finding joy

Ten things we love about Little House

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 14:13:00 +0000

For Christmas we gave the family the complete Little House on the Prairie DVD set. Several nights a week I'll grab some blankets and curl up on the couch in the family room with Hannah, Chloe and Gracie and we'll pop that fabulous show on. It brings back some wonderful memories of childhood and it also has made me ponder some things about my own life.

1} I am thankful for insulation. Every time I see Mary and Laura upstairs in their loft at bedtime when it's the middle of winter I am cold for them. All I see are bare walls and a timber roof and bare floors. Brrr....can you imagine? It makes me grateful for my warm climate controlled home.

2} Charles has a great laugh. I don't care when or what, but whenever Michael Landon laughs I cannot help but smile or laugh. He's got one of those super contagious belly laughs that just makes one feel good.

3} Chores are good. Oh my goodness. I watch how much those kids work on that show. They come home from school and run to do their chores. Crazy how society has changed. Now we're all about extra-curricular stuff {which is okay} but kids haven't been taught the benefit of good solid work.

4} Complaining isn't allowed. Back to the chores. Just last night we were watching a show and Ma said to Mary and Laura, "Girls, start on your chores." And there was no muttering, no arguing, no complaining. It was just a "yes, maam." Makes me think about how often we complain about chores and work and they were so grateful for it.

5} I need to be more like Ma. Always encouraging, never complaining, always loving, always having faith, and joyful about her work. But, let me tell you, she does share a short word with that Mrs. Oleson every once in a while -- and those always make me laugh just like when Pa laughs.

6} Laundry must have been simpler. I mean, they wear almost the same clothes everyday. Coupled with simple laundry it must have been so easy to get ready in the morning. Dress one or dress two? Sunday dress? Braid my hair, tie my shoes, and go eat breakfast.

7} Less in more. Those kids keep themselves busy all the time. With no media, no tv, no ds, no wii, no ipods, no none of it. Instead they're out climbing trees, or playing, or fishing, or running around. And they're happy. Truly happy.

8} The early seasons are the best. We started in the beginning, and oh my goodness, those first shows are just so sweet. And, I'm surprised how many of the episodes that I actually saw when I was a child. My favorite? The Lord is My Shepherd...where Laura feels guilt about her brother dying and runs off to the mountain and meets Jonathan, the Mountain Man. That one makes me cry. How many of you have seen the actual pilot? It's wonderful.

9} TV has changed. And not for the better. When I watch this show the trust in the Lord and faith is so clearly demonstrated. When Pa and Ma's son died they started reciting Psalm 23. In the good times and the bad times they constantly bring it back to the Lord. Last night? Mr. Oleson tells Charles, "God go with you." That's inspiring.

10} Best present of the year. Hands down, worth it. Besides wholesome entertainment it has formed a wonderful bond between the girls and myself -- I get to share some of my favorite childhood memories with them. And I love that.

Do you have a favorite episode? We're at the end of season three right now.

I'm humming Old Dan Tucker right now. That's Mr. Edward's theme. ;)

Blessings on your Monday. I'm linking with my friend Carissa. Love her. I wonder what her theme song would be? :)

why do you write?

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel) — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 13:09:00 +0000

I'm asked the question again. It's just a simple question wondering why I dedicate a portion of each day to sit in front of the screen and type letters into words and words into sentences and sentences into a story. When I'm asked, it seems to take me a back for a bit, makes me question myself, and eventually pushes me into wonder.

Why do I write?

Initially, I could find all sorts of reasons convincing me that, perhaps, writing isn't a good thing. There's the time, or being too vulnerable, or is it wise? Then those very reasons that make me doubt actually propel me to continue to write. When I sit in front of the keys and share my heart -- whether funny or serious or in pictures or raw or simply conversational -- it helps me understand my own heart.

I see where I've fallen and it motivates me to get up again.
I see that in sorrow and hard times that there is still good.
I see how laughter is a balm for a soul.
I see friendships formed.

You see, writing for me, has become this journey in life where I feel that, at this time, I am to share. Just a bit about me, and my heart, and my family, and our struggles and our hopes. Not for fame or glory of self. But, really, the bottom line is that in all I do I hope to to reflect our Father.

So I write about Celiac Disease and cancer and hard times and still praise. And I write about homeschooling, mothering, being a wife, and a friend and seeking joy. I write about childhood and the beautiful lessons that I've learned from just watching my children.

Life can be a very lonely place. There are ups and downs and bends and turns and good days and hard days. This little blog? It's a journey. My journey of trying to keep perspective in all things -- a journey of truly seeking and finding joy in the most mundane moments in life, in the beautiful moments, and in those places where one's heart is breaking.

Writing helps me think. It helps me process life.

And, today, I simply must thank each of you for walking along this writing journey with me. For your kind comments, encouraging words, and support. I really am grateful and honored that you've chosen, for this season, to read the words that I type late at night or early in the morning while the world around me still sleeps.

In all I do and all I say I hope that you see in my heart that I love the Lord.

Blessed be the name of the Lord -- in the good days, the bad days, the every days, the motherhood-filled days, the sick days, the joyful days, the learning days, the sad days, the laughter-filled days, the trying days, the anxiety days, the calm days, the vacation days, the rest days, the disappointing days, the tiring days, the hopeful days, the throw-in-the-towel days, the normal days -- in the every single day, blessed be His name.

And that is why I write.

a snowy day. a little story.

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel) — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 12:55:00 +0000

There once was a little boy of mine who had been waiting. And waiting. And waiting. And waiting.

He'd be waiting for the snow to finally fall in a winter where there was not many snowy days. He'd been wanting to spend 15.23891 minutes getting ready to go outside. Adding layers upon layers upon layers.

However, he forgot to remove a layer of lunch from his cheek. And do you see his hat? From New Zealand, from his aunt, from when she lived there. It's his winter favorite. So when it started to snow he gathered his brother...who wasn't quite as fond of the cold...

and his sister...who liked the cold a little bit better....but forgot her hat...

and another brother...who liked the snow a great deal....to play outside with him.

They played and played and played. And they played some more and more.

And finally, the older brother and the older sister wanted to go in because they were cold. But, not this little guy. So he and his other older brother, the one who liked the snow, stayed outside until their mamma told them that their cheeks and ears were getting too pink and they needed to come in and warm up.

But, the little boy, he was very happy. And, he went to bed very easily that night thanks to the snowy day and the hour where he got to run and play outside in the fresh Minnesota snow.

And that? That made his mamma very happy.

The end.

authentic. some friday favorite things.

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 12:30:00 +0000

It's time for a traditional

friday favorite things

where I just examine my week

and sit in gratitude for the simple joys

found in the everyday.

These are a few of my favorite things

beautiful square plaque

that I won at Relevant

filled with words of truth

a little boy resting

after he got all of his homework done

in the family room on the big puff ball

while playing his game on the nintendo ds.

a sweet note

left on the doorway

in the morning for me

to see as I left to run errands

and a sweet boy

found in his rather messy room

who decided he wanted to take a rest

in the middle of the room

in the middle of the day.

the bucket of toys

that the boys cleaned

and told me that they

sorted really really well. ;)

little crumbs

left from the gluten free cake

that we topped with berries

on a Tuesday afternoon.

the beautiful eyes

of my ten year old

daughter Grace.

remnants of a lego game

left on the table

after some older boys

played game after game in the morning.

making snow cream

after a fresh snowfall

much to the delight of all the kids

who gathered more and more and more snow

{thanks geography matters for this book}

and this little boy again

who happened to find more legos

upstairs in his big brother's room.

love, love, love that smile.

Happy Friday to you!

Want to join?
Grab the button, write your faves {or link a post/picture},
and link up below.

Where do the butterflies go? review and give-away

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 12:48:00 +0000

Here, in Minnesota, it is cold and finally snowing. By mid-January I'm already starting to miss the spring and start to dream about planting my garden and finding new perennials in the distressed garden section of Lowe's to salvage and save. My kids? They just want to be outside - playing without all the extra paraphanalia that winter requires. You know, hats, boots, mittens, scarves, snowpants, and more? Crazy.

So, in the winter the kids also ask me tons of questions about where the animals go in the winter. We've still got our squirrels and rabbits that wander the yard, but some of the birds? Or the butterflies? Where do they go?

In fact, where do the butterflies go?

Our family was super blessed to review the dvd Your Backyard: The Life and Journey of the Amazing Monarch Butterfly by Crowe's Nest Media . Several years ago we actually "raised" butterflies in our home. The kids were able to observe them from their tiny caterpillar stage, till they made the cocoon till when they emerged as glorious butterflies. Then after several days {and warmer weather} we released them into the wild. Caleb still wonders about those butterflies that we let go -- until he watched that movie. Now, he knows they fly to Mexico. Yes, Mexico. It's amazing! After watching the dvd the kids are so excited to raise monarchs again and to tag them for research. Oh yes, and to plant some milkweed in the yard. :)

And that is where this dvd comes in. It is a delightful educational dvd that makes learning about God's creation incredibly enjoyable and exciting. The kids begged and begged for the day when we were going to watch "the new movie." Then when we were done, of course, they wanted to watch it again. In fact, Samuel asked to watch the butterfly movie this afternoon. :)

I watched the entire movie with them and was surprised at how much I learned about monarchs and how the monarch, in fact, points us back to our Lord, the Creator. It is WONDERFUL to learn about science from a Christian perspective.

And, as a very cool side note -- Crowe's Nest Media made it to the semi-finals at the San Antonio Christian Film Festival. I love this -- I love quality media that is made that is recognized. Here's a preview :

Now to the giveaway and bonus info! First, Crowe's Nest Media will be giving away a copy of Your Backyard: The Life and Journey of the Amazing Monarch Butterfly to one of you. All you'll have to do is enter below via Rafflecopter.

Also, they're creating a new study guide to go along with the DVD. Right now, if you use the code FindingJoy you will receive the study guide when it comes out for free and you will get $1 off the purchase of Your Backyard: The Life and Journey of the Amazing Monarch Butterfly {$19.95}. The coupon code is good until February 3, 2012.

To order a copy of the dvd please click -->> Crowe's Nest Media Monarch DVD And remember to use the discount code FindingJoy so that you get the companion study guide for free and your discount. :)

And, after you've entered my giveaway be sure to click on the links below to some other blogger friends of mine who also had the opportunity to review this excellent Crowe's Nest Media DVD.

Blessings, friends. And as Brennan just told me, tell those people who made that cool butterfly movie that they did a good job. Out of the mouth of my eight year old. High praise. :) Now, I'm thinking about ordering their one on birds....

Enter now and good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Remember to enter at these great blogs as well!

Spell Outloud

The Curriculum Choice

Handbook of Nature Study

Feels Like Home

Mama's Learning Corner

The Traveling Praters

Get Along Home

Disclosure: By law, I must disclose that I receive a small affiliate bonus for any purchases of the Monarch DVD, but please know that I am sharing my honest opinion and only will recommend products to you that we love. Please also note that all images used of the dvd and video are courtesy of Crowe's Nest Media. Images of my children are well, grin, my own. :)

intentionally still

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 12:21:00 +0000

Today is a day where I need to be still.

I tend to try to run the race of life too fast. So fast that I miss the simple beauty in the everyday. I run and run and run and run until the point where I either fall or am exhausted. I see that pattern in my life. A pattern of constantly racing, and as I wrote yesterday, constantly working.

The working, the running, it keeps my mind busy.

It's like a crutch. The more I become busy the less I have to really think about some of the hard stuff in life. So I run. Full force. And I work. Too much. Adding more to a schedule that is already too full. Losing site of the beauty in the everyday.

Yesterday, I was reminded to be still. I was reminded of the gift of life and the importance for me, for us, to step off of that racing track at times to just be thankful for where we are and to see the goodness around us in all circumstances. Sometimes, we move so fast that we miss, we forget, to see the beauty right in front of our faces. I do that -- the moving all too fast -- always looking for the next thing to finish but rarely resting in the finished.

I need to sit and rest. To allow myself to be okay to not run some days. To let myself think, to pray, to laugh, to be real. Not tucking the emotions into my sleeve and smiling the half-smile. I don't have all the answers to stuff in life. I'm just a mom, a wife, a friend, a sister, a daughter, who tends to run too fast in life and then writes about how she stumbles, or falls, and picks herself up again.

I've been running fueled by me. And I ended up exhausted.

So today, today I am intentionally still.

The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.

He makes me lie down in green pastures.

He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul.

He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
Psalm 23:1-3

learning to rest

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 13:35:00 +0000

I am a person, who by nature, likes to work. I'll find tasks to keep me busy -- sorting, re-organizing, cleaning, yard-work, and more -- just so that I can be busy. Sometimes, especially when I'm home, it's hard for me to sit still and not work.

I just see things that need, or potentially need, to get done.

So I stuff myself with busy projects and feel guilty for not working.

But, I'm starting to realize that working constantly produces well, more work. As we all know, the work is never ever done. There will always be one more drawer to clean out, or clothes to fold, or cabinet to clean. There is value in sitting still, in being creative, and in <gasp> not working for a moment.

I see the need for my children to have this free time. Again, it's too easy for me to assign just one more math page, or read another chapter book, or let's do one more science when they've finished their list. After all, my mind reasons, it's only 1pm and we've got more time. But, no. I stop {well, most of the time -- there are exceptions}. They had a list of things to accomplish and they finished the list. I absolutely must teach them to understand that the list completed is exactly that -- completed. If I keep adding on work as extra then pretty soon the list is meaningless.

So, my friends, a completed list is a completed list. And, often in our house, they learn more once the list is completed. They are free to explore, to create, to make messes {which keep me busy with work}, to help out, to listen in on other lessons, but they are free because they did their work well.

I want them to understand the importance of rest.

While I bless them with this freedom I've also been learning how to embrace it myself. It's about goals and achieving of goals. It's about learning to be okay with putting your feet up for a bit. Life feels like a race at times. But, you see, in order to finish it there needs to be times to recharge.

I'm learning to rest. To say no to all the obligations. To watch my children. And to say yes when they ask me to play that game with them.

The work will always be there. Always. The time won't.

Work hard, but make sure to rest. It's okay. In fact, it's good.

an important message from elijah

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 12:53:00 +0000

Happy Monday! It's me, Elijah, or as I like to say, Elijah Nathaniel. I decided to take over my mom's blog for just a bit {after all my little brother Samuel did a couple of weeks ago} so that I could let you know some things about life, and our family, and well, me.

What? You're surprised that I've decided to have a turn here? Well, you shouldn't be. You see I'm a really precocious young man -- that's what mom calls me -- and I certainly like my turn in the lime light. Otherwise you might see this face.

See that face? That's my cranky face. I'm not supposed to be cranky too much around the house. Mom is always encouraging us to be pleasant and kind with our words and our faces. Or countenances -- but that word is too big for me to say a lot so I'll just say faces. Here's a little secret -- sometimes I'll use that cranky face when I have to go to bed. Or I'll use this one.

But, that doesn't work. I still have to go to bed. But, that's okay, because once my head hits the pillow I generally fall asleep really quick. That is if Samuel is already asleep. We share a room and sometimes he wakes me up in the morning. Mom tries to get him out of bed really quick so that I stay asleep, but I normally wake right up. And then I want breakfast right away.

I really like breakfast. My favorite? A peanut butter and jelly sandwich. And, yes, for breakfast. I have mine on gluten-full bread while my brother Samuel, who woke me up, eats his on gluten-free bread. Many times Samuel and I will talk about gluten while we eat. I protect him from gluten. I'll pick up the crumbs and crusts so that he doesn't get any at all because that, that would be bad. So I watch out for him. Lots. No gluten for Samuel, none at all!

In case you haven't figured it, I do like to make lots of silly expressions with my face. Thankfully, my big sister Hannah captures lots of them with her camera. In fact, she used the same pictures and wrote her own story on her blog here. I bring lots of lots of joy to my family's life. In fact, my mom loves me so so so much. She tells me how blessed she is to be my mom every single day. I don't ever really get tired of hearing it. I love her as well.

Thanks for listening to me. I'm off to jump around {shhhh...I really like to jump from the steps as high as I can, but mom has insisted that I only jump from two steps up}, eat as many apples as I can, and learn my letters. Hope you have a fabulous Monday, and if you need to smile you can always look at my super-duper amazingly cute face.

I told my mom to link this up with her cool friend, Carissa's, miscellany monday. I was random, right? And for sure cute. You can tell my mom that I need some more writing time on this blog. :)

preparing for the week. priorities.

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel) — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 14:42:00 +0000

I love Sunday.

It's like a mini version of the New Year -- you've got the week spread in front of you. A clean slate, with days to fill, and things to do.

Except this Sunday. I'm looking at my week and it's already booked solid. Appointments, deadlines, and important things to figure out. Today, instead of the usual anticipation, I'm feeling a bit of overwhelm even before the week starts.

Break it down. Prioritize.

On my schedule all I see are the to-do's, not the blank spaces. I can guarantee that there are more hours spent doing the normal routine, the schedule, versus the many items to do. So I start to break down my days. Wisely. I schedule writing time in the early morning or late at night. I also give myself a lovely Monday morning to write while I wait for Chloe to finish teaching ballet. I'll plan my meals -- at least give myself an idea of what we'll be eating over the course of the week. I'll spend about an hour today organizing our academics -- filing, printing, and scheduling. And I'll update a master calendar with all the to-do items.

And prayer. Sometimes it's all too easy to overlook the value of dedicating one's week to the Lord. It's easy to just get up, look at the schedule and attempt to fly through the week on your own strength -- and then, at least for me, I'm normally exhausted by Monday morning. So this year, as part of being resolute, I'm taking some minutes to pray about my week before it happens.

The week will happen. And I know there will be wrinkles added {look at my last week Friday}, but that is okay. I will continue to press on, to be aware, and to use my time wisely.

Take five minutes. Grab your planner. Look at your week.

First priority?

Dedicate your week to the Lord.

my crazy afternoon

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel) — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 14:23:00 +0000

in bullet points.

snow finally falls, kids go out to shovel.
Samuel naps, I make myself a smoothie.
kids come in, tracking snow all over entry.
samuel wakes up having an allergic reaction to who knows what.
I peek at him, and he has some hives and his eyes are swollen.
I look at the benadryl -- it says if under 6 contact doctor.
I contact his pediatrician, and I'm told to give him 5ml and come in.
I cancel my physical therapy {I've only got 2 left}.
Samuel and I go to clinic.
Samuel falls asleep in the car thanks to the Benadryl.
Doctor checks him over, tells me to continue giving Benadryl as needed.
the facial puffiness is significantly less, red rim eyes still there.
We're to start Samuel on Claritin.
We're to get labs drawn in the next couple days for environmental allergies and to check his ferritin and vitamin d.
Me, in a genius moment {ha}, decides I'll just quick run to Childrens now and get them done.
I call Children's lab to verify that they're open on a Friday night.
I thought it was smart as I was half way to Childrens already.
I was wrong.
Traffic going into Minneapolis was horrible.
Thankfully Samuel loved looking at the lights.
And going through the very cool tunnel. More mama, he told me.
Get to Childrens, park, and find the out-patient lab closed.
Luckily a kind worker led us through the tunnels to the 24 hour lab.
Samuel gets his lab work done.
And, lol, some Skittles at the pharmacy.
Skittles are gluten free.
We begin the long drive home and decide to pick up Grace at ballet.
We're hungry.
We stop at Target to buy Claritin, Clementines, and a salad.
Samuel looks at the toys.
We pay, and go out to the car.
The car won't start.
I try again. It won't start.
I kick the car {yep, I really did}.
Won't start.
Try to call my family. No one is answering.
Finally, after many many calls, an answer.
It was cold outside so Samuel and I were back in Target.
This was perhaps one of the only times where I didn't really want to go to Target.
We sit in the Food Court.
Samuel decides he wants to sit on a chair by himself.
I sit by him, waiting for my hubby to rescue us.
And Grace who is waiting at ballet one mile away.
He comes.
I'm still cold.
Thankfully both slots by the car are empty.
I turn the Suburban around and we jump the car.
Starts.
We go home.
I'm still cold.
And exhausted.
But, in the midst of all of it, I told myself to be grateful.

Grateful for - a car that did start eventually, that Samuel's allergic reaction was under control, that the pharmacy had Skittles, for the tech that led us through the hospital tunnels, a very easy lab draw, Samuel in his penguin hat {which I need to get a picture of because it's so cute}, that the car started in the hospital parking lot {so grateful for that}, the moments laughing at Target with Samuel while we walked by the toys, big blankets to wrap oneself in once I got home, my D'Amico and Son's salad that I purchased at Target, Benadryl, a pediatrician that really really really listens and cares, kids that shoveled my driveway, a very clean home thanks to my olders who cleaned while I was gone, Gracie being brave while she waited at ballet, good friends to listen to while I drove all over the cities, that it really wasn't all bad just crazy, and...

And that today,

today is a new day.

I'm freezing. it's friday. and a giveaway.

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 12:29:00 +0000

It is absolutely freezing here.

Let's see right now, as I type this, it is

negative three.

Yes, that says negative three.

I'm just a tad bit cold.

So today, as part of my favorites, I'm going to add some pictures

from summer when it was warm.
Ah, warm. I miss you.

Here goes.

This is me when it is warm outside.

A for sure favorite thing.

See how I'm thinking?

I'm probably thinking about how I don't want that cold to come.

This is me when it is cold outside.

Not quite as favorite a thing.

Except for the coffee.

From Caribou.

A favorite.

To remind you.

It can get cold in Minnesota.

This picture?

From last January.

-3 is a heat wave compared to that.

Contrast that temp with this glorious view of summer.

These pictures are certainly a favorite thing.

And yes, we were in a parking lot.

And yes, my hair was frizzy.

Summer here is humid. ;)

Now, even though it is so cold,

there are some sweet benefits

like sitting inside with my family

and little boys running around with excess energy

and hot cocoa

{who has the recipe for the nutella cocoa?}

sipped while doing math

or eating a snack.

And this week

thank you, thank you, thank you

for the kind words about Samuel

and spreading the word about Celiac Disease.

I am so grateful.
{you all rock --105 facebook likes -- that's getting the word out!}
One Year -- The Celiac Disease Fight

Oh yes, and the give away?

It's for the unbelievably fabulous book

The World of Animals

{that I reviewed here -->> Animals}

This book?

Perfect for those freezing cold days of January.

And every month in between.

Enter to win via the RaffleCopter entry system below. It's super easy -- and will only be open till midnight.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

These are some of my favorite things from this week.
Besides the funny things Elijah said
or Samuel's morning hug and kisses
or getting new pointe shoes with Chloe
or buying Gracie the gum that she so wanted at the store
or having a warm house when it's freezing outside.
So many great things to be grateful for. Blessed.

How about you? Favorite things?

Oh yeah, and yes, we finally have snow.
To go along with the extreme cold.

Brrrrrr...

Have your own friday favorite things post? Simply link it here. It can be a collection of favorite moments or things from the week, favorite pictures, or a favorite post. Grab the button, write your post, and add your link below! Make sure to enter the giveaway as well!

stuff does not create happiness

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 13:10:00 +0000

I am not a stuff person by nature. I'm a like the counters empty, and the cupboards organized, and the toys totally sorted, and there's extra space in that drawer type person. But, now, I'm feeling choked by too much stuff.

Stuff. I don't even really like that word. Stuff.

I've been mulling over the issue with stuff. Of course, we are inundated with the idea that we need to continue feeding our insatiable need for the purchasing of more things. Every single item in that Target cart will have to find a place in one's home. I could go through and purge every room to help alleviate the stuff. Which, of course, I need to do. But, I think the issue with stuff is deeper.

It involves not allowing happiness to be defined by the amount of things that fill one's home, or cart, or bookshelves, or garage. In fact, all those items, I believe, pull away from one's happiness. The excess stuff creates anxiety, discontent, and lack of peace.

Why do I like the clean counters? My eyes can rest there. It's calm and order in the midst of a busy and active life.

But, then, how does one move from the irritation of too much stuff to the discipline of managing and letting go of stuff? It's trust -- having faith that one doesn't need all of those potentially needed things to be content. The idea that stuff and things creates contentment is a double-edged sword. Initially? There's the happiness. Then it moves to management. Then irritation. Then the overwhelming feeling of living with too much stuff.

It clutters the mind.

So here I sit. In my home that's flirting with too much stuff. I need a system, a routine, a plan. First - Prepping my heart to let it go and recognizing how excess can create chaos. Second - An intentional effort to remove items from my home and not allow emotions to dictate whether it stays. Third - An even more intentional effort to not bring more into my home. Fourth - The establishment of systems to maintain a level of order. Fifth - Start over again with step one.

Too much stuff -- meet my word -- resolute. I'm determined to root you out.

Less is more.

Less stuff lets me spend more time with the real important.

What are your strategies for dealing with stuff?

bends in the road

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 13:06:00 +0000

"When I left Queen's my future seemed to stretch out before me like a straight road. I thought I could see along it for many a milestone. Now there is a bend in it. I don't know what lies around the bend, but I'm going to believe that the best does. It has a fascination of its own, that bend, Marilla."

- Lucy Maud Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables

When we are young we dream of life -- and everything seems to be mapped out in front of us -- this straight line of solid adventure and achievements.

Then life hits.

Life with it's road full of bends and hills and dead ends and valleys and mountains and glorious views and uphill climbs.

We move along wondering where that straight path of perfect life went.

The world tells us that we should have that easy life. Read this book to solve your answers, or the cure for the diet, or save your marriage in 4 easy steps, financial success made easy in a day, and on and on. We're sent catalogs with perfect rooms with perfect colors with a perfect looking family sitting around a perfect table set with perfect food.

They don't show the mom scrambling to put the dinner together, or the toddler who dumped out the flour, or the dad worried about the bills, or the scratched and beat up table. They don't show life. To them, life doesn't photograph well. They want the straight road. Not the bends.

Funny, though, because the bends in life are what make life beautiful.

The bends are where we as mothers, wives, and women learn about strength, courage, and bravery. The bends in life are where we find opportunity, faith, and growth. If all was straight we would be boring.

Without our story.

Sometimes I want to tell that little me, that girl that dreamed of this perfect life, that life will be hard, but also so full of the most beautiful joy. I would tell her to not fight the bends in the road, but rather to learn that those are the times of great faith -- where the Bible verses that she's working so hard to memorize will come into play. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. To trust means to be in a place where there's a bend.

I think Anne Shirley was right about the fascination with the bends in life -- my fairy tale straight path story of youth missed all of the beauty. It was about the achievements and milestones. Not the everyday joy.

The everyday.

In the laundry, diaper changes, cooking, cleaning, teaching, driving, doctor's visits, phone calls, sleeping, waking, reading, and just being a mom moments.

In the midst of a bend.

That's where real life, real strength, real trust, and real joy, lives.

one year - the celiac disease fight

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 12:56:00 +0000

This is my Samuel today. And yes, I've shown you this picture, but he is so happy. Full of life. It's a perfect comparison picture for you all.

This was what he looked like on January 15, 2011. I hate this picture. I simply cannot look at it without my eyes welling up with tears. I hate that this is what he looked like and doctors told me he was fine.

This was my post on January 17, 2011. I finally, finally, finally, found a doctor who listened. Who saw his labwork and realized that the cheerful, and very tiny, little boy was seriously sick.

i am on my phone.
i am at the childrens hospital with samuel.
they admitted him for observation and tests/
he was very lethargic not eating well andwas unsteady

please pray for wisdom and a doctor who pursues answers.

pray also for my family as they are sick

thank you so much

rachel

This was me just about a year ago. Me with no sleep. Me at the hospital for several days, sitting in a chair with my messy hair, determined to find an answer. I was mad -- I wanted solutions for that sweet baby sleeping on me. I was sitting in the hospital praying and contemplating the new journey that my life was taking. But, more than that this was me, becoming determined, becoming a fighter, an advocate, for my boy.

This was me. In May. With Samuel, the little boy, that emerged from the shadow of a silent disease.

This was Samuel before his second biopsy in May. His eyes have sparkle again. His biopsy? It showed significant healing to his small intestine. Why is that important? In an individual with Celiac Disease, which is an auto-immune disease, the villi are destroyed by gluten. Nutrients are not absorbed. That picture of Samuel last January? He was starving. And that is why I hate it. This picture? Life.

This is Samuel in June. See how his hair began to grow? And how he's alert and awake? He literally began to regain his life, bite by gluten free bite as the year went on.

Now, he is no longer starving, in pain, hungry, tired, lethargic, or fighting constant infections and fevers.

He is thriving.

All because he does not eat any gluten.

This is why I fight for Celiac Disease Awareness.

So today I throw my arms in the air and give praise to our Father for this past year. I thank Him for the good times and still praise His name in the hard. He is worthy of my utmost praise. Blessed be His name!

Now, as we move forward, I will walk with Samuel bravely. Fighting for him. Knowing that his immune system is still compromised, but not sitting in worry about it. Doing my best. Praying, praying, and praying.

And spreading awareness.

So today, I ask that you too, would take a moment and
share Samuel's story of Celiac Disease.

Remember, this was him in January last year.

And this is him today.

Sharing his story could help one more child, one more mother, one more life.

It would mean the world to me.

Thank you for walking this journey with me. I am grateful.

To learn more about Samuel's story with Celiac Disease please click on the Celiac button on the top or HERE. For some initial posts please see these -->> Celiac Disease Journey, Dear Mom of the Little Boy with Celiac Disease What I Learned. For more information regarding Celiac Disease please go to www.celiac.com. For an excellent resource for parents of children with Celiac Disease please visit -->> ROCK {Raising Our Celiac Kids} Thank you.

in our house. (version two)

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 13:09:00 +0000

-- we take a great deal of pictures of Samuel

-- we call ice cream screamers
-- our favorite ice cream is mint chocolate chip. Okay, that's mine.
-- I am eating Edy's Chocolate Chip Ice Cream right now.
-- Grace is typically the ice cream, or screamers, dishing up gal.
-- she stuffs the mugs {we use mugs} very full. That's why she's the scooper.

-- we love to watch The Biggest Loser
-- we try to not eat ice cream while watching The Biggest Loser
-- we are known to cry during The Biggest Loser
-- I especially am known to tear up
-- I don't like to wear socks in the house
-- the little boys don't like to wear socks either

-- bread is either gluten free or gluten full
-- those that eat gluten can eat a whole loaf of bread together in a day
-- those that eat gluten free can eat their loaf of bread in a week
-- we can eat an entire box of cereal for breakfast
-- our favorite cereals are gluten free Chex

-- our homeschool books are kept in the office
-- our homeschool books can be found in the kitchen instead of the office
-- bedtime from start to finish {with the boys} takes almost 2 hours
-- I wake up very early. Typically before six am.
-- I write in the morning. And late, late, late at night.
-- I do pop on twitter and times throughout the day.
-- And facebook.
-- the Oreck Vacuum is used every day

-- My favorite subject to teach is well, I don't know. All of them?
-- Okay {gasp} I actually love to teach math.
-- I also love to teach history
-- my kids love history. And math, not as much.
-- we have a ton of legos

-- we pick up legos every single day
-- we step on legos every single day
-- we shop at Trader Joes and Costco and Target
-- I read medical journals about Celiac Disease in my spare time
-- we can eat an entire watermelon {in season} in one day
-- we can eat an entire cantaloupe for lunch

-- the dvds are supposed to be sorted by genre
-- typically a Veggie Tale movie is smooshed in somewhere
-- if a dvd is left out {or a wii game} the game is lost for a couple days
-- it is almost always loud
-- I say, let's be quieter several times an hour.
-- Make that every ten minutes.
-- I try to remember that they're all only young once

-- I'm asked by my boys to take pictures of their lego sets for the blog
-- Grace does ballet while doing the dishes
-- we are a joyful and {mostly} happy family
-- and, oh yeah, we take lots, and lots, and lots of pictures
-- and we talk about our annual a summer trip to the lake all year long

And that's that. A little bit more about us.
Any of these a fave? Anyone else have nicknames for ice cream?

How about you? What makes your family uniquely you?

recharge

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel) — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 13:51:00 +0000

I've been racing around for these past few weeks, for the past couple of months, spinning in circles of busy.

There is something beautiful in stillness and quiet. I remember once hearing about this retreat center where you aren't allowed to speak. At all. Ever. The entire time. {Yes, that concept took a bit to sink in.} For a while I questioned whether I would really enjoy that -- no talking? I'm all about fellowship -- but, then again, as the years creep by I've begun to realize the importance of taking bouts of silence. Sometimes in the stillness clarity can be regained and creativity blessed.

So for this weekend I will be silent. Well, I'm going to talk, but I'm going to take the weekend off from writing -- beyond this post -- and none for Sunday. I'm just going to let the blog sit here. Rest.

In that writing silence I am praying for some moments to recharge. To refocus, to rest, and to reflect. And, oh my, to laugh and enjoy that fabulous family that the Lord has blessed me with.

May your weekend also be blessed, full of peace, and unexpected joy.

Rachel

celiac disease - you didn't win. We did.

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 12:15:00 +0000

Celiac Disease has been in our home for almost one year.

Today, this week before the anniversary, I took time to watch Samuel

and to look for joy in the midst of living with Celiac.

I was humbled by what I observed.

Those observations are this week's favorite things.

Health.

Look at this face.

Look at how healthy

how happy

how joyful

Samuel is today.

I do NOT take those smiles for granted.

Awareness.

Samuel's story has helped other babes

it has brought awareness.

Mothers have printed his story
and walked into clinics asking doctors to read it.

That knowledge humbles me.

Hope.

There are days where I am weary

where my heart hurts for Samuel

where I wish it would be different.

Then I look at his content face

and how he never complains

about not being able to eat gluten.

He is content with what he can have

and moves forward
running and embracing his life.

Family.

Throughout this year the bonds of family

have grown stronger.

We're all in this together.
For him. Our Samuel.

Options.

So often we think a door has closed

and everything will never be the same.

Many times, even though the door has closed, there are new things in store.

New cookies to eat, new foods to try, new memories.

Instead of clinging with sadness to the past

we try to embrace the new.
The future. The good.

Balance.

I used to tell myself

I can't juggle one more thing.

And then Samuel was diagnosed with Celiac Disease

and I was able to balance it in our lives.

Is it easy? Not all the time.

But, the Lord gives strength in all things.
Not some, but all. All things.

Growth.

Samuel has grown

{look at those too-short pants}.

He's in the 34%ile for weight

when a year ago he was dropping off the chart.

He's also grown 2 inches since May.

That is victory!

Celiac Disease

I'm not afraid of it.

It may have stolen gluten from my boy

but that doesn't determine happiness.

And this week as I begin to remember one year ago

I rejoice over Samuel's health with each passing day.
And that face below is exactly why.

dear tired mom

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 13:24:00 +0000

Being a mom is exhausting, isn't it? You wake at the crack of dawn with a to-do list that is already behind, and you move and run and give of yourself all day long.

There are mouths to feed, and floors to scrub, diapers to change, books to read, laundry to do, quarrels to resolve, and bills to pay. You clean only to have the next room made a mess. You cook and then cook and then cook again. And the cry, that constant cry for mom, it just keeps coming all day long.

Then there's the worry and fretting and stuff. You know, about health, education, and <gasp> if you're being a good mom. Here's a secret.

You are a good mom.

We live in a world that tells us that our kids need this and that and that we as a mom need to be a certain way. You know, creative all the time, patient forever, creating learning opportunities at every bend, limiting television, reading all day long, and through it all we're to have a spotless home, with homemade dinners every night, and never behind laundry. That? Well, that standard is impossible, my friends.

That ideal makes the tired mom.

So I'm asking you to let go of this worldly ideal of motherhood. So often it's based on outward things -- appearances -- and loses the heart. You could have a beautiful home but miserable children. You could have little Einsteins, and yet they could be stressed. You could push and push yourself, but you end up exhausted.

Their hearts must come first.

When you start to mother thinking of their hearts first, the tired can begin to fade away. Being a mother becomes more about being aware and less about achieving the next mothering ideal. Now, listen, I'm not saying that it's bad to clean, or to cook healthy meals, or to have smart kids. No, those are all good things. But, not if pushing for perfection wears you out and dims your mothering spirit.

God made you to be the mom for your kids. Right now. Today.

If you're tired, let go of this ideal, and embrace being aware and present. Know that you are not alone. We mothers are all walking, are all running, this race together. Listen. The more we stop trying to compare and compete and look like we've got the perfect lives the less tired we will all become. Let us be about encouraging, building up, and loving each other. Motherhood is a journey, not a competition.

You can do it.

I absolutely know that you can.

little girl grown up

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 13:00:00 +0000

She sits next to me in the car, touching the screen on her ipod, her hair pulled back into a bun. I glance at her, and watch her as she gets out to teach a ballet class, and my heart wells with pride.

She's growing up. The little girl who would sit in my arms begging for me to read her a story now is now just a shadow. A memory.

Today is that sweet little one grown up's 14th birthday.

It was 14 years ago today, at 11:59 pm that Chloe Laurella was born. Right as a day was ending, just on time, and early for the next day. Her birth was balm for my soul, for my family. She was born seven days after my grandmother, Laurella, died. And Chloe, she was hope and healing for us all.

Now, she's grown. Beautiful.

Motherhood is so bittersweet. In one moment they're tiny, little babes and the next almost grown. Let my eyes be awake, be aware, for all the moments, the glorious in the everyday.

Happy 14th Birthday Chloe Laurella. You are loved. So loved.

the world of animals

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 22:52:00 +0000

Every month my family is blessed to review a new book via Moms of Master Books. This last month? We received The World of Animals -- a lovely, information filled, and soon to be a very well-used book.

The World of Animals is a huge reference book filled with beautiful pictures and descriptions about animals found in God's wonderful creation. Best part? It is based on the Bible and lines up with Biblical teaching.

Since Samuel loves the movie Finding Nemo {we have a love of the word finding in our home apparently} he spent a great deal of his time looking at the pages covering fish. And oh my, there are so many different species of fish! I am thankful that I live above the sea. I'm just saying -- I read about all those creatures down there to Samuel. I prefer the land. ;)

All of my children love looking through this book and I know that we will be using it for years to come. It's one of those books that you just always keep ready -- because you know it will be read.

Want to win your own copy of The World of Animals? Make sure to join the Teach the Truth Twitter Party on January 17 at 8pm CST. {Never been to a twitter party? They're easy and fun. I'll be there...and I can help.} Make sure to follow @MasterBooks4U and @MamaHall and use the hashtag #teachthetruth. And, as an added bonus, I'll be giving away a copy of The World of Animals {a $24.95 value} on January 19 along with the other Moms of Master Books Reviewers.

disclosure - I was given a copy of The World of Animals to review in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. No other compensation was given.

somedays you just need to call it a day

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 13:37:00 +0000

I had this post I was going to share with you today called dear tired mom. I wrote it Monday morning, at the quiet coffee shop, while I was sitting there thinking about life and sipping my latte. I'm still going to share it with you, but not today. Instead, today, due to the rest of yesterday, I'm writing to you about those days where you as a mom simply need to call it. You know, make a decision, and stop what you're doing, and throw out your agenda.

Yesterday, after the coffee shop, was one of those days.

It started when Chloe and I returned from ballet -- everyone's moods seemed a bit tense. Off, perhaps. I kept plugging away, asking them to come, telling everyone to not yell, stopping some fights, cleaning up, stopping quarrels again, searching for an eight-year old who disappeared to his room when he should have been doing math, dealing with a six year-old who must have woken up deciding that today was the day where he bugs everyone, and so on and on. And on. And, well you guessed it, on.

You've had those days, right? And if not, just nod so that I feel less alone.

Finally, at around 3:30 my options were dwindling. Most of my kids had only done a fraction of what they needed to do {love having my olders -- they are pretty self-motivated} and trying to get them to write something down was proving to be a challenge. I pulled out the book Ferdinand and started reading. Normally, this helps break the cycle and I thought for a moment perhaps we were moving out.

Then I tried to get them to do their work again.

And we were back where we started.

I stood at the counter prepping dinner listening to the chaos of noises around while my blood pressure rose. I could feel it. Patience? I didn't even see enough options in my brain to pray for it then. I did pray for wisdom, and in that moment I felt peace that it was okay to be done for the day.

So I called it a day.

I turned around and looked at the table overflowing with paper, cuisenaire rods, pencils, cups, cars, legos, math books, markers and more and I told everyone to clean up. We were done. I wasn't going to continue to force my agenda onto the day. It was getting close to 3pm, and seriously, what did I think we would accomplish? Honestly, I should have called it hours earlier, but I just kept trying.

It takes confidence to call a day and stop the current schedule. I've had to do it at 9am -- those are the days where I feel the anxiety even before we begin and we'll watch documentaries, take a walk, or just read -- and today I needed to reclaim a day that just wasn't going to go according to schedule. I should have listened, I should have decided at noon that we were going to shift things around.

But, I'm stubborn. And I wanted all those boxes checked on my planner. Every single one.

My driving perfectionist self was pushing everyone to finish, to hurry up, and my own lack of patience trickled down into the home's mood -- until I relented and released my agenda.

After that? My home became quiet. Hannah still worked away, Caleb went off and read, Brennan played with Elijah, Gracie worked on crafts, and Chloe prepped for ballet {she teaches twice on Monday}. My home? Content. Here's the deal -- it's not failing to call a day and switch the plans sometimes. In fact, it's actually wise. That list of stuff that we should get done by the end of the year will get done. But, if I force it when I need to back off it will still get done --slower and everyone will be miserable. Including me. I've lost the heart and am just pushing agenda.

So Monday, we were done without all the boxes checked, but a sense of peace in our home.

And that, my friends, was the more important.

samuel's advice for toddlers

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 12:57:00 +0000

Thoughts of wisdom.

From Samuel, who is two, to all other toddlers out there.

1} Wake early. It's best to start loudly talking in your crib. Make sure to begin with the words wake time, momma, wake time. Then when your mother comes in to get you at 6:17 am make sure to tell her love you. She will immediately forget that it's 6:17 in the morning and instead will scoop you up with your favorite blanket -- mine is a John Deere blanket. Chances are that you'll get a nice cuddle time in the rocking chair.

2} Breakfast time. Since I eat only gluten free I always remind my mom to get the gwoo-ten fwee bread out of the fridge. We have to keep my bread in the fridge -- the gluten free kind doesn't last as long. Now, if your mom is like mine, she'll probably only fill your juice cup 1/4 full of orange juice. Drink it quick, while she's still standing there so that you can easily get a second helping of juice. And eat all the crusts on your toast. Even if you eat gluten free like me. And only buy Udi's Gluten Free Bread -- it's the best.

3} Running. I progress to running circles around our main level. If you are blessed with this option make sure to capitalize on it. Especially while everyone else is eating breakfast and before school time starts. I love to run. And run. And run.

4} Hide. Under our island makes a great little fort. Find a hiding spot. And stake it as your own.

5} Snack time. By now you've had your lunch, but you'll need a snack. I just keep asking my mom, over and over and over and over again. Often my older brothers will hear the I'm hungry lament and very quickly we'll all start asking. This works one of two ways -- either we'll all get a snack or we'll all be sent to our own spaces to play and we'll miss snack time. So judge mom's mood before proceeding and remember to smile super cute.

6} Always listen when mom reads. Chances are she'll be reading quite a bit -- my mom reads to my family many times throughout the day. Listen to her no matter what she's reading even if it's the biography of George Washington. However, I really like it when pages with pictures come. And if you listen, you'll get to sit in her lap while she reads. That's the best.

7} Nap time. Probably my most favorite time of the day. I don't get those kids that don't like to nap. I love it. I sleep 3-4 hours in the afternoon and often my mom has to wake me up. She tells me I sleep so much due to having had Celiac Disease that was undiagnosed last year. Moms worry sometimes, but don't let that bug you -- it just tells you that they love you. And in case you were wondering -- I simply like to sleep. :)

8} Dump out toys. Make sure to devote a solid chunk of time to dumping out those boxes of toys that are so neatly put away. They make a glorious sound when tipped over. And if you're really feeling creative you can always empty out several boxes and mix. Just be careful regarding the reaction -- some days this doesn't go over too well. Just smile and look innocent and cute in the middle of all of the piles of toys that you carefully arranged.

9} Pajamas. Look adorable in them. Sometimes if you look super cute you'll get to stay in them all day and get pictures taken. Plus they're super comfy. Seriously, now, there won't be that many years where you can get away with wearing tight striped pants like that. Remember these pictures my sister took for my mom of me in my penguin pajamas? Adorable.

10} Love you's. Constantly tell your parents those words. They need to hear that -- they give so much of themselves for us. So I tell it to my momma lots. And I give her mega-hugs. Never stop the hugs. Never, ever, ever. Hugs are forever. At least that's what my momma tells me.

My advice? Cherish these busy years. :)

Of course, I'm linking up Samuel's wise words with Carissa's Miscellany Monday.

the distracted mom learns to listen

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel) — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 14:40:00 +0000

That's nice.

I mumble quick words to my eight year old, my Brennan, who had come to tell me one of his amazing stories. Again. His eyes, full of excitement, shot a questioning look at mine.

You're not really listening.

Oh, I am, it's neat.

But, I'm not. I'm in my own world of agendas, doing the next things, and reading those endless supply of emails. So I didn't really listen. I did the half-kind of listen, the nod your head, and simply say sure and that's great at the end.

And Brennan wasn't buying it. He wanted the full listen. Where I close my little netbook - the email can wait - and I look at him and listen. Not forced, but rather a mom eager to hear about this story that he's been creating. The kind of listen that he deserves.

But, it's hard for me. The distracted mom.

I'm stuck in such a cycle of moving forward and trying to keep everything balanced that stopping my initial agenda requires an intentional effort to refocus my focus. I could move on autodrive all day long racing from thing to thing to thing and brush aside the stories, creations, and simple play times.

I shut the lid.

Tell me about this story, Brennan.

And I try to listen. When the thoughts of work, or the pile of dishes, or the spelling words he should be working on creep in, I remind myself -- resolute -- and I once again redirect my thoughts to Brennan's story. I listened. Hard. Then he was done.

Thanks, mom.

He picked up his pencil and started writing his spelling words. His heart was full. The distracted mom was a focused mom and listened. She really really listened.

How I respond now has impact. If he, at eight, sees that I don't really want to hear his words, then what will happen when he's 13? I want him to know, I want my other children to know, that when they come to me that I want to listen, I will pay attention, and I care about them and their hearts. That faith in who I am as a mom is cultivated now. So I must close the netbook, put aside the agenda, and give of my time for just a bit.

The listening mom.

So much better than the distracted mom.

morphology

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel) — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 21:14:00 +0000

How is that for the title of a game?

Our family was given the opportunity to review Morphology this past December. Well, let me tell you that there were many semi-cold December days {remember our mild winter so far?} where our family would gather around the island and play this very addicting and extremely fun game.

The premise? You draw a card and then use objects {that they provide} to create one of the words that is listed. A really simple concept, but ultimate in fun, laughter, and creativity.

They've got some challenges along the way -- such as choose only five objects to create the picture, or make it with your eyes closed, or race against the other team -- and all these add up to even more fun.

We're a family who loves games. We've got an entire wall of games stored on the shelves in our laundry room that we can choose from, but let me honestly tell you, this one has made the top ten. I love the mixture of creativity, cooperation, and intense laughter.

Best part? All my readers can play. And even my emerging reader, Caleb, can play if one of us helps him read {verifies} his word. See that pic above? That's his amazing and crazy robot. :)

My family's opinion?? -- totally and completely on our recommended and favorite list. Now I also know why this was Timberdoodle's Game of the Year -- it's that good. :) So, if you're looking for a game to fill those family game nights Morphology is an excellent option.

I was asked to review this for Timberdoodle and was provided a copy of Morphology in return for an honesty review. No other compensation was given. To see a list of Timberdoodle's games for game lovers click HERE. To go directly to the Morphology page click HERE. If you want a free catalog from Timberdoodle {a company I love} click HERE.

sometimes all you need is a gluten free noodle

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel) — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 13:38:00 +0000

sometimes the biggest moments in creativity
aren't fueled by the most expensive things
or fancy gadgets

all you need
is a dull pencil left on the table by your siblings
{I think it was used for math}
and a gluten free noodle

that would be a gluten free noodle made from corn
{those are our family's absolute favorites}.
Then add a little boy who's very curious
and you've got an instant tactile learning activity

and one very proud little two year old boy.

any surprise learning moments in your home this week?