Discovering US

Advice From Your Mama

2012-01-26T21:03:00.000-05:00

"Sierra, just remember the sins you commit in your youth might reappear in your dreams when you are older. This might not be a good thing if you are married and talk in your sleep."

Enough said... Love, Mama

Joshua and Hannah's Day

2012-01-25T21:17:00.000-05:00

Last night, Joshua and I were discussing something that he had done. After a few minutes, I said, "Joshua, why are you starting to cry?"

Choking back the tears he said, "Because I think, by the look on your face, you think I am lying."

Wow! I really need to watch what my face is saying!!

He was surprised when I told him that I knew he was being honest. Not only was he being honest but he spoke from his little heart. Way to go!!!

Today, while I was at an appointment with Katie, Sierra was babysitting Hannah.

Hannah decides to RUNAWAY. She runs and sits down in the neighbors yard two houses down from ours.

All Sierra wanted to do was check Hannah's blood sugar.

Tonight, when I was putting Hannah to bed, I asked her why she wanted to runaway and she said," I just don't like Diabetes. I am tired of getting my finger stuck and I WANT SOME CARBS!! Mommy, I am just having a BAD Diabetes day. I will get over it."

Bless her heart. All I could do is give her a hug and tell her that she is braver than me. Then, I gently reminded her that she could not run away from Diabetes and if in the future she wanted to runaway not only would I find her but I would bring the insulin pin. "Hannah, you have to check your blood sugar and take insulin if you do not -- you will die."

"Well, then I want have Diabetes anymore!" , was Hannah's reply.

Yes, I would agree -- It has been a bad Diabetes Day. Let's just say - SHE GOT SOME CARBS!

My Great Grandmother Knows About Suffering - by Sierra Miller

2012-01-08T20:32:00.000-05:00

Suffering is something usually felt by all. Everyone seems to deal with suffering in their own way. One person, I have seen suffer is my Great Grandmother. She has gone through many trials throughout her life. But, she has still remained strong and a faithful Christian through everything. She lived through the Great Depression during the 1930's. She has helped her daughter through two divorces, has dealt with the death of her parents and the death of the love of her life. Recently, she dealt with some loss of vision in her right eye and many effects of old age. For as long as I can remember, no matter what my Grandmother has been going through, she has been there for everyone.

One trial, I have personally seen her go through is the death of her son due to cancer. This year, she went through a whirlwind of emotions because of his death. Even when people were rude, hurtful and overbearing, I never saw her grow bitter towards them. Even with the emotional stress she was going through, she remained strong and was always there to listen and talk to everyone that came in her home. As I watched her deal with this hard time, I saw her inter strength come out. I saw how she handled pain and how she never tried to act miserable even when her heart was breaking. The months after her son's death were also painful. But she handled them with grace; she has been forgiving and has now made it through the trial.

My Grandmother has taught me many things. One of the things she has taught me is how to be strong. She has gone through so much but has never given up. She has inspired me to always keep moving forward, to cling to God and to always remember that whatever trials I am going through, I will come out braver and stronger. My Grandmother Skelton continues to inspire me. She is strong, independent and sometimes stubborn. She is the kind of woman I would love to become.

Really?! I Didn't Know

2011-10-31T23:07:00.000-04:00

"Mommy, you know what?"

"No Hannah - what?"

"Right now, somewhere in Africa an elephant farted."

"Really, I didn't know."

It is stuff like this that keeps me smiling.

Jacob

2011-10-30T23:46:00.003-04:00

This evening, I looked out our kitchen window to see Jacob hit Joshua in the face. Palm open and square on the face. It didn't take me but one second to get on the deck and yell down for both boys to come inside.
I asked the boys if they had been wrestling to which both replied yes.

We have a rule -- NO Wrestling.

And this is why - SOMEONE GETS HIT IN THE FACE!

Anyway, I asked the boys if they were treating each other the way they wanted to be treated.

"NO".

Well, why don't you both go put on your pajamas and get in bed. You will have some extra time to think about how you should treat people and how you should follow the rules.

About an hour later, Jacob comes upstairs. I was lying down on our bed and he stopped at our bedroom door and said, "Mom, I just wanted you to know that I started the fight."

Fight? I thought it was just wrestling that got out of hand. Hmmm...

I asked Jacob to come get on our bed. I wanted to use this time to reach Jacob's heart. It really wasn't about fighting or wrestling. It was about the fact that this was Jacob's first time in 2 1/2 years to come tell me that something that was his fault and he was being honest. I NEEDED to reach his little heart. He NEEDED for me to hear him and he NEEDED me to love on him when he was the most vulnerable. (even it he didn't know he NEEDED ME.)
I asked Jacob why he felt like telling me it was his fault. "What is your motive?" "No motive, Mom. I just wanted you to know that I started the fight. It was me."

"Jacob, would you like to tell me why you hit your brother."

"Mama, Joshua hit Andrew when he was not looking. Then he pushed Wesley down for no reason. Wesley and Andrew got mad at Joshua but Joshua just kept teasing them. Wesley walked off and threw a bike and went home. Then, Joshua went to hit Andrew again and I took him down. We started wrestling. He hit me. I hit him. We wrested some more and I got up. Joshua hit me again and I nailed him that is when you called us in. I know I shouldn't have hit him but he was hurting other people and I knew I could take him."

"Well, Jacob. I am glad you want to protect your brother and friend but how could you have protected them and NOT got yourself into trouble."

"I could have pushed him down and told him to stop and then I could have gotten you."

"Yes, that would have been better. Sounds like you knew what to do. Why did you not come get me?"

"I was mad at Joshua. My anger took over. I was wrong."

"Jacob, I really appreciate you telling me the truth. I love you so much."

Parenting traumatic children is hard but it is days like this that make it easier.
It has taken Jacob 21/2 years to come and tell me the truth without being prompted. He showed remorse for his actions and even realized that anger caused him to hurt someone. I guess all those lessons on feelings really did pay off. LOL It took courage for Jacob to come to me and he trusted me.

I think I might break out in song - He trusts me. He trusts ME. HE TRUSTS ME!!!

I am not worthy!! But, I am thankful!!

WHAT?!! Were you thinking?!?

2011-10-23T22:12:00.000-04:00

This afternoon as I was walking through the kitchen, I heard a blood curdling scream. You know the kind- broke bone, wounded child, bloody nose scream.

Yes, it was a bloody nose scream. (It could have been a broke bone scream as you are soon to find out. )

I ran to our deck to see Joshua holding his nose screaming. After getting him to the deck and cleaning up his nose, I asked him to tell me what happened.

He replied, "Andrew and Levi (family/friend) threw me over the net."

WHAT?!!? (Me, shaking my head.) "Joshua, how and why did they throw you over the net."

Through his tears, he replies, "I don't know."

Long story short, Levi tells the truth. He explains that it was Andrew's idea and that Andrew and Joshua were trying to throw HIM over the volleyball net but he laid down on the ground so they couldn't pick him up. Then, Andrew tells Levi to help him throw Joshua over the net. Hmmmmm...

"ANDREW!!!!"

(deep breath - smile - pray)

"Andrew, why did you throw your brother over the net? What were you thinking?"

"I just wanted to see if he would land on his feet."

(thinking???? --- WHAT?! --- almost laughing)

"ANDREW!" "Was this a wise thing to do or a foolish one?" "Foolish but I thought he could do it."

"Andrew, what else could have happened?" "He could have (pause) - he did land on his head and got a bloody nose? ."

(DEEP BREATH)

(pray - smile)

"Son, did you know this was wrong?" "Yes."

"Joshua, did you try to throw Levi over the net? " "Yes."

"Alright boys, go get on your beds and try to GUESS how long you are going to STAY THERE for making a wrong and foolish choice."

It is moments like this when I am reminded of the ever present and watchful eye of our Heavenly Father.

Joshua - Mom For The Day

2011-10-18T20:51:00.002-04:00

What is it about children wanting to parent their siblings?

I don't have this problem with Andrew telling Sierra what to do nor does she tell him what to do.

But for some reason Jacob, Melissa and Joshua seem to want to tell everyone what they can and can not do everyday.

Maybe it is that they are trying to HELP us out. (No! Don't think so!)

Or just maybe, it is because even after 2 1/2 years of living with us, they still don't trust adults and they NEED to be in control. (Yep! I think I got it! ) I even understand this need but today I had ENOUGH!!

So, after asking Joshua for the third time today, "Are you the parent?", I decided he must be given the opportunity to SHINE.

I so sweetly explained to him that for the rest of the day, he was given the privilege of being MOM.
Before I went off duty, I let the entire family know that if they needed MOM to call Joshua. Joshua was now MOM for the rest of the day.

At first, I think he thought this was going be cool. Oh, but when I gave him my chores to finish, he was not smiling his usual sweet grin.

While I sat down and enjoyed a nice cold glass of sweet tea, some warm sunshine, and read up on my blogging friends, Joshua folded the laundry. He answered all the "Mom" questions, and got people their snacks. My sweet son dusted, swept off the front porch, and made his sister's bed.

I am not sure if Joshua learned his lesson today, but I got some chores marked off my list and was able to take a break.

Way to go MOM!!

Love

2011-10-10T23:08:00.001-04:00

Love is easy.

NOT

I have read a lot about Love in the Bible but "Love is easy" is NOT in there.

"And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love." 1 Corinthians 13:13

I have pondered over this verse today and came to the conclusion that 'the greatest of these is love' because it cost us the most.

No, love is NOT easy.

It cost Jesus the most and He willing gave everything.

Dear God, Please show me how to love when I think I can not love anymore. Give me Your Love that never fails. Thank you for loving me when I did not deserve it.

The Blessing Of Thorns

2011-10-09T01:16:00.000-04:00

Lately, our family has been handed several thorns that have cut deep and wounded our hearts. God is teaching us, comforting us, and encouraging us. As I was doing some research on the Internet, I came across this story from another blog. Once again, I am reminded to be thankful in all things.

Dear God, Thank you for the thorns in my life. I accept each one of them as a blessing from You and look forward to the day that the roses bloom. Please remind me often to keep my eyes on You and not on what is going on around me. AMEN

The Blessing Of Thorns

Sandra felt as low as the heels of her shoes as she pushed against a November gust and the florist shop door. Her life had been easy, like a spring breeze. Then in the fourth month of her second pregnancy, a minor automobile accident stole her ease.

During this Thanksgiving week she would have delivered a son. She grieved over her loss. As if that weren't enough, her husband's company threatened a transfer. Then her sister, whose annual holiday visit she coveted, called saying she could not come.

What's worse, Sandra's friend infuriated her by suggesting her grief was a God-given path to maturity that would allow her to empathize with others who suffer. "She has no idea what I'm feeling," thought Sandra with a shudder.

"Thanksgiving? Thankful for what?" she wondered aloud. For a careless driver whose truck was hardly scratched when he rear-ended her? For an airbag that saved her life but took that of her child?

"Good afternoon, can I help you?" The shop clerk's approach startled her. "I... I need an arrangement," stammered Sandra. "For Thanksgiving?"

"Do you want beautiful but ordinary, or would you like to challenge the day with a customer favorite I call the Thanksgiving Special?" asked the shop clerk. "I'm convinced that flowers tell stories," she continued. "Are you looking for something that conveys 'gratitude' this Thanksgiving?"

"Not exactly!" Sandra blurted out. "In the last five months, everything that could go wrong has gone wrong. " Sandra regretted her outburst, and was surprised when the shop clerk said, "I have the perfect arrangement for you."

Then the door's small bell rang, and the shop clerk said, "Hi Barbara...let me get your order." She politely excused herself and walked toward a small workroom, then quickly reappeared, carrying an arrangement of greenery, bows, and long-stemmed thorny roses. Except the ends of the rose stems were neatly snipped...there were no flowers. "Want this in a box?" asked the clerk.

Sandra watched for the customer's response. Was this a joke? Who would want rose stems with no flowers!?! She waited for laughter, but neither woman laughed.

"Yes, please," Barbara replied with an appreciative smile. "You'd think after three years of getting the special, I wouldn't be so moved by its significance, but I can feel it right here, all over again," she said as she gently tapped her chest.

"Uhh," stammered Sandra, "that lady just left with, uhh... she just left with no flowers!"

"Right... I cut off the flowers. That's the Special... I call it the Thanksgiving Thorns Bouquet."

"Oh, come on, you can't tell me someone is willing to pay for that?" exclaimed Sandra.

"Barbara came into the shop three years ago feeling very much like you feel today," explained the clerk. "She thought she had very little to be thankful for. She had lost her father to cancer, the family business was failing, her son was into drugs, and she was facing major surgery."

"That same year I had lost my husband, "continued the clerk," and for the first time in my life, I had to spend the holidays alone. I had no children, no husband, no family nearby, and too great a debt to allow any travel.""So what did you do?" asked Sandra.

"I learned to be thankful for thorns," answered the clerk quietly. "I've always thanked God for good things in life and never thought to ask Him why those good things happened to me, but when bad stuff hit, did I ever ask! It took time for me to learn that dark times are important. I always enjoyed the 'flowers' of life, but it took thorns to show me the beauty of God's comfort. You know, the Bible says that God comforts us when we're afflicted, and from His consolation we learn to comfort others."

Sandra sucked in her breath as she thought about the very thing her friend had tried to tell her. "I guess the truth is I don't want comfort. I've lost a baby and I'm angry with God." Just then someone else walked in the shop.

"Hey, Phil!" shouted the clerk to the balding, rotund man.

"My wife sent me in to get our usual Thanksgiving arrangement... twelve thorny, long-stemmed stems!" laughed Phil as the clerk handed him a tissue-wrapped arrangement from the refrigerator.

"Those are for your wife?" asked Sandra incredulously. "Do you mind me asking why she wants something that looks like that?"

"No...I'm glad you asked," Phil replied. "Four years ago my wife and I nearly divorced. After forty years, we were in a real mess, but with the Lord's grace and guidance, we slogged through problem after problem. He rescued our marriage. Jenny here (the clerk) told me she kept a vase of rose stems to remind her of what she learned from "thorny" times, and that was good enough for me. I took home some of those stems. My wife and I decided to label each one for a specific "problem" and give thanks to Him for what that problem taught us."

As Phil paid the clerk, he said to Sandra, "I highly recommend the Special!"

"Well," the clerk replied carefully, "my experience has shown me that thorns make roses more precious. We treasure God's providential care more during trouble than at any other time. Remember, it was a crown of thorns that Jesus wore so we might know His love. Don't resent the thorns."

Tears rolled down Sandra's cheeks. For the first time since the accident, she loosened her grip on resentment. "I'll take those twelve long-stemmed thorns, please," she managed to choke out.

"I hoped you would," said the clerk gently. "I'll have them ready in a minute."

"Thank you. What do I owe you?" asked Sandra.

"Nothing." said the clerk. "Nothing but a promise to allow God to heal your heart. The first year's arrangement is always on me." The clerk smiled and handed a card to Sandra. "I'll attach this card to your arrangement, but maybe you'd like to read it first."

It read:

My God, I have never thanked you for my thorn! I have thanked you a thousand times for my roses, but never once for my thorn. Teach me the value of my thorns. Show me that I have climbed to you by the path of pain. Show me that my tears have made my rainbow. ~ George Matheson

-- Author Unknown

My Mom

2011-10-08T12:50:00.000-04:00

The other night at dinner I came to the decision that my mother is not the kinda of woman who likes to spend a nice day shopping, going to target and things normal women like to do. No! She needs something adventurous like caving, rock climbing or calm digging. I Love you Mom -Sierra

Andrew picking on Sierra

2011-09-23T21:52:00.000-04:00

"Sierra, you are just like Katie."
pause - grin
Then Andrew says, "You know Katie is special needs!"
Sierra quickly responds, "Andrew, I go to bed after you."
"Yes, Sierra but I get UP during the night."

Just a glimpse into life at the Miller home.

Jacob's Love

2011-09-05T20:08:00.000-04:00

"Mommy - I love you as much as all the books in the world."
"Jacob - I love you as much as every letter in every word ever printed in a book."
"Wow!! I know you do!!"

This from a boy who over 2 years ago would not even tell me "I love you". Thank you - Jesus for all your blessings. You are working - knitting our hearts together.

Adoption - it is not always easy but it is worth it!!!

Reminiscing about Breakfast at Grandma's House

2011-08-29T12:00:00.002-04:00

This morning, I was reminiscing about the delicious breakfast my Grandma El use to cook for our family. You see, as far back as I can remember until way after I got married, trips to Grandma's house meant a big breakfast the day we left to go home. Unless, Daddy could get us girls up and ready to leave before Grandma got started. Most times, Grandma knew his plan and I think she knew we all liked breakfast before our 4 hour ride home.
Breakfast at Grandma El's was no simple fare. It included scrambled eggs, bacon, grits, pan-fried toast and in the summertime tomatoes were added. (Oh, my mouth is watering just typing this.) The pan-fried toast was my favorite. My cousin Tommy and I always fought over the last piece. But come to think about it neither one of us won. Grandma would always make sure we both had a last piece. That was Grandma's style. She served others.
Grandma El made sure everyone was served and full before she sat down to eat. I can remember her standing beside Papa with her hand on the back of his chair surveying the table and adding to the conversation. Then, she was back in the kitchen to cook more or I would hear her say, "Just sit down, I will get it." Within minutes, I would have apple jelly, or more sweet tea. Don't get me wrong, she didn't just serve me. She served everyone at the table. Most of the time there would be no less than nine of us. I can remember several people telling her to sit down but she never did. At a young age, I thought she was too hot from cooking, not hungry, or breakfast wasn't her thing. As I got older, I realized it was just LOVE that kept her from eating with everyone. She showed her love in many ways; cooking breakfast for her husband, children, and grandchildren was her love served on a plate.
This morning, I decided to serve our family - Grandma El style. When our children came to breakfast, they saw their plates filled with scrambled eggs, bacon, grits, and pan-fried toast. I have to admit that my eggs didn't taste just like Grandma's but the toast sure did!
During our meal, I shared with our children the memories of Grandma's food, her sweet serving spirit, and the love she shared with all of us. Now Grandma is much older and I am sure she would fix breakfast for all of us again if she could. Her days of cooking for a large family are over. She served her time and served it graciously with a pat on our backs as she moved around the table. Love was served with her breakfast and it tasted oh so delicious.
Grandma, thank you for serving us, thank you for your love and thank you for pan-fried toast. (Oh and the pancakes, maybe I will have them tomorrow!) I will continue to share with our children and grandchildren to come the memories of time spent around your table. I love you!

Lincoln Home National Historic Site

2011-08-06T16:45:00.001-04:00

A few weeks ago, we visited the Lincoln Home National Park.

The children played with toys that were popular in the late 1800's.

Abraham Lincoln's home

The desk that Abraham Lincoln used while at home.

When the National Park Service acquired Mr. Lincoln's home, they did a lot of reconstruction and repairs. One of the things that needed very little repair was this handrail. This is the exact handrail that Abe Lincoln and his family used when they went upstairs.

Before leaving, the children worked on the Junior Ranger books and received their badges. This is their first badge this year. They hope to receive 10 before Christmas.

When we finished touring the Lincoln's home and street, we headed a few miles away to the Oak Ridge Cemetery where President Lincoln is buried.

This is where President Lincoln's body rest. According to the sign....

it is 10 feet below.

The vault where President Lincoln was placed while the tomb above was being built.

This sign explains about the Receiving Vault.

Abe and Mary Lincoln were not much on gardening. However, they did enjoy the apple tree. It still produces apples today. We were given permission by the park ranger to pick everyone an "Abe Lincoln" apple.

After dinner the children ate the "Abe Lincoln" apples.

Everyone decided that the apples tasted like a mixture between a Granny Smith apple and a Honey Crisp apple. (Thanks for apple tasting lesson last year, Mrs. Cara. They still remember the different apple tastes.)

We enjoyed tour President Lincoln's home, grave site, and eating his apples.

Lake Pictures

2011-07-26T15:49:00.000-04:00

Joshua were you telling Sierra you were out too deep?

Daddy throws Andrew down with a splash.

Hannah loves playing in the sand.

I can tell by the look on Katie's and Melissa's face that they had a great time at the lake.

Who needs a boogie board? Not Jacob!!

Hannah did succeed in dunking Andrew.

Melissa enjoying a nice summer day.

Katie taking a break near the shore.

It's Jacob's turn to get tossed into the water!

First lake experience for the younger six children. We all had a wonderful time.

University of South Dakota has a Treasure Hidden on its Campus

2011-07-26T00:53:00.002-04:00

There is a building on the campus of the University of South Dakota that holds many treasures. This building is the National Music Museum. The National Music Museum showcases over 1,000 instruments. Upon entering the museum, be sure to pick up a multi- media device that will enable you to hear the sound that the instruments make and provide you with verbal presentations along with videos on how the instruments are play. Also, at the information desk is a "treasure hunt" for the children as they go through the museum. Melissa loved finding the things in this booklet and sharing the information with all of us.

The museum is self-guided. We spent over 3 hours listening, learning, and looking at all different types of instruments from all over the world.(A note to my Fulltime RV Mom's - This is a great Roadschooling adventure. Check out the National Music Museum web page. Look under "FAQ" tab for the "school tours" tab. Click on this tab and you will find Pre and Post worksheets to use with your visit.) The staff was very polite and the museum is very kid/family friendly. Admission to the museum is FREE for children/students and $10.00 per adult. However, on Fridays admission is free for everyone.

Enter here to discover one treasure after another.

This gem is a Chest Organ. It takes two people to play it by pulling on the strings.

On the left is "The Harrison" Violin made by Antonio Stradivari in 1693. On the right is "The Rawlins" Guitar made by Antonio Stradivari in 1700. There are only 4 Stradivari Guitars known to exist today. This museum contains one of them.

The back of the Stradivari Guitar.

This is a Glass Armonica made in France around 1785. The Armonica was actually invented by Benjamin Franklin because he attended a concert where someone was playing glass bowls and he thought there had to be an easier way to display the bowls while they were being play. Franklin had a glassblower make him 36 bowl which increased in size all with a hole in the center. He placed them in a row with an iron spindle through the center. The iron spindle was rotated with a foot pedal like an old fashion sewing machine. This Glass Armonica had a crank handle on the side instead of a foot pedal. The player of the Armonica would touch his finger in water, which was stored in a swallow well in front of the bowls, and rotate the spindle. It would make a delightful ringing sound.

This display shows a variety of instruments that were played during the Civil War time period.

One gallery contains instruments from all over the world.

Barrel Cello

Stove Pipe Cello

Instrument played by the Korn Kobblers. The spittoon in the right-hand corner has a treasure hidden inside. When you visit the museum find out what special sound it made.

Stan Fritts was the leader of the Korn Kobblers from 1938 to 1954. They were a novelty band.

This instrument has a story to tell. To undercover the story, take a trip to the National Music Museum in Vermillion, SD.

Melissa and I could have stayed longer at this great treasure hidden in the southeast corner of South Dakota but everyone else was ready to leave, so, we all left on a good note.

Pool verses Lake?

2011-07-18T23:45:00.001-04:00

Today's forecast was 97 degrees with a heat index of 116 degrees. Therefore, Jeff had the idea to take everyone to the lake. I, on the other hand, was not liking the idea. I got on the computer and found out that a city near to us had a pool and it was only $8.00 for our entire family. What could be better than an afternoon of swimming and lounging by the pool while the children play? I ran the idea by Jeff and he graciously agreed.
When we arrived at the pool, we were told that Hannah could not wear her Aqua Jogger, a swimming aid, and the water in the main pool was almost over her head. We pressed on not wanting to hear the disappointment from 5 children if we turned around. We got everyone into the pool along with the other 150 people trying to stay cool. Katie, Hannah, Andrew, and Joshua could not move more than two feet in any direction. Jacob, Melissa and Sierra could swim farther because they can swim but said that they were constantly getting bumped into by other children. After 20 minutes in the pool, everyone was made to get out because of a scheduled break. We sat out for 15 minutes or so and then were allowed back in the water. Within 30 minutes, Jeff, Sierra and I said that we were ready to leave.
Jeff, once again, said that we could go to the lake. So, we headed to the lake. There were several families, friends and groups of teenagers but it was not crowded. The children all headed into the water. Remembering the lake experiences that I had as a child, I just decided that Katie and I were fine in the sand. However at the urging of our children, and the fact that I was hot after 10 minutes on the shoreline, I decided to walk out into the water. Jeff commented that I had a grimacing look on my face. I realized this because I knew that I was walking out into fish smelling, sandy feeling, murky looking water! Not to mention that floating on top of the water was cotton, as far as the eye could see, from the Cottonwood trees in the area.
In the moments after Jeff comment, my attention was diverted to the sounds of our children having a great time. Turning around, I saw Hannah swimming and playing near the shore. Katie was sitting in the water next to Hannah. Melissa, Jacob, Andrew, Joshua, and Sierra were about 5 feet in front of me playing and laughing with Jeff. Immediately the thought came to my mind, "You are spoiled. Be thankful in all things." I prayed Lord forgive me for my ungrateful attitude. Deciding to have a great time, I walked out farther to where Jeff and Sierra were swimming. Jeff grabbed me and under the water I went with a splash. Sierra and I swam out into the deep water and splashed around. (Oh, and I didn't even feel the sand under my feet!) As I looked to shore, our children were still having a great time. When Jeff told us it was time to go, I wasn't ready to leave. It would have been nice to have a float and a few more hours.
On the way back to our campsite, the children talked about how much fun they had at the lake. This was the first time our children had ever experienced swimming in a lake. And to think I almost ruined this experience first by wanting to go to the pool and then with my attitude. Today, I am thankful for the simple free things in life, like swimming in a smelly cotton filled lake with my family.

Marcoot Jersey Creamery in Greenville, Illinois

2011-07-17T13:01:00.001-04:00

One hot afternoon, we decided to venture away from our campground about 20 miles north to visit the Marcoot Jersey Creamery.

This is a small family-owed dairy that has been in operation for seven generations. The cows are milked twice a day and the milk is used to make cheese, ice cream and yogurt.

All of us were given permission to go into the barn and pet the calves. As you can tell, the children enjoyed letting the calves suck on their fingers. I didn't share this experience!

While the cows are being milked, their milk is stored in these containers before it it piped into...

... this holding tank. Next, some of the milk is pasteurized and some of it is left raw to use for "raw milk cheese."

Inside the dairy, we walked down a long hallway with windows overlooking the processing area. There are posters along the wall that explain the cheese-making process. In the store, we purchased some ice cream, and cheese. The ice cream had the texture of home-churned ice cream and was delicious. We liked the pasteurized cheese better than the raw milk cheese. The raw milk cheese had more of a bitter aftertaste.

The Marcoot Creamery is open Monday - Saturday but only makes cheese on Wed., Fri., and Saturday. This was a great way to spend a hot afternoon in the country.

A Look in to the Past

2011-07-16T22:24:00.001-04:00

My family had the chance to go to the Lincoln Home National Park in Springfield, Illinois earlier this week. It was very enjoyable and I think we all learned a lot. I've always found it interesting to visit old towns that have been remodel to look the way they did decades ago. I always imagine myself walking the streets that so many years ago people walked and lived. This town was in the 1840’s so I could imagine myself, wearing one of those puffy dress, you know the kind, walking down the street going toward one of the cottage style houses. Maybe I just have a vivid imagination, but I could almost hear the children running through the cobble stone streets and the dog barking at their heels, or Abraham Lincoln wearing his pipe stove hat, humming a song as he walked toward his law office. Can you see it? Can you picture the two youngest Lincoln boys shouting from the balcony of their two story house, to vote for their dad for president? Again, maybe I just have a vivid, crazy imagination.
After, we toured Lincoln’s house and two others (by the way, did you know a druggist lived on Lincoln’s street. I got a kick out of that.) We decide to get back in the car and go visit Lincoln’s grave. While, driving to his grave site, I was looking out the car window and I saw these signs that had Lincoln’s pictures on them. I didn't really think much of them until the drive back from the grave site. Then, I realized they were head shots of him from the ages 8 to 56. With every sign it showed his age more and more. I got to thinking about Abraham Lincoln’s life. How he was a boy no one thought would amount to much. He was born in a one room cabin, raised a farm boy, had a store go bankrupt, became a lawyer and then became president. He left a legacy behind, for all to remember. How amazing is that? At any point in his life he could have given up, or taken a different path that led him away from the great things God had in store for him. But instead, he persevered, he kept walking further. He didn't let the heart aches of death, fear, bankruptcy and the hard times of life keep him down. He kept walking, each step leading him towards the destination God had in store for him.
As I reflected on Lincoln’s life and all the hard things he had to go through, I began to think about how many people now days (including myself) let the little things get them down. How we let small things overtake us and hold us back from God’s plan for our own lives. Instead of embracing the trial we try to hide from it, or even worst we simply give into the trial. I’m not saying we have to be happy about the trial we are going through, but we do have to keep walking, even if it is one small, weak step at a time. Because each step takes us closer and closer the destination God has for our life. It doesn't mean it will be easy. I’m sure it wasn't easy for Lincoln when he had to face the death of three of his children, but he kept on going. That is what we should do too. No matter the situation, we should keep going. We shouldn't stop and put on a poor me party, even though sometimes that would be much easier. I know you are thinking “Yea, that’s easier said than done”. Yes, that is true and sometimes we are going to feel week. But when you don’t think you can force your feet to take another step, remember to ask God to give you his strength to conquer whatever it is that you are going through. Because ultimately when you are through those dark days and those trials, you will be a stronger person and you will be one step closer to the destination God has in store for you. And, maybe, just maybe you will even become a president.

Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site in Collinsville, IL.

2011-07-13T12:21:00.002-04:00

When we visited Cahokia Mounds, we learned that this ancient civilization is the largest known archaeologist site North of Mexico. The Native Americans that built this city are said to have lived here from 700AD to 1400AD. They were known as "Mound Builders" because they made earthen mounds that were used for burial, and different kinds of ceremonies.

This mound is known as "Monks Mound". Monks Mound is the largest of 109 mounds found in the area. We found it interesting that the Native Americans transported dirt in baskets on their backs to build each of these mounds. The place were they dug the dirt out is called a "borrow pit" and these large pits are still seen today.

Admission to the Interpretive Center and Historic Site is FREE. The Interpretive Center has many artifacts that archaeologist have found during their excavations of the site. A short film "The City of the Sun" plays every 1/2 hour for visitors. In the Gift Shop, you can purchase a trail guide that will explain all the mounds outside. We decided not to visit the mounds because it was 100 degrees and just drove around to see the ones closest to the road.

We enjoyed our visit to the Cahokia Mounds .

On our way to the Cahokia Mounds Site, we passed this .....

World's Largest Ketchup Bottle.

Cedars of Lebanon State Park

2011-07-09T21:42:00.002-04:00

Cedars of Lebanon State Park is located in Lebanon, TN. It is about 30 miles from Nashville. This park has 3 Campground loops. We stayed in Campground 1 which has electric and water sites. They have lots of pull-thru sites that accommodate larger RV or travel trailers. This is a first-come, first-serve park. The showers are very clean and have lots of HOT water. The children said that they would rather shower in the bath house instead of our trailer. (This is not a common statement when traveling full time.) A plus to this park is their Laundry Room. It has 4 washers and 4 dryers. You could find me here several times during the week. They have a camp-store which sells firewood but not much more. We would have liked it if they had ice but there is a convenience store located right outside the park entrance. (This store stocks all you need when camping at fair prices.) During the summer months, the Rangers have programs that relate to the wildlife, and plant-life located in the park. We found ourselves at the Nature Center almost everyday learning about owls, watching a snake eat, talking about rocks and minerals, or enjoying a Jug Band. This park is a great place for children. Hannah said that the best thing about this state park was "going to the play set." In addition, to several playgrounds, they have a ball field, tennis courts, swimming pool, butterfly garden, several hiking trails, and an awesome Nature Center. Overall, we give this park 5 stars. We were sad to leave after making friends with several Rangers and other people in the park.

Here is their website if you would like to find out more about Cedars of Lebanon State Park . Below are some of the highlights of our stay at this state park.

Ranger Tyler teaching our children how to make a whistle out of an acorn.

Hannah on a 100 inch hike

Ranger Tyler and Hannah sharing a moment talking in the Butterfly Garden.

Ranger Natalie talking to a group of children about things they can find in the dirt. Thanks, Ranger Natalie for reminding us that there is always something living under the dirt. Our nature walks will be more eventful because of you!!

One morning, Melissa and Sierra met Ranger Tyler at the Nature Center for a Bird Walk. They saw this Pileated Woodpecker and ...

...this Scarlet Tanager. Afterwards, Melissa and Sierra were constantly bird watching during our stay. Melissa even showed me the male Scarlet Tanager which I had never seen.

After meeting Ranger Natalie for a program called "Insect Artistry" where she gave each child a Nature Journal and explained how important it was to draw or write down what we see, she showed us a Pupal Case of a moth and several other insects.

Sierra, Melissa, Andrew and I went caving in Jackson cave. I will never forget Andrew saying, "Sierra, quit this is my good shirt." Andrew didn't like the entire cave experience. He was certain Daddy would come looking for us because we were taking too long. He was right!! We were in the cave for almost 4 hours and Jeff asked Ranger Buddy to check on us. However, by the time Ranger Buddy suited up and yelled in the cave, we were on our way out. Once we were out of the cave, Ranger Buddy took us back to our campsite. Thanks, Ranger Buddy for making sure we were safe!

This is the dirtiest I have EVER been in my life. I loved every minute crawling, scooting, and walking through the cave.

The day we went into Jackson Cave, I didn't take my camera. So, this is a picture of us all cleaned up sitting in front of the cave. If you go to Cedars of Lebanon, please check with the rangers before going in the cave. There is a river that runs through the cave and at its end is a large pool of water called a "sump". If I had not talked to the Ranger before going in, I would have turned around before getting to the end of the cave. Plus, the water looks swallow in the sump but in reality it is deep. The top of the cave reflects on the water and makes you think it is swallow. One of the neat things about this cave is that it has a waterfall in it. (It is a small one but glorious.) We meant to ask why this cave was named Jackson Cave but forgot to ask. Oh well, we will just have to go back for another visit to find out.

Ranger Jen gave us a presentation on Rocks and Minerals. She explained the difference between Sedimentary, Metamorphic, and Igneous rocks. Sierra thought the glow-in-the-dark rock was awesome. Now, she wants a black light; so that, we can view our rocks under it to see if they GLOW! Thanks, Ranger Jen we will think of you as we rock hunt all across this country.

We visited the playground daily if not twice a day.

One Sunday afternoon, we went to the Nature Center to watch Ranger Natalie feed their pet King Snake, Elvis. The mice that Elvis eats are dead prior to Elvis making it his dinner. Elvis eats 2 mice each Sunday.

One day, Ranger Natalie and our family went in search of the Geo-cache "Bug Juice in a Mossy Field." I know now why some park Rangers do NOT like Geo-caching. This cache was OFF trail and if we didn't have a Ranger we could have gotten hurt, or crushed vegetation that was important to the environment. We searched and searched for this "old" Geo-cache before finally admitting defeat. Ranger Natalie when or if you find it please let us know. If you head out to Cedars of Lebanon, don't waste your time looking for this cache.

On July 2nd, Ranger Tyler gave a presentation called "Creatures of the Night". During the presentation, he talked about several night creatures and we listened to the sounds of night birds; so that, we could identify them while we were camping. During the presentation, we were able to see several creatures and creature parts like the Great Horned Owl wings. (These wings came from an owl that was already dead on the side of the road.) After listening to Ranger Tyler, I will never look at a dead tree in the same way. I heard him say several times during this presentation and throughout our visit, that we need dead trees to provide food and habitat for birds, to decay and give the soil nutrients, and to be a food source for insects. I just thought it is a DEAD tree why not cut it down and plant a new one. Thanks, Ranger Tyler!

On July 4th, the girls and I met Ranger Jen at the Camp Store for tea. She shared with us about our country's beginnings and facts about tea. We had a wonderful time sharing my favorite drink.

Sierra took this picture of the Tennessee Coneflower while on a walk with Andrew. Ranger Natalie led the, walk on the Cedar Glades trail. This is an easy half-mile trail located near the park office. I would love to know what the insect is that is on this flower in the top left corner. If you find out, email me and let me know.

During our walk on the Limestone Sinks trail, we found this insect. We do not know what it is but will hopefully find it in one of our field guides soon. We also found this...

Newt. Or at least, we think it is a Newt. It was orange with black spots. The Limestone Sinks trail is an easy half mile trail. If you go to the Camp Store before taking the hike, you can pick up a trail guide that explains different things you will see on the trail.

One afternoon, I took some of the children back to Jackson Cave just to look around and explore the entrance.

Sierra is inside Jackson Cave.

This is the entrance to Jackson Cave. There is a secret in Cedars of Lebanon State Park. If you are real nice to the Rangers maybe they will tell you. We know about it but didn't have time to check it out. Let us know if you have the privilege. We will go back one day just to discover this little known secret.

Thanks to all the Rangers, Emily, and Kevin you made our stay at Cedars of Lebanon State Park a memorable visit that has changed the way we look at the world God created.

Our Present From Katie

2011-07-07T22:53:00.000-04:00

For Katie's birthday, she gave all of US a present. She blew out her candles!!! This is the first time she has ever blown out her own candles. It took her three tries but she got all NINE candles out by herself.

I wish I had a picture of the excitement on her face when she realized the candles were out. However, Sierra had to put the camera down to give Katie several double high-fives. All of us got caught up in the excitement as hugs were shared and praises given. I am sure the people from the next campsite heard all of our cheers.

A special thank-you goes out to Lauren Bailey, Katie's Speech Therapist, and Stephanie Fisher, Katie's Nurse, for all your hard work during the last year. I can remember days when Katie would refuse to blow, act like she didn't know how, and even throw the pinwheel on the floor. But you ladies didn't give up on her. All of those days, working with Katie on the chewy tube, pinwheel, blowing bubbles and cotton ball blowing paid off. I just wanted to let you ladies know how much we appreciate all you have done for our family and especially our little girl. Whenever you have a hard day with your children or with your clients, remember days that this do come and they are a blessing. Keep loving on those little ones.

Jug Band

2011-07-01T23:45:00.000-04:00

Tonight, several of our children joined a band - A Jug Band. Ranger Buddy, Ranger Jen, Ranger Natalie, and Ranger Tyler had a campfire going and they taught the children how to play some instruments. Once they were shown how they got to join in while Ranger Buddy played the banjo, the harmonica, and sang. Melissa was on the Washtub Bass, Jacob was on the One-man Band which included a cymbal, tin cans, a horn and a washboard, and Andrew played the Jug. When break time arrived, they all made Smores and had a great time hanging out around the fire. Sorry no pictures - I left my camera at the trailer. URG!!! A big THANK YOU goes out to the Rangers for making our evening a memorable one.

S'more Fun

2011-06-29T23:14:00.001-04:00

About once a week, we hang out around the campfire and enjoy S'mores.

Lip smacking good!

Andrew enjoying his S'more.

My marshmallow can NOT be burned. It has to be slow roasted.

However, Melissa likes hers black and crispy.

Jacob would eat three or four if we would let him.

Good to the last big bite

Mmmmm- Amazing!

A Fun Day at the Miller Campsite

2011-06-24T22:59:00.000-04:00

Today, we enjoyed hanging out at the Campstore making Pet Rocks. Jen had lots of supplies for the children to decorate a rock and make a habitat. The children were very creative with their rocks. Andrew's had four eyes, Melissa's habitat had a bed made of feathers and several trees for shade, Jacob had walls made of paper to protect his rock, Joshua's rock had a river on his habitat and Hannah's rock had a feather for hair. It was great to see them be so creative. Sierra was a big help assisting her siblings and the other children. When we got ready to leave, I did my usual, "Miller children line up at the door." (If you have every been around us I am sure you have heard me say things like "Miller children come inside", Miller children get in the van" or "Miller children line up") Well today when I said, "Miller children line up at the door.", I looked down to see a child whom I didn't know say, "OK, Where are we going?" I am sure I had a strange look on my face when I asked, "Is your last name Miller?" This sweet child looked at me and replied, "Yes" and so did three other children standing next to her. You could imagine my shock. I stood there speechless. I don't even remember what I said next but I assure you that we still only have 7 children.
When I got back to the campsite, Jeff told me that Mr. Lee was joining us for dinner. We enjoyed getting to know him. Hopefully, we will get to spend some more time with him and his wife this weekend.
We ended the evening making Smores and talking to the family at the next site.
Tomorrow's goal - Meet the other "Miller family".