These Five of Mine

A Handful of Heart...A Monday parenting link-up!

noreply@blogger.com (Kasey) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 03:06:00 +0000

I'm a bit of a wallflower in real life. I don't do well in crowds and I tend to be just a tad socially awkward. Having 7 kids trail me like so many ducklings, however, is not an effective way to fade into the shadows. Throw twins into that mix and the unsolicited attention is only multiplied!

The questions repeat themselves everywhere we go. Well meaning (for the most part!) people who are just trying to understand, pepper us for answers. I'm afraid I haven't got much more than the simple truth to offer them. I'm happy. I love my kids. Yes, my hands are full but I'm never bored or lonely. I get to watch God shape, mold and transform little character right before my eyes. Better yet, I get to be a tool He uses in the process.

Do I get tired. Yup, many days before I ever roll out of bed. Do I always see the blessing? Uh, no! Like those bewildered strangers, I sometimes wonder how I got in so deep. There are days that I just want to curl up with a good book and a steaming mug of cocoa. But give me a few hours where that becomes a reality and I am eager to have my life back. My people. My noise. My chaos.

It doesn't matter if you have two kids or ten. Raising little people for the Kingdom is a mind-blowing responsibility. We attempt to "train them up in the way they should go", but quickly find that they are teaching us more than we ever learned in a classroom.

I'd like to introduce you to A Handful of Heart...a Monday link-up about all things parenting. From diapers to graduation and beyond, I want to invite you to link-up and share what you have been learning along the way. Don't be shy. What you have to say may be just what the Lord wants to share! Grab the button or simply link back here in your post, so that others can join in. If you don't have a blog you are still welcome to participate by hopping around as the Lord leads! May you be blessed!


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Linking up with: The Better Mom

I DO...Until he won't

noreply@blogger.com (Kasey) — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 11:17:00 +0000

"A quarrelsome wife is like a constant dripping on a rainy day; 16 restraining her is like restraining the wind or grasping oil with the hand." Proverbs 27:15-16

Snapped up in the jaws of the evil one, we allow ourselves to be carried off into the Land of Contention. It is a dreary place, to be sure, where all the inhabitants are woefully pathetic and terribly busy...complaining.

"Why must I manage his children even while I prepare a meal for him? Doesn't he know that I have been busy all day, too?"

"He's gone and bought another tool to add to his endless collection, while I pinch every penny to keep our bills paid. What I wouldn't give to get those new shoes I've had my eye on. Will he never notice my sacrifice?"

"Well, doesn't that just beat all?!! Sleeping in on the weekend again when I'm bone-tired from managing his home. However did I end up with such a selfish man??"

In this not-so-far-off land, the phone is in constant use as one housewife mutters to another about her troublesome lot in life. Surely a fellow victim will understand this terrible plight. And sure as day, her faithful friend laments with her over deadbeat husbands and mourns the lives that could have been.

If you so much as step a toe inside the city limits, you'll be in danger of sinking in the mire of discontent. Listening in on such babble will cast a different light on what you previously thought was a happy life. You'll quickly learn that you deserve more, better. It will become plain that you have been duped...played the fool. If you tarry long in this dreadful place, you will come to look upon your beloved with eyes dimmed from entitlement.

Run, dear one, run for your life. Run for your marriage. Run for your man. Get thee back into the arms of God who can show you the ruination that will become of such a people. Give Him your heart and learn at His feet how to be the wife your husband needs. It may be a bit distasteful after dabbling in the idle chatter from the desperate housewives of Contention. It might not feel right, like a shoe that is too snug. Trust in Him and His ways. Let your eyes be peeled from yourself. Put away the score card and ditch that chip that planted itself so comfortably on your shoulder.

But as you turn your back on the inhabitants of this loathsome land, be warned: You may just find your husband becoming the man from your dreams as you become the wife from his!!

Linking up with: The Better Mom

Our Chore Chart/Housekeeping Schedule

noreply@blogger.com (Kasey) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 16:40:00 +0000

Would you like a peek at my simple housekeeping schedule? I have tried cute chore charts and fancy planners and I never stick with them. One day I got a good sized white board and immediately fell in love! This was clearly a relationship that would last!!

Ooh-la-laaaa

This board holds every basic task that is assigned to each person. It isn't elaborate, but it works perfectly for us.

Disclaimer: You may want to hide your dry-erase markers or some joker might see if he can get by with replacing his name with those of his siblings. Not that anybody around here would try a sneaky little trick like that! ((ahem))

Would you like a closer look?

Getting Busy

Basic household tasks are listed out for each person so that they can easily see what needs doing. The wonder of the white board is that when I decide to change things up a bit, I use my handy eraser and I can start fresh. {Note: The tasks underlined in red are the ones that are to be completed before breakfast.}

Kitchen duty is broken up by day and assigned to two people at a time. Wednesday rotates. Tasks include:

Rinsing dishes and loading in the dishwasher (they usually choose to have one unload the clean dishes from the previous meal and the other load up from the current one)

Scrubbing out the extra pots and pans or setting them to soak (still working on training them that EVERY pot doesn't need to soak, even if that is easier than actually scrubbing it!)

Wiping down the stove, counters and table...with emphasis on wringing the rag out before making a mad swipe!

Taking out the trash (this is always done by whoever is older in the pair with KP that day)

Critter Care

Animal chores are assigned by day, with Sunday and Monday rotating.

{In case you were wondering, we rotate by looking at each name from the previous week and selecting the next child, in birth order. So if last Wednesday Child #1 and Child #4 had KP, this week Child #2 and Child #5 would have it. Clear as mud??}

A few extra jobs

Friday to-do's are posted on that morning and then we assign tasks to each person from that list. These are done in addition to the basic list and ensure that we greet the weekend with a clean and cozy house.

Focus!!

Focus days are just that...days of the week to specifically focus on a larger project. So while all the other smaller jobs still get done, one area gets a bit of extra attention. Gotta be honest here...this is on our board, but we haven't been using it lately. I'm leaving it there and sharing it because I love the concept and plan to get back to it starting next week.

Look to the Ant...

Extra projects contain those little things that we'd like to get to, but that aren't terribly pressing. If we get a bit of time, this serves as a reference for ways we can make good use of it.

Taming the Laundry Monster ((sorta))

A laundry schedule seems like a great plan. And it is, I'm sure, once you have successfully trained the troops to keep it moving!!! Any Laundry Boot Camp classes available in VA??

Scrub-a-dub-dub

Yep, it even helps to schedule showers/baths. We have a few people to move through the soapy water so this cuts down on the disagreements about who showers when!

These two little guys get off easy and only have to sit around looking cute. Their day is coming, though!

That is our housekeeping, in a nutshell! How do you stay organized? What am I missing? I'd love to hear your tips and tricks to stay on top of the chore chart chaos and keep your home functioning efficiently!! If you have a blog post of your own on the subject, feel free to drop a link in the comments!

TFOMplus2 in 2012...Come grow with me!

noreply@blogger.com (Kasey) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 10:47:00 +0000

With just days to go before we usher in the New Year, I have been doing some soul-searching. The process of taking a closer look at my life is somewhat uncomfortable. It is easy to pass over the "ugly" and charge forward with my plans, but stopping and taking a hard look at my motives can be very telling. With that said, I want to share with you my plans for this blog in 2012. The Lord may end up revealing that He has something else in mind, but for now this is where I am...

What you can expect to find here:

Me--Raw and Real. I have gone back through some of my previous posts these past few days and one thing that struck me is how much better I look in writing. I want to offer encouragement, information and resources without portraying myself as somebody that my family wouldn't recognize!
A link-up. "You sure have your hands full!" "Better you than me!" "You do know what causes that, right?" I've heard it all and so have you. The dynamics of a family with several children {or multiples} within a few years of each other requires some careful planning and purposeful parenting. I'd love to have you link-up a related post at A Handful of Heart Mondays or just stop by to see what's offered.
Prayer requests. A recent health-related episode had me wanting to ask for prayer, but due to the sensitive nature I wasn't comfortable offering much information. I decided that I'd like to provide a place for you to solicit prayer with as little, or as much, detail as you'd like. This link will be visible so that we can be praying for each other! Look for an updated link every Friday.
Giveaways. And from this point on, they will come at you with no strings attached. No extra entries for liking my Facebook fan page or following on GFC. Extra traffic can certainly help monetize a blog, but the Lord can prosper my family financially in His own way! Beyond that, I want to go back to my roots and simply blog from my heart! The number of followers doesn't matter...YOU do!!
Affiliate links. I am blessed to have the opportunity to earn a little money from some carefully selected businesses. You will find links in my side bar and within some posts {actually you already can} and you need to know that by clicking on them and making a purchase I may be compensated. Feel free at any time to by-pass these links and simply type the web address into your browser.
Phase Two of blog development is in the works, and among other things, will include several contributing writers. ~Still looking for contributors for vegan cooking/baking, health/wellness/fitness and DIY crafters. If you have any interest in being a part of this community (even if you don't have a blog!) email me at tfomplus2@gmail.com.

What you WILL NOT find here:

A replacement for your quiet time with the Lord. Nothing and Nobody can do that!!

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Let me know what you think or feel free to offer suggestions. Looking forward to spending 2012 getting to know you better!

5 Date-Night (at home) ideas

noreply@blogger.com (Kasey) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 11:45:00 +0000

You know how important it is to keep your marriage strong, but finding the time and energy {to say nothing of the money} to "date" your husband, is another matter entirely. If you have children, things get all the trickier. But what if you could effectively woo your husband right at home...no babysitter, no money, no pressure? You can, and I'd like to share 5 ideas to get you started!!!

Write a little note~tuck it in his briefcase or bag~asking him to join you later for a moonlit picnic. Of course, being winter right now, you can make it a picnic by candlelight! Just throw a blanket on the floor, light some candles, and prepare to relax with your man. If you have children, resist the urge to spend the whole time talking about them. Focus on your husband. What are his dreams for your future together? What does he wish he had time to do now? Make eye contact and listen not only with your ears, but with your heart!
Get dressed up to go out and then stay in. I'm ashamed to admit it, but I rarely move beyond the casual look. But my husband notices the little things, like if I spend a little extra time on my hair or wear a different shirt. Imagine his delight if your hubby finds you decked out JUST FOR HIM...just because! It matters little what you do that evening...he'll be easy to please. Read a book together, play a board game or just sit and chat.
What was your first "date" like? Did you have dinner out? Watch a movie together? Sit and talk about nothing (and everything!) for hours. Recreate that moment right in your home. Netflix the movie, take a stab at the meal, fix your hair like it was that night. If your start goes back a ways, your hairstyle could get interesting! Relive that first experience and remember what it was that brought you to this point!
Get your sweat on! Raise your heart rate...and his...by popping in an exercise video and going for it! We all need to move more, but if you have kiddos in bed, you may not be able to leave the house for a nighttime walk. Exercise releases endorphins that enhance the mood. Not only will you feel better but your attitude will improve, too! And working out with your guy is the perfect time to brag on his muscles!
Plan a spa night. Give him a certificate to be redeemed that night and shower him with the works. Create a quiet, relaxed atmosphere with the lights dimmed and soft music playing. Talk in quiet tones (or don't talk at all) and really focus on working the stress right out of him. Don't forget his hands and feet! And don't be upset if he falls asleep. Just tuck him in and snuggle up!

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Linking up with: Raising Homemakers

Deep Roots at Home
Women Living Well
Raising Mighty Arrows
Our Simple Country Life
The Straightened Path

I'd like you to meet...

noreply@blogger.com (Kasey) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 00:17:00 +0000

I was recently tagged with the Versatile Blogger Award. The best part of that was the introduction to the lovely Nicol over at LOV {Ladies of Virtue}! Don't you just love the unique spelling of her name? Her blog is beautiful, and restful and encouraging. I am so glad for the opportunity to "meet" her!

I was asked to share 7 random things about myself, so here goes...

I love to clean and organize but when it comes to the really big organizational jobs, my husband does it so much better than me!
I always say that green is my favorite color but I honestly have no idea why.
I dislike cold weather but would not want to move somewhere that didn't have it.
I have a love/hate relationship with Coke. I hate that I love it. Something I am determined to let God have in 2012.
I wear a size 8 1/2 shoe but always first try on an 8.
I have conceived twins 3 times.
I love people, but get socially awkward when in a crowd.

The instructions were to nominate 12 bloggers and let them know about it. My computer time is at a premium right now and as I sifted through blogs I kept happening upon people who already had just been given this same award or another with similar instructions and I didn't want to be a bother to them. With that said, I nominated two blogs {and later found out that at least one of them already received this award :) }

Both of the blogs below are full of worthwhile reading!!!! I was blessed today as I visited them and read what they offered in recent posts!

~ Andrea at She Looks Well to the Ways of Her Household ~And twice-nominated JES at Heroines of the Faith
If you have a minute, stop by and visit these ladies. Don't forget to introduce yourself! Thank you again, Nicol!!

Unplanned Christmas...and 2 winners announced!

noreply@blogger.com (Kasey) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 13:22:00 +0000

My Christmas wasn't just exactly as I planned. This past Thursday afternoon, I was rushed to the hospital in the back of an ambulance. It was a strange experience and one I hope never to repeat. Life looked very different as I lay there awaiting the arrival of the ambulance. I can't say that my thoughts were totally clear, but one thing is for sure...I was wishing I had done things differently. I had regrets!! Oh boy, did I have regrets! And even now that I am doing well and at home (sleeping more than I am awake, it seems) I still am being plagued by those regrets. I am not comfortable with the ME that I found that afternoon. I shudder when I think that at any moment it could all end, and I am still just ME. Yuck! My heart longs for MYSELF to be pushed out to make room for HIM.

There is no need to wait for a new year...the time is now. He doesn't care that I am a mess. I don't have to fix this or change that. I don't have to attempt to hide my flaws or failings~His love covers them. I have to do just one thing~~offer Him room in my heart!!

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

I am excited to announce that we have TWO winners for the $50 Bulk Herb Store gift card GIVEAWAY!! They are.......................................

Entry # 46 - Cheryl Long

and

Entry # 104 - Kara Johnson Emerson

You will each be receiving your $50 Gift Card as soon as I hear from you with your mailing address.

Thank you so much to everyone who entered and for helping me spread the word!

__________________________________

I also wanted to make one last call to Katy from the Country Blossom...

I haven't yet heard back from you. Please send me your mailing in

fo and I will happily get this book Breaking Free off to you!

{If I don't hear back by tomorrow morning, I will go ahead and select a new winner}

Have you heard of the Moore Family Films? If not, I'd like to introduce you! Stay tuned for information regarding another GIVEAWAY that will be coming in about a week.

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I'm linking up with: Growing Home
Time-Warp Wife
Deep Roots at Home

Notes to Self: Take Two

noreply@blogger.com (Kasey) — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 12:31:00 +0000

I was up this morning sifting through memories as I perused my old posts. This particular one was from last year when my kids were at our church school...and I only had five of them! While the months have added inches (and birthdays!) to these kiddos, my heart longs for them to stay small!

Notes to Self:

1. If taking 5 children into the grocery store straight from Clash Day at school, be prepared for the strange looks that will certainly be cast your way. Not only is it just slightly bizarre to have five kids these days, but when they are dressed in embarrassingly mismatched outfits (including pajama pieces scattered about) and shoes it is even worse. Not only do you obviously have no concept of family planning but you have no doubt given up trying to maintain any semblance of an ordinary family!

2. Also when making said trip into the grocery store for "just a few items" don't cringe in horror when the register tally is over $100. Just be thankful that it was payday and you won't be back to counting out change to complete purchases for at least a week! Just kidding.

3. Just plain stop being shocked when you see your 7 year old daughter running around in pants that don't even quite reach the ankle and find upon questioning that they are in fact NOT her little sisters. Chalk it up to yet another growth spurt and smile and pretend you are as excited as she is that her height is nearly the same as the brother who is 2 1/2 years older. And keep that smile pasted on as you sign at the X to purchase clothing that will fit properly...for about a month!

4. When you arrive at school in the morning and notice that your son has one black ankle sock and one white tall sock (and it is NOT Clash Day) pretend that you appreciate his uninhibited approach to life and say nothing. Resist the urge to go into the school and tell everybody that you actually do laundry and the child really does have clean--and matching--socks at home!

5. When your 5 year old wants to help clean and proceeds to wipe down windows (that were in reality already clean) with the rag that was just used to scrub the bathroom, don't fret. It's nothing that a half hour of your precious time can't fix after she has scampered off to draw again and can't see you do-over her work. Repeat to yourself that it's all in the attitude!

6. When your 11 and 12 year old sons challenge you to a wrestling match, taunting that they can easily take you, go ahead and "trash" talk back with full confidence in yourself. And then when the match actually starts and you find that with every day you have grown older they have gained in strength and endurance, do the one thing you have going for you...tickle them. It's about the only way to save face and keep them clinging to the idea that just possibly Mom still has it!

7. Likewise when your son wants to arm wrestle and you find yourself suddenly linking hands with a skinny version of Arnold Schwarzeneggar there is no shame in praying for the phone to ring at just that moment. But if you are really smart(and not competitive to a fault!) you will find a way out of the challenge to begin with!

8. When your sweet little girl begs to be picked up for a hug upon arriving home from dining out and you oblige only to find that beneath her cute dress she has no panties...don't give it a single thought. Modesty is good, overreacting and missing the lovin' is not!

9. Don't overreact when you spend more than an hour preparing a nice meal for supper and then not 30 minutes after the meal has been cleared away somebody asks you what is for supper. Their lack of working brain cells that actually communicate with their stomachs is no reflection on your skill in the kitchen!

10. Realize that your children's idea of fun is not always deeply compatible with your own. Being the mommy dog AGAIN is not the worst thing in the world. Having kids who don't want to play with you is!

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And a few notes to my friends...

~Don't forget the series Back to the Basics will begin January 2! Feel free to spread the word!

~The start of a new year is a great time to make a few changes! And I have a few plans for TFOMplus2! Pretty excited over here!! :)

~There is still time to get entered to win one of 2 $50 Bulk Herb Store gift cards. Enter here!

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I'm linking up with: Growing Home
Time-Warp Wife
Raising Homemakers
Women Living Well

My Christmas Gifts . . .

noreply@blogger.com (Kasey) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 12:52:00 +0000

There is no need to wait for Christmas morning. My gifts surround me...I couldn't ask for more. I have one in each size with a blessing all their own! ~~~

He holds my heart and makes life fun...

This guy keeps my house clean and my life full...

This one keeps me laughing...

Little man keeps me guessing...

My blue-eyed blondie keeps me humble...

This crazy girl leaves me speechless...

Chubby and relaxed, he loves to snuggle...

Skinny and spirited, he LOVES his Daddy...

Isn't that just like Jesus to go and give me all these gifts for HIS birthday?! What have you been blessed with??

Should we be comfortable?

noreply@blogger.com (Kasey) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 17:34:00 +0000

There are some friends that allow you to "let it all hang out". You can be whoever and whatever comes naturally to you and they accept and encourage it. There is no pressure and few expectations. Sounds like the perfect friend, right? Maybe so, but...

Is God really interested in our comfort? Or is He more concerned that our security lies in Him? I believe He places people in our lives to grow us in different ways. Not all friendships are equally yoked in that different people bring varied strengths and weaknesses to the table. But that is the beauty of it.

Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.

Proverbs 27:17

There is something to be said for a friend that loves without condition. But even more so for one that loves you so much they want to see you prosper. And being that kind of friend is a blessing without measure.

The very best model of this relationship is Jesus himself. You can be the worst kind of friend, leaving Him neglected for days at a time...yet He waits. You can use and abuse Him, calling on Him only in times of desperation. He won't turn His back on you, but will answer your call with His own plea for your heart. When He watches you head down the path toward destruction He won't stand there shaking His head or pointing His finger. He'll come along side you and offer a better way. He won't force it on you, but will give you hope for a better future.

Friendship is unnecessary, like philosophy, like art… It has no survival value; rather it is one of those things that give value to survival.
C.S. Lewis

So go ahead and let your hair down. Be real. Be you. But keep your eyes fastened on this Friend who can be trusted with your heart!

Precious moments

noreply@blogger.com (Kasey) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 11:32:00 +0000

My husband left for work at 4am this morning. At just that moment, a little man {that looks an awful lot like him} was deciding it was the perfect time to greet the day.

He was cooing contentedly, so I went ahead with my morning devotions. He continued to gurgle and squeal until I was finished and went to him. I don't know what woke him several hours before his usual rising time, but it sure had him happy.

So I spent a beautiful, relaxed hour with my little man. Holding him, snuggling him, and treasuring those quiet moments that are so rare. He's a twin, though he looks NOTHING like his brother. The natural tendency is to lump them together as a unit. We call them "the babies" more often than we call them by name.

Levi is the snuggly little critter peeking at you!

But he is Levi...unique and precious. Infinitely loved and abundantly spoiled!

His giggles and grins and sloppy, wet kisses are infectious. He may have shared the womb, but he has his own special place in each of our hearts!!

We are one of many, for God's children are numbered like the stars. But we are the ONE to Him. The one He wants to talk with. The one he wants to listen to. The one He woos day after day. We are precious to Him just as though we were the only one!

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I'm linking up with: Women Living Well

Raising Homemakers
Deep Roots at Home

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There is still time to get enteredto win one of 2 $50 gift cards to the Bulk Herb Store. You can do it here!

Don't they know?

noreply@blogger.com (Kasey) — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 12:12:00 +0000

Get entered for one of 2 $50 Bulk Herb Store Gift Cards here!

I got out of bed feeling out of sorts. It was early, because those precious hours before sunrise are the prime opportunity for a busy mother to meet with her Lord. I had loads of things on my mind, though, distracting me. I was exhausted before I even got started and things went downhill quickly!

The kids woke and thundered about upstairs waking the babies. I heaved a sigh of frustration. I didn't feel ready. Didn't they know my heart and mind were elsewhere this morning?

The now awakened babies were alerted by their rumbling tummies that feeding time was now. They, in turn, alerted me. Wails came from their sweet little room before I could make my way back there. With slumped shoulders and a long face, I went to attend to them. Didn't they know I was tired?

Breakfast was sparse because the cupboards boasted little that was appealing. I reached for the oats, again. A little voice from behind me quietly asked, "Mama, can't we have something different this morning? We've eaten a lot of oats lately." I turned around in wonder at the lack of gratitude in my child. Didn't he know he ought to just be grateful for food to eat?

My husband looked at me with those questioning eyes. The ones that tell me he is confused and wondering what is going on in my head. Was I ill? Or upset with him? He reached out to rub my shoulders and I stiffened, not quite ready to have my reserve melted as he so easily manages to do.

I think on this scene in shame, because I honestly have nothing to carry on about. My life is good. Really good. I love my people and they love me back. My days are filled with so much blessing that I have ceased to see it all for what it is. My heart hasn't learned to be satisfied and so I yearn for just a little more. More rest, maybe. Or more quiet. More energy and less laundry. Yes, I suppose there are times that I even wish for less. Always yearning for what is just beyond reach.

This morning I will be grateful. For happy babies {and even crying ones!}. For dirty dishes and messy faces. For tangled hair and endless chatter. For footballs being tossed and boys who like to wrestle. For a husband that spoils me silly and always goes the extra mile. How can I not be thankful for that??

Most importantly, I will open my heart to the One who is calling me back to the roots of gratitude!

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I'm linking up with: Teach me Tuesdays

Titus 2sdays

Christmas, Giveaway winner...and another Giveaway!!

noreply@blogger.com (Kasey) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 11:07:00 +0000

Another Monday is upon us and this one is special! It is the last one before Christmas!! The countdown is on. The stockings are hung and the tree trimmed. Goodies have been baked {or in my case, the baking is a bit behind schedule!}. Take a minute this morning and think hard...who or what are you celebrating this year?

It is so easy to give lip-service to the Christ of Christmas, yet still deny Him in the festivities. I love the holiday and love to give gifts and get together with family. But do I also love reliving the story of my Savior as He came as a babe to this dying world? Is that passion interwoven into everything I do so that it spills over onto my family? It's good to run a self-check every now and again!

And while we're on the topic of gift-giving, I'm delighted to announce the winner of Beth Moore's book entitled Breaking Free. It is...

Katy from The Country Blossom!

I had a peek at her lovely blog and boy was that a treat! Right now she has a post up about how she is...and isn't...celebrating Christmas this year! Congratulations, Katy! I will be emailing you this morning! And thank you to everyone else who entered!!

And because it is just so much fun to bless you, I have another giveaway {the first of 3 actually!} for you this morning! Are you familiar with the Bulk Herb Store? If not, you may want to be!

This place is stuffed full of amazing products for enhanced living and improved health! Shoshanna pours her heart into her passion and every one of her customers benefits! Aside from the great product line, there are lots of great resources!

I have $50 gift cards for TWO of my readers!! Getting entered is simple...

a Rafflecopter giveaway

I'm linking up with: Teach Me Tuesdays

Titus 2sdays
Domestically Divine Tuesdays

Who am I?

noreply@blogger.com (Kasey) — Sun, 18 Dec 2011 12:57:00 +0000

This has really become the million dollar question among mothers today. As we are increasingly immersed in our calling as keepers of the home, there tends to be a pesky little voice in our ear working overtime to draw us away. "You've lost yourself. Go find YOU!", it whispers. And so we go.

Hunting and searching for something that is already apart of us, very much like looking for our glasses when they are already on our face. We waste precious time trying to decide who we would be if we weren't who God was asking us to be at that moment. We miss the point...and often the blessing.

So who are we really? I'll start with me. I'm a wife and a mother. A stumbling Christian praying that my heart will be ever more open to His love. I homeschool and work part-time, keeping my kids with me while I do. I'm a housekeeper, cook, daughter, sister, friend. Many hats line my shelf and I change them constantly, sometimes {most times} even wearing several at once. Do I love every task set before me? Not even close, but I do love the people that I do them for!

But wait, there is another dimension to me. I love to read. A good book is like therapy to me. I find peace when I write, getting all those jumbled thoughts out of my head and in some kind of order. I enjoy exercise once I get going {and once I'm done!}. I'm a wanna-be crafter who is always bookmarking sites and tearing out pages of things I want to do or learn. I rarely get to them, though, because I never make it a priority.

These things may be a part of who I am, but they don't define me. God does. In His eyes, I am exactly who I am supposed to be when I embrace the role He has given me. No need to look further. Occasionally, He lets me have a peek at my heart and points me toward something that will enhance my journey. If He has given me a passion for it, He will allow me the time to work it into my days. If the desire isn't from Him, I will find myself battling the current.

So, my friends, that is who I am. Who are YOU?

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I'm linking up with: Titus 2sdays

Teach Me Tuesdays
Domestically Divine Tuesdays
Raising Homemakers
Women Living Well
Deep Roots at Home

Back to the Basics ~ Coming Jan. 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Kasey) — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 12:18:00 +0000

Are you tired of riding the fence...looking longingly toward the lush green grasses of the Kingdom, with one eye fixed on the stubble of this world? Do you thrill at the prospect of a closer walk with God, yet quickly find yourself distracted by life? Does it seem easier to heed the call of technology than His call for your heart?

Don't despair...you are not alone!

"For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."

I am so excited to share with you some of the treasures that God has been burying in my heart. If our desires are in accordance with His will, He WILL work in and through us to His glory. The commandments branded onto our hearts and made manifest in our actions tear down the wall between heaven and earth. A willing obedience makes clear the divine will. Embracing that doesn't lie in our resignation to trudge through life with a cumbersome yoke, but rather the laying down of our burden at His feet. As we purposefully seek Him, truth is distinguished from the lie.

Come learn along side me as we take a fresh look at the Commandments and how they apply practically to our lives today. Join me for the 12 part series Back to the Basics as we kick off 2012 with a fervor for God that we've never experienced!

Topics will include:

Identify your gods
Are you bowed down on Holy ground?
Behind His name
How we can truly find rest
Love vs. Honor
Casting Stones
Him, her and God
Christian Thieves
The Truth Within
Choosing Contentment
But, Lord...
Where do I start?

(Grab my button and spread the word. Code in side bar)

Also, I can't wait to give you the opportunity to get entered for 3 terrific GIVEAWAYS! Sources include: Moore Family Films, Doorposts and the Bulk Herb Store!! Stay tuned for details...

In the meantime, don't forget to get entered for Beth Moores's book Breaking Free here!!

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He waits...

noreply@blogger.com (Kasey) — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 04:10:00 +0000

I was married in this little church. No electric. No water. The small sanctuary was lit by lanterns that lined the walls. It made for tricky picture taking, but I wouldn't change the location for anything!

This tiny mountain chapel has seen many a weary traveler. The old wooden pews show signs of aging and the floor is worn and faded from years of use. The walls hold countless secrets of the many who came and poured out their hearts in search of the Lord. And He met them here in this humble building.

Our lives often leave us scuffed and worn. Lines work their way across once smooth skin. The mirror ceases to be our friend as it can't see beneath the surface. But He can. And He does. Beyond skin tormented by age, He finds beauty...and it captivates Him. He longs to restore in us what has been lost.

Undeterred by the "life" that is etched into our very beings, the Bridegroom sends out an earnest invitation. He yearns for it to be accepted. The dowry has been paid ~ there was no price too great. He bids us to put on the wedding garment and come to Him, prepared to receive an incomprehensible love. A love that changes everything!!

I'm linking up with: WLW Wednesdays

Proverbs 31 Thursdays
Heart 4 Home

Don't forget to enter to win Beth Moore's book Breaking Free...drawing on Monday, December 19!

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It isn't always possible to sit down and read all the blogs I love and somehow I doubt it's any different for you! It would be an honor to visit your inbox with current posts if you'd like to Subscribe ! You can also find me on Facebook , where there are updates not found on my blog. Or follow along with me on Twitter !

Breaking Free and a Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Kasey) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 11:13:00 +0000

It is easy to go through the motions of living a spirit-filled life. We can learn to say the right things, and wear the right clothes, and cook the right foods. We can post something to Facebook or Twitter that could lead the average follower to believe we are that which we aren't truly living in our hearts. We might even be able to convince ourselves.

But while keeping up the appearance of a closely connected walk with Christ, we can be held in bondage. Chained to our past, maybe. Or even to our present. It's like trying to run through quicksand...we get nowhere fast and we sink quickly!

Once we realize that we are held captive by a relentless oppressor, it is so easy to make the mistake of trying to break free on our own. Those attempts will only leave us worn down and even more vulnerable. Our energy is spent and we start to believe the lie. Those whisperings from our captor gain both volume and power. Soon we hear little else.

But there is hope. We have a Redeemer. He rides in on His white horse ready to defeat the foe...but we must open the gate!

I am blessed to have the opportunity to share with one of my readers the powerful book Breaking Free by Beth Moore on this very subject. A book that will act as a tool in your hand as you endeavor to cast off what binds you. Save your strength...turn to the One who can break the chains!

All you have to do to get entered is leave a comment letting me know you'd like this book! I will randomly select a winner on Monday, December 19th. Get entered now!!

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Linking up with: Raising Homemakers
Deep Roots at Home
WLW Wednesdays
Proverbs 31 Thursdays

When silence fills the heart

noreply@blogger.com (Kasey) — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 12:13:00 +0000

I sit down to type, but the words won't come. So many thoughts yet none make sense. My mind is cluttered, my body tired.

I finally hear His call. Put it aside. Come to Me.

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

Sometimes we learn the most when we listen in silence. We can often guide more effectively when we don't say a thing.

Come. Let me speak to you. I'll even speak for you.

And so I go. If you listen close, I'm sure you'll hear Him, too.

Linking up with Teach Me Tuesdays and Titus 2sdays

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Not His will, but mine?

noreply@blogger.com (Kasey) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 10:56:00 +0000

I stare hard into the glow of the bedside monitor, trying to make out the almost imperceptible sign of life in my sleeping babies. Secretly, I'm afraid God will change His mind.

I wrestle through a fitful hour of sleep as my husband makes his (very) early morning trek to work. Only when the phone rings do I give rest to the worry. He's made it safely once more.

"And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to hisspan of life?" (Luke 12:25)

I sit down to pay the bills and watch another payday quickly vanish. I want to ask Him for more rather than continue to learn ways to allow it to be enough.

I claim to trust Him. I silently pray, "Thy will be done", but what I'm really saying is Please let my will be Thy will. It's natural, I know. If we're honest, we pretty much all do it at times. His will is often hard to understand. We see only the tiny frame of life we are currently in. He is working with the big picture.

"For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known." (1 Cor. 13:12)

Trying to hand out instructions to the Creator of the Universe is a big job. And it has me exhausted. Strangely, when I find a way to "impose my will on Him", I discover the end result isn't at all as I dreamed it would be.

The tough stuff works like sand paper, smoothing away my rough edges. So that each piece of my life will fit back into the puzzle that was scattered with the fall of man.

He has a plan and it is to prosper me. Not always in the moment, but in the end.

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. (Jer. 29:11)

I'm linking up with: Titus 2sdays
Deep Roots at Home

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Fit for the Job

noreply@blogger.com (Kasey) — Sat, 10 Dec 2011 17:25:00 +0000

We take prenatal classes to learn how to breath. Some even enroll in a class that teaches how to diaper and burp and swaddle their precious new bundle. But actually raising a child and molding their character? That one we muddle through on our own. Or do we?

"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness" 2 Timothy 3:16

If I were being asked to offer my best advice to new mothers {which I'm not, so take it for what it's worth!!} it would include the following...

"She rises also while it is yet night, and gives food to her household..." Proverbs 31:15

You will NEVER get it all done and you'll rarely feel that you're doing enough. Raising a child(ren) is serious business. There are no sick days or vacation days or paid holidays off. It would be nice if Mental Health days were included in the "benefits package" but we don't get those either. The job comes with a high risk of burnout...pace yourself!
Adjust your expectations to fit in with your reality. It doesn't do anybody a bit of good to strive for the unattainable. For me, this means that my house will never look {or at least won't remain} exactly as I want it to. My cupboards are constantly needing reorganized and my windows stay clean for about three minutes...on a good day! It really is okay!
"Me Time" is largely misunderstood. As a wife and mother there will not be a lot of time to just nurture yourself. It's perfectly fine to snatch a moment (or a few hours if they present themselves) to recharge and reconnect with your inner self. The one that isn't covered in baby goo or super glue. But there are also ways to do that while you're "on the clock". Thinking too much about getting away from it all for awhile breeds discontentment. Get the kids interested in the things you enjoy. You'll be surprised to find that the things they most enjoy are those done right at your side!
Laugh!!!! A laughing Mama is like a portable party! Laughter effectively portrays your love for your family and just naturally draws your kids to you. Sometimes I see or read something that cracks me up but when I share it with my family they just don't get it. I sit there laughing hysterically while they grin at each other questioningly. It doesn't matter that my humor doesn't match theirs. All they need to understand is that I love them and enjoy my life!
There are tons of parenting and family resources available for your study. But be careful not to overwhelm yourself. None of the authors of those wonderful books live your life in your home with your family. Take what is useful and leave the rest without guilt. {This advise pertains to anything you might find on this blog, as well!} Some people function best on tightly scheduled routines, while others prefer to fly by the seat of their pants. I am somewhere in the middle. I don't have a play-by-play schedule for our days. But I do have carefully organized chore charts (actually just a simple white board) for all household tasks. This ensures that, at least the majority of the time, basic tasks get accomplished in a timely manner without overwhelming me with a stringent schedule.
There will be times that you're dog tired or just lacking motivation and you'll hear God whisper to get up and back in the game. When He asks it of you He'll equip you for the task. This month I am striving to go to the bedside of each child at bedtime and read, talk and listen to their personal prayers. I could not begin to tell you the blessing that I am receiving from this effort! I must also shamefully confess that I am not naturally drawn to rock my babies at bedtime. But purposing to do that most nights lately has not only strengthened our bond but also filled me with a sense of peace as I leave them to slumber for the night. Some of His greatest blessings are poured out when we "don't feel like it!".

There is more. So much more. The seven unique and complex personalities of my children have taught me heaps. But nothing more important than that time is fleeting. Our lives are but a vapor. Anything can happen at anytime and I want to be left with no regrets! God is eager to provide the wisdom, energy and strength as I offer Him a willing spirit!

I'm linking up with: Teach Me Tuesdays

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Why homeschool??

noreply@blogger.com (Kasey) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 13:42:00 +0000

"You homeschool ALL those children?" I hear it all the time. "You must have the patience of a saint!" Sadly, no, I do not. But I do have a Savior who gladly renews my depleted supply throughout the day!

As a homeschooling mother to 7 children my life sometimes closely resembles a vacuum cleaner with a torn bag. I go along sweeping up messes only to find the dust billowing out behind me. The job is never done. Even when I go to bed at night, I am simply putting off till tomorrow what I can't fit into today. You know, pretty much like anybody else!

I have had too amazing an experience with our small Christian school to jump with abandon on the homeschooling bandwagon. But I will tell you some things that I am loving about it this year!

Character training is at the core of our school days. And it simplifies and relaxes the situation to have them close by. It is important that they are well-educated but it's vital that they are properly discipled. I love all this extended opportunity to work with them!
Being well socialized has never been an issue for my kids. The ability to get along with each other has. Learning to be long-suffering and forgiving with siblings is an on-going lesson that can't be determined by grade.
Learning the unique way each child learns has been very revealing. It has given me a deeper understanding of what lies beneath.
While their schoolwork is still graded, they aren't motivated by outscoring other students. Now they are learning the satisfaction that comes from simply putting in the effort and making progress in their own personal journey. Less pressure from outside sources seems to offer the freedom to simply learn!

Yes, homeschooling five kids while managing infant twins is a balancing act that requires energy and patience. But at the heart of the matter is my love for these little {and not-so-little}people making it well worth the effort. Being at the forefront in their lives, helping them along the path to Christ, is an indescribable blessing. Even if some days that blessing is masked behind chaos!

I'm linking up with: Domestically Divine Tuesdays

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Hunger Pangs

noreply@blogger.com (Kasey) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 15:22:00 +0000

My twins raced right passed the five month mark and have bothbecome voracious eaters. It seems thatby the time the next feeding rolls around they think they’ve been half starvedto death. Those pangs of hunger alertthem that the time has come to refill their tanks.

How nice it would be if we were as tuned into our spiritualtanks as my babies are to their tummies. If going too long without “topping off” sent us running to reconnectwith Him. If we were struck by pangs of separationanxiety when circumstances kept us from our morning devotions and prayertime. How easy it is to skip a “meal”and instead just snack on empty calories throughout the day. If only our worship time could be neatlypackaged up and handed to us at the drive-thru window, there would be no need to have to schedule itin or be intentional about making sure it happens.

But salvation isn’t served up on a platter. It comes by makingthe effort to form that relationship. Investing precious time into learning His heart and His desire for ourlives. Satan is never idle. He works tirelessly to numb our senses sothat we no longer recognize the rumblings of our Need. We quickly become desensitized…anddisconnected.

My babies grab every opportunity to snatch a meal during theday. And when put to bed atnight they slumber peacefully for 10-12 hours, assuredthat nourishment awaits them with the rising sun. Their sleep is peaceful because their needhas been met.

May it be so with us!

I'm linking up with: Domestically Divine Tuesdays

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A deeper look

noreply@blogger.com (Kasey) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 14:25:00 +0000

With gadgets dangling from every belt loop and backpackscrammed full of his belongings, he makes his way through the house. I rarely actually see him using what he hasstashed in those bags, but I see the evidence of its removal everywhere! Discarded coats scattered about thefloor. Shoes making a trail throughout thehouse. Yep, he’s a piece of work!

But beyond my seemingly constant reminders to pick up afterhimself, I find a boy who is eager to please. He wants to do what’s right, but his natural propensities just get inthe way. God sees the heart, though,and occasionally I need to stop and look there, too.

Yesterday he unconsciously dedicated the better part of hisfree time simply being helpful. Babiesgot fresh diapers at his hands. Now mindyou, those diapers failed to make it to the trash can, but his adoring babybrothers didn’t seem to mind. They weretoo busy getting their hair spiked with baby lotion!

Sometimes I get so caught up in what my kids fail to do that I forget to notice the good they do. Little things like sharing their last pieceof gum. Or helping each other with adifficult math problem. Having “good”character isn’t so much about where I am right now, but rather where I amgoing. And how I am growing. Encouraging my children in the small things today, will strengthenthem to do big things tomorrow!

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I'm linking up with: Raising Homemakers
Living Well Wednesdays

More than enough...

noreply@blogger.com (Kasey) — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 15:30:00 +0000

He'd had the kids all morning. Five needing homeschool attention and two five month olds that just wanted attention! He was hustling to get the diaper bag packed with necessary supplies as we were heading out in just minutes for piano lessons and other errands. I walked in the door and was greeted with an apologetic look.

The house looked a bit "lived in". Nothing major, it just wasn't as he knows I like to keep it. Piles of clean laundry covered our bed. Crumbs speckled the floor and counters from a lunch made {and eaten} in haste. He felt like a failure. He had no idea that he was actually my hero!

His offering was made perfect by his desire to give his best. He held nothing back for himself and instead poured it all into his family.

Later, he sat with me in the darkened nursery and quietly rocked a sleepy baby. As I looked over and saw him gazing tenderly into his son's drooping eyes, I knew something he didn't...

That it was enough! More than enough!

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Linking up with: Time Warp Wife
Teach Me Tuesdays
Living Well Wednesdays
Deep Roots at Home

His light in our home

noreply@blogger.com (Kasey) — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 14:26:00 +0000

A babe made His way from the realms of heaven to embrace fallen humanity. To call us back to Him. As He was first cradled in His mother's loving arms, angels in all their glorious splendor shouted of His birth with a heavenly glow. That light drew shepherds to Him and surely they were never the same. Without words, a message was spoken. A world was forever changed!

My family loves Christmas lights. They fill our house. After my kids got done stringing them from EVERYWHERE this year it was getting late and I went to turn off all the other lights. Only I found that there weren't any others! The house was afire with Christmas!!

"The three wise men saw the light and followed it.
They are rightly called wise!" Author Unknown

Now do those lights make us think of the Savior's birth every time we look at the? To be honest, no. But they set the mood and make little ears and hearts (at least in our home) even more receptive to Jesus. The babies sit and take in the twinkling wonder and I am filled with a sense of peace. An assurance that just as an infant King basked in the light and drew others homeward, my own children can be illumined by it's glow.

"The sun will no more be your light by day, nor will the brightness of the moon shine on you, for the LORD will be your everlasting light, and your God will be your glory." Isaiah 60:19

Sure we have name swapping and gift exchange, cooking baking and dressed up menus. We read Christmas stories and look for ways to reach out. But at the center of the celebration is Light!

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I'm attending the Treasured Traditions Christmas Party at Hidden Treasures this week. Stop by and join in the festivities as a whole community shares ideas to make this Christmas memorable!!!

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