Littlemama's thoughts on...

... New Year's Resolutions

2011-01-04T12:58:00.000-08:00

Our pastor made a point of talking about the usual unsuccessfulness of New Year's Resolutions this Sunday. That got the kids and I thinking that we'd rather set 2011 "goals", seeing as though there isn't really any stigma attached to those. I was highly impressed by what the boys chose to put down on their goal sheets. "Being a better big brother" and "helping Mama more" were right up there with "get better at hockey" and "learn to play gutiar". What a blessing to see them already making wise choices and striving to make even better ones!

Trusting Him

2010-10-23T09:01:00.000-07:00

We have recently made the decision to move from our county haven and downsize to a small house back in the city. It was a difficult decision to make but one we haven't regretted. We are so glad we embarked on the county adventure and may return to it someday in the future but this was what we needed to do for the time-being. Although I miss the county - the IDEA of it mostly, my husband seems so relieved to be back in the city. The demands on him must be less without all the land and yard and outbuildings to worry about. Not to mention the huge cost difference. I am choosing to look forward and ahead to what else the Lord has in store for us. I don't want to look back. I read the story of Lot's wife in the Bible. I don't want to make the same mistake! LOL

Sanctus Real - Lead Me (Slideshow With Lyrics)

2010-07-01T11:23:00.000-07:00

Pause the player at the bottom. This one's worth it!

LISTEN!!

NOUNS

2010-05-25T09:50:00.000-07:00

I know I haven't posted for quite some time. I have a legitimate alibi - really I do. You see, I have given birth to 6 children in my life. With each pregnancy countless brain cells swell and burst. Followed by the slew of brain cells that abdicate their function during the few months of sleeplessness postpartum. I have finally come to the conclusion that these brain cells are the ones responsible for mastering the use of nouns. My adjectives are slightly malfunctioning, verbs and pronouns seems untouched; but the nouns are, for all rights and purposes, gone. My sentences now go something like this:
"Honey, (this could refer to anyone in earshot) I need you to bring me the ____".

"Why did you let that _____________ get in here?"

"Who dropped the _______________ and left it there?"

"Where is my _____________?"

And countless others just like them.

The kids exasperatedly try to help me construct my words while I attempt to give them direction, rebuke, or praise. It really takes the "oomph" out of a punishment if the child has to fill in the blanks of what they did wrong and give the details of their own sentence."
Mom: "Son, (also a good generic term)I see you left that..."
Child: "toy?"
Mom:"Yes, toy, out. You know you are supposed to put those in the ___________"
Child: "toybox?"
Mom: "Right, the toybox. I think you better go back there (pointing down the hall) and clean the......."
Child: "bathroom?"
Mom: "Sure, yeah, the bathroom. That's good. Uh-oh, the baby's crying. She must've dropped her..."
Child: "bottle, mom, it's her bottle."

I am only able to write this now due to getting a little extra sleep, taking herbal supplements, and playing sudoku in the bathroom. My husband told me he wanted ten children when we first married. Do you thin k by then I will still be able to speak at all? LOL

~Cheers to all! Lovin' the busy Mommy life, even if it leaves me speachless! :-)

Michael Pearl's nogreaterjoy.org a great resource for parents

2010-03-05T16:03:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to share that my family has found Michael and Debi Pearl's ministry, No Greater Joy, and their website, www.nogreaterjoy.org, to be a wonderful parenting resource. They have at times been brought into unnecessary controversy over hideous crimes commited by other people. For a hint of truth, read this:
http://www.squidoo.com/Pearls_2Train_Up_A_Child

Hollywood knows abortion is wrong...

2009-08-30T06:57:00.001-07:00

So funny, and so eerily true...

2009-08-27T05:36:00.000-07:00

Ray Comfort on CBN

2009-08-21T15:46:00.000-07:00

PEACE

2009-06-23T05:27:00.000-07:00

While listening to the radio the other day, a topic came up that intruigued me and made me want to blog...

What's your definition of 'PEACE'? Many people would say "it's the opposite of war...or a lack of conflict". I want to challenge you to look at it through "spiritual eyes" and see how Jesus talked of it.

John 14:27 says: 27Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

I believe His definition of peace would be something more like this: a steadiness of mind and heart, a resolve of spirit amidst conflict, trial, and temptation.

Many a beauty queen, Sunday school room, pastor, etc has wished for world peace. Frankly, I don't see that happening while the Lord tarries, but we can have His peace that passes all understanding even now, today!, accompanied by the presence of the Holy Spirit, when we put our faith in Him.

Anyway, I found that interesting... :-)

Titus 2:1-5

2009-04-29T15:36:00.000-07:00

1But as for you, speak the things which are proper for sound doctrine: 2that the older men be sober, reverent, temperate, sound in faith, in love, in patience; 3the older women likewise, that they be reverent in behavior, not slanderers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things—4that they admonish the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, 5to be discreet, chaste, homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be blasphemed.

Happy Birthday Big-E!

2009-04-21T05:33:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my 7 yr. old guy! You are so special and such a blessing sweetheart! We love you VERY VERY much! Hope your day is special.

Legislation

2009-04-01T06:43:00.000-07:00

Ever wonder where you can find out what's all being discussed on Capitol Hill? My husband came across this site recently as is finding it helpful for political information. It is rather disturbing to see the enormous amount of legislation that our Congress-people are supposed to be voting on, but at least there is somewhere to find out what it is all about. I hope you find it helpful.

it is - http://www.opencongress.org (or click on the link above if it works)

Are you ready to DO something about it?

2009-03-18T06:16:00.000-07:00

Pause the player down below and watch this... then it's up to you to go to www.youtube.com to watch the other clips. It is one of those things that is just plain worth it. I have talked with a lot of people, it seems, who feel like they are just waiting for someone to shout "Tea Party!" (Boston...that is). It is almost as if we are on the brink of a mixture between the Revolutionary and Civil Wars; Revolutionary because we are convinced our government is corrupt and leading us astray and we are ready to rid ourselves of its control and Civil because it seems we are so distinctly divided Left & Right on which way to go: conservative or liberal, that I fear we will pack up to our own sides of this country and not coexist anylonger. At least this clip gives an idea of a way to foster hope in these wearying times... the only TRUE hope of course is found in Scripture. And we all know from Scripture how this will all end...but in the meantime it sure is refreshing to hear Americans talking like Mr. Beck below.

When the goin' gets tough....

2009-03-12T11:12:00.001-07:00

...the tough get READY. No one needs to be reminded that "things" are getting tighter, tougher, and a little uncertain economically and politically. I DO think it's important to remember though that we can be as prepared as possible in the midst of these things. There are a lot of very useful online resources (as well as at the library) to help with this. I will include some of my favorites at the end of this post. Here at home we are making a kind of check list to help ourselves feel more prepared for whatever turn this country is making. Take a look at it and let it encourage you to begin one with our family's needs, talents, and priorities in consideration.

-Make a larger, more productive garden this year. (and be prepared to freeze and can what we get).
-Stock up on the basics (bread-making materials, dry goods, etc).
-Revisit the old financial budget and make as many adjustments as possible allowing for vast cut-backs where possible. (starting a budget if you don't already have one is darn near mandatory).
-reducing any and all debt (eliminating it is best!).
-learning skills you might need in the near future (fishing, sewing, gardening, canning, home remedies, etc.).
-keep an eye on local and federal political climates - and respond accordingly. This government IS movable by the people. (for better or worse)

Here are some of my favorite websites on all these topics:

Frugal/Homemade cooking and shopping:
http://www.hillbillyhousewife.com/index.htm

http://www.menus4moms.com/frugal/meals_for_hard_times_2.php

http://oldfashionedcooking.com/

Outdoorsmen resourses:

http://www.pearloutdoors.com/

http://www.urbanexod.us/discuss/index.php?PHPSESSID=l4hr6lm5gh2imdkhq1bni6oo07

Natural Health/ Healing:

http://www.bulkherbstore.com/

http://www.welltellme.com/discuss/

http://www.morethanalive.com/Beeyoutiful?gclid=CNOklPyCnpkCFSEgDQodA0hcDg

conservative, good speech

2009-03-04T06:08:00.000-08:00

This is worth watching. Pause the player below and enjoy. The rest of them are available on either Huc Pac website or youtube.

Great puzzle maker

2009-02-05T09:41:00.001-08:00

Here is a link to a really cool home schooling tool.
It is a free puzzle maker. You can put in some words or facts and make your own work sheets for whatever lesson you are working on. Or have your older students make the puzzle themselves. A really great resource!

http://puzzlemaker.discoveryeducation.com/

quirky favorite things

2009-02-04T17:59:00.000-08:00

I am a sucker for pretty things that are ALSO practical - especially if it can be used in more than one way. I love it when things that look like decor are actually usable... in the same respect I like to put things I use out as part of the decor until I need to use them. For example, I have a bright red porcelain pitcher bowl that sits on a shelf in my kitchen. It looks as though it is a "special one" that is only for show but it isn't - I use it all the time.

This is a picture of one of my favorite lamps. I like it because it is funky and usable and because my Grandma gave it to me. I love just about everything she gives me. It is just a mason jar with a special lid that has lamp wiring attached. I put some cute stuffed toys in it that my husband got as a gag gift from our nephew. That actually makes it kind of creepy, but I could put anything in there to change the look...

Natural Learning

2009-01-24T20:13:00.000-08:00

Lately I've been thinking a lot about the little "bubble" I live in with my happy little family. I too easily forget that we are part of a minority when it comes to home-schooling and family time. Most of my friends are stay-at-home-moms who home-school and we are blessed to be attending a church with mostly the same type of family structures. I realize now that I am super blessed to have this life with my little ones and that it is a gift I can help share with others. I do get asked a lot how we do what we do at home. Just the other day in a restaurant an older couple was talking to our older boys and enjoying conversation with them. The lady commented to me on how well-behaved, etc they were (thank heavens they were acting appropriately :-) ). She then asked what grades they are in and where they go to school. My six yr. old answered for me that they are home-schooled. That's when the single woman sitting behind them piped in that "Oh, they are?" and then began the questions directed from both tables as to "Well, do they have to take tests?" "Do you get their schoolwork from the School Board" etc etc. It was like fielding questions at a mini press-conference. Good thing I like to talk to strangers! :-)
It made me further realize how odd our way of "schooling" may seem to those so unfamiliar with the concept of mom and kids at home all the time TOGEHTER. We do use books, and computer programs, and other various resources but we are very much NOT bound to any specific curriculum. I have looked at many many curricula and have found them to either be very expensive or lacking in material I desire the kids to learn (or both!). Recently we have begun a series of projects that occupy a good portion of our school time that are incorporating our "subjects" all together. For example, this past week we made a family board game. It is a compilation of different themes all thrown together (Bible trivia, animal trivia, family information, spy adventures, super-heroes ). They used extreme creative-thinking skills to decide how it would work and what it would look like. They used their art skills to design and decorate it. They used writing skills to create the cards and board instructions. I helped them a lot, but a lot was their doing too. Then we all played it when Daddy came home. He thought it was so great he wants to come up with a way to market it. :-) (I think he's biased).
Anyway, this is just a great example of how learning just comes so naturally to children. Their creativity is just constantly wanting an outlet. It can be daunting for a parent to try and harness that creative energy and direct it toward productivity - but it can be done! We take walks to srudy animal tracks in the snow, and we discuss all manner of world events and geography. We don't take too seriously the mundane bookwork although I am inclined to require some of that as well. I endeavor for us to read more outloud together as we have yet to make this a consistent part of our day. They really enjoy our singing/Bible times in the morning. We make it fun. Try to anyway. Sometimes I have to coax them to do something they assume will be boring but usually they tell me later that it was way more fun than they'd anticipated. We also do a lot of activities that can incorporate many ages. I have a baby, a toddler, and two in different grades so we take many lessons and adapt them to everyone's needs. We are currently in a study on Blackbeard the pirate, for example, and everyone can participate at some level. Some things they do completely on their own; and others we pair off and work one at a time with mom. I think they like that time best. I know I do.The proof is definately in the pudding. My kids like being with me - even though I'm not a perfect mom or teacher (by a LONGSHOT!). They still love being home with me and I them.
I write this as an encouragement for those that are currently educating their families at home and as enticement for those "on the fence" regarding the matter. Enjoy your families today!

baby steps

2008-12-31T10:40:00.000-08:00

My little girl is learning to walk at just 10 months old. This is how she taught herself. She pushes an old wooden children's chair around on our kitchen floor. It's sturdy enough that she can't easily pull it over on top of herself. She is no longer using the chair and is venturing about 4-5 steps on her own. She's getting so big!

I woke up and its winter!

2008-11-24T05:45:00.001-08:00

Had to post a few pics of the yard this morning! It's way prettier in person!

got the travelin' bug...

2008-11-19T06:29:00.000-08:00

Not a REAL bug. I have just been reminiscing lately of all the fun little trips we've had and dreaming of all the ones we COULD do in the future. I get a bit antsy every now and then to do some traveling and get beyond my town limits. This time I want to go to Pepin, WI (I think that's the place) to see the Laura Ingalls Wilder home up there. Anyone been there? Any other recommendations for a not too far trip. (How 'bout Jennifer's house? -Soon I hope!)

Anyway, all this reminiscing made me want to post a pic from our last trip to Tennessee. The boys were snake hunting in the smokies. LOL No luck! But they looked so serious with their dinosaur-snake-wrangler-sticks from the Creation Museum in KY. It was a nice trip if I do say so myself.

Talk to you all later!

watch this skit!

2008-11-11T12:56:00.000-08:00

We Joust!

2008-11-05T06:26:00.000-08:00

The kids are putting on a Medevial times Dinner Party tonight as a part of their schooling. We learned a bit about the government, food, and customs of the period and they will be presenting facts to their guests. They will also be doing a joust for entertainment. Right now they are practicing!

Neato Hay Fort!

2008-11-03T10:40:00.000-08:00

The kids used leftover straw bales from our outdoor festival (discount outdoor seating!) to make a fort. It's neat. I am especially enthusiastic because I helped them make it. :-) We hope to keep it and put a tarp over the entrance to have a warm outdoor spot when it snows. In the spring we'll use the straw as mulch in the garden. Cool huh?

Great Spelling Game

2008-10-29T05:13:00.000-07:00

Here's a great game idea I picked up from scholastic books' website:
http://www.scholastic.com/kids/home.htm
You make a "board" out of chalk on the ground outside and then put the letters of the alphabet, one in each box, and have the kids spell out vocabulary words by hopping letter to letter. We tried it a few different ways with different sets of rules and found that what worked best for us was for me to call out a child's name and then call out a word for them to spell. As they hopped on the correct letters of the word I'd call out the letter name. If they hopped on a wrong letter I would remain silent - that way they and all other children playing would still only hear the word and then the correct spelling of it no matter how many wrong letters the hopping child stepped on.
This was easy and fun for all of us! We allowed one hop outside the "board" if the letters were so far apart that it couldn't be hopped to easily. Even my 3 year old got good practice, but especially my 6 and 8 year olds. We will definately do this again. I may even make one on cardboard or poster board to do inside when it's yucky out. Maybe I'll even make a smaller version for pointing out the spellings.
Anything that makes Spelling fun is a winner in my book. My oldest HATES spelling and he definately needs the practice. Ok...now go try it! :-)

My husband

2008-10-28T17:08:00.000-07:00

I changed my playlist temporarily for my stud muffin! :-)

Brotherly Love

2008-10-28T05:31:00.000-07:00

So precious! The other day my oldest son (8yrs) picked up my youngest daughter (8months) and was bouncing her around and hugging her. I noticed she had a huge grin on her face and told him, "She has such a happy smile on her face when you hold her." To which he replied sweetly, "It's because she can feel my love". Awwwwwww...

A movie worth seeing again...

2008-10-24T06:05:00.000-07:00

br />

knock-knock jokes

2008-10-20T21:40:00.000-07:00

Recently we've endured a few bouts of vandals damaging our mailbox. The first time they blew it up and this last time they smashed it unrecognizably. My six year old son was particularly confused by these acts and even became quite angry at what he called "These bad boys" who were doing this to our property without cause. That morning as he stared out the front window at where our mailbox used to be he asked me what we should do about this? I thought a minute and answered, "Well honey, I think that the best thing we could do right now is pray for the boys that did this so they could not be like this any longer". He contemplated that for a second or two and then replied,"Or we could just tell them some knock-knock jokes!" LOL ... he has such a great sense of humor he probably thinks that would fix 'em for sure! :-)

Interactive Bible Study!!!

2008-10-19T14:09:00.000-07:00

You've got to check this out guys! A great ministry (NoGreaterJoy) is having interactive Bible studies every Sunday afternoon from 2-4pm (CST) with Mike Pearl. I only caught the end of it today but it was great! I'm definately going to be back. I had to share this with you all! The link is: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/the-church-at-cane-creek

Make time for it!!! You can also check the ministry out at www.nogreaterjoy.org ! The church is called : The Church at Cane Creek

Be blessed today! :-)

this is so FUN!

2008-10-13T06:08:00.000-07:00

make sure to pause the playlist first!!!

great song

2008-10-10T07:23:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xGHILmOHptY
make sure to pause the playlist at the bottom first or there will be audio conflict.

My Prairie Princess

2008-10-03T08:02:00.000-07:00

I had to share a photo of my little princess in her prairie dress. :-)

A SUPER easy way to outreach...

2008-10-03T04:57:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to share with you all a very EASY way to contribute to a worthy outreach. For those of you who shop at Christian Book Distributors (cbd.com) if you go first to www.likepreciousfaith.org and click on one of the many CBD advertisements to get to the site it puts a "tag" on it that lets them know how you got to CBD's site. If you then make any purchase they send a portion of the proceeds to Like Precious Faith who either sends it directly to pastors in need in India and Kenya or uses it to ship them items off of their NEEDS lists. You also can go to www.likepreciousfaith.org to look at the profiles of the different pastors and what their needs actually are. Good to know!

What have you got to offer?

2008-09-28T18:10:00.000-07:00

This morning in church the pastor was teaching from John 12.

3Then took Mary a pound of ointment of spikenard, very costly, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped his feet with her hair: and the house was filled with the odour of the ointment. 4Then saith one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, which should betray him, 5Why was not this ointment sold for three hundred pence, and given to the poor? 6This he said, not that he cared for the poor; but because he was a thief, and had the bag, and bare what was put therein. 7Then said Jesus, Let her alone: against the day of my burying hath she kept this. 8For the poor always ye have with you; but me ye have not always.

He talked of how great a sacrifice of worship this was from her. That it seemed insurmountable considering how costly the oil was. He likened it's worth to about $40,ooo. Whether or not that is completely accurate is irrelevant. The others present must have been confused - knowing how much money that oil could have been traded for. Then the pastor asked one of those rhetorical questions that pastors often ask from the pulpit with the intention of making you think. "What do you have to offer as a sacrifice worship to the Lord? What do you have of great value that you could simply lay at His feet and surrender to Him?"

All I could think of to answer within myself was : My children. Truly, as a mother, all I have to offer to my Lord in this life is my kids. I do not manage the finances of my home - nor do I have the luxury at present of a lot of time to spend in "ministry". What I do have however is a high-calling to raise children who fear Him, love Him, and serve Him. I heard it said once,"The only thing you can take with you to heaven is your kids". How utterly true that is. The investment of training up children in the way they should go is an investment with eternal returns.

Be blessed and encouraged today mothers.

Obama's Inverted American Dream

2008-09-14T11:06:00.000-07:00

Well, I normally don't get into anything political on my blog. It just isn't what I typically want to focus my writing on. However, I am feeling quite impressed to do so given the current Presidential election and the respective candidates' campaigns. My husband and I are quite interested in politics and have enjoyed discussing all things political throughout our marriage. We almost always see "eye-to-eye" regarding the political world and I have his blessing in writing about political issues here on my blog if that is my wish.

To preface what I really want to focus this post on, I want to say that we are not directly affiliated with ANY political party. While we almost always lean toward Republican with our votes, we are very leery of designating ourselves as "Republicans" because we feel that partisanship has changed so much over time. We also will ABSOLUTELY NOT vote for someone on the basis of partisanship alone. We always focus our vote on values, priorities, and what we feel to be the option with the most integrity - not just because a person is a member of a particular party.

All that being said I want to highlight some of the aspects of Senator Obama's proposed "CHANGE" that have us concerned as American small business owners aside from the moral or ethical issues. First I will cite what we read that raised our concerns.

To quote his website (http://www.barackobama.com/issues/economy/#small-business):

Raise the Minimum Wage: Barack Obama will raise the minimum wage, index it to inflation and increase the Earned Income Tax Credit to make sure that full-time workers earn a living wage that allows them to raise their families and pay for basic needs.

Expand Paid Sick Days: Barack Obama will require that employers provide seven paid sick days per year.

Expand the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA): Barack Obama will expand the FMLA to cover businesses with 25 or more employees. Barack Obama will expand the FMLA to cover more purposes as well, including allowing workers to take leave for elder care needs; allowing parents up to 24 hours of leave each year to participate in their children's academic activities at school; allowing leave to be taken for purposes of caring for individuals who reside in their home for 6 months or more; and expanding FMLA to cover leave for employees to address domestic violence and sexual assault.

Support Small Business

Provide Tax Relief for Small Businesses and Start Up Companies: Barack Obama will eliminate all capital gains taxes on start-up and small businesses to encourage innovation and job creation. Obama will also support small business owners by providing a $500 “Making Work Pay” tax credit to almost every worker in America. Self-employed small business owners pay both the employee and the employer side of the payroll tax, and this measure will reduce the burdens of this double taxation.

Create a National Network of Public-Private Business Incubators: Barack Obama will support entrepreneurship and spur job growth by creating a national network of public-private business incubators. Business incubators facilitate the critical work of entrepreneurs in creating start-up companies. Obama will invest $250 million per year to increase the number and size of incubators in disadvantaged communities throughout the country.

***WHAT ALL THIS SAYS TO ME is he wants to make it EVEN HARDER to be a small business owner in America. You see, people often assume that owning a business means you can "have your cake and eat it too". We hear the gripes of our employees all the time on how things are so "unfair". They see our nice (OLD) home in the country and say "Gee, wish I could have that". They see our two work vehicles and our (USED) mini-van and say "Must be nice to afford 3 cars". They know that we have 4 children and assume that we must have great health insurance never guessing that in truth we have had a very hard time finding ANY insurance that will cover my pregnancies or that is anywhere near affordable so we just pay out-of-pocket for the births and ask for as little intervention as possible to keep the payments down. What the gripers don't account for is the fact that my husband worked himself weary getting to where we are. He worked 2-3 jobs from high school on; doing the hard stuff that others didn't want to do, keeping himself out of trouble and making smart financial choices instead of wasting his money. He went without the "nicer" things that others demand and kept himself focused. We attribute all of his success to the favor of God on his life. The "CHANGE" proposed by Sen. Obama is mandating that we make things more "fair" for our employees. Pay them more for the same half-hearted mediocre work. Let them have even more excuses for calling in. Forget production. Forget that they already abuse the laws in place to protect them. Forget that it is already next to impossible to fire a bad employee - or that they are so empowered to cry "unfair" and create a lawsuit. We own a house-framing business. In the construction world things often work very differently from the typical corporation. We can't have half of our crew leave early on a crane day to attend a PTA meeting. That would cost us a LOT of extra money. We can't afford to pay our employees while they are sick or on vacation. We already have issues with them calling in (or not even bothering to call in at all) when they aren't really sick (just hung over) or demanding their checks earlier and earlier in the week. We have other friends who own small businesses and it is the same for them. What these changes will force us to do is fire the employees off of the payroll and sub-contract them out for each individual job. Now what would THAT do to the economy Sen. Obama? We don't want to have to do that - but short of absolving the business altogether we don't see any other option if things go that direction. We already make less than some of our better employees; this is all creating what I call An INVERTED AMERICAN DREAM. It used to be that in this Land of Opportunity anyone with the determination to succeed could rise above any circumstances and fulfill their definition of success. Now it's as if everyone wants a slice of the pie handed to them on a silver platter. It doesn't matter what it is as long as no one else gets a bigger one. We do not begrudge anyone having their hard work pay-off for them but it does bother us if the ones who have worked hard with integrity are forced to hand it over without question. In this INVERTED AMERICAN DREAM society proposed by Sen. Obama the FEDERAL GOVERNMENT is dictating the running of a business, of all businesses. We feel that if some business owner is a scrooge then no one should choose to work for him and thereby demonstrate their free will. If the guy can't make his money than he'd have to change his policies to make his business a more friendly work environment. In contrast, a good business owner should be able to make his benefits appealing to the employees and generate for himself more laborers and therefore more business. When it's forced at the business owner from Washington the employees demand the benefits without even earning them and it constrains the entire work environment. The employees "reign" over the employer. The employers hands are almost completely tied in promoting the better employees over the less motivated. It just seems so back wards. I understand that there are pretty crummy bosses out there. I feel that these proposed changes though will only punish the hard-working good bosses and further drive out the small businesses. The aforementioned "small business" helps that Sen. Obama has on his website is just further proof that he feels the Federal Government should have even more jurisdiction in the life of the business owner. NEWSFLASH: Most people seek to become business owners to attain a greater level of freedom, not the other way around.

Do not misunderstand. My husband and I know Whom we rely on. We are not at all worried. We have our hope secured in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Our trust for all things is in him. However, we live in a country where, for the time being, we have the privilege of using our vote to convey our opinions and our priorities. I simply felt it necessary to "vent" about mine here. Thanks.

What do I want for my birthday?

2008-08-20T09:40:00.000-07:00

Alright folks, next weekend is my birthday. My wonderful husband has asked me what do I want to do for it and I am completely out of ideas. I can't think of a single thing I want or want to do. He may or may not be out of town working on his dad's house that weekend and he may or may not be asking me to accompany him. I think that is one of the larger factors in me not knowing what to ask for. He says to not think of the circumstances surrounding my birthday and just tell him what I want but I only want to ask for something feasible, kwim? Regardless, I can't think of anything anyway. Can anyone offer some suggestions?
Thanks!

red macaw

2008-07-28T11:44:00.001-07:00

At the fair this past week we took the kids to see a traveling magician/comedian/ animal trainer (don't ask!). He had with him 2 different Macaws. A blue/green one and a red one. I don't know how accurate he is but he said that the blue/green males are "party animals" going from mate to mate with a harem of females and coming and going a wide distance. Then he said the red males are so loyal to their one mate that even if she dies they will remain alone and grieve their companion. I lovingly looked at my husband and asked, "Did you know you were a red macaw?"

LOL...he just smiled and rolled his eyes. Pretty birdie...lol

Happy Anniversary to me and my sweetie!

2008-07-28T07:11:00.000-07:00

We were married 4 years ago this Thursday! July 31st! It's hard to believe it's only been that long and hard to believe it's ALREADY been that long, lol. We are still so very much in love - and honey mooning thank-you-very-much and we wouldn't have it any other way! I am so blessed to be with my man! I love you Brock.

house for sale...

2008-07-27T06:55:00.000-07:00

We are frantically fixin' and painting and packing so we can move. We want the house showable by Aug. 5 th so that means we gotta get out of here by then. :-) New carpet and 3 small boys don't mix. Anyway, if you know anyone interested in moving to the country send them this way,k?

Here are the details...

8.23 acres (including a 3 acre wooded parcel). 7 stall stable with tack room, 3/4 acre pond with fish and all other manner of pond life, brand new chicken coop with a few chickens and a fenced-in chicken run, a detached 2 car garage with workspace.

The house is an early 1970s exposed basement ranch (lives like a 2 story). There are 2 large bedrooms upstairs, with eat-in kitchen, formal dining, living room with fireplace and indoor grill and full bath upstairs. Downstairs is the family room with larger fireplace, two bedrooms (one we use as an office), a utility room (for the water softener, furnace, etc), a laundry/storage room with built-in shelves all around for storage, a "garden" room which used to be an attached garage but we converted to be like an indoor potting shed with a beautiful stamp-and-dye concrete floor.

We are pricing to sell at a STEAL for $399,999.00 because of the crummy market in this area. The sooner we sell the sooner we can obtain the lot for sale by my parents' house that we want so much.

This is all definately an adventure....

Ok - I gotta get back to packing!

P.S. The pic is of the stables.

another favorite thing...

2008-07-18T20:21:00.000-07:00

Our anniversary is at the end of this month. I will show one of my favorite things that reminds me of this special time. It is our cake topper from our wedding. A dear friend that I went to Physical Therapy Assistant school with made it for us for free for the wedding. She made it just like us down to the dress the bride is wearing and the coral colored flowers and everything. It is so special because she made it so lovingly for us. I will always think of her when I look at it and also remember what a special and exciting time that was in my life as I prepared to marry this hunk of a man! :-)

sittin' up so nice

2008-07-18T20:15:00.001-07:00

My little girl sits up so nice. She almost always has a cheerful smile too. I am such a happy mama.

more fun photos!

2008-07-18T20:12:00.001-07:00

A KOOKY pic of me...

Help Wanted

2008-07-16T14:59:00.000-07:00

It's hard to find good help in the kitchen...

hee hee LOL

these are a few of my favorite things...

2008-07-10T13:01:00.000-07:00

I got the idea from a "cyber-friend" to occasionally post a pic of a treasured item and talk about it. Kinda like an internet show and tell. I would not consider myself materialistic by any means - it's just that you can tell so much about a person from their "stuff" preferences. So here goes...

One of my favorite things is a little country pitcher decoration that I got at a craft fair. It is hard to see but there are words on it that say "Love, like bread, is made fresh daily". It is cute - but I was thinking of it a little differently...if you catch my drift...lol, so that's why I like it. Don't worry, not all my favorite things have a sordid reasoning...:-)

Zoe

2008-06-30T07:29:00.000-07:00

Just an updated pic of my little princess...

remembering my Noah...

2008-06-30T06:20:00.000-07:00

I am posting today because I feel the need to share my story with anyone who wants to listen. I have 3 wonderful boys and then my precious daughter but I am supposed to have 4 boys. I did have a fourth boy... only he died during birth. A lot of my friends through our homeschool group know that we lost a child because of the email that got sent around that awful day but many don't know the circumstances. Many people that kinda "heard" about me and Brock (my husband) think we miscarried or had complications or something. Doctors have even treated me that way and I have to argue with them a bit to actually READ my charts.

You see, my pregnancy with Noah was very healthy. At one point I had gallbladder problems but it was totally separate from the pregnancy. Every heart beat monitoring, every ultrasound, every everything was fine and normal and perfect. On the day before Thanksgiving of 2006 even labor was very smooth and normal ... at first. They gave me an epidural, which I generally don't use but for some reason did this time, and then the nurse went to check me. I was actually joking with my husband about how he's "gotta try this epidural thingy" when I looked up at the nurse who's face got real serious all of a sudden. She wouldn't say at first & just kept fumbling for the call button. The cord was coming down ahead of the baby. I had no idea what that meant. I had had 3 quick perfect births prior and didn't know what I was heading for. They rushed me into Csection and I was in shock about it all. I remember feeling like "Wait a minute, I want a second to pray with my husband" but there wasn't time. The nurse had to keep her hand in there pushing Noah's head back so he wouldn't suffocate himself. They couldn't get me to go numb enough on my skin in the OR so they put me "under". It was like falling into a black hole. SO FAST. I was terrified, but I prayed quick "Lord, be with me". Then I woke up. I was in a labor room again. There was one nurse typing on a computer in the room. Oddly, I asked first if I had been intubated...my throat hurt bad. She said yes. Then I asked where my baby was.... she said nothing. I asked again, thinking I was too quiet. She said the doctor will be in in a minute. ??? What? Was the baby in ICU or something? Then my husband walked in crying.... that's when I knew he was gone.... All I could say was "No, no, no " and cry.

Everything after that was very ethereal....
I tried "ministering" to the hospital chaplain. She was this older lady that for some strange reason I remembered who she was. She had been a patient of mine a few years earlier who was actually mourning the loss of her teenage daughter at the time to cancer. As a physical therapy student I had massaged her and gone through exercises and my instructor "clued me in" to her story. I remember praying for her in her grief back then...now she was trying to walk me through the first stages of grief of my baby boy. It was so odd. My faith was strong those first few days. I just felt like God was close. For the first time I didn't know what God was allowing or why but I just knew He was there. I couldn't bring myself to read His Word or pray much... I was just in a state of "being still and knowing".

I felt my baby boy move and tumble in my tummy just hours before he died. They said he just "never took a breath". The doctor was stumped because his pulse-O2 was fine. His heart was beating and then it just slowly stopped. My sweet husband held his hand as he went.

I could not brng myself to hold my son. It was bad enough to feel like he was stolen from me. But I felt at the time that if I were to hold him I would scream for him to come back. I wanted to remember my boy as the kicking squirming guy inside me - I was the only one who knew him like that. I could not bear to remember him as the cold baby in my arms. This was the right decision for me. I'm not saying everyone who loses a child needs to do it this way. I know personally some ladies who needed the closure of embrassing their child. I just couldn't bear it.

We made the decision to donate his heart valves so his death might save the lives of others. We don't know if they were usable, but hope that someone else was spared the grief we endured.

I got to know the true meaning of Church in the months that followed. Mostly from our homeschool group, some family and friends came and took care of me and my family day in and day out for the next 6 weeks. People I had never even met before came as I sat in a chair in my livingroom and they cleaned and cooked for my family. They even held my toddler up so I could sit with him. The Csection really put me out of commision. It was so wonderful to meet all those generous families. I was flabbergasted. If you'd have asked me only a few weeks prior if I had someone to care for me in an emergency I'd have said "Maybe my mom". I had no idea HIS people would drive all the way from the surrounding counties just to sit with me, clean my toilet, and change my son's diapers. I didn't have time to be depressed.

On top of it all, the funeral home and cemetary did everything for FREE. People attending the funeral gave so generously though and we just could not keep that money for ourselves so we were able to send it to India to some pastors with orphans in their care. The death of our son made a few Indian orphans a little more comfortable...praise the Lord. My memories of the funeral are so powerful. My dad is a firefighter. Just about EVERY firefighter in the city came to my son's funeral. They came dressed in their uniforms. They came because they wanted to be there for my dad who'd just lost a tiny grandbaby and to represent their "brotherhood". Many also remembered me as the spunky blonde-haired kid playing hide-and-seek on the rigs. I sat in a chair as people paid their respects. It was very difficult to stand as I still had my staples in from the surgery. Most of the men shook our hands and said their "I'm sorry"s as they walked past. I mostly looked at the floor and said "Thank you". One firefighter, I will never forget, got down on his knees on the floor in front of everyone and grabbed both of my hands. He looked me right in the eyes and said so truly, "I am so sorry". It still makes me weep - his humble act of love. There were many people who felt bad for us....and then there were the ones who grieved with us, shared the pain with us...like they were taking a bit of it and feeling it themselves so it wouldn't be too big a hurt for us to feel.

7 months later I was pregnant again. We found out it was a girl. We were thrilled. It was very comforting to be full of life again when the one year mark came around of Noah's birth/death. We named her Zoe Hosanna which means life of praise. After losing our son we so wanted a daughter named life. She is a joy to us, as are our other 3 boys. We appreciate more now each little gift in our lives and realize how out of control we really are in this world.

Thanks for taking the time to share my story,
Amanda

turn over...PLEASE!

2008-06-24T06:53:00.000-07:00

My steady man isn't having the best day. Poor guy. Our mini-van started running weird the other day and he wanted to fix it himself to try and save $. Usually, he astounds me with his ability to take anything apart, figure out how it works, repair it, and put it back together. Well, it isn't going quite like that this time. The van went from sounding off while it was running to not turning over at all. Last I checked, the man had the gas tank in his hands on the other side of the yard. (Isn't that supposed to be connected?)

I've had those kind of days before. I've certainly been like that spiritually and emotionally many times. The Good Physician (i.e. the Good Mechanic :-) ) has always been patient and loving and just. God has always spoken the most beautiful things over me amidst my times of unloveliness. His grace truly is sufficient.

I am so grateful for a husband who's staying home to fix the van when he's supposed to be doing a roofing job. So very grateful for that man! I think this calls for some chocolate chip cookies...

Africa, WI

2008-06-12T09:35:00.000-07:00

Recently, while at a local nature preserve looking out into the vast prairie landscape my 6 y/o son asked me if we were still in Wisconsin. I replied that yes we were. He thought about it a minute and then responded with eyes wide, "It must be AFRICA, WI!"

LOL

I suppose the prairie did look much like a savanna.

HE knows...

2008-06-05T07:09:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to post a quick praise on how the Lord knows just what we need! I was beginning to feel quite lonely for the past few days and just was aching for a friend to hang out with and talk to -without silly pretenses, ya' know? And just when I needed it one of the ladies I know from our homeschool group called to come over and talk with me. HE knew just what I needed and when! :-)

My nemesis for the summer...

2008-05-29T15:06:00.000-07:00

Blech!

Duck Hunt!

2008-05-22T07:01:00.000-07:00

We noticed a young family of wood ducks inhabiting our pond. While it inspires Momma to "oohhh" and "ahhhhh". It inspires the little men to hone their hunting skills! LOL

sleepy supper

2008-05-18T18:42:00.000-07:00

My totally cute 3 y/o had a busy day with his brother and his daddy today. They went to church and then to a wolf preserve and then fishing in the pond and lots of fresh air. He asked for some cereal for supper (does that make me a bad mom? LOL!), so I said sure and when I came back into the room this is how I found him! :-) :-)

He was actually trying to drink the milk out of the bowl with his eyes shut and then he kinda leaned his head over onto the table and was out like a light! Daddy put him in a pull up and changed his clothes and everything and he just snoozed away. Precious!

Let the sunshine in...

2008-05-16T18:38:00.000-07:00

I needed a "pick-me-up" so I thought I'd blog a bit. I've got the stuffy head thing going on and the body aches that go with it...blech! I also have recieved a bit of troubling mail today that is the kind to make your heart ache too. Not dredging for pity here just trying to perk myself up. I truly am thankful for all the blessings in my life and there are an unspeakable many!

Oh, and let us remember to pray for the grieving families of China's earthquakes... what a terrible and somber situation.

Smooch all your babies, hug your kiddoes real tight, tell your sweetie you love them, and Praise our Almighty Father above for our time here is temporal andeach moment is precious!

May God bless you!

Mother's Day tears...

2008-05-11T18:28:00.000-07:00

I have to start by saying Happy Mother's Day to all the momma's out there. It certainly is a high calling. My Mother's Day was filled with lots of joy and blessings. I was very honored. There were also many bouts of tears today; both the happy kind and the sorrowful. My sweet and sensitive husband had each of the children pick me out a Mother's Day card which they presented me with this morning. He even had our "princess" give me one that "she" picked out. Then he handed me two more. One made me cry happy tears because it was addressed "to my wife" and it was a beautiful message of adoration and gratefulness. Finally, he handed me yet one more that said "To Mommy". In it he wrote: I miss you very much and I will see you soon. Love you lots, Noah. That was the name we gave our son who died minutes after his birth. He would have been about 17 months old this week had he survived. I thought of him so very much today. I weep as I write this. I doubt I can ever forget this lingering pain; I don't want it to go away to tell you the truth. I loved that boy and do and always will.

All in all it was a beautiful day. Even through the tears my sweet husband held me like he always does and we got through it all together like we always do. I am so very blessed to be a Mom. It is all I ever dreamed of and so very much more. Thank you Lord for this calling and thank you family for your faith in me and your gracious support. Thanks for making my day so grand! I love you!

don't want to forget one...

2008-05-07T05:27:00.000-07:00

My middle boy had his birthday first actually and it didn't occur to me at the time to 'pay tribute'. He is such a fun, easy-going boy. He provides us with so much joy. He is also the one to try new things without hesitation. Like the time he tried making his own PB&J toast for breakfast. My hubby and I smelled something strange and discovered he had put the PB&J on the bread BEFORE putting it in the toaster! Happy birthday to you too buddy!

"Nana wuh nee"

2008-05-03T19:06:00.000-07:00

I had to share this cute story of my littlest boy (cuz his birthday is coming up this week too). He was getting out of the bathtub and I was wrapping him in his new personalized bath towel that my mom got him. He began asking me who bought him the towel so we discussed how it was a gift from his Nana. He thought about it a second and then said very emphatically and matter-of-factly, "Nana wuh (loves) nee (me)". So precious! And he is so right! I had to call her and tell her right away! My baby boy is growing up way too fast! :-)

Happy Birthday Son!

2008-04-30T09:56:00.000-07:00

It is my oldest son's birthday! They are growing up so fast. I thought I'd honor his special day with a recent pic of him catching his first fish with no help from a grown up!!! He was so excited! Happy Birthday sweetie; what a big man you're turning out to be!

Taught

2008-04-28T07:21:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we were blessed to have the family of family come all the way from up north to help us with some yard work and give me gardening advice. This nice couple also brought chainsaws and tree cutting equipment much to my husband's delight. That meant he'd finally have some help and guidance tackling the big fallen willow tree in our yard. I was relieved as we'd planned a lot of "events" at our house this year (a reunion, a homeschool group campout, an annual rummage sale, etc). I was happy to see that monster of a tree get dissected into more manageable chunks! What struck me as amazing in the midst of all this was watching my SIL help with all the tree debris. She grew up helping do this kind of stuff on a tree farm and, although she hasn't done it in a long time, she still knew what to do and how without being told or asked. I have never seen her work so hard at anything. It was astounding to me. I was raised in such a way that looking at that fallen tree seemed an impossible thing to conquer. Had I been given the task of researching something, passing a test, something like that...no problem. But something big and physical seemed untouchable. I would've instinctively gone to look up in a book or online how one should remove a tree and then resigned to call "professionals"...lol...while she knew just start hauling one piece at a time, one log - one branch - one anything at a time until the job was done. That said something to me. That if you equip kids with real life experience, real hands-on knowledge they won't lose it. That kind of knowledge is so incredibly valuable. For all my booksmarts and "capability" should I get lost in the woods or left alone somewhere, I'd be a gonner. Somewhere there is a balance. Teaching kids real life skills early on and also guiding them to research what you can't teach them so they'll have the confidence that they can do anything set before them. I hope someday my kids will be the type to know how to dig right in and help with any tough task. I on the other hand mostly stood by watching feeling unable to help (I was wearing the baby in a sling! :-) ). It did give me some needed courage though to tackle a few other daunting projects...

Waiter! Check please!

2008-04-24T09:43:00.000-07:00

My creative guys decided to turn one of our outdoor seating areas into a restaurant this morning. It was cute to watch them acting out the "roles" of waiter and customers. Gotta appreciate every chance to see them cooperating and working together. Last night they teamed up and moved an enormous pile of firewood together. I was AMAZED that they were able to accomplish that. What hardworking little men-in-training! This momma sure is proud of her guys!

All dressed up

2008-04-07T14:09:00.000-07:00

If I was gonna "brag on" my boys I just had to show a pic of my little princess all dressed up for church!

Conquerors

2008-04-07T14:01:00.000-07:00

My little guys are rarely subdued. They are little conquerors. While this can seem tiring many times, I don't think I'd have it any other way. I love the way they want to tackle the world. It is pleasing to see the way they want to get out and experience things. My husband and I pray constantly for wisdom in guiding them through their conquests. I wanted to share this picture of them that so defines their wonderful, energetic spirit.

Bible time

2008-03-29T17:36:00.000-07:00

Here's a darling photo of my studly man having Bible reading time with our youngest two. Notice Daddy is reading a Veggietales Bible study guide but the 2 year old is "reading" a KJV pocket Bible...LOL. Too precious!

Pig Lure = Pizza Rolls

2008-03-25T10:58:00.000-07:00

Pizza rolls: the best kept secret in wooing a piggie back into its pen. Who knew? Seriously works though! My hubby and I decided that we'd try our hand at raising our own meat (other than chickens), so we set about learning of pigs. They seemed small enough and easy enough to try as novices. He asked around at the county fair in the swine building. We were not interested in the full-grown show pigs but figured the "pig people" would know where to obtain babies. Sure enough one of the teenagers gave a call home to his dad right there at the fair and we came home with a date of when to pick up our 3 little pigs. My hubby put them in the barn at first. They were still relatively easy to handle while they were little. We later moved them to the spot of the yard that I wanted to turn into my garden and we used them as little rototillers. That worked beautifully! They did in about a week what we would've had to rent expensive equipment to do for this particular patch of ground. We didn't use electric fence to keep them in; just a roll of fencing attached to posts all around. It worked - for awhile! The piggies got big and got VERY interested in the world outside thier pen! They were still young enough at that point to come to my voice when called. They honestly came better than any dog I'd ever had (I'm terrible with dogs mind you!). I hollered out "Here piggy piggies" and they ran right to me grunting happily. That didn't last terribly long, however. We came home one afternoon to a note on our door from a neighbor saying to call him ASAP regarding the pigs. We went out back to their yard and saw only one. We then heard a strange noise from the barn. We called the number and discovered that the 3 little pigs had gone all the way down the street to the neighbor's house via the ditch. I think they even crossed the highway. This other house is at least 1/4 mile from ours! A driver on the road had called the sheriff's department. They were about to cite us with a "Pig at large" ticket or some such thing when the neighbor talked them into just helping get the piggies home (thank heaven it was the same neighbor whose dog we'd helped return a number of times!). Anyway, this neighbor said he spent all afternoon with the deputy trying to corral our pigs in the barn. He then gave my husband some contraption to electrify the fence and swore that THAT would keep them in. He didn't make fun of us or anything (well, at least not to our faces!) for doing it "wrong". Hubby tried the contraption. It did NOT work. The very next day we spent at least 7 hours chasing these piggies through the woods. By this time they no longer came to "Here piggie piggie"! I even rode our 4 wheeler up and down the street 6 months pregnant calling for them at one point! (that doesn't work either!) In exasperation we began pulling items our of our cupboards and freezer that might help lure them into their pen. Apples and potatoes didn't work, various breads and crackers didn't work. Their feed corn was absolutely useless now that they'd been foraging all morning through the woods behind our house. Finally, we tried the pizza rolls, BINGO! They LOVED them! We finally got them all back to where they belonged and eventually boarded them up in the barn to spend the rest of their days until we could haul them to the meat market. Go figure; pigs love pizza rolls! Just don't tell them they were pepperoni!

TMI crazy morning

2008-03-24T07:13:00.000-07:00

I got up at 8 a.m. (with a huge, painful lump in my breast and raging hemerrhoids mind you - there's the TMI) and began to wash the dishes that were in the sink so I could start making buttermilk pancakes for the boys and daddy. I needed to get going with that and get them fed and out of the kitchen so I could make the poppyseed torte and also frosting for the cake I made the night before. I had planned to do all the cooking and prep for Sunday on Saturday but I didn't make it home from the grocery store until 8 pm and I was so sick from the DQ moolatte' that I let my mom talk me into... Anyway, so I am hurrying to get all the prep and cooking done so I can finally get in the shower and try to ease the lump issue and praying that the rear-end issue didn't worsen or I would have to go get another "surgery" done in that region which I want to avoid at all costs. I got all the cooking stuff done as far as I could for the moment and even got all the dishes washed from breakfast. It was about 10 am at this point and we had to leave at 1:00p. I then decided spur-of-the-moment that the boys HAD to have haircuts. They looked so cute dressed up and I figured people would be taking pictures so I didn't want them to have that "hair growing over their ears" look. So I brought my 5 y/o down to the basement to find the clippers. It was then that I noticed the same 5 y/o had left the freezer open all night long (he put the frozen groceries away the night before). Sure enough, a TON of meat was thawed. I grabbed a huge armful of it all to carry upstairs and start cooking again. Hubby was trying to be nice and also felt sorry for me and said "you can just throw it all away". I knew that really wasn't an option - we needed this meat. I managed to get a huge crockpot of mexican pork going and another one full of italian sausages. I also seasoned a rump roast and some porkchops and put those in the freezer to cook later that week. I then took each boy down and very hastily cut their hair. I still needed ashower myself and if the newborn woke up before I could - I might not get one! Well, I DID manage to get a shower in. We also managed to get out the door and to grandma's for Resurrection Sunday dinner without any more problems. I did notice while we were there though that none of the boys' haircuts looked very good. I probably should've left that one alone! :-) After a day like yesterday, I sure am grateful for leftover dessert!

cloudy days and garden veggies

2008-03-19T16:38:00.000-07:00

The weather here has been rather dreary as of late. That tends to put everyone in funky moods. Not so great for mama trying to keep everyone amicable as well as keep herself cheery. I, for one, could definately use some sunshine. Some nice, good old-fashioned fresh air would be good too. Gardening season is around the corner. This time of year always brings mixed emotions for me. I am excited to try again another year but apprehensive at all the work and concerned I will fail yet again. I am not a naturally patient person and my hastiness has proved to be detrimental in the garden. Each year I do it, though, I get a little better. I have spent hours and hours reading and learning and planning. It is all so beautifully structured in my head and then it rarely resembles the mental image when all is said and done. Maybe this year will be better. My hubby says it needs to be what with grocery prices skyrocketing and all the information we have learned this year on genetically modified seeds and pesticides used on produce. Will this be the year we actually grow our own food? I sure hope so. Now if this weather would only cooperate...

disclaimer on archived post

2008-03-17T05:51:00.000-07:00

How cliche' is it to put a disclaimer on your own stuff? Cliche' might not be the word I'm looking for... Anyway, I just want to put a "note from the author" regarding the article entitled Liberation. That one has gotten me some flack. People misunderstand sometimes and think I am trying to attack women who work outside of the home. I want to go on the record as saying that my intention was not to "attack" anyone but merely address a society. Most of the "flack" I've recieved has also been because of the books I have listed as suggested reading (Created to be His Help Meet in particular). I also want to go on the record as saying: That doesn't bother me one bit...

Note on archived posts...

2008-03-17T05:35:00.001-07:00

It had been my endeavor to publish my old articles here just as they were when they were finished and/or published in the Wisconsin Christian News. Some of them are over 2 years old. I now prefer to use only the KJV of the Bible to quote scripture references but there may be a few quotes throughout that are from the NKJV. If this is a problem to some readers, I apologize. At this time , however, I do not plan to go back and re-reference the quotes.

Runaway Chickens

2008-03-16T12:19:00.000-07:00

My husband and I made the move from the city to the country about 3 years ago. Neither of us knew too much about rural living, but we did our best to read up on some things and figured we'd make the most out of it.

It was a tough decision for my usually "steady" man to buy this 30 yr. old home on 8+ acres. He builds beautiful, luxurious homes for a living. Neither of us would want a home as glamorous as the ones he typically constructs, but he has always wanted to live in one he has built. Well, that is still a dream in progress; because as I stated before, my typically "steady" man announced to me just 2 months before I was due with my 3rd son that we were moving to the country! I had already gotten the nursery all situated at our old house!!! But I am usually up for any adventure so I gladly packed the house all up and, just 2 weeks before our son was born, got us all situated in the new place.

Thus began a whole new life for us. I knew right off that I wanted to raise chickens. There just seemed to be something so motherly and feminine about tending to a flock of chickens. I got books from the library on how to raise them from chicks and placed an internet order. Who knew that chicks come in the mail? Our first time brooding was a huge success! No fatalities. They were all Rhode Island Reds. I didn't know then that they tend to be feisty. Well, at that time we had converted one stall in our stables into a coop. My husband built a beautiful row of nesting box es and we chicken-wired the whole thing to keep critters out. Eventually the eggs came in abundance and we were able to sell some to our friends and family. We were horrible at butchering the roosters our first time at it, though. It was quite the experience (I'll save it for another time!). Sadly, we began to get lax about shutting the stall door at night. At that time we still didn't have any electric lights out there and it was a cold, dark walk from the house to the barn. My hubby took it upon himself to make it his job; especially after a few run-ins with some deer who were strangely not skiddish and frightened him a time or two. I was grateful as I dreaded running into the big dark barn to shut the door. Honestly, I was beginning to dread opening it in the morning too as the chickens would chase me all the way back up to the house (those feisty RIRs!). Well, it wasn't long before no one was shutting the stall door at night. Raccoons and foxes picked off a few of the chickens. We felt like such bad "parents". After that the chickens wouldn't go "home" anymore. Instead they roosted in parts of an old truck we had pieced all over the back of the garage and a few even came up closer to the house and tried nesting in our windows. Over time, they began to disappear into the woods, probably flocking up with neighboring chickens or becoming victims to more racoons. We were down to just a few hens. It was sad. One day, as I was driving home from the country grocery store, I saw the last of our pretty red hens running down the highway. Seriously! My chicken was bolting down the highway (in the gravel at the shoulder)! I didn't know if I should pull over and try to shoo her into the van or what!?! It's not like a pet dog that runs away. I just glanced in the rearview mirror and said goodbye. We ended up being such terrible country-dwellers that fist year that my chickens ran away. Truly, truly embarrassing! We can laugh about it now because we've gotten a lot better at it and our chickens like it here now but it was something quite different then!

To tell you the truth, we have wanted to give up many times since we first moved here. It is not easy! But, no one said it would be. And we now know that it wouldn't be nearly as fun or rewarding if it WERE easy. It is good, clean, fun, HARD WORK! I do have to remind my hubby when he gets overwhelmed that someday we will have three teenage sons who need a pace to tromp and play and work and this is just the place for it.

What ever became of my runaway chicken? She took up residence right smack dab in the middle of a golf course a few miles down the road... stupid chicken ... must have looked like a big red bulls-eye to the neighborhood red-tailed hawks...

Beginnings

2008-03-16T11:53:00.000-07:00

This is my first time blogging... I am totally new to the world of blogs. I hope for this to be a place to archive some of my articles, many of which have been in print in a local Christian newspaper. I have always enjoyed writing for pleasure and am thrilled when it can be used to bring glory to God.

Can-Do Kids

2007-10-28T05:27:00.000-07:00

Recently, in a conversation with my sister-in-law, it was brought to my attention how important it is to focus on our kids’ abilities and strengths. We were discussing the differences in a child between when they are included in a task and when they are told to “go play” while the adult does the task. We agreed that children told to occupy themselves elsewhere often portrayed sunken shoulders, a defeated stance, and had disappointment written on their faces. However, when included in what the adult was doing to some degree, the child would glow and be very confident and content. I knew from experience that this was so because I had been a child too often told to entertain myself and “go play”. I dwelled on this for a time and reviewed some key child-rearing books and scriptures that have helped mold our viewpoint on the subject. I realized that what was instilled in me as a child on how to interact with a child (the “go play” attitude) was not God’s best. Certainly, I do not mean that a child should be “entertained” by an adult and needs to have one on one attention 100% of the time; as there are many tasks a child is capable of doing on their own accord. But I realized that if we want children to view themselves as worthy, capable individuals, we need to train them up as such.

I think parents often buy the lie that children “can’t”. Can’t understand, can’t do it right, can’t sit still long enough, can’t obey…etc. I wonder how many of those times that the issue really isn’t that the parent just doesn’t want to take the time to see. When I really thought about those motives behind telling a child to “go on and play”, it is mostly selfish in just trying to complete a task the easiest and most efficient way possible. Truthfully, most daily tasks are more efficient and much, much easier if I do them myself. What service would it be to the children though if they were never afforded the opportunity of learning how to do those daily tasks? Many parents assume that by watching them do something every day, their child is learning how to do them for themselves but it just doesn’t work that way. I wouldn’t have wanted my dad to just expect me to have known how to drive the day I turned 16 just because I had sat in a car on occasion for 16 years prior. I then balked at the idea of viewing kids as “Can’t” and focusing on what they can’t do. I believe God wants us to raise “Can do” kids.

"Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. " Proverbs 22:6 KJV

Here the scriptures instruct parents to teach their children all day long and in everything we are doing. It is referring to teaching them God’s word but the principal involved works for everything in life. If we want strong-minded, capable, able, self-sufficient children who grow up to be assets to society and servants in the Kingdom of God, shouldn’t we start now? God’s plan is for parents to include their kids in all the activities of life. This not only helps the child learn a realistic view of how life operates but helps them be unselfish and feel valued as a part of a whole. How unimportant the child who is told to “go play” must feel. I remember feeling that way; like I was a nuisance. I also remember being so mind-numbingly bored because I was given no direction for myself and did not yet possess the skills to properly direct myself. I don’t blame my parents - they were merely following after the footsteps of their parents. My point is that just because we may have been inadvertently taught something in regards to raising our children, if it doesn’t line up with God’s Word, it is more than acceptable to abandon the practice.

Think of the child who is never expected to do work at home. They grow up having mom make their bed and prepare all the meals, maybe even clean their room for them. They surely start out feeling unimportant by the lack of inclusion and incapable, but over time they come to expect this work to be done for them. They turn into a selfish teen and then adult who “doesn’t wanna” do the chores, fix the meals, do the work, etc. – a freeloader with nothing useful to contribute and no skills to anyhow. No one wants to hire a person like that; I dare say no one would want to BE a person like that if given the choice beforehand.
If we begin to view our children on the basis of what they CAN do, what they ARE capable of, within each task that we are doing, it makes for a better situation all around. For example, when I am babysitting my niece and nephew I have 4 little boys in the house (7, 5, 3, and 2) and the one girl (20 months). I make a point of saying to my niece, “While the boys are doing ______, Auntie has to fix lunch. I’m the momma so that’s my job, come and help me.” I then bring her in the kitchen with me and put her in her highchair. I give her a bowl of some sort and a spoon and sometimes I even put a teeny bit of water in the bowl so she really feels like she is stirring something. I pull her highchair as close to where I am working as possible without it being dangerous (like by the stove) or completely blocking my path and then I cook, talking to her the whole time about what “we” are doing. She is “helping” me make the meal - I couldn’t do it without her “help.” You see, I know that at 20 months old there is very little she can actually do to help me cook lunch, but someday she will be a grown-up momma and need to be very used to fixing the meals. How pleasant I could help make that for her by teaching her from this young age that it is our special job to do this for the family. She “gets” to come with Auntie to help make the meal, she “can do” it. Of course, in the short-term it would be easier for me to sit her on the floor in the room with the other children surrounded by some toys and walk away to accomplish my task - and there certainly is a time and a place for that, but training them becomes so much more edifying for both of us when I seek out as many chances to include them in what I’m doing. Besides, I would rather her view these life-tasks as a joy rather than bondage.

Each of my 3 boys helps me cook often too, as well as clean and do all sorts of household things. Sometimes even a simple batch of cookies can turn into a whole project giving each child a special task and seeing to it that they complete it as right as possible. And it certainly CAN be fraying on one’s nerves at times, especially if you feel rushed a lot, but when I remind myself that I want “can do” kids, it becomes a joy for me to include them. They really do get better and better at their tasks each time they are given the opportunity to. Besides, what’s a few eggshells in the batter in the grand scheme of things?
My two oldest boys have begun to “work” at their grandmother’s house on alternating weeks to try and earn their own spending money. She picks one of them up for a few hours and gives them a list of things to do around her house. The first time, she was amazed at what they already knew how to do and how well they followed instructions at just seven and five years old! I said, “Oh yes, they are very good helpers, very useful.” I want my kids to be “can do” kids. I want them to be able-bodied and to be useful to others and themselves. It makes them feel valuable too. It sure is reflected in how they view themselves; they know they are assets to the family and that they are capable of worthy work. Even my 2 year old is an excellent helper. His daddy is so used to him accompanying any “handyman” type jobs around the house that he doesn’t like to do them without the toddler anymore. I will see him (my husband) almost pout if the little guy goes down for a nap or something before the job is finished because he doesn’t want to do it alone anymore. It is so precious for the kids to be that important and valuable to us! The little boy even thinks Daddy can’t do jobs without him. If Daddy says he needs to go feed the animals outside, my son instantly heads for the door to get his shoes. He knows if Daddy has a job to do that it is his job to help get it done because Daddy needs him!

I am also exceedingly thankful that the Lord doesn’t view us based on our “cant’s.” He often calls “those things that be not as thought they were”. (Romans 4:17) I know for a fact that he has done that in my life: calling me a grateful wife and patient mother before I ever had notion to be either, calling me his child and faithful servant (don’t think I’ll ever deserve THAT one), and leading me by His Spirit toward those marks. I could almost hear Him singing those words softly over me the whole time. If we, as parents, prayerfully consider the “marks” we hold out for our children to reach, we too, can lead them there step by step and watch them not only hit the marks but surpass them. That is our whole job and the whole point of parenthood! What a gift to understand that while they’re young and not only in retrospect. We won’t do everything right all the time as parents for we are not perfect nor do we live in a perfect world with perfect circumstances. However, doing things God’s way will always produce the most amount of true lasting joy and satisfaction.

"I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth." 3 John 1:4 KJV

When we approach our children and their training in light of what they “can do” and not based on what we could do easier without them, it helps the whole family order come into a blessed perspective. Someday, Lord willing, my “can do” kids will be equipped to raise “can do” grandkids and they will all carry an heritage not only of confidence and worthiness in work, but that also of fellowship and joy within the family. How sweet the thought of that is!

~ Amanda Paul

Liberation

2007-02-11T05:49:00.000-08:00

Am I in the minority because I am a woman who wants to stay at home instead of entering the workforce? I suppose it depends on who you ask. In my circle of church and home-school families I’m not; but in the community and even my extended family I am. It seems as though there is a tug-of-war for the hearts of women. I believe a lot of the struggle today can be contributed to the “Women’s Liberation” movement that began roughly in the 50’s through the 80’s.
I am not well-researched in the specifics of the movement (names, dates, landmark events, etc.) but I am well aware of the impact it has had on society at large. Years ago, women did not have the rights of man, but they did not have the responsibilities of them either. Women of yesteryear were not privileged to work at the same capacity as men, but they were also not obligated. Women, in general, were not treated like men.

I have heard it said before that the Feminist bunch is the most anti-feminine group out there and I think that’s the truth. I believe that women involved with the movement think they are benefiting the future of womanhood, but I also believe they are deceived. In the past, they thought they were opening doors of opportunity for their daughters but I don’t think they realized that precious ones would then be shut behind them.

It used to be that a woman could stay at home to raise her children, keep her home, and care for her husband and that that was the norm. Most women today have to sacrifice and fight in order to stay home. It used to be that a family could have a middle-class lifestyle with one average-sized home, one vehicle, and dad’s one income. Sure, there weren’t cell phones for the whole family, cable and video games, eating out all week, child care expenses, etc. Those things weren’t necessary because mom was home to cook, occupy the kids, and keep tabs on everyone. It is now expected for a woman to earn her “share” of the monetary income. What happens to her “share” of the household duties then? Most of the time, the mom still has to do them only now the chores and meals and things get hastily crammed into her schedule. Dads and older children also get a larger load (in some cases) and can get resentful. The health of the working woman and her family suffers as a result of all the stress, sleeplessness, and short-cuts. I don’t feel this is God’s way.

3 The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things; 4 That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, 5 To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed. Titus 2:3-5 KJV*

At one time, it was customary for men to hold doors open for women, pull out chairs, the whole bit. It was called courtesy, respect, admiration. Liberal women have seen to it to squash those courtesies by calling them degrading. It is emasculating to a man to have a woman curtailing his attempts at protection and provision. I can’t begin to tell you how many men and boys have let doors swing shut on me in public. No chivalry. Oh, I’m sure some decent men out there still hold open doors and such but it sure isn’t as common as it once was. Partly due to liberal women protesting and partly because mamas and daddies are too busy working to instill these things in their children. I wonder what else mamas and daddies are too busy to do with their kids?

I was talking with my grandmother recently and she was sadly telling me about her neighborhood. She said all the ladies used to know each other. They would walk together around the cul-de-sac every evening for exercise and chat. They could drop in on each other for tea or coffee and sit in each other’s yards and watch their children play together. They would also get together every so often in the evenings with the husbands and play games or just socialize. I marveled at her stories because I had not known that sense of community when I was young and things have since gotten worse. She continued in telling me that many of the old neighborhood residents have since passed away or moved. She said she no longer knew her neighbors personally. Some she didn’t even recognize by face because she almost never saw them outdoors. The homes stand empty during the day and the folks inside are so busy in the evenings that they hardly ever come out. She even had doors shut on her when she attempted to meet some of them! How sad!My mother used to tell me stories of her neighborhood growing up. She said the moms were almost all home during the day. The kids could all play in the yards because someone’s mom was always keeping an eye out. The ladies would all congregate for canning or knitting or some such activity. They even held block parties and cooked out together and such. These things are few and far between now. When moms are all at work, kids can’t play outside safely with freedom. There isn’t time for get-togethers with neighbors and block parties. And you don’t know your neighbors enough to trust your kids there. Besides, no one is home to watch them anyway.

Another area that suffers greatly is child training. If kids are bussed around to schools and sitters and activities the majority of the time because moms are working, no one is there to “train them up in the way they should go” (Proverbs 22:6). I know children so unruly that their own parents don’t want to be around them. When discussing our decision to home-school our kids with working moms I very often hear comments like, “I have really considered that but I just don’t think I could handle being with my child that much.” Isn’t that horrifying? If the hearts of the mothers aren’t even toward their children, how can we expect anyone else’s to be? And what kind of parents and adults will those children grow up to become? It is a fearful thing.

I know there is a new movement of sorts. Many women have decided to take the leap of faith and return home. They’ve abandoned the façade of the “have-it-all” smokescreen and taken back their families. I applaud these women! It requires sacrifices almost across the board, but I tell you what; I’d rather sacrifice fancy clothes, new cars, and eating out than my family and my kids!

Some would argue that women did not have rights before the Women’s Liberation movement and that many were battered and abused. Frankly put, the same kinds of men who were women beaters before are the same kind of men that do it today. When women usurp authority and try to act like men, they lose the feminine qualities that God intended to provoke men to protect us and cherish us. Men feel contention and either seek to conquer a bawdy woman or take a broken back-seat to avoid conflict.

Just look at how women and wives are portrayed by the media. Women dress more and more scantily in order to be attractive. Do not kid yourselves, ladies, no one sees your intellect or “power” when you’re packaged cheaply (read Kissed the Girls and Made Them Cry by Lisa Bevere for more on this). Wives are typically shown to be nagging, unhappy, leeches that men just put up with. How ashamed I would be if my husband ever thought that way of me!
Those who have an ear to hear, listen! God intended for woman’s head to be the man. It won’t work together for His glory any other way. That’s not to say that a woman won’t be good at leading, or making decisions, or even fighting; but that isn’t the point. We must walk according to God’s plan in subjection to our own husbands and be keepers of our own homes, and train up our children. This is God’s ordination for us; what we were created for. It makes for a happy marriage, a happy home, and a happy heart. Be blessed and encouraged in the Lord!
(For further study read Created to be His Help Meet by Debi Pearl and Fight Like a Girl by Lisa Bevere.)

~ Amanda Paul
February 11, 2007

Honor God From Where You Are

2007-02-09T05:22:00.000-08:00

At times in our Christian walks we find ourselves in circumstances that seem unfavorable. We are promised in Scripture that we will face adversity.

"These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." John 16:33 KJV

Some of the problems we face are from the enemy to veer us off course and sometimes we have troubles because we have gotten off course already. Many times it is difficult to determine which it is that has brought you into a state of turmoil. Job is one example of a God-fearing man who dealt with trouble and there was dispute among the people involved as to what the reasons were (see the book of Job).

I am convinced that when these times come, it is not nearly as important how you got into your situation as it is what you’re going to do in it and through it. I’m not saying that a believer can’t know why circumstances have befallen him. I’m not even saying that it isn’t beneficial to know what took place to bring you into a troublesome time. Only, that when it is unclear why you are enduring something, it is more important what you choose to do in the midst of it.

For example, a few years ago my husband and I bought a new house. We were not really looking to move at the time. One day we happened upon a property that seemed saved just for us. It included every feature that we wanted in a home to raise our family in. It was more highly priced than we would have liked so just for “kicks”, we put in a lowball offer. It was accepted! Feeling blessed by God, we moved in and rejoiced. Not too long after, however, a few things started to break and cost money in repair. Also, the large yard became overwhelming to care for and pressure to adapt to a more rural lifestyle intimidated us. We began to question whether this new home was, in actuality, a gift from God or perhaps a scheme of the enemy to get us consumed with “the cares of this world” (see Mark 4:19). One day, in discussing the matter with my husband I said. “What difference does it make?” My husband was a little caught off guard so I continued, “Well, what difference does it make what brought us here? We’re here now. Let’s honor God from where we are. Let’s be good stewards and be faithful with what we have: grateful, and giving. If we honor God from where we are He will bring us to where He wants us.” That is what we decided to do (and are still doing).
You see, it isn’t always clear (especially in the midst of trouble) why things happen to us and around us. The most important thing is to honor God from where we are. Job got to the point of cursing the date of his birth but he never denied His God! (Job 3) Seek His will and His Word and allow Him to light your path. It’s a step by step process. Job refused to curse God. He may not have understood why trouble had befallen him (and what great trouble!), but he chose to honor the Lord in the midst of it. Then just look at all the blessings Job encountered after his time of testing was finished!

The Word says that we can be persecuted for our faith (although what many American believers call persecution can be embarrassing compared to what many others endure elsewhere). It also says that we can allow things into our life through disobedience and unbelief. If you know why something has happened or is happening to you or your family, Praise God! You’re ahead of the game. If you don’t know why don’t get stuck on it and spend your time frustratingly trying to figure it out. Honor God from where you are and allow Him to guide you from there. If, like Job, you were persecuted for righteousness sake then, God be praised, you will be recompensed and bring God glory. If you allowed bad things into your life through disobedience to God, you have the opportunity to let God lead you out and He still gets the glory. That’s the whole point of it. God alone is worthy to be praised!

My family has recently suffered a great loss. Our infant son died for no known reason during his birth. Some would say it was a test of our faith and my husband and I failed. Others would say that it was an attack of the enemy to attempt to stop us from serving God and disrupt our family. Still others would say that we were being punished for something we had done and we had allowed it. I know one thing for sure: I could spend my time trying to figure out which was the reason; or I could choose to love and honor God in the midst of it. I can trust Him to lead me from this point on. I can choose to not give the enemy any victory over my marriage or my other children. I can choose to continue on in my faith and service of our Lord and His church.

Please do not email me your opinion as to why things like this happen. That is not the intent of this article. It is merely to point out that we have choices in our circumstances. The best choice is always to honor God. Good times, bad times, guilty or innocent; it can not hurt to seek the Lord and bless His holy name. He is great and greatly to be praised (Ps. 96:4)!

I think of biblical accounts like Bathsheba and Joseph, Paul and Silas, and many, many others. Amidst unfavorable circumstances they chose to honor the Lord for what else better could they have done? I’m certain they, being human, would be tempted to question from whence came their trouble, but they all seemed to know the greater importance of whence cometh their help! (Ps. 121:1)
I thank the Lord for his provision and his mercy and his grace and his Church. He alone is Our Rock and our Defense. He promises to light our paths with His Word if we will only seek Him first and acknowledge Him in all our ways so He can direct our paths. (Matt. 6:33; Pro. 3:6). He is so good even when things seem so bad. I hope you all can be encouraged by this in your time of need.

~Amanda Paul
February 9, 2007

Keepers at Home

2006-11-01T05:45:00.000-08:00

2:4 (KJV) That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, 5 To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed. Titus 2:4-5 (KJV)*

For us wives, this concept of “keeping” our homes: no matter what lifestyle we have chosen; whether we work in or out of the home or are stay-at-home-moms, it consumes us, doesn’t it? We are completely taken with the responsibility of the harmony and functioning in our respective homes. Whether we tackle the task with eagerness or we find the whole thing rather daunting, it is still our charge and we all face up to it at one point or another.

I have mulled this topic over and over on many occasions since I married (since childhood, really) and have always been amazed by how many women I’ve met that try to reject this God-given position. They never do seem satisfied with anything they choose in its stead. They will attempt to pass it off to other family members or take half-hearted stabs at all the role entails, but if a wife does not embrace her position in her home with joy and appreciation she will ultimately be miserable.

What does it mean to “keep the home?” Where there is no one specific outline for every family there are some basic things we all do. It is typically our job to cook, clean, and care for our dwelling places. It is furthermore our responsibility to see to the fluid movement of our homes’ general functioning. Whereas the husband, the “head”, is ultimately responsible for the direction of the home, the wife is responsible for the harmony (or atmosphere) in the home. Face it ladies, the old saying: “If mama ain’t happy, ain’t nobody happy” is about as true as it gets.

In addition, we are the primary caretakers of the children. This makes us teachers, nurses, chauffeurs, nursemaids, musicians, mechanics, (I could go on and on), on a daily basis. This keeping of the home business is no small undertaking.
And yet, I still find wives who “kick against the goads” (see Acts 9:5) and fight their role. For many reasons I’m sure; a very liberal upbringing, a contentious mother, or confusion from public schooling perhaps. Regardless of why, it has been my witness that women who try to deny their God-ordained ministry as home-keeper can’t seem to be happy or effective in their home.

When I had my first child, I was young (17 in fact). I lived in a bad neighborhood in a tiny apartment. I was shocked at how dirty a home could get in a short period of time and I balked at the idea that it was my job to clean it up. I couldn’t even believe how much laundry one little boy could accumulate! Somewhere in those first few miserable months I came to the conclusion that I had a choice before me. I could become bitter and resent the tasks before me, continuing to abide in disarray and filth or I could decide to like my role and figure out how to master it to suit my family.

Mastering the “keeper” role will most likely always be a work-in-progress because a family is always changing as people grow and life happens. It sure is a lively challenge though. Even though I am still much younger than many of my peers, my attitude regarding my position in the home has led women twice my age to ask for advice and ideas on how to get a house running better. A lot of what I tell them is common sense (that has gotten less and less common), but it is a pleasure to share the joy of homemaking with others.

In my opinion, there is no recipe for a perfect home. I think it’s all about heart-motive and balance. After all, we don’t want “white-washed tombs” (Matt. 23:27) where our homes are militantly spic and span but our kids are grouchy and we are neurotically stressed about the appearance of our stuff. However, we want to have things in “decent and good order” (1 Cor. 14:40) so we can be good stewards of our homes.

Here is a list of some things I would include in a “keeper of the home” profile:

Ø Be frugal but not stingy. Take care to manage whatever finances your husband has you in charge of with wisdom and care but not to the detriment of your faith. Do not become poverty-minded and forget God’s abundant provision, but do be organized and thoughtful in your approaches to saving and spending. Research what you can to become better at this. (This is a major area of contention for men and women so success here will be a HUGE blessing in your marriage!)
Be thorough in the aspect of meal preparation. Success at meal time takes a bit more forethought than looking through the Ø cupboards 30 minutes before supper fretting over what to fix. Spend the time to plan ahead weekly or even monthly and you’ll find your family eating cheaper and healthier than you could have imagined.

Ø STRUCTURE: Organize yourself. There is no way around it. Even a spontaneous, off-the-cuff type of gal can have a basic framework to work off of. Set up goals for your housework and make plans on how to achieve them. Weekly, I write out the things I want to do each day. I also have charts for the kids so that they learn to pitch in. I’ve met a lot of women who complain about their homes’ condition and let the mess get overwhelming before they try to fix it. It is much easier to keep a clean house clean than it is to miraculously tidy up a disaster every once in a while. I have also seen a lot of strife between a man and a woman if the man feels his “castle” is in ruins. To help me manage my daily work load I do the following: I tackle at least one load of laundry each day so I don’t ever fall too far behind. I make frequent pick-up trips throughout the house and make sure any one room doesn’t get out of hand. I deep clean one area each day and by the end of the week each room has been done.

Ø Recruit the troops: I train my kids to pick up after themselves so I don’t have 6 people’s messes to contend with. (Our motto is if they are old enough to make the mess they are old enough to clean it up.)

Ø Do not make it an idol: My house is by no means spotless, you’d never see it in a magazine; I do have 3 boys and a husband in the construction trade, but there is a sense of peace and order most of the time. I receive comments often on how comfortable people feel at my home. I do have stains on the carpet and my furniture has seen better days but I am not stressed over how my home appears. I would be at perfect peace if company (even my pastor) just dropped in. There is a general place for everything and I take care to keep things in an attractive yet functional capacity.
Simplify: One of the best things you can do is simplify what you have. If you don’t use it you probably don’t need it. Don’t hoard up things for yourself or your children no matter what it is. We extend this principle to clothing, toys, books, craft supplies, everything. We keep only what we are really going to Ø use. That makes a world of difference in a home. Clutter will undoubtedly lead to chaos.

Ø Clean your closets: I try to keep only one “junk” drawer. The rest of the closets, drawers, cabinets, etc. are pretty well organized, even labeled if appropriate. Our storage items are arranged and labeled. That way we know what we have and can be good stewards of what we have. (Prov. 27:23) How can you be a good steward of your things if you don’t know what you’ve got? How can you know if you have only that which you’ll use if you don’t know where you are keeping things? I find that organized closets and cupboards save me a ton of time, money, and stress. It takes much more time to frantically search for some treasure in a heap of mess than to get things tidy and put things back when done.

Ø Be happy: None of the aforementioned ideas will work if you can’t embrace the ideas with a glad heart. You need to truly be grateful for where God has you in your life and be willing to seek him in your efforts to “keep your home” diligently. It really is a high calling and truly is a ministry. No amount of cooking, cleaning, or the like, will make up for lack of joy in a home. Husbands and children rely on us to regulate the atmosphere of peace in our homes. We won’t always get it right because we are human and we all make mistakes and have difficult and trying days, but the Lord wills for us to face each day with a “new song” of praise in our hearts (Ps. 40:3; 96:1; 98:1; et al) and a servant’s attitude. We can do all things through Christ who gives us strength! (Phil. 4:13)

~ Amanda Paul

Childlike Faith

2005-10-18T05:32:00.000-07:00

Just a little word of encouragement: Many of us moms feel overwhelmed when faced with spiritual matters. Personally, when my pastor talks about the importance of daily fellowship with God and the need for prayer I get a sinking feeling, at first, in my stomach. I immediately think, How am I supposed to do that when I have these kids to take care of? Sure, a pastor can go into his “prayer closet” for hours undisturbed, but a mama; that’s something different.
You see, I have three boys under age 5 and a busy husband. I don’t get personal time. I don’t even go potty alone (I know others of you understand this). It’s not that my kids are undisciplined or that my life is completely out of control. It’s just that with all we have to do and all the questions there are to answer in a day of little boy exploring, my private and/or quiet time just faded away. Besides, to be honest, if I did have even a half-hour to myself I know I’d just take a nap. A nap? What is that? Hmmm, it’s been so long…
Anyway :-), my point is that I have since discovered a beautiful truth that brings freedom to the mama in need of fellowship with her Lord. Our Most Holy God has given us our position. Of course he’s going to equip us and of course he isn’t going to expect more out of us than we can offer. In telling us how to teach our children he said:
“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes.” (Deuteronomy 6:5-8 NKJV)
If we are supposed to teach our children all day, everyday in all that we do and in all points of real life, then wouldn’t it stand to reason that this would be the way God would teach us? Of course, we still need to pray and seek His will. I do not intend to detract from that. It’s just that we won’t achieve some spiritual pinnacle if we can shut ourselves out from the world and get in 4-5 hours of meditation daily. Not for what we have been called; it just isn’t realistic for a mama to do that. We just need to remember that He is not a God who seeks empty actions. Frustratingly browsing through your Bible scanning verses so that you can say you had devotions that day will not do you any good and it won’t be doing God any favor. He doesn’t want you to read His word for His benefit anyway. He already knows what it says.
Instead, try this. In the morning, maybe at breakfast, sit with your kids and open up to a portion of scripture, maybe even just one verse. Read it like it is written. Then prayerfully “interpret” it for your child(ren). I used to do this when coming up with “sermons” for my Sunday school class and it was my time of greatest revelation of the Word. When you can effectively explain what the Bible is saying to a three or four year old, you all will have gleaned wisdom and will be able to remember what you’ve learned. It will help you to simplify your understanding of God’s Word and help you to live in childlike faith as we were commanded. Besides that, you and your child will be creating memories they will cherish forever.
By the way, this will only be effective if your time is pretty well organized. If you have large gaps in your day that you fill with watching TV or chatting on the phone or complaining about how bored you are, then you already know how to find more time to spend with the Lord. You just need the gumption to get on your knees or pick up your Bible and feed your Spirit. Get up, get motivated, and be blessed!
I also suggest praying in the shower, in vehicles, and while vacuuming; all very opportunistic times when distractions are at a minimum. Give it a shot. What have you got to lose except your excuses! God Bless.
~ Amanda M. Paul

Occupation: Homemaker

2005-09-28T05:38:00.000-07:00

Many SAHM (stay-at-home-moms) fall into a rut and feel bored, lonely, and/or insignificant. Sometimes the fear of these things even keeps women from staying at home in the first place. Often, the secular world paints a picture of a mom at home as very quaint; not glamorous like a city job, or rewarding like a passionate career, or entertaining like a hustle-bustle working lifestyle; only simplistic and cute. It doesn’t usually sound very attractive to young women. If it isn’t these things that deter a family from having mom at home then it’s the lie that they can’t afford life on one income alone.

I personally experienced some confusion when I first got married and began my life at home. I had the house organized and just as clean as any other house and yet I still felt bored a lot of the time and was somewhat discontented. It didn’t make sense to me. I had been an excellent student and an exemplary worker, yet here at home I was continuously bored which led to feeling lonely. I kept wondering why I felt that way.
It wasn’t that I didn’t have enough to do. I had two children with one on the way, I was beginning to teach my 4 year old, I helped my husband run his carpentry business from home, I sang on the worship team, taught Children’s church, cooked and cleaned, etc. So I had plenty to do.
It also wasn’t that I was just unhappy at home, because I wasn’t. I was thrilled to be able to be at home with my kids when so many others I knew felt that they had to work to support their families. I was grateful for the time and opportunity to homeschool my kids and really be a helper to my husband. One day, my mother finally pointed out to me that when I had been in school I was very regimented with my time. I kept an organized calendar/journal in which I planned and pre-planned the timing of assignments and events and all they entailed. Then, each day I would see what was in store and complete everything efficiently and often beforehand. When I worked, I had a clear and concise position and had the mind-set of being good at my job. I always completed tasks in a timely fashion and with a cheerful demeanor.
It was then that I realized that my attitude towards being at home wasn’t right. I was being too relaxed. I was treating my time at home everyday like I had previously done on the weekends when in school or at work. I decided to treat my life at home with the kids as my new career; with the kids as my subordinates and my husband as my boss.

I immediately got planning. I got out a new calendar/journal and allotted time for everything I sought to accomplish each day, week, month, etc. I scheduled everything: Housework, errands, cooking, schooling the children, special projects, paperwork, shopping.... I even put reminders to give the kids their baths and change the bed sheets and the fish’s water. I PLANNED EVERYTHING!
Now every morning I wake up with an agenda. I have the drive of being able to cross off the things on my list each day. That helps me conquer the feelings of unimportance because I can see on paper that I am getting so much done.

I don’t get terribly stringent on WHEN things get accomplished in the day. I know that life with small children doesn’t necessarily fit into strict time slots. And the purpose of the schedule was not to stress me out or rush us all day. It is a guideline to keep me on track.
I have discovered that I actually have a lot of time to do almost anything I want. Being at home with the kids is no longer the reason I can’t do the things I desire to do, (read my Bible, pray, exercise, write, etc.) rather, it’s what enables me to do them. I had completely eliminated the dull gaps in my day where I would just sit and think about how I had “nothing to do”.
This was such a refreshing change that I decided to carry the concept over to other areas of my life. For example: I have a calendar on the wall on which I write out all the suppers that I’m going to fix. I spend one afternoon going through my recipe books and cook books and I plan all the suppers out ahead of time. This way I know in advance that on the nights we go to church we’ll have something quick and easy to fix, and on the nights we have company we’ll have a larger meal, and on Sundays we’ll have a meal in the crock pot so it’s ready when we get home, etc. As I write out the meals I also begin to make my weekly grocery lists (while I have the recipes handy). That way I’m sure to have all the ingredients handy for each meal. Then, before I go shopping, all I have to do is add the items I need for breakfast and lunch throughout the week and whatever baking necessities I’ve run out of. I even coordinate them with my grocer’s weekly flyers so that I can save us the most money.
Doing it this way may sound like an awful lot of work but it actually saves a lot of time and frustration. I never have to fret over what to fix for supper and I know we’re eating healthy and cost-effectively. Besides, I really enjoy the planning part. I like to go through my cookbooks and try new things.
I have found that having this well-organized approach to things helps me do my job with ease and efficiency making it easier to be content and cheerful. It also helps me get the kids involved. They work with me each day. In the morning, when they ask what we’re going to do that day all I have to do is check the book and say “Well, it’s dusting day and then we’ll vacuum and clean the basement”, or something to that effect. We know what we need to do so we’re able to do it with gladness. And we always make sure to leave plenty of time for romping, reading, catching frogs, and feeding bugs to the chickens, etc (all things three small boys love to do).
So that’s my secret of being a SAHM. I take my “job” seriously. With all my time and effort I take care of my home. My “boss” (husband) knows that his best worker (me) is capable and motivated to do the best job each day. Now, when I fill out forms that ask for occupation I always smile as I proudly pen my title: Homemaker.

By: Amanda M. Paul

Matt. 25:21
21His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’

Titus 2:1-5
1But as for you, speak the things which are proper for sound doctrine: 2that the older men be sober, reverent, temperate, sound in faith, in love, in patience; 3the older women likewise, that they be reverent in behavior, not slanderers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things—4that they admonish the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, 5to be discreet, chaste, homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be blasphemed.

Bear the Burden

2005-08-31T05:26:00.000-07:00

Are your kids a fountain of joy or a burden you bear daily? I assure you, your kids are not the "cross" the Bible tells you to pick up daily. (Neither is your husband) Furthermore, your being a wife and mother is not your "lot in life" but rather your high calling and fulfillment of your destined position. Can't you see that it's your way of thinking and viewing things that produces your grief and bitterness? When was the last time you actually renewed your mind with God's Holy Word? When was the last time you chose to sit and meditate on all the goodness that God has provided for you? Sure, some of you are saying, "But you don't know my husband or kids". That's true, but God does know them. He also knows that the problems you encounter in your relationships are from lack of obedience to His Word and His Will. In spite of it all, you can choose to start now and seek Him in your circumstances and He will guide you out. His Word will light your path step by step and His Spirit will lead you and guide you into all truth. Trust in Him. You say you are a Christian - that you believe in God; so live like you do. Let everything you do and say reflect that your life is in the hands of an ALMIGHTY and LOVING Father who really has GOOD PLANS for you. Read His Word. Please don't take for granted the freedoms that we have - to live in a place where we can worship God openly still and have these resources readily available to us. Make the most of everyday. SERVE your husband as unto the Lord. Not because he is a man that is so good that he deserves it, but because the Lord is to be feared and He commanded you to. Train your kids to obey you so that they will have an easier time than you do in obeying God. Train them now to be givers, and lovers, and cheerful, and grateful so that they won't have to wrangle their flesh as much as you have to wrangle yours. Don't expect more from them than you do of yourself. Teach them by example. Rebuke with love early so you won't risk harshly punishing later. Don't be overwhelmed by your position but rise to the calling. Don't think that you need 4 solid hours of prayer and devotional time alone everyday in order to be spiritual enough to live your life holy. Recognize that God called you holy already in Christ, then everyday renew your mind with the Word a little here and there (especially the parts on being a wife and mother) throughout the day and don't spoil it with secular magazines, T.V., videos , etc. Then cheerfully go about your day serving your family and taking care of things to the best of your ability. Be a good steward over your home, but don't idolize its cleanliness. Keep things in decent and good order, but don't stress about the things of life. Work with your children each day to take care of things, teach them and explore the world with them. Don't keep company with people who are grumblers, back-biters, or busybodies. Do your best to help lift them up, but then walk away and keep them in prayer. Do these things and more throughout your day with a cheerful attitude in all faith with a humble heart. The yoke of Christ truly is easy and light, even in the midst of trials and tribulations. If you feel heavy it's because you're listening to your flesh and/or the devil. Be blessed in mind and body and praise the Lord for He is good and He loves you.