The Road Less Traveled

Early Christmas Cheer

2010-11-24T21:00:00.000-08:00

The Christmas tree has made it up before Thanksgiving again this year. With our move months behind us, this makes our apartment feel even more like our home.

Dissection

2010-11-23T21:00:00.000-08:00

This was our first attempt at dissection. We started out with the frog as our first victim. Caleb thought it was great and had no problem cutting and slicing. Bethany, on the other hand, had to have my assistance to complete each gruesome step.

Wildlife Preserve

2010-11-23T10:17:00.001-08:00

Bethany with the Zedonk, a cross between a zebra and a donkey.

Other fun animals we saw at the wildlife preserve.

I love this picture of the horse, that was captured by Bethany.

New

2010-04-04T05:49:00.000-07:00

When we walk out our new home's door, this is what we see.

37!!!

2010-03-19T14:00:00.000-07:00

37 years. The years of my life, so far. So thankful today for the life I live! I can look back and truly see the hand of God in my life from the beginning to this point in time. Even though I have spent a lot of these 37 years without God at the center, He was still working, still wooing me with His neverending, everlasting love. His gift of salvation will always be the greatest gift I will ever receive in this life.

Oh Where Has My Blog Gone?

2010-02-26T14:01:00.000-08:00

OK. So, I haven't been faithful to keep up with this blog. I have been faithful to read my friend's blogs, on a daily basis, I might add. I have just not felt like blogging. I have sat down many times, even written drafts that I never published. I just haven't "felt" like publishing the many thoughts and feelings that I have had over the last few months. I still keep a real, paper journal, where I reflect and write about life. Writing is very therapeutic for me, but none of my writings may ever make it onto this blog.

We are still homeschooling, still moving on through our school year. During this school year, I have seen progress in my daughter, with each passing month. I have to look back and remember the journey that I have taken with my son, how I worked through things he didn't just "get" right away. He is an independent worker now, most days. I think I expected the same learning curve with my daughter. So, as every other year we have homeschooled, I continue to learn, right along with my children.

Obligatory Snow Pictures

2010-01-08T07:29:00.000-08:00

So this our first and hopefully not last snow for this year. Our light dusting didn't fail to dissapoint my kids.

Goofy

2009-12-28T11:43:00.000-08:00

Goofy Daddy!

Goofy Uncle!

Goofy cousins!

Winter Nature Exploration

2009-12-22T15:19:00.000-08:00

Well, around this time of year, my kids and I both start developing cabin fever. So, I decided we needed some outside time. We took off into the woods behind our house. These are some things that are we saw.

Here are the kids collecting rocks in the ice cold creek.

Cabin fever avoided today.

Holiday Fun and a Field Trip

2009-11-30T16:14:00.000-08:00

Well, after being gone for a few days for Thanksgiving, we are home again. Our traveling took us to South Georgia to my mom and dad's for the holiday. We got to enjoy the company of my brother and his wife and their two girls, along with my grandmother and parents. This is my grandmother posed with my family and my brother's.

This morning we attended a local performance of "The Nutcracker". This was a first for me and the kids. Bethany got called up on stage to demonstrate a ballet move, along with some other kids.

One of our homeschooling friends snapped this picture of Bethany and I, with Caleb in the background. We did have fun.

Our Beautiful Fall Day

2009-11-19T11:06:00.000-08:00

Today, I planned to take the kids letterboxing. So, around 9:00 am, we set out on a letterboxing journey. The letterboxes make there home at a fairly new park near our house. I had no idea the exact size of the park, or the length of the trails that we were going to be traveling through.

When we arrived, we looked at the map, and the trails didn't LOOK that long. Well, about 2 hours later and with 5 letterboxes found, we arrived back at our starting point. Whew!

Part of those 2 hours included, taking the wrong trail, which incidentally, was straight uphill. (Smile) Another part was stumbling upon 3 does and one baby deer, that let us watch them, without running away for about 5 minutes. We were so amazed to be blessed by God to see such a beautiful sight.

I can say that this park, is now one of my favorites. The trails also have 2 bridges that cross over creeks, that young ones can play in. (Oh yeah, that was another 10 minutes of our hike.)

Oh yeah, I wish you could see pictures of our day, but as usual, I forgot the camera.

Whirling By

2009-11-17T16:23:00.000-08:00

Days, whirling by.
As fast as pages turning by the wind.
Images are blurry.
I try hard to focus.
Laughter, talking, singing are all heard as days pass, quickly.
I try to reach inside to collect memories, inside the whirling, twirling, days.

Family Skate Day

2009-11-13T10:40:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, we attended a family birthday party for a friend of Bethany's. It was held at the local skating rink. Boy, did we ever have fun! I think the hubby and I had more fun than the kids. We both remarked later, that it was one of our best family days ever.

Publix- Great Deals

2009-11-07T05:26:00.000-08:00

I don't know if you can read the receipt, but I only spent $11.01. I saved $33.16. I am amazed at the savings. I had a coupon for every item pictured, which is what made the savings so great, only with everything being BOGO. Into the pantry and freezer, my stash will go.

My Crafty Gal

2009-11-06T11:47:00.000-08:00

Since Bethany was small, I knew she was a crafty, creative little gal. Recently, she has had the opportunity to take a free sewing class. The class is taught by a group of women, who want to pass this art to another generation. Bethany caught on quickly on how to use a sewing machine. I have even learned some things in the process. But doesn't that always happen when you homeschool?

Showing Signs of Life

2009-11-01T10:26:00.000-08:00

So, my blog is actually showing signs of life. Like there is actually a blogger who enjoys blogging about her and her family's lives.

My title is also significant because of the week I have had. Monday evening rolled around with me having no appetite for supper. Then Monday night...bam! I was hit with some something, me thinks it was the flu. So, the rest of the week, through Saturday, I was confined inside the walls of my house.

But today, oh today, (Can I get an amen!) I returned to the land of the living. As we drove to church, the sun shined brightly in my eyes and I rejoiced. The leaves (The ones that are still there) gleamed with golden yellows, warm oranges and reds. And the people, my oh my, I got to mingle with people. (Hallelujah!)

I don't wish sickness on anyone. But, I do know that being cooped up in a house for a week with sickness gives me a GREAT appreciation for the good health that my family and I usually walk in. I suppose that we cannot appreciate the pleasures of life, as much, without sometimes experiencing pain. As Solomon said, "There is season for everything under heaven. A time to mourn and a time to REJOICE!" Thank God, that we know from His word that our lives will not be all sunshine, but they will also not be all rain.

So, I am showing signs of life today. Whoohoo!

Our Princess

2009-11-01T10:05:00.000-08:00

On the way to our church's harvest festival:

What a kid does...

2009-10-31T17:30:00.001-07:00

.....when he is bored.

Procrastination

2009-08-12T07:07:00.000-07:00

August 26th is our date to start our 2009-2010 school year. I have all of my curriculum. I have looked through it and made lists of supplies that I need for science. Haven't gotten around to the history supply list. Now, I just need to sit down and get a plan for the year. But I keep putting it off.

More Summer Fun

2009-08-11T15:40:00.000-07:00

I am trying to catch up on my summer blogging today. Here are more pictures from the summmer.

Bethany got to celebrate her birthday on the road. When we arrived in NC that night, my mom had a birthday cake ready to decorate. We got to celebrate with many of my aunts, uncles and cousins.

Another NC happening was stopping to see my brother and his family. Here are the kids hanging with their NC cousins. Fun!

Summer

2009-08-11T12:34:00.000-07:00

We started off the summer with a surprise. A new cousin, Joy, who arrived a month early. I love this picture of her and Bethany.

Then we had a beach trip to Corolla, NC, a part of the Outerbanks. It included a lot of family fun. Being buried in the sand was just one of the kids highlights.

Then we had a few times out in our boat. (Sigh) We figured this summer that we had definitely outgrown our little, run around the lake, boat. These are pictures from out last time in it. Our little boat departed last night to the hands a family who we pray will get many years enjoyment from it.

Last, the kittens...this is the one we plan on keeping out of the bunch. She is still unnamed as yet. We call her the Eskimo cat.

For My Sister-in-Law

2009-07-02T10:41:00.000-07:00

To my sister-in-law, who is just embarking on her couponing journey. Here are the rewards of my shopping trip today at Publix.

5 packages Hi-C drinks
12 boxes Kraft Mac n Cheese
2 packages Luigi's Italian Ice
4 packages Ball Park Franks
1 package aluminum foil
2 packages Jenno-O Turkey patties
4 Lunchables
2 bottles of grill seasonings
1 bottle A-1 steak sauce
2 Bic clicker/grill lighters???

All this for $25.64! I saved $60.71! That means that I would have paid over $86 if I had bought everything at full price. $20 of the savings was in copoun savings. The other $40 was in store savings. (The BOGO's) Everything pictured was buy one, get one free. I had a coupon for every item except the Hi-C's and 2 of the Lunchables.

Our Excitement

2009-06-20T17:30:00.000-07:00

I tried to convince myself that it wasn't true. I saw her getting bigger, but thought, maybe she's just gaining weight. Not so, not so. Here is the evidence.

Today, while we were doing yardwork, I discovered our cat giving birth under our house. She had already birthed 2 of the cats. Oh my! What we learned today!

Goodbye Old Friend

2009-06-20T17:03:00.000-07:00

Well, we knew you'd be going one day. We just didn't realize it would be so soon. Sniff, sniff.

We are saving the "fort" portion of our old playset. Daddy has promised to use this as a support to build a tree house of some sorts.

Past Due on Blogging

2009-06-13T18:39:00.000-07:00

Even though these pictures are from 2 weeks ago, I thought I would post them, as an attempt to "keep up" with my blogging. We attended a free air show at Peachtree Dekalb Airport. The kids got to sit in the cockpit of a small helicopter and look inside of a training plane used by the Air Force. The young man standing with my kids is one of our faithful Air Force soldiers.

Suprise Nature Study

2009-05-18T10:13:00.000-07:00

We went outside today, not for any educational purposes. I went out to put more mulch in my garden. My kids went out to play on this mild spring day.

While we were out, Bethany spotted many dragonflies. She began, with much excitement, to catch as many as she could.

She ended up catching 3. Here are the first two she caught.

Even after she caught 3, she was determined to catch more. This is what she found.

As far as we can tell from our research on the internet, she found a baby copperhead. This snake appeared to be totally sleeping. And...no, Bethany did not attempt to catch it, as she has been given the "snake talk", MANY times.

If you click on the above link, please look at the pictures of the copperhead. Then, let me know if you agree with our conclusion about what type of snake we found.

I had to come back and add this. This snake was found in the woods, about 20 feet in. It wasn't just hanging out in our back yard. We will be careful!!!

Climb Every Mountain

2009-05-08T18:11:00.000-07:00

One of my biggest dreams is to hike the Appalachian Trail. The hike takes the "average" hiker about 6 months to hike from Georgia to Maine. Okay, I don't have 6 months of vacation coming to me, so I will just continue to dream and do things like we did on Friday.

My hubby got finished early with a job that was supposed to take all week. So, we loaded up Friday morning and motored over to Sawnee Mountain in Cumming, Georgia. Now, Sawnee Mountain isn't the kind of mountain like you see in Denver or even in Tennessee. But you can hike quiet trails up to a beautiful overlook with views of beautiful farmland, lakes and forest land.

We picked the Indian Seat Trail, an easy to moderate hike. This trail takes you up the above mentioned overlook and fabled rocks named the "Indian Seats". You can read about the Indian seats and Sawnee Mountain here.

Giddy with Anticipation

2009-05-07T13:41:00.001-07:00

I don't know if other homeschooling mom's are like this, but I become giddy, when I know I am having a night out to myself. Tonight is no exception. Our new church is having a Mom's Night Out, complete with dinner and an encouraging service to follow.

I can't remember when I've done anything like this. Normally, my nights out consist of me, by myself, heading to the library, grocery shopping, or some other fun endeavour. But not tonight, I will be meeting a lady, at the church, that I have been acquaintances with for a few years. She is a talker like me, so I know the night will be fun.

The service part of the night out will be a panel of moms, answering questions about mothering. Can't wait!

My kids and husband have already departed to my mother-in-law's house for dinner. So, I have peace and quiet for an hour, and a night out!

Who'll Stop the Rain?

2009-05-06T11:57:00.000-07:00

Yes, I am asking the question about the rain. It's not that I don't appreciate the rain. I actually thank God for the rain, each time I hear or see it. I also have a garden this year and appreciate all of the help I can get. But, my kids are starting to go stir crazy.

It only takes a couple of days of being cooped up inside, to cause my children to begin fighting and complaining that they are bored. So, I am thanking God that tomorrow's forecast is sunny and 80 degrees. We may head out for a nature day. We will see.

13 Days and Counting

2009-05-05T16:04:00.000-07:00

Yes, we are all involved in this yearly countdown. This particular countdown involves the diminishing number of school days. At the beginning of every new school year, 180 is a big number. But at the end of every month, I am able to see that number get smaller and smaller.

As each year passes that we homeschool, the kids look forward to the countdown, as much, or more than me. I think Caleb and I are neck and neck this year, regarding who wants to see zero more. It makes me think that my homeschool children are not so different from their public school peers, at least in this sense.

And just for all of the doubters out there, I still do enjoy homeschooling, even after 5 years. The reason I enjoy the countdown is because I am looking forward to what follows. Summer vacation!

Saturday=Yardwork

2009-04-11T15:22:00.000-07:00

Today, was dedicated, to yardwork. Yes, after neglecting our yard all winter, we finally got out there, as a family, to just do it. At the end of the day, we took the kids to DQ for a refreshing treat. Mommy and Daddy wanted the treat too!

So, we are planning on spending every Saturday, from now on, putting down fresh pine straw, pressure washing the house, painting the house, etc. I can already feel the soreness setting in!

Spring???

2009-04-07T08:29:00.000-07:00

It is really spring here in GA??? We have had 3 brief snow showers, today at our house. No accumulation, but pretty to see.

Caleb's Day at UGA's Vet School

2009-04-06T17:03:00.000-07:00

Here is Caleb, standing in front of Alpacas. The last 2 are Caleb performing teddy bear surgery.

Bethany's Day at UGA's Vet School

2009-04-06T13:45:00.000-07:00

Last Friday, we got a chance to take a free field trip to the UGA Vet School. Here is Doctor Bethany getting ready for surgery on her patient. Also, Bethany reading to a Saint Bernard named Jake. Last, posing with a Bulldog.

The End of A Fun Coop Year

2009-04-04T08:07:00.000-07:00

This past Tuesday marked the end of a successful new coop year, for me and the kids. We all three got out of our comfort zones, to try something new in our homeschooling lives. It was a good fit!

Even though the weekly coop wears on me, the kids love it, which makes it worthwhile.

Tuesday night, a lot of the coop families got together to honor our children's achievements.

Here are few pictures of the kids with some of their work. Bethany with her Anatomy class body and her Art class project. Caleb with a castle he helped build for Medieval Times.

LegoMania

2009-03-28T16:35:00.000-07:00

Here is our stop from Friday at Discovery Mills. The kids had fun helping to build the life size R2-D2. I even got invlolved. A great diversion on a rainy day that would have been spent inside.

Catching Up

2009-03-28T10:41:00.000-07:00

Just trying to catch up with our life happenings. This week (Monday), we took a much anticipated (by the kids) trip to the GA Aquarium. We were awed and fascinated with many underwater creatures that we had never heard or seen before. Definitely a good learning experience for me and the kids!

We All Scream for Ice Cream

2009-03-12T09:52:00.000-07:00

Well, maybe not all of us, but the kids and my mom sure did. We were at my parent's house in South GA this weekend. My mom had discovered that you could get a free ice cream cone on March 7th, if you wore your pj's. My mom and the kids bravely donned theirs. Free ice cream!

Flying High

2009-03-10T15:43:00.000-07:00

Last Friday, we made the trek to Middle GA for a field trip. About 20 minutes SW of Macon, in the town of Warner Robins, we toured the Aviation Museum located adjacent to the Air Force Base. Daddy accompanied us on this one, and enjoyed it more than the kids, because it was all about the planes.

My Favorite Place to Teach

2009-02-25T12:04:00.000-08:00

My favorite place to teach my kids, hands down, is outside. It can be in our backyard, a park, or an open field. We always learn something.

Today, my kids took off outside for a while. I headed out after a few quiet minutes by myself. While we were out there, my son set up a target and practiced shooting his real slingshot. My daughter, yelling with delight, captured a moth. She immediately went inside to find an empty jar to contain her new "pet".

Later, My son and I turned the rope while my daughter jumped rope. Then, my daughter ran laps around the yard to practice for our coops upcoming field day. Both kids decided to practice doing the long jump for the same event. Last, we took a short trek into the woods, where my animal loving daughter pointed out some rabbit poo.

All that learning and observing going on with no plans to do any of them. These are the kind of days I love.

Culture Study

2009-02-23T12:24:00.000-08:00

Studying different cultures fascinates me. Using SOTW, we have been able to touch on a lot of different ones, from Roman to Indian to Japanese. Last week, we studied Ancient Japan. I had been wanting to take the kids to a hibachi restaurant for a long time. What a great reason to go! We went on Saturday at lunch because it was much cheaper. The kids declared it a hit! My son said that the Kani House is now his favorite restaurant.

Today, I decided to continue our theme of studying a different culture, so we headed south to Super H Mart, an Asian grocery store. My kids were fascinated with all of the different types of fruits, vegetables and meat that we cannot get in our normal Wal-mart or Kroger. My daughter declared that we have to come here at least once a month, because it is "neater" than our other grocery stores. We bought a few new things to try like a bitter melon from India,honey tangerines and Chinese eggplant. We made a list of things we would like to try later like cactus. (Can't remember the rest) I told the kids we could research each new food. Then, we will decide if it's something we would like to try.

A New Blog to Follow

2009-02-16T17:42:00.000-08:00

I happened upon a blog. Maybe I didn't just happen upon it. Maybe it was fate. The lady who writes the blog has a way of capturing things into words that touch me and move me. Just wanting to share with those who can appreciate a good writer who tells a good story. http://www.aholyexperience.com/

This Week

2009-02-13T05:21:00.000-08:00

Just posting a few pictures from this week. We have been taking advantage of the warm weather here in GA. I took school outside on Monday, letting the kids do grammar and math on the driveway. I let the kids just have fun, getting dirty and using there imaginations. For Story of the World, the kids painted their own frescos. I also taught this week at our coop on Tournaments in Medieval Times. The last picture is craft that Caleb and all the other kids got to make.

Cooking Up a Storm

2009-02-02T18:58:00.000-08:00

Tonight, after cooking dinner, which consisted of homemade mashed potatos, green beans, and meatloaf, I was still in a cooking mood. This NEVER happens to me. Usually after cooking dinner, the last thing I want to do is cook anything again.

The first thing I decided to cook was something totally new, whole wheat pancakes. I googled them and pulled up a great sounding recipe. After making a few, my husband walked by and "agreed" to taste test. His verdict was that they were "great, much better than regular pancakes." This is a high compliment from him. Then, I decided to make a small batch of white bean chili for me to eat over the next few days. Yummy! And as if I had not had enough, I decided to make use of 3 overly ripe bananas and make strawberry/banana whole wheat muffins. For those of you her are thinking, "Has she started grinding her own wheat?", the answer to you is "No!" I decided to make the switch to healthier eating for the family, so buying whole wheat flour from the store is a small step for me.

The muffins turned out beautifully. Thumbs up from all of the family! Maybe I will get inspired another day to cook until I can't!

P is for....

2009-01-15T11:35:00.000-08:00

I never do blog tags. I have started them from time to time, saved them to be finished later, but one has never been completed. So here I go...

My blog friend Katy over at Treasured Chapters challenged her readers to take a letter of the alphabet and write 10 things about myself and my life using that letter. She and her children randomly chose the letter P for me. Definitely not the letter I was envisioning, but I embraced the challenge nonetheless.

Prayer-Taking others requests, pains, and struggles and taking them before my Father is something I find joy in. I am infused with life as I spend other times in prayer just talking to God. Prayer brings satisfaction and peace.

People-Some folks are introverts, but not me. I thrive off of time with people. I was created by God to interact daily with people. To touch them, encourage, smile or just have a quick word with, people! Classify me as a people person.

Pages-Give me a good book and I can occupy myself for hours. I love a well written story, where the turn of each page draws me further into the story, where I don't want to be disturbed. Pages unread bring excitement. How will the story turn out?

Pupils-These would me my two children, whom I teach. On an almost daily basis, I journey with them through math,science,history, reading, and life. No day quite resembles another with my pupils. We learn together. This is another one of my callings right now.

Pick-During the summer and fall, one of my favorite things to do is to pick my own fruit. I know that summer has arrived when my daughter and I venture to the thorny bushes and begin to pick the ripe, juicy blackberries. We also usually have the opportunity to pick blueberries, pears and grapes at relatives homes. One of my favorite things!

Picnic-Whether it is a warm summer day or a breezy fall day, picnics bring a breath of fresh air into this gal's life. I am an outdoor person. Being outdoors is one of the things that recharges me. So, when you mix eating a meal with being outside, it makes for a near perfect day (given by her at random)

Pregnant-OK, disclaimer, no I am not pregnant, but I loved being pregnant the two times I was. I loved imagining the growing life inside of me. Loved feeling every flutter and kick. Loved how special and radiant I felt! Well, at least most of the time!

Play-I love to play games. Online and computer games are fun, but my absolute favorite are games you play with real people. My favorite all time games are Scrabble, Taboo, Monopoly and Boggle. Playing also brings out my competitive side. So, if you play a game with me, watch out, I am playing to win!

Photos-Taking or looking at them, photos intrigue me. Old photos from other generations or pictures just taken, I love to study people's expressions, clothes, etc. I can try to imagine what that moment was like for them. I can smile with moments of celebration. Photo browsing can consume hours of my time.

Prize-In the Bible, it says that we should run the race in a way that we will get the prize. I pray that I run my race well and keep the prize always in my sights. The prize of living my life wholly and holy for Him.

Wii're Having Fun

2008-12-24T16:01:00.000-08:00

You can tell from the title, that we have joined of the ranks of those that own a Wii. But, our Wii is different from all those thousands of Wii's owned by others because of how we acquired it. My husband had the idea about a week and a half ago to buy 5 Wii's to resell for a profit in order to purchase one for our kiddies free and clear. We sold 4 of the five, plus a few other things on Craiglist and ebay, and totally paid for the fifth Wii by embracing the entrepreneurial spirit of America. Then we bought 3 more Wii's and made enough of a profit off of these to purchase 3 games for our children, after also trading my son's xbox games to a local gaming store. We let the kids open it on Monday so they could enjoy it. (They also were with us when the other Wii's were purchased, so they knew the plan.) Tonight, we acquired the three games, Lego Batman for Caleb, Petz Horses 2 for Bethany and Winter Sports for my hubby. Wii!!!!!!!

Christmas 2008

2008-12-15T10:54:00.001-08:00

This year has been one of the best Christmas seasons with the kids. I don't know if it is their ages, or maybe I just have more patience with everything. (Some days, anyway) We have been able to do a lot of fun stuff with family and friends. This weekend, we were able to go to "Walk Through Bethlehem" at a local church. There were shops throughout the town and a semi-live nativity scene. (Baby Jesus was a doll!) What made it even better is we are studying this time in history this week. The kids got to see men dressed up as Roman soldiers from around 0 A.D., the time of Caesar Augustus. I am loving how we have been able to tie real live (in this case)things into our history curriculum.

Decorating Cookies

2008-12-12T15:44:00.000-08:00

Today, we were invited to help some friends make and decorate Christmas cookies. So much fun!

Ms. Holly cutting out the cookies!

Yum!!! Icing!!!

Thanks Holly for your hospitality!

Terra Cotta Soldiers

2008-12-12T15:17:00.000-08:00

The kids and I had the opportunity to head down to the High Museum yesterday today to see a collection of the Terra Cotta soldiers from China. A couple of weeks ago, we studied about emperor Chin who created this army in Story of the World. So cool to be able to be near artifacts from ancient Chinese history! I wasn't allowed to take pictures of the actual soldiers, but I got the kids to pose in front of this close to life size replica in the gift shop. You could take it home as yours for just $1800.

Leaving Tennesee

2008-12-07T05:07:00.000-08:00

Before we left, I took a minute to take a picture of the cousins and one last family picture. Yes, we had to go, but not before being able to see the beautiful snow covered trees and piles of snow on top of the mountain.

The Carousel

2008-12-06T00:01:00.000-08:00

One of the rides the kids rode at Dollywood was the carousel. When we arrived there, I started to take a picture of my daughter as the ride was standing still. Because of the ride's lack of motion, I was able to get a perfectly posed picture of my daughter.

As the ride began to move, Ron and I jumped in front and got a rare picture of us together. When we were done, I began to snap pictures of the then moving ride. I couldn't tell as I clicked the button on the camera if I was getting my kids in the pictures or not. I crossed my fingers that I got at least one good one.

When I arrived home and uploaded the pictures, I discovered that two of the pictures contained people I had never met or laid eyes on. The people in the pictures spoke to me because of the presumed ages of the riders and the there obvious determination to have fun.

The 3 ladies that appear in the 2 pictures are probably in their 70's or later. One is in a wheelchair, yet she found a way to ride. The other 2 ladies, probably friends, possibly discussing the day or maybe memories of their own childhood rides appear in the second.

Gatlinburg

2008-12-05T17:50:00.000-08:00

We are back from a fun week with Ron's family in Gatlinburg. The kids had tons of fun with their Halverson cousins. We shopped, played games, ate out, lounged at our cabin, went to Dollywood and rode all the rides the kids could handle, and just enjoyed each others company. Many wonderful memories were made.

The two pictures above are taken from the deck of the cabin we stayed at. Such a beautiful view!

Talent Show

2008-11-19T00:01:00.000-08:00

The homeschool coop we have been attending had a talent show tonight. It showcased some very talented and unique kids. Bethany's 2nd/3rd grade music class sang a song called "Beethoven's Wig" set to the music of Beethoven's 5th Symphony. During these 12 weeks of coop, she got to study many classical composers. Here are pictures of her hiding behind her words.

Story of the World

2008-11-18T17:52:00.000-08:00

This year we are doing Story of the World, Book 1, as our history curriculum. The kids and I have both loved it. My son begs everyday to do SoTW. Here is a one of the crafts from our study of the Ancient Americas.

Fall Festival

2008-10-31T07:17:00.000-07:00

We got the chance last weekend to attend a local Fall Festival. I got the chance to take my nieces along for the ride. Everyone had hours of fun.

The Halverson crew!

Rainy Days

2008-10-24T09:39:00.000-07:00

Rainy days are my favorite homeschooling days. I normally opt not to go anywhere on these days, unless we absolutely have to. This has been one of those days where we have remained put, at home where we need to be.

I have found life barrelling down on our family lately. We could be busy and somewhere, literally everyday. But I am remembering why I don't need to be somewhere everyday. When we have to be somewhere, I tend to rush my kids through there schoolwork, hanging over them, nagging at them to hurry up. They get frustrated and so do I. But on days where home is our only destination, things flow smoother. Everyone tends to have better attitudes and ENJOYS our homeschooling day.

I know I can't be at home everyday, because because places like the library, grocery store, bank, park, etc. call out my name. But I can choose wisely the things I do commit to and have to do. Thank you God for cold, wet, rainy days! Here, I can stop and enjoy my children and accomplish the important things, within my home.

Anniversary Day Pictures

2008-10-18T18:22:00.000-07:00

Anniversary

2008-10-18T08:02:00.000-07:00

Today marks 11 years of marriage to my God given husband, Ron. Every year we continue on our journey, we grow closer. We laugh and cry and fight and makeup and love God together. I give God all the credit for all the good things that have happened in our marriage. I also credit God for getting us through the not so good times. I thank Him for His grace to be married and for His mercy that is new everyday to equip me to be a wife. I thank Him for His Word that guides me, corrects me and shows me what a Godly wife should be. Thank you Jesus, my Lord, for being the ultimate example to me of what love really is, sacrificial, giving, unselfish, humble and without pride. Not that I always operate in these things, but thank you Holy Spirit for being my guide, for gently speaking to me about ways I can change to be those things. Thank you for my husband who is a spiritual leader, who "washes me with the Word", who prays with me and over me. Thank you for giving me THE ONE for me!

An Evening at the Park

2008-10-16T00:02:00.000-07:00

My dear husband asked us all last evening, if we would enjoy checking out a new park in our area. It is a truly beautiful park, with a few miles of walking trails that wind around a lake and through magnificent trees. The highlight for the kids was this manmade "creek". They didn't hesitate to shed their shoes and step right in.

The picture above is the where the "creek" ends, pouring right into the lake. The picture below is of the beautiful fountain in the middle of the lake. We will be visiting again!

Outdoors

2008-10-14T14:25:00.000-07:00

I love being outdoors. My favorite thing to do there is hike through the woods, any woods. It doesn't matter how seemingly ordinary the trail may appear, there are still wonders of God's creation to be found. I am attempting (by doing) to pass along this love to my children. They may balk at first, but then, they find themselves drawn in to the wonder of whatever trail we have found ourselves on. We are able, together, to marvel at the imagination of our Creator, as they find insects, flowers, spot birds, mushrooms, leaves....The list is endless.

While here, we can look heavenward and know that God is with us and He made all of these things for us to find joy in. I always feel God close when I am out in the middle of nowhere. That's where this love of the outdoors comes from, because I can feel the presence of the One who loves me, here.

Reading Excitement

2008-10-09T18:35:00.000-07:00

For the last couple of years, I have been working with my daughter on her reading. Every time we have sat down together and tried to work our way through words, or through whole simple books, she shuts down. She has simply hated even trying to read. So, I decided to back off.

In the mean time, I was still reading to her and pointing out words and getting her to write and do other language arts things. I kept reminding myself that she will be reading one day. I read other people blogs and homeschool message boards that told me, "Your child will learn to read when they are ready." I read my book again "Better Late than Early" which is what backs up my whole philosophy of schooling. But still, I wanted her to read and enjoy it, NOW!

So, where does the excitement come in? Well, this morning, we made our weekly trip to the library. While we were there, I made my obligatory stop in the easy reader section, to once again attempt to find a book my daughter could connect with. I picked out a few and off we went.

Later in the day, I sat down with my daughter to do spelling with her. After finishing, I just thought we could "try" again with one of the books acquired from the library. So, I pulled out "Jonah", a Easy Reader Bible book. Handing it off to my daughter, I was expecting the normal pursed lips, "Can we please not do this?" look from my daughter. Instead, she began reading! And with each page, I praised her! And, with each page, I grew more and more excited inside. But, I remained calm.

After she finished, she was BEAMING! She did it! She knew she did it!

She asked if I had anything else she could read. I remembered that my mother-in-law had purchased an Easy Reader Bible for my daughter a few months ago. We ran to find the book. Excitedly, my daughter began to read story after story. She told me she couldn't stop because it was so much fun! Tonight, after I tucked her in, I could hear her reading that Bible book.

I believe God answered 2 of my prayers today. 1) That my daughter WOULD learn to read.
2) That she would have a love for God's Word.

I have seen both answers manifest themselves today. I believe that starting with a Bible story has planted a love for God's Word in my daughter's heart. I believe that learning to read has planted a love for reading in her mind. Thank you God for hearing and answering!

New Homeschool Group

2008-10-09T14:25:00.000-07:00

I have found over the years that I don't like change. It's not that I don't new things and new places, but when it comes to certain things, change and me don't necessarily get along. For instance, our homeschool coop. We had been part of the same great group for all of first 4 years of homeschooling. And then....I thought about changing.

It's not that I wouldn't change, it's just, I knew the routine, knew and enjoyed the other moms, and could go in and still be the same me. But I wanted something different this year for me. I wanted to be an assistant to some great wonderlady who is gifted at teaching a group of 2o to 30 kids. I wanted to smile and hand out papers and escort kids to the bathroom. Anything, but teach!

But that would mean that I would have learn a whole new routine, get to know a group of new moms and be changed myself in this whole process. So, I signed up kicking and screaming. Not literally, but in my mind I wanted back the security of 4 years of sameness.

We're gone through about 5 weeks now. Did my kids have to push me down the hall the first day? Well, no, but the first week is always the hardest! I can say truthfully now that this has been a good change for not only myself, but for the kids too. I am meeting new moms and learning and growing and changing.

A quote from a not so wise man I know: (Redundant I know, but you would have to know him)

"Change is the only constant in life."

Amen, brother, amen.

Another Horse Encounter

2008-10-08T02:05:00.000-07:00

Later in the day, we had another horse encounter. By chance, one could say, but I believe this was a God orchestrated encounter for my daughter who would love to have her own horse. The beatiful view from one of the high hills in West Georgia.

Yes, even I got on a horse to enjoy! Thank you God for this blessing!

Horseback Riding

2008-10-07T14:25:00.000-07:00

One of the other "best things" about our camping trip was horseback riding. It was fun and relaxing for all of us. Our guide was great. The horses were friendly. It was a beautiful, breezy fall day. We couldn't have asked for better.

More camping

2008-10-07T06:31:00.000-07:00

On our our hike, the kids got to be adventurous and climb over this huge log. Caleb was actually the braver one, this time. Bethany stayed as close to the ground as possible.
We got a beautiful campsite.
This was the view from our campsite. We had the most wonderful camping trip ever!

Camping

2008-10-07T06:19:00.000-07:00

We had the wonderful opportunity to camp a few weekends ago at FDR State Park in Warm Springs, GA. Here are some pictures of the various wildlife we encountered.
Bethany found this snail on a hiking trail.

Caleb spotted this turtle on the hiking trail. We almost missed it.

We got to visit a fish hatchery in Warm Springs. Caleb was too excited to see this alligator.

In front of the koi pond:

Homeschooling 2008

2008-10-02T11:21:00.000-07:00

Well, we are about a month into our homeschooling year. I have finally relaxed, after doing my normal freakout at the beginning of the year. You know, freaking out about my children learning anything, and will be able to do this year?

This morning I got a nice break from the everyday. The kids had an art class at a local park that I droppped them off for. While they were there, I decided to take a walk on this beautiful fall day. It is amazing the amount of refreshing that can come from 30 minutes of solitude. I was able to talk to God and to hear what God had to say to His beloved daughter. That's close to a miracle these days, because we have been in a busy few weeks of life.

Our year continues.......

Hilton Head Fun

2008-09-29T10:30:00.000-07:00

The kids had fun racking up tickets at the arcade.
Mommy playing her fav, Ms. Pacman.

Night on the beach with Grandmommy and Granddaddy.

New Blog

2008-09-29T10:18:00.001-07:00

I have decided to move my blog, as it is easier to upload pictures on blogger. As I am still trying to move posts from my old blog to this new one, I have gotten behind on blogging. Here is my attempt to catch up.

A couple of weeks ago, we went to Hilton Head and stayed with my parents in a condo they rented. We were there for one week. Here is Bethany with a starfish she found on the beach.

Here is Caleb with a salamander he discovered in the pool.

A fiddler crab we spotted on the beach.

Ron, chillin' by the pool.

Ron, flying his airplane over the waves.

One of Caleb's Passions

2008-09-06T11:12:00.000-07:00

One of my son's passions is science. Anything science, bring it on, because he loves it. He is currently doing a unit study on "Boats and Water". It has a lot of different hands on experiments. Here is a picture of one, a wooden raft.

Bethany's Latest Project

2008-09-03T11:15:00.000-07:00

Bethany is my child who loves to design and create things. She saw this idea on Curious George and wanted to do it herself. With a little help from Mommy with gathering the wood, this is what Bethany constructed, a lean to. Here are pictures of the lean to at different stages.

A Suprise Guest

2008-09-02T11:18:00.000-07:00

Last week, I went in my bedroom to open the blinds. This is what I saw.

Here is a closer view.

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Come by our house anytime, Ms. Deer!

Caleb's Birthday

2008-08-28T11:20:00.000-07:00

I am posting quite a few days late. Caleb's birthday was last weekend. Smile.

Here is a picture of Caleb at his suprise birthday party that my mother-in-law threw for him. It was a kid's only party, but I managed to get this picture before we left.

Here is Caleb with his sister and cousins!

Here is Caleb on his actual birthday

Caleb, you are a joy to us! You are a compassionate young man that has a love of reading, of building, and of being a comedian. We love to hear your "opera" and funny songs ringing through the house. Your love of God is evident to us and others. Praying you hear His voice and walk in the plan He has for you!

The Halverson Olympics

2008-08-14T11:12:00.000-07:00

Of course I didn't have my camera, so I have to blog about it.

The Olympics have been a hot item to watch at our house. Last night my daughter came up with the idea of having the Halverson Olympics. She said there could be 3 competitions, swimming, running and gymnastics. I laughed at the gymnastics.

Tonight, we decided to go for a short swim at Lake Lanier. After we had been there for a few minutes, my daughter decided we should start the 1st round of the Halverson Olympics. She and her brother lined up on the beach, and when I shouted "Go!", they raced to a buoy out about 15 feet and back to the starting line. It was really fun to watch. They did this about 3 times, because my son kept winning and my daughter was determined to "win the gold."

Our next event was the relay, boys versus girls, same race as before to the buoy and back. This was even funnier. The ids lined up with my husband and I in our perspective "lanes". My husband and I shouted "Go!" and the relay race began. My son and daughter raced to the buoy and came back to tag us. Then my husband and I raced into the water to the buoy. On the way back to shore, my husband faked like he fell and "let" me win. Exciting and fun stuff for our family.

I think that this was our best night at the lake this summer. And I even won a medal, a paper one at that.

Lake Lanier Water Park

2008-07-24T11:25:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, we took advantage of $10.47 admission via the Fish radio station coupon that is good only on Wednesdays this summer. We met some friends that have season passes. The weather was great. Mommy was TIRED and is still recovering today. B. road every slide except one. C. road everyone except 3. The crowds weren't bad, so we got to ride many rides multiple times. The kids said it was "the funnest day of their lives."

Ready to have fun????

Going into the wave pool...

Friends...

Beth going down the slide.....

Happy Birthday Bethany

2008-07-19T11:33:00.000-07:00

Happy birthday to my baby girl! You are passionate and outspoken. You have a flair for decorating and design. You like to lead and teach. I pray that God give us the wisdom to point you in the right direction, our precious arrow.

Summer Update

2008-07-16T11:23:00.000-07:00

I haven't been much for blogging this summer.

I am sure up for reading and commenting on other people's blogs.

We have spent as many days as feasible at the lake, swimming and playing. We have also spent a few days on the lake on our old faithful boat, tubing and enjoying nature.

We have yet to camp yet. Our first camping trip is going to be in a couple of weeks, to my husband's flying field. That means dry camping. Yes, no water and no electricity, which is not my fav.

Today, we went bowling again, by ourselves, at the spur of the moment. The kids really enjoy bowling. I am trying to decide on them doing a league in the fall or winter.

This weekend is my baby's birthday. She will be 7. So not real!

Sorry for all the random thoughts...Just trying to catch up.

God and Finding Him

2008-07-08T06:09:00.000-07:00

I know there are times I find God's presence in a particular place. Maybe I find Him in a song, or in a book or in a physical place. I may revisit these places again and again. But, these places have limits or seasons. I say they have limits because, I try to go back there and recreate what I did to get into His presence, but there is nothing. It not that God has gone away. God is still God and He still wants me to seek Him, "seek" being the key word.

The Bible says to seek God with all our hearts and we will find Him. This seeking speaks of having to be active and pursue God. Many times and seasons, I want God to be easy to find, my relationship with Him not costing me much. But, I believe God wants us to, like with precious treasure, to have to pursue and look for Him passionately. If we were told there was a million dollars buried nearby and given a map, wouldn't we passionately pursue the finding of this million?

God never changes, but he always wants to change us into His image. It takes blind faith sometimes to seek. Sometimes God is allusive. Sometimes He is right here. But He is always able to be found. Hunger for Him drives me on to seek and know the Creator, the Almighty, Jehovah.

Summer Days

2008-07-03T18:50:00.001-07:00

Honor

2008-06-26T14:27:00.000-07:00

Honor is a word that is prominent in my mind. I am currently reading 2 books on honor. One by John Bevere called "Honors Reward." It focuses on all types of honor within our lives. The second is by Scott Turansky and Joanne Miller called "Say Goodbye to Whining, Complaining, and Bad Attitudes (In You and Your Kids). By reading the title you can see this book focuses on honor within a family setting, mom, dad, and kids included.

This one is going to go down as one of those "books that changed my life." I believe and know that my family, beginning with me needs to learn about honoring each other. I have experienced dishonor through friends, acquaintances and complete strangers. But within the family, it can be more intense.

We come in to our marriages with baggage, including the ways we have been taught by our own families to interact. These ways are not always the correct ways. Life, being a process, has a way of showing us things that need to be corrected in our bag of relational skills. In my bag, there are things that are not pretty. Things that have been there for so long, that they smell, not from disuse, but from overuse. Smelling because they are rotten to our human sensibilites.

And God.....I don't want to leave Him out of this whole process. He gently reminds me as a choose to act cruel, to raise my voice out of anger, to roll my eyes, to walk away in stoney silence or to speak words that hurt, that I am not acting as I was created to act. He reminds me of the new creation He is making of me, and those things don't fit into my new profile. He also gently reminds me through His Word. Words that seem harsh or puzzling to those who don't know Him, but comforting to me, His child.

I enter the road of honor that promises not to be easy, but rewarding. A road that brings death, but also life. A road that is less traveled, and that is the road I choose.

Summer

2008-06-26T11:23:00.000-07:00

Summer seems to be moving swiftly. June has come and is quickly flying by. We're still busy doing summer things. The thoughts of schedules and school days ahead are faint in the distance. Wanting to soak it all in, to enjoy, to savor every moment. To forget the future, and live in the now.

Summer

2008-06-24T10:54:00.000-07:00

I can say that summer is a great season. I love the bright sun, the sparkling blue waters of the lake, picking ripe, juicy blackberries, lightning bugs in jars, long days, evenings with family at the park, ice cream, cold drinks, picnics, gliding across the lake in our boat, watching my children do cannonballs into the water, breath holding contests, sandcastles, warm sand between my toes, and......Well, fill in the blanks with what you love about summer.

A Day at the Lake

2008-06-07T11:41:00.000-07:00

Every summer for the last 4 years, the kids and I spend many summer days at Lake Lanier. We live about 2 minutes from the nearest "beach", so it is quite convenient for us.

Free Bowling

2008-06-05T11:46:00.000-07:00

This summer, our local bowling alley is offering "free" bowling to schoolage children. I say "free" in quotation marks because the games were free, but we had to pay for the shoes. So, not free, but a good deal.

Here are my champion bowlers:

Summer Firsts

2008-05-30T11:36:00.000-07:00

Last night marked a "summer" first for us. Every year since my son was around 5 and my daughter 3, we have gone outside on summer nights to catch fireflies.

Last night, we were outside about 8:30. We began to see fireflies around 9:00. The fireflies were present then, but scarce. No luck in catching one.

Today was another "summer" first. The first day to swim in still chilly Lake Lanier. The kids jumped right in. My husband waded in and then took the plunge. Me, I kept to my tradition of inching my way into the water. No sudden plunges for me into the icy waters!

Last Day

2008-05-29T11:37:00.000-07:00

Today is our official last day of school for this school year. The kids were really excited. They were dancing around singing, "Schools out." I am ready to for a summer break. I am ready to just be at home for a few days. We have no obligations. Feels good to me!

Free Field Trip

2008-05-14T11:48:00.000-07:00

One of our (sorta) local museums holds free "Community Days" a few times a year. We decided to take advantage of this free day at Fernbank Natural History Museum yesterday. My son had been dying to go, so for the cost of gas, we got to enjoy.

Field Trip Fun

2008-05-13T11:50:00.000-07:00

Last Friday, we had a chance to take a trip to a local fish hatchery with our homeschool group. We toured the hatchery, then moved on to the catch and release pond. This was the highlight for the kids. My hubby got to go too. Fun for the fam!

Nature Walk

2008-05-09T11:56:00.000-07:00

At first, I tried forcing my kids to do nature walks. I'd force them to go outside and then tell them to find something, you know, anything, like a flower, bug, etc. These forced walks did not work.

So, I realized we needed to just go outside and be together. When we are just out, being together, we seem to find all kinds of cool things. Here are some cool examples. (One is rather scary)

Yes, this is an opossum and its kiddos. Before you say cute, I say yucky and scary. This concludes our nature walk for the day.

Pictures from SEFF

2008-05-08T11:58:00.000-07:00

Watching the planes.

Next to our campsite...convenient, but.....

What Bethany did the whole time we were there, ride her bike.

Ahhhh!!!

One of the planes....

Getting Back into Normal Life

2008-05-08T05:46:00.000-07:00

For the last week, our lives have been out of our normal routine. Last Wednesday, ds headed off to FL with his grandparents for 5 days. Last Thursday, dh, dd and I headed out to Southwest GA to camp and attend SEFF, Southeastern Flight Festival. This is where hundreds of grown men come together to fly their RC airplanes and drool over all of the new gear and planes. Funny, huh?
Friday, while we were there, I recieved a call from my mom that my Grandmother had had a major heart attack. She later called back to say my Grandmother had passed. This was a sad time for me and all my family.
We left Saturday from SEFF to head over to my mom and dad's in Central GA. The next few days were a whirlwind as we had to travel to Macon to pick up our son from his other grandparents and go to the town my grandmother lived, further south of my parents. Then, we had the viewing and funeral to attend.
It is hard to think that my grandmother is gone. This ends that generation of my dad's family. Sad to think of her house being sold and all of her possession's divided or sold. The finality of it is hard.
During this sad time, I got to see family and friends I haven't seen in many years Some it had been 15 years...Time is truly fleeting. You really realize that when something like this happens.
Back at home, we (me and the whole fam) have had a hard time getting back to our normal routine. I think today has been the first day that resembled anything close to normal. So is life, yes?

Busy Week

2008-04-26T12:09:00.000-07:00

This week has been extremely busy for us. Something to do everyday. Here are some pix to showcase our week.

Monday was the Spelling Bee. This one was small. Only 2 people competing in ds's grade. He gave it a valiant effort, but he succombed to nerves . I was very proud of him for giving it a try.

Tuesday was our monthly homeschool skate day. Ds got to try out his new roller blades. Thanks Grandmommy!

Friday was a field trip to a Nature Preserve, north of us. The kids got to learn about Pond Life, with a guided tour and teacher.

Spring Break

2008-04-19T05:46:00.000-07:00

Just arrived home today from a spring break of sorts. We had a couple of days off at home, then a few days to play at my parents house.
On the way home, we made a stop for a field trip at the Ocmulgee National Monument in Macon, Ga. where we saw Indian mounds, aritfacts and learned about the history of the Native Americans who used to live in this area.
No pix! I forgot my camera.

We Survived

2008-04-16T05:45:00.000-07:00

Yes, we have the van back! I meant to post about it as soon as we got it back. But, I was too busy out using my much missed van.
We were actually without day transportation for 10 days. Just enough to make me go a little stir crazy, but we survived. Thanks for the kind thoughts and well wishes about the van

Six Days and Counting

2008-04-07T05:44:00.000-07:00

Six days and counting without the van. My hubby has a stick shift, which I cannot drive. (Never learned!) Friday, hubby took off to take us to the grocery store, coop and a birthday party. Saturday we went out with him to run an errand. Sunday we went to church and to run an errand.
I have actually enjoyed the slower pace of life. No worrying about where we need to go or what we need to do. I actually don't really mind it, for now

Everyday

2008-04-02T05:42:00.000-07:00

Every day holds new opportunities, fresh perspective and revelations. This morning when I awoke, I had no idea what the day would hold.
School- We packed a lot into an hour a half. It was almost as if the hours themselves stretched for us.
Outside- We meandered into our back yard. Our ears were pleasantly suprised to hear the peck, peck, pecking of a woodpecker. That "suprise" went along so well with our study of backyard birds. Our eyes drank in the beauty of the blue sky and white billowing clouds. Our eyes marveled at the number of birds we could count in our acre yard. Blue jays, cardinals, doves, house sparrows and robins flew from tree to tree and our eyes tried to keep pace with their flight.
Inside- There were chores to do and rooms to clean. Not much fun,but necessary none the less.
Lunch- My daughter, making her own creation (or so she thought) of instant cheesy mashed potatoes.
Errand time- Everyone heads out to the car. The key is inserted. The van will not crank. Mommy dials daddy on her cell phone. What else is a girl to do?
Daddy's home- After checking every possible thing he could think of on the van, nothing. No clue as to why this big green piece of machinery that we rely on won't go for us. Daddy makes call to mechanic and the tow company.. The tow truck arrives to take my only mode of transportation.
Today, didn't go as I had planned. But for me, there is a sweetness in knowing that I don't have to be concerned or worried. My Abba Father had complete control of everything. He is my Hope, my Joy, my Strength, my Provider and too many other things to be written. So, I find joy today. Will I be able to do it tomorrow? I pray that as I draw closer to the Lover of my Soul, that the earth and the cares of it will continue to fade away.

Happy Birthday to Me!

2008-03-19T05:42:00.000-07:00

35! Need I say more....

There is a Season, Turn, Turn, Turn

2008-03-14T05:40:00.000-07:00

I am ready for a changing of the season. To officially transfer from winter to spring. To have the temps stay pleasantly warm. To see the trees bursting forth with green leaves and flowers. To hear the chorus of birds and bees and insects coming alive.
The change of season is completely paralleling the spiritual lives of my husband and I. We have both been in a winter season spiritually. Now awaiting the promised thaw that proceeds times of cold wilderness in our lives.
Watching with eyes of faith to see things that have lain dormant in our lives blossom and grow for Him. Holding on and trusting in the only One that will never let go and never let us down. Listening in the stillness for the Voice that only comes there.
Change. Isn't that what happens as the seasons so seamlessly pass from one to another? Isn't that what God does as we go to a new place with Him?

Let the Sunshine In

2008-03-13T05:38:00.000-07:00

Me and the kiddies have been enjoying 2 days in a row of sunshine and warmer temps. Yesterday, we made use of the day, by trecking into the woods behind our house and making our way to the creek. We all shed our shoes, rolled up our pants to go "creeking", as a friend of mine calls it.
We walked for about 20 minutes in one direction, in the creek and on the bank. I loved it! (I don't know who had more fun, me or the kids.) We discovered deer tracks and tracks of what we thought were for racoons or possums. My kids picked up rocks, moss, and a mystery bone.
We made it back to our starting place and the kids wanted to walk in the other direction. We only walked a little ways and we found some great sliding rocks. You know, where the water flows over big rocks and makes them slippery enough to slide down? I know its March, but the kids were hot and well, we truly only live on this earth once. And no, I did not slide down it with them! I am adventurous, but not that much!
This morning, around 10, we took a break from our schoolwork to take a walk. We walked down the street to a bridge that goes over the creek we walked in yesterday. We turned it into science, by throwing rocks, sticks and leaves off to see which would hit the water first. Then, the kiddies threw things in on one side of the bridge and counted to see which limb or stick would make it out the other side quicker. The rest of their time was just spent seeing who could make the biggest splash.

Every Day's a Little Closer

2008-03-12T12:22:00.000-07:00

...to the end our 4th year of homeschooling. I have been spending this week reviewing things with my kids. Quizzing my son on grammar rules and math facts. Reviewing letter blends and math facts with my daughter. I just wanted to see how much they have retained. My son will have to have the big 3rd grade testing this year. Can't wait!

In the newly acquired skills department, my daughter has learned how to make homemade potato salad. This was of her own choosing. She wanted me to make potato salad one night for dinner and I told her no. I then said that she could make it herself with me observing. So, she peeled 5 potatoes and then chopped them up. I put the water on to boil and put the potatoes in for her. After boiling, she got the collander out, and I poured the taters in to drain. My daughter got out the S&P, mayo, mustard and dill. I do everything to taste, so she did the same. It turned out really good! She has done it twice now!