Yes, our chickens are eating the cherry blossoms that have fallen off our ornamental tree. I know that cherry leaves contain cyanide (did you), but hopefully the blossoms aren't tainted. If they are, I have my next blog post!!!
Speaking of a post....
I actually thought it had been eleven months since my last post; at only ten, I'm encouraged!
Well, about that truck......
The transmission was fixed, and Andy has been driving it. I got a 'neused' truck via Craigslist because the Escape was having other issues. As of last weekend, it looks like the engine is losing compression (whatever that means ~ there is a bunch of oil all over the inside under the hood). We'll keep driving it; there's always the other truck for a backup.
So many things change in ten months!
Bobo and Coco joined our family, two wethered goats. They were supposed to be pasture-mates for a dairy goat, Lilly, who joined us in February.
Unfortunately, Coco couldn't be kind to his new friend and had to find a new home. So he left with a nice family from Goodview.
Lord willing, Lilly will kid in mid-June, and we're looking forward to goat milk and late-spring kids!
The girls are plugging away at co-op, school and church. Speaking of church, we've joined a church just up the road As far as our garden Burnt Chimney ~ and are glad to be active there. We're also involved in a Bible study with some other homeschooling families, strengthening relationships and encouraging one another in our parenting journey. So thankful for the relationships there.
Lesseee, Andy survived a bout with MRSA after a scratch from a branch when he was cleaning out the woods behind our house. While it was scary for a couple days, once the antibiotics began to work, he's well on his way to recovery. We're so glad it didn't have more serious, long-lasting effects.
I had considered not blogging anymore. Time is scarce around here, what with schooling, keeping up with the house and animals and doing whatever it is we do. But I enjoy reading others' blogs and keeping a sort of record of what is going on in our lives. So, I'm going to try and start back again.
One problem was that our desktop computer is in the basement, away from our day to day activities. I've been using the laptop which allows me more freedom to move around.
Another problem has more to do with privacy concerns. I'm still not sure where I stand on that. When I log on to the Internet, do a Google search and pull up my name, my kids' names, my parents' names, where I've lived, my political views, etc., etc. on just the first couple pages of my search, I wonder if blogging is such a good idea. Notsomuch for "bad guys," but for the government and REALLY bad guys. And as I grow older and my kids grow older, I find myself having really radical ideas insofar as the mainstream is concerned. Nothing wacko or crazy, but just momma-bear conservative. I dunno. I'll have to think about that a bit as I decide what to write.
Anyways, look for more garden posts and chicken posts and goat posts and family posts. November marked our first full year in this home and I'm starting to get the hang of seasons and cycles here. Its going to be a great year!
Showing posts with label friends. Show all posts
Showing posts with label friends. Show all posts
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
Monday, May 14, 2012
Schoolin'
The end is in sight!
Less than one month to go for Hannah's second grade year, and WHEW, what a pull these last couple weeks will be!
We were interrupted by a major household move this year, and that, in addition to the various trips and illnesses, as drug our school year out much longer than I'd planned. There was a point when I thought we were going to be finishing in April ~ ha!
("For I know the plans I have for you," says the Lord)
As it is, we're planning to school right on through the summer, although with a different schedule. We'll probably keep on going with math and grammar, but we'll put more emphasis on science and art.
There is a homeschool book sale coming up in a couple weeks that will help me fill in any missing holes. I'm looking for a few books and a few other things for our "classroom."
WHICH is on my to-do list. Our current setup doesn't seem to be working as well as it could be. I was so used to schooling at the kitchen table that when we moved into this (huge, to us) house, we kind of kept close to the kitchen and living room. But that is proving to be so very distracting to Hannah. I'm planning to convert part of our basement into a school room, encouraged by the models I've seen in some of my friends' homes and online. I'll start on it soon, but probably won't finish it until later this summer.
In the meantime, co-op wrapped up for the year with an end of year party complete with a moms vs. kids kickball game, pizza and popcorn & cotton candy.
Less than one month to go for Hannah's second grade year, and WHEW, what a pull these last couple weeks will be!
We were interrupted by a major household move this year, and that, in addition to the various trips and illnesses, as drug our school year out much longer than I'd planned. There was a point when I thought we were going to be finishing in April ~ ha!
("For I know the plans I have for you," says the Lord)
As it is, we're planning to school right on through the summer, although with a different schedule. We'll probably keep on going with math and grammar, but we'll put more emphasis on science and art.
There is a homeschool book sale coming up in a couple weeks that will help me fill in any missing holes. I'm looking for a few books and a few other things for our "classroom."
WHICH is on my to-do list. Our current setup doesn't seem to be working as well as it could be. I was so used to schooling at the kitchen table that when we moved into this (huge, to us) house, we kind of kept close to the kitchen and living room. But that is proving to be so very distracting to Hannah. I'm planning to convert part of our basement into a school room, encouraged by the models I've seen in some of my friends' homes and online. I'll start on it soon, but probably won't finish it until later this summer.
 |
| What a great group of moms and kids we've met. I'm looking forward to many years of learning and growing with these Christ-seeking and Jesus-loving folks. |
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Yumasetta
This is our family's version of a popular gut Amish dish. Its kinder-friendly comfort food and it travels and freezes well. Great for sharing with a recovering friend or bringing to a pot-luck dinner, AND you probably have everything you need for it in your pantry and freezer.
I never bring home leftovers. In fact, I'm surprised I haven't shared it here before. If you Google the name, you'll come up with a half a dozen varieties on both the ingredients and the spelling of the recipe name. A friend shared this with me over ten years ago and its in regular rotation at our house!
Yumasetta
1 lb. ground beef
(*optional: 1 small onion, diced)
1 can tomato soup
2-3 tbs. brown sugar OR molasses
American cheese slices (1/2 a package or so, I guess) (yeah, I know, but I said its comfort food, right?)
1 lb bag egg noodles (however wide you like)
1 can peas, drained (or equivalent amount frozen, steamed lightly) (*optional)
1 can cream of chicken soup
1/4 to 1/2 cup or so of milk (or evaporated milk)
Brown ground beef, break apart into chunks. Drain. If you use an onion, chop it in small pieces and saute it in a little olive oil. Add beef to pan with onion. Add brown sugar or molasses to meat and stir, stir in tomato soup. If its looking a little dry, add about 1/4 cup (not much!) of water to the can and swish to get the rest of the soup out.
Meanwhile, boil your noodles following package directions. Drain them and stir in the cream of chicken soup. Add milk to the can and swish good to get the rest out.
In a 9x13" dish (or any casserole pan - I usually divide this recipe into two pans and freeze one for later), layer about 1/2 of the meat mixture on the bottom of the pan. Spoon out about 1/2 of the noodle mixture over top. Cover this with the peas, sprinkling them over all, including the edges and corners. Layer the cheese slices (1 slice thick) to cover all of the peas/noodle mixture.
Layer the rest of the meat over the cheese, being sure again to cover it completely. Layer the rest of the noodles over that, spreading to cover. Finally, put a final layer of cheese over the whole thing.
Bake it in the oven at 350* for about 20-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melty and possibly the edges are starting to brown. Really, don't be ferhoodled...you're just blending the flavors and heating through; everything is already cooked.
This is best when its been made several hours ahead of time and the flavors have time to meld. But honestly, es gut right out of the oven; the whole thing takes about 1 hour from start to finish including cooking and cleanup.
Let me know if you made it, and if so (most importantly), what did your family think?
I never bring home leftovers. In fact, I'm surprised I haven't shared it here before. If you Google the name, you'll come up with a half a dozen varieties on both the ingredients and the spelling of the recipe name. A friend shared this with me over ten years ago and its in regular rotation at our house!
Yumasetta
1 lb. ground beef
(*optional: 1 small onion, diced)
1 can tomato soup
2-3 tbs. brown sugar OR molasses
American cheese slices (1/2 a package or so, I guess) (yeah, I know, but I said its comfort food, right?)
1 lb bag egg noodles (however wide you like)
1 can peas, drained (or equivalent amount frozen, steamed lightly) (*optional)
1 can cream of chicken soup
1/4 to 1/2 cup or so of milk (or evaporated milk)
Brown ground beef, break apart into chunks. Drain. If you use an onion, chop it in small pieces and saute it in a little olive oil. Add beef to pan with onion. Add brown sugar or molasses to meat and stir, stir in tomato soup. If its looking a little dry, add about 1/4 cup (not much!) of water to the can and swish to get the rest of the soup out.
Meanwhile, boil your noodles following package directions. Drain them and stir in the cream of chicken soup. Add milk to the can and swish good to get the rest out.
In a 9x13" dish (or any casserole pan - I usually divide this recipe into two pans and freeze one for later), layer about 1/2 of the meat mixture on the bottom of the pan. Spoon out about 1/2 of the noodle mixture over top. Cover this with the peas, sprinkling them over all, including the edges and corners. Layer the cheese slices (1 slice thick) to cover all of the peas/noodle mixture.
Layer the rest of the meat over the cheese, being sure again to cover it completely. Layer the rest of the noodles over that, spreading to cover. Finally, put a final layer of cheese over the whole thing.
Bake it in the oven at 350* for about 20-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melty and possibly the edges are starting to brown. Really, don't be ferhoodled...you're just blending the flavors and heating through; everything is already cooked.
This is best when its been made several hours ahead of time and the flavors have time to meld. But honestly, es gut right out of the oven; the whole thing takes about 1 hour from start to finish including cooking and cleanup.
Let me know if you made it, and if so (most importantly), what did your family think?
Friday, April 13, 2012
Homeschool Co-Op
The first thing I did before we were even wholly moved in down here was to research homeschool support groups in the area. We're so fortunate that there are several in the area, so we were able to choose one that was a good fit for our family. I can't tell you enough how important it is to me to have a group of kids and moms who are fellow travelers on the journey ~ every time we get a chance to talk I'm amazed that they have or have had the same challenges as we do as far as parenting, schooling or family relationships.
In Alleghany, my girls were some of the youngest in the support group and I benefited from the experience of the moms with older children. Unfortunately, there weren't many cooperative learning (co-op) classes in which they could participate. I don't think they were necessarily missing out, but I know as the time grew closer to when we actually moved to Franklin County, Han had started to ask for more opportunities to interact with kids her age.
Here in Hardy, we belong to CHEF ~ Christian Home Educators of Franklin (County), and what a blessing it is to us! We literally thank God daily for the relationships we are developing among this remarkable group of families. These are "real people," (my favorite kind) who pray for one another and share their struggles...
hmmmm, reminds me of:
Probably easiest, most natural, and most enjoyable precept I've ever followed!
A whole 'nother post could be written about the elephant who sidles up to the (very predictable and not uncommon) conversation when someone finds out we school at home:
THEY: And where do your girls go to school?
US: We homeschool.
THEY: (awkward pause)
US: (in my mind: "Here it comes....")
THEY: But aren't you concerned about socialization?
US: Well, they're in AWANAs, Sunday School, Children's Church, co-op, and they take other classes in the community....
WHAT I'M REALLY THINKING: (Yeah, like I really want them to go to a government school, learning all sorts of disrespectful, non-Christlike behaviors from their same-age peers, artificially separated into groups by age, developing a type of "us vs. them" mentality, being exposed to ____________ all kinds of garbage - not to mention teachers/admin who can't/don't share our desire to put Christ FIRST, etc. etc.)
So, uh, co-op helps to mitigate some of that.
We meet one day a week for 15 weeks a semester for two classes, and then it is (often) off to the park where the moms chat and the kids zoom. We have monthly field trips and other impromptu get-togethers ~ most importantly, a monthly "Mom's Night," where we do a lot of that "supporting, bearing and encouraging."
Speaking of Biblical mandates, I saw this verse applied to a co-op group a bloggy friend attends, and I can't imagine a more perfect verse for this topic:
 |
| Younger homeschoolers getting ready for a nature walk |
 |
| (Isn't she just beautiful?!) |
 |
| After a field trip to see "The Velveteen Rabbit" ~ a game of D, D, G in the food court of Center on the Square |
Here in Hardy, we belong to CHEF ~ Christian Home Educators of Franklin (County), and what a blessing it is to us! We literally thank God daily for the relationships we are developing among this remarkable group of families. These are "real people," (my favorite kind) who pray for one another and share their struggles...
hmmmm, reminds me of:
Galatians 6:2: Bear one another's burdens, and thereby fulfill the Law of Christ.
Probably easiest, most natural, and most enjoyable precept I've ever followed!
A whole 'nother post could be written about the elephant who sidles up to the (very predictable and not uncommon) conversation when someone finds out we school at home:
THEY: And where do your girls go to school?
US: We homeschool.
THEY: (awkward pause)
US: (in my mind: "Here it comes....")
THEY: But aren't you concerned about socialization?
US: Well, they're in AWANAs, Sunday School, Children's Church, co-op, and they take other classes in the community....
WHAT I'M REALLY THINKING: (Yeah, like I really want them to go to a government school, learning all sorts of disrespectful, non-Christlike behaviors from their same-age peers, artificially separated into groups by age, developing a type of "us vs. them" mentality, being exposed to ____________ all kinds of garbage - not to mention teachers/admin who can't/don't share our desire to put Christ FIRST, etc. etc.)
So, uh, co-op helps to mitigate some of that.
We meet one day a week for 15 weeks a semester for two classes, and then it is (often) off to the park where the moms chat and the kids zoom. We have monthly field trips and other impromptu get-togethers ~ most importantly, a monthly "Mom's Night," where we do a lot of that "supporting, bearing and encouraging."
Speaking of Biblical mandates, I saw this verse applied to a co-op group a bloggy friend attends, and I can't imagine a more perfect verse for this topic:
Hebrews 10:25: Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing,
but let us encourage one another - and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
It gives me a shiver of a thrill to read that! Me, who would much prefer to live a hermit-ly life, staying home all day every day and poking around the house and yard ~ I don't need to be encouraged to meet together ~ for the good of my girls or for my own (very needful!) good!
Thursday, April 12, 2012
Sunday, March 11, 2012
More (late) snow pictures from our (late) last snow!
 |
| Our new home in the Blue Ridge Highlands! |
 |
| Snow buddies! |
 |
| Yes they are on the deck, yes they are underdressed for the weather, and yes, I approved! |
 |
| Look at those red, cold legs! |
 |
| "Watch me, mama!" |
 |
| "Weeeeeeeeeeee!" |
 |
| Sledding with friends.... |
We finally have a sleddable hill!!
After living in the mountains for over 5 years, its the first time we've been able to sled downhill in our yard!
 |
| Andy, Abigail, Hannah and Kenzi....on the back yard hill...kinda hard to see in that heavy snow coming down! |
 |
| And, a steep walk back up! |
And now, THAT ends our "snow day" pictures!
Friday, March 9, 2012
God's Gifts
As I write this post, Andy and Han are at Lowe's picking through their discards bin for chicken coop lumber. I'm home with the little one, having cleaned up after she emptied her stomach twice - once in the car and once on me and the downstairs couch. She's now watching an old movie musical on TBN with a trashcan beside. The situation lends it to an opportunity to update my blog!
So many changes since the move, and I've felt God's presence throughout. Things have not always gone as we've hoped or expected, but nonetheless, I've been blessed - by truly feeling His presence throughout everything. One or several of us was sick for most of February, yet we still managed to make it through work, homeschooling, housekeeping and our new engagements.
The girls took swimming lessons at the far-away (20 miles?) Green Ridge Recreation Center, and I am more than satisfied with their progress. One girl who wouldn't put her face in the water for me is actually swimming under water for significant distances, and the other quickly shot to the top of her class, demonstrating that she is, in reality, actually a water bug. They've each "graduated" to the next level, and if we decide to re-enroll them, they'll begin again after a weeks' break. For Abigail, her goal is to be able to swim well enough to "go down the big indoor slide"; check out their website at the link above to see what she means.
Homeschool Co-op through CHEF (Christian Home Educators of Franklin County) has been an abundantly rich experience for both me and the girls. While I truly enjoyed the Alleghany Highlands, I often felt they isolated in terms of other homeschoolers. True, we had a small core group (whom I miss, miss, miss, Margie!), but here we've connected with even more. They go weekly for five week sessions ~ Hannah is studying Alaska and the Iditerod race, Royal Rangers Together, and last session she was in well-organized and presented poetry class. Abigail is in a preschool class and a gym class. We've gone on a couple field trips and I've been to - sadly - only one Mom's Night, but the friendships and support I've built through CHEF are priceless.
This is an example of God's timing and grace for our family. I have a hard time making friends. I do! And as far as co-op, I wasn't sure if I'd want to relinqish any of my teaching time or schooling to someone else. I wasn't sure if it fit into my overall plan for their education. But my heart has changed at the same time the I saw how much they (especially Hannah) would benefit from it. And its not even that socialization thing. But it ends up being that. And while our children are engaged in their activities, I'm making developing relationships with other moms who have many of the same interests, goals and desires for their kids - all as sisters in the body of Christ. Its something wonderful, really.
And along the lines of making friends, God has blessed me in other ways, too. I mentioned our neighbors, right? I'm so thankful for ours ~ we've been out to dinner a couple times and have enjoyed ourselves together as families - laughing and yukking it up in the yard and in the snow. I know, I know, PICTURES, right? They'll come.
But I've also met friends out at random: Andy sold his truck to buy a 20+ year old Dodge so he wouldn't have a payment. Chatting with the folks who bought it, they homeschool and have kids the same ages as ours. We've cahtted by e-mail and have promised one another 'playdates' once the weather stabilizes some.
And of course there's more ~ even at the doctor's office for a physical today, I met a nurse who - um, "coincidentally" (yeah, right) is also raising chickens, hoping for goats soon and working toward a more self-sufficient lifestyle. So we exchanged particulars and here I am writing about her.
God is so good! He takes care of needs I didn't even know I had, overly and more abundantly than I could ever ask for hope for.
So many changes since the move, and I've felt God's presence throughout. Things have not always gone as we've hoped or expected, but nonetheless, I've been blessed - by truly feeling His presence throughout everything. One or several of us was sick for most of February, yet we still managed to make it through work, homeschooling, housekeeping and our new engagements.
The girls took swimming lessons at the far-away (20 miles?) Green Ridge Recreation Center, and I am more than satisfied with their progress. One girl who wouldn't put her face in the water for me is actually swimming under water for significant distances, and the other quickly shot to the top of her class, demonstrating that she is, in reality, actually a water bug. They've each "graduated" to the next level, and if we decide to re-enroll them, they'll begin again after a weeks' break. For Abigail, her goal is to be able to swim well enough to "go down the big indoor slide"; check out their website at the link above to see what she means.
Homeschool Co-op through CHEF (Christian Home Educators of Franklin County) has been an abundantly rich experience for both me and the girls. While I truly enjoyed the Alleghany Highlands, I often felt they isolated in terms of other homeschoolers. True, we had a small core group (whom I miss, miss, miss, Margie!), but here we've connected with even more. They go weekly for five week sessions ~ Hannah is studying Alaska and the Iditerod race, Royal Rangers Together, and last session she was in well-organized and presented poetry class. Abigail is in a preschool class and a gym class. We've gone on a couple field trips and I've been to - sadly - only one Mom's Night, but the friendships and support I've built through CHEF are priceless.
This is an example of God's timing and grace for our family. I have a hard time making friends. I do! And as far as co-op, I wasn't sure if I'd want to relinqish any of my teaching time or schooling to someone else. I wasn't sure if it fit into my overall plan for their education. But my heart has changed at the same time the I saw how much they (especially Hannah) would benefit from it. And its not even that socialization thing. But it ends up being that. And while our children are engaged in their activities, I'm making developing relationships with other moms who have many of the same interests, goals and desires for their kids - all as sisters in the body of Christ. Its something wonderful, really.
And along the lines of making friends, God has blessed me in other ways, too. I mentioned our neighbors, right? I'm so thankful for ours ~ we've been out to dinner a couple times and have enjoyed ourselves together as families - laughing and yukking it up in the yard and in the snow. I know, I know, PICTURES, right? They'll come.
But I've also met friends out at random: Andy sold his truck to buy a 20+ year old Dodge so he wouldn't have a payment. Chatting with the folks who bought it, they homeschool and have kids the same ages as ours. We've cahtted by e-mail and have promised one another 'playdates' once the weather stabilizes some.
And of course there's more ~ even at the doctor's office for a physical today, I met a nurse who - um, "coincidentally" (yeah, right) is also raising chickens, hoping for goats soon and working toward a more self-sufficient lifestyle. So we exchanged particulars and here I am writing about her.
God is so good! He takes care of needs I didn't even know I had, overly and more abundantly than I could ever ask for hope for.
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Christmas Cheer
There are many, many things that I love about the Alleghany Highlands. I'm going to share one thing that is especailly close to my heart, one that I hold in high esteem.
I've told you before that every Monday is "trash day" in our part of the county. The girls get the biggest kick of running out and saying "hi" to the "trash guys," telling them about something that's recently happened, probably even airing a little Morris dirty laundry here and there and generally just connecting with a few guys who they consider their great friends.
Last year we were bowled over when they pulled the big white truck up to the end of the driveway and got out with two wrapped Christmas presents for the girls. Read about it here.....
Today, I got a lump in my throat when it happened again. I dunno, maybe I'm just a little emotional today or something, but it really touched my heart.
The girls were so excited because this was the last Monday before Christmas....and they couldn't WAIT to give their friends cards, fudge and cookies that we'd made. They excitedly talked about their friends ("I love them!" and "They're my best friends!") as they made glitter-loaded cards for these great guys.
I've told you before that every Monday is "trash day" in our part of the county. The girls get the biggest kick of running out and saying "hi" to the "trash guys," telling them about something that's recently happened, probably even airing a little Morris dirty laundry here and there and generally just connecting with a few guys who they consider their great friends.
Last year we were bowled over when they pulled the big white truck up to the end of the driveway and got out with two wrapped Christmas presents for the girls. Read about it here.....
Today, I got a lump in my throat when it happened again. I dunno, maybe I'm just a little emotional today or something, but it really touched my heart.
The girls were so excited because this was the last Monday before Christmas....and they couldn't WAIT to give their friends cards, fudge and cookies that we'd made. They excitedly talked about their friends ("I love them!" and "They're my best friends!") as they made glitter-loaded cards for these great guys.
For the girls, this was all about GIVING and not receiving. Not once was a reference made to them "getting" anything from the "trash guys*." The word "exhuberant" comes to mind as they looked forward to giving their presents.
*Hannah has called them "the trash guys" from the first time she went out to see them.
The name has stuck, although they signed last year's cards "The Trashmen."
We were just finishing up our first half of school when the cry arose, "TRASH GUYS ARE COMING!" And two little girls strapped on their flip-flops, grabbed a glittery stack of cards and treat boxes and trotted out in just-below-freezing-temperatures toward Johnson Creek Road.
The pictures show the rest of the story...
Monday, December 20, 2010
Christmas Music at Temple Baptist Church 2010
I finally got the kids' Christmas videos uploaded to YouTube!
Abigail's class is called the "Mini Miracles," and Hannah's is "GROW Choir."
Click here for the Mini Miracles Christmas Presentation!
The GROW Choir's video is split into three sections so it could be uploaded in segments; otherwise it would have taken hours to upload. If there are any problems with these links, please let me know and I'll do what I can. I tried to get everyone's kids in the video, but from my location (directly behind the director!) it was tough focusing on everyone, especially if your initials are GG!! :)
GROW Choir Part 1
GROW Choir Part 2
GROW Choir Part 3
Please, please, please leave comments at the end of this post!
Abigail's class is called the "Mini Miracles," and Hannah's is "GROW Choir."
Click here for the Mini Miracles Christmas Presentation!
The GROW Choir's video is split into three sections so it could be uploaded in segments; otherwise it would have taken hours to upload. If there are any problems with these links, please let me know and I'll do what I can. I tried to get everyone's kids in the video, but from my location (directly behind the director!) it was tough focusing on everyone, especially if your initials are GG!! :)
GROW Choir Part 1
GROW Choir Part 2
GROW Choir Part 3
Please, please, please leave comments at the end of this post!
Friday, December 17, 2010
Santa in the Highlands
We've had all sorts of run-ins with the red-suited man over the last couple weeks. I thought I'd share some of them.....first up is a link to pictures from a WONDERFUL visit with that Jolly Old Elf in Clifton Forge. The link will take you to Fire and Light Gallery, a shop showcasing the incredible talents of two local men - a photographer and a blacksmith. An unlikely pair? Well, you'd have to see it for yourself.
Santa Pictures at Clifton Forge Presbyterian Church - sponsored by Clifton Forge Main Street. Brace yourself....they are unbearably sweet!
Abigail: http://fireandlightgallery.com/site/#/gallery/breakfast-with-santa-2010/img-1378/
Abigail: http://fireandlightgallery.com/site/#/gallery/breakfast-with-santa-2010/img-1379/
Hannah: http://fireandlightgallery.com/site/#/gallery/breakfast-with-santa-2010/img-1381/
Hannah: http://fireandlightgallery.com/site/#/gallery/breakfast-with-santa-2010/img-1380/
These videos include some friends from church. Santa visited the kids after their Christmas performance this past Wednesday, and though I can't tell you exactly what was whispered in Santy's ear, I think the video tells the whole story.
Hannah & Ethan with Santa
Goldie, Abigail, Grace and Simon with Santa
Stay tuned for videos of the Grow Choir's Christmas Cantata performance. I just have to figure out how to splice the different links together so it somewhat flows. BELIEVE me, you don't want to miss it!
Santa Pictures at Clifton Forge Presbyterian Church - sponsored by Clifton Forge Main Street. Brace yourself....they are unbearably sweet!
Abigail: http://fireandlightgallery.com/site/#/gallery/breakfast-with-santa-2010/img-1378/
Abigail: http://fireandlightgallery.com/site/#/gallery/breakfast-with-santa-2010/img-1379/
Hannah: http://fireandlightgallery.com/site/#/gallery/breakfast-with-santa-2010/img-1381/
Hannah: http://fireandlightgallery.com/site/#/gallery/breakfast-with-santa-2010/img-1380/
These videos include some friends from church. Santa visited the kids after their Christmas performance this past Wednesday, and though I can't tell you exactly what was whispered in Santy's ear, I think the video tells the whole story.
Hannah & Ethan with Santa
Goldie, Abigail, Grace and Simon with Santa
Stay tuned for videos of the Grow Choir's Christmas Cantata performance. I just have to figure out how to splice the different links together so it somewhat flows. BELIEVE me, you don't want to miss it!
Friday, December 3, 2010
Advent Calendar #1 (?)
My pal Emily called the other night and asked if I'd whip up an Advent calendar for her....WHAT? My first thought was, "Gosh, now I have to really mo-ti-vate and psych myself up to do something that I've been putting off for two years!"
Well, actually, I did it, and it wasn't so bad! Now I can't wait to make one for us. I'm hoping to work on it tonight and tomorrow so check back later to see how I did.
Anyways, just a picture for this one:
Its complete except for the dowel that goes through the top and a gold cord to tie to the ends for hanging. You can't see here but each Christmas tree has a slit in it midway in which to insert lollipops (as shown) or mini candy canes. And the felt background is red, not fuchsia....
Thank you, Emily for motivation to finally make an Advent Calendar! I love it!
Well, actually, I did it, and it wasn't so bad! Now I can't wait to make one for us. I'm hoping to work on it tonight and tomorrow so check back later to see how I did.
Anyways, just a picture for this one:
Its complete except for the dowel that goes through the top and a gold cord to tie to the ends for hanging. You can't see here but each Christmas tree has a slit in it midway in which to insert lollipops (as shown) or mini candy canes. And the felt background is red, not fuchsia....
Thank you, Emily for motivation to finally make an Advent Calendar! I love it!
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Thoughts on Easter
The blog post over at Domestic Cents sums up exactly what I'm feeling as we approach Easter...right down to the fact that I've got to get sewing on matching dresses for the girls!!
Since my girls have been old enough to equate pretty much any holiday with candy and toys, I've struggled with the dual meanings of holidays - the meaning the world puts on them and the meaning that we as Christians attach.
I have friends who go to the extreme of having no Easter baskets/eggs/jelly beans, but that isn't for us, and even if we tried it, the girls get mini Easter baskets in their Sunday School class. And truly, dyeing and hunting for hidden eggs is fun! Nothing inherently wrong with that, right? (Provided that the egg dye is homemade or purchased on sale with a coupon, of course!) In fact, I'm looking forward to heading over to Clifton Forge again this year for an Easter Egg-stravaganza (scroll to middle of the page for details) and parade the day before Easter....there's always free, fun things to do here in the Alleghany Highlands...check some of them out here.
But there is something that tugs at my spirit about the duality of holiday celebrations: is it OK to celebrate Easter with sugar? Christmas with wrapping paper? My answer (for now, anyways) lies in the answer to these questions:
But, if I (we) take the time to constantly -
Then I think there is room for eating chocolate bunny ears and a handful of Cadbury mini eggs (purchased with ECBs from CVS or with a Catalina from Kroger). I think that once that foundation is built and continually strengthened on a daily basis no matter what the season, you can add a little sugar and sprinkles and not risk that your family will be building an altar that the feet of the Easter Bunny.
I'm sure there are those who won't agree with me - who hold fast to having no involvement in the secular commercialization of the holiday - and there are those who could give a hoot less about the Real Meaning of The Holiday. But this is what is comfortable for our family, and what I have prayerfully considered.
I hope you'll read other perspectives from my 'bloggy friends,' like Nicki at Domestic Cents, above or Alyssa over at Keeping the Kingdom First , who is hosting the "Frugal Easter Eggstravaganza." Click through to the blogs linked to this post for great recipes and frugal ideas pertaining to Easter. In the spirit of the friendship topics of my recent posts, these are women who are valuable resources to me as I consider their ideas and perspectives.
Thanks for letting me share this piece of my heart with you!
Since my girls have been old enough to equate pretty much any holiday with candy and toys, I've struggled with the dual meanings of holidays - the meaning the world puts on them and the meaning that we as Christians attach.
I have friends who go to the extreme of having no Easter baskets/eggs/jelly beans, but that isn't for us, and even if we tried it, the girls get mini Easter baskets in their Sunday School class. And truly, dyeing and hunting for hidden eggs is fun! Nothing inherently wrong with that, right? (Provided that the egg dye is homemade or purchased on sale with a coupon, of course!) In fact, I'm looking forward to heading over to Clifton Forge again this year for an Easter Egg-stravaganza (scroll to middle of the page for details) and parade the day before Easter....there's always free, fun things to do here in the Alleghany Highlands...check some of them out here.
But there is something that tugs at my spirit about the duality of holiday celebrations: is it OK to celebrate Easter with sugar? Christmas with wrapping paper? My answer (for now, anyways) lies in the answer to these questions:
Where are our hearts?
Are our hearts at the feet of Jesus when we think about the traditional meaning of the day?
Am I teaching my girls the whole story or just squeezing in a backhanded,
"oh yeah, Jesus rose on Easter"?
Throughout the year am I teaching them that Easter is the day we remember Christ's resurrection from the dead - the only way we could have received forgiveness from sin and freedom from death?
Is it only chocolate bunnies and marshmallow chicks? Because if that's what it is, its only empty calories - too quickly a memory and grass-stained knees from searching for eggs.
"Be careful, or you will be enticed to turn away and worship other gods and bow down to them." (Deuteronomy 11:16)
Hmmm....but read on:
But, if I (we) take the time to constantly -
"train up your children up in the way they should go"
and
"Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds....teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home, and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up." Deuteronomy 11:18,19
Then I think there is room for eating chocolate bunny ears and a handful of Cadbury mini eggs (purchased with ECBs from CVS or with a Catalina from Kroger). I think that once that foundation is built and continually strengthened on a daily basis no matter what the season, you can add a little sugar and sprinkles and not risk that your family will be building an altar that the feet of the Easter Bunny.
I'm sure there are those who won't agree with me - who hold fast to having no involvement in the secular commercialization of the holiday - and there are those who could give a hoot less about the Real Meaning of The Holiday. But this is what is comfortable for our family, and what I have prayerfully considered.
I hope you'll read other perspectives from my 'bloggy friends,' like Nicki at Domestic Cents, above or Alyssa over at Keeping the Kingdom First , who is hosting the "Frugal Easter Eggstravaganza." Click through to the blogs linked to this post for great recipes and frugal ideas pertaining to Easter. In the spirit of the friendship topics of my recent posts, these are women who are valuable resources to me as I consider their ideas and perspectives.
Thanks for letting me share this piece of my heart with you!
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Friends (part 2)
When Abigail & Hannah want to go to the park, the first thing they say is, "Let's call the Friends!" (Don't worry ma...some of these are old pictures....these kids have GROWN)
For the first few months after we moved to Alleghany County, I have to admit that I became concerned that Hannah and Abigail would end up being such mountain girls that they would develop no friends at all and wouldn't even know what to do when they met people their size.
Then, we discovered the Library and Story Time. One of my first blog posts was about Story Time before because it was such an important part of making me feel connected to the community when we first moved here.
Out of this weekly meeting of preschoolers and their moms, I met some great women. I didn't get their permission to post pictures of their kids here, so I won't identify the kids...... 
Out of this weekly meeting of preschoolers and their moms, I met some great women. I didn't get their permission to post pictures of their kids here, so I won't identify the kids...... And in the interest of confidentiality, I'll disguise the moms' names:
Stacie, Sabrina, Amberr, Kylah, Carma, Lissa, Amandah, Torie.... There. Now you have NO IDEA who they could be.
Well, these friends have been true friends not only to me, but also to my kids, via their kids. We've shared parenting successes (and more often failures!), birthday parties, playdates, picnics in the park...we've supported one another as best we could through difficult times... 
Well, these friends have been true friends not only to me, but also to my kids, via their kids. We've shared parenting successes (and more often failures!), birthday parties, playdates, picnics in the park...we've supported one another as best we could through difficult times... ....we've gone apple and blueberry picking (those of us who woke up in time), overwhelmed a local fast food establishment en masse, declared "what happens on the river stays at the river," hollered at each others' kids (not really)(OK really), discussed politics/grocery bargains/Pampered Chef/31/recipes and - for me, at least, have been an indispensable support group. Girls nights out have been a highlight in our relationships - which reminds me....we're about due for another one! Some homeschool, some don't - we each have talents and hobbies that contribute to the group: a forrester, a frugalista, a politician, a networker, a resaler (is that what it is?), a musician, a business owner (a couple of those), a loyal friend (lots of those) - but more than this, these women are so much more...complex and wonderful personalities with whom I am proud to share friendships.
They might not know it because I've probably never told them, but I am so thankful for each of them - and they have each been an answer to prayer to me - they and their great kids.
Hurray for The Friends!
Friends (part 1)
I'm reminded to be thankful of the friends in my life.....
The other night I was (stalking profiles) on Facebook when a friend messaged me to give her a call - it was 10:30 at night and she had more to say than could fit into a chat box.
The great thing was that we picked up right where we'd left off - supporting one another with struggles in our families and connecting over shared past experiences. We haven't worked together since Hannah was born (five years ago), but the voice on the phone was same. Funny how our lives have taken different directions - she chose the career path and public schools for her daughters while I chose to stay at home and homeschool. Each one of us took a brief, wistful peek at the other's lifestyle, and settled back, happy with our own choice.
My Northern California friend and I also connect regularly - she mails books, music CDs and countless photos online. While we worship the same God, our "faith lifestyles" are different, and I've been challenged to examine my own convictions at times. We saw each other last - was it three years ago? - and hope to get together sometime this year. This friendship means so much to me because it began before I was a teenager and has ebbed and flowed along with the changes in each of our lives. She's one of the first I turn to when I am troubled and need an ear (eyes, really).
Facebook has also made friends out of acquaintances - literally! My Friend List contains folks with whom I had only casual relationships in the past, but have become closer with as we share our experiences in our everyday life now. I'm glad to share my stories and theirs in brief status updates, but also look forward to affirmation, advice and suggestions from "many counselors." And although I've had to whittle and prune my Friend List from time to time, it has served to make it even stronger.
Once transplanted to Alleghany County, I was afraid I wouldn't manage to connect to other women to develop meaningful relationships. As it turned out, the Internet has been a part of this as well. We first used Facebook as a tool to schedule park playdates and birthday party invites - but its also been a tool for encouragement and support.
My heart shudders that a good local friend lost her dear mother-in-law to a drunk driver only weeks ago. As the hurt and sorrow of this tragedy have settled on her family, other local friends have been at the ready to lift her up in prayer, feed her family and gather together to remember this remarkable woman and the loved ones she left behind.
I'm excited for new, developing friendships as well. There's the friend who's shared that she's discovered a God-Shaped Void in her life....homeschoolin' mamas who have much to share of their own experience at the kitchen table....and still others whom the Lord has yet to reveal.
For all of these relationships I am humbled and grateful.
The other night I was (stalking profiles) on Facebook when a friend messaged me to give her a call - it was 10:30 at night and she had more to say than could fit into a chat box.
The great thing was that we picked up right where we'd left off - supporting one another with struggles in our families and connecting over shared past experiences. We haven't worked together since Hannah was born (five years ago), but the voice on the phone was same. Funny how our lives have taken different directions - she chose the career path and public schools for her daughters while I chose to stay at home and homeschool. Each one of us took a brief, wistful peek at the other's lifestyle, and settled back, happy with our own choice.
My Northern California friend and I also connect regularly - she mails books, music CDs and countless photos online. While we worship the same God, our "faith lifestyles" are different, and I've been challenged to examine my own convictions at times. We saw each other last - was it three years ago? - and hope to get together sometime this year. This friendship means so much to me because it began before I was a teenager and has ebbed and flowed along with the changes in each of our lives. She's one of the first I turn to when I am troubled and need an ear (eyes, really).
Facebook has also made friends out of acquaintances - literally! My Friend List contains folks with whom I had only casual relationships in the past, but have become closer with as we share our experiences in our everyday life now. I'm glad to share my stories and theirs in brief status updates, but also look forward to affirmation, advice and suggestions from "many counselors." And although I've had to whittle and prune my Friend List from time to time, it has served to make it even stronger.
Once transplanted to Alleghany County, I was afraid I wouldn't manage to connect to other women to develop meaningful relationships. As it turned out, the Internet has been a part of this as well. We first used Facebook as a tool to schedule park playdates and birthday party invites - but its also been a tool for encouragement and support.
My heart shudders that a good local friend lost her dear mother-in-law to a drunk driver only weeks ago. As the hurt and sorrow of this tragedy have settled on her family, other local friends have been at the ready to lift her up in prayer, feed her family and gather together to remember this remarkable woman and the loved ones she left behind.
I'm excited for new, developing friendships as well. There's the friend who's shared that she's discovered a God-Shaped Void in her life....homeschoolin' mamas who have much to share of their own experience at the kitchen table....and still others whom the Lord has yet to reveal.
For all of these relationships I am humbled and grateful.
Monday, October 19, 2009
Hannah's 5th Birthday Party
While it was supposed to be a family-friendly event, it appears that Abbo might be flashing a gang sign....
He's hard to see in camo, but he did most of the work....
Lisa, Kellen & Brandon warming by the fire -
The only picture with all the kiddos in it! Look at that cool fire pit setup - Thanks, Daddy!
Amber was in charge of making sure all the kids - mine included - got suppah....
Lisa at the front of the pinata line. With a giant pokey to keep those kids in place....
The infamous pinata, with Riely taking a go.....
and Ian, with Christian looking on....
Sabrena - thank you again for doing pinata duty - not only could I not have done it, but your timing was perfect!
my favorite pinata picture - go Olivia!
Colin, with his best Ninja/Jedi moves....
Kellen bargaining for another go....
Ahhh, the butterfly gives up the treasure~ Abbo, Hanno, Brandon & Kellen planted for the take~
Plastic spiders, cowboys & Indians, candy bracelets, gummy fruits, Tootsie Rolls....(reminder: brush your teeth!)
Bye, bye, butterfly!
"My cake should be pink and white, with sprinkles. And butterflies. And yellow on the inside."
The redneck way to light candles: with a blowtorch. Git 'er dun!
Happy Birthday to yoooo-oooouuu!
Thar's a happy five year old girl!
A friendly game of cowboys & Indians :)Woo-hoo! Even with all the candy, we managed to wear them out by playing a couple games, and mine, at least, were in bed before 9PM. Thank you for a great time!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)