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Nov. 8, 2006
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If you want a party, why didn't you say so?
The past two months have been filled with nearly every vehicle we own or use breaking down. We've also faced some financial surprises that did not delight us. In addition to all that, extended family has been through some odd experiences that have left us laughing, sighing, and shaking our heads in wonder.
During another reading of the story of the prodigal son, I noticed something a little bit different. Prodigal's brother complained to his dad about the fact that he'd never been given a party... and dad said all he had to do was to ASK, it was already his!
So that's where we are at! We are asking for a party! How silly of us to complain when our Father wants to bless us with something FUN and UPLIFTING! He wants to see us smile! And who are we to be too shy or too prideful to ask? Our Father LOVES us....let's celebrate that love!
little Chloe (orphaned filly) is now living in the dairy barn with a "weaning-in-progress" colt named Sugar Bear. Sugar Bear is not at all happy about being weaned and tends to pace like a lion at the zoo. Chloe is learning horse manners from him yet still enjoying all the human attention she can get. I am also happy to report that my laundry room no longer smells like a horse gymnasium.
I also recently started an online Bible study with a few friends. We are attempting to read the Bible in a year and make comments as to what we've gleaned from each reading. Sometimes it has been wearying with all the disobedience and judgement -- but sprinkled throughout is the message of hope, "If you'll only turn back to Me, I will bring restoration!" I think we all need that message repeated!
School has been quite interesting with a combination of Drive Thru History with Dave Stotts, World History: The Fertile Crescent to The American Revolution taught by Linwood Thompson, Bellflower High School (The Teaching Company), and Blackline Maps of World History -- The Complete Set -- 5000 BC - The Present created by Terri Johnson.
Yes, our original intention was to study American History and Creation Science through a mini co-op, but that has been put on hold until our calendars can work together more effectively. It is STILL a possibility!
Additionally, we attended a family reunion this weekend. My daughter is taking photography at a nearby Vo-Tech, so she offered to take pictures of each family grouping and make CDs for all present. One family member said that we were all so spread out across the United States that it made it a bit frustrating to travel so far for a single meal and only a few hours of fellowship. While I understand his concerns, I had to share my response. My children have been to many family gatherings over the years. Of all the groups we've been a part of, the particular group (my mom's family) we saw this weekend is the one that blesses us the most. These people are 'salt of the earth' folks. They are real...no masks, no pretences, no head games. They have lived for the LORD and run from Him, only to come back again later. They have endured cancer, divorce, poverty, and a multitude of challenges and humiliating circumstances -- yet they still come. They come to hug, to cry, to laugh, to comfort, to share. They come to remember who we are and Who we belong to. The witness they provide to my children is invaluable, especially in this day of compromise. Is is worth the time and expense? For these amazing people, YES, it is.
With near-drought conditions here in Oklahoma, our hay crop has been quite low. We have less than half the hay we need to get through a normal winter.
While coming back from a trip to purchase some new bulls, we saw a beautiful field of what appeared to be rye grass. This "just happened to see it" moment was, of course, Divine Coincidence. After some internet research, we were able to locate a perennial rye grass that grows throughout the winter, thus making up for the lack of hay. Isn't God good?
As the spiritual application to all this, we've been through a bit of a spiritual drought lately, too. We've seen so many people we love go through hard, hard seasons filled with many different kinds of grief. I've been reading about our 'emotional well'
and realizing that. as the old timers would say, "the well's run dry!" I had those Holy Spirit 'churnings' in my belly but couldn't really deal with everything due to all that was happening around us.
Then the opportunity arose. On Saturday evening, one of our favorite horses gave birth to a filly. The momma horse prolapsed to the point that no matter what we tried to do for her, it was useless. She died as we talked to her, prayed over her, and wept and wept and wept. My husband had gone to meet up with the veterinarian who had medicine for the baby, the other kids had gone inside to gather more supplies to care for the filly -- so I took that golden opportunity to have a good, old fashioned soul-cleansing cry! Not just a few tears running down the cheeks, but a gully washer sob fest. I guess I'd been needing that for a while.
Once that release was obtained, it was time to devote our energies to the new baby. Feeding every two hours, monitoring urine and feces output, and cleaning up multiple messes on the laundry room floor. Yes. she is sleeping in the house. None of the other horses will take her, so she is officially another 'child' in our home....for now. ;) She is a week old now and has given us a few fearful moments. Orphaned foals are quite tricky to raise! Chloe (her name) is also quite the little princess. She stomps her foot when she's tired of waiting for her bottle, unfolds laundry, 'reorganizes' books and paperwork, grabs the pillows off the couch and swings them in the air, and decided to make her own bottle. She took the lid off the formula and knocked her bottles into the sink. Hmmmm.....methinks she is too clever! She has also joined us in the living room (atop her blanket and special pillow) to watch movies for school. "He restoreth my soul..."
Isn't it just like God to take the heartaches of this world and turn them into an adventure of blessing, laughter, and focus upon something other than the pain we've been experiencing? He is so awesome!
One of my close friends lost her mother last night. In the past year and a half, she has lost her husband and beloved aunt.
My friend told me that the most important lesson she learned from losing her husband was to enjoy right now, rather than planning to enjoy life later on. She reminded me that we never know how long we'll have those we love -- and that we need to grab those opportunities to spend time with our spouses and kids -- even when it is inconvenient.
I teased her about that a few months after she told me that. I'd spent an entire day sitting in the truck at various parts stores and tractor repair shops, waiting on my husband to make the necessary purchases and repairs so we could have the farm equipment up and running. Thankfully, I took several books along to read while waiting.
My friend and I laughed at the irony of it all -- trying to seize the moment of being with my husband -- yet fighting frustration at all I should be getting done at home! (I'm sure the laundry multiplied like bunnies while I was away.)
Interestingly enough, my Word friend shared some insights today that once again point back to the wisdom in enjoying and appreciating RIGHT NOW. So... I praise the LORD for the blessings of today: healthy family, paid bills, good food, nice home, mostly running vehicles, strong friends, and much, much more.
God is good...
and I WILL notice His blessings and be grateful for them!
With the lack of rain here in the Bible Belt, the ground IS hard...and cracked....and not producing as much as we'd prefer. At the same time, we've experienced similar circumstances in our relationships, especially at church. There's been a drought of love, compassion, and encouragement in many areas of ministry. Much of the 'refreshing' we've experienced is not through the usual avenues, but through individuals who God has placed in our lives for 'such a time as this.' It's so important to remember that God knows the truth in each and every situation -- and we cannot let the ignorant imaginings of others drag us into despair. However, we have all slipped here and there, allowing unkind and untrue remarks to dig into our hearts.
Times like this make me miss those certain members of our old homeschooling group who prayed with us, laughed with us, cried with us, and encouraged us. :) Makes me look in the mirror to say, "Am I doing that for someone else?"
But the even bigger question is, "Why in the world did I let my guard down?" If I was staying in the Word, continually in prayer, and keeping God at the forefront of my thoughts, all this stuff would just roll off me (and my family) like water off a duck's back.
So there you have it.....time to get back to basics. :) Back to sitting at Jesus' feet, turning off the 'noise' of the world, and just basking in His love, mercy, forgiveness, peace, joy, and restoration.
BACK TO BASICS!!!
Reading God's Word
Righting Myself as I 'soak' in God's Written Word
'Rithmetic Those Blessings ;) -- never stop counting each one!
School with God does not always take place within 4 walls....
but I am more than ready to replace the Dunce Hat with a Halo! LOL!
Come Quickly, LORD JESUS!
But back to planning for the academic part of our education, three of the kids signed up for classes at Vo-Tech. Night classes, so they will ride together -- but a fun opportunity to learn a few new skills. We've encouraged them to try whatever variety sounds interesting to them -- because they are at the prime time in life to do so! No house payments, no car payments, no little ones to care for... so Carpe Diem!
In the midst of all the planning (and hassles), we've seen a wealth of miracles begin to pour out on friends --- babies for the barren, books sent to publishers, young overcomers beating the odds! God is good! It is imperative to remember that He does NOT have 'favorites' -- so I shall rejoice with those who are rejoicing and pray for those who are undergoing affliction....
In preparing our materials for our mini co-op, I realized I had misplaced a few items. I spent hours searching through boxes, book bags, nooks & crannies -- but never could find the books and game I was looking for. At last, out of sheer frustration, I posted a WANTED poster on the refrigerator. The reward for finding the missing item was PIZZA. Now that sign has been on the fridge for several days...but this morning, as I was preparing to head to the veterinary supply store, I heard what sounded like a platoon of starving soldiers heading to an all-you-can-eat free steak & potatoes feast. The walls of the house were shaking! Doors were slamming, shouting could be heard, and I saw shadows flashing across my bathroom window. I figured that if anyone was seriously injured, they'd come knocking at my bedroom door so I didn't bother to investigate. When I finally did leave my room, I saw one of my older sons standing in the living room grinning from ear to ear. I asked him what the boys were fighting about. (Okay, I have a lot of boys -- I just assumed that they were having a Testosterone Moment.) He said, "They weren't fighting -- they just figured out about the Pizza Reward on the refrigerator. They were trying to be the first ones out the door to go look for your books." Ahhhhhh, well, with THAT kind of enthusiasm, maybe those books and the game will be back in our curriculum closet very, very soon!
I've spent the last few weeks searching out everything I have on American History and Creation Science. This past weekend we were informed (at the last minute) that Dr. Carl Baugh was in our area along with Drs. Clifford and Barbara Wilson. Dr. Clifford Wilson is in his 80's and adorable, with a beautiful Australian accent. He is brilliant but also has a charming sense of humor. His eyes twinkle as he lovingly teases his wife or those around him. Dr. Barbara Wilson was a missionary nurse for a number of years and is so easy to visit with! Being able to, in a sense, start off our school year with a weekend seminar in Creation Science was wonderful. One of my daughters (who had not previously spoken directly to Dr. Baugh) was thrilled to finally visit with him and thank him. My kids heard him speak YEARS AGO and he made a BIG impression on all of them. Isn't it sweet how God blesses our work? Even before I had my first class, God planned out the introductory lesson! :)
Today was another Very Big Grin moment. I've been cataloging the American History resources so they are stacked around my living room with the lists atop each category. There was a knock at the door! It was a politician seeking votes. He saw all the American History books and tapes, plus all our musical instruments -- and we had absolutely no problem finding something to talk about! He asked if, should the LORD bless him with winning, would our kids like to come play a few songs at a victory party! Woo hoo! It was so 'easy' to visit with him -- he is one of the few politicians I've met that felt like "one of us" instead of an elite, superior life form. ;)
Again, to my heart, this was a divine appointment. A little "gold star" from God, saying, "Atta girl! You're on the right track!"
Okay, for the purists in the audience I'll rephrase that: "Well done, thou good and faithful servant!" But this Southern gal will be quite content with an "Atta girl!"
For the past couple of weeks, the LORD has really impressed it upon my heart to begin to intercede for certain people. Some are dear friends who are dealing with extrememly difficult challenges. Others are those odd breed of folks who seem to thrive on stirring up strife. One of the main Biblical passages that has been shown to me is at the end of Job. Job's "friends" (and I use that term loosely) have had their chance to butcher the Word and Job at the same time. Their numerous misconceptions appear to have annoyed God, too, because He demands a sacrifice and Job's prayers on their behalf.
After Job has prayed, you see a wonderful font of blessing begin to flow in Job's life. He finds favor with many, many people -- so much so that they want to give to him of whatever they have. The abundance that is given to Job appears to be a direct offshoot of his obedience to intercede.
That sure makes it worthwhile, doesn't it? ;)
In all seriousness, I began praying -- and then shared the vision with my family. While we pray for others each day, this was different -- more powerful, more focused, more intense. Immediately we saw changes in the lives of those we've been praying for. I suppose you could say they are all good changes, but for those who are resisting the LORD, it has been miserable! We've seen the "odd breed" folks become more agitated and seem to have a greater need to stir things up. It is so incredibly obvious that it's almost comical! Praise God that the Holy Spirit is dealing with them, desirous of setting them free from whatever old wounds or wrong teachings have caused them to need to attack others. Can you imagine the impact if they began to use their tongues for GOOD? Just to think about it makes me rejoice! My mental image of rejoicing is Charles Schulz's Snoopy dancing atop his doghouse. Happy Feet, Happy Feet, Happy Feet!
What fun to call down peace and joy on their lives! To earnestly pray for their freedom! To beckon healing into their hearts and lives!
This weekend I was able to attend the Above Rubies retreat in Oklahoma and hear Nancy Campbell speak. She is bold to speak the truth, although she says it with the most endearing smile and twinkly eyes! I've never had my toes stepped on in such an enjoyable fashion!
Being reminded that God does notice the details -- even if no one else does -- is an encouragement that every mom needs. I also enjoyed the DVD on the Family Meal Table. Little did I realize the spiritual weight behind eating together as a family......it's much more than simple fellowship.
Once again, this event added to my prayers and contemplations about our mini co-op! I love how the LORD weaves such an intricate pattern in our lives!
In 2 Titus 2:15 we read, "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of Truth."
In preparing for a new school year, I have to keep reminding myself that the thing that matters the most is to stay in the Word! All the rest is only temporal. I wonder what it would be like to live in a world where Godly Wisdom was more highly valued than Academic Knowledge?
One of the fun benefits of homeschooling is seeing your own children begin to teach others! Recently, I've watched three of my children volunteering to teach at Vacation Bible School. They have helped out in previous years but did not want to settle for helper positions this time. It's fun to watch them search out information on the computer and in books and magazines, then begin to form a pile of visual aids for display and use in teaching. Next came designing and printing up posters, menus, and creating various crafts to decorate their work areas. While I will not be able to participate this year, I will certainly enjoy seeing the finished products of their labors. It will also be interesting to hear their insights at the end of the week. Was it worth it? What was the best part? What could you do better?
One of my friends who is a former homeschooler is in the process of editing a book she wrote over the past year. I've been privileged to read each chapter and make comments. This book is an encouragement to read and reread. Part of the joy in all this is knowing that the same exhortation I've experienced from knowing Jen personally will be experienced by those reading her book. The written word has wonderful power when God is behind it!
My co-op friend is unearthing more great resources that will bless our teaching time with our children. Her enthusiasm keeps me inspired and eager! During these hot summer months, it will be wonderful to take the time during the worst heat of the day and use it for fine tuning our educational agenda. I've enjoyed working with Krystal over the past couple of years -- because she is creative and knows how to make teaching FUN! There are many times I copy one of her ideas and someone will ask me how in the world I came up with such a great idea! I smile and say, "My friend Krystal does this kind of thing all the time. I just copy her notes!"
"I wisdom dwell with prudence, and find out knowledge of witty inventions." Proverbs 8:12
What a blessing to have wise, prudent, knowledgable, and witty friends!
As we continue to compile resources for our mini co-op, the kids have blessed me by cleaning, painting and redecorating my living room! What fun! They bought 2 gallons of paint for the walls. They also purchased the wooden letters for the word "Worship" which they painted to blend with the color scheme of the room. The word "Worship" is a focal point in the room -- as it should be in our lives! I'd call it my denim and leather living room now. Very laid back and comfy. Makes you want to pull out the guitars and have a jam session.
I recently joined a dear friend at a grief counseling session. The counselor had many excellent insights, but there is a particular one I want to share with you. He suggested my friend get a piece of paper and make a chart. There will be 3 columns. The first column is labeled "Plus" +, the second is "Minus" -, and the third column is "Zero" 0. The names of the people with whom you have regular contact will go in those columns. However, you need to assess each person to determine which column they currently go under. To figure that out, think about how you feel after a general conversation with each person. Do you come away feeling worn-out, depressed, used? Put them in the minus column. Do you feel the same way after you spoke to the person as you did before you spoke to them? They go in the zero column. Do you feel encouraged, blessed, more at peace after having spoken with that person? They go in the plus column. The point of this is to help you become more aware of how you spend your time with the people in your life. If you are going through a particularly rough time, it would be wise to seek out your "Plus" people. If you've been spending a lot of time in the presence of "Minus" people, try to set aside a time of refreshing with the "Plus" people. The "Zero" people are a bit of a buffer. They don't make a huge impact on you either way, but they can be enjoyable when you just need to do something a little different. One of the nice aspects of this chart is that people can and DO move from column to column depending on their own spiritual walk and life changes. This also can help you understand how to be a "Plus" person for others.
Regarding comments on my last entry, what I wrote was original. :) I'm glad you enjoyed it. Whenever I do "borrow" a line from someone else, I'll try to give them credit for it! I often use fun or thoughtful quotes in my scrapbooking.
My co-op friend and I have had several discussions about our plans for the upcoming school year. The thought of having a specific time set aside each week for learning and fellowship sounds wonderful, especially because we are both very active in working at home, at our churches, and helping elderly family members. We often find ourselves so busy doing "needful" things that we never make it around to "wantful" things.
The biggest challenge of the moment is to NOT bite off more than we can chew. ;) We've both thought of several things we want to study, but realize that we probably should stick with a maximum of 2 subjects and only plan for 9 weeks. If it doesn't work out, we won't have wasted all that time planning for the entire school year!
Planning ahead will bring a certain amount of security....but we all know how that works. Life manages to throw in some very interesting curve balls! May we keep our focus on the LORD so our response will be positive rather than just plain annoyed. ;) Blessed day to all!
Ending the school year means it is time to begin preparing for a new one! We homeschooled "solo" this last year but found we missed some of the joys of co-oping. We also found that we did NOT miss the hassles that came along with a large co-op.
Our group had tried to start out right, with prayer, discussion, written policy and procedures we gleaned from other successful groups. However, we were not prepared for having to confront major problems within the group. By the end of the school year, we had all become so exhausted with just a handful of "high-maintenance" moms who seemed intent on creating strife, that the majority of us were ready to quit entirely once we'd completed our responsibilities.
As I've looked back over the past two years, I have realized there were many times we were simply afraid to confront and afraid to hold everyone accountable. We made excuses for behavior. We "wimped out" which allowed the problems to continue. I wonder if that is common amongst homeschooling co-ops?
Over this last homeschooling year, I noticed that one of our ladies teamed up with another mom to form a mini co-op. They share the same values and enjoyed using the same curriculum. Their children got along well.
I set up an appointment with these moms to discuss their latest learning adventure. Both agreed that the mini co-op was much easier to handle. One mom is more creative, the other more organized. Their strengths were different, as were their weaknessess. Both needed flexibility in their schedules, so the mini co-op seems to be a perfect fit.
I've discussed this with my husband and children, as well as with the other family I think we would work with the best. As we move forward, choosing what to study, when we want to meet, and how to plan the first 9 weeks, we will continue with prayer and plenty more discussion! If nothing else, we'll learn a bit more about what works and doesn't work for our family!
If others out there have suggestions, please feel free to share! I'd much rather learn from YOUR experience before getting too far into this adventure!
I am a happily married homeschooling mom of many children, hoping for more to come! I love being creative and sharing creative ways of learning and teaching with others -- especially family and friends.
After some internet research, we were able to locate a perennial rye grass that grows throughout the winter, thus making up for the lack of hay. Isn't God good?
Happy Feet, Happy Feet, Happy Feet!
