Living Word Academy

Books, Books, Books!

2011-08-09T10:03:00.000-07:00

Giving a child great books to read and not placing twaddle in front of them is the single most important thing an educator can do for a little person. Here are some quotes from the late Charlotte Mason who spoke much on the subject of great living books.

The most common and the monstrous defect in the education of the day is that children fail to acquire the habit of reading.
(Vol. 1 Part VIII--Reading for Older Children, p.227)

Let a child have the meat he requires in his history readings, and in the literature which naturally gathers round this history, and imagination will bestir itself without any help of ours; the child will live out in detail a thousand scenes of which he only gets the merest hint.
(Vol. 1 Part XVIII.--History, p.295)

For example, I think we owe it to children to let them dig their knowledge, of whatever subject, for themselves out of the fit book; and this for two reasons: What a child digs for is his own possession; what is poured into his ear, like the idle song of a pleasant singer, floats out as lightly as it came in, and is rarely assimilated.
(Vol. 3 Chapter 16 How to Use School-Books, p.177)

“As for what are called children’s books, the children of educated parents are able to understand history written with literary power, and are not attracted by the twaddle of reading-made-easy little history books” (Vol. 1, p. 281).

“They must grow up upon the best. There must never be a period in their lives when they are allowed to read or listen to twaddle or reading-made-easy. There is never a time when they are unequal to worthy thoughts, well put; inspiring tales, well told” (Vol. 2, p. 263).

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With that said today I am going to share with you Living Word Academy's reading list for the 2011-2012 school year and maybe this will help others out there who are looking for new reads compile their school reading list.

The Hedge of Thorns (this is an every year read) By: John Carrol (Lamplighter Publishing)

Fireside Readings Vol. 1-3 (Lamplighter series)

Amy and Her brothers By: Sarah S. Baker (Lamplighter Publishing)

The Children of Cloverley By: Hesba Stretton (Lamlighter Publishing)

Teddy's Button By: Amy LeFruvre (Lamplighter Publishing)

Buried in The Snow By: Franz Hoffman (Lamlighter Publishing)

The Wanderer By: A.L.O.E (Lamplighter Publishing)

The Little Lamb By: Christopher VonSchmid (Lamplighter Publishing)

The Giant Killer By: A.L.O.E (Lamplighter Publishing)

Fire in the Sky By: Christopher VonSchmid (Lampligher Publishing)

The Little House on the Prairie Series By: Laura Ingalls Wilder

Pilgrims Progress (again) By: John Bunyan

Number the Stars By: Lois Lowry

Sarah, Plain and Tall By: Patricia MacLachlan

Men of Iron (again) By: Howard Pyle

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It is my hope that we can get to all of them and then add some more to the list, wouldn't that be great? I think so.

So are you a reader? Do you like good living books as much as we do? We would love to hear what you have found that you and your family is enjoying, leave us comments and maybe we will add some of your suggestions to our schools list.

Blessings and Shalom!
~Amy

Back To School!

2011-08-05T10:19:00.000-07:00

August 1st started our 2011-2012 school year and I must say that we have blasted off to a great start!!

(I can't wait to see this board filled with all their hard work.)

I spent the majority of my free time last year, praying about the direction YHVH {GOD} is taking our family and what it is that HE wants for our children's education. So I will be sharing what I heard from YHVH with all of you. It's kind of interesting that all of this came together in pieces and that YHVH blessed me with many people whom I crossed paths with who have graciously helped shape what we are doing this year.

Without further ado...this year my older two will be doing 1st grade Rod and Staff and 5th grade Rod and Staff using hte Charlotte Mason Method and a little bit of Montessori mixed in. I can't wait to go into more detail with you and show you what we have planned as our year unfolds. After doing this for a week I have to tell you that I am pleasantly surprised with the curriculum and the decisions we have made and feel so privileged to be able to homeschool our children.

(B has a desk but prefers to sprawl out on the futon.)

(G is so motivated to read that he gets right to work on his phonics everyday! What a blessing.)

With my younger two ages 3 and 6 (the later needs some special education, you can follow our journey with her at http://homeschoolingwithdisabilities.blogspot.com/) we will be using the Montessori and Charlotte Mason methods which seem to be working very well as we have used them in the past and over the summer with an emphasis on Montessori and have seen amazing results. Again, as the year continues I can't wait to share with you all the great things YHVH is doing through these methods of learning.

(Paint dots on the letter A...they did fabulous! We also sang the letter A song over and over (Song taken from Leap frogs Letter Factory DVD) FUN!)

To read about Charlotte Mason you can visit...
http://simplycharlottemason.com/

To Learn more about Montessori...
http://www.montessori.edu/FAQ.html
Or visit my other blog with a list of other blogs and info on this method.
http://homeschoolingwithdisabilities.blogspot.com/

So what are you doing for school this year? What curriculum or methods have you found that works for your family? I would love to hear about them. Feel free to share your blog in our comments section as well...I love hearing and sharing ideas!

Blessings and Shalom!
~Amy

Mrs. Jen Response To A Hard Question.

2011-01-14T20:02:00.000-08:00

Today I stopped by my Mrs. Jen's blog because she was talking about children with learning disABILITIES and a question her daughter asked her and one I know will be asked someday in our home. "Mommy, Why did God make me dumb?" Jen's scripture and responses I think will help us when the time comes. I encourage you to go by and visit her if you have a child who has any kind of disability.

http://reflectionsinthewindow.blogspot.com/2011/01/homeschooling-children-with-learning.html

Blessings and Shalom,
~Amy

Arts and Crafts: Pen, Pencil, Paintbrush Holders!!

2011-01-09T19:32:00.000-08:00

OOOO! I saw this project and thought, this would be the coolest thing for any homeschool family OR a gift for someone who likes to travel. Add a little distressing ink and voila it would look old world.

We are definately going to make these :o)

Follow the link for the Tutorial....

http://allgussiedupjunk.blogspot.com/2010/05/found-things-part-one.html

Happy Classroom Spruse!

~Amy

Homemade Snowballs!

2010-12-17T20:16:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine passed down instructions on how to create your very own snowballs. All you need are cheap white nylons and poly-fil (or fluff as my kids like to call it).

Stuff some fluff (enough to make a snowball) in the bottom of the nylons tie a knot, cut voila!!!

I don't have pictures of the kids playing with them, but I promise you it has been DAYS worth of snowball fights in the house...LOL!

Unplugging for the Break

2010-11-22T18:41:00.000-08:00

Hello my Dear Friends,

I wanted to update you all, I am unplugging the computer, phone, etc. to spend time with my family for the break. I will be plugged in Thursday December 2nd. I hope you all have a wonderful and blessed Thanksgiving.

Blessings and Shalom,
~Amy

Uh-Oh Cold and Flu Season is Upon US!!!

2010-11-21T19:43:00.000-08:00

I have been away for a while on both my blogs and sadly it's because we have been passing one bug on to one another and as soon as we are well we would get another.

With that I wanted to share some home remedies with you all today. I got most of these from really great friends, the ones I have tried do work WONDERS! So how could I NOT share them right?

Peppermint Oil, this is truly a miracle in a bottle!

I had no idea how many uses there were for such a great product.

1. Rub it on the chest as a healthier form of Vapor Rub. Works as soon as it's applied.

2. Rub oil on belly button and let it absorb for a tummy ache.

3. Head Aches and Migraines. Rub on your temples until absorbed, rub some under your nostrils and breathe calmly, head ache should be reilieved within seconds.

4. A teaspoon of edible oil in warm filtered water and drink for an upset stomach or irritable bowel syndrome.

5. Rub on cold sores, then wash hands. This takes the sensitivity away.

Another great tip for fighting off colds and flu is to crush 1 clove of garlic on a teaspoon and them coat with honey and swallow. (Thanks Pam and Nicole for the tip)

Slice up purple onion and place in a warm bath. Soak in the onion bath to kill germs and boost immunity. (Thanks Nicole!)

Onion, Garlic and Peppermint all have antiseptic and antivirus qualities to them along with soothing properties. Amazing.

Boosting Vitamin C is great and most people don't even know why. So I am going to tell you. When you get a greater intake of...

"Vitamin C it increases the production of infection-fighting white blood cells and antibodies and increases levels of interferon, the antibody that coats cell surfaces, preventing the entry of viruses." (quote from stopgettingsick.com)

Don't forget that you can get all your vitamins in raw, fresh, organic fruits and veggies, the more colors the better! So eat up and if you get sick it wont stick around long.

I pray that no one gets sick this winter but it you do I hope that this helps some of you out there. I know that this knowledge has been tested and approved by my family and we will keep coming back to these wonderful remedies! Who'da thought?!

Blessings and Shalom My Friends!
~Amy

Things We Do In The Fall Pt. 1

2010-11-02T21:18:00.000-07:00

Leaf Forts!

The idea is you construct a fort out of twine and newspaper. The tree looses it's leaves landing on the fort and you have a secret hide-a-way. For us the wind ended up blowing the newspaper away for the most part so we are going to try again. More leaves are falling and should create more weight for the newspaper.

Half Way there!

PEEK!

This is B telling me how she built it and what she thinks is going to happen when the leaves fall.

If you have a tree and the leaves are starting to fall, why not try this out with your kids too!

Blessings!

Feminine Appeal Giveaway

2010-10-17T20:05:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love giveaway's?

My dear friend Jasmin over at Far Above Rubies is doing a giveaway. It's for the book called "Feminine Appeal" By Carol Mahaney. This looks like just the book a woman would want who is looking to be a virtuous godly woman for her family. The link below will take you directly to Jasmin's giveaway but don't stop there, please look around she has many great things writings on her blog. I'm sure she would love for you to read them and comment.

http://jasmine-aboverubies.blogspot.com/2010/10/feminine-appeal-giveaway.html

So what are you waiting for? Go on over and say hello!!

Blessings and Shalom,
Amy

Wordless Wednesday

2010-10-13T06:12:00.001-07:00

Tasty Tuesday

2010-10-12T21:31:00.000-07:00

I like to make hearty breakfasts for my precioius family but being a homeschool mom with 4 children and a husband who works long hours that does not leave me with much time to cook and bake. So Here is a pretty quick and easy recipe I found on All Recipes the other day and our family absolutely Enjoys! I double the recipe so I can stick them in the freezer and reheat in the morning. I have also found that this is a great recipe to play with, using less sugar and adding applesauce instead, using nuts, coconut, dried fruits, the skys the limit with these bad boys and they pack a punch leaving you satisfied until lunch.

Breakfast Cookies

Ingredients
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 cup peanut butter
1 1/3 cups packed brown sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 eggs
1/3 cup water
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup whole wheat flour
2 cups quick cooking oats
1/2 cup wheat germ
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 cup raisins

Directions
1.In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat together butter, peanut butter, brown sugar, and vanilla until creamy. Beat in eggs and water.
2.Mix together flours, oats, wheat germ, salt, cinnamon, and baking soda. Mix into peanut butter mixture. Stir in raisins. Drop by ice cream scoopfuls 2 1/2 inches apart on greased cookie sheets. Flatten slightly.
3.Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 18 - 20 minutes. Cool on cookie sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer to cooling racks. Store in an airtight container.

Enjoy!

Blessings and Shalom,
Amy

Weeks End Blessing

2010-10-08T19:44:00.000-07:00

As the week draws to a close I leave you all with an amazing reminder of who we serve and who we need to introduce our children too. Our indescribable God! Adonai Nissi (God my Miracle). Have a blessed and restful weekend friends.

Thoughtful Thursday, Lovely Ladies...

2010-10-07T13:41:00.001-07:00

One of the things we find important in our family and want to train our children in is that of being ladies and gentlemen.

We have come to the conclusion that not everyone woman is a lady and not every man is a gentleman. These well mannered ladies and gentlemen are becoming hard to find these days.

It takes much work, forethought and determination for a person to be as such, especially in the world we live in.

For starters here is the definition of both ladies and gentlemen taken from "Manners and Conduct: In school and out" ~By~ The Deans of Girls in Chicago High Schools 1921

Girls, the word lady should suggest, ideally, a girl (or woman) who keeps herself physically fit, her thinking on a high plane, and her manners gentle and winsome.

Boys, the word gentleman means, ideally, a fine, athletic, manly fellow who is an all round good sport in the best sense, and who has manners that do not prevent other people from seeing how fine he is.

Wow.

The book goes on with different social rules that one doesn't see practiced much these days.

One of my favorites is...

If you are well brought up, girls, you will not loiter on the street to talk to one another; much less to boys. Street visiting is taboo.

I have seen much loitering about the streets amongst mixed sexes since my youth. My how far we have come from being ladies and gentlemen. It is my hope to change that in my little space on this planet.

What are your thoughts on the subject? Have you done anything to prepare your children to become ladies and gentlemen? If so feel free to share your thoughts and ideas with us. If you have written such an article and are interested in guest hosting about this subject let me know, I would love to have you host.

More thoughts on this coming soon....

Blessings and Shalom!
~Amy

2010-09-28T18:41:00.000-07:00

I love Fall don't you?!

We have been taking schooling a little slower these days and really enjoying the weather, family and Adonai (God).

Today we continued building a leaf fort (pics coming tomorrow).

Tried a few new spelling activities.

Talked about the human body and the fascinating way Adonai (God) has created us.

We sat together and chatted about random things that were important to little people like rabbit traps, motorcycles, carmel apples and pumpkins.

B went to manners class given by a sweet little elderly lady named Nana. B is really enjoying her class and her new and old friends. This truly is a blessing.

In the evening we went for a family walk and then worked some more on the leaf fort.

What a treasured day indeed! I love homeschooling.

Here is a quote I stumbled upon to which I thought you all might enjoy....

"Being a full-time mother is one of the highest salaried jobs in my field, since the payment is pure love." ~Mildred B. Vermont

Isn't that the truth?

Blessings and Shalom My Friends!
~Amy

New Moon!!!!

2010-09-23T06:17:00.000-07:00

If you have never visited A Wise Woman Builds Her Home, I encourage you to take a minute and read through her post. I couldn't agree more.

http://proverbs14verse1.blogspot.com/2010/09/christian-moms-speak-out-against.html

Blessings and Shalom,
~Amy

Where Have I Been? What Have We Been Up To?

2010-09-21T14:28:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

I feel so bad for not keeping up with this blog lately. I had so many hopes and dreams for this space but have been slacking.

We have been a bunch of busy bees though. We've had Dr.'s appointments and mixed with schooling not much time for anything else.

If you remember L had an implant put in called the VNS. We had to go every two weeks to get that turned up until she reached the average level. We are finally done with that, no more Dr. visits for a while. Her seizures are a little more controllable and she can now eat a normal diet (minus the processed stuff and refinded sugars and flours). We are currently pleased with her progress and only pray things keep getting better.

We had a broken tooth and dental cleanings. 4 kids = 3 1/2 hours in the dentist office. I can only imagine it would take all day for 6 or more children to be seen in one day!

Now that we have all the kids taken care of it's my turn (JOY...sense the sarcasm) but if I want to be around to be with my family better get in for a tune up. OH and my MUCH needed glasses are on order and I should have them soon (OVERJOYED about this)!

On the school front we have been working with G on HIS speech along with L. G has taken the back seat to everything else and now it's his turn to get all the tweaking and attention he needs. PHEW!

I'm already exhausted repeating this and were not done....LOL

My husband started his new job about 2 months ago and has been blessed with a promotion and favor in the eyes of his supervisors and co-workers! With that he had a raise in salary (such a blessing). The only down side is he works so many hours. 14+ hour workdays. However we have a 4 day weekend coming up and are heading out-of-town, I so need this as we have never been on a real vacation as a family! (HUGE blessing)!

School wise Montesorri is working well for L, I have so much to share on this topic (I really need to get caught up!)

and the other kids thrive well on Charlotte Mason Style learning and it is such a joy to assist them in that. (again, need to catch up on those doings)

B just joined "Manners Class" given by a precious lady named "Nana!" and she is LOVING it!

I have got to get a journal my pictures on here but that will have to wait until later because the kids just came inside.

I hope this finds you all having a blessed school year and you moms are still marching along with pep in your step!

Blessings Fellow Home Schoolers!

Pictures of me (Amy) as Requested By Renee

2010-09-10T17:12:00.000-07:00

Of course being the mom I am usually the woman behind the camera, so after much digging I found a few pics of moi!

Picture for Feminine Friday

Picture for Feminine Friday.

Can you see me in the back? LOL!

This one is the most recent probably a few days ago. Trying to get a good pic for Feminine Friday.
That's pretty much it. Hope you enjoyed Renee!

Alphabet Sensory Box

2010-09-01T07:23:00.000-07:00

I read about an idea where a teacher took a box filled it with rice and added things to it of a certain theme.

My children young and old like to dig so I thought this would be a great addition to our homeschool.

I got some craft beads put them in the box (I need to add WAY more) and then add items that belong to the C family in this box (as we are working on the letter C for pre-school). My kids loved it even though there wasn't much digging.

They spent about half an hour looking at and touching these items. I was very pleased and kind of shocked because these were items they had seen thousands of times before, I had actually thought it might be boring because it wasn't new stuff. My finding was that since they were grouped together in a new way it got their wheels turning. When my son named off the items he was pulling out the box he stopped for a second. I think he had actually realized that they all have the same beginning sound or sounded similar but were different object. Fun, Fun!! We will absolutely continue to do this activity, changing up our letter every 2 weeks.

Here is the picture of our box which I will be adding more beads too....

God Directs Our Steps

2010-08-30T08:26:00.000-07:00

A friend from another blog called Ants on a Farm had posted an activity that she did with her children. I thought it was a wonderful idea and had to do it with my kids as well.

Here is what she did...

They had been talking about how God directs their paths even in the small things. She then cut out their foot prints and hung them up on the wall. The First ones say "God Directs Our Paths" and then after that she put scriptures on each foot that they were discussing.

I believe they are going to continue on with the feet and scriptures and so are we! What a great idea, thanks Mama Ant!

Here is our rendition of the project.

And here is the link to Ants On A Farm! http://antsonafarm.blogspot.com/

Blessings and Shalom!
~Amy

A New and Improved Schedule!

2010-08-27T20:03:00.001-07:00

I have always been a free "spirit" going about doing what I need and want to do not really needing a schedule.

However I have found the kids need a schedule. They need something to look forward to, the need to KNOW what is going to happen next, they need the security that a schedule provides and I believe it also helps with forming habits (hopefully good ones).

So here is our new and improved school schedule.

8am Bible Devotions with the kids

8:20 a.m. Math (bigs) and Activity Boxes (littles)

8:40 a.m. Art (bigs and littles)

9:00 a.m. Read Aloud, (bigs) narrate to me seperately in their rooms (littles) draw a picture.

9:20 a.m. P.E. (bigs and littles)

9:40 a.m. (bigs) Spelling and Handwritting (littles) Sensory boxes

10 a.m. Music, Poetry Memorization and Language (alternating days)

10:30 Leave to meet dad for lunch (we just started this and LOVE it, so does dad!

1 p.m. Nature Study (everyone)

1:20 p.m. Life Skills (everyone)

1:40 p.m. Character Development (everyone)

2 p.m. Chores (everyone)

2:30 p.m. Quiet Alone time (everyone)

3:15 Free Time

Mark Driscoll on Twilight

2010-08-24T08:40:00.001-07:00

I found this youtube video through another blog I frequent. I thought that you all would like to hear what he has to say on the Twilight series.

We mothers should be protecting our children but if you look around you can see that most of our nations mothers are leading thier children down deceptive paths. Also, husbands should be protecting their wives by telling them NO when they are making unwise choices and not back down from their stance. But alas not too many men are stepping up to guide and protect thier wives and in turn the children all suffer.

Please watch this video if you LOVE Twilight, are on the fence about it or do not agree with it at all. Very good insights.

Activity Boxes: Sand Play

2010-08-23T18:18:00.000-07:00

As soon as it got to hot for the kids to play outside I decided it was time to make an inside "sandbox". I went to Wally World bought the box pictured above $4 (splugre!) I then grabbed every $1 item I could find in the kitchen section totaling $8. I then proceeded to Lowes to get a bag of sand for $3, so for aproximately $11 we put together this box.

The kids LOVE it! It does make a mess but nothing a quick vaccuming can't fix.

Over the past few months the kids have found little nick nacks they like and have added them in. Lizards, snakes, spiders, lego guys, army guys, cars and even the Joker from a happy meal...lol. Fun times.

My kids can litterally spend HOURS in this little sand box. I honestly have to pry them away from this activity when we need to get on to other things. Which is why I do not take it out everyday but when the boredom blues arise and it's too hot to go outside, this is where they like to be.

Do you have any activity boxes? If you do please share!

Thoughts on a Motto

2010-08-20T13:18:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I gave you a phrase or "motto" rather to think about.

I am.

I can.

I ought.

I will.

This phrase was coined by the late Charlotte Mason. She gave all her students a badge with 8 simple words upon it.

Not to put Ms. Mason on a pedastal or anything but I think that this was a great phrase and tool for both the students and teachers alike.

So here is what I think of when I hear those words spoken of our children in our home school.

I am a person. One you need to shape, mold and care for as if a delicate flower just emerging from the ground. I am a person who respects and needs to be respected. I am an individual.

I can do anything. I can climb the cabinets to get the cookies on top of the fridge. I can learn in any climate as long as I have someone cheering for me. I can worship our G-d even though I am not old enough to drive. I can do anything.

But then there's

I ought. I ought, to do what is right even when I don't want to. I ought to be polite and courteous even when I am tired. I ought to love my neighbor as thy self.

I will. I will, think about righteousness. I will uphold our family rules. I will read The Great Book and do things that glorify to G-d.

~~~~

You have opposite ends of the spectrum.

I have learned that I am to give my children ample room to explore, learn and even fail. They are persons who aren't here merely to answer questions on a test but to learn about the world around them. "They are individuals, not just canisters ready to be filled" as Sonya Shafer has said.

I have learned to let go. Let go because they CAN do things. The things they do might not be the way I want them to do it but they CAN do it. If it's not done right then try, try, try again. (except for math, I'll let you in on that later).

I as a parent should expect my kids to adhere to our rules, guidelines and instruction. They ought to do what is set before them or else there should be consiquences.

I do however allow for failure, what kind of mom would I be if I did not expect that right?! However during this time of failure great growth can happen. Lessons are learned, memories made, compassion is showed, forgiveness, diligence, perseverence, self control, etc. (you get the picture). So I ought is very important and such a hard thing for most parents to teach. Especially when the child OPT's not to do what is right and good.

Let's come back to I will. As a grown adult it is hard for me to fight my own will at times only wanting to do what I want instead of doing what I should be doing.

Imagine the will of a child!

Helping a child to train his will is probably one of the most important things we can do as their parents and educators.

I wonder if we cultivate these areas in our childrens lives how much better our world would be?!

Our children would no longer settle for what politicians think is correct and right for our world and lives, they would actually raise the bar.

Maybe just maybe they would become the politicians who help mold our world back to Biblical livelihood.

Let the little people who G-d has blessed us with SOAR but help them to ALWAYS keep their feet grounded.

They are people.

They can do great things.

They ought to do what is right (and be expected to).

They will do exactly what they were trained to do.

What are your thoughts? What did you think about when I posted those short sentances? I would love to hear from you!

Blessings and Shalom!

Thoughtful Thursday

2010-08-19T07:02:00.000-07:00

I am.

I can.

I ought.

I will.

If you have never heard the above phrase, I want you to think about it today.

How can you apply this phrase to your children and their education?

How would these simple words make you a better parent?

What does God say about each element of this phrase?

Food For Though!

More tomorrow.

Blessings and Shalom!

Thoughtful Thursday: A Mothers Day Tribute

2010-08-12T06:42:00.000-07:00

I really wanted to post this other poem however while looking for it I could not find it. So instead I thought I would post this delightful poem. Enjoy!

A Mother's Day Tribute

Your back and your head ache at days end.
And you wonder in silence if there exists just one friend.
One you can talk to who doesn't need a drink,
or need his mouth wiped or help up to the sink.

And try as you might, sometimes you feel small
and doubt your self-worth, or if it's worth it at all.
For if you have a career, in society’s eyes,
you've come a long way, and have proved yourself wise.

But for the mother at home, she thinks less of herself,
for instead of a pedestal, we place her up on the shelf.
And for task done in the office a woman receives praise
but what glory do we give mothers for the children they raise?

So for the mother of my children and others I know
a bit of a tribute and gratitude to show.
I know they're not much, these words that you read
But I do know that moms are what children need

So look at those children as they spill once again,
as they fight over toys and bring you to your wits end.
For the day will arrive when childhood is no more
And your shoes won't be sticking to juice on the floor.

And twenty-nine times you won't have to repeat,
"pick up that sock" (unless your husband is like me).
And while your task as a mother may seem to be through,
your children, as grown-ups, are still children to you.

And Diamonds and gold are little to pay
for what a mother goes through with her children each day.
For her payment isn't seen by the money she earns
But by the adults that she's grown and the love they return.

Author Unknown (but if anyone knows who wrote this I would love to give credit where it is due)

Wordless Wednesday: Proud Floral Arrangement

2010-08-11T21:29:00.000-07:00

Mike Metarko School Principal Resignation Letter

2010-08-09T19:55:00.000-07:00

Mike Metarko decided to resign as Principal from an elemantry school in Bethleham PA. He decided to resign after many years of being an educator because of his own personal convictions. I am so glad that he has decided to listen to the Lord and make such a bold stance.

~~~~~~~~

Dear Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is with strong conviction that I write this letter as my formal resignation effective Thursday, July 1, 2010 from my position as Principal of Hanover Elementary School, where I have devoted the last five of my 14 years in the Bethlehem Area School District. Though there is no job at present to which I will be going, God has clearly persuaded me through His Word and through my research into the foundations of our educational system that I must end my career in public education.

For the last fourteen years, I have worked diligently to be the “salt and light” spoken of in Matthew 5:13, but I have realized that while I am plugging up pinholes in the dike that holds back the tumultuous waters of public education, the improperly laid foundation has been eroding beneath our feet. God states, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge” (Proverbs 1:7a). This means that neither God nor moral character can be separated from true education; in fact, the glorification of God and the building of Biblical moral character must be the basis of true education. In the words of Benjamin Rush, Signer of the Declaration of Independence, “We profess to be republicans [in form of government], and yet we neglect the only means of establishing and perpetuating our republican forms of government, that is, the universal education of our youth in the principles of Christianity by the means of the Bible. For this Divine Book, above all others, favors that equality among mankind, that respect for just laws, and those sober and frugal virtues, which constitute the soul of republicanism.”

But what have we done? We have thrown God, Bibles and prayer out of our schools based upon an inaccurate interpretation of the “Separation clause”, while openly proselytizing the religion of Secular Humanism (Smith v. Board of School Commissioners of Mobile County, Ala). We have divorced morality from education and focused only on what special interest groups perceive as the “right” content knowledge. We manage the masses at the expense of the individual. As with most educators in the system, I have been sincere in my efforts to apply the doctrines of those we call the founding fathers of education, but I have realized that I have been sincerely wrong. My research into the real philosophies and beliefs behind men such as Rousseau, Dewey, Hall, etc. has opened my eyes. I am now aware that not only have I not been working for God, I have been working in complete opposition to Him. I mistakenly thought I was on neutral ground: there is no neutral territory.

That said; let me assure you that my argument is not against those I have worked with for the past 14 years. I have a love for my colleagues and friends; most are wonderful teachers of a curriculum they have been given, most truly love the children and will do anything for them, most sincerely try to improve our children, our city, our nation. But we have all taken our eye off the mark of what the chief end of man is. The nation’s statist system of public education is the real issue.

The Bible is overwhelmingly clear in that the primary responsibility in educating a child rests with the parents (Deuteronomy 6, Ephesians 6:4, etc.). We need parents to be parents once again, families to be families once again, fathers to be the father and leader, mothers to be the mother and nurturer. It does not “take a village to raise a child”; it takes a family entrusted with the Word of God. Our children are not to be wards of the State; on the contrary, they are creations of a God of love, justice, and redemption who loves us so much He sent Christ to die for us so that if we believe in Him and profess Him as Lord and Savior, He will grant us eternal life. He does not need us, but we need Him. He has given us the roadmap to life and to education: the Bible. I pray that He may manifest Himself in your life as he has clearly done so in mine.

Respectfully,

Michael J. Metarko

Thoughtful Thursday

2010-08-05T12:01:00.000-07:00

I think it vitally important for us to give something for our children to think about because.....

"An idle man's brain is the devil's workshop"
~John Bunyan~

Here are a few things we have thought about so far this week!

"Stars"

By ~Sara Teasdale~

Alone in the night on a dark hill,
with pines around me spicy and still

A heaven full of stars over my head
White and topaz and misty red.

(This is not the complete poem, I give the kids only one stanza every week giving them something to think about and memorize. By only giving them one stanza a week they anticipate what the next part of the poem will be. Fun times)

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Exodus 20:7

7 "You shall not misuse the name of the LORD your God, for the LORD will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name."

~~~~~~~~~~~

Blessings and Shalom!

Spiders

2010-08-04T12:01:00.000-07:00

We have these two spiders who live outside our back door. I have no idea what they are but I have come to the conclusion that they like to keep to themselves. The kids and I wait until sundown to watch these magnificent creatures. Here is what we have learned so far....

They are nocturnal.

They have a VERY symentrical web and don't stop working until the web is complete.

They don't worry about the little bugs like baby grasshopers because no matter how hard they try they can't escape.

The bigger bugs make the spiders run! They scurry across the web, wrap them up in the webbing, take them back to the center of the web and eat up (cool for boys, but not so much for mom).

Very early in the morning while the sun is peaking up over the horizon the spiders ball up their web, escape to the roof and enjoy their good eatin'. They wait sleep all day and start over again as soon as the sun is down.

I think these lessons fall under, Character Training (diligence), Math (semetry, time, counting), Science (Life Cycles, Speices Study, Food Chain, Nocturnal, Carnivors)

And here is one of our little friends (this is the best picture I could get without getting too close to him/her)

What To Expect on Our Blog This Year!

2010-08-03T12:01:00.001-07:00

With all the new changes in our lives and homeschool, I have decided to do things a little differently here at Living Word Academy.

Some things you can look forward to seeing this new year are...

Mom's Monday (encouragment, devotion, and ideas pertaining to being and mom and homeschooling)

Tot School (link up) found by clicking the link below

http://1plus1plus1equals1.blogspot.com/which

Which I found through a wonderful blogger named Kewkew

http://totsandme.blogspot.com/

Both WONDERFUL homeschool blogs!

I will be posting reviews on great books and articles pertaining to parenting and homeschooling.

Guest posts (that should be fun)!

Recipes, Frugal Friday (ideas to save you money), Photography, bird watching, LOTS of living books and Family!!!

There will be LOTS of pictures and laughs along the way!

So come back often I'm sure there will be something that will appeal to your appetite.

Blessings and Shalom!

Tot School!

2010-08-03T12:01:00.000-07:00

We have had so much fun finding activities to do starting with the letter B! Here is a little composition of what we have been up to this week...

Welcome to Tot's Tuesday where I will share something that the Tot's in our home have been up too.

This week we are learning about the Letter B!

BIG B
little b
What begins with Bb?!

Barber, Baby, Bubbles and a BUMBLE BEE!
(Dr. Seuss book of ABC's I love that book!)

Pasting Buttons, Beans and Bells to the Letter "B"

Coloring a Beeeeee Keeper

Bouncing

Last but not least...

My kids LOVE bats and we have never done a study on them so I thought, there is no better time then now.

Our little study has turned into a big study with LOTS of books, activities and such so I will save that for next week and show you all we have done with bats.

Fun, Fun!

So what have you been up to with your littles? I would love to hear about it!

Mom's monday: Take Risks

2010-08-02T17:58:00.000-07:00

For so long we have had to struggle with our sickie and what we can and can not do. This has been such a trial that we have just gotten stuck in our "bubble".

We had gotten stuck in a rut.

Well a friend of mine who also homeschools has taught me to "take some risks", step outside of the bubble once again and do fun things with the family! Another thing she has shown me is Don't Worry!

So today we took risks. We ventured out to the great blue (HOT) yander.

We read at the library.
We picniced in a field.
We bought some books from another homeschooler.
We went to the museum and saw some friends.

We had a semi-normal day.

After 4 years of struggling with my daughters illness, we-had-a-normal-day.

It might not be risky for some but for us it was and boy was it fun.

So my advice and encouragement for homeschoolers far and wide is, take a risk today in your homeschooling.

Take it outside, take it to the park, take it to the library, museum, fair, pond, lake, church, forest, dad's work (if you can), take it to a nursing home, friends house, take a risk and school everywhere and anywhere!

~Blessings and Shalom!

Homeschool Blog Hop: Making New Friends

2010-08-02T17:47:00.000-07:00

Kylie how is the host over at http://ourworldwideclassroom.blogspot.com/ is having a blog hop. It's all about making one or two new friends. check out her page by clicking the on the picture below. Scroll down for rules on how to participate.

Here are the rules for the blog hop

Follow these steps:

1/. Write a quick post about this Making Friends Home School Hop and add in the linky code (at the bottom of this post) to your post.

2/. Add your blog post into the Link List below

3/. Choose TWO BLOGS from the list (if you are early to link up you may need to come back). Try to choose blogs that you have either not visited before, haven't visited in a while or don't often get the time to visit......the idea is to make some NEW friends.

3/. Comment on their Making Friends Home School Hop Post, letting them know that you are visiting from the Making Friends Home School Hop.

4/. Don't forget to follow them if you enjoyed their blog.

5/. Come back here and comment on this post, letting us know which TWO BLOGS you visited and what you liked about them.

6/. Double check that you have followed all of the steps.

7/. Have fun!

Mom's Monday: Training

2010-07-26T07:49:00.000-07:00

I apologize for not posting as much lately. We are trying to get back onto a "normal" schedule so that is where I have been.

Which brings me to the topic of today. Training.

It's so easy for me to point out the faults in my child, however the more I look the more I see that really it is not the child that needs the training it is me.

We are the example and if we are the example we should try diligently to work on ourselves and our character.

Luke 6:40 says

"A student is not above his teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like his teacher."

So who do I, the teacher want to be like? I want to be like Christ so that my children will want to be like Him too. I have found the only way to become like Christ is by being in His Word and trying to emulate His responses, actions and behaviors everyday.

Something I have been trying not to forget is.... BIBLE before school that way I will be certain that when things get harried in our school or the long list of to dos gets longer, I will remain steady. Now isn't that what we all strive for?

Taking this further here is a great study we have found (this is quite the challenge). The book is called "The Power For True Success: How to Build Character in Your Life" Written by The Institute In Basic Life Principles

http://www.amazon.com/Power-True-Success-Build-Character/dp/0916888193

May all you homeschooling moms have a delightful God centered day with your children.

Blessings,
Amy

Brothers

2010-07-18T19:04:00.001-07:00

Happy Sunday everyone.

I have not been posting much so I thought I would share this picture with you. While taking our school pictures I caught this one just in time as "I" was looking at "G" fondly.

I think I should blow this one up and have it mounted to a wall in our home.

Why you ask?

So that when the boys are wrestling, fighting, wrestling, climbing, wrestling again, not sharing, wrestling once again and picking on eachother I can look at that picture and remember that they really do LOVE each other. LOL! They do love each other but I must say they are ALL boy ALL the time.

Pre-First Day of School!

2010-07-13T05:46:00.000-07:00

I have a TON of pictures but I will try to pair them down some.

We decided to do a Pre-First Day of School this year to help us get back on a schedule after being off for a little over a month so here is what we did on that day.

School Pictures....

Next we made hand and feet prints then colored them...

We also weighed and measured everyone so we that we could compare later on in the year. After bouts of laughing because little ones kept running around and didn't know exactly what we wanted them to do everyone was hungry so we made pita pizza's for lunch...YUUUUM!

And since it was so nice outside that day we ventured outside to play a game of human ring toss.

We had many more fun things planned but one of our little birds decided to lock us out of the house and so we too a nap under the gazebo and relaxed in the back yard for hmmm...about 4 1/2 hours. LOL!

So that was our pre-first day of school. If you do something similar and post we would love to see what you all are up too!

I Received an Award!!!!

2010-07-08T05:53:00.000-07:00

Shonda from The Knowlton Nest has given me the "Sunshine Award"!!!

http://jsknowlton.blogspot.com/2010/07/sunshine-blog-award.html

This is the very first blog award I have ever gotten "THANKS SHONDA!!!!!" I'm so excited!

To claim this award all you have to do is make a post thanking the person who gave it to you and passing it along to 12 other blogs that bring Sunshine to your life.

So I am to give the award away to 12 others who brighten my day! Here we go.... (this is not in any particular order).

1. Renee @ http://glowacademy10.blogspot.com/
2. Mama Ant @ http://antsonafarm.blogspot.com/
3. Janetta @ http://mortoncrew.blogspot.com/
4. Rose @ http://goodwife-rose.blogspot.com/
5. The Seven Sisters @ http://homeschoolblogger.com/sevensisters/
6. Jasmin @ http://jasmine-aboverubies.blogspot.com/
7. Bridget @ http://thelordsbeauty.blogspot.com/
8. Jen @ http://reflectionsinthewindow.blogspot.com/
9. The Lands Family @ http://landsfamilyledbythelord.blogspot.com/
10. A Christian Mommy Writer @ http://christianmommywriter.com/
11. Tammy @ http://thispilgrimage.blogspot.com/
12. Candy @ http://myblessedhome.blogspot.com/

I hope you too can find joy at their space.

Blessings Ladies!

L is doing MUCH better!

2010-07-07T08:53:00.000-07:00

Thanks for the prayers!

Just a quick update...

L was a little dehydrated, tired, keytones were out of whack and a little constipated.

So she is doing much better now that she has dranken a LOT of water, gotten rest and keytones are back in check!! I am overjoyed!

Thanks for the prayers everyone :o)

"L" One Week Post-Op

2010-07-06T20:52:00.000-07:00

Everything has been going so well. We have kept her in our safe little bubble (our home) for about 5 days. Seizures decreased, she looked rested and happy. Life is looking up for our little family. So we felt safe taking her out to watch the fireworks.

The kids were pretty good, playing with eachother, blowing bubbles and laughing. We had fun and really enjoyed ourselves.

Well after being at the Park for about 2 hours "L" tripped and fell on top of the wagon we used to cart our littles too and from the car. She happened to fall on the side of her chest where her implant is located. I freaked and so she freaked and I wanted to scream and cry but thought that would not be good as it would make such a scene and probably scare her worse than she already was. After the initial scare she was fine. No problems, no seizures, twitching, jerking, bruising, nothing. So I figured I was more scared for her than she was hurt.

Today though she really didn't do well either causing me much worry. I don't know if it's because of all the heat we endured from yesterday or the fact that she got bubbles on her skin, perhaps she ate something she wasn't supposed to, who knows.

IF it's diet or dehydration, she will do better tomorrow. IF it's the implant, she wont. Please pray that it was just diet and dehydration. Today we have filled her FULL of water and fed her her "safe" foods today so we will see.

I also called and spoke with the nurse of L's surgeon this afternoon and the nurse basically said, check Keytones, give her lots of water, rest and wait and see. If she gets bad or I am too worried bring her into the ER. So we decided to do what the nurse said and wait. We do go to the Neurologist this Friday so if anything IS wrong he will be able to tell us that something is not right. In the meantime though, we wait.

Please pray, pray, pray nothing was detached or cracked.

She is so precious and I know God knows exactly what is going on, so I will trust He is holding her safely in His hands. Pray she does exceptionally well tomorrow so I can give you some good reports of God's grace and mercy.

Thank you friends for always being willing to pray for our sweet L!

School Starts In A Week!!!

2010-07-06T08:39:00.000-07:00

I am so excited and I can't wait to get started! Here at Living Word Academy we start school next Monday.

We have taken a little over a month off and I believe everyone is ready to get back to the norm.

Thursday of this week we will be having a pre-first day of school.

We will have a BIG breakfast, fantastic lunch and lots of fun.

We will be going through our schedule for next year, binders, family mission statement, rules, etc.

We are also going to look through their school books, go over what we expect of them, school goals, personal goals and spiritual goals for each child.

I can't wait!

We are doing a pre-first day of school because it is so hard to get back into a schedule after only having a week off let alone a month. I believe if we take a day to refocus and reiterate our expecations, the REAL first day of school will go smoother than past years.

I have taken this idea from the Maxwell's "Manager's of Their Schools". I thought this was an excellant idea and transformed it a little to fit our school.

Do any of you do anything like this or do anything special on your first day or pre-first day of school. I would love to hear your ideas!

Home From Surgery...PHEW! Pt. 3

2010-07-01T20:26:00.000-07:00

(In this picture L and G were having fun with the vaccume. G was sucking up L's hair in the vaccume and she was CRACKING UP!)

Psalm 127:3-5

"3 Sons are a heritage from the LORD,
children a reward from him.

4 Like arrows in the hands of a warrior
are sons born in one's youth.

5 Blessed is the man
whose quiver is full of them.
They will not be put to shame
when they contend with their enemies in the gate."

Thank you all for your prayers, words of encouragement, emails, texts, phone calls I have truly felt the Lord's presence during this time.

I have a very LONG nap and feel a little more rested finally.

So as I sit here trying to collect my thoughts after having rest, I just don't know if I will be able to put the exact words out there about the events of our days leading up to and the days of surgery but I will try.

L suffers from Dravet Syndrome as I stated before. This has meant her having as many as 150 seizures if not more in one day. We know highs and lows all too well.

We have tried everything, medications, diets, herbal therapies, and nothing has been 100%. If something worked, it would only work for a short period of time and then it would gradually go back to the "norm".

We have prayed and searched for answers and waited on the Lord.

Just as doors started closing the Neurologist/Epileptology Specialist said "we can always try VNS."

I did not want to hear that because all I thought was "brain surgery".

Come to find out it's NOT brain surgery yet it does pose some real dangers during surgery and some possibly after, but for the most part is "safe".

VNS is like a pace maker only for the brain. It has electrodes that hook up to the Vegus nerve in the chest and neck area sending pulses to the brain the goal being to disrupt any misfires in the brain.

~~~~~

There have been so many blessings probably too numerous to count from the WHOLE process.

One being the fact that we ended up with 2 insurances instead of one for a 2 week window which happened to be the earliest they could get L in for surgery. If we would've waited we would've had to pay A LOT out of pocket and would have not been able to have the surgery. If we did it any sooner than what we did we would've not been able to benefit from the second insurance as we wouldn't have had it yet. This was totally a God thing and I am so humbled knowing that the patient usually has to work around the Dr.'s schedule and ALSO that insurance companies are sometimes difficult to work with. However this has been an amazing grace for us.

Another blessing was child care. I tried to get my Mom and Sister to come and help and they would have however schedules did not work out. They felt horrible and I felt horrible BUT there was another woman who has been a complete blessing to me who reminds me of family back home, whom GRACIOUSLY took on all three of my babes and cared for them like they were her own. They have not stopped talking about how much fun they had over at their home. It was a HUGE weight lifted off of me KNOWING they were being cared for.

We hit a bump when my husband who had just started a new job got word 2 days before surgery that he would not be able to go with us because of a class he had to attend. My heart SUNK. I THOUGHT I couldn't do this alone. I wish that he could have been there with us, however I didn't want him to feel bad so I tried to be chipper! This was very difficult. He did feel horrible though and he looked miserable however God has grown our marriage so much from this one "bump" that it just goes to show that God IS smarter than us...another blessing.

L and I get to our hotel in good time, we rest a little and then we have to head up to the hospital to register and do a pre-op appointment.

Registration goes smoothly. L says hello to Eve-ry-one and we get smiles galore! All is well.

We made it up to the pre-op appointment and the nurse that had to weigh and measure L was so grumbly and rough that I was sure this was not going to be good so at the moment I could stop I started praying "God PLEASE send us better than this, give us people who are gentle, loving and kind, no one REALLY wants to be here so if you could just answer that right now that would be great, thanks in advance, Amen"

So enter nurses number 2 and 3 I get asked a gabillion (is that a word, if not it should be) questions as L decides she needs to kiss the nurses. I don't think I have ever seen two nurses melt like these two did. They said they "NEVER get this kind of reaction from children" and they "needed that today." I felt blessed that L was blessing others.

When all the business was done, the nurses sat in our room with us. They were asking how I was, and asked about our family. They were sincere with their questions which was nice and refreshing. In the meantime L was kissing them, hugging them and holding their hands. At one point in the conversation L squished one of the nurse ladies by the cheeks bent her head down and kissed the top of her head. I have no idea what or why she did this but the woman started to tear up and hugged L and said "you are the sweetest little thing!" I guess we will find out the result of that on the other side of heaven.

That same woman whom L kissed on top of the head, before leaving, asked my first name, L's prognosis and asked if she could pray for us and pass along our information to her church. "OF COURSE" I said without hesitation. While I had to sign one more paper the nurse sang a hymn to L and L LOOOOOVED that as she loves music! The next thing I know the wonderful woman of God grabs my hand and starts praying. She then tells me that she will never forget us. God is so good and again blessings abound! I can't wait to meet this woman again, if not here than in heaven.

The ladies leave and the doctor was SUPPOSED to come in however the ladies come back in and say, we might have bad news. "There is an emergency surgery that needs to happen in the morning so we might have to reschedule you." I was like "WHAT?!" I felt like I was just hit by a train and I really didn't want to have to do this all over again, you know what I mean?!

The doctor peaks his head in and says "Hi, oh, yeah, hold on a second."

I don't know if it was because of L or what but the nurse came in and said "God is so good, you are one blessed lady today. The Doctor has decided to come in early and get L done first so you wont have to reschedule. He does not usually do this and actually canceled everyone else for the day beside the emergency, so don't forget to thank God for this one."

I of course thanked God, how wonderful!! Another blessing!!!!

We had to wake up even earlier but we made it to the hospital, groggy and half asleep but we made it.

Arriving at 4:30am to a hospital is quite interesting in that EVERYTHING IS LOCKED!!! So I had to call for security to come let me in because I had NO CLUE how to get in. This set off hospital alarms and a bunch of craziness. The security guard who reminded me of my Dad asked if I knew where I was going and I said "no" because really I wanted HIM to get us to where we needed to be. I was too tired. So he got us where we needed to be and made sure we were comfortable (just like my Dad would have done). ANOTHER BLESSING!

Getting set up for surgery is interesting with L because, well, she can not sit still on a good day, she climbs, jumps, laughs and to want to her sit still so you can poke and prod her is not all it's cracked up to be and she was not going to have it. She did well, didn't fight or scream but she did NOT want to sit on the hospital bed. The attending nurse kept asking "isn't there anything she will watch on TV". I had to politely say "Unless Wheel Of Fortune is on she will not watch TV, TV is not her thing." The nurse said "well do you think she will sit still if you were holding her." and I thought what a silly question of course she would, I'm her momma! So I held her from the time they put her IV in until the time they took her back for surgery. I was touched and blessed by the fact that I got to hold her and not stand next to a cold hospital bed and watch her. I didn't want that for her and again God delivered again.

Riiiight before they take her back the Doctor comes in and says "I like to pray for all my patients whenever possible. Is it okay if we pray together this morning?" I said "absolutely!" He laid his hand on her head and said the most amazing prayer. There really aren't any words to describe this. Amazing. God is again gracious, merciful, mighty, faithful, triumphant, He is for us!

God is awesome. I am so glad that we are Christian, I honestly don't know how people go through things without the Lord.

After surgery, the Doctor came out and said everything went well and I could see L once she has come out of anesthesia. So I waited and waited. As soon as I was able to go back there, L clung to me as if she had just come out the dryer without a dryer sheet, arms around my neck and legs around my waist. Seriously if I let go of her she would not have fallen she was stuck like glue..LOL I felt such peace in that moment though. She was back safe in my arms. There is nothing was nothing better than what I felt in that moment.

This is it for L's side of the event. I have learned much in the waiting during surgery and I will post that tomorrow as I am sure this is WAY too long as it is. All in all this was a completely amazing experience, surrounded by amazing people and could not have gone any better if it weren't for the Lord our God (YAHWEY)

Romans 8:31-32

"31 What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32 He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?"

God is so good.

After having read here today of the amazing things Jesus has done in our lives even though we live in a sinful world, Would you take a moment and search your heart? Look deep inside and see if you have a relationship with Jesus? If you don't and would like to ask for forgiveness of sin and accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior today please pray this little prayer and if you have any questions or comments after you do this please feel free to email me amy_stu3(at)msn(dot)com replace the (at) and (dot) with the symbols.

Let us Pray...

Dear Jesus, I (insert your name) am a sinner. I acknowledge that there is no way for me to be forgiven without You and I will remain a sinner and end up in hell if I do not turn from my ways. I need You to save me from my sins. I am asking You today to forgive me of all my past sins and make me new. I know that in asking, You have covered me with the Blood of Jesus and I am now as white as snow without spot or stain. Thank You for dying on the cross for me. Thank You for making a way for me. Thank you that you now see me as a new creation through Christ. Help me on this new path. Send healing rain in my life today. Show me Your ways.

In Jesus' Powerful Name

~Amen

Again if you prayed I would love to pray for you too. email me so I can do that for you.

Many blessings friends!

WERE HOOOOME!!!

2010-06-30T19:00:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!

Thank you so much for all your prayers, texts, emails and support during this time. "L" is doing fine, surgery went well and she is VERY happy to be home. I will post more of the happenings tomorrow as I am WAAAAAY to exhausted tonight.

From the bottom of my heart....

THANK YOU!!!!!!

G'night
~Amy

Surgery Wednesday Pt. 2 "L"

2010-06-29T05:06:00.000-07:00

Have I ever told all of you how much I love my lil' "L"?

She is amazing. She has had to struggle for everything she has attained. Listening to her speak (with what little she knows) melts my heart. The phrases she uses the most are "I wuv you", "Tank You", "peeeease", "hold hand", "I huuuug", "nee or wan kiss", "shoes, go walk?" and she knows the lyrics to "Amazing Grace", "How Great Is Our God", "Jesus Loves Me" and "Jesus In The Morning" I think that says a lot about who she is.

1. She loves everyone.

2. She cares and appreciates what you have done for her.

3. She is very polite.

4. She loves to be close to you.

5. She loves to go places and see things especially out in nature where I'm sure she feels closest to God.

6. Above all else if you know her, you know God is THE most important thing in her life. I think she has her priorities straight, don't you?

For a while she struggled with walking, so watching her walk, run, jump, spin, dance makes me stop in the moment just to observe how far God has brought her.

Her smile is never ending. No matter how bad of a day she has, somewhere, somehow she always smiles.

Are YOU having a bad day? Well I have a cure for that! It's L!! No matter what it is, if someone is upset L drops what she is doing and goes over to hug and kiss them.

She has been God's tool in many persons lives including my own. She helps put things into perspective, showing no matter how hard it gets we need to just-keep-going. Philippians 3:14 has become our scripture BECAUSE it reminds us to persevere!

We leave in a few hours so please pray for everyone's safety while we are apart. Pray for God's hand of protection around all of us, including mine and "L's" safe travels, Please pray for my husband as he can't be there with us but wants to be (I know he feels horrible), again for the surgeons and anesthesiologists good night sleep tonight, a steady hand and wisdom for the morning, Please pray for complete healing (it's a long shot but with God NOTHING is impossible (Luke 1:37 and Luke 18:27)

The song that plays over and over again before we venture on to BIG things with "L" is "healing rain". If you hear that today please stop for a minute and think about God's grace and mercy. Think about all the times He has seen you through a storm. Think about all the amazing things you have seen since becoming a Christian. Lives that have touched you and lives you have touched. Thank Him (Jesus) today for always seeing you through the storms, I know I will be.

Thank You for reading, May God bless you all for your diligence in being beside us with your prayers, words of encouragement and support.

~Amy

Surgery Wednesday

2010-06-28T12:53:00.000-07:00

Hello All,

I hope today is finding you well?!

Tomorrow my beloved "L" and I drive to Texas for her VNS surgery on Wednesday. There has been such a HUGE effort of many people to get us to this point and opportunity. We have nothing but thanks and praise to give to all involved.

I thought this week would be a very frustrating, anxious, difficult, suspenseful, anguishing and hard week. I was joyously wrong! God has brought us so far from our early years of walking alone, grumbling and murmuring without the Lord. We have totally leaned on Him and He has prepared and given us the strength we have needed during this time. He alone is Awesome and worthy of praise.

For the most part today has been flying by without much effort or struggle.
I've spent all day prepping and was fine until about 10 minutes ago. I am now taking a breather by blogging because I was getting quite anxious while packing bags. My anxious thoughts were thankfully interrupted as I started thinking "why be anxious, God is handling all of this."

The Bible tells us not to be anxious and TRUST in the Lord!

Proverbs 12:25
"An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up."

Philippians 4:6
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God."

My children and I have have been praying and thanking God all day long. I have been encouraging them and in turn THEY have encouraged me (simply amazing). It's so nice having a family around you to walk this straight, narrow and sometimes scary road with. God has truly blessed me.

We have all been repeating this scripture through out the day...

Proverbs 3:5-6
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways acknowledge him, and HE will make your paths straight."

Amazing truths, poured out in Gods Word.

It is so sad to think that some people have to go through things like this alone, without God and struggling. No matter what though "as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord." (Joshua 24:15) and in turn He says in 1 Timothy 6:17 "put their (your) hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment." and also Luke 12:22-34 or Matthew 10:26-31

God provides, takes care of, and helps all those who are beloved by Him. He cherishes my children more than I do. Through this whole 4 1/2 year ordeal I have learned that changing our thinking to that of a Godly one really does make things much more bearable.

Ah, I am feeling better now.

Please pray for us during this time. Safe travels, steady hands for our surgeon and anesthesiologist, peace, self-control, short recovery time, for us to be a good God given example of what it is to be a Christian amongst unbelievers, finances and comfort for everyone. Also pray for the protection of my other 3 children who will be having fun with their friends while we are away. Pray for my friends sanity and peace to rein in their home with my added bunch of little people.

Thanks in advance and may God bless you today as well!

I'll try to keep you all updated over the next few days.

Blessings friends!

Sex Education

2010-06-23T10:13:00.000-07:00

Sex Education.

Do those two words make you cringe?

Oh I know it did for me. I have actually agonized, worried and was terrified of how I would talk to my daughter who is now 9 years old on this very topic.

We have had conversations about the body and how we are to be modest and discreet. We have talked about how to protect our bodies and keep it clean but this is a whole new ball field for me.

After much AGONIZING, I decided it was time to get answers from God and not curriculum's, man written books and advice from others. I opened my Bible and started reading, asking God to give me clear answers on how I was to approach this topic.

Just then the scriptures of God making man came to mind (Genesis 1:26-28). Next I thought of every hair being numbered by the Lord and that not a single sparrow falls from the sky without His knowing it (Matthew 10:30). I was also remembered of Samson and how God was quite particular at how he was to keep his body separated for the Lord, including his hair (Judges 13, 14, 15 & 16). On and on the scriptures poured into my mind.

Upon remembering all these true stories and looking them up, I have come to realize that God has already given us a plan for Sex Education. God in all His wisdom knew that I would one day be agonizing over how I would present this subject to my children and has given me MUCH to work with.

How about the Song of Songs, haven't read it? It's a must read, it is an all encompassing Sex Ed kit.

Then the example of Adam and Eve, "Adam lay with his wife Eve, and she became pregnant and gave birth to Cain." (Genesis 4:1) How simple to use the very first examples to train and teach my child.

We don't need the world and it's ugliness to teach our children. Everything we need is presented perfectly right here in God's Word.

Even disease, prostitution and homosexuality. I don't need to SHOW them examples in pictures or people in the ugly world, it is already right here in His Word! By reading these history's to my children they will see the world for what it is and not much needs to be explained for they already know.

I feel so foolish now for agonizing over all of this, when the answer was quite simple. I truly feel like I have found a treasure as it states in Proverbs 2:3-5 "and if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding,and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden TREASURE, then you will understand..."

I got it. There is no miracle cure or curriculum for Sex Education, it's already been made and laid out for us. I just needed to find it.

Count Your Blessings

2010-06-23T08:10:00.000-07:00

To Train Up A Child

2010-06-22T10:55:00.000-07:00

Happy Tuesday everyone!

I love summer, things grow and so do I, it truly is a great time to ponder the things of God.

Here is something to consider, Do you have an unruly child? Have you lost control at some point last school year? Have you wanted to work on an area of your child's Character or maybe your own? Well have I got a book for you!!!

I have started re-reading "To Train Up A Child" By Michael and Debi Pearl. What can I say except, I love this little book. This read is so short yet there are so many nuggets of wisdom and truths that fill it's pages.

Lately I have been a little more lackadaisical about my parenting and collectively my husband and I are in need of a parental tune up, so what better time to start than on the first day of summer. We will be cultivating and working on one of the areas that means the most to us (our children).

I recommend this book for so many reasons one being that it really helps you to have a better understanding of what your child needs mentally, emotionally and physically. The authors also pay no expense at being blunt and straight to the point, there is no gray area with them so there is no guessing, filler, fluff, bells or whistles. Just the truth, so if you like that kind of read this is for you.

Here is an excerpt from the Introduction...

"With proper training, discipline can be reduced to 5% of what many now practice. As you come to understand the difference between training and discipline, you will have a renewed vision for your family..."

Training up a child is far better than "beating" them into submission or rebellion. If you were debating on whether or not to read this book I would say do it you've got nothing to loose! It really has been such a blessing to me and it may just be for you as well.

If you are interested in this book you can order it by going to www.NoGreaterJoy.org

Give-Away @ The Knowltons Nest

2010-06-21T20:53:00.000-07:00

Are you into Essential Oils? Have you thought about talking to your children about them in health class or using them in science experiments, perhaps even using them after a long hard day of hitting the books with the kids? Well have I got a give-away for you!

Go over to The Knowltons Nest and enter in Shonda's drawing to win one of many essential oils! Who knows you may be the lucky winner and recieve some free and wonderful aroma therapy. What homeschooling mom wouldn't want that? This is my kind of give-away.

http://jsknowlton.blogspot.com/2010/06/young-living-essentials-valor-blend.html

New Blog Button!!!!

2010-06-21T19:16:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!

I am so excited because an amazing blogger buddy has made me....

MY VERY OWN BLOG BUTTON!

What a blessing this IS and such a great suprise.

If you don't know Renee already she is an amazing woman after God's own heart, she homeschools, knits, bakes and is a creative help-meet to her husband. Please go by and say hello you can visit her by pressing on the GLOW Academy button in the sidebar. I'm sure there is something you will find to suit your fancy over at Renee's

Thank you my friend for the blog button!!!

Happy Father's Day Early

2010-06-18T13:27:00.001-07:00

Just wanted to tell everyone not to forget to love on your husbands and daddies this weekend, I know we will! Happy Father's Day to you all in advance, have a great weekend.

We are taking our daddy for a little vacation, pictures when we get back. Shhhh don't tell him ;o)

Blessings,
Amy

Everyday Should Be A Day To Celebrate!

2010-06-17T08:49:00.000-07:00

HAPPY THURSDAY!!!!

I was cleaning out my craft closet and came across some valentines cards. I decided that instead of waiting on Valentines Day to celebrate my loves, today we would have a day of love. So last night I wrote them sweet letters in their cards and put them in their spot at the breakfast table so that they would be sure to find them first thing.

The squeals and cheers of happiness that I awoke too made my heart and soul filled with content at being home with my little loves today. "I" (my youngest) kept saying "Is this for me? Is this for me? Can you read it to me!!!!" His smile was so huge while his excitement with this simple card is something I will cherish for a lifetime.

"G" said "What's this, is it someones Birthday?" I said "no, it's because I LOVE you!" The smile that grew on his face was priceless. He then asked me to read it when I had finished and without a step said "I love you so much mom, thank you!"

"B" read hers by herself and reassured me that "these were valentines cards with "Valentines" crossed out." she then added that "we don't need one special day to show we love each other, right?!" I said "You're right and that is why you have cards today and not on February 14th."

"L's" response was, "Stickers???" Wondering why she got a card with no stickers in it. She is our sticker kid. So precious!

Why wait until February 14th to celebrate your love for your children or husband for that matter? They are the ones we are to love the most! I am so blessed to have such wonderful people to share my life with. Soooo today we celebrate!

Here is a random picture of my kids looking at a book together (they didn't know I was taking a picutre of them)

Another thing I want to share with you all is the book we are reading to go along with our day of Love and Acceptance. It's called "Hedge Of Thorns" By John Carrol

"Based on a true story, here is a gripping account of a young boy who learns the hard way that the choices we make can harm those we love the most. Because he desperately wants to know what is on the other side of the hedge of thorns, he puts his little sister in great danger. From his experience we learn that God places boundaries in our lives because He loves us."

You can find this great book at www.Christianbooks.com

"The Hedge Of Thorns" is worth it's weight in gold if not more in my opinion.

So what are you thankful for today, is it your priceless family? Or the fact that it's summer and you get to spend some much needed closeness with the people you love the most? Whatever it is I hope you find love today everywhere you turn.

~Blessings Friends.

Just a Taste Of Fathers Day Gifts

2010-06-16T06:39:00.000-07:00

Hello all!

We have been busy working on our Father's Day gifts and here is one of the projects we worked on the other day. We call this "Natures Hand print". We got 8x10 canvases on sale at the craft store. Some Acrylic paints @ 99 cents each and I already had some acrylic spray sealer so that was "free". I did most of the prepping by myself like the painted backgrounds, stems and trunks but the hand prints are all KID! LOL...this was fun and the kids LOVED it!

Honestly my oldes could've done a good job on her own but I wanted it to be as uniform and clean looking as possible.

~~Painted Backgrounds for Canvases~~

Hand print art work done by the kids! A Forever keepsake.

I am pretty sure though that these will adorn our walls for some years to come!

One last thing, I have sealed these with acrylic spray sealer makes for easy dusting.

Just thought I would share because I am so excited at how well they turned out! What are some of the things you are doing for the most important man in your child's lives this Fathers Day???

Pictures

2010-06-14T10:57:00.001-07:00

I am the worst at taking pictures.

1. I need to take 50 before I get one I like and 2. I am so random with my picture taking that I don't get a whole event, just snip its of it.

I was looking back through some photos trying to find some more playdates and group photos to post and well it was slim pick ins. Not that we don't ever go and do things with friends, groups or enjoy functions. It's just that the photos I do take I do not deem post worthy as they are tops of heads, heads chopped off, lopsided, unfocused, etc. you get the "picture".

I am making it a pact with myself that this up and coming school year I am going to "focus" on changing that!

Last year my wonderful husband bought me a VERY nice camera so what's the point of having a nice camera if you aren't using it OR you aren't using it correctly, right?!

With camera manual in hand and Photography for dummies at my side I will master this art. Even if I have to go where no man has gone before. This is one of my personal missions for next year!

If anyone has any pointers please share!

~Blessings~

Pupcakes!

2010-06-10T17:46:00.000-07:00

We have been so busy this week I have not had time to post anything. Here is one of the FUN days we had. Our friends came over and made pupcakes with us. I can't wait to do more kid friendly activities with them.

To Make the Pupcakes you need....
Cupcakes (of course)
Pink and Red Starbursts for the tongues (cut and squish into shape)
Carmels for the ears and muzzles (cut and squish into shape)
M&M's for the eyes
Raisinets for the noses (apply with a dab of frosting)
Frosting in your color of choice

Play with it, there is no right or wrong way and ENJOY! These are really fun and mouth watering delicious!

Poetry for Kids

2010-06-03T13:16:00.000-07:00

Hello Friends,

I really want to delve into poetry this coming year because I do have a great love for good poetry and would LOVE to share that with my children. Karen Andreola shares that poetry's "deep expression of thought and feeling of which certain exceptional minds are particularly capable." Our youngest children ARE able to handle good literature and that includes poetry.

To me poetry adds a new dimension to your child's understanding of the world around them. If you haven't gotten familiar with poetry or how to use it in your homeschool here are some methods I find valuable and quite helpful.

(Painting By: Carl Larsson)

1. Read a poem to your child. Once read, read it slowly 5 words at a time while your child writes the poem out on a piece of paper. Next, place the poem in front of them and have them correct their own work, correct any misspellings, punctuation and capitalization. This helps with speech, memory, comprehension, grammar, punctuation, etc.

2. Read a poem to your child and then again give them the poem to do copy work. Copy work not only strengthens handwriting skills it also familiarizes your child with correct spelling and sentence formation.

3. Simply have your child memorize their favorite poems. Once the child memorizes the poem have them recite them in front of some company. This helps with comprehension, memory, speaking in front of crowds along with building confidence.

I have recently started doing these things with my children and they are seemingly enjoying this approach to poetry.

Here are some good compilations for childrens poetry collections all of which I would recommend

"Favorite Poems old and New" Selected By: Helen Ferris
"The Harp and Laurel Wreath" Poems Selected By: Laura M. Berquist
"A Child's Garden of Verses" By: Robert Louis Stevenson

Start out small with short works 4-5 lines and work your way up to longer more indepth pieces (this does take some time) patience is always key.

Don't worry if your child does not enjoy poetry at first, look for ones that suit his or her interests and go from there. I'm sure the more you read, the more they will enjoy this form of art.

I hope this helps some of you who have thought of adding more poetry to your school next year.

I will leave you with this wonderful poem to think on...

"When Mother Reads Aloud"
Theresa Helburn

When Mother reads aloud, the past
Seems real as every day;
I hear the tramp of armies vast,
I see the spears and lances cast,
I join the trilling fray;
Brave knights and ladies fair and proud
I meet when Mother reads aloud.

When Mother reads aloud, far lands
Seem very near and true;
I cross the desert's gleaming sands,
Or hunt the jungle's prowling bands,
Or sail the oceans blue.
Far heights, whose peaks the cold mists shroud,
I scale, when Mother reads aloud.

When Mother reads aloud, I long
For noble deeds to do-
To help the right, redress the wrong;
It seems so easy to be strong,
So simple to be true.
Oh, thick and vast the visions crowd
My eyes, when Mother reads aloud.

~Cheers!

Kids Bowl Free!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-06-03T11:25:00.001-07:00

Hello All!

If your kids like bowlilng than this is for you! All summer long your kids can bowl free by joining this FREE site and getting coupons for your local bowling alley.

All you need to do is go to this site

http://www.kidsbowlfree.com/

Click on your state

and fill in the information and that's it. You will start getting your coupons for free bowling immediatly!

We love this program...it's worth checking out.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-06-02T20:23:00.001-07:00

Homestead Blessings Give-away

2010-06-02T06:23:00.000-07:00

If you are intersted in doing a home economics class with your children this year I would greatly encourage you to use these DVD's as a jumping off point. We had the opportunity to borrow 2 of them from our local library. These DVD's were very informative and easy to foloow, my kids are rearing to go and make soap now...LOL!

You can read about the give-away just click the link below (yes, I finally got the links to work for me again!!!)
http://raisinghomemakers.com/?p=200&cpage=7#comment-1307

Shoot For The Stars: Speech Therapy!

2010-06-01T18:16:00.001-07:00

IT'S HERE! I finally got the speech therapy I will be using with "L"!!! I am so excited yet but at the same time a little apprehensive after looking through the manual. I think our motto for this season will be "Shoot For The Stars!"

We have been testing L over the past few months to really see where she is at. Does she have memory problems, Does she understand most verbal commands, Does she use the whinny tones and pointing to get what she wants, Do we allow her to NOT use her words. The answer to all of that is YES!

She does have some memory problems but it does not enable her to do what she sets out to do.

She understands 95% of the commands given her and attempts to follow through on those things.

She whines, grunts, points at everything and everyone does EXACTLY what she wants them to do without saying a word. If they don't do what she wants, no worries, she didn't need it that bad anyway and she moves on.

We are the WORST! We allow her to not use her words. We will be stopping that to-morr-ow!

This will be a long hard road, but here at Living Word Academy we are getting quite used to the slower pace of learning and helping eachother with every little step no matter how long it takes.

If I can be honest, which I feel I can all you wonderful blog world friends. This journey with L and her Dravet Syndrome has really brought our family closer together, has grown patience in me (well, all of us for that matter), it has given us understanding to those families who suffer through illness or obstacles, it has taught us to be more quiet and content in life not wanting to run after the next BIG thing or GREAT adventure.

This road we are on IS the next BIG thing and our GREATEST adventure.

We have been in dark valleys, swam oceans, climbed mountains only to fall back to the bottom and have to climb up again, we've been in swamps, paralyzed in a garden of thorns but always come out on the other side enjoying the blue skies of the in between. We have gotten to enjoy the conversations, love, smiles, hugs, prayer and friendships we have made along the way which far out weighs all the drudgery, heart ache, molding, shaping and sharpening we have had to do along the way.

Amazing isn't it. It really is that people who go through such trials often times feel more loved and blessed than those who have never had to struggle or fight for life.

Once we start our journey with Straight Talk 2 I will document L's progress and show you all some things we are doing to incorporate speech therapy in our homeschool. This truly is a gift and I am so glad to be able to educate, mentor and assist my children in their life's walk.

To learn more about Straight Talk 2....copy and paste the following link
http://www.nathhan.org/ResourceRoom/straight_talk.htm

Simple Women's Daybook

2010-06-01T05:55:00.000-07:00

FOR TODAY

Outside my window...Sunshine mixed with clouds

I am thinking...I need to get moving and start my day

I am thankful for...A much needed long weekend with my husband

From the learning rooms...not much going on lately

From the kitchen...Homemade Strawberry Shortcakes

I am wearing...My pajamas

I am creating...suprises for some friends who have worked really hard this year in our homeschool group

I am going...to babysit this afternoon

I am reading...Haven't decided on a new book yet (I need to do a review of the book Mother, I FINALLY finished it!!!)

I am hoping...to get a workout in today

I am hearing...kids chattering

Around the house...not much going on, it seems very peacful

One of my favorite things...Have I said sunflowers yet? I LOVE sunflowers.

A few plans for the rest of the week... puttering around in the garden, reading, working out and an end of the year homeschool picnic with our homeschool group

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...

The beginings of our garden

ooops forgot the link...you can join in the fun at Simple Womans Daybook by going to...

http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

I Have Decided.......

2010-05-31T20:09:00.001-07:00

Photo Courtesy of "The Graphics Fairy" Karen

I have decided after much prayer and seeking that I will separate my blog into two different blogs. I will continue Living Word Academy blog where it will be homeschooling and fun kid stuff mixed with encouragement for the homeschool mom. While the other will be all my spiritual thoughts along with Amy musings and "insight" which you can find at http://forgivengentile.blogspot.com/

I do hope that you grab your cup of coffee or tea and join me in both spots, however I understand if one or the other suits you better. For the next 2 weeks On the Forgiven Gentile, I will be doing a 5 part look into the world of "gossip" mixed with a little bit of this or that.

On Living Word Academy I will be posting, Mom's Monday, Frugal Friday and anything schooly (is that a word?)ie. curriculum, fun, field trips, book reviews, pictures and MORE!!! So stay tuned while we change things up a bit on here aaaaand there.

I want to leave you with this thought....

Poem By: John Greenleaf Whitter (taken from the Charlotte Mason Companion)

"We search the world for truth. We cull
The good, the true, the beautiful,
From graven stone and written scroll,
And all old flower-fields of the soul;
And when seekers of the best,
We come back laden from our quest,
To find that all the sages said
is in the Book our mothers read."

Dear God Thank you for allowing us to homeschool, please continue to Bless our little schools.
~Amen~

Photo Courtesy of ©2000 Denise Van Patten

PHEW!

2010-05-27T20:27:00.000-07:00

Dearest Blog Friends, I have not had much time to "write" lately. We have been dealing with medical things and planning. If you have never had a child who struggles you would be surprised at how much time you need to invest in just their basic needs. It can be exhausting and draining to say the least. However such a great joy seeing change.

I am so glad to be able to sit down at my computer this evening and just be, read, write and learn.

This evening I went to a Charlotte Mason Group meeting and learned so much about children, how they learn and what makes them tick. I think the best thing I heard tonight is again, "remember that children are not burdens but little persons, who are individuals who need respect just like you and I." I love that. What a great reminder.

I will hopefully be back to my regular blogging this coming week, I am looking forward to adding more projects, book reviews, a camping trip and life lessons!

I want to leave you with this to reflect upon, God has really placed this on my heart a lot lately....

Hug and Kiss your babies as much as you can this weekend, not letting their size or age matter, time sure flies and sooner than latter they will be grown and leaving the nest and your season will change. May God bless us and grant us mercies while we train our children during this season for we are to train them in the fear of the Lord, what a task.

~God Bless You My Friends~

I Miss My Parents and Grandpa

2010-05-20T21:17:00.000-07:00

I did not get pictures of my outfit today as I was CRAZY busy! I will be posting more tomorrow.

However today I was once again hit with the fact that my children are missing out on some much needed and very important relationships. Relationships with their grandparents.

Nothing compares to a grandparent. Not a day goes by where don't I think about my grandpa and how much I miss my time with him. He is still alive but we live so far away. Oh to be able to spend one more day with him is something I will always desire. I miss him so much, miles are saddening when I think of him.

Tonight we had our homeschool showcase and there were so many grandparents there. One boy got up and showed the wooden swords him and his grandpa made together. I know it's silly but I got choked up because I KNOW that if we lived near my parents my sons would most likely be doing the same things with my dad (my dad is such an amazing man, my kids need him). Then there was the beautiful graduate from tonight who her grandparents were the ones who schooled her for the first three years of her schooling. They were recognized and I thought my parents would so be the type to help me with our kids schooling. I MISS THEM.

I wish my mom and dad could take an afternoon and kidnap the kids and take them shopping or go on a picnic. I so badly want for them to have a meaningful relationship.

My grandpa used to call me early in the morning and ask if I wanted to go to breakfast and of course I would say yes, except for one time. That particular memory kills me inside, I was a stupid kid who was too tired to wake up so he ate alone that day thinking there would be next week. After breakfast we would then go to the mall and walk around, not in any hurry, not with anything to buy, just there to be with eachother and walk around. I MISS HIM so much.

When I was little my grandpa would take my hand and we would walk, it was our thing. We would walk through the deserts by his house, we would walk in the desert by our house, we would walk around the block, to the Thrifty or just down the street. I REALLY MISS walks with my grandpa.

Just one call and my grandpa would bring me my work shoes when I forgot them. He picked me up from the YMCA when I had a flat tire and waited for me as I got ready so he could take me to school when my mom had to be to work early.

I miss him so much. I hope he knows how much he means to me. Maybe I should tell him this weekend.

I want that so bad for my kids.

Every year when opening my birthday card from him I would be in anticipation as to what I would read. I know he probably stood there for an hour reading every card just to find the right one that expresses what he wants to say yet can't find the words. It was exactly what our relationship was during that year, and to this day I look forward to his cards. Every birthday he would take me and my sister to the shoe store and we got new shoes. It was quite the event as he would focus on one person at a time and make the shoe lady treat us good. It was a blessed time.

He was so patient with me, he listened and laughed with me he treated me like a little princess and I miss him so much. I want for my kids to have this kind of relationship with their grandparents but they can't because we live so far away.

After hearing others talk about their grandparents the pain of missing my grandpa is so raw and I am completely beside myself at the moment.

I really wish I had the time and money to go home and see him but I don't and I am filled with grief thinking that one day he wont be there and these moments will be lost forever. I WISH I could just go and see him one more time. I just WISH my kids had this kind of friendship and love with one of their grandparents. I am a ball of emotions tonight.

Wishing for so much yet trying to be joyful with the place God has us. Even if it means pain from missing loved ones.

I LOVE YOU FAMILY!

FF Day: 3 Bathroom Confusion

2010-05-19T18:29:00.000-07:00

LOL...the two boys had to be in the picture.

Today I wore my black shirt and another denim skirt. Also, are we ever too old for braided pig tails? I think not.

How could a girl who LOVED jeans, sports and cars become a skirt wearing, domestic, old fashioned housewife and mother? I have no idea except it's from the Lord. I love being a wife and mother. I love trying to look pretty for my beloved husband too.

For some reason putting on a skirt does do just that, it helps me feel pretty. I have noticed that my speech is more pleasant and I am better company (not 100% of the time but for the most part). It's weird to think that changing one thing about our outer appearance would do anything to change the inside but it does.

My daughter LOVED skirts as a little girl. She always asked me why I didn't like to wear them and I said "because I don't." Well one day she put together an outfit consisting of a skirt and a top from my closet and asked me to wear it so I obliged her.

From that day on the thought that I felt "pretty" and I felt more "womanly" that day echoed in my head. This was the beginning. Eventually I found the site of the Feelin Feminine Challenge (all by accident) and read it, tried it and I stuck with it.

I do want you all to know that this venture has not been easy. There are days where it would be easier to just put a pair of pants and call it good because I needed to do laundry. Or when you walk into a room full of feminists and they look at you like you are the enemy. When confronted with such ignorance I think of how sorry I am for them, that just for the sake of trying they would never have the joy I have by giving an outward sign of my LOVE for Jesus and the respect for my family. However even in the face of adversity I keep going and doing the things God has called me to do, even if I do look out of place.

Here is food for thought and then I will let you all go as not to make this any longer.

You are at Wal-Mart or the Mall and all of a sudden you need to go to the bathroom.

You can't read so you do not know what the signs say BUT much to your comfort there is a picture on each door.

You look down and you see you are wearing pants so you look back and forth at each picture and agree that you need to go to the pants side because you are not a skirt.

Feeling quite comfortable with your decision you walk in only to see urinals lining the walls. Being quite confused you leave without even relieving yourself.

Now obviously you can read but, what if the only basis you had to tell the difference between a man and a woman was by their outer appearance? Don't you think it would be wise for a woman to wear a skirt, if only for that one reason? I would not want to be confused for a man, not for one second...so think about it.

That's all I am going to say about that but I really want you to think about that for a minute and maybe search God's Word concerning the topic of dress.

I am adding a McKlinky....Link up if you have decided to do the challenge with me.

~Blessings~

Keeping Our Sons Hearts

2010-05-18T19:51:00.000-07:00

Dad's have such a great impact on their children the weight of their words on a childs heart can bear much fruit. I only wish that more people would give ear to that nugget of wisdom. A while ago G used to be frusterated with L and her condition. He was harboring bitterness and no matter what I said, he was still angry and wouldn't take heed and love and protect his sister no matter what I said. This was a difficult thing for him.

Recently I spoke with my husband and told him the predicament. So my husband took G in his room and they had a talk. When the men came out of G's room he went and hugged his sister like he meant it. From that day on he has held her hand, he has made sure she was safe, he kisses her on the cheek when she doesn't look happy and he is there for her and shares in her joy.

I have no idea what the discussion was about, but I do know this. My son walked into his room a scared, sad, undecided boy and walked out a caring, kind, compassionate, concerned young M-A-N

The pictures below says it all. She has won his heart and he will protect her, as a brother should. I love my husband and the great job he is doing with our kids.

A Little Bit of Everything

2010-05-18T18:50:00.000-07:00

FF Challenge Day 2

For more information on the challenge please go over too....

http://feelinfeminine.com/?p=421

I shouldn't have waited all day to take my picture but here I am after a busy day with my kiddos. I am sporting a pink polo shirt and a plain black skirt. I do wear shorts under all my skirts Just-In-Case of windy days.

Now on for the Comedy!!!

Kids Say The Darndest Things....

G: "Momma why are you squishy?"

Me: "That's not polite to ask, but it's just the way I am"

G: "No, it's because you eat all our kisses and keep them in there."

This was kind of an akward situation for me but that boy sure suprised me and actually made my day. I mean really, if that is the reason why I gained weight then keep bringing on the kisses...I would be happy to be full of them.

http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

FOR TODAY

Outside my window... It's 9 p.m. and simply put, it's dark

I am thinking... I have some amazing little kiddos

I am thankful for... My husbands new job which he starts on Monday

From the learning rooms... Planning, Planning and MORE Planning!

From the Grill... Steaks, Salad and Cucumbers

I am wearing... Pink Polo and Black Skirt

I am creating... Suprises for some special friends

I am going... To go to bed soon

I am reading... Hedge of Thorns to the Kids, MOTHER (I am almost done..woo hoo) and Genesis in my Bible

I am hoping... For a short vacation to the mall in TX one of these days

I am hearing... The movie "Quigly Down Under" and my hubby snoring :o)

Around the house... It's quiet and peacful

One of my favorite things... My Dad's Smile

A few plans for the rest of the week: Homeschool Showcase, Sewing my skirt and going to see one of my good friends I haven't seen her in FOREVER!

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...

I hope you all have a blessed day!

Mom's Monday: Waking Up Early, Jammies, Thumb and Femininity Challenge

2010-05-17T05:58:00.000-07:00

This week I am on a mission as a mom. I am trying to make sure I am up and completely ready for the day before my little birds start chirping in the morning. I really desire to be a Mary instead of a Martha.

Last night I made Granola so that I didn't have to fuss to much with breakfast. I had clothes laid out and alarm clock set. Really all that was left is a good nights sleep and motivation to get up when the alarm sounds.

Good night's sleep is out of the question but I do have motivation. My motivation is my little nest of birdies who are always eager to see a happy, up-beat, energetic mom.

Honestly though if you ask me I would say that I am a night owl. I feel most productive in the later day and evening and even thinking about attempting the schedule change is kind of painful for me. I have hope for change though, my hope is in Christ. I will get sufficient rest, I will be prepared so I am not preparing when I should just be, I will be active in making my body work for my schedule and kids, I will see the sunrise and count my blessings in the quietness of the morning with the Lord.

Today I awoke at 6 a.m. I showered, I prayed and meditated on God's Word, I was ready before any of the little chick-a-dees woke up :o)

I will be honest though and say that I am exhausted and it's only 8:30 a.m. However I will not give up, the kids are happy, I am sleepy but I am full filled and I have a whole day of delight in the Lord ahead of me. God is so good!

~~~~~~~~

On another note, like I said LAST WEEK (I am so bad about keeping up with things) I want to do the Femininity Challenge. Today will be day one, I am going to have one of my littles take a picture of me so I can post it on here and document my week in pictures and events surrounding the challenge.

To read about a few other women who have done the same thing please feel free to visit the following links

http://reflectionsinthewindow.blogspot.com/
http://buildethherhousewithlove.blogspot.com/
http://myblessedhome.blogspot.com/2010/05/feminine-friday.html

Take a moment and look through all their other writings these ladies are amazing.

Lastly here are some of the pictures I had said I was going to post but haven't had time to download all the pics from my camera.

The Girls' Jammie's

B's thumb bruised and broken...she's picked a BRIGHT yellow cast, I HOPE to get pics of that today. She is feeling pretty good which is such a relief! The swelling has gone down and bruising is subsiding, my poor baby, she's a tough cookie though.

I think that's it for me today. I hope this finds you all well and FULL of energy, may God bless you abundantly as you seek His will for your life.

~Amy

CHURCH!

2010-05-15T20:08:00.000-07:00

Hello All,

I had to just check in with everyone to tell you all how excited I am tonight. I just got done laying out everyone's clothes, shoes, diapers, Bibles, set timer on the coffee and have everything that I may need for tomorrow laid out so that we can make a smooth ride to church tomorrow.

Because of our daughters health problems it has pretty much limited us in how frequently we attend church. Yes, some may judge us on this but believe me, until you walk a day in another shoes don't judge.

It's been a while, A LONG WHILE and I am so excited. L's health is at a point that we can attend church. A wonderful friend of mine who has ALWAYS been there for me has invited us to her church again and I am truly GRATEFUL!

My friend means the world to me and honestly I have no idea how I would've gotten through some of these tough times without her. She has some great wisdom and understandings that she has shared with me over the years, she has been a shoulder to cry on and a listening ear, she has been there to offer help and guidance so many times. I love my friend and now we are going to join her on Sunday! We are ready and set to GO be filled with the Word, the Holy Spirit and Fellowship.

Tomorrow will be a blessed day for our family!

No matter where you worship, at home, in the car, church, chapel, synagogue, watching T.V. whatever, may God truly touch your heart with His Spirit tomorrow.

Blessings My Friends!!!

Frugal Friday: Laundry Soap

2010-05-14T19:24:00.000-07:00

It's Frugal Friday!!!

This week I think I will share the recipe I use to make our homemade laundry soap. This particular recipe was made by Trent, you can find a more detailed account of this recipe at the following

http://www.thesimpledollar.com/2008/04/09/making-your-own-laundry-detergent-a-detailed-visual-guide/

Here is the skinny though.

Homemade Laundry Soap

1 5 Gallon Bucket w/ lid (found at Lowes, Home Depot or Ace Hardware)
Long spoon or stick for stirring (I use a yard stick)
1 cup washing soda (I use Arm & Hammer, in the detergent section of your grocers)
1/2 cup borax (I use 20 Mule Team found in the detergent section of your grocers)
1 bar soap (we use Dove for sensitive skin)
Approximately 3 gallons water

1. Grate bar of soap

2. Put about four cups of water into the pan and put it on the stove on high until it’s at boiling, then lower the heat until it’s simmering.

3. Add grated soap to water stir until dissolved.

4. Add 3 gallons of warm water to your 5 gallon bucket.

5. Add 1/2 Cup Borax, 1 Cup of Washing Soda and soap mixture.

6. Stir well. Place lid on bucket and let it sit for up to 24 hours.

The site above actually breaks down the savings of making ones soap vs. store bought. On the site there is also a video, worth the time to check out.

In our families personal use of this soap, some weeks/months I did not wait the full 24 hours for the soap to set and used our laundry soap ahead of time. I did not notice any difference and think the soap worked just fine.

We are completely happy with this recipe and are actually surprised at how well it works. If you are trying to find a way to cut corners and save money I would have to say that this one is actually my favorite money savers.

~Happy Soaping!

Dem Bones!

2010-05-12T17:14:00.000-07:00

Last night B was racing on her friends bike down their driveway, hit some nasty gravel then crashed and burned. B explains it like this "I was riding the bike and all of a sudden the steering wheel got wobbly, it was Under-control (not to be confused with out of control) and this arm went this way, the other arm went that way and my thumb went backwards and I fell off the bike."

I'm in shock because to be quite frank it does not look like an.... all of a sudden the bike went wobbly and then she fell off. If she came home with a scraped knee I would say to self "Self, yep, she did fall off her friends bike". BUT, to me it looks more like a whirling, crash and burn with some, "I ate dirt", road rash, nasty flip flop of a doozy, WRECK that she was in.

My poor tough cookie though, she has scratches all up and down her left arm, scratches on her chest and yep, A BROKEN THUMB. I am completely exhausted after dealing with the aftermath of yesterdays crash. We spent most of the day in Urgent Care and on the phone trying to locate an Orthopedic Surgeon who can look at her thumb and decide what to do next. I am at a loss. She is my only child who has not been injured in some extreme way for a whopping 9 year streak. I've cried, I laughed and I wondered how on earth my baby has gotten by unscathed for so long and why now, yet praising God that this was the extent of her injuries.

So as any good homeschool mom or dad would do we used this as a learning experience. Our schooling events of the day go like this.....

1. Lesson On How To Properly Fill Out Medical Forms
2. Lesson On How To Be Sanitary Persons In a Hospital
3. Lesson In Radiation and How the X-Ray Machine Works
4. Lesson On Bones
5. Social Studies Lesson On Doctors, Who They Are and What They Do
6. Health Lesson On What Sanitizer Is and How To Properly Wash Ones Hands (this is ALWAYS a good daily repeat)
7. Lesson In Caution When Using Heavy Machinery (in this case a bike)...Lesson Learned? I can only hope!
8. Lesson In Humility, because after everyone feels sorry for poor B she had to realize that it's not good to show off your thumb to get sympathy...esp. when it doesn't really "hurt" anymore.

And now to number 10.......

Dem Bones Song from Sunday School learned MANY moons ago by yours truly!

~Dem Bones~

E-ze-kiel cried, "Dem dry bones!"
E-ze-kiel cried, "Dem dry bones!"
E-ze-kiel cried, "Dem dry bones!"
Oh hear the word of the Lord.

(tune ascends up in half steps, as in midi)

The foot bone con-nected to the (pause) leg-bone,
The leg bone connected to the (') knee bone,
The knee bone connected to the (') thigh bone,
The thigh bone connected to the (') back bone,
The back bone connected to the (') neck bone
The neck bone connected to the (') head bone
Oh hear the word of the Lord!

Dem bones, dem bones gon-na walk a-roun'
Dem bones, dem bones gon-na walk a-roun'
Dem bones, dem bones gonna walk aroun'
Oh hear the word of the Lord

(tune descends in half steps and we retrace the body)

The head-bone connected to the neck-bone,
the neck-bone connected to the back-bone
The backbone connected to the thigh-bone
the thighbone connected to the kee-bone
the kneebone connected to the leg bone
the leg bone connected to the foot bone
Oh hear the word of the Lord

I am so beat that I can barely keep my eyes open to finish this. I hope that everyone in your little homeschool is all tucked in safe and sound. I will keep you all posted and post some pics tomorrow of the end results of all this. Please keep B's thumb and B in your prayers tonight and tomorrow as we wait to hear what the Ortho. Surgeon has to say.

Goodnight my sweet friends.

Goodmorning Sunshine...a Disgusting Wake Up Call

2010-05-11T07:50:00.000-07:00

Here's a GOODMORNING story for you all however if you don't like the idea of reading about throw up proceed down to the ~~~~~ marks and read from there....

This morning I Woke up to a FOUNTAIN of throw up coming from lil' bro, I can liken it to fireworks on the 4th of July or a Volcano as well. I ask him "Are you okay buddy does your tummy hurt?" He says "tummy not hurt, I hungry!" Not thinking and wanting to satisfy my pooooooor baby I agree in my thinking this whole episode is due to the fact that he would only eat CHEESE for dinner last night. I set him up at the table and give him some crackers, well, the events of the next 30 seconds are as follows EXPLOSION of throw up on table, floor, sink and boy all of which are sadly covered.

Let me throw this little tid bit in here if you don't know me personally. By nature I am a germ-a-phobe. Like seriously over the top. Over the years the kids have REALLY helped me with this issue as I am no longer sanitizing everything 24-7. So I can proudly say I am not as bad as I used to be.

Hooooweeeever. If a kid throws up, all plans go out the window and I am a scrubbing fool for the rest of the day. I am happy to announce that the only rooms the "problem" occurred in was my room and the kitchen which are pretty easy clean ups. I am trying to curb the urge to disinfect the WHOLE house and kids' bodies...I think it may be working.

~~~~~~~~~~

After a crazy morning with my sicky (whom is feeling better by the way) the kids did not get much of anything done. I got so much cleaning done though but the kids not so much. Our kiddies pretty much caught up on their dirty jobs episodes via netflix and played outside for the majority of the day.

I got pictures taken of the girls jammies but didn't get them downloaded to the computer.

I HAD to go to Wal-Mart because my beloved dishwasher helper forgot to inform me we were OUT of dishwasher soap. Actually it was my bad I didn't check in on that the last time we went to the store, so it's really my oooops more than my beloveds but none-the-less we were out and I was in disinfecting mode today.

I did some sewing...I am trying to make little knee pads for my cute little niece. Crawling on tile has got to hurt.

AND to top off the day, I dropped clothes off to my daughter who at the last minute decided to stay at her friends house for the night while we were at Dollar Tree looking for stationary.

I am burnt out today, however, it didn't end up so horrible...so who can complain right. God is so good, He is in control and I got to spend another beautiful day cleaning and snuggling kids. I LOVE my life/job.

How did you spend your day? Did anything exciting happen to you today, I would love to hear about it!?

Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-05-11T04:39:00.000-07:00

FOR TODAY

Outside my window...Clouds, we are supposed to get more storms this afternoon.

I am thinking...I have not had a sick kid in 3 years, I guess it is time again.

I am thankful for...Paper Towel, what would I do without paper towel?

From the learning rooms...quizes. We are nearing the end of the school year so I have been quizing the kids on Math facts

From the kitchen...I'm thinking it's going to be soup or broth for today.

I am wearing...Pajamas because I woke up to a sickie and haven't had a chance to get dressed yet.

I am creating...A Sanitary home...HAHAHA!

I am going...to need a nap when all this is over.

I am reading...My Bible (I have not finished Mother yet, good so far but toooooo many interuptions during my reading time lately)

I am hoping...that no other kids get sick.

I am hearing...The news guy talk about the tornados from last night.

Around the house...Kid is laying on the couch and 3 others are still sleeping.

One of my favorite things...healthy kids...LOL...but really one of my favorite things is driving down a country road with my windows open and feeling the breeze.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Most likely cleaning, but I can hope for....making centerpieces for our homeschool showcase in a week, sewing jumpers for the girls and finishing "Mother" By: Kathleen Norris.

Here is picture for thought I am sharing

The begining of our Wisconsin adventure.

If you want to participate in The Simple Womans Daybook copy and paste
http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/2009/01/taking-part-in-simple-womans-daybook.html

ADD, ADHD or Just a Busy Beaver....whatever it is I learned my lesson.

2010-05-10T19:09:00.000-07:00

Yes this is a picture of L, Yes she is a wild woman whom I can not get to stand still for very long. Yes, I love her to peices. And because I love her I have learned a HUGE lesson today.

Every morning right after breakfast L says "you ready, get shoes". We venture to L's room. L gets ready, putting her clothes on, brushing her teeth and then we hear "shoes........shoes............shoes.........shoes..." All morning whether she has them on or not.

After getting ready on a normal day we start on school stuff.

And on a normal day L, is all over everything, I can not get her to sit down. If she wont be quiet or play nicely, I will usually take this as a sign and go get her activities. I end up feeling like this is very unproductive and a waste of time, she wont sit, she wont listen, she wont focus-at-all.

Fast forward to today. We went to the park first thing. We RAN, We PLAYED, We did a SCAVENGER HUNT!

After our morning activities in the park, I sat down with the bigs. We did reading, writing, math and dictation.

L decided it was her turn and guess what??? She sat. She listened even more intently. She played. She laughed. She did school. I felt so productive it was really, really, really nice.

Lesson learned. Take the girl for a walk. What was I thinking!!!!

What are some things you do for your struggling learner? Do you have any ideas on how to expend some energy before school? I will try and post some more ideas and test some new things for you all and keep you posted on our progress.

Mom's Monday! Sewing, Field Trips and Projects.

2010-05-10T09:24:00.000-07:00

Good Afternoon Everyone!

I hope you all had a chance to really enjoy your Mothers Day. I was blessed with the opportunity to sew until my hearts content!!!

I made 2 pillow case dresses, for pajamas, for my girls. I anticipated it only taking a few short hours but that was not the case. I am more of a pattern kind of lady so sewing without a pattern proved to be quite the project for me. I must say that I am pleased with the end result though.

We now have two girls with "matching" pajamas for summer. They were both saying they were hot in their winter pajamas and a friend had told me about how to make pillow case dresses so I gave it a ~whirl~

Tonight when they try them on I will make sure and take some pictures to show all of you!

As for what we have been up to these past few weeks I have taken a TON of pictures and would like to share some of the highlights with you.

Rope Tying Class!

The Littles Played While The Olders Were Learning How to Tye Knots

The Neighbors Have A New Cat and "I" Likes Him

Repaired Birdhouses

Spring Collages!

Sipping Tea While Reading Pilgrims Progress

MUSEUUUUUUM! A Favorite. (and we were actually the quiet family) *grin*

That is just a glimpse. Our little school had such a great time these past two weeks refocusing. We had the opportunity to pray, really seek the Lord on the direction of our school and enjoy eachothers company. Now it's back to the grindstone as they say and finish up our end of the year projects, workbooks and read alouds. Fun times will be had!

~Blessings~

Frugal Friday and Feminine Friday!

2010-05-07T22:22:00.000-07:00

Frugal Friday has brought us this recipe, it is fairly frugal and yummy to boot! MAKE sure your butter is room temp or it wont mix so well. I was in a hurry and couldn't wait for the butter to be just right so some bars weren't as lemony as others...interesting. However they turned out really deeeelish.

Our family grinds our own wheat as to save money. We used the spelt grain for this recipe and it turned out well. Do any of you grind your own wheat? If so what do you use and what do you like best?

Spelt Lemon Shortbread Recipe

•1 1/2 sticks of salted butter, at room temperature
•1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
•1 1/2 cups flour
•1 1/2 TB. grated lemon zest
•1 TB. Lemon juice

1.Cream together the sugar and butter until light and fluffy.
2.Work in the flour and lemon rind.
3.Press the dough into a 8 inch round pan
4.Cut dough into slices and prick the surface with a fork.
5.Bake in an oven preheated to 350* for 30 minutes.
6.Remove from oven and slice again before the shortbread is cold.

~~~~~~
Lately many wonderful women are challenging eachother to be more feminine by wearing skirts and dressing in the role God has so graciously given us. I do wear skirts the majority of the time so next week I will document my week in pictures on our blog along with what is going on in our school, can't wait! More on that when I have had more sleep.

I hope you all have had a great Friday...Welcome Weekend!

NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER

2010-05-06T05:58:00.001-07:00

Hi Everyone,

Just a friendly reminder that today is the National Day Of Prayer. If you haven't already you can go to http://nationaldayofprayer.org/ to get more information on the day and also to find locations where people are having prayer meetings if you are not already attending one.

Prayer is an amazing tool, one that surpasses anything else in this world. We use it as a direct line to God and if we use His word He moves mountains.

So today if you hadn't planned on it already take a minute and pray for our country and your family. If prayer can move mountains it can move that stubborn relative to a personal relationship with the Lord, I've seen it happen myself. Pray can heal brokenness, relationships, the sick and dying, all things I have seen. So let us pray.

2 Chronicles 7:14
If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

Pray with all you have and move mountains today.

May God Bless you for your diligence,
Amy

NaBloPoMo

2010-05-04T13:12:00.000-07:00

Hi all! Did you know it is National Blog Posting Month?!

The goal is to post atlease one post per day during the month of May....can I do it?! I think I am up for the challenge.

The themem is "Look Up", I can't say I will do all my posts on "Looking Up" but I will be posting everyday, so check back later to see what we at Living Word Academy come up with.

To learn more about NaBloPoMo you can go to http://www.nablopomo.com/

~CHEERS!

Kids Say The Darndest Things...Lonely Cow

2010-05-03T20:33:00.000-07:00

A few days ago we drove by this farm and there was a cow on the wrong side of the fence. I asked my kids "how did that cow get out here by the road, there is no way for him to get out there?!"

No one answered.

Fast Forward to today. We are driving down the same street and out of the blue "B" says......

"I know how the cow got on this side of the fence. It was stung by a bee mooed and jumped over the fence because it hurt so bad."

Now if that isn't a good answer I don't know what is.

Kid's say the darndest things! LOL!

Reflection

2010-05-03T18:27:00.000-07:00

***Don't forget to turn off the music sound bar before playing the video.

I have been reflecting a lot lately reading my Bible, Praying and well, I stumbled upon this today and thought this is where I am at today so here it goes.....

I hope you enjoyed.

Never forget where you came from or where God is taking you.

Our Evening

2010-04-30T18:47:00.000-07:00

I am sitting here watching my kids having a ball! The weather is perfect outside, it just so happens to be a nice cool spring evening perfect for the younger folks to have a late night with some friends.

just a few minutes ago they were running around playing tag in the dark screaming their heads off and laughing!

*sigh* To be a young lady again.

They are now turning on the gazebo lights and the bug zapper, making a tent of blankets in the middle of the yard and enjoying each others company.

This is what I call a great evening.

They have no worries. They have no thought of what lies next or ahead of them just being in the moment with their friends, as it should be. They are enjoying the company of their dearest confidants completely unaware of the rest of the world.

I could not be happier witnessing such joy for our daughters, sons and their friends. If only life could be like this everyday. No worries, no where to be, no reason to hide but for the sake of a game of hide and seek. These are precious moments that will never be forgotten.

Life is so good.

I'm Still Here! Just Been SUPER Busy :o)

2010-04-28T19:42:00.000-07:00

OH MY! I have not blogged in a week!

Where have I been, what have I been doing???

I have been here, at home, reading, researching and praying. I feel almost refreshed and energized. God has been closing lots of doors which I'm sure you all know can be emotionally exhausting however I feel He is opening others and I have been preparing for that.

This year will be our VERY first deployment FREEEEEEEE homeschool year! In case you didn't know we were military and now are a civilian family...scary, weird and I must say quite nice. This was one door God has closed and I have been regrouping, switching gears and trying to feel out the new and improved door God has opened to us.

Every year since we have begun home schooling, we would get settled into our school routine my husband would get word that he was to deploy and there went our routine. We would try to get back into a routine and once we were, well, he would come home and sadly that would throw the kids for a loop and the concentration would go out the window. It was a crazy loopy whirly whirl of a school year to say the least.

So I am excited about the up and coming year, no REAL interruptions like being uprooted or deployments to cope with and I think I'm going to like it.

I have been re-reading my favorite book "The Charlotte Mason Companion" By: Karen Andreola, I meant to post this earlier this week and am now just getting to it so here goes her excerpt from the book that struck me as genius again

"Be sure that your children each day have:
~Something or Someone to Love
~Something to do
~Something to think about"

In my humble opinion I would hope that the someone or something they love would be myself and my husband, the to do would be explore the world God has created for them to explore and the thinking is of God and His Word, the library of GREAT books we have at our finger tips, honest and humble character qualities and ideas they come up with on their own.

I wish more people whether you do the Charlotte Mason homeschool style or not would read her homeschool book series because it's not just about her style of homeschooling it's about relationships with your children. They are great classic reads chock full of ideas on how to be a good parent and see your child as a human being not just a "kid" who needs to be taken care of, they are persons.

anywho, that is where I have been and what I have been up too. I knew I wouldn't get to post much this week so I was taking a TON of pictures so I will post those soon! We honestly have had LOTS of fun amongst all the seriousness.

So are you getting ready for next year making plans yet? OR are you waiting until you can make it to convention to see what the new finds are? Are you dreading next school year or are you excited with a new enthusiasm? I would love to hear where you are at with your school!

Summer Break

2010-04-21T20:12:00.000-07:00

I am looking for ideas on Summer break. Could you answer me this??? Does your family take a summer break from formal homeschooling or do you school year around? If you school year around when do you take breaks? Do you like what you are doing or are you going to tweak it for next year? All comments are appreciated and needed!

Simple Women's Daybook

2010-04-19T20:07:00.001-07:00

FOR TODAY
Outside my window...SpRiNg SUNSHINE!

I am thinking...That Spring Cleaning of the Heart is a difficult thing but I am pressing on.

I am thankful for...Dear Friends who love me no matter what.

From the learning rooms...Madlibs, Handwritting, Multiplication and Spring Themed Projects

From the kitchen...Eggs for Breakfast...yummmmmm

I am wearing...Jean skirt and red shirt

I am creating...Dishcloths!

I am going...to have a great day!!!!

I am reading...Mother By: Kathleen Norris (still, I know)

I am hoping...For a new sewing machine, which I am praying God will provide sooner than later.

I am hearing... B's radio and kids chattering

Around the house...a few more boxes need unpacking

One of my favorite things...is Sunflowers

A few plans for the rest of the week: Knot Tying Class, Visit with some friends and a Charlotte Mason Group Meeting!

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...

My little man.

To join in on The Simple Woman's Daybook you can go to
www.thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com

Charlotte Mason

2010-04-19T19:39:00.000-07:00

As the planning part of our year is upon us I am refocusing and re-reading the Charlotte Mason books and re-emphasizing why we have chosen to teach and train our children using this method and style.

Here is a good link to the basics or the ABC's of Charlotte Mason (here after Charlotte Mason will be labeled CM) if you are interested or have never heard of it before copy and paste this link to read on.

http://homepage.bushnell.net/~peanuts/faq1.html

One reason why we have chosen to use the CM method is because it is structured yet allows for free time to enjoy life and research on our own. It gives our children room to explore and make up their own mind and opinions on things in life. The CM style of learning opens whole worlds of information to each child. Over the past year of implementing this method with my children it has opened my mind to things I may have never even thought about, having grown up in Public School.

It is my opinion that I think Public School's are doing a disservice to us and our children because they have left out so much very important information, skills and life lessons from their curriculum. This is an interesting thing considering all Public Schools were started using CM Method of learning over 100 years ago.

I have found that using CM my children's love of learning has grown and they constantly want more. It really is a shame that the Public Schools which started out using CM method have come so far from it and have really hindered us and our children.

Other good links we use often are

http://simplycharlottemason.com/
http://www.amblesideonline.org/
http://handbookofnaturestudy.blogspot.com/
http://homeschoolnaturestudy.blogspot.com/

I hope you enjoy them as much as I do!

Blessings!

Mom's Monday: Volcano

2010-04-19T12:42:00.000-07:00

(again, copy and paste because for some reason I can't get the link thing to work for me anymore.)

http://antwrp.gsfc.nasa.gov/apod/image/1004/icevolcano_fulle.jpg

God is awesome and amazing. I wonder if this is what the Isrealites saw while Moses was on the mountain??? If it was no wonder they were so affraid.

I am so glad that we serve such a merciful God. I am so glad that, I get a second chance every day and that He has so patiently guided me all these years and NOT thrown fire and brimstone down upon me as I so deserve.

God is awesome and I am just thanking Him today for never leaving nor foresaking me even when I deserve it most.

Please Pray

2010-04-15T12:55:00.000-07:00

http://brandonandrachael.blogspot.com/2010/04/please-everyone-pray.html

Please pray for the Werner family. They live in our area, the Dad and Brother were in an very bad accident. I would give you the whole scoop but it is far more powerfully said coming from the older Son. Please go visit them and Lift UP the Werner family in your prayers, everything has gone as smooth as they could go considering everything until today. So please pass along this information and LIFT THIS FAMILY UP!

My deepest Thanks.

Letter A, Thankful Thrusday and Perseverance!

2010-04-15T07:04:00.000-07:00

On the homeschool front the preschoolers are again working on the letter A! "L" has finally mastered the sound of the letter A and I am just SO excited about that so I had to share! We are working on speech with L so it's nice to see improvement.

Here is "L" before she helped me fold our MOUNTAIN of laundry that is behind her. With a family of 6 there is always laundry and if one gets behind, you have to do a laundry MARATHON! Washing and drying load after load until you are done and the pile is SKY HIIIIIIGH that is when EVERYONE helps fold and put away. If everyone helps fold it only takes 10 minutes for us to fold ALL the laundry and get it put away. I would suggest training your children young to help with laundry so it doesn't take so long and the "load" is a lot lighter for everyone....pun intended ;o)

Adventure Apple! The kids were to color, cut and glue their apples together while we sang "the A says aaaaa the A says aaaaa every letter makes a sound the A says aaaaa" taken from the letter factory. Our little 2 year old PROUDLY glued his apple together and when we all looked at it, the Adventure Apple didn't seem so adventurous anymore...LOL!

Next we have stamped apple art. You cut an apple in half and use it as your stamp. The kids LOVED this.

And that is it for our A apple day! Today we are actually working on our Ant lapbooks, finally. Pictures of those coming tomorrow. "G" says we need to spiders next....lol...boys.

~~~~~~

Thankful Thursday

Our family has had quite the week, kind of struggling to get by emotionally (just trying to be honest) so I am GRATEFUL that today is Thankful Thursday where we PURPOSEFULLY switch gears, take a minute and count our blessings. Here are a few of mine.

1. I woke up, I am blessed to share another day with my Lord and my family.
2. I have four beautiful babes God has so graciously given me to train and love.
3. My husband has a job even in these crazy economical times.
4. I have LAUNDRY to fold, that means we have clothes, while some only have the clothes on their backs.
5. I am able and WILLING to stay home and teach my children. Some people who are willing are unable because they have to work or the flip side some can't stand to be around their children and send them off to be raised by the world. I count this one as a double blessing, I am thankful for being able to be home.

The mind is a battle field and for me Thankful Thursday really puts things back into God's perspective after a long week. Once in the habit of thinking positive one day a week it tends to become a part of you and you see the good in every situation. What are you thankful for today, I would love to hear about it!?

The scripture the Lord has given me today is this James 4:7-12

"Be patient, then, brothers, until the Lord's coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop and how patient he is for the autumn and spring rains. You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord's coming is near. Don't grumble against each other, brothers, or you will be judged. The Judge is standing at the door!

Brothers, as an example of patience in the face of suffering, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. As you know, we consider blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job's perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.

Above all, my brothers, do not swear - not by heaven or by earth or by anything else. Let your "YES" be yes, and your "NO," no, or you will be condemned."

(emphasis added is mine).

May you all have a day of pure joy showing patience and perseverance!

Blessings Friends!

Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-04-13T10:15:00.000-07:00

FOR TODAY
Outside my window...a little girl and boy are swinging and another little boy is exploring in the back yard

I am thinking...that I can not WAIT for my friend to stop by, she needs to pick up a few things and I just lover seeing her smiling face even if only for a few minutes.

I am thankful for...the fact that even though we are going through rough times financially we are doing better than most in this crazy economical times.

From the learning rooms...our preschool class is doing the letter A again and they had fun doing our "A" crafts (posting pics later)

From the kitchen...Chicken fries, French Fries, olives and raspberry tea

I am wearing... *blushing* pajamas my mom made me two Christmas' ago (atleast the kids are all bathed and dressed!)

I am creating...pot holders and stamped cards

I am going...to finish up school with my bigs and then do some more crafting

I am reading..."Mother" and "Pilgrim's Progress" two very good books.

I am hoping...to go camping

I am hearing...birds

Around the house...laundry and dishes are going but other than that peace and quiet because kids are O-U-T-S-I-D-E

One of my favorite things...is my bedroom, my hubby and I are trying to create a retreat in there like a bed and breakfast funds are limited so that was put on hold but it is better than it used to be and quite relaxing in there. Wishing I could go take a nap in there about now.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Finish up school work for the week, my friend has some mint starters she is offering to me and some of our friends so I need to get those and more planning for next year.

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...Some of you have already seen this, it's G's tractor cake from his birthday and well I thought I would share it again.

to join in on "The Simple Woman's Daybook" go to
http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

Mom's Monday: Spring Cleaning

2010-04-11T21:05:00.000-07:00

I want to take a minute just to say welcome to all the new friends of Living Word Academy, may you feel comfortable and welcomed every time you enter.

Today is Mom's Monday where we take a minute, catch our breath, grab a cup of coffee or tea and relax.

I noticed on another blog, Camie the owner posted a wonderful article about Spring Cleaning and since she was at it why not do a little cleaning out of the heart too. I say, Here, Here! This week as I work on organizing, cleaning and figuring out the plan for next year that I will focus on me too!!!

I will be asking God, what do I need to change, what is keeping the best the Lord wants for me from happening. I will ask that He give me a scripture to cling to during this time of cleaning out the cob webs. I will take a set apart time to worship Him in prayer, praise and scripture reading. More than just my regular set apart time, I will take this week to get a DOUBLE dose of the Holy Righteous Healer, The Lord God Almighty, My Banner!

Thank you Camie for this reminder. Is there anyone else who will join me? If you don't have a regular time with the Lord maybe this is just the time to start! Wait on the Lord, seek Him, Ask Him things and Ask Him to reveal things to you, He will. How can we minister to our children's heart if we are a dry desert thirsting ourselves?

Please go by and say hello to Camie, she is participating in the Ultimate Blog Party as well! You can find her article at

http://mylifeinablog2010.blogspot.com/2010/04/spring-cleaning-my-home-and-heart.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2Fekos+%28My+Life+in+a+Blog%29

(your going to have to copy and paste the link)

May you all have a wonderfully blessed Mom's Monday!

THE ULTIMATE BLOG PARTY IS HEEEEERE!!!!

2010-04-09T19:51:00.000-07:00

Today is the start of THE ULTIMATE BLOG PARTY put on by 5 minutes for mom and sponsored by McKlinky! I am so excited!!!

For those of you who have never come to my blog before, my name is Amy and I am a Christian Homeschooling Mom. I have four kids ages 2-9 years old who keep me very busy. our style of learning is eclectic Charlotte Mason, we love nature studies, lap books and History! On my blog you will find homeschool ideas, family values, encouragment and FUN!

I am excited to be able to find others who homeschool like us and have a great love for God and the family. I hope that I get to win a prize as well, but more interested in finding more like minded people! I am so grateful for this opportunity.

To my friends, If you haven't already I encourage you to link up sometime this weekend, because I know you all have a lot of interesting ideas and things to share as well.

Cheers and God Bless!

~~~~~~

Things I wouldn't mind winning in order are

US 18 Goodies Basket for Mom provided by http://www.thehealthymoms.net/

US 22 Beach themed gift basket filled with bows by http://www.etsy.com/shop/ribbonrockstarbows

US 113 $25 Wal-Mart Gift Card by http://blog.brickwallbuster.com/

US 88 $25 E-Card from Amazon by http://www.faithfultojesus.blogspot.com/

US 112 $50 Amazon Gift Card by http://www.ourhomeschoolhome.com/

US 31 $20 Amazon Gift Card by http://www.jennifersikora.com/

US 55 $20 Amazon Gift Card by http://momof2boyswifeof1.blogspot.com/

Frugal Friday, Bible Quotes, Stay at Home Daughters

2010-04-09T06:40:00.000-07:00

Frugal Friday

Jello Cake

1 box of Yellow Cake plus ingredients to make said cake
Flavored Jello to your liking
Small container of co*l Wh*p
1 package of cream cheese

Mix and Bake cake as directed on package
allow to cool for about and hour or 2

Heat and disolve Jello as directed on package
allow to cool for a little while

when cake and jello have cooled poke holes in the cake with a fork
pour jello on top of the cooled and now poked cake
place in the fridge for a couple of hours

previously to eating blend cream cheese and cool whip and use as your topping!

Other variations could be adding banana, strawberries, raspberriese or other fruit after frosting your cake...YUMMO!

Picture of our cake come tomorrow!

~~~~~~~

Now on to a serious note.

“I warn you, daughters of Yerushalayim, by the gazelles and deer in the wilds, not to awaken or stir up love until it wants to arise!”
Song of Solomon 2:7

I have read this scripture often and to me there is no other meaning than we parents need to be protecting our daughters. Most young girls today grow up WAY to fast. They want the latest thing, they listen to the latest music, they dress the trends and want more all the time.

I think allowing our girls to be like this opens a door to discontentment which in young adulthood will awaken senses that wouldn't otherwise have been awakened. Anything we set above God becomes an idol and the list is endless. Lets just list a few idols clothes, hair, nails, toys, music, TV shows, cars, boys and the list can go on. This discontentment that is trained into our children from very young worms it's way into adulthood. Stiring up emotions and feelings that otherwise wouldn't be there.

God WARNS us not to be like that. Protect ourselves, your daughters and your sons from these yearnings too early. God did not create young girls and women to lust after young boys or men. We are to be seeking him and yearning for time with HIM, yet so many are entranced by "The Jonas Brothers" or "Hanah Montana" both SEEM to have a good message but in the end stirs up HUGE emotions and feelings that our children wouldn't othewise have had.

For me it was tough enough just being an average day "teenager". When I was in school and I looked around at the way people were dressed, magazines, TV, music, school, boys and peer presure, it's no wonder I was so self absorbed, self centered, and CRAVING the other sexes attention. I can't imagaine being in the world today facing the peer preasure of today without God being our center. I do not want this for my children.

I want my children to seek the Lord, Wonder in Awe over HIM, I want for my children to put HIM first so that when the right person comes along God can speak directly to their hearts and tell them...there he/she is, I'm so proud of you for waiting.

It all comes back to contentment though, are we diccontented with not having enough and making things our focus instead of HIM. God should be our childrens focus, God should direct them, God should be in control of their and our lives OR we will want and want and want and ALWAYS fall short and MISS the blessings He so freely gives. We may still recieve blessings BUT we also may be missing some.

I pray that today your eyes will be opened if they haven't already of the dangerous road we are placing our children on by allowing them to ooooooh and aaaaaaah over worldly things. If anything becomes an idol it needs to be torn down, and believe me I am speaking to myself as well, because we have gotten rid of a lot of things in our home and our lives so as not to stir up ungodly feelings in our lives and that of our children.

Is there anything in your home that you think has become and idol in your childs life? Is there anything in your home that you think has become and idol in your life (even homeschooling can become an "idol" when it consumes your thoughts every second). If there is anything in your life that you think may have become an idol to you or your children, I ask that you take the time to today and this weekend to really seek God on it and Pray, Pray, Pray. Find out what God wants you to do about it. See if this thing you are praying about is going to be a hinderance down the road and do something about it. Don't let Satan get a foothold on you or your children. Things that may seem innocent can become the very thing that starts our loved ones on a path of descruction and open a world of early "love" and self centeredness today if not sometime down the road.

My prayer is that more would come to God's view of stiring up feelings of love to early in our children and that the meaning of true LOVE be restored (that's a whole other topic). May you all have a very blessed weekend!

MOM'S NIGHT OUT!

2010-04-08T20:24:00.000-07:00

We have been homeschooling for about 4 years now and I have only been to one Mom's Night Out with our homeschool group in all that time. Well tonight I had the pleasure to go hang out with some of the most amazing mom's. The host for the evening is a very dear friend who made this evening quite special for all!

I was kicking myself for forgeting my camera, but let me describe it to you. There was a beautiful salad bar for dinner, tables spread through out the living areas covered with the most beautiful table cloths, Candels and flowers adorned the tables as well. I can't forget that in the back ground there was Bed and Breakfast like music playing, it was quite serene. She did such an amazing job setting up her home for the evening.

We played BINGO as our activity and instead of using BINGO chips she had chocolates for everyone! When the game was over she passed out snack bags so people could take all the chocolate home (amazing idea)! For the prizes everyone brought a gift or two that way everyone had atleast won one gift.

If I don't get to go to another MNO for another 4 years that's okay because I had such a delightful time. Wonderful atomsphere, Great food, fantastic friends, fellowship and Chocolate BINGOOOOO, what more could a girl ask for???!!!

I have been totally blessed today.

The Preschoolers!

2010-04-06T14:30:00.000-07:00

"L" is an amazing little girl, always full of smiles even when life hands her troubles. Today she reached a new milestone. She attempted to walk crossed a tape line on the carpet. She started out screaming and running around in circles just in the shear happiness of playing a "new" but old game (we haven't done this in a while so it was probably new to her again.) Anyway here are the pictures.

1. She ACTUALLY looked at the line I was pointing to....SCORE!

2. She's looking away YET, she is not resisting and attempting to walk on the line...SCORE!

3. She finished walking the line and is.....DONE! I am so proud!

In other news....

Little "I" found a "Indiana Jones" hat in the dress up stuff (he really has no clue who Indiana Jones is but thinks he's cool) and was reading a book while wearing it. It was too cute until he looked up AS I was taking the picture so didn't get a good one but you get the gist of it. CUTE boy, wearing a big floppy like hat, reading like an old guy, sitting on the couch. I couldn't get him to pose accordingly after I took the first picture.

So here is a little snip it of our little "L". She was born with Dravet Syndrome. We were told that she would be brain dead by the age of three and would have uncontrollable seizures for the rest of her short life. We have prayed and prayed over our little girl and God has truly blessed us with our diligence in seeking Him!

Today more is known about Dravet than it was 4 years ago (recent blessing). There are more options than previously thought (BLESSING!!!) and by the grace of ADONAI(God) we have found an amazing team of doctors and dietitians to help her (blessing 10 fold!)

"L" is on the modified Atkins diet for seizure control which mostly works for her (something we are struggling with right now). She has also struggled to learn everything she has learned, but again, every time I asks God to see improvement we are blessed with more milestones and hurdles conquered, we serve an amazing God!

I know that whether He heals her here or in heaven one day she WILL be healed. My prayers and those of our closest and dearest friends have been answered in God's time and HIS faithfulness has brought us so far from what "Mr. Grumbly" the geneticist said. I praise God for "L" and I am so glad to have the relationships I have because of her and her condition.

"L" is a fighter, knows what she wants, LOVES Adonai(God) with all her heart and praises Him daily (really wish I could get pictures, but I guess it's something God wants private for Him and her, I grab the camera and she's done, kind of frustrating.) Anyway, that is the snip it, she has seizures, learning difficulties and is a BALL OF ENERGY! I praise Adonai(God) that everyday He and with the help of "L" they prove doctors and everyone around us wrong only by His Grace. There is a God, THE creator of heavens and the earth and ALL that is in them, even little "L", He knows what she needs and today she conquered the line...LOL, need I say more!

Simple Woman's Daybook!

2010-04-06T08:42:00.000-07:00

Outside my window... chilly, windy and really cloudy

I am thinking... I wish I could have a delightful conversation with someone

I am thankful for... My husband

I am wearing... Jean skirt, sky blue polo and my beloved sneakers

I am remembering... simpler days

I am going... finish school with the kids, post some more things about our schooling and blow bubbles outside

I am currently reading... Just enough LIGHT for the step I'm on By: Stormie Omaertian

I am hoping... That my husband gets signed on full time at his job this week

On my mind... How God has always provided a way for us.

Noticing that... Kids NEVER stop talking...LOL!

Pondering these words... The Lord is my strength

From the kitchen... Litterally a FLAMING tater tot that fell of the baking pan

Around the house... smoke and a breeze that is carrying the smoke away. I don't have much to say other than suprisingly clean!

One of my favorite things... Christain Friends and fellowship

A picture I would like to share is...

The flowers and picture that my Drama Class got me before we left on our WI adventure.

Ultimate Blog Party!

2010-04-05T11:36:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share this with you really quick. April 9th-16th 5 minutes for mom is having the Ultimate Blog Party sponsored by McKlinky. You can go to
http://www.5minutesformom.com/19245/the-ultimate-blog-party-live/ to grab the details.

I have never personally attended or signed my blog up for this so this will be my first year! I am excited and can't wait to find other homesCOOLing moms and blogs that feature encouragement, how about you?

Take a look and maybe you will want to sign up as well...Happy Looking!

Scroll Down to view the Mom's Monday Give-away WINNER!

Mom's Monday "GIVE-AWAY!"

2010-04-05T08:29:00.000-07:00

Greetings Sisters!

I hope you all had a very blessed Holy Week! What an amazing time of year, fresh starts, second chances, spring, and a Savior who could ask for anything more?? Perhaps a give-away would be a nice addition.

I hope you all are excited because I know I am, I have looked forward to doing a give-away for a long time and here we are! I hope this little gift will brighten someones day so here we go...my daughter "B" will do the honors of picking a winner for us today and without further ado.....

CONGRATULATIONS JANETTA!!!!! I will be getting your prize to you, you should have it by Wednesday ;o)

Don't forget to stop by Janetta's blog and tell her congratulations! Take a look through her posts she has lots of yummy recipes, neat projects and some fun homeschooling ideas. You can find her at http://mortoncrew.blogspot.com/

Honestly I wish I could've given everyone something so as runners up I will share this fond poem with you all.

Mother, whoever you may be,
You may think long and earnestly
Of your high calling. Pondering
The undereamed honour of the thing:
Learning how God, through you, would plan
To be well known to every man.
And through your arms would gather fast
The whole world to His heart at last.

~Fay Inchfawn

Check back with us at Living Word Academy because we will be doing monthly give-away's and so there will be more chances to win some home-made goodies!

From our HOMEschool to yours have a wonderfully BLESSED day!

2010-04-02T20:05:00.000-07:00

Friday! I sure do love Friday. Time to relax a little. I have this friend who takes a bath every single day. She prefers them and now I know why! I don't think I have taken a bath in probably 4 years (har har, I do shower though). So this evening while I got to sit in the piece and quiet and soak, praying and waiting on the Lord I feel so much more refreshed. I honestly had a pretty stressful day and it was a nice end to this type of day. I think more baths are in order, I may make this my Friday night re-treat...just an idea.

I thought for a moment that I would have the energy to type up the rest of our ant study minus our lapbooks however I don't. My stressful day included a visit to "L's" neurologist which went...let say...unexpected. I really do need to do a little snip it of her condition and what the doctor said but until I call family and get their input I think I will wait. Sorry.

I really love that I have family and friends I can rely on. It sure makes going through tough times a little more bearable. I have to say that God is my number one go to, however He has from time to time used my beautiful family and family of friends to comfort me and give me a more definite answer when I need one.

So until I get some rest and a chance to talk to my mommy :o) Life and blogging something meaningful, interesting or fun will have to wait for a day.

G'night my beautiful family of friends :o)

HaPpY AnNiVeRsArY!!

2010-04-01T20:16:00.000-07:00

Today my hubby and I have been married 10 YEARS! And seriously that is NO JOKE....HAPPY ANNIVERSARY BABE! I am truly a blessed.

ANTS!

2010-04-01T18:54:00.000-07:00

*** If you have not done so go to http://livingwordacademy.blogspot.com/2010/03/moms-monday-spring-give-way.html so that you can enter the Mom's Monday Give-away! ***

Now on with the ANT MARCH!!!

Here are the best books on Ants I have found thus far!! We are thoroughly enjoying them and thought you all might like to look at them too.

The one on the left is "Killer Ants" by Nicholas Nirgiotis and is a good "living book" for you Charlotte Mason people it tells the story of Killer Ants and has LOTS of facts! My kids really enjoyed it.

The other book is "The Super-Organism: The Beauty, Elegance, and Strangeness of insect Societies" By: Bert Holldobler and E.O. Wilson. I must say this one is by far my favorite! LOTS of study went into this book and although there is a TON of information in there that I may never remember, just going through it and studying it is absolutely fascinating. The photography is simply stunning and it really does make one want to consider the ant.

When considering the ant as in

Proverbs 6:6
"Go to the ant, you sluggard:
Consider its ways and be wise!"

We have found that the ants have a "mentality" of TEAM WORK! Everyone has a job and no one complains about his or her job. They do the same job everyday because it is the work they were called to. They work together to get the goal accomplished, they even work hand in hand.

We also found that ants are almost BLIND, so they must trust that the one who CAN see knows what they are doing and will lead them in the way they should go back and forth, to and fro day after day doing what they were called to do!

Does any of this sound familiar? That scripture is SPOT on! I have truly been given a gift by doing this study. I have been able to share MAJOR nuggets of truth with my little sheep this past 2 weeks, what joy!

Consider the ant!

More to come tomorrow.....

Blessings!

A Little Bit Of Encouragment

2010-03-31T10:25:00.000-07:00

w

I am so glad to be a Christain. I have been worn out lately, there is so much to deal with and organize yet again, God has mercy on me even when I am trying to do it all in my own strength.

He is OUR well spring!

Here is the scripture I got yesterday when looking for strength when it comes to "planning" our next school year and coping with a struggling learner. (emphasis in the scripture is mine).

Luke 5:1-3

"One day as Jesus was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret, with the people crowding around him and listening to the word of God, he saw at the water's edge two boats, left there by the fishermen, who were washing their nets. He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to put out a little from shore. Then he sat down and taught the people from the boat."

** This kind of reminds me of us homeschool moms, there is never a moment where a child is not surrounding us. We are always teaching our children and they are eager to listen and learn. Life is full of lessons and so the homeschool never really ends. **

v.4-5 "When He had finished speaking, He said to Simon, "put out into deep water and let down the nets for a catch." Simon answered, "Master, we've worked HARD all night and haven't caught anything But because you say so, I will let down the nets."

** Again, homeschooling is all the time, can be strenuous and even dirty. You work all day and give everything you have, that you may sometimes feel so strained. You don't see the results you were looking for most days and you wonder, why am I even letting down the nets! Why do I continue to homeschool...well it's because "You (Jesus) say so..."

In God's word Deuteronomy 11:19-21 He tells us to "Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates, so that your days and the days of your children may be many in the land that the Lord swore to give your forefathers, as many as the days that the heavens are above the earth."

We are TOLD to homeschool and in Deutronomy there is no room for letting our children out of our site to be taught by anyone else but the parents (I would recommend taking some time to reread Deut. 11:19 over and over and just think on it and what it means if you have never done so). We are teaching them the Laws and the fear of the Lord so that one day they will rise up and become an army for the Lord.

Continuing with Luke 5:6 "...they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break. So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink. When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus' knees and said "Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man! For he and all his companions were astonished at the catch of fish they had taken, and so were James and John, the sons of Zebedeee Simon's partners.

Then Jesus said to Simon, "Don't be afraid; from now on you will catch men." So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed Him."

Isn't that the goal of homeschooling. Let down OUR nets, giving our all to our children, keeping their hearts, training and teaching them in the fear of the Lord and allowing them to see US walking with the The Lord God Almighty no matter how difficult it may be at times?! WE will pour out ourselves so that our children can be smart, skillful and grounded Christian adults who become the Army of the Lord and the fisher of men someday!

So don't be discouraged oh my soul for in the end God will bring to light all the struggles we had to face, all the long hard days and nights, the wondering if what we are doing is really doing any good. It IS and one day we will get to see the results of our hard work, prayer and steadfastness in the Lord.

Thank You God for refreshing me today and allowing me to see through Your eyes what it means to you that I homeschool my children. ~Amen!

Blessings Sisters and may you find refreshment from what God has shown me these past couple of days!

"Until the nets are full!"

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