I received an email from Mr. Israel Wayne through the Gleaning the Harvest emails offering me the opportunity to raise some advertising money for an ad for Gleaning the Harvest in the home schooling magazine, Home School Digest. The awesome thing is that that is not all it is. It is a FREE Sample Issue for all of my friends too.
I ordered my FREE sample issue today, and I wanted to let you know you could too. The emphasis of Home School Digest is on Family Discipleship, Character Building and Developing A Biblical Worldview.
By using this link and Promo code, you will receive a free sample issue of the magazine, and Gleaning the Harvest will receive $1 in magazine advertising credit. You are welcome to spread the word about this also via your blogs and websites, in email, on Yahoo groups, in church bulletins and other support groups and meetings.
Thank you, and I hope you get your free sample issue and thanks for supporting GTH!
Thank you for visiting! Please be sure to see my right sidebar and give what you can to the Gleaning the Harvest families in need. It only takes a moment and is safe to donate through Paypal.
Thursday, May 22, 2008 - Please Pray for the Steven Curtis Chapman Family
(Left to right Will Franklin, Maria, Steven, Shaoey, Mary Beth, Stevey Joy, Caleb and Emily)
MARIA SUE CHAPMAN, DAUGHTER OF STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN, DIES IN ACCIDENT AT FAMILY HOME
NASHVILLE, TN...5/21/08... At approximately 5pm on the afternoon of Wednesday May 21st, Maria Sue Chapman, 5 years old and the youngest daughter to Steven and Mary Beth Chapman was struck by an SUV driven by her teenage brother in the driveway of the Chapman home in Franklin, TN. Maria was rushed to Vanderbilt Childrens Hospital in Nashville, transported by LifeFlight, but died of her injuries there. Maria is one of the close knit family’s six children and one of their three adopted daughters.
More than five years ago, Chapman and his wife MaryBeth founded The Shaohannah’s Hope Ministry after bringing their first adopted daughter, Shaohannah, home from China. The ministry’s goal is to help families reduce the financial barrier of adoption, and has provided grants to over 1700 families wishing to adopt orphans from around the world.
Let's join together in prayer and sorrow for this Christian family. There are no words, only sorrow. I am grieving with them. This is so sad. please pray for everyone, but especially her brother.
Isaac and Caleb love to type on the keyboard. I took the opportunity of this love to teach Isaac about touch-typing this evening. Isaac is four. I had him feel the little marks on the letters f and j with his fingertips to show him where to put his index fingers. He placed them on the keys and started ‘typing’. Then he got tired and asked me to type up a few things for him.
Here is what he had to say:
I play outside.
I go in the barn, and I like the chickens running.
I go in the barn, and I see the bats.
I get the bikes out.
I like the roosters.
I go and eat on the table.
I drink lemonade out of cups.
I draw hats.
I draw pictures.
I like the blankets and the robes.
I like the pillows to lay my head on.
I like the lotion to put on my hands and feet.
I like the cowboy boots that Dad got me.
I saw a fire engine and a shriff’s truck go by again.
I love the best of the flowers and the hyacinths too.
He left the room for a few minutes, and as I was adding the rest of this story, he came in and asked me what I thought I was doing. It was not mean, but boy was it cute!
Here is his practice. It is so cute to see him typing the letters while he looks at the screen, instead of the keyboard.
I love this little boy! Here he is with my sister when she and my mother were here.
Our children grow up way too fast. It is such a joy to use every opportunity to teach our children even the smallest things. Isaac may not keep an interest in typing, but offering him the opportunity when he shows an interest is the way to see just where that learning might go.
Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.
It has become a part of my mantra in our home educating. Train them up according to the bent that the Lord God created in them.
It is quite an adventure to see what interests each child. It is even more of an adventure follow that interest and walk it with them, learning everything you come across together.
It is a hard thing to praise our God in our human state. Sometimes it takes all we can muster to remember to praise the Lord. How sad that is for us, when God clearly knows us and remembers us. There have only been a few times in my life where I felt like my guts had been ripped out and my life would never be the same. I am thankful that God kept me in a place that I may have questioned others, but not Him. Not His omnipotence.
Life can be frightening sometimes. I know when Caleb was so sick a few months ago, and now, with LucyLillie being so restless, it is hard to face things that may happen that would rip my heart out. I can beg God in my spirit to please heal them and take care of it. And I know that God understands. He understands when I don’t. He understands my questions and my fears, my heartaches and disappointments. Jesus, Himself, knows these human feelings personally.
We can trust Our God. We can believe in Him and walk blindly sometimes, because He is the Beginning and the End. He is and was and will be. He knows, even before we do. We might question things we don’t understand, but we can trust Him and His Word, despite those questions.
Psalm 22
1My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? why art thou so far from helping me, and from the words of my roaring?
2O my God, I cry in the day time, but thou hearest not; and in the night season, and am not silent.
3But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel.
4Our fathers trusted in thee: they trusted, and thou didst deliver them.
5They cried unto thee, and were delivered: they trusted in thee, and were not confounded.
6But I am a worm, and no man; a reproach of men, and despised of the people.
7All they that see me laugh me to scorn: they shoot out the lip, they shake the head, saying,
8He trusted on the LORD that he would deliver him: let him deliver him, seeing he delighted in him.
9But thou art he that took me out of the womb: thou didst make me hope when I was upon my mother’s breasts.
10I was cast upon thee from the womb: thou art my God from my mother’s belly.
11Be not far from me; for trouble is near; for there is none to help.
12Many bulls have compassed me: strong bulls of Bashan have beset me round.
13They gaped upon me with their mouths, as a ravening and a roaring lion.
14I am poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint: my heart is like wax; it is melted in the midst of my bowels.
15My strength is dried up like a potsherd; and my tongue cleaveth to my jaws; and thou hast brought me into the dust of death.
16For dogs have compassed me: the assembly of the wicked have inclosed me: they pierced my hands and my feet.
17I may tell all my bones: they look and stare upon me.
18They part my garments among them, and cast lots upon my vesture.
19But be not thou far from me, O LORD: O my strength, haste thee to help me.
20Deliver my soul from the sword; my darling from the power of the dog.
21Save me from the lion’s mouth: for thou hast heard me from the horns of the unicorns.
22I will declare thy name unto my brethren: in the midst of the congregation will I praise thee.
23Ye that fear the LORD, praise him; all ye the seed of Jacob, glorify him; and fear him, all ye the seed of Israel.
24For he hath not despised nor abhorred the affliction of the afflicted; neither hath he hid his face from him; but when he cried unto him, he heard.
25My praise shall be of thee in the great congregation: I will pay my vows before them that fear him.
26The meek shall eat and be satisfied: they shall praise the LORD that seek him: your heart shall live for ever.
27All the ends of the world shall remember and turn unto the LORD: and all the kindreds of the nations shall worship before thee.
28For the kingdom is the LORD’s: and he is the governor among the nations.
29All they that be fat upon earth shall eat and worship: all they that go down to the dust shall bow before him: and none can keep alive his own soul.
30A seed shall serve him; it shall be accounted to the Lord for a generation.
31They shall come, and shall declare his righteousness unto a people that shall be born, that he hath done this.
Speaking of God and His keeping power: do not forget to check out the link on my sidebar for FireProof. Also check out SisterLisa’s interview with the lead actress for the movie. This is one movie I want to see on opening day!
Thursday, May 15, 2008 - Hosting the Carnival of Homeschooling
I am hosting the Carnival of Homeschooling on May 27th at Walking Therein. My theme is going to be “End of the School Year - Or Is It?” Something like that. Be sure to submit your articles starting on Tuesday, May 20th for my carnival. You can submit to the other before mine too!
Thursday, May 15, 2008 - Saturday Swap, The In Real Life Edition
I had the best swap gift of all of you this time. I got to actually meet my swap buddy irl. No, I am not gloating. At all. Ok, well, maybe a little. Here is my swap gift that arrived via FedEx a few days before she came. I am sick the we didn’t get a pic of both of us with it! I guess I will have to take it with me to Austin when we go visit on vacation!
I am not sure if my info sheet says I collect mugs, but I do. This is a “Really Woolly”. I thought it was funny that my sister asked me if it was a “Woolly”. I love green too, so it is such a great gift! I may even have to buy some more teacups and the teapot that goes with it, so my girls and I can all have matching ones!
This is all of the blogger gals outside of Chipotle’s in Fort Wayne. This is Heather’s favorite restaurant. It has kinda’ become a running thread on the HSBA yahoo group with all of us… who has been to Chipotle’s and in which, er, how many, states. So, that was fun!
There are so many more really neat photos, but I am posting this since I am so late on getting it posted!
blessings~
If you want to join us next time, you can read about it and sign up: May & June 2008 Swap!
Wednesday, May 14, 2008 - Keeping Up With Friends; Subscribing to Blogs
I just realized this week that I am missing out on some of my favorite blogs! And, furthermore, I don’t have to! I have tried using a reader, and that just does not work well for me. Let me tell you what usually happens about reading my favorite blogs:
I am writing on my blog and I see their link
or I get an email
or I find a comment from a friend on another blog.
I think, “Oh, man, I haven’t read their blog in forever, I wonder what they are up to,”
I go to their blog and spend a looooong time looking over posts I have missed for days or weeks, sometimes months.
I spend a whole bunch of unplanned time online, and I don’t get other things done;
or I forget to visit them entirely.
So, I have decided that to keep up with my friends, I need to subscribe to their blogs. I need the post delivered right into my inbox. It has worked out rather well already. I can read the post right away and comment right then if I want, instead of spending hours catching up.
Here are some blogs that I subscribe to. Hopefully I will better keep up with my friends better this way!
I was emailed about the news about the Duggar Family’s new baby, due in January 2009 by my friend, SisterLisa. Then, their name even came up at Jocelyn’s birthday party. I have to admit, I’m a bit jealous after thinking we were going to be expecting before the end of the year, but we won’t go into that right now. This post is about the video on their website that shows their home. Amanda said she thought it was a bit extravagant, because it looks like a hotel, and I asked her what it was supposed to look like when they are expecting their 18th baby! I love our farmhouse, and I will hate to leave it, but - oh! - all of that open space inside the house! Ahhhhh….
So, if you would like to see a very well-planned-out home for a large family, take a look at The Duggar Family Home. That big, long dining room and table… that is one thing on my list for our new home. I have a great list, you know. Two years into the addition on our house, our children almost wrote to Extreme Makeover: Home Edition about helping us finish it, but I pretty much discouraged that. We don’t need it all torn down and started over, just the next 25% of the job completed! Jocelyn’s letter to them that I found in the trash was really cute, though! (Anyone looking to donate time, email me!) But, I digress… I love their kitchen and laundry room set-ups too. Two stove tops and two sets of washers and dryers would be great. That is on my list too.
The funny thing I noticed is that we have already come up with some of the ideas they have implemented. We have a laundry room that is quite large almost finished, and we had planned to put all of their clothes in it and get rid of dressers. Matt already wants them to hang up all of their clothes, so that would make it easy to do it right off of the laundry area. No dressers in the bedrooms makes for plenty of rooms for beds, too. Rachel would love that, since she would love to share a room with Amanda and Jocelyn…
I never would have thought about a cafeteria tray rack, but it makes sense. I love the windows. I could get used to all of those huge windows. And a real prayer closet… Anyway, I went through the video a few times. The third time, I used the pause button so I could read and inspect. I love the layout. Let me know what you think!
The Fort Wayne Homeschool Expo is this weekend. We weren’t planning to go, but is anyone else?? We can go. We only live about 20m away. Here is a link to the info: Fort Wayne Expo.
Friday, May 16, 2007 starting at 6pm
There is a preview that will be held at First Assembly of God Church from 6- 9 p.m. Workshops are also being planned.
Parents will actually be sharing their own materials, and there will be informations sessions.
Saturday, May 17, 2007 8a-5p
Memorial Coliseum. Curriculum fair with many workshops.
The registration fees for the Expo Preview and Resource Expo are as follows: Adults and Teens - $3.00, Children (ages 3-12) - $1.00, Children two and under -free, maximum charge per family - $10.00. Those who attend the Expo Preview will be given a free pass to Saturday’s Expo. Parking fees at the Memorial Coliseum are $4.00 per vehicle.
They also have a list of vendors on the site.
If you are a seasoned homeschooler or a new one or even thinking about homeschooling, it would be a good way for you to check into it and meet some homeschoolers in our area.
My friend Robin has a blog with other homeschooling information for homeschooling and homeschooling in Indiana.
Anyone else planning to go? I might be persuaded….
blessings~
Monday, May 12, 2008 - PLEASE PRAY for the Dixie Family of Bloggers
Please pray for a dear family on HSB.
Dixiecajun and her daughters blog here on hsb, and I just learned that her husband was tragically killed in a car accident last night. You can leave a comment and read about that on Dixiecajun’s blog. He was a much loved husband, father, and grandfather. This family has been through a lot, and I know they would appreciate your prayers. They moved to Alabama after losing everything to Hurricane Katrina. I don’t know them as well as the girls do, but I have read their blogs, and they are fine Christians.
Their children’s blogs are:
• Sandy
• Celeste
• Jordan
• Sarah
We at the Dixon house are so sad right now with this family. We don’t know them personally, just another family God has placed in our lives through blogging that we have come to love.
Sunday, May 11, 2008 - The Many Ways They Say I Love You
::HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY, MOM!!::
Happy Mother’s Day to all moms!
Every year, my children ask me what I want for Mother’s Day and my birthday, and my reply has become pretty consistent: “I want the house cleaned up and my children to behave. ” That’s all: simple. Each year, I guess they figure that buying me a gift is a lot easier than my request!
My oldest daughter, who is also one of my dearest and best friends, sent me an e-card this week with a Scripture on it that is not just a Psalm, but a song too. Psalm 3:3 But thou, O LORD, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head. Oh how I love the Lord. Oh how I love the undeserved gifts He has given me. Gifts like my husband and my children. Next to my salvation and relationship with the Lord, they are IT. This verse was a great encouragement to me, and instantly I started singing it. God, our God who is our ever-present shield, is also our glory, and the lifter of our heads.
Psalm 3
1Lord, how are they increased that trouble me! many are they that rise up against me. 2Many there be which say of my soul, There is no help for him in God. Selah. 3But thou, O LORD, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head.
4 I cried unto the LORD with my voice, and he heard me out of his holy hill. Selah.
5 I laid me down and slept; I awaked; for the LORD sustained me.
6 I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people, that have set themselves against me round about. 7Arise, O LORD; save me, O my God: for thou hast smitten all mine enemies upon the cheek bone; thou hast broken the teeth of the ungodly.
8Salvation belongeth unto the LORD: thy blessing is upon thy people. Selah.
What do you say about a daughter who is like a best friend? What do you say about a young lady who makes decisions based on her convictions and denies herself those things that are harmful to her, both spiritually and physically or things that are dear to her because it is God’s will?
That I am amazed? That I am proud? That I am thankful?
I say, “I love you.”
I say, “Thank you, Lord, for the opportunity to know her, to be her mother.”
Honestly, I can write these words about Jocelyn or Amanda. They are both my best friends and confidantes, and I am proud to call them friends and daughters.
Jocelyn, if I could give you the world, I would wrap it up for you. As it is,we got you a better gift. I am so glad that Grandma and Aunt Jen can be here for your birthday party, even if you did find out the surprise before they got here. Oh, and your siblings, another best gift… seven of them. And a marriage the is not perfect, but is a part of my life I can live out faithfully before you, struggling and victoriously, to teach you that God is God, and I am not.
I know that this is going to be the best birthday ever! Happy Birthday, my girl, and congratulations on seventeen years!
Thank you, Amanda, for throwing a blog party for your sister!
Amanda does our grocery shopping. Every week she goes with a sibling, and this time Jocelyn went, because she wanted to get some food for her 17th birthday party this weekend! I will tell you, Amanda, this girl, she is such a giver. She usually comes home with something special or something we need but it wasn’t on the list, right out of her own pocket sometimes, too. Well, yesterday was no different. Yesterday, she came home with Newman-O’s. We all love Oreos - some of us a little too much - but, these are organic oreos. That must mean they are loads better for you!
Wednesday, May 7, 2008 - Birthdays, Birthdays, Where Does the Time Go?
Happy Birthday to my dear friend, Page, in England. Her birthday was actually yesterday. Page is a sweet family friend we have actually never met! We have spoken to her on the phone and corresponded, as well as received real English gifts :). Jocelyn posted a nice little Happy Birthday wish on Page’s blog, so, please stop on over and wish Page a Happy Birthday!
JOCELYN WILL BE 17 ON FRIDAY!
And, Miss Jocelyn’s birthday is almost upon us! Though her actual birthday is on Friday, Saturday is the big day!! I can’t wait. Seventeen… I can’t believe it! We are having a few family and friends, including some blog friends come. Amanda and Jocelyn and Matt picked up all of her party food today. I think she is getting excited… are you Jocelyn??
Tuesday, May 6, 2008 - Which Stooge for the White House?
I came across this at the Lighthouse Patriot Journal today, and I have to share it. Anyone else feel this way?
I am all for voting and democracy, and I certainly don’t want to live under Socialism… but have you looked into the political voting records and agendas? Are they too far off from socialism anyway?
2 Chronicles 7:14
If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.
Monday, May 5, 2008 - Urgent Prayer Request for Robin
I do not know Robin in real life, only through emails and reading her posts and her curriculum. She has had a rough year in her health, though she knows the Lord is with her and teaching her and bringing her through.
Robin just called from the Critical Care Unit at Vanderbilt Hospital in Nashville to ask me to pray for her so I am passing the request on to you as well. She has lost a lot of blood and will probably need another transfusion. Please pray that the blood they give her will be clean and also pray that God will give wisdom to all the doctors treating her.
Ronnie drove her to the hospital in Shelbyville where they gave her an EKG. The EKG was “abnormal” so they took her by ambulance to Nashville. She is suffering from low blood pressure (about 80/30) as well as cardiac issues.
She sounded weak and weary. Dear sisters, please spend some time in prayer this afternoon for her healing. She has been through so much this past year and I know she would be very grateful to know her Heart of Wisdom friends are lifting her up to the throne of grace as she endures yet another setback.
On Wednesday, I got to take Caleb to the ER. Again. Yes, my dear little two-year-old had to go to the hospital again. You know, he loves being outdoors. He loves it so much that I had to put a latch-eye-hook on the screen door for his safety. And, still, that is not enough
Anyway, many of you already know the story. I am VERY thankful for God's protecting hand and for keeping us all calm throughout the ordeal. If you would like to read, I am posting most of my new entries on my personal website/blog: Caleb Keeping Me Busy (in the worst sorta way…)
And, it's really easy to comment on my new WP blog. Go ahead and let me know you were there! : ))
Sunday, May 4, 2008 - Free Site Access During Teacher's Week
I got this in an email. I thought I would pass it along!
During Teacher Appreciation Week at Learning A-Z.com
Get Books, Lesson Plans, Worksheets, and Other Activities
We all owe much of our success in life to teachers everywhere. We at Learning A–Z want to thank educators the best way we know how—by opening up access to our websites. Last year during Teacher Appreciation Week, we held an Open House that provided FREE access to ALL of our educational websites. Response was so overwhelming that we are going to do it again, and for even longer!
Explore Six Websites Bursting with Materials
Each day during this year’s Teacher Appreciation Week, May 5–9, plus May 12, Learning A–Z will open one of its six password-protected websites. This will allow teachers to leisurely explore all of Learning A–Z’s resources, including our newest website for differentiated instruction, Science A–Z.You will find lessons, activities, and worksheets—for FREE.
Enjoy Six Days of FREE Access
The websites will be open on the days indicated below, from midnight to midnight Central time.
There are some very special events that are happening in May!
One is a scrapbooking giveaway worth over $100! Jocelyn did a spectacular article on scrapbooking and how much fun mothers and daughters can have doing it. A friend of mine, who is a Creative Memories Consultant, has donated a great prize for one of you to win!
Saturday, May 3, 2008 - Growing in Grace Mag for Girls, Issue 4, May 2008
It’s the first of the month again already, and you know what they means, right? Yep, everyone’s favorite girl’s magazine has been published again! Growing In Grace Magazine has just published their 4th issue that is so jammed with so many articles about the glory of motherhood! Not only are there some really terrific articles about motherhood, but also some very special events that are happening in May!
One is a scrapbooking giveaway worth over $100! Jocelyn did a spectacular article on scrapbooking and how much fun mothers and daughters can have doing it. A friend of mine, who is a Creative Memories Consultant, has donated a great prize for one of you to win! Click on the graphic for more details!
Amanda wrote a very special article. For her, this was an amazing article to be able to write. She have such a heart for our servicemen because my grandfather, her great grandfather, served and she was given the wonderful opportunity to document that for him. Please take some time and read We Salute You, and see how much we can do for our servicemen!
All of the articles are wonderful, and a favorite of mine is Sibling Lovelry, which was written by the whole GGM Writing Team. All in all… this issue is amazing and a really wonderful tribute to mothers! The site also has a new “do”. This month is a pretty pastel in honor of our pretty mothers who do and give us so much!
Please stop by! We, at GGM, desires to bring inspiration to young Christians ladies who are striving to live a virtuous life and grow in God’s grace. We really hope you will partake in this ministry, whether you simply announce it on your blog, link us with our icon/magazine cover (which changes automatically every month), or donate prizes. I hope you will stop by there and leave some comments. We always love hearing what people think of what we spent so much time to write! We thank you for your support!
All of the girls all truly do spend a whole lot of school time writing for GGM. My girls have written a total of 17 articles altogether! Even Hannah is now writing with us. What better writing and English assignments to teach than the real ones for such a wonderful magazine? I copied parts of this page from the girls' announcements. If you would like to see what articles the Dixon girls have written, click over to their blogs
Saturday, May 3, 2008 - Saturday Psalm & Praise: The Old Rugged Cross
1 Corinthians 1:18 "For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God."
I believe I already posted The Old Rugged Cross as a Saturday Psalm & Praise before. When I read the accompanying scripture I had saved with it on a word document, I just knew it was today's post. "For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness." And "The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that doeth good." Psalm 14:1
The fool hath said... I certainly do not want that written about me. I don't want the word fool used in the same sentence! There are so many things we are fooled by, though, even as Believers. Oh Lord, help me to walk in your ways. Help me to search out your old paths and look and walk therein. Show me, Lord. Open my eyes, give me a willing heart to receive your word, that I might not be fooled!
I pray for courage to cling to you, Lord, to the Old Rugged Cross. Some folks say it is a crutch. I say it is a beacon in the darkness of a failing and hopeless world. Thank you for the cross, Jesus. Thank you for the cross for my children and my family and my friends. Thank you for the cross for the stranger, the homeless, the mom, the dad. Thank you for the cross for all.
The Old Rugged Cross
Words and music by George Bennard - 1913
On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross,
The emblem of suffering and shame;
And I love that old cross where the dearest and best For a world of lost sinners was slain.
So I’ll cherish the old rugged cross,
Till my trophies at last I lay down;
I will cling to the old rugged cross,
And exchange it some day for a crown.
O that old rugged cross, so despised by the world,
Has a wondrous attraction for me;
For the dear Lamb of God left His glory above
To bear it to dark Calvary.
So I’ll cherish the old rugged cross,
Till my trophies at last I lay down;
I will cling to the old rugged cross,
And exchange it some day for a crown.
In that old rugged cross, stained with blood so divine,
A wondrous beauty I see,
For ’twas on that old cross Jesus suffered and died,
To pardon and sanctify me.
So I’ll cherish the old rugged cross,
Till my trophies at last I lay down;
I will cling to the old rugged cross,
And exchange it some day for a crown.
To the old rugged cross I will ever be true; Its shame and reproach gladly bear;
Then He’ll call me some day to my home far away,
Where His glory forever I’ll share.
So I’ll cherish the old rugged cross,
Till my trophies at last I lay down;
I will cling to the old rugged cross,
And exchange it some day for a crown.
What do you cherish? Do you cherish your beloved? Your children? Your job, your car, your friends? What do you cherish?
Can you believe the third meaning of the word "cherish"? "to cling fondly or inveterately to." Wow.
Do you cherish your Lord? Do you cherish the One True God and His Son, Jesus?
Do you cherish The Old Rugged Cross?
Here are my two favorite oldest daughters, Amanda and Jocelyn. We took this picture for Jocelyn’s blog. Our family has had two giveaways, and we gave away Homeschool Boutique products in both of them, so they blessed Jocelyn with a really nice tshirt! She blogged about it on her post, Homeschool Boutique. I actually won a HB tshirt in a contest last year, and I love it. I should post it too.
We took this las week, when Sprittibee came to our house. Yes, I still need to blog about that!
Hopefully soon I will be able to blog this cute picture of my girls, but I need to take it down for now. :(
[PICTURE REMOVED]
Anyway, aren’t they beautiful!?! Click for a larger image.
Jocelyn is going to be 17 next week, and Amanda is officially finishing up high school this month.
Saturday, April 26, 2008 - Saturday Psalm & Praise: What A Day That Shall Be
Earthquakes... (CNN) -- Midwest Quake Felt Far and Wide - April 18, 2008 - People nearly 900 miles away felt a magnitude-5.2 earthquake that shook southern Illinois early Friday, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. There were no immediate reports of major damage after the predawn quake, which struck at 4:36 a.m. (5:36 a.m. ET). "Everything shook," "I thought the building was going to collapse." Famine... Food Crisis Spreads Across the Globe. Rice Shortage Triggers 50% Increase in Two Weeks - April 6, 2008 - Rising food prices has transformed food into an international political issue. Riots have erupted in Egypt, Haiti and Bangladesh over soaring food prices. People fought one another over bags of rice in West Africa. The causes and the solutions to the food crisis are complex.
Sickness... AIDS, malaria, tuberculosis, respiratory disease, meningitis, cancer, heart disease, obesity, kidney disease, diabetes, Top Ten Men's hearts failing them for fear...
WHAT A DAY THAT WILL BE
by Jim Hill
There is coming a day,
When no heart aches shall come,
No more clouds in the sky,
No more tears to dim the eye,
All is peace forever more,
On that happy golden shore,
What a day, glorious day that will be.
What a day that will be,
When my Jesus I shall see,
And I look upon His face,
The One who saved me by His grace;
When He takes me by the hand,
And leads me through the Promised Land,
What a day, glorious day that will be.
There'll be no sorrow there,
No more burdens to bear,
No more sickness, no pain,
No more parting over there;
And forever I will be,
With the One who died for me,
What a day, glorious day that will be.
What a day that will be,
When my Jesus I shall see,
And I look upon His face,
The One who saved me by His grace;
When He takes me by the hand,
And leads me through the Promised Land,
What a day, glorious day that will be.
If you are interested in finding other hymns and worship songs, Jesus is the Bridge has Old Fashioned Hymns and Lyrics to Hymns in the Public Domain, and Hymn Writer Biographies, Sheet Music, and Stories Behind the Songs.
Also see Bluegrass Gospel Lyrics.
Thursday, April 24, 2008 - Rosa of Linden Castle at HSBLC and Book giveaway
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We are excited about the next book discussion at HSB Literary Club, and we hope to have you join us as we read Rosa of Linden Castle. In this unique von Schmid classic, a daughter''s love for her imprisoned father ensures us that though it was meant for evil, God always intends it for good. Through difficult trials, Rosa learns what it means to truly love her enemies and to wait for the Lord's perfect timing.
One of our readers will even win a FREE COPY of Rosa of Linden Castle just by joining us for this discussion! These books are such little treasures with such powerful and eye-opening messages, we don't want you to miss out! We have also found that these books make wonderful family read-alouds and work well for character training in our homeschool. They are greatly enjoyed and understood by our children of different ages.
To join us, please visit the HSBLC blog and sign the Mr. Linky. Signing Mr. Linky automatically signs you up for the discussion and enters you to win the book.
Join Growing in Grace Magazine for Girls in honoring Moms! GGM is a one of a kind Bible-believing online magazine for girls! It is designed to inspire girls to live a virtuous life. Our team of authors are Christian girls under the leadership of our moderators, some of them being their own mothers. They are zealous in bringing God's Word to the girls of today and each reader has the opportunity to communicate their uplifting thoughts about the articles.
GGM is a unique place where the readers can ask questions about the articles and receive further admonishment from their peers. Finding a good, godly place for girls to study God's Word is very difficult in today's world. Many girls wonder if they are the last girl in the world who still wants to live a pure life, but at GGM they'll find that they're not alone. Their articles cover a wide range of topics applicable to girls today from peer pressure, purity, family life, beauty, health, and much more.
**More Prizes Added**
We have updated our Mother Daughter giveaway and added some prizes for the winner. Please be sure to contact us with your entry by this coming Saturday, April 26th!
ggmphotosubmissions@gmail.com
Growing in Grace Magazine wants to honor Christian mothers and daughters in May for Mother's Day! We'll be planning a special article just for this occasion and here's what we would like to do:
-Send us your best photo of mother with daughter(s).
-Girls: Tell us what makes YOUR mom so special.
-Photos may be of you doing something together, participating in a favorite hobby, or just a still pose. Your choice.
We'll choose one winning article to be featured in May's issue, but all participants photos will be featured in honor of your moms.
Please contact us and we'll send you a permission form to complete for using your photo.
All mothers with daughters 18 or younger may apply. Three/four generation photos are also accepted.
Edited to add: Deadline for submissions is April 26th!!!!
We also have a lovely little goody basket full of stationary (note pad, scrapbooking stickers, shopping list pad, pink note cards, Mary Engelbreit Journal, and garden note cards), a $5 Starbuck's gift card, a Semi-Precious Stone heart charm necklace with additional charms, AND that's not all!
You'll also get a KJV New Testament pocket Bible, and a fun book for mom, 'Death of a Six Foot Teddy Bear'. A fun little book on Girlfriends 'Moments of connection'
A Season's Best Recipe cookbook from Pampered Chef.
Also you'll get a Strawberry and a Cherry Lip Balm from Burt Bee's, as well as their Mini Lotion kit.
Prize Package valued at approx. $100
**If you are a vendor and would like to donate prize(s) for our winner, please contact us.
Contest for US mainland residents only
This is a wonderful way to show your mom and the whole world how much your mother means to you. Please pass this news onto your friends and invite others to join us. Here are two graphics you may use:
BUT WAIT! There's more! If you blog about this on your sites and send us the link to your entries, we'll enter your name FOR EACH BLOG you post this on, into the drawing. So help spread the word for a greater chance to win!
Monday, April 21, 2008 - The 45th Homesteading Carnival
Something Eric and Rachel and I were wishing we had the other day was a homemade candling box! Eric was sure he heard peeps coming from the eggs he had in the bowl of water to wash off. I was sure it was the air escaping from the shell, making a hissing sound. Rachel heard peeps. If you have ever questioned this, be sure to read what Suzanne wrote about Candling Eggs posted at Chickens in the Road. She shows you how to create a candling box.
Oh, and there were no chicks in our eggs, but the deviled eggs were sure delicious!
Dora Renee' Wilkerson shows us another fun and easy thing to do. She has wonderful pictures of how to make a Kumihimo braiding on a new disk she bought. Read her Braiding post posted at Y-2K Hippie.
SeaBird has harvested the last of the orange flowers from their butterfly garden. She did see at least one butterfly flitting about during the last couple of months. Read her presentation of From the butterfly garden posted at SeaBird Chronicles.
OOhhhh, my favorite! Mexican food! I love to make enchilada sauce from scratch, so I can't wait to read about Laura Williams' Enchilada Casserole posted at Laura Williams' Musings.
You can read some of our favorite Mexican Dinner recipes on the new blog I am trying to name. So far it has been Still Deciding (Jocelyn thinks she is funny), Life on the Homestead, and now it is Walking Therein. I am just trying the names on for size. Not sure if I shouldn't just stick with Seeking Rest in the Ancient Paths or Seeking rest on the Homestead or go with a new one. What do you think?
Autumn Beck has been reading about the ease and simplicity of flats, and it got her itching for a trial run, so she presents Flat Diapers?No Pins Necessary! posted at All About Cloth Diapers. I have made my own diapers, and I know it is a learning experience, so I can't wait to check this out!!
Stacy has a refreshing smoothie recipe to help start your day with energy! Her Green Tea Berry Smoothie is posted at Teaching Diligently - Homeschool Blogger. Oh man, does it look good. We have been sick around here, and in my research, I found that several of these ingredients are good for a cleanse for health. We just bought fruit and will be trying this this afternoon! Yumm!
You'll think you really died and went to heaven when you eat this cake Abi made. It is absolutely heavenly! The bad part about it all is that good things come to an end. You won't want to come to the end of this cake.Death by Chocolate posted at lighter side.
Erica Burgan shows us a cute little something that is also A Frugal Gift Made From Scratch posted at The Sojourner. Very cute gift idea. Or for yourself, even. And you can choose the fabric!
I am so glad we finally have flowers blooming and trees budding. It seems like it took forever for Spring to arrive here. Check out the beauty of spring and Amanda's hand at photography as she presents Gorgeous! posted at My Learning Experience.
I hope you have enjoyed the carnival this week. If you would like to submit a post to next week's carnival, please do so on this blogcarnival form. Our next hostess is SisterLisa at The HomeSpun Life.
Lately I have felt like I am miles behind. I think I always feel this way though. Things are so quickly constantly changing. Throw in illness or a mishap, or a goat kidding, and I feel further behind. I am pretty good about not letting it affect my attitude, but I think I am looking at the calendar, saying, "Where did April go?". Can you believe it is April 19th? Which that reminds me it is the anniversary of Waco, the OK City bombing and Columbine, if I am correct.
Here I shall digress... I remember watching Waco. We lived in Las Cruces, which is just 45m from El Paso, so it was weird that it was in Texas. The OK City bombing: we were in OK city on the 17th. We stayed the night there in a motel on our way back from Las Cruces to Bremen, where we had just moved to. I remember my brother and I took the Uhaul back to South Bend, and I saw it on the tv in the UHaul office. I was astonished and asked what was going on. Since we had just been there, it was quite unreal. And, Columbine. Well, most people have heard of it and remember it.
Here is a picture of Las Cruces. My mom and my dad-in-law and mom-in-law still live there, as well as many friends. We'll be taking a trip out there this summer. Anyone living between here and there, let me know if you want some visitors... Oh, and anyone in the area interested in goat and chicken-sitting, email me! We're throwing in the farm fresh eggs too!
Back to life today:
I am very busy. Of course I am. As are you. As are we all. I feel behind because I never caught up from our bout with Influenza. I had articles to write, articles to edit and reviews to get in that were late. I have a review to get done of a wonderful book that three of my children have read, but I have not. Had we caught up from then, I don't think I would feel so behind. It' hard to catch up on six weeks of life. Glad we don't have a stone schedule.
To top it all off, Lucy and I were sick last week with some virus that I must have gotten from the IM, because it is just like what Christina and her children had the week before. :) No, really, it was scary for us about Lucy. She had had diarrhea and a bit of cranky fever, and I was sure she was cutting a tooth. Then three days later, when there was blood and mucus in her diaper, it really freaked me out. That in itself is strange, because I always remain calm, cool and collected for our children. I also always pray, which is not just a repetitive act, but I believe God can and will heal us, if we only ask and believe. I made it a habit a long time ago to pray with our children through fears, hurts and bad tempers.
I asked Matt what he thought. He said, "Let's pray." I searched the internet for answers, and we just trusted the Lord to show us if we needed to take her to the hospital. We felt a peace about waiting and watching, so for the next three days, we did. I got whatever she had in that time, and she is still nursing and sleeping with me, thankfully, and after 3-4 days, we both got better. She cut a tooth shortly after! :) Very cute!
Now, we are nursing Isaac, Jocelyn and Rachel back to health. Matt has now had it for almost a week and has been going to bed as soon as he walks in the door. Eric and Hannah have been chasing chickens from the front yard. I have been chasing Caleb. I even put an eye and hook on the screen door. Amanda has bee doing almost all the chores that Jocelyn and Rachel usually do. She and Eric, who usually have personality conflicts (I think it is a firstborn thing) have been working very well together. Without the horses, I also realized that Eric and Hannah can feed the chickens and goats and put them away without help. And, no, Chloe has *not* yet kidded. I think the other *not-pregnant* goats will kid before she does! We do keep checking on her though.
Eric, Hannah, Isaac, Caleb and I did get to sit outside on a blanket yesterday and read the science curriculum I am reviewing. It was fun. Since the weather has been nice, they have been outside a lot more. It is hard for me to keep them in now, and I usually find them outside just enjoying it after they go to do a chore or something.
Proverbs 16:9 A man's heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps.
In the midst of it all - even feeling behind, I am thankful to the Lord for it all. He has put it into our living to just live life. We always work around life and through life anyway, so all of this is really not being behind. We aren't really behind on a schedule, just projects I wanted to get done. Having a daily routine with room for flexibility, as well as planning ahead is the way to beat frustration. Otherwise, feeling behind can be very frustrating.
Projects on my list right now are:
*Finding out how Cowboy the wonder buck is getting out and fixing the pen so that he cannot. Either that or feed him so much that he is too fat to squeeze through!
*Planning and setting aside the books for our next school session.
*Getting back into the daily praise and worship habit.
*Take a daily or every other day walk with the Littles.
*Rewriting many of the course plans I made up and are on my missing flash drive.
*Writing/editing articles for Growing in Grace (side note: I realized the other day that I literally have over 50 articles/posts to correct/teach on/edit for the girls each month, and that does not include my own articles and blog posts!)
*Finish up April reviews
*Ready the garden and plan that.
*Box up all my Partylite and have the girls write their initials on the pieces they like. Decide what I want to keep, use or get rid of.
*Ready all items in the garage we are getting rid of for the town-wide garage sale. I am going to give away at least 80% of all of it.
*Set up my website and download and design a new template.
*Write up at least one of the ten EBooks I have on my list!
A praise is that the sickies are all getting better! Another is that I prayed last week and asked the Lord to provide another pen, and Matt came home with a free one last night! Even the little stuff!
Right now, Isaac and Caleb are watching a lady on a cooking show make fig preserves. They are literally riveted to their seats watching it. I don't know if it really so interesting or if it's because they don't watch tv. Jocelyn loves cooking and recipes, so her request to turn up the volume is not surprise. Poor girl. She has been so sick. None of them are in danger of dehydration, because we drink a lot of water and it is no chore to get it into any of them, but she has not been hungry at all and has felt just miserable.
Maybe everyone is just hungry! lol. Isaac turned around and smiled when they showed a tortilla and cheese. We haven't made tortillas in some time! They are making a sandwich wrap, and I must say it looks delicious! That is one thing we always made when we had company, a wrap cut into small rolls. Quick and easy, we need to start doing that again!
I am just finished nursing little Lucy and she is pleasantly and contently sleeping in my lap. Life is as it should be.
We're praying that you all get well very soon.
Last night, I burned my index and middle finger of my left hand while making popcorn in our whirlypopper. I had my hand in ice water all night and had to hold an ice pack while trying to sleep. Thank the Lord it didn't end up blistering at all.
We took a break from the computer this weekend to do some much needed gardening. I hope to have flowers in a few weeks! :O)
OH I feel so bad for Joci! I hope she feels better soon! I think I am late on commenting though.. lol will call her as soon as she is in perfect health again so I don't wear her out with my jabbering ;)
I hope Lucy is all better and will not catch anything again. Stuff has been floating around here but I just keep drinking water and hopefully I will not catch anything.
I pray all the other Dixon children are doing well.. talk to you later!
Love
Julia
(Ps- I love reading about things going on around your household :) )
1I waited patiently for the LORD; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry.
2He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings.
3And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the LORD.
4Blessed is that man that maketh the LORD his trust, and respecteth not the proud, nor such as turn aside to lies.
5Many, O LORD my God, are thy wonderful works which thou hast done, and thy thoughts which are to us-ward: they cannot be reckoned up in order unto thee: if I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be numbered.
6Sacrifice and offering thou didst not desire; mine ears hast thou opened: burnt offering and sin offering hast thou not required.
7Then said I, Lo, I come: in the volume of the book it is written of me,
8I delight to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law is within my heart.
9I have preached righteousness in the great congregation: lo, I have not refrained my lips, O LORD, thou knowest.
10I have not hid thy righteousness within my heart; I have declared thy faithfulness and thy salvation: I have not concealed thy lovingkindness and thy truth from the great congregation.
11Withhold not thou thy tender mercies from me, O LORD: let thy lovingkindness and thy truth continually preserve me.
12For innumerable evils have compassed me about: mine iniquities have taken hold upon me, so that I am not able to look up; they are more than the hairs of mine head: therefore my heart faileth me.
13Be pleased, O LORD, to deliver me: O LORD, make haste to help me.
14Let them be ashamed and confounded together that seek after my soul to destroy it; let them be driven backward and put to shame that wish me evil.
15Let them be desolate for a reward of their shame that say unto me, Aha, aha.
16Let all those that seek thee rejoice and be glad in thee: let such as love thy salvation say continually, The LORD be magnified.
17But I am poor and needy; yet the Lord thinketh upon me: thou art my help and my deliverer; make no tarrying, O my God.
We finished reading Helen's Temper on the HSB Literary Club. I didn't finish it yet, but Amanda and Christina did. So did Eyebright. I am still plugging along on chapter 4.
I would like to thank Amanda and Christina for leading the entire discussion of Helen's Temper for the past month. Just being into chapter 4, I cannot believe how horribly mean Helen is. I mean, seriously. I am astonished. At first, I could not understand why Helen's mother is oblivious to Helen's temper, but then I had to think about the fact that she does seem to suspect something and seems distressed over it.
I do know how it is to see one of our children acting out in a sinful manner and not be able to control it. Sometimes, not even knowing how to address it. In Helen's Temper, Helen has fooled many. She and her prideful, snippy friends are just manipulative bullies who have not yet been caught. We all know children like this. We know Christians who behave this way, boys and girls... men and women. We have probably acted this way in some manner at some time in our lives. The question is, did we mature? The question about Helen is, "Is she really spiritually mature?".
On the outside, she appears spiritually mature, but on the inside, she is hateful, vengeful and downright nasty. Off to read the rest of the book.... I hope she matures.
Friday, April 18, 2008 - Encouraging, Informing and Connecting the Homeschool Community: HSBA
Last year, Jocelyn told me that she had been talking to Heather Sprittibee about the Homeschool Blog Awards site, and all of the exciting things Heather had planned for it. She wanted it to be more than just the blog awards site. Heather had planned to have daily columns like a magazine and was hoping it woud be more of a year-round site, rather than the site that was only busy for the three months of the blog awards.
Heather came up with different ideas to cover different things, like Memo Monday, Tuesday Tour, Winner Wednesday, Thursday Thoughts, and Foto Friday. Her plan was great and would make the site a homeschool resource that many homeschoolers could enjoy and be encouraged by. I can't imagine the time that Heather put into planning and gathering writers to support her in the site. I think it has been almost a year that Amanda, Jocelyn and I joined her and the team at HSBA to write.
A lot of things have happened in the past year on HSBA. We are now working with a new team, but the core team from the end of the '07 Blog Awards is still on board, and I cannot tell you the impact these Godly women have made on me and on my daughters in the past year. They are real friends. Friends I can talk to. Friends who will help and who will pray. They are wonderful wives, moms and homeschoolers.
Dawn, from My Home Sweet Home, owns her own blog design company, Barefoot Blog Designs. She has completely redesigned the site and updated our wordpress, which has been wonderful. We are now hosted by Paul at ShatteringWindows.com, and I know that Dawn worked relentlessly to get the new site in order as soon as possible. Paul was a great help in administrating all of that with her. I know that Amanda and Jocelyn worked with Dawn and some of the other ladies as we made the final changes. The new site is really beautiful. We have something I am going to have when I get my wp blog on my site all done, and that is a template switcher. The new template is warm and cozy and inviting. Dawn did a beautiful job, and I really appreciate all of her hard work.
We have added some new writers in the past month too. Our new team members may not be new to you. I am personally well-acquainted with two of them. They are two of my very good friends. I have known Christina for almost two years. I met her here at HSB, and she has become a very dear friend to not just me but our family. We talk almost every day, even if it is just to see how each other is doing. We have spoken and prayed together many times on IM and on the phone. I love her dearly. SisterLisa is a friend I just met within the past year, and she surprised me one day with an email asking if the girls and I would be interested in creating an online girls magazine dedicated to upholding the standards of God's Word and differentiating it from the world. There is not one like it, and we are glad to she asked us to join her and be a part of it. She is a very sweet Christian wife and mom, and we have become fast friends since we pushed our first GGM issue out in February in just 2 weeks!
De'Etta, Susan, and Marybeth are three others who have joined us, and I look forward to getting to know them better. De'Etta has joined us on our Yahoo Group, and I have been enjoying getting to know her too.
I think you will find that the Authors on HSBA are fulfilling the motto of Encouraging, Informing and Connecting the Homeschool Community! Go on over and check it out!
blessings!
Wednesday, April 16, 2008 - Memo Monday: Online Homeschool Groups
This week I am writing for the Homeschool Blog Awards site. I have compiled a small list of some of the almost 6000 yahoo groups listed under Homeschooling. There is something for everybody. DeEtta left a comment saying that they move often, and online homeschool groups have provided the bulk of support for her. Click on over to
Yes it was wonderful to get to meet your family! Would y'all like to come and visit us sometime? ;) Would you like the pictures emailed to you, or just printed out and delivered?
Monday, April 14, 2008 - Homeschoolers and Science: Creationism or Evolution?
In his article, Homeschoolers Who Don´t Learn Science Shouldn´t Receive a Diploma, Mr. Shives opens with a telling attitude about homeschooling: "There are many, many things I find dubious about the practice of parents homeschooling their children." He then proceeds to go on to prove he knows little about homeschooling and especially about the way children learn by saying, "I wonder how a mother or father who has not been educated as a teacher, who in many cases has not even been to college her/himself, can possibly provide their child with as good an education as students receive in our much-maligned public schools. And I can´t help but think that these homeschool students, of whom there are several million in the United States, are being robbed of a crucial formative experience by not attending school with other people their age and being forced to interact with a diverse group of peers."
I have to laugh out loud with his purely simple assessment of the totality of a child's "crucial formative experience", their learning experience, to "attending school with other people their age and being forced to interact with a diverse group of peers". The guy really needs to meet some homeschoolers, maybe read a few blogs. I don't have to force my children to do much, if anything. They interact well with others their own age and below and beyond. They love to learn. They are excited about life. They have learned this by being homeschooled, because, by its very nature, it nurtures a love for family, people and learning.
The entire rest of the article does not even address this 'concern' of his, so why does he say all of this? What could be so important for him to have to give this opinion about homeschoolers? Is he worried that we need to mix homeschoolers in with the other government-schooled kids as a giant science experiment to see what happens? No. I think the word "forced" is the tell-tale word here. He believes that homeschooled children should be forced to go to a government school and learn a government-based agenda. I think the word diverse is what he wants to force on homeschoolers. As in religious diversity.
Reading further into the article, you will find that he is worried that the fundamentalist Christian homeschoolers are not learning about evolution. He makes it abundantly clear that his definition of science, which only includes an evolutionary theory as the basis, must be forced on all those Creationists. Now, his article is entitled Homeschoolers Who Don´t Learn Science Shouldn´t Receive a Diploma, but, let's call it as it is, and just say that he would like the creationists to trade in their own religious beliefs for his of evolution.
He is so concerned that the Creationist definition of the creation of the earth is being taught to homeschooled children. He has been indoctrinated into the belief in the theory of Darwinism and evolution as the only way the earth was created, and he believes it as the truth. It is quite ironic that this is a concern of creationists about the government schools, isn't it? We are concerned about the fact that the Creation as told in the Bible has been taken out of science and the schools, along with prayer, morality and other God-given admonishments of truth and replaced with humanism, evolution, political-correctness and immorality.
He states, "Instead of evolutionary biology, which has been the keystone of the life sciences for over 150 years, homeschool students are taught creationism—that the God of the Bible personally created the universe more or less as described in the Book of Genesis. There are several varieties of creationism—Young Earth, Old Earth, Omphalosian, Neo—all thoroughly discredited. Increasingly, it is dressed in the pseudoscientific trappings of intelligent design. Whatever its proponents choose to call it, regardless of the intellectual contortions it performs to make the Biblical creation account plausible, it isn´t science and it should never be taught as such."
First of all, science, Creationism, etc. have been around for a lot longer than 150 years. So, if we want to go the route of teaching what has been around for the longest time, let's go with Creationism. The story of Adam and Eve, Creation, the snake, etc., have been passed down from generation to generation for six thousand years. Just because a government legislates something as what to teach does not always make it right or truth.
Secondly, to call it "pseudoscientific trappings", is purely his own conjecture. I can absolutely say the same thing about evolution. Just because evolution-proponents choose to dismiss discoveries that prove Creationism or ignore where evolutionary science has been refuted does not make evolution true.
The definition of pseudo-science is "a pretended or mistaken science," 1844, from pseudo- (q.v.) + science.
This is definitely one we as Creationists can apply to evolutionists, just as they apply to us. To me, that makes it opinion, based on our own experiences and knowledge.
Another definition of pseudoscience is "a system of theories, assumptions, and methods erroneously regarded as scientific."
In answer to his opinion that homeschoolers should have to learn his idea of science to receive a diploma, I say he is stepping into boundaries he does not have any knowledge of. He is making assumptions that Christian homeschoolers do not learn about evolution at all. Honestly, we teach our children about evolution. We teach our children in high school about evolution from an educational standpoint, not as truth overriding the Creator. We also watch public television, and when you do, you can't help but have to explain evolution to some degree. Matt and I sit there astonished at the absurd questions evolutionists have to things we just attribute to God as Creator, all-knowing. We wonder at God and His creation. We know to whom these wonders are attributed.
The question of college is one that I do not even need to speak to. The flood of colleges who want homeschoolers in their schools has been documented many times before. Homeschoolers are good students. They are serious students. Colleges know this. Colleges are accepting homeschooled students, period.
Let us talk about careers, though. How many high school graduates actually attend, finish and receive a degree at college, then go into the field of study they received that degree in?
Now, how many of them are scientific careers requiring a belief in evolution?
How many careers require a belief in evolution?
We need people in this world to work at fast-food restaurants, check out our groceries and pick up our trash. We need police officers and highway men and furniture salesmen. Most people are not going to become molecular biologists. I am obviously not saying that homeschoolers aren't, but if you read his article, you would believe that homeschoolers are believing fairy dust and in no wise could pass a college science course. I see no facts presented to support this theory.
I believe this article was written based on the different opinions the author has heard about homeschoolers and tied it in with the same outrage most people have about homeschooling: they can't control it. It is good. It is working, and they can't get their hands into it. I don't believe he did his research about homeschooling. He even had to add and Edit into the article to correct the demographics of homeschoolers. I think his article is more about fundamentalist Christian homeschoolers not having their children indoctrinated into evolution as their government-schooled counterparts are.
So, to sum up this ideology, if the colleges only teach evolution or sciences based on evolutionary science, which is a flawed theory, then everyone must simply go along with it, in order to survive in this world. Homeschoolers must teach evolution as science in their homes in order for their students to receive a diploma. If they are not taught evolution as fact, a Christian could not survive in college based on that alone. The one factor Mr. Shives is missing, yet again, is the God factor. We fundamentalist Creationist Christians believe that with God all things are possible. Even in a world that is fooled by the religion of evolution.
If you would like to read this same article posing the question as to whether government-schooled children should receive a diploma without learning about Creationism as science, Deb did a fantastic job of putting it all together. Tia also made the excellent point that "Believing in God does not change HOW any of those things work. It only changes my perspective on WHY it works," in her take on it at Home Where They Belong.
Great post, Jacque! It gives me a lot to think about. We are about as Biblical creationist as you can get, yet we will also teach our kids the history and facts about evolution and why this theory is so widely accepted. We will also go into why scientists are so dogmatic about their assertions in evolution and what we can learn from their tendencies. That would be part of a science called psychology.
Monday, April 14, 2008 - The Church of Oprah: David and Goliath
Matt and I were discussing religions and pharisees and Jesus' time the other night, and he brought up the Church of Oprah. I had not heard of it. I don't have time to sit around and watch television, and if I did, I most certainly would not watch Oprah Winfrey. I watched her many years ago occasionally, but her claim to be a Christian never did set well with me. She was way too much into her own self and her beliefs even then rang true of New Age philosophy.
I came across a video link on Dana Bailey's blog today. As I watched it, I was grieved in my spirit. I could not contain the tears. Oh what have Christians done, believing her and supporting her show all these years?!?! And today, we are all paying for it.
Bill Keller of LivePrayer.com is doing what should be done. Now, I have not researched Mr. Keller. I am only testifying that he is right in standing up for Jesus against this flood. (I did watch another interview with him.) Are you articulate enough to debate Oprah in an open forum against her new age beliefs? We all should be as Christians. The Bible says
14But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled;
15But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:
16Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ.
Oprah will probably just dismiss this little David. She will play it off, but I watched her video, and even she does not yet get what she is selling to the masses.
Christian parents: Daily. All day. Every day. Teach your children about Christ. Old Testament and New. Teach them about Truth. Make the Bible so real to them that they will know a lie when they hear it. If you homeschool, you can do this. You have your children home all day. They are not being taught this New Age guru heresy that Oprah is teaching. You can teach them about the Truth. Do not waste your time or theirs. Take advantage of every moment to talk about God and His ways. Someday soon, our lives may depend on it.
Cheers to this modern day David for standing up against Oprah the Goliath.
In further searching, I found a video where Mr. Keller found words that Oprah has already said to "debate" her false religious beliefs.
Christian, if you are watching Oprah and her ideas sound new and fresh to you; if they sound good and make you feel good, you are in danger of losing the very soul you think you are setting free. Oprah may be a good person, but she is on her way to hell, and you are following her there. Set your feet on the straight and narrow path and come off from her wide path leading many to destruction. She speaks of freedom? The Truth will set you free. The Truth is Jesus. Jesus will set you free. Period.
31Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;
32And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
Stop continuing in Oprah's word and get into the Word of God. You are in bondage. Also, please be aware the Oprah is a huge proponent for Barak Obama. That alone should be a red flag. And her support should be a big flag for Obama supporters.
Jacque,
This is so disturbing. My husband and I watched the links and are truly disturbed by what we saw. Thank you for shedding light on this and I plan on posting a post linking back here.
Blessings,
Trixi
homesteadblogger.com/spencerschool
Her show has just turned into another smut talk show in my opinion. Just like the Enquirer magazine, just a bunch of spoof. A person who claims to have been a Christian then to turn on the only Lord and true Savior only to attempt to lead others astray doesn't have too long left in my opinion. Let's see... God didn't like Aaron leading the people to worship idols and he opened the earth to swallow half of the people up.
I won't be one of those people. (Praise God) I *know* I'm saved!
And just today I prayed for his second coming. I'm ready.
thanks for the link Jacque! You are so right. We must continue to teach our children the Word now. Teach them what God has to say about false prophets and the last days. They must know what they believe & why they believe it.
I cryed, I who never cries in front of people if I can help it started crying when my mum showed me a video about her "church" I was upset because of how she talked about our Savior and Lord like He did not exist. It is upsetting.
Yes, I was sad to see how many people were in the photos that we had no clue who they were and the people who would know are dead or have slipped so much that they cannnot rember.
I would love your help! I went onto the Creative Memories I really like there things. I hope to be able to get those into a scrap book soon! Thankyou for stopping by!
love ya too! :D
GB~
sharla~
Your blog is so full of stuff! You sound like a lady I would really like to know and be like. I will continue reading your blogs and maybe some of the stuff will rub off on me. ;) I've been homeschooling for six years now - just a drop in the bucket compared to you, huh? I really enjoyed the music you have playing. I just left your blog on my pc while I was cleaning the kitchen. Very relaxing.
Monday, April 14, 2008 - What Is Wrong With People? Has This Ever Happened To You?
A couple of things that have happened this week have caused me to pose this question: Has this ever happened to you? After reading the last two, you can also ask the question, "What is wrong with people?".
In my warm bed, sleeping peacefully, snug as a bug in a rug....
I am startled awake by Eric running into the house yelling that Chloe is in labor. Lest I forget to remind you... none of our goats are pregnant (right Jocelyn??). So, Chloe is in labor... zzzz... WHAT? Chloe's in labor??? I jump up, go to Amanda's room, hand off Loolie, then downstairs... I run (yeah, do not try to picture it) down to the barn, pulling on shoes and my coat as I go... she is in labor, yes indeedy. We watched and watched and watched.
Of course, I knew she wouldn't kid until it was either a blinding snowstorm or sleeting rain. Since neither of those weather events has happened, neither has Chloe's kidding. No kidding. For real. This was 2 days ago. Goats.... sheesh
(For the record: Actually, the "Mom, Mom!!!! Chloe is kidding!!" did happen last year, and we ran down in time to save the first kid and assist with the other two... Same thing with Heidi)
Has it ever happened to you?
Has this ever happened to you #2:
Enjoying a delicious meal, salting my chicken, telling Jocelyn how delicious the rice is... I look out the window to see a truck stopped down in the dark on the road. Our home is about two hundred feet from the road. Matt and I run to the door and window. As our porch light is turned on, I see a man in a ball cap walk past the rear lights to our side of the road and then walk back. He gets into his truck. I was relieved because we have a freezer sitting down there for sale, and after a man left disgruntled this afternoon, wanting it for free, I thought he had come back to steal it.
Next thing I hear, our trash container is being dragged down the road!! No joke. Really. I mean, what is wrong with people?? Did they run out of dogs to kick and kittens to torture? What happened to just teepeeing a house? The bonehead thief and vandal stole our garbage can! Not a little regular can either, one of those larger, 4 foot deals on wheels with a heavy lid that's attached.
Our next concern was our neighbor's mailbox. See, this is a real fun game for hoodlums: drag a trash container down the road and see if you can knock out the next guy's mailbox. Our poor neighbor has had to replace his box twice already. We keep trying to figure out how we can rig it to explode on impact from a flailing garbage can and teach these guys a lesson...
Matt hops into his truck and goes after the truck, which.. how they do this, I have no idea... he and Amanda have determined to be a Chevy truck just from the taillights. He comes upon them at the bridge, where they are stopped, out of the truck. Hmmm.... I wonder where our trash container is?? Complete morons. So, they jump into their truck, and Matt follows them. I am envisioning a whole Dukes of Hazzard thing here that is kinda' scary. Anyway, Matt followed them into town, but lost them when his truck failed and they turned around -in someone's yard!
And #3:
The story from last year was even better. We live on the end of a country road, so I guess these people with nothing better to do with their lives just consider us good fodder for idiocy. For a couple of weeks a Volkswagen bug kept driving up to our driveway and sitting there, honking. And honking and honking. At all hours of the night. Three am. Eleven pm. Twelve am. Well, I guess the driver and entourage were extremely bored that evening, because they came back a several times.
The third time was their lucky time, because Matt had driven his little truck down there and parked in the shadows right at the end of the drive and followed them ten miles into town. NOT what they expected. At all.As he followed them, he could tell they were a bunch of twenty-something kids. Jocelyn was along with him on the phone with me the whole time.
He got out at the Kroger parking lot where they pulled in and asked them what they were up to. Of course, they had no idea what he was talking about. As if he hadn't just followed them all that way. Needless to say, after a police report and the officers questioning them, we had no more weekly visits!
Has that ever happened to you?
We used to live in a rental house that backed onto a golf course. Being a rental, the landlord wasn't interested in fencing the back of the property. We soon got used to finding golf balls on the property (we collected them) but we were surprised one day to see a golf buggy doing laps of a huge tree in our backyard.
And then there was a time when a stranger, knowing we had no fence, got the taxi to stop out the front of our house and wait while he went 'inside to get his wallet'. Of course, he ran straight through the yard and onto the golf course. The taxi driver came knocking on our door looking for money - thank goodness he believed us when he saw the missing fence and the golf course.
And then there was the time some drunks from a party a few houses down decided to walk through our yard and threaten to plant a bomb under our kitchen window.
I grew up in the country, and stuff like that happened ALOT. Which is why we all kept guns in our rooms.If stray dogs attacked our rabbit cages or guys tried to steal gas out of the equipment or cars, just leaning out my window and firing my rifle into the air took care of it. My brother and I raced to see who could scare them off first. Unless my dad was quicker. :D
for every time I wondered WHAT exactly is wrong with people. LOL WE live on a country road too, and have had our mailbox taken out a few times. What is the fun in that?? I don't get it. We also have hoodlums down the road who think it is fun to drag race here at night with their headlights off. Wha???? And one night some kids parked in front of our yard in the middle of the night after peeling through the gravel in our driveway, so that they could yell at each other and make threats that involved guns. They moved off without further incident before I could call the police, but boy I wished I'd had even an air rifle handy to fire through the window and scare them off. Morons. LOL
Blessings,
And prayers that the hoodlums will leave you alone,
Kym
We had the same problem and this is sooo easy to solve. Go and get your granddaddy's old shot gun (a double barrel is the best) and get some blanks or use live ammo. Lie in wait for them and fire into the air, away from any homes....just in case.
After they clean their pants out, I doubt you will see them again. Not to mention they have a tendency to warn other fools.
Go and get some of the paintball balls (in sport section of Wal-mart) and tape with black electrical tape all around the mail box. Make sure the sides of the balls are exposed that way they will splatter out.
The next time the little hoodlins come to play mailbox baseball, they will have some explaining to do as to why there is paint all over dad's car. (dont worry, it will wash off)
Maybe I live a boring life, but nothing like that has happened to me. I think I'm glad.
Oh, we did have a neighbor burst into our apartment one early morning. She was high on drugs scared out of her mind. I never forget to lock the door now.
Peace to you,
Renae
http://lifenurturingeducation.com
Sounds like stuff my husband did when he was a kid.. What did he call it again....? Mailbox Baseball ya that's it. Just bored people who .....well if I keep on it will only make him look bad. LOL
But Fiona did wake me up after she gave birth to her first kitten. I'll never forget it! What an experience!
Not to scare you, only to make you cautious. Maybe they were stealing your trash for private information. Dh is a cop and they steal bad guys' trash all the time. Shred everything, and you should be OK.
~C
http://isaish5413.blogspot.com
Well, no. Those are some pretty crazy things and is Matt just fearless or what?
Now that I think about it, the first year that we lived in the home we are in now, we had three sheriff's visits. Each one was delivering a warrant for a previous resident of this house. Three different people wanted by the law and they were still serving the warrants to our home. After the third visit and some pleading on our parts, they realized that those people didn't live here anymore.
So no more trying to convince the sheriff that I really am not who they are looking for. :)
Friday, April 11, 2008 - Spanking, Abuse and Drug Problems
In the spirit of my previous post about AB2943 that will make spanking in CA illegal, I am going to post this newspaper clipping that was passed to me from someone on Home Where They Belong. I received an anonymous comment saying that spanking is abuse. My reply to that comment is in this vein.
Enjoy the irony of it all.... and lament the sadness...
Click on the picture if you can't see the whole clipping.
I wanted to mention that I've added the Training Daughters Blog Roll to my side bar on one theme so far (I have to manually add the code to each theme.) I wanted to ask if you had the graphic in a 140pixel width?? I need one a little smaller if possible. I could probably figure out a way myself, but wanted to ask first :)
Hey Great post.
That birthday picture of Lucy reminds me of the birthday picture of you in the blue dress with the white rocking chair. (your 1 yr pic)
Love, mom
One of the officials that the letter about the disciplining goes to a personal friend of ours, Rick Keene. He lives in my town, is a homeschooling family, and goes to church in our town too. He has been a special guest at our ministry banquet quite a few times and speaks for us as well. He has a powerful testimony. I sent my letter to him. :O)
The more I read about California, the more I would move immediately if I lived there. Thank you for sharing this clipping. It was great. I always enjoy your blog here and at homesteadblogger.
Blessings,
Trixi
www.homesteadblogger.com/spencerschool
You fit in best with people born between 1925 and 1942.
You are a person of high values and character.
Family, your country, loyalty, and hard work all important to you.
You are willing to do what's right, even when it's difficult.
Makes me love my Grandparents even more!!!
blessings!
I can't tell you how much I appreciated being able to come to your home and meet you and your family. It was so kind of you! I told my mom, "For all they know, we could be kleptomaniacs!" And you still welcomed us!
We all had a good time, and I hope we can see each other again soon. I really enjoyed drawing for the Littles. :)
Friday, April 11, 2008 - Emergency Alert: AB 2943 will arrest parents who spank!
I received this information in an email. I think some of these CA legislators have completely lost all of their minds. Totally. I believe in the power of the voting box, but PRAYER is even stronger than that!
Let's pray for these decisions. I have said this before... and I saw a trickling of the CA anti-homeschool law affect other state decisions... if this becomes law, it WILL affect every American. Period. We are deceiving ourselves if we think it won't.
Your immediate action is needed. Please contact all the committee members and your own representatives too. AB 2943 is scheduled for a hearing and vote Tuesday, April 15 in the Assembly Public Safety Committee. There are four Democrats and two Republicans on the committee. If this ratio holds firm and one Democrat votes "no" or abstains, AB 2943 would be stopped.
April 10, 2008: The legislator who wants to arrest and jail good parents who occasionally spank their children is back with a vengeance.
Assemblywoman Sally Lieber, the termed-out Democrat Speaker pro Tempore from the San Jose area, has gutted and amended her bill AB 2943, tranforming it into last year's highly-controversial bill punishing any parent who uses an “implement” to spank their children.
AB 2943 would label good, loving parents -- who occasionally use a little paddle, a ruler, a little stick, or a brush to correct their youngster's misbehavior -- as official "child abusers" in the eyes of the law.
Under AB 2943, police officers, district attorneys, juries, and child protective services will view ALL parents who spank as suspected child abusers worthy of investigation.
This bad bill would mean good parents could be arrested and spend the night in jail. Their children would be removed from the home and placed in foster care for "protection." If convicted of using an "implement" to spank their child (even if it was only one time), the parent would be ordered into "nonviolent parental education" and their children could be taken away for four years or more.
PLEASE ACT NOW
AB 2943 is scheduled for a hearing and vote Tuesday, April 15 in the Assembly Public Safety Committee. There are four Democrats and two Republicans on the committee. If this ratio holds firm and one Democrat votes "no" or abstains, AB 2943 would be stopped.
Your immediate action is needed. Please contact all the committee members and your own representatives too.
1. Contact the committee members and your own elected representatives in Sacramento
2. Bring yourself and your children to the April 15 hearing at the State Capitol. The committee members need to see and hear from good mothers and good fathers that AB 2943 would tranform into suspected child abusers. We need California moms and dads and their children to pack out the committee room!
Please rearrange your schedule, cancel other activities, put aside your fear, put on faith, and show up to the committee room on Tuesday, April 15. Be prepared to go to the microphone to say your name and why you’re opposed to AB 2943. Ten seconds of speaking is all that is needed. Yes, you can do it.
State Capitol, 10th and L Streets in Sacramento
Room 126 on the first floor near the north side entrance
Assembly Public Safety Committee begins Tuesday, April 15, 2008 at 9 a.m.
(Plan to park by 8:15 a.m. and get to the committee room by 8:30 a.m. for limited seating; the committee hearing is expected to last until lunchtime)
CAMPAIGN FOR CHILDREN AND FAMILIES (CCF) is a leading West Coast pro-family organization empowering citizens to live out their values. Sign up today for CCF's free email updates at www.savecalifornia.com. Your partnership empowers CCF's innovative work on behalf of children and families in culture, media and government. Please support CCF by making a secure online donation or by sending a tax-deductible gift of any size to:
This is not an alarmist view. This is something, that if passed, will give yet another precedent for lawmakers to continue to systematically take away the rights of parents to lovingly lead their children to the Lord just so the state can further their own agenda.
This is not about child abuse. This is about the government getting their hands just a little further into our business. They want our children. They want to eliminate our freedom to act out our faith. Bills like this are only brought up to enable them to take children for their own reasons or benefit, not the family's or the child's. This is wrong. God did not intend for them to abuse their place in the government.
We are the parents. I know that means little to those who are power-hungry people, but it means everything to God. You cannot lump all parents into the same mold. America is not supposed to be a Socialist country. We are free to live out our faith, just as others of no faith are... or we should be free to.
Thank you for the heads up on this. Even though we are not in CA, one never knows just how pervasive this type of legislation could become in our country. I will pray!
This is not the first time CA has attempted to pass this law. As I have stated before, our rights are not written in stone, they are written on paper and we must continually fight for them.
Also, in regards to the comment before mine. I see why they did not leave their name. I would not either if I left such a foolish statement. If you are going to make yourself look like a fool, please stick to comments on subjects you know about. Your comment shows you know very little about raising children .....correctly.
I agree that spanking can be abuse. So can feeding your child, speaking to your child, educating your child, medicating your child, having your child do chores, buying them things... do you get the picture??
Do you really want the government telling you that you can't feed them Lucky Charms or hot dogs? Maybe they will legislate that a child doesn't need that fourth pair of designer jeans or to go to that snobby uppity private school. Perhaps you will go to jail someday because you swore in front of your child. Or yelled at them. Or read them the Bible. Have you read the Convention on the Rights of a Child??
Is all of this lazy parenting? I would have to say yes, some of it, from my perspective, is. We won't talk about sending a child to be taught by other teens and strangers whose beliefs one has no idea of is, and whether or not that is abuse.
This is why we have rights in this country. We are innocent until proven guilty. Spanking a child does not mean we are automatically guilty of abuse. What was our country like when parents actually *did* spank their children? Have you ever read about that?
Perhaps you enjoy seeing the school shootings and rapes and murders, hazings and other things that selfish, spoiled rotten, demanding, and lazy children do. I do not. We are raising our children in love. For many parents, spanking is a part of that, just as telling them, "No, you may not do that" is.
I am interested in how you teach a child to stay away from the road. One who is persistent in going to the road. Do you just say, "Well, when you get hit by a car, then you will understand."? Lest you forget, I am a mom of eight children. All children are not compliant, nor do they all give a hoot about time-outs or taking away their favorite toys. Some children need a swift swat to understand that there are consequences to disobedience, before that consequence is being hurt or killed in the road, or being burned on the stove - or burning down their own house. How do you people live?
If you are not someone who adheres to the Bible and its standards, there really is no more discussion here. Actually, if you do adhere to it, there is no more discussion. I mean, really now, God allows bad consequences for disobedience.
Proverbs 13:24
He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.
Hebrews 12:6
For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.
You are correct that hitting a child is abuse. Spanking can be abuse. One cannot just label it lazy parenting, because they disagree with it any more than the government should be able to haul good parents off to jail because of it. In many cases, it is not abuse, but loving and proactive teaching to future well-behaved, considerate adults.
I am South African, but have lived in the UK for 8 years now. Your article was spot on. I could not have put it down so well myself. I homeschool 4 girls as well and take flack for doing it "Spare the rod, spoil the child". Children need boundaries, not freedom to do as they please. As they grow and mature and learn what is right.
I can tell you as well, from experience that children MUST have boundaries. My husband is a recovery pastor in a 12 step Christian alcohol and drug center. He teaches a 'boundaries' class. We see the product of an undisciplined child every single day. These GROWN men tell us that they WISHED their parents would have lovingly spanked them.
In my opinion, all this started back when mothers left the home to go to work and thought they had a 'right' to be successful. They lost sight of the fact that being successful is meant to be in their homes.
I like your comment Jacque. I would love to see exactly "how they live"... but I bet they really are the lazy ones, expecting (or complying with) the govt. to raise their kids for them. When they end up with bad fruit, that fruit is taken care of for free in prison.
I was thinking about posting some homeschool conference information, and I was searching my Inbox, and I found a note from THM Editor:
If you can squeeze it in your family budget, I'd really encourage you to attend a homeschool conference in your area. TOS will be at eight different ones this year. If you get a chance, stop by our booth and say hello!
Whatever you do, wear your comfy shoes. Bring a bottle of water, a good pen, something to write on, and then one of those rolling carts or a handy tote bag. Just don't forget to pick up a little something special to take home for the kids. Whether it's a fun game, book, or gadget, it's sure to help the kids to look forward to the school year when you come home with something fun! They may need a little pick-me-up too.
Thursday, April 10, 2008 - Loolie's Party by Jocelyn Dixon
We had a grand time for Luli's birthday, and I can't NOT post photos of it.
On Sunday we had my Grt Grandparents over, along with Grandpa and his wife, Dorothy. They weren't going to be able to Luli's actual party so they just came over to spend time with us for awhile.
Grandma trying to get Luli to roll the ball to her.
Grandpa's got it!
Grandpa and Eric
Grandma, Amanda with Lucy talking to Grandpa, me, and Rachel
Warming up to Grandpa
Grandma talking to Caleb, who's sitting in Daddy's lap.
Grandma reading Luli's card to her
Luli loved all her cards. The highlight of the day!
Soft baby doll from Grandpa and Dorothy
Card and Baby... ready to go.
Grt Grandma with her Grt grand-daughter...
Aww...Kisses
We don't get to see my Grt Grandparents too often because they live nearly two hours away, but we really enjoy our time with them. Hopefully this summer we'll be able to get together more often, and since Amanda has her license we'll be able to drive up and help them with housework.
My Grandma is quite a character. She has loosened up quite a bit over the past five years and really does love being around us and doesn't mind the chaos so much anymore. I am so thankful for the relationship I have with her. It will be something I treasure forever. I am praying that before she passes away she will give her life to Jesus so we can spend eternity together. And this is the same grandma who is on the Feelin' Feminine icon. I showed her my blog and told her about it (and about how you girls have it on your blogs) and she blushed. Haha.
My Grandpa is quite a character too. He will be 89 in September and is still so full of life and laughter. He adores playing with the kids and is always saying something to me make laugh. I truly love them.
On Monday, we had Luli's party, but it wasn't a large gathering... only fourteen people (haha that's ten for us). I was really excited about Luli's party because some bloggers we'd met online were coming. It is such a warm feeling to finally be able to meet someone you've been talking and sharing your thoughts with through emails. Emily Rose and her sister, Breezy, are two of the funnest young ladies I have met. When the Blue_Eggs first arrived we all kinda stood around and say very little. Breezy asked if we should get our computers out so we could send a few messages to each other! Haha. After awhile we all warmed up to each other and there wasn't a moment I saw either of the girls without one of the Littles clinging to them.
Looking at the goats...Emily Rose, Hannie, Rachel, and Breezy.
Eric, Emily Rose holding hands with Hannie, Isaac, and Caleb.
We didn't take too many photos.... we did go see the goats and the chickens. Then we came in and made dinner, spaghetti, and then we did the cake.
Getting the cake ready
Sticking in the candle
Letting Caleb blow out the match.
Luli's cake that I made... ta-da.
Breezy holding the birthday girl.
Singing HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Luli...
Opening presents. Lucy has her card again. Luli got some very pretty spring outfits from Grandma Starr & the Blue_Eggs. One of the outfits were even the same! Haha She also got a beautiful purple sweater from the Blue-Eggs
After cake and ice cream, Emily Rose and I got on Photoshop so Emily Rose could show me a few things. I am so excited because I did my first transparent image! That had been one of my main goals in getting a graphics program, and you can see the transparent image on SuperAngel's left sidebar, under "Published Articles".
Breezy doing what she does best.... drawing. She did a few really lovely drawings for the boys and Hannie.
The milk-maid and the cow by BreezyTulip '08
Saying goodbye, but not without farewell photos! Emily Rose and Hannie
We had a blast while they were here. And finally I found a blogger is the same height as me. Hehe.
Emily Rose and moi.
Breezy and moi.
Emily Rose and the Boys. Yeah she was a favourite. Haha
In short Luli had a wonderful birthday, though she did sleep a lot because she was warm and a little grouchy. Mother Dear thinks she's getting a toofer.
Fortunately it wasn't too hard saying goodbye to the Blue_eggs because they're most likely coming back for my birthday party, which will be so much fun too. Are you coming? If you received the email invitation and know whether are not you cannot make it, please email me back. The suspense is killing me!
Thursday, April 10, 2008 - From the Archives- Gardening 101 - You *Can* Teach Your Children!!
Repost from March 2007
It's March!! Can you believe it?? The first 'official' Day of Spring is almost here! Now is the perfect time to start a little garden with your children! If you haven't already, consider doing some type of garden. You can do a little one outside, a huge one outside or even a little container-type one inside.
Now is the time to start with seedlings. If you do that, you will be allowing your children to do something with so many object lessons, both educational and Biblical. They will be thrilled to watch as the little plant pokes its green up out of the soil after only a few days - or weeks. You will be teaching them to care for something and be responsible for something that will grow into something they can be proud of!
When you garden, there is something for every age. you can make a lesson as elaborate or as simple as you wish. Here are some ideas you can use with different levels of children.
1. Planning Your Garden
Make a list of the different plants you would like to plant according to the different vegetables you enjoy and how much you want to harvest. Your children - especially the Littles will probably love brainstorming on this one!
This is a great opportunity to spend some time outside! Look at your land and see where would be a good location to plant where there is adequate sunlight and access to water. Talk to your chidlren and let them give ideas why this is a good location or if there may be another spot.
2. Order/Purchase Your Seeds
With list in hand, call and order your seeds or go pick some up at your local store. This is something an older child can do and practice communication skills.
There are many places you can call and order seeds from. Most seed companies have websites you can check out. We ordered ours this year from Seeds of Change. Read about what we have done and get some links to heirloom and organic seed companies at Seeking Rest on the Homestead. You can also read about the benefits of receiving the Organic Gardening online newsletter.
**Also - visit HomesteadBlogger. Go to the Front Porch Homestead Garden and Farm pageand read their ideas. Look at the 100 most recent entries and take a look at any that pertain to gardening. I have found it a great site for information on gardening and animal husbandry! Even the Newbies (like us) have some good ideas!!**
3. Plotting PlantTimes
Different seeds need to be started indoors andothers direct-seeded into your garden outside. Call your local extansion office and find out your last frost date and work backwards from there. Use a calendar to write down and keep track of when to plant certain seeds.
4. Time to plant seedlings
Children of all ages love to work in the dirt and plant seeds. Of course, my Littles loved filling our seed trays with dirt. I just put down some newspaper, put the potting soil in the middle of the table and gave them each access to a tray and a spoon. I had 5 children, 22m, 3 1/2, 7, 9 and 13 filling trays, having fun!
Have a reading child read how many seeds and such to put and how to plant them. Help the Littles and they really can't do it wrong.
Other Lessons - Ideas to teach:
1. Littles can match seed packets and separate them into baggies.
2. Study seasons - why God made created each time.
3. Science -Botany of Seed to Plant
4. Schedule - watering, sunlight, and heat lamp.
5. Measuring and graphing the garden spot, the times to plant, the days of growth to germination.
6. Determinate/Inderterminate Seeds/Plants
7. Study Different Types of Soil - Nutrents in Soil.
8. Research Companies - Pick out and order seeds from Seed Co.
9. Weeding and reasons for it.
10. Organic gardening and the use of harmful pesticides on our soil and in our foods.
11. Bible Lessons: Diligence, Bounty
12. Biblical Planting, Watering, Harvesting can be shown in a physical, tangible way.
13. Do an indoor greenhouse.
Other benefits of planting a garden:
Fresh Air & Exercise
As you can see, there is ample opportunity for you as the homeschool teacher to incorporate math and science into your learning. They can also incorporate english/writing as they write about their experiences. Reading can include any books on gardening, reading seed packets or the science books you already have that give information on what you are teaching.
The *best* part about gardening is all of the lessons from the Bible you can incorporate!! Search online for bible references to planting, harvesting, and the like and read your children a story each day, before you start. *Always* incorporate God's Word into your lessons. It makes your lessons more real and makes God more real!
What a great post! I am looking forward to getting out there soon. Last year was my first "real" garden, and I am hooked now. Nothing like going out there in the early morning hours, sitting and listening to the quiet, and then picking your own salad.
My 3 year old was giving direction to me in the fall about what to plant next spring and where it should go-" tomatoes there, peppers there, and ice cream over here."
Any links on how to grow ice cream?
Thank you for your prayers. It meant so much to me to hear from you and the others.
Thursday, April 10, 2008 - Mothers and Daughters: A Sweet Relationship
There are many things the relationship between mother and daughter can be. The world gives us a different attitude about motherhood than the Word does. The world's view is of one that is not really much of a relationship and totally without a Godly influence. It is seen as something that is only by means of blood-relations or selfishness, getting what you can get from the relationship. It is not of two loving hearts bound together working toward a common goal in the Lord.
On the other hand, the mother-daughter relationship the Word gives is very different. It can be that uncommon relationship of God's love, like the love Ruth showed to Naomi, her mother-in-law. A love that walks miles with the other, loving, denying one's self, lifting up in words and in prayer, working and providing for if necessary.
Most of us have relationships as mothers and daughters somewhere in -between those two types of relationships. A completely giving relationship is a rare find. Some of us have the lesser one. I believe mine with my mother was good until I started to care what the world had to offer me. I did not grow up in a Christian home, but my mother is one of the biggest Givers I know. She was easy to love. She cared about us and our lives. She put herself and her love into my life, and I returned it for awhile. Then I 'grew up', so I thought. I didn't need my mom as a daughter, in my own immature eyes. I turned to friends and listened to what they thought was best for me. They were wrong. I needed my mother, not their influences.
A Godly loving relationship as mother and daughter carries a sweetness that is uncommon in the world we live in. It is not a selfish relationship. It is out of a heart of love. A love for our daughters, a daughter's love for her mother, and a love for the Lord. The blessings we reap from such a relationship are so numerous, it would be hard to list them all. Even when there is conflict, when God is in it, His love comes through. Such a sweet relationship allows us to pray for our daughters and their futures according to what God may have for them.
I am so blessed to have five beautiful daughters. I remember when my oldest, who is now eighteen, was a little girl. What she doesn't realize is that she will always be my little girl. And now, as a young lady, she is my friend and confidante too. The sweetness of childhood is not gone, but changed. It is still there, but in a different measure. A measure she can experience as an eighteen-year-old daughter while seeing a different measure with her eight-year-old sister. Or her ten-month-old sister.
Our relationships will change as time passes. They will change as life changes. They will change as we each grow in the Lord. One of the loveliest things about a relationship between a mother and a daughter is that growing. The relationship will change, but the sweetness will remain, if we walk in love. It will be a bittersweet love at times, when things don't go as we think they should, but if it is rooted in God's love, it will always return to its sweetness.
Ephesians 5:2 tells us to "walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour."
As mothers and daughters, we can always be a sweet-smelling savour to our Lord. We can be that as mothers. We can be that as daughters. We can be that together. When we do that, walking in love, we will also be a sweetness to each other in our mother-daughter relationships.
It was such a treat to meet you and your family and get to see Luli celebrate her very first birthday. After reading this post I was reminded of what a special blessing it is to be able to homeschool our children and the relationship that we can have together. The time and love that you put into your family shows by their kind and gentle ways with each other. What a blessing to get to witness that. Thank you again, too, for your hospitality.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008 - Are You Ready To Garden Yet?
Oh man, I am so looking forward to sunshine, and we are still behind on getting the seedlings going.
We were talking about gardening on LucyLillie's birthday with Robin and our neighbor, and he said he had just gone over his garden that afternoon with the first tilling. Matt had just been thinking he needs to get out the tiller and get it going.
Rachel planted several seeds a couple of weeks ago, and we saw plants at the market, and we so wanted to get out and plant them! I spoke to my Dad yesterday, and he said that we could still plant peas here, and get in the potatoes. Our planting date isn't until the middle of May, so we usually wait until around the 22nd or so to put in the seeds and plants into the ground.
Matt said it is supposed to snow here this weekend, so we'll see. That is what happened last year; it was 80' the last week in March and snowed the second week of April. Crazy Indiana weather!
I can't wait til we get the peas and potatoes in tho! :) I hope we can keep the chickens out of them!
ack!
If you are interested in reading about our gardening adventures from last year, you can look at Monday, October 15, 2007: Summer Homeschool - Gardening, A Photo Essay
I am itching to get outside and do some gardening too. I'm hoping to pull out our seeds today and see what I have to buy. It's supposed to get cold here this weekend with some snowy-rain - May 15 is supposed to be the last frost date, if I am remembering correctly. Spring will be here before we know it, though, even in Michigan (and Indiana)! I'm off to check out your post from last year for some inspiration. :-)
Tuesday, April 8, 2008 - Last Chance to be a Charter Digital Subscriber!
Last Chance to be a Charter Digital Subscriber!
Today is the last day to subscribe to TOS Digital Magazine and receive 2 bonus digital back issues AND the International Geography Quest Project Pack ebook from In the Hands of a Child. See the full details HERE.
The Old Schoolhouse Magazine's Spring Promo is in full bloom.
Subscribe now to The Old Schoolhouse Magazine and receive
25 BONUS gifts valued at over $550!
Our Winter promo sold out, don’t miss out the free gifts this time!
Thank you so very much for letting us come and meet your family and celebrate Luli's birthday with you all. Your family is a very dear one, and I am so glad that I had the privilege to meet them. It was a joy to get to meet and spend time with you all! I look forward to seeing you all again!!!
Tuesday, April 8, 2008 - Carnival of Homeschooling #119: Working Out Edition!
Jocelyn is this week's COH host. Be sure to jog on over to A Pondering Heart for her "Working Out" edition! She did such a great job of tying in her theme and making graphix! Sorry, I can't run... jogging is all I can do for a bit! And I will need a triple stroller!
Monday, April 7, 2008 - HAPPY BIRTHDAY LUCYLILLIE!!
Happy Birthday Loolie!
Today, our Little sweetheart is a year old!! We are all in shock. Truly!! This year has really blown by! God is so good in placing this little sweetie in our home.
Lucy, we all hope you have the best birthday today! You are such a joy in our lives.
There will be several tributes to our Little Girlie for her special day, so we will be linking them as they are posted! We will also be adding pictures too!
Happy Birthday Loolie. We are all so proud of you!!
Wow. It has been a year. A year. And I love you more now than I did then, though I don't know how that is possible. It is 3 am here now, on the 7th. Last year at this time, I was just starting to have the hard contractions. I woke up after a bit of rest and woke up the midwife. It was time.
29 minutes later, we met you for the first time. Our little girl. Jocelyn and I knew you were going to be a girl. We were ready for one. You were so tiny. And content. You nursed well and were so sweet. The next weeks were full of joy and trying desperately to figure out a name for you!!
And now, a year later, you are still so sweet and content. I cannot believe a year has passed.
You are such a little baby doll still. So smart and loving.
You let Caleb grab you around the neck and give you all the hugs he wants, and you hardly make a peep.
I love your little delicate fingers and the way you sing with me, reaching the right pitches and stopping and holding the words you can't even speak yet. Your words are only understood by us, but I know you understand so much more than you can tell us yet! We love your aaaah when you say yes and the way you have started shaking your head yes and no.
Had we ever put you down sooner, I am sure you would be running around by now, but we all want to hold you, so it is a small sacrifice.
Besides, to see you stand from crouching is so fun, and you do it so well now. We are anticipating those first real steps.
But don't expect to be put down too much just because you start walking. We will still be holding you all the time!
I cannot even say how you have captured your Daddy's heart. To see his eyes light up and a huge smile on his face each time he sees you and the way he just watches you is priceless.
You simply light up the room, my little darling!
You remind me of each of your brothers and sisters, and it is a joy to have you.
I love to see you raise your hands to go to your sister or lay your head sweetly on Eric's shoulder as he sings to you. What a blessing.
Our times together nursing are so vey precious to me, and they will be kept in my heart forever.
To look into your eyes, to feel your little hand on my face or to watch you doze off to sleep, it is our time, and I love gazing at you.
Thank you Lord, for this precious gift you have given us. Thank you for loaning her to us to teach her and love her and be blessed by her presence. It is truly humbling to know, my dear little Loolie, that you are God's and I get the privilege of having you here. I truly do not deserve you.
I will tell you that you are in great company too. God has filled this home with great children, your sisters and brothers, to love you and teach you and care for you. You will never be alone or unloved. God put you in exactly the right place at the exact right time.
I am still as overjoyed and in love with you, Little Girlie, as I ever was. You are a light in our lives. I can't wait to watch you grow and see what God has planned in your life. I love you my dear. Love you. Love you. Love you!
I can't believe that-- I thought our babies were closer together (as I followed your posts on pregnancy closely last year) but we just hit the 7 month mark!)
WOW-- a year-- that is always the "saddest" yet joyous-- (imho)
Aww..she looks like such a little angel and sounds like one, too. I got tears in my eyes reading what you wrote about her.
I'm expecting a little girl in 5 weeks and I just can't wait to hold her.
Reading your post made me want to hold her that muc more.
Happy Birthday to your little girlie! Holly
Monday, April 7, 2008 - Happy Birthday to your beautiful baby!
Posted by Kate (http://www.asimplewalk.blogspot.com)
Jacque, LucyLillie is just beautiful, as is your sentimet for her birthday wishes. She is quite a blessed little girl to be surrounded by so much love.
What a wonderful entry! I love the way you described and talked about your beautiful baby girl, it shows what a wonderful mother you are. How blessed your children are to have you as their mother.
Belinda
Sunday, April 6, 2008 - TOS Spring Promo in Full Bloom!
The Old Schoolhouse Magazine's Spring Promo is in full bloom.
Subscribe now to The Old Schoolhouse Magazine and receive
25 BONUS gifts valued at over $550!
Our Winter promo sold out, don’t miss out the free gifts this time!
I cannot recommend The Old Schoolhouse Magazine enough. Amanda and Jocelyn literally fight with me to look at it first.
The magazine has something for everyone. In it you will find encouraging articles, a Teacher's Lounge section with ideas and answers from regular homeschool moms just like us. There are articles and ideas, as well as the resources included for all different ages of children. In it you will find homeschool resource and book reviews, international homeschool families and news, and special unit studies - well, there is so much information, it is an investment in your homeschool.
Oh how easily sin does come upon us and into our minds. And to our hearts. How easily frustrated are moms and how quickly we can lose heart. But our strength does not come from ourselves alone. It comes from Our Lord and our husbands. It comes from quiet times in worship and communion with God. It comes from reading and knowing and trusting in His Word.
Saturday, April 5, 2008 - A GOOD Name Is To Be Chosen...
Proverbs 22:1 A GOOD name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.
We are getting ready for Loolie's birthday on Monday. Wow!! Do you remember when she was born? I had so very many well wishes and blessings! It was phenomenal. It really blessed me. And then naming her. Yes, it took a month. Maybe 6 weeks. I don't remember. But, at least with a record like a blog, I can check!
Speaking of her name, LucyLillie; we named her LucyLillie because we wanted to name her after her Great Grandmother. This is the same Great Grandmother who had alzheimer's, who we never got to take Lucy down to meet. She went to be with the Lord in January. Matt did let her know her name last year on her birthday, and he said she was surprised and very happy to hear it.
I liked the name Lillie, too, when we were naming her. Lillie and Lucie. Those were the two I had picked out. We really wanted to use Lucy. Matt really wanted to use it especially, as her first name. I liked Lillie a lot more. Her birth was the day before Easter, so Lillie fit right in with that one. We tried so many names. First names, middle names, middle names as first names, first names as middle names, forgetting the whole thing all together!
The vote here was pretty much in favor of Lucy. I am thinking Amanda and I were the only ones who loved Lillie. I don't know if Mom or my sister gave their opinions on those two names. Gena liked Lucy. I can't remember what Paul liked. I think the boys liked Lucy. On a side note: Amanda still calls her Lillie, usually LillieGirl.
Then Matt pretty much nixed Lillie in favor of Lucy, and, well, that was just not cool Honey, sorry. No, not really. Actually, he really grew to like both names and fell in love with our Little Girlie, so it didn't matter in the end which one to him. On a tearful day, as I sang to my girl, I realized it had to be Lucy. I had chosen a few other middle names, and he liked Avigail. Me too. Of course, it means Father's Delight, so of course it fit our Little Sweetie so very well!
When I came up with the idea that we would just call her both names, it seemed like too much of a tongue twister to put the two names together. But they had really grown on us. Our blog friends had been waiting anxiously for an official name, and I think Lucy and Lillie were growing on them too. We just had to decide which came first: Lucy or Lillie. We were still divided on that one. LillieLucy. LucyLillie.
After a month of deciding and searching and praying, we decided on the perfect name: LucyLillie Avigail. Yes, that seems like a mouthful. It sure rolls off the tongue so easy now. It does fit her perfectly.
Isaac will occasionally break out singing her a little song we all made up when we were deciding names and nicknames were given to our little girlie. It goes like this:
LucyLillie Avigail (you have to hold out the aaaiiiiilllll)
Raspberry
PixieMuffin
Pre-cious
It is quite soothing to her and even the rest of us when he sings it so sweetly in his little four year old voice. You have to give each and every syllable of LucyLillie Avigail a hard count to get the right rhythm. And the last line of the song is usually, "I love her."
We have all been quite proud of her long sweet name that she seems to have grown into. Then, when Matt went to NM for Grandma's funeral, he discovered something extraordinary. In looking through all of the family information on both sides of his family, he discovered that his maternal Great Grandmother had a special middle name of which we had no idea: Lillie. So, our sweet little Raspberry, whom we named after her saint of a Great-Grandmother, was also named after her Great-Great-Grandmother too. That, to me, was extraordinary. It just blessed me. Really.
Grandma's passing was such a time of sorrow and turmoil, with all the extenuating circumstances, and this really blessed me. I could not believe it. Is that a blessing or what? Naming our children has always been an important part of their lives, and I was extremely happy that she had been named after two Grandmas.
And now it is Spring again. And Lucy will be one. She is such a sweet little character. I can hear the birds chirping away outside, and it makes me smile. She was born at just the right time. She is so full of life and laughter. I can testify to this: no matter how many children God gives you, you will never run out of love. You can't. They supply it for you!
We homeschoolers know that home education is the best for our children, and that socialization is not an issue, but many think that we parents are as obtuse as they think homeschooling is. The interesting thing about that is that most homeschool parents were schooled in a public or private school setting, and therefore have the knowledge of that type of education under their belts. For the vast majority, the same cannot be said for parents of public/private schooled children. Or, an even more interesting thing about it (read:ludicrous) is the adults who have such experience in education and opinions on homeschooling who have *no* children.
Many homeschoolers do believe homeschooling is the best life for all families and children. A lot of us see it as a mandate from God in His Word, where we are instructed as Believers to
Deuteronomy 6:6-7
"And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: 7And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up."
However, this belief is personal, and most of us don't care if you send your children to public or private schools or not, in regards to our opinions of you personally. We know, from seeing both sides of the coin which is best, but we also know what God's Word says, and we truly do believe it is the authority of the parents to make that decision. In other words, we may disagree with the choice to not homeschool, but it does not mean we feel superior or that you are ruining your children, we just know what we know about homeschooling.
Part of the reason many have ridiculous opinions of homeschooling is because they either know no homeschool families personally or have known of a bad homeschool family whose children are hoodlums. I have not heard of someone whose pool of homeschool knowledge went further than those two reasons. As a matter of fact, almost twenty years ago, my mother had neighbors who homeschooled, and I distinctly recall her making comments about how all the kids did was played outside all day. I can laugh at that now.
The fact was that they weren't outside all day, and when they were, we had no idea what they were playing or even the ages of the children. And, did they get up at 7am and do workbooks until 10am? Or maybe they had read their assignments and drawn their pictures or maybe they were learning social skills relating to one another outside on the swing set. Regardless of what they were doing, we had no idea that all experience is learning, only because of our jaded knowledge of learning as deemed by the public school system! Funny; I had forgotten about that.
Fast forward to now, and I could come up with a million things our children not only do outside, but learn when they are outside! See how perspective changes with experience and a little understanding?
The collective wrong beliefs about homeschooling are called myths. Like the way you carry a baby in utero tells you the sex of that baby. Or that we only use 10% of our brains or that shaving legs causes hair to grow back thicker. These are unproven ideas, and as a matter of fact, the only reason people believe them as fact is because someone else said it. Kinda' like myths about homeschooling.
I could not stand to be with my children all the time.
My children and I won't have any friends.
What about sports, band and other extra-curriculars?
My children will not learn how to socialize with other people.
Children cannot learn outside of a school setting.
I do not know how to teach - I would need a college degree in education to homeschool my children.
I don't want my children to be considered weird.
We don't have a large enough family. Don't you have to have 10 kids to homeschool?
Homeschooling would take too much of my time.
Homeschooling is too expensive.
Homeschooling is for religious fanatics and abusive parents
I couldn't stand to never leave the house.
I don't want to stay inside during school hours.
There are so many things I don't know. I could not teach them everything.
I could not teach science experiments at home.
Homeschoolers don't get a diploma, they get a GED.
Homeschoolers can't get into college.
My children don't listen to me.
My spouse and I both work.
Homeschoolers have to be tested each year by the public schools.
My child wants to go into the military.
Homeschoolers never smile.
I am too disorganized to homeschool.
I couldn't teach my children at the same time.
I don't know; if I address all of these ideas, this could become a book, instead of just a blog post. I can truly say that almost all of those can be defeated in Scripture, so if you are a Believer who supports those myths, pray and ask the Lord to reveal what He thinks about them. Too many times we buy into pop-culture christianity and don't really think through why we believe certain things. We homeschool our large family on one income, budgeting our money. Mostly, it is faith. God set us on this course, and He will provide. Period. Everything. Skill, knowledge, time, desire, money, everything.
I actually have had Christian parents tell me *in front of their children* that they could not stand to be home with their children all day. How very sad. Are children a blessing or a curse? The Bible tells us they are a Blessing, each and every one of them. He tells us that they are a heritage and a reward.
3Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward.
4As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth.
So, maybe it's the parenting then or the influences of society, the public school system and children of families who do not serve the One True God. Whatever it is, 50% of the battle is in our minds and spirits, and it is high time to get it that God calls children a Blessing and even says that a man who has many children is happy. Happy, like blessed. I don't personally care if you choose to have one child or even none. I am reading the Bible. I am saying it says:
5Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them: they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate.
Interestingly enough, the beginning of Psalm 127 says
1Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain.
2It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows: for so he giveth his beloved sleep.
Except the Lord build the house. Not the state. Not the public education system. Not the church. The Lord.
So, if you are a homeschooler, you may not need to read these links, but it will give you great encouragement to know other homeschoolers not only understand, but have the same passion about it that you do. If you are not a homeschooler, read them over so that you may hear the truth from someone who does have it on authority and not just an opinion they heard somewhere. Common Homeschooling Myths Dispelled
Posted by Kate http://www.asimplewalk.blogspot.com
Jacque, what an insightful and inspiring post! Thank you so much! Although we believe in homeschooling and view as our biblical duty, we are surrounded by family and friends on both sides that buy into almost every single one of the myths you mentioned. It can get discouraging at times but for the fact that we have put our faith in the Lord and know we are doing what He has called us to. Oh, and posts like yours tend to be a REAL blessing as well!
Hahaha ...I have thought of the homeschool neighbors a few times since I got "educated" by your homeschool methods. Being judgemental is never a good thing, and I repent. A great post!
Love you,
Mom
I TOTALLY LOL when I read that Mom. Especially the part about repenting. Isn't God good to keep us so long and to teach us as we will learn it??
Kate thanks for the encouragement. I believe the biblical mandate too, and we just have to stand in the face of families and church friends. To me, it seems that they are even more judgmental than those who are not Believers sometimes. God is our shield.
Excellent post! I can't tell you how many moms have told me they can't wait to have their kids to be back in school after having them in the summer.......although there are times that I feel I need a break from the kids or the chaos of raising 10 kids 15 yrs and under, I realize it is my God given role and yes duty to raise them up to the Lord! Feelings need to be put aside, we can't base our decisions on our feelings...... and I think this is sometimes the problem we have with ourselves or why some don't homeschool..... they don't homeschool because they "don't like" their kids.... wel maybe they should homeschool so they can learn to like them!
I read your blog on a regular basis and have to say - this post was wonderful! Thank you so much for blessing my day with this insightful post.
I, too, used to be judgmental about homeschooling - based off the ONE homeschool family that I knew. I couldn't believe that they thought traveling was 'school.' Now that we homeschool, I totally 'get' it! I, too, have repented for all the myths I used to believe about homeschooling.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008 - April Edition of Growing in Grace Magazine for (Moms and) Girls
Please join us today at Growing in Grace Magazine. We have really been working hard to get articles written for the April Edition, and SisterLisa and Jess have gotten everything published, and it is a great issue!
The April Featured Girl of Grace is HSB's very own Joy of Through Jesus We Can Live For Eternity. Be sure to go over and read Joy's interview and all of the articles the girls have written. There are fun ones and serious ones, and you are sure to learn something new!
Moms, this is a great online magazine for your girls! It is also available for download in pdf.
If you would like to know a little more about our purpose at GGM and see how a mom in California and a mom in Indiana teamed up to bring you GGM, read About GGM.
Be sure to grab the code for the cute little GGM calendar for your blog!
Also, be sure to read about the Mother's Day Celebration of Mothers. Get details on the site. Just click on the icon!
I am looking/seeking for magazines in print, for my daughter who is just turning 13...........something she can receive in the mail that will encourage her in her walk with the Lord and will also be someting she can learn and get ideas from. Do you know of any print magazines for young ladies you would recommend?
Thanks,
gloria
Thank you so much for being so supportive of GGM. We looked for a good solid fundamental loving Christian magazine for conservative girls and the fact of the matter was that we didn't find any. In this day of inappropriate materials being brought into the view of young Christian girls, even mainstream Christianity is becoming more and more watered down. Our efforts to bring the old fashioned family values back to the young ladies of today is our strongest desire. To encourage and inspire young ladies that they are NOT alone in their dreams of becoming a virtuous woman. GGM is working very hard on bringing our magazine to your doorstep. Everyone can help make this is reality for all girls by spreading the word to come to GGM and get subscribed via our feedburner. We are honored that you have approved of our magazine for your daughter. We are doing all we can to make this more conveniently available to everyone.
Please join me today at the Homeschool Blog Awards for Memo Monday. This week we have plenty to participate in, peruse, ponder and even to purchase! If that isn’t enough, we also have some things to pray for. Have a great week at home with your kiddoes, and I hope the weather is nice where you are and you get to get out and enjoy it!!
I do know you, and I am so very thankful for all of the friends my children - and I - have made through blogworld.
We are all truly blessed. I know you have been a blessing to them also, and you are welcome to comment on my blog anytime dear..... I do know you, but I am really bad about commenting back! :O
blessings~
I just posted about the new HOW community in my last post, and then I got an unrelated email. Here are some HOW Links. If you have more, leave them in a comment, and I will get them on here! :)
This is a 70pp. download, so it should give you a feel for her philosophy. Be warned though: If you look through it, you will really be impressed and purchase it! :))
The past four or five days have been a bit of a blur to me. And I have to remember not to send personal emails or instant messages or leave any lengthy comments when life is like this, because I inevitably say the wrong thing. Not the unforgivable thing, mind you, but I am tired, and in a hurry or kids are asking about getting pizza for dinner or watching The Lone Ranger, and I am not in a state of mind to discuss some things. So, note to self: No really deep conversations between the 25th of the month and, well, whenever all the GGM articles are written and edited to the site. Ok, maybe if I get a very loud buzzer that goes off during that time, I might be ok. Probably not.
On breathing: whew. Big deep breath. Matt, Amanda and Rachel got home from Paulie's party, just in time to go on a 4-day computer marathon for GGM articles. I am completely exhausted and half brain-dead (hence the previous paragraph). In addition to that, I realized I forgot my own meme again. How dumb is that? Ok, I didn't even realize it; MamaArcher told me. So, I am still going to do one, because I love them, and they lift my heart and spirit as much as I want to praise the Lord and lift Him up. But, not til tomorrow, but it will still be saved on Saturday's date.
The breaking News is that Caleb has a fever again. Not sure why. Watching him diligently and praying. I know the Doc said the influenza could take a few more weeks until full recovery, so we are watching that. It's just a fever, which means, whatever is wrong, his body is doing what God created it to do. Amen.
Last month I told you about The Homeschool Lounge, a sort of "teacher's lounge" for homeschool moms~very cool idea. Great homeschool mom community!
This month(it is still March!), I am telling you about the Heart of Wisdom Community. I have to tell you, because I love the HOWTA philosophy. The Community is all HOW, and it is great for any homeschool mom who is interested in How and its Bible-focused Homeschool philosophy.
I have not posted about the Heart of Wisdom Teaching Approach in some time, but I do love Robin's HOW Bible-focused homeschooling. This is a community of HOW moms.
Another community I joined is CMOMB or Christian Moms of Many Blessings. I found the site last year, and I thought I signed up to join the forum. Maybe I did and then never completed it. I don't know, but I have now joined. I am excited about it. There is a wealth of motherly information there!
And while I am posting such a random post, I am going to tell you a couple of my most- favoritest reference sites: Biblegateway and Noah Webster 1828 Dictionary online. I use Biblegateway on a daily basis. It is wonderful.
Oh, and do me a favor an go over to Jocelyn's The Weekly page and let her know how awesome Keith Green is on her poll, ok? LOL
Wow! You've definitely been busy! I love the song "Take Me Into the Holy of Holies;" it's one of my favorites. It is such a powerful reminder to me of what an awesome privilege it is to be able to enter into our Creator's holy presence and worship him.
I forgot to post for your meme too. I think I need a to do list next to my computer!
Have a wonderful week! I'll remember to pray for Caleb.
I NO EWE did not mean KNOW IM'ing me during your brain FIRED times because our conversations are very shallow... especially when we discuss those silly people who think Keith Green is a 80's-afro dude/hippy/HOBO! What OUR they thinking???
Besides, I love you to the 19th power so you HAVE to still IM me! LOL!
for the prayers. I hope he gets to feeling better soon.
I remember when I heard that song. It instantly became one of my favorites. I hope to get the HOW Biblical Holidays(still!) and learn more about the Tabernacle and holidays and such.
I think life will be slowing down soon.
It's pretty sad when I forget to do my own meme! lol
It would be GREAT if you could participate. I am always singing a worship song, and I cannot believe I forgot again.
Thanks for commenting! I rarely have time to comment, but I hope to get better about that too. LOL In my spare time.
:))
I LOL (irl) when I read that.! Crack me up!
Of course I will IM you. I have to send my craziness somewhere the last week of the month! You and Vicki are my IM outlets. :)) I haven't gotten to talk to Vicki much lately though.
hhaaaaahaaaa I love you to the nth power too.... hahaaaa
Sunday, March 30, 2008 - Girls, Honor Your Mom on Mother's Day with GGM
GGM wants to honor Christian mothers and daughters in May for Mother's Day!
We'll be planning a special article just for this occasion and here's what we would like to do:
-Send us your best photo of mother with daughter(s).
-Girls: Tell us what makes YOUR mom so special.
-Photos may be of you doing something together, participating in a favorite hobby, or just a still pose. Your choice.
We'll choose one winning article to be featured in May's issue, but all participant photos will be featured in honor of your moms.
Please contact us and we'll send you a permission form to complete for using your photo.
All mothers with daughters 18 or younger may apply. Three/four generation photos are also accepted.
**If you are a vendor and would like to donate prize(s) for our winner, please contact us.
This is a wonderful way to show your mom and the whole world how much your mother means to you. Please pass this news onto your friends and invite others to join us.
Saturday, March 29, 2008 - Saturday Psalm & Praise - Take Me Into the Holy of Holies
Praise be to God the Father. He is a merciful and terrible God, and I praise Him!
Nehemiah 1:5 And said, I beseech thee, O LORD God of heaven, the great and terrible God, that keepeth covenant and mercy for them that love him and observe his commandments:
I have really been enjoying the songs on my player here on my blog. (Though I may need to find a different hoster). I love worship music. I am not at all big on just music. One song that has really blessed my soul lately is Take Me In.
The Holy of Holies. We have no idea. Really. We do not realize that all the Old Testament holy things we read about are in the Tabernacle. It was central to the lives of God's people, and it was a foreshadowing of the holiness and sacrifice to Christ. You can read about The Tabernacle and the Holy of Holies in Exodus 25-31. I found an awesome-looking wall chart with these Tabernacle items on it, if you are interested. The Wall Chart is large and colorful and interactive.
High Priest and His Garments
Gate of the Court
Court Fence
Brazen Altar
Laver of Bronze
Tabernacle Tent
Holy Place
Golden Lampstand
Table of Showbread
Altar of Incense
Veil
Most Holy Place
Ark of the Covenant
Mercy Seat
Golden Censer
Cloud and the Pillar of Fire
Offerings (burnt offering, grain offering, peace offering, sin offering, and trespass offering)
This is another really awesome MAP of the TABERNACLE. It is very detailed in pictures and information.
I hate forwarded emails, and I usually delete them. However, if they are credible and important, I will keep them and share the information. Grandma had a stroke almost fifteen years ago, and I did not undestand anything about it, nor had I ever known anyone who had ever had a stroke. The older you get, the more you realize the importance of knowing about these things. :))
Blood Clots and Stroke
STROKE: Remember The 1st Three Letters.... S.T.R. If everyone can remember something this simple, we could save some folks.
They Now Have a Fourth Indicator, the Tongue.
Seriously Please read:
STROKE IDENTIFICATION: During a BBQ, a friend stumbled and took a little fall - she assured everyone that she was fine (they offered to call paramedics) ....she said she had just tripped over a brick because of her new shoes. They got her cleaned up and got her a new plate of food. While she appeared a bit shaken up, Ingrid went about enjoying herself the rest of the evening. Ingrid's husband called later telling everyone that his wife had been taken to the hospital - (at 6:00 PM Ingrid passed away.) She had suffered a stroke at the BBQ. Had they known how to identify the signs of a stroke, perhaps Ingrid would be with us today. Some don't die.... They end up in a helpless, hopeless condition instead. It only takes a minute to read this... A neurologist says that if he can get to a stroke victim within 3 hours he can totally reverse the effects of a stroke... Totally. He said the trick was getting a stroke recognized, diagnosed, and then getting the patient medically cared for within 3 hours, which is tough.
RECOGNIZING A STROKE Thank God for the sense to remember the "3" steps, STR. Read and Learn! Sometimes symptoms of a stroke are difficult to identify. Unfortunately, the lack of awareness spells disaster. The stroke victim may suffer severe brain damage when people nearby fail to recognize the symptoms of a stroke .
Now doctors say a bystander can recognize a stroke by asking three simple questions:
S * Ask the individual To SMILE
T* Ask the person To TALK and SPEAK A SIMPLE SENTENCE (Coherently) (I.e. It is sunny out today) .
R * Ask him or > Her to RAISE BOTH ARMS. If he or she has trouble with ANY ONE of these tasks, call 999/911 immediately and describe the Symptoms to the dispatcher.
New Sign of a Stroke -------- Stick out Your Tongue
NOTE: Another 'sign' of a stroke is this: Ask the person to 'stick' out his tongue.. If the tongue is 'crooked', if it goes to one side or the other, that is also an indication of a stroke.
I found the rest of this information on a site about the same email:
Diabetes 101 also has a drawn picture of a clogged artery and effects of a stroke on the brain, if you are interested.
Editors Note: Remember, a diabetic has 4 times the chances of having a stroke, as a non-diabetic.
To whoever put this together, we are sorry we can not credit you because we do not have the information, but do think this sounds like a very important message, and tests, our readers should know about.....immediately, thank you.
Since this came from an unknown source and theire are so many wild invalid "warning" emails sent around we all get suckered into every now and then, we decided to check this out at a Hoax site. We went to http://www.hoax-slayer.com/identify-stroke.htm and here is what they said, in part about this apparently well known email being sent around.
Commentary:
The procedure for identifying a stroke that is getting released in this email forward is valid.
According to information available on the American Stroke Association's website, the three questions outlined in the email are a medically viable method for a layperson to ascertain if a person is presenting with stroke symptoms.
The procedure was originally outlined in a report to the American Stroke Association's 28th International Stroke Conference.
The report states that a bystander may be able to spot someone having a stroke by giving the person a simple, quick test to see if they can smile, raise both arms and keep them up, and speak a simple sentence coherently.
Certainly, the core information in the email is worth heeding. Knowing how to conduct this simple test could indeed save a person's life. The aforementioned report explains that if bystanders can relay results of this test to an emergency dispatcher, it could speed treatment to stroke patients. Time is crucial in treating stroke.
America's National Stroke Association lists the following as common symptoms of stroke:
Sudden numbness or weakness of face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding
Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
Sudden trouble walking, dizziness,loss of balance or coordination
Sudden severe headache with no known cause
Given this list of symptoms, it is easy to see how the simple three-question test could help identify a stroke.
However, there is an important point that needs to be considered. While the central information in the email is true, the absence of these symptoms does not necessarily indicate that a person is NOT having a stroke.
It could be extremely dangerous to reach the conclusion that a person did not require medical attention just because he or she could successfully carry out the three steps outlined in the test.
Editors Note: This means that the test can be helpful in diagnosis, of a stroke and the immediate need for treatment, However, complying with the test does not prove that the person has NOT had a stroke and you need to proceed as if they had, until proven differently by additional actions and means.
Thank you so much for partying with us! Please email me at missjocelyn@kconline.com with the prize you won and your email so we can get your prizes sent out. The winners with a * by their name will need to send their snail mail address to we can ship their prizes.
TOS Mag winners also have the choice of getting their subscription in digital or print form. Click on the image to receive more info from TOS on this new format!
Thank you Auntie for talking to me on the cbox last night! Take a big piece of fruit pie for me, k? haha!
I'm on the cbox right now in case you wanted to talk again!
Love you!
Thursday, March 27, 2008 - Pictures of Matt and Our Children
I got Matt a blog, and while I hope he will have time to write down his thoughts and memories sometime, as of now, he works from sun up to sundown and spends the time he can with us, so I don't know when he would blog. :) He wrote a song about 15 years ago, entitled A Simple Man. The lyrics, he reminded me, not the song. Anyway, that is his blog name, A Simple Man.
But, Levi did ask for a post of some kind to be put on here so he can leave comments:) So, I put up a post on Matt's Un-Blog, and I liked the pictures so much, I thought I would post them here. Yes, some I have already posted, but some are new. As you know, Matt and a coule of hte girls went to TN. Have you ever seen a picture of Matt?
My Beloved and our oldest, beautiful daughter
This is Matt and MrG.
Amanda made Paulie's birthday cake. Rachel is in the back with the camera.
Matt with Paul (and Susannie) and Levi hiding his face.
Thank you for posting Uncle Matt's blog.
I'm going to go leave him a comment.
Hahah! It was fun talking to you guys last ni...er this morning.
Hahah!
Your Nephew,
This is Jessica's mom. I just didn't log in under my homeschool blog because I haven't used it in forever. TALK ABOUT BAD BLOG FRIENDS! I am soooooo sorry. I am ashamed to say that I JUST NOW saw that you had left me a comment on my blogger blog back on the 19th! I can not tell you how crazy life has been of late. Hubby had surgery and is on the mend and we have found out that the house we are in is being sold (is sold). So, it looks at this time like we are headed to Arkansas. HUGE move. I don't get on the computer much, and I miss it if someone comments unless I log in. (Which I guess I have not done since the 19th, suprise to me. LOL) I did see when you had some things up for sale. There was a couple of things you had I would love to have bought from you but I just didn't have the funds right now. I hope you were able to make some money.
Well, I LOVED hearing from you, and I am grateful that you and Jocelyn watch over Jessica. Please keep in touch and visit at my blog. I promise to try to check my comments more often! :)
I was delighted to see a picture of Matt!! It's a first time for me...*L* I truly loved the other pictures!! I just love seeing all the children!!
You've done some great posts in the last few days...I'm sorry to admitt that I've neglected getting over here since last weekend...but then, you know how that goes!
*HUGS* Hope we can catch up with each other this weekend!!! Oh, thanks so much for the comments on the girls' blogs!! They love getting comments, especially from our much loved Dixons!!
I did not crochet the blanket. The one you see on baby Sani is from the same place we got Loolie's: http://homeschoolblogger.com/bundledinprayer. They are made by quietcajun. (purpleprincess's mom) :)
Aren't they beautiful???
blessings~
Jacque
I feel blessed. Very. My happiest moments are staring at these awesome blessings God put in my life, looking at their drawings and creations, hearing, "Mommy, look at me."
Please go by and join the fun as we testify why and how the Lord led us to homeschool our children.
In this Homeschool Edition of The Share Your Faith Carnival, we will share our testimony about how God led us to decide to homeschool. If you're a young lady/lad still being homeschooled, we welcome your point of view as the student, so long as it builds up the body of Christ.
We want to encourage our readers by sharing our faith as it pertains to us personally. This is not an opportunity to be critical of non homeschoolers and build a debate about out of the home education. (public or private schools) But rather, we want to share our homeschool convictions with love and respect in how God led each of us personally in our decision. If that is conveyed by how the Holy Spirit convicted you personally about a previous education plan that that is fine, as long as it pertains to you personally.
If you already have a post like this on your blog you may submit that article, but in a new link on your blog.
She will receive submissions for this carnival until April 2nd, and the carnival will begin on April 5th. Please send your submissions to thehomespunlife@gmail.com.
Name:
Blog Name:
Blog Link:
Article Link:
Brief description of the article:
I am trying something different. I invite you to join with me in focusing on good news. This can be as local as the newspaper boy put the paper on your doorstep. It could as earth shattering as peace has broken out all across the world. It could be some new insight you had about a topic you are studying, or life."
Please feel free to join him with a Good News post. Be sure to sign your diect link to Mr. Linky!
Shannon has created the "S" edition of the carnival. She addresses the dreaded word, Socialization, but she also writes about Sovereignty, Sunday (Easter Sunday) and Styles of Homeschooling.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008 - Top 100 Educational Websites of 2008
As per Homeschool.com, below is a list of the Top 100 Educational Websites of 2008 from and email I received tonight.
You'll find websites with:
online quizzes,
printable worksheets,
free online books
online Spanish lessons and reading lessons
online games for extra practice with math facts, state capitals, etc.
science lessons you listen to online, and
free online lessons and lesson plans for every subject
After reviewing thousands of websites, the following sites have been selected as Homeschool.com's Top 100 Web Sites for 2008. These websites contain some of the best educational content on the Internet today. Best of all, almost all of these sites are free or have free sections.
We use the Bible in our homeschool. The older children who can read are to read a Proverb in the morning and a Psalm at night, before bedtime. I am not as consistent as I would like to be with a time for us all to sit and read the Word and notebook the passages, but we do talk all day as occasions arise to put the Word into action. When there is conflict, we apply the Word. When a kindness is shown, we talk about it as it reflects the Word. If there is a selfish attitude, we talk about God's providence in our lives and how being selfish and depressed about not getting our way is not trusting in what God has for us. It is trusting in our own expectations and ways and plans for our lives. We just do not trust God at these times, and it is sin, and it is taken into account as we walk and talk daily.
Deuteronomy 6 1Now these are the commandments, the statutes, and the judgments, which the LORD your God commanded to teach you, that ye might do them in the land whither ye go to possess it: 2That thou mightest fear the LORD thy God, to keep all his statutes and his commandments, which I command thee, thou, and thy son, and thy son's son, all the days of thy life; and that thy days may be prolonged.
3Hear therefore, O Israel, and observe to do it; that it may be well with thee, and that ye may increase mightily, as the LORD God of thy fathers hath promised thee, in the land that floweth with milk and honey.
4Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD: 5And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.
6And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: 7And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.
We studied Romans 12 last week, and it was a very good study. We take time to sit and talk and pray. We put together worship folders, and we all love to worship in song. All of this is an important part of learning. Worshiping at home, in prayer and Scripture reading and song. I feel it is a mandate by the Lord to do so. We take our relationship with the Lord seriously, not just a Sunday-goin'-to-meetin' type of faith.
Recently, our understanding of Scripture was corrected in 'the original Greek'. I take issue with that. When we are addressing life and looking to God's Word, we do not search for the version that best fits what we mean. We search for God's meaning in His Word. I believe the Word stands on its own merits in English. The KJV has stood for almost 400 years. It is well-written as the Word of God, and through it He speaks to those searching for His Will. I think many times, Believers feel they must show their expanded knowledge as a puffing-up or even to make it fit their own meanings.
I am not going to argue versions here. We use the original King James Version in our household. It is the accepted version, and I personally love the way it is written: Thee's, Thou's and Tho's included. It is not someone's opinion of what the verses might mean. I had no idea ten years ago that The Living Bible is just a man's understanding and translation of what the KJV said. I do NOT want to read his opinion as the Word of God. I also don't want to read what is presented for today's pop culture in today's lingo. We have diluted words and definitions, and I would prefer to go back to the simple and pure meaning. I want our children to be articulate and have understanding of words, not lower their vocabulary by finding the easiest-to-read version. My choice. Matt's choice. No arguments.
I take no issue with my friends who are learning Hebrew or Greek. However, if God meant for us all to learn Greek and Hebrew and go back to the original language to be able to gain knowledge from His Word, well, then, not too many people would even get saved or pick up the Bible, would they? There are far too many who do not speak Greek or Hebrew for that to be a pre-requisite to understanding.
Paul took the Gospel to the Gentiles. More than likely, they knew many languages. Probably not Hebrew, but they did not need a Hebrew degree to understand what the Spirit spoke and the simplicity of God's Word. I do not think going to the original Greek is imperative to understand what God is speaking to you. Jesus Himself spoke to farmers, fishermen and tax collectors. I do think learning Hebrew and learning about the culture is a great thing and will cause a greater understanding of God the Father and Our Lord's sacrifice, but that is for another time!
We aren't a KJV-only family, but I agree with your point. Greek and Hebrew text isn't a prerequisite; and I've personally seen the puffed up "Pharisee" attitude - I used to possess that same characteristic, unfortunately...
Well said Jacque! I am so encouraged by the way scripture is a part of your lives, as we have been striving to reach that place in our home as well. My husband and I want to imprint God's Word in our children's hearts so that it is as natural for them to turn to that as it is to go to refrigerator when they are hungry.
Monday, March 24, 2008 - Some Announcements and Prayer Requests
Happening around here lately....
Recovering from a long weekend. No goatlings yet. Not sure if there will be any. Matt, Amanda and Rachel made it home from Paulie's big 18th party! Jocelyn is more upset they didn't bring Schooter home than that she didn't attend! I think she got over the fact she didn't get to see everyone again - well, sorta'. I think.... :)
Just to let you know that we will be drawing for our Blogoversary! I can't wait to see who wins what! I was so excited about giving out the TOS subscriptions. The Old Schoolhouse Magazine also has a digital version now, in case you didn't know. If you signed up on the 23rd before Brooke (iloveyougod), then you are entered... it was still the 22nd in some parts of the country then! :)
I AM going to get back to those of you who are interested in purchasing some of our stuff I have listed For Sale. This weekend about did me in, and even now, I am going to go take a nap! But, I did cross off what you asked for, and I will have one of my secretaries beautiful daughters get those totals and email each of you today. If you have not looked, please do: For Sale: Books, CDs, Other - Oh, and Goats!
We are now busy finishing up our articles for GGM, again working on one desktop. Boy do I miss my laptop!! wwwaaaaaaahhh.... The battery was only keeping alive unplugged for about 26 minutes, and we had not yet fixed the cracked screen, so we took it in about two weeks ago. I have reviews to finish, and my GGM article to wrap up. Hopefully, Matt will be able to get it today. Yes, the Best Buy geek (their words, not mine!) called and said, "You do know it will be $578 to replace the screen, right?". Amanda had answered, and just said, "Yeah, ok." I hate it when companies have no idea what is going on like that. We purchased their ADH protection, which means, Amanda dropped it, it is covered. Period. Which the real BB guy confirmed when I called him the next day. So, hopefully they won't give Matt a hassle.
Speaking of GGM... I'll betcha' can't wait for the new issue. It comes out next week! We have had several requests for a print copy, and SisterLisa asked for some votes and opinions, so please go over and give us your vote. This will run until the end of the month. If you are interested, we uploaded a pdf version of our March issue for you to try out. We are making additional changes to our formatting for April.
We are still praying for David and Leah Ortiz' family. Their 15 year old son, Ammi, was critically injured by a booby-trapped Purim basket on Thursday afternoon. I have not heard or found an update. I have other sites linked on my original Prayer Request for them: !!Updated: Prayers For A 15yo Boy Injured From A Bomb
Also, continue to pray for The Sams family who lost Joshua to Trisomy 13, and also Eva's family. Just a warning that there is a bare-n*ked, pierced belly at the top of the page... in case you have Littles with you as you go there. Not to be judgmental; I don't want them looking at anyone's bare-n*ked belly, ok? But, pray for this family. They also lost their baby to Trisomy. See her sidebar for other details about their family. They have 2 children going through it too, which made me sad.
Another sad loss is little Emmy. I don't know Amy, but I hurt for her and Ty and their children. Please keep them in prayer too. Raising Arrows
I just received an email that my cousin, Amy, has surgery in 2 weeks to try to relieve her Trigeminal Neuralgia. My Uncle and Aunt and Amy's husband, Dennis, have to take her to Detroit for the surgery. The surgery is very rare and they are the only ones currently performing it. People are referred to them from Mayo's.
They don't like to do the surgery and that is why they waited so long to see if the pain would lesson some. With the meds, the pain is still there but tolerable. The surgery is in the brain. It doesn't take long but they will be keeping her in ECU for 2-3 days to watch for Blood clots and swelling problems.
They will try to put separator pads between the Trigeminal and Facial nerves and the corresponding blood vessels. It has been successful in most cases, My Uncle, Aunt and Dennis have talked to the Doctors, and said they seem confident.
See my sidebar for other prayer requests, and also let me know if you would like to be added or know of someone to add.
I think that is all - unless you know of someone who wants a fine Nubian buck (we have 2 for sale) or doe yearling, which we have for sale. We are located in northeast Indiana. Near fort Wayne.
Saturday, March 22, 2008 - Last Day to Celebrate and WIN With Us!
To celebrate our family blogoversaries and to thank you for being great friends, we are giving away some really great prizes!
Please take a moment to enter for the Door Prizes!
EVERYONE is invited!!!
So, welcome to the party, and we are happy to have some really cool door prizes for you to win!
Door Prizes:
All four of us will be giving away a TOS Magazine subscription along with some other prizes.
Did you get that? 4 subscriptions to The Old Schoolhouse Magazine! When Jocelyn held her Family Photo Contest, I read of several of my friends who really wanted a subscription. I would really like to give you one!
And, you can even choose the hard copy or the digital now!
2 EBooks from Joyous Home I am reviewing this mag, and I am very pleased with the spectrum of home, homeschooling, family and girlhood/womanhood it represents. Take a look; I know you will love it too!
Paulie, my Honorary nephew, is eighteen today. The Suarezes and our family have become fast friends, and it seems as though we have known them all our lives. Right now, they are all celebrating with a bunch of other great families, and, since you are already having such a great Birthday Bash, I will just post the poem I wrote for you.
The party started yesterday on Paulie's blog. If you want to join the party, you can follow the posts on Happy 18th Birthday, Dude! from Mr. Linky. Matt and Amanda and Rachel left on Thursday for TN (yes, Jocelyn stayed home to be with me-and the goats, and Amanda is missing her already!!) :)), and the rest of us are home. They are having a BBQ for Paulie's party, and the picture on his post looks delicious. I also love the gifts Amanda selected for him. Go take a look. I couldn't take time away from the goats (eye rolls), so all I have to offer is the family who did drive down there and this poem:
Happy birthday dear Paulie
I hope your day's great.
I'm sorry Amanda can't read a map, and they got there so late.
~
As you turn the big eighteen
don't stay up all night
you've done that at our house, and well,
the next day you just don't feel right!
~
We hope you have fun
with your LAN pc games.
Be sure to pick a good partner
so you aren't put to shame.
~
I could go on and on
and say what a great kid you are
but everyone knows
how bright shines your star!
~
So, have your fun
and a great BBQ,
and eat the yummy cake
Amanda's making too.
~
But don't have too much
fun without us
(Jocelyn and I
don't want to fuss),
~
'Cause we're really sad
we can't be there too
So the rest of the Dixon's
send our best birthday wishes too!
(((HUGS))) to you Paulie, and to Mom and Dad. What a milestone! Thanks for sharing it with us. God has blessed us to know your family. I hope you have a great time of fellowship and, of course, great food!
Btw, I read that you didn't take my advice about *not* staying up all night... how do you feel right about now then?? :))
Saturday, March 22, 2008 - Saturday Psalm & Praise - Nothing But the Blood
By request of Isaac, our four-year-old, my selection this week is Nothing But the Blood. He got up and got the the hymnal and asked me to find Nothing But the Blood. I believe it is his and Eric's favorite hymn. I told him it is number 208. The chances of him remembering that number is greater than the chances of me remembering it! I started singing it to him, and he got up and let everyone else know I was going to sing it to them all.
This is one of the first songs I remember singing after I was saved from the worldly lifestyle I was living and all my sin. I was attending an Assemblies of God church in Las Cruces, and we had about fifty or so members. I loved singing hymns. I had grown up Catholic, and knew many of the old hymns, but they took on new meaning as a Believer who understood what the blood was for. I had met Matt and his family even before I became a Believer, and his Grandmother was well-spoken in the Word and discernment, so I learned a lot.
Nothing but the Blood
Robert Lowry, 1876
What can wash away my sin? nothing but the blood of Jesus;
what can make me whole again? nothing but the blood of Jesus.
O precious is the flow that makes me white as snow;
no other fount I know, nothing but the blood of Jesus.
For my cleansing this I see—nothing but the blood of Jesus;
for my pardon this my plea—nothing but the blood of Jesus.
O precious is the flow that makes me white as snow;
no other fount I know, nothing but the blood of Jesus.
Nothing can for sin atone—nothing but the blood of Jesus;
naught of good that I have done—nothing but the blood of Jesus.
O precious is the flow that makes me white as snow;
no other fount I know, nothing but the blood of Jesus.
This is all my hope and peace—nothing but the blood of Jesus;
this is all my righteousness—nothing but the blood of Jesus.
O precious is the flow that makes me white as snow;
no other fount I know, nothing but the blood of Jesus.
Now by this I’ll overcome—nothing but the blood of Jesus;
now by this I’ll reach my home—nothing but the blood of Jesus.
O precious is the flow that makes me white as snow;
no other fount I know, nothing but the blood of Jesus.
About ten years ago, we had a missionary speaker from about twenty miles away visit our church. We were privileged to go out to lunch with them and some very good friends afterwards. We became friends with them, especially Jocelyn, who felt a special love for the Cambodian people. We did a country study on Cambodia for a homeschool fair, and watched movies about the Khmer Rouge and the atrocities they did, wrote reports and built a 3D map the size of a poster board. Mr. Bell even let us borrow some of his authentic artifacts to display. In one of his talks, he spoke about the Blood and how we as Christians understand the one side of the cross, the salvation side, where the Blood washes away our sins, but the other side of the cross seems to escape us. The side where the Blood was shed for our healing. The other side of the cross where "by His stripes we are healed".
See, he was explaining that the Cambodians and cultures like theirs really do deal with the spirit world. They are fearful, and they do offer sacrifice to the gods of their fear. They have customs that reflect that fear, like tying a string onto the ankle or wrist of a newborn to ward off the spirits and keep them out (or keep them in, I can't remember). We need to also experience 'the other side of the cross', the healing of the sacrifice. We, as Believers, accept the Salvation, but many times we do not call upon the Lord for miraculous healing, which was also why He shed His blood.
Please remember to pray for Ami Ortiz, a fifteen year-old who had a bomb explode in the basket he was holding. Pray for his miraculous healing.
Friday, March 21, 2008 - !!Updated: Prayers For A 15yo Boy Injured From A Bomb
Please pray for this 15yo boy who was injured by a bomb when he picked up a basket:
We just received word from our closest and dearest friends in Israel David and Leah Ortiz, that their son, Ami, was seriously injured by a bomb at their home in Ariel today. Apparently some one left, what looked like, a Purim Basket outside their door. Ami, 15 years old, was holding it when it exploded. I just talked to David. He and Leah are right now waiting for the doctor to give them a report from surgery. David said Ami is hanging on to life with severe shrapnel injuries to his whole upper body including his face. Please pray for a complete healing. Pray that they are able to save his eyes and limbs. Pray for David and Leah to have strength through all of this. Ami is part of the Christian youth group in Ariel which Brayden and Zac are leaders and all of our older children are a part of. Ami is very close to our family and spent many hours at our apartment which is just down the street from his. We are desperately crying out before our Father for a miracle. In Yeshua's Name. Tommy Waller Update as of this morning: I just received some positive news that Ami (pronounced Ah-me) is doing better. He was able to say a few words to his mother, Leah. Hallelujah! Our prayers are being heard! At this moment (Friday, 3 am CST) they are preparing him for eye surgery. This is a critical time so please keep praying ........specifically for his eyes. Please also pray for Brayden, Zac, and me to have provision to go and be with Ami and his family in Israel. The believing community in Ariel is in shock right now and it is important for us to be there .....to stand with our Israel family during this crisis. Yesterday was the Feast of Purim. The feast given to us in the book of Esther. One of my fondest memories was last years Purim gathering in Ariel. Ami played King Ahauserus and in my opinion he was one of the best King Ahauseruses ever. I don't remember when I laughed so hard. Israel is 7 hours ahead of us in the Central time zone so much happens in Israel while most of us in the States are sleeping. I should know much more in the morning. Please know your prayers are being heard, The battle for Ami, to save his eyes, is still going on. And its not just his eyes ....he has many broken bones and major wounds to his upper body. My friend Yoav, who is staying at the Ortiz' apartment, just called me. The explosion broke out many of their windows so he's having to keep the place secure. Pray for Yoav and the whole community of Ariel. Thank you for standing with our family .....here and in Israel. Tommy Waller
I have received many searches on Ami, and I found an update at Joel's Trumpet:
He is out of surgery. The Lord has been merciful. The boy is still a mess but stable. Amazing news - no shrapnel got into his arteries or vital organs. One lung was crushed but they managed to save it. His brain is not injured. His body is intact except for losing several toes (not sure why “toes” instead of “fingers”, but this detail is from his mother Leah). The swelling in his face has gone down.
It’s truly miraculous, given the fact that the bomb was right in front of him. The Lord had to have been shielding him to keep him alive.
That was the good news. The rest… he has 2nd and 3rd degree burns, deep gashes all over, both arms broken. And his eyes are badly damaged. The med team hasn’t even had a chance to take care of that yet, because of all the life-threatening things they were working on all night. He is stable but heavily sedated.
His parents were at the hospital all night and are obviously in a state of shock and exhaustion. I haven’t seen their apartment, but the older Ortiz kids went to the house and they say the entire kitchen and living room are destroyed. No one is even thinking about that, because Ami is alive and that’s enough for now.
The Shabak (general security people) are doing a complete investigation. They were just here at the house. The two theories of “who” are still being considered - either antimissionaries (Jewish extremists) or Arab terrorists.
For the record, I strongly doubt the antimissionary theory. The hostile hareidim do things very differently - usually going wild and/or bringing a crowd to demonstrate. In the most extreme cases they have set fire to a meeting place (while empty). They do not try to carry out cold-blooded murders - and they certainly would not use the tradition of Purim gift-giving (a mitzvah they take quite seriously) for the bait!
In fact it was not a traditional Purim food-basket - it was a wrapped package, unusually bulky and large. Ami called his parents to comment on it, about 20 minutes before opening it….
This bomb was designed by people who knew what they were doing, how to set and hide a trigger, and how to maximize its blast effect. It was packed with metal shards, a trademark of PA-sponsored terror. David has had a “fatwa” on his head (death threat) from Hamas for several years, for the crime of bringing Palestinian Muslims to faith in Yeshua.
There was not much media coverage of this angle. I personally think the police have downplayed the terrorist theory because it would mean having to face the fact that Palestinians got in and out of Ariel without being noticed. (We have never had a terror attack inside our gates for the 30 years of Ariel’s existence, in spite of being in the middle of Samaria.) They don’t want to open that ‘Pandora’s box’ until they absolutely have no choice.
We are praying that the guilty parties will be caught - and I’m specifically praying that they will feel the Lord’s intense pressure on them.
We’re very thankful the Lord has spared Ami. Bless all of you who have been praying, and thanks to all who replied by email and phone. Please keep praying. Ami is still in bad shape. The family obviously has a long, hard trial ahead of them.
The Ortiz family is one of the finest families I have ever known. The last time I saw Ami (sp?) and his folks was 6 years ago, but they made a lasting impact on my life, and I am pained beyond description to learn of what has happened.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008 - For Sale: Homeschool Books/Itema, Books, CDs, Other - Oh, and Goats!
Time to get rid of a lot of items that we have had sitting around our home, waiting for an Ebay listing. We are planning to move in the near future, so we must remove a lot! This will be a friendly way to get rid of some of it and bless you with items you may not be able to afford from somewhere else. I tried to cover all the bases, so have a look-see and Email Me if you need to.
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Shipping: See Item categories.
Shipping Insurance is $1.35 for each $50 purchase.
PLEASE understand that I am guesstimating on shipping, and if I am off, I will pay it, but if I am waaaaaay off, I will contact you and offer you the new shipping rate, ok?
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If you have any questions at all about any of these items, please email me. Many of the movies were given to us, and I know they are in great shape, but I cannot vouch for the content of any of the movies, of course! :) The Vision Forum items are leftovers from when we sold homeschool books and supplies. We no longer endorse VF.
Also, please give me a day or two to contact you about an item. First emails are first-served, so no worries there. I will also let you know if the item is already sold in email RE: Please Email any offers; I am open to fair offers.
Thanks!
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Also note that I will be adding to this list as I go through and find more.
I know I have more homeschooling books here somewhere....
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CATEGORY: BOOKS
SHIPPING for first book is $2.00 Media Mail or First Class, depending on weight. Priority Mail is $4.60 base rate for one book. Additional books:
Media Mail Each additional book is 0.50.
Priority Mail $2.00 for each additional, up to $8.95/$12.95 for flat rate box.
Desecration - Anti-Christ Takes the Throne
Book 9 in the Left Behind Series HCDJ
Tim LaHaye Jerry Jenkins
$1.00
When Godly People Do Ungodly Things
Beth Moore HCDJ
$1.00 SOLD
Ten Lies About God
And How You Might Already Be Deceived
Erwin W. Lutzer HCDJ
$1.00
The Kingdom of God is a Party
Tony Campolo HCDJ
$1.00
The 5 Love Languages of Teenagers
Gary Chapman
$1.00 SOLD
NEW Experiencing Community Small Group Study Guide
Thom Corrigan ~ Navpress
78pp; includes Leader's Appendix
$1.00
Character ~ Who You Are When No One Is Looking
Bill Hybels
6 studies for groups or individual
Includes Guidelines for Leaders and Study Notes
$1.00
Your Family Time with God
John Maxwell HCDJ
$1.00
So Much More
Anna Sophia and Elizabeth Botkin
HCDJ , Vision Forum
Like New
$8.00
The Prayer of Jabez Devotional
Bruce Wilkinson
$1.00
The Prayer of Jabez
Bruce Wilkinson
$1.00
Yucatan Deep
Tom Morrisey
softcover. used.
$1.00
I Spy Spooky Night A Book of Picture Riddles
New Condition; Name in face plate on inside cover
0590481371
Cartwheel Books Scholastic Inc.
$1.00
Moments Together for Couples HCDJ
Devotions for drawing to God & one another
Dennis & Barbara Rainey
0830717544 ?90000
$1.00
HOMESCHOOLING BOOKS MORE COMING~ I FOUND A BOX! :)
Some of the bigger books (Lesson plans and TE), I have added a dollar, because they are quite heavy and more to ship.
+ADDED+K-grade
K God's World A Beka Science Series
Student Text 16454 2nd Edition
ret. $8.95 $2.00
K God's World A Beka Science Series
Student Text 16454 2nd Edition
ret. $8.95 $2.00
+ADDED+1st Grade
A Beka Health Safety, Manners 1
Student Text Reader Second Edition 54089003
ret. $9.95 $5.00
A Beka Discovering God's World Science 1
Student Text Reader Third Edition 50512
(bottom has very minimal humidity wrinkling)
ret. $9.95 $5.00
+ADDED+2nd Grade Letters/Sounds 2 Teacher Edition Test Key
Third Edition 20621003
ret. $7.15 $2.00 SOLD
Arithmetic 2 Teacher Edition
41718004
ring-bound answer key to text. front cover is bent
ret. $21.15 $10.00 SOLD
+ADDED+3rd Grade
A Beka Reading 3 Curriculum and Lesson Plans
with Phonics Review 75485004
ret. $25.00 $11.00
A Beka History 3 Curriculum and Lesson Plans
Our American Heritage 76848003
ret. $11.00 $5.00
A Beka Arithmetic 3 Curriculum and Lesson Plans
75507003
top corner of binding torn
ret. $30.00 $12.00
A Beka Arithmetic 3 Teacher Key to work text
Fourth Edition 54798007
ring-bound answer key to student text. front cover missing
ret. $21.15 $10.00
A Beka Language 3 Teacher Edition
Third Edition 36455007
ring-bound answer key to student text
ret. $23.00 $11.00
A Beka Language 3 Teacher Test Key
Teacher Edition Third Edition 36471008
key to student tests
ret. $9.15 $2.00
A Beka Science & Health Curriculum and Lesson Plans 3
for Health Safety and Manners 3 and Exploring God's World 3
Some highlighting and back cover bent 7692003
ret. $15.00 $7.00
A Beka Health Safety and Manners 3
Test Quizzes and Worksheet Key
Second Edition 58130007
ret. $9.15 $2.00
A Beka Exploring God's World Science 3 3rd Edition
Student Text 57312007
Used. There are some erased answers.
ret.11.95 $5.00 SOLD
A Beka Exploring God's World Science 3 3rd Edition
Answer Key to Text 58610010
ret.6.15 $2.00 SOLD
A Beka Exploring God's World Science 3 3rd Edition
Teacher Edition Test, Quzzes, Worksheet Key 58130007
ret.9.15 $2.00 SOLD
A Beka Health Safety and Manners 3 2nd Edition
Student Text 58106007 $5.00 SOLD
A Beka Health Safety and Manners 3 2nd Edition
Answer Key to Student Text 58629012
$2.00 SOLD
+ADDED+4th Grade
A Beka God's Gift of Language A (4) SET
*Writing and Grammar Tests (Some writing erased)
Second Edition 61131004
*Writing and Grammar Test Key
Second Edition 61158002
ret. $13.65 $7.00
A Beka Spelling and Vocabulary 4 Student Test Book
Student Tests Book Second Edition 60054004
-4 pages of erased answers
ret. $4.60 $1.50
A Beka Spelling and Vocabulary 4 Student Test Book
Student Tests Book Second Edition 60054002
-8 pages of erased answers
ret. $4.60 $1.50
A Beka Spelling and Vocabulary 4 Teacher's Test Key
(NOT the same as student books above)
(probably) First Edition 44784
ret. $9.15 $2.00
A Beka Arithmetic 4 Teacher Curriculum
Second Edition (Brown book) 43737
ret. $30.00 $7.00
McGraw-Hill Learning Materials
Spectrum Writing Grade 4
Main ideas, Sequence, Cause and Effect, Details, Comparison, Facts and Opinions, Making Your Point
This is used. Almost all of Unit 1 is missing.
There is no writing on the remainder.
The back cover is bent.
Includes answer key in back.
$1.00
+ADDED+5th Grade
A Beka Spelling and Vocabulary Tests 5 SET
*Student Tests Book Second Edition 60321002
-1 page of erased answers
*A Beka Spelling and Vocabulary Tests 5 Teacher Key
Second Edition 60348002
ret. $13.65 $7.00
A Beka Arithmetic 5 Tests & Speed Drills Key
Third Edition 26220003
ret. $9.15 $2.00
used A Beka Spelling & Vocabulary 6 Student Tests 60372002
3 Lessons of answers in pencil with ink corrections
ret. $4.60 $1.50
A Beka Arithmetic 6 Teacher's Edition
ring-bound Third Edition 61859001
paper cover is tearing from ring a bit
sticker mark on cover
ret. $21.15 $11.00
+ADDED+10th Grade
A Beka Grammar and Composition IV Test and Quizzes Key
Third Edition 76252001
ret. $9.15 $2.00
HOMESCHOOLING-OTHER
SHIPPING is as specified
These are mini flash cards with the Bible story on the back.
Please note the size is MINI: 3 1/4"x 4 1/2"
A Beka Book Flash-A-Card Miniature Set #1
1997 #17221
Heaven- A Beautiful Place
Adam-How Sin Began
$5.00
SHIPPING is $2.00 Media Mail, $4.60 Priority Mail
A Beka Book Flash-A-Card Miniature Set #2
1995 MFSB SS/B
Crucifixion
Resurrection
Growing Spiritually
$5.00
SHIPPING is $2.00 Media Mail, $4.60 Priority Mail
CATEGORY: CDs
SHIPPING for first CD is $2.00 Media Mail or First Class, shipping class depends on weight. Priority Mail is $4.60 base rate. Additional CDs: Media Mail $0.50 for each CD thereafter.
Priority Mail $1.00 for each CD thereafter. Depending on quantity, they can be shipped Flat Rate at $8.95/$12.95.
Vision Forum *PRICES EDITED*
$5.00 NEW Defending the Fatherless CD
$5.00 NEW Defending the Fatherless CD
$5.00 Like New Defending the Fatherless CD
$5.00 NEW The Blessed Marriage CD
$5.00 NEW The Role of the Grandfathers in Local Church CD
$5.00 NEW The Role of the Women in Local Church CD
$5.00 NEW The Role of the Women in Local Church CD
$5.00 NEW What's A Girl To Do? CD
$5.00 NEW Jennie B. and the Pilot CD
$5.00 NEW How to Evaluate a Suitor CD
$5.00 NEW How To Think Like A Christian
$5.00 NEW What Expect When Establishing a Local Church CD
$5.00 NEW What Expect When Establishing a Local Church CD
$5.00 NEW The Joy of Family Worship RC Sproul
$5.00 NEW The Joy of Family Worship RC Sproul
$5.00 NEW The Home as a Factory of Church Leaders Scott
$5.00 NEW The Home as a Factory of Church Leaders Scott
$5.00 NEW A Biblical Vision for Multi-Generational Faithfulness Einwechter
$5.00 NEW A Biblical Vision for Multi-Generational Faithfulness Einwechter
$5.00 NEW Weapons of Our Warfare: Truth Sproul
$5.00 NEW Weapons of Our Warfare: Truth Sproul
$5.00 NEW Weapons of Our Warfare: Beauty Sproul
$5.00 NEW Weapons of Our Warfare: Beauty Sproul
$5.00 NEW Hollywood's Despised Villian Botkin
$5.00 NEW Pilgrims vs. Indians CD
$5.00 NEW Making Wise Decisions About College CD
$5.00 NEW Making Wise Decisions About College CD
$5.00 NEW How Modern Churches Are Harming Families CD
$5.00 NEW How Modern Churches Are Harming Families CD
$5.00 NEW Home School Vision Victory CD
$5.00 NEW Home School Vision Victory CD
$5.00 NEW 6000 Years Earth History CD
$5.00 NEW Women and Children First CD
$5.00 NEW Women and Children First CD
$5.00 NEW The Promise Phillips CD
$5.00 NEW Rebuilding A Culture of Virtuous Boyhood CD
$5.00 NEW Discovering Life Purpose CD
$5.00 NEW Discovering Life Purpose CD
$10.00 NEW Victory for Daughters CD
$10.00 NEW Victory for Daughters CD
$10.00 NEW Victory for Daughters CD
$10.00 NEW The Spotless Bride CD
$10.00 NEW The Spotless Bride CD
$9.00 Like NEW The Spotless Bride CD
$10.00 NEW The Heroism of the Fathers is the Legacy of the Sons CD
+ADDED+ $10.00 Give Me Your Heart, My Son, Vision Forum conference
This is a set of 8 cassettes and has been listened to.
SHIPPING on this item is $4.00 Media Mail or $4.60 Priority Mail
$10.00 Building a Family That Will Stand Vision Forum Conference
This is a set of 8 cassettes and has been listened to.
SHIPPING on this item is $4.00 Media Mail or $4.60 Priority Mail
MUSIC CDs
The Prince of Egypt CD
Music from the movie.
$1.00 SOLD
Real Life Music CD 1996
Used CD
Amy Grant, Bryan Duncan, Michael Card,
Amy Morriss, Grover Levy, Crystal Lewis,
Guardian, Anointed, Greg Long, Jaci Velasquez
$1.00
Music You Can Believe In CD 1995
Used CD.
Clay Crosse, Wes King, Brent Bourgeois,
Church of Rhythm, Carolyn Arends,
Michael W. Smith, Ashley Cleveland,
Michael James, Ian, Rich Mullins
$1.00
Mercy Me - Almost There
like new CD.
$1.00
People Get Ready CD
Like new CD.
Crystal Lewis, Geoff Moore, Rebecca St. James,
dc Talk, Margaret Becker, Barry McGuire, The Impressions,
Big Tent Revival, Rich Mullins, Audio Adrenaline,
Michael W. Smith, Al Green
$1.00
CATEGORY: VIDEOS and DVDs
SHIPPING for first video is $2.00 Media Mail or First Class, depending on weight. Priority Mail is $4.60 base rate for one video.
Additional Videos/DVDs:
Media Mail $0.50 for each thereafter.
Priority Mail $1.00 for each thereafter.
The Prince of Egypt VHS video
Used. Plays fine. Clamshell case is crushed.
$1.00
BibleMan DVD The Incredible Force of Joy
Used. Plays fine. No insert.
$1.00
Hercules - Walt Disney
ISBN: 0-7888-0584-3
clamshell case
$1.00
Dumbo - Walt Disney
ISBN: 12257-0240-3
clamshell case
$1.00
Toy Story 2 - Walt Disney
ISBN: 0-7888-2454-6
clamshell case
Very good condition
$1.00 SOLD
Mary Poppins - Walt Disney
ISBN: 0-7888-2220-9
clamshell case
Very good condition
$1.00 SOLD
Walt Disney's Masterpiece Lady and the Tramp
0788812807
clamshell case
$1.00
Walt Disney's Masterpiece Robin Hood
1558901892
83m rated:G
clamshell case
Very good condition
$1.00 SOLD
Top Hat
Fred Astaire Ginger Rogers VHS
b/w 99m
Classic Romance
1980
$1.00
Shall We Dance
Fred Astaire Ginger Rogers VHS
b/w 108m
Classic Romance
$1.00
Irving Berlin's White Christmas
3775725429
1954
$1.00
The Bishop's Wife
The Classic Collection Samuel Goldwyn Home Entertainment
Cary Grant Loretta Young David Niven
Classic Romance
$1.00
An Affair To Remember
Cary Grant Deborah Kerr
Classic Romance
1957
nr
$1.00
How To Succeed in Business Without Really Trying
Robert Morse
2h 5m 1967
nr
$1.00
CATEGORY: GAMES
SHIPPING for first item is $8.00 Parcel Post. Priority Mail is $12.95 flat rate box. Sorry, I did have to change that, because they won't fit into a small Flat Rate box.
Scooby Doo Monopoly Collector's Edition
never played with, but opened
$8.00
Disney Edition Monopoly
includes 8 Collectible Themed movers
the plastic is torn, but it is unopened and unused
$10.00
Please feel free to copy and forward this list to groups and friends. Email Me!
We also have a three of our Nubian goats for sale. We have two bucks and a doe Cowboy
Full-blooded Nubian yearling, buckling
DOB: 2-25-07
weight: 97#
$125.00
Ellessar
Full-blooded Nubian yearling, buckling
DOB: 3-2?-07
weight: 102#
$125.00
Eamane
Full-blooded Nubian female yearling, doe
DOB: 3-25-07
weight: 142
Never bred (unless she is presently!). Mother is a good milker.
$100.00
I will get good pictures up soon, as well as their measurements. You can click on the photo above to see a bigger one. It is from last year. I just put it on so you can see the bucks' coloring.
Shipping: You must pick up. :)
We are located in northeastern Indiana, near Fort Wayne and Warsaw. We are only 90 miles from Indianapolis or South Bend - Mishawaka and 40 miles from the Ohio state line.
Hi, yes, I did get your email and sorry for not replying sooner. It has been a little hectic around here for a few days. Anyway, I would like to buy the So Much More book. We have one, but this way both the girls could have their own copy. I could pick it up IRL. :) real soon.
~Robin
I would like to buy the Prince of Egypt Soundtrack (I collect movie soundtracks). We can pick it up and pay you when we come visit. ;)
Looking forward to meeting you and your family IRL!
Hi Jaque,
I hope you and yours are feeling better? Sure wish we lived close to you I would love to buy some goats....ohh well. I live in Georgia and there are a lott of goats here. Just stopping by to say hey and Happy Easter to you and yours!!!
All of the articles are wonderful, and a favorite of mine is 
Autumn Beck has been reading about the ease and simplicity of flats, and it got her itching for a trial run, so she presents 
I am so glad we finally have flowers blooming and trees budding. It seems like it took forever for Spring to arrive here. Check out the beauty of spring and Amanda's hand at photography as she presents 
We lived in Las Cruces, which is just 45m from El Paso, so it was weird that it was in Texas. The OK City bombing: we were in OK city on the 17th. We stayed the night there in a motel on our way back from Las Cruces to Bremen, where we had just moved to. I remember my brother and I took the Uhaul back to South Bend, and I saw it on the tv in the UHaul office. I was astonished and asked what was going on. Since we had just been there, it was quite unreal. And, Columbine. Well, most people have heard of it and remember it. 
When you garden, there is something for every age. you can make a lesson as elaborate or as simple as you wish. Here are some ideas you can use with different levels of children. 
Other Lessons - Ideas to teach:
