Friday, December 30, 2011

December 2011

We painted.








We praised.













We toured. (The Biltmore.)








We imagined.










We baked.










{this moment} happening every moment.
January 2012 for redeeming {the moment} with or without a blog post. The minutes they fly by. They are gone in a blink. Being present is one of the greatest gifts I hope to give my family this year.
Happy New Year~ Love, Joy & Peace to you and yours.

Thursday, December 29, 2011

House Renovation & Care


The home we bought and now live in had been empty off and on for about 5 years. It had been a family home which turned into a rental. Eventually it became a foreclosure. A house that hasn't been lived in comes with less than joyful delayed surprises. However, this house after 6 months seems to be in pretty good shape. The obvious issues were resolved within a few weeks. We refinished the floors, removing old carpeting, and changed all the door hardware. Many of the locks on the windows were busted, which we have slowly changed, as cold air was coming in at season change.
We also have some issues with air conditioning equipment access. Eric has a vast HVAC wealth of knowledge, along with his other areas of mechanical engineering. So he knows exactly what needs to be done. We had a drain in the attic which terminated into the eves of the house. Inside the house. This was an all-nighter in the middle of the summer. But now it's fixed. Also the access to the attic, where the monthly filter change is located, had no access steps or stairs. Eric installed a telescopic ladder for access.
Few cosmetic changes have been done, although the hardwoods and the door hardware were incidental cosmetic upgrades. The floors were a mess. The door hardware was mismatched and completely beaten up. Painting has been a minimum, but now it's becoming a necessity.
Enter Pinterest.
Like everybody else, I've been enjoying Pinterest the vortext of creativity & magazine page enjoyment. But I've been using for purpose as well. Yesterday when it came down to deciding exterior paint colors, I searched it and came up with this. The colors aren't up-close, but I could see how the darker color & the trim would work together. Our house is so pale and washed out, and we both want bold colors. The color is a side benefit of the protection it offers from the elements. (All this discussion reminds me of John Grisham's book 'A Painted House'.) So far I've chose 7545 Pier by Sherwin William. I am fortunate that SW has a store closeby, but I've always preferred them for paint.
I've also finally selected a paint color for our anemic bedroom. Silvermist one of SW's new colors in the architectural series, is a nice diversion. More on that later.
Off to paint...

Saturday, December 24, 2011

Merry Christmas

Snug in their beds, cookies & milk waiting, let the morning come. Merry Christmas!

Sunday, December 18, 2011

December Details #40


Simple plans, books, recipes from magazines. And everyone's new best friend-- Pinterest.
Here it is.
School. CC is over till January, but we're still Reading, Writing & practicing our Mathematics.
Reading. We have a wonderful version of The Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens.
Robert Frost's Poetry are rich with winter illusions.
Right after Thanksgiving - It Was a Dark & Stormy Night by Janet & Allan Ahlberg.
and The Snail House also by Allan Ahlberg.
FIAR presented to us The Rag Coat by Lauren Mills.
The Runaway Dinner is truly comical along with The Pencil.
At night, we've been reading a couple of passages from The Book of Virtues by William Bennett.
These need to be selected with some care, but most are perfectly appropriate for my boys. Last night we read a story about a man who saved a woman from a the plane crash into the Potomac in 1982. Courage demonstrated. Tonight we read about Abraham Lincoln. Honesty personified.
We also read from BOV, the story of Esther, Queen of Persia, ancestor of Jesus. Also our reading from the Jesse Tree, December 18. (Henry knows what a scepter is now.)
Our Reading from Our Spiritual Heritage brought us to the story about grumbling & complaining. The children of Israel not liking what they had, and wishing they could go back to Egypt.
The crossover is in reading comes in two books, and leads to my personal reading.
Carry On, Mr. Bodwitch by Jean Lee Latham has been recommended academically as well as bearing the Newberry Award. We've made it through the first 3 chapters and found it interesting
My Reading.
Echo in Celebration, by Leigh Bortins. She recommends 'Bodwitch' for purposes of seeing a classical education. Thank you Marianne ( my director at our Classical Conversations community) for your gracious gift mid-year.
Started a new Alexander McCall Smith series - 44 Scotland Street. I loved his 'Ladies Detective Agency' series. It is excellent.
'In a Heartbeat: Sharing the Power of Cheerful Giving' by Leigh Anne & Sean Tuohy. Exellent. Inspiring.
'Gluten Free Girl' Shauna James Ahern. Extremely interesting and thought provoking. She has a blog. http://glutenfreegirl.com/
Listening. Handel. Before the Christmas season, we started with Bach because we are currently enjoying an academic program(Master's) focused on the Baroque period. We then moved into Handel, 'The Messiah'. But started with Handel Cantatas. Our cd is from the library, the artists are Magdalena Kozena & Marc Minkowski. Beautiful.
Baking. Country Living December 2010 Tea Cookie Dough & Jam Thumbprint cookies. I used Cherry Jam instead of Strawberry Jam.
Mrs. Field's Cookie Book. Kelley my sister-in-law gave me this at one of the shower's I was given. She was so creative, and gave me trays and all. But this is my go-to chocolate chip recipe. I'm finally going to venture past the one page and make the Refridgerator Thumbprint Fudgy Cookies. Because I've been invited to a cookie exchange & I'm all out of butter! I've got 3 dozen made of the Thumbprints, but I need 3 more dozen.
I made my Appetizer tho. Just a mix of the usual suspects to make shrimp dip. Cream cheeze, sour cream, mayonaise, grated cheddar cheeze. Garlic salt, diced red onion, stalk of celery diced and shrimp in small pieces. The shrimp is medium & I cut it down. Not small canned. Serving with crackers.
Growing. Amarylis. Red. One saved from Baton Rouge, and 2 purchased at Publix. So not really growing, but doing alot of raking/burning leaves in preparation for soil for the backyard garden.
Loving. My life. Peace abounds. Something to do, people to love, hope.
**Picture courtesy of Pinterest. When I find the actual source I'll credit. But this is the picture of inspiration Eric & I are considering for our livingroom/schoolroom. love the order. *sigh*
343- 350 I stopped counting & posting in August/last 1000 gifts post #39, but our school has been much more intense this year. Blogging has been put on the back burner. But as Christmas has come, I'm seeing the fruits of our labors and the gifts of God. Following our plan, seeking His. So I will assign these numbers to above. Looking forward to a week of counting God's blessings with kids as our assignment is to turn our grumbling into thanks, learning from the Israelites in the Wilderness. Lesson's abound in God's Word. Counting with others at http://www.aholyexperience.com/2011/12/3-gifts-you-really-need-to-open-right-now-love-comes-down-video/ . I think I'll print Ann's list for the boys. We saw blue birds in our bird house. They'll love the eggs & birds for places to write gifts. 351.

Friday, December 9, 2011

December. Joy.

I'm missing my boys about now. They are away, while we take a belated anniversary get-away. We are going to the Biltmore in Ashville, NC while they boys enjoy some 'cousin time.' I am still missing them. Homeschool life is a very intense exsistence. When they are not here, there is silence. But it's not a peaceful silence, it's a mysterious silence. It's almost like the drywall relaxes. As tho it's fear of destruction has subsided momentarily. But it will tense up soon enough. The steps will grab hold of the pounding and bounce back a cheery exuberant symphony of boy's life.
Meanwhile.... we catch up on conversations we can't savor without the ever-present listening ears. I think I actually concentrated today. For more than 5 minutes. Consecutively.
Thanks be to Ann at Holy Experience for her years of sharing the Jesse Tree. I have finally found the book and the ornaments in the same month. I usually find the book about ... June.
Of course this is our first year in this house. Joy. December. Emmanuel. Lord be with us.

Tuesday, November 15, 2011

Thanksgiving is Now





















I notice on Facebook that everyone is posting thanks everyday. I'm so encouraged to see it, but my technology is either too much or too little for me to keep up. My laptop with keyboard is gone, & I'm using an 7 year old laptop I bought for Eric to take to Louisiana. That limps and gasps and needs a walker.. wheelchair. And then we have the smartphone. Too much capability with limited keyboard for miss 'fat-finger'. I am not a great texter, I love a full keyboard with a number pad, which even my laptop doesn't have. So I'm caught in the middle.


But what I'm really, really concerned about is how to teach a child math (Singapore) while they limp on some of their math facts. Yes, we do need to know those. I have been using xtramath.org a great on-line, free method of review/teaching math facts. Sends me updates on what's been achieved, and number of days used. My public school friend's mom sent it to me, and I have to say, big thanks. It's helped be that 'other method' to review besides flashcards.


We continue happily using All About Spelling for phonics & reading. Today we used our Explode the Code words together with the AAS Tiles. Then recopied them again to reinforce the endings in our current chapter.


We start our day with Handwriting without Tears (optimistically said). I really like this series. Although leftys often just struggle with handwriting no matter what the promises. It's like the whole world is backwards.

But can't say enough about Classical Conversations. The components are great. It was just what our family needed. I love the memorization and am now finally incorporating a memory box from Charlotte Mason. This is an easy system. Just print it out. Get started. Even if you don't homeschool, it's for learning your verses. Just simple repetition. Get in the habit now while your children are young if you haven't started any formal education. They become accustomed to whatever you do. More on that at SimplyCharlotteMason.

But one of the biggest changes has been our kitchen. I finally removed the remainder of the wallpaper in the kitchen and painted a warm color. The rest of the walls will have to wait. The ceilings are too high and our painting crew dollars are alotted elsewhere. So for now, my one inspiration drape fabric panel hangs along the newly painted wall to bring me through the holidays. Artisan Tan from Sherwin Williams brought me some warm kitchen joy. (see my before & after) Which is a part of the homeschooling aspect. No matter what disaray, the home has to be a place you actually 'want to be'. And more than once I've heard each member of our household say how much they love their new home. I'm grateful. Heart full. Too full for facebook. The post would be a record.


*One post script about the 'How' of all the homeschooling-Charlotte Mason's ideas are so well expressed at Simply Charlotte Mason, and this post about the How of the 3 big questions is a good one.

Tuesday, October 4, 2011

Growing up Could be the Answer




In our new home, my husband & I found ourselves stargazing early this morning. I'd walked with him around the neighborhood, scaring deer on their early morning walk, and then we drank coffee and talked, as usual, about the kids. We, like most parents, come to these conversations with our own set of biases, predispositions, baggage even, and try to put some sense to that which baffles us. We pray to make 'the best' decisions regarding our children, pray for them to thrive.



I read this article some days ago, presented by the Classical Conversations website, and then found it again on Heidi's blog at Mt. Hope Chronicles. I think the idea of continued adolescence ie; not growing up, is the issue that fights the classical plan. Not one and the same but even God's plans. If I am to disciple my children, lead them to a growing up, passion & embracing God's design for them,,, should I not 'grow up' and move on beyond my adolescent ways?



Over at Simply Charlotte Mason, there has been a 3 part series on The Gentle Art of Education, questioning the idea of 'gentle' (is it?) and also types of educational technique. It just continued the need to 'be the change you want to see'(that's an Oprah quote actually). If you want to disciple children to not embrace adolescent ways, then don't be adolescent in behavior. I won't list mine. I'm not ready for that type of confession, but I know what they are. And eek.. if I'm not working to change them, my kids will know, because they see everything...



I asked a lady friend the other day how they came to homeschool. She said after having an amazing experience in the public schools, they realized they were not the primary influence in their children's lives. Sometimes I long for another more significant influence for my children's lives so I can get it together, be better, or at least not feel so guilty when I'm not doing what I'm supposed to be doing. (There's some honesty for you...) But this is not the case. Whether I did send them somewhere, they are involved with other adults or kids for that matter, I'm still the primary influence. That role doesn't go away. It's just that way. So I can continue to 'waller' or grow up.




Tuesday, September 20, 2011

Classical Music & the Classical Child

As I listen to Pandora.com, (a Maroon 5 station I created on my site), I'm also creating a Music Timeline for over the piano in our schoolroom. Yes, I said schoolroom for after I saw Mt.HOpes big 'reveal', I just had to do something about the abyss. Moving does nothing for the beauty of a schoolroom. So, I whipped out my handy 'The Story of the Orchestra', by Robert Levine, and started xeroxing, on my color copier that needs new cartridges. The little joys of homeschooling...


But keep it simple is the motto. In more than one way. Use what you have(if it's usable) and use the familiar. Jack & I have read through and worked through the CD of this book, and the pictures are precious. So there you go. Yes, copyright laws were broken. There will be no mass production or liscencing of the copied items, so I think I'm safe. Anyway, Back to keeping it simple. There are 2 biggies, when it comes to periods of 'Classical Music'. Baroque and Classical. Those are the road pavers for Western Music. How simple is that? When you're trying to apply this idea of understanding the classics, all music on a public radio station that sounds like Mozart (because there aren't words) isn't necessarily Mozart. If you help your child differentiate between anything in the 'not-modern' music world, help them with this. There is a whole different sound, as different as Maroon 5 & James Taylor. or for that matter Taylor Swift.


So, I copy, I paste, I post on the wall for the kid. He really rocks the music from Mozart to Bill Monroe. Not to mention a little Maroon 5. Or Third Day. But the boy knows Mozart & Bach had way different skills. Likewise, Henry enjoys a good tune. There is hope!


Love, love, love music.

Thursday, September 8, 2011

Buying Beef in Bulk




Don't laugh. As I considered purchasing a 1/4 of a steer yesterday from Lazy B Farm I figured it was time to get serious about our refridgerator issues. When we purchased our house June 2011 it worked. Just fine. We then had the floors re-done, and while it rested on the front porch, it decided to give up the ghost. It now gives a less than noble effort at cooling the refrigeration side, while completely neglecting the freezing option. We purchase ice when we really need it, but it's really beginning to get old. Summer in Georgia without ice is less than pleasant. But it's time to get serious about beef, among other things, that I'd like to stock up on--buy in bulk. And quit making those pesky trips for 'just a few things', to our oh-so-convenient Publix. I acutally don't overspend because of the proximity/frequency, but because of the 'kid/distraction' factor.




So I must decide on a model, and just get behind it. I have toyed with the icemaker on the front, but really I'd really rather have an ice-maker separate. They are expensive, but I think in the long run, it will be worth it. I'd rather keep everyone out of the freezer. And keep that stuff COLD. But then to french door or single door. Eric & I both are not crazy about the drawer style freezer. We like old-school. But part of me really likes the idea. We both like stainless steel, and don't mind if it doesn't match everything for a while. Everything else is white, and really it doesn't make that much difference. Which leads me directly back to that everpresent budget. Cha-ching.


I read a great post from Clover Lane about how she budgets household expenditures. Actually how she keeps track of spending. I liked her method. I save receipts, but don't really have a good ledger system. Her's is simple and gets the job done. I particularly like the page on the left hand side that shows what's coming up that will create expenditures. Events like birthdays. August is one of those double whammy months for us. Likewise with the new house, there are some repair/update things that you just have to get done. I'm seeing a major chunk going towards a new fridge, but also shopping places like craigslist.com necessitates being on top of one's budget, and really knowing if it's a good idea right now. Craigslist doesn't have lay-away.


We are currently working on getting our design for the yard, and thus the garden in the works, for our new yard. It is less than we thought we'd wind up with, but I'm very thankful for the size and location of our home/yard. I love it, I'm so thankful. Grateful. I've never given up on the homesteading concepts. No matter where we wound up living. There's too much good thought to throw the baby out with the bathwater. So much so that I'm planning on attending the Ladies Homestead Retreat (with Lazy B Farm) in October. There's some smart ladies there, with lots of wisdom to share. I can't wait to see what comes of this weekend on my horizon. Should be quite a memorable event.

Photo is of kitchen during floor renovation. I've since taken down the wallpaper, and have painted, put up new light fixture, but there's still more paper and more painting. After pictures are coming!

Tuesday, September 6, 2011

Five in A Row




I've talked about Five in A Row before. I have found each book to be so pleasing, and the lessons so well arranged, so natural in the progression. Sometimes we cover the concept completely. Sometimes, we just enjoy the book, and know we'll get back to it. Henry has become a lover of reading. Jack always has been, but Henry's been a slow one to enjoy the sitting still. But he does. We've enjoyed one book so much, one not of the FIAR (five in a row) list, but a sweet thought provoking book for a little guy of 5. The Relatives Came, by Cynthia Rylant, and Lottie's New Beach Towel by Petra Mathers. Both of these books were gifts, precious to us, and wonderful messages, pleasant reading, simple.




Jack is back to reading Magic Tree House Books. This time, reading on his own. He has such an adventuresome mind. I"m so thankful for his excitement, the look on his face while he pictures the story.




My favorite curriculum is evolving. My list to the side reflect current material we use, and resources in which we participate. Outside our academic work at home, Classical Conversations is a part of our week. I am tutoring Henry's class. Jack is thriving in the memory work, and enjoying the company of others during this time. I like the accountability of knowing the material each week.


We are also continuing with Tae Kwon Do, Piano, & now Soccer & Football. There is also a homeschool p.e. class offered in our county, and I'm taking full advantage of that.


August flew by, I'm sure September will too. First cool weather drifted in today. Perfect for Jack's first game & first win.


Additional resources for FIAR can be found at Homeschool Share free resources for many different curriculums & ideas.

Thursday, August 25, 2011

I miss Millie & a Kitten Question



No one tells you how you'll miss your dog, or how much you'll appreciate that silent conspirator in the room. Man's best friend who never 'talks back.' But today, as I looked at cats at the Humane Society at our local Pet-co, I couldn't help but compare, wish, remember. It was another time altogether in our lives this sweet girl came about. But there she was. And Larry the kitten, one of 3 stooges in a cage, well... I'm just not sure. I'm a little jaded these days. But perhaps Henry will get his wish. He loves, loves, loves cats/kittens who will let him pick them up. He loves all animals.

We've crossed 2 official birthdates, Jack is now 8 & Henry is now 5. We've finally started soccer... Henry would awake in the middle of the night, perhaps to go to the bathroom, and say 'Do I play soccer tomorrow?'. Really??? Have mercy, child. He was ready for life to begin at 4. One of those not-so-low-key kids. Love him, love him, love him. Both of course.

Well, do I get the kitty named Larry or not? He's only on hold till noon tomorrow. Time will tell.

Miss you Millie. My sweet companion.

Thursday, August 4, 2011

New House, Summer's End, & School



So much to say, but my time is limited per the library video games novelty, will eventually wear out, & I'll have to haul my boys out, lest we become permanently evicted from our new library. We currently have no internet at our house and because of a glitch in our new service, we won't have any until August 23. I have a new phone that lets me access internet, but I broke my glasses, and now that I'm elderly, I can't read the screens, no matter how hard I squint or lean back.

Just when you need the convenience of internet most....

Because there are moments you don't want to squander in childhood that are just too precious.

We have started back to our schedule of daily educational goals, but still are enjoying/waiting out the summer of record heatwaves. But thankful to be in our new home. Thankful doesn't cover it. I am overwhelmed most of the time, not because of the number of books I've actually realized I have, now that they are all unboxed, but because we really don't plan to move. I can leave something there, and not worry if I should be remembering where I put it, so I don't leave it behind. I can put olive oil in my decanter my mother-in-law gave me, and not wonder whether/on what it will leak when we move the next time. I can paint, and no one will tell me to re-paint. I can't plant basil where I want to. This is only the beginning of my list, I'm too tired to count, but it's there, it's coming, the list that is. Because I'm counting, no matter what day of the weak, because there is too much for which to be thankful.


I've been reading John Stott's 'The Incomparable Christ'. Wonderful book. He recently passed away. I've had this book for 4 years, and haven't read. I guess it didn't make the first cut that didn't go into storage.


The boy's and I are reading Matthew & reading the parables, gearing up for our Memory work in Classical Conversations, from the book of John. I will be Henry's tutor this time. I'm truly looking forward to this. Everyone says it adds just what your missing. I think it will be just the ticket for us.


I'm participating in a yardsale tomorrow and throwing a birthday party on Sunday. Painted a room this morning and will be pricing things all night for tomorrow.

Our freezer doesn't work. I buy a bag of ice per week, and we just figure things out. The debate begins to replace our applicances. For now, we are able to function well, with many projects ahead, but for now the zip-line is up! and the boys are enjoying the swimming. Me too for that matter.

So much more, so little time, so thankful that the busy-ness is good. Thanks to God, the giver of all things good.




Friday, July 1, 2011

Five Books that Changed Who I Am

Mrs. Edwards over at Veritas Academy tagged me in a no resist link-up. I just had to jump on this. Especially reading as voraciously as I am this summer!


Wow, how do you narrow that down... but I went to the first that came to mind, minus a few... one always leads to another so I just cut it down to cateories. I own all of these, take notes in them and replace them if I share/give them away. Sometimes putting a good book in someone's hand is more valuable than a perfect library.


1.Food

Barbara Kingsolver - Animal, Vegetable, Miracle This sparked a whole new part of my being. It made sense to me while written for enjoyment. I learned something, and began to appreciate writing in a whole new way. She is an excellent writer although her books are not for every audience.

2.Education

Susan Wise Bauer & Jessie Wise -The Well-Trained Mind I swallowed this one whole. Haven't looked back.

Douglas Wilson's Recovering the Lost Tools of Learning Hammered in the nails after closing the box on ideas that no longer worked. Helped me gather a hammer & nails that fit & will build an education worth having.

3. Faith


Foster's The Celebration of Discipline - the fact that our daily walk really is the fruit of our spirit. The chapter that addressed stewardship was profound. Other spiritual disciplines were made more clear to me. Purpose in action was sparked.



4. Children in the Modern/Post Christian Age


The Plug-In Drug this book actually convicted me regarding television & video games.


Raising a Non-Violent Child John Rosemond - helped me gather the handful of behaviors I couldn't get a handle on. Gave me the tools to address what I hadn't been able to in the past.


Boy's Adrift by Leonard Sax - Profound information, from a secular professional.


5. Novel Category


To Kill a Mockingbird- the first book that made me cry & fearful --just reading a book.

Lfe-changing books I'm reading just now, during mymorning coffee....

Repairing the Ruins, The Classical & Christian Challenge to Modern Education

Ann Voskamp- One Thousand Gifts

Bradley Heath - Millstones & Stumbling Blocks - encapsulates many of the thoughts and questions I've had about homeschooling even after determining I would. It has sparked a fire.

Martin Lindstrom - Buy-ology The American dream has become a phrase I like less & less. As patriotic as I am, it is often driven by the effort of purchasing & consuming. This is an excellent book that really sets off alarms for those who want to be awakened.

~~~~~~~
One leads to another, thanks for encouraging me to take stock, Mrs. Edwards. I am enjoying summer reading quality books. Trying not to settle for adult twaddle. Trying to appreciate the written page, especially none more so than God's Holy Word. I am so thankful for the numerous Bibles I have around. What a blessing to be able to turn to life-giving-words, at the tip of my finger.

Post a a link to your list if you want here! but be sure to visit Mrs. Edwards. Her library of books is so enjoyable & inspiring! Thanks Mrs. E.!


Be blessed~ Laura

Monday, June 27, 2011

LIfetime Meds #39



Just do it. Count. Start. Pray. Get there. Commitment. Choose.



This day I will count, even tho I want to complain in an inordinately inappropriate way. (can I get a witness?)


#332 My back hurts less, (I resembled the Hunchback of Notre Dame last week after an injury while parenting Henry.)



#333 The hardwood floors are in process.



#334 My husband is able to perform major repairs & often semi-major renovation projects.



#335 That he will do it.



#336 That he reads the Bible to our children.



#337 Renewed efforts are never less appreciated than continuous effort. Our God is Gracious.



#338 God is worthy of our devotion, love & worship.



#339 Swimming pools.



#340 Purposeful activity.



#341 Airconditioning.



#342 Change on the horizon.

I'm about to start reading Ann Voskamps One Thousand Gifts. Today I count with others meeting at Multitude Monday. Lifetime Meds for me, pointing the way to the Ultimate Giver.

Monday, June 20, 2011

New {Home} ~ New {Format}

Change is a coming. But blogging is a secondary thing right now. But it sure does help me think! For now, be sure to wander over to SouleMama. Oh my how I love Elizabeth Mitchell. She does my soul some good. She (EM) has a new album.
Be blessed, the cup is more than half-full.

Friday, June 10, 2011

It's about time...













It's all about timing. 'Are we there yet?' 'How much longer?' 'How many more days?' 'When will it be ready?' I saw the picture of me picking strawberries and thought about the fact that it is time for piano recitals, blueberries, swimming pools to open, vacation Bible school, ice-cream dinners, fireworks, riding bikes in bathing suits... you get the idea. The list goes on.




For us some of those things are working out, and some of them are just, well going to have to wait. We seem to be in a state of transition that seems to be dragging on. But we knew it would. We have steeled ourselves for the feelings of uncertainty that come with the temporary & awkward. But you can't do that for kids. Time marches on, and they can see it leaving them behind. They don't politely quell their frustrations, they don't calm their tears from anxiety. They just don't. The kids really are holding up well. We're not keeping them inside 24/7, it's just that some things as a part of the move are just difficult. What move isn't?



I counted one time, before 18, I'd lived in 9 houses. My parents have some war stories about moving. Like the time my parents left our Sunday clothes for worship service in Kentucky, and it was during an ice-storm. We made a great first impression, during a time when people actually expected a preacher to wear a tie & coat. The time we moved from Kentucky to Ohio, and my Dad was clipped by a drunk driver as he had just crossed the bridge into Cincinatti. Our stuff 'we don't want to break' was in the truck. It spewed all over the interstate, not to mention my Dad saw his life pass before his eyes. He was dazed but fine. A crew that seemed to patrol the interstate gathered everything that had been thrown, except for the guns that we're sure were picked up by less noble folks.


But those are the awful stories. I remember meeting some of my life-long friends, even the first Sunday I went to church when we'd moved. I remember thinking the stainglass was quite dramatic at 12th Street, especially for a church of Christ. I remember the farmhouse where I first read 'A Little Princess' and could see my breath in my bedroom from the cold. I remember learning about Kentucky Basketball & hearing 'My Old Kentucky Home' when the National Anthem was played. I know that the cotton fields from childhood grow in hot Memphis sun, because I walked them when I was a kid.



Moves don't come easy. It's loss. It leaves a void-- even if the move is across town. Change comes or continues with a 2nd tsunami like wave depending on whether the first house was a rental or the keeper.



But it's worth it. Change stretches us. Change creates character. It's up to us to use the opportunity to see the good-- the half-full version.


My mind is tired, but I can't be more thankful right now for the future days that are coming. We are all so excited about our new home, temporal as it is-- for this really isn't our final/forever home. We'll see that one on the otherside of Jordan.




Life-Meds #38





#317 A dwelling to move to





#318 Family to host us in the interim





#319 Nannies & Grandpas, Nanas and Poppas to host us, love us & support us.





#320 Bar-b-Q-- Yes, I made it to Memphis





#321 B'Lou, she's known me as long as I've been





#322 Aunt Heidi- rock star extroirdinaire in the kid-play, planning zone





#323 Splash pads





#324 Chicken Watcher's -- Dawn, who survived the first real chicken attack, RIP, no-name-chicken 1 & no-name-chicken 2





#325 Beaky survived





#326 Golden survived





#327 Silver survived





#328 Boy's who don't ask questions about chickens





#329 'Cracker Berry' where we've eaten our veggies





#330 Husband's who will pick-up kids when other is napping





#331 Love that covers a multitude of missed hugs, missed thank-you's.




Join Ann Voskamp ( whose book I'm just about to read with a study group of ladies!!!) on Monday's for Multitude Monday. It will change your life. Counting life's blessings- I call it Lifetime Meds.





Friday, May 20, 2011

New Kitchen Before
















The view over the sink.

















What sold me. A view to the family room. from the kitchen. and the backyard.

















Um.. where do I actually chop those vegetables. Who cares...













View from the current dining room door. To the left you can see the hall to the garage, laundry & powder. The pantry is that door open in the middle of the picture.


We'll see what happens. My ideas are found at houzz.com

{this moment}







{this moment} a Friday ritual. single photo. no words. capturing a moment from the week. Enjoy more with Soulemama.

Lifemeds #37 Two Boys











313 That's Henry in the middle. Youngest & smallest. Best player on the court!













314 Henry loves to make french toast & pancakes!











315 (strength & agility) Scooters at Memorial Park. Look Out!












316 (personality) he has 2 teeth missing, & is so excited about frogs & bugs. So seven-year-old.





Joy. 2 boys, full of energy, full of life & potential. Blessings. 2 boys.




Counting with others at A Holy Experience. Glimpses at His amazing creation. Lifemeds for me.

Tuesday, May 17, 2011

The Abolition of Man & My Book List

Eric & Jack reading 'Encyclopedia Brown'.


Reading. One of those pesky good habits I'm trying to instill in my children.
So I realized I've been reading, but not exactly what I had included in my intentional book list.
So while packing a rather inordinate amount of books collecting dust around my house, I pulled out some good reads.
The Abolition of Man is a truly insightful & relative book to what is consuming my world right now. Wow. I must say. Classical education supported in an essay 'Men without Chests.'
'We make men without chests and expect virtue & enterprise. We laugh at honour & are shocked to find a traitor in our midst. We castrate and bid the geldings be fruitful.'
It took me forever to get through the first few pages, put it down several times, but can't wait to finish this book. Like most C.S. Lewis, I have to chew a bit before I can really digest his brilliance.
Working on our mortgage (french word for 'death note'). But I don't feel like that. I am so excited about our new home. The boys call it 'our house'. I've picked out some carpet. Actually the carpet I had in our previous home as a bound rug. And a great teal blue-ish color for the kitchen. I've counted 18 knobs & 7 drawer pulls to be replace in the kitchen (changing to black from brass, and that's that. No big re-do yet. Just fresh paint & carpet. And that's alot.
So. Excited.
I also ran across my copy of Tisha. Beautiful true, love & life story. A young girl goes to Alaska in the 20's and begins teaching in a small school in a town called Chicken. Beautiful.
I find it interesting in reading both of these books, I am more assured in our decision to direct our children to Truth, in our deliberate efforts to teach what we believe is worth learning. His essay 'Men without Chests' describes how we expect child who grows up to be able to love that which is good when we don't give them clearn guidelines to what is really truth, goodness, purity, virtuous. When there is no Objective Truth, and only relativism disaster will follow.
Don't be discouraged to pick up 'Abolition'. I couldn't follow the first few pages, then I began to devour it.



~I also picked up finally after waiting & waiting for my copy at the library -- Amusing Ourselves to Death. It reminds me of The Plug-in Drug. Both of these books are in their anniversary publication after 20 years. 'Amusing Ourselves' was prefaced by his son and is well-done. I'm already hooked. We are so quick to settle on that which is only a glimpse, and often 'junk' to spend our days and nights thinking about. We must (a part of object truth, being able to use the word 'must') be deliberate in our efforts to refine in light of God's creation & Truth and only make the best, that with which we are familiar.

Tuesday, May 10, 2011

Those People in Goshen - God's Nation



We are currently studying the Children of Israel while in captivity in Egypt. We've just finished Joseph and how they came to be located in Goshen, and now we're about to study the plagues. I am unfamilar with particular archaeologist but this page demonstrates the correlation of the plagues delivered by God to the Egyptian deities. It's amazing. The author of this particular page states



'These plagues not only demonstrate to the Egyptians, the Israelites, and Pharoah, but are of such a magnitude that they would be remembered through all generations.'



This is what makes the plagues so significant. They are a part of the story of God's people and His greatness and mercy. A nation as magnificent as Egypt could not stand against God.


I am anxiously awaiting this book about the 10 plagues and find that an occasional showing of Cecil B. DeMille's 'The Ten Commandments is just the ticket for generating a little interest in this story. I'm never disappointed there. It also gives rise to good discussion about how accuracy in the Bible is important. What does the Bible really say about this moment in history~ good stuff.

Sunday, May 8, 2011

Peace in the Botanical Garden



The State Botanical Garden was just what I needed. This mother's day was wonderful but long. We are packing & ready to get going, but we're really ready. And stress is high. EEk.

This is a photo of the Physic Garden, where many plants meant for human healing are planted. The benefits are some I think I'd really like to try, just about now.

Looking forward to heading back to see the 'Forged in Nature' exhibit, as we had to head to the bike park, to keep the boys contained.

The chickens are in a routine now of coming to their 'fence' in the former garden to be gathered up for bed. It's so sweet. They just wait. To go back to their brooder. They are still little and need to be back in the box but they're so excited about the outdoors. I've been protecting them from the hawks that fly over with our abandoned train table. The boys sit on it and pet the chickens. Henry is the most interested in taking care, although I have to clean him from head to toe regularly, several times a day. It's precious tho. So happy. Happiness.

Thursday, May 5, 2011

With What Am I Familiar




While reading a post at Simply Charlotte Mason, I began to get excited about what I can put on the walls at my new house. What I can do with the big blank canvas, that will be our home. Excitement is an understatement. I couldn't be more excited than if it was my wedding day. And for that I was pretty excited. Everything for us has been 'hurry up, and wait'. But that's life. For everyone. We haven't cornered that market.


But this post really struck a cord. I looked back at some younger photos of our kids and longed for some of those simple moments back. When watching 'Busy Town' was enough. When reading 'The Napping House' was really, really fun. We've really been filled with business and blank walls this year. Renting for 5 years now, I've been telling the kids, 'don't bang into that wall! Mr xxxx won't like that.' 'Don't dig that hole, Jack! Mrs.xxxx wont' be happy.' Mind you we've been blessed by a hurricane, or 2 that provided a playground of mulched fallen trees in the front yard, but the toll was taken, the telling them (not to be kids, in their own house). This last month seems to be the most painful. We know where the (unoccupied) house is. We know the neighbors, for whom I'm thankful each day. (they're take on raising kids is much like mine, benign negligence tempered with faithful family training.) But the waiting... We close after we move out of this house, so there will be a short period of homelessness.(we've got this figured out) But that's just, well, what it is. We've navigated crazier waters. White water's in fact. And we're still married, love our kids, and actually still have friends that speak to us.


So why the chickens-- now. I wanted the kids to be able to have them, pick them up, and not have someone tell them to stop. I love petting zoos, but those aren't mine. Sure I still want the boys to be careful. But they go sit in the garden and just play with them. It's precious. And for no matter how long it last, I'm happy I did this untimely chaotic thing.

We may or may not be able to keep them, some covenants are stronger than others. My neighbor is fine with it, we're not in city limits, but covenants are covenants, and I'm a rule keeper. But I'm not throwing in the towel yet. I'm going to have faith. And just not worry. We've been peddling too hard too fast, and we're going to enjoy the blessings of a home in less than perfect shape for what it is. A blank canvas, where we can put our stamp.

An opportunity to guide as I want to present that with which I want the kids to be familiar.

Nature, friends, maybe chickens, art, play, kindness, cooking, bicycles. Homesteading really isn't just about gathering animals. Homesteading is putting down rails, to steal Charlotte's term.

Although, and Eric knows this, I really, really wanted sheep and a big field for cotton, I know we, and I do mean we, know that a home is what is most important, right now. So from a homesteading point of view, I don't see this as failure. I see it as a challenge. A challenge to see what we can do, what changes we can make that will shape our family for the better.


I love shaping a home, and the blessing is mine for the taking.


Thankful am I.

Tuesday, May 3, 2011

Chickens, School, Weddings

Outside school activities are almost over for our academic year. We'll continue to read and stay active in simple math so it's all not lost for the fall. We are on board for Classical Conversations, But we plan to enjoy the summer! I'm very excited to know what the summer might bring. Having a plan & knowing what might come our way is reassuring. We haven't decided on 'property' perse, but a home in a neighborhood. Yes, my little homestead will be in a neighborhood. So I've been reading 'Urban Gardener' & 'Backyard Homestead' to rethink the plan. But good principles translate if they really are your principles. So the challenge is on.
We enjoyed a wedding in Baton Rouge & visiting friends back in the neighborhood. It was great to watch the kids really wear themselves out.
I promised the boys chickens the day we got back. And I kept my promise. Even before Easter, which meant an overnight trip. Aracona and Silver-laced Wyandotts.
We are enjoying watching 3 week old chickens play, eat & sleep. The boys have named them all, even tho I have no idea which is which. Eric made a brooding box, complete with lid & light, & then spend the day in our mini-fenced garden area when we're home & it's warm. They love bugs. I don't know if that's good for them as young as they are, but I figure if they were free-range hatched, they'd be eating plenty of bugs along with they're mash.
I'm optimistic that our chickens will not cause a stir in the new neighborhood, but we plan to be good neighbors. No matter what. There will be lots of projects to do around the house, and I'd rather us get settled more than we have been than worry about chickens. Really.
Priorities come to light, you do what you gotta do.
the bad news... my computer won't be back till next week, so pictures of my chicks will have to wait. Coming soon, tho! Homeschool curriculum update coming soon.

Saturday, April 23, 2011

Wednesday, April 13, 2011

Reading Curriculum


Phonics Pathways has been our tool for reading this year. My friend Leslie, had used it carefully, and was very pleased. Our 1 day school had used it as a guide and frame for activities in class & assignments. I have just never warmed to it.

Last night I got 'The Ordinary Parents Guide to Reading' out and it was like a reunion with a long lost friend. I looked through it and found it to be just what I've been missing. It seems so much more comprehensive. But to stay on task with a group/school program, you don't add to the work, especially with a 1st grader. You just do 1 program and supplement and be creative as you go. But the 'school' year is ending and I'm seeing the light shining big & bright on 'Ordinary Parents guide'. I can't wait!

Sunday, March 13, 2011

The Earth is the Lord's



'the Earth is the Lord's
and everything in it,
the world,
and those who live in it.'
Psalm 24:1
This has been our memory verse for the first section of Our Spiritual Heritage Bible study. The period covers 'first fathers' of OSH, creation, & introduction of Abraham.
Our second memory verse is from:
Psalm 146:5-6
'Happy is the person who has the God of Jacob for his help. Whose hope is in the Lord, his God, who made heaven & earth, the sea and all that is in them.'
April, Lord willing will bring us the a comforting and encouraging verse,
Psalm 40:11b
'Let Your loving kindness and your truth
always preserve me.'
These verses are selected for the modified pre-school lessons for OSH chronology box of the Bible. We are all continuing to learn Ephesians 6, along with Jack for his regular academic work.

Wednesday, March 9, 2011

Rain, Rain, Go Away...

These two little boys want to go out and play, and there will be mud. and laundry.









My computer has been at 'the shop', but it's on the mend. Still house/homestead shopping. Finding, getting, aquiring... not where my heart wants to be. It wants to be digging, creating, growing. But it's a necessity, the getting of the place to do the digging, etc..
So these Sunday dudded kiddos continue to play in the muddy creek, ride bikes 'with no training wheels,' and enjoy playing HARD.
Blessed are we, health, love, opportunity. Thank you Lord, for not 'cutting me off', when I forget to take my 'meds'. Lifetime meds that is.
Henry was thankful for the rain today, stay rain, stay... makes more mud.

Monday, February 21, 2011

An Apology for Latin or Math

I've been juggling the math question and stumbled upon this article. Latin seems so mandatory to me, but I have long been a believer in delayed math. But common practice & marital bliss have required a start in the subject. But the article above (linked first) shed a little light about math being a 'subject' not a grammar subject, much like Latin.
I'm working on a start in Classical Conversations which will provide the memorization facts, but give freedom of planning in our educational plan.
Another related article about Latin I found very interesting can be found here.
We'll be incorporating Latin for sure, and math in a slower pace, 'grammar' of the subject way as time unfolds.

Sunday, February 20, 2011

Lifemeds #36




Counting still {1000 gifts}


301 Nana's who come to visit & do the laundry.


302 watch the kids


303 celebrate victories no matter how small.


304 Jack finally losing a top tooth


305 Henry's attitude (happiness)


306 opportunities in homeschooling to solidify connections made in learning.


307 beautiful weather


308 concert at UGA to hear amazing musicians (Punch Brothers)


309 Eric's williness to see & enjoy the moments of life (he got the tickets without my knowing)


310 Valentine Junior Mints from my sweetie.


311 Excellent DAR meeting


312 the boy's enthusiasm for playing tennis -- TOGETHER
That's my list for now...
Be sure to visit the Gratitude Community over at A Holy Experience to enjoy the company of others counting what could be an endless list of blessings ~ One Thousand Gifts.
I call it ~ Lifetime Meds.


Saturday, February 19, 2011

Homesteading Revisited
















We feel we've been on a break, and found ourselves just needing to 'survive'. A move of any nature is disturbing & disruptive. We are in a 9 month position of recovery. We're getting our feet. Perhaps because we've 'figured out' what we really need, and 'how far out' is really far enough.





It's likely we'll put yet another offer on a house this weekend. We've missed a couple, but that's just part of the learning curve, growing process, and character building. I'm curved, processed & built enough. I WANT TO GO HOME. Hang up my horseshoe over the door and plant the garden. And it's really time to start living, stop fretting & wringing hands.





We had a serious moment last week, that sent our Valentines day into a tailspin. Our dog of 11 years bit H. A dog nip is one thing, but this was serious. We knew it. It was time. She's gone and a chapter in our lives has closed before we were ready. We love her and miss her. How silly, not really, time invested into a living creature... she gave us so much and we hope we cared for her well. We know it's a part of life, but she's gone. Our hearts broken are ready for the opening of the new chapter.





Chickens, goats, horses? Perhaps a new dog, when the season comes. I was able to vist Lazy B Farm in person, & savor the company of likeminded women for an evening of coffee and discussion. Excellent. Next meeting in a few weeks for those who are nearby.





For now, we appreciate the simplicity, have played tennis everyday in the beautiful weather, and have enjoyed our Valentines as best we could.

Wednesday, February 9, 2011

Mt. Hope Chronicles: Q & A: Homeschooling

Visited Heidi @ Mt. Hope Chronicles: Q & A: Homeschooling for some homeschooling questions about boys, and just in general. Head on over for some excellent information about Classical Conversations (links), and some good detail about her world of learning. And you'll get to see Lola. Don't miss Lola.

Sunday, February 6, 2011

Inspiration


This photo from Southern Living is inspiration to me. perhaps it's the big french doors. The fireplace, with it's contemporary art, or the persian rug. The 2 kids in my house seldom if ever sit that still. We are working on 2 offers, on 2 different houses. Life moves on. So literally.
Jack is working on memorizing Ephesians 6, and is currently in the midst of the armor of God. What an amazing illustration for us. Henry is quoting 'The earth is the Lord's and everything in it,' taken from Psalm 24:1.

Monday, January 31, 2011

Lifemeds #35


274 finding a book that actually helped me with the tv addiction problem.

275 the desire to do something about it.

276 peace about a house.

277 breathtaking weather.

278 a beaverdam in our creek.

279 boys healthy play in the creek.

280 4-H clubs and a home-school group each month.

281 my husband.

282 that he watched the boys 2 times this last week so I could make 2 special meetings.

283 a self-defense class with friends at Tae Kwon Do

284 a Homesteading Meeting!!! how fun!

285 complimentary school classes that teach scripture

286 my Sword

287 Sunday pot lucks - yum.

288 coupons that I found while shopping for groceries

289 the time (3rd time Eric watched boys in the week) I had to shop alone for groceries.

290 duct tape

291 my washing machine

292 a steam carpet cleaner

293 my vaacum (last years christmas present)

294 our table hockey game

295 an obedient dog

296 teachable boys

297 patient friends

298 a home for Leslie

299 a decorator she loves

300 opportunity.


I heard last week one is happier if they have a meeting to attend once a month. Well once a week individuals meet up on a Monday morning to share in a Gratitude Community, counting 1000 Gifts. Visit there. Join. It's amazing.

I call it my lifemeds. It is a medicine I will always need. Gratitude.

Friday, January 21, 2011

Friday...


I can't seem to get all the pictures uploaded, quick enough to coincide with what all is going on. We've stayed home today, a day to be home. what a blessing. This is close to what the house looked like during the snow. It's gone now. We'll have more, but a break is nice.

Boys have been outside playing- hard.

It's cool enough to wear a superman costume under a hunter suit.

It's cool enough to want hot chocolate, but not to freeze in the great outdoors.

It's sunny, to warm the soul.

Tasks are done so I can get some school planning done.

It's good, it's a blessing.

I'm looking for lentil soup recipes, while planning to make cranberry bread.

It's the end of the month you know, so we're cleaning the pantry!

Have a wonderful weeknd. ~

Laura

Wednesday, January 19, 2011

Lifetime Meds #34


#262 snow that slowed us down.

#263 a husband who kept us going.

#264 groceries from a large well-planned run.

#265 finally- organization in school.

#266 boys who love snow.

#267 Tae Kwon Do

#268 recognizing people in a new town.

#269 that they recognize you.

#270 coupons that fall in your lap.

#271 fun with Yahtzee.

#272 a good nights sleep.

#273 promises renewed every morning.


God is more than a dose of medication. His promises are more than a prescription. They are the marrow that resides in our bones. His promises and faithfulness are the blood & air that passes through our souls intricate creation. Thank you Lord, for your blessings. Your mercy. Your goodness.


Praying a prayer of thanksgiving, with others at a the Gratitude Community. Visit A Holy Experience to share with others in a global offering of thanks.

Wednesday, January 12, 2011

Legacy


When making major life decisions, like buying a house, one can really get caught up in the details. How big, floorplan, location, etc... but it all really comes back down to 'how will we live' in the location, will the floorplan enhance our lives, will the size facilitate our family's closeness and personal growth? Will we be close enough to amenities or far enough away to see the rolling hills while we drive to and from the amenities.

I read this post today while scrolling pictures, ideas & whatnot. It struck a cord. How will my kids remember me? will the see the profile of my face in the screen light of my laptop, or my smile directly looking at them, setting the media world to the side, just to get a goodmorning hug?

First things first. First things, must be first. There's only one chance. Regrets are such a burden. I don't want to spend my days, wishing, regretting.

Prayerfully, we press on in the decision where to live. But along the way, I want to live. Not to worry. To go confidentally. Looking them right in the eye, and riding the sled right down the hill of life with them.

1302 Days Sober

  Quietly, I often hear from friends in the DM's, 'I'm stopping.' 'I'm quitting.' 'I'm done.'  I kno...