tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54506929104787997772024-03-05T10:31:20.017-05:00THE WISE WOMAN BUILDS HER HOUSEProverbs 14:1 "The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down."
It is my hope that this blog will help me strive harder to be a wise woman in the "building of my house". If you happen to stop by and leave with a bit of encouragement as well, to God be the glory. Live wise in Him!Tonihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10318409820949377086noreply@blogger.comBlogger70125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5450692910478799777.post-63914848145665466022014-05-11T17:45:00.003-04:002014-05-11T18:00:03.182-04:00Mother's Day: The Gift, the Giver, The Grace.<div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Gifts come to us in different ways, -sometimes grand, sometimes simple, sometimes expected, sometimes unexpected. The thing is, we don't always truly recognize them when they come, nor do we necessarily <i>give</i> them when they are needed most. The author of one of my favorite books, <i>One Thousand Gifts</i>, Ann Voskamp, says it this way...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><i>"You have got to figure out a way to stay fully awake. Time is blurring by and everyone is slipping past. How do we wake to the <u>moments</u>?" </i></span><br />
<i style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">One of those "blurring moments" occurred today. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><i>Today</i>, on <i>Mother's</i> Day.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">I could have totally missed it, too, if not for the Holy Spirit prompting me to hear Ann's words, to <i>heed</i> Ann's words<i>. </i>Thankfully, I chose to stay fully awake, and I dare say that that choice resulted in one of my life's most precious moments, a gift I will take with me into always.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">We had attended Sunday church service as a family, and were making our way home. Brandon, my 7 year old,...my <i>baby</i>,...told his dad he wanted to get me a gift with his own money for Mother's Day. We stopped at a local thrift shop so he could make his selection. I was not allowed to see, of course, but it turns out he chose a glass bunny figurine with flowers around it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">He was <i>so</i> proud. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">"Momma, can I wrap it for you when we get home? I hope you like it. I picked it out myself." </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">He loves bunnies, that one, -still sleeps with an over-sized stuffed bunny most nights.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">But being 7 years old, he is also squirmy and wiggly and on the move, and as such, was carrying his bagged bunny just a bit haphazardly. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">More specifically, he was swinging the bag back and forth, again and again. His dad requested to hold the bag until we left the store, which Brandon reluctantly agreed to. When we finally went to pay for a few other items, his dad returned his special bag to him, again reminding him to hold it carefully "so you don't drop it." </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">A minute later, we heard the dreaded crash. My son stood there, partially in disbelief, mostly in agony, his chin quivering, tears filling his eyes. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Now, I'd like to say I'm a "perfect" mother and therefore handled it in the most tender of ways. The truth is, I was not certain as to what exactly we should do. Brandon had <i>not</i> heeded his father's instruction. In spite of the caution to hold his glass bunny carefully, he had not. And now...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">It was gone. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Broken. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">And so was his little heart. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">And so was mine, for him. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">What to do? <i>What</i> to do? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">I began, sympathetic and careful...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">"<i>I know, honey, it broke. I can't fix it,..." </i>(because he was looking at me with pleading eyes, as if expecting that, somehow, I could do just that). </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">He looked inside his little bag, trying not to show how upset he was, and sadly asked, "What should I do with it?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">My word, it's <i>hard</i> to be a parent, -to know when to be firm and when to soften; when to let natural consequences teach, and when to search for the deeper lessons. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Had I not searched deeper, today, I would have missed the greater gift. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">But the Holy Spirit prompted my heart and, thankfully, I <i>did </i>search deeper. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">"What to do? <i>What to</i> <i>do</i>?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">I took my son, my immature, "still-learning-about-cause-and-effect" 7 year old son, by the chin and looked directly into his eyes. I gently said, "I know you wanted to do something so special for me today, and that you're disappointed that it's broken. I wish I could fix it, but I can't." </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">I hugged him tightly, kissed his tearful cheek and continued, "But the greater gift came from your heart, honey. You <i>thought</i> of me. You wanted to buy me a gift with your own money on Mother's Day, and I love you for that." </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">I had also told his father in the check-out line, before I walked away from him, that at 7 years old, our son was too young and immature to "learn" that swinging the bag around, in spite of being asked not to, had resulted in a broken gift and a broken heart. "He'll only remember us saying, 'I told you so' if we handle this any other way <i>but </i>with grace." </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">As I was hugging my son, his father walked up and handed me the car keys. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">"Take the kids and wait for us in the car." </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Then, to Brandon, he simply said, "Come with me."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Off they went, back into the store, where his dad simply reminded him that he must listen when we're guiding him. Then, "Let's see if we can find another gift for mom."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">I am delighted to say I received another, equally precious bunny figurine from my son, who has a current love for all things bunny. Indeed, time is blurring past, but today, we <i>"figured out how to stay fully awake", </i>as Ann so fervently reminds us. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">And in staying awake, my gift was a little bunny. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">My gift was a tenderhearted little boy, who stills waves to his mom from the Little League ball field without shame, who covets my presence at every game and every practice.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">My gift was his precious thoughtfulness. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">My gift was the voice of the Holy Spirit, guiding me where I often struggle. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">My gift was in discovering that I could, in return, be the giver of gifts. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">I gave my husband the message of grace, which he so lovingly applied to a tender and fragile moment. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">And <i>we</i> gave our son grace itself, -the room to grow and make mistakes, and the opportunity to be redeemed. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">I have failed so many times as a parent, sometimes blindly, sometimes sinfully. But at the end of all my shortcomings, Jesus <i>still</i> redeems me. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">He always does. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">My ultimate gift, this Mother's Day, was to gain a much deeper understanding of the grace and mercy of a Savior who loves me unconditionally, even when I am immature and impulsive, and perhaps especially when my attention is captured and I am broken.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Parents, may you receive grace, that you might pass it forward, and may you be <i>fully </i>awake (lest you miss your many gifts received) when you do.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><b style="font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23.100000381469727px;"><i>Eph 4:7</i></b><br />
<b style="font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23.100000381469727px;"><i>But to each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ's gift</i>.</b><br />
<span style="color: #ff3399; font-family: Cursive; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold;">Blessings,</span><br />
<span style="color: #ff3399; font-family: Cursive; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold;">Toni</span></div>
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Tonihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10318409820949377086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5450692910478799777.post-33275343910150645342014-02-24T00:14:00.003-05:002014-02-24T00:28:15.625-05:0010 Things You Need to Know About Tapestry Crochet (a.k.a. graphghan crochet)<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>I recently ventured into my very first tapestry crochet project. </b></span><b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Now, I've heard it called Tunesian crochet, but it's definitely not. But</b><b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> I'll warn you, it goes by a g'zillion names. You may find it called graph-ghan crochet, fair isle crochet (it's not fair isle, at least not in terms of what this means in knitting), mosaic crochet, color work crochet, jaquard crochet, or even hard crochet. </b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Don't let that last name scare the jeebies out of you. If you know your way around a hook, a skein of yarn, and the basics of crochet, then you've got this. </b></span></div>
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<b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Really.</b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>What I've found to be the greater problem is that information on this technique is not well compiled. It's kind of, well,...fragmented? Yes, that'd be it, fragmented. I had to learn bits and pieces, here-n-there, some folks doing a better job than others at being an authority on the subject, before I felt confident that I had the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed. </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>But enough about that. </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>If you would like to give tapestry crochet the ol' college try, then there are some things you might like to know.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>10 Things You Might Like to Know</b></span></h3>
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<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>For your first try, a two color project (no more) is best. </b></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>A symmetrical project is also a first project "best." </b></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>I highly suggest you learn how to work with bobbins, as opposed to carrying your yarns. With just two colors, carrying works great. But as you ease into 3 or more colors, the bobbins will keep your individual colors "pure" (no background carried color visible in the stitches) and you'll avoid unnecessary thickness and bulk being added to your project.</b></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Bobbins do NOT need to be made on cardboard or store purchased bobbin "thingies." Figure eighting yarn on your fingers, then cutting it free from the skein/ball and taking the cut end and wrapping several times around the middle (and tucking the end under that wrap) will work just fine. You would then pull yarn from the starter end when adding the bobbin to your ongoing work. I can explain more on this if needed.</b></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Learn to <i>always</i> pull the unused colors to the official back side of your work.</b></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>If you desire to make squares (a la granny square work), I would suggest patterns no larger than 31 stitches by 31 rows (all single stitch) The above project is 160 stitches by about 120 rows, by the way. </b></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Knitting fair isle charts and/or perler bead charts make for great free patterns.</b></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Think of this type of crochet as a true art form; it cannot be rushed.</b></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>You Tube videos will help you master the technique. </b></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>A cotton washcloth with symmetrical pattern might be a good first try.</b></span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>I hope these pointers help, and please leave a comment below to let me know if you've tried this type of crochet, link to your work if you have a link, and/or let me know what you make in this technique.</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #008f54; font-family: Cursive; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; text-transform: none;">Live wise in Him!
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~Toni~</span></div>
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Tonihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10318409820949377086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5450692910478799777.post-20807602680089495822013-04-15T11:07:00.004-04:002013-04-25T16:30:13.751-04:00Classical Conversations: What about Memory Master?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Last week was the final day of class on our local Classical Conversations campus. For those who are unfamiliar with <a href="http://www.classicalconversations.com/common/cc-101" target="_blank">Classical Conversations (CC),</a> it is an excellent option for homeschoolers, which adheres to the <a href="http://www.theambroseschool.org/about/the-classical-approach/#overview" target="_blank">classical method</a> of education. This was our first year with CC, though we had homeschooled for 8 years prior to joining. Looking back, it was a terrific year. Our 11 year old son and 10 year old daughter were even successful in their first attempt at becoming a <em>Memory Master</em>.<br />
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What is Memory Master?</h3>
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So, what is required of a "Memory Master"? Well, alot. My kids had to recite the entire history timeline from the age of ancient empires to 9/11/01. They also had to name all 44 presidents, recite multiplication facts through 15s, correctly define 4 math laws, equivalent measurements (eg. liquid, linear, metric), 4 geometry formulas, answer questions about 24 science facts (eg. What are some types of ocean floor? What are some plant systems? What are 4 kinds of volcanoes?), 24 history statements (eg. tell me about the Songhai....about Nepoleon...about the split of the Roman Empire.), Latin noun cases and Latin noun declensions 1 through 5, defined preposition, helping, and linking verb and gave lists of each, and had to both point to and name 24 geography sets (eg, Show me the Roman empire, show me Ancient Africa, show me the countries of S. America, show me East Asia, what is each continent's highest mountain?). My kids worked <em>hard</em> for this achievement, but truly, <em>all </em>the kids in CC are required to work hard. The academic bar is raised, while the environment is one of helping the kids to believe they can achieve those high goals. </div>
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We are not "that" family.</h3>
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For those who "do" CC and perhaps are curious, I'd like to share a little perspective on our family's path to Memory Master. To be sure, we are not "that" family. You know, the stereotypical "perfect" homeschool family that is gifted with uber intelligence, incredible homeschool organization and implementation, "whittling canoes out of birch bark," as one CC mom hilariously stated (conveying that <em>they</em> were not "that family" either.) I mean, yes, my husband and I definitely value academics. But our children, while <s>always</s> usually interested in learning, are not what I would describe as "hit the floor running" <em>passionate</em> about their school work. Sure, they're bright and capable. At the same time, they can be "average students" with regard to focus and motivation. </div>
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Additionally, there are some unique health/cognitive challenges that are part of our homeschool picture, including mild Autism and mild Cerebral Palsy. I share this to make the point that, as I see it, Memory Master is not an unachievable goal. Likewise, I'm sure we all realize it is not a badge of honor which proves one student's value over another. It<em> <u>is</u> </em>simply a great academic goal to strive for, if a student so chooses. </div>
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How does one approach the goal of Memory Master?</h3>
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If you're wondering (as I did) how other CC families approach Memory Master, allow me to share our approach. I'm sure there are several ways to do it. This is just what worked for us.</div>
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<strong>We were disciplined</strong>. As our CC year progressed, we very regulary reviewed previous material. There is a great <a href="http://simplycharlottemason.com/timesavers/memorysys/" target="_blank">explanation and video</a> at Simply Charlotte Mason, which, while provided for scripture memory work, can be modified for CC memory work. If you are unsure how to approach regular spiral review of the memory work, perhaps the video suggestion could work for you.</div>
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<strong>I chose to do our memory work <u>last </u>each day. </strong>I know many families like to get it done first, but I found that by saving it for last, we could take as long as necessary to learn the current week <em>and</em> complete our spiral review. I could even bounce back and forth between dinner prep and some of the work. No clock ticking as other subjects waited.</div>
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<strong>I looked for opportunities to do <em>extra </em>review (emphasis on extra). </strong>My kids are competitive swimmers and we spend an insane amount of time at the pool each week. There is a 30 minute block of time where all 3 of my Foundations students are free to practice memory work at the pool. I tried to make good use of those minutes.</div>
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<strong>I made sure my students were up for the challenge. </strong>I did not require my children to attempt Memory Master, but I did encourage them to think about it. I took the time to explain that it was in line with our family homeschool goal to "strive for excellence." Here, the emphasis is on "strive", because I told my children that hard work toward the goal and increased confidence in their memory work was, in<em> itself</em>, success. <em>Measure the journey, not the outcome</em>. My 5/6 year old kept pace with his two older siblings throughout the year, and I'll encourage him to consider Memory Master in years to come.</div>
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<strong>Do the time. </strong>We were not "casual" about getting memory work done. It was a very important part of our school year (it's the "nuts and bolts" of the grammar stage, after all.) We purposed to accomplish our memory work each week, to know it well, completing no less than 30 minutes of memory work per day (necessary from around week 6 on).</div>
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<strong>We committed to rewarding the effort. </strong>I sincerely believe this served as both a motivator and a stress reliever as our kids worked toward their goal. My husband and I wanted them to know we were truly proud of the <em>journey</em>, not just the outcome. They were content, knowing they could choose a book at Half Price Books and "any piece of candy you want" (a huge treat) after testing, regardless of the result. I believe that last part ("regardless of the result") took some of the pressure off them. They could<em> </em>count on us<em>, <u>in advance</u>,</em> to be proud of their efforts. Really, I think this helped them to just chill.</div>
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At the start of our year, I would not have pegged my two kids to accomplish this goal. <br />
"We're too new." <br />
"They're not motivated enough." <br />
"There are too many health/cognitive challenges in the way." <br />
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I'm glad I didn't listen to <u>me</u> in the end. <br />
I'm glad our goal to "strive for excellence" prevailed, because if I had relied only on how I felt, if I had not honored their desire to <em>try</em>, I would have denied them the lessons of the journey. </div>
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<span style="color: #ff3399; font-family: Cursive; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; text-transform: none;">Live wise in Him! </span></div>
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<span style="color: #ff3399; font-family: Cursive; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; text-transform: none;">~Toni~</span></div>
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Tonihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10318409820949377086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5450692910478799777.post-45522658412641306692013-02-28T16:35:00.003-05:002013-02-28T16:38:44.891-05:00A Polish girl's pizza<span style="color: #ff3399; font-family: Cursive; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; text-transform: none;">(photo pending)<br /><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Really, who wants to eat the "same old, same old" pizza? I know my family likes variety. <br />We have only purchased grocery store pizza a few times. <br />Ever.<br />I just prefer to make my own at home. It's what my family prefers to eat.<br /><br />In years past, we did make classic pepperoni, but as our kids have gotten older, they are not big fans. "It's too hot. It's too spicy." You know the drill.<br /><br />So, what kind of pizza <em>do</em> we enjoy? Well, the closest to traditional would be spinach pizza with very light cheese (we all kind of have an aversion to too much cheese, especially Olivia, Cierah and me.) And we also enjoy barbecued bean pizza. <br />Yep, you read it right.<br />Have you had Bush's Grillin' Beans? Oh. My. Word. Good stuff. We use the Grillin' Beans in place of sauce and toppings, adding pineapple and light cheese, plus a tiny bit of oregano. Sooo good.<br /><br />But perhaps the most unusual (yet VERY loved and requested) would be...Pugush.<br /><br />"What's pugush?", you ask.<br /><br />Well, ask five people and you're likely to get five different, albeit slighly similar, answers.<br />For our family, pugush is a simple recipe, handed down from my mom's 100% Polish side, that I would affectionately rename "Polish Perogie Pizza" if I could. Have you ever had cheese & potato perogies? If so, consider that you could enjoy them "on a pizza." That, my friends, is Pugush.<br /><br />Here is my recipe, tweaked just a tiny bit from the recipe my mom handed down to me. I would encourage you to give it a try. It's very filling, so perhaps just some lovely fruit like blueberries or fresh strawberries served as a side?<br /><br />PUGUSH (Polish perogie pizza) Makes 1 large rectangular pizza<br />************************<br />Potato topping:<br />7 medium Idaho potatoes, peeled, cut into 1" cubes, boiled until tender.<br />8 oz extra sharp cheddar OR colby jack, shredded.<br />4 tbsp margarine (or any butter/substitute you prefer)<br />1 medium/large onion, finely chopped for saute<br />1 can evaporated milk (can use skim)<br /><br />Dough: (you can substitute any pizza dough you prefer)<br />3-¾ cups flour<br />1-½ tsp. salt<br />1-½ tsp. sugar<br />3 Tbsp. oil<br />1-½ Tbsp. quick rise yeast<br />1-½ cup warm water<br /><br />Peel and boil potatoes until soft/tender for mashing. While cooking, grate cheese and sautee onions in butter over low/medium heat with lid on pan, stirring frequenly to prevent burning (can add more butter if needed.) Sautee until translucent/tender. When potatoes and onions fully cooked, add onions/butter to potatoes, then add 1/2 can evaporated milk and mash as for mashed potatoes. Continue to add milk and then salt to taste, until a spreadable mashed potato consistency is achieved (dont' overthink it.) Set aside.<br /><br />Preheat oven to 375º<br />In a large bowl, place first 4 ingredients of dough. In separate, smaller bow, add warm water and yeast, wisking well to incorporate. Pour this into the larger bowl and stir with a large spoon until hand kneading is necessary. Knead for approximately 4 minutes on flat surface.<br /><br />Spray pan with cooking spray, then work dough into pan (I use a rolling pin for this, as the dough does not spread very easily). Prebake for 3 minutes.<br />Spread cheese/potato mix over dough carefully, then bake for 15-25 minutes (check bottom of dough. Pizza is done when dough is lightly browned to the middle.)<br />Cool 5-10 minutes, then slice and enjoy.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #ff3399; font-family: Cursive; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; text-transform: none;">Live wise in Him! </span></div>
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<span style="color: #ff3399; font-family: Cursive; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; text-transform: none;">~Toni~</span></div>
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Tonihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10318409820949377086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5450692910478799777.post-28957966183701040712012-11-13T00:17:00.000-05:002013-01-13T12:04:29.383-05:00Mondays aren't so bad.<div style="text-align: left;"><strong><br />
<span style="font-family: arial; text-decoration: none; text-transform: none;">Mondays are a crazy blur of discombobulated oxymoronic organized chaos. Oh my word, it's not easy getting 6 people out of bed, dressed, fed, and hair "done" for school photos. (You know, "done", as in <em>actually</em> brushed and then rebrushed 14 times before we leave the house, not including the additional hair Mulligans on the way to school.)</span> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"></strong><br />
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<span style="color:"font-family: arial;text-decoration: none; text-transform: none;">It's even more difficult to grab 4 backpacks (one on wheels because my oldest has to bring ALL her curriculum with her for the school day), a canvas bookbag crammed to full-over with teacher guides, tin whistles and more, a lunchbox full of drink bags, and the day's potluck donation. Add 3 swim bags and a purse that could rival a crane ball as a weapon, and you get a glimpse into the crazy pace of it all. But "it all" is our life, and truth be told, we kind of like it a tad chaotic. Okay sure, could do without the tin whistles serenading us "cacophany style" down the road, uh hem, but other than <em>that</em>, it's reeeally okay.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"></strong><br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-family: arial;">Before we know it, my husband and I will have that quiet house we almost wish for (before we push the thought away, knowing it will slither silently upon us all too soon). So for now, we drink in our Mondays as sweet as a gift from God himself, because we know that they truly are. Hubs spends his morning in our 5 year old's kindergarten class, while I spend mine in our 9 and 10 year olds' class. I excuse myself for an hour of their class time so I can attend Latin class with my 13 year old. I do love me some Latin. Salve!</span></strong></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-family: arial;">I'm so thankful to be able to attend school <em><u>with</u> </em>my children; to be surrounded by like-minded families who are there to edify and encourage one another's children in their academic and personal endeavors. I'm thankful for the tudors and the many mandatory hours of training they participate in on behalf of my children and the other children in our school. I'm thankful for the leadership of our wonderful director too. And at the end of the day, I'm thankful that 6 people, 4 backpacks, a lunchbox, and a <strike>wrecking ball</strike> purse make their way back to our aging van so we can grab an early dinner and settle in to an evening of swim practice at the natatorium. The ebb and flow of family life is exhaustingly exhilerating (that's alliteration, by the way) and I wouldn't trade it for any other life. Okay, Martha Stewart's might be a teensy bit tempting. Just sayin'.</span></strong></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #ff3399; font-family: Cursive; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; text-transform: none;">Live wise in Him! </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #ff3399; font-family: Cursive; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; text-transform: none;">~Toni~</span></div><div style="font-family: verdana,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10px;"><a href="http://www.kortenaar.com/" title="Myspace Graphics"><img alt="myspace layouts, myspace codes, glitter graphics" border="0" height="34" src="http://dl.kortenaar.com/pub/229/229251raq5t3m0m9.gif" width="482" /></a></div>Tonihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10318409820949377086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5450692910478799777.post-55240432115250583642012-09-03T06:00:00.000-04:002012-09-03T06:00:06.573-04:00"Can I join Classical Conversations with an older child who has never been in the program?"<h3>
Challenge A (a first time CC student's experience)</h3>
Okay, so! We are "up and running", as they say. We have officially completed our first two weeks with our new Classical Conversations(CC) community. Specifically, my oldest child has completed <em>her </em>first two weeks. Her siblings have been "doing school" lightly all summer long, and have completed math, reading, copywork/handwriting, math drills, typing, and some grammar review with me each day since their older sister began her new schooling with CC.<br />
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If you are an "on the fence" parent (wanting to try CC but hesitant to jump in with older children who have never been in Foundations and/or Essentials), here is what I want say to you. Ready? Don't miss it. Here it comes....................I want to encourage you, ENCOURAGE you, E-N-C-O-U-R-A-G-E YOU that your child can succeed and that <em>you</em> will not feel<em> </em>unsupported in your endeavor. <br />
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Seriously, I cannot say enough good things about our local community and the parents, tutors, and highly committed director who are making this transition as painless as possible for my family and me. I have sincere encouragement and support and so does my Challenge A student (who has <em>never</em> had Foundations, <em>never</em> had Essentials, and has had only minimal exposure to Latin prior to our joining CC.)<br />
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She loves the familiar layout of her days at home (which, with the exception of one adjustment I had to make to her schedule, follows the order of her full day at CC each week; the continuity at home is great for the students.) I <em>will</em> say she works hard. We are up at 7:30am and her schooling starts at 8am sharp. She works a full hour per strand ("subject"), and must stay on task if she wishes to avoid homework or keep it to a minimum. She finishes her schooling at 2:30pm, completes chores for 15 minutes, then must address any homework promptly, since she's a competitive swimmer and puts in 90 minutes at the pool 5 days per week. As I said, she works <em>hard</em>.<br />
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But the point here is to encourage you. Do you want the benefit of an intimate group of Christian peers, iron sharpening iron, for whom the academic bar has been raised while full support is given in teaching them to believe they can reach that bar? Do you want your child to learn to think critically and analytically, and to learn to express their convictions intelligently and persuasively? Do you want them to be able to regularly practice (and constantly <em>improve</em>) the skills of oral presentation in front of a group of adults and peers alike? Do you want them <em>equipped</em> to research and to formally document that research according to college standards? Back in the day, I dreaded "term papers" because they were always a "heavily weighted beast" of a foreign object that I had to somehow navigate successfully to the expectations of a teacher or Prof. (with little training or practice in the "how to" of producing such papers.) Not so with CC.<br />
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With CC, beginning in the Challenges, the students get plenty of practice in research, writing, and speaking. Oh, the absolute joy it brings me to know my daughter is gaining this advantage in her education.<br />
In two weeks, she has already written FOUR papers. And she has already orally presented two of them. (Keep in mind, she had not previously had public speaking opportunities, other than National Spelling Bee and end-of-year presentations with another homeschool group we participate in.) Next week, she will orally present the other two papers (using only notecards and a key word outline for one them.) Sound like too much? It's not. Seriously, it's really <em>not</em>. The students are given much direction, plenty of encouragement, and PLENTY of grace as they learn. It's <em>such</em> a huge blessing on them.<br />
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If you've thought about Classical Conversations but have reservations about whether your children can succeed when jumping in later rather than earlier, please feel free to ask me any questions you might have about our experience. I will continue to post as we move forward in the months to come. But as far as our coming out of the proverbial gate, I do believe we're going to have a great run. I'm very, very pleased that we stepped out in faith and joined CC and that CC has embraced our family as well.<br />
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<span style="color: #ff3399; font-family: Cursive; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; text-transform: none;">Live wise in Him! </span></div>
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<span style="color: #ff3399; font-family: Cursive; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; text-transform: none;">~Toni~</span></div>
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Tonihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10318409820949377086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5450692910478799777.post-52214971202821872652012-07-24T14:16:00.002-04:002012-07-26T02:10:06.036-04:00Preparing for Classical Conversations Cycle 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEgoRbPVUGGecXY2ee-ivkL9ADJE7Omb0HMmadyG6-zABxUc-rC_6n7GtvqmZ-mfNNJuuxbRpUmK-IL7CpAx90W9eOvyLZN0HLb1vQo9_mwnb7Z0BRGmtFr6C0UNr2lUY9MpuWRaxw3yQ/s1600/cc-logo-compass1.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="118" width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEgoRbPVUGGecXY2ee-ivkL9ADJE7Omb0HMmadyG6-zABxUc-rC_6n7GtvqmZ-mfNNJuuxbRpUmK-IL7CpAx90W9eOvyLZN0HLb1vQo9_mwnb7Z0BRGmtFr6C0UNr2lUY9MpuWRaxw3yQ/s200/cc-logo-compass1.gif" /></a></div><br />
<p>So, the summer continues to fly quickly by (as summers are known to do). We've had dance recitals, visits with family, a few hikes through canyons and creek beds, chances to chase fireflies, fireworks (in spite of the drought), cool-offs at the Splash Pad, swim meets, and more. Oh, the sweet blessings of summer.</p><br />
<p>At the same time, I often feel like there aren't enough hours in a day to plan for our coming school year. Then again, it seems there is oddly little planning I can actually do because our new <a href="http://www.classicalconversations.com/">Classical Conversations</a> venture must, to some extent, simply unfold. I'm trying not to worry too much (as if I'd have any real clue of what specifically to worry about). It's just that I'm so used to planning out our year, hour by hour, day by day, week by week. But <i>this</i> year must simply unfold a bit <i>first</i>.</p><br />
<p>So, what <i>have</i> I been able to do to prepare? Well, in late June, I attended the 3-day parent Practicum organized by Classical Conversations. Oh my word, I was so inspired, challenged in my thinking, and enlightened. Inspired that the classical model will be good (no, great!) for my children. We have incorporated classical elements into our homeschool learning for years, but I'm excited to make it our <i>main</i> focus moving forward.(I'd be here all day if I ventured into my convictions.) Challenged by parents who in turn challenge their children to their fullest potential. No backing down or "watering down" the hard work of,...well disciplined, hard work. And oh, the amazing things their students are able to accomplish when the bar is raised. (They in fact demonstrated the result of their year-long CC work for us.) Enlightened to the model and method of Classical Conversations as it relates to a classical education.</p><br />
<p>My oldest daughter will enter the <a href="http://www.classicalconversations.com/academic-programs/challenge-programs-7th-12th">Challenge program</a> without the benefit of <a href="http://www.classicalconversations.com/academic-programs/foundations-program-k4-6th">Foundations</a> or <a href="http://www.classicalconversations.com/academic-programs/essentials-program-4th-6th">Essentials</a>. This summer, she has been listening to the Foundations Latin memory work on her mp3, and has been doing daily drills and some accelerated math as well. She has also read all the books assigned in her Challenge level for the year, so she will have a first-run familiarity with them before she has to officially read and discuss them in class. I know she will have her work cut out for her in adjusting to her new schooling, but I also think she will be motivated and encouraged by the friendships she'll form with her peers at CC.</p><br />
<p>My two middle children have been writing out the definitions of the eight parts of speech, as well as the list of prepositions used in CC (thankfully, they're coming off a year of heavy work with prepositions and prepositional phrases, so the list is merely a longer version of one they had previously memorized at home.) They are also continuing with math and daily drills.</p><br />
<p>My 5 year old has begun his Kindergarten math curriculum (we use <a href="http://www.mathusee.com/">Math-U-See</a>), and is doing some light phonics and sounding out C-V-C words. All four are reading at least 30 minutes per day, the middle children read a page out loud to me, and the youngest listens to stories and sounds out some words in the text as we go.</p><br />
<p>So, what else can I do to prepare? Well, I'm reading Leigh Bortins'<i><a href="http://www.classicalconversationsbooks.com/core.html">The Core</a></i>, a book I would highly suggest <i>any</i> "homeschooling" parent read. (To be sure, all parents, who take a committed interest in their children's educations, homeschool to some extent, regardless of the schooling option they've chosen.) This book is literally filled with terrific practical suggestions on how to take advantage of the way the brain learns, to challenge our children to their fullest potential in their school work (or after-school work), and on how to make learning a priority in daily life at home.</p><br />
<p>I'm also tracking down resources to supplement our weekly history and science focus at CC. We already have many on hand (ie. Story of The World volumes and Mystery of History volumes). But we will also fill our book basket with living books from the library so the children can "sample and feast on" a variety of coordinated books each week.</p><br />
<p>I've already met several wonderful people from our CC community this summer, and have joined a book club based on <i>The Core</i>, to gain insight from others in the group as well. And yet...our new venture must simply begin to unfold.</p><br />
<p>And so we anticipate as August 20th quickly approaches. Olivia will begin Challenge A on that day. I plan to sit in on her first two weeks, to get a feel for her days so I can better assist her in adjusting at home. After that, my time will be divided to my other children's classrooms as well. Her siblings start 3 weeks later. We've officially made the transition to year-round schooling, so we'll all be busy doing <i>something</i> of educational value in the midst of our waiting.</p><br />
<p>If you are using <a href="http://www.classicalconversations.com/">Classical Conversations</a> for the coming year, especially if it's your <i>first</i> year, I'd love to hear how your plans are going. Leave me a link in comments and I'll be sure to visit.</p><br />
<p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:Cursive;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none;text-transform:none;color:FF3399;">Live wise in Him!<br />
</span></p><p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:Cursive;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none;text-transform:none;color:FF3399;"><br />
~Toni~</span></p><p style="font-family:verdana,arial,sans-serif;font-size:10px;"><a title="Myspace Graphics" href="http://www.kortenaar.com"><img height="34" alt="myspace layouts, myspace codes, glitter graphics" src="http://dl.kortenaar.com/pub/229/229251raq5t3m0m9.gif" width="482" border="0" /></a>Tonihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10318409820949377086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5450692910478799777.post-68993726940710806612012-06-09T14:36:00.000-04:002012-06-09T14:57:27.371-04:00Hello, Classical Conversations<center><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN4rWpdq9FUnAyPPid2SNFdftCb48a7fjO8Yq4CTCZTN1IkkgAnejkt50f0sYnOxgQvdkqP4qOj609CD7fz2uv0b8xseoQkg8DzhZ72UvYzNJJ8hxI8AcmU5b5okqD0OncWacOEVD75mU/s1600/SAT%252C+PHX+and+more+20120194.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN4rWpdq9FUnAyPPid2SNFdftCb48a7fjO8Yq4CTCZTN1IkkgAnejkt50f0sYnOxgQvdkqP4qOj609CD7fz2uv0b8xseoQkg8DzhZ72UvYzNJJ8hxI8AcmU5b5okqD0OncWacOEVD75mU/s320/SAT%252C+PHX+and+more+20120194.JPG" /></a></center><center><font size=1>Brandon graduates preschool 5/22/12</font></center><p></p>
This is very much a transitional year for us in homeschool. For the past seven years, we have used <a href="http://www.mfwbooks.com/">My Father's World </a>as the bones of our homeschool curriculum. Seriously, I cannot say enough good things about My Father's World. It combines all the philosophies and elements of homeschooling that I, an ecclectic person, could not choose between; Charlotte Mason, Classical method, and Unit studies. I could have used My Father's World all the way through and never looked back. But alas, I am not the <i>only</i> on who must thrive on our homeschool "diet." Naturally, so must my students. <p></p>
My students, whom I thought would thrive on the gentle approach laid out by Charlotte Mason philosophy, often took on more of a "lazy" approach; not wanting to be challenged and preferring to take the path of least resistance. "That's natural," some say. Well, just because it's "natural" (say some) doesn't mean it's <i>good</i> for us. Radiation from the sun is natural, but clearly it's not best for us to soak it in. No, I teach my children to strive for excellence and so we (my husband and I) determined that a change was in order. This is the year. <p></p>
This year, we are implementing year 'round schooling; not only because we feel it's best for our children over the "I'm bored" summer months, but also because our local schools went this route and we kind of like some things about the model. <p></p>
And this year, we decided to enroll our children in our local <a href="http://www.classicalconversations.com/">Classical Conversations </a>community. Oh my goodness, teacher-mom is overflowing with excitement about this big change. For one, the challenge <i>will</i> be there (ironically, the upper levels are called the Challenge levels, hee hee). It is a rigorous program based on the Classical model of education. My children will study history, geography, math, grammar, writing, oral presentation, science, music and art (classically), and Latin in a classical framework (even 4 and 5 year olds will begin work in Latin). They will attend classes once a week alongside their peers, then work on similar content at home during the rest of the week. This will provide friendship, support and encouragement for them, but also for me, teacher-mom, as a parent must attend along with the student(s). And, this next part thrills me to no end,...all students must give a weekly oral presentation. In the younger years, it begins with a show-and-tell and/or two minute presentation. In the upper years, it is more detailed, where students research and report weekly on science topics and writing projects. This skill is sadly underdeveloped in many educational realms, and I'm <i>ecstatic</i> that my children will be working on it weekly with <a href="http://www.classicalconversations.com/">Classical Conversations. <p></p>
</a>I'm also quite excited about the positive peer "pressure" that my children will now encounter. I want them to experience other students who are ambitious, driven, bright, and polished. I want them to be motivated by those examples and by facing accountability to another adult instructor other than mom. Oh my word, I could go on and on about the things that draw me to <a href="http://www.classicalconversations.com/">Classical Conversations</a>, but this gives you a glimpse into our thoughts at this time. I am attending a 3-day Practicum June 26-28 to better prepare me for my at-home role as a classical educator. We will still be using My Father's World, by the way. Only, Classical Conversations will now serve as the "bones" of our homeschool, while My Father's World will provide the supplemental "meat." <p></p>
Stay tuned. My oldest begins on August 20th. I'll be reporting on this new journey as it gets underway. <p></p>
<p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:Cursive;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none;text-transform:none;color:FF3399;">Live wise in Him!
</span></p> <p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:Cursive;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none;text-transform:none;color:FF3399;">
~Toni~</span></p>
<p style="font-family:verdana,arial,sans-serif;font-size:10px;"><a title="Myspace Graphics" href="http://www.kortenaar.com"><img height="34" alt="myspace layouts, myspace codes, glitter graphics" src="http://dl.kortenaar.com/pub/229/229251raq5t3m0m9.gif" width="482" border="0" /></a>Tonihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10318409820949377086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5450692910478799777.post-47060257536634256192012-06-04T11:46:00.001-04:002012-06-04T16:25:33.876-04:00Spring has sprung and gone.It's been a busy spring and looks to be an even busier summer. We did some traveling this spring, taking the children to San Antonio in March and Phoenix in May. Found a terrific discount for Sea World San Antonio so we did that. The children loved the shows and the fact that some rides (including rollercoasters) were sprinkled throughout the park.
<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj_6kmQ3qBSGj59hu6Lo6PyHORBf48ooqy3ncnOg9gnqzzkdlizfsK123FYTlLOfixsh4vuuXrKwimkKv2D_VNI6b-fO9nqEhY2wdTfLw5lMge2PD4saYyBhMn0045YLxYtk5duNIWzUo/s1600/SAT%252C+PHX+and+more+20120021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj_6kmQ3qBSGj59hu6Lo6PyHORBf48ooqy3ncnOg9gnqzzkdlizfsK123FYTlLOfixsh4vuuXrKwimkKv2D_VNI6b-fO9nqEhY2wdTfLw5lMge2PD4saYyBhMn0045YLxYtk5duNIWzUo/s320/SAT%252C+PHX+and+more+20120021.JPG" /></a></p>
We also visited the Alamo and 4 other missions, the Japanese Tea Garden (do NOT miss this if in San Antonio; it's not 10 minutes from the Alamo), Fort Sam Houston (wouldn't miss this either; just 5 minutes from the Alamo and your children will love the wild deer, peacocks and turkeys that roam the property), and the sand dunes at Corpus Christi. Drove by the USS Lexington and snapped a few pics while in Corpus Christi, but the museum (on board) was sadly closed at that time.
<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFQQ3NC7PND0yE1Hw2qAn-Zt2UF65xHjLqWAVVQ1LRj7eD4WwdMKLyk0T2rwsbMaZ_EC5QbIH3i6ccoSY0DURY7vnmPjq0JyoWMXyZTgbbMiSSyl-G4GmFJ9nxFdYil2n0B8EYYZbQa10/s1600/SAT%252C+PHX+and+more+20120078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFQQ3NC7PND0yE1Hw2qAn-Zt2UF65xHjLqWAVVQ1LRj7eD4WwdMKLyk0T2rwsbMaZ_EC5QbIH3i6ccoSY0DURY7vnmPjq0JyoWMXyZTgbbMiSSyl-G4GmFJ9nxFdYil2n0B8EYYZbQa10/s320/SAT%252C+PHX+and+more+20120078.JPG" /></a></p>
IN Phoenix, we of course drove to the Grand Canyon. Let me tell you, there is not a photo in the world that does it justice. ONLY the eye can take in such depth of beauty (isn't it amazing that the greatest lens ever created was given to YOU for personal use from the Creator, God the Father, himself!) We saw wild elk while there and learned about the most remote "post office" operation in the USA. There's a town, Supai, that is located 8 miles down in the canyon. It is home to 200+ native Amnerican Indians and the mail is still brought in/out by mule. You *can* visit Supai, but it takes HOURS to get there (even by mule) and you do need permission and a permit.
<p>We also enjoyed a fun-filled day of rafting and water slides at Big Surf waterpark. Olivia spent the entire 6 hours on her raft, becoming quite the "surfer", while the younger children preferred the water slides. This park is part of my childhood and I hadn't been back in 33 years. I was pleasantly surprised at how well it has been maintained and how much it's grown. We were blessed to get a very sizable discount by providing three food donation items (each) when we bought our tickets. Win-win.</p>
<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHoFmfBH2NRTkYcAnL7wV4BW0ogREC7XJUVcE2Z79FlkSle8YzgPwyXON15RkQY425fcNUfKc2WZBsg6ITcTT89BxNLr6sWlHucrz-_U25kZxn2VI1wtbsgD8sV1OK2c0FZE1Hlypi4IE/s1600/SAT%252C+PHX+and+more+20120104.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHoFmfBH2NRTkYcAnL7wV4BW0ogREC7XJUVcE2Z79FlkSle8YzgPwyXON15RkQY425fcNUfKc2WZBsg6ITcTT89BxNLr6sWlHucrz-_U25kZxn2VI1wtbsgD8sV1OK2c0FZE1Hlypi4IE/s320/SAT%252C+PHX+and+more+20120104.JPG" /></a></p>
We also spent a day driving the Apache Trail, where we ate lunch at the quaint town of Tortilla Flat (population 6), took in the amazing canyon scenery as we navigated hairpin turn roads along the cliffs, and stopped at the Roosevelt dam and bridge toward the end of the trail. Just to give you an idea of the "remoteness" of the drive, there is a survival training camp located back in them thar hills.
<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRAPU6mSNwWRXc_xn-4BByzaZ3CgFYuoO4lz9aPEtxCZ6KhLjRlHo3JfcXyU3KN_JSh30J6fDWHL-B2F36eKUPDMK7tR6gCn_AlAes1kbaVLpfuNkmeg7G1PsvPVUOxUL-sRzLQTsi5W8/s1600/SAT%252C+PHX+and+more+20120155.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="242" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRAPU6mSNwWRXc_xn-4BByzaZ3CgFYuoO4lz9aPEtxCZ6KhLjRlHo3JfcXyU3KN_JSh30J6fDWHL-B2F36eKUPDMK7tR6gCn_AlAes1kbaVLpfuNkmeg7G1PsvPVUOxUL-sRzLQTsi5W8/s320/SAT%252C+PHX+and+more+20120155.JPG" /></a></p>
We also ate at one of my favorite restaurants, located in Scottsdale, Pinnacle Peak Patio. You can eat outside under the stars with the mountains and Seguaro as your backdrop, listening to country-western music, while you have your western style dinner. Their gimick is to cut off the tie of anyone who dares to arrive "so stuffy" and the children got to see this in action, which was cause for lots of giggles. Olivia loved that they keep 3 Rattlesnakes in an aquarium inside the restaurant (our reptile lover). They all enjoyed the place so much that they requested to go again. So we ate their twice while in Phoenix. ;)
That's a glimpse of the busy part of our spring, not including swim meets, swim clinics, a dance recital, preschool graduation, a visit from my parents, a couponing class taught by me, heavy school days right up to the end, and lots of dental appointments and expenses (teeth pulled, braces process begun, etc.)
I'll venture into our summer plans in a future post.
<p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:Cursive;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none;text-transform:none;color:FF3399;">Live wise in Him!
</span></p> <p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:Cursive;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none;text-transform:none;color:FF3399;">
~Toni~</span></p>
<p style="font-family:verdana,arial,sans-serif;font-size:10px;"><a title="Myspace Graphics" href="http://www.kortenaar.com"><img height="34" alt="myspace layouts, myspace codes, glitter graphics" src="http://dl.kortenaar.com/pub/229/229251raq5t3m0m9.gif" width="482" border="0" /></a>Tonihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10318409820949377086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5450692910478799777.post-54247165602962745542012-01-08T09:00:00.032-05:002012-01-08T09:00:10.359-05:00My toilet paper stockpileOkay, truth be told, I stockpile toilet paper. Now I'm not talking coupon-related (though give me a minute, I'm getting to that). I'm simply 'fessing up that I have a bit of a paper fetish and, yes, it includes good old twa'lette paper as well.<br />
<br />
But in the past 9 months, I have taken on couponing as a way to carve out some pretty significant savings in my family's food and household budget. Today, I was able to hit a "stockpile price" on toilet paper. Here's the deal.<br />
<br />
CVS has Angel Soft double-roll 12 packs on sale for $5.00 They also have a deal going where you spend $30 on certain products (Angel Soft included) and you earn a $10 gift card (note: this is even better than their Extra Care Bucks program because those rewards expire within a month and the gift card does not.) <br />
<br />
So, I purchased 6 of the Angel Soft 12-packs, used six 50¢ Angel Soft coupons plus a $1.50 cash back reward I had earned from my last quarter of CVS purchases. Price was now $25.50. Keeping the $10 gift card in mind, th actual cost of the toilet paper was $15.50. This breaks down to $2.58 per 12pack (or, if you think in terms of 4 packs, then 86¢ per double roll 4 pack.)<br />
<br />
But for me, it gets better. I also had another $11 in Extra Care Bucks so my out-of-pocket expense was $14.50 plus tax AND I got the $10 gift card.<br />
Ladies and gentlemen, that is what we call a stockpile price. :)<br />
<br />
If you would like to learn about couponing, I suggest checking out the following blogs and websites.<br />
<a href="http://www.couponmom.com/">Coupon Mom.com</a><br />
<a href="http://moneysavingmom.com/">Money Saving Mom.com</a><br />
<a href="http://krazycouponlady.com/">The Krazy Coupon Lady.com</a><br />
<br />
<p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:Cursive;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none;text-transform:none;color:FF3399;">Live wise in Him! </span></p><p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:Cursive;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none;text-transform:none;color:FF3399;"> ~Toni~</span></p><p style="font-family:verdana,arial,sans-serif;font-size:10px;"><a title="Myspace Graphics" href="http://www.kortenaar.com"><img height="34" alt="myspace layouts, myspace codes, glitter graphics" src="http://dl.kortenaar.com/pub/229/229251raq5t3m0m9.gif" width="482" border="0" /></a>Tonihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10318409820949377086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5450692910478799777.post-3198517145545540852012-01-04T11:39:00.003-05:002012-01-04T12:09:58.379-05:00Are you willing to challenge yourself?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaYRfFvmVXdA-oTq7w5WJvvvc5vM0kCE4jFGIz1imfuiS4b1NKGaZpV2U1NBe62zvSqb6aOFbd92uE2ik0mMuXEiUiL8x5jlCIaAWzREIOfFastZ7ro0G6Wks-MR6odn1PFL4Y3QfY8ok/s1600/goals_awards_ribbons_finish_NifterDotCom.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="244" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaYRfFvmVXdA-oTq7w5WJvvvc5vM0kCE4jFGIz1imfuiS4b1NKGaZpV2U1NBe62zvSqb6aOFbd92uE2ik0mMuXEiUiL8x5jlCIaAWzREIOfFastZ7ro0G6Wks-MR6odn1PFL4Y3QfY8ok/s320/goals_awards_ribbons_finish_NifterDotCom.gif" /></a><br />
<br />
It's that time of year. The time when we make all kinds of <strike>failed promises</strike> new year resolutions to ourselves in hopes of improving various areas of our lives. <br />
<br />
In the past, I have either ignored the whole resolution thing altogether, or set a few poorly defined goals with no real plan for how to achieve them.<br />
<br />
<i>This</i> year, I want it to be different. <br />
This year, I am truly motivated to set goals and to work toward achieving them.<br />
<i>This</i> year, I dreamed big and I'm reaching high.<br />
<i>This</i> year is going to be different.<br />
<br />
Okay sure, those last few sentences sounded like a self pep-talk, destined for failure (been there, done that). <br />
But in setting my goals for this coming year the question I earnestly asked was, <font size=4><b>"Are you willing to challenge yourself?"</b></font><br />
<br />
Challenge, in part, can be defined as, "to arouse or stimulate, especially by presenting with difficulties." <br />
<b>This is what I'm digging deep for.</b> <br />
At the top of my list, I have come up with a personal goal based on dreaming big and I'll need to dig deep (deep!) if I intend to achieve it. This goal will most definitely present me with difficulties, but they are the kind that will force me to tap into my creativity, my will, and my passion for learning new things. I can't reveal that specific goal (at least not at this time), but I definitely hope to share it some time in the coming year. <br />
(Summer? Ish.)<br />
<br />
In the meantime, here are a few of the goals I <i>can </i>share for now. <br />
<br />
CRAFTY/HANDS-ON GOALS:<br />
<ul><li>finish Ohio State lapghan</li>
<li>learn to knit</li>
<li>master bedroom makeover</li>
<li>homemade strawberry jam</li>
<li>give Etsy a try</li>
<li>teach oldest daughter to plan a week's meal menu, shop, and cook the meals for that week</li>
</ul><br />
FINANCIAL GOALS:<br />
<ul><li>create a consistently worked family budget</li>
<li>increase the amount of our mortgage payoff</li>
<li>look into paying cash for a replacement van</li>
<li>build our food/household stockpile</li>
</ul><br />
TRAVEL GOALS:<br />
<ul><li>take at least two "flash" trips this year for educational purposes</li>
</ul><br />
SPIRITUAL GOALS:<br />
<ul><li>complete daily quiet time (scripture reading)</li>
<li>Read at least one book quarterly that challenges me spiritually</li>
<li>increase our family's food bank ministry</li>
<li>continue Sunday night bible study with my husband</li>
<li>log family devotional time for accountability</li>
</ul><br />
PERSONAL/MOTHERING GOALS:<br />
<ul><li>New year motto: "Grace first."</li>
<li>Practice words of affirmation daily basis</li>
<li>"date" one child per week</li>
<li>create a schedule/blocks of time to work on "the big goal and follow through."</li>
</ul><br />
HEALTH/FITNESS GOALS:<br />
<ul><li>drink 8 glasses water per day (predictable, I know, but I don't do it.) </li>
<li>use cross trainer for 30 minutes, every other day</li>
<li>take 2 mile family walks 3x or more per week (doing Pilates instead during inclement weather)</li>
<li>one hike per month</li>
<li>try at least one new vegetarian recipe per month</li>
</ul><br />
So there you have it, some of the goals I'm tackling for the coming year. I intend to visit my list weekly and then "scrutinize" it monthly to guage where I'm at and how I need to change course to succeed (the ultimate goal). This is a much more pro-active approach than I've taken in the past and I'm both excited and challenged by the very thought of going for it.<br />
And I am.<br />
(Going for it, that is.)<br />
<br />
<font size=4><b>How about you?</b></font> <br />
Are you willing to dig deep and challenge yourself? <br />
I hope you have been inspired to be challenged as well; to enter this brand new year with purposeful intent.<br />
I'd love to hear what's on your resolutional plate for 2012.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #ff3399; font-family: Cursive; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; text-transform: none;">Live wise in Him! </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #ff3399; font-family: Cursive; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; text-transform: none;">~Toni~</span></div><div style="font-family: verdana,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10px;"><a href="http://www.kortenaar.com/" title="Myspace Graphics"><img alt="myspace layouts, myspace codes, glitter graphics" border="0" height="34px" src="http://dl.kortenaar.com/pub/229/229251raq5t3m0m9.gif" width="482px" /></a></div>Tonihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10318409820949377086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5450692910478799777.post-45170619924398924712011-12-17T12:41:00.004-05:002011-12-17T12:46:01.191-05:00Christmas in Heaven; When we yearn for loved onesBelievers, if you are missing a loved one at Christmas, consider this; Mary pondered what the shepherds told her concerning the Savior.<br />
<br />
<i>So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. Luke 2:16-19<br />
</i><br />
The world would have us swept up in the commercialism and "merry" of Christmas. But Mary modeled something deeper; quiet reflection about the true meaning. As your heart yearns for your loved one at Christmas time, may you also give yourself the blessing of simple, quiet reflection, the blessing of <b>peace</b>. A blessed Christmas to all.<br />
<br />
<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/YVE7H2QUD-U" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
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<p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:Cursive;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none;text-transform:none;color:FF3399;">Live wise in Him! </span></p><p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:Cursive;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none;text-transform:none;color:FF3399;"> ~Toni~</span></p><p style="font-family:verdana,arial,sans-serif;font-size:10px;"><a title="Myspace Graphics" href="http://www.kortenaar.com"><img height="34" alt="myspace layouts, myspace codes, glitter graphics" src="http://dl.kortenaar.com/pub/229/229251raq5t3m0m9.gif" width="482" border="0" /></a>Tonihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10318409820949377086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5450692910478799777.post-47976029751427811102011-11-23T11:47:00.011-05:002011-11-23T12:33:46.756-05:00What a chore!As we are a homeschooling family, our house gets an average of 13,500 hours more wear and tear on it over a "school years" lifetime than the home of a non-homeschooling family. Trust me, when I tell you that can show quickly, I mean it. <br />
<br />
All families must address the challenge of how to approach chores with their children. In our home, the ability to assign, check, and reassign daily chores is crucial if we want a standing house over time (said with a bit of drama to match the haggered defeat I feel when failed chore time gets the best of me.) So, what to do? It's the question we all ask occasionally.<br />
<br />
We started a new chore system this year. It's one that has made its way around the internet and thankfully landed in my home. I believe it may have its roots in <i>Managers of Their Chores </i>by Teri Maxwell. I believe the Duggars use a form of it as well (if it works for their home, I'm thinking it's got to be good). And I was introduced to it by Courtney at <a href="http://womenlivingwell.org/">Women Living well </a>blog. Here's my take on it.<br />
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The children have a chore "pack" which they can wear like a necklace after school to complete their round of chores ("on your person" is a great tool for reducing, "I forgot," syndrome). I used a simple clear plastic I.D holder and simply hole punched it for tie-on strings. Then,...<br />
<ul><li>I used patterned stock paper to make a fitted card that reads, "DONE" on the patterned (front) side and has the child's name written on the plain white (back) side.</li>
<li>I then cut multiple blank fitted cards on which I could write a single chore. Our list includes: unload dishwasher, transfer wet clothes to dryer and start, change cat litter, feed guinea pig, sweep out guinea pig's case, wipe bathroom sinks and mirrors, collect bathroom garbage, clean out van and put away non-garbage items found, sweep kitchen floor, vaccum upstairs, vaccum downstairs, put away all toys in playroom, dust furniture, wipe down railings, wipe down light switches and door knobs (assigned daily during times of illness), straighten bookshelf and book pile, straighten shoe rack. There is also a "morning chore" card that each child must complete, which includes brushing teeth and hair, make bed, get dressed, bring laundry baskets/dirty clothes down to laundry room.</li>
<li>Assigned chore cards are slid into the plastic sleeve <i> front.<br />
</i> As each chore is completed, the child takes that card and slides it <i>behind</i> the "DONE" side, to the back of the card, which has their name written on it.) This way, when all chores are completed, the child sees "DONE" and may bring his chore pack to me so I can verify that all work was completed.</li>
<li>Each day, I assign 2-3 cards (in addition to the morning chore card) to each child.</li>
<li>For Brandon, who is not yet reading, I sketched images of chores which he is able to complete on the back of a written chore card. That way, he can look at the picture and know what to do (ie. a shoe for the shoerack chore, a feather duster for the dusting chore)</li>
<li>Each day, I rotate cards, adding the chores that were not sent out the day before to complete, and rotating which chores each child receives.</li>
<li>For each day that chores are completed correctly, without complaint, and in a timely manner (which means right after schoolwork is completed), a dime is earned. Earn all 7 dimes for the week and chore reward is rounded up to $1. Complain, delay, or do chore hastily (and thus incorrectly) and that day's dime and the weekly $1 round-up is lost. Our goal is NOT to pay our children for chores, as they also receive a consequence if we determine their attitude toward serving one another is sinful (consequences might be something like no Wii for the weekend, or serving by doing extra chores).</li>
<li>Those who succeed in earning all four dollars in a given month will earn a bonus dollar for the month. They are setting goals for using their chore money toward a particular purchase and are using part of it to learn about ministry as well.</li>
</ul><br />
This system is working very well so far in our family (we're about 6 weeks into it.) A quick word on laundry too while I'm on the topic of chores. If you struggle to keep up with laundry like I used to (oh, the mountains of laundry that doubled as a "play hill" for my toddler many years back), then you might give these successfully applied tips a try as well.<br />
<br />
I purchased small baskets from Dollar General (and other such stores) that could double as mini laundry baskets. It may take a bit of effort to find just the right ones (most are either too small or too big for this purpose), but it's worth the effort of finding them. They should be large enough to hold a full-sized basketball. I prefer the soft, pliable ones so a child can gather both hand grasps in a single hand for going up and down the stairs, but have also used hard plastic baskets as well. <br />
<br />
Each day, my children are responsible for bringing these baskets down to the laundry room with any dirty clothes removed from the night before. They must also take these baskets up as they head off to bed each night, often full with clothes they must put away. If I am particularly busy in the laundry room on any given day, they must also put way clean clothes mid-day and return the basket to the laundry room until they again retrieve it at the end of the day. <br />
<br />
I began this chore with each of my children at 3 years old (keeping the basket's weight light enough for my 3year old to carry so he/she could practice the chore with older siblings). I do not fuss over how neatly (or not, uh hem) the clothing is placed in the drawers for younger children. I consider wrinkles a minor inconvenience for me not having to trek up and down the stairs with umpteen loads of laundry each day myself. But older children (from about 8 years old and up) are expected to neatly put their clothes away. So, there you have it. And for the record, I am a daily laundry washer. I try to do at least one load every day for our family of 6. With the children helping me so much, it's not bad at all.<br />
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I would love to hear how chores "work" in your home.<br />
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<p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:Cursive;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none;text-transform:none;color:FF3399;">Live wise in Him! </span></p><p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:Cursive;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none;text-transform:none;color:FF3399;"> ~Toni~</span></p><p style="font-family:verdana,arial,sans-serif;font-size:10px;"><a title="Myspace Graphics" href="http://www.kortenaar.com"><img height="34" alt="myspace layouts, myspace codes, glitter graphics" src="http://dl.kortenaar.com/pub/229/229251raq5t3m0m9.gif" width="482" border="0" /></a>Tonihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10318409820949377086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5450692910478799777.post-36245923009312595122011-10-28T11:51:00.006-04:002011-10-28T12:30:42.255-04:00Delicious comfort food!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRYVSbH-9qjB_JKB8T35T3ury8ogFAw_x5xLr9383_C6GWIeLo1S6KU-YfoD_1xAPeS7phWw25pFNQ7ItElolz4XUkOdcjRa0Q5q9Pc3k4abFHGlEK72b3eE8Ox90LreBbumQu2H9uAHk/s1600/Tuna_Macaroni_Salad.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 313px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRYVSbH-9qjB_JKB8T35T3ury8ogFAw_x5xLr9383_C6GWIeLo1S6KU-YfoD_1xAPeS7phWw25pFNQ7ItElolz4XUkOdcjRa0Q5q9Pc3k4abFHGlEK72b3eE8Ox90LreBbumQu2H9uAHk/s400/Tuna_Macaroni_Salad.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668576918985677858" /></a><br />It's been getting quite chilly (if not downright cold!) here in central Indiana the past week or so. I'm not one for cold weather. In fact, the only thing I enjoy about it is the built-in requisite slow down; one is basically forced to pause for a season. <br /><br />So yesterday, I found myself thinking, "Comfort," as I planned dinner. And what came to mind was a good tuna casserole (good being the key word).<br /><br />Creamy, comfy, YUMMY tuna casserole.<br /><br />The recipe I use really <em>is </em>both simple <em>and</em> good, if I do say so myself. <br />I happen to get all 12 thumbs up here (two per body count).<br />Just sayin'.<br /><br /><strong>Tuna Noodle Casserole</strong><br />*************************<br />16 oz elbow macaroni, cooked and drained.<br />2 hard boiled eggs, peeled and finely chopped.<br />2 cans tuna in water, drained.<br />1 cup mayonaise.<br />1 Tbsp. lemon juice (I use concentrate)<br />At least 6 green onions (I choose to lightly sautee mine first)<br />8 oz cheddar cheese, shredded<br />2 sticks celery, chopped (optional; I usually leave this out)<br />1 tsp. salt<br />1/2 tsp. pepper<br /><br />Mix all ingredients in large bowl and pour into greased casserole dish.<br />Bake in preheated oven at 350º for 15-20 minutes, just until heated through.<br />serves 8.<br /><br />Enjoy! <br /><br /><p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:Cursive;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none;text-transform:none;color:FF3399;">Live wise in Him!</span></p> <p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:Cursive;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none;text-transform:none;color:FF3399;">~Toni~</span></p><p style="font-family:verdana,arial,sans-serif;font-size:10px;"><a title="Myspace Graphics" href="http://www.kortenaar.com"><img height="34" alt="myspace layouts, myspace codes, glitter graphics" src="http://dl.kortenaar.com/pub/229/229251raq5t3m0m9.gif" width="482" border="0" /></a>Tonihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10318409820949377086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5450692910478799777.post-15191051882104700002011-10-23T20:06:00.004-04:002011-10-23T20:25:43.216-04:00Bringing home the gold.My Olivia had her first swim meet today. She has been training on the developmental team for a year and finally moved up with "the big dogs" so it was an exciting day for her. Though she likely didn't place, she established her entry times, learned the ropes of knowing when her heat was up, and so on. All in all, a fun day. <br /><br /><br />I competed in gymnastics when I was her age and it was such a fun time in my childhood. The coach would pick us up in the YMCA van and off we'd go, sometimes a half hour away, sometimes 2 hours away. We'd be gone all day and our parents never knew how we did until we returned home late in the evening (I only placed on 2 events my entire first year, so you can imagine how encouraged I was after the first meet of my second year, when I came home to report that I had placed in every single event <em>and</em> had placed 2nd all-around as well.)<br /><br />How things have changed. In my day, it was a personal commitment, but not so much a financial commitment. Sure, there was a YMCA junior membership to purchase, and the expense of practice suits (team suits and warm ups were provided).<br />The coach drove, and we stopped for fast food on the way home. There were very few expenses involved.<br /><br />Today?<br /><br />Parents have to volunteer 4 times/year (per family). We had to sign up to bring food items. $5 per person to attend the meet. $5 for a program (A program? We never had programs before). A fully stocked snack bar was open for business (including Subway sandwiches for sale). Really? Because back in the day, I had to hit the candy machine for M&Ms, banging on the glass when the Archimedian screw failed to plop out my chosen treats. But today, apparently it's "all out". They were even selling meet tee shirts for $10. We did have shirts made for our regional meets back in the day, but regular season meets? No way. The whole experience, from a worldly perspective, felt a bit over the top to me.<br /><br />But not from the perspective of watching my sweet girl compete. She has worked so hard to have her own lane. And she was so very proud of her efforts. A few of the kids came off their events crying because they were unhappy with their times or because they finished last in the heat. And who knows, maybe those days are yet to come for my kids too. But for today, it was simply a wonderful moment in my daughter's childhood; a moment where she gave her all and smiled ear to ear over her efforts. In <em>that</em> regard, I'm happy to say we brought home the gold.<br /><br /><p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:Cursive;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none;text-transform:none;color:FF3399;">Live wise in Him!</span></p> <p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:Cursive;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none;text-transform:none;color:FF3399;">~Toni~</span></p><p style="font-family:verdana,arial,sans-serif;font-size:10px;"><a title="Myspace Graphics" href="http://www.kortenaar.com"><img height="34" alt="myspace layouts, myspace codes, glitter graphics" src="http://dl.kortenaar.com/pub/229/229251raq5t3m0m9.gif" width="482" border="0" /></a>Tonihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10318409820949377086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5450692910478799777.post-86899787758270106492011-10-19T11:20:00.017-04:002011-10-25T22:19:24.457-04:00MOMMY GUILT<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR2L3nA07aAP_Y-2L2GNw-DIKUqippJiBQA5QMR0EplZ9RIuBXB2voFrUljVoygXteivWBwBPnDDUS7waVH4ZgO2z830jyhUBkoPBL51w35AZ09qT5Kh2CKQaDFnEv5sFAH4WQ-b-mi1Q/s1600/christmas%252710+to+Sept%252711+002.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR2L3nA07aAP_Y-2L2GNw-DIKUqippJiBQA5QMR0EplZ9RIuBXB2voFrUljVoygXteivWBwBPnDDUS7waVH4ZgO2z830jyhUBkoPBL51w35AZ09qT5Kh2CKQaDFnEv5sFAH4WQ-b-mi1Q/s400/christmas%252710+to+Sept%252711+002.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5665235265421979586" /></a><br /><br />Mommy guilt! <br />Been there, done that? <br />I thought so.<br />Me too.<br /><br />So I was thinking about it yesterday as dh and I worked on our third batch of cinnamon apple butter together.<br />(Yes, we make bodaciously marvelous apple butter <em>together</em>; gals, this is what happens when you convince them the stove is a "grill".)<br /><br />There our four kids were, watching <em>The Wilderness Family</em> on DVD, while we spent about 2½ hours busying ourselves in the kitchen. <br />[<strong>Begin lament</strong>]<em><br />I should be with them. <br />They <u>need</u> me. <br />Why am I sitting here stirring apple butter?<br />This is lame.</em><br />[<strong>end lament</strong>]<br /><br />Wait,...just why <em>am</em> I sitting here making apple butter? The obvious answer was that my family <em>likes</em> cinnamon apple butter and I was making it to please them. <br /><strong><font size=4>So why do us moms have to complicate the issue?</font> </strong> <br />I mean, hubby wasn't having "daddy guilt" (at least not that I could see; has that been invented yet?) And the kids did seem perfectly fine without me.<br /><br />So I got to thinking. It wasn't so much that I was busy making apple butter that gave me a small dose of mommy guilt. It's just that I was busy. <br /><br />Busyness.<br />Time sucked away from the precious moments of our days.<br /><font size=4><strong>Time is limited and must be stewarded wisely</strong>.</font><br /><br />So, I slathered a little apple butter on a bite of english muffin (to help me think, of course) and thought some more.<br /><br />Mommy guilt when I'm washing and folding the bed linens. Sure, we do need clean bed linens, but if one (or all) of my children is feeling particularly mommy-needy that week, why can't I delay that chore and invest in my children instead? <br />When they are gone, will they recall those clean sheets? <br />Or the time spent (or not spent) with me? <br />Which one do I <em>want</em> them to recall with fondness?<br /><br />Mommy guilt when they want me to go outside to play with them, but I decline because it's "too hot" (seriously, do we <em>ever</em> outgrow that whine?) and I'm feeling right comfy in the air conditioned house.<br /><br />But,...<br /><br />Would I melt?<br /> <br />Actually, yes I would. <br />I have naturally curly hair and it totally frizzles to the max after too much heat and humidity (seriously, I do). <br />But just because I'll come back inside looking like an English sheepdog doesn't mean I should take my dose of mommy guilt lying down on the sofa.<br /><strong><font size=4>Time is what they want and it's mine to give.</font></strong><br /><br />Or not (gulp!)<br /> <br />Cautious note to self: I cannot buy it back when the fleeting moments of childhood are gone.<br /><br />As I recently read (and agreed with) elsewhere on the net, I'm certain when my children are grown and gone, I will yearn for these days I'm in midst of now. <br />I <em>will</em> wish I could do it all over again.<br />I just don't want to wish I had done it <em>differently</em>.<br /><br />Throw mommy guilt out the window at some point this week, won't you?<br />When your child comes and asks you to get stuck in the Molasses Swamp for 47 turns (again), <em>indulge</em> him. <br />No matter how well intentioned your busyness may be regarding the serving your family, your children will be <em>well</em> served indeed by your willingness to simply <font size=4><em><strong>be</strong></em></font> with them.<br /><br /><em>Ecclesiastes 3:1 "To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven..."</em><br /><br /><p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:Cursive;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none;text-transform:none;color:FF3399;">Live wise in Him!</span></p> <p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:Cursive;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none;text-transform:none;color:FF3399;">~Toni~</span></p><p style="font-family:verdana,arial,sans-serif;font-size:10px;"><a title="Myspace Graphics" href="http://www.kortenaar.com"><img height="34" alt="myspace layouts, myspace codes, glitter graphics" src="http://dl.kortenaar.com/pub/229/229251raq5t3m0m9.gif" width="482" border="0" /></a>Tonihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10318409820949377086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5450692910478799777.post-964117479287796492011-10-11T10:45:00.010-04:002011-10-15T00:32:36.857-04:00Evidence of (His) Love<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCyEkWQxfvVoT1YgD537aBkRzLnJEuTL_-CwyiCs2umoSShXdENVgv-PMNbF1Vf2tZcpTjeegA-Q3q1jn2gKnDrQ4cNnWfKr4kOrLQ5g6xRt1X8_-Vnccd7-DburExA9I4ezCrOGep75Y/s1600/christmas%252710+to+Sept%252711+111.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCyEkWQxfvVoT1YgD537aBkRzLnJEuTL_-CwyiCs2umoSShXdENVgv-PMNbF1Vf2tZcpTjeegA-Q3q1jn2gKnDrQ4cNnWfKr4kOrLQ5g6xRt1X8_-Vnccd7-DburExA9I4ezCrOGep75Y/s400/christmas%252710+to+Sept%252711+111.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662984135100139682" /></a><br /><center>"Open your eyes<br />And look upon the handiwork of God<br />Open your soul<br />And feel the breath of glory all around<br />For everywhere there's evidence of love."<br />~First Call</center><br /><br />Our homeschool week (our family week, for that matter) goes from Tuesday to Saturday, as hubby has Sunday/Monday off from work. Today, therefore, was our first day "back at it" after our vacation. I begin school promptly at 8am each day. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, I must break away at 9am to drive my youngest to preschool (5 minutes away) while my oldest assists her younger siblings with their spelling lesson. <br /><br />As I drove my youngest to preschool today, I couldn't help but drink in the absolute lovliness of yet another blessed Indian summer day here in central Indiana. The sun is shining, the temperatures are mildly warm (going up to 80º today), and a gentle breeze is blowing. Truly, everywhere I looked, my eyes were rewarded with the handiwork of God. <br /><br />Sunshine.<br /><br />Blue skies.<br /><br />And color. Glorious, wonderous, rich hues of autumn.<br /><br />Golden yellows.<br />Fire reds.<br />And my own personal favorite, blazing orange.<br />All this color against the remnant background of the greens of summer.<br /><br />As I pulled into my parking space at the school, my eye caught sight of a gentle swaying movement in front of me. I looked up and was rewarded with the most soothing sight; a tree yielding to the moment of transition from one of life's seasons to the next; yielding ever so gracefully as, gem by golden gem, it surrendered one falling leaf after another, ever so slowly. I was mesmorized for the moment, my senses truly engulfed by the gift. And it was that, a gift, straight from the hand of God. <br /><br />I would encourage you, as you take in these last days of fabulous fall color too, to not miss the gift within the gift within the gift. First, we are given God's color palate to behold, painted by His most creative hand on all the trees of fall. But the gift doesn't end there. Do not miss the beauty of leaves <em>fallen</em>, a delicate blanket of color resting on the ground below, or floating gently on the surface of a pond or river nearby. And finally, be sure to <em>hear</em> the message of fall; that yielding to the seasons of our lives can be done with grace and beauty; that to everything under heaven, there is a season and a purpose. God is <em>in</em> the details.<br /><br />Are you embracing the blessings of the particular season you find yourself in at this moment? Is it possible you are missing some of its unique beauty by clinging to a season now past? Like a lone withered leaf clinging to a bare tree of winter, so can we be when we fail to yield to a new season of life with grace. I'm not trained as a preacher so I assure you, no preaching intended. I would be the first to admit to "lone leaf" status at times, and therefore this is an encouragement borne of experience. <br /><br />As First Call so perfectly stated, "Open your eyes and look upon the handiwork of God....for everywhere there's evidence of love."<br /><br /><p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:Cursive;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none;text-transform:none;color:FF3399;">Live wise in Him!</span></p> <p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:Cursive;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none;text-transform:none;color:FF3399;">~Toni~</span></p><p style="font-family:verdana,arial,sans-serif;font-size:10px;"><a title="Myspace Graphics" href="http://www.kortenaar.com"><img height="34" alt="myspace layouts, myspace codes, glitter graphics" src="http://dl.kortenaar.com/pub/229/229251raq5t3m0m9.gif" width="482" border="0" /></a>Tonihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10318409820949377086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5450692910478799777.post-66699415569818252482011-10-10T14:15:00.003-04:002011-10-12T23:53:31.221-04:00Planes, Ships, and Automobiles<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1A7KYfyKOiZdEciOsECw01OHA4wwao920Zu2RcKXl-_Zvphr4FFF5dEQM5VuG9yS6WhQhcLlEuCrLjo_W0a-z255z7GZBIHv1iFZl9HD0Jurr7UtxrLQSKHMFgrezPOIBh4mIc8lVw5g/s1600/christmas%252710+to+Sept%252711+110.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1A7KYfyKOiZdEciOsECw01OHA4wwao920Zu2RcKXl-_Zvphr4FFF5dEQM5VuG9yS6WhQhcLlEuCrLjo_W0a-z255z7GZBIHv1iFZl9HD0Jurr7UtxrLQSKHMFgrezPOIBh4mIc8lVw5g/s400/christmas%252710+to+Sept%252711+110.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662812847022278626" /></a><br /><H6><center>Yes, I took this photo as we sailed out of Freeport. It's amazing.</center></H6><br />Please note: If you dare to read this post, grab a cup of coffee and something to keep your blood sugar up. It's loooong (mainly because I need to document the trip for our family.) Next, I hesitate to post details of our vacation, as I realize many families do not have the means to take a trip like this one. If you know me personally, then you know that one thing I am NOT is a "material girl" (whatever, Madonna). I'm not impressed by "stuff" and I don't covet it. I am a girl who loves nature, wide open spaces, and minimal "stuff". The only reason we are able to take advantage of traveling as we do is because we are blessed through my husband's airline job with the privilege of doing so. I recognize that this is a blessing straight from the hand of my God and Father and for that, I am nothing but grateful.<br />Just wanted to make that clear before I begin.<br /><br />************************<br /><br />Just got back from our family vacation. My husband and I have taken many cruises over there years, but never with our children,....until this past week. They have been counting down the days since late July, eager to take in this new-to-them experience. In a nutshell, we all had a most blessed and wonderful time away. But let's step <em>out</em> of the nutshell for a moment, because outside the nutshell, our trip was, well, an "adventure" within an adventure.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha2v_t3HANzBvTdwQ7nbhM2AyTt6BIrVHPGJS4nh4JYgq8qi482dq0ONttS4pjlU5NwY7I1yDWSkb7PvzaLdrFAfr8vfTZxup6NSoTtN8PbokjFjW-LqUOZmR6_OYcu-6SCDkHga-RgZ0/s1600/christmas%252710+to+Sept%252711+107.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha2v_t3HANzBvTdwQ7nbhM2AyTt6BIrVHPGJS4nh4JYgq8qi482dq0ONttS4pjlU5NwY7I1yDWSkb7PvzaLdrFAfr8vfTZxup6NSoTtN8PbokjFjW-LqUOZmR6_OYcu-6SCDkHga-RgZ0/s400/christmas%252710+to+Sept%252711+107.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662817592225788130" /></a><H6><center>Our children posing with one of the cabin steward's many towel creations we would discover in our stateroom on the ship.</center></H6><br />We began with standby challenges. Our family always flies standby, as my husband works for a major airline and we are able to board flights when there are available ("open") seats. When we cruise, we always fly the day before our ship's departure, to guarentee that we don't encounter any standby problems. With our ship sailing on Monday, we had planned to fly Sunday. <br /><br />"Honey, Sunday's flights are full. We're now traveling on Saturday night."<br /><br />Okay then, we were now leaving TWO days early. There was a non-stop flight on Saturday evening at 6:30pm with 15 open seats (we need plenty of those with a family of six). Dh and I sparred a bit about what time we should head to the airport. He wanted to go early (3:15pm), while I didn't want to sit in the airport that long, rallying for 4:30pm. He won when he suggested we eat dinner there so I wouldn't have to cook. <br />Deal! <br />Good thing too because right after we finished our airport dining, we learned that the aircraft we were waiting for had to return to Miami after take-off and thus our outbound flight was now indefinitely delayed. Joy! We hustled to the gate to see what our plan B options were, only to realize we had to make a split second decision. Stay and wait for the now delayed non-stop flight <em>or</em> hop on the Dallas flight that was leaving in several minutes and hope our connection in Dallas ran smoothly. We chose that option and a dear co-worker of dh's quickly rerouted our bags so they would arrive in Miami that night as well. We arrived in Miami at 11:00pm and had to wait until about 11:45pm for our bags. Travel disaster averted.<br /><br />Next, dh went to check in at our hotel, only to learn they couldn't find one of our reservations (we booked two, adding an additional night when we realized we had to leave another day earlier due to the full flights menioned above). The desk clerk could not locate our reservation, even though dh had a confirmation number, so he just booked us. Whatever. Just get us to bed, thank you for your help.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEQb82ZcDWLbFmkcWkbppS5ittFrf3nt7SK24KCFquADj-cxbcIOffHPSaIfTn1m3SvZDGm43i3MdPa-JXEzXcaRbYZ6rQgimKnoErIdq9FyVXAV09hX4kf3pxOvmnlyUkCEUW4G91LVw/s1600/christmas%252710+to+Sept%252711+100.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEQb82ZcDWLbFmkcWkbppS5ittFrf3nt7SK24KCFquADj-cxbcIOffHPSaIfTn1m3SvZDGm43i3MdPa-JXEzXcaRbYZ6rQgimKnoErIdq9FyVXAV09hX4kf3pxOvmnlyUkCEUW4G91LVw/s400/christmas%252710+to+Sept%252711+100.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662818509461112274" /></a><center><H6>Our "littles" in one of the hot tubs on board.</center></H6>The next morning, we walked to a McDonald's for breakfast, then inquired about the bus schedule to Bayside Mall. We had told the kids what fun it is to hang out there before cruising. It's very artsy and gives one a little taste of local Miami culture. <br />"Ooooooh, good luck with that. Today is Sunday and the bus schedule is seriously reduced. You can wait for it to come along, but it might be 90 minutes before you see it."<br /><br />Swell!<br /><br />Dh hailed a cab. $25 later, we were at Bayside and had a great time. The kids got to see Carnival Cruiseline set sail, and to imagine their departure from port the next day. We walked a few blocks down from Bayside and sat in adirondack chairs in the sand along the bay. And what did we see? <br /><br />Porpoises!<br /><br />Oh yes we did too. We saw about 5 or 6 of them feeding on schools of fish that were frantically leaping out of the water, trying to get away. And the feeding show continued for a good 10 minutes. They came as close as perhaps 50 yards away. What a treat to spot them while <em>resting </em>in such a beautiful spot. We also saw some type of shark at Bayside (again, tipped off by schools of fish leaping out of hte water to get away). We hailed another taxi back to our hotel after "negotiating" a single cab ("Sir, we only took one cab here. Yes, we know we have six people. Four are children." Oy vey!) And the cab driver's daughter is presently enjoying her sparkly bling evening bag, courtesy of my 8 year old, who accidentally left hers in the cab when we got back to the hotel. :(<br /><br />We let the kids swim in the hotel pool before tucking them in for a night's rest prior to the big day (they were exhausted from our trip to Miami by way of Dallas).<br />We usually make our boys wear shirts into the water so they won't sunburn, but this time we let them go in without them. Brandon, our 4 year old, was beside himself with joy. "Oh, this is soooo es-siting swimming without my shirt on." You just <em>have</em> to love that boy's take on what is worthy of being dubbed "exciting", lol. <br /><br />Monday morning finally arrived and we boarded our bus for the port of Miami. A short 15 minute drive and we were there. Four enormous ships were in port; 2 Carnival, 1 Royal Carribbean, and ours, the Norwegian Sky. It was last in line to leave port, so the kids would get to see three ships sail before their own gave the long departure blasts and headed out to sea. We always head to port early so we were checked in and on board by about noon. We knew to keep our bathing suits with us in a carry on, as the kids would want to swim and the porters take your luggage from you and deliver it to your stateroom later in the day. We all enjoyed a lunch in one of the formal dining rooms together, where the children loved being able to order appetizers, an entree, and a dessert without regard to price. It made me smile when they asked the very same question a dear friend asked me when they took their first cruise with us a few years ago; "You just get up and leave when you're done eating?" Yes, you do.<br /><br />The kids then swam the rest of the afternoon until it was time to set sail. There are millionaire homes along the channel at the port of Miami so it's fun to look at them as you leave. I'm so not a materialistic person, not at all impressed by "stuff", but it's still fun to catch a glimpse of such pricey real estate as the ship leaves port.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_2nXUFt_xr75B5KtvyHsrC_ROLJwcTn7Sez9Maf6jH2pECr0GK8x0huVZSXCwIEH7yNzTKUZhubOkAINDpLGxHTlZRRFpHYfK8tyPm6hXjyVAkq3Ka8QEPWOvO5Bzsx_SMKJpmVgKX3o/s1600/christmas%252710+to+Sept%252711+103.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_2nXUFt_xr75B5KtvyHsrC_ROLJwcTn7Sez9Maf6jH2pECr0GK8x0huVZSXCwIEH7yNzTKUZhubOkAINDpLGxHTlZRRFpHYfK8tyPm6hXjyVAkq3Ka8QEPWOvO5Bzsx_SMKJpmVgKX3o/s400/christmas%252710+to+Sept%252711+103.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662814675186280770" /></a><H6><center>Our oldest son playing on Junkanoo Beach in Nassau</center></H6>Our first port was Freeport in the Bahamas and oh, let me tell you, it's a tropical,...er,..it's,...there are palms and sunshine and,.....okay, so there's nothing to do there. Nope, nada. We walked around at the portside shops and passed on our chance to take a taxi 11 miles into town to shop some more. It was fine though. The kids wanted to spend some time in the ship's Kids Club, which gave dh and I time to walk 2 miles on the ship's jogging deck. Ah, mighty nice.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBoJXc4SdKqcZATx6z6f3WG-at1y3iOZoDS8bJQk13DUZMq2J7z_vupz_2mj-Z-5O5KcX4EZFW2qdheOwyMhXeIUOkfpAoS2M-laDZbV-VmXgJxEFgFc_gGWlIC8pyDlRWt1xVz5mQjoQ/s1600/christmas%252710+to+Sept%252711+105.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBoJXc4SdKqcZATx6z6f3WG-at1y3iOZoDS8bJQk13DUZMq2J7z_vupz_2mj-Z-5O5KcX4EZFW2qdheOwyMhXeIUOkfpAoS2M-laDZbV-VmXgJxEFgFc_gGWlIC8pyDlRWt1xVz5mQjoQ/s400/christmas%252710+to+Sept%252711+105.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662815257454652978" /></a><H6><center>The view from a porthole on the ship's walking deck, in Freeport.</center></H6>The next day was sure to be our favorite; introducing the kids to one of our favorite spots in the Caribbean, Norwegian's private island, <a href="http://www.cruisecheap.com/cruise-lines/norwegian-cruise-line-great-stirrup-cay.html">Great Stirrup Cay</a>. I was hoping it wasn't too torn up as it is currently under rennovation and I wanted the kids to see it for the tropical paradise we have come to love. A day of snorkeling and swimming, dancing on the white sand beaches, enjoying an island barbecue, reading in a hammock while an island breeze dares to turn your page, hiking to the "airport" and lighthouse. Oh, what fun they were in for.<br /><br />Were.<br /><br />"Ladies and gentlemen, this is your captain speaking. I am most sorry to have to make this announcement but do to current water conditions, we have been unable to safely bring the tenders shipside to take you over to the island. Multiple attempts have been made and at this time, it is my decision that we must cancel our scheduled day at Great Stirrup Cay." And we were literally heading out our cabin door to board the tenders when we heard this announcement. Sad, sad, sad! (Tenders, btw, are smaller boats that transport passengers from a cruise ship to dry land when the ship does not physically dock in a port). We were most disappointed but quickly decided not to let it ruin our vacation and got on with swimming, an afternoon craft class, a magic tricks class, a story read to our children in the library by moi, and an afternoon gameshow where guests played the ship's version of <em>A Minute to Win It</em>. We also watched Voyage of the Dawn Treader together as a family.<br /> <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmgppouQctXPn7nrQjc8WRShi3noqcvxsaEYK7ZsOpozABXKFhZMuf_HDn5E45P05MeAxl-jiIVhO8kGWHyky1q2n7pH9SPyHhdknrEKkLgq0l18Cr3oIjYONAj3qovxaGAD7OXkW8glc/s1600/christmas%252710+to+Sept%252711+106.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmgppouQctXPn7nrQjc8WRShi3noqcvxsaEYK7ZsOpozABXKFhZMuf_HDn5E45P05MeAxl-jiIVhO8kGWHyky1q2n7pH9SPyHhdknrEKkLgq0l18Cr3oIjYONAj3qovxaGAD7OXkW8glc/s400/christmas%252710+to+Sept%252711+106.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662816768291469938" /></a><H6><center> Our "littles" watching the Dawn Treader."</center></H6>The next day was spent in Nassau. We walked to Fort Fincastle and the Queen's Staircase, then went back to the ship for lunch before walking to Junkanoo Beach so the kids could make up for not having the chance to swim in the Caribbean waters. What a great time they had, diving down and bringing up shells and coral remnants.<br />Ironically, the hotel directly across the street was one of three that we stayed in on our honeymoon (we went to Kennebunkeport, ME, the Bahamas, and Tampa, FL). We chose the hotel through an airline travel guide, pre-internet era, only to discover it was a dive. We were so uncomfortable being there that we promptly left Nassau the next morning for Tampa to finish out our honeymoon.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTutMen28A1sRCUVdeNiuEfc0E1KiR6N4QOo17zG_vHh7YhLkb9TUOY2rsjogFJ6PzWqlgcF2XeZ8gBWZk9giZGj0m_4F6_cHMDx25k9_5Qqf58JqN2Vmk0z_oI_Pr4DIyVNyBsH_Ze_U/s1600/christmas%252710+to+Sept%252711+104.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTutMen28A1sRCUVdeNiuEfc0E1KiR6N4QOo17zG_vHh7YhLkb9TUOY2rsjogFJ6PzWqlgcF2XeZ8gBWZk9giZGj0m_4F6_cHMDx25k9_5Qqf58JqN2Vmk0z_oI_Pr4DIyVNyBsH_Ze_U/s400/christmas%252710+to+Sept%252711+104.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662814250953770322" /></a><br /><br />Sailing out of Nassau was a bit unnerving, as we were experiencing very high winds (higher than the conditions that caused our captain to cancel the private island the day before). As we left the harbor, we experienced quite a bit of rocking. Not comforting, seeing as we weren't even in open water yet and could see breaking WAVES (not caps) on the ocean. As we entered the open waters, the ship listed toward the starboard side and basically just <em>stayed</em> that way for a good 90 minutes. I did not enjoy that, as we've never experienced it quite like that while sailing. But I had to keep my concerns to myself since I didn't want to frighten our children. Eventually, the ship uprighted again and we didn't have much to contend with after that. A good final evening was had by all. We went to dinner, took in a show, viewed the many pictures taken of us by the ship's photographer throughout the cruise, danced by the pool, and finally settled into in our staterooms after I packed our bags for home.<br /><br />Home.<br /><br />Home is very far away when you travel standby, especially if you're leaving out of a busy city like Miami. Especially if you need 6 seats. Especially if flights are full. And they were. Usually, it's the "get out of Miami" part that is challenging for us. Not this time. We boarded a 10:30am flight to Dallas, no problem. But ALL the flights from Dallas to Indy were full for the day. Our options were A) spend the night in Dallas and fly out in the morning (and hope there are no weather or cancellation issues) or B) fly to Cincinnati and rent a car for the 1 hour 40 minute drive home. We chose B, arriving in Cincy about 10:15pm, then drove to the Indianapolis Airport, arriving after midnight to claim our van and our bags. Only, our bags were locked up in baggage service and hubby didn't have his work keys with him. Oh well, we'd drive back and pick them up the next day. <br /><br />AND contend with the over-charge for our hotel stay.<br /> <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia0172CiDfyCP697DHhD2uKjqVbJQ0Z_JsSqG00cqtjSfwlOTDNUTzNcOeFfWjLKxsACVDdiDYSkMUXxkxbeUXBLXSRf797E57uZCPduMNssQ26UQrgBwrGf-zT7KVFKgOy3QfGFXb9lc/s1600/christmas%252710+to+Sept%252711+108.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia0172CiDfyCP697DHhD2uKjqVbJQ0Z_JsSqG00cqtjSfwlOTDNUTzNcOeFfWjLKxsACVDdiDYSkMUXxkxbeUXBLXSRf797E57uZCPduMNssQ26UQrgBwrGf-zT7KVFKgOy3QfGFXb9lc/s400/christmas%252710+to+Sept%252711+108.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662818503862757810" /></a><center><H6>Hey Mon, is this the cutest little Jamaican dude ever or what?!</center></H6>At 1:00am, our children were <em>finally</em> tucked into their own beds at home after beginning their day on the ship with a 6:30am wake-up call. They're troopers, every last one of them. They know how to roll with the punches of stand-by travel and how to deal with long lay-overs when we can't get on a flight. They had a wonderful time and for my part, I loved seeing the experience through their eyes. They're already "planning" their next cruise. Brandon has put in his request for "Royal Caribbean." Did I mention he's 4? How the heck is that boy learning the lingo already? :D<br />Pictures to come!<br /><br />End note: If you've never sailed before, don't let my description of the ship's rocking scare you out of going one day. The fact is, I have periods of vertigo that have plagued me for many years. ALL rocking bothers me but even <em>I</em> don't get sea-sick on board, not even in rough seas. I just don't <em>like</em> it. Today's vessels have wonderful stabilizers in them that reduce rocking tremendously. In fact, if you feel it at all, it's more of a comforting sensation that makes you sleep like a baby. ;) If vertigo was not a constant challenge for me, I doubt I'd give it much of a thought at all. Cruising rocks! (no pun intended)<br /><br /><p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:Cursive;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none;text-transform:none;color:FF3399;">Live wise in Him!</span></p> <p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:Cursive;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none;text-transform:none;color:FF3399;">~Toni~</span></p><p style="font-family:verdana,arial,sans-serif;font-size:10px;"><a title="Myspace Graphics" href="http://www.kortenaar.com"><img height="34" alt="myspace layouts, myspace codes, glitter graphics" src="http://dl.kortenaar.com/pub/229/229251raq5t3m0m9.gif" width="482" border="0" /></a>Tonihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10318409820949377086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5450692910478799777.post-25202822171857978842011-09-10T16:26:00.010-04:002011-09-10T21:54:56.119-04:00False Starts<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLemn0tETHfY_SgaRA9_dzxLqjMug2OUTbpMRdGJgoLWHx4d5Ovn1Nqanaz066LmL7-IMgrcySCMmJZAlUT41TH2NuDNpOo1yhbseAiTG_UPL-LKDhbrc6TK4OnbbSZ6eHu7YOT7KaVJI/s1600/christmas%252710+to+cierah%2527s+bday%252711+158.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLemn0tETHfY_SgaRA9_dzxLqjMug2OUTbpMRdGJgoLWHx4d5Ovn1Nqanaz066LmL7-IMgrcySCMmJZAlUT41TH2NuDNpOo1yhbseAiTG_UPL-LKDhbrc6TK4OnbbSZ6eHu7YOT7KaVJI/s400/christmas%252710+to+cierah%2527s+bday%252711+158.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5650850557324847826" /></a><br />Oh my word, there are cobwebs on the blog. I apologize if you got one strung up in your hair just now. Thank you, if you've stopped by, for taking the time to visit.<br /><br />We've had a bit of a false start to our schooling this year. If you don't already know, we've homeschooled for 7 years so far. My husband and I had decided that <em>this</em> would be the year we gave virtual homeschooling a shot. It's actually public school online. There were a few draws for us, things we had hoped would be to our children's benefit. What we discovered rather quickly, however, is the allure did not line up with the reality of implementing virtual learning for 3 students on 3 different grade levels. It was a good program, really (but for the absence of a Christian world view, which we highly value). Just not a good fit. <br /><br />We withdrew our children and immediately ordered our long time favorite curricula: My Father's World, Math-U-See, Apologia Science, Daily Grams and Easy Grammar, Writing Strands, Spelling Power, and God and the History of Art. Ah, it feels good to be "home" in our homeschool again. This past week was our first full week (ending today; we homeschool Tuesday through Saturday) and we all enjoyed a return to the natural fit and flow of our days together. I'm so thankful that God redirected us.<br />How comforting to find Him, the Creator, mentioned in science. How wonderful to encourage my children to write to President Obama, to let him know that we are praying for his safety and the integrity of his leadership.<br /><br />As for me, I'm in the last few weeks of a Beth Moore Study with some of the ladies from my church. I am so encouraged by Beth's teaching and have appreciated her biblical insight into my inheritance in Jesus. I will also be starting a study of 1 John with some dear online friends this fall, led by Courtney and Angela at <a href="http://www.goodmorninggirls.org/">Good Morning Girls</a>. I read my bible first thing in the morning (6:45am to be exact), then use the S.O.A.P. written method of studying it (scripture writing, observation, application, prayer). Oh, how it encourages me when I start my days in the quiet moments of early morning, immersed in God's word. <br /><br />Finally, we will be taking a family cruise soon and we're all looking forward to it. It will be the first time for our children and I can't wait to share so many of the experiences we've had with them. Let's just hope hurricane season is long gone. It's been pretty active out there and I'm sad for the folks whose lives have been directly impacted. I wanted to tell you a funny story about Hubby and his charlie horse at Goodwill last night, but that will have to wait for another post. It's dinner time and I hear Bob Evans calling. ;)<br /><br /><p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:Cursive;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none;text-transform:none;color:FF3399;">Live wise in Him!</span></p> <p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:Cursive;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none;text-transform:none;color:FF3399;">~Toni~</span></p><p style="font-family:verdana,arial,sans-serif;font-size:10px;"><a title="Myspace Graphics" href="http://www.kortenaar.com"><img height="34" alt="myspace layouts, myspace codes, glitter graphics" src="http://dl.kortenaar.com/pub/229/229251raq5t3m0m9.gif" width="482" border="0" /></a>Tonihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10318409820949377086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5450692910478799777.post-56708843616221971422011-07-16T00:56:00.006-04:002011-07-16T02:05:19.028-04:00Grocery budget overhaul<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaDGTx8f4R2eC9dfN03nurbiNdZlpPFVv4dR9uo7BnpgV9MrXiyJWOW4T2clxr0Gpc4fAjHvfDrHlz78yFxliSNygTiHKqK-vj13FF-kfHa7uL7834K-wIp5P32TylWQifp1gMB4zFZhY/s1600/37607wfq83i0bkp%255B1%255D.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaDGTx8f4R2eC9dfN03nurbiNdZlpPFVv4dR9uo7BnpgV9MrXiyJWOW4T2clxr0Gpc4fAjHvfDrHlz78yFxliSNygTiHKqK-vj13FF-kfHa7uL7834K-wIp5P32TylWQifp1gMB4zFZhY/s400/37607wfq83i0bkp%255B1%255D.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5629824861694236066" /></a><br />About 3 months ago, I purposed to improve our family's grocery budget by learning how to coupon. I spent a solid month pouring over websites and videos while simultaneously applying the principles. Immediately, I was able to take our average weekly grocery expenses from $107 down to around $75. <br />I was thrilled. <br /><em>And</em> hooked!<br /><br />Currently, our stockpile of pantry items has grown to the point that we are able to spend about $55/week. I will tell you there is much more to it than clip-and-go. But with a proper understanding of sale cycles, coupon terms, store policies, and meal planning, there is also significant money to be saved. <br /><br />Tonight's trip to Kroger was mainly a stockpile trip as we do not have need for a full week's shopping trip this week. Here is a breakdown of what we purchased and what we paid...<br /><ul><br /><li>(3)Silk Almond Milk @$2.49 - (3)$1 coupons = $1.49 ea ($4.47 ttl)</li><br /><li>(1)Almond Breeze @$2.50 - $1 coupon = $1.50</li><br /><li>(4)Classico Alfredo Sauce @ $1.79 - (2) $1/2 coupons = $1.29 ea ($5.16 ttl)</li><br /><li>(1)Hostess Twinkies @$2.50 - 50¢ coupon, doubled = $1.50 ttl</li><br /><li>(4)Crayola 24pk Crayons @ 25¢ ea = $1.00 ttl</li><br /><li>(1)Carefree Pantyliners @$1.09 - 50¢ coupon, doubled = 9¢ ttl</li><br /><li>(1)Kroger cheese 16 oz @$2.99 =$2.99 ttl</li><br /><li>(1)Danimals Yogurt tubes @$1.88 - $1 coupon = 88¢ ttl</li><br /><li>(2)Ronzoni Garden Delight fettucini @$1.00 ea - (2) $1.00 coupons = FREE</li><br /><li>(2)Aunt Jemima frozen pancakes @$1.49 ea - (2)$1.00 coupons = 49¢ ea (98¢ ttl)</li><br /><li>(3)Kellogg's Apple Jacks cereal @$1.99ea - $1/3 coupon = $1.66 ea ($4.97 ttl)</li><br /><li>produce, red cherries $2.48/lb, almost 1lb@$2.36 - $1 coupon = $1.36 ttl</li><br /><li>(4)Single size Peanut M&M @50¢ each - (2)75¢/2 coupons = 50¢ ttl</li><br /><li>Colgate Whitening 6.4oz @99¢ - 50¢ coupon, doubled = FREE</li><br /><li>(2)Oikos Greek Organic Yogurt 5.3oz @$1.25 ea - 50¢/2 coupon, doubled = $1.50 ttl</li></ul><br />--------------<br /><strong>Total with taxes: $27.19</strong>, 67% saved.<br /><br />Yes, some items were free. <br />Yes, $1.36 for nearly a pound of fresh cherries is an <em>amazingly</em> good price.<br />Yes, $1.49 for a half gallon of almond milk is <em>also</em> an amazingly good price.<br />The frozen pancakes, with all natural ingredients at just 49¢/box, are for my hubby when he wants a quick hot breakfast at 3:30am, the time he's up for work each day (and the time I'm oh-so-NOT-up to cook it for him).<br />Yes, I realize Twinkies and M&Ms can be contested as "food" items. ;) Kid treats!<br /><br />And best of all, the Kellogg's cereals are part of a promotion I've been chasing for some time now. When I buy 4 participating cereals, I earn a $5 gas card from Kellogg's. I've earned three so far, and plan to earn a total of 7 before I max out of that particular promotion. <br /><br />So, if you need to shave some money in the family budget, be encouraged. It definitely can be done if you're committed to learning and working at it.<br /><br /><em>She sees that her trading is profitable, <br />and her lamp does not go out at night. <br />Proverbs 31:18</em><br /><br /><p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:Cursive;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none;text-transform:none;color:FF3399;">Live wise in Him!</span></p> <p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:Cursive;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none;text-transform:none;color:FF3399;">~Toni~</span></p><p style="font-family:verdana,arial,sans-serif;font-size:10px;"><a title="Myspace Graphics" href="http://www.kortenaar.com"><img height="34" alt="myspace layouts, myspace codes, glitter graphics" src="http://dl.kortenaar.com/pub/229/229251raq5t3m0m9.gif" width="482" border="0" /></a><br /><p><a href="http://www.freedigitalphotos.net/images/view_photog.php?photogid=2280">Image: digitalart / FreeDigitalPhotos.net</a></p>Tonihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10318409820949377086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5450692910478799777.post-3012296273899857822011-07-11T22:58:00.025-04:002011-07-15T14:17:53.911-04:00Why?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6bWlzfWOhQyLrSjR5MLLjBIXp4G9-L-49cEmSmsEtlngZoiVdKjr6Q2cMZhIOX6l0InaacXd33CGIbLCK0qDVFRLvb1ObYmOrPIyAAwNAjcpeGZGCmCY2LPjHWrsiVosIJMC2peokVOM/s1600/tree-in-light-blue.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6bWlzfWOhQyLrSjR5MLLjBIXp4G9-L-49cEmSmsEtlngZoiVdKjr6Q2cMZhIOX6l0InaacXd33CGIbLCK0qDVFRLvb1ObYmOrPIyAAwNAjcpeGZGCmCY2LPjHWrsiVosIJMC2peokVOM/s320/tree-in-light-blue.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628845230207605346" /></a><br />Suffering is by far one of the greatest challenges made to the Christian faith.<br /> <br />"Why? <br />Why would a loving God allow so much suffering in the world?" <br /> <br />I have been reading Lee Strobel's <em>The Case For Faith</em> for a long time now. It's not one of those books you pick up and read, page after page, chapter after chapter, "The end." No, this one requires a stillness before God, a time of deep reflection on small chunks of very meaty food for thought. And tonight, in light of what has happened in my extended family, I was prompted to revisit parts of the book which I have already read, specifically the parts on suffering.<br /><br />My cousin is a wife and mother of three who lives in Florida. Growing up, she and her family always lived within just a few streets of our home. And with the exception of my Mom's brother and his wife, this cousin and her family were the <em>only</em> extended family living nearby. <br /><br />My cousin's health has been a struggle for her for years, the past two years being extremely challenging to the point of deciding on hospice care recently. She is young at only age 40. And she is beautiful. She is a wife. And she is a <em>wonderful</em> mother. Her children are amazing young people. The oldest just completed her first year in college and the middle child just graduated highschool.<br /><br />And her baby,...her baby was just fourteen. <br />He very unexpectedly passed away two days ago. <br />At <em>fourteen</em> (I can't seem to wrap my mind around that). <br />And now so many people who loved him and his family are left wondering why. <br /><br />In Strobel's book, he cites Peter Kreeft (author, <em>Making Sense Out of Suffering</em>) giving the example of a bear caught in a trap and a hunter who compassionately desires to free him. The hunter tries to win the bear's confidence but cannot, so he has to tranquilize him in order to do so. The bear receives this as an attack, not realizing that the additional pain was meant to save him, that it was in fact an act of compassion. The hunter even has to push the bear further into the trap to release the spring mechanism, causing him even further pain. If the bear is conscious at this point, he believes the hunter desires to make him suffer, which is the <em>wrong</em> conclusion. <br /><br />When human beings are exposed to great suffering, we often have no greater ability to understand God than the bear had to understand the motivation of the hunter, states Kreeft. Pondering this, <em>I</em> conclude that believers must unpretentiously <em>believe</em>. And while I have perhaps made the <em>simplest</em> conclusion, it also requires perhaps the <em>greatest</em> resolve in times of great trial. <br /><br />Strobel also credits British pastor John R.W. Scott with these words;<br /><em>"I could never myself believe in God, if it were not for the cross...in the real world of pain, how could one worship a God who was immune to it?...He entered our world of flesh and blood, tears and death. He suffered for us. Our sufferings become more manageable in light of His."</em><br /><br />As my heart breaks for my cousin and her family tonight, as I feel deeply concerned for each one of them and what their already tired hearts and minds can handle, I am purposing to believe for them. And I am asking every brother and sister in Christ that I know, to stand in the gap for them in prayer and to join me in the belief that our God is good and sovereign, that He deeply cares about the enormous suffering which my cousin and her family are enduring now, that He loves them and has entered into their pain <em>with</em> them, that He reigns victorious over the grave. <br /><br />Join me in prayer, won't you? <br />The Faulkner and Watson families need us to believe <em>with</em> them and <em>for</em> them.<br /><br /><p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:Cursive;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none;text-transform:none;color:FF3399;">Live wise in Him!</span></p> <p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:Cursive;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none;text-transform:none;color:FF3399;">~Toni~</span></p><p style="font-family:verdana,arial,sans-serif;font-size:10px;"><a title="Myspace Graphics" href="http://www.kortenaar.com"><img height="34" alt="myspace layouts, myspace codes, glitter graphics" src="http://dl.kortenaar.com/pub/229/229251raq5t3m0m9.gif" width="482" border="0" /></a>Tonihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10318409820949377086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5450692910478799777.post-81292419635157295412011-06-29T11:02:00.020-04:002011-06-29T13:55:32.467-04:00Open my eyes, Lord<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghWdNlGyHWl0hE5plOlH_FVFXaqN1pzBghGDSPvJZTVh5DXk-mR16DoOUF6Pi_ER7FYVp0dEMH6nDVobMV4idkR1g4Xr3ZY9tnAKtIx8dZixPxV8v4xzc4JNwjOwD_chm1OTrW8AuvsRE/s1600/IMG_4777.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghWdNlGyHWl0hE5plOlH_FVFXaqN1pzBghGDSPvJZTVh5DXk-mR16DoOUF6Pi_ER7FYVp0dEMH6nDVobMV4idkR1g4Xr3ZY9tnAKtIx8dZixPxV8v4xzc4JNwjOwD_chm1OTrW8AuvsRE/s320/IMG_4777.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5623677255595432002" /></a><br />Yesterday was one of those days.<br /><br />One of those days when, in His gracious provision, my Heavenly Father removed the veil that sometimes blurs my ability to fully see the blessing of a moment in time. I think you might know what I'm talking about. Anyone who has ever sat down to flip through the pages of a treasured family photo album surely must know. <br /><br />It goes something like this.<br />You revisit the past and the sweet memories fill your mind and flood your heart. <br />First steps. <br />First foods. <br />Carefree days of summer. <br />Little ones with little feet. <br />Fireworks and fireflies.<br />Loved ones in your midst and loved ones in your heart.<br />Flooded. Your heart fills absolutely flooded with nostalgia.<br /><br />Why is it that we <em>feel</em> so intensely in retrospect?<br />Why does it seem much more challenging to grasp the beauty and signficance of a moment when in real time?<br />Wouldn't it be sweeter if we could fully experience the wonder of a moment, I mean <em>fully</em> experience it <u>as</u> it is unfolding?<br /><br />I don't really know <em>why</em> that is.<br />Perhaps it's like an antique clock. <br />There's something so beautiful about the softness of its curved lines contrasted with the enduring hardwood form. <br />And as it captures the minutes and hours and subsequently counts them away, you are not so riveted about the reminder that "time marches on" so much as you are comforted by the lull of the soothing rhythm. <br />Tick tock. Tick tock. Tick tock.<br /><br />Perhaps "real time" moments are like that, lulling us with a rhythm that, while soothing, perhaps blur our ability to truly <em>feel</em> the significance and wonder of that particular point in time. <br /><br />Perhaps.<br /><br />But I do know this. <br />My Heavenly Father holds time, all of it, securely in His grasp. And I've come to realize that every now and then He allows me the <u>fullest</u> glimpse of the beauty of a moment, if <em>only</em> for a moment. <br />No hazy veil.<br />No photo required to capture it.<br /><br />And yesterday was one of those days.<br /><br />As my children played with friends on the playground, I was given a rare chance to sit down on a park bench in glorious sunshine and low humidity. I enjoyed the pleasure of an empty schedule, a light breeze, youthful smiles and giggles. I got to witness other moms lovingly attending to their children. And I got to enjoy a few minutes of conversation with a sweet friend from church whom I don't often get to sit and chat with (she has seven children of her own).<br /><br />And it occurred to me that I was <em>there</em>.<br />Fully present.<br />God was allowing me the <em>gift</em> and <em>privilege</em> of <em>real time </em>awareness.<br />One of those rare moments where I wouldn't need a photograph to "remember the good old days." I was <em>in</em> the good old days with every sense of my being, taking a wonderful moment in with deep breaths of gratitude.<br />And it was beautiful.<br />Fullfilling.<br />Peace.<br /><br />An Australian Aboriginal proverb said it this way:<br />"We are all visitors to this time, this place. We are just passing through. Our purpose here is to observe, to learn, to grow, to love... and then we return home."<br /><br />And God's living Word, alive and present in me, says it so perfectly like this:<br /><em>"<em>The LORD bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you <em>peace</em>." Numbers 6:24-26<br /></em></em><p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:Cursive;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none;text-transform:none;color:FF3399;">Live wise in Him!</span></p> <p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:Cursive;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none;text-transform:none;color:FF3399;">~Toni~</span></p><p style="font-family:verdana,arial,sans-serif;font-size:10px;"><a title="Myspace Graphics" href="http://www.kortenaar.com"><img height="34" alt="myspace layouts, myspace codes, glitter graphics" src="http://dl.kortenaar.com/pub/229/229251raq5t3m0m9.gif" width="482" border="0" /></a>Tonihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10318409820949377086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5450692910478799777.post-48785505644652346502011-05-21T16:43:00.007-04:002011-05-25T00:35:28.938-04:00Welcome back, friends!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn5aK5awMkUmkALjG2xwVbpsl74TkBvwsKO8edLjDJ_UjK3JYWbYibe1K6-qs9Iy4jTseIHV39OPoWEBEb5roCfQsVKfnC_P28M_fT_R7sXOoL_UAzpWCwqpQb09vKDpuNgGsY2vxdwZs/s1600/christmas%252710+to+cierah%2527s+bday%252711.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn5aK5awMkUmkALjG2xwVbpsl74TkBvwsKO8edLjDJ_UjK3JYWbYibe1K6-qs9Iy4jTseIHV39OPoWEBEb5roCfQsVKfnC_P28M_fT_R7sXOoL_UAzpWCwqpQb09vKDpuNgGsY2vxdwZs/s320/christmas%252710+to+cierah%2527s+bday%252711.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610505800052215730" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"> <font size=1>Brandon and all his "friends", as he calls them</font></div><br />Hiatus: a time for bloggers <strike>to claim that life was all busy</strike> to rejuvinate. I'm going to side-step the excuses and purpose to get back to writing for writing's sake. If you're here, thank you for reading and welcome back.<br /><br />We're running around opening and closing doors at light speed these next few weeks, homeschool lessons and dance practice coming to an end, swim practice in high gear and Little League in full swing (no pun intended). We'll soon add horse camp and as many fun summer memories as we can pack in. I <em>*love*</em> this time of year. In fact, June is my favorite month of all.<br /><br />Brandon, age 4, is such a delight to watch in baseball. I wish we could say we had something to do with his abilities and love of the game, but the fact is, we are the supporting role to his performance. When Brandon turned 2, we bought him a vinyl plush Mickey Mouse bat and ball. We figured cute gift, he'll toy around with it. We didn't anticipate that he would <em>love</em> that little set and ask his dad literally every single day to play ball with him.<br /><br />And so it began. Brandon is now in his first year of Little League and, oh for sweet, that boy loves the game. He refers to himself as a "baseballer" and boy oh boy, a baseballer he is. God has given him timing, passion, and a great swing. He is proud of his efforts and we are proud of the little boy that he is, both on and off the field. <br /><br />If you've ever been to a 4 year old baseball game, you know that it's 50% ball game and 50% comedy central. Oh, the things those boys do. Squat down in the middle of a game to fill a ball hat with rocks and dirt and put it back on their head. Race against and nearly tackle fellow team mates to get the ball. Lay down in the outfield. You get the picture. After this week's game, I can even add a few more to the list, like tagging a player out by launching the ball <em>at </em>him. Or fielding the ball and then following coach's instructions to "Throw it to first base!" by throwing it to second. Or my own personal favorite, falling asleep standing up at home plate (uh huh, did too.)<br /><br />Whatever you're doing to transition at this time of year, I hope it finds you well in health and in heart. Would love you to "check in" and share what's on your early summer agenda.<br /> <br /><p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:Cursive;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none;text-transform:none;color:FF3399;">Live wise in Him!</span></p> <p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:Cursive;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none;text-transform:none;color:FF3399;">~Toni~</span></p><p style="font-family:verdana,arial,sans-serif;font-size:10px;"><a title="Myspace Graphics" href="http://www.kortenaar.com"><img height="34" alt="myspace layouts, myspace codes, glitter graphics" src="http://dl.kortenaar.com/pub/229/229251raq5t3m0m9.gif" width="482" border="0" /></a>Tonihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10318409820949377086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5450692910478799777.post-26109203180962439472011-02-06T13:25:00.010-05:002011-02-06T22:01:17.191-05:00FLASH TRIP<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbG_0OnB4eqIUSMOBemdHbUZWTYOxldYUJnz7me9Pm-8jZNosNWaaV2RfvOn9QwZ2oHtrh1GaWJHrjd0qPZfCERI1ayJmzGCX1IZLj6FvrwQ4YZDK6NX4JqQQWJzx15SYWscwdzshwNp0/s1600/christmas%252710+to+cierah%2527s+bday%252711+163.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbG_0OnB4eqIUSMOBemdHbUZWTYOxldYUJnz7me9Pm-8jZNosNWaaV2RfvOn9QwZ2oHtrh1GaWJHrjd0qPZfCERI1ayJmzGCX1IZLj6FvrwQ4YZDK6NX4JqQQWJzx15SYWscwdzshwNp0/s200/christmas%252710+to+cierah%2527s+bday%252711+163.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5570654352220446930" /></a><br />The kids and I have been studying the American Revolution these past few weeks. Multiple historical figures were part of that study, including Thomas Jefferson, author of much of the Declaration of Independence. My husband and I have often talked about the benefits of his job, -the privilege that we, as a family, have in being able to board a flight any time we want (as long as seats are available). We've said that we would use that privilege to our advantage to <em>show</em> the kids some of the history they're studying "in real time." In reality, life usually gets in the way and we have only done it once, when they were studying Jamestown and Williamsburg and we flew there. <br /><br />So last week on Thursday, I was sitting there telling my husband all the historical facts we had studied, that particularly interested me. I reminded him that he and I had visited Monticello, Jefferson's plantation home, back in 1992, and how vivid that made the history we were studying. His response? <br /><br /><font size=4> <strong>"Why don't we take the kids to see it then?"</strong></font><br /><br />He meant that we should take a "flash trip", a brief, one-night trip to a place of our choosing, in this case Monticello, to enjoy a single focus and come home. <br />The excuses immediately rushed in to my mind. The hassle. The reservations. The kennel boarding. The fatigue of a quick trip. The......<br /><br /><font size=4><strong>"Okay. Before I talk us both out of this, <em>okay</em>. Let's just do it."</strong></font><br /><br />And so we did. We quickly booked a hotel and rental car, checked hours of operation and cost for touring Monticello, and packed a very light overnight bag for all. My husband got off work last Saturday at 1:30pm, came home and picked us up, and we headed right back to the airport for our afternoon flight. By 11pm that night, we were all tucked in to our beds at the Richmond, VA Wyndham for a night's rest and an elegant complimentary continental breakfast the next morning. Linen tablecloths and napkins, china, beverage service by the staff. Not your average continental breakfast. It was lovely.<br /><br />We drove the near 1½ drive to Charlottesville, arriving at Monticello around 11am. We were able to join an immediate tour and spent the next four hours exploring the house and grounds of Thomas Jefferson. I was so thankful for the privilege of giving our children that "real time" experience.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgucYtuUw5kzaKxcYkTbHbSHGni4GkxMzJkyTv9qlXas45duuBAL_HEUocC2Ci2sL5s-w7ZI1GWoMq87a7xqwDdAfdZo__-haMQjKF3TylCAHOjPqW49OmYpOijMiTIbIVods64Ie8L1Rs/s1600/christmas%252710+to+cierah%2527s+bday%252711+165.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgucYtuUw5kzaKxcYkTbHbSHGni4GkxMzJkyTv9qlXas45duuBAL_HEUocC2Ci2sL5s-w7ZI1GWoMq87a7xqwDdAfdZo__-haMQjKF3TylCAHOjPqW49OmYpOijMiTIbIVods64Ie8L1Rs/s320/christmas%252710+to+cierah%2527s+bday%252711+165.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5570662733925253410" /></a><br /> <br />We even had enough time left to visit the grounds of James Monroe's home as well, but we did not tour the inside. Still, it was nice to at least show the kids where another president had lived as well. After a full day of touring and exploring, we stopped for dinner at Cracker Barrel before heading to the airport for an evening flight back home. Stand-by travel being what it is, one of us almost had to stay behind in Chicago on the final leg home, as there weren't enough seats to accomodate our family of six. Thankfully, someone no-showed and we were able to take the last 6 seats just before departure. Good thing, because the blizzard of 2011 moved into Chicago the very next day.<br /><br />One incident did make us laugh (and "cry") while at Monticello. We were touring the vast produce garden area on Mulberry row, and decided to make our way through to the other side of the garden to visit a small glass enclosed structure similar to a gazebo (not sure of its function, but perhaps it is used for civic events). Anyway, as we went to step inside of it, me following the children and husband following me, I cracked my head against an overhead structure. It was the thick wooden frame of an enormous window sash that can be lifted up to make an entrance into the structure. Because of the glass, it was not very noticeable and thus the major thump of my head. It hurt! Everyone fussed over me while I rubbed my head in disbelief, pain, and okay, embarrassment. <br /><br />So what happended next? As we were stepping back out, I heard another THUD. This time, it was husband's biscuit that got whacked. Of course, kids being kids, the silence was interrupted with laughter mixed with, "Daddy are you okay? <em>Hahahahaha</em>. Are you hurt? <em>Hee hee hee</em>. Is it bleeding? <em>Bahahahaha</em>!" What else could we do? Within seconds, we joined them in laughter.<br /><br />And to top it all off, we were standing on an upper deck sometime later, looking out over Mulberry row and the garden, when hubby suddenly urged, "Uh oh! Come here, <em>quick</em>!" I got there just in time to see the glass structure in the garden, and the well dressed man with coiffed hair, polished shoes (turned red from the wet Virginia mud) and a formal overcoat. It happened in less than a second, but ran like a slow-motion picture in my mind as I thought, "Ooooh nooooo, he's going to whack his biscuit toooooo."<br /><br /><strong>BAMM!</strong> <br /><strong><em> <br />"Owww!"</em></strong><br /><br />(silence, and then.....)<br />"BAHAHAHAHA! Our family ducked away from the deck, faces a bit smurked, feeling both bad for the guy and redeemed for ourselves, as we now knew we weren't the only ones who couldn't see the glass obstacle looming overhead. We didn't laugh loudly, but we couldn't contain it either. It just stuck us all as funny after both myself and my husband had done the very same thing.<br /><br />I realize that everyone does not have the time or resources to do what we did, so please know that I realize this. Without the flying benefits that are SUCH a blessing through my husband's job, we might not be able to do this ourselves. But I encourage you to consider ways that you might create your own "flash trips", especially if you homeschool. Perhaps a visit to a local living history farm that covers your time period. A tour of a period home or the grave of a historical figure from that time. Even a trip to the library to read a historically significant picture book to your children in a quiet corner (and then icecream afterwards) can be a wonderful "fieldtrip" experience for all.<br /><br /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkK-l-IMUtRXJssRCMUiX8JSCg6Zn8PBZltnikug0wlIEERmbDDbjUG_cbDPJ2ycYTSzWxG7lppkF5ivVIvtO8lZbcGn0Y8qusWzIWRwGiALMOp8UV8wG_38M-QQMzh_7w9izL_c0udeg/s1600/christmas%252710+to+cierah%2527s+bday%252711+164-1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 134px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkK-l-IMUtRXJssRCMUiX8JSCg6Zn8PBZltnikug0wlIEERmbDDbjUG_cbDPJ2ycYTSzWxG7lppkF5ivVIvtO8lZbcGn0Y8qusWzIWRwGiALMOp8UV8wG_38M-QQMzh_7w9izL_c0udeg/s200/christmas%252710+to+cierah%2527s+bday%252711+164-1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5570654509038564850" /></a> <br /><br /><p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:Cursive;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none;text-transform:none;color:FF3399;">Live wise in Him!</span></p> <p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:Cursive;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none;text-transform:none;color:FF3399;">~Toni~</span></p><p style="font-family:verdana,arial,sans-serif;font-size:10px;"><a title="Myspace Graphics" href="http://www.kortenaar.com"><img height="34" alt="myspace layouts, myspace codes, glitter graphics" src="http://dl.kortenaar.com/pub/229/229251raq5t3m0m9.gif" width="482" border="0" /></a>Tonihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10318409820949377086noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5450692910478799777.post-27187721229297934052011-01-27T00:03:00.011-05:002011-01-27T09:38:19.172-05:00Good times around the table.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBewyqg-LRZh0tbPCPgaPz2sqlmEAlFGOeTzbVd7W-fcfgaQcck4yCVAMcOEjdbVsLQyzkaaGEhr04Uw6oXG4GyJ0jmfnBHCVaPUxLYwo8hpjx742-gxlt18FqEqIxd0yzB2yTCtIAUu8/s1600/rockwell.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 154px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBewyqg-LRZh0tbPCPgaPz2sqlmEAlFGOeTzbVd7W-fcfgaQcck4yCVAMcOEjdbVsLQyzkaaGEhr04Uw6oXG4GyJ0jmfnBHCVaPUxLYwo8hpjx742-gxlt18FqEqIxd0yzB2yTCtIAUu8/s200/rockwell.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566742088124234578" /></a><br />Sometimes it was fancy. <br />Mostly, I remember it being "good". <br />And to a little girl, that simply means I recall the experience as pleasant and secure; my whole family, -mom, dad, and us four kids, gathered around our metal early 70's table with its vinyl-covered chairs, for the family dinner.<br /><br />Fish sticks. <br />Hot dogs. <br />Fried potatoes. <br />Chicken legs. <br />Homemade soups. <br />Cabbage and noodles.<br /> <br />The meals had to feed six mouths on a single income and I must say, my parents did it well. <br />Well<em> and </em>young (there were four of us kids by the time my mom was 23).<br /><br />It was a different time back then. <br />A beautiful, wonderfully different time. <br />How I lament that my children cannot enjoy the same freedoms and care-free summer days that I was able to. If you've ever seen the show, "The Wonder Years," you will have received a somewhat realistic glimpse into my childhood. So much of what I loved about it is just not possible for my kids today, due in part to a world with less defined boundaries, greater criminal activity, and waaaay less children being made to play outdoors in fresh air and sunshine. Sigh. <br /><br />But thankfully for my family and I, one thing has <em>not</em> changed.<br />The family dinner is <em>still</em> a time of gathering us together, a time which I hope my children will someday recall, much like I do, as pleasant and secure.<br /><strong><font size=4>It's our time of connecting, debating, sharing, laughing and praying.</font></strong> And it's those last two, laughing and praying, that I would like to illuminate for just a moment.<br /><br />Yesterday, as we all gathered around the family dinner for prayer, my youngest son (age 4) began.<br /><font size=4><strong>"Dear Lord, thank you for this beautiful day and for our food that mommy made.<br />And thank you for my man purse."</strong></font><br />(enter raised eyebrows from mom and dad before the smack of clasped hands over gaping mouths could be heard, as we both tried, and failed, to hold back the laughter that had begun to rise from within.) <br /><br />But it wasn't over just yet...<br />Our older son, age 9, piled on.<br /><font size=4><strong>"And dear Lord, thank you for my food too, and please don't let there be any staples in it."</strong></font><br />That did it.<br /> <br />"BAAHAHAHAHA!" :D<br /><br />The whole family broke out in a fit of laughter, right in the middle of prayer time. And I have to believe that God, too, was laughing. You see, it's true. We <em>have</em> been finding staples in the food this past week or so. To be more specific, *I* have been finding staples in <em>my</em> food. <br /><em> Why?, </em>you ask? <br />Well, let's just say that I've been known to come up with a half-baked idea on occasion. Apparently, this past week was just such an occasion, where it occurred to me that in the absence of a bag-sealing clamp, I could simply fold and staple freezer bags before placing frozen items back in the freezer. So, I stapled my frozen fruit bag and a corn bag as well. <br /><br />Brilliant, yes? ;) <br /><br />"NoooOOOo." <br /><br />And right you are. It's a definite no. Because when I carefully re-opened those stapled bags (and I <em>was </em>careful, honest to goodness), apparently those little metal guys torpedoed into the food and hid out until I found them during my meals (hey, at least it was only me who paid the price for my poor choice). <br /><br />And did the kids take notice?<br />Clearly, that would be an affirmative <em>yes</em>, as evidenced by my older son's staple prayer (to be known as just that, THE STAPLE PRAYER, from this day forward).<br /><br />Can't you just hear him as he and his own family gather for the family dinner someday (and oh, how I pray that they too will have that wonderful privilege). <br />"Kids, did I ever tell you about the week where your grandmother kept discovering staples in her food? Yeah, she did. I don't recall the details exactly, <font size=4><strong>but I could almost <em>swear</em> it had something to do with a man purse</strong>."</font><br />THE END!<br /><br /><br /> <br /><br /><br /><p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:Cursive;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none;text-transform:none;color:FF3399;">Live wise in Him!</span></p> <p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-family:Cursive;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none;text-transform:none;color:FF3399;">~Toni~</span></p><p style="font-family:verdana,arial,sans-serif;font-size:10px;"><a title="Myspace Graphics" href="http://www.kortenaar.com"><img height="34" alt="myspace layouts, myspace codes, glitter graphics" src="http://dl.kortenaar.com/pub/229/229251raq5t3m0m9.gif" width="482" border="0" /></a><em></em>Tonihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10318409820949377086noreply@blogger.com0