~ in NOT of ~

That sounds like heaven!

2012-01-27T10:55:00.002-06:00

Yes, number 1 does apply to my family. I'm currently (possibly/perhaps/maybe) posting, doing this exact thing right now... watch to find out!

Mr. Pilot

A sad day.

2012-01-05T22:54:00.000-06:00

If you happen to read the news at all, you probably heard about the Navy Pilot shooting in Coronado (San Diego) on New Year's Day.

You may also know that the pilot community is very small. I received a phone call early this week from a dear friend, telling me to check the news. There were two pilots and two civilians shot in a condo. There were no names released at that time, but as I said, the community is very small.

One of the pilot's was Bob Reeves, he was in Mr. Pilot's class back in Mississippi. The class there was small, only 4 guys, so my entire family knew him fairly well. He was Mr. Pilot's partner for the dog fighting and carrier qualifying.

There followed a whirlwind of phone calls and information being passed among pilots from that class and their wives. A combination of shock, grief, and sadness overwhelmed us all. No one wanted to say it, but we all expected Bob to be named as the shooter when the ballistic information was released. That sounds incredibly awful, but after spending much time with him for that 18 months in Meridian, that was the conclusion we all had. No one was shocked when the facts were released. That added to the grief, I think.

As we sat down to dinner to share what we felt appropriate for the children to know, Boy recalled having dinner at Mom's Diner with Mr. Reeves and Dad. There were lots of questions about why- why would he do that to them, and why would he do that to himself? We took the opportunity to remind ourselves that we are all wicked in heart. (The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it? I the LORD search the heart and test the mind, to give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his deeds." ~Jeremiah 17:9&10) That the bible says that if we are even angry at someone, we have committed murder in our hearts ("You have heard that it was said to those of old, 'You shall not murder; and whoever murders will be liable to judgment,' But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment; whoever insults his brother will be liable to the council; and whoever says, 'You fool!' will be liable to the hell of fire. ~Matthew 5:21&22) That the only thing keeping anyone from behaving in that same way is God's hand of Mercy. (Romans 1:24, below) That once he realized what he had done, he wanted to hide in the only place he could. (Can a man hide himself in secret places so that I cannot see him? declares the LORD. Do I not fill heaven and earth? declares the LORD ~Jeremiah 23:24, And nothing is hidden from His sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account. ~Hebrews 4:13)

For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth. For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse. For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Claiming to be wise, they became fools, and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal man and birds and animals and creeping things.

Therefore God gave them up in the lusts of their hearts to impurity, to the dishonoring of their bodies among themselves, because they exchanged the truth about God for a lie and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever! Amen.

For this reason God gave them up to dishonorable passions. For their women exchanged natural relations for those that are contrary to nature; and the men likewise gave up natural relations with women and were consumed with passion for one another, men committing shameless acts with men and receiving in themselves the due penalty for their error.

And since they did not see fit to acknowledge God, God gave them up to a debased mind to do what ought not to be done. They were filled with all manner of unrighteousness, evil, covetousness, malice. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, maliciousness. They are gossips, slanderers, haters of God, insolent, haughty, boastful, inventors of evil, disobedient to parents, foolish, faithless, heartless, ruthless. Though they know God’s decree that those who practice such things deserve to die, they not only do them but give approval to those who practice them. ~Romans 1:18-32

I thank the Lord for His hand of Mercy. For His steadfast love and faithfulness. I praise God that he protected my husband, my family, and my friends from this horrible tragedy. It could have been any one of the guys in his class, any one of us, really. But I grieve for the lost. I pray for the families of those involved, my heart especially goes out to the parents of the other pilot. They lost two children in a moment of rage. Also, for Bob's parents and the men that knew him and worked with him. Let their hearts not be troubled with "what if's."

For each and every one of us, the wages of our wicked hearts- the payment we must make, is death, and then eternity in hell. But, with a saving faith in Jesus Christ, we can instead have eternal life in heaven.

For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. ~Romans 6:23

For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus! ~Romans 3:23&24

"Clean up on isle 9!"

2012-01-05T17:16:00.000-06:00

"Clean up on isle 9!" blared over the loud speaker at the commissary on a quick shopping trip as I was approached by a lady. She seemed a bit confrontational as she asked, "Ma'am, is that your son in the red sweatshirt running through the store?"
My heart sank and as a million thoughts ran through my head, my son was no where in sight. What is that boy doing? and running? I sent him to get a can of olives. What is taking so long and what trouble could he have gotten into?

"Yes, that is my son."

"Well, I just wanted to tell you that he knocked over an entire stand of food at the end of the isle. And do you know what he did?"

(Me, in my head) Oh man, what did he do?

But I just stared at her blankly, not knowing what to actually say.

"Well, he immediately bent over and started picking it all up, and even when the worker came to help, your son kept right on going until the very last item was back in its spot. I'll just have you know that people aren't teaching respect or manners these days and not another kid in this store would have done that. I just wanted thank you for raising your son properly!"

Wow. "Thank you, ma'am, for taking the time to let me know."

What an incredible encouragement to me! I tend focus on the failures and short comings. I was more than encouraged. I was immediately convicted about my negative assumption, namely my irritation, that my son was taking so long. And the fact that if I had known about the knocked over stand, I probably would have been upset instead of focused on my son's proper response.

Can I just say, I really appreciate that this woman took the time to find me, and without realizing it, showed me the error of my negative thinking...

and if that wasn't enough~

Later in the check out line, an elderly woman pointed at Boy and said to me, "You have a fine young son there, he helped me get these items into my cart. What a gentlemen."

Thank you my son.

Even a child makes himself known by his acts, by whether his conduct is pure and upright. ~ Proverbs 20:11

Ringing in the New Year!

2011-12-31T23:28:00.000-06:00

Much love from us to you!

Bucket

Pops

Butter

Peanut

Boy

Guys

We hope your New Year is blessed and memorable!

Become an Entrepreneur!

2011-12-30T12:37:00.008-06:00

I'd love to recommend this fantastic combo set to the family-small business owner!

Help your children understand why we do what we do, and inspire yourself in the process.

Entrepreneurial Bootcamp For Christian Families

DVD Highlights Include:

Getting the Big Picture — Doug Phillips, Esq.
Building a Business from Start to Finish — Wade Myers
How to Cultivate an Entrepreneurial Spirit in Your Children — Arnold Pent
An Entrepreneurial, Family-Based Multi-Generational Business — Joel Salatin
Dominion, Reformation, and the Family Business — Geoffrey Botkin
Fathers & Sons Working Together — Scott Brown
Creative Models for Raising Capital without Debt Bondage — Wade Myers
Building Your Team — Doug Phillips, Esq.
The Blessings of Failure — Dr. Jim Leininger
Panel Discussion — Wade Myers, Doug Phillips, Esq., Arnold Pent, Geoffrey Botkin, Jim Zes, Nick Logan, & Scott Brown

Gotta love it.

~Mr. Pilot

Vision Forum

It's Mustache time!

2011-12-20T15:47:00.001-06:00

A new ride = a new mustache.

That's right, my Mr. Pilot "gets" to rock the mustache again for the Lip Jacket ritual...

Bouncing in the Growler starts right after Christmas (that is jet pilot talk for practicing to land on the ship) so all the guys start letting their mustaches grow now, just in time for Christmas pictures.

They don't get to shave again until they successfully land on the ship, at the end of January. The kids sure get a kick out of this, and some of the guys look really funny.

Mr. Pilot says pictures of awesomeness soon to follow.

Sorrow and a Savior

2011-12-14T23:29:00.002-06:00

Our family has been homesteading across the country these last few years, and we've been largely removed from many of the normal ups and downs a family experiences in it's development. One of these many progressions has finally caught up with us. Earlier this week my beloved wife's grandmother passed away. This is the great matriarch of her family that has born the central role of stability for the family for quite a few decades after severe tragedy in the family many long years ago. She had already buried before her, husband, mother, and several children. My wife's father is now the lone head of the family since her passing. My children had met her several times and we do have many pictures of them together despite the infrequency of visits to the area.

There are many things that one can think about on the passing of a family member. We have already looked at various pictures to refresh our memories of our time together, and my wife has spoken with various members of the family receiving support and offering condolences for our inability to come for a funeral. We want to remember all of the good things that we enjoyed, a proper and a natural function of grief, but we also have the opportunity to review the things that brought us into this horrible mess too.

My family and I had a discussion, over dinner last night, about the cause of our ultimate journey to death. We remembered that death is the result of sin, and that sin has permeated every fabric of the world since our father Adam.

“Sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned” Romans 5:12

We are all going to die one day, because we all have sin, and sin is a result of our incipient rebellion against our heavenly Creator. Adam brought this upon us, but we are all like him, and will continue to abound in our own way of living because we each have an independent rebellious heart.

“The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it?” Jeremiah 17:9

This is a terrible condition and our degenerating bodies, minds, and souls are the fruit of this condition. The situation is magnified since this rebellion is against our Creator!

“I the LORD search the heart and test the mind, to give to every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his deeds.” Jeremiah 17:10

Death is the judgement of a holy God against a wicked creation.

Our lone answer comes in the form of a baby, born in a manger, in the town of Bethlehem. A baby whose birth we celebrate in the very near future.

“She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” Matthew 1:21

So as we remember the memory of our deceased and the season we rapidly approach, let us remember together our only hope, for:

“Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” John 1:29

I can't believe it!

2011-12-12T19:14:00.001-06:00

I won! I won the $100 Gift Certificate to Vision Forum from In A Shoe!
I am so excited! One of the things I ordered with my gift certificate was The Promise Kept because when I saw the video clip for it, I cried like a pregnant lady...

One of Our Favorite Resources

2011-12-02T17:09:00.001-06:00

Vision Forum is by far one of our favorite resources for Christian Books, toys, and homeschool material and right now they are having an incredible giveaway!

By visiting some of my favorite blogs, you can enter to win too~ Go to:

Generation Cedar, Smockity Frocks, Raising Olives or In A Shoe

for your chance to win up to a $300 gift certificate to Vision Forum.

There are plenty of wonderful gifts, and I know my entire family would enjoy every penny of it!

The Chickens are doing their job, finally!

2011-12-02T10:28:00.000-06:00

One morning we heard this ridiculous chicken sound coming from the back yard. We all ran to see what was causing all the commotion, apparently there was an "I laid an egg!" celebration going on. We quickly joined in, FINALLY, an egg!!!

It was like that first chicken clued the others in, because the eggs started coming very quickly after that. They are soooo loud when the are laying, it is our bell to run out and collect.

Two of the chickens lay every day, three lay every other day, and one still hasn't figured it out...

Aren't they pretty? Like already dyed easter eggs.

Look at Butter holding her apron like a princess or something, lol, with a chicken inspecting her work.

We had no idea how much fun having chickens would be. Every one of us is really enjoying them and we can't wait to move out in the country with more land, so we can have a whole bunch more chickens!

"The ladies" all gather around the patio step every time we are at the table, almost like they are on stage or something. It is so funny, and brings us so much entertainment.

We had a couple birthdays...

2011-12-01T09:52:00.001-06:00

Sis turned 7 and Pops turned 3 while I was on my blogging hiatus. Here are some pictures for you.

I was quite pleased that Sis requested Thai food for her birthday meal. I certainly can't make that, so we had a lovely visit at one of the many local Thai restaurants in town. She has good taste, YUM!

I requested an ice cream cake from a sweet friend, I have got to learn how to make these!

And for her gift, I sewed matching dresses for Sis and her doll. I loved making them, and plan to make more.

Sissy, you are turning into such a lovely young lady. Your compassion and affection for others is such a blessing! May your light shine for Christ always and may all who are in your presence be blessed!

Happy Birthday, Sis!

Pops got an impromptu party with a few friends, what a nice surprise!

We have a Cowboy-Jedi on our hands, watch out!

Pops was a bit overwhelmed by all of the excitement and attention that was on him, although extremely witty, he is actually quite shy. He is becoming an incredibly sweet and cheerful young man, and is forever making us laugh. Pops, may the virtue of cheerfulness be with you always, and may you seek the Lord with your whole heart!

Happy Birthday, Pops!

It will never get done...

2011-11-30T17:53:00.001-06:00

I have imagined sitting down one evening and blogging all the posts that have been in my head since uhm, July or whenever it was I last posted...

But, after a bunch of reminders from my dear hubby, I realized it would be better if I just post something, anything, and get back in to the swing of it. Thanks for all of the inquiries from loving family and friends, I am sure glad to know y'all miss us!

As you can imagine, many things have happened in our never boring house in the last several months, I will try to fill you in as I can, but for now...

That is right, we have a new little blessing in our family! We are expecting baby in May and have all decided we are going to keep the gender a surprise this time.

As Usual,

2011-09-16T16:07:00.002-05:00

we have been busy!
I'll try to give you an update soon.

Homeschool Field Day

2011-08-09T15:50:00.000-05:00

We finished up our school year with a good 'ole field day.

What a blast!

So as not to miss a beat, we started right in with a new school year!

This year we have added Latin to our Tapestry of Grace year 2 and the children are loving it! Yes, you can catch me sneaking in my own latin lessons after they are in bed so I can keep up, lol!

Our days sure are full, but full of good things.

Happy Birthday Baby!

2011-08-02T09:51:00.001-05:00

It was like a year flashed by!

Big Brothers and Sisters really enjoy decorating for the birthday girl!

How quickly she has become mobile.

I don't want a stinkin' party hat!

"I like her."

We weren't too sure if she would even care about the doll...

She loves her new doll 'Annie!!!'

She actually hugs her new doll every time she sees her and carries her around. It is super adorable!

"Ohhhh, pretty..."

"What do you mean I can't touch the candle?"

SO dainty! She was not at all interested in digging into her "cake."

But she did like the lil' orange candies!

Happy Birthday Princess.

Contemplating Facebook

2011-07-28T21:21:00.001-05:00

Just so I could post:

I <3 Owl City!

*but I don't need facebook to tell you that, now do I? :~P

She's a Walking!

2011-07-22T19:12:00.001-05:00

Growler Bucket has been walking for a little over a week now. She thinks she is pretty neat stuff. I think she is right.

She is growing way too fast.

She'll be ONE tomorrow!

Seems like only days ago I was posting this announcement of her birth. Time is so precious, and we have cherished every moment with this special little girl. I don't want to forget a second of it!

I pray Baby Bucket will always be a merciful, kind and mighty warrior for Christ, and that she will love the Lord our God with her whole heart, all her soul, and all her might. We love you Bucket! May you live long in the land and may your life always bring Glory to Him. ~Amen

Blast From the Past!

2011-07-07T16:46:00.003-05:00

I saw this picture recently, and wanted to show everyone what part of our family looked like back in 2005.

I know it doesn't seem like that long ago, but when you see these kids it makes it seem like forever ago!

This is going to seem more stark after we show a picture of the three of them together when "Auntie" shows up this weekend.

Blessed be the LORD, my rock!

2011-07-06T09:31:00.006-05:00

The ladies are learning Proverbs 31, beginning with verse 25 thru 31, "Strength and Dignity." They actually already have it down, so we're moving onto the rest of the 'Woman of God' section starting from verse 10.

The boys are learning the much more manly focused Psalm 144. I am spending time instructing the young gentlemen that men are to be protectors of the weak & innocent, defending truth & justice, and helping the helpless. They are learning how a man defends ladies, protects their purity, keeps their sisters safe, and treats women as sisters in Christ. It is not common in our culture to encourage boys to learn to fight, and be "trained for war," but it is biblical that men will not go picking fights, yet they will be prepared to stand up for the cause of justice when necessary. I fully expect that these young men will one day be husbands and fathers, and that they will be required to protect their wives, and children.

'But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.' 1 Tim 5:8

Of course, it is not hard to encourage boys to play guns, swords, wrestling, or any other physical activity...they were built for it!

The full text that the boys are learning

Blessed be the LORD, my rock,

who trains my hands for war,

and my fingers for battle;

he is my steadfast love and my fortress,

my stronghold and my deliverer,

my shield and he in whom I take refuge,

who subdues peoples under me.

O LORD, what is man that you regard him,

or the son of man that you think of him?

Man is like a breath;

his days are like a passing shadow.

Bow your heavens, O LORD, and come down!

Touch the mountains so that they smoke!

Flash forth the lightning and scatter them;

send out your arrows and rout them!

Stretch out your hand from on high;

rescue me and deliver me from the many waters,

from the hand of foreigners,

whose mouths speak lies

and whose right hand is a right hand of falsehood.

I will sing a new song to you, O God;

upon a ten-stringed harp I will play to you,

who gives victory to kings,

who rescues David his servant from the cruel sword.

Rescue me and deliver me

from the hand of foreigners,

whose mouths speak lies

and whose right hand is a right hand of falsehood.

May our sons in their youth

be like plants full grown,

our daughters like corner pillars

cut for the structure of a palace;

may our granaries be full,

providing all kinds of produce;

may our sheep bring forth thousands

and ten thousands in our fields;

may our cattle be heavy with young,

suffering no mishap or failure in bearing;

may there be no cry of distress in our streets!

Blessed are the people to whom such blessings fall!

Blessed are the people whose God is the LORD!

(Psalm 144 ESV)

Here is Pops, showing off his memory verse skills!

Chicken is NOT on the menu!

2011-07-03T21:01:00.001-05:00

We found a great home for Rhubarb. I called someone who knew somebody and the problem was solved, just like that. I love knowing people. Country life is the place for me!

We took Rhubarb to a horse farm that also raises chickens, and though the farmer said he couldn't promise me the outcome of him when we talked on the phone, but he would let Butter say a happy farewell and we would'nt have to scar her for life.

We said our good-byes and loaded Rhubarb into the van.

You know how certain smells can take you back in time? Well, my van smelled like my grandma's chicken coop. Not as nice as "Grandma's sweet apple pie" or something like that, but it reminded me of my grandma, none the less...

The farmer was very kind and sensitive to a 4 year old's love for her rooster. He explained that she needed to not worry over what was about to take place, Rhubarb was just going to establish his place in the pecking order of this flock. We watched in nervous anticipation as we introduced him to the other birds. Feathers were instantly flying and wings flapping, but wouldn't you know, he took over that hen house in a matter of minutes! Seriously, he showed all the other roosters who was boss and won the farmer's heart. The farmer's other roosters were hatched the same time as Rhubarb, but they were all very plain looking and much smaller. He fell in love with Rhubarb's strut and was so pleased that he had some color to add to his farm.

Rhubarb was top dog, er, rooster, and will have a long and happy life doing what roosters do.

Plus, we can visit Rhubarb any time we want.

That is what I call a win, win!

(I am so relieved I don't have to eat my daughter's pet.)

Just So You Know.

2011-06-22T17:22:00.000-05:00

I have lots of emails in my in-box and I have lots of replies in my head. I would get the replies out of my head and send them to you, but I am teaching digraphs, rewriting schedules, experimenting with meals (philly-cheese steak lasagna was a big hit), finding a new home for a rooster, scrubbing marker smily faces off the wall, and kissing boo-boos. For some reason I am feeling exceptionally busy right now, and I have family coming in to town next week so I think I'll be even busier then...

But, I don't like leaving people hanging. Just so you know.

Yes! Saving summer clothes!

2011-06-22T17:01:00.000-05:00

We eat a lot of blueberries and cherries in the summer. I just love fresh fruit right off the vine, but I do not love the stains the juice leaves on my children's clothes.
I have thrown away sweet little summer dresses for lack of a good fruit stain remover.
The other day somebody (not naming names) gave Pops a handful of cherries in his brand new Old Navy Polo Shirt. I did not drive all the way over to the main land to Old Navy to throw away a shirt after only one use! I was determined to find a solution, and I did.
I just wanted to share it with you, because I have now used it for cherries and blueberries and it totally worked like magic. Maybe you already know this trick, so just act like it is the best news ever. Are you ready?

Boiling water. Yup, that is all.
Seems strange, hot water normally sets in a stain right? That is what I thought. I poured water right out of the tea kettle and the stains disappeared like magic.
Do you have any cool cleaning tricks you'd like to share?

My Up Do

2011-06-22T11:40:00.004-05:00

Thrifty, frugal, cheap...Recycle, upcycle, remodel...

whatever you want to call it.

I love projects and I needed curtains for the guest bedroom. I wanted to be thrifty, but I also want something pleasing. Sometimes it is really hard to fight the urge to just go out and buy something new. I could justify this, I have family coming in and they need a curtain on the window, right?
Even a cheap curtain and rod set from good ole' wally-world would run about $40 buck now-a-days. (And your next door neighbor probably has the same stock curtain.) I like something a bit different, and preferably not made in China. I already had a few pieces that were in the guest room so I hit up a couple thrift stores with those items in mind.

I found these curtains for $1

added some ribbon

found a dowel and some old fashion hooks

and viola!

With just a little extra effort (not to mention fun) I was able to create this unique set for our guest room for just under $22 and it matches the main items we already had.

I have lots of other thrifty projects in the works, so stay tuned!

Right in My Own Back Yard!

2011-06-21T18:51:00.000-05:00

all right, it wasn't actually in my back yard, but it was at the end of the street! I don't know if it is because the Bald Eagle tends to represent America's Freedom, or something else, but our family is really enjoying watching these "praying birds" as Butter calls them after hearing them be referred to as "birds of prey."

This yellow guy actually was in our yard though.

Can one of our BFTKC friends tell us what kind of spider it is?

I Thought It Was Summer.

2011-06-21T11:33:00.000-05:00

It was so nice I even started handing out summer hair cuts...

But we had to wear our jackets again yesterday. Do not let the sunshine fool you, there is no need for air conditioning here.

So, if you are coming to visit, make sure you leave your shorts at home.

Cock-a-Doodle-Do

2011-06-21T00:44:00.001-05:00

Rhubarb moved into the garage after announcing to the entire neighborhood that he was in fact a he.

At the mention of culling him (that is a nice word for eating) some of the kids started crying and even though I grew up with eating most of our food fresh, I never had to deal with my children's innocent eyes looking up at me as I mentioned eating their pet.

But, we feel it could offer many valuable lessons, so...

Being the kind and thoughtful parents that we are, Mr. Pilot and I put the kids to bed and started googling how to cull a chicken. Truthfully, I could probably remember how to do it even thought it has been a long time since I have assisted with any sort of culling, but I might wimp out and my husband is a former city boy and wouldn't even know where to begin...

There is an impressive amount of information about how to cull a chicken on the web. We learned that even 11 year olds can run chicken processing businesses.

We came across the whizbang chicken plucker

and found it to be quite~uhm~interesting. After several gasps and laughs and chicken-with-its-head-cut-off jokes, we decided on running an ad at the local farm supply store first, in hopes that someone might want him. (yeah, I am a wimp) but we agreed to mentally prepare for another method since it wouldn't be right to keep him in the garage for long. So, here is the add we posted:

OOPS!

~~Rosemary~~ Rhubarb needs a new home.

Our 12 week old Maran Cockerel (April 1^st)

was supposed to be a hen.

Please call if you are interested in giving Rhubarb a nice new home.

________________________________

My Butter Cup

2011-06-20T23:33:00.000-05:00

I just cannot believe how big this girl is getting. And how lovely she has become. My Butter has profound understanding and intuition and sometimes she baffles me with maturity. What a gift she has, and what a gift she is!

The Scoop on the Coop and Poop!

2011-06-10T21:18:00.001-05:00

Pops insists the chickens new home is called a poop, no matter how much I try to convince him its a coop. Oh well.

Since our ladies aren't producing eggs just yet, we have them earning their keep by turning the compost pile. They are really good at it. It's like they were made to work in a garden or something.

Isn't the coop charming? I am so proud of Mr. Pilot! A job well done!

I didn't take a picture from the other side, but they even have their own sky lights.

It is a tractor, so the chickens can poop all over the yard instead of just one spot. Doesn't that sound exciting?

They absolutely love their home. They are roosting here, and you can see their nesting boxes down behind them. That is where they will lay their eggs, and that side lifts up too, so we can easily gather our breakfast.

Chickens are awesome. They go to bed around 7 pm every night, all on their own. My children could learn something from them. (The going to bed at 7 on their own, not the pooping all over the yard, lol) They just go right up the ladder and then we use a pulley to raise it up for the night so no predators can get in, and they sleep tight all night.

Chicken poop is actually really good for the garden, did you know that? They even sell chicken manure on the side of the road here. Well, not actually the side of the road, but in the little farms that put signs along the side of the road anyway. Maybe we could sell some. Like a lemonade stand and the end of the drive way, only a poop stand instead. Alright! I am only joking.

We are absolutely loving our chickens.

We are pretty sure Rosemary however, is not a Rose or a Mary. Butter had re-named ~~her~~ him Rhubarb. Luckily we found someone willing to take her if she is in fact, a him, and not for culling either (that means eating for all you non-chicken folk) either. All the signs are there, save the "cock-a-doodle" that would get us busted for having a rooster in town. I am still holding out the teensiest bit of hope that she is just a manly hen, but we are preparing Butter for what seems inevitable.
I wonder if I should buy her a guinea pig or something, to easy the disappointment. I think that would work, right up until my cat gets a hold of it. So, scratch that idea. Butter says she wants a piglet if Rosemary is Rhubarb. I just don't think pigs are allowed in town.

Yeah!

2011-06-10T20:42:00.001-05:00

I just received some delightful news! One of my dearest friends is coming to Whidbey Island! They got verbal orders today, they will be stationed here for 3 years. We are so excited. Sis even cried. This is sweet news.

Praying for a safe , speedy, and smooth transfer all the way across America for our friends!

Healthy Creamer

2011-06-08T14:25:00.003-05:00

My husband loves creamer in his morning coffee. I don't love hydrogenated oils and artificial flavors and all the other junk that I can't pronounce that makes up that creamer. As a mostly green momma, I can't with a good conscience dump chemicals in my dear husbands morning cup of joe. Seriously, it took me a good 6 months to get him used to the Sucanat I was sneaking in there, so I knew it would take some effort to wean him off the ~~garbage~~ creamer he so enjoys. After looking around for organic creamers, I found them to be ridiculously expensive and not very yummy. As a green but frugal momma, I can't justify that as my alternative either. But, I found a healthier and more frugal, therefore delightful alternative! And my husband actually LOVES it (as opposed to tolerating it) and I am so glad.

I apologize in advance that I still don't know how to use measuring utensils. If you want to try out our super delicious creamer, you will just have to wing it. Don't worry, it'll be great!

Ingredients :

Organic Half-n-half OR organic milk plus organic heavy whipping cream

Organic Maple Syrup

Vanilla (non imitation)

Directions:

Pour some half-n-half (or cream plus milk) into a fancy glass container (the container makes it taste better, trust me)

then dump in some syrup (my cool container holds about 11 oz of the cream and I added enough syrup to make about 1/4 inch on the bottom )

add in some vanilla (for this same container I would guess I used about 3/4 tablespoon)

Shake like crazy

if you follow these very scientific and exact directions, then add it to your favorite freshly ground and brewed coffee, you will be enjoying a very delicious cup of coffee. Also, my scientific instructions obliterate all calories, so don't worry about the fat in the cream. Just enjoy the coffee, and pretend like you are drinking it with me.

Yum!

Coming soon (hopefully): I am attempting a non-dairy version as Princess Growler still can't stand it when I enjoy dairy, but it is still in the swirling-around-in-my-mind stage. Stay tuned.

Growler

2011-06-07T13:02:00.000-05:00

I said I am a PRINCESS!

Fool Them!

2011-06-06T14:41:00.000-05:00

How do you get your little ones to eat their greens?

I am always looking for good ways to get that calcium. My family doesn't really drink milk (it is expensive, full of hormones, and not really good for you anyway) so greens it is.

I bough some swiss chard awhile ago, but wasn't quite sure how to cook it. I happened to be roasting veggies for dinner and decided to throw the chard in also.

I simply washed the fresh leaves and laid them flat on a cookie sheet. I gave a quick spray of olive oil, dusted with salt and garlic, and throw the pan in the oven on 350 just until they were crispy.
I served it up with dinner and called it chips since the leaves were paper thin and crumbly.

It totally worked! My kids absolutely loved it. I have since tried it with mustard greens, kale and chard and it is a complete success. They like it so much they asked to plant swiss chard in the garden.

Boy made it again for lunch today and I was planning on taking pictures of it, but they ate it too fast.

You could try this too, and let me know your sneaky ways to feed your flock some greens!

My Kids are Smart!

2011-06-03T17:50:00.001-05:00

They offered to pull dandelions from our yard for just a penny. Just a penny.

How was I to know it was a "get rich quick" scheme?!

By the time I shelled out over $6, I decided I'll just mow the lawn next time! Ha!

Yes, I believe I would.

2011-06-03T13:49:00.000-05:00

You asked. The answer is yes. I would live in the RV again. Does that shock you? It does me a little. But since you asked, I had to think about it. It is kinda funny to me that my old house is about 20 feet out my front door. Last weekend I put some boxes inside the RV for storage. I must admit, if something happened and I had to live in my RV again starting tomorrow, I'd be just fine with it.

Don't get me wrong, I absolutely LOVE the house we are in, and I love the yard and the dishwasher, but...

Eventually I will get around to posting all the reasons why I'd be fine living in an RV. And I think I'll interview the children and get their opinions too. That might be fun.

Just to Remind Myself...

2011-05-31T16:10:00.000-05:00

This is where we lived for 18 months. It was good.

Conversations with Pops

2011-05-20T12:37:00.001-05:00

A recent conversation with my 2.5 year old went something like this:

Pops: Mom, say ~Pops, what are you doing?

Me: What are you doing?

Pops: No, say ~Pops, what are you doing?

Me: Ohhh, Pops, what are you doing?

Pops: Watching the Lone Ranger.

Pops, watching The Lone Ranger

Me: Ok. Pops, what are you wearing?

Pops: No, say Lone Ranger, what are you wearing?

Me: So you are the Lone Ranger now? Ok, Lone Ranger what are you wearing?

Pops: Uh, a gurl hat, underwares, and cowboy boots.

Me: Are you a girl?

Pops: No!

Me: Why are you wearing a girl hat?

Pops: A cowboy needs a hat!

Me: And where are your pants?

Pops: Cowboys don't need pants.

Me: oh, ok.

Pops: Say oh, ok Lone Ranger.

Pops, riding his "horse."

So particular! Jeesh, this kid cracks me up!

I'd Rather Be...

2011-05-19T20:33:00.001-05:00

If the weather is "nice," you can pretty much bet that my house is a mess. Somehow all the chores get set aside because we'd rather be outside, or at least running in and out tracking dirt all over the house.

I think it was in the upper 60's today. I guess that is the new "nice." At least, everyone from around here says it is nice.
I would prefer 78, but it is sunny, so I can't complain much. We have been doing much of our school work in the back yard this week, it is so nice to be in the fresh air!

The little chicks are getting big.

This is Gretchen. Isn't she lovely? I didn't get a good picture of dad's chick today, but she is lovely too. Her name is Gylfie.

and Socks is such a good dog. She is going to help keep the chickens in the yard, I think.

and the big chicks are about ready to move into their coop. They are 7 weeks tomorrow, and we were advised by the Farm Store that we could move them outside at 8 weeks. They have been in their coop in the garage for about a week now, I thought they were getting too dusty to be in the living room!

We are trying to teach them to scratch, or till up the soil, for the garden areas. They are sure fun to watch!

(That is called Chicken Hypnotism)

I really hope Rosemary is a girl....

I never would have imagined I'd need one of those signs for my wall, you know one that says "I'd rather be fishing"

except mine would say "I'd Rather be Chasing Chickens!"

Since I don't like throwing money away...

2011-05-18T21:05:00.000-05:00

A house with lots of little people = a house with lots of messes. I could go through a roll of paper towels in one day. Sometimes even in one mess, if it's a fun one!

I started seeing myself throw a quarter in the garbage every time I threw away a half used paper towel. Throwing away a quarter seemed a little not-so-smart to me.

Here is what I came up with:

I made about 20 of these for less than $10 and I don't have to throw them away! Aren't they pretty?

So pretty I'm having a hard time using them, lol. They are just for meals though.

I decided to keep one roll of paper towels under each sink for those "nasty" messes that I'd rather not wash. Just in case the washing machine leaves something behind.

You know, for when Pops decides to clog and unclog the toilet "all by myself!" Fun!

Chicken Soup for YOU!

2011-05-10T22:56:00.000-05:00

Hey, it is fresh!

"I Will Praise You in the Storm"

2011-05-04T12:28:00.000-05:00

I am sure you have all heard about the storms and tornados in the south last week. And do you remember when I told you about an Inspiring Weekend we had last year at

this church? How we sat right in front of the blog owner of Generation Cedar and didn't even realize?

My correspondence with Kelly has grown over the last year, and what an encouragement she has been to me.

And now, even more.

This is Kelly's house now, after a tornado ripped through it with her family of 11 and 3 other families in it.

Here is what happened

And here is some of her response:

May the Lord be glorified. May all who see these stories understand what power and passion lies in the blood of those bound together in Christ.

I wouldn’t change things if I could because after experiencing this kind of love, to reverse the tornado damage would mean losing that experience.

I have been so humbled by her unwavering faith in the works of the Lord. He is mighty to save, all is not lost.

Join with me in prayer for all of the families that are still sifting through the debris and mourning lost loved ones?

and If you want to help in a tangible way, click HERE

Secret Identity

2011-04-29T06:40:00.007-05:00

My boy loves to dress up. Having 4 sisters, I often have to remind him that he cannot wear the Princess Pretty costume. Luckily, he really loves being a cowboy!

at the park the other day I said "Come here, my child" to my Lil' Bird.

"I am not your child, I am the Lone Ranger!" was his response.

BTW- You pronounce that Looooooohne Rain-ger

Dude, you're awesome!

SOOC

2011-04-28T15:02:00.001-05:00

That means Straight Off Of Camera for any of you non-photog family and friend. I didn't edit these yet, I was just messing around in the back yard last Saturday.

It is SO pretty here!

Rhubarb Harvest!

2011-04-28T06:58:00.000-05:00

Step 1- Pick huge rhubarb before the plant goes to seed!

Step 2- Chop

Step 3-Mix

Step 4- Devour!

Rhubarb Dream Dessert:

1 C Flour

5 T Powdered Sugar

1/2 C Butter

3 Eggs (Beaten)

1-1/2 C Sugar

1/4 C Flour

3/4 tsp Salt

4 C Rhubarb (chopped)

1 C Strawberries (chopped)

1 Bowl Cool Whip

Blend flour, powdered sugar, butter. Press into greased 9x13 pan. Bake 10 minutes at 325. Beat eggs, sugar, flour, and salt. Add rhubarb and spoon into crust and bake for 35 minutes at 350. Cool completely and spread Cool Whip on top. Then, you devour it. Yum!

Proof That She is Fluffy.

2011-04-27T19:01:00.005-05:00

Growler must be fluffy.

She was posing so nicely for me.

and then came along Butter.

Just look at her beaming eyes!

Can't you just hear Butter "Growler, you are SO FLUFFY"

she absolutely LOVES her sister.

(If this post doesn't make sense to you, clicking HERE will clue you in)

You Blinked again!

2011-04-26T19:00:00.000-05:00

My Sweet, Little, Precious, Growler!

She is nine months old now, and really proud of her new abilities. Last week she started crawling like she was born crawl, and she didn't even give me a week before she started pulling herself up on things. She is keeping me busy, making sure the floors and now tables are cleaned off of any baby dangers. of course she loves to put everything in her mouth.

I can't believe how time has flown. Sniff, sniff!

You Blinked!

2011-04-26T16:43:00.001-05:00

They are getting big, fast! Though it will be a few more months before they are earning their keep by laying our breakfast, in just a few weeks the first set of chicks should have all their feathers and be ready to move outside. Mr. Pilot, in-between learning to fly the super awesome Growler, has been building a chicken tractor for these ladies. A chicken tractor is a coop on wheels, so we can move it all over the back yard so they can fertilize and de-bug the backyard without eating up the garden. I can't wait to show you pictures.

You're Bored, You Say?

2011-04-26T13:43:00.000-05:00

What's that? 5 Chickens aren't enough? Awwww, just get 2 more then.

My husband has been waiting for these little Speckled Sussex to be hatched like a kid waiting for the Easter Bunny (who is that guy, anyway?) They were supposed to be ready the same time as the other chicks we got, but apparently they were delayed do to bad weather. Every Friday (that is the day the local country store gets their new arrivals) my husband has been checking for these little guys. Well, they were finally here this week, so he had me pick up two. Never mind that the others are now too big to introduce these new little fluffy ladies. That means two chick brooders in my living room. Two feeders, two waterers, two more poopers, until these ladies are big enough to hold their own.
TOO much fun! Aren't they adorable!?

Here is what they are supposed to look like when full grown.

It's So Fluffy, I'm Gonna Die!

2011-04-19T11:45:00.001-05:00

I have this precious daughter. I think her love-o-meter was set on super high. Even as a young toddler she had to squish other babies to show her affection for them. I was a bit concerned when I was unable to deter her from smothering babies in the church nursery until a wonderful woman reminded me that squishing babies with extreme intensity would translate into being a good mother one day.

I took her for her word, and have seen the face smooshing in a new light. I mean, when the baby starts crying and I say "please, let go of her and be more gentle" the reply is "but I LOOOOVVVVEEEEE her, I just love her, she is so cute" spoken with as much intensity as the hug was given. I am sometimes forced to pry little fingers off of the screaming baby.

Said child is now much older, 4 to be exact. She is still smooshing. She squashes anything she loves. Dolls, and stuffed animals, and our dog seem to like it just fine. Younger brothers, baby sisters, our cat, and little chicks~ not so much.

I recently saw this movie. I am not really a fan of comparing my children to make-believe characters from Disney movies, but there is no denying there are some similar character traits in this little girl "Agnes" and my own.

These are really short:

I would have snorted milk out my nose, had I been drinking any.

Up to Trash.

2011-04-17T12:09:00.001-05:00

Here is one of our most recent projects.

It's a compost bin.

We learned how to make it from the Homemade book we bought here:

I must admit, I have never really been one of those "Save the Planet" type people. It doesn't help that most places we have lived, we actually had to pay to recycle. Let me see- extra work and I have to pay for it? Not so much...

But, I do like being a good steward, and I don't like wasting. Add into that- our wayyyy too expensive, way, way too small garbage can that only gets picked up once a week, and you've got me sold on free recycling. Seriously, we have to crush every single thing we can possible crush into the garbage can, have Boy climb into the bin and crush it some more, and then still call someone from church to see if we can throw an extra bag into their bin so we don't incur extra charges for our trash can lid not closing tightly... and we pay $94/month for this? Anyway, Dad, Sis, and Boy built us a compost bin and we are reading all about it. This is Science Class, 101.

The One Sunny Day...

2011-04-15T00:09:00.001-05:00

I know you have all been wondering, how are they handling all that rain?

Why, we are having a festival, of course!

Actually, and very surprisingly I might add, we have been doing just fine.

When I'd mention moving to Whidbey, people would say "you don't want to go there, what are you going to do with all that rain, you will get so depressed" or, "you will need to buy a tanning light to keep your spirits up, you will be stuck inside every day." At first I was a little concerned. In all the other places I've lived (the midwest, the west, the southeast, and the south, just about everywhere I guess) I would have a little trouble if the skies were cloudy for too long. Eeyore syndrome or something. Turns out though, it really is a misconception. The concern was misplaced (much like when people say to me "are all these kids yours? I feel sorry for you, you must be poor, deprived, and a wretch..." (smirk))

We are in the "banana belt" or something like that, and it really isn't bad. True, it rains often, but it isn't pouring. And it isn't cold. And the sky is gorgeous. And it is lush. I am not really sure how to describe it properly and paint a lovely picture with words, so I will hush up now but, eventually, when I am able to get a new camera lens (mine broke) I will take some Whidbey Sky pictures and you will see what I mean.

And, by the way, you only use an umbrella here if you are a tourist. So no umbrellas please.

We will except any donation of galoshes in various sizes, however. Just kidding.

Just know that we have no complaints about the weather and we enjoy splashing in puddles.

See, here is a Butter on the swing Boy and Dad made on a sunny day!

Joy in the Simple

2011-04-13T11:27:00.027-05:00

In my ongoing search for true contentment, I have begun to realize the importance of finding joy in the simple and in recognizing the Creator's handiwork all around me.

My sweet daughter brought me some simple joy the other evening.

I could have said "those are just weeds, throw them in the trash" and thrown a daughter's smile in the trash along with the weeds. I would have also thrown away my chance for a taste of joy.

By the Grace of God, I took those beautiful weeds and put them in my precious grandmother's creamer and placed it on the windowsill. Simple, right?

At the giving of thanks for our bread that night, Sweet Butter (4) breathed pure Joy "Father God, thank You for this day, thank You for our food, and thank You for all the beautiful flowers You planted, like the Dandelions, Amen."

And my eyes swelled with simple joy.

Search for Him, He is there. And Smile. When you feel like there are just too many weeds, make a bouquet!

Cowboys Wash Dishes Too

2011-04-11T06:31:00.000-05:00

You must wear your gun, even when washing dishes (and without pants). You never know when a bad guy might show up.

Chickens. All in a Row

2011-04-09T21:15:00.000-05:00

This is Dandy-Lion.

and Miss Muffet's Tuffet...

and all our chicks sleeping in a row.

Rhubarb!

2011-04-09T00:54:00.001-05:00

We are so excited about our kitchen garden (more pictures later) and we have already harvested some Rhubarb. I grew up with it, and never even knew the leaves are poisonous to eat...

Some of us really enjoy it's unique and sour flavor straight out of the ground.

Some just want to play with it.

Don't worry, I read that you'd have to eat 11 pounds of leaves to have any toxic effect, but I didn't let her taste any anyway.

Jams, Jellies, and Pies, here I come! That is, if there is enough Rhubarb left to make some!

Growler

2011-04-08T00:46:00.000-05:00

Bucket has a new nickname. She is Growler now. She has become fond of making this ~~obnoxiou~~s adorably sweet growling noise at the most uh, unique times (think library, prayer, bible study, you get it)

She growls.

When she is not growling (or tasting chickens) she is learning how to crawl. This was her first attempt. She was so proud of herself.

She's our little Growler.

Love her!

Run For Your Tuffet!

2011-04-07T12:13:00.000-05:00

Yikes! Bucket (8 months) is super fast!

Thankfully, Miss Muffet only got her feathers ruffled.

When We Are Bored

2011-04-06T12:04:00.001-05:00

We like to do things big around here, and we never like to be bored. I guess we got bored.

Meet the newest members of our flock.

This is Butter (4) with "Rosemary"

Sis (6) with "Dandy-Lion"

Boy (10) ((oh my goodness, he is TEN)) with "Soren"

Pops (2.5) with "Miss Muffet"

and Guys (11) with "Cinnamon"

Hopefully we can keep the other farm animals away from our new little chicks!

Don't you want about 10 of them for yourself?

Dad is in the process of building a chicken tractor for when they are old enough to move outside.

and I am still trying to convince Butter it is "just a little chicky poop"

Keepin 'Em Busy

2011-04-06T00:01:00.000-05:00

I remember the days when I thought it couldn't be possible to homeschool more than one grade at a time. I wondered how exactly one was to keep little guys busy so a math lesson could be taught without a toilet flooding. I knew I didn't want to resort to using the television as a baby sitter, tempting as it may be. I thought I must need special toys (helpful though, they are) or magic tricks or something.

It didn't take long to figure out that it doesn't take much to keep little ones occupied long enough to teach a math lesson or two.

a full 45 minutes this lil bird played in the flour, pouring it back and forth between a couple of bowls, "helping mom cook." He loved the texture of the flour between his fingers, toes, and apparently, eyelashes.

You don't have to find a baby sitter to bake bread, teach a math lesson, or sew.

There are so many exciting things to do, and many of them are right in the kitchen.

Today Pops stayed busy long enough for me to cook dinner by "washing the dishes" standing on the stool at the sink with a pot of water and a couple of measuring spoons. Sure, he splashed water on the floor and counter, but I just dry it with a towel and count it as mopping. I know that he is learning so much by exploring, helping mom, and not watching mindless t.v. (or flooding toilets) plus, it's darn near free, and extremely adorable, in my opinion.

Bucket much prefers measuring cups and spoons to fancy toys.

What are your favorite activities for keeping little ones busy?

Of Cheerfulness.

2011-03-30T15:58:00.000-05:00

This is from the 1824 Blue Back Speller that was used by many of our founding fathers to educate their children and grandchildren.

Of CHEERFULNESS

Q. Is cheerfulness a virtue?

A. It doubtless is, and a moral duty to practice it.

Q. Can we be cheerful when we please?

A. In general it depends much on ourselves. We can often mold our tempers into a cheerful frame. --We can frequent company and other objects calculated to inspire us with cheerfulness. To indulge an habitual gloominess of mind is weakness and sin.

Q. What are the effects of cheerfulness on ourselves?

A. Cheerfulness is a great preservative of health, over which it is our duty to watch with care. We have no right to sacrifice our health tby the indulgence of a gloomy state of mind. Besides, a cheerful man will do more business, and do it better, than a melancholy one.

Q. What are the effects of cheerfulness on others?

A. Cheerfulness is readily communicated to others, by which means their happiness is increased. We are all influenced by sympathy, and naturally partake of the joys and sorrows of others.

Q. What effect has melancholy on the heart?

A. It hardens and benumbs it—It chills the warm affections of love and friendship, and prevents the exercise of the social passions. A melancholy person's life is all night and winter. It is as unnatural as perpetual darkness and frost.

Q. What shall one do when overwhelmed with grief?

A. The best method of expelling grief from the mind, or of quieting its pains, is to change the objects that are about us; to ride from place to place, and frequent cheerful company. It is our duty so to do, especially when grief sits heavy on the heart.

Q. Is it not right to grieve for the loss of our friends?

A. It is certainly right; but we should endeavor to moderate our grief, and not suffer it to impair our health, or to grow into a settled melancholy. The use of grief is to soften the heart and make us better. But when our friends are dead, we can render them no further service. Our duty to them ends, when we commit them to the grave; but our duty to ourselves, our families, and surviving friends, requires that we perform to them the customary offices of life. We should therefore remember our departed friends only to imitate their virtues; and not to pine away with useless sorrow.

Q. Has not religion a tendency to fill the mind with gloom?

A. True religion never has this effect. Superstition and false notions of God, often make men gloomy; but true rational piety and religion have the contrary effect. They fill the mind with joy and cheerfulness and the countenance of a truly pious man should always wear a serene smile.

Q. What has Christ said concerning gloomy Christians?

A. He has pronounced them hypocrites; and commanded his followers not to copy their sad countenances and disfigured faces; but even in their actos of humiliation to “anoint their heads and wash their feet.” Christ intended by this, that religion does not consist in, nor require a monkish sadness and gravity; on the other hand, he intimates that such appearances of sanctity are generally the marks of hypocrisy. He expressly enjoins upon this followers marks of cheerfulness. Indeed, the only true ground of perpetual cheerfulness, is, a consciousness of ever having done well, and an assurance of divine favor.

My, how far school has come. Or more precisely, how far it has degraded...

I hope you enjoyed, and be of good cheer!

I Used to be a Night Owl.

2011-03-16T22:01:00.000-05:00

Why is it that first children to rise in the morning are the ones with the hungriest tummies and the least ability to help themselves?
I am typically greeted in the morning by one or all three of the youngest children and they are almost always asking for food.
It's like a contest for Dad and me to wake-up at least an hour before them so we can have coffee and bible together before the hustle and bustle of life begins. Seems that no matter how early we get up though, the little munchers are right behind us! Since dad has not been here to coax me out from under my down comforter with coffee in the wee hours of darkness, I have been oversleeping (until 7am!) and therefore being greeted by all sorts of 2 and 4 year old bright-eyed conversation.

This morning over oatmeal that tiny hands helped make (by help I mean sprinkle the cinnamon all over the counter, stir melting butter onto the back of the stove, and have a most delightful time doing it! BTW~ the joy they have is totally worth the mess!) Butter (4) decided to give Pops (2) a lesson when I left the table to change the baby:

"Pops, China is a bad place. We don't want to go there. That is where people talk Spanish like "see-da-den-ma-doh" and that is how bad guys talk so China is bad." In a very matter-of-fact-teacher voice.

After a long pause Pops replied "uh, say thank you to me for making the oatmeal."

"Oh, thanks Poppies (that is Butter's newest nickname for Pops), it's soooo good and I made it too!"

Where do they get this stuff? It was so hard to not bust out laughing. I love it!

Come Visit!

2011-03-16T13:17:00.003-05:00

we feature your very own guest master suite with private bathroom!

Plus, if our mini zoo isn't enough (I'm talking about the animals, not the children),

there is much to see and do here on Whidbey Island!

(click the words "see and do" to see more!)

Just for Fun.

2011-03-14T12:41:00.001-05:00

We play with blocks.

And make dinner.

And paint Solomon's Temple.

And discover popcorn that expired in 2009 from our camping bucket. (It was good.)

My Pickles Are NOT Frozen!

2011-03-14T11:58:00.000-05:00

Remember this?

That is frozen pickles... and eggs stored on the counter so they don't crack.

My homemade pickles aren't frozen anymore. I love my new refrigerator. I can fit in it every fresh thing my little organic heart fancies.
It has a freezer on the bottom.
That is so practical.

Especially for playing with horses!

Our first dinner (as a family, in our new home)

2011-03-13T11:45:00.004-05:00

Dad bought me the most perfect gift while he was in Colorado. I put it to good use the very first night he was home.

I turned my attention away from dinner for just a moment, and dad caught my dinner helper red ~~handed~~ tounged.

Couldn't be this sweet lil bird, could it?

we had Taco Pie - Dad's favorite- for our first "in the oven" meal in over 18 months.

It was very nice!

Eating Grubs.

2011-03-12T17:56:00.001-06:00

We don't like it when our Top Man is missing. Just google SERE school. Then pray. For me. For him. For us...

These moments

2011-03-12T11:38:00.001-06:00

Are so precious.

Oh, my darling!

2011-03-11T11:32:00.001-06:00

Who? Me??

Those baby blues...

And do you see those eye lashes? (click the picture to make it bigger)

My, oh my.

What a sweetie!

I Like This Ship!

2011-03-10T23:13:00.001-06:00

It's exciting!!!

What a whirlwind!
The two big boys (that'd be my husband and my oldest son) left for a "Take Two" on the cross country adventure the very same day we got our keys to our new home. That means the girls (plus a lil bird) got to unpack our move ~~all by ourselves~~ with our super awesome new church family. What a blessing it was to get plugged in right away! They really made our transition warm.

So we got our stuff, and it was like Christmas. We hadn't seen much of it in 18+ months and I must say, I was pleased at how little-what in the world do I have this for?-stuff we had. After going through every box, I only had one large donations box! Yeah! There is a place for everything, and everything actually means something. That is very exciting. We got almost everything unpacked in under a week, despite the nasty fever/snot/cold virus that attacked us as our welcome gift.

I always think it is fun to know the very first new purchase in a new house. Sometimes it's a rug, sometimes a paper towel holder. This time, it was a plunger and it wasn't me 'nuf said.

So, the boys missed out on all the unpacking (that means I got to put everything exactly where I wanted it) but the girls were all scared with no one to protect us. There are no curtains on the back side of the house and our dog doesn't like (that is putting it mildly) the cats the owner of our new house was feeding (They all ran away now, save one. She is holding out that I'll let her sneak in the front door and then pet her mangey backside) and the dog sounds like a rabid wolf when she decides to inform the cats she wants them to leave the back patio. That is an alarming sound when you are almost asleep, but quite comical in the middle of the day (think Scooby-Doo running on wood floor).

I love it. I absolutely love the new house.
I have been meaning to share pictures, but I was holding out for when it looked all perfect. Perfect, like THIS. But then I remembered that would be a lie. I have 6 children. I am ok with that. My house is a mess. I am still learning to be ok with that.

Open kitchen. Running hot water. Amazingness.
I'll have to take pictures of the upstairs and the guest room later so that is all you get for now...

So the boys had a good trip coming back. Minus the part where their van broke down.
In the middle of Nowhere, Texas.
On a Saturday night.
As in, auto shops aren't open on Sunday so you are stuck in the middle of Nowhere, Texas Saturday night. I was stressed.
But, they are easy going, they slept in the van and made faces at each other

until Grandpa showed up to tow them (400 miles) so they didn't have to wait in Nowhere, Texas for four days while the van got fixed...

Then they got held up because of some snow. The snow that the Whidbey locals said didn't exist...

9 inches of-Whidbey doesn't get snow, and Whidbey doesn't have a plow-snow...

So they spent and extra day at Aunt and Uncles house near Seattle. We missed them sorely. But the dog sure enjoyed it.

Moving to Whidbey has been very expensive. Like, more than what the Navy pays us expensive. Two broken vans, ridiculous gas prices, RV park rent... not what we had planned on spending our tax return on... but,

But we are loving it here! This place is great. and we haven't even gotten out yet. We are so excited about what God has in store for us here.

Day Nine- The Final Approach

2011-02-26T19:43:00.001-06:00

I have never before cried upon arriving at our new home base, but I sure did this time. Tears of relief and thanksgiving. What a journey. What an adventure!

Day Eight- Tackling Siskiyou Summit

2011-02-26T18:29:00.007-06:00

This was my most dreaded day. I had googled and read far too much about the mountain pass ahead of us. My imagination can tend to run wild, and wild it ran.

Here was the sign, marking my end~ my decent, off the side of the mountain, plunging to my slow, painful, and untimely death...

My husband bought a labyrinth game for me on his iPad, Guys loaned me her mp3 player, Pops lent me his dirty t-shirt to put over the brim of my cowboy hat and I didn't plunge over the side of the mountain! Thank you my sweet family, for humoring me. And not taking my picture with a dirty shirt on my head.

We made it safe, and spent the evening relaxing and catching up with friends in Oregon. It was a wonderful end to a not so bad day.

Day Seven California -The Grapevine

2011-02-26T06:25:00.000-06:00

Putting SoCal behind us-

Rain, steep downgrades, four lanes of crazy drivers =

but then there was a reminder for me

He is always in control!

Southern California- Good Times

2011-02-25T18:19:00.002-06:00

Rush hour traffic is no longer my thing...

Times with Great Grandma however, we love that!

Southern California- The Aquarium

2011-02-25T06:05:00.000-06:00

Guys' Aquarium Guide proved so useful, though she loves science so much, she had practically every fact memorized.

Southern California- Flying with Grandpa

2011-02-24T19:03:00.000-06:00

I always thought I would be nervous in one of those little planes, but I had a wonderful time. I guess Mr. Pilot is rubbing off on me a little bit! And the kids all had a blast, they would do it every day if we could. Well, Bucket slept through her entire flight, but I think that means it was good.

Day Six, California!

2011-02-24T17:02:00.003-06:00

Gotta love California!

gas prices rose by a dollar a gallon in a matter of a mile!!!

Palm trees, and mountains!

yup, it is still there!

and we made it, anxious for a few days respite. The salty air of Seal Beach and the warm grass was refreshing.

So we headed to our favorite West Coast Restaurant

For giant portions of Claim Jumper YUM

and Grandpa met us there.

Day Five, Arizona

2011-02-23T17:50:00.001-06:00

We had to stop in Hatch, NM and buy some famous Green Chilies.

and some "burn your face off" green burritos. YUM!

(made me think of my dear sweet friend, Amanda)

We were so glad for the drastic change in weather- 62 degrees in Tucson!

That was another interesting night, being squashed (I mean inches) away from a bunch of semi's. We weren't sure if we were intruding on some truck driver rules of no travel trailers full of family members or something, but we sat our rosemary bush right out the door and pulled out our slide anyhow!

and we made good use of the Walmart parking lot to refill our supplies.

Day Four- New Mexico

2011-02-22T17:32:00.007-06:00

This was probably my least favorite day. It was stressful. And long. And extremely cold!

we were still getting a kick out of seeing our house in the review mirror

We safely dodged the winter storms and made it down the Raton Pass without a glitch.

but somehow we weren't aware of the pass just out side of Sante Fe. It was big- 7,500 feet. It was dark. And it was covered with sloppy snow (at only 24 degrees, we were glad it wasn't ice) and semi truck drivers who don't care our windshield wipers aren't working. It was not fun.

And the temperature inside our trailer never rose above 34 degrees that night in Albuquerque. It was cold. Thank goodness for down comforters and long underwear! I doubt I will ever think fondly of Albuquerque again. I am so glad that day is over!

I Love Lucy!

2011-02-21T16:39:00.001-06:00

Pardon the intrusion in the Flashback posts, I finally have internet and this is just too good not to share!

So our BFTKC friends had a new baby. This is number 8 for them. They are not crazy (well, just enough to make us like them) though many think so. I am gushy-smiling for them, because they had a girl. And they had her at home (I'm serious, they are not crazy.) If you want to know why this is so special, you can read about it here. But I just can't stop getting all teary-eyed for them! Too bad we now live on the exact opposite side of the country...

Butter's Birthday

2011-02-21T15:36:00.000-06:00

We had a special birthday while we were in Colorado- Butter turned 4!

She is growing into a fine young lady. She is so sweet, and sensitive to other's needs. What a joy it has been to watch her grow!

and this one was just too cute not to share! That lil bird sure loves his sister!

Our Stay in Colorado - Part one

2011-02-21T15:24:00.001-06:00

There was lots of puking, and other bodily functions that happen when people have a stomach bug, and there was lots of sharing of said bug too. That put a damper on things, we weren't able to see everyone we wanted (sorry, friends!) but we did have lots of fun anyway!

Uhm, yeah. That is my house in front of my house. We found this quite hilarious!

Meeting Auntie!

Tacos!

Baking

Tutoring

Grandma-ing

Building

Sewing

Napping

Snowing!

Smiling!

Grandpa-ing

Dishes-ing

Day Three - Oklahoma to Colorado

2011-02-20T15:14:00.013-06:00

I think we are getting comfortable in our seats.

Last time we were here, someone got a really big speeding ticket...

lap- or changing table- whatever!

We took our house to Pizza Hut

and had a good time getting some sillyness out

finally- we all breathed a sweet breath of familiarity

what a beautiful place

we only got a small glimpse of the mountains before the sun set

Colorado truly is Colorful!

Day Two - Louisana to Texas

2011-02-19T15:10:00.002-06:00

I think her teeth were hurting

but as always, she wears a smile

Dad thinks donuts are a requirement for better planning...

So I used the donut box to calculate the best route.

And Boy is pulling out his very best tricks to keep Bucket content.

Day One- Leaving Mississippi

2011-02-18T13:58:00.000-06:00

We loaded up and said our good-byes... Shed a tear or two, but so excited!

at our very first truck stop Pops realized we were pulling his house behind him. That was priceless! So was busting the water holding tank on a pot hole. I guess if you are going to wreck something, might as well get it over with in the beginning. We hoped that would be the only casualty.

one state down, too many more to count.

We stayed at a nice RV park on an Air Force base. It was pretty cold so we just went straight to bed...

Our Christmas...

2011-02-17T17:02:00.000-06:00

It was a Holiday of Gold Wings...

on our tiny tree

Christmas Eve Dinner

and our tradition of Christmas Pajamas

We did a "one gift Christmas" this year- and we love it that way.

The middle girls got dolls

the little girl got a musical sea horse (it's a favorite in our family)

the big boy got legos

an art set for the little lady

and a cowboy gun and horse for the little hero.

A Young Lady

2011-02-16T17:34:00.000-06:00

Guys had her 11th birthday right before we left Mississippi. I cannot believe I said 11th.
She is a darling. A delight. A precious gem. I am so blessed to call her my own.

She asked dad to write a special note after he pressed her gift, the Elsie Dinsmore series.

since she doesn't care for cake (as most of us don't) we had fruit salad for her celebration.

this little girl isn't so little any more, and she is beautiful- inside and out. We love you so much Guys!

Thanksgiving- a flashback

2011-02-16T16:56:00.012-06:00

Since I have a hard time keeping track of the blog posts I actually post, and the ones I just write in my head I am going to have a few "back-posts." If you have already seen these, please bear with me...

For the last two years my family has been blessed with a visit from my dad, step-mom, and youngest brother for Thanksgiving. We look forward to this time so much!

Hello Grandpa! So nice to meet you.

Fishing with Grandpa is the best!

Grandma makes Bucket laugh.

Lots of ladies to pitch in on the Thanksgiving meal cleanup!

A special moment.

Uncle is pretty fun!

Enjoying the beautiful day.

Our wish: That we will get to spend Thanksgiving with you again this year!

Don't Let Her Crawl!

2011-02-15T16:34:00.002-06:00

Tonight my two biggest boys are leaving us. They have to fly back to Mississippi so Mr. Pilot can check out and they can drive our other car back here. It's going to be a great opportunity for a "Father-Son Trip" and I am glad Boy gets to go.

But a little sad too. Last night with boyish arms thrown around me he said "mom, I'm a little sad about leaving, I've never been away from you for that long, or that far away from you! And who will open doors and carry heavy boxes for you?" and he brought tears to my eyes. I didn't know he would even think like that. Then this morning I overheard him saying to Bucket in his sweet bug brother voice "you better not start crawling while I'm gone, little Missy" and again, a tear.

My Boy is so full of love and compassion. I will miss him terribly. And his Daddy, too.

Safe travels, good weather, and God Speed!

12 Years Ago Today...

2011-02-15T05:00:00.000-06:00

I went to the mall with a boy.

He is now my man.

Happy "Day After Valentine's Day," Honey! Thanks for taking me to the mall!

6 Months in a Blur!

2011-02-12T18:50:00.004-06:00

This little Bucket of sweetness is growing fast! I for some reason imagined that she wouldn't grow much since we left Mississippi. Maybe I thought all the time in the car seat would stunt her growth, but no. She is saying "da-da" much to her daddy's delight, she started sitting up a couple of days ago, and last night I came across the scale and she is a whopping 17 lbs of squishy cuteness! She absolutely loves being squished and snuggled and smooched and we sure enjoy spoiling her. She is going to be running before we know it!

Ask, and it Shall Be Given!

2011-02-12T10:36:00.004-06:00

We have a home! A big one! It's in town, so the septic doesn't matter, and it's on a quiet cul-de-sac. It has four bedrooms, 2.75 bathrooms. and an OPEN KITCHEN! It also has a huge beautifully landscaped fenced yard, with fruit trees and a kitchen garden already! And, we can have chickens!!! There is a big garage so dad can build us some tables and stuff. The master is downstairs so we are going to use it for our sewing room, and GUEST BEDROOM- so come visit!!! And best of all- The home belongs to a pastor and his family. They had to transfer to Seattle and couldn't get the house sold and they just needed to pay the mortgage. We feel so blessed to be able to help them out of a really tough place, and are so excited to enjoy the space. It is everything we wanted! We move in on Tuesday. I will post pictures then.

Thank you for your prayers!

Woodbee- That's the Place for Me!

2011-02-08T19:44:00.000-06:00

It's been a bit of a whirlwind since we arrived. We were greeted by dinner from old friends, that was a wonderful welcome to Whidbey Island! We have seen 4 Bald Eagles, a huge doe and a little deer visit every night in our RV park, we have gorgeous views of ocean and mountains on both sides, and we found out that because of the Olympic Mountains the island actually gets a lot less rain and is much warmer than the surrounding areas, that is great news! There are farms with fresh foods everywhere, including raw milk, and the commissary is huge with tons of local meats and organic foods. I am thrilled!

After we unhooked the trailer we spent a couple exhausting days looking for a new home when the Buffalo (that's what we affectionately call our van)started moaning and groaning. Apparently the Buffalo gave it all she had to get us here safely. We reluctanly canceled our trip down near Seattle to see family and took the Buffalo to the shop. Yikes, we sure broke her and it's going to be lots of days and lots of $$$ before we get her back. We even got a second opinion.

Of course, that leaves us without a car to look for houses in and explore this amazing place- that is a bit stressful. We had managed to get to church before we took the van in, and what a blessing, we had a great day of fellowship, got connected with the homeschool group, and got a loaner car all at once. We are so thankful to be a part of the body.

I found myself getting a bit discouraged though, and add on that I overpacked the trailer thinking we would be in a new place right away- making it a bit cramped in here. Too cramped to even organize or remember where I put the bag of clean socks. And the phone and internet service at this RV park is awful, making it hard to look for houses. And the property managers in the area informed us that our family is big... Who knew?!! So big though, that because our kids and pets and the septic systems, we could only rent a place that is double or more than our budget will allow, or we must live in town.

How can we live in town and still have as big yard, a garden, and chickens??? Maybe we aren't supposed to have a big yard and chickens? Well, God knows the exact plans He has for us, the neighbors He wants us to have, and all the other details already. Maybe He will line us up with someone that just needs to get their mortgage paid and wants good stewards to take care of their home. And hopefully it we will be before Dad has to leave to go back to MS...

I will not be dismayed!

This is it.

2011-02-03T00:44:00.000-06:00

There are no words to describe how thankful we are to be here.

This is beautiful. This is Whidbey Island. This is home.

You Have Arrived...

2011-02-02T19:22:00.000-06:00

Those are the sweetest words I've ever heard my GPS say.

Breathtakingly Beautiful. Home Sweet Home.

Thank You Lord, for safe travels, sweet memories, gorgeous Whidbey Island, and Your perfect plan for us! -Amen!

Fun Stuff Too

2011-02-01T11:01:00.000-06:00

I just wanted to clarify, this trip hasn't been all stressful, we have been doing lots of awesome things too. Once we have a house I can upload all the cool pictures we have taken of things like sewing a dress with grandma, flying in a puddle jumper with grandpa, petting sting rays and playing with sea lions at the Long Beach aquarium and other sweet memories we have made. I just didn't want you to think I am having an awful time, I am a not, I just happen to be using the blog for my mountain pass therapy right now. ;-)

We are loading up to head down the mountain-
Here we go!

Using Lower Gears.

2011-01-31T19:32:00.000-06:00

My husband's super awesome buffalo driving skills plus ear buds with a loud audio sermon and my calculator with math problems like using the tangent of pi to get the angle of the downgrade slope has Mount Shasta behind me with very little shaking and no almost puking.

4,087 miles down. One mountain pass (rated the 3rd hardest/worst in America, I might add) and 532 miles to go...