The Philosopher's Bride

Important Announcement From The Browns.

2012-02-01T16:33:00.000-08:00

Please take a seat, this will be hard to understand for you, but it's time to tell the truth....

Home...

2012-01-09T11:25:00.000-08:00

Wake Forest. Home. I know that this quaint hilly city with dense forests and old homes with wrap around porches is now home. The cold and rain comfort me as I rest from the long drive, truck loading and unloading. I think back to hot, dry, flat Texas.

I don't live here yet. The places are not mine. The historic downtown, winding roads and friendly neighbors all belong to someone else. Yet.

How long does it take a place to be home? North Carolina has been my dream so long, that I fear to fall in love for the worry that it will be taken away or not the home, the place of settling and rest that my weary heart longs for.

I longed for the rain. The trees. The hills. Places to walk. Friends to request a cup of sugar from. Tiny wondrous shops, a world away from the harsh commercialism of the typical America consumer landscape.

The little apartment in with pine trees outside the window, wood floors and three rooms. Isn't mine yet. Though my things are towered against walls in crumpling boxes longing for relief from their long held loads. I look at the bland cardboard with the handwriting of moves past and I am not quite sure what they contain. It's not my home yet. Will it be my home? How long will it be before I say goodbye again?

As we unloaded, the crowd of strangers grew, toting boxes along the wooden stair case to the second floor home. I praised God for these people whose names I heartbreakingly could not keep track of. I praised Him for their love for Him and their willingness to haul loads for these strange people who had travelled from Texas.

Christ encourages me ....

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30

I believe, this will be my resting place, and my home. For now, I will unpack the Kitchen and contract the beds. Then I will write down my 'to do' list and patiently watch and God reveals His glorious and sanctifying plan for this chapter of our lives.

Wake Forest. You are to be home.

Goodbye 2011, Hello 2012...

2012-01-01T05:39:00.000-08:00

2011, I cannot say I loved you. Yet, I know that when the dust settles, I will look back and be thankful for the hard times, that God allowed, to change me for the better. That the pain and anger of the past and the present was dealt with head on, so that I could find greater healing in the long run. Like Eustace the Dragon, you slowly tore off the scales. It was unpleasant and painful, but needed to happen, so that something more beautiful could emerge.

2011, Was the hardest year of my adult life where I suffered post-natal depression alone with little to no support system. The long days alone with my thoughts, prayers and battles.

2012. Though my hope is in Jesus Christ and His redeeming love, I do have a hope for you. That it will be a year that I learn to know the joy and peace of Jesus that transcends all understanding, in all circumstances.

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart." Hebrews 12: 1-3

Here are two songs that I best relate to 2011...

HERE are several songs that I dedicate to 2012

I am sure there will be more :-)

Happy New Year!

We're headed to SEBTS Wake Forest

2011-12-27T07:08:00.000-08:00

Ladies and Gentlemen, Boys and Girls,

We are heading to Wake Forest for Josh to attend Southwestern Theological Seminary. The goal: A Masters in Philosophy and possibly, continuing to complete the Masters of Divinity program in preparation for ministry. I write this note, as requested by many lovely dear friends, to alert you of how you can pray for us:

Pray that we have suitable housing assigned that also allows us to begin the 2 day drive on January 7th as we hoped. Orientation in on the 19th and we would like to have time for unpacking, settling and job hunting before school starts.

Pray for safety on the road. The longest I have ever driven personally, as a driver, was to Houston which is 276 miles. I believe this trip covers over 1200 miles and 7 states: Texas, Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi, Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina. Josh will drive the truck, I will follow with the three little ones in the car. I am nervous, but excited about getting to see so many new places on the drive.

Pray for Josh to be able to find a suitable job when we arrive. The school is fantastic about helping students find work and we have had lots of encouragment from friends. You can also pray for our projects and that the Lord will use them to fund us financially. I am launching my photography business, Josh is working on music and art. If you have prayed and feel like you would like to help out our journey, you can use this link http://www.gofundme.com/br8ns

Pray for adjustment for our children, that they can settle into the new surroundings and enjoy it. We've had a lot of change and we are hoping this is a stable home for several years. We have no intention to move again anytime soon!

Pray for God to lead us to a good church home, where we can be a part of a family of believers.

Pray for our preperations these next few weeks, that we would accomplish what is needed, that all the pieces of the puzzle would fall into place such!

Pray for our hearts and minds, that we continue, at all times to seek the Lord and keep our eyes on Jesus!

Also pray for Josh as he works to get The Christian Watershed Non-Profit in action. It's an issue so close to our hearts! The purpose of it is to raise awareness, increase involvement in issues of social justice, especially directly ministering to victims human trafficking. After working with victims of human trafficking, Josh and I have prayed and feel strongly that this is an area of ministry in which we are called.

Thank you so much for you prayers, we are so thankful for them. Please know that we pray for you and ask that you freely contact us to ask us to pray for you and your family.

Who you are.

2011-12-22T07:32:00.000-08:00

We enter a time of year in which our lives can simultaneously be filled with the most wonderful of joy and the deepest of pain and sorrow. At Christmas, the problems we face, our personal challenges and the hurt that has been done towards us is somehow more magnified... a missing family member, a broken relationship, lack of money to participate in the commercial aspects of the season.

It is a season is which I believe, more of us ASK, Who am I? What is my life worth? Am I truly loved? Am I making the most of my life? Who is this Jesus, and does He truly have any relevance to my life in the here and now.

The answer is a resounding YES. Did you know, that you are precious to God? Do you know that you are made in His image and that HE, the God of the universe, HANDMADE and DESIGNED YOU. Yes YOU. He cares so much about every detail of your life. He cares if you are hurting, He cares if you are tired and weary.

It doesn't matter to Him, what you have done or where you have been. You are the apple of His eye, and as a mother welcomes home her wayward son, or a father embraces his daughter despite her mistakes, your heavenly Father's arms are open to you. He is waiting for YOU, to run into His arms.

Perhaps you, you have had some terrible wrongs done to you in life. Perhaps someone has done something to you or you have experienced something, so awful, that it influences you everyday and you cannot escape it. Do you know if breaks God's heart? Do you know that He wants to comfort you, to bring you healing?

GOD came to this earth as a mortal, tiny, child, because He loves you so much, that HE was willing to die for you. What other God, is there, that would be willing to be put through humiliation, beatings, mockery and a painful death, so that he could pay the debt of your failures and sin. So that, when you put your trust in HIM and make Him LORD in your life , you are are REMADE. You are NEW. Everything in the past is washed away. You are WHITE and PURE as snow.

That is not all. Not only are you remade, YOU are now the child of a KING. You are the son, or the daughter, of the greatest, most just, good, , king there ever was and ever will be. Nothing can change His love for you. This Christmas, accept the ultimate gift, the gift of LOVE. You are can apart of the family of God, and have a father that will never abandon or forsake you, that will always have your corner and fight for you.

You may wonder about me, about my faith, and this song below echo's the very thoughts and conflicts I have had... if you are lonely, empty, in pain, searching this Christmas... perhaps it will touch your heart...

The 1st Week of Advent

2011-11-27T13:01:00.000-08:00

We have entered the 1st week of advent. Until a few years ago, the only thing I knew about advent was that as children, we always had advent calenders, with a door for each day, which hid a yummy chocolate!

As I sought and prayed over, ways to bring the focus to Christ more, in our family, during the Christmas season, I was introduced to Advent, as since our Decembers have been enriched, as our hearts and minds dwell on our Emmanuel, Christ among us.

Advent means 'coming', and in this season we prepare for the coming of our King. Jesus.

How sweet is the time spent together, with Daddy reading scripture, children listening in wonder, and then, lighting a candle. THIS is what I desire my children to remember, with presents, christmas trees and parties fading into the background,... and Christ, beautiful Lord, coming a new into our lives, more vivid and real, with each new advent!

If you like to begin recognizing advent in your home, here is a good resource for protestants! http://www.intothyword.org/apps/articles/default.asp?articleid=32879&columnid=3881

I have not read the whole website, just this page, so I can't vouch for everything else on the website :-)

30 Days of Thanks - Epic Blog Fail!

2011-11-27T12:44:00.001-08:00

Well. I made it 15 days of blogging. Thankfully, my heart didn't stop giving thanks just because I didn't blog! So, I will close this chapter, now we have entered the season of Advent, and leave you with a few thanks that stand out!

I am thankful for....

Friends that pray for me and my family,
Sweet girls who are loving, affectionate and compassionate,
A wonderful husband desires to love me as Christ loves His bride - the Church,
A delightful little boy, who reminds me, as I look at him, of how amazing it is that Christ became flesh, a little baby boy, so small and vulnerable.

We had a lovely thanksgiving week. We spent our time reading Thanksgiving books, especially 'A Cranberry Thanksgiving'. We made Cranberry bread together, learned a new hymn together, learned about New England, Cranberrys are much more!

30 Days of Thanks - Days 11, 12, 13, 14 and 15!

2011-11-15T04:59:00.000-08:00

11 - Today we had a wonderful time with friends at Joel's 1st Birthday party, I teared up, because I am so blessed to have such beautiful, marvelous friends!

12 - I am thankful for family that love and adore my children, and invest time in them. It's easy to forget, that is this is often not the case in many homes.

13 - I am thankful musical theater and the talented people who participate! We had a wonderful time the night before watching Daron and the cast as The Plaza Theater in Cleburne preform ' Crazy for You'

14. I am thankful for people like Geoff and Renee at The Barry farm, who work hard to farm, as farming should be done and their commitment in making others aware of, and think about, what they are putting into their bodies and how they are interacting with God's creation.

15. Today, I am thankful that I have the opportunity to home school. I love that life, the world and our home is our class room, that dinner can be a lesson and I am the one that get's to experience my children exploring new things, concepts and cultures.

30 Days of Thanks - Days 7, 8, 9 and 10

2011-11-10T06:32:00.000-08:00

It appears, that I am quite ridiculously behind! So here are some authentic things I have been thankful for these days of absence:

Day 7 - Open fields in which small children can run and explore jubilantly.

Day 8 - Warm blankets to snuggle under with soft, sleepy children on a cold November morning.

Day 9 - Facebook, on which I can daily feel closer to the family, friends, places and foods that I so deeply miss, in England.

Day 10 - The wonder of children at the marvelous discoveries we take for granted.

Life is beautiful. Oh Lord, my God, yes, it is!

30 Days of Thanks - Day 6

2011-11-06T19:34:00.001-08:00

I am so utterly, amazingly, besotted with all my children and I am so overwhelmingly thankful to God for them. Today, I take a break from my 'unconventional thanks' to tell you how thankful I am for my little boy.

I focus on my little boy today, because he will be 1 on Friday. 11-11-11. I was browsing some photo's of his first days home and comparing them with recent photos. My heart if bursting with love and affection.

I was amazed at how he has changed. His eyes were so dark and so was his hair, yet now he is the fairest, blondest of my three little ones. He is a sweet little chatter box. He has discovered 'no' this week and is overusing it, it's pretty adorable the way he is experimenting with it. He also has entered the pointing and saying 'whatsdat?' stage which is wonderful!

He is the sweetest, gentlest soul with eyes that light up with the beauty of his lovely soul. His sister adore him and lavish affection on him. Two mini mummys!

Today, I am thankful, that God blessed me with this sweet, gorgeous little chappy who melts my heart every hour of the day. He has brought so much joy to me this year. Who can lack joy, with a scrumptious baby cooing and cuddling you?

30 Days of Thanks - Day 5

2011-11-06T07:14:00.000-08:00

Oh the weather outside is frightful, but the fire is so delightful! If you've no place to go, let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!

Well. Maybe it's not snowing, but we are pretty consistently hanging out below 75 and have even made it down to the 40's. It's SWEATER weather people! The triple digit weather days are long gone for a few short months!

It's been quite a summer. Droughts, wild fire, plagues of mosquitoes, unrelenting heat.

I used to enjoyably mock Texan's whom piled on layers of fleece, wool and thermal the moment it dropped below 80 degrees. On a day in which Blackpool beach would be swarming with eager, pasty skinned Brits, the Texan's are raiding the closets for last Christmas's sweater and stalking the Target aisles for boots and winter hats.

I do however, sincerely and truly repent of this harsh judgement. For now, I am one of these sweater wearing people.

How eagerly I wake up in the morning, knowing that even though I might be a tad toasty, that I can actually wear a really cute scarf and sweater, put on some cute barely worn socks that have been worn maybe 4 times in as many years, and look forward to pumpkin pie and hot chocolate.

I have all these really cute sweaters and long sleeved tops that are dying to be worn. I refuse to miss my moment of opportunity.

It's because it's so hot ALL the time, that the moment we get a glimpse, of cool weather, we all suddenly go ' It's FALL! It's WINTER! It's time for CHRISTMAS'.

If you are British and reading this, please know that we have had 90 degree Christmas days here. Do you know how un-Christmassy that feels? You have a house full of snowmen and fake snow on the window, and it's hot enough to have a BBQ outside.

Indeed, I am even guilty of wearing sweaters when it is in the triple digits, because when you go into a store, they have the AC blasting so cold, that you'll catch your death of cold if you go in wearing shorts and a t-shirt.

Ok, ok.... so what I am thankful for?

I am thankful for cold days in Texas. I am thankful that we've already had days in the 50's and that I have a small window of time, to feel, British again, and feel justified in making hotpot or oatmeal to warm up.

When you are in England, you dream of stepping outside and feeling warmth, not having to wear a coat. When you are in Texas, you dream of cozy cold days.

You know what else I am thankful for about this colder weather? Is that it has turned my thoughts, prayers and activities more towards Christmas preparation earlier than ever before.

I don't mean Christmas shopping, but preparing for advent. Planning times of family worship, gathering materials for our Jesse tree, reserving books at the library about St Nicholas and the Nativity.

I am preparing a Christmas curriculum, planning crafts, preparing activities to show Christ's love in our community.

I am thankful for cold weather, for turning my heart move towards Christ.

30 Days of Thanks - Day 4

2011-11-04T05:43:00.000-07:00

There is nothing like holding a pile of deliciously intriguing books in your arms with the anticipation of taking them home to devour with a warm drink, in a cozy chair by lamp light.

There is something akin to the delight of waking up on their birthday, for a child to gather books like flowers and tote them home to be explored on mommy's lap.

I love book stores, so much, that Josh and I often take book store dates! We will go get a coffee at the Starbucks in Barnes and Noble and roam the aisles oohing and aahing, talking about our discoveries and browsing sat cross legs among the towers.

Today, I am thankful for libraries.

Oh wonderful libraries, it almost seems as though your knowledge expanded purely at being in the presence of such tremendous works of literature and volumes of non-fiction wisdom.

Our library actually lets you take home up to 50 books. We all become children in a candy store in which you can fill your bag with whatever catches your fancy for no additional cost.

I so much enjoy my child sitting surrounded by books, asking ' mommy! can we take this one home???' and then excitedly begging ' can we read our books now?' the moment we shed our coats and shoes.

Yes. I am thankful for public libraries and how they enrich our lives, and for the moments that come about after a visit... a journey of joy, daring, delight and adventure snuggled on the sofa, children wiggling and piled up and we turn page, after page, after page, and then, take those precious books back, to then, borrow more.

30 Days of Thanks - Day 3

2011-11-03T12:36:00.000-07:00

It may be November 3rd, but if you were out last night, near my car, you may have thought it was still Halloween if you happened to have pulled up next to me next to a stoplight!

What does this have to do with being thankful you may be asking yourself, quite understandably I might add.

Well, today I am thankful for 'driving alone at night'.

Yes, perhaps this is the most unconventional of unconventional 'thanks' thus far.

Why, you might be thinking, are you thankful for driving alone at night?

Ever since I was little I have loved being in the car when it's dark, it's relaxing and exhilarating all at once. Especially as an adult.

The past month, every car ride is accompanied by a perpetual performance of Veggietales stories. The same three. 'Lyle the Friendly Viking' 'Larry Boy and the Fib from outer space' and 'King George and the Rubber Ducky'.

I know the whole audio script perhaps. I do by no means begrudge it, I adore, most sincerely listening to my girls sing along to the songs and play out the parts of Junior asparagus or the giant fib. It's a true delight.

When I am alone, driving at night, I get to choose what music I play and I get to have it as loud as I want.

SO as you sat at a red light last night, feeling bass vibrating your poor car and ears, throw out your stereotype of the teenage boy in dad's car and instead picture this:

' A little mom of three in her empty mini van, playing air guitar and drums to the new Switchfoot album and having a blast'

Oh yes. It was fantastic my friends.

And today, I enjoyed a glorious morning driving around Fort Worth listening to veggietales with my darlings, and enjoying it just as much too.

PS. Here is a little sample so you can have a mini experience!

30 Days of Thanks - Day 2

2011-11-02T07:20:00.000-07:00

Today I am thankful for tea. Yes, you read right. Simple, unassuming, quite scrumptious hot, black, tea with milk. No sugar, thank you!

There is nothing that says ' I love you' in the morning like a perfectly brewed cup of tea brought spontaneously to you in bed.

Living in Texas, I ashamedly confess that in some area's of life and culture I have succumbed to the pressure of my peers. Can y'all say 'I need a refill of iced mango tea please?'

Yet, despite the chips and queso, cowboy boots, y'alls, fixin's and pick up trucks, I cannot escape the impact a cup of PG tips has on my soul as a result of entrenched cultural programing.

I find coffee a little overwhelming in the morning. Coffee is like the kid that runs into your bedroom at 5 in the morning, jumping and bouncing 'WAKE UP MOMMY NOW!!'. Tea, however, has the effect of gently arousing one from a cumbersome drowsiness with subtlety and perfect manners.

When I pull out the coffee in the morning, before the tea, it means I am seriously sleep deprived and you might as well insert an IV of caffeine.

Ok, ok... Let's be honest though, it would only be right to be thankful also, for my husband and his ability to make the perfect cuppa that suits my picky British palette!

30 Days of Thanks - Day 1

2011-11-01T14:15:00.000-07:00

As we enter into November and the season of Thanksgiving, I have decided to journal my thanks for each day of this month. I pray that it shall be a journey that will lead me to deeper knowledge and understanding of God's grace and thus, may my life be filled with deeper love for Christ.

I shall begin, with perhaps, will be a daily giving of thanks - For my God, my husband, my children, my friends and my family!

This morning, I was texting with my friend Jessica, she asked me how I was doing. I replied " I am tired, but the good tired, I am loving being busy'.

Today, I am thankful for being busy. Let me explain.

This last year, I have been home a lot. I have had very busy weekends, but my weeks had been somewhat long and lonely. Our schedule, combined with one car and the nature of my husbands place of work, meant that we and the kids getting out anywhere was very challenging. Even going to the grocery store was a challenge.

Seeing friends, going to play dates, the park or another event was a once every 1-2 week thing.

This week and last, we have been back in Fort Worth. I am thankful that I am busy.

That I can wake up and say ' We are going to do school, then go to the park, then we are meeting this friend and then we have to the store and go home, make dinner and go to bed!"

I am thankful that I can decide I want to visit someone and I can call them and just go! Or I can run out of milk, and just be able to drive to the store. I am thankful that I can read 'Fort Worth Child' and look at the free events going on and, just go!

We went to Fort Worth Nature Center last week where the children met with an owl and a snake close up and personal, as well as a Fall Festival at Gateway with friends, and then we went to The Kimbell Museum, and took a tour of the exhibit of baroque paintings.

I am so excited about the dynamic that having a car and being able to be out and about is bringing to our homeschooling routine, it's just so enriching and the children are loving the increased activity, interaction and intellectual stimulation. We just have so much to talk about and they are even more thirsty to learn than ever.

I love being busy, going places and being around people. I did not know this about myself before this year. I thrive on being busy, I am more productive, happier and have more energy!

Perhaps this is the strangest 'thanks' you have read today, and expect more bizarre thanks, because, I am just being honest. Before writing, I thought ' Wouldn't it be better to writing something all appropriate and mushy, about being thankful for my children etc, which I am, of course, but before even decided to do 30 days of thanks, I said to God, 'Thank you Lord, for allowing me to be busy!' So it just seemed the most authentic and honest thing to write about.

Thank you God for the seasons of change you bring to our lives, seasons of quiet and seasons of busyness. Thank you that in both you teach us, humble us and sanctify us!

A Touch of Light Photo Challenge

2011-09-18T22:19:00.000-07:00

I have been building up the courage to enter a contest on I heart faces for a while. So here it is. Rachel. With a *Touch of Light* in her hair and a smudge of dirt on her face, acquired from playing hard. I thought about removing the dirt, but then thought better, for it paints a much more honest tale of childhood. Rachel. Taking a rest from playing hard.

Go and visit I HEART FACES for more wonderful entries, tutorials and tip!

Pain in the offering.

2011-09-12T07:32:00.000-07:00

Friendship. We are under the illusion at times that friends should be people whom are easy for us to get along, our minds work the same way, we laugh at the same things, we cry over the same movies, we parent our children the same way, we enjoy the activities and generally, it comes with ease, other than the small tiffs that are quickly made up.

I am here to tell you different though. The friendships that challenge you, are the ones that bless you more, make you a better person and change lives.

I have amazing friends. Not everyone of them is a person I personally would have chosen to be close friends with. However, God told me to pursue a friendship with them anyway.

We came from different walks of lives, our temperaments are at odds with each other, according to many experts and often with have little in common.

What we do have to common is this: We are created, human beings made by a loving God, whom knows each of our names, whom knows the number of hairs on our heads, who knows our innermost beings and loves each of us, more passionately than a mother loves her child.

This draws me to one conclusion. That every person we encounter, each made in God's image, can teach us more about God, and that every person is worth spending time with and getting to know. No matter how hard it is, how much it hurts and how confusing it can be at times.

Being true, life - long friend requires brutal honesty, sharing our hearts, our lives and becoming vulnerable. Which inevitably means, a friend, has the tools, to bring you much pain. Someone you do not care about, who you have closed out from your heart, whom you have put walls up to stop them getting too close, cannot hurt you the way someone can who you let it.

It also means, that when you are close to that person, you will suffer their pain also. When two minds and hearts, are tuned it, the level of empathy and compassion runs so deep.

It takes YEARS to cultivate friendships, a lot of trials and tears.

When you first meet a new friend, it's like the first year of marriage, in some ways. You are filled with excitement, it's warm and fuzzy, it's exciting, you delight in having a new companion to share with and to tell stories, you connect with.

Pretty soon, one of you fails the other, and you FALL. Fall hard from the pedestals you put each other from.

It hurts. Your dreamy, wonderful friendship is in ruins.

I entreaty you though. Don't give up. Don't walk away. No matter how much it hurts to work through it. Because when you get through this first hurdle and all the ones to come, your friendship will become richer and more vibrant than before.

When you embrace the things that are challenging about a person, their weaknesses, their failures as well as their talents, gifts and strengths. This is where beauty is found.

Beauty that in how Christ loves us, we love our friends. God died for the very people who despised and crucified Him.

Beauty in walking with someone as they battle the darkness in their lives, speaking love and truth into their lives even when they have nothing to give you in return.

The beauty when you, feel weak and unlovable, and a friend comes and sacrifices time and tears to serve you.

Lately I have experienced some topsy turvy friendships, where it is somewhat harder in the beginning, because the way we communicate, think and feel is at such different ends of the spectrum, that even understanding each other in the beginning is hard, and somewhat painful. You kinda wanna give up and invest yourself in a friendship that has an easier and quicker feel good factor.

Don't give up on these relationships. Don't litmus test people and decide whether or not they are worth your time. These are the friendships that often, transcend all reason and understanding, and bring true glory to God.

The people whom are your polar opposites are the people that challenge you to challenge yourself.

The people whom at first it seems like you always misunderstand each other and accidentally hurt each others feelings - when as lovers of Christ - we battle through the pain - there is joy to be found.

I entreaty you... let Jesus sanctify you through friendships. Even when they hurt. For there is pain in the offering, but the joy my friends, that is found, is worth every single tear.

Homeschooling in the Brown home, for the first year!

2011-09-07T10:37:00.000-07:00

I have had so many questions about how we are adjusting to homeschooling Esther through Kindergarten and what curriculum we are using. So what better to do than blog about it!

We've laughed, we've cried. I have succeeded wonderfully and I have wondered if it's too late to enroll in public school, but overall, it has been a blessing so far.

It deed, it has been quite a natural transition, not especially traumatic, in that we have always nurtured a learning environment in our home and lives, and the children have adjusted well to increased pace.

When do you find time?

I am very blessed in the my husband works a slightly later shift. I do miss him very much at the dinner table and when doing bedtimes, but in the mornings he puts himself at our disposal to help make sure our home school goals are achieved.

However, the way it plays out, due to having one car, often one of us has to go and do something, like grocery shop, go to a meeting in the morning. On days like this, I wait until Joel's nap time, which is somewhat unpredictable in time and length.

I also try to keep things simple on days I know before hand will be like this, and just do our Five in a Row curriculum, which really requires being done 5 consecutive days. All the other curriculum is pretty flexible.

Plus, the nature of teaching one child, one on one, means that lessons go by really quick, and even with doing all the different subjects, it's rarely more than 2 1/2 hours total throughout the day.

How does your daughter handle learning from you?

So far, we have had no problem, as long as I am patient, and read her ques well - tiredness, frustration, overwhelmed etc and respond accordingly with compassion and empathy, and find a way to work through it with her, we have had little to no conflict. She is eager to do her lessons and is learning well.

I know my child well, and have had 5 years of learning her strengths, weaknesses, passions and learning style and I am loving this opportunity to get to know her more.

What curriculum are you using?

Right now we use several. At our core we use Five in a Row, which is a literature based curriculum.

Each week your studies are focused on one book which you read at the beginning of each lesson. Each lesson from history, geography to math, science and language arts stem from this.

Math - we are supplementing with 'Saxon Math'. So far I love this, it is 100% scripted and Esther does really well with it. It requires little to no planning on my part, other than a quick overview of the lesson before hand.

Phonics - We are using 'Explode the Code', this is not scripted, but gives lots of suggestions, workbooks, activities. It is a perfect pace for Esther and really easy to use.

Handwriting - We are using Handwriting without Tears. It is wonderfully genius! Esther's handwriting already impresses me after just a few lessons, it is very easy for the child to understand, and really is handwriting without tears, with lots of fun ideas, songs etc.

What do you do for PE and social interaction?

Esther is attending soccer twice a week, also at home the girls have quite a love for learning ballet, so we have been using a book that introduces basic positions and famous ballets.

Socially, we are heading to the Girl Scout rally this weekend for her to join a troop. In addition we are at church frequently, out and about often at parks and museums which pose the opportunity for her to play with other children.

I had hoped to find a home school group to join, but so far I have had no luck!

SUMMARY!

It is easy to fall into the trap of viewing homeschooling as a burden, another thing to accomplish in a long list of never ending 'things' a mum has to do. It requires discipline, routine and patience, not of which are my forte.

On the other hand, it makes our home life so dynamic and rich, it is helping me get to know myself more, to understand my children more and gain more rapport and connection with them.

It is teaching me to pray more and rely more and more on God's strength and provision.

It is truly a sanctifying experience.

I love that at the end of the day, I have something to show in my little folder where I have been storing Esther's work, that I can already, look back and review progress.

I delight in partaking in their learning experience, seeing the wonder and excitement of their discoveries of the world around them or when they achieve something new.

In summary, I think I can say that so more, I feel like homeschooling is giving our family a more full and vibrant life, one more in tune with each other, our world and God.

To finish - I really could NOT achieve what we have already without God, He is my constant source of strength, patience and encouragement.

Children's Artwork!

2011-08-04T10:57:00.000-07:00

I love children's art work, it warms my heart and gives me so much joy and delight! We have piles of new 'art' everyday. It is so wonderful to see a child's perspective on paper, the pictures reflect the things their minds are filled with, what excites them. Also it's amazing to watch a child grow in their skills. Here are some of our most recent!

1. This is Wendy, her brothers and Peter Pan by Esther
2. A horse by Esther
3. A bowl of cheerios by Rachel
4. Our family, our house and the apartment pool by Esther

Overwhelmed.

2011-07-29T10:13:00.000-07:00

Do you ever have that feeling, that you have so much to accomplish that rather than get up and do it you become frozen, and each breath feels labored? It comes after months, nay, years of sleepless nights, of being pushed and pulled in many directions, of being struck down every time you stand up.

Bombarded with the Christian mantra of servitude and self sacrifice, I pour out and out, then fall, fail, collapse and I am useless. A wretch. I ask " Why is this happening? Why can't I keep going? Why am I not strong enough? Why have you forsaken me God? I can't do this any more! Haven't I been faithful? Haven't I given everything?'

Pride. Selfishness. Masked as servitude. That is the answer.

Pride that I can do this, that I need to be strong, that I need to use MY gifts to do this. If I ask for help, I admit that I failed, that I am weak.

Selfishness. Not allowing depending on God's strength, my pride clothing me, I deny my husband, family, friends, the body of Christ, the opportunity to see what God can do through me when I die to myself. Instead they receive a shadow. An imitation. Someone trying to be like Christ but not allowing Christ to fully enter in.

So, I come, broken, humbly before the cross... Jesus Christ, let me be saturated with YOU. Don't let me try to imitate you in actions, but let me be like you, in mind, heart, body and soul.

Humility. Cloth me in this Lord.

The burden is too heavy because it is not your yoke I carry, but the yoke of the world, of my insecurities , of the societal pressures,

I gladly accept your yoke on my knees Lord, on my knees with tear... take my heart and change it... take my will and conform it... not my will but yours...

Destroy my idols... the perfect mum, wife, housekeeper...

Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me a sinner...

This psalm I pray today...

Psalm 103.

1 Praise the LORD, my soul;
all my inmost being, praise his holy name.
2 Praise the LORD, my soul,
and forget not all his benefits—
3 who forgives all your sins
and heals all your diseases,
4 who redeems your life from the pit
and crowns you with love and compassion,
5 who satisfies your desires with good things
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

6 The LORD works righteousness
and justice for all the oppressed.

7 He made known his ways to Moses,
his deeds to the people of Israel:
8 The LORD is compassionate and gracious,
slow to anger, abounding in love.
9 He will not always accuse,
nor will he harbor his anger forever;
10 he does not treat us as our sins deserve
or repay us according to our iniquities.
11 For as high as the heavens are above the earth,
so great is his love for those who fear him;
12 as far as the east is from the west,
so far has he removed our transgressions from us.

13 As a father has compassion on his children,
so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him;
14 for he knows how we are formed,
he remembers that we are dust.
15 The life of mortals is like grass,
they flourish like a flower of the field;
16 the wind blows over it and it is gone,
and its place remembers it no more.
17 But from everlasting to everlasting
the LORD’s love is with those who fear him,
and his righteousness with their children’s children—
18 with those who keep his covenant
and remember to obey his precepts.

19 The LORD has established his throne in heaven,
and his kingdom rules over all.

20 Praise the LORD, you his angels,
you mighty ones who do his bidding,
who obey his word.
21 Praise the LORD, all his heavenly hosts,
you his servants who do his will.
22 Praise the LORD, all his works
everywhere in his dominion.

Praise the LORD, my soul.

Learning to Pray

2011-07-09T06:06:00.001-07:00

Lately, I have been praying, to learn how to pray. Through the leading of the Holy Spirit I have began to include some beautiful prayers in my day. Here is the prayer that I start with my day with...

A Prayer Morning of St. Philaret of Moscow

O Lord, grant me to greet the coming day in peace, help me in all things to rely upon your holy will. In every hour of the day reveal your will to me. Bless my dealings with all who surround me. Teach me to treat all that comes to throughout the day with peace of soul and with firm conviction that your will governs all. In all my deeds and words, guide my thoughts and feelings. In unforeseen events, let me not forget that all are sent by you. Teach me to act firmly and wisely, without embittering and embarrassing others. Give me strength to bear the fatigue of the coming day with all that it shall bring. Direct my will, teach me to pray. And you, yourself, pray in me. Amen.

Here is another prayer that I adore also by Metropolitan Philaret:

My Lord, I know not what I ought to ask of Thee. Thou and Thou alone knowest my needs. Thou lovest me more than I am able to love Thee. O Father, grant unto me, Thy servant, all which I cannot ask. For a cross I dare not ask, nor for consolation; I dare only to stand in Thy presence. My heart is open to Thee. Thou seest my needs of which I myself am unaware. Behold and lift me up! In Thy presence I stand, awed and silenced by Thy will and Thy judgments, into which my mind cannot penetrate. To Thee I offer myself as a sacrifice. No other desire is mine but to fulfill Thy will. Teach me how to pray. Do Thyself pray within me. Amen.

1000 Gifts

2011-04-03T10:22:00.000-07:00

My lovely friend Renee from iMMERGENT brought a copy of 1000 Gift to church one saturday night. How wonderful, that the book, was a gift in itself.

I had a whole lot to read and another book seemed a little overwhelming. Yet, as a battled with the fatigue and challenges of having a young family, the tag line leaped from the book cover every time I saw the book on the end table. 'A dare to LIVE FULLY right where you are'.

I knew I wasn't living fully. I was discontent. I was complaining about little things. I knew this wasn't how I was meant to be living because I had lived fully in my life and it was clear to me that I had left that path. Something in my heart was holding me back now. I knew I wanted to live fully right where I was once again. To embrace the small things now. To be content. To break free from the depression, the ungratefulness that was permeating through every thought.

I am about 5 chapters in so far. Ann Voskamp knows what it's like to be a busy mom. To have more to do than time. To be giving emotionally continually and to feel drained. To be un-thankful.

She embarks on a journey to find God's gifts and grace in the ordinary everyday workings of life.

She has reminded me, that when you change your heart, to look for the good, for God's goodness, you will see it in everything. From the big things... an answered prayer, a new child to the small, a cool breeze on a hot day, colors reflected in soap bubbles.

Living life fully, is to be Thankful, and give God praise in ALL things. So, I accepted the challenge, to list 1000 gifts. To once again, give praise in all circumstances. To see the beauty in the gray, until the gray fades away and my heart looks for the rainbow, does not focus in on the clouds.

1. Friends, like Renee, sharing books.
2. Flowers. Mrs Leslie gave me the flowers to take home. I don't think she know how much I love flowers. I am not exaggerating when I say, my day is brightened and filled with emotion every time I see them on my table.
3. Little girl dancing to music, care free, twirling, skipping

Conversations with Rachel.

2011-04-01T09:52:00.000-07:00

Rachel. Oh my Rachel, our middle child. She makes me laugh so much everyday. She is our monkey, our clown. She is always into mischief. Yesterday she painted her whole hands with nail polish. The day before that, she scatter newly washed and folded clothes everywhere. She climbs bookshelves. She puts toothpaste in her hair. She intentional puts her foot in an ant pile to see what happens. She leaps from great heights before you can stop her and then laughs when she lands even if its with a hard thump. She also lavishes affection on her family and cares so much for her siblings. Here is a conversation I had with her this morning.

I am in the Kitchen cleaning. Rachel walks in and I pick her up.

Rachel: I'm a bug
Mommy: What kind of bug?
Rachel: A something bug.
Mommy: Do you bite?
Rachel: Yup (leans forward and bites my shirt)
Mommy: Do you sting?
Rachel: Yup (pokes me with sound effect)
Mommy: Are you a cute bug or the ugly kind? Cute I think?
Rachel: Nope. I'm an ugly, scary bug (Said in funny voice and comical mean facial expression)

She makes me smile.

A brief 360 of iMMERGENT

2011-03-27T17:57:00.000-07:00

A lot of you are praying for us down here and ask questions about the church, our building, so, here is a quick 360 I took with my phone video camera, so as you think of us and pray for Montrose, you can have a 'picture' in your mind!

Ready to serve.

2011-03-26T19:54:00.000-07:00

Driving on a hot summers day, the air conditioning blasts, a cold coke sits within hands reach, condensation rolling down that 44oz cup. You're singing. Songs of praise and worship. As you slow for the red light, you see him, old, rugged, skin - sun baked, dry, holding his sign: 'Need help, homeless'. Junkie. Alcoholic. The first thoughts in your mind. You think about the cash in your bill fold, would he just use it for his addiction? The light turns green and it's too late. You leave, but something nags, you feel uncomfortable. His face stays in your mind for weeks, months. Every time you pass that spot, you look, is he there?

It's cold. You're on your way home from Christmas shopping, trunk loaded, Starbucks close by in the drink holder. You see her. Bundled. Arms wrapped around tight, shivering. Face worn for pain, hurt and abuse. You blame her. There is help if she wanted it. But she's choosing this, why should you help, when she wouldn't help herself? Yet, you can't help the guilt, the shame, as you go home safe to your loving family and friends.

****

iMMERGENT has started a wonderful new ministry. It's not what you would imagine. It's phenomenal. Every second Saturday, Mrs Leslie Smith appears at the childrens church with boxes of supplies. Toiletries, socks, blankets, t-shirts, bottled water, snack bars, fruit, gift cards.

She has each child pack a bag. The child makes a craft and then places in also in the bag and says a prayer for the person whom will receive the bag. With childlike joy and compassion, they eagerly await an opportunity to give.

The bags sit in the car. The first two months, the bags went to the same two men. Frank and David. They always slept in the same spots. So we would pull up. Josh would go out and give them the bags and pray for them. Well, Frank liked the prayers, David didn't. Then they were were gone. The girls wept. Where were they? What had happened?

So the bags sat. One day. We stopped at a red light. There a lady stood, forlorn, gruff, the beautiful person created in God's image hidden below years of hurt and anger. My heart leaped, we grabbed one of the bags and handed it to her, with the cut out heart and message from Esther. The girls whooped and cheered. Their faces shining with a joy that came from the deepest part of their beings.

The next week, once again, an old man. In a wheel chair. Eyes blood shot. He looked dangerous. He'd been waging a war his whole life against himself and it had led to destruction. He still belonged to God, this man, the apple of his heavenly Fathers eye.

This time, the girls shouted 'Mommy! The bag! Give him the bag!'

It dawned on me, what must in mean to these people, even the most hardened, for a bright eyed child of 2 or 4 to have personally made them a bag and card. To have prayed for them.

What must it feel like, to know, that a stranger, had prepared something, just waiting for God to place you in their path so they could share. Even if it touched them for just a few minutes. It's worth it.

Oh the faith and love of a child.... what it can fathom and accomplish that we adults cannot.

In my heart, it was amazing, no battle, no calculating what was in my purse, no lowering my eyes to avoid that look; the 'lady, can't you give just a little, even if it is for a beer, because it would help me feel better' look.

We were ready to serve. Thank you Leslie. Thank you for making our family ready to serve.

We are all equal, all precious, all worth time, patience and love. Because we are made by God, a personal God.

No one should be written off or given up on, because God never gives up on us.

How humbling... how convicting... how liberating.

Compassion Photography

2011-03-16T07:05:00.000-07:00

I first saw Mia's work through a mutual friend. She has an stunning talent for capturing atmosphere and personality. She adds her creative flair, bringing out the art and simply beauty in life.

What is more stunning, however, is how she is using her unique gifting from God to encourage families struggling with the reality, pain, heartache and struggles of having a sick child in and out of hospital. She knows about this experience first hand...

Mia writes:

"Especially close to my heart are families who are battling the illness of a child. My daughter Lauren, spent a lot of time during her younger years in and out of children’s hospitals, due to the dysfunction of her kidneys. We were showered with love and support during those days, but it was still the most difficult time of our lives. From the desire to give other families the same loving support and compassion we were given, Compassion Photography was born."

Compassion Photography is working directly with Cooks Children's Hospital in Fort Worth, Texas.

"Compassion Photography is a non-profit company. Working directly with Cook Children’s Medical Center, it is our earnest desire to provide professional photo shoots -at no cost- to families in the midst of battling an illness. At such times as these when money is tight, emotions are untamed, and the world seems upside down, familiy pictures aren’t exactly at the forefront of your mind. But it is essential to take some time away from the stresses and fears that come along with this life experience. A session with Compassion Photography allows you to step into a new scene for a while and just enjoy your family. During the time we spend together my main objectives are to make you smile, share some laughs, and tell a beautiful story of your family with my camera. Though times aren’t feeling so great for you right now, sometime soon you will be able to look back at your Compassion photographs and see that His arms were, indeed, wrapped tightly around you when you needed Him most."

You can see more about Compassion Photography's vision, see Mia's work and learn about their sister company 'BeCompassion' at www.compassionphotography.com

Friends, Rye Crackers, Eggs and The Barry Farm.

2011-03-15T18:58:00.000-07:00

Today we spent time with Renee Smith and her sweet children Layla and Seamus. Renee brought some delicious food! She made rye crackers, FRESH in my kitchen and then served them with a delicious Quinoa salad. You can find some of her delicious recipes at www.smithfamilyliving.wordpress.com

Afterwards, we took the children for a walk around the lake, looked at the ducklings, threw rocks and played some more.

Renee and her husband are quite an inspiration. In addition to growing their own produce and having egg laying hens in their yard, they have recently leased a plot of land and begun a community supported farm that has become Houston's newest and only pastured egg CSA, filling a much needed gap.

I encourage you to visit The Barry Farm at www.thebarryfarm.wordpress.com and to head over to the Barry Farm at on Facebook. and 'like' them!

Week 2 : Lentil by Robert McCloskey

2011-03-14T20:53:00.000-07:00

The girls are really getting into the stories and anticipating 'school'. Sometimes Rachel joins in, sometimes she doesn't, it depends on her mood and the activity. Esther has amazed me with her attentiveness and dedication. So far she is an excellent student, soaking everything in and jumping right into the story. Last week we lived and breathed 'Ping'. From discussing life lessons and human relationships, geography, music, art, math, science to eating a rice cross-legged on a low table while drinking jasmine tea.

Lentil had the girls asking 'again, again!', they laughed at his funny singing, they empathised when they too couldn't whistle, they got frustrated at Sneep's schemes, they celebrated when Lentil used his unique gift of playing harmonica to save the day. The story is wonderfully rich with lots of beautiful illustrations and a plethora of discussion points.

When I was writing up tomorrow's lesson plan, I realised how much of the topics we had already discussed since, we read it three times today alone! Plus, now the girls are looking for details in the pictures and story, asking questions, we get carried away!

Here is a video of the girls playing harmonica along to 'She'll be comin' around the mountain', the song that Lentil played for Colonel Carter! (Right after we'd played the instruments in the bath tub, to see why that was Lentil's favorite place to play!)

Spring has sprung!

2011-03-14T11:57:00.000-07:00

Spring is my favorite time of year. Warm days. New Life. New beginnings. Each sunny day full of promises of things to explore, hills to roll down.

On friday, we spent time with Charity, Rowan and Reese. It's fantastic because Rowan and Esther are both 4 as well as Rachel and Reese being 2. Plus, they are all blond and blue eyed. A beautiful band of girls who are often found strolling and skipping hand in hand in hand in hand...

Later on that day, we saw new baby ducklings with their mummy! It was wonderful! We spent a lot of time just watching them and talking about them. Every day we look out the window in the morning to see if we can see swimming with her babies in tow. We counted EIGHTEEN! That's a big family!

Also, we have seedlings! Our seeds are GROWING! A flower bloomed on our Jalapeno plant today too! The chives and rosemary have not germinated but I am still optimistic. Soon we will have fresh jalapenos, tomatoes, strawberries, oregano, cilantro, basic and thyme for our kitchen but some beautiful flowers to sweeten our day. The girls run to the porch window after looking for the ducklings to see how much growing their plants have done. Last week they took sang to the plants. Today, they played the harmonica for them and also the plants are prayed for nightly. No wonder they are doing so well!

We also went to the farmers markets at Pearland and Froberts, how wonderful to have honey from local beekeepers and locally grown fruit and veg. On saturday, I shopped the stalls while Josh and the girls played 'soccer' on the adjacent field. Yes, spring has sprung and I plan to enjoy it before the long, hot, Texas summer...

Revelation.

2011-03-09T06:00:00.000-08:00

For some time I have been praying over and pondering Lent and what I would 'give up for lent'. It's actually the first time I have done this and it's something I am excited about. 'Sugar' has been on my heart. I love sugar and I know it's bad for me, yet that isn't enough to stop me from my indulgence.

I have tried to give it up on my own strength and failed.

Something I have mulled over for a while also, is why do I struggle to run to God, to the cross when I am in a time or situation of hardship? It seems to be a running theme in my life.

Blurry eyed, disorientated and surprised that it was already alarm clock time, I reached for my Bible to read a my morning psalm. It's a rule I have to help me start my day off with my mind on Christ before a small child lures me from my warm blanket cocoon.

I read:

Truly my soul finds rest in God;
my salvation comes from him.
Truly he is my rock and my salvation;
he is my fortress, I will never be shaken.

Psalm 62: 1-2

The reason to give up sugar this Lent, my first lent, is because I do not always find rest in God, I don't plant my feet on Him and allow myself to sand firm. Instead I eat. I eat sugar.

Tea with cookies. Ice Cream. Coke. Cake. I bake.

When something goes array, when I am emotionally shook up, I think about comfort food. Sugar. The warmth and comfort of that sugar boost. The sweet, familiar taste. Then I feel better. Temporarily.

Yet, the problem in still there, the hurt, the worry, the concern, the fear, the sin. I just sunk it deeper within me. To wait and fester until it get so big, it isn't a little prayer to resolve, but I hurtful, difficult problem.

So this year, while I resist temptation, I will be receiving something even more wonderful than my so called, seemingly trivial, 'sacrifice', compared to Jesus's... I will be learning how to run to God. The enemy will loose this foothold he has in my life.

God you will be be the rest my soul needs. My Rock. My Salvation. My everything.

I am truly looking forward to what God teaches me, on the first lent I have observed. Perhaps I don't understand all the Theology and related liturgy, but I am already learning something more about how to be closer to Jesus. How to receive the Grace and Mercy, that are mine, ours, through the Cross.

Home Cooking, Part 1: The value of a well stocked fridge and pantry

2011-03-08T18:46:00.000-08:00

It's easy to feel overwhelmed by the plethora of ingredients presented in homecooked meals. Looking down the recipe one quickly feels their bank accounts emptying in order to fund the supply of both exotic and familiar foods that are vital to the success of the much coveted home cooked dinner steaming on the table, greeted by a wide eyed, smiled husband and hungry children.

It doesn't have to cost the earth however to home cook and it doesn't need to be fancy either. There is a small investment at the onset, but that is exactly what it is, an investment.

A well stocked fridge and pantry.

Filling the refrigerator and pantry with an assortment of commonly used items that are used for multiple recipes drastically reduces the cost of each meal when spread over the course of days, weeks and sometimes months.

Here is a good list starting list (much more could be added!):

• Dijon mustard • Olive oil • Red wine vinegar • Balsamic vinegar • Plain flour • Self-raising flour • Cornflour • Confectioners sugar • Brown sugar • Cocoa powder • A variety of dried pasta • Egg noodles • Chickpeas • Kidney beans • Tinned chopped tomatoes • Rice (your choice or a selection) • Almonds • Chicken, vegetable and beef stock cubes • Soy sauce• Dried Basil • Table salt • Black peppercorns • Ground cinnamon • Dried oregano • Bay leaves • Ground cumin • Chili powder • Curry powder • Baking soda • Vanilla extract• Baking powder • Nutmeg • Honey • Oatmeal • Mayonnaise • Ketchup • Cinnamon • Ginger • Cloves • Garlic • Cumin • Peanut butter • Butter • Sour cream • A selection of cheeses • Cream cheese • Whole wheat flour • Almonds • Yeast • Black Beans • Potatoes • Onions • Sea Salt • Table salt • Black peppercorns • Castor sugar • Dried oregano • Bay leaves • Ground cumin • Chilli powder • Plain Yoghurt • Coconut Oil • Lemon Juice • Apple Cider Vinegar • Bread Flour • Pearl Barley • Molasses • Cayenne Pepper • Vegetable oil • Tabasco • Eggs • Dried Thyme • Dried Rosemary • Ground sage • Dried oregano • Raisins • Various nuts/dried fruits • Maple syrup. • Worcestershire Sauce • Apple sauce

With these basic ingredients, you are ready to make *almost* any dish with the addition of the needed fresh fruit, vegetables and meat. In Home Cooking, Part 2. We'll talk about selection fresh produce and meat, how to shop for it and optimizing it's use with a meal plan.

Week 1, Day 1.

2011-03-07T18:28:00.000-08:00

WOW. What a day. What a start to the week. God is so good. We started day one of officially homeschooling with volume 1 of 'Five in A Row'.

Each week you read a classic 'living' children's book. Each book explores different cultures, country and concepts and encapsulates geography, history, language arts, religious studies, science, social studies and art.

This week we began with 'The Story about Ping' which is about a little duck who lives on the Yangtze River in China. He decides to avoid a consequence by running away but learns that being away from his family is much worse.

At the beginning of every day, you re-read the book so that the child is able to not only be reminded of the story but is able to pick up on new aspects that they might have missed in prior readings.

Today, we introduced the book with an explanation of where the title was, who the author was and the illustrator. We discussed concepts such as discernment and also that it's best to face up to our mistakes than avoid dealing with them.

We also introduced Esther to the world map, showing her the locations of friends and family around the world and marking them with a star. We also located our first picture disc of Ping in China. We found a the Chinese flag and colored it in.

Esther then continued the lesson with her curiosity 'Mommy, what kind of music and dancing do they do in China?', so we quickly did some searching on youtube for videos of traditional Chinese music and dance.

She is so excited, tonight she thanked God for 'school' and told Him she can't wait to learn more about the place where Ping is from.

I think Josh and I enjoyed ourselves as much as she did. It's so much fun to learn as a family. We are learning knew things too!

Making the most of it...

2011-03-07T15:08:00.000-08:00

I've dreamed of my own vegetable garden for a long while. Fresh veggies, hens roaming, perhaps a peach tree, apple tree, small children devouring their harvest with wonder... a herb garden infiltrating my lungs with it's aroma, flavoring the food I lovingly create... a lilac bush sprinkled with butterflies... climbing jasmine over a seated arbor in which me and my love read and talk in the evening sun... lavender sharing it's perfume which sneaks in through my windows to greet me in the morning heat.

But, I had no where to make this dream come true. So, I gave up and waited for my garden.

My decision to try and grow on the tiny balcony was somewhat because Esther asked me if we could grow something. I didn't want to deprive her of that experience because in my heart I couldn't have the paradise my selfish flesh desired.

I needed to let life and beauty grow and nourish our families souls, even if from a plastic pot on the porch of a city. Indeed, perhaps there is something particularly special about green springing from the potted earth in a jungle of bricks, gray and telephone poles.

There is something miraculous about a seed germinating. An event so beautiful from something so unspectacular appearing. A brown or black seed is put in dirt. Every time I plant, I wonder : Can something grow? Will something grow from the dirt?

Yet, moist soil, air, sunlight and water combine and bring forth the bright green of new life surrounded in an otherwise lifeless pot of soil.

What joy and wonder a little garden on the balcony brings. So many teaching opportunities and also a reminder that, like a seed soaks in the basic elements contentedly and grows unhindered, beautiful, that we too should take what we have, no matter how basic and contentedly use it to bring joy and beauty instead of grumbling with dissatisfaction, wanting more and shunning what we have.

"Let your character be free from the love of money, being content with what you have; for He Himself has said, 'I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you,' so that we confidently say, “The Lord is my helper, I will not be afraid" (Hebrews 13:5-6)

"If we have food and covering, with these we shall be content" (1 Timothy 6:8)

"Besides You, I desire nothing on earth" (Psalm 73:25)

"But godliness actually is a means of great gain, when accompanied by contentment"
(1 Timothy 6:6)

Soaked Baked Oatmeal

2011-01-30T21:28:00.000-08:00

This is a recipe that my dear friend Sarah Kouba at Bread and Honey shared with me and I just had to pass it on. It is always devoured with delight at our gatherings along with tea.

It really can be enjoyed anytime of day, breakfast, a snack or over tea!

INGREDIENTS
2-1/2 c. oats
1-3/4c. buttermilk*
1/2 c. coconut oil
4 eggs
1/2 c.sugar, maple syrup or honey (I use raw honey)
1tsp. baking powder
1/2tsp. salt
2tsp. Cinnamon (I don't use this if using a different fruit ie. strawberries, blueberries etc)
2tsp vanilla
2c. raisins**
2c. chopped apples or pears**
Optional: 2c chopped nuts mixed in or sprinkle on top.

METHOD
Soak oats and buttermilk covered on the kitchen counter overnight. In the morning, beat oil, sugar and eggs until glossy. Add baking powder, salt, cinnamon and vanilla; beat. Stir in oats, raisins and chopped apples/pears. Pour into 9x13 baking dish and bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes (Sarah I generally find in needs 25-30 minutes, but 20 is what the original recipe states)

*Sarah's notes!

Instead of buttermilk, use the same quantity of coconut milk plus 1-2 tablespoons of raw apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. Also, you can use as little as 1/4 cups of honey.

** Rosie's notes!

You can really substitute the raisins/apples for any fruit/nut combo you fancy. I loved it with strawberries and blueberries. Josh wasn't a fan of the texture so I substituted for:

1 cup of dried cranberries
1/2 cup of shredded coconut
1/2 cup of sliced almonds

You can see I have used less fruit etc than the original recipe as a personal preference, but you are welcome to double my quantities if you would like!

Authentic Memories.

2011-01-30T18:30:00.000-08:00

This last week we have visited a lot of tourist places and taken many pictures. I love capturing the moment. I try not to pose the kids, just snap quickly. Sometimes it doesn't work out to hot since I am making myself shoot only in manual.

I also noticed other families taking photographs. One mom determined to make all the children sit still and smile. She was getting stressed and so were the kids. This is not an uncommon sight.

You hear it - at the zoo, at the park, at play dates - SMILE!!! SAY CHEESE!!! SIT DOWN, SMILE! LOOK AT THE CAMERA. Families getting more irate as they try to get a picture.

Why are they taking the picture? Why do people take pictures of their family and friends smiling somewhere together?

Because they want to remember the fun they had.

Then I started thinking, are we really having fun? Are we really enjoying our family? Or are we just taking a picture with fake smiles to share on facebook or frame on the wall? Perhaps we are trying to prove to the world 'we had fun! we are awesome and cool!'

I asked myself: When we are together as a family, I am I making to much effort to get a good picture and forgetting to actually enjoy the people I am with?

Is my determination to get a picture actually sabotaging the fun we could be having instead?

This week, I can answer that I think my picture taking was healthy, but in the past in might not have been. Anyway, I left the camera at home for a few days, just in case.

Lets try and make all our photos of authentic, happy moments. Not just posed pictures that were so hard to get and left us exasperated.

When you look back at your photo albums, you'll remember that special moment, the sights, the smells, the laughter, the conversation...

Here are some shots I took, that made my heart filled with joy, because of the joy and beauty of the people in them that was so clear at that moment. They aren't the best photos, but they are authentic memories.

Changing the Standard.

2011-01-15T21:58:00.000-08:00

We set way too high expectations for ourselves as mothers.

We believe we should have this supernatural freaky super hero power to daily prepare hearty yet healthy foods, have a clean house, teach the two year old how to quote Shakespeare, sew something, read something intellectual yet practical to our daily lives, have written 10 blogs and then welcome our husbands home with a perky smile by the end of each day (oh and attended a play date or two).

This is unrealistic. Women have always competed on the home front and in child rearing but I believe that the world of Facebook and blogging has added extra pressure to the mom.

Every time she logs onto her computer she is inundated with status's of her friends accomplishments, how so and so's 2 month old counts to 52, how such and such made matching dresses for all 20 of her kids - You get the point.

I start reading blogs and all the women seem perpetually happy with sweet anecdotes. They always have a witty light hearted comeback for every difficult situation and never seem to be tired or frustrated.

As a result I look at my own life and productivity in comparison and have feelings of guilt and inadequacy as a mother and wife. I am trying to be someone who is unattainable.

As with photographs in media of airbrushed supermodels, blogs and Facebook have a habit of 'airbrushing' lives to where you only see the highlights and not the daily struggles that we all have.

It's time to change the standard. God's standard.

Let this years standard be to love. To love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind and strength and to love your neighbour as yourself.

This year, come on the journey with me, let God plan your day and activities. Feel the burden taken from your shoulders. When our children look back at the happy times, they won't remember so much all the 'stuff' but they will remember our relationships with God and how it beautifully transformed your love for them.

They will remember to love between you and your husband, as you model the relationship between Christ and His bride, the Church.

You don't have to climb a mountain of tasks each day. Just walk down a path God leads you on at a pace He has set for you.

Take each day slow. Set small goals. Do what you do for God, not because you feel like you need to live up to s standard that you see on social networks or in parenting magazine.

Don't just keep adding stuff to your life to 'keep up with the Jones'. Not making your own laundry detergent, ordering fast food every now and then, not always getting everyone out there PJ's and watching tv, having a good ol' cry doesn't make you below par, it makes you real and human. We are a work in progress, trying each day to be more like Christ. Not that we are perfect from the get go.

Pray about what is a priority in your life. Pray about what gifts and talents God wants you to use in your home to show love and beauty.

Our job is not to be super woman, but to super LOVE the people in our lives.

Living in the future: When did I get old?

2011-01-15T19:34:00.000-08:00

Ok, I get it, I am not really old. But when kids already refer to things you thought were new and exciting as 'old fashioned' and you find yourself saying things like 'Oh yes, I went there but it was, hmmm, 18 years ago' - You feel old. So, it got me thinking about all the 'cool' things that are old news now.

When I was a kid
Compact Disks were scary.
We didn't get the point.
A cassette worked just fine and they were cheaper.
Now CD's are old school. What's a cassette? A record, what?
Pass me the iPod.

I'll admit. I still haven't got into the blu-ray thing. It was not that long ago we were buying VHS. I'm still adjusting to DVDs. Give me more time.

I remember schools getting the first computer labs,
Pioneering new territories in education. Most of the class was taken waiting for the computer to turn on.
We used Ask Jeeves, what's Yahoo?
If you were cool, you had a hotmail account.
Does anyone use hotmail anymore?

Video conferencing was this crazy futuristic thing.
The whole webcam thing was amazing.
Now you can skype from your iPhone.
Seriously, that wasn't something that was supposed to be possible while I was alive,
That was 'THE FUTURE', space agey kinda stuff.

Not all cars had seatbelts. Unleaded fuel was green. Electronic cars, again - space age material.

Remember those HUGE Nokia bricks that everyone had with the big antennae?
We actually thought those were small. Phone charms - enough said.

I know I am not the only one who got excited watching 'Aladdin', being amazed at the animation.
Being blown away by the special effects on Jurassic Park.

Back to the internet. Only rich people had that. Do you remember Libby Kennedy arguing with Carl about getting it, but he was resistant it was so expensive! Oh and dial up. I can't believe we actually couldn't use our phones when the internet was on.

And just for fun...

Slap Bracelets
Scrunchies
POGS
Adidas pants
The Spice Girls
Take That
Wigfield
Funhouse
Goosebumps
Boom boxes
Teenage girls talking like the teletubbies
NOT!!!!

And back to the point:

I am living in an era, in which the things that seemed like they wouldn't happen for hundreds of years until people lived on the moon and drove flying cars are actually happening.

It's just strange. I am beginning to believe that I'll see people frequently transporting like in Star Trek.

And that leads me to another thing... watching old space movies and thinking how old tech the computer equipment looks on the space ships.

Tecnology and trends move so fast. Yet, the awesome thing is, that God is the same, He still loves us and seeks a relationship with us.

Crockpot Roast Beef: The Busy Mom's Lifeline

2011-01-06T16:08:00.001-08:00

It's been a busy year. A VERY busy year. Especially the fall. We moved, we had a baby, Josh started a new job, thanksgiving, Christmas... I have been busy, tired and not had much time to cook and still haven't established a routine.

One thing that is important to me, amongst the craziness is to provide my family with healthy meals each day.

Crock pot beef has been my lifeline. It's so easy, it wins you mega mommy points and you can do so much with it. Sure, I enjoy being more creative at meal time, but with change and a new baby, that is going on the shelf and we're in survival mode when it comes to meals.

Here's what I do and it tastes great every time.

1. Buy an enormous pot roast
2. Cover the roast in flour
3. Sear both sides very lightly
4. Put in crock pot
5. Add 2 cups of beef broth, some salt, pepper, garlic, oregano and half a chopped onion
6. Put on low, I normally leave it on the 12 hour setting. Walk away and don't worry about dinner.

There is so much you can do with this, to make it last several meals. Here are some I have come up with so far, that can get you through 2-3 days.

Beef, Gravy, Roast Potatoes, peas, carrots
BBQ Beef, baked potatoes with sour cream, corn
Beef sub sandwiches, mustard, provolone.
Use it for a soup.
Use it for a pie.
Use it in a salad.

In the past, I had avoided the big roasts because they seemed so exspensive, but they are not, because you can make them work through several meals and it saves a lot of time, which is important, because there aren't many minutes in the right now that I am not attending sweet little ones.

REVIEW: Oliver's Labels

2011-01-06T13:14:00.000-08:00

How often does a sippy cup get left behind at a play date? A coat at the jump zone? How many tears have been shed over lost luvvies and favorite dolls gone astray?

Oliver's Labels seek to solve this long standing dilemna with their cute, durable name tags which come in a variety of cheerful designs and are made with long lasting adhesive backs to stick to a an array of well loved items.

The folks over at Oliver's Labels were kind enough to send me some sweet labels for the girls to take on a test drive. Their customer service is prompt and friendly. Even though I had requested labels that said 'Esther and Rachel Brown', they were kind enough to make the girls individual labels pointing out that "With two young girls and a baby at home, we just know having two sets of our labels will help keep you organized." They definitely understand the importance of being organized to a mother of three.

For the girls, I picked out the nature design, but there were so many choices: Sports, Sea life, Flowers to name just a few.

I was especially impressed with their allergy labels. They provide labels for allergies against dairy, gluten, eggs, seafood, peanuts and http://www.oliverslabels.com/Designs/Products.aspx?DesignID=39. As a parent, something that is always of great concern is the safety of my children. I cannot imagine having the extra worry of a child with severe food allergies. I believe these labels can help put a parents mind somewhat at ease.

So, back to helping kids not loose their stuff! Oliver's Labels have designed and incorporated a nifty little system called 'Found-It'. A 9 digit code is applied to each label. Upon finding an item, the finder can log in to www.oliverslabels.com, report the item using the code and you are notified by email.

Oliver's labels acts as an intermediary, so no personal information is ever shared. As their website says, Found-It really is a homing device for your lost item!

Ok, so here in the moment you have been waiting for! The photo's! Here are so pictures of the items with have tagged so far. Aren't they cute? My girls just love them.

So, what else can you use your Oliver's Labels for? Hats? Toys? Baby gear? Lunch Boxes? Back packs? Use your imagination!

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com and the Tomoson weekly featured sponsor Favorite Wigs - Shop Name Brand Wigs at Low Prices! Large Wig Selection of Forever Young Wigs, and other Quality Wigs. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. Tomoson Product review & giveaway Disclosure.

Learning to read...

2010-12-17T10:12:00.000-08:00

As I began praying and learning about homeschooling, one of my biggest concerns was teaching Esther how to read. I felt (and still feel) inadequate. I don't have a teaching degree, I don't know how to teach phonics etc. So I put a lot of time into researching schools of thought on when and how to teach reading.

I found myself leaning towards the literature based curriculum, Charlotte Mason style learning. I favored the concept that you did not need to push a child to learn reading formally but to begin surrounding them with living books and that reading would stem naturally out of this.

The concept of flashcards, worksheets and three letter work books not only bored me but lacked beauty. It reeked of classroom. And isn't that what I was trying to avoid? I wanted a living, breathing learning experience that was interwoven with a rich daily life.

Now, I am not saying that I have abandoned my ideals, but that it was a shock to the system that my eldest LIKES worksheets, flashcards, workbooks and phonics. Sure, we LOVE to read beautifully illustrated and written living books together, but even though I was not pushing her to read, it seemed, that she was pushing me to teach her formally.

When I read about how bored children get with the above and do much better with informal narration, plays, crafts, it didn't occur to me that this was a general thing and not a rule, and in fact, Esther enjoys these things immensely but actually would rather sit and work on Kindergarten workbook, and wants to finish the creative activity so she could go back to tracing letters, matching patterns and doing mazes.

She learned her letter sounds close to a year ago, but as she was only three, I didn't want to push her and also she was overwhelmed beyond just saying the sound (again, she was the one who chose to learn them, I just followed her lead).

Anyway, jump forward to earlier this week when she pulled Alphaphonics off the bookshelf and asked me about it. I explained what it was and she asked me to do it with her. So, we did! I was amazed that she was putting words together and enjoying it.

On recommendations of lots of friends, I picked up some BOB books from the library. I have to admit, it was a little hard to do, because I had been so excited about literature based learning of reading.

However, I am OVER it. Because today, Esther read a whole book! She is so proud and excited!

Here are some lessons I have learned:

- Every child learns differently and we have to figure out what makes that child tick and figure out what methods work for them. No ones a cookie cutter.

- When a child is ready to learn something, run with it.

- It's all very well to have ideals but whats most important is that the child enjoys the learning and develops a love of learning. If a child begins to hate 'school' because they don't like the phonics lessons and worksheet, try something else. But, if they love the worksheets and phonics, and they are learning and loving it - why fix whats not broken?

- There isn't perhaps a superior way to learning to read, as long as it's done with fun, love and both teacher and student enjoy it and it nurtures a love to read and learn.

- Teaching to read isn't that hard. You can do it! My little girl is READING!!! In less that a week, she is doing amazing. What you need is patience, lots of praise and to follow your child's lead. Don't push before they are ready, it will be tiring and fruitless but if you are paying attention, you'll find that right time and they'll soak it up.

-Finally, I love BOB books. They are not full of eloquent words and beautiful illustrations but, they have given my daughter confidence and a desire to read, read, read! Plus... now, we'll go read some Jan Brett...

Burn the Floor Houston

2010-12-15T17:49:00.001-08:00

Late last week I was browsing through my Facebook news feed and came across a post by The Cloth Diaper Foundation that mentioned a give away for Houston moms.

Naturally I was intrigued and excited. So I followed the link to www.50in8.com , a blog by Lisa Johnston about healthy living, family, product reviews and giveaways.

The giveaway was for Burn The Floor starring Mark Ballas from Dancing with the Stars.

I remember looking forward to watching Simply Come Dancing with Bruce Forsyth when it came out, I think 7-8 years ago now? The beautiful dresses, the expressiveness of dance that conveys our innermost feelings and desires so elegantly.

What little girl doesn't want to be wearing a long flowing dress, as she is waltzed across the room by a chivalrous prince charming?

I decided to enter the ticket giveaway to see this dance performance fresh from Broadway. I love going to the theaters, watching the skill, talents and choreography. It was a teenage dream to be on broadway, sadly, I never had the dance lessons or the voice, but it was a dream non the less that I slip back into once in a while when watching live performances.

I didn't expect to win. I never win giveaways and competitions! But I did, and it was fantastic! Josh and I went on a much needed date night. Joel slept all the way through in my wrap.

Our favorite part was the swing segment. It's amazing how they do all the lifts, and well, I love the music too!

The icing to the cake was the meet Lisa, owner of 50in8 and manager of The Cloth Diaper Foundation. She was there on a mommy-daughter night. Our seats were on opposite sides of the Mezzanine, so we played Wheres Waldo, resulting with me eventually standing up and waving randomly in the intermission, that did the trick!

And just because... here is a picture of me and Joel 'dancing under the stars' outside afterward...

What We Tell Our Kids About Santa...

2010-12-15T17:37:00.000-08:00

Every Christian parent struggles with the dilemma: What do we tell our children about Christmas?

I ran across this post by Pastor Mark Driscoll on the Mars Hill website. It provides some interesting insights and helpful histories.

I was glad for some perspective, as tonight we went to our apartment complex party which had a Santa. I wasn't sure what to tell the children but also wanted to go to the party in order to join in with our community.

What We Tell Our Kids About Santa | Pastor Mark for the Washington Post | The Mars Hill Blog

I also want to clarify, on a general basis, that when I post articles written by other authors, I have read with discernment and found some or most of the information helpful. This does not mean I endorse every statement in the article or everything the individual says, writes or stands for. Remember - Do the research and make prayerful decisions.

The life of Joel (1 month old!)

2010-12-15T14:49:00.001-08:00

With Every new baby, you learn something new. For example, Esther never spit up, so I guess I thought it all the comments of leaving the house covered in spit up or needing lots of burp rags were over exaggerated.

Esther never slept more than 20 minute stretches unless we were driving or she was being held. So when Rachel came out spitting up ALL the time, reflux etc it was quite a surprise. Also, when at just a week old she was sleeping 5 hour stretches, we were in shock, we didn't know that babies did that!

So, what have we learned about Joel so far?

Joel does not like to have his diaper wet at all. Esther and Rachel couldn't care less. So up until now, the whole 'babies cry to let you know if their diaper needs changing' was irrelevant, because the girls didn't. Yeah. Joel will wake up from a deep sleep to let us know... mommy, I need a new diaper!

He loves being on the changing table. This is where he smiles and vocalises the most. This is a new thing, since the girls didn't like having clothes and diapers changed. Joel will go from being fussy to big grins, simply by placing him on the changing table. (Esther and Rachel did not like being changed)

Joel loves baths! Esther hated being bathed, Rachel tolerated it but Joel gets so excited! He loves having his head rubbed while being shampooed and he loves having warm water poured on him.

Joel loves to sleep on his mommies chest. Again, the the girls didn't. But for Joel, he loves lying on his tummy on his mommy and having his head rubbed.

He loves his silly sisters who 'mother' him. They really are wonderful with him. He loves being worn and drinking lots and lots and lots of mommy's milk (Now that it's dairy and wheat free that is!).

We have also discovered, he loves listening to singing. He smiles so big when we sing him a Christmas carol and in the car, if we are driving and he is a little fussy, a song will settle him down fast. Rachel is always singing to him, its adorable!

Every baby is a new, wonderful adventure!

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree

2010-12-15T14:22:00.000-08:00

A couple of weeks ago, we put up our tree! Can I just say, it gets more fun every year as the children older and can participate more. Here are some pictures from our night... Christmas music, dancing, hot chocolate, gingerbread, paper chain making and decoration making!

Crocodiles, make believe and figuring out morality in childhood...

2010-12-05T08:18:00.000-08:00

My girls have a bizarre obsession with crocodiles. Everyday, the subject comes up in conversations, games, drawings. Especially funny is the make believe scenarios that they come up with. Usually they involve Rachel being the mean crocodile that wants to eat Esther, the beautiful princess.

Esther is always, in these games, a beautiful damsel in distress, full of grace and gentleness. Rachel is always the 'bad guy'. In fact, she enjoys it. What toddler wouldn't love roaring, stomping and pouncing? Her character generally starts with the name 'mean'. 'Mean rabbit, mean frog, mean crocodile...

I have to admit, that I was somewhat bothered at first that she found so much delight in being the baddy. As any overly worrisome, hormonal-after-having-new-baby mother might me.

I carefully observed however, that she was always happy for the mean creature to be defeated and for good to triumph. It would not do at all for the mean creature to win.
Both of the girls seemed to agree, in what was good, bad etc.

Next, I began to worry about some of the gruesome aspects of the play.. the mean creature falling into fires, falling of a cliff and dying, the prince killing the mean creature and then celebrating his glorious victory. Or the crocodiles head being cut off and them rejoicing.

It dawned on me that it was not unhealthy, but simply a natural expression of what any moral human being should feel - joy and relief that they are free from evil and persecution. That all is now right in the world.

It's phenomenal that even a small child desires justice and seeks to bring balance between good and evil in their simple play. For we are made in the image of God whose very nature is justice. Throughout the Bible we see God fighting the immoral and unjust whom harm the innocent and weak.

We cannot forget the importance of play and make believe in developing a child's sense of morality. Imaginative play is how children wrestle with the world around them and find out where they fit into it all.

We sit in coffee houses, courts, committees and debate what is right or wrong. Children have a hero and an bad guy. There is no gray, only black and white.

Most certainly it is important that we monitor our children's play with simple directions, challenging them to be just yet merciful, to demonstrates God's mercy, grace and love as they learn. To daily talk with them about their choices. To gently address areas of concern.

As GK Chesterton famously said:

"Fairy Tales are more than true; not because they tell us that dragons exist, but because they tell us that dragons can be beaten.”

To my son, here, asleep on my lap...

2010-12-05T08:08:00.000-08:00

I pray, with tears in my eyes that you become a strong, Godly man like your Father who will know true love in the form of Christ...

Reflections on Mary

2010-12-05T07:54:00.000-08:00

What great lessons of servanthood and love we can learn from the Mother of Christ! I simply want to share a segment from the gospel of Luke and also a song dear to my heart, so that you may too reflect on it prayerfully and be brought to joyful tears!

The Birth of Jesus Foretold

26 In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, 27 to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. 28 The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.”

29 Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. 30 But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. 31 You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. 32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, 33 and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.”

34 “How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?”

35 The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called[b] the Son of God. 36 Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. 37 For no word from God will ever fail.”

38 “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her.
Mary Visits Elizabeth
39 At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, 40 where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth. 41 When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. 42 In a loud voice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! 43 But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? 44 As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. 45 Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!”

Mary’s Song

46 And Mary said:

“My soul glorifies the Lord
47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
48 for he has been mindful
of the humble state of his servant.
From now on all generations will call me blessed,
49 for the Mighty One has done great things for me—
holy is his name.
50 His mercy extends to those who fear him,
from generation to generation.
51 He has performed mighty deeds with his arm;
he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.
52 He has brought down rulers from their thrones
but has lifted up the humble.
53 He has filled the hungry with good things
but has sent the rich away empty.
54 He has helped his servant Israel,
remembering to be merciful
55 to Abraham and his descendants forever,
just as he promised our ancestors.”

56 Mary stayed with Elizabeth for about three months and then returned home.

Let it be done unto me - Danielle Rose

The Lord sent me to Mary
As she was praying in the sun
I said, "Hail, Mary, favored one, the Lord is with you
Mary, it is true."

She did not understand
She said, "Shall I touch the sky with these small hands?"
A peasant girl from Galilee
destined to become
the Queen of Peace

And all the heavens and the earth stand still in silence
waiting for her soul to reply
She is free to choose
God will never abuse
the sacred yes. She cannot be denied

Let it be done unto me
With one small yes, the world will be redeemed
What was impossible is now a possibility
Let it be done unto me

Mary, do not be afraid
Behold, you will conceive a son through whom the world is saved
Humility will be your throne
And in your womb our God
our God will find a home

Oh, Lord, how can this be?
I have not given any man my body's purity
The Spirit will come down,
like once barren Elizabeth can now a child be found

She said yes to the Father
Yes to the unborn
Yes with all her strength
Yes to God alone
The First Holy Communion took place that blessed day
Christ came into her body
when Mary chose to say
when Mary chose to say...

Let it be done unto me

Establishing our family Christmas traditions.

2010-12-05T07:20:00.000-08:00

I have been wanting to begin a Jesse Tree tradition in our homes for several years and this year, we finally got things together in time. When I say that, however, I was very nearly deterred.

I had hope of a majestic branch with beautiful handcrafted decorations but our budget didn't allow for this. I was at a loss, I wanted to begin the tradition but also wanted to bring beauty into the home with it.

After praying about it, I realised - The beauty is in the reading of the scriptures, in being reminded of God's promises, writing in our family's hearts and minds the greatest act of love - God becoming man in the form of a newborn child, so that He may die on the cross and save the world, whom He so loves.

This was the beauty I wanted to bring into our home, not just a pretty tree. It really didn't matter how I made the tree or what it looked like. I desire the meaning of Christmas to penetrate our very souls everyday. Such a wonderful way to add to the advent season!

So, I pulled out an old cardboard box and drew a tree. We painted it with green poster paint. The girls were so excited. Next, I found a pile of colored craft foam. I've been slowly making the symbols for each day. My cutting skills, as someone both left handed and with bad coordination are somewhat lacking. Josh say's my ornaments look cute and childlike, yes - they look like a talented elementary school kid made them, not mommy! hehe

It was so fun to be industrious and use the resources I had lying around to make my hope of beginning our tradition a reality.

Every morning when we have finished breakfast, we pull out the cardboard tree. We pray, we read the relevant scriptures, glue our little foam symbol on the tree, sing a relevant song if we can think of one and then do a little craft or activity together.

What a wonderful 'tradition' it already has become. I love how the girls jump up and down cheering when it's Jesse Tree time. I adore how it sets the tone and focus of the whole day, the conversation it creates.

In the evenings, we have also added a tradition, a modification to our evening Bible study.. We turn off the lights and leave just the Christmas tree lights on. We sit by the tree light, with hot milk, in pajamas and sing Christmas hymns.

We went to the library and found several beautifully illustrated books about the Nativity and the meaning of Christmas that we have in a basket by the tree. We pick one to read together then close with family prayers before bed.

I love the how these traditions are drawing us closer together in love, prayer and unity as a family and how they are teaching us more about God's promises and of Christ.

It is, the most wonderful time of the year!

Daybook! (Haven't done one of these for a long time!)

2010-12-04T12:09:00.000-08:00

Outside my window... A not cold enough to be winter, gray day with a gentle southern breeze

I am thinking... about little Joel. I have been worried about him. Hopefully we'll get him to see the doc soon but in the meanwhile, I'm gearing up to begin the Sears Elimination Diet again, as I did with Rachel, who turned out to be lactose intolerant. I hope it is just an intolerance/allergy that can easily be eliminated from my diet.

I am thankful for... The family 'date' night we had last night. Thai pineapple curry, Pearland Festival and home for hot chocolate!

From the kitchen... For the first time I have really gotten into Christmas baking! Pumpkin pies, gingerbread, snickerdoodles! It's more fun with little girls to bake with and help eat the spoils!

I am wearing... My PJ's, it's a lazy saturday morning. I've had my busiest week since Joel was born and Josh decided I needed to rest, I'm not arguing!

I am creating... Christmas decorations of all kinds! Josh came home with a 6 1/2 foot tree, we've never had one bigger than 4ft before and so didn't have nearly enough decorations.

I am going... to iMMERGENT and am looking forward to seeing everyone!

I am reading... a few things, The imitation of Christ, Psalms, Joshua

I am hoping... That Josh get's a start date for his new job soon

I am hearing... Daddy reading to his little girls and Joel guzzling mommy's milk.

Around the house... I plan to finish organising closets and rearrange the girls room.

One of my favorite things... being productive! I am ready for productivity, creativity and order after several months of transition and change.

I am praying... For so many SLAVES here in America. Also for the homeless, hurting, hungry, ill and lonely.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Story times at Pearland Library, Playdate @ Adair Park! We are 'new friend' searching for Esther.

The Birth of Joel Athanasius

2010-12-01T17:40:00.000-08:00

Joel was taking his time coming. It was 11 days after my 'due date' and for weeks I had been having prodromal labor. Every day, I had hours of contractions that never turned into full labor and every week, we discovered I had dilated more. Indeed, at 38 weeks, I was 2-3cm and at my 41 week appointment was 6cm.

It was very tiring but also a special time. The contractions reminded me that my body was preparing for our new baby to enter the world and it made me bond more with him while still in utero. On the other hand, it encouraged me to spend special time with my girls, to enjoy them and love on them before their worlds changed and they had to adjust to a new baby.

Additionally, after being so focused on the big move down here to Pearland, it gave me time to prepare emotionally and spiritually for the birth. I had not put too much thought into my hopes for Joel's birth, since I had been more focused on getting here and getting settled in. Not to say I wasn't very excited, I just felt like I needed my 'nest' ready before I could focus on the big day!

Josh said that I became OCD, I had to have everything in the house tidy and clean every second of the day. If I didn't I felt stressed because the house had to be PERFECT for labor. I washed the floors nearly everyday, cleaned baseboards, inside cupboards, organised...

The last 5 nights before Joel arrived, consistently around 4/5pm, I would start having contractions 3-11 minutes apart right up until around midnight when they would stop. They were more painful that the last few weeks but also I could quietly sit through them and enjoy conversation, do chores etc.

By thursday 11th, I was feeling a lot of tension. I had family here waiting on me to have the baby, since they had been sure he would be here already and they needed to get home, phone calls constantly and then news that if I hadn't gone into labor before sunday (14 days 'late'), I would have to be transferred out of the care of my midwife and to an OB. I spent most the morning crying and feeling overwhelmed, I was so tired of everyone wanting my baby to come. I just wanted to relax and enjoy the wait but instead I felt like every morning I woke up without a baby, or a day went by without labor beginning that I was failing everyone and letting people down. He would come when he was ready but the 'cut off' was getting closer and closer.

We began to try so much to get labor going, every old wives tail in the book! Except castor oil. My midwife wanted me to try it and to be honest, I was terrified but I feared pitocin and an epidural more and also trusted her judgement! So, we formulated a plan - a root beer-castor oil float, castor oil massaged into my stomach and covered in hot towels and a strong red raspberry leaf cup of tea with 6 teabags. I sat on the sofa with my tea, my belly covered in towels and watched chick-flicks on the laptop. The girls were with Pammy and Stina out having fun, so it was a nice time at home with Josh, him taking care of me, chatting to each other.

I was scheduled to go in around 4:30 to have my membranes swept. So at 4 we got in the car, seemingly the above plan had not done anything. No awful pain and hours on the toilet, no contractions, in fact I was rested and in good spirits.

On the way I began to feel nauseated but just shrugged it off. We got to the office around 4:30 and as usual my contractions had picked up. Like every night! My midwife checked me and I was 7cm. She decided against the sweep and told me that she had never checked a woman who was 7cm and not in labor and she thought that I was.She said that she had an appointment after me but that she would be on stand by to come asap.

I however was very skeptical. For me, these contractions were no different than sooo many nights before. I was hungry, so on the way home we stopped at the Kroger, I wanted steak so much, but once there, I saw some popcorn chicken that was hot and ready to eat, so I opted for instant gratification.

I did not think I was in labor in Kroger, but in retrospect, I clearly was, as I was swaying through contractions as I waiting for the lady in front of me, who was making the biggest order on earth, while all I wanted was the lone cup of chicken popcorn staring at me from the other side of the glass.

At home, I went to my bedroom, my sanctuary and snuggled up and started to watch another chick flick. I tried to time my contractions on an app on my ipod but gave up. Same as always, irregular, 3-11 minutes apart and no more than menstrual cramps. So laid in bed watching 10 things I hate about you and eating my chicken.

All of a suddenly I had one HUGE contraction and promptly threw up. I didn't question that it was time. I looked at the clock, it was 6:38pm. I called my lovely midwife who happened to be close by (Praise God!).

I informed Josh that I had called and she was on her way. He left me in the bedroom and said he would put the girls to bed then join me. Contractions were coming strong and hard by this point, barely a minute or two in between. So I walked into the front room and said ' I need you now' and went back to the bedroom and got on the bed on the birth ball, rocking through each contraction and trying to focus on relaxing. I decided to focus on God, and just began praying, praying, praying for strength, peace and joy as my body did what He had made it for.

Josh was trying to put some relaxing music on but the music was just annoying me, so I had him turn it off! This was nothing like my labor with Rachel. With her, my water has broke in the night, I was relaxed, everything happened gradually etc, but I was in bed watching a movie one minute and in hard labor within minutes. Trying to make calls, get things ready, and being alone at first all made me feel stressed. So on the bed I was trying to relax. My midwife arrived at 7pm. A little after, I felt like I needed to go to the bathroom. I did not realise at this point that I was probably ready to push.

I went to the bathroom and didn't need to go, but then I started to have one LONG contraction and had Josh bring the birth ball to me. He was doing what worked with Rachel - rubbing my back and speaking encouragement but I didn't want touching or to hear anything. I was quite surprised by this!

Anyhow, during this LONG contraction I started crying and felt frustrated that I was having a hard time handling the pain, I felt weak. It didn't compute how far into labor I was, I thought I still had a long way to go but in fact, the reason it hurt so much was because my body wanted me to PUSH!!!

So I started to push a little and it felt so good but I was still in shock. With the next little push my water literally exploded with a loud POP!, and I felt Joel move done even more. I didn't push with contractions, I just pushed a little, paused and pushed a little more. Before I knew it, Christine said - "Reach back and feel his head!" I did and was flooded with joy and relief. It all made so much sense now and I felt his warm, soft lovely head and gave one more push and he was out! The last 2 times I had pushed for a long time reclined on my back, 1 1/2 hours with Esther and 40 minutes for Rachel, so this I was so amazed how fast he came out, can't have been more than a few pushes! I had thought a lot before hand about trying a different position, so I was thankful how it happened naturally.

I really enjoyed how at no point in labor anyone told me what to do, where to be, when to push but just let me follow my natural instincts. The same way as your body tells you when to eat or sleep - it tells you how to birth your baby!

I had been on my knees draped over the birth ball the whole time (this position was great for me pushing!), so I sat up and she passed him between my legs to me.

A lovely, beautiful big boy, with lots of hair came into this world at 7:15pm on November 11th, weighing 8lbs 5oz (My biggest baby!) and 20 1/2 inches. He arrived hungry and ready to nurse, just 37 minutes after my first 'THIS IS REAL LABOR!' contraction. Jamie, who was assisting didn't make it in time!

It turns out I subscribed to labor on the installment plan. I did all the ground work before hand and went straight into transition.

This labor was very different than my last, the only thing that happened the same was that I used the birth ball. But, it was wonderful and I have a beautiful baby boy!

Now, a lot of you know that I was transferred to the hospital very quickly after birth, but I have decided to dwell on the wonderful, marvelous delivery of our new little blessing rather than on the complications.

This labor was very different from Rachel's - In many ways, it was a lot harder and wasn't my 'dream' birth, it all seemed very chaotic and I never really felt much peace because of how fast it all went and the things that happened after. However, the more I process it all, I see God's provision, love and grace in all aspects.

I am so thankful to my midwife, she was amazing the whole time. I praise God for such a wonderful lady. I was so worried about finding a lovely midwife after moving from Fort Worth to Pearland at 36 weeks.

I am also so thankful to my fantastic husband who is the model of love, gentleness and compassion. I so beyond blessed by his overwhelming love for me.

Welcome little Joel!

PS. For those interested, here is my birth story from when Rachel was born!

Caring for the umbilical cord with Goldenseal

2010-11-17T08:29:00.000-08:00

If you have had children, you know all about caring for the cord after birth. The huge clamp, the worry of infection, the stink. We all make a sigh of relief when it eventually falls off.

I am very excited to announce, that there is another way! My midwife introduced me to a new techniques.

Firstly, rather than a clamp, she used a very small rubber band. This means you don't have this big clip to worry about that gets pulled about my clothes and is cumbersome. The band is so tiny that it also is so much easier to take care of the cord stump, you are not trying to work around the clamp.

Secondly, rather than using alcohol or water to clean the cord - you just use goldenseal powder!

Goldenseal is a natural antiseptic that comes in the form of a pleasant smelling goldenish powder.

You sprinkle in on at each diaper change and it keeps the area sterile and dry.

Here is more information...

http://www.ehow.com/how_4886993_care-cord-stump-using-goldenseal.html

The Servant Mother

2010-09-20T22:27:00.001-07:00

Sometimes I am exhausted by the amount of complaining that mothers do about their children. I am saddened by their sarcastic remarks, devaluing jokes, focus on lack of me time, conversation on what a brat so and so is or how terrible the two's are, how little sleep they are getting... you get the picture.

I am not by any means saying that at times these feelings are not valid - yes, it's tiring, there are a lot of icky bodily functions you deal with and you're right - it's not about you any more.

However, when we focus on this in our conversation with other mothers it is not edifying, healthy or bringing glory to our heavenly Father. If all our time with friends are spent sharing horror stories of parenthood and battle scars - this is what our hearts and minds are focusing on.

We are to be servant mothers, as we model the servant God, our Savior. We serve with joy, giving praise for these little blessings that God has given us. We lift up His name as we tenderly love, sacrificially His little children.

In conversation, we talk about the sanctifying work the Lord is doing in our hearts as He teaches us to love our husbands and children. We lift each other up with prayer and encouragement. We share stories and experiences with a heart of pure motives. We listen to other moms with compassion and give them advice that brings glory to God.

Ladies, we have a Savior that died on the cross for us despite our sin, failures and rejection of Him. Let's serve our children as He serves us - despite their sin, failures, tantrums, back-chat...

These little people are made in the image of God, as are we. When we complain, 'gossip' and groan about our children, are we not saddening the Father as we would be if we were doing the very same about our neighbors?

When you are tired - Praise the Lord for His abundant grace in your life that He has given you stewardship of your child despite your failings. Praise Him that you are tired in His service - that through His blood you are deemed worthy.

When your child is disrespectful, Praise God for the mercy He has shown you and be moved with mercy towards your child.

If you feel like you have given all your emotional, spiritual and physical energy in service to your family - draw on the Father for strength through prayer as did Jesus when He faced the cross.

Rejoice and find joy in your children, correct them patiently with grace and let's not sit around for hours moaning and complaining about the high calling we have been given.

Motherhood is a high calling - whether through birth, adoption or being a mother in your church or community, to teenagers who need a maternal figure... it's your commission.

In the details...

2010-07-15T22:41:00.000-07:00

As a mother, I am constantly aware of my own fallen nature and sin. It's easy to get caught up in all the things we feel will negatively impact our precious children rather than noticing all the things we are doing right. The Lord reminded me of this in the sweetest way recently.

As I watch Esther and Rachel together, I see how gentle and kind they are. They talk to each other in sweet voices, are happy to help each other, share beautifully and even at this young age make sacrifices in small ways for each other. They adore each others company and do thoughtful things for each other on their own initiative. I watch Esther comfort her little sister when she falls and see Rachel's heart break when her 'Idy' is crying.

Another beautiful thing to witness is their tenderness and thoughts towards babies. They see a baby as someone to be nurtured. They are doting and complimentary of visiting babies, lavishing affection on them, singing them songs and looking at them with that innate desire to nurture that little girls have.

Even more telling, is the way Esther handles Rachel when she does something 'naughty'. Esther is very patient, she explains things to her carefully, does not scream, shout or lash out, but carefully re-directs her in a positive way. Sometimes, she will put her hand on her little hip and look exasperated at her younger sibling then quickly recompose herself and firmly but lovingly correct her sister.

Most wonderful, is seeing the Holy Spirit working in my tiny Christian's life. For her heart to be burdened with prayer for friends or family. When she identifies sadness in someones life and says ' I think that person needs Jesus!' or she is torn up about injustice that she sees. The most amazing experience is when after making a bad choice, comes to me hours later, despite the apology she made at the time of the incident and genuinely apologises from the bottom of her little heart.

Yes, I am a sinner... and my parenting will never be perfect, but how wonderful it is that I have a heavenly Father, so merciful and graceful that teaches me to be a mother after His own heart, to improve each day...

I must say... my kids are pretty amazing... and i give thanks to the Lord alone for it!

Blessed are the Meek.

2009-10-28T18:27:00.000-07:00

I recently wrote this short devotional for the Metochai Newsletter. Our theme this year is the Beatitudes. I thought I would share this!

I have given my life to ministry, joyfully following the Lord on this difficult journey. Each day I ask Him 'Lord! Transform my heart, so that I can be used for your Glory!' I repent of my flaws that I battle incessantly, asking Him for personality traits that are noble and righteous.

I contemplate the characteristics of the Godly women I respect, desiring to have the qualities of Christ, that they have put on so that they may minister to their families, their brothers and sisters in Christ and the lost. I have come to the conclusion that 'meekness' is the very heartbeat of what makes them effective in God's work.

Meekness is not to be confused with being weak or timid, indeed it requires incredible strength from Christ, self control and self assurance.

Meekness is having a profound understanding of God's mercy and grace in response to our sin, thus coming completely under the authority and control of God.

As we serve, we are humbled, looking on each other with the grace and mercy of our Lord. In our interactions, in the most trying circumstances we are mild and even tempered. We are compassionate and patient as we minister, in the very heat of this battle for the lost.

Creative and Thrifty Play Kitchen

2009-10-26T13:11:00.001-07:00

I came across this and thought it was a wonderful idea, so I wanted to share it with you! It shows you how to make an old entertainment center into a play kitchen for a super thrifty price!

Wooden Play Kitchen

The Namesake Keepsake...

2009-10-04T20:34:00.001-07:00

A few weeks ago, I went to a Just Between Friends Sale and was accosted by a man who was selling print outs of your child's name, with birth date and poem on pretty paper. He was selling them for $7 plus extra for a frame.

They were really cute, but I had a feeling I could make my own for much less. Here is the cost breakdown per 'Namesake'.

Cardstock: 25c (50% off at Michaels)
Border, cut from a scrapbook paper sheet: 59c
Frame: $1 from the Dollar Tree.

Instead of a poem, I picked a scripture for each of the girls. I hope they are something they can keep and be encouraged by when they are older.

Here are the finished products...I intend to hang them above the girls beds.

The non-toxic cleaning kit.

2009-10-04T20:22:00.000-07:00

I have wanted to make my own cleaning kit for a while but since I already had cleaners, it would not have been cost efficient or thrifty. However, since we are moving to a new apartment and currently have no cleaning products, I have no choice but to make new supplies (We got rid of the old stuff, because we didn't want bottles of half full cleaners in storage for 4 months!).

Not only is it cheap, it's also safer and gentler for those of use with little curious children... who will happily eat from the floor, dunk their hands in the toilet and lick the windows. To add to the excitement... its a little better for the environment!

Here is the 'tutorial' I plan on using... I will update you when I have made my cleaning products.... with pictures of course!

CLICK HERE FOR TUTORIAL

The Esther Survey

2009-09-18T09:28:00.000-07:00

Today Esther handed me a block and explained that it was my microphone and I had to ask her questions. Some of the answers seem so simple, but as I asked and listened, I was suddenly aware of how grown up she was getting. She not only is really mastering language, but that she has very detailed opinions on things, likes and dislikes.

It went something like this...

What is your name?
Esther

How old are you?
(Holds up 3 fingers)

What is your favourite colour?
Pink

What is your favourite food?
Ice Cream

What is your favourite drink?
Apple Juice Limeade

What is your favourite movie?
Shrek

Any others?
Letter Factory.

Where to you like to play?
My room

Where do you like to eat?
Downstairs in the kitchen

Who is best at cooking?
Mommy, you are.

What is your favorite animal?
Cats and dogs. I am going to get them when I am older.

Do you have a brother or sister?
(Points at Rachel) That baby there. Its a sister.

Who is your best friend?
Emma

What do you like to wear?
Dresses.

Shopping the Farmer's Markets

2009-08-29T09:38:00.000-07:00

This morning we headed out bright and early to catch the farmers market. As we pulled up, we were all excited since a row of stalls is a rare site in a Texas city! It was a new experience for Esther also.

I first was drawn to the stall with Goat's cheese which was delicious, then some hand made soaps. After that we looked at the vegetables. It was so hard to choose since everything looked great. We settle for some peaches, pears, a big cantaloupe melon and some jalapenos.

Next, we headed out to the Ridgelea farmers market which is open all week. They have a wide variety there always, so I was drawn to ask some questions. Upon inquiring, I found that the grapes, strawberries and blueberries were not local but she told me what was. I also asked what of that was grown through sustainable methods but they were not sure.

Before checking out the preserves, we sat down for a bottle of Dublin Dr Pepper (if you haven't had it, you should! Its made just a few hours away from us with cane sugar, much tastier than the canned stuff!).

I was excited to find some raw honey at a not so inflated price and we also got some damson plum jam.

Overall it was a fun time! I have to admit though, I am looking forward to the time when I can spend some time on some sustainable pick your own farms or have my own patch! I cannot imagine the thrill of cooking my home grown produce. In the meantime, I am reading as much as I can to prepare!

Delicious - Curried Butternut Squash Soup

2009-08-24T15:54:00.000-07:00

I just remembered this delicious recipe as I was trying to make this weeks meal plan... enjoy!

Curried Butternut Squash

An article of interest from this weeks issue of TIME.

2009-08-24T15:04:00.000-07:00

Getting Real about the High Price of Cheap Foods by Bryan Walsh

I thought this was a really interesting article. Sometimes it is hard to spend that extra on better organic foods, but in the end, can we really afford not to?

Learning from Charlotte Mason

2009-08-24T08:45:00.000-07:00

Several months ago, a dear friend gave me a copy to read of The Charlotte Mason Companion by by Karen Andreola. Charlotte was born in 1842 in Bangor, England and went on to revolutionize education in Great Britain. You can read her biography HERE.

I am falling in love with her idea's, most notably the concept of 'Living Books' and 'Narration' in the early years. She wrote, of books...

"For the children? They must grow up upon the best . . . There is never a time
when they are unequal to worthy thoughts, well put; inspiring tales, well
told. Let Blake's 'Songs of Innocence' represent their standard in poetry
DeFoe and Stevenson, in prose; and we shall train a race of readers who will
demand literature--that is, the fit and beautiful expression of inspiring ideas
and pictures of life."

I love her thoughts in this quote:

"Education is a life. That life is sustained on ideas. Ideas are of spiritual origin,
and God has made us so that we get them chiefly as we convey them to one another,
whether by word of mouth, written page, Scripture word, musical symphony;
but we must sustain a child's inner life with ideas as we sustain his body with food."

As I read Charlotte's idea's, I find a passion and excitement to teach my children in my home. I find myself nodding as I read and narrating thoughts to my husband who agrees also.

I am currently looking for some good writing on classical education, so if you know of any please let me know!

This book is on the way, I am excited to receive it... I am sure I will be updating you when I read it!

Anyway... back to Charlotte Mason in our home. Karen Andreola suggests two books for using with very young children prior to the age of formal narration. "Aesop's Fables" and "Mother Goose". As soon as a read this, I admonished myself for not already having copies of either and the next day found them at Half Price Book's.

Esther already has a passion for books and will just sit with a pile and 'read' them, so she was enthusiastic to dig into some new material with me.

This morning we read "The Crab and its Mother"

"A CRAB said to her son, "Why do you walk so one-sided, my child? It is far more becoming to go straight forward." The young Crab replied: "Quite true, dear Mother; and if you will show me the straight way, I will promise to walk in it." The Mother tried in vain, and submitted without remonstrance to the reproof of her child.

Example is more powerful than precept."

Its such a short story, but its perfect for Esther. She was able to re tell the story, then talked about crabs, shells, the ocean and then practiced walking around like crabs.

I also encouraged her to tell her Daddy about it when he got home and she immediately started walking like a crab with a big grin on her face.

Are you sure you are ready to turn forward?

2009-08-18T09:43:00.000-07:00

Growing evidence shows that rear facing beyond the minimum 1 year and 20 pounds is much safer for children. In fact, rear facing is recommended until 2 years and beyond.
This is a great video, please take the time to watch it.

Thai Iced Coffee

2009-08-17T20:32:00.000-07:00

There is this fantastic Thai restaurant in Arlington called Sukho Thai. Josh and I went there on our first date, it has been a regular haunt since then. They have delicious thai iced coffee, which we are trying to reproduce at home.

We've tried several recipes from the web to no avail. Does anyone have a tried and true recipe?

Daybook.

2009-08-16T13:28:00.000-07:00

Outside my window... Are dream's of my own garden one day. A vegetable patch... a tree swing... a fort... a cloth's line... roses... working as the children run and play. I have ordered The Backyard Homestead. to educate myself!

I am thinking... about the future, the plans God has for us... our life feels like a an adventure story, we've barely made it past the prologue yet!

I am thankful for... this cozy rocking chair in the girls room, where I can relax after our voyage to the park in the hot sun, while they play contented.
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From the kitchen... Last night I made cottage pie, a favorite in our home. Somehow last night, it happened to taste just perfect!

I am wearing... all black!?! I try to avoid alot of black. I was wearing a green shirt over a black tank, but I got too hot, hence... woman in black.

I am creating... not much, since my sewing machine and fabric is packed right now. Although... I am 'creating' a little sanctuary for me and the girls in their room.

I am going... to be mostly at home this week, working on unpacking. Also, enjoying a park right around the corner!

I am reading... Feeding your child for lifelong health. Learning about metabolic programming and understanding vitamins and minerals more! I am also reading some blogs, enjoying Elizabeth Foss's right now.

I am hoping... that my husband and I can have a date night this week.

I am hearing... drum rhythms! First worship team practice tomorrow. I am nervous.

Around the house... boxes, boxes and more boxes. A project a day! Tomorrow, I am working on re-shelving books and CDs.

One of my favorite things... Cold milk and chocolate. So nice after a long day!

I am praying... for Josh's uncle who is having some major medical issues right now.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Worship Team Practice, Food Ministry, Date :-D Fun family day, unpacking, hopefully seeing Ashley.

A sweet date

2009-07-31T20:47:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, my husband and I went on an afternoon date. We decided that would be better so that we could keep the children in there evening routines and not have to move them sleeping.

First we went to Barnes and Nobles, where we walked around and found books that we were wanting to read, then flicked through them and discussed them over some coffee. We also shared a huge brownie with chocolate chunks.

After, we decided to go and check out the half price books clearance section where Josh found two books he had been needing for just a $1. Funnily, he was just saying how he never finds anything in the clearance section for himself whereas I always do. We had a reversal of results, I found nothing!

Wandering around and bantering, Josh pointed to a book and used its title to finish his sentence making me giggle, I quickly looked around for a title to respond with. Thus a game was born!

I know that our conversation made very little sense, but we had a great time and were giggling and smiling like a pair of teenagers on their first date!

Sometimes, the simplest, cheapest dates are the most wonderful!

Daybook!

2009-07-30T11:03:00.000-07:00

Outside my window...
Dark gray clouds... its been a rainy, humid and dark week weather wise. We've had some fun 'rainy days'. A rare treat!

I am thinking... the date my husband and I are going on this afternoon! I am so excited.

I am thankful for...God's amazing provision and love for us. He cares about the details of our lives and blesses us so greatly!

From the kitchen... we ate ham sandwiches for lunch!

I am wearing... my pajamas still! Why dress to clean and play?

I am creating... decorations for Rachel's birthday party. We're going to get some poster board and have some fun with markers!

I am going... to have a wonderful week with my husband home! Looking forward to family time, growing closer to each other and the Lord.

I am reading... I just finished Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers, this morning I was skimming through 'Raising your spirited child'.

I am hoping... to keep the joy of the Lord in my heat and be thankful for all things!

I am hearing... Esther is singing and swishing a blanket, Rachel is babbling sweetly!

Around the house... things are looking good, maybe I'll make some curtains for the front room?

One of my favorite things... my husband not working nights, falling to sleep together and waking up together being pounced on by small children!

I am praying... so many friends going through challenging times. Peace about the future!

A few plans for the rest of the week: Lots of visits with friends and family, various appointments, having a nice time!

The Nibble Tray

2009-07-24T09:54:00.000-07:00

I came across this idea in my reading and today, as a rummaged around for something to supplement our lunch (black beans, brown rice, tomatoes, onion, ground beef, some seasoning...yummy!), I remembered this idea. I combined 2 ideas - the nibble tray and the dipping, since my fridge needs restocking so I was limited.

Taken from the Sear's website...

Toddlers like to graze their way through a variety of foods, so why not offer them a customized smorgasbord? The first tip from the Sears' kitchen is to offer toddlers a nibble tray. Use an ice-cube tray, a muffin tin, or a compartmentalized dish, and put bite-size portions of colorful and nutritious foods in each section. Call these finger foods playful names that a two-year-old can appreciate, such as:

* apple moons (thinly sliced)
* avocado boats (a quarter of an avocado)
* banana wheels
* broccoli trees (steamed broccoli florets)
* carrot swords (cooked and thinly sliced)
* cheese building blocks
* egg canoes (hard- boiled egg wedges)
* little O's (o-shaped cereal)

Place the food on an easy-to-reach table. As your toddler makes his rounds through the house, he can stop, sit down, nibble a bit, and, when he's done, continue on his way. These foods have a table-life of an hour or two.

Dip it. Young children think that immersing foods in a tasty dip is pure fun (and delightfully messy). Some possibilities to dip into:

* cottage cheese or tofu dip
* cream cheese
* fruit juice-sweetened preserves
* guacamole
* peanut butter, thinly spread
* pureed fruits or vegetables
* yogurt, plain or sweetened with juice concentrate

Those dips serve equally well as spreads on apple or pear slices, bell-pepper strips, rice cakes, bagels, toast, or other nutritious platforms.

Today in our nibble tray was: organic Celery Sticks, organic Carrots, Blueberries, organic Bananas, Wholewheat crackers, cottage cheese, organic peanut butter, plain yoghurt sweetened with some honey.

Hopefully I can offer different things each a day and get more creative!

Raw Milk!

2009-07-24T07:57:00.000-07:00

I had my first glass of raw milk the other day, a friend had driven out to a farm in Cleburne to buy some to try. I must saw I was a little nervous as I lifted the glass to my mouth.

My last experience with milk straight from the source, was goats milk and it tasted like the goats last meal!

However, I was pleasantly surprised! It was creamy, pure and delicious! I look forward to heading out to the farm myself soon! At $7.00 a gallon, it will be a very occasional treat.

I just found this website and am reading about the benefits etc.

http://www.rawmilkbenefits.com/

A verse for the week and a new journey through Romans

2009-07-23T08:36:00.000-07:00

My good friend sent this scripture to me after it spoke volumes to her heart, so I decided to make it my memory verse for the week. May it bless you also!

"Let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth" 1 John 3:18

Last night I felt the Lord leading me to spend time reading through Roman's, if you would like to read along with me, please let me know, I'd love to explore it with you! I have just read 1:1-16 and am still meditating on it.

I say this, after reading Paul's salutation and being struck by the importance of fellowship, encouragement and prayer with the body of Christ as we live each day by Faith.

Daybook :-)

2009-07-22T13:30:00.000-07:00

Outside my window...
Red blooms on the green tree, looking out of place in the Texas heat.

I am thinking... of fall, cooler, windy days and time outdoors, colorful leaf montages.

I am thankful for... A lovely morning with sweet, uplifting ladies and special little ones.

From the kitchen... Delicious pancakes for breakfast
http://www.nigella.com/recipe/recipe_detail.aspx?rid=221

I am wearing... My new favorite full length skirt from the Clothing Exchange this last saturday, a dark brown t-shirt and barefeet.

I am creating... there is a pattern for a little girl's capri and ruffle shirt on my table just waiting to be made!

I am going... I am home for the rest of the evening and looking forward to time with P & S tomorrow afternoon.

I am reading... The Nutrition Book but hoping to find some Christian fiction to 'relax' to!

I am hoping... to watch another sermon with my beloved tonight before he leaves for work.

I am hearing... My A/C unit turning on, the lovely sound of my nursling enjoying mama's milk.

Around the house... things needs to be put in order, my laundry needs to be put away, the dishes taken out the dishwasher, the floor swept and mopped and dinner cooked all before 5pm!

One of my favorite things... heartfelt hugs and I love you's from E and sweet giggles from little R.

I am praying... for a joyful, thankful and peaceful heart.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Reorganizing the girl's room, planning Rachel's first birthday party.

Babies Don't Keep by Ruth Hulburt Hamilton

2009-07-22T13:27:00.000-07:00

Mother, O Mother, come shake out your cloth,

Empty the dustpan, poison the moth,
Hang out the washing, make up the bed,
Sew on a button and butter the bread.

Where is the mother whose house is so shocking?
She’s up in the nursery, blissfully rocking.

Oh, I’ve grown as shiftless as Little Boy Blue,
Lullabye, rockabye, lullabye loo.
Dishes are waiting and bills are past due
Pat-a-cake, darling, and peek, peekaboo

The shopping’s not done and there’s nothing for stew
And out in the yard there’s a hullabaloo
But I’m playing Kanga and this is my Roo
Look! Aren’t his eyes the most wonderful hue?
Lullabye, rockaby lullabye loo.

The cleaning and scrubbing can wait till tomorrow
But children grow up as I’ve learned to my sorrow.
So quiet down cobwebs; Dust go to sleep!
I’m rocking my baby and babies don’t keep.

I finally made the dress...

2009-07-21T06:15:00.000-07:00

From the tutorial posted below! Its very cute, and Esther loves it, my sewing is not the best, mostly due to my ornery sewing machine. I didn't do the trim on the bottom because I ran out of white thread. So, here you go, made out of a man's shirt from the Metochai Clothing Exchange!

Tasty Sprite Tea.

2009-07-20T18:37:00.000-07:00

I wasn't sure whether to call it 'Tea Sprite' , makes me think of a fairytale creature that loves tea... anyway!...

You can learn how to make this delicious drink and also read about a pretty awesome family right here...

http://birdhousechronicles.blogspot.com/

Modesty

2009-07-18T15:26:00.000-07:00

I was sent this article after a conversation with the lovely Michelle Bullens. Its a fantastic little article on modesty. I've pasted it below for your convenience, here's the link in case you want to explore the website more, which I have not done yet!

http://purefreedom.org/media0015.htm

"Truth Or Bare?" Modesty Tests

This is the much requested list of creative tests to determine whether an outfit is modest or not. We developed them so a girl can go through the thinking process by herself and let her heart be molded into modesty rather than face a legalistic set of rules. These may work for you or you may want to develop your own tests. Try them out and send us new ideas!

TEST #1-SPRING VALLEY
"Is my shirt too tight?"

Take the tips of your fingers and press into your shirt right where your ribs come together in the "valley" in the middle of your chest. When you take your fingers away does your shirt immediately spring back like a small Smurf trampoline? If so, your shirt it too tight!
SOLUTION: Get rid of the shirt. It's not going to get bigger overnight. Try a different bra first as sometimes that can make a huge difference.

TEST #2-RAISE & PRAISE
"Am I showing too much belly?"

Stand and pretend you are totally going for it in worship and lift your hands up in the air with your arms fully extended to God. Is this exposing any belly skin? Even if you don't raise your hands to worship, just think of all the things you do every day that causes you to lift them up.
SOLUTION: Go for layers and put a longer shirt under a shorter one. Our secret weapon: a ribbed t-shirt or tank from the men's department. They're nice and long and stay tucked in under a cool, trendy shirt.

TEST #3-I SEE LONDON, I SEE FRANCE
"Can you see my underpants?"

Can you see a distinct outline of your panties through your pants, skirt or shorts? This can happen if your pants are too tight or because your undies are too bright! And while we're on the subject, can you see any straps from your bra? That's not A-O-K! The only straps showing on a girl of God should be the straps from her cute summer sandals!
SOLUTION: Trash your tight pants. For lighter colored pants and skirts, keep a few pair of "Grannie Panties" (big plain white ones) on hand for a safe look. And as far as those bra straps...don't do it! Make sure your tank tops have nice wide straps to cover your bra.

TEST #4-MIRROR IMAGE
"How short is too short?"

When you buy either shorts or a skirt, try this test. Sit in front of a full length mirror. Sit both "indian style" on the floor and with your legs crossed in a chair. What do you see? If you see too much thigh or your panties, guess what? So can everyone else. If you really want to up the ante, imagine that mirror is your dear ol' grandpa! (P.S. We stole this test from Susie Shellenberger or Brio magazine! Thanks, Susie!)
SOLUTION: Today's skirts are about extremes. Go for extremely long...extremely full...but pass on extremely short. As far as shorts go...they can be hard to find but keep looking! And check out the favorite places to shop on this blog. It'll help you find shorts with longer in-seams!

TEST #5-THE PLUMBERS TEST
"Are my pants just too low?"

It 'aint cute on the plumber and it 'aint so cute on girls either. The terrible...the awful....crack view! Sit "indian style" on the floor. Bend forward as if you're about to devour a great magazine. Now, reach behind you and get a feel of what might be the featured view if your jeans are too low. (Or ask a girlfriend to check you out!)
SOLUTION: Some low riders are just too low. Find a pair that won't cause viewers to blush for you.

TEST #6-STAND IN THE GAP
"Tell me now...is my shirt too tight?"

When wearing a button down shirt, stand sideways and look in the mirror. Is the space between the buttons gaping open, even just a little bit? If it's pulling enough to cause a gap you're in danger of exposing way too much and in danger of losing a button!
SOLUTION: NO Brainer. Shirts that are too tight are a totally bad idea if you want to dress modestly. It's not JUST about how much of our beautiful epidermis is showing, but how much of our shape is showing! Try buying a size or two larger. (If that bugs you cut out the tag when you get home.) Or, try a t-shirt under the button down and leave it open for a layered look.

TEST #7-BRA-LLIANTE IDEA
"Is it cold in here?"

OK, girls...hate to bring this one up but when we get cold or nervous sometimes we can "get nippy"...if you catch my drift. When this happens, it is visible to others IF our bras are not thick enough. There's no test for this really...at least not one that I want to take! But keep in mind that when you're wearing thinner shirts, wear a thicker bra to avoid this problem. When you have on a sweater or a thicker shirt, go for a thin and cute bra if you want!

TEST #8-PALM PILOT
"Is my shirt too low?"

It's time for a secret weapon! A men's tank, slip this under a button down that exposes cleavage below your hand when placing your thumb on your collar bone. You can also try a trendy layering technique by putting a button down under a polo or rugby shirt that plunges too low.

---

What's for Dinner?

2009-07-13T12:31:00.000-07:00

Do you ever just look at your cupboards and think 'I have no idea what to make tonight?'... sure, I try to plan my meals but sometimes I haven't been grocery shopping yet, or just want a change!

I've been really enjoying these websites lately...

www.allrecipes.com and www.kraftfoods.com

You can type in the ingredients you want to use, then search. You'll get a list of recipes using the items you have.

If you read the reviews, they will give you tips on how you can change/modify the recipe to make it better.

This is tasty, one that Ashley found for me :-D except we use a whole bottle of Wishbone Italian Robusto dressing and add chicken.
http://www.kraftfoods.com/kf/recipes/capellini-caprese-111255.aspx

We made this last night...

http://www.kraftfoods.com/kf/recipes/spiced-butternut-squash-couscous-91348.aspx

And last week we had...a tasty way to enjoy spinach!

http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Lauras-Unbelievable-Chicken-and-Pasta/Detail.aspx

Please share your recipes!

What a great idea! Little Girl's Dress Tutorial.

2009-07-03T13:42:00.000-07:00

I would LOVE to sew more. However, on a limited budget, its not often I can spend the money on the fabric and its not everyday you stumble on a bargain at a yard sale. So I am really excited to find this tutorial using an old shirt - maybe you can find one at Goodwill or a yard sale, or even one that your good cooking has deemed unwearable for your husband!

I hope to try it very soon! I will be sure to post pictures when I do. This is a link from a forum, I think the mommy made the pattern herself, so be sure to give credit!

http://www.craftster.org/forum/index.php?topic=170402.0

Conversations with a 3 year old.

2009-07-02T08:26:00.000-07:00

As you probably know, 3 year old children are probably the best comedians. Whether they try or not. Here are some recent conversations with Esther, who is as cheeky as she looks in the above picture!

Mommy: Esther, time to brush your hair!
Esther: I don't want to brush my hair.
Mommy: But don't you want to look like a princess, like Belle?
Esther: NO MOMMY! I'M THE BEAST!!!

Later on that hour...

Mommy: Come here my little penguin!
Esther: I am not a penguin. I'm a snake.

I love this stage, she is just figuring so much out, testing social interactions, reasoning the world all around her, asking 'why?'. Its an age of wonder and beauty. If you have a cheeky chatterbox of a three year old, nurture and enjoy that little mind!

Rachel walks!

2009-07-02T08:18:00.001-07:00

I think I can say that Rachel officially walks... I think. She can walk, she has taken as many as 8 steps in a row several times. Here is the thing though, you have to entice her to come to you with a toy or promises of milk. Otherwise she is happier crawling. If she made the choice that walking was more advantageous, she could do it, she just hasn't made that choice yet! But, I'll say 'she walks!' because I know the sweet, stubborn baby can and would, as soon as it suits her, ability is not holding her back!

Thinking about cloth diapering?

2009-07-02T06:28:00.000-07:00

I get a lot of questions about cloth diapers. I have written a cloth diaper 101, but I figured that would be long and tedious. So, I asked some questions of some sweet mama's on www.diaperswappers.com, an interview of sorts, to help you navigate the world of cloth and decide whether it's right for your family.

Poppan
Why do you cloth diaper?
I think it's better for my LOs skin.

What cloth diapering system do you use?
Fitted + wool (for breathability) and pocket AIOs (for convenience).

What do you love about cd'ing?
I love doing laundry. There is something magical about getting stains out, putting dirty clothes in and getting clean clothes out. Washing CDs is much more rewarding than washing regular clothes, and I get to do it every day.

What is your least favorite thing about cd'ing?
Feeling like it's my fault when rashes happen.

What detergent do you use to wash?
I have tried several but keep having to go back to Tide HE powder. The others just haven't cut it for me.
If you had to tell a new cd'er just ONE piece of advice... what would it be? K.I.S.S. (keep it simple)

Mrsallary

Why do you cloth diaper?
I cloth diaper for many reasons: 1. it was a financially cheaper choice for our family 2.cloth diapers are healthier for baby 3.cloth diapers are healthier for the environment…no disposable-polluting here 4.cloth diapers are just plain cuter than disposables!

What cloth diapering system do you use?
We use prefolds and covers, fitteds and covers, pockets, and AIOs.

What are the advantages/disadvantages of your cloth diapering system?
Advantages for us: saving lots of money, cuter diapers, healthier bottom for baby.
Disadvantages: I hate washing laundry, so washing dipes every 3 days is a chore, but it’s beginning to be less bothersome to me.

What do you love about cd'ing?
I love that my son has a cuter tushie than most other babies. LOL. I also love sewing, so making dipes is super fun for me!

What is you least favorite thing about cd'ing?
Laundry day. LOL

What detergent to you use to wash?
We use Sun free and clear…it’s cheap and it gets the dipes super clean.

If you had to tell a new cd'er just ONE piece of advice... what would it be?
Prefolds and snappis get easier with practice! I promise!

Parkers Mom

Why do you cloth diaper? Better for the enviroment is my number one reason, closely followed by cost.

What cloth diapering system do you use? A little of everything. We mostly use pockets, but also have some AIO's, and prefolds and fitteds with some fleece and PUL covers.

What are the advantages/disadvantages of your cloth diapering system? I love having options when I am picking out a diaper. For instance, if we are just hanging around the house, prefolds are great with fitteds for naps, if we will be running around, I love Pockets or AIOs. I like having a little of everything. The disadvantage to me would be having to learn a little about all the options we have. For instance, DH just sticks with pockets because once he has learned one way of doing things he doesn't want to have to learn all about another.

What do you love about cd'ing? Mostly everything. I love knowing I am doing something to help out the environment my son is growing up in. I love not having to waste money on a disposable that I will just throw away. And mostly, I love the fun, cute diapers there are around. Nothing beats a cute CD bum.

What is you least favorite thing about cd'ing? The learning process for washing diapers. I am still trying to figure out what works best for us and I have spent more money and time on detergents/other additives than I care to think about. I really wish there were a way to make it a more simple process altogether.

What detergent to you use to wash? Purex Free and Clear at the moment, which is working okay, but I have tried several of the other popularly suggested detergents. I am still looking for the right one for us.

If you had to tell a new cd'er just ONE piece of advice... what would it be? Don't give up. It won't be the easiest thing at first, but its worth it. Don't expect that what you had completely planned on using will be what actually works best for you. Practice makes perfect so to speak, so if one diaper doesn't work, give another one a try. You will eventually find what works best for you.

twolittlebeans

1. Why do you cloth diaper? To save money and for the environment
2. What cloth diapering system do you use? Primarily prefolds and covers with a few fitted diapers and All in Ones for going out
3. What are the advantages/disadvantages of your cloth diapering system? Prefolds with a snappi are not easy for everyone to use (my mom can't get the hang of the snappi!)
4. What do you love about cd'ing? Knowing I am saving money and my daughter's diapers aren't sitting in a landfill for the next 500 years!
5. What is you least favorite thing about cd'ing? Having to carry a bigger diaper bag
6. What detergent to you use to wash? Tide HE original
7. If you had to tell a new cd'er just ONE peice of advice... what would it be? Keep it simple....remember it is just a diaper!

marcidpa

Why do you cloth diaper? no chemicals, less waste, fun
What cloth diapering system do you use? AIOs and pf fitteds w/wool
What are the advantages/disadvantages of your cloth diapering system? wool can be expensive, AIOs can take long to dry and fitteds need a snappi and a cover
What do you love about cd'ing? I love the softness of the dipes - I use mostly cotton, colors and prints are fun too
What is you least favorite thing about cd'ing? when I forget to use a liner and have to dunk and flush to get poo off
What detergent to you use to wash? Charlie's Soap and OxoBrite
If you had to tell a new cd'er just ONE piece of advice... what would it be? Find one thing that works well and buy that as your bulk - for me it was pfs and now pf fitteds, then have a few of some other types of things that work but give you some variety like I have a dozen of different types of AIOs and in different colors too.

marrsgirl

Why do you cloth diaper?

Economical reasons, environmental reasons, and NO diaper rash, EVER!

What cloth diapering system do you use?

We use mostly PFs and fitteds with covers, although we have a handful of AIOs and pockets that DH prefers. We use AIOs for outings because they're easier to change, but NEVER at night. I've made almost every dipe in my stash, and love trying out new fabrics and fine-tuning my pattern to fit my DS perfectly.

What are the advantages/disadvantages of your cloth diapering system?

I love cloth so much! DS #2 had terrible raw diaper rashes with sposies. I travel a LOT for work; 150 days a year, so we didn't even consider cloth as an option back then, but if I'd known how EASY it is, I would have at least used cloth when I was not traveling. Until DS #3 I thought all CDs were the PFs with pins and seriously yucky rubber pants. I had no idea cloth had been through such an evolution. The only disadvantages would be using cloth away from home (although not as bad as the rash that ensues from sposies), and the fact that DH can't seem to learn which dipes need covers, which ones AREN'T okay for night time, etc.)

What do you love about cd'ing?

Knowing how much money I'm saving, how much better it is for the earth, how much more comfortable DS must be. Also, the one week we used sposies at MIL's we found that every third one leaked all over his clothes, and of course he developed a rash.

What is you least favorite thing about cd'ing?

It is more work. But not that much. It's one extra load of laundry every other day. Rinsing off poo is no real thrill, but not such a biggie. When people ask me: "Isn't it more work?", my answer is yes, but so is separating the recycling from the rest of the trash, and we all do that without even thinking about it.

What detergent to you use to wash?

We've used Purex Free and Clear from day one with no problems. I've never used anything else. It's inexpensive, I can use it on the rest of our laundry, and I don't have to go to Whole Foods to buy it.

If you had to tell a new cd'er just ONE piece of advice... what would it be?

Don't go out and buy a whole stash worth of one style and brand before you've tried a few different things. Not every style/brand works for every baby so try out a few options before you invest heavily in one thing.

geminimama61709

Why do you cloth diaper?
-We choose to CD because of cost and environmental issues. The idea of spending hundreds of dollars on something you throw away really bothered me, and since we're on a single income right now, it really helps to not have that be a worry.

What cloth diapering system do you use?
-We are currently using a very mixed stash. Mostly GMD pf's and covers, with some fitteds (BG bamboo), pockets (cloth diaper wholesale stuffed with hemp babies little weeds), and AIOs (BG and Sposoeasy). I intend to add some BG organic AIOs and start using the flats I have once DS is bigger.

What are the advantages/disadvantages of your cloth diapering system?
-Advantage: It's pretty easy- since it's mostly natural fibers, the wash routine is simple, and since it's so varied, we don't get bored!
Disadvantage: pfs can get bulky at times, and jelly roll folding on a squirmy, screaming newborn can be challenging!

What do you love about cd'ing?
- I love that I'm doing something good for DS- no rashes, no horrid perfumes, no gel, no chemicals! I also love that our diapering routine is a little "unconventional." And even so, no one who's come to visit has even noticed that he's got a fluffy bum!

What is you least favorite thing about cd'ing?
- Probably the fact that people who don't do it don't get it. Members of my family are totally grossed out by it and say some pretty rude things about our choice.

What detergent to you use to wash?
-We are currently using Planet Ultra powder detergent. So far, so good... although I've only washed 4 or so times.

If you had to tell a new cd'er just ONE piece of advice... what would it be?
- Simpler is usually better when it comes to cloth diapering. You don't need to have the latest and greatest of everything IMO. If it works, stick with it!

heather8183

Why do you cloth diaper? I cloth diaper to be different But really, a big advantage is that we save money and my baby's butt is healthy!
What cloth diapering system do you use? Mostly Fuzzi Bunz pockets and BGOS at night
What are the advantages/disadvantages of your cloth diapering system? Some people don't like using pockets because there's an extra step of stuffing them after they're dried, but I don't mind.
What do you love about cd'ing? Everything! I love knowing it's better for my baby. I love the colors and prints. I love not buying a box of smelly disposables every time I go out!
What is you least favorite thing about cd'ing? It's hard to find a good detergent that works with your dipes and your water and your LO.
What detergent to you use to wash? Purex F & C
If you had to tell a new cd'er just ONE piece of advice... what would it be? Don't give up, just keep trying til you find what works for you

What's on the coffee table?

2009-06-30T23:00:00.000-07:00

Josh and I are undeniable, slightly obsessed with books. We both have a passion to just read everything we can on any subject that peaks our interest. We also, both have the habit of having multiple books on the go at once.

I am sharing my reading list, for a number of reasons - Firstly, because I like to share book's that I am reading, you may find my list helpful and secondly, you can be expecting me to ramble on about any of the below topics over the next few months.

You will probably notice, that several of my books are on the same topic. I like to read the leading books recommended on any one topic in order to round out my education and draw from each book the key points, rather than relying solely on one author's perspective.

Here's what I am reading or planning to read this summer... most I have read at least several chapters of.

Deceptively Delicious, Jessica Seinfield
The Sneaky Chef, Missy Chase Lapine
The Excellent Wife, Martha Peace
Created to be His Helpmeet by Debi Pearl.
The Nutrition Book, Sears Library
Feeding Your Child for Lifelong Health, Susan B. Roberts and Melvin Heyman
The No-cry sleep solution for Toddlers and Preschoolers - Elizabeth Pantley
Better Basics for the Home, Berthold-Bond
The Coconut Oil Miracle, Bruce Fiff
A Charlotte Mason Companion, Karen Andreola
For the Childrens Sake, Susan Schaeffer Macauley
A Mother's Heart, Jean Fleming
Teach Me to do it Myself (Montessori activity book)

Here's what I hope to find soon either at Half Price Books or on Amazon!

The Backyard Homestead, Carleen Madigan
The Vaccine Book, Dr Sears
The No-cry sleep solution for Babies, Elizabeth Pantley
Nourishing Traditions, Sally Fallon
Real Learning: Education in the Heart of the Home by Elizabeth Foss
Becoming a Titus 2 Woman; A Bible Study with Martha Peace

Finally, I would like to add - Please, if you have any constructive input on any of the books above, that you have read, I would love to hear your thoughts!

Smart Medicine for a Healthier Child - A book review.

2009-06-30T19:35:00.000-07:00

Growing up, I was exposed to alternative medicine, saw its effectiveness and thus continued to learn more and use it either in addition to or as an alternative to conventional medicine. My interest was even more peaked during my pregnancy, when my wonderful midwives always suggested a more natural remedy before getting into harsher, conventional medicines.

Varicose veins called for butcher's broom, rutin and nettle tea, preparing for labor included evening primrose oil and red raspberry leaf tea. I found these remedies not only worked, but didn't have any negative side effects, unlike many medication that have a list... your bowels may work better, but you have the risk of nausea, vomitting, your little toe might fall off... well, not really, but you get the idea. Why not pick up some Senna tea?

On the other hand, I think conventional medicines can be fantastic and we should not in any way dismiss them - rather, we should look at the options and make an informed decision.

THIS, is why I love this book. I ordered it from Amazon after browsing through it at The Sunflower Shoppe. Written by an MD, a pediatric nurse and a naturopath, it brings together the best of all the options.

Take Eczema, for example. There is first a short introduction, explaining the problem - what it is, how and when it occurs. Next is a thorough explanation of how to treat it with conventional medicine.

Next are dietary guidelines, which point out allergens in your child's diet that could be related to the problem and also foods that can be used to help. For example, in eczema, one example is eating lots of berries because of the bioflavonoids that act as an anti-inflamatory.

This is followed by a comprehensive schedule for Herbal treatment (burdock root, echinacea, red clover and goldenseal used at different points over a 5 week period).

After this is a description of each type of eczema and how a different homeopathic remedy can be used for each, a dry and scaly eczema calls for Urtica Urens gel applied 2-3 times a day.

Finally, there is a reference to Bach Flower Remedies.

Accupressure is also dealt with for example when dealing with headaches and pain.

All the information is delivered objectively. There are no opinions or recommendations that one treatment is better than the other.

It is simply a GREAT reference guide that can be the first thing you pick up when your child is sick or has some other ailment.

As a parent, it is our job to research all the options and make an educated, well thought out and responsible choice.

There are times when I am not going to even think about anything other than conventional medicine - My child needs a Dr right now! But if she has a bump that doesn't need attention from a Dr, I will be pulling out the arnica, if she's bedwetting... I can look up natural alternatives to help.

If my child is being treated with conventional medicine - I can use alternatives to supplement what the pediatrician is doing.

This book has lots of 'When to call the Doctor' 'boxes'.

Its a great reference book. A must have for any parent's library. Even if you do not want to venture into homeopathy and herbal medicine, the nutritional and dietary recommendations are worth having the book for.

http://www.amazon.com/Smart-Medicine-Healthier-Child-Janet/dp/1583331395/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top

Homemade Laundry Detergent

2009-06-27T18:20:00.000-07:00

Why make my own, you ask? Well, other than the satisfaction and the lovely soapy smell...

Its better for you and your clothes... it does not contain harmful chemicals, brighteners or perfumes that can irritate your skin and it actually makes the clothes really clean rather than coating them with brighteners that merely give the illusion of cleansliness. You'll be surprised at how much dirt will come off and how many suds in your rinse you'll find!

Secondly... its significantly cheaper. I think it can be as cheap as 3c per load compared to over 20c per load for Tide.

Although slightly labor intensive, if like me you do not have a food processor, I believe this is a simple, thrifty and natural alternative to store bought clothes detergent. This is also safe for washing cloth diapers although if you have hard water or are using microfiber, I suggest using Kirk's Castille over Fels Naptha.

The most reliable place to find all the ingredients you need is Kroger. I have however seen Kirk's Castille in liquid form at Albertsons if you prefer to make your detergent in liquid over powder form.

The main reason I chose powder, was because it takes up less storage space which is very important in student housing.

What you need...

Arm and Hammer Washing Soda (Not Baking Soda!)
20 Mule Team Borax
A bar of soap - Popular ones are Kirk's Castille, Fels Naptha or Ivory Soap

There are many variants but I use 2 cups of Washing Soda, 2 cups of Borax and 1 Bar of soap.

The soap will need to be ground up very fine. I grate it on the parmesan side of the grater, you can use a food processor its faster... believe me!

If you want to make it in liquid form... try here...

http://natural-products.suite101.com/article.cfm/washing_clothes_for_pennies

Also... you can change your recipe as you want, as with the no-shampoo, its about finding a good balance for you! Experiment. Have fun. I sure do!

The no shampoo experiment.

2009-06-27T13:37:00.000-07:00

Quite frankly, my hair has always been difficult. I have 'frizz-eased', curled, hot ironed, done hair masks, tried different styles all to the same end.. my hair is dry, not curly or not straight. It lies in a bizzare not-so-wonderful land in between.

Whenever I go and have a haircut, the 'stylist' comes out wielding an assortment of fantastical products in shiny, brightly colored bottles. I walk out the salon, my soft, flowing locks looking lush. I then spend several days avoiding washing, wishing I had the time and money to spend to keep it like this.

But, alas... reality hits and I am a busy mom with two mini princesses, a husband with a book fetish and only 5 minutes a day to quoff... well throw on clothes and make myself presentable at least in mommy circles!

I was desperate, well, at least willing to try anything. So when I stumbled across 'No-Pooing' on www.diaperswappers.com forums, I quickly pulled out the baking soda and bought some apple cider vinegar.

So... Why 'No-Poo'?

1. It offers the opportunity for wondrous shiny and healthy hair.
2. Its so very very cheap.
3. Your skin absorbs anything you put on it, including your scalp. Shampoo's often include chemicals that are linking with various health issues.
4. Shampoo's strip away the natural oils that your body produces to condition you hair. In response, your hair then overproduces. The chemicals in the shampoo throw off your hairs 'ph'

The Bad Bits...

1. Your hair will be nasty for at least a few weeks, perhaps a month or more. For me it was 5 weeks.
2. You may really miss washing your hair everytime you jump in the shower. On the brightside, it makes it even more of a treat when your weekly no-poo comes around.

What you will need:

Baking Sofa
Apple Cider Vinegar
Something to store the above in your bathroom.

How it works...

A good ratio is 1 tbsp of baking soda to one cup of water, prepare this ahead of time (although I tend to pour the baking soda into my hand and make a paste). Apply this to your scalp and roots, giving a good massage and gradually working through your hair. Rinse off thoroughly.

To Condition -

Prepare ahead of time - 1 tbsp of apple cider vinegar and a cup of water. Optionally, you can add your favorite essential oil, honey or lemon. Apply this to THE ENDS OF YOUR HAIR ONLY. Leave in for about 3 minutes and rinse off well.

You can repeat this process weekly at first. The eventual aim is to let you natural oils take care of your hair. So you can slowly reduce the quantities until you are no longer using anything on your hair.

You can 'water' wash your hair as much as you want between 'no-poo'ing' washes.

When my hair is feeling a little dry, I like to rub in a little coconut oil, works wonders.

I will be adding a troubleshooting section later on!

Here below is my hair, 6 weeks since using conventional shampoo, airdried and unstyled.

The birth of a new blog to explore old ideas.

2009-06-27T13:08:00.000-07:00

Many a hours have my husband, friends and family listened to my rambling thoughts. Recalling of experiments, things I have read, crazy and brilliant idea's alike, new and old. Many times do I find myself explaining things that I have become passionate about to friend, family and strangers.

I decided it was time to blog.

Here I will record this journey. Blog's will be eclectic. Some will be well thought out, other's short and sweet. Some not so sweet. Some, like this, done with a baby crawling around my toes and a the dinner cooking on the stove.

Be on the look out for these articles...

Uses of coconut oil
Making your own detergent
Making your own non-toxic housecleaning kit
Various articles on alternative medicines
Using Baking Soda
Cloth Diapering 101
Babywearing
Book Reviews