Life One Chunk At A Time

I am Moving

2012-03-24T22:02:00.000-04:00

For some time I have wanted to change the look of this blog. To be honest this was my first attempt at blogging. I found I really enjoyed having this blog. However, instead of totally redesigning this blog I have decided to create another one. It is called Sufficient 4 the Day. The posts will be similar but I feel this blog will better reflect what I want to put out to the public. You can find this blog at: www.sufficient4theday.blogspot.com

This blog will go live on April 1, 2012. Please come by and check it out after the 1st.

5 Days to Reclaim Christmas

2011-12-20T07:26:00.001-05:00

This year I promised myself I would not get bogged down in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. I vowed I would make this holiday more about memories instead of stress and gift giving. I started off pretty good. As a family we participated in Operation Christmas Child which was a huge hit with the kids. Then my husband and I ordered most of our children's gifts online to avoid spending too much in the store or impulse buying. However, then something changed. Perhaps it was the start of Christmas parties, and get togethers. I found myself questioning if I was doing enough with the kids. We did not do an Advent calendar, haven't gone to see a live nativity, or gone on the Christmas light tour. I have yet to put money in the Salvation Army red kettle, we have missed the big holiday parade, and sadly to say I still have not got my husband's, mom's, God-daughter's, aunt's, and some more presents. I started the season with high hopes and now I am starting to feel dread. Then as I was reading this morning I read the following scripture:

⁸ Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ ⁹ and become one with him. - Philippians 3:8-9 NLT

I realized what have I done this season to lead my family and I in our pursuit of knowing Christ Jesus as Lord. Everything else is worthless. The advent calender, the drive to the live nativity, even the church Christmas party. It's all worthless unless it leads us to a deeper relationship with God and love for his people. So now we are 5 days out till Christmas and I am reclaiming it for my family and I. I am taking this verse as our family verse for the next 5 days to keep us focused on what life (not just this season) is all about. I ask for your prayers in doing so. Be blessed.

Happy Birthday to Me and the Book of Ecclesiastes

2011-12-09T08:56:00.001-05:00

Recently I celebrated my 30 something birthday. During my morning quiet time I was really asking God to speak to me as I was doing some serious self evaluation. What have I really done that mattered over these past couple of years? Am I on track with where God wants me to be or have I been side tracked by life's busyness and distractions? Am I ok? Am I a good wife, parent, friend? Did I make the right decision staying home with my children and even going the extra step to homeschool? What about the Master's Degree I once thought I would get. Was getting my BS degree a mistake or a waste? Am I taking care of myself?

As a child we look at birthdays with so much excitement as we think about what we are going to get and fantasize about eating a huge piece of cake with some ice cream. Today however, I found my mind filled with questions. I really did not have a plan of what I wanted to read but as I flipped through my bible my eyes gazed upon some verses I had underlined in Ecclesiastes. I will never forget when I first really read Ecclesiastes. I thought wow that is depressing. However, as time has gone on the book has almost served as a compass to help me get back on track to what really matters in life. As always God in his wonderful compassion knew I needed his compass this morning. I wanted to share with you some of my underlined verses all from Ecclesiastes:

Everything that happens has happened before; nothing is new, nothing under the sun. 1:9
God has got everything under control. Things that have happened to me are not unique. God has seen them before and the same way he has helped his children in the past he will help me now.

No one who lived in the past is remembered anymore, and everyone yet to be born will be forgotten too. 1:11
Only a life lived for God makes an impact in the future. Yes I may be forgotten but the ripple effect on others from my attempts to live a Godly life will impact my children, their children, and so on.

The best thing we can do is to enjoy eating, drinking, and working. 2:24
Joy is found in the simple things. I don't have to take an expensive vacation, shop till I drop, or do so many other things the world tells us we need to do in order to find joy. God's prescription is easy. Enjoy the simple things I have given you.

Everything on earth has its own time and its own season. 3:1
I can't be everything to everyone all at once. I can't be a super business person and a stay at home mom. I can't neglect my kids while they are preschoolers then expect them to open up to me when they are teenagers. I can't keep my kids out all night when they are 3 and 4 and expect them to act like grown-ups in the morning when they are tired. I can't go to get a Master's Degree, homeschool, volunteer at every organization in the world, cook homemade meals every night, scrapbook, work from home, make my own clothes and bread, and spend hours of quality time with my husband all at once. There is a season for everything.

God makes everything happen at the right time. 3:11
Did I really think I was in control anyway?

Everything God has done will last forever; nothing he does can ever be changed. 3:14
If I want something to last I better make sure God is in it.

If you love money and wealth, you will never be satisfied with what you have. This doesn't make sense either. The more you have, the more everyone expects from you. 5:10-11
Why are we killing ourselves for this American Dream?

Then go ahead and enjoy working hard - this is God's gift to you. God will keep you so happy that you won't have time to worry about each day 5:19-20
Hard work = God's gift = happiness - I better make sure what I am working for is from God.

It's better to enjoy what we have than to always want something else, because that makes no more sense than chasing the wind. 6:9
That's why I don't watch a lot of TV. It makes you think what you have isn't enough. Like one of my favorite blogs says Want What You Have!

Something completed is better than something just begun; patience is better than too much pride, 7:8
I need to finish what I start, make sure what I start is even prompted by God and not my own pride, and exercise the patience already in me to complete all things. This is especially true in my Homeschool day. If what we are doing is prompted by what I see other families doing, or the pride of trying to make my kid know more out of wrong motives, my patience will quickly fail and the task will not be completed.

Words of wisdom spoken softly make much more sense than the shouts of a ruler to a crowd of fools. 9:17
Are my kids really listening when I am screaming like a crazy lady as they look on in terror? Is that wisdom or just my lack of self-control, impatience, or anger?

Everything you were taught can be put into a few words: Respect and obey God! This is what life is all about. God will judge everything we do, even what is done is secret, whether good or bad. 12:13
God's Word speaks for itself.

Walk During the Day - Reflections on John 11:9-10 and the Words of Jesus Christ

2011-12-03T07:47:00.001-05:00

John 11:9-10 - Jesus answered "Aren't there twelve hours in each day? If you walk during the day, you will have light from the sun, and you won't stumble. But if you walk during the night, you will stumble, because you don't have any light." ESV

This week during my daughter's bible readings we read John 11:1-16, which is the beginning of the story of Lazarus. Normally after she finishes reading I ask her to tell me what the passage was about. However, this time I found myself asking her specifically why Jesus said those words in verses 9-10. To be honest I didn't feel like they really fit in at this point in the story of the death of Lazarus. However, there they were stuck right in between the talk of Lazarus sickness and Jesus plainly telling his disciples Lazarus was dead. I admitted to my daughter I did not understand the verses. She looked at me with a perplexed look and said "well when you walk and you can see you won't fall but when you try to walk in darkness you will." Now I know this may be stating the obvious but not until the next morning did it strike a cord with me. During my morning devotions this is what I wrote in my journal:

As surely as there is day, night will inevitably come. While it is day, and before trouble or conflict arises, let us walk in the light. During times of "light" we should be feeding our spirits to the full on the love of God. We should learn how Jesus handled rough spots and hard situations in his life. We need to study Christ's example and allow Holy Spirit to smooth out our rough spots so when darkness comes (and it will) we will not stumble. We will have his light in us. I am reminded of a person that is blind. Even though they are in darkness they can easily navigate through their home. Also, they are so in tuned with their surroundings that when something is out of place they quickly recognize it. Why? It is because they have hidden the map and layout of their home in their mind. If something is out of order they know it because they know how things are suppose to look. This is the same with our spiritual walk. If we slack in building our relationship with the Lord, not using the time we have to learn and trust in him, we will stumble. Through our ceasing to nurture our relationship with God we may not have the "map" of God's Word in our hearts to even recognize when something is out of place. How do we not stumble in the night. For surely as their is day night is bound to come. We must walk continuously in God's "day" having his light in our hearts.

How does this fit in with the disciples. As long as they were with Christ death and darkness would not reign. They were about to experience one of the most miraculous events in history simply because they were walking with the light.

If you enjoyed this post you may like to read:
Welcome to the Church at Laodicea

Talented Young Writer - Kaleela Thompson - A Must Read for Homeschool Children

2011-12-01T05:00:00.000-05:00

Children's Book by Kaleela Thompson

Have you ever been truly inspired to just be better? To reach for a goal beyond the ordinary. This is what I experienced during a visit at a butterfly garden back in September. This was no ordinary visit but one with a purpose. I wanted my daughters to meet an aspiring young author in hopes that her motivation, determination, and positive attitude would be something they could glean from. Needless to say I was not disappointed but inspired myself to reach for something higher, after meeting 12-year old Kaleela Thompson of Hampton, VA. Kaleela is not only a brilliant young student but at 12 years of age she is a published author, speaker, blog radio host, website designer, and last but not least butterfly expert. We took the hour and an half long drive to Hampton to one of Kaleela's book signings to see first hand how this young lady took her love of butterflies and transformed it into a wonderful children's book. So great is her book that she is one of only 12 authors to be invited to the state conference for the Virginia Association of Early Childhood Education in March 2012.

Kids Posing With Their New Friend Kaleela

During our visit Kaleela took my oldest daughter on a tour of her butterfly garden. She graciously explained the life cycle of her butterflies while patiently listening to the questions of my awe inspired 7 year old. All in all we probably spent at least 1 hour outside with Kaleela and her mother discussing butterflies, Kaleela's book, her Kid Gardner's Club, and a whole list of other topics. Her mother was extremely gracious and shared Kaleela's enthusiasm for butterflies and literacy. My daughter was truly inspired and has taken up an interest in drawing butterflies. Also, we left the garden that day with two caterpillars and 2 parsley plants for both of my daughters to observe. It was truly and awesome day.

Back at home with our new catipillers and parsley plants

I could go on and on but would like to encourage you to visit Kaleela's Facebook page. Also below is a link where you will find information about ordering her book entitled, "Oh Where Oh Where is my Swallowtail?" In this book you journey with Kaleela as she explores her backyard garden in search for her beloved Swallowtail butterfly. Along the way she encounters some unexpected backyard friends. This is an excellent first reader that comes with a bookmark with common sight words as well as a read along audio CD. This would be the perfect gift for any young reader.

Purchase Kaleela's Book from Barnes and Noble at the following link:

Purchase "Oh Where, Oh Where is my Swallowtail?" at Barnes and Noble

or from Eggleston Services:

Purchase "Oh Where, Oh Where is my Swallowtail?" from Eggleston Services

Here is an article from the Daily Press about Kaleela Thompson, her book, and love for butterflies:

Butterfly Girl Article

Join Kaleela on Facebook: Join on Facebook

Better to Obey God than Serve a Foreign King - Bible Study

2011-11-29T05:49:00.001-05:00

Below are my reflections as I studied 2 Chronicles Chapter 12. I hope you will be blessed.

The theme in this chapter is repeated time and time again in human history. And again and again God’s mercy shines through as repentance takes place. It is amazing to me how often when we feel secure or have achieved all of our aspirations we stop obeying God. We lose sight of him and allow our relationship to deteriorate. We stop leaning on him as our source of life and fall into pride, self-reliance, and true deception. King Rehoboam “had control of his kingdom, he and everyone in Judah stopped obeying the Lord (2 Chronicles 12:1).” It’s funny how it says everyone in

Judah

. People will follow there leaders. Isn’t it ironic how we look at others to justify our falling away? This is especially true of our leaders. We say “he’s doing it so why not me. After all he is the king and look at how safe the king has made us. God must be ok with what he is doing. So we will do it to. After all we are safe now. God is on our side.” Then comes the deception, disillusionment, and ultimately sin brings forth death in some form.

King Rehoboam lost the splendor of his fortified cities and was forced to serve a foreign king (2 Chronicles 12:8). But God was merciful because Rehoboam was truly repentive and Judah was not completely destroyed. How we need to know it is better to serve God than a foreign king. It is better to obey then to fall under the curse of disobedience. I think about my own life and my current situations. I know what scripture says on many issues. However, I have often been self-indulgent and impatient; falling under the sin’s deception. So now in some areas I have to reap what I have sown. But God is merciful and has continuously showed his mercy to me. It is an awful thing to serve a foreign king. But God is in control and with a true heart of repentance, like King Rehoboam, we will not be destroyed. We may have to lose our gold shields and only be left with our bronze ones but God is still protecting us (2 Chronicles 12:10). Our bronze shields will serve as a reminder to not fall away again.

“Lord I pray for your mercy as many of us have subjected ourselves to foreign rulers. Rulers who are not loving and kind to us as you are. We plead for your mercy and turn from our sin. We ask you to transform us so we will have a heart to obey you at all times. We ask your spirit to help us to never again fall into sin and disobedience whether in good times or bad. Let our bronze shields remind us of the consequences of our falling away but also of your loving mercy to still be with us. When we come to the other side let us be forever changed and committed to serving you. In Jesus name Amen.”

If you enjoy this post consider viewing the following:

A Study of the Story of Lazarus

Sabbath Day Rest for Children - Teaching our Children the Commandment to Rest

2011-11-22T08:53:00.000-05:00

Last week at my church's moms meeting we did a bible study entitled "Rest for Those He Loves." This is a wonderful women's study found in series entitled "A Mom's Ordinary Day Bible Study Series - Managing Your Time." The ladies and I had a wonderful time discussing things in our lives that prevents us from taking a regular Sabbath rest. In addition, we discussed the benefits and consequences of adhering to or neglecting a Sabbath rest. You can find this series at amazon.com at:

Managing Your Time

Also, while we were doing our bible study the children also had a study to work on. I want to offer this study for you to do with your children. You can download it here:

Free Printable - Teaching Children About the Sabbath

This is an excellent way to teach our children the principle of the Sabbath. Our society is very driven. The Sabbath belongs to God and we must teach our children to follow Godly principles. The world will teach them that they must keep going and going to be on top, to achieve success, to get ahead. God teaches us that we must rest and honor him and our families and he will make our six days more productive and peaceful than our 7 days could ever be.

Sabbath for Kids

Positive Christian Music For Our Children

2011-11-19T08:41:00.001-05:00

I am always looking for music for my daughter to listen to. She loves to dance around the house and make dance routines with her sister and brother. I love to see her uninhibited creativity it is truly God inspired. Since she loves music so much it is often a challenge finding music that has an upbeat, contemporary, feel she likes. Then I came across Jaime Grace. I absolutely love her and would recommend her music to any person with young girls. Her music is upbeat, positive, and reflects her intense love for Jesus Christ. Below is a link to her website:

http://www.jamiegrace.com/

Here is a clip of her on YouTube:

Operation Christmas Child Shoebox Family Event - Starting the Christmas Season of Right

2011-11-16T12:17:00.001-05:00

The kids and I were so excited today to finally fill our shoebox for Operation Christmas Child. After picking up the two little ones from preschool we headed off to the collection site to drop off our shoe boxes and help out where we could. This was a wonderful way to kick off our holiday season. This year my husband and I have resolved to make Christmas more about memories and sharing the love of Christ versus spending stressful hours in the store.

At home my oldest and I filled our boxes with toys, candy, toothpaste, stickers, and all sorts of fun items. Once we got to the collection site the kids had even more fun. Many other home school families were there from our support group and all the kids sat down while the head of the collection site explained how each child would be helping to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ around the world by filling shoe boxes.

We started with the two boxes we already had at home

It was wonderful. The kids both chose even more shoe boxes to fill and we went through all of the items at the site and chose fun items for each box. All the while the kids enjoyed cookies, drinks, and hanging out with other families. They colored "all about me" pages to include in the shoe boxes and even made a little blanket to put in the boxes. Finally we prayed over our boxes and the children that would receive them.

Kids Writing Their "all about me" pages to include in their boxes

They wanted to make even more boxes!

It was really fantastic! We are going to make this our official holiday season kick-off each year. There will never be a question in the kids minds who this holiday is really about and how we all need to share the love of Christ throughout the world.

At the collection site the walls were filled with boxes full of shoe boxes headed off to other countries

If you would like to learn more about Operation Christmas Child visit Samaritan's Purse at http://www.samaritanspurse.org/index.php/occ/

2011-11-14T06:26:00.001-05:00

Once again I want to encourage you to visit my sister's website. It is awesome and she really has a heart to see people saved and set free. Below you will find one of her recent blog posts. If you like what you see visit her at www.lovedandforgiven.com and tell a friend.

www.lovedandforgiven.com

Are You Among the Faithful Few?

While reading in Revelation chapter three today, something really stood out to me. It's as if although I've read it many times, it just leaped off of the page (don't you love it when that happens)! In verses 7-13, the Lord is speaking to the church in Philadelphia. In the margin of my bible I have written, "the faithful church."

Faithful to what? Faithful to Christ and His teachings.

Our Lord commends this church for guarding His Word and keeping His message and not renouncing or denying His name (Revelation 3:8 AMP). I think this is interesting considering the time in which we are living where more people seemed to be more concerned with hearing messages on prosperity than they do of self-sacrifice. We are warned so many times in the scriptures about false teachers who will,"secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them..." (2Pet 2:1). Our Lord, when asked by the disciples what would be the signs of His coming and the end of the age, the first thing He said was, "Watch out that no one deceives you" (Matt 24:4). We are living in the age of deception. Their are few pastors that teach sound doctrine...and even fewer people who want to hear it. What does that say about us as Christians?

Agnus Dei From Jotta A. - You Have Got to See This!

2011-11-11T15:06:00.000-05:00

"Do you hear what these children are saying?" they asked him. "Yes," replied Jesus, "have you never read, "'From the lips of children and infants you have ordained praise'?" - Matthew 21:16

From the lips of children and infants you have ordained praise because of your enemies, to silence the foe and the avenger - Psalm 8:2

The video speaks for itself!

Second Grade Daily Homeschool Schedule / Stay At Home Mom Schedule

2011-11-09T19:46:00.000-05:00

For some time now I have wanted to post my daily homeschool schedule. Admittedly, I do not always follow my schedule. However, when I feel I am going too far off course I always go back to it to get back on track. It has been very helpful to have a schedule. I am just not one who can wake up and just go with the flow. The days I try that I always feel as if I have not accomplished anything by the end of the day.

Our Homeschoool Room

Here is a link to download my schedule:
Second Grade Homeschool Schedule

GO Academy
Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed – Proverbs 16:3

Monday

5:00 – 6:00 – Morning Prayer and Devotions
6:00 – 7:00 – Clean house / Start Dinner / Pack Lunch
7:00 – 7:30 – Get Dressed
7:30 – 9:00 – Get Ready for School
9:00 – 9:15 – Leave for School
9:15 – 9:45 – Take Kids to School
9:45 – 10:00 – Get settled in and at desk ready to work
10:00 – 10:30 – Math
10:30 – 11:00 – Bible
11:00 – 11:30 - Language Arts
11:30 – 11:45 – Snack Break
11:45 – 12:15 - Language Arts
12:15 – 12:45 – History
12:45 – 2:00 – Pick Kids up / Get home from school / Bathroom Break / Soccer Practice
2:00 – 3:15 - Soccer
3:15 – 4:00 – Get home from soccer
4:00 – 5:00 – Free time
5:00 – 6:00 – Get ready for dinner / Clean kitchen
6:00 – 6:30 – Get plates/cups/table ready for dinner
6:30 – 7:00 – Dinner Time
7:00 – 8:00 – Clean up time
8:00 – 9:00 – Bath time and get ready for bed
9:00 – 10:00 – Take shower / clean house / plan for next day
10:00 – 11:00 – Hang out with husband

Tuesday

5:00 – 6:00 – Morning Prayer and Devotions
6:00 – 7:00 – Clean house / Start Dinner / Pack Lunch
7:00 – 7:30 – Get Dressed
7:30 – 9:00 – Get Ready for School
9:00 – 9:15 – Leave for School
9:15 – 9:45 – Take Kids to School
9:45 – 10:00 – Get settled in and at desk ready to work
10:00 – 10:30 – Math
10:30 – 11:00 – Bible
11:00 – 12:00 - Language Arts / Eat Snack
12:00 – 12:30 – Church Conference Call / Independent Chapter Book Reading
12:30 – 12:45 – Get Ready to Pick Kids up from school /
12:45 – 1:30 – Pick Kids up / Get home from school / Bathroom Break / Soccer Practice
1:30 – 2:30 – Kid’s Naptime / Independent Study – Time 4 Learning Language Arts
2:30 – 3:00 – Wake Kids / Snack Time
3:00 – 4:30 – Free Time / Tutoring Business
4:30 – 5:00 - Rest
5:00 – 6:00 – Get ready for dinner / Clean kitchen
6:00 – 6:30 – Get plates/cups/table ready for dinner
6:30 – 7:00 – Dinner Time
7:00 – 8:00 – Clean up time
8:00 – 9:00 – Bath time and get ready for bed
9:00 – 10:00 – Take shower / clean house / plan for next day
10:00 – 11:00 – Hang out with Husband

Wednesday

5:00 – 6:00 – Morning Prayer and Devotions
6:00 – 7:00 – Clean house / Start Dinner / Pack Lunch
7:00 – 7:30 – Get Dressed
7:30 – 9:00 – Get Ready for School
9:00 – 9:15 – Leave for School
9:15 – 9:45 – Take Kids to School
9:45 – 10:00 – Get settled in and at desk ready to work
10:00 – 10:30 – Math
10:30 – 11:00 – Bible
11:00 – 11:30 - Language Arts eat snack
11:30 – 12:00 - Science
12:00 – 12:30 – History
12:30 – 12:45 – Get Ready to Pick Kids up from school / Get Dressed for Soccer / Make soccer snacks
12:45 – 2:00 – Pick Kids up / Get home from school / Bathroom Break / Soccer Practice
2:00 – 3:15 - Soccer
3:15 – 4:00 – Get home from soccer
4:00 – 4:30 – Free time
4:30 - 5:00 – Clean-up / Take Baths
5:00 – 5:30 – Get ready for dinner / Clean kitchen
5:30 – 6:15 – Eat Dinner and Clean Kitchen
6:30 – 9:00 – Go to Encounter
9:00 – 10:00 – Take shower / clean house / plan for next day
10:00 – 11:00 – Hang out with Husband

Thursday

5:00 – 6:00 – Morning Prayer and Devotions
6:00 – 7:00 – Clean house / Start Dinner / Pack Lunch
7:00 – 7:30 – Get Dressed
7:30 – 9:00 – Get Ready for School
9:00 – 9:15 – Leave for School
9:15 – 9:45 – Take Kids to School
9:45 – 10:00 – Get settled in and at desk ready to work
10:00 – 10:30 – Math
10:30 – 11:00 – Bible
11:00 – 12:00 - Language Arts / Snack Break
12:00 – 12:30 – Science
12:30 – 12:45 – Get Ready to Pick Kids up from school /
12:45 – 1:30 – Pick Kids up / Get home from school / Bathroom Break / Go to Soccer Practice
1:30 – 2:30 – Kid’s Naptime / Independent Study – Time 4 Learning Social Studies
2:30 – 3:00 – Wake Kids / Snack Time
3:00 – 4:30 – Free Time / Tutor Business
4:30 – 5:00 - Rest
5:00 – 6:00 – Get ready for dinner / Clean kitchen
6:00 – 6:30 – Get plates/cups/table ready for dinner
6:30 – 7:00 – Dinner Time
7:00 – 8:00 – Clean up time
8:00 – 9:00 – Bath time and get ready for bed
9:00 – 10:00 – Take shower / clean house / plan for next day
10:00 – 11:00 – Hang out with Husband

Friday

Field Trip Day or Arts and Crafts
Time 4 Learning – Math / Language Arts / Science – 30 minutes each
Work on Tutoring and Church Work

Fun Autumn Glyph for Kids

2011-11-07T10:05:00.001-05:00

Recently during a mom's meeting at my home the kids made the following autumn glyphs. What is a glyph? It is a symbol that conveys a message or information nonverbally. This is a great way for kids to learn data collection and learn how to interpret information. Below are the directions for creating this glyph:

To download a copy of these directions click here:
Fall Wreath Glyph

Fall Wreath Glyph

Follow the directions below to create your own personal Wreath Glyph

Age:
Yellow Leaves - Count out your age and paste that many Yellow Leaves on your wreath

Girl/Boy:

Girl – If you are a girl put 3 green leaves on your wreath
Boy – If you are a boy put 4 green leaves on your wreath

Birthday:

If you were born in January, February, March, April, May, or June put 3 red leaves on your wreath.
If you were born in July, August, September, October, November, or December put 4 red leaves on your wreath.

Right/Left Handed:

If you are right handed cut out an orange circle to fill in the center of your plate.
If you are left handed cut out a red circle to fill in the center of your plate.

Seasons:
If your favorite season is fall or winter hang the following verse from your wreath:
"They do not say to themselves, 'Let us fear the LORD our God, who gives autumn and spring rains in season, who assures us of the regular weeks of harvest.'" - Jeremiah 5:24

If your favorite season is spring or summer hang the following verse from your wreath:
Be patient, then, brothers, until the Lord's coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop and how patient he is for the autumn and spring rains." - James 5:7 NIV

Favorite Color Autumn Leave:
Get a Leaf Printout and color it the shade of your favorite autumn leaves (brown, red, orange, etc…)

Our Field Trip to Mt. Vernon - Revealing HIS-tory

2011-11-05T09:33:00.001-04:00

Yesterday we went to Mt. Vernon's Homeschool day. For those of you who may not know Mt. Vernon was the home of George Washington and his wife Martha. It is the most popular historic estate in our country. My oldest was so excited to go on this field trip. From public school she of course learned about George Washington. Also, this year in social studies she has learned some interesting facts about George Washington. Prior to visiting the estate we went online to Mt. Vernon's official website. I have to say that this site is very well. There is another interactive site just for kids called Washington's world that I highly recommend if you will be visiting Mr. Vernon http://www.washingtonsworld.org/.

While reviewing the site prior to visiting, Ayanna was astonished to learn that Washington owned slaves. It really took her aback. She was well aware that he was a Christian man, the Father of our country, and we have taught her to honor and respect leaders from the past and present. She was very confused. However, this was a wonderful opportunity to teach Ayanna principles of our faith and more about her history. During our visit, as we went into the slave quarters and visited the blacksmiths shop, we talked about how it is not God's will for men to be held in bondage by others. We also talked about Jesus is our standard. We don't make idols out of men even good men because from Romans 3:23 - For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.

Also, I do believe men can speak Godly principles but still suffer from the sin of silence because of the fear of man, lack of knowledge, or misguided views and influences. None of us are exempt from this. It was kind of heartbreaking to see her excitement fade into sobering of reality of how her life would have been like during that time period. This has not been our first discussion on slavery. In previous conversations we have discussed our history. I constantly remind her that it takes nothing away from our value and worth to God. It is a reflection of our fallen world and the evil that resides in the human heart. I also remind her that Jesus was a descendant of slavery himself as the Israelites labored hundreds of years under Egyptian rule and time and time again where held in bondage by other societies. Yet out of that Jesus came as the savior of the human race. But for some reason I could see during this discussion and trip she really got it. It really hit her and I saw her heart grieve.

Children Placing Flowers at Washington's Grave

During Washington's life his views of slavery changed. At that time it was not lawful to free a slave unless he acquired a trade of some sort. Washington hired others to come in to teach his slaves trades. Also, this was an economic practice because after hiring the person to come in to train, that person would leave and now he would have "free" labor to work his farms and businesses. During and after the Revolutionary war he really began to show a changing of opinion in his writings. He was gripped by the thought of many slaves that fought alongside him for the cause of freedom against the British were denied their own freedom. These same men advancing his cause were in bondage themselves. During his day and I would say even during our day we often suffer from a case of moral schizophrenia (as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. put it). Finally upon his death he willed that his slaves would be set free. This was bittersweet for some of the families because many of his slaves were owned by Washington's relatives who did not share his same convictions. As a results those that were freed had to decide whether to stay with there other family members or leave. OK I know this is turning into a history lesson so I'm going to say one last thing. Many believed after his presidency he could have elevated the nation's conscience concerning slavery and may have been able to be instrumental in it's abolishment. Only God knows. We do know that he was convicted by the issue according to his later writings. No doubt this conviction was from Holy Spirit himself. However, this serves as an example of how God will not force us to make a decision or take actions that are right. He will send his Spirit to show us truth but it is ultimately up to us who we will serve despite the consequences. We are constantly challenged to count the cost of following Jesus. What would have been the cost of Washington? We will never know. Only Christ himself is in the right place to judge men's hearts. However, I am challenged to consider my own walk in the midst of my culture, our government, my conveniences, etc... and pray that I will have the love for the kingdom to follow Holy Spirit.

George Washington's home in the background

Field trips and experience like this illustrate just one of the reasons why we are homeschooling. I do not believe we can accurately teach history without showing our children the finger of God and the true nature of men's hearts. This is something they may not learn in school. The history curriculum we have chosen to follow for our children is entitled, "Our History, HIS-story: Using Literature to Wave the African-American Presence into the Fabric of Early American History" You can find this curriculum at http://www.currclick.com/. I believe African American children will never receive an education that will adequately "instill in our elementary-aged, African-American children a sense of who they are both spiritually and historically" as stated by the Bullard Family the makers of this curriculum. As God thought it was so vital throughout the history of the Israelites that they never forget their past I feel that it is the same for our children and children of all races. It is up to us as parents to truly educate or children. It is a responsibility and a privilege. I am thankful to God that he has allowed our family to homeschool and for experiences like that of Mt. Vernon.

The Most Important Subject During My Homeschool Day

2011-11-03T07:00:00.001-04:00

Like many homeschoolers I often find my day going way off schedule. To be perfectly honest I have a pretty great schedule written down. However, most days I find I am actually going off schedule. I don't know if I am just trying to cram too much in one day. Perhaps my schedule just doesn't allow for any interruptions or moments when I have to explain a concept over and over again. I just know that lately I have become increasingly frustrated with my lack of consistency in following my schedule. This frustration has been amplified by not always knowing what subjects to teach and which to let go when my day does not go the way I plan. Then I was challenged by the thought of letting Bible slide. After all isn't it important that we cover at least math and language arts daily. Those are the two subjects we are required to test our children on (at least in Virginia) and report their scores to the superintendent. Then it struck me Bible is not just a subject and if I treat it as just one more thing to get through on our daily checklist that is exactly the view my children will have towards God's Word.

Today we read in John chapter 6 that Jesus is the bread of life. Nothing will sustain my children more than learning God's Word. And not just memorizing verses but learning the daily discipline and privilege of spending time with Jesus. She is learning to discern the voice of Holy Spirit. She is learning of the faith that will keep her everyday of her life. We don't know what the future holds. There is no guarantee that the America we live in today, that is still so full of opportunity and wealth, will be that same America our children and grandchildren experience. The best and most important thing we can teach our children is to have a hunger and thirst after God. To live life in light of eternity. This will only be accomplished if we make sure we don't neglect the most important subject in our homeschool day and our entire life - God's Word. Everything else can wait.

Do As I Say Not As I Do

2011-11-01T07:00:00.000-04:00

Below is a blog post from my wonderful sister. She is absolutely awesome! God has given her so many gifts one of which is writing. If you enjoy this post check out her website at:

http://www.lovedandforgiven.com/

"This is a phrase that I have heard many times...but is it truly realistic to expect our children to do that? I have two sons. A 10-year old and a 14-month old. I have realized this year more than ever how much our children watch us. Fortunately I'm relieved to say that my oldest has noticed that I'm actually trying to live what I've been trying to teach him. He lets me know, and asks questions about how I would have handled certain situations when I was his age. I even catch him watching me sometimes, studying me to see how I will react when faced with difficult circumstances. Even my toddler, although he's not old enough to understand the spiritual tidbits I try to deposit into him, I've realized how much he watches me too. He knows all of my routines. It always amazes me that even though he can't tell the time on a clock, he has observed me so much that he has a concept of time based on what I'm doing. As I'm writing this, I'm reminded of:

2 Timothy 1:5 - I'm reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, now I am persuaded, lives in you also.

What a wonderful testimony to have someone see God's light shining in our children and grandchildren as adults, and also recognizing that our godly lifestyle influenced them as children.

If you enjoy this post check out:
What Was I Thinking!

Spinach Breakfast Smoothies

2011-10-31T07:00:00.000-04:00

OK I know it may sound yucky but thanks to my very good friend Patricia my family and I are trying to eat healthier. You see Patricia is taking this nutrition class and I am reaping the benefits of getting all of this healthy insider information for free. Recently, I discussed with her how it is almost impossible to get my middle daughter to eat vegetables. It has really been a challenge up until recently. Patricia simply said why don't you try putting it in a smoothie. So lo and behold I introduce to you the perfect make-your-4-year-old-eat-veggies breakfast smoothie:

Half a blender full of spinach leaves
2 tablespoons of milled flax seed
1 banana
2 handfuls of blueberries
1/2 can of pineapples with juice or 1/2 pack of strawberries
Some crushed ice
Keifer yogurt (this is optional but I use it for protein)
Some Agave Nectar or Honey

The kids love it and ask for it every morning. Thanks so much Patricia!

If you enjoyed this post check out:
November Menu Ideas

My Thoughts on Halloween

2011-10-30T07:00:00.005-04:00

If you think this is going to be a blog posts about all of the horrible things about Halloween well it's not. There is much debate amongst Christians about should you celebrate Halloween or not. Personally, we have decided as a family not to participate in Halloween. We have in the past allowed the children to go to Harvest Festivals at local churches. What I want to offer today is just some scripture for you to think about. Not just on Halloween but really for other topics that we (I mean the church) may disagree on (that are not foundational scripture - I do believe in many areas there is no black and white). It comes from the book of Romans (as you read this please keep in mind if you do celebrate the holiday I am not assuming you are "weak" I am always asking God what category of a Christian I fall into):

Romans 14:1-12 (CEV)
Welcome all the Lord's followers, even those whose faith is weak. Don't criticize them for having beliefs that are different from yours. Some think it is all right to eat anything, while those whose faith is weak will eat only vegetables. But you should not criticize others for eating or for not eating. After all, God welcomes everyone. "What right do you have to criticize someone else's servants? Only their Lord can decide if they are doing right, and the Lord will make sure that they do right.

Some of the Lord's followers think one day is more important than another. Others think all days are the same. But each of you should make up your own mind. Any followers who count one day more important than another day do it to honor their Lord. And any followers who eat meat give thanks to God, just like the ones who don't eat meat.

Whether we live or die, it must be for God, rather than for ourselves. Whether we live or die, it must be for the Lord. Alive or dead, we still belong to the Lord. This is because Christ died and rose to life, so that he would be the Lord of the dead and of the living.   Why do you criticize other followers of the Lord? Why do you look down on them? The day is coming when God will judge all of us. In the Scriptures God says,

"I swear by my very life that everyone will kneel down and praise my name!"

And so, each of us must give an account to God for what we do.

If you like this post check out:
The Church at Laodicea

Has Homeschooling Taken Over Your Life

2011-10-29T07:00:00.007-04:00

There are many reasons my husband and I decided to homeschool our oldest daughter. In a later post I will list the whys. However, recently I felt a tug in my spirit or rather a warning. In life we hold so many titles. During college it was "I am a college student, then I am an engineer, next came I am a wife, a mother, stay-at-home mom, now it is I am a homeschooler." However, I have to be careful not to let any of those things give me my identity. My identity alone must be in Christ. It is so easy to let those roles overtake you. I was spending hours and hours on homeschool blogs and websites. It was really becoming sort of obsessive. I even found myself wanting to get online for a quick peak before doing morning devotions. I was starting to find my identity in being a "homeschooler." However, God in his graciousness pulled me back to him and actually challenged me for a while to stop looking at the blogs altogether. I went on sort of a blog fast because it was really becoming unbalanced. I love homeschooling my daughter. Now that I am doing it I would not have it any other way but I can't let it define me. If God calls me to do something else in the future I can't have all of myself wrapped up in this that I don't know who I am if it goes away. It's really not about me anyway. On many levels it's not about my children either. It's about being obedient to what God has for us so that his kingdom will be advanced on this earth. It's really just simply about him.

Sometimes We Need to Be Reminded Who This Life Is Really About ...

2011-10-28T16:49:00.002-04:00

My sister recently posted the following video on YouTube. It is very inspirational. If you have time check out her website http://www.lovedandforgiven.com/ . It is awesome.

If you like this post check out:

The Church at Laodicea

Where Are You Lord in the Midst of My Pain - A Study of the Story of Lazarus

2010-11-17T08:00:00.000-05:00

I cannot tell you how many times in life I have cried out to the Lord “Father where are you?” Even though we do not always tangibly sense his presence he truly never abandons us. In our minds he is delayed or seemingly too late to help us. However, God’s sense of timing is in light of his eternal perspective something we are unable to grasp. While reading through the story of Lazarus I was reminded about God’s perfect timing, how we often feel he has abandoned us, and how in the midst of our suffering he has compassion on us.

John 11:1-4

Now a man named Lazarus was sick. He was from Bethany, the village of Mary and her sister Martha. This Mary, whose brother Lazarus now lay sick, was the one who poured perfume on the Lord and wiped his feet with her hair. So the sisters sent word to Jesus, “Lord, the one you love is sick.” When he heard this, Jesus said, “This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it.

In life we are not always exempted from going through the process. In Lazarus case the process was sickness that would ultimately lead to death. Nothing seems more final than death but God always has the last say in any situation. “This sickness will not end in death …” Christ saw and knew the outcome of Lazarus’s situation however, he still allowed it to happen.

John 11:5 – 6

Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. Yet when he heard that Lazarus was sick, he stayed where he was two more days.

Jesus loved Mary, Martha, and Lazarus just like he cares for all of us. However, he didn’t rush to be by their side in their moments of desperation. During these two days I am sure the sisters were afraid, confused, and bewildered. Their beloved brother was dying before their eyes. I am sure they thought, “Where is Jesus? Has he abandoned us? Doesn’t he even care? We went and sought him out but he has not come. We saw him heal others why has he not helped his beloved brother? Have we sinned? Is it something we have done to turn his affections from us? We are alone to handle this situation ourselves.” How often have we had these same thoughts as his children? We may be approaching the death of a career, a marriage, a way of life, or perhaps even natural physical death. The seemingly absence of God’s presence overtakes us. We think we are on our own which leads to feelings of panic, despair, confusion, spiritual blindness, fear, distortion, grief, and pain as we lose sight that delay doesn’t imply desertion.

John 11:7

Then he said to his disciples, “Let us go back to Judea”

There was not one moment that past that Jesus did not mourn and think of his friend Lazarus. He had not forgotten Mary and Martha. But he knew that he was to submit to the Father’s timing and will ensuring he would ultimately get the glory. Suppose Jesus would have come any earlier, healed Lazarus, thus preventing natural death from ultimately occurring. Some may have said, “Lazarus probably would have gotten better on his own anyway.” While others could have thought “perhaps a doctor gave him some medicine or now that we think about it he really wasn’t that sick was he?” Jesus’ delay ensured he would get the glory because Lazarus was truly dead. What if God intervened before the deaths in our life? Would we take the credit for our deliverance? Would we deceive ourselves into thinking that our own striving and effort was what got us through and not the grace of God?

We will resume our study next week. If you enjoyed this post check out the following post:
Welcome To the Church At Laodicea

10 Simple Ways to Teach Your Young Children Hospitality

2010-11-16T08:00:00.000-05:00

1. Be hospitable yourself.

2. Have guest over for dinner at least once per month.

3. Allow them to have special friends over for sleepovers.

4. Have them make lunch for Dad.

5. Teach them to keep a clean room.

6. Let them see you getting to know your neighbors.

7. Allow them to participate in your weekly meal preparations.

8. Ask them how they would like to be received at a friend’s home.

9. Teach them to greet their father when he comes home from work.

10. Teach them what God says about hospitality (Romans 12:13, Hebrews 13:2, 1 Peter 4:9)

If you have any more suggestions I would love to hear from you. Let me know!

November Menu Ideas - Week of November 14th-20th

2010-11-15T00:55:00.002-05:00

November Menu Ideas - Week of November 14th-20th

Sunday - Chilli, Texas Toast, Salad

Chilli

1 pound of ground beef, browned and drained

1 1/2 cups chopped onion

4 cloves of minced garlic
2 cans of dark kidney beans

2 cans of diced tomatoes with onions and green peppers

1 can of tomato sauce

1 cup beef broth or water

1 1/2 teaspoons of chili powder

1 teaspoon dried basil

1/4 teasopoon of black pepper

cheddar cheese

sour cream

Directions: In a pot cook ground beef, garlic, and onion until meat is brown and onion is tender; drain fat. Stir in kidney beans, undrained tomatoes, tomato sauce, water, chili powder, basil, and pepper. Bring to boiling. Simmer for at least 20 minutes. The longer it simmers the better. Top with sour cream and cheddar cheese.

Monday - Leftovers

Tuesday - Baked Chicken & Potatoes, Frozen Rolls, String Beans
Baked Chicken
1 1/2 pounds baking potatoes

1 large onion, thinly sliced

1/3 cup Kikkoman Soy Sauce

3 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

2 cloves garlic, pressed

1 teaspoon dried oregano leaves, crumbled

1 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed

3/4 teaspoon pepper

1 (4 pound) whole roasting chicken

Directions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Cook and stir the garlic, onion, celery, and carrots in butter until tender. Mix in the flour, sugar, salt, 1 teaspoon dried basil, and pepper. Stir in broth, and bring to a boil. Stirring constantly, boil 1 minute, reduce heat, and stir in peas. Simmer 5 minutes, then mix in chicken. Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top mixture with either store brand or Pillsbury rolled pie crust. You find this in the aisle with the biscuits they are not frozen. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes depending on your pie crust. Make sure for the first 15 minutes to cover edges with foil so they won't burn.

Wednesday - Leftovers

Thursday - Chicken Noodle Soup

1 cup chopped onion

1 cup chopped carrots

1 cup chopped celery

1 garlic clove, minced

2 teaspoons olive oil

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

1/4 teaspoon dried thyme

1/4 teaspoon sage

6 cups chicken broth

1 1/2 teaspoon salt

left over chicken meat

2 cups uncooked wide egg noodles

1 cup evaporated milk

Directions: In a pot, saute the onion, carrots, celery and garlic in oil for 5 minutes or until tender. Stir in the flour, oregano, thyme and sage until blended; saute 1 minute longer. Gradually add broth and salt; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes. Stir in the chicken and noodles; simmer for 10 minutes or until noodles are tender. Reduce heat. Stir in the milk; heat through (do not boil).

Friday - Leftovers

Saturday - Sheppard's Pie

4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed

1 tablespoon butter

1 tablespoon chopped onion

1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese

salt and pepper to taste

5 carrots, chopped

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 onion, chopped

1 pound lean ground beef

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon ketchup

3/4 cup beef broth

1/4 cup shredded Cheddar cheese

Directions: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add potatoes and cook until tender but still firm, about 15 minutes. Drain and mash. Mix in butter, finely chopped onion and 1/2 cup shredded cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste; set aside. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add carrots and cook until tender but still firm, about 15 minutes. Drain, mash and set aside. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Heat oil in a large frying pan. Add onion and cook until clear. Add ground beef and cook until well browned. Pour off excess fat, then stir in flour and cook 1 minute. Add ketchup and beef broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Spread the ground beef in an even layer on the bottom of a 2 quart casserole dish. Next, spread a layer of mashed carrots. Top with the mashed potato mixture and sprinkle with remaining shredded cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Like This Post Check Out:
Menu Ideas Week Of October 10th to 16th 2010

For more menu ideas visit:
http://orgjunkie.com/

Don't You Hate It When ...

2010-11-14T08:00:00.000-05:00

Don't you just hate it when ...

You forgot you turned on your dishwasher and then realize you've been putting dirty dishes in a clean dishwasher.
Your son takes off his poopy diaper then proceeds to sit on the sofa.
Your son takes off his poopy diaper then proceeds to chase his sisters around the house with it.
You forget about the poopy diaper you left in the back of the minivan over the weekend until Monday morning when you are rushing off to the bus stop you open the door and remember it was there.
You snap at your kids for saying poopy in public after you've said it a million times at home.
After days of wearing sweats, t-shirts, and mom jeans you decide to put on a little make-up before your husband comes home just to hear your oldest say, in front of your husband, "Mom why did you get all dressed up for where are you going?"
You have to sneak and lock yourself in your bedroom closet to eat your stash of Hostess cakes before the kids notice you are missing.
Your daughter notices some personal female products you have at home in Walmart and then proceeds to yell out very loudly for all to hear "Mom don't you have that at home!"
You are half way sleep and go to brush your teeth only to realize after about 30 seconds that your daughter replaced your toothbrush with the one you clean the mildew out the shower with.
Your daughter comes to you and ask, "Mom why does it look like you are always having a baby?"

Well such is life. Anyway if you have any more don't you hate its I would love to hear them. Take care.

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What Was I Thinking

See This Back Up Dancer Go

2010-11-13T15:14:00.000-05:00

There are those times that happen in life where you just have to sit back and laugh. Last year my daughter was in her school talent show. At that time Justin Bieber's song Baby was really popular so you guessed it every kid wanted to sing it including my daughter. The funny part of this video was that she was so oblivious to my son who was trying to steal the show. I think this is hilarious.

If you like this post check out:

What Was I Thinking?