whether to stay at house or make the rounds, decisions, decisions. Either way, we'll light the pumpkins(that we carved & Henry promptly rolled off porch & cracked), and be prepared with candy!

Happy Halloween!

The Bible on the Square - Christianity Today

The Bible on the Square Today's Christian
by Tracy Crump A unique museum in Tennessee showcasing the truth of God's Word.

Christianity Today 2008

For many years now, 15 give or take, my parents have been working with a group of individuals to offer some of the most unique opportunities to the public at large, but more specifically children. Growing up, I like most preacher's kids, took for granted opportunites to look at slides of Israel & the Sea of Galilee, if their father was so blessed to have the opportunity to see and take pictures of some of the most inspiring sites in the world. I'm no exception. I took it for granted.

I realize of course now that the replica of the The Cyrus Cylinder (pictured above) or the Moabite Stone that stands in Collierville, TN is one of the most interesting offerings to folks who wish to believe & have confidence in the Scripture, with archaeological points of reference to guide the way.
The article referenced above captures well, how the Biblical Museum found its place, and what it has to offer to you.

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Stand and Deliver

In searching other bloggers sites, I was reminded of a movie I never saw... but should have. I appreciate movies about teachers and portray situations in eeducation. Especially the good ones. Semicolon has a list of 107 movies and she includes this movie-- 'Stand and Deliver' with Lou Diamond Phillips (which I have not seen) as well as another 'The Winslow Boy' (which I did see).

My Dad mentioned this movie to me recently, when I told him Jack had not been required to demonstrate his effort to memorize the Cub Scout Promise to receive his patch. ('stand and deliver') Even Boy Scouts has lowered the bar, lest we put someone on the spot and suggest that they actually do the work to receive the reward.

Schoolroom Decorating

We opted to consolidate the kids beds into one room to create a schoolroom. This was a hard decision, with trade-offs, but I'm optimistic. I won't go into the plus/minus aspect right now- its just too new to make that list. However, one plus is the Decorating factor for me. (big smile). I have been waiting to find just the right combination of equipment before making any purchases. But let's just say, the table is on the way. The UPS man is earning his keep this week. He is also getting a workout running from Millie.(she's getting older and a bit more territorial... I hope he doesn't leave our packages on the curb today..)

Pictures to follow, but for now, I will share an amazing alphabet that looks like a whole heap of fun to make. Girl with Fabric is/was decorating for a nursery, but my wheels are turning trying to figure out how I can justify the time commitment. Con's - not an accurate example for handwriting... Pro's -- big fun for me & the kids & super cute eye-candy for the days ahead. We'll see whether practical Laura can stick to the goal of creating a school room and not get carried away.

Craft Hope: Calling all Quilters!

If you've never clicked over to Craft Hope, it's time you take a trip to a very unique site. One filled with hope for those who need it most.

The most recent project is all about quilts. Don't miss the sock-monkeys from a previous project.

Stand by Your Man

I posted this previously but thought it was worth sharing again today with those at A Holy Experience.

A common theme among wives & mother's is a dangerous one. Trash talking your man. Don't go there. Don't talk him down. Don't air the dirty laundry, when it would be more helpful to throw it in the washer with bleach. Talking good about your man does other's good too, because they start thinking of something their husband did well, a kindness he bestowed on them, or an activity he did with their children. Talk well of your man. Be proud of him.

We watched 'The Sound of Music' recently(known by Henry as 'the lady that sings') and I remember it was said, during the first showing in theatre, the real Maria Von Trapp stood during the entire movie, singing along. Perhaps she liked to sing, but something makes me think she was proud of her life & her family. But she also stood by her man, as they, to my best memory, had, in unusual circumstances, little to nothing when they left their beloved Austria. (If my sources are right, she & her husband did not share a romantic love at first, like hollywood would have us believe, but developed it, as she began to appreciate marriage. )Don't hestiate to speak well of your man, not in a braggardly fashion, but never in a poor light. He needs your undivided devotion.(respect) He needs to know it in his heart, that he is the object of your affection.

Does my man know it, or does everyone else know the 'list of done me wrongs'? Be there for him, in a way that is uncommon. Never, never, never 'trash talk'. Being there for a sister often turns into an unfruitful session of excuses: don't make excuses, find the good and dwell on that.

post script: If you don't say the positives he needs to hear, he'll find it somewhere else. Sad commentary, but there are way too many sources for that outside of our home, that often start off benign, and end up.. less that benign. Safe guard your home, find the good in your man, let your kids hear that you respect him(and speak well of him in their presence, even if he's not around to hear it.) This is the greatest thing you can do to help your kids: help your marriage succeed. Give them the greatest sense of security by doing the hard things- speaking well of him, even when it's difficult.

A book I found helpful regarding submission(another one of those 'charged' words) is by Richard J. Foster, Celebration of Discipline. He divides spiritual disciplines into 3 categories- inward, outward & corporate. Submission is beautifully & well explored in the discussion of outward disciplines. I highly recommend it if you are like me, tired of the 50/50 unscriptural description of marital submission.

An excellent article shared with me by my oh so wise sister in law, was that regarding 'dying to self' in marriage. Go here for an interesting discussion of the book 'What Did You Expect?'

Catch me if You Can... BATMAN

I sometimes wish I could sit & make girly costumes & have a child that wishes to be a princess, but to be making one just now...I'm grateful for pre-made just now. I like the recent themes of Halloween, 'merry not scary.' I realize there are many who do not embrace the Halloween activities, & I applaud you. Really. But marriage & family is made of compromise. And this is one of ours. My husband is a nut. He has been known to dress as a scarecrow & sit idly on the porch until kids that really are too old to be trick-or-treating come by and will scare the be-jeebers out of them. He teases me about my lame pretty decorations & wishes for the elaborate spider-web covered houses, and that I wouldn't dress as Dorothy but as the Wicked Witch of the West. I just won't do that to my kids... But we are getting quite a few miles, literally, out of our costumes this year. H is sure that these wings should have 'wukked'. He said ' I can't fwy.' Where was he testing this???? on the roof??? Still haven't decided if I'll dress for the occasion. I know it won't be the same as last year, nor will I find anything as benign & happy as Dorothy, but I won't be scary. I'm more the merry type. Excuse me, I must go catch Batman.

Clover Lane: On Spanking

Clover Lane: On Spanking has precipitated an excellent conversation on spanking. I suggest you travel there, read & comment. Sarah appreciates comments. She's an upright gal, with excllent thoughts on Vintage Parenting. She puts it out there, when other's don't. Although I have issue with some of the comments made today, I hope you'll travel there, & comment. She appreciates your thoughts. Not harassment, thoughts & opinions.
I have thought about this most of the day & am sure any parent who lives in our modern society has pondered the issue at least a million times.
May God help us all to teach our children to be Godly citizens of this world in need- Laura
ps. I would never re-direct someone to another's site for an ambush. I hope you'll consider this a compliment to Sarah. I admire her for her for many things, not the least of which is her parenting & appreciate her blog as it is one of the most beautiful blogs out there.

Thoughts produce action,

Action produces habits,

Habits produce character,

Character determines destiny.

Simple Prosperity - Finding Real Wealth in a Sustainable Lifestyle: Part 1 'To Wii or Not to Wii'

Ironically, I found this book at the thrift store, while looking for some 'new' jeans for the boys. BTW, there are no boy's jeans in the book aisle, but really, who can resist cheap books?

I made a connection of consequence after reading Anita's discussion over at Busy Hands about the Wii Game. (Anita I stole a portion of your title..somehow I don't think you'll mind.)

I have talked about the concerns that are real regarding video games, especially for boys, but Wii brings up new discussion. What if it does really promote a group activity & it's physical? What can be wrong with that?
Let me first say, I've played Wii once & enjoyed it. I watched grown men sweat while 'boxing', & realized that none of these men would probably otherwise have the opportunity to participate in a real opportunity to box. The group was extremely entertained & had an occasion to cheer others on in a sporting occasion where we did more than sit on a sofa & discuss the last movie we rented at the 'Redbox'.
There was personal affirmation for each person involved, we're talking grown adults that receive few kudo's from their kids during a regular day, but for a while each of us felt like a 'Pro', in the spotlight, with skills.
Those who had skill in a certain sport had a chance to do it, when we might normally not. I for one, loved the tennis. I don't do tennis right now, it's just not convenient or within the daily plan of my life right now.
So do I see a downside? Well, even with all those things, I still believe that writers like David Wann, the co-author of Affluenza, have a point. His most recent book (2007) Simple Prosperity - Finding Real Wealth in a Sustainable Lifestyle is an interesting read. It has the usual 'green' ideas but with logic & suggestions. I do not agree with some particular ideas, however have been motivated & challenged in many areas, I believe, for the better. For instance, in a chapter titled 'Precious Work & Play', he describes exquisitely the shortcomings of watching & not participating. I do not think Wii falls always into this category, but it promoted thought to think more concertedly about being 'involved' as opposed to a mere watcher.
'Psychologists tell us it comes down to involvement....the more expensive and energy consuming our leisure time euqipment, the more detached we are from the activity itself. Despite the technology of tv, it doesn't take any closer to reality. In fact, many times, we are only half-present as we watch, suspended in an ether of virtual reality, with distant voices calling us back to reality-- where we could be feeling alive. Hobbies like playing music with friends; playing amateur sports such as softball, bowling, and skill -intensive fly-fishing; reading a great book; or conversing at a dinner table make us happier, becuase we participate in them. ( The root meaning of the word "amateur" is "I love," not "I'm not very good".) These activities require less expensive euipment and consume less energy, but demand a lot of psychic energy and focus.' (the preceding was an exerpt from the afore mentioned book).

So no matter how good the virtual game is, unless it is with a group of persons, or it is simply impossible to participate in any other 'actual'/'real' activity, virtual will always fall short. It won't bring us to the peak, it won't challenge us to the max, creating the best in us.
Really, what do you think- ?

Works for Me Wednesday - Laundry & Lysol

I don't consider myself a germa-phobe, but I don't like putting clean laundry in a dirty laundry basket. Enter, spray lysol. It's not the healthy vinegar water sanitizer a purist might use, but when I empty a basket of dirty clothes, I give the basket a spray of lysol and let it dry before I put in a clean load of fresh clothes. Simple isn't it, but it's one of those things like a purse-- we don't picture that it ever get's dirty, yet it touches everysource possible to pick up those pesky germs.

I mention the 'healthy vinegar spray' option, you know, the least foreign chemical cleaner. It works, but I'm like the die hard on somethings. I'm all for the nedi pot for preventative medicine, but when it comes to cleaning, think... the dad in 'My Big Fat Greek Wedding', with the Windex bottle.

Charlie Brown - The Great Pumpkin - October's flying by...

This day is almost over, but realized the month is going to zip by, & I have soooo much in my head I want to blog about. So here are just a few things.

• Yes, I'm a Charlie Brown junkie, with the 'whole set'. Jack will 'let' me pick a movie, but will often say, 'anything but Charlie Brown.'


• I have a new Math book with super activities for early hands on math. We're doing Measurement in October. Really fun stuff.


• Gymnastics rocks. Both boys love it, & I have a full hour of down time. I'm managing no kids for a solid hour. I sit in solitude, willing to watch whatever for whoever while they walk the LSU track, but I'll be reading or planning for an hour. :)


• I have been enjoying the library's copy of 'Character Matters'. More on this in a full length blog, but for now, suffice it to say, I just purchased my own copy. Good stuff.


• The library can be a real resource. Be sure to look into all the free things that are available. I actually checked out a full size beautiful piece of art, with a remarkable beach scene, just like a book. The librarian told me one day, 'anything you see on the walls, you can check out.' I used to decorate/design interiors. It's a far cry from some of the art I used to haul around from Miami Circle, but it's still inspiring. Really. Jack suggested we put it above the fireplace(above our tv, which is in our never used fireplace, ha, lol), which is the only place it really could go. It's beautiful. A temporary exhibit, if you will. Can't wait to see what comes home next.


• I am watching oranges ripen, instead of leaves changing. I am beginning to slowly adjust to pretend fall, here in Louisiana. You have to know, I LOVE snow, & cold weather. I mean LOVE, LOVE, LOVE, it. But I felt a sense of.. mmm.. connection, this week when I picked a ripe orange/satsuma from our own tree & ate it in my yard. In October.


• I still need to do the dishes.
• I consumed another book I picked up at the library. 'Boy's Themselves', about University School, an all boy's school in Cleveland, Ohio. More on that book later too. But consumed is an understated. I couldn't put it down.
• Did I mention it's football season? We look like real LSU fans, don't we? We are in the 'nosebleeds', which is a riot, since I am terrified of heights. I wonder if it's as steep as UT (tennessee's) stadium. I've heard that's a doozie. Eric went to the Michigan game the next week, with all the men-folk. I visited the women folk in GA.
• Jack's question repertoire, includes 'but who made God?' I said, 'we'll ask Grandpa'. (I did give my answer/didn't chicken out-for what is there to fear?), but in our family, Grandpa knows everything, or at least he gives the coolest explanations.)
• Still quite sure that God is good, great, awesome and in control, no matter what rediculous things go on in our government or tragedy occurs in the world. Just as Daniel spoke in his prayer, He makes kings and can take their kingdom's away.... He sees all and is in all. Let my confidence be in HIM.

Home Renovations: Door Hardware

A homemake-over that's been long-overdue.... that's our previous home, now in the rental category. We put over 20 sets of hardware through-out the never ending renovation this week. Painting, yardwork, flooding clean-up. I actually rented a pressure washer to remove stains that had been there since we moved in. For now, here's the house after our first structural renovation.(2 trees, 2 storms & termites) It led to roof/paint & gutters. Interior structural changes & new floors. We also put a door in the basement, bottom left, with a driveway. It is now a small office/closet apartment. The best change we made was removing an entire interior brick facade along the fireplace wall. There was no door to the sunroom behind the fireplace & it was all brick. Very 70's- very un-cool. Now the fireplace is white & fresh. The sunroom is more of a study with a sunny nook with lots of potential.

What we did most recently, was clean up after a renter, a good renter, but needed cleaning. Paint, touch-up & change all remaining yucky mis-matched fixture. We went from brass to oil rubbed bronze finishes, & it's beginning to look almost complete.

We were blessed not to be hit as hard as so many in the Atlanta area, who took major hits from the recent storms that flooded the area for over a week.

We are contemplating a copper overhang for the basement entrance, need to have it fabricated, but will complete that project nicely.

So if I've been a little absentee on blog-world, you'll forgive me. We took a little fall break to visit family and check on house. Back to school, scouts & gymnastics next week!

The Snail's Trail: More favorite songs for learning

If you are looking for some catchy tunes with a purpose, there are some links at this post: The Snail's Trail: More favorite songs for learning. I particularly thought the links from learning to read were really helpful in their wording of how to make particular letters, but the days of the week song was very funny/catchy.

Read Aloud's - Looking for a new Read

In my previous post, Surprised by Joy by C.S. Lewis, I mentioned a discussion over at Simply Charlotte Mason about 'twaddle'. I'm working on refining our homeschool efforts to incorporate interesting and excellent literature for reading aloud. The kind where they say, 'what's gonna happen next?'. I'm going to start a list in my side-bar about books we're reading at some point, but I'm sure some of them are not 'the best'. Not the worst, just not the best. One book I did find to meet my criteria for adventure & imagination was 'The Black Stallion.' It was one of my favorites, and it's main character is a boy who is shipwrecked! Jack loved it. I know it's a series, & we have read sequels, but we need to branch out. So if you have a suggestion of one really exciting book your boy's enjoyed, or one that you think mine would like, please comment. I have several book lists, some from the bloggers in my favorite's list, but I'm still looking. And will be for many days ahead.

Raising Fine Young Men - 'A Better Man'

Real man, fine young man, good guy... these are all terms that hold serious weight in my family. Now that I have 2 boys of my own, these terms are coming home to roost. C-SPAN Book Channel has shared an interview(I can't remember what you call this type of format) which includes the author of 'A Better Man:True American Heroes Speak to Young Men on Love, Power, Pride, and What it Means to Be a Man' and includes in the panel some of the contributors to the book.
*** We are interrupted by this excellent joke from my eldest, Jack, "what kind of vegetable do you get when a dinosaur stomps on it?" ... "Squash!" ****** Don't you love inocence?
I am reminded of a book I recently loaned to a new friend with 3 boys of her own, 5/3/4mo. 'Boy's Adrift' If there is one thing that I do not appreciate from the women's liberation movement, it is the idea that men and women are the same and equal in their make-up. Boy's are unusual, special creatures, created by God as they are meant to be. They are sadly over-medicated and regularly over-dosed on that which would sub-due them, when they are wonderful, just as they are. Yes, an exausted mother just said this. But I refuse to buy into the ideas that so rampantly run our streets.

Something to think about. Motivation for being proactive, not reactive.

Why I chose to Homeschool, in someone elses words...

Sometimes folks say exactly what you want to say better than you can. That has happened. I found that Blue Yonder captured many of my thoughts, exactly, as if she'd been listening to me talking in my sleep. So nice to run into people who 'get you'. Even if they don't even know it. So when I think about the folks who may randomly pop into my blog, and wonder if I've lost my mind-- homeschooling--go here, whether you homeschool and just need to be inspired, or you want to know more about what I think, and why I'm 'going to all the trouble'. I don't have the time right now to write it down. I'm researching curriculum for kindergarten/first grade & keeping Henry off the roof. Really, go here, because there are only slight differences to what I would have written.

Ship Island

Ship Island, 11 miles off the Biloxi coast, is worth the boat fare. It is a raw undeveloped location, which requires an hour boat ride & specifies limited cargo. We loved it. We swam in amazing waves, and savored the simplicity. It was so windy, I couldn't even get a decent smile out of Jack. He's pointing to the boat! Let's go!

It was stormy, overcast, but that meant great waves. There was a fantastic fort ruin, which the boy's all explored with great excitement! I even went up the tower, which is no small thing-- I'm terrified of heights/open spaces-- but I made it and enjoyed the view. I took limited photos tho, as I was crawling & hanging on. You get this if you are afraid of too.

Lunchtime with Daddy

We live close enough to Eric's work that he rides his bike when it's not 100% humidity. He came home today, and attempted to read the paper. He wound up reading the comics. The stuff on Jack's face is 'dried blood' from the great sofa battle that had come earlier in the day. They used brown washable markers(because we couldn't find the red) and bandaged themselves with toilet paper. Forts, explosions, dramatic death... boys.

New Dishes & Chores: What Works and What Doesn’t.

7 Motivations to get Kids to Do Their Chores: What Works and What Doesn’t.
I found this post through WeAreTHAT Family's Works for Me Wednesday list. I can't remember if this was today's, but it's really, really good. She spells it out. What works in the long run, not the immediate, quick-fix, keep them quiet moment. Today my son was doing his most well-known chore. He empties the dishwasher in much the same fashion as described in '7's' post. I pull the breakables/sharps that I don't want him to handle, and then tell him to have at it. Most everything is breakable, but somethings are more likely to just snap at his touch. Sometimes I leave the sharps, if I can be closer by to supervise. The plates were $1.99 each & everything can be replaced. (I shop sets that have gone on sale at places like Pier 1 or Target) However, the opportunity to demonstrate his value in this family is priceless. I consider it the best win/win/win situation of parenting. He gains in character, I have an opportunity for new dishes, & I don't have to empty the dishwasher! I really like the way '7' explains the realities of motivators for chores. I'm just sharing the designing parenting scheme for new, cute dishes. Works for me!

Craft Hope

When you get a chance skip over to Craft Hope for a little inspiration.
It reminded me of a quote from Mother Teresa, I paraphrase, 'One at a time...' as she was asked about the overwhelming needs she saw everyday. Share love 'one at a time', as you can. Sometimes it will snowball, as it has at Craft Hope.
ps. If you're a 'button gal', be sure to add their buton to your site. You never know who might want to help out!

Surprised by Joy by C.S. Lewis

As Jack has become interested in the Narnia series, I picked up a read I've long been familiar with. Do you have a stack of books that you are so familiar with but never read? Well, it's time for me to start reading those, filling my mind with excellence as I prod my own kids on to read & enjoy higher quality literature. So I jumped into 'Surprised by Joy' by C.S. Lewis. He is well-known for his numerous works of literature, of varied styles & profound contributions to faith building thought. 'Joy' is just that. He chronicles his early childhood experiences, as well as his education to present the stage for the establishment of his adult faith. Never like before has it been made more clear to me how profound early education & experience can be for a child's perspective on the world & the Creator of it.

Over at Simply Charlotte Mason, the discussion of 'twaddle' was adressed this morning. One might call it baby-talk, to an infant, but when it continues into literature presented to children, or conversation with a child of a certain age, it really seems pathetic. It is condescending & crippling. We call it 'jello' -- the kind of information that makes jello of your brain. Kids tv shows are at the top of that heap, but kids books can quickly grow that stack if one is less selective in what is presented to a child. The philosophy has been in the recent past, & I'm sure still exists,"read, read anything, just read!" Said with ardent intentions but missing the mark of excellence, this philosophy allows drivel to become the mainstay of a child's reading material-- a constant diet of 'twinkies' as one commenter said. Ever feel like that?

One blogger that has a voracious reader in her home is over at Mt. Hope Academy. He has the 18yo linebacker of readers when it comes to his appetite for books! I won't even try to start a list. I have my isolated favorites at this point that I know are quality lit, but her list in this post as well as the current reading list in the side bar are definitely worth considering.

I can't recommend 'Surprised by Joy' more, which I originally thought was about the Joy that came into his life in the movie 'Shadowlands'. Perhaps she'll appear in the end of the book, however, this book is about a much deeper Joy not personified in one idividual, but a deeper more profound sense of feeling, longing, & satisfaction. It is tied into a faith that is grounded in God and the understanding & appreciation of excellence. The references to literature & the collective effect on him as a person are rich with clarity showing how important it is to discern between the banal & the excellent.

Lewis tells in his own words how profound his exposure to literature, formal education, family life, as well as outside persons, influenced his faith, for the better & for the worse. But how he identified 'authentic Joy' is the beauty of this book. Lewis is a endearing writer, and this book has made it more clear to me why I have loved reading & referencing him for years. I wonder what other books are waiting to be discovered on my nightstand?

And the Winner is.... Me! Liberty's Kid's Give-away

I won! I won! ... can't believe it. Kellie @ Blue House Academy offered a wonderful set of DVD's & I won the drawing. She had some duplicates, & was generous enough to have a drawing to share these. We are going to enjoy "Liberty's Kids"! These antimated stories are well done & very entertaining, while informational too. I'm glad I won't have to get up at 6:00 to watch them anymore. Thanks again... hmmm... I'd say this is lucky.

A Foothill Home Companion- A good read for me

The title 'How Children Learn' caught my eye. We're a little stalled out, while we wait for a book in the mail. So as we regroup for a 'hard-start' beginning in September, we're enjoying beautiful weather & good reads.
Yesterday, we popped open a dried out sunflower, with an abundance of seeds. After, we met up with friends at the park for some energy spending playtime, vital for little boys. I'd say, even without a plan, it worked out well. Swimming for the rest of the day didn't disappoint either. I think we'll try the volcano idea from Foothill on the next day with a lull.

Liberty's Kids Giveaway! Check Out Blue House Academy

If you love History, and you homeschool, or just have kids, you'll love Liberty's kids -- a great cartoon format packed with excellent history set in the period of the Revolutionary War! Good stuff. Visit Blue House Academy for your chance to win-- be sure to read the instructions!

Curriculum - Cleaning House! (Homeschool)

I had my list as we went to the library today, and brought home some extras, as well. I removed all the stuff we weren't going to be using from my desk(where I am currently storing active school materials.) This doesn't include glue/paper/tape, just the really pricey stuff I ordered special! I cleared my bulletin board, relegated personal effects, & cleaned house!
We don't have a school room, just a family room, open to the kitchen, but now we have a new CD/cassette player, new DVD player set up, & ready for classical tunes, appropriate audio books & selected movies as appropriate.
I think I'm going to reorganize the school 'area' tho, as it doesn't provide enough active writing space, for white/black board. It's got all our memory work & some selected items in conjunction with our work, but takes up premium space. I'm also dealing with almost 3 yo H who is certain the pushpins are much more interesting on the floor than in the bulletin board.
I followed Olive Plants many organizational suggestions and almost broke something clicking over to the 'best piece of advice' for new homeschoolers. She reaaaaalllly has some wonderful advice for us organizationally impaired, over-achieving, over-planning moms. Said with a big sigh.
Pictures to follow (I know I'm not supposed to say that...)--- (but I did. )