Home is the Heart of a Family

Update on my son

2012-01-26T08:04:00.001-05:00

Wow where did a month go?
My son finished up all his shots. The last ones where rough since he had migraines and stomach sick from the shots.

Rabies shots have come a long way over the years, very happy for that! They give less and they r given in the arms and legs.

We never have seen that cat again.

As of January 16th we are off our break from school and activities.

Enrolled my oldest in double the classes then he had last semester. So this requires more time out of the home and school schedule changes.
With the younger we are finishing up writing and have started Easy Grammar. So far I am liking it a lot. We are going to be starting our next comprehension with Narnia.
I am feeling pretty good about the learning we have done this year.

I don't feel behind like I normally have and that we need to make a dash for the finish. I don't know if it is I am coming more comfortable in homeschooling or if we are just more on task.

Well off to begin my day, we have been so blessed this winter with above normal temps. Makes life enjoyable windows open and fresh air.

Second shot

2011-12-03T12:38:00.001-05:00

We went Friday for my boy to have his second dose of rabies vaccine. He is so brave, each time they have to switch arms. This time he had a mild headache and upset tummy afterwards.
It is hard as a mom to make your child go through all these shots. Not sure how parents did yrs ago when the rabies shots were much worse. My dad told about when he had to go through it as a child. I am very, very thankful my boy is not having to experience it.
Two more times then he will be done.

Extra thankfulness

2011-11-30T12:42:00.001-05:00

The week of Thanksgiving became very overwhelming. I found one thing in the mix to be thankful for, my dear friend.

As I write this post today and things are returning to normal I can see the blessings and the items to be thankful for. It is not always easy while in the storm to see clearly. I am blessed with Christian friends that come along my side and help me see.

1.) thankful for a husband that saw I needed a break and helped it happen.

2.) for my girlfriend that prays with me, loves my children and is there for me always.

3.) my mom is alive and for God directing the ER Dr to find she had had a small heart attack.

4.) that God answered prayers and my dad has returned to my life. That we saw each other and planning to see each other again.

5.) God knew what was ahead of us with my son and he provided the means so that when it did happen he would be taken care of.

6.) brave little boy who still isn't upset with the cat that bit him. That he has been brave and strong while enduring all the shots he has had to receive.

7.) a break from hosting the Thanksgiving dinner for the whole family. We had a small one just us and I found peace and joy in my kitchen preparing for my guys. With my baby girl by my side helping.

Had a wonderful 4 day weekend on our vacation from life. Enjoyed our children with out demands of school, commitments or work.

Happy late Thanksgiving to all! May you have also received many blessings

I can finally reveille

2011-10-30T19:24:00.001-04:00

This summer I mentioned a few times about a very special gift I was working on.
I also promised to post pictures after I gave my very special friend her gift.

So here they are....

I didn't take a picture of the embroidery on the back corner.
But it had their names, wedding date inside a beautiful heart with the words all because two people fell in love...

I love you Em,

Made from the heart

2011-10-29T10:43:00.001-04:00

My dearest and oldest friend's youngest is having his first born in just a few weeks.

I am so excited for them, when I heard the wonderful news, I just had to make something special for their bundle of joy.

I always loved the handmade blankets that each of mine received they were perfect.

Needed a change

2011-10-28T08:25:00.001-04:00

So last month I was on Pinterest. Have you heard of Pinterest really cool site wonderful ideas in one place. It is as you have a ton of people searching the web for ideas for you.

Anyways I found a cute hairdo, that was much shorter then mine and had taken a while to grow.

I had a ton of support to take the plunge into the new do. After a few weeks of telling myself just do it. You really need a new look. Come on it still is feminine it still can be put up and it looks in style. JUST GO DO IT.

Well here is my fear....hairdressers with scissors. I don't trust hairdressers when they get scissors in their hands near my head! (one to many cut crazies came near my head)

I have one hair dresser I trust 100% who use to do my hair every month and I looked fab everytime. (I use to go in and let her do what ever she wanted) The economy is where seeing her is an expense that is not an option. I do miss her magic.

So with much question I went to a lady from our church, I have seen her work and she knew how scared I was, and took the plunge.

And I am loving that I did! :)

I have found another hairdresser to trust.

Thank you Philippi.

They have an App for that.....

2011-10-28T08:04:00.001-04:00

As I was sitting here this morning thinking about how I do everything thru my iPhone. I began thinking to bad they don't have a Blogger app.

There is an app for everything else?

Well, well, well lookie, lookie they DO have an app for that, Blogger has an app. This changes everything, I can post quickly now and with pics! No more plugging and transferring and waiting on laptop to load and connect.

Oh I have my blog back :) <3 (I am squealing with excitement)

Oh I have so much to talk about now....

so much changing

2011-10-27T17:30:00.000-04:00

Wow so many changes on blogger. I don't post very often so with these changes I am feeling new to blogger all over again. I like reading blogs, when I started blogging I enjoyed it very much. Now Facebook has become so easy to post pictures and type instantly over things happening. I end up neglecting the blog.

Life also has changed so much with my family since I first began the blog. I made a conscience desicion to not spend so much time on the computer, but more time with my children. When I read the poem Spunky made and heard my children complain about mom on the computer it hurt deep at the loss I was hearing. The other thing that went was the phone conversations. I have heard complaints about me never calling, well that is because I have 4 children that I am raising. They will not be here with me as I have them now. I want a real relationship with my children as they grow up and out. I want them to want to share their life with me and want me to be part of their life. Well if i don't give it to them now they will not be there later.

I have even thought about closing the blog since I dont keep up very well, then I rememebered I didn't start blogging for everyone else. I started for me, a place I could post events and memories of our life to share with our family, that miss out on our daily life.

It is great that everyone has wanted to share in our happiness and cried with us in our sad times and prayed right along with us in our life. I have received many blessings through this blog.
My life is in place where it comes last at the moment. I am needing more time in Gods word and more time with my family.

I will post but it will be very random as my chicks are being raised and as the seasons of our life keep changing. I do hope to keep seeing most of you here when I do post, but I am not promising much from the blog for awhile.

I am another year older

2011-09-26T22:38:00.003-04:00

So this week I had my ?? birthday. I received so many birthday wishes that it really made my day. My friends made sure that my other friend knew and that the kids at choir that day told me happy birthday. This year I am really feeling blessed with the women he has put in my life. They are caring, thoughtful and there anytime, including being my prayer partners.

Life has not slowed down, so once a week I have made a day for the kids and I to regroup and relax. As my 4 grow, it seems they just have more things they are involved in. (something I looked forward too).
My husband and the 3 boys are practicing with an orchestra group for Christmas at church and they also have a quartet they are working on, also for Christmas.

So far my oldest is really liking dual enrollment in our local college. Sometimes I find myself looking at him remembering it was not long ago I was holding him in my arms. When a mommy smile, kiss and hug made everything better.

My walking plan has not gone as I thought with the 3 younger in tow. They love nature and exploring and climbing. I on the other hand want to move and fast so I can benefit. So with some very warm days that were humid we sat and accomplish some book work. We are still chipping away at math, this year I am really seeing how I can incorporate several subjecst together including bible. We are doing a lot of reading I am thankful for baby girl so LOVES to read. So my oldest and my youngest are my readers.

I am off for sleep, don't have the energy I use too.

Gooseberry giveaway

2011-09-22T17:48:00.001-04:00

Over at HOMESTEADER'S HEART Kim is giving away a book from Gooseberry Patch.
Don't really want to share so I have a better chance to win, but blogging about the giveaway gives me a 5th entry.

This series from Gooseberry looks like it would be a wonderful addition to any home.

Best of luck to all that enter.

The Simple Woman’s Daybook

2011-08-20T19:21:00.001-04:00

For Today August 20, 2011

Outside my Window….honestly I don’t know, have been hibernating inside all day. I am sure it is super buggy and hot, hot, hot outside and I don’t like it. Curtains are drawn closed to help keep the house cool. It gets depressing at times since it is a cave all summer.

I am thinking….about money and how God doesn’t want us to want it but how this world is all about it. Every time I turn around more money is needed for something and everything is getting more and more expensive.

I am thankful….for a teenage son that reads his bible completely on his own.

From the learning rooms…. our first week into the new school curriculum, I feel it was a good choice for this year.

In the kitchen…..tonight black beans, sausage, rice and corn bread. Made a big pot of spaghetti sauce for tomorrow night, since it will be long day.

I am wearing….dark blue capri pants and my favorite pink tee.

I am creating… two very special gifts. Can’t share until delivered.

I am going….to fix dinner shorty then go over and join my children to watch a movie.

I am wondering……how to tell the difference between God’s doing and our own doing.

I am reading……school books, including bible verses on thankfulness. This is the first book in a series.

I am hoping and praying…..for a friend and her family. As they see a dr. on Tuesday.

I am looking forward to….our extra activities starting this week.

I am hearing….a The Pink Panther movie and my oldest practicing his guitar chords. He is working on playing the guitar for the worship team at church.

Around the house…. has been a quiet rest day. As this is the last week we have of no schedule.

I am pondering…..how can someone see themselves as a positive happy person but bring everyone down around them.

One of my favorite things…. hearing my husband and our children work on music together.

A few plans for the rest of the week….pick up a few more supplies for school, pick up my oldest son his new glasses.

Here is a picture I am sharing….My third son this day decided his ear was hurting so he taped an out of order sign on it. Then just for fun he played a joke on his Mimi and Papa he put his arm in a sling. (with him it is not hard to believe he would need the sling his is all boy and climbs everything he walks near)

To enjoy more daybook here is a link to The Simple Woman’s Daybooks. Thank Peggy for hosting.

Week in review

2011-08-20T18:17:00.001-04:00

This week we started all the new curriculum. There has been a few complaints but I feel as we go along they will find they like it better and feel more accomplished, personally.

I was scared of the IEW writing curriculum, it just seemed so overwhelming to me especially since my weakness is writing. After finishing Unit I video and lesson it felts good. We are working on the grade 2-4 level, so that we don’t stress. As I look ahead in the Syllabus I get nervous. Remind myself one step at a time. On the video he says about having helps/reminders on the wall. So our dinning room is now colorful with signs, some that I made a head of time but baby girl wanted them hung.

They are not excited over bible as I am for them, I am hoping this changes as we get more into it. The biggest complaint was over the version of bible is different then their bibles.

We are all so so on the Lyrical Life science. They really want experiments. They loved the Considering God’s creation science. My guys love the cutting, pasting and coloring. I am going to do some science shopping, I may go to Apologia since they have labs with just about every lesson.

Have been shopping for my sons college class books he needs for the two dual enrollment courses he is starting on the 29th. Found all but one, and the one I can find; it is the price that is getting me. This week just isn’t a good week for it.

On Sunday my children’s orchestra begins with an UPBEAT kick off.

Tuesday my three younger ones and myself start back to Kids Choir at our church. Love to see my children get enthusiastic about their activities.

I even took time to sew this week and was on a good roll until my thread ran out. And doesn’t it figure I have like 30 rolls and none the color I was using. So project on hold until…? online?humm I may have to see how much could it cost for thread?

Well off to shop more online and then to crochet a special blanket for a special baby boy coming into this world soon.

One more thing checked off

2011-08-12T22:23:00.001-04:00

Last night I spent time preparing the new curriculum, we are already to start on Monday. I my guys are actually excited. My youngest is asking for her own wordly wise. She so wants to be doing all her brothers are doing.

She told me yesterday that she is glad we don’t take off summer.

Today was evaluation day and it went great! I have a teacher we knew in school do our evaluations. I love to hear his opinion and feed back, he is a teacher that truly loves his job.

All is well....

2011-08-09T21:52:00.000-04:00

Today all came to a close with my son.
The retention cyst is normal says ENT and no surgery required. The eye glasses are ordered and should have them in 10-14 days.

Funny thing is I pull in to the lot to the Dr. and my daughter annouces that is where she went with her daddy to see Lisa, should have seen the receptions face drop. Then she reconized my daughter and knew right away who my husband was.

Turns out my husabnd has been doing work for them.

God is good, today was a great reminder of how he knows everything and takes care of us.

Catching up…

2011-08-07T22:34:00.001-04:00

This evening I actually spent time reading blogs and visiting around the blog world. Was nice to see all the creativity and family updates. Found a couple of the blogs I had been following said goodbye to blogging. Which to be honest I had considered myself. But I like having my blog to go to and write about life and share the different craft projects.

One of those projects I am working on now and so dying to share it with you. But it is a very special gift and I don’t want it spoiled for my very special friend. So I will have to wait to share it.

Not sure how much time will be spent here this year on the blog, I am trying to dedicate time to teaching so we don’t fall behind. Our oldest is starting college courses in a couple of weeks which takes me out of the house on those days. Since we live so far from town I will be trying to plan my time appropriately. As my oldest is in class the rest of us will be taking nature trail walks and the other day grocery shopping.

I am trying to simplify my life this year and not be so stressed. I have even simplified our school this year. My children are growing so fast and my oldest is almost out of my home. My baby is almost 9. Where has the time gone????????

School and the new year plans

2011-08-07T17:55:00.000-04:00

So this week we have spent time clearing and finishing up the old, planning and gathering the new.
I have decided to go in a different direction this year. We are combining 3 different grades. I want to spend more time with my three younger ones learning to write properly.
So here is how this year is going to be looking.
BIBLE: This is a whole series from Train up a child publishing by Kaye Freeman. This will be done as a unit study. I am actually looking forward to these, since they actually address specific topics such as self-control, humility,responsibility and kindness.

LANGUAGE ARTS: I have had this sitting on the shelf for a couple of years, I hear it is a very good writing program. My youngest is finally old enough so that I can teach this as a unit with all of my children.

We are also turning more attention to comprehension and reading these are the guides we will be using. We just finished Milly Molly Mandy and my guys enjoyed it so much they are asking for more.

Of course my two younger ones will continue on with their Explode the Code series. I am even considering putting my other son in the Beyond the Code since I have seen such a benefit with their reading and spelling by using these.

Then we will continue on with Wordly Wise.

And then penmanship we have been using Italic then I found this wonder site that has many pintables for penmanship practice. (click on Proverbs Button to go visit to see all the many different copy works available)

SCIENCE: We are going to be using Lyrical Life Science. Then we will be keeping nature journal we will be spending time this fall going on nature trail walks twice a week. The North American Wildlife book has been an great addition to our nature journal identifications.

HISTORY: Taking a fun approach to memorizing the names of our states and capitals. This will go well with our state coloring book that also provides the states flower and motto’s, trees and flags. Then we will be doing a read out load from the BJU heritage studies. This is so we keep on moving forward from what we worked on this year.

MATH: we will be staying with Saxon and just keep moving forward at their individual grade levels.

What have you planned for you’re school year? Have you used any of this curriculum before, would like to hear your experience and thoughts.

Our Summer so far….

2011-07-31T18:43:00.001-04:00

VBS at church this was the hallway I worked on with a couple other ladies. This is bird watching in central park.

The subway tunnel covered in graffiti

The new project of my boys – before During the rebuild

the whole body was disassembled sanded primed and the cab has been painted. They still have a lot more painting. NO it is NOT going to be yellow it is a gloss beautiful black. The cab is done and looks awesome! My son has been totally hands on in this process which is going as school credit. Plus he will receive the blessing of having it to drive.

We have had another rescue this year this time four babies fell with the nest in our chimney. Luckily I had a another small basket laying around. We found if we place them in a basket then lower them down the chimney the mom and dad takes them make and finishes raising them. Even after we have handled them. The chimney swifts are so extremely soft and loud.

The last week of June we spent at orchestra Summer camp. It was like a vacation for me. My husband arranged it so that M, TH we spent the nights at mimi’s and papa’s. T, W we spent at Aunt Arla’s. Tuesday I was totally surprised by Arla, her and her four spent the day setting up for us to come. It was liking checking into a hotel. Very, very relaxing and enjoyable. On Wednesday we attended church with the cousins, they always look forward to seeing each other.

Couple weeks ago we ventured out for day of fun and a touch of education. We spent the day over at De Leon Springs. Was wonderful the water was very cool 72 degrees. LOL it felt much colder going in, weirdest part was standing on shell and cypress tree knuckles. In the center is the spring that leads to under water caverns that you can scuba dive in. My friend I have not canoed in years and children have never been so she rented a couple of them and ventured down the lake.

We have managed to go the beach about three times this summer. First we had a wonderful memorial day on the beach we even grilled dinner on the beach love memories like this. Second time at last minute my husband had work at the beach house so we went with him. Well he worked sadly, the kids and I spent a couple hours enjoying the beach. Then this past Tuesday we drove on the beach and enjoyed the most wonderful beach day with our friends.

My four have had a great summer my friend even treated them to an special day when my oldest and I spent the day at the hospital for his MRI. What was to be just a couple hours turned into an all day thing. I am so very thankful that she called me the night before and told be to leave my three younger ones with her. Thank you Julie for being a true friend to me and my children and being there when I need someone the most.

As August comes so does many of the activities that we are involved as extra curricular. We also we be beginning our new school year.

I pray you all have had an enjoyable summer as much as we have had.

Pray update….

2011-07-31T07:56:00.001-04:00

Since the last post we did see the Nero, actually two one was new to Nemours. They both saw what the eye dr. was seeing so the MRI was ordered. He said he did not feel it was a tumor that my son was to healthy. So truly we were sitting here saying why even do it then. But we followed through and….

The MRI has come back revealing a Mucus Retention Cyst.

I receive a call from our Pediatrician telling me we are being referred to an ENT so they can evaluate if surgery is needed.

Ok at this point I have about three different shocks going on: First why is my pediatrician calling in place of the Nero or my eye Dr. that referred us to the Nero. Second the MRI actually showed something and Third, did I just hear the word surgery?.

We have an appt. for the ENT. Meantime, I did some research on line to be informed and I went to my friends husband that is a Dr. With out MRI all this is based on the info we have eye issue right side, cyst right side headaches from eye. The cyst can be putting causing the optic nerve to look as if it under pressure indirectly. That if it is the cause of it removal is the form. Also found out just because it is called mucus retention cyst does not mean it is in the sinus, it can be anywhere. My Mother in Law said he probably just needs a strong antihistamine, it is allergy season. It would be nice for it to be taken care of that simple.

For now I am done with the guessing game and trying to figure it all out, our Lord knows mine, my husbands and my sons worries and he will take care of us.

still no answers

2011-06-21T19:06:00.000-04:00

Like to thank everyone for their prayers, we still have no answers. An appt. to a neurologist is being scheduled now. This could be nothing more then a lazy eye but our dr. is taking caution. Please keep us in your prayers still.

This week we have been at VBS. The Big Apple, New York City, I am enjoying recreation with all the kids. I do have to admit the heat here is making records. I was told 102 yesterday. My truck said 99 and today it said 98. Luckly we are done by noon when it really heats up. Hard to beleive this is the last year for my second born son to attend, he will be a helper next year.

We have been very blessed that the smoke from all the fires lightens enough during the VBS time. I pray that this will stay the case for the rest of the week and that we will see rain soon.

Living life…..

2011-06-17T15:42:00.000-04:00

I keep being asked about posts and what is happening in our neck of the woods. Well it isn’t a lot, but it still leaves me with little time to post.

The blog has been put on the back burner. School has the front right now while I have the longer days at home to concentrate on year end.

When not doing that I am finishing projects (posted in previous post) and I have started the Christmas gifts.

I am working on a special gift for some very special people in my families life. (can’t show you just yet so that they don’t see it)

Didn’t realize how absorbed in crocheting I was getting until I ran out of projects. Now I am trying to come up with something new I have a few ideas but nothing jumping out at me just yet. So I am sort of messing around with grannie squares and a baby hat and mittens. I am also thinking about making cupcake purses to match the cupcake hats.

As I was updating my phone today I realized I have not even posted about Easter and many other things. Don’t want to over load one blog post so will try to find time this week.

We are having VBS at our church this week. I lead the recreation so I am working on the decorating and games this weekend. The following week my four have orchestra summer camp. I am sure there will be some down time during the day that I could get around to updating the blog posts during that week.(unless the knitting and crochet get me first, haha)

Come July 5th it will be back into the books and nothing else but school. My oldest has to work towards getting ahead in Alg. so he can take the college math test, so he can finish high school with his A.A degree. He has already passed the English test and will be starting college August 29th. By passing the English already, it opens the door to all the classes he needs except the math and one science. I am so proud of him, he is growing into such a wonderful young man. Even though he likes to harass his mom all the time, he is the best son I could have been blessed with.

A prayer request: on Monday my son has an eye Dr.’s appointment to receive test results. We could use prayers, I am not ready to talk about it, since the dr. said he is being overly cautious. I don’t want to over react, especially if it could be nothing but a lazy eye.

Have a great weekend, I am playing mine by ear since Sunday is Father’s day and not sure what we are doing. Actually I live every day like that never know what each day is going to bring. My husband can keep life mysterious at times. Last weekend we went for some long drive to look (just look at) a truck. Another day he calls and says meet him and our oldest at the beach, I was at home cooking dinner waiting on them. Today I was sent for a load of sod. Not in my plans today, but what ever. Keeps life from being dull.

I finished!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2011-05-26T10:00:00.001-04:00

For my birthday a couple years ago my wonderful Sister in Law gave me everything needed to complete this beautiful quilt. I loved this quilt so much I jumped right in on putting it together. Which was really done in no time at all. It was the hand quilting that took me so long to complete. I finally just said this is going to get done...... and I finished everything up last week.

I won.......

2011-05-25T17:02:00.000-04:00

I won this wonderful book!!!!!

From Homesteader's Heart.

Kim and I came blogging friends about 3 or 4 yrs ago. I love her blog, every Friday I know I will receive a great laugh and she is always there with positive and encouraging words. You can follow the link on over and say hello to a sweet blogger.

To visit Sandy at Reluctant Entertainer just click on the picture. Sandy is amazing with all her wonderful ideas and great tips on entertaining, it actually gave me some great incentive.

The Homeschool Mother’s Journal

2011-05-21T09:50:00.001-04:00

In my life this week………

This week has been a week of regrouping, picking up and catching up around the house, after a week of out of our home activities.

In our homeschool this week….

Working on finishing up our Bible and our LLATL. I have been reevaluating some of the things we are doing. My Goal is to have these wrapped up by July.

Places we are going and people we are seeing…..

This really changes by the minute. Last night out of nowhere hubby called and wanted us to meet him at the beach, what a great surprise. Then plans for today changed at 10pm last night, another nice treat for our family.

My favorite thing this week…..

Oh wow, I have had several things this week, from attending a Joshua Bell concert to the beach last night. Everything this week has been a blessing.

Homeschool question/thoughts I have……

I am so blessed to be homeschooling my children.

A photo, video, link, or quote to share…..

To be part of the homeschool mother’s journal click on the logo up top. Thank you for coming by and reading about my week.

Tribute to Jonathan May

2011-05-13T15:59:00.000-04:00

http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/entertainment_arts_letter/2011/05/brothers-composition-tall-and-the-small-honors-jonathan-may.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+entertainment%2Fartsletters+%28Orlando+Arts+Blog%29

Tonight we are taking our four children over to the dress rehearsal. Actually we need to be getting ready right now before my husband gets here and we are not ready yet.
Tomorrow is the big debut of the piece. I am thankful that I will be able to be there to support my very dear friend's.
I hope to post a few pictures of the night,

Lego Magazine

2011-05-04T16:24:00.001-04:00

Yesterday, my guys received their free Lego Club magazines.

Do your guys receive the magazine?

My one son saves every last magazine he has received and when the new one comes, he gets all of them out.

And for the day I have lost him to reading.

Today I did get bible and Language arts done, I finally threw the towel in and decided, IT”S READING……..

And to get him to read is a task with in it’s self.

I am not going to fight a good thing…..

If you have little one’s that like Lego’s they would love this magazine.

My son now is cutting coupons, he just found they are building a Lego world in Florida.

He has been asking for 4 yrs now to go but California was just not happening, but now I just may have to make this happen for my boy…

The Simple Women’s Daybook

2011-05-03T09:45:00.000-04:00

FOR TODAY MAY 2, 2011

OUTSIDE MY WINDOW….

the sun is setting, I am watching my two youngest playing in the pool with the dog going nuts over the splashing.

I AM THINKING….

what a great weekend we had…..The concert was awesome.

I AM THANKFUL….

for the friends that God has placed in my life.

FROM THE LEARNING ROOMS……

today we had outside day with pool and piano restoration with Dad. We will be working on school books tomorrow. Bible is in Joshua, and we will be working on language arts.

FROM THE KITCHEN….

tonight we are having spaghetti, tomorrow a roast and Wednesday ham and eggs.

I AM CREATING…

I started making the cupcake hats, now that I am not on the road each weekend we will see how fast these get done. I really want to finish up my hand quilt. I am so close to having it done I just need time.

I AM GOING…

to bed soon

ON MY MIND…

plans for this week, things that need to be remembered, and looking forward to Saturday

AROUND THE HOUSE…

the laundry is being caught up, some picking up needs to be done from the day and kitchen cleaned form dinner.

ONE OF MY FAVORITE THINGS….

family enjoying each other and laughing together

FEW PLANS FOR THE REST OF THE WEEK….

Orlando trip this Saturday possibly Thursday morning also. We are getting ready for MAYS Audition for the coming year.

HERE IS A PICTURE INTO MY LIFE….

Easter baby girl and Aunt Lee.

There are many more day bookers to read if you hope on over and visit Peggy.

Homeschool planner Giveaway

2011-05-02T17:39:00.001-04:00

As much as I don’t want everyone to know about the give away so I can win.

Letting you know gives me one more entry.

I purchased the 4 year high school planner this year and love it. I would love to have the Well Day also for the rest of my children.

So to enter if you hope over to Confessions of a Homeschooler you can enter for your chance to win.

The Homeschool Mother’s Journal

2011-05-02T17:18:00.001-04:00

IN MY LIFE THIS WEEK……

Sunday marked the end of a busy week for me. I have today to rest then tomorrow is back into the groove of things. This week was all about orchestra concert and reception preparation.

IN OUR HOMESCHOOL WEEK…..

We are concentrating on catching up with our Language Arts and Bible also staying on track with Math. We will get more back into our groove of school tomorrow.

PLACES WE ARE GOING AND PEOPLE WE ARE SEEING….

Well the plans we had today didn’t happen, I missed knitting and ladies prayer group. Tuesday will be kids choir, Wednesday bible study, Orlando is possibility on Thursday and I will be in Orlando all day Saturday.

MY FAVORITE THING THIS WEEK….

With out a doubt it was the concert yesterday!

HOMESCHOOL QUESTIONS/THOUGHTS I HAVE….

I am thinking about spelling and vocabulary curriculum trying to find something that works. The one we’re using just does not have enough practice and I am having to add to it way to much.

A PHOTO, VIDEO, LINK OR QOUTE TO SHARE…..

my oldest has been planting a flower garden and this year he planted two rose plants. They are growing just beautifully, this is the very first rose off the one plant.

To be part of the homeschool mother’s journal click on the logo up top. Thank you for coming by and reading about my week. I enjoy visiting all the other homeschool families as well.

Tara

The Simple Women’s Daybook

2011-04-28T22:49:00.003-04:00

For today April 28, 2011

Outside my window….

night has come and it is as dark as dark can be, we have a storm coming our way so thru the curtains, I see flashes of lightening.

I am thinking….

all I need to accomplish tomorrow. I have others counting on me to be prepared.

I am thankful….

for a husband that works hard daily to provide for his family, that I can stay home with our children and home school.

From the learning rooms…..

we have been doing really good. Daily we cover our bible then math and LLATL. I found a awesome site to help with spelling. We finish up our science curriculum, this is a big deal since we took way to long to get thru it.

From the kitchen…

chicken and dumplings for a family at church and a roast for this weekend.

I am creating…

well more like finishing….finally finished the long awaited afghan. Now I am working on hand quilting my heart quilt, another one of those projects just are so close to being finished. I have been making some small things such as ponytail holders and hot pads. These items are easy to travel with.

I am going…

to be busy, this is the big finally to my children's orchestra, the MAYS. They have orchestra rehearsals and performances all weekend. We will be celebrating the life our beloved conductor Mr. Jonathan May.

On my mind….

the concert, I need to go thru all the music tomorrow and have it ready. Also the reception afterwards making sure we have enough help

Around the house….

the children are enjoying their new pool, so is mom. Not in the same way as the children. We have 4 week old kittens that need homes.

One of my favorite things…..

seeing my son getting involved and not afraid too.

A few plans for the rest of the week….

cooking a meal to be taken to a couple from church, the concert and then looking forward to knitting on Monday with some other Christian ladies.

Here is a picture into my life…..

my oldest learning to drive

To read or be apart of the Day booking family visit Peggy over here.

If any one had told me part 2……

2011-04-22T18:55:00.002-04:00

In all the years that I had played out this day in my head, I always had a piece of me that was scared. See I grew up in a not so nice home. God removed it and all I had was excitement and anticipation.
As we prepared for their arrival doubt crept in, What if he doesn’t show? I didn’t need to see him for any approval or validation. I needed to see him for me. I truly love my dad, he is my dad. I can’t hate him because my mother wants me to, the little girl inside needed her daddy. That little girl now is at ease, I have a new feeling of letting go and moving forward.
As they arrived it has a surreal feeling, dad, it seemed was taking forever to get out of the car. I walked up and hugged him, I didn’t wait to see what he wanted or how he would be. I needed to relay to him I love him and that I wanted him here.
As I hugged him, l told him I am so happy he called and that he is actually here. I then turn and his wife is crying so I go to hug her. She tells me, “I tell him you were teens caught in the middle”. I reply, “yes we were just children in the middle of dysfunction.”
We have an awkward moment, so I introduce him to his grandchildren and them to their uncle’s. The children and I then show them around the mini farm.
My boys are like their mom the just embrace their new found family. They go off with their Uncle’s, who are their same age……They leave us adults to get acquainted, we talked about the old house I grew up in. Had some laughs about how my dad is and how something's about him have not changed. My boy’s played their instruments for them. Found he still has the house I grew up in, he doesn’t live there. But it filled something inside me knowing he didn’t erase me away.
Then he shares with me about that being the worst year in his life, I feel for him. 20 yrs. of family gone in blink of an eye, but also he lost his dad and brother. I don’t forget why he lost his family after 20 yrs. him and mom were oil and water the whole time and neither of them could ever make it work, ever. Neither of them had a relationship with God.
We spent about two hours together, I found myself not ready for him to leave. It felt as if he wasn’t ready for the time to up either. They mentioned about possibly coming down next year so I told them let us know we would love to spend time with them.

This event has brought me to my knees. God gets ALL the glory and praise for this miracle. Pastor had said something about seeing God’s power and how many Christian's say they don’t feel his almighty power. I can now say I have………it is a rejuvenating feeling to feel the power of our Lord.
I do ask for prayer, ~~for my younger sister she is the last of four that wants to see dad.~~ I pray she will get her chance to re connect with him also. I just found out yesterday she has seen my dad. It hurts that this was kept from me, I understand the why. So I am just going to move forward. We are both wanting the same thing to be reconnected with our dad.
God is in control he is the only one that can change the hearts of any of us. I also pray I keep growing closer to my sister and that we can bond together and give each other some of the family feelings that we both so desire.

If anyone had told me……….I would have never believed.

2011-04-21T09:16:00.001-04:00

My day began as any other day does, not a clue how fast it would change. No one could have prepared me for what was about to happen.

As we were preparing to leave for children’s choir my cell rang, as usual bad reception and missed the call. I began to worry it was a 607 area code only person I talk to is my mom there. This was not my mom, began to prepare myself that I may have to take a emergency trip to New York.

So I tell my four lets go I need to call this number back and I can do it on the way to church. (God’s way of working).

As they answer they say my name, my stomach sinks but I some how had pep in my voice. He tells me he is my half brother, shock begins. Now my thoughts run to my dad, please no.

My brother quickly says dad is right here driving as if he knew were my thoughts went.

I have never meant my two half brothers, I have not seen my dad in 25 yrs. I called 15 yrs. ago when my oldest was born, never heard back from him. Finally about 3-5 yrs. ago I said goodbye my goodbye and told God how important it was to me to see my dad at least one time before he died.

God granted this to me this day out of the blue. Timing I say was God’s work. I was on my way to church. As I held myself somewhat together for my children. They are in the back saying mom is mad, no hurt, and then I hear baby girl no happy. Mom are you crying because your happy, she asks. Yes, baby girl I am. See I told you so, she announces to every one.

At church though was another story as soon as a friend asked me what was wrong the flood began to pour. One grabbed my children and removed them, at this point no one knows it is joy, happiness, rejoicing, praising and disbelieve.

But still the children do not understand all that is happening with mom. So thankful for awesome church family that protected them.

God’s timing is the most amazing, he had me where I would receive prayer and comfort to help me pull myself together,

cont.………..

Day of adventure

2011-04-08T22:16:00.001-04:00

Today Mimi and I loaded my four up and headed out to a wonderful state park not to far away from where I live.

So wanted to go see the gardens of azalea's, we missed them, probably due to all of the rain we have had the blooms where gone already. Something to look forward to next year.

Mimi amazes me how she goes where the four want her to follow. They had both of us climbing up and down steep hillsides. (I sure hope to be a Mimi just like her).

My four are already asking for another adventure.

The Simple Women’s Daybook

2011-04-01T11:08:00.001-04:00

For today April 1, 2011

Outside my Window….

Sun is shining after week of rain and dark skies, beautiful to be outside in, everyone but me is out there already.

I am thinking…

about how I would love to take a trip this summer. Waiting to see if it is God’s will also.

I am thankful….

for my new truck. It is everything I have ever wanted.

From the learning rooms….

still chipping away at all the subjects, we have been doing really good at placing bible first everyday, really makes a difference.

From the kitchen….

still thinking on dinner for tonight, headed to sloppy Joes or hamburgers.

I am creating…

working on a couple of projects, working on the last color in the husbands afghan, began piece a quilt that is a gift for someone special.

I am going….

well this week has been a week of change. Every plan made has changed. As soon as I get off here I have to decide if we stay home with dad today or go on with the plans we had. Normally staying with dad wins.

On my mind….

what is my mind not on? Weekend schedule, today’s plans, school work, summer plans, next week plans, housecleaning, laundry and dinner.

Around the house….

everyone is wondering about today and what are we doing, they want to be outside enjoying the beautiful day. Can’t blame them after being inside due to rain all week.

One of my favorite things…..

seeing my seeds very first sprouts. So exciting to see your works blessings.

Few plans for rest of the week…

orchestra this week end, hopefully sell the old truck couple of guys are coming to see it. Receive a blessing from church on Sunday and Monday prayer/knitting group. These ladies really have been a blessing to be around each Monday.

A picture into my life….

Baby girl figured out my pass word and was on mommies computer and the evidence was left behind to prove it, there is eight more that greeted me today.

to enjoy more daybooks follow this link

Happy April Fool's

2011-04-01T10:05:00.000-04:00

So already this morning I received my first April Fool joke.

My FIL called me asking for a spare bedroom that he was needing to move in. hahaha.

I am sure glad my FIL loves me enough to call and play pranks on me.

Happy April 1st to everyone hopefully the joke you encounter doesn't mess with you too much today!

Make Music Make History Auditions

2011-03-27T15:59:00.000-04:00

This week my four children worked on videoing and uploading their auditions for Make Music Make History on YouTube. My whole family is very excited about this opportunity. We feel this would be a huge honor to be performing with the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra, on Daniel May’s World Premiere piece of Tall and Small in tribute to Jonathan May. Performing the same night will be renown violinist Joshua Bell. Right now this all feels like a chance of a lifetime for my children.

Make Music Make History

The Simple Woman’s Daybook

2011-03-16T08:50:00.000-04:00

For Today March 15, 2011

Outside my window…..

The children are out playing, the windows are open sun has begun it’s slow descent into night. The weather has been just so beautiful, trees are growing new sprouts. The pines have started growing Easter crosses. I missed them last year, don’t want to this year. God shows us his promises in so many ways.

I am thankful…..

for a wonderful weekend away from home. Especially to our Uncle Bob for coming and staying with the animals. For fixing the little projects around here there is never anytime for. We really wanted to keep him but he insisted he must go back home.

I am thinking….

about how I have laid things at God’s feet and he has always picked it up and handled everything. I know God has been providing our home for us, not sure where the end is. But I am getting somewhat excited to see where he moves us too. My husband and I have been going over some options. One I like is being closer to Orlando but close to my SIL Arla and my nieces and nephew.

From the learning rooms….

a lot of time last week went into music, so this week we are working on getting back into our schedule. Today we made sure our day began with Bible, then LLATL and math. Really made a difference in our life when I changed up and stuck to my guns of Bible must be first no matter what happens in the day. God blessed me with lessons that pertained to issues I was dealing with my children.

From the kitchen…

tonight corn beef and cabbage, a steak for hubby he doesn’t care for corn beef. Chicken fajitas tomorrow and maybe homemade pizza this week.

I am hoping and praying….

for healing for my friends grandfather. He is in isolation again in rehab due to another serious infection that you catch in rehabs. He is so miserable he is not one for confinement he loved going outside and for little walks.

I am creating…

working on the afghan for hubby I am disciplining myself, no working on my quilt until he has his afghan. I have started working on a special gift for someone very very special to me. Has sometime so I am not dedicating set time to it, which is another incentive to finish up projects.

I am hearing….

my boys laughing together as they play and my music love the song on right now, Look’in for Love by Johnny Lee. Reminds me of my husband and I when we meant.

Around the house….

we are all unpacked and with the new washer laundry is done in a blink of an eye. Dinner is ready and waiting for daddy to arrive. When I am done with my daybook I am going to take time to work on my husbands afghan. Love having the ladies at prayer/crochet pushing me to the finish.

Few plans for the rest of the week….

school with the children, a run to the store not sure when. Thursday I am having a day at the fabric store with a friend. I am dropping my four at their Mimi’s.

Here is a picture I would like to share…

My boy with his birthday present a drum set.

Orchestra Masterworks

2011-03-15T14:34:00.001-04:00

My family is very involved in the Metropolitan Area Youth Symphony. This weekend we had two concerts, one on Saturday night, which my oldest son performed two pieces in and the Sunday performance that involved all four of my children.

I need to mention how proud I am of my three younger children. There were many hours of rehearsals that they sat through with two very late nights. They did a momma very, very proud!

The concerts were absolutely fabulous! We are so very blessed to be a part of such a wonderful orchestra.

Enjoy the below video’s from two pieces performed Saturday night.

Follow any of the links to learn more about the MAYS Orchestra, and how to be a part of this awesome symphony.

Orchestra Masterworks

VIEW SLIDE SHOW

DOWNLOAD ALL

My oldest was playing the viola in this piece.

Weekend away….

2011-03-15T13:43:00.001-04:00

This weekend all of my family had a full schedule in Orlando involving MAYS Orchestra. So we turned it into a little vacation for us. I found a wonderful hotel that had a suite with two bedrooms, kitchen and living room. Three pools two which where heated, yes it was needed in Florida but not for to much longer.

Turns out that where the hotel was located was a gem for my family. They were so happy we were right around the corner from a fun park with go carts and arcade.

Mini Vacation

VIEW SLIDE SHOW

DOWNLOAD ALL

Sacrifice

2011-02-28T08:52:00.001-05:00

On Saturday we had a flat tire on our way home on a major highway. So thankful hubby was with us!.

Get everything out start jacking up the truck, ahum….truck rolling what? It sure did ok so lets readjust push the ER park harder. ahum truck falling …….yes, the jack slide and the truck again off.

The ground was so soft and moist the jack kept sinking….

Now the sun is setting this is not going well can not get the truck high enough……think, look…….. what can we but under the jack what do we have that is thick and hard enough?

Of course my son was like “COOL” no more math!

See out of all four of my children, it is this son that drags math out for hours……..So we had some fun with him…

Dadddy told him remember that pack we made, I took care of it for you. (Just kidding around.)

Then I informed him that the damage stopped at the lesson he just finished. He was bummed meant no break from math until mom purchased a new book. He can keep going until new book arrives.

I ordered a new book off half.com last night for under $5.00. Which I already new I could and would have to do when I handed the book to hubby to be sacrificed, for our family.

Rest in peace 54. Thank you for all you gave for us…..2001-2011

Discovery’s very last launch

2011-02-26T09:49:00.000-05:00

Thank for we learned soon enough of the launch. I haven’t watched tv in over a week, have been staying away from media. Thanks to a friend on FB I found out in time for my children to see the launch. We have such a great view from our front yard.
I hear there is going to be a night launch next those are awesome to watch.

This is our view the shuttle is there it had just come into sight.

New Washer

2011-02-25T09:27:00.001-05:00

My washer after many repairs and tender care finally kicked the bucket. This time we said enough besides tried of listening to the jet plane every time it went into spin. Then the dry joined in all the noise.
The day the end came a really wonderful set was posted to craigslist. Without much hope of getting them (priced to low for such a set). Husband contacted them and they were there with out hesitating he dropped everything to go get them.
I think my husband has heard a thank you everyday since. They are the best washer and dryer I have ever had! I am so happy the laundry is done in half the time!
Whirlpool DUET…

Our Baby turned 8

2011-02-24T20:32:00.001-05:00

For her special day poppy planned a tea party for her friends. She was so excited about the decorating and all the details for her guesta. She made her cake and the sandwiches, helped with the fruit and then carefully placed the cookies on a plate. Poppy thought through every bit of how her day should be.

Was such a wonderful sharing moment between us, also an awesome hostess training moment.

Was so adorable watching the little girls having their very own tea party.

***Have other pictures I wanted to share but we are having difficulty getting them from the camera.

How does he think

2011-02-18T10:10:00.001-05:00

This pitiful faced pet of my sons. Allows my son to carry him all over the house like a baby. Feet in the air on his back baby cradle style.

will sit like a human on the sofa with my son

but look out this precious baby, boys best friend has a dark side.

DO NOT TAKE THE BLANKET AWAY!!!

Last night you would have thought he was going to fight to the death over a blanket. My son went to get into bed and the fight began. So guess who slept outside until he got back into check with who is the animal and who is boss.

Should see the making up he is doing today. Well not so quick little fellow another night outside is still on the list for your attitude last night.

The Simple Woman’s Daybook

2011-02-18T09:11:00.001-05:00

For Today February 18, 2011

Outside my window….

the signs of spring are all around, trees are budding into new life, yellow pine pollen is covering everything and the mornings are cool with dew.

I am thankful for…..

being part of a Christian ladies crochet group every week. Feel blessed being a part of a group with such wonderful women. Bonus I now have a cheerleader, cheering me on to finishing that famous afghan for my husband. Thank you Teresa.

I am thinking….

about today and the schedule. And all the things I would like to see done today. It is beginning to look like an all day out of the house. I would like to have some things done here before we go.

From the learning rooms…..

daily math lessons, spelling, and reading. I have gone back to Explode the Code with my 3/4 grader to help him with his phonic sounds. Preparing to test my 8/9 grader. Looking at the test options and trying to decide what is best for us. Working on staying dedicated to school daily, looks like we are going to have to put more into Language arts in the next few weeks.

From the kitchen….

ham and scalloped potatoes with green beans and biscuits, pork roast with mash potatoes and chicken breast still deciding how I want to cook them.

I am creating….

I did make a couple of new scrubbies for the kitchen. Still working on the other two projects the afghan (began taking this with me on the weekend trips) and the hand quilted quilt.

I am going….

to run earns today, seems we are out of milk. hummm, that seems like nothing new in our home.

I am hoping and praying…

for my friends grandfather. He has improved, but he still has many challenges ahead of him.

I am hearing…..

well it was peace and quite, but now the all the boys are up and I am trying to get them to do their chores so we can get going with our earns. Trying to get them to do their work in a timely order and trust in what is to come when they do obey.

Around the house…

prep work for my daughters 8th birthday. She is having her friends over on Monday for a tea party. And then I am having a bread class with the mom’s.

One of my favorite….

when I tell my children they do know something. And they get stubborn and insist they don’t, then all of a sudden the light bulb goes off and they realize they do know it. The look on their face and knowing the feeling they feel at that moment is priceless.

Few plans for the rest of the week….

Children sing Sunday at church, Monday is Marissa’s Birthday party, Tuesday is children choir, Wednesday is bible study. Now that my truck is fixed I can go again, yeah!

Here is picture I would like to share….

my family, this is the picture the church took over a year ago for the directory.

To join in the Daybook family use the link to hop over to The Simple Women’s Daybooks

When mom is busy……

2011-02-16T08:49:00.001-05:00

how do the children keep themselves occupied. Well they go out to the scrap wood pile and build a bunk bed for their dog

A few lessons learned measure the openings and take the corner in consideration, that must be turned to get into bedroom before building.
They had a great time building it and it kept them busy all day.

This post is not for the light hearted….

2011-02-15T09:14:00.001-05:00

no injuries occurred.
Outside of mom having a slight heart failure, but that has been happening since I was blessed with my third son. Life has been an adventure since March 2, 2001.

Where do you find your children when they are sent outside to play for a bit?
My one son seems to always be up high on something.

Our new additions

2011-02-14T08:10:00.001-05:00

After many months of saying “NO”. And many tears shed, we finally were worn down, or should I say that daddy was.

So with the birthday’s and our one son so set on a dog and nothing else was wanted. And when again we said no. He broke down crying with his little heart broken once again. This time daddy melted and began to look for this beloved dog that had to be out there somewhere.

By the next day mommy found the perfect dog. But with a few catches. The dog I found had a friend and they really wanted to keep them together. Well good thing I have 4 children and the Love is abundance.

Here is a picture of these two sweet, lovable additions to our family, Bear and Kona. These two guys are the best, well behaved, trained and most of all giving the love back to the boy that cried for him every night.

They are a year older

2011-02-13T09:02:00.001-05:00

Thursday and Friday were both birthday day’s in our home.

On Thursday Piglet turned “12”.

On Friday Tigger turned “15”

Where does the time go and has it really been 12 and 15 years since a receiving these two wonderful joys and gifts from God.

Can you guess what the question has been since Friday?

You got it, “When can I get my permit?”

I am so excited for my boys they are both entering a new and exciting time in their life.

Proud of the men they are growing into.

The Simple Women’s Daybook

2011-02-08T10:33:00.001-05:00

For Today February 8, 2011

Outside my Window…..

the sun is raising, there is a chill in the air today with lots of dampness from all the rain yesterday. Weather says it will feel colder then it truly is.

I am thankful for…

how God has placed my family with the Mays family. Love how our two families have been there for each other.

I am thinking….

about how we don’t miss our local orchestra as I thought we would, since we had been apart of it for 6 years. Life is more relaxed and school work is receiving more attention as was needed. God is great when you turn your concerns to him he will know what needs done.

From the learning rooms…

daily textbook work. Feeling more on track with school then I have felt for the last with 3 years. The extra two days a week has made a huge difference. Enjoy being able to do more things such as Museums and Historical field trips, also more real learning below was a lesson found in our very own backyard. Praise God for his protection, my son that found it was not bitten and knew what kind of spider it was so he took caution.

From the kitchen….

some of our plans this week is seafood, homemade pizza, spaghetti with garlic bread, pork roast with corn bread stuffing and veggies, turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy.

I am creating…..

Each Monday I have been working on my husbands crocheted afghan, It finally is getting somewhere. I love these two hours each week spent with this group of Christian ladies crocheting. A few of the ladies began bringing their children since they also homeschool two of the girls are teaching my daughter how to make friendship bracelet's. Last week couple of the ladies showed me how to make a cupcake hat. Love projects like this since they are portable.

I am going….

to take the children to choir today, do school the rest of the week. Friday will be cleaning for company and preparing for our orchestra filled weekend. On Sunday we have a workshop that we are looking forward too.

I am reading….

hummm reading, well outside of doing the taxes and updating the enrollment file for orchestra and my children’s textbooks there is no reading happening.

I am hoping and praying….

praying for a friends grandfather who fell last week. In the fall he received severe injuries to his neck has been in ICU for over a week now, also had two surgeries this past week.

I am hearing….

the rooster crowing and the children waking and beginning their chores and eating breakfast.

Around the house…

Missy is working on her bracelets for all her cousins and friends and of course her baby doll. A few quick chores before school begins, then off to choir. Debating picking up the fish for Thursday today so I don’t have to run into town on Thursday. I worry about the freshness sitting two days in the fridge.

One of my favorite things….

feeling organized and on task with projects

Few plans for the rest of the week…

to be planning birthday’s, two this week and two more in another 2 weeks. This week one wants shrimp cocktails and scallops my other boy wants homemade pizza with his friend and her parents. My daughter wants a tea party with her friends and my last is not sure about anything except he wants mom to take him shopping so mom can spend money on him. Those are his words. I guess this year I am not getting away with one or two cakes.

Here is a picture I would like to share…

My SIL Arla and myself with all of our children. My heart swells with how all the cousins get so excited to see each other.

To read or be part of the Daybook family you hop over with this link.

The Simple Women’s Daybook

2011-01-19T22:50:00.001-05:00

For Today January 19, 2011

Outside my window…

pitch black outside nothing but the beauty of the stars shine.

I am thankful for….

the strength God gave me last week and my mother in law being there for me.

I am thinking about….

how God opens doors and then closes others. I see some major changes coming to our life this year. God has already made a huge change in our life last week. Feel the others will be coming in next few months. I am working on staying excited and embracing the changes instead of allowing the fear to take charge.

From the learning rooms…

mix of text book work and some real hands on learning. Jonathan made a Jell-O mold of the United States out of three different flavored jell-o's. Today they had a day of geography and science games. Was really impressed with my 7yr old answering the geography questions.

From the kitchen…

tonight we had one pot and bread and butter, other meals planned for this week include: homemade pizza, baked spaghetti casserole, burrito, enchilada and tacos, beef pot pie and stroganoff.

I am creating…

working on finishing the crocheted afghan for my husband, I actually might finish it now that I go once a week to a wonderful crochet group of Christian women.

I am going…

to concentrate on finishing up the laundry for the week and begin preparing the tax papers. Like to have the house clean and organized before the weekend. Have some school work to correct tomorrow also.

I am reading…

no reading outside of a devotion book here and there.

I am hoping and praying….

for my husband and his work, God has been keeping the work steady the past few months. Praying for many of my friends have several that are dealing with a loss of different kinds.

I am hearing…

my son on his cello, working on a new exercise that his cello teacher gave to him. It is a must for all cellist to be able to play this piece and to advance anywhere on the cello. Bring joy and happiness hearing my children playing again with the love Mr. May taught them. After losing Mr. May suddenly so much was unknown. We tried staying in the orchestra he started in our area but it came to an end last week. Not in a pretty way either, I just know God closed that door to us very firmly. But before he did he blessed my children with being able to be in the orchestra started in his honor by his wife, best friend and children. The loss of friendships has been felt by all of my children, but with it comes lessons in family and God’s protection, guidance and his provision for each of them.

Around the house…

fellowship, peace, and calmness now that the outside of the home negativity and strive have been removed from the picture. Didn’t realize fully how much of it was effecting our home.

One of my favorite things…

hearing my daughter today answer question on the States that I didn’t even know she knew, she is only 7, WOW!

Few plans for the rest of the week…

being at home until Saturday morning. Finished grocery shopping on Tuesday, so the rest of the week I can concentrate on the children and the house.

Here is a picture I would like to share…

Birthday heart baby girl made for her daddy, totally on her own.

To enjoy more daybook’s or to even join in on the reflections hope over to see Peggy Here.

Living History

2011-01-19T20:04:00.001-05:00

Waiting for the canon firing. They fire them every weekend about 5-6 times a day.

Wonderful view from the top of the Fort “ Castillo de San Marcos National Monument”

Preparing the Canons

My four children and myself

the old mill wheel

The oldest wooden school house. We did get to go inside asked my guys what they thought about the under the stairs time out spot. They all agreed it looked like a mini dungeon and glad we don’t do that.

Beautiful “Bird of Paradise Flower” this was in the garden of the school house.

My mother in law, my daughter and myself walking down one of the old streets line with many restaurants and stores.

My oldest son with his Mimi.

My daughter sitting on top of the old well hugging the canon balls. We learned that the soldiers would use many times of items in the canons, glass, chain shot (two balls chained together) and a canister full of mini canon balls.

They were very happy to be back in the 21st century and beds not made of Spanish moss that they had to share with fellow soldiers.

We are all looking forward to another trip to the Fort and the History that surrounds it. So much more to see and learn from

Christmas Day and Family

2011-01-19T18:50:00.001-05:00

All the cousins together, they look so forward to seeing each other.

Awaiting Christmas present opening

Cousins enjoying and testing out Adam’s Christmas present a trailer for his mower built by my husband. The dog even jumped in on this fun.

The Simple Women's Daybook

2010-12-19T16:34:00.001-05:00

For Today Sunday December 19, 2010

Outside my window….

it is a true wintery day now all we need is the snow.

I am thankful for..

my children they bring so much to my life

I am thinking about….

the daily schedule, now I know why I am Thankful for the break from the activities. We have something going on every day. I have sewing to get down for my sons Christmas and I can’t seem to find 5 minutes. I must get it done, it his important to him.

From the learning rooms….

we have been doing a lot of home ec, living skills and practical skills.

From the kitchen…..

no meal plans set in stone.

The children and I have been doing a lot of candy making. We have a few more things to make this week.

I am creating….

Blanket for my son, trying to find time to work on my quilt. I did get this done today

I am going to….

relax and not stress out over things.

I am reading…

I have taken a break to much living is happening at the moment.

I am hoping and praying….

for Dana at Roscommon Acres. I am still lost for words and can only pray for this family. I have a couple of friends that I know are hurting and experiencing a emptiness this season that no one can fill. I pray God gives them the comfort they need.

I am hearing…

hubby and three of my young ones watching the “Grinch that stole Christmas”. Looking to be in there soon with them.

Around the house…

Christmas is in the air the house is looking very festive.

One of my favorite things….

family getting along and actually enjoying each other.

Few plans for the rest of the week…

crochet class, birthday party, candy making and some sewing for Christmas. Oh and the biggest thing shopping for my children's Christmas presents.

Here is a picture I would like to share….

osmosis lesson that baby girl brought home from church today.

Little flakes grew into balls that bounce. Baby girl says they feel Cool.

Have a blessed week blog friends. Go by and check out other Day bookers at The Simple Women's Daybook

Merry Christmas to all!!!!

Prayers for Dana

2010-12-16T09:22:00.001-05:00

Dana over at Roscommomn Acres
Her and her family lost their 22 month old son this weekend. My heart is breaking for her and her family as I learn of their loss.
I am wordless, it makes me stop in my tracks and go spend time with my children.
Please keep them in your prayers

Christmas house making

2010-12-13T19:48:00.001-05:00

On Sunday we went over to Aunt Lee’s for a really nice Christmas lunch. And for the all 8 children to make their very own ginger bread houses, then they made a mini town out them to take home.

Since it was Uncle Bob’s birthday in a week we had the best chocolate cake after he blew his one candle out. Yes we made him one didn’t want to make him work to hard for his cake.

cousin Madison , my poppy and me

Cousin Adam, Aunt Lee, Uncle John and my husband with papa in background

my piglet working away on his house

Aunt Lee’s foyer, isn’t it just beautiful

Our mini town

Christmas Party

2010-12-10T09:55:00.000-05:00

Last night I went out to my very first homeschool mom's event, a Christmas party. I had such a good time meeting other homeschool mom's. They are a great bunch of ladies and so welcoming.

I was kind of unsure with fitting in and being apart of it. They welcomed me like I had always been a part of the group. Looking forward to joining in on the other activites with this ladies and their children.

Last night concert...

2010-12-09T13:17:00.000-05:00

Marissa and her best friend Emma

Jonathan and Marissa before leaving

Collin and his friend Victoria

Nathan during his orchestra performance

Collin and Jonathan are on stage here but I could not get either of them in the video

Final performance of the night with our artistic directors husband singing.

Night was a hit!!! The picture's and video are not the greatest. My camera broke just as the concert began so I was totally on my phone. I will be camera shopping this Christmas.

The last video was the surprise for the audience, "Can't get it out of my head"

To end that night even better, we had a great time going out with friend's for pizza.

This is our 6th yr with the Flagler Youth Orchestra. Hope to see it continue on over many more years.

We have 2 more concerts before the school year ends. Can't wait to see how much they learn by the end.
Today we are relaxing and decompressing.

Tonight is the night

2010-12-08T12:18:00.001-05:00

My four are having their orchestra concert!

Museum of Arts and Science

2010-12-05T10:24:00.001-05:00

Our cable company sponsored a day at our local museum yesterday.

So we loaded up my four, Mimi and two cousins for a day of learning.

I must have really been disappointed the last time I ever went to this museum. I had a great time and we ended up not leaving until 5:00.

We had a great planetarium experience and then a laser light holiday show. The festival of trees was there and Santa. The children loved the car museum and the coke a cola. The nature trails and the train depot with two train cars.

They also saw a wine pitcher from 250 BCE, learned about a lithograph picture that turns out their Mimi has one in her house from the same artist. Early American furniture and paintings, Chinese history and then Cuban History and we learned about native plant names to our area.

Then they found the children’s science center that was hands on, talk about occupied even at 5 they still wanted to stay longer they asked to do the nature trail again.

We will be going again…….

Thanks Uncle Bob

2010-11-30T22:33:00.000-05:00

Uncle Bob gave a rotisserie oven just before Thanksgiving. Tonight I finally had a chance to use it. Best chicken ever! The crispy skin and moist and tender inside. Only way I will be cooking chicken anymore. And yes Uncle Bob I put the water into the drip pan 2 cups.

I will have to cook you a chicken, Uncle Bob!

Thanksgiving Fun

2010-11-26T18:41:00.002-05:00

Thanksgiving would not be Thanksgiving with out the family.

Here is a glimpse into our Thanksgiving. The boys, daddy and Aunt Mary’s boyfriend
built a fort for my guys. The cousins were excited about this adventure. Between building they took turns on the go cart and tractors. Girls pretty much hung out on the trampoline all day.
In the afternoon we had some wonderful hymns on the piano and organ from my SIL Arla and her MIL.
Then the guys came in and joined in by playing the banjo, piano, violin, cello and viola. As us non music talent played scrabble and Pictionary.
A day filled with family fun and relaxation. Could not have been a better day.

All 10 cousins together first time in at least a couple of years.

Cousins from Memphis was so glad to see them

Blog I wouls love to share

2010-11-19T10:28:00.000-05:00

http://sewfunbymonique.blogspot.com/

I found this blog today from a link on this blog http://selvageblog.blogspot.com/

I am really thinking I am going to try the dresser idea....

Crafty Christmas

2010-11-14T10:18:00.000-05:00

Can't believe it is this time already. When do you start making gifts? I am beginning, hopefully here soon, but not until after Thanksgiving. With the Thanksgiving shopping and cooking on top of a full schedule already there just is no creativity flowing.

What are you making this year? When I go around visiting blogs I see so many wonderful ideas. I am still unsure of what to make for each person on my list yet. I know I need to figure it out soon. I have many ideas just none that I am locked into yet.

Well off to get ready for my 4 guys orchestra concert today. This is an exciting day for all of us. We love the Mays very much and all their love for music and all children.

Will hopefully have a video clip of the concert for you to see. Will definitely have pictures
Have a Blessed Sunday

Week in pictures

2010-10-25T12:32:00.001-04:00

View Full Album

From orchestra to a fabulous concert then a homeschoolers Harvest party and Bike week with date night and two having fun with my phone. Found even this week baby girl knows how to email pictures from my phone. Should have seen the look on her face when confronted over it.

View Full Album

The Simple Woman’s Daybook

2010-10-25T11:47:00.001-04:00

For Today October 25, 2010

Outside my Window….

sunny, dry weather. Pray we get some rain soon, the dirt roads are dust. We are still having wonderful warm weather very inviting to spend the day outside playing.

I am thankful….

for having wonderful friends in my life, that I get to spend every weekend with.

I am thinking about…..

our trip to Disney, the four children and I are trying to go tomorrow.

From the learning rooms….

we are working diligently at staying on task daily. My oldest is now caught up in his LLATL. We did make a change in his history to Beautiful from BJU. He is such a reader that this is more adapted to him. My next son saw all the literature and very frankly announced he was not doing that when his time came. We will see. he has several years before that comes. We practice music daily and have lessons 4 times a week.

From the kitchen….

tonight homemade fried chicken broccoli and stuffing. Tomorrow chili or burritos. Wednesday sandwiches and soup long night. Thursday Chicken and dumplings portion of it to go to a friends sick dad.

I am wearing…

a denim skirt and blue tank top. still dressing like summer.

I am creating…

should what I have finished I have many things I am working on. Sometimes to many at once. I did finish my knitted market bag this weekend, I also made a cello bib with embroidered front for a very important friend. Know to make one for my other dear friend. I am still hand quilting my lap quilt, doing another rag quilt for my other son and a dress for my daughter then a top for myself. Now just to find the time to complete each project. And my poor husband is still waiting on his afghan I started 2 yrs ago. It is huge and single crochet. Would like to have it for him soon.

I am going to …

today and tomorrow the public school is off, which means two of our extra activities are cancelled. This is good it gives us a rest and hopefully get to Disney tomorrow. Waiting to hear from our friend that we asked to go with us.

I am reading..

Milly Molly Mandy with the two younger children.

I am hoping and praying..

work continues for my husband, he has been so busy that it is an answer to prayer.

I am hearing…

my son on his cello, blessing and joy to my heart to hear him just go in and practice all on his own again. Has been awhile since he has had the desire to pick it up after losing his cello buddy and teacher Mr. May. Thank you to Mr. Miller, Mrs. May and Emily to help restore his love.

Around the house….

laundry being done, music practice, two younger ones outside somewhere kind of to quiet. Oldest is reading his literature for history.

One of my favorite things…

hearing my children play their instruments

A few plans for the rest of the week…

emails to be sent out, orchestra Wednesday, Disney trip and school work to be done. Hopefully a grocery trip in there soon.

Here is a picture I would like to share….

To read more daybook’s stop by The Simple Woman’s Dayook.

Blessing to your week and thank you for stopping by and being apart of our home.

Tara

My husband always takes care of me.

2010-10-19T13:14:00.000-04:00

MY NEW RANGE!!!!

Even better then I dreamed of getting

My old stove had no insulation in it, not sure how a company can do that.

Every time I used my old one the house was hot and I received a burn to my knee.

This one has speed bake, two ovens and a warmer all the burns are expandable.

And self cleaning with a bake timer and a delay timer. Every bell and whistle a stove could have.

I just can't even believe my husband found this gem on Craiglist.

Sunday he surprised me with it.

Now I have to learn to cook with it.

It cooks so different then my old that last night everyone ended up with fried eggs, instead of over easy.

I am in love!!!!

P.S Uncle Bob it won't sweat you out of the house on Thanksgiving.

Won't even know I am cooking except by the yummy smells of turkey and pumpkin pie!

Blackberry pudding yum and our week in pics

2010-10-14T21:24:00.000-04:00

Part of school this week we made blackberry pudding. It was really good! Will be adding this to my recipes.
I love hearing my children want to do school. They are so enjoying Milly Molly Mandy. I ended up break up the crust and mixing it in and it was delicious.

Here is what two of my children looked like Saturday morning. They just didn't agree with 5:30am wake up.

The other two were awake and playing in the third row seat the whole way.

My daughter and her friend at orchestra this week

One of the things I haven't told you about. These little items made with sculpy. Well they are now charcoal in the yard. They sat to long and when baked by my 9 yr old son they caught on fire. Love to find my children do listen to all that I have taught. Was our first time experience with a fire extinguisher.

Thank God for his protection no one was hurt. The only fatality was the toaster oven.

Baby girl decided a couple weekends ago that she had to have a painted box.She ran around all day happy as can be dressed as a box.

baby girl taking pic of baby kitten. This was just to precious

Here I am driving to orchestra. Trying to get a nice picture for my Facebook.

baby girl demonstrating at orchestra

Our neat find in Orlando. We told the boys they can wash their own clothes now.

One was actually falling for it.

My talented children practicing this week at both their orchestras

kitten napping in the sun

My oldest son, I am so proud of the young man he has grown into.

He was funny we were playing with taking pictures. In one we both had the same silly look.

He said no one can say we aren't related. That touched my heart.

So much I want to post

2010-10-13T11:36:00.000-04:00

I am here to apologize to everyone. I so enjoy posting things here and reading and learning from others.
This year I have really been concentrating on my children. They are here with me for such a short time in our life. That I want them to know how important they are: I don't want them thinking that the computer and everyone else is more important then them.
This year we are going more then normal with a added orchestra to our schedule then what was going to be one day extra has turned into 2 days. I am grateful for this opportunity my children have.

I do have pictures to post of them all playing.

As I am typing my children at this moment are waiting on me: we are making blackberry puddings from our Milly Molly Mandy comprehension together. This has been great time spent with 2 of my children.

I am leaning to listen to my children and what makes them feel loved and special to mom and dad.

We will take a photo and post how our pudding comes out.

Will be back with some pictures for all to see hopefully by week end.

Have a blessed week

lost post

2010-09-27T20:39:00.001-04:00

Can't believe I finally made time to post and lost it just as I finished.
Will be trying again.
Yes I am whining thank you for listening.

The Simple Woman’s Daybook

2010-09-19T18:40:00.001-04:00

Outside my window……Sun is bright but beginning it’s evening decent.

I am thankful….for a husband that works hard for us. Most of all comes to our rescue even when we are hour and 1/2 away.

I am thinking…about staying calm, not worrying about everything. I was sick for 3 weeks due to stress it was my worst attack yet.

I am wearing…purple sundress, yes we are still near 90’s here.

I am remembering….the kindness Emily and her mom showed us yesterday. As we waited for hubby to drive all the way over to fix a issue with my truck, luckily it was nothing serious.

I am creating….a rag quilt for pooh bear. It is almost done.

I am praying…for our house, not sure what is happening. We never ever get a straight answer from the mortgage servicing company.

From the kitchen…have many meals plan just no order to them

I am hoping… hubby we treat me to dinner, just the two of us for my birthday.

From the learning rooms….lots of music playing, math books and we did some LLATL

I am hearing…..cake boss on the tv. Missy losing it again over her wasp sting from last night. Poor baby’s hand and wrist is all swollen. All 4 of my boys are on lawn mowers and go carts.

Around the house….everyday living is showing in many rooms. Dishes are finally done after a couple of day since we were having trouble with the drains. Not pretty picture, dirty dishes with a family of six.

A few plans for the rest of the week…orchestra on Monday, Choir Tuesday, I just found out no orchestra this Wednesday that means 3 solid days of school ;) Then Saturday orchestra. A meeting on Sunday right after church.

Here is a picture I would like to share with you……evening drive along the beach

To read more daybooks please visit Peggy at Simple Woman's Daybook.

Thank you for stopping by and being part of our family this week

Blessing to your family.

Taking time today…

2010-09-05T17:33:00.001-04:00

Today I took time for me and some things I wanted to do but never had time for.

For along time I have wanted to upload some of my cd’s to I tunes so I could have them on my I phone. Especially now that my I phone or Pandora is all I ever listen to in the truck. (and I am spending a lot of time in the truck again).

Well on the computer today actually doing things(more then poking in on people with blogs and facebook) I decided to quickly up date what I have been doing.

First lots of home schooling. We are doing great in math, just about caught up with LLATL. Doing more reading this year then in the past. I am feeling very good over our progress. Hopefully this year will stay calmer around the holidays. So that we are not taking as much time away from school work. The nice thing is all four of my children are working so much more independently.

Here is a picture of that special quilt (thank you honey for my wonderful sewing machine). I have it all wrapped up to send to my mother. With special message stitched in the binding and each pink ribbon.

I am now finally working on a camouflage rag quilt for pooh bear. He has been asking for a long time. Everyone has one from mom but him, it is his turn. This is the first rag quilt so far seems to be very easy. Can’t wait until it is done and we wash it. All those cuts will fluff and they say it gets softer each time it is washed. Perfect for this winter for him.

also spent time playing with the embroidery part of the machine. My poppy loves butterflies and purple. This was the day we had company also. Aunt Arla and our four cousins came all the way up to visit us, and share in the joy of my new machine.

The children and I did take a break and meet daddy one evening to have fun swimming.

We have had a great start to music this year. All four are very excited to be back in their orchestra’s. Makes a mothers heart swell with joy listening to them practice every evening as I cook dinner.

Hopefully I will be back this week to do my simple woman’s daybook. According to hubby this is going to be a very full week and he is needing me even more then normal. This is answered prayer, work for hubby. Thank Jesus!

Couple more thing to check off that to do list for myself.

Blessing to your week friends,

Tara

Babylock Ellegeo

2010-08-25T09:26:00.001-04:00

After lots of shopping and comparing. I fell in love (should I mention my husband fell harder then I did). With a machine way out of price range for us. Which is a good thing for me, since he made it his mission to find that machine for me in a price area we could handle.

This machine is the a very slightly older model. For me though it is the mack daddy of machines. This machine only needs me to program it and it does the rest.

Has a color touch screen and embroider with three hoops. As I finally made time yesterday to try my hand at free motion quilting.

I fell head over heels in love with it.

Had to call hubby right away to tell him how blessed and thankful I was for my new friend.

The Simple Woman’s Daybook

2010-08-25T09:08:00.001-04:00

For today August 25, 2010

Outside my window….

rain, rain and more rain. It is a soft rain the kind that soaks deep into the ground. Love days like these, they are calming and relaxing.

I am thinking…

schedules and how no matter how much planning you do. Things always are changeable and not the stress over it. God is in control and he will manage it better then I will ever.

I am thankful….

for a husband that cares about me. And bends over backwards to give me my desires.

I am wearing..

pink sundress

I am remembering…

all the God loving people God has placed in my path through the years. What a blessing to have been given. Some are still here and others came and went.But they all left a mark in some form.

I am creating…

free motion quilting!!!! Yes you read that right. My husband found me an awesome machine. I sat yesterday free motioning the Breast Cancer quilt. If things go well I will have it completed today.

I am praying…

for a friend just found her dad has cancer. My dear friend just lost her mom to cancer. She amazes me with her smile and her generosity. Watching her causes me to reflect on myself and how I react in trials.

From the kitchen….

ham, broccoli and cheese casserole with warm buttered bread

fried chicken drumettes

turkey with gravy and stuffing

country fried steak and mashed potatoes and country gravy

I am hoping…

this rain last all day. Will make for a real good school day for us.

From the learning rooms…

daily math lesson, LLATL including spelling. We alternate the science, history and bible truth. This year we are doing more reading and my children have already jumped on board when they heard they will be receiving a free personal pizza.

I am hearing…

baby girl watching PBS behind me. The two middle boys cleaning cages of their hamsters and the oldest out handling trash and morning feeding of the animals.

Around the house…

calmness be practiced, nice speech to our siblings and working together, helping each other. Morning chores are just about done and we will begin school.

A few plans for the rest of the week….

yesterday was the first of our extra curricular activities. This week end will be the kick off to our one orchestra. We have Saturday and Sunday with the MAYS. Then on Monday we begin our local orchestra through the local school system.

Here is a picture I would like to share.

momma cat with her new babies and her baby from her first litter.. He babysits, tends to them and cleans them.

To read more daybooks please visit Peggy at Simple Woman's Daybook.

Thank you for stopping by and being part of our family this week

Blessing to your family.

Tara

The Simple Woman’s Daybook

2010-08-19T11:40:00.001-04:00

For today August 18, 2010

Outside my window..

have noticed the mornings are finally becoming cooler. 77 this morning, still will reach high temps during the day. Looking forward to no a/c and windows and curtains open again soon.

I am thinking…

about my friend and the trials she is encountering

I am thankful for….

God providing work for my husband.

From the learning rooms….

evaluations are done and turned in. We started the new year two weeks ago. So far so good. Next week all our activities begin, so our schedule will be finding what works for us.

From the kitchen….

country friend steak

turkey, stuffing and gravy

spaghetti

I am wearing…

capri’s and a top with flip flops

I am creating…

same projects

I am going….

out today baby girl has another Dr. appt. today. We have some other things to do while we are out.

I am reading…

school books hoping to get some reading done when all our activities begin back up next week. Have a pile of books I would like to read.

I am hoping…

for rain again today

I am hearing…

the children, couple of them are doing school the two younger ones are off task due to me on the computer.

Around the house….

morning chores have been done, laundry waiting to be hung, school being done.

One of my favorite things….

the ability to change up out day when needed.

A few plans for the rest of the week….

week is almost over, plans were to get all running around done in the beginning of the week. School and home maintenance the last of the week. But as my favorite thing says “change when needed”. Plans have been changed, my husband is expecting I will need to bring my truck down to him. So my BIL can work on it. Which is a good thing..

Here is a picture I would like to share…

kittens discovered this morning right outside our door.

To read more daybooks please visit Peggy at Simple Woman's Daybook.

Thank you for stopping by and being part of our family this week

Blessing to your family.

Tara

My own version…

2010-08-15T18:16:00.001-04:00

I have wanted a Vera Bradley for along time. I finally made my own with all the matching pieces to go with it.

Set includes purse, wallet, make up with match personals bag, I phone case, camera case and a sunglass case.

Close up of material.

I am so very happy with how it all came out.

Today I am using the rest of the material to make my daughter a matching set.

sewing machines

2010-08-12T07:56:00.001-04:00

So many choices, when I get on line to shop I feel like I am over whelmed. Then fear sets in, so afraid of putting hard earned money in to the wrong machine.

I found a store that is a dealer of about 4-5 brands and handles repairs. So I am going to head down there and see what I can learn from them. Maybe take some of the ones I am looking at for a test drive.

The Simple Womans Daybook

2010-08-11T09:33:00.001-04:00

For today August 11,2010

Outside my window…

The sun is shining, not a breeze to be noticed. Do hope that changes as the day progresses. The wonderful breeze makes the day so pleasant and enjoyable.

I am thinking…

evaluations and how to get them done. I had a plan and someone in line but I haven’t heard back from her. So now I need to call the other teacher I know and pray she has time and is willing to do them.

I am thankful…

i have a husband that can repair anything. I was in tears over the loss of my sewing machine. See my machine is not just a friend it is my therapy my get away clear my mind.

I am wearing…

a sundress

I am remembering…

yesterday’s event with the snake. Finding myself today, looking where I am walking. My oldest son (Tigger) went to pick up What he thought was trash. not knowing it was a snake. All heck broke loose in the house. Had to move a piano to get the snake. Then it took off down the hallway for the children’s bedrooms. The snake went into the linen closet. I thought oh good this will be easy now. Instead every time I used the big tongs to grab the silly thing it got away. Off down the hallway it went again. My thought if it gets there I will never find it. And I am not brave enough to be moving things to look under. So with #2 son (Piglet) using a long stick he helped hold it and keep it from the bedrooms. I was able to grab it, but of course it was with the shortest tongs. Really the short ones!!! Now I standing there holding a VERY ANGRY snake that is taking strikes at me. And I am holding it my the tail with short tongs, WONDERFUL! GOD PROTECT ME! This is not my thing! So now I can’t get to a door every time I move the snake takes a strike at me. I am yelling for a bag, 3rd son (Pooh Bear) brings a grocery bag. No,NO,No we want BIG BIG bag! Tigger comes to his mom’s rescue with a big black trash bag we place snake inside and Tigger throws trash bag and all into field next door. He said he didn’t stop to see what the snake did. Thing was wiggling really bad in the bag. So as the boys were helping their mom, Where was baby girl in all this commotion? Standing up on the highest counter she could find the bar! Even after snake was gone she was still unsure about coming down. With a hug and promise from mom that the snake is gone. she came down and went back to play.

I am creating…

This is the special quilt I have been working on, it is because my mom is a survivor of stage 3 almost 4 breast cancer. Wanted to help raise money for breast cancer research. due to all the mishaps with my machine it will not make it to the awareness banquet. So it is going to the lady it stood for my mom.

I am praying…

for God provision, protection and guidance as all our extra curricular activities start up here in the couple of weeks. I am also praise the work my he has blessed my husband with the last month.

From the kitchen…

We took a break from all the pork we have in the freezer for a few days. Had homemade pizza last night and it was so good.

Tonight I am thinking pork chops

I am hoping…

to be on top of school this year. Don’t want to fall to far behind.

From the learning rooms…

science SNAKE identification

LLATL

Math

History

Bible Reading

Reading

we are trying a new schedule seeing if we can be more productive.

I am hearing…

two boys outside playing. Still trying to figure out how they are getting out there every morning. They are able to go outside with out me hearing any door. (wish they they would do that during the day instead of slamming). One of the joys of country living they can go outside like they do.

Around the house…

I am sewing, the children and I are all working on laundry and ironing. Yesterday we cleaned our rooms. I went in to baby girls and worked with her. I need to go into the boys next they just aren’t getting to mom’s quality of clean.

A few plans for the rest of the week..

eye appointment for 3 of 4 children that failed at their physical. Not sure how 2 of them failed but we will follow up to be safe. The glasses that Pooh Bear was prescribed back in November is fixing his sight, PRIASE! He was the only one that passed at the physical. Finish up some sewing and possible clean the boys room. of course school work and music practice.

Here is a picture I would like to share..

To read more daybooks please visit Peggy at Simple Woman's Daybook.

Thank you for stopping by and being part of our family this week

Blessing to your family.

Tara

Update on old friend

2010-08-10T23:44:00.001-04:00

Hubby took her totally apart tonight found the motor had come loose and the belt was slipping. Well no more he was able to adjust it and fix her right up.

So that was good, but she still doesn’t want to free motion quilt. The quilt ladies had said the older machines seem to have trouble doing Free motion, which is disappointing. Hubby even gave free motion quilting a try. He realized the disappointment I have been feeling.

The praise is I can sew normally and can straight line quilt.

I am still set on having a new sewing machine. Will be going down to another quilt store to check out some other brand machines. After meeting the Brother Nx-450Q, I have to admit my eyes have begun to wonder and dream of a new best friend. Yet I do plan on keeping the old one around to be my children’s friend for the rest of her time.

friendship of 22 years coming to an end

2010-08-10T15:09:00.001-04:00

I had a feeling a couple months back something was wrong.

I tried cleaning and oiling, It just made the popping sound a bit less audible.

Well this week end as I was working on that special quilt (pictured below) I have been telling everyone about for weeks now.

The machine decided it no longer wants to work correctly. Spent a couple of hours over at the local quilt shop with the ladies. And they confirmed that it is not operator error, not knowing how to free motion quilt. Dear old friend is worn out, only thing she wants to do is straight stitch. Which is ok in her old age, she can help my children learn to sew.

We have been through a lot together and I am not ready to part from her just yet.

Hopefully soon she will be joined by a new friend. That will do all that I am requiring these days plus some.

Spent the weekend shopping online and scoping out what others are using.

Most that I have chosen are out of range with the wallet. Such as my first choice down below.

Here was my first choice

Janome MC-6600P

then I thought if Kenmore has been great before maybe I should stay there so I began looking at this one

Then the ladies at the quilt shop showed me this one. I am so not a brother fan, but I began to fall in love.

Brother NX-450Q

Wouldn’t need to buy anything extra it comes with it all including the quilt foot. Their was a woman there that had hers for almost a year and was a die hard Singer. She loves hers. It has all the features that the Janome has above. But cheaper and can get here local and receive 5 free classes plus a few other bonus things.

Any of you quilting ladies out there that want to leave a comment and help me out here. The choices are over whelming.

I don’t want to be diving into this decision lightly. We are talking a new companion that I want around as long as the last or longer.

Camping, cooking on the open fire= FUN!!!!

2010-08-10T13:10:00.001-04:00

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Funniest part was when they all came back in the house with sleeping bags in tow and slept in the living room.

Woman at the Well

2010-08-10T12:34:00.001-04:00

The Simple Woman’s Daybook

2010-08-04T18:26:00.001-04:00

For Today August 4,2010

Outside my window…

I see the sun is shining, but I have the curtains drawn . It has begun to be nice in the early morning So I have been out walking this week. By the time I get back to the house the bugs are out in force.

I am thinking….

our fall schedule, about all the activities that are beginning in the next couple of weeks. Knowing that we will find a groove for everything as things smooth out.

I am thankful….

all I have. I am so thankful to my hubby for getting me back into a Suburban. Life works better with a family of six especially when grocery shopping.

I am wearing….

denim skirt and tank top.

I am remembering…

Sunday service and the words “What does your life show?”. What does my life show, a busy mother and wife. Is the surface, but does it show Jesus? When I meet new people or people that have known me for years, do they see Jesus in my life?

I am creating…

Still working on the special quilt. I sandwiched it today. Need to begin the quilting very soon running out of time. I can’t wait to post the photo of it here.

I am praying…

for my husband and his work. Gods guidance and grace. God to guide us with our house situation. We both know our dream is over with this house. We are just living here on borrowed time.

From the kitchen….

no set meals are in the plans. I know I should plan better.

I have a freezer full of pork thanks to the pig we raised. Tonight we are having a Ham.

I am hoping…

to be more organized this school year. Actually I need to be so that we don’t fall behind with the books.

From the learning rooms…

math books today and LLATL with silent reading.

I am hearing…

the TV. with children running in and out of the house.

Around the house….

putting most of our energy into school. Three are outside playing, well one learning shhhhhh…Don't tell him. He has become very knowledgeable with small engine repair.

A few plans for the rest of the week…..

no plans outside of the house as of yet. Never know what is to come about.

Here is a picture I would like to share…

the rescue helo. Circling today right behind our home due to a fire.

To read more daybooks please visit Peggy at Simple Woman's Daybook.

Thank you for stopping by and being part of our family this week

Blessing to your family.

Tara

For me………

2010-07-30T14:03:00.001-04:00

Yes for me!

My son after working all day with his dad,

took his hard earned money and bought his mom a gift.

He is so thoughtful!

The Simple Woman’s Daybook

2010-07-28T09:19:00.001-04:00

For today July 28, 2010

Outside my window….

they are saying it is going to be another hot, hot day. The temps are in the 90’s with the index at 103’. The nats are really bad outside due to how dry it is, good thing no mosquitoes' around.

I am thinking…

about my friend, today we will be attending her mother’s memorial. I miss her but I know she is no longer in the pain she dealt with daily. Everyday she praised our Heavenly Father.

I am thankful…

for my home, nothing makes sense that we are still in our home. We do know it can’t go on much longer. We should have lost it year or more ago. I pray we make it through this years Thanksgiving before it all comes to a end. I do know our God is in charge and he will take care of us. I believe this is why we are still here.

I am wearing..

a nightgown,will be showering soon to head out to the service.

I am remembering…

God’s promises

I am creating…

Sewing the blocks of the special quilt together with borders. Have a date now that it must be completed by. Almost done hand quilting my other quilt. Looking forward to their completion to so I can post pictures for you to see.

I am praying…

for my man, who is out working daily for us.

From the kitchen…

tonight taco salad

tomorrow steak and hamburger for the children

I have food in the house just haven’t decided what when, except for me.

trying to stay on salad, yogurt, cereal. I have put on weight due to not getting out walking or riding due to the heat.

I am hoping…

to wrap up school as planned take a couple of days to complete the portfolio. Then stay on the track we are for awhile. The schedule is working but I know it will be changing in a few weeks.

From the learning rooms…

Daily math lessons, working on our language arts, also Heritage Studies

I am hearing…

two boys playing with their hamsters, baby girl getting ready to leave. Pipper the Quaker parrot having his say this morning.

Around the house…

the daily routine that it takes to run a home of six. Lots of laundry, dishes and pick up. Play time every evening for the younger ones. Late nights are happening due to hot days so we are making the most of the evening into the night.

One of my favorite things…

I am sure I have said this before. When my children are getting along, playing together nicely. Most of all seeing how they are there for each other. Pray as they grow up into adults they will continue to be there for one another.

A few plans for the rest of the week..

looking at going to watch sea turtles hatch tomorrow. School books is the priority around here these weeks. Some music practice for everyone and music reading for baby girl. Other then that just daily chores. No big plans around here.

Here is a picture I would like to share…

my sons pig he raised for meat. This week went to the butcher shop.

To read more daybooks please visit Peggy at Simple Woman's Daybook.

Thank you for stopping by and being part of our family this week

Blessing to your family.

Tara

Awaken in the night…..

2010-07-25T13:29:00.001-04:00

when it wakes my husband, you know something is not good. A sound that could not be described.

Finally we figured out it was the Chimney Swifts. We have a late season nest in the chimney.

What a noise….ok back to bed.

This morning after battling for sleep, that I finally gave in and nosed around to see what was upsetting these birds.

That is when the children and found the nest had fallen and two babies where in the fireplace hanging on to the nest for dear life calling their mother.

Immediately, my thoughts went to, “oh no! I am not hand raising these.” Especially after the hamster episode.

Have to love the internet!!!!! Anything you need to know is right there! Yes lets find what to do…. After some reading, we found we could touch the babies and return them to the upper part of the fireplace (lower part of the chimney). And mom would come and tend to them. We also found out the age(note in picture below eyes are closed still). This meant we really needed them back with their mom.

There is nothing better then real living school!

My youngest and I retrieved the babies and nest. Found a small basket to place babies in and the oldest went to the roof and lowered them using a garden hoe. (which opened up another issue in the house. Everyone wanting to be on the roof, NOT).

All has ended well, mommy and daddy have been down the chimney several times now to tend to their babies and their newly placed nest on the smoke ledge.

We have learn a few things on this road.

1. nest is made of saliva and tips of trees.

2. if you are hearing the babies they are about 2 weeks away from leaving.

3. they are rare and protected.

4. to hand feed and to have them you must have a lic/permit.

5. They fly here every summer from Peru.

6 they are here for the warmest part of the year and as soon as the first cool breeze blows through they are gone.

7. if the first hatching fails the parents will try again.

Do you feel smarter today? I do…..

School?????

2010-07-24T18:49:00.001-04:00

Math is the subject.

My question is does this help you think better?

Feels so calming

2010-07-21T12:55:00.000-04:00

I found a app on the Iphone that is ocean sounds with Celtic music.
The music reminds me of the Celtic Woman.
It is a great tool for a 5 minute break.