Adventurez in Child'Rearing'

Gifts From The Sea

2012-02-27T05:15:00.004-08:00

Once upon a time, there was a little girl who loved to travel with her family. Her favorite destination was an island in Southwest Florida. Here she ran and played, sang songs as she walked on the beach, and told God that her hearts desire would be to call this enchanting place home.

It was on this island where she discovered precious gifts from the sea. It was the place where she learned to look closely at God's creation and discover it's mysteries. She fell in love with the creatures of the sea and the beauty all around.

She learned to appreciate the gracefulness of the dolphin, and the clumsiness of the baby sea turtle. She admired the creatures, great and small as she sang to the One who had made them all.

These gifts from the sea, be they shelled or have wings stole her heart as she knew they'd been created to do. They always delighted, and she never grew tired of watching closely and learning.

From the Great Blue Heron and the American Bald Eagle - to the plain Brown Pelican, Sea Gull, and even the smaller Ruddy Turnstone she was captivated by the wildlife of the island she loved.

Each of the creatures held their own majesty. The obvious majesty of the Bald Eagle, and the understated elegance as that of the smallest sea shells she collected - all pointed her to towards their Maker.

Living creatures full of beauty - exquisite detail held distinction from another. Each one designed by the Master Himself with unique, awe-inspiring qualities.

Each one yet another remarkable gift from the sea.

This was the place where she began her fervent prayer. It was as innocent as it was sincere, and she boldly made her request known to God. As she ran across the sand, she asked Him for her a family of her own, with whom she could one day share the love of this special place. She delighted in His creation, and opened her heart to the Creator.

Many years later, she stands on the beach with the family she loves, as they explore together

the wonders of God's creation and the precious gifts from the sea.

Psalm 37:4

"Delight thyself also in the Lord; and He shall give you the desires of your heart."

Now I am grown and although I am grateful He has blessed me with the desires of my heart -

I've experienced the true joy which comes from aligning my heart with His will for my life;

and for that I am forever grateful.

In teaching my children I must remember:

Mark 10: 14b

"Permit the little children to come unto me; do not hinder them;

for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these."

Counting Gifts to #1000 and beyond

170. my daily gifts from the sea

171. dreams realized

172. earnest prayers of a child

173. sharing with my own children

174. hearing their prayers

175. all the wonderful birds in our area

176. simple pleasures of sand between the toes

177. singing on the beach

178. the grace of dolphins

179. wonders that never cease

180. Remembering Child-like Faith

Let's Hear It For the Boys - All Five of Them - Our Week

2012-02-24T10:28:00.002-08:00

Oh what a fun week we had! We've participated in the Great Backyard Bird Count this year, but just because it only lasted for a few days doesn't mean we are finished with counting bird. We've enjoyed it so much, and I like the idea of logging our bird count and using a scientific method of doing so, that we've decided to just keep right on counting.

Standing in awe of gulls who are desperately seeking crackers!

The littles had crackers and got them all stirred up - Like a scene from The Birds

Suffice it to say - we got an up-close look at these gulls!

People We're Seeing & Places We're going:

We had a visit this week from some special friends - Hyacynth Worth from UnderCover Mother

and her two adorable little "helpers" came for a stay and a "field trip" to the beach.

It was nice to have younger boys around again - mine are getting big so quickly. Being with her boys made me realize just how quickly that is. I don't want to miss a moment of their growing up. I'm so thankful to be homeschooling our three boys and proud of the little men they are becoming.

Hyacynth and I enjoyed listening to the vivid imagination of this all male crew as they played a bustling game of Pirates. We were impressed with how well the boys played together even though there was a significant difference in age.

We found fossilized sharks teeth - the boys excavated several crab holes - and Hyacynth and I took turns chasing after her active, curious two year old. My oldest was awed by the fact that the toddler obviously understood everything going on around him and even mastered ipod skills in a short time.

The social skills and character training of this particular crowd is progressing rather well.

We are learning:

Cooking 101 - Our Cooking class at home includes science, math, home economics, and critical thinking as we explore recipes, plan meals, budget the shopping, and even use coupons to get the best deals. The boys are enjoying the time we spend together in the kitchen and learning about what it takes to feed a family, learning kitchen safety, and to follow instructions.

Be sure to join our Link UP on Tuesdays (open all week)

Kids in the Kitchen - Link your family friendly recipes and/or posts of your cuties cooking

Carrie Raab from Young Living Oil Lady is joining me as we host this weekly link up

You can read an interview with her here - about cooking with healthy essential oils!

Earth and Animal Science:

We are always busy Exploring God's Creation - in our nature study during the backyard bird count

- we discovered this American Kestrel - He continues to visit our yard - we like that A LOT

he is "North America's Littlest Falcon" You can read about him here on the FREE site by Cornell U.

Exploring God's Creation- How we do it: We used the Cornell site (link above) to help identify other birds we found - We gather nature journals and pencils - We bring cameras and binoculars - We find a spot to sit or walk (as quietly as possible) We put on our "listening ears" to hear bird calls - We bring a bird field guide - and we watch carefully. The boys can draw/ sketch while we sit - we talk quietly if no birds are present - When they show up we get quiet and still - We observe - take pictures - and watch carefully. Later we finish looking up information and adding to the nature journal/ sketch books. Even when we are not "bird watching" or on a nature hike - we keep our eyes open for special bird species. Today a Great Blue Heron landed in the back yard. We all ran to see it excitedly. Yesterday we saw an Osprey flying by with a fish in his mouth. We've even had Bald Eagles land in the yard!

(I'm hoping to get a better picture this week - he's high up on a dark cloudy WINDY day)

History - Geography - Language Arts - Science:

We are using the Trail Guide to Learning Series from GeoMatters and loving it!

You can WIN a full $150 Set of the Paths of Exploration

which covers 2nd - 6th grade

(although I'm successfully adapting it to fit even my Kindergarten and 1st grade students)

Win a set on Adventurez In ChildRearing Here - Easy entry!

We are also learning about the History of the United States by reading the Constitution, the Mayflower Compact, and other critical documents forged by our Nations founders. You can gain access to this information through MomsMustardSeeds and Founders Academy on the link here where you'll find access not only to the documents themselves but FREE video feed discussing the reasons behind them and how they are still vital in today's society. If we do not understand our past and from where we have come - how can we understand where we need to go in the future? I do hope you'll join us for

Freedom Fridays and link up with MomsMustardSeeds to share what you're learning.It's Free!

My boys continue to be awed by the likes of Ben Franklin, Thomas Paine, George Washington ,

John and Abigail Adams more as we study documents like "Common Sense"

and read through supplemental books from the Trail Guide to Learning Series. The combination

of these resources is really bringing home the big picture for my boys. They're "getting it"!

I'm proud of my boys! We're starting the day with Scripture - filling the day with exploration and adventure - and ending the day with Scripture and love. I'm happy watching them grow!

Joy Pockets & Thankful Thursday:

Watching them grow * Seeing gentle spirits form (even when they have to back up and try again)
Birds and the look of awe and utter amazement in the eyes of my boys seeing them close up * Enjoying the interest of my children as they learn to value their Freedom * Hearing them recite Bible verses I too learned as a child * Healthy boys splashing in the water and digging on the beach * Friends

3 in 30 Goals:

As you can see - we've been busy! I'm still drinking my water and getting more exercise. We are spending more time in the outdoors on our bird watching and beach walks.
My blog is going well - I got my Linky up and running for Kids in the Kitchen
My devotional time with the kids is awesome. We're opening up more and more dialogue in our home through our studies and I love seeing the boys grow spiritually. My personal devotional study in Ephesians is going well - my post was featured on Good Morning Girls! (I'm counting that for both quiet time success and blog success) ;)

Linking with:

Teach Them Diligently - Geo Matters Giveaway!

2012-02-22T21:11:00.005-08:00

Deut 6:7 "And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children,

and thou shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house."

I am thrilled about the upcoming Teach Them Diligently Convention !!!

Are you planning to come for this epic event?

Registration is only $40 and gives you access to some of

"homeschool's best of the best" speakers, teachers, and preachers!

There is a star studded cast of speakers and workshops to choose from including:

Jeannie Fulbright, Ann Dunagan, Ken Ham, Senator Jim Demint and many more

(go here to see a full list of convention speakers)

I'm excited to be going and looking forward to these awesome speakers and meeting up

with a whole lot of homeschool moms and other bloggers - let us know if you are

planning to attend so we can include you in the blogger and mommy meet-ups.

Can't wait - Can't wait - Can't wait!

- I DO hope you'll join me -

Now. . . . . . . .

I am absolutely beside myself to have the honor of giving away what I consider to be

one of the best giveaways - like- ever

You've heard me brag before about the Geo Matters Curriculum,

and you know there isn't much more that we love around here besides exploring.

Well - this week I'm giving away

(drum-roll)

The

Paths of Exploration

The value of this curriculum, in my opinion, is far above the $150.00 cost!

Not only does it include a full year's course for your 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders, but it is adaptable for

2nd and 6th grade as well. Not only does this Geo Matters curriculum teach geography, but also science, history, language skills, and the arts. It takes your students on a journey to discover the how's and why's

of our nations beginning. They learn about our countries greatest explorers in a way that motivates them to learn more. The goal of Paths of Exploration and the other Trail Guide to Learning series is to "teach your children How to think and not just What to think."

My children love it!

I love it!

From my personal experience in our home, I can tell you that it works.

I love the dialogue this program has opened up in our home as we read stories from real books

(not just text books) about people from history and then do more of the hands on activities, science projects, or related lapbooks to solidify their learning experience. They are not just reading about a certain character, but about where they are from, more details about the state and the surrounding circumstances - history comes alive for them as the learning unfolds in this manner and they begin to understand the bigger picture.

*I have been provided a free ticket to the awesome TTD convention for helping to promote them, I am not receiving any compensation otherwise and the prize is drawn randomly using the Punch Tab program

For your chance to win curriculum from GeoMatters:

Leave a comment below and let me know why you'd like to win!

Please be sure to "LIKE" my fb page first

(on sidebar)

Kids in the Kitchen - 2nd Link Up

2012-02-20T22:31:00.004-08:00

Welcome to week #2 of Kids in the Kitchen! I'm so happy you're here - hope you'll

join up in our linky by posting pics, tips, recipes old or new

The idea is to encourage families to get into the kitchen together and cook.

I'm finding in our home - it's a great way to get the boys to open up and really talk with me.

(maybe it's the whole standing still thing?) It seems while they stir or chop, they are

occupied enough to hang out, yet able to carry on full blown conversations

This past week - we worked together to make daddy some special homemade

strawberry jam - it was his valentine from me and the boys - we also made homemade bread

to go with it! It was a big hit- even better than Hershey's kisses!

First we chopped up 5 cups of strawberries/mashed

(measure after mashing)

I was so busy - I didn't snap a pic of them chopping - but

that job was for my two youngest

I used the pulse setting on my blender to mash the strawberries - leaving some chunky pieces

Then the fruit mash went into the pot on the stove and was brought to a rolling boil

Add 7 cups sugar (yes, you read that right)

If you want less sugar - you have to buy the "less sugar" Sure~gel

Still it up and bring back to boil

Add Sure~gel on rolling boil and keep stirring!

Once all your sugar and gel have been added and dissolved - you skim off any foam

Use your ladle and a funnel to scoop jam into prepared clean jars

Secure the lids and place in large pot of water with 1-2 inches of water covering the lid

bring water to a boil and leave for at least 10 - 15 minutes

Use your handy dandy jar remover to pull the hot glass jars

out of the pot and set aside

Now - you may notice that I used jars and lids that have been recycled

This is not something that I can recommend

I've read all over the place NOT to do that because you don't get a secure

seal on the jar and your canning is not going to be protected from bacteria.

I'm ok with this because I'm only doing a small amount - and I'm a rebel like that

We've already finished the first jar!

I am keeping the others in the fridge until we get to them over the next couple of weeks

We're using the jelly with fresh bread sometimes for lunch and dinner.

It can also be used with fresh hot peppers to make a sauce for pork, or chicken

It's hard to beat a fresh homemade loaf of bread

(that the kids helped with)

and fresh homemade strawberry jam!

There is something very special about the whole family gathering regularly around the table

The children feel so proud of themselves when they have helped prepare the meal

Then you can clear the table and beat the pants off them for family game night!

*my recipe came right off the box of the Sure-gel and next time I'm going to buy the less sugar version

Grab the button and link up your Kids in the Kitchen post!

Any posts with kiddos or family friendly recipes are just fine - doesn't even have to be new posts
just ones you'd like to share and ones we might enjoy making with the family

Getting the family gathered back around the table for a meal is an important thing to do in our busy culture
getting them all together in the kitchen preparing the meal is even better!

button code is on my sidebar!

also linking with :

Grateful Moments - Great Backyard Bird Count

2012-02-20T22:02:00.001-08:00

This past Friday we began participating in the Great Backyard Bird Count - it was an opportunity

for the boys to help gather scientific data and enter it online for Cornell University.

My husband has worked hard lately clearing our backyard along the waterfront - so it was a perfect spot

for us to sit and enjoy the fruits of his labor while we did our scientific data collection.

We really like the kind of science that involves a fishing pole!

We even made stick fishing poles (Huck Finn style) for the little guys

Our first visitor was a sea gull - a very stubborn sea gull.
He circled around

and came swooping down for a fish

He circled around again and again
"Look mother, at his reflection as he swoops down to the water!"

He swooped, and then again after his prey

Even though he was just a sea gull

He was majestic, and beautiful

It was a wonderful project

Although the picture isn't as fabulous - the little bird that takes the cake this week is:

The American Kestrel

North America's Littlest Falcon!

A bird of many colors

Although it is the Great Backyard Bird Count - this guy was hanging out in the front yard

since I could clearly see him from the backyard - he counts!

Quiet moments with my boys - exploring God's creation - from the chairs in our own yard - moments for which I am extremely grateful. Little boys fishing with a stick and some bread - excited as the gull circles around - It's difficult to keep quiet - sometimes they don't quite pull it off - but they try - and they do it well - better than most because they've practiced. They practice being quiet - waiting patiently for nature to surprise. It rarely disappoints. One of our favorite pastimes is something I do hope you'll try. Spend some time outside as a family - practice being quiet - and discover something special together.

Counting to #1000 and beyond:

160. quiet moments with my children

161. peace by the water

162. pure delight at the splash of a bird after prey

163. awe and amazement as he swoops down upon his dinner

164. finding just the right stick to tie with a string - a hook for bread

165. impatient little boys learning to be patient - inspired by nature

166. learning together about God's creation

167. watching boys share and help each other

168. joy in learning that such a little bird can be so powerful

169. resting in the truth that He cares for us and knows our every need

Matthew 6:26

"Behold the fowls of the air; for they sow not, neither do they reap nor gather into barns;

yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are they not much better than they?"

Our Homeschool Week

2012-02-16T23:04:00.007-08:00

In my life this week…

It's been a pretty busy week for us this week - yet not too much! We always spend plenty of down time at home as well. We began the week celebrating Valentines day with some homeschool friends at Shamrock park in Venice, FL

We hadn't been there before, but the boys were totally impressed with the bike and hiking trails. Although we had a good time exchanging Valentines and treats with homeschoolers - and I met some new homeschool mommies - we really enjoyed exploring a new (to us) park!

In our homeschool this week…

The boys made clay "stone" runes - and learned to write/ carve their name like a Viking!

We studied the atmosphere and charted the weather and clouds

and painted a big picture of the layers of the atmosphere to help remember them

Helpful homeschooling tips or advice to share…

Put on the whole armor together before you start school!

The boys did this for our Children's Church project and have been talking about it all week!

I am inspired by…

YOU! Homeschool mommies and bloggers inspire me every day!

Places we’re going and people we’re seeing…

We were impressed with the little nature center at Shamrock park and plan to go back again to further explore the butterfly garden and take a long bike ride. We loved seeing the Florida Panther they had on display (although I hate to know that she'd been killed) - too many of them are loosing their natural habitat here in Florida and end up hit by cars and such. They are beautiful animals - we have a couple of them in our own neighborhood. We also liked examining the FL Scrub Jay nest and were able to identify the Palm fibers it was made out of during our nature walk.

The Scrub Jays in Florida are also a protected species who's habitat has been threatened due to population growth. They are intelligent birds - I've had them sit on my finger plenty of times while on hikes in the scrub - although I must tell you not to touch them - there is a fine for that.

They use their sharp little beaks to strip strings of fiber from the Cabbage Palms and Palmetto and skillfully fashion them into a proper nest.

My favorite thing this week was…

Making/ canning homemade strawberry jam!

What’s working/not working for us…

Our Cooking 101 Class is going quite well - the boys are learning some much needed skills and I find that being in the kitchen is a great place to get them to really open up. They talk while they work on whatever project I've assigned them - like chopping mushrooms and such. I enjoy the time we spend around the center island in our kitchen - it's become the physical heart of our home for sure.

Our homemade bread and jam worked for me pretty well too ;) can you tell I'm excited about this? I want to learn to do more canning and freezing - we are planting a veggie garden soon!

Things I’m working on…

New Link Up! Please join us by linking up any post with tips for getting/ teaching kids in the kitchen or family friendly recipes the whole family can enjoy! This is the first week of my first link up and I'm thrilled to have you participate.

Favorite Resource This Week...
Freebies...
I'm also joining MomsMustardSeeds in reading and studying the Mayflower Compact and the Declaration of Independence along with Founders Academy - there are links to the important documents our country was founded on along with other valuable information to use in teaching your children about how our country works/ or is supposed to work! I HIGHLY recommend it-

I’m cooking…

Had to have something to put that jam on!

I’m grateful for…

GeoMatters Curriculum - we are really truly enjoying it!

Major Prize alert!

I'll be giving away a set - For the Teach Them Diligently Convention here on my blog the last week of February- You don't want to miss out on this fabulous opportunity for homeschool families!

I’m praying for…

The prayer list is long right now - how about yours? If you have a prayer request feel free to either leave it in the comments or email me at kellidparker@yahoo.com with "prayer" in the subject line - and I promise to lift up your needs and to try to encourage you. I've been encouraged by so many of you - isn't that what it's all about after all? Relationship - and sharing God's love?

Picture or Quote to Share...

Particularly if you are a church leader - or small group leader - please consider sharing this new movie. It is up for an award at the upcoming Christian movie festival in Texas - and is a first class documentary about adoption and the role of Christians in adoption.

"We are not all called to adoption - but we are all called to care for orphans"

I am sharing adoption stories from around the web in support of adoption and the movie release.

You can view Jamie Worley's story- from See Jamie Blog - of her adoptive family here

Linking with:

Adoption Stories From Around The Web - Guest Post by Jamie Worley

2012-02-15T17:00:00.004-08:00

For me, the idea of adopting wasn't anything new, but for many years, it just wasn't really on my radar. A series of promptings that could only have been from the Lord kept bringing it to the forefront of my mind, and eventually I brought the idea to my husband, fully expecting him to think it a crazy idea -- and then I'd be done with it. That's not what happened, though, and within two years of that first conversation, we had adopted a fourteen year old girl from our state foster care system.

The adoption process had it's ups and downs, but through all of that, God made His will clear. We now recognize that this is no small task we've undertaken. Not only have we provided love and family for a child who was a legal orphan (though her birth parents are still alive), we have also been making an eternal impact on the kingdom of God. We have changed the path of future generations to come.

From our daughter's perspective, adoption had been a scary thought. She'd been emotionally hurt and felt betrayed by her birth family, so why would she want to put herself out there and be vulnerable to getting hurt like that again?

Because of her age, the courts said she had to give consent to be adopted, and for a while, she said no. She planned to remain in foster care until she "aged out," something that happens to more than 20,000 children each year in the United States. But thankfully, our Lord placed Lindsey in a foster family who took her to church, and coincidentally (which I've learned to see as God working behind the scenes), the pastor's wife at that church has been adopted at the age of twelve.

Through long talks with this sweet woman, Lindsey decided to take the plunge and see what would happen.

Now Lindsey is seventeen, and we have started the process of another adoption, again through foster care. We'll see where Jesus leads us this time!

Our family: December 2009, shortly after Lindsey's adoption

Jamie is a wife, homemaker, home educating mama, adoption advocate, and professional photographer. Her blended family includes three kids: one by birth, one by marriage, and one adopted as a teen. She tries never to venture too far from a steaming hot cup of tea. Visit with her at See Jamie Blog!

This post is part of a series of posts: Adoption Stories From Around the Web

I'm doing in support of the new movie and ministry close to my heart: Rescued

Rescued: The Heart of Adoption and Caring for Orphans - Trailer from Rescued The Movie on Vimeo.

I shared our story in a guest post on Jamie's site- See Jamie Blog

Kids in the Kitchen - Are You Crazy?

2012-02-14T18:04:00.008-08:00

As a matter of fact . . . . . well, a little bit!

The above picture is actually what happens when mommy runs to brush her teeth -

but I thought you might get a kick out of it and it fit my intro.

Truth be told, from the time they were very young my little guys have been quite fond of

helping in the kitchen. Ok, so - that time boy #2 had the sniffles - I had to secretly throw

away the celery he'd chopped for the dressing instead of poisoning all our Thanksgiving guests -

but usually it's not a problem.

Toddlers chopping celery?

You bet!

We've actually never had a kitchen accident! I used to give them sturdy plastic knives to chop

simple things like celery - once I got them started on a piece - with instructions to take their time -

they took their jobs extremely seriously. If a piece of celery gets butchered beyond

salvation in the process - it's well worth the price for the lessons they've learned while in the kitchen.

These days we've graduated to table knives! My boys know that any knife can cut you and

they are instructed to pretend it's the sharpest knife in town! If they don't listen carefully to directions

their kitchen time is up. Listening skills are important - so are safety issues.

Kitchen time with the kids is a wonderful time to teach these and many more life skills!

Sometimes we search for and plan recipes and meals as a group.

It's a great time to teach about kitchen organization and meal planning .

Teamwork and cooperation are important lessons!

Other times I'll send some little guys out to play and enjoy one on one time with another!

They can learn on their individual levels and it opens the door for some great heart talks too

We have the opportunity to share family recipes passed down through generations -

traditions, like canning jams or vegetables

It doesn't have to be a complicated undertaking - as a matter of fact - beginning simple is important

You don't have to have the kids prepare dinner, but by allowing them to snap peas or chop

mushrooms they'll be much more excited about eating it!

I'm starting a new Linky for Tuesdays:

Copy and paste button pic with link or just copy and paste code box found on my side bar under "Button Love"!

Link up your family friendly recipes, Kids in the Kitchen pointers,
or Top Secret Recipes handed down in the family!
(Just don't tell Aunt Jane)

Other great linkys:

Lisa from Our 4 Kiddos
Has a LinkUp for your recipes too!

What Love Looks Like

2012-02-14T09:40:00.005-08:00

In the beginning it looked like fun - Sweet, new a blessing and a gift!

It was free and exciting as we planned our life together.

Love grew - Full of surprises, challenges - children - it multiplied!

Challenges can break you - and they can make you stronger.

When it is done God's way - it can last:

"Love is patient . . . . . "

"Love is kind."

"It does not envy or boast, it is not arrogant or rude . . . . ."

"It does not insist on it's own way; it is not irritable or resentful ,

it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth . . . . ."

"Love bears all things, believes all things

hopes all things, endures all things . . . . . "

"Love never ends."

I Corinthians 13: 4-8

Sometimes love looks like piles of laundry - more dishes - another trip to the store.

It can be flowers and sunshine

Love can be cooking and cleaning. There is always so much more.

It means work every day - not forgetting to sing

Love looks like

Washing dirty faces - even scrubbing the floor

kissing every skint elbow - dusting every shelf . . . .

Love is really very simple -

It's Dying Daily to self !

Romans 5: 8

"And He commended His love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners

Christ died for us"

Love looks a little different now than it did when we began

Now it's richer, stronger, truer

Resting safe in the Masters hands!

Happy Love Day!

every day

Free printable for last minute love notes to share:

Please take a moment to check out this new movie near and dear to my heart-

Sometimes love looks like this:

We are not all called to adoption - but we are all called to care for orphans!

Consider sharing some love today

Linking up:

Journey Through Ephesians - Cornerstone

2012-02-12T19:15:00.001-08:00

From Bible Gateway dot Com

Ephesians 2:18-22

New King James Version (NKJV)

¹⁸For through Him we both have access by one Spirit to the Father.

Christ Our Cornerstone

¹⁹Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, ²⁰having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone, ²¹in whom the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord, ²²in whom you also are being built together for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.

Without a strong cornerstone- the building will not last- it will crumble

"Members of the household of God" - Members of the same household would be a family. This passage describes the household/ family as having Jesus Christ as the cornerstone.

What is a cornerstone exactly?

As defined by Wikipedia:
The cornerstone (or foundation stone) concept is derived from the first stone set in the construction of a masonry foundation, important since all other stones will be set in reference to this stone, thus determining the position of the entire structure.

The whole building is set from and upon that stone - the rest of the building is the rest of the "family" or the body of Christ - the church - all together for the Spirit of God to dwell. Not in the building itself - but in the people - the family of Christ.

We are one family - the body of Christ - where the Spirit of God dwells! That's pretty exciting stuff!

Makes me want to act like it!

We MUST exemplify love - which is the example set by our cornerstone:

1 John 3:16 & 18

1 John 3:16 - "This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers." 1 John 3:18 - "Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth."

We need to overlook our differences and love with the love of Christ - both within the outside the body/family/dwelling of God!!!

Spiritual "busyness" doesn't cut it y'all - we've got to get real - pull together with love and reach out to this dying world. People - both in the body and out of it - need the love of Christ. If we aren't living it - where will they find it?

They don't meet Jesus Christ walking down the street - they meet you and me!

Something God has laid on my heart is that I want to be Jesus to others - both in my family of believers and non believers. He died for each one. He is the cornerstone - He set the example.

More words from Paul to the church:

1 Corinthians 10:31-33 & 11:1So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.
Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the church of God--
even as I try to please everybody in every way. For I am not seeking my own good but the good of many, so that they may be saved.
Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.

I count to #1000 Gifts :

160. Warm blankets on a cold night

161. Cold comforts- cuddling little boys - sweet talk

162. Belly laughs from little boys

163. Kids at church really "getting it"

164. Loving, learning body of Christ

165. Prayers from strangers

166. Strangers who are family because of our Cornerstone

167. Learning to love fully

168. Words of Paul

169. Community

A Pause On The Path

My Homeschool Week With The Boys

2012-02-09T23:12:00.000-08:00

In our homeschool this week…

Our homeschool this week was for the birds!

Yes- REAL BIRDS with feathers and all!!

They were loud enough we could not ignore them

and they were swarming
Swallows
(we can't tell exactly what kind)
They are most likely - Tree Swallows

They swooped down in groups to drink from the water behind the house

dipping and streaking - fast across the water - then back up

to the sky - They eat insects - They are roosting in the pepper trees on

property surrounding our house - and now they are part of our

homeschool study! I'm proud that our boys get excited about

Exploring God's Creation
and participating in the Great Backyard Bird Count!
Free printables from Spell Outloud!

"Drink Up" Project 52 - drinking up life's little surprising moments!

Helpful homeschooling tips or advice to share…

Go with the flow. When distractions pop up - whenever possible just go with it - use it to your advantage to be creative. If the kiddos seem to be having a real problem being cooped up inside - bundle them up if necessary and get them out. Even if it is for a few short bursts - it can change their whole outlook - and yours!

When it rains - make a rain gauge - go with the flow

Also - check out the awesome resources provided by MomsMustardSeeds and Founders Academy

They have provided links and information to study the Mayflower Compact by reading the document, a

video link, and free worksheets to do with your kids! This week's assignment is

The Declaration of Independence - Click any of the links provided to go to the main site!

I am inspired by…

Curriculum from GeoMatters

We are having so much fun with our Paths of Settlement curriculum.

I don't stick right to the plan - of course - but use it as a guide as it is meant

to be used. We were inspired to paint a continent map

by the "Geography through Art" book.

*I'll be giving away a set of the Paths of Exploration Curriculum

later on this month in support of the Teach Them Diligently Convention

Excited about this giveaway - I'll be attending the convention

- hope to meet you there!

What’s working for us…

Searching for Gopher Tortoise burroughs

Finding Gopher Tortoise "friends"

they are on the protected list of endangered species -

live mostly in Florida - and can live to be 60 years old -

this one is a beautiful specimen

Nature Walks in between rain storms

Not Working. . . .

um - self directed "fashion" statements

He's 6 y'all - and he really likes to dress himself - I pick my battles -

that one is not worth it!

Working . . . .

finding the biggest baddest Tortoise home on the block!

"Tortoise Cave"

Things I’m working on…

"Drink Up" Project 52 - drinking up the sunshine and

Exploring God's Creation with my family

Playing with the texture features on Picnik -

even the premium features are free until April when Picnik closes

I’m reading…

It's up for an Epic award for 2012 - Donna Sundblad is a friend of mine from way back. She was like a 'nother mother' to me when I first moved to the island. I'm so proud of her novel. It's a wonderful cross between a

Pilgrim's Progress and The Giver meeting the Hunger games

but is a fantastic tale in it's own right. I'm using it as a read aloud in our

homeschool and the boys LOVE the adventurous story unfolding.

(there's a link on my side bar if you are interested

available in both ebook and hard copy)

I’m grateful for…

A wonderful husband who loves me and homeschool community

who encourage me every day!

Also grateful for our family time and time with friends spent in

the outdoors - we love making special memories - looking forward

to seeing more homeschool friends for a visit soon!

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

"Drink Up" by Project 52

Loving my new coffee cup from DaySpring - enjoying green tea with honey

and a bit of coffee in the mornings!

Special Giveaway going on from DaySpring -

here on my blog $50 coupon code and free shipping!

John 16: 24

"Ask and you shall receive, and your joy will be complete"

3 in 30 Challenge:

1. Health: I've gotten outside several times for a bit of exercise this week and I'm drinking water and cutting down on coke zero -n- not doing so well still with sugar. Cooking meals at home except 1.

2. Quiet Time: My walk is going well, studying Ephesians although I haven't kept up with the whole SOAP style study - I'm keeping up w my reading. It's funny how it is fitting perfectly into place with several other things I have going on.

3. Writing/ Blogging: I'm more organized and following my list - I'm keeping to my schedule pretty well, but not entirely - I'm not a rigid schedule kind of girl -but having one helps!

I'm not doing the 28 day Special Feb Challenge although I think I'll get the book & see if it

helps me organize a bit - I have a semi-house cleaning schedule going on but need to be a bit

more rigid in THAT department - it's just not as much fun as blogging and nature walks :)

But - I do so love a clean and organized space - I'll be thrilled if I get my closet done this month &

do a better job of sticking to my little cleaning schedule!

Linking with:

DaySpring Giveaway and a Sweet Little Review 2

2012-02-09T10:28:00.000-08:00

I received the sweetest little package in the mail this week for my review from

the kind folks over at DaySpring

What you see here sitting on my table - next to my comfy reading chair -

is a fabulous polka dot gift bag (with matching tissue), coffee cup, stack of tiered memos,

and . . . . my scripture filled journal!

All from the awesome Everyday Joy collection!!!

Each page of the spiral bound journal includes a special scripture verse to jump start your

thoughts for the day like:

Psalm 4:7

"You have filled my heart with greater joy."

If you aren't familiar with their products - you can see more for yourself

here on the DaySpring site - they are now a division of Hallmark.

This collection - along with several others to choose from - is on special this month

Buy 2 get 1 Free - so if you need to show some Love for The LOVE Month . . . . .

Personally - I've already had coffee and hot tea out of my coffee cup

(well, I had to test it out for y'all - right?)

and I'm ga-ga over the journal - so, I'm struggling to share the love!

My mother may win out though, she's a pretty special lady!

And now - for the GIVEAWAY - I'm thrilled to be able to give one of my readers a

coupon code for $50 to spend on the DaySpring site!

AND FREE SHIPPING!

You do have a minimum purchase of $50 - but with all their wonderful products

THAT should NOT be a problem!

John 16:24

"Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete."

just HAD to throw that verse in - it's in my journal!

And- that's all you have to do to be entered to win-

ask in a comment below - tell me what you might use it on to purchase from their

site - visit on the link here- and I'll add your name to the random drawing!

Giveaway ends February 16th

Be sure to add your email so I can notify you of your winnings!

I'd adore it if you'd follow my blog using GFC, FB, and/or RSS

Easy links are on my sidebar

disclosure: I did receive these products for no charge - by doing this review

but, I bet you figured that out already! -These opinions are mine all mine -

seashells not included :)

Linking with :

When Things Go Terribly Wrong

2012-02-09T05:34:00.001-08:00

I am guest posting today for Amanda at The Pelsers

The topic is from the How to Have a HEART For Your Kids book by Rachael Carman -

Release Them to God - It is a topic which strikes a real cord with me, as a few years ago

I went through a life threatening situation with my firstborn son.

Had I NOT been able to release him to God - I might NOT have made it through!

I am incredibly grateful my son is still with us

Please take a moment to hop over and read the story

You can use the link here.

Have a HEART For Your Kids - Accept Them

2012-02-05T23:54:00.000-08:00

A - Accept them

Navigating life's trails can be more than a little difficult at times.

We keep paddling on, rowing ahead, moving forward.

Or go around in circles.
Sometimes I find myself going around in circles.

Accepting your children is one of the most important things you can do for them.
It's easy to accept them when they are doing what's right.

It becomes a bit more difficult if you have extenuating circumstances that cause tension and stress.

Some are faced with problems in their home that feel out of control and even hopeless.
I'm here to tell you that no situation is hopeless.
God can work miracles in your home - your family - your children.
He is working miracles in mine! Really.

As I read chapter 3 in Rachael Carman's book -
I became more and more convicted about something in particular.
My face.

Yup. My face. Also my tone of voice - but I hear myself speak, so I at least am a bit more
aware of my tone than I usually am of - my facial expressions.

Children are so very perceptive.
They know when they are loved - and my children are all loved.
They know when they are respected and cared for - and my children are all respected and cared for.
They know when they are ACCEPTED - and my children . . . . may be reading mixed messages in my face.

Shocking. I know. But seriously, I have one child in particular who really knows how to push buttons.
And, you talk about stubborn, I've NEVER met anyone so stubborn. Sometimes he pushes me beyond what I feel capable of handling. I've questioned my parenting skills like never before. It makes me tired!

He's brilliant. He's extremely creative. He's beautiful. He can be the sweetest, most charming child on the planet. He has charisma that can charm and entertain a whole room full of people!

God has brought him out of a very bad situation
He's been RESCUED from a life of neglect and rejection that landed him in foster care -
and God placed him in our home. In my care.

I love him. He is my baby.
Even when he's been misbehaving - when he walks into the room
I want him to see my face light up! I want him to SEE love ALWAYS in my face -
love and ACCEPTANCE - I don't want to let stress wear me down
I don't have to - (it isn't in his best interest - isn't real love) to accept the behavior - but him
I accept him and I want to make sure he hears it, knows it, and sees it in my face!

If I hesitate when he walks in the room - if I take a second to wonder what he may have just
been up too or if he's hiding something - what is he seeing in my face in those seconds?

Chapter 3 is about a radical change of perspective - I want his perspective to be simple
total love an acceptance for who he is and continual encouragement to do what is right.
I want him to KNOW :

Ephesians 2 : 10
¹⁰ For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works,
which God prepared in advance for us to do.

He is chosen and has good work to do!
I must NOT grow weary in making sure he knows that

Teaching all my boys about God's Word and helping them memorize scripture is one of the ways I am
helping to prepare them for whatever God has planned for them
Now, if their mommy can just walk it daily - we'll be in good shape!

If you haven't read the book - I hope you will - It is one of my favorite ever!

On Thursday I'll be the featured blogger sharing my heart on chapter 4

"Release Them To God"

I hope you'll check back as I'll be sharing a personal story of how I had to let go of my oldest

child - both figuratively and literally - and place him in God's hands.

It was the most difficult moment of my life!

#1000 Gifts of Gratitude and beyond:

160. Books from God that teach me
161. The Word that sustains me
162. Being convicted and making changes
163. Grace when I don't get it right
164. Family game night
165. Strangers in Publix
166. Cuddles in the morning
167. Little smiling faces
168. Little boys with proud puffed up chests
169. Encouraging mamas who "get it"

Linking up:

Adoption Stories From Around The Web

2012-02-04T21:44:00.000-08:00

The Geagels are another family whom God has blessed through adoption - Here is their story:

For as long as I can remember I have had a desire to adopt. I thought it was something that was just for families who could not have children and I kept hoping something would just fall into my lap so that I could adopt too. Then I met my husband who happened to have two adopted siblings (he was a biological child) and I realized that adoption was a possibility for my future. From the day we got married we always knew adoption was something that we would do, we just thought that it was something that would come much later on in life, after our birth children were older. Then we had two sons who I was staying home with and we decided to go ahead and look into it. Since I was already home it seemed to make sense to just keep going. As we began to research adoption the enormous need became oh so clear to us and we HAD to do something. We were young, too young for some adoption programs and we had two kids who were 1 and 2. We really thought the agency was just going to laugh at us when we called . . . . . . .

Please go HERE to the main site to read the rest of the story of how

God blessed the Geagels through adoption and learn more about the

Upcoming exciting new movie: RESCUED

Adoption is an issue close to my heart.
We'd been praying for a child who was in trouble - as a matter of fact -
I even went to court advocating for him.
I had no idea at the time that I was advocating for my son
We had no idea what God had in store for us.

When we got a phone call four years ago about this baby in trouble, it took all of about
two minutes before my husband said, "You'd better go get him".
I was on a plane the next morning.

My son was 8 months old when I first held him in my arms.
God completed our family through the miracle of adoption.

The movie RESCUED
hit me right in the heart!
I think you're going to love it and we could use the help spreading the message!
(please)
Pre- order your copy today for your church groups and more:

Exploring God's Creation

2012-02-03T02:01:00.000-08:00

In our life/ homeschool this week:

Exploring God's Creation is one of our favorite
things to do as a family. This weekend the weather
was just right for a walk in the woods together.

There is something special about getting out into
nature with the family as a team - and taking a closer
look at the natural world around us.

That closer look is an important part of a
successful hike with the family.

The "dreary trail" picture:

For example - upon first glance - the trail here (the picture on the right labeled "dreary trial" ) is a bit
bland without much to offer in the way of scenery.

Bushes, tall brown grass, and a few weeds are all that
appear - until one takes a closer look.

"Look Smaller"

"And Smaller Still"

"Open the eyes of your heart"

When you do - you might even see this. . . .

I am inspired by:

A little sweat bee on a "Brown Eyed Susan"

(from the bottom right hand side of the "dreary trail" picture)

As we stopped - took the time to look closely we found . . . . .

Bright red berries from the "Brazilian Pepper Tree" bushes against a vivid blue sky

(this beauty also hiding in the original picture - upper center)

Quietly - always on the lookout for wildlife - we walked on

and found the Florida weed version of Queen Anne's Lace . . . . . .

. . . . . and these pretty little purple buds

I am grateful for:

It was a beautiful afternoon walk through the Florida scrub

along the North side of Charlotte Harbor State Park

Enjoying the family time . . . . .

As we stopped to take in the details

and notice little pops of color . . . . .

along with various shapes scattered here and there across the landscape . . . . .

To enjoy the way the sun glows round a plain brown weed

to guess the age and count the rings of a cut limb . . . . .

we play and hide - in the tall tall grass . . . . .

A family hike through the woods is all it takes

to remind me . . . . . .

How awesome our Creator really is!

Deuteronomy 3: 24

"Oh Lord God, thou hast begun to show thy servant thy greatness, and thy mighty hand;

for what God is there in heaven or in earth, that can do according to thy works,

and according to thy might?"

The miracles of His Creation are all around us!

Why then do we fear?

Romans 8: 31

"What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?"

Take heart my friends - we are in good hands.

Psalm 55: 22

"Cast your cares on the Lord and He will sustain you;

He will never let the righteous be shaken."

We are righteous because of the blood of Christ, cleansed, pure and holy in His sight

White as snow - because of His GRACE!

Ephesians 2: 8

"For by grace are you saved through faith, and that not of yourselves,

it is the gift of God"

His assurance to carry our burdens is repeated

again in the New Testament - so I think He's pretty serious about it!

I Peter 5: 7

"Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you."

Matthew 6: 33

"Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness;

and all these things shall be added unto you"

The more I seek after the things of God - the more I realize - it is His

It's all His - my life is not my own and I am free NOT to worry

NOT to stress - but to rest in His love

safely covered by His wings of protection - wrapped in His arms!

Colossians 3:15

"And let the peace of God rule in your hearts,

to which you are called to one body; and be thankful "

#1000 Gifts:

150. One body and making connections

151. Misty morning view of the first rays twinkling on the water

152. Sun sparkling off of blond bobbing heads

153. Casting cares, laying them down

154. Peace that passes all understanding

155. The tiny details in nature where I see the Master's hand

156. Reminders of gratitude

157. Opportunity to encourage

158. Sharing love

159. Bright red berries against the bright blue sky

Ephesians 1: 18

"Having the eyes of your heart enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which

He has called you, what are the riches of His glorious inheritance in the saints."

It is this inheritance spoken of in this verse that enlightened the eyes of my heart

this past week, and led to this post. He is so faithful!

Homeschool Freebies:

* I found this wonderful site - it's great free FL botany information

their pictures are far lovelier than mine:

Florida Wildflower Gallery

* Also- ideas for winter picnic's for those of you who live in a colder climate:

Winter Picnics

* Be sure to check out Moms Mustard Seeds to get your "reading assignment" for

Freedom Friday and link to the online document "The Mayflower Compact"

My 3 in 30 Goals:
1. Walk with the Lord- Well, I'm behind on my Ephesians study- but I'm still hanging in there and I'm getting a lot out of it - I am even taking notes, I've just not had time to type it out & put it on the blog - I have added some of the verses to posts where they fit though. I'm pleased with the input & growth I'm seeing in the boys - sharing with them not just Bible stories & verses, but talking about WHAT they mean to me & listening to WHAT they are "getting" out of our Bible time is really blessing me. God is good!!!
2. Health- well, I've not been as active as I'd planned to be, but I am drinking my water, cooking (no to-go food at all) and getting SOME exercise. There have been a couple of mild fronts that came through and they really give me a hard time with my joints- they are currently a tad swollen and feverish. #prayingforhealing
3. Blog- I'm so tickled about the upcoming conferences in March. God is opening doors and providing the way (through some loving and helpful bloggy friends) doing both ApologiaLive, and TeachThemDiligently - although they are homeschool convo's and not blog convo's - I believe they are a good fit for my blog and I am happy dancing about the prize/prizes I'll have to offer my awesome readers!!! Stay tuned for a couple of BIG surprises!

Linking with:

How to Gain a Fresh Perspective

2012-01-28T22:32:00.000-08:00

To rest,

To sleep,

To dream.

My go to spot

where my spirit

becomes renewed.

This is the challenge for the 52 Photos Project this week -

My interpretation is about my process . . . . . . .

It's an amazing thing when you see the mighty hand of God move

This past week has been an especially, um, stressful one for me. When things are

looking dark and dreary - there is only one way for me to change my perspective. . . . .

My ray of light comes from laying it all at the feet of the One who gave His ALL for me.

When there are situations I cannot change, life's difficulties that won't seem to budge,

challenges which appear to be insurmountable . . . . .

When the only thing I can change is my perspective -

The way I manage that is by looking up and laying it all down!

I begin with prayer, thanking God that my children are healthy, and that my husband is kind.

I pray and breathe in and out, releasing some of the stress with each breath, each prayer.

When at all possible, I get out for a walk to appreciate the natural beauty of God's creation.

I slow down to examine some of the smaller details in the beauty around me.

I open God's Word and soak it up!

I intentionally look for things that make me happy. I get support by asking a friend or two to pray

along with me. There is power in prayer.

Philippians 4:6-7

do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication

with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.

And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts

and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Instead of allowing stress to rush me, I slow to a relaxed pace and seek peace.

I stop to thank God for the beauty in the clouds, a rainbow in the sky.

I look and notice baby birds in a nest - and I know . . . . . .

Matthew 6:26

Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns,

and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?

So, again, I stop and give thanks.

It helps to do something for someone else.

If I can't solve my own problem, I can make soup and muffins for a sick friend or neighbor.

Sharing God's love is good for the soul!!!

I can do something I enjoy - like crafting . . . . . .

(praying and crafting go well together)

I take the time to pray for others - to remember that there are brothers and sisters who

need God's love - need His mighty hand on their life too.

I remember to keep my worries where they belong - at the feet of the King.

I revel in His majesty - at the Works of His hand . . . . . .

and I give thanks!

Then, I hardly need be surprised at all, when by the end of the week . . . . . .

my emergencies are solved - miraculously, one by one, each trouble

- taken care of because He loves me!

This past week I experienced real miracles as He directly answered prayers and solved

problems beyond my control. He moved His mighty hand on our behalf

and I am so very grateful.

My so called problems are nothing difficult for the Creator of the Universe-

the Maker of Heaven and Earth

Psalm 61: 4

I will abide in your tabernacle forever: I will trust in the shelter of your wings. Selah.

I am immensely grateful

click on the last picture to hear a song of thanks!

Linking up with:

#1000 Gifts:

141. afternoon walks in the fresh air

142. breeze across the water

143. rays of light through fruit trees

144. vibrant children

145. friends who will pray, love, and support

146. beautiful details of my pretty shells

147. colors in the sky

148. opportunities to see miracles, even when they come disguised as problems

149. shelter of His wings

1. Walk with the Lord: I'm walking :) I've been praying for the women in my

31 Days to Pray For Your Spouse (31 Days to Build a Better Spouse) Challenge

I'm enjoying the How to Have a Heart For Your Kids online book club (stay tuned for

my input on chapter 4, coming soon, as an honored contributor) and Journey Through Ephesians

study has kicked into full gear as well. Each of these things are "Enhancing" (my word for 2012)

my walk with Christ in my personal quiet time and with others. I also teach Children's Church

often at LifeChurch in Port Charlotte and daily Bible classes with my kiddos - so, all together

I'm staying in the Word a good bit. :) I'm in awe of the things God is doing in our life.

2. Health improvement: I've been doing some walk/hiking and drinking my water- well,

more water than usual anyways and that's an accomplishment for me! I've been using my

essential oils Citrus Fresh from my friend Carrie at Young Living Oil Lady and it helps a lot!

If you are suffering from any health issues, or just want to improve your overall health - I

encourage you to get in touch with this sweet woman and tell her about it. She has prayed

with me, helped me, guided and directed me, and continues to encourage me and pray for

my complete healing from RA. She's a wise woman, that one. She loves people with God's love!

3. Blogging and Writing: Gidget from HomeschoolingUnscripted who edits for the HSBA- Post

has been kind enough to help me with edits on my new eBook Perfectly Perfect which I've written

for the new site for young women DIVAgirls - She's a sweet one that Gidget, and I love the new

site by Katie to encourage girls to respect themselves. I'm happy to contribute to such a worthy cause!

I've also been narrowing down the Link-Ups to participate in weekly - Organizing and creating a new

binder (I heart binders) to keep up with notes and ideas for writing, and preparing a few new

guest posts - I'm excited to guest post for Jamie Worley at See Jamie Blog. (It's coming Jamie!)

Journey Through Ephesians

2012-01-26T11:06:00.000-08:00

We've begun our "Journey Through Ephesians" and this week has been just what I needed

God is funny that way! He always brings me the exact scripture I need at just the right time.

Many times He uses people, like you, to encourage me when I need it most.

Verse 16 from chapter 1 "grabbed me" right off the bat:

"¹⁶Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers"

Paul is speaking to the church at Ephesus, and he in this verse he is encouraging them

to pray for each other- he is telling them how he continually gives thanks for them and

prays for them, "making mention" of them in his (regular ) prayers.

I've had a lot of special prayers requests from different ladies in our various groups.

From the "Pray for Your Spouse" group with Ashley Pichea

From the "How to Have a Heart For Your Kids" group

and this "Journey Through Ephesians" group with Amanda Pelser

and the ladies from "Good Morning Girls"

*It has been such a blessing to interact with you - to pray for you - and to be

encouraged by you! I love how these passages in Ephesians 1 sort of

"bring it all home" for me as it calls us to live by Paul's example in praising God

through good times and bad- to seek wisdom - to believe that God has the

answers we seek - and to live like true children of the King - worthy of our inheritance

all a part of the same family - brothers and sisters in Christ- loving, encouraging,

and praying for one another!

There is no "big mystery" to living the way we are called to. . . .

Walk in LOVE!

Do that by praying and reading God's word - knowing that we are not our own

We are bought with a price and we are free to live like

children of the King - daughters of the Living God!

It's an exciting concept. We are "whole" we are "pure" and we are

"free" to walk in Love -

Love for Christ, Love for our families, Love for others

^"18The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints,

¹⁹And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power,

²⁰Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places,"

Whatever your situation today, know that God loves you, He will grant you wisdom

and understanding - This same God who raised Jesus from the grave - has called us

all to be "part of the body" - loving each other - praying for each other-

I'm a child of the King - now I need to live like it

by walking in LOVE!

Are you praying for the body of Christ? Are you walking in love and

lifting each other up with encouragement?

Some of you are! Some of you bless me on a regular basis and

(in the words of Paul)

"I do not cease to give thanks for you"

Linking with:

Have a HEART For Your Kids - Enrich Your Marriage

2012-01-23T20:11:00.000-08:00

"Success in marriage does not come merely in finding the right mate,

but through being the right mate." Barnett R. Brickner

We may be a scruffy, beachy mess in this picture- but we are a happy mess!

In almost 12 years of marriage, we've experienced it all-

the good times, and also the bad.

There are times when it is easy to be the mate I'm supposed to be

and also times when it takes REAL WORK.

It takes work to build up your spouse when you want to take them down instead.

There was a time in my marriage when that was the case for me.

I was angry because I didn't like the way some things in our life had been handled.

I was hurt, and I was scared for our future. That made me angry.

So, I was NOT the most pleasant woman to be around.

I let it fester to the point
where my poor hubs couldn't do anything "right" in my eyes.
I finally gave in and laid it all down at the feet of Jesus.
I asked God to help me let go of the anger and hurt feelings so that I could
begin to be the spouse I am supposed to be.

It didn't happen overnight- but God began to heal my heart.
I started with one thing each day that I could be thankful for - I've shared in another
post that it started out pretty pitifully with something like
"Thank you Lord that he doesn't beat me"
(sad, but true- I was that far gone that I had a very difficult time seeing the good)

It got easier as I repeated my "gratitude mantra" throughout each day.
"Thank you Lord that Mark is such a hard worker"
"Thank you that he gives everything to his family - all he has- all he is - for us"
"Thank you God that my husband truly loves me"

God healed my heart to the point that I find it difficult to even remember what was so
wrong in the first place. He took my lousy attitude and covered it with grace!

How to Have a HEART for Your Kids

What does this all have to do with the book club and having a heart for your kids?

PLENTY !!!

As a matter of fact it has
EVERYTHING
to do with it

Kids learn to model behavior they see. They need to know that even though
life isn't always perfect - their parents and their family unit is in it together.

We are a team, and we aren't just managing to "make it through" each day -
we care enough to put effort into enriching our marriage.

Our marriage is our foundation.

Ways to "enrich" your marriage:
Bring back the romance! Put the kiddos to bed early or have older ones keep them
in an upstairs play room or a bed room playing board games, and have a candle light dinner.
One of our favorite things to do is to take a walk on the beach together. Even with the kids in tow,
they can run up ahead while we hang back and hold hands and stroll!

Talk to each other! With three little boys, it can be difficult to have a full conversation with my
husband. Both of us are busy, he works long hours, it's not easy to find the time. Yet, at least
a few times each week we will make sure the kids know not to interrupt us, we close the door,
and just hang out and talk! Schedule it if you have to. Communication matters.

Date Night! As much as I love this idea, I am guilty of not doing it right. You don't have to spend
money on a sitter if you don't have it. Once the kiddos go to bed or are otherwise occupied,
take a walk, play a card game, read together, or have a picnic in the living room! We got pregnant on
our honeymoon, so even on our first year anniversary we had a three month old in tow. Even on a
tight budget, you can find creative ways to enjoy time together.

Physical expressions of love! It's good for your children to see you hug,
or hold hands during family movie night. They may make choking noises or gag when they see you
kiss each other in the kitchen, but make no mistake- it warms their heart and gives them
security in a world where that is greatly lacking.

*Flirt! It's simple but true, you were attracted to each other for a reason. You may not feel, look,
or even be young anymore - but you need to get your groove back once in awhile! Put on a
bit of lipstick, take time to run a brush through your hair before your husband gets home.
Even if you are exhausted after a long day with kids, it will make you feel better to
pull yourself together and bat those eyelashes just a tad.
I struggle with the pain of RA every day of my life, so it's all that more important for me to
combat my chronic illness and pull myself together instead of throwing in the towel.

Silly as it may sound- Lipstick is my secret weapon!
It's amazing what taking a few minutes to do the hair and makeup can do for you.
It also shows your husband and children that you care to try to look and feel your best for them!

If you want to Have a HEART For Your Kids . . . . .
Enrich your marriage!

(these are just a few of my thoughts on the matter- you can benefit greatly by
reading the book written by Rachael Carman - click the link under the picture of the book
above to get your own copy and join me on a journey to Have a HEART For Your Kids)

*If you are struggling in your marriage
- check out our 30 Days To Build A Better Spouse ebook

If there are big problems or abuse of any kind - please don't hesitate to get help from
a professional counselor. A pro can help you form a safe plan of action to walk your family
through any given situation. God gives us people with special gifts and information to help us.

Photo Prompts - 1000 Gifts - 52 Photos Project

2012-01-22T00:47:00.000-08:00

Color With Emotion

The emotion is evoked in me from the memory that each photo bears:

Balloons- Saying goodbye to special people - Letting Go

Tulips (I love tulips) Adventure with the boys as we journeyed into lands unknown

This day we left our temporary home in Louisville and visited the Creation Museum just

outside of Cincinnati, Ohio - we hadn't planned to stay the night - but we crossed the state

line after a full day at the museum and went to see the big city lights.

An exciting adventure for us - used to our small beach town.

We found a hotel, bought toothbrushes, t-shirts and necessities from an outlet store -

The next day we parked downtown and walked for miles through the city visiting museums and

art galleries along the way. We hit the mother load at the Cincinnati Museum Center at

Union Terminal where we found - the Cincinnati History Museum, Duke Energy Children's Museum,

The Cincinnati Museum of Natural Science and History - The boys still talk about their first ever

taxi ride they took that day as we, tired and happy, made our way back to the car parked downtown.

It was a lovely adventure!

The clear blue pools of water found in the springs near the Suwannee River
- this is Ichetucknee Springs

We love to travel to beautiful places during their "off season" times - we had the beach in

St. Augustine almost all to ourselves and had a lovely time exploring and camping in the area!

Here sits a fine, good man! He is our private "guide" and full of interesting tid-bits on nature.

Mark is actually a pro-fishing guide - you can find him here

Many calm evenings spent by the glistening water watching "the ball drop" as our children

play happily near by. We even get to hold hands and take a walk sometimes!

On our journey's we like to "Stop to Smell the Wildflowers" you never know what

surprise you might find just around the next corner - if you're willing to see the little things

HE whispers to me "Look smaller" and I notice - HE says "Smaller still" and I then I see!

So many wonderful discoveries to be made in His Creation

This pretty bee calls the Oscar Scherer State Park home

This bright "Bird of Paradise" serves as a reminder of a very special day!

We visited Ponce de Leon's legendary "fountain of youth" at Warm Mineral Springs

It was the day boy #2 gave his heart and life to follow Christ - we floated around the warm pool

as we talked of deep and amazing things. He demonstrated his understanding of God's

unconditional love - It's a favorite adventure for that reason.

Just another day at home. You never know where you may find adventure.

We love to stop everything and observe!

"Be still and know that I am God" Psalm 46: 10

I adore this babe from Babcock Ranch - we are fortunate enough to have been able to camp there

with friends - It's a fun way to learn about early pioneers in Florida as Florida is

actually the original cattle state and thus brought the nickname "Florida Cracker"

(from the whips cracking in the wind)

The world's most beautiful bouquet!!

One of the best things about being surrounded by boys - they LOVE their Mommy!

even camping - they bring me "flowers"

(yes, it's a violation of the "leave only footprints and take only pictures" rule-

but a few weeds here and there are hard to turn down from sweet dirty faced boys)

And I count to #1000 Gifts and Beyond-

-My Joy Pockets-

#132 - dirty faces

#133 - bumble bees and other bugs which fascinate and hold captive

#134 - a fine good man

#135 - colors of nature

#136 - everyday adventures

#137 - gentle spirits in little wild boys

#138 - quiet moments to be still

#139 - beauty in the tiniest of details

#140 - the whisper

Linking Up With:

Homeschool Mother's Journal

2012-01-19T17:43:00.000-08:00

I didn't make the last couple of posts for the Homeschool Mother's Journal, so I thought I'd

combine the past couple of weeks to show you some of what we've been up to

I'm not a morning person, but for the past couple of weeks, I've been waking up around

sunrise to pray. It's a rare thing for me. Here on the Gulf Coast of Florida (down south)

we get the most fabulous sun sets, but it's unusual for me to catch a sunrise. Obviously

it's not the horizon but the sun reflects off the water behind our home - the fog begins to lift -

and this particular morning there was a pink hue all across the sky.

Some of us are participating in the 31 days to Pray for Your Spouse Challenge through

January - I've used this time to pray for my own husband - and the sweet ladies in my group.

Spence got to spend some good one on one time learning about tying up fishing nets -

there is not much else in the world that makes him happier -except actually fishing

(Yes, that is one of my chalkboards out there- argh)

We have a fun little homeschool "book club" which meets once each month.

Each of the children stands before the group of parents and students and tells about

a favorite book they've been reading. It's great public speaking practice.

We then all hang at the park - and the children are awarded with free lunch tickets from

the local Jason's Deli - It's been so generous of Jason's Deli to support the reading group

and kids in our community! Thank YOU Jason's Deli!!

It provides a wonderful opportunity for socializing, public speaking, supports literacy,

and local homeschool families! They have healthy menu options, even gluten free, and ICE CREAM!

If you haven't tried a Jason's Deli- well, you get the point - we are fans!

(I'm not being paid to tell you this I promise- just very grateful for all they have done)

No, that is not Big Foot wearing a football jersey. That's our friend Nick hiding in the woods.

You may know his sweet mama- Jenn from "Daze of Adventure"

(if ya don't know her yet, I suggest you hop over there and check her out)

Anyhoo, we got the kiddos out for a good long nature walk last Friday on the trails at Tippecanoe

Nick's silliness wasn't limited to disguising himself with shrubs - he also enjoyed jumping out of them!

It's a miracle I got this picture at all - since I jumped clean out of my skin!

My boys had a lovely time exploring the trails - which of course, we had to ourselves on a weekday!

Who teaches this boy strut thang anyway? :)

I remember dressing my little brother up in our old dresses when he could barely walk

. . . . . and even with the dress on - he had the boy strut going on!

The week prior, we had a visit from my sister and her 3 boys - yes, you counted right

6 boys in the house!

All under the age of 10 - it was a wonderful time

They brought us some hermit crabs - who have been a BIG hit around here - and I'm happy to

report - are actually still alive.

It was our "Christmas" gathering for the New Year

Of course, there was beach time:

These cousins are only a few weeks apart. They both turned 7 recently

They all have so much fun together- just boys - doing boy things

It was- as always - the perfect end - to the perfect day!

We've also been cracking the books! We received our new

"Big Book of History" from Master Books and LOVE

can I say LOVE it!

Here is the link if you'd like to get your very own awesome Big Book!

3 in 30 Goals:

I'm not going to pretend to know exactly where I am on my monthly goals - It's been a whirlwind.
But, I press on toward the mark and I know I'm making progress!

* I'm drinking more water and walking some outside - going again tomorrow :) for another nature walk.
*I'm getting a lot of praying and encouragement from and for the ladies involved in the 31 days Challenge
and I love praying for my husband - especially with scripture!(too late for the January Challenge, but it's never too late to get the ebook and start your own journey praying for your husband each day. There is a link on my side bar that will take you right to it. They are only $5 and can really help you lift up your marriage!
*I love the Have a HEART for your Kids group and look forward to sharing chapter 4 with you here on Adventurez - It's an honor for me to write about Rachael Carman's book - She is a woman after my own heart for sure! She humbly speaks about her mistakes and the grace God has given her to continue leading her children in the way God would have them to go.
*We've begun our study in Ephesians and it is going to be a wonderful journey! I'm sharing it in part with my children in our homeschool and really enjoying the facebook page as well.
*Blogging and writing is going well - right on track.
All in all - I'm very pleased with the way January is progressing. Except the laundry. Waaayyy behind!
The goals I have chosen go with my word of the year - and have added value and

"Enhancement"

to our lives!

Are you finding special ways to enhance yours? I love to hear your ideas and experiences!

Linking with:

Need a Special Valentine Gift for Kiddos?

2012-01-18T16:46:00.000-08:00

I wanted something unique for my cutie pie little nephews who are 3 year old twins.

So, this cute little "cigar box" is what I came up with!

The outside is painted with chalk paint by Martha Stewart crafts bought at Michaels Craft Store

I included extra large crayon style chalk from the dollar store!

On the inside I painted a layer of magnetic paint on each side and then painted over it in acrylic

with bright coordinating colors and used a black sharpie pen to paint on a checker board and tic tac toe game

For the game pieces - I used Skulpey clay and shaped them into rounded disks for checkers

On one side of the disk I made an X indention on the other I made an O (dot) for the tic tac toe game!

ABC wooden pieces with magnets glued to the back completed this special project!

For decoration I added a painted wooden airplane on the front and a handle to make carrying easy.

The boys love carrying their "briefcases" around

Older children will love the games and making words out of their alphabet magnets!

If you don't want to make your own but want to give one of these for a special Valentine

just leave your email address and I'll be happy to make you a customized version

with the colors you specify for girls or boys. $30 plus shipping to desired location

(no extra charge for handmade valentine card)

How to Have a HEART For Your Kids - Chapter 1

2012-01-16T09:19:00.000-08:00

Have a Heart for the Things of God

Ever feel like a broken record with your children?

"Don't fight" "Bring your plate to the kitchen" "Put that back where it belongs"

Homeschool moms are pretty much on 24 - 7 so the list gets even longer.

To my own horror - in a house full of boys -I have even found myself saying things like

"Don't you dare spit in the house" "We do NOT hit each other"

"No hitting, kicking, spitting, biting, fighting"

"Do NOT throw things in the house!"

Well, as tiresome as it may seem - I don't think we are completely off track with

this whole "repetition" thing. This is what the Bible says:

Deuteronomy 6: 7

"And thou shalt teach them diligently to your children, and shalt talk of them

when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way,

and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up."

That's a lot of teaching. It's a round the clock kind of thing when you are training children.

Now, verse 7 above isn't actually talking about teaching them "not to fight with your brothers"

Verse 5 before it reads:

"Thou shalt love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul,

and with all your might"

Now, I try to remember this on a regular basis, but I seem to be suffering from some

strange for of amnesia - I call it "momNesia" - If I could just stop myself ahead of time I'd be better off

because when I stop myself from the usual
"Don't hold your brother down on the ground until he screams"

kind of instruction - and remember these verses - I am reminded to focus on

"having a Heart for the Lord"

Then my instruction - the words from my mouth - change to something like this:

"Are you treating each other the way God wants you to?"

"How do you think Jesus feels when He sees you do that to your brother?"

"I'd like y'all to stop and pray and ask God to help you do this the right way"

It's amazing how that can affect my children't attitudes immediately!

I'm still a broken record.

But somehow these words which mirror God's heart for my children

wax much more poetic from the tongue than do the
"I said STOP NOW" variety.

Funny Story - Implementing This "Strategy" :
I just have to share this funny story with you from one of our experiences
The two younger boys - then 4 and 5 years old - were "having a fighting moment"
Instead of breaking it up with time outs or raising my voice -
I simply told the boys they were not in trouble- that I'd like for them to each have a seat
facing each other (again more reassurances they were NOT in time out)
I didn't want to hear "but HE did this , and HE started it"
I calmly said "Boys, I'd like you each to remember how God wants you to talk to
each other - how He wants you to show respect for others"
I went on to explain that they could speak to each other and work it out and then
they were free to get up and go play again.

As hubs and I ducked around the corner to listen - This is what we heard:
Walker said, "OK, Spence - you can go first".
Spencer said, "Thank you! OK, well, Walker - I really hate it when you toot on me!"
Walker - "Yeah, but you've gotta admit- it's pretty funny!"
Spencer - "But it's terrible"
Walker - "Yeah, but then you chase me and it's fun!"
Spence - "Yeah"
They shook hands and got up to go play
My husband and I had to call the paramedics because we were going into convulsions in
the next room laughing so hard and trying not to be heard!

No matter how much fun that experience was,
It can be easier said than done on a regular basis.

In order for me to take charge and lead my all boys household along this path of love

I had better start my day focused on the things of God.

You can bet, that it's my attitude that makes the difference around here!

I must have a Heart for the things of God - and go from rising up until lying down

living the example of that love for my children to really learn it!

There is so much more wisdom to be gained from Rachel's book:

It's too late now to get in on the facebook group discussions, but you can join in here and at Amanda
Pelser's blog link up here on "The Pelsers" - One way or the other, I highly recommend the book - and
I'll be sharing posts weekly here as we read our way through as a group and in an "official" capacity as
a contributor for chapter 4 "Release them to God" - Please join us in this study! We'd love to have you.

*There is so much more to Chapter 1 than I could possibly fit in this post - you can read about how
God is working in the hearts of other moms from the links at The Pelsers

Counting my blessings to #1000:

#122- For new friends and words of encouragement
#123- Freedom of speech and to write :)
#124- God's affirmation
#125- Quiet time of reflection
#126- Washing machine/ dryer
#127- Freedom to worship Him as I see fit
#128- Seeing the Holy Spirit at work in the hearts of my children
#129- Grace when my heart isn't right
#130- A new day and a fresh start
#131- A child's perspective

Linking with: