Christmas is Over?

It's been a lovely Christmas here. Normally, I would start to feel sad that it is all over, but not this year. There is too much to look forward to in the coming year to mourn Christmas' passing.

Perhaps, it is more than just the happy things that are coming up.
Christmas to me this year was just more meaningful. Without the true hope of Christmas it would be very shallow and meaningless.

I will share a few photos from our weekend travels.

There was a lovely snow up north. 

We had oodles and gobs of cookies!  (Still do!) 

We have a new radio for camping and emergencies. 

And...

Lots of fun with these guys. 

It snowed!

Here's a song that makes me smile.  I hope you will agree. 

Have a Merry Little Christmas

With only 10 days left until Christmas, I am looking at my long list and crossing off things that do not go along with my desire to have a more simple life.  One of those items is blogging.  So, I am going to take a little bloggy holiday.  I do plan to visit blogs, but probably won't update much until the first of the year. 

Have a wonderful Christmas.

~Jenn

Back on the Right Track

Almost a year ago now, we got the family a Wii for Christmas. A week later, my Christmas dream was fulfilled by my MIL, as she got me the Wii Balance Board and Wii Fit. Faithfully, I mastered the games and really enjoyed them. Then we moved, which sent me into a fog and I gave up on my Wii Fit. And worst of all, I gained 20# back that I worked so hard to loose going to Weight Watchers the previous summer. (It is amazingly effortless for me to gain weight!)

Anyway, that is the past and I am finally motivated to go on now. Mostly, the motivation came watching my Grandma fall two weeks ago on Thanksgiving, when she broke her ankle and had to have surgery. Long ago she gave up her mobility. I resolved that I was not going to do the same thing.

My new plan is to get on my Wii Fit Monday through Friday right after my husband leaves for work and do 15 to 20 minutes. Doesn't seem like a lot to ask, but it takes half an hour with the body testing and everything.

I've noticed some good changes in this short two weeks. I am feeling stronger. I am feeling muscles ache, too. My weight is down 5 pounds. My mental state is more positive.

Yesterday was the first day that I really did not feel like doing my program. I sat for 30 minutes on the couch arguing with myself. I didn't want to get on and be weighed because the night before I attended a Christmas party and I ate cheesecake. I did not want to see the numbers. Imagine my surprise when I saw that the numbers went down! Yippee! And again today the numbers were down. I am now really hoping that I can get through the next 2 weeks without gaining those 5 pounds back.

Oh this time of year is so hard! I usually bake like crazy in December. I am just not going to do it. Will the earth stop on its axis? (hee,hee.) Nope. My family will probably complain, so I do think I will try to make one small batch for each of them, their favorites, but I will do this right before Christmas and we will limit ourselves to eating them just on Christmas Eve and day. Lord give me strength!

My resolve will need to remain strong. I have two Christmas parties to attend this weekend. The weekends are always hardest on me. I do so well during the week and then the weekends come and I eat. I think I am going to do my Wii Fit this weekend and see if that helps. It can't hurt!

So, how about you? Do you struggle with any of these issues? What are you doing to get through the next two weeks?

The Antique Mall

We pass miles of old dishes just like Grandma's.  Bits of history are mixed with retro.  Toys from my childhood are hidden in unexpected nooks.  Then my 11 year old finds what his heart has been desiring, a manual typewriter.  My heart sings.  Yes, he gets it that not everything worthy comes from a box store.  "Mom, I like old things."  Me too.  Me too.  This Christmas is going to be really special.  Old dolls made new.  An old typewriter gets a new writer.  Trains from a hobby store.  Just enough and nothing that would date itself to this age. 

It's Not That Bad...

So the sun shines, another day begins and the world is seeming to go on.  It's difficult to remain
blue when the people you are mourning for are not themselves sad.  They are turning to the Lord and waiting on His provision.  I feel ashamed to think how heartbroken I was/am for them.  They are solid in their faith and a wonderful example to me. 

I am not in the mood to write much here today.  I just didn't want to leave that other post out there with the possibility of people thinking I was hanging in a bad place.  I am not.  I am choosing to trust as well.  Thanks for your comments and prayers.  They are still needed, the prayers, that is.  Maybe we will move Heaven.  It could happen. 
~Jenn

When Trials Come

I find my mind wandering back to the same topic.  I should be engaged in our day.  It's just that my heart is so heavy today as some of my close extended family is going through a very hard time right now.

God is pruning and refining before our very eyes and it is painful to watch.  My first instinct is to want to protect them, but there is really nothing that I can do except pray and thank God they are walking with Him through this trial. 

I also thank Him for preparing ahead of all of this to remove me from the direct path of this trial, as it would have devastated my world.  But at the same time, I struggle with feeling guilty because He chose to be gracious to me and so far not to them.  Who can understand the ways of the LORD, yet His good. 

So, what else can I do.  I will wait on Him to rescue my precious family and give thanks for loving them enough to allow this pain.  That is all I can do. 

Psalm 3  (NLT)

A psalm of David, regarding the time David fled from his son Absalom.

1 O Lord, I have so many enemies;
so many are against me.
2 So many are saying,
“God will never rescue him!”

Interlude[a]


3 But you, O Lord, are a shield around me;
you are my glory, the one who holds my head high.
4 I cried out to the Lord,
and he answered me from his holy mountain.
Interlude

5 I lay down and slept,
yet I woke up in safety,
for the Lord was watching over me.
6 I am not afraid of ten thousand enemies
who surround me on every side.


7 Arise, O Lord!
Rescue me, my God!
Slap all my enemies in the face!
Shatter the teeth of the wicked!
8 Victory comes from you, O Lord.
May you bless your people.

Interlude







Footnotes:

a.Psalm 3:2 Hebrew Selah. The meaning of this word is uncertain, though it is probably a musical or literary term. It is rendered Interlude throughout the Psalms.

Yep...

Someday, I am going to have a front porch. 

Just thought you might like to know that. 

Oh, How I Love Them!

Bloggers I Never Miss

I certainly do not consider myself an accomplished blogger or wise woman or very creative for that matter, just because I have had multiple blogs for 3 years now.  Much to my chagrin, my writing style has more in common with Dick and Jane books than I like. 

"See my kids play.  Look, look at my cat!" 

Lately, I have even thought of quitting the blogging life-style all together.  What is the average life span of a blog anyway?  Who wants to read dribble?  Shouldn't I be spending less time on the computer? 

Unfortunately, I don't think I could quit blogging.  I've made some really sweet friends.  Grandparents who live far away also enjoy seeing posts about their grandkids.  It would be almost selfish not to continue, in their eyes!  (Or so I've been told.) 

And I would miss reading blogs.  There are just so many incredible, encouraging people out there cranking out beautiful words and posting equally stunning photographs that make my heart glad to be part of this cyber world in some small way. 

One such blogger is Ann Voskamp of Holy Experience.  Her words and pictures capture me in a way I've never thought possible.  She is the catalyst behind why I am working on personal Scripture memory, a visual home journal and encouraging my family to read God's Word more.  You might even want to vote for Ann over at The Homeschool Post's Homeschool Blog Awards.   I did. 

Another encourager is Lynn from A Mother's Journal.  I so admire her wisdom and strength.  She is a lovely person who is building a lovely home for her family.   I enjoy pictures of her beautiful garden and  hearing about her adventures in home education. 

Speaking of building a lovely home, I simply can't say enough about Hannah at Cultivating Home.  Hannah is wise beyond her years.  She is making a difference for Jesus while on this earth.  When I grow up, I want to be like her. 

I am thankful for each one of you who shares your life with me via blogging.  I don't know how long this will last, but for now, I am pressing on. 
~Jenn

Slice of Life Monday, Number 8

Hello.  I hope you've had a nice weekend.  I started this meme for myself as a way to keep track of some things that are going on around here.

~Things I hope to do this week~

Always number one... keep clutter at bay. I need to keep looking for things to purge. I finally feel as if I am making progress. As I look around myself, I see mainly things that we love or need. This is my goal. I think I need to purge some clothing this week, but that's it.

Visit my grandparents before the week is out. Grandpa was sick last week and this week my oldest seems to be getting a cold, so I am not sure this will happen. 

Keep my focus on our lessons despite the busy days.

Work on my visual homemaking journal. 

~Not Set in Stone Menu~

Monday: Homemade Chicken Pot Pie

Tuesday: Chili and Cornbread
Wednesday: Picnic with Daddy before AWANA

Thursday: Roasted Chicken, vegetables

Friday: Pizza and Salad

Saturday: Pot Roast with Vegetables 

Sunday: Leftovers



~What I am reading~

Power of a Woman's Words by Sharon Jaynes, Chapter 13 &14.  (The end of the study.)

Finish memorizing 1Corinthians 13, on verse 13.

Proverbs, chapter a day with my children.

In the morning, Psalms, 7 week reading plan.


~Things I am thankful for~

(Ongoing list updated each week.)
A husband who comes home every evening and remains engaged.

Just enough.

Healthy children.
A warm home.
A great family weekend.
God's awesome creation. (Lake Michigan comes to mind.)

Parents who bless me.
Sunshine on a cool fall morning.
Yellow gold leaves.

Opportunities to serve others.

Unusually warmer days for November.

Good books from the library.


~What we are learning together~
We started a biography of D.L. Moody. How I am inspired by biographies!  We will also continue to read through Proverbs, one chapter a day. We will be learning hymns and singing other favorites. My oldest will continue reading Around the World in 80 Days. He will also spend some time working on a map of the journey. I want my daughter to begin reading Elsie Dinsmore, book one. I've been looking forward to her being old enough to enjoy this series of books. I am thankful that our library carries some of them.  We will also be reading some poetry from Robert Frost.  For fun, we started reading 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. 

~A Prayer Request or Two~

Still praying for the attitude of my heart to be in-line with God's will, that I'd not grumble so much. (God is enough!)  Oh my goodness, this is going to be a life long struggle, I fear! 

Praising God's provision day by day.

Praying for my mom's healing and for the clothes she needs for this winter. With her nerve condition, it is hard to wear clothes. I am praying she will find a fabric that doesn't irritate her nerve endings.

Praising God for our good health and asking for it to continue. Protection from illness this winter.  My oldest seems to have a cold coming on.  I pray it doesn't spread. 

Praying for attitudes of my children. Oldest would bare fruit of his confession of faith. Middle would obey without grumbling, resist her flesh. Youngest would not be puffed up from frequent praise.

~Picture I am sharing~

I took this a couple years ago at an art musuem we enjoy visiting. 

Oreck Halo Review & Giveaway!!!

Oreck Halo Review & Giveaway!!! Here's my chance! I mean your chance to win a fantastic vacuum cleaner. We have an aging Oreck and I'd love to get a newer one that would filter alergens. Pop over and tell Kristie why you would like to win this vacuum.
~Jenn

Made From Scratch

Good day to you!  Had to share this wonderful read with you.  Made From Scratch by Jenna Woginrich  just may change your life.  (At least it has changed the way I am thinking about my life.)

I've always thought that I wanted to be a farmer.  I spent two of my younger years on a farm raising cows, chickens, pigs, rabbits, soy beans and corn.  Those were great times!  I was in the 5th and 6th grade.  My parents were still together.  My sister was alive.  We had 20 acres and a little, tiny two bedroom house.  What more could we want? 

My, I have such sweet memories of those days.  I learned to halter break my calves and lead them on walks down the deserted roads.  I tried to save a new baby pig from its ultimate fate when its mother stepped on him. Little Football, I called him.  I watched my cat have litter after litter.  I watched my cat barf up a mouse!  I played house in the haystack, in the garage, on the front porch with Barbie.  I swung on my tire swing.  I enjoyed meals outside on a table made at the prison.  We planted an evergreen tree that is still there. (The house and buildings are gone.)  We went to sugar-maple festivals and joined 4H and Girl Scouts.  We were rescued from a night at school by a neighbor who came to get us in his tractor during a bad snowstorm!  Those were two packed years of my formative times. 


I think that I have romanticized these cherished years to the point that every time I pick up a book, fiction or non, that is about farm life, I start to pine for something I do not have.  I am always searching for a way back to my life before the pain of divorce and sorrow entered.  Anyway, Miss Woginrich, I thank you for writing your book and inspiring others to go after their dreams. 

What is so inspiring is that Miss Wonginrich does not wait for life to come to her.  She knows what she wants and she goes after it.  She is purposeful, diligent and motivated!  She may have to work a day job, but that does not stop her from living her dream and encouraging others. 

I am inspired by her example to do the same.  But first I need to determine what I really want.  What do I really want?  I already have so much, not in material blessings, perhaps, but I have a totally devoted husband, three awesome kids, and the sweetest kitty on earth!  Not to mention the love of extended family and friends.  I am a blessed woman, indeed! 

In March, we will have a golden opportunity to move yet again.  We need to be so careful and choose wisely.  Do we want to rent a little farm?  Do we want to be in town?  Those are huge questions going through my mind right now.  Both situations would be very suitable for the stage of life we are in right now.  Reading this book has helped me to see more clearly what I want.  I can see my dream house so clearly, although, it may not include livestock just now.  I really want to continue to have our weekends free to explore and go camping, so animals are not really a good fit for now.  But that doesn't mean they would not be in the future.   

I found this picture that might give you an idea of what I am after.   

I so love porches, and this house has two, what a house!  We certainly won't find this type of house to rent in our price range, but you have to shoot for something when you are dreaming, right? I will be looking for a house with at least a small porch, a yard to grow some food in, and a big tree to hang a swing from. 

Sorry that I've not said much about the details of Made From Scratch.  If you are curious, you can get a feel of the book from the author's blog at Cold Antler Farm.  If you hurry, she is giving away a hand-crank radio if you leave her a comment telling how you told someone about her blog. 

Blessings,

Jenn

Slice of Life Monday (Week 7)

I've just been too busy getting our week off to a good start, that posting this meme on Monday has been too difficult the last two weeks.

~Things I hope to do this week~
Keep clutter at bay. I need to keep looking for things to purge. I finally feel as if I am making progress. As I look around myself, I see mainly things that we love or need. This is my goal. I think I need to purge some clothing this week, but that's it.

Visit my grandparents before the week is out. With tomorrow being Veteran's Day, I'd like to go and honor Grandpa, who served in WWII.

Keep my focus on our lessons despite the busy days.

Help youngest son with his thank you notes. He has done 4. My goal is to have him do 2 a day this week.


~Not Set in Stone Menu~

Monday: Homemade Marinara and Meatballs

Tuesday: Homemade Chicken and Noodles

Wednesday: Picnic with Daddy before AWANA

Thursday: Meatloaf, Potatoes, Green beans

Friday: Pizza and Salad

Saturday: Pot Roast with Vegetables, Homemade Rolls

Sunday: Leftovers

~What I am reading~
Power of a Woman's Words by Sharon Jaynes, Chapter 12. This week we are studying how silence is so important.

Memorizing 1Corinthians 13, on verse 12. (12 For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known.

Made From Scratch by Jenna Woginrich (I hope to post about this book this week.  Excellent!)

Proverbs, chapter a day with my children.

In the morning, Psalms, 7 week reading plan.


~Things I am thankful for~
(Ongoing list updated each week.)

A husband who comes home every evening and remains engaged.

Just enough.

Healthy children.

A warm home.

A great family weekend.

God's awesome creation. (Lake Michigan comes to mind.)

Parents who bless me.

Sunshine on a cool fall morning.

Yellow gold leaves.

Opportunities to serve others.

Unusually warmer days for November.

Good books from the library.


~What we are learning together~

We are continuing to spend our time reading more about Exodus, finishing up some historical fiction (Tirzah)this week. We started a biography of D.L. Moody. We are finishing Star of Light by Patricia St. John. We will continue to read through Proverbs, one chapter a day. We will be singing hymns and other favorites. We will keep our timeline and maps of the Fertile Crescent updated. We will also add a page to our history notebooks. My oldest will continue reading Around the World in 80 Days. He will also spend some time working on a map of the journey. My daughter will begin reading Elsie Dinsmore, book one. I've been looking forward to her being old enough to enjoy this series of books. I am thankful that our library carries some of them.

~A Prayer Request or Two~

Still praying for the attitude of my heart to be in-line with God's will, that I'd not grumble so much. (God is enough!)

Praising God's provision day by day, especially for my parents. Praying for more orders for their business.

Praying for my mom's healing and for the clothes she needs for this winter. With her nerve condition, it is hard to wear clothes. I am praying she will find a fabric that doesn't irritate her nerve endings.

Praising God for our good health and asking for it to continue. Protection from illness this winter.

Praying for attitudes of my children. Oldest would bare fruit of his confession of faith. Middle would obey without grumbling, resist her flesh. Youngest would not be puffed up from frequent praise.




~Picture I am sharing~
I saw this yesterday at another blog I read frequently. It so sums up my feelings about this blog! But I am not giving up over here.  (Thank you, JoAnn for your loyalty.)  By the way, the picture origniates at Dispair.com.  You should go check it out.  You'll get a good laugh! 

Happy Weekend

Simple Reading

"I imagined a simple kitchen, a farm sink full of soapy water, a view from the window that would lift my heart, and time enough just to stand there, fingers softening into wrinkles, slowly swirling a sponge across a china plate." 
~Discover how chores become therapy in Katrina Kenison's memoir, The Gift of an Ordinary Day.

Slice of Life Monday: Number 6

~Things I hope to do this week~
Get the laundry under control again after a weekend of neglect.

Keep clutter at bay. I need to keep looking for things to purge.

Visit my grandparents before the week is out.

Keep my focus on our lessons despite the busy days.

Help youngest son with his thank you notes. 


~Not Set in Stone Menu~

Monday: BBQ chicken, green salad, homemade bread

Tuesday: Cheeseburger Soup, salad and homemade bread

Wednesday: Picnic with Daddy before AWANA

Thursday: Grilled hamburgers, veggies with cheese sauce

Friday: Pasta bake, salad and garlic bread

Saturday: Leftovers

Sunday: Rotisserie chicken, potatoes and salad


~What I am reading~
Power of a Woman's Words by Sharon Jaynes, Chapter 11, Power of  Practice.  This book study is almost over.  I have really enjoyed learning in a group setting. 

Memorizing 1Corinthians 13

Proverbs, chapter a day with my children

In the morning, Psalms 7 week reading plan.


~Things I am thankful for~
(Ongoing list updated each week.)

A husband who comes home every evening and remains engaged.

Just enough.

Healthy children. (Healing for my youngest and protection for the rest of us.)

A warm home.

A great family weekend.

God's awesome creation. (Lake Michigan comes to mind.)

Parents who bless me.

Sunshine on a cool fall morning. 

Yellow gold leaves. 


~What we are learning together~

We are continuing to spend our time reading more about life in Ancient Egypt, reading some historical fiction. We will continue to read Tirzah, which is about a Hebrew slave girl who lived during the time of Exodus. We will continue to read through Proverbs, one chapter a day. We will be singing hymns and other favorites. We will finish reading Star of Light. We will be listening to Vivaldi. We will update our timeline and maps of the Fertile Crescent. We will also add a page to our history notebooks. My oldest will continue reading Around the World in 80 Days. He will also spend some time working on a map of the journey. We will be learning about serving others:  taking a meal to a church family, visiting elderly in a nursing home, and babysitting for a friend.  These are golden opportunities to learn about putting others' needs first. 


~A Prayer Request or Two~

Still praying for my tone of voice, especially when I give directions to my children. (Proverbs 31:26) I have vowed to ask for forgivness anyone that I offend, as soon as it happens. Also praying for the attitude of my heart to be in-line with God's will.

Praising God's provision day by day, especially for my parents. Pray for more orders for their business.

Praying for my mom's healing and for the clothes she needs for this winter.  With her nerve condition, it is hard to wear clothes.  I am praying she will find a fabric that doesn't irritate her nerve endings. 

Praising God for our good health and asking for it to continue. Protection from illness this winter. 

Praying for attitudes of my chilren. Oldest would bare fruit of his confession of faith. Middle would obey without grumbling. Youngest would not be puffed up from frequent praise.

~Picture I am sharing~

It's that time of the year again! 

The Well Planned Day

One of the ways I strive  to discipline myself is to write out a routine and then do my best to stick to it.  Eventually it becomes a habit and then I start to see good things happening in my home.  When I slack off, I see that fruit as well, and it is not so pretty. 

Currently, I have a really good morning routine, but have always struggled with my afternoons.  I think it has to do with loosing steam at around 2 or 3PM and the general relaxed atmosphere after having completed our lessons for the day.  It is not unreasonable to rest a little at that point, but it is a temptation of mine to give up completely and retreat to the computer room. 

On the contrary, it is a desire of mine to have my whole day more structured, so I am going to commit this to more prayer and then proceed by enlisting the help of my kids to set up an afternoon routine that works for all of us.  Getting them to "buy into" this should increase the success, at least I hope. 

"It is a gift to be able to paint a particular picture or to carve a statue,
and so to make a few objects beautiful;
but it is far more glorious to carve and paint
 the very atmosphere and medium
through which we look.
To affect the quality of the day
 - that is the highest of the arts."

~Henry David Thoreau

Star of Light by Patricia St. John

Are you looking for a good book to read aloud?  One that will set your heart on missions?  One that will take you to a far away place where Jesus is just another prophet, but becomes so much more to the characters?  Star of Light will capture your heart from the start.  I could not put it down.  Thankfully, it is not a difficult book to read quickly.  Yes, perhaps the characters are a little lacking in depth, but the heart behind the story is what is so very charming.  We have read another of Patricia St. John's books, Tanglewoods' Secret.  It was equally delightful.  I cannot wait to dive into the next book, Treasures of the Snow.  We were blessed to find the original versions in our church library.  Perhaps you may find these books a blessing to your read aloud time or have an avid young reader who would enjoy these stories on their own.  If you need more ideas for reading, be sure to check out my library on the sidebar. 
~Jenn

Slice of Life, No. 5

~Things I hope to do this week~
This could be a "lost" week.  My youngest woke up with a fever of 103.1.  I shall have to be flexible this week.  So I write these with that in mind. 

• Need to call my grandparents who are in the nursing home. 
• Keep our focus on lessons despite illness and a busy week. 
• Keep laundry moving along.
• Get food for later part of the week's activities.
• Keep looking for things to purge. 

~Not Set in Stone Menu~

Monday: White Chicken Chili


Tuesday: Chicken stir-fry

Wednesday: Picnic with Daddy in the church parking lot or???

Thursday: Pizza (Trevor's birthday)

Friday: Harvest Party at church (Not totally sure about going) or Chicken and dumplings
Saturday: Mexican Pitch-in with friends ~ bringing corn cake

Sunday:  (Trevor's family party) Steaks, chicken, mashed potatoes, salad, icecream birthday cake


~What I am reading~

Power of a Woman's Words by Sharon Jaynes, Chapter 10
Proverbs, chapter a day
Memorizing 1Corinthians 13

~Things I am thankful for~
(Ongoing list updated each week.)


A husband who comes home every evening and remains engaged.

Just enough.

Healthy children.

A warm home.

A great family weekend.

God's awesome creation. (Lake Michigan comes to mind.)

Parents who bless me.

Colors of Autumn.

Tylenol, Jell-o, Gatorade, and PBS Kids


~What we are learning together~
Again we will have to be flixible, as health allows.  We are going to spend out time reading more about life in Ancient Egypt, reading some historical fiction. We will read Tirzah, which is about a Hebrew slave who lived during the time of Exodus. We will continue to read through Proverbs, one chapter a day. We will be singing Wonderful Grace of Jesus and other favorites. We will continue reading Star of Light. We will be listening to Vivaldi's Autumn. We will update our timeline and maps of the Fertile Crescent. We will also add a page to our history notebooks. My oldest will continue reading Around the World in 80 Days. He will also spend some time working on a map of the journey.

~A Prayer Request or Two~
Still praying for my tone of voice, especially when I give directions to my children. (Proverbs 31:26) I have vowed to ask for forgivness anyone that I offend, as soon as it happens. Also praying for the attitude of my heart to be in-line with God's will.

Praising God's provision day by day, especially for my parents. Pray for more orders for their business.

Asking God to protect the rest of from Trevor's illness.  Help me to be a good manager of his needs. 

Praying for a church family who still needs a fulltime job with benefits for their father and a lot of grace from me.  ~Praise, he got a job, but it is commission only, so now I am praying he will be blessed with lots of orders. 

Praying for attitudes of my chilren. Oldest would bare fruit of his confession of faith. Middle would obey without grumbling. Youngest would not be puffed up from my frequent praise.

~Picture I am sharing~

Taken this past weekend of Lake Michigan at IN Dunes State Park, you can almost make out the Chicago Skyline, despite the clouds. 

Have a wonderful week!
~Jenn

Collector of Words, I Am

Some people collect things, I am a collector of words.  Here are a few good ones I found this week. 

"God does not comfort us to make us comfortable, but to make us comforters." 
~J.H. Lovett

"The most indispensable ingredient of all good home cooking:  love for those you are cooking for." 
~Sophia Loren

"Finding a way to live the simple life today is man's most complicated task."
~Henry A. Courtney

Creating a Haven for Your Husband

First, I must make this disclaimer.  I am married to the most amazing man by the grace of the Lord.  I hesitate to write this post, as I do not speak from having the experience of being unequally yoked, as many of my friends do.  My heart goes out to you and I am on my knees for several of you that I know personally.  I do not take my husband's love for the Lord for granted.  I realize that I have a special treasure in him.  However, I feel the need to encourage you who may need a little hope in this area of your life. 

Go get a mirror.  I'll wait.  Got it?  Good, now take a good, long look.  You see that lovely person?  She is created in the image of her maker.  She was created to be her husband's helper completer.  She was created to bring glory to her God.  Are you squrimming yet?  I certainly am! 

OK, so when a friend calls me to vent, I frequently here the words, "He is not helping me!"  I cringe at these words.  Would you be expected to go to your husband's place of employment and be expected to help him with his work?  I certainly would not be much of a help to my husband's accounting firm.  So why do we expect his help with our work at home?  Now, I am not saying he should be sitting around giving you orders, but really, who's domain is the home?  Not really his, is it?  God gave us the responsibility to be our husband's helper.  It is not the other way around.  If your husband chooses to help around the house, you are blessed, indeed. 

I have a dear friend whose husband proclaims to know the Lord, yet, he is not bearing fruit.  He disengages when he comes home from work, leaving her with the 24/7 burden of the home and children.  She is praying for the Lord to give her the partner she desires.  She feels more like a servant than a wife.  She is angry. 

My advice to her? Create a haven for her husband at home. This world he goes into each day is not for him, but agaisnt him.  Pray for him each day.  Pray for guidance as to what a peaceful home should look like. Ask her husband what 3 things she could do everyday that would make him feel loved and then do them, cheerfully. She must stop her nagging, complaining, and withholding affection.


It may be that the Lord is not going to give you an easy marriage. Are you willing to submit to His will for you?  Your response may set the stage for your husband's very conversion! Think of that. You are an ambassador for the Lord. What you do will have eternal consequences.

A Note To the Younger Women

Like it or not, I find myself in the role of the older woman.  My child bearing days behind me, I have only a few short years of rearing ahead of me.  This makes me think of my favorite verses from Titus 2, and I embrace them joyfully. 

"...the older women likewise, that they be reverent in behavior, not slanderers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things— 4 that they admonish the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, 5 to be discreet, chaste, homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be blasphemed." (NKJV)

Just this morning, I got a call from a dear younger friend in the Lord.  She has many times called me asking for wisdom.  Today I told her to turn her heart towards her family, her husband and to not loose sight of her purpose (that the word of God may not be blasphemed.)  I told her not to spend too much time on the phone, but more time on her knees in prayer.  I told her not to compare herself to others.  I told her to listen to what the Lord is telling her, not her neighbors.  Make it her business to create a home that is a place of refuge for her husband.  (I hope to talk more about this later.)

I pray that she will listen.  I know she will be blessed with the peace she is seeking if she does.  It is not listening to me that I want, but to the wisdom that the Lord has imparted to me through His good and perfect Word. 

I encourage all of you to go and do likewise.  Seek His will for you and then do it.  Wait on Him to speak.  For He will speak if you are asking with the correct motives.  I wish I had known these things before I was a married woman.  However, the Lord has blessed me despite my failings in this area.  And it is never too late to change the course that you are on. 

~Jenn

Slice of Life on My Birthday, Number 4

~Things I hope to do this week~

• Get the laundry under control after a weekend of neglect. 
• Get ready for this week's gathering of friends at my home. Ten lovely ladies will be coming for dinner tomorrow!  Oh my! 
• Keep clutter at bay.  We made a trip to Good Will on Saturday.  I need to keep looking for things to purge. 
• Visit my grandparents before the week is out. 
• Keep my focus on our lessons despite the busy days.

~Not Set in Stone Menu~
Monday:  Taco Salad

Tuesday: Lasagna, salad, bread, cheesecake

Wednesday: Picnic with Daddy in the church parking lot or???

Thursday: White Chicken Chili

Friday: Boys Bonfire at church, girls will have a datenight

Saturday: Spaghetti dinner with family

Sunday:  Rotisserie chicken, potatoes and salad


~What I am reading~

Power of a Woman's Words by Sharon Jaynes, Chapter 9, Power of a Woman's Words to the Lord

Proverbs, chapter a day


~Things I am thankful for~

(Ongoing list updated each week.)

A husband who comes home every evening and remains engaged.
Just enough.
Healthy children.
A warm home.
A great family weekend.
God's awesome creation. (Lake Michigan comes to mind.)
Parents who bless me.

~What we are learning together~
(Week six of My Father's World)  We are taking a break from MFW this week.  We've done all the reading that was scheduled for this week.  We are going to spend out time reading more about life in Ancient Egypt, reading some historical fiction.  We will read Tirzah, which is about a Hebrew slave who lived during the time of Exodus.  We will continue to read through Proverbs, one chapter a day. We will be singing Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing and other favorites. We will finish reading Tanglewood's Secret.  We will be listening to Vivaldi's Summer. We will update our timeline and maps of the Fertile Crescent. We will also add a page to our history notebooks. My oldest will continue reading Around the World in 80 Days.  He will also spend some time working on a map of the journey. 



~A Prayer Request or Two~

Still praying for my tone of voice, especially when I give directions to my children. (Proverbs 31:26) I have vowed to ask for forgivness anyone that I offend, as soon as it happens. Also praying for the attitude of my heart to be in-line with God's will.

Praising God's provision day by day, especially for my parents.  Pray for more orders for their business. 

Praising God for our good health and asking for it to continue. 

Praying for a church family who still needs a fulltime job with benefits for their father and a lot of grace from me.

Praising God for my sweet kitty's vet and the money to pay for the visit.  It's really put a sparkle in her eye and extra hop in her step. 

Praying for attitudes of my chilren.  Oldest would bare fruit of his confession of faith.  Middle would obey without grumbling.  Youngest would not be puffed up from my frequent praise. 


~Picture I am sharing~

Today is my birthday! 

Coming Out of Sticker Shock

From now on when my oldest son says he wants to be a vet, I am going to lavish praise on him to encourage this idea!  Yesterday, my 15 year old sweet Abbey Cat, had to make a trip to the vet. 

I have not taken her to the vet since having kids, just didn't have the money.  That plan had worked for us for the last 11 and a half years.  She's been a very healthy cat.  Then in the business of having young kids, I kind of forgot her maintenance needs.  And they've caught up with us. 

Poor baby had a bad tooth and needed it pulled.  She also needed her claws clipped because three were growing into her paws.  We also got her shots and teeth cleaned, since she was already knocked out.  I am hoping this is all she will need for the next little awhile.  Our emergency fund is a little smaller this week, but I am thankful she is well.  She is an important member of our family. 

I have been living with a Siamese cat in the house since the age of 13.  That's a long time!  I can't imagine my life without one, but I am starting to wonder if I can afford another after Abbey.  Vet care is important, but expensive if you are a one income family.  We will have to pray about this.  Hopefully, we won't have to worry about this for awhile, but with such an older cat, I can't help but try to prepare myself for the future.

Rainy, Dreary Days

Here it is Wednesday, already. Our week has been going well. I hope yours is too. I am thankful for a return to better health for myself. I am thankful that the kids are well at the moment, too. I know so many who are not. (I am praying for you.)

I am wondering if being in so many activities is wise this winter. We are bound to get sick, being exposed to so many kids in church and other places we go. When my youngest was born, we were told not to take him anywhere until March. We followed those doctor's orders and ended up having the best winter ever. No one had as much as a sniffle. It was not easy, but it was worth it.

I have a birthday coming up next Monday. Birthdays are not as much fun when you are in your 40's. Not just the getting older part, but the guilt that comes from wanting to eat birthday cake and spend money. I am going to eat some cake, but not as much as I would like. See, getting older is just not so much fun. I suppose it is a state of mind. I probably could make it more fun if I tried. (Something to pray about. Having a birthday is better than not having one!) And as for spending money, I will have to use restraint there as well. 

Now I am not sure if I should post this or not. It's kind of a downer. Sorry about that. I do not like to be discouraging on my blog. Perhaps it is the rainy, cold, dreary day we are having here. And it is just the beginning of cold, dreary days to come. Perhaps, I am coming down from my "mountain top" weekend? It's hard to get back to real life after such a nice time away.

I think I will leave you with this quote.



"I expect to pass through this world but once. Therefore, if there be any good that I can do or any kindness that I can show to any fellow creature, let me do it now, for I shall not pass this way again."
~William Penn

I am recently convicted that I am not a very loving person when I compare myself to the Bible. As I am memorizing 1 Corinthians 13 for the ladies Bible study I attend, it is piercing my heart. My attitudes are not loving or kind. This is a good thing to be convicted of.  I am thankful for the Holy Spirit's workings on my heart. 

I hope the rest of your week brings you joy and glory to our King.
~Jenn

Words: Weapons or Grace

 "We have the power in our words to make people thirsty to know Christ. It doesn't necessarily come through preaching.  It comes through loving, listening, and learning."

~Sharon Jaynes, The Power of a Woman's Words

• Compliment others, being sure to be sincere.
• Show interest and concern when someone appears to be having a bad day.
• Say thank you.
• Ask quesitons about someone's interests.
• Greet others.
• Write encouraging notes during difficult times.
• Find something postitive to say.
• Start a conversation with a person you do not know.
• Speak kindly to others. 

The Bible has a lot to say about our words.  I encourage you to take some time and read through a chapter of Proverbs each day.  You will soon see what God thinks about our words.  I read these words yesterday...

Proverbs 11:9 "With their words, the godless destroy their friends, but knowledge will rescue the righteous."

Proverbs 11: 12-13" It is foolish to belittle one’s neighbor; a sensible person keeps quiet. A gossip goes around telling secrets, but those who are trustworthy can keep a confidence."

Proverbs 11: 16-17 "A gracious woman gains respect, but ruthless men gain only wealth. 17 Your kindness will reward you,
but your cruelty will destroy you."

Who will be your special assignment today?  A lonely neighbor?  A straying child?  A librarian?  Find that someone and encourage them with your words today.

Slice of Life Monday, Number 3

~Things I hope to do this week~

• Get the laundry under control after a long weekend away. 
• Tidy Grace's room before it is out of control again.
• Plan for next week's gathering of friends at my home. 
• Keep clutter at bay.
• Call the vet about my cat's claw.  I think it is infected. 

~Not Set in Stone Menu~

Monday: Baked Spaghetti with homemade garlic bread and a salad


Tuesday: Chicken and Dumplings


Wednesday: Picnic with Daddy in the church parking lot or???


Thursday: Pancakes and fruit

Friday:  Soup and homemade bread, salad

~What I am reading~

Power of a Woman's Words by Sharon Jaynes, Chapter 8, Power of a Woman's Words to the World
Proverbs, chapter a day

~Things I am thankful for~

(Ongoing list updated each week.)

A husband who comes home every evening and remains engaged.

Just enough.

Healthy children.

A warm home.

A great time away from everything. 

God's awesome creation.  (Lake Michigan comes to mind.) 

Willing and able grandparents. 

~What we are learning together~

(Week five of My Father's World) We are making a little change this week.  We need more meat.  We have been used to Sonlight's deep well of reading.  (We will be back to Sonlight next year.)  We are going to add a little more reading this week to MFW.  We are going to spend more time in Streams of Civilization to get this meat.  This week we are still learning about Ancient Egypt. We will continue to read through Proverbs, one chapter a day. We will be singing Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing and other favorites. We will finish reading  In Search of the Source and continue in Tanglewood's Secret, both excellent books. For science we will continue to look at the science behind pyrimids. We will be listening to Vivaldi's Spring. We need to update our timeline and maps of the Fertile Crescent. We will also add a page to our history notebooks.

~A Prayer Request or Two~

Still praying for my tone of voice, especially when I give directions to my children. (Proverbs 31:26) I have vowed to ask for forgivness anyone that I offend, as soon as it happens. 

Praising God's provision day by day.

Praising God for a safe trip to Michigan and that the kids were well cared for while we were away.

Praying for a church family who needs a job for their father and a lot of grace from me. 

Praying for my sweet kitty's claw and the money to pay for its healing. 

~Picture I am sharing~

Holland State Park, Holland, MI

I'll share more about our weekend later.  Right now it is time to go make some muffins. 

For a Few Days

I am going away with my beloved for a few days to celebrate our 15 years of marriage.  We have rented a tiny one room primitive cabin in southwest Michigan for the weekend.  Primitive mostly out of necessity, we are trying to get away and yet remain faithful to our goal of being debt free, which by the grace of God will happen next June.  So happily, I will be away from my computer, all destractions, spending time with my best friend at my favorite place on earth, Lake Michigan.  I wish you a wonderful weekend and will look forward to catching up on Monday. 
~Jenn

Dune Boy

"Understanding and encouragement are sunshine and water to that frail plant, early ambition."
~Edwin Way Teale, Dune Boy pg. 228

Slice of Life Monday, Number 2

~Things I hope to do this week~

Visit my grandparents in the nursing home.  I wanted to do this last week, but time got away.  I hope to sneak in a visit before I leave on Friday, but it will be hard to manage with all the other things I need to do. 
UPDATE:   WE MADE THE HOUR LONG TRIP YESTERDAY AND ENJOYED OUR TIME WITH OUR PRECIOUS GRANDS.  :-)  SO GLAD THAT WE HOMESCHOOL AND CAN DO THIS. 


Get food for the kids and grandparents this weekend, especially the grandfather's favorite coffee from Costco. 

Maintain current level of cleanliness, which is great after our deep cleaning last Friday. 
Continue to work on my journaling everyday.   I let the ball drop last week.

Take books back to library before our trip.

Clean the refrigerator.  It's bad. 

Celebrate our 15th wedding anniversary this weekend alone in Michigan! 

~Menu~

Monday: Big salads with roasted chicken on top

Tuesday: Loaded Big Bakers

Wednesday: Parking lot picnic at church before AWANA with Daddy

Thursday: Whole grain waffles

~What I am reading~
Power of a Woman's Words by Sharon Jaynes, Chapter 7, Power of a Woman's Words to Believers
Proverbs

~Things I am thankful for~

A husband who comes home every evening and remains engaged.
Just enough.
Healthy children.
A warm home. 

~What we are learning together~
(Week four of My Father's World)


This week we start learning about Ancient Egypt. We will continue to read through Proverbs, one chapter a day. We will be singing Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing. We will continue to read In Search of the Source and Tanglewood's Secret. For science we will be looking at the science behind pyrimids.  We will be listening to Vivaldi's Spring.  We need to update our timeline and maps of the Fertile Crescent. We will also add a page to our history notebooks. 

~A Prayer Request or Two~
Still praying for my tone of voice, especially when I give directions to my children. (Proverbs 31:26)
Praying for God's provision day by day.
Praying for a safe trip to Michigan and that the kids will also be happy and safe while we are away. 

~Picture I am sharing~

My sweet Abbey!

About Me, Part 3, The Final Edition

Here are just a few more things that I like. Most of these photos were taken in 2009.

Clean and tidy rooms...

Birthday boys...

Lighthouses...

(Actually, this is a pier light.)

Little boys who like to dress up...

Remembering where I've come from...

Listening to old records...

Camping 8 times in one summer...

Being on vacation with my family...

and Wandering Indiana....

Thank you for taking a look at the things that I like.  I was inspired to do these posts after looking through my photobucket account and wanting to put all my favorite photos into a post.  I love taking photos of our life in action and I also like to look back at them to reflect.  The saying is true that a picture is worth a thousand words. 

Blessings,

Jenn

About Me, More Things I Like, Part Two

These pictures represent more of things that I like. Most were taken in 2008.

Spring

Square Foot Gardening

Buying local

A husband who can fix a bike.

Little girls who like to dress up like brides

My bread machine

and Christmas cookies!