Cold, dark and rainy.... not a good combination.... I am still having a hard time with it getting dark so early. It will be better when people have their Christmas lights out (although I wish they were not "Christmas" lights but "Winter" lights-- and would stay up much longer....it helps the DARK COLD OUTSIDE be more bareable. Although as the boys and I talked about on the way here-- this is part of Gods plan-- we are to REST in the Winter (imho) the Summer, Spring, and FAll we plant, grow, gather, store-- in the winter it is time for us to "rest".... and enjoy. I need to focus on that....
***
I am listening to...
Nathan beside me-- he's been trying to really get those fists in his mouth-- (couldn't be teething, that's impossible, RIGHT?) he is not hungry and won't take a pacifier-- just wants to get those FISTS in his mouth! In the background I have some instramental music (so relaxing).
***
To Fit and Happy...
I have seen off again /on again signs of some of us fighting some "cold" symptoms...no one has come down with anything-- but I am getting some stock out of the freezer to make into soup for tomorrow--to help BOOST up those immune systems.
Oh and I scored 8 BAGS of beef bones last evening for FREE!! So we will have more stock coming SOON!!
***
I am thankful for...
The renewing of our minds when we are in God's Word. The "world" at large can really throw us off course if we are not careful--- only God's Word can be our plumb line--- even for some "good" things-- or things that "make sense".... if it doesn't line up-- it isn't TRUE.
***
From the Kitchen
The stock mentioned above.
Had to re-stock my Honey and Maple Syrup this week-- always an expense but worth it in the LONG run.
Wednesday the boys and I will begin some preperations for our Thanksgiving meal with my parents.
Of course Thursday will be spent in the kitchen with my FAMILY!!
***
I am wearing ...
A jean jumper dress that I LOVE and would like to take a part and have someone make me a FEW more-- (different fabric) but it is SO perfect, size, for nursing, and I just REALLY like it!
I have a white turtleneck under and my slippers-- it is getting colder out and my kitchen floor tells me so-- (not insulated well-- it gets COLD in the Winter.
***
In My CD Player
Instramental Hymn music in the kitchen.
Vision Forum CD- "Why Christian Manhood Must Prevail" in the Van
***
Towards a real education ...
READ alouds and the 3 R's are getting in!! yeaaaaa And we are really enjoying ourselves-- that is the BEST part!!!
***
I am thinking...
Not too much-- thats a good thing-- TRUST ME!!
***
Around the Hobby Farm
Not too much around here either-- LOTS of PIG book being read my the male members-- ughhh
***
I am reading ...
The Bible
"Farmer Boy" finished for the first time ever
Missionary Book on Fiji finished tonight
Little Men
Missionary book to be decided tomorrow.... where will be travel???
***
I am praying ...
For our family-- as we make decisions-- that we would have ears to hear and eyes to see what the Lord wants for us....
I love it when I can share the TRUTH of God's word in tangible ways with my children. I am not at all sharing this to "brag" but because this is "my" personal record of our days--- and this was such a blessing to our family....
Last weekend we indeed did go and help my mother with her wood needs. It should've been an easy trip-- go get wood, split, stack....but many things came up which tried to steal our joy and (money). I didn't realize first of all it would cost more $ to take our trailer on the turnpike (due to more axels...Jason may have realized this, I was a bit shocked at first).... then when we got to my mothers with her first load of wood-- we realzied a bearing broke-- and the wheel was SMOKING!! It took a few parts and tools ($$$$) to fix the wheel. Then when Jason began to chain saw some wood that was already on the ground at my mothers-- there were some REAL chainsaw issues that required some parts/chains etc... We were determined to do this for my mother, as we wanted to bless her and have her warm and toasty over the winter... so we kept working-- no one mentioning where this $$ was going to come from-- but realzing that this was a task that was needed and would be completed.....
At this same time I was made aware of a family (local) who is going thru some problems (out of their control) and the Lord has REALLY been laying it on my heart to bless this family in SOME way-- and I wasn't sure where exactly that would come from--- but when God lays it on your heart-- it STAYS there until it is delt with.... so I knew he would make a way--- and he HAS!!! (not to mention as soon as I told Jason he knew JUST how we could bless them and help meet some of their physcial needs).
Low and behold I am about ready to do bills for the week-- and guess what? Jason received a BONUS on this paycheck and a cost of living increase (not big-- but every bit counts)... so we have JUST what we need to cover those unexpected expenses....and I am so thankful we did not let those "little" hang ups slow us down-- and I am more thankful to GOD for seeing us thru and blessing us in the end with our needs continuing to be met.
The saddest part to my flesh is I can now see when we are "in GOD's will" he will make a way and the road will lead down the path we are to take-- but sometimes I try PUSH and PULL a path of my own making-- like my DESIRE (fleshly, selfish) desire to have a BIGGER vechicle-- A VAN.... do we all fit in our current vehicle? Yes, it isn't the most pleasant arrangement right now-- but it works-- and I can see-- that WHEN God feels we are ready and the time is right-- HE WILL MAKE A WAY-- so I might as well QUIT PUSHING and PULLING!!
As a matter of fact the older 2 and I were talking last evening about our "trips" outside the home and how they have DWINDLED greatly in number...and they said "well it is because all of the babies". And to the human eye-- that is true-- it is a fact. But then Zachary said "If we didn't have these babies we might be out more and get the flu".. (TRUE) and then Zachary said "If we were out more we would EAT OUT more" (SO TRUE-- that was always our biggest budget pitfall) -- and then we tied that in to that money can now be used for helping/serving others AND we are TRYING to be healthier and lose some weight-- and eating out DOES NOT HELP THAT!! So this 'lack of running errands" will help us in MANY areas-- it might seem like a 'set back" at first glance-- but if we are quiet and seek God-- we can see him working IN MANY other areas... and how sweet that the older 2 boys could SEE IT TOO!!!! Praise God!!
Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." Luke 6:38
If I had more time I'd LOVE to share about our new church and how I have NEVER EVER in my LIFE seen a BODY OF BELEIVERS take this verse PUT IT INTO PRACTICE so literally:
They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. Acts 2:42-47
-- REALLY-- Maybe this week I can share a bit-- The boys too seeing this-- and realzie this is not "the WORLDs" way-- this is God's way-- and is very rare-- yet such a blessing--- and such a visable way to see God Work:
My son has talked about almost NOTHING else other than taking some $$ out of his bank account and buying a PIG!!
Why? Because that is what Almonzo did when he asked his dad for .05, his dad gave hime .50 and he bought a pig (so he could sell the babies-- whatever baby pigs are called-- I'll know the answer to this tomorrow).
All weekend-- everyone he came in contact with he told "I am going to take MY $$ and buy a baby pig".
The draw back to this? Almonzo's father owned a VERY large farm (and was pretty wealthy) and the book never mentioned how Almonzo FED this animal!! (Zachary is planning LOTS of scraps-- tried to start saving some today)..... The bigger drawback to all of this? Jason has ALWAYS wanted to raise a pig---
Oh how I DISLIKE PIGS!! VERY MUCH. When we go the farm show or fair-- I try to walk quickly thru-- and to be honest they SCARE ME VERY MUCH!! Have you ever seen a PIG get loose at a Farm Show? I have and it takes a FEW MEN to get them back in!!!! Oh dear... they REALLY REALLY do scare me!!!
So guess what filled Zachary's library bag today? Books on pigs-- you guessed!! (lol) I have a friend who has her daughters write a paper or notebook about things like this-- do some REAL resarch before they are able to "jump in" to things like this-- and that is JUST what I have planned for Zachary.
PS: I did throw in a few books on rabbits-- incase the pig idea doesn't 'fly".
If only he "took" to our Missionary book on the Fiji Island like he did Almonzo's pig!! LOL
Tonight we are having a fellowship meal at our church for our pastor and his wife to celebrate their anniversary. Just last week we had a celebration/meal for another couple who celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary.... I just love how serious this church takes and MAKES families. The couple that celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary also had a wedding quilt / throw hand made for them by ladies of the church (not me, I am not good with a needle...and it was also made during Nathans birth and there-after). My older 2 were at first surprised that we were having a dinner to celebrate an anniversary-- but now that this is CELEBRATION #2-- I think they get the idea-- Marriage is SUPER special and we all need to encourage and celebrate it with each other!!
Then tomorrow we are heading home (to my home) to help my mom who really needs some wood cut and split and stacked for her. We just found out about this yesterday-- but I am so thankful I have a husband and children who realize that this is what families do for each other-- we HELP and SERVE whenever and wherever needed. Jason works all night tonight but will still be the only "MAN" there-- and I know he is going to be so tired-- but he still stood right up and said "Yes, if your mom needs help-- WE WILL BE THERE." (That made a wonderful impression on the boys too-- ).
I have a friend who is considering homeschooling next year- and she asked me a few questions (I LOVE TALKING ABOUT Homeschooling-- even if we are becoming Unschoolers)....and the one she asked was "How long do you homeschool your boys each day?" Ummmm how do you answer that to someone who sends their children to school all day with out getting THIS look... LOL So I gave her the ol' standby (and TRUTH) "Oh we are homeschooling all day--everyday-- my children are always LEARNING.... it is just a matter of WHAT they are learning." (and I must BLUSH and add that since Nathan has been home and we have been watching FOOD NETWORK and the DO IT YOURSELF channel VERY frequently-- they have had a WHOLE lot of Home Ec. and Industrial Arts... LOL-- really though-- they can tell you many things they did not know before-- and are very ANXIOUS to help in the kitchen!! LOL) Oh and don't for get life science-- raising 25 meat chickens from 2 day old babies to the freezer to the kitchen TABLE (last nights dinner) But I did tell her the truth- "sitting and desk time is about 3 hours"-- (because I KNOW that is what she is considering school-- but hoping she will see school is SOOOO much more) I did re-state that that was not counting read aloud time and hands on learning-- and learning to "serve and help" as members of a society (the home and more).
Oh the looks we get when we all go out in public right now-- you can see people counting heads--- at first it was funny-- sometimes it is annoying... how do REALLY big families do it?
The hardest part for me right now-- is STUFF-- I feel like I am somehow DROWNING in STUFF again-- and I am not at all a pack-rat-- or anything even close to that-- I just feel a new baby brings some BIG things with them-- (swing, pack-n-play, chairs, car seats, and on and on)-- plus the other 2 littles have STUFF-- (thankfully the older 2 have mostly small toys (legos, matchbox cars, etc)... but oh I really feel like STUFF has over taken me-- and the ONLY reason I haven't taken CHARGE-- is I'm afraid-- I am SOOO frusturated I'm afraid how BARE BONES I may make things---- (I can get crazy sometimes you know.. LOL). Seriously--- it could be bad.....
Wanna know HOW CRAZY I CAN BE? SHould I tell you?? hmmmm some of you will really get a laugh-- but today on Craigslist under HOMES I found a listing for a "hunting cabin" (knotty pine-- BEAUTIFUL) on 20 acres with a self composting toilet!!!!! (in our price range) -- It is ONE big room as far as I can see with a BEAUTIFUL WOOD interior--- but oh my-- dh laughed-- and said "Yes, we would definitly be disowned then!! " LOL Then he said "maybe we should drive by and look at it!!" (He is not a dreamer, or visionary-- so don't worry)
Today we went to Bass Pro Shop for hubby to get a few things-- and this lady who works there said " Hi, there, are you finding everything okay... is there anything I can help you find? Maybe a BABYSITTER?...holys smokes you have a lot of kids!" I don't know why by that really rubbed me the wrong way.... Later at the customer service desk a gentleman said he was one of 5 children and he imagined we were what his family looked like and 2 women behind the counter working there -- said--" Not me I could never imagine so many kids-- No way". What a shame-- Children really are not considered a blessing in this world are they????
Well I do feel blessed-- and as Doug Phillips said (can't find the link) but the jist is this: In the Bible children are called a blessing and debt a curse, so why do so many of us try to LIMIT our blessings yet APPLY for our cureses?????
The dishwasher run...and Zachary reading aloud to himself while finishing school work.
***
To Fit and Happy...
How did CANDY get into this house? Oh yes-- Grandma!! Ugghhh- not too much-- and soon it will be gone.
Still thinking about the exercise for all... ANY SUGGESTIONS? Where we live is not really "safe" for walking-- unless we walk the perimiter of our land-- and that is B-O-R-I-N-G. Plus it is getting colder--
***
I am thankful for...
Our MANY read aloud times right now-- they are SO fun-- and each time we are reading a different book. First feeding (Nathan) is Farmer Boy, second is a Missionary Book about Fiji, third is Christopher Columbus, fourth is "Created For Work". Not counting our morning Proverb and our evening Bible time led by daddy.
***
From the Kitchen
Wheww kitchen day last week was MESSY~! No kitchen day this week-- Next week we will as I will need to make some bread. Oh and it looks like apple picking (drops for free) will be soon-- so that will be a kitchen day!!
***
I am wearing ...
I bought some kuddleduds-- finally- I have heard many praises of them-- as they keep a woman warm in the winter in her dresses. So yesterday I ran to Bonton (the only local store that carried them) and bought a pair with a few knee sox to go with -- and ahhh they are SOOOOO comfy and warm!!
Oh but I am wearing a SUPER comfy (not so pretty) beige cotton skirt with black turtleneck and new sox.
***
In My CD Player
Vision Forum CD- "Why the Church Needs the Family and the Family Needs the Church" ---Livingroom
Michael W Smith- in the Suburban
***
Towards a real education ...
READ alouds and the 3 R's are getting in!! yeaaaaa And we are really enjoying ourselves-- that is the BEST part!!!
***
I am thinking...
How much fun I had Saturday night at the Reformation Day Celebration our church had. It was such a sweet time-- They had a musician (celtic music) and it was dark with camp fires all around-- I was able to sit and listen and just enjoy watching the families around us-- I love watching families that LOVE each other-- I saw fathers and daughters dancing (it was barn dancing w/o the barn) husbands and wives dancing-- and children running and playing -- and mommys and daddys all around sharing in fellowship and laughter-- it was a SWEET SWEET TIME!!!
***
Around the Hobby Farm
Winterizing the laying chickens- putting up their winter windows and cleaning out the nests.
Still to do - clean out flower beds and till garden for next year.
***
I am reading ...
The Bible
"Farmer Boy"
Missionary Book on Fiji
Christopher Columbus
"Created to Work"
Plus 3 books on hold at library to be picked up today.....
***
I am praying ...
For our family-- as we make decisions-- that we would have ears to hear and eyes to see what the Lord wants for us....
***
A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week:
Nothing!!
I cancelled Baby Nathan's wellbaby appt today-- nothing like taking a 1 month old out to the Dr.'s office during FLU season!!
Maybe some apple picking and processing with 2 family friends-- we'll see how the weather is--and each ones schedule...
I know I mentioned a while back (about a week before Nathan was born) that we got the Sattelite Dish--thingy-- and I was really unsure of how that would work after 9+ years of NO TV...and let me tell you-- YUCK!!! (No Tv--- isn't totally true-- we had 1 channel we could watch and we did have a DVD and VCR)
I've been oh so sick to my stomach about some of the things on TV-- but I must admit was very excited to sit and watch some GOOD Ol' Cooking Channel during my LONG nursing sessions in the beginning.... well tis true-- I did enjoy it for about a week or 2-- and then I got REALLY SICK OF IT!!
Well of course some of the male memebrs of my household were not as convinced at how much this was probably not the best idea we'd ever come up with!!
Well today was the straw that broke the camels back with me (at least)-- the COMMERCIALS ON EVERY CHANNEL ARE EVIL-- there is not other more correct term to be used-- they are EVIL and the ENEMY has slithered his way into so many homes-- it is heart breaking to me-- REALLY it is..... heartbreaking.....
So after 4 weeks of playing "hurry mom-- turn the channel its a bad commercial" (while watching some very nice movies/cooking shows)-- I HAVE HAD IT-- it is JUST TOOO MUCH!!
So off went the switch-- and I'll be curious to see who switches it back on!!
What perfect timing though-- because I finally have read a CM post or thought that I could process with my mind... usually it is is all too good to be true and too much for me-- and I get OVERWHELMED and give up QUICKLY... however last night I read the final post from Generation Cedar on CM-. To read more of what Generation Cedar had to say about CM see here for parts 1-6.
So today we started our morning w/ breakfast and our normal daily reading of Proverbs. Then for Nathan's 10am feeding we read Farmer Boy. Then it was nap time for Stephen and Rebekah so we did Math, Reading and Copywork (and I am really coming down on messy slopy work-- it MUST be PERFECT). Then it was time for Nathan to eat again (he is on a 3 hour schedule start to start) and we read a Missionary book about a family living in Fiji (and of course we then broke out the map and the Encyclopedia to learn a bit mroe about Fiji.). Then for his 4pm feeding we broke out our Weaver Readaloud-- on Christopher Columbus. Now ina few minutes we will sit down for ANOTHER feeding and we will read something practical-- I have 2 books from Vision Forum about Boys/Men (can't think of the title right now- oh yes- "Created for Work" and there is another that goes with it..)
I cannot believe how perfectly these feedings have made our read alouds to go-- PERFECT-- ABSOLUTLY perfect- NATHAN HAS TO EAT--- so why not gather around and read!?! Ahhhh And after being baby #5 and my first baby to nurse-- I cannot put into words TRULY how RELAXING it is to sit and read and nurse-- I would've NEVER EVER GUESSED!! NEVER!!!
Well I must run-- Apple cake is done in the oven for our Reformatino Day Celebration with our church family tomorrow.
I found these 2 Yearly / Seasonal Chore Charts-- just thought I'd share them--
January
Wipe down cabinets
clean inside of stove top and wash knobs
soak oven racks
Vacuum Fridge coils and sweep under it
Clean under stove
Clean top of fridge
wash and wax wood in dining room
polish silver
go through cupboards and tidy
wash silverware trays
clean out/wipe drawers in kitchen
clean out drains with vinegar and baking soda (rinse with very hot water)
oil wood cutting boards
Clean vent hood over stove/check filters
clean out cobwebs and wipe down walls/baseboards/trim in kitchen
scrub garbage can
Clean pictures/frames in kitchen
February
Thoroughly scrub toilet with bleach water
clean bathroom sink with baking soda and clean drain with vinegar/baking soda
deep clean tub and shower
go through products and toss anything unneeded
Scrub garbage can
check for cobwebs and dust walls/baseboards/trim
Wash bathmats and shower curtains
Clean pictures/frames/mirrors in bathroom
Check oil in car
Go through pantry and inventory
March
Flip and vacuum mattress
Clean bed really well and wax wood if needed
Check sheets and mend them if needed
Check for cobwebs and dust walls, etc in bedroom
Go through clothes/shoes and start spring/summer transition (get rid of anything no longer useful)
Wash all bedding and switch to lighter blankets/sheets if warm enough
Start weeding as ground begins to thaw
Clean pictures/frames/mirrors in bedroom
Start seeds
April
Vacuum couch and other soft furniture in living room
Clean pictures/frames in living room
Check for cobwebs and dust walls, etc. in living room
Go through books and remove any no longer wanted
Weed
Remove anything that died in garden during winter
Check gutters and clean out
Sweep front porch and check lights
Check hanging plants
check potted plants
fertilize trees and plants once completely thawed (sometimes done in May)
till garden
plant seedlings and starts (near end of month where I live)
Check oil in car
May
Prune trees and bushes
de-thatch lawn
clean out ditches and artisan spring
plant grass if needed (early in May)
Paint trim if needed
Wash windows
Spray down driveway
Clean out shed and garage
Plant peas/beans
June
Weed
Scrub lint trap in dryer
Vacuum under washer and dryer
Check oil in car
Go through pantry and inventory
Check canning jars and supplies start buying jars if needed
Dust walls/baseboards/trim in laundry room
Plant winter squashes
Start on Christmas projects
July
work on Christmas projects
Dust all walls
Wipe down cabinets
clean inside of stove top and wash knobs
soak oven racks
Vacuum Fridge coils and sweep under it
Clean under stove
Clean top of fridge
go through cupboards and tidy
wash silverware trays
clean out/wipe drawers in kitchen
clean out drains with vinegar and baking soda (rinse with very hot water)
Clean vent hood over stove/check filters
clean out cobwebs
scrub garbage can
Clean pictures/frames in kitchen
August
Thoroughly scrub toilet with bleach water
clean bathroom sink with baking soda and clean drain with vinegar/baking soda
deep clean tub and shower
go through products and toss anything unneeded
Scrub garbage can
check for cobwebs
Wash bathmats and shower curtains
Clean pictures/frames/mirrors in bathroom
Check oil in car
Go through pantry and inventory
September
Flip and vacuum mattress
Clean bed really well and wax wood if needed
Check sheets and mend them if needed
Check for cobwebs and dust walls, etc in bedroom
Go through clothes/shoes and start Fall/winter transition (get rid of anything no longer useful)
Wash all bedding and switch to heavier blankets/sheets if cold enough
Clean pictures/frames/mirrors in bedroom
plant bulbs
October
Vacuum couch and other soft furniture in living room
Clean pictures/frames in living room
Check for cobwebs and dust walls, etc. in living room
Check gutters and clean out
Sweep front porch and check lights
Check hanging plants
check potted plants
Put down winter fertilizer
till garden and rip out expired plants
Prune roses
Check oil in car
Service tiller and mower remove any leftover gas
Clean and oil yard tools
Clean out shed/garage
Plant bulbs
November
Wash all curtains
Shampoo carpets and wash rugs
Rip out any remaining plants from garden that have expired
clean out gutters
Wipe windows
check roof and shingles
December
Clean kitchen appliances.
Organize where needed.
And this one is my FAVORITE: (I could've combined them, but I must get going)
Yearly To Do List
January
-de-clutter downstairs
-increase everyone’s Vitamin C intake
-make large batch of hm chicken broth
-clean out all files
-gather tax papers
-disinfect door handles and light switches daily
February
-de-clutter upstairs
-plan garden
-increase everyone’s Vitamin C intake
-disinfect door handles and light switches daily
-
March
-order garden seeds
-plant spinach, lettuce, onions, snap peas
-order new CHICKS
-clean outside flowerbeds/brush
-take down all snowmen decorations—spring decorations out
-clothing switch from winter to spring—toss/give away—make list of needed items
-clean animal pens/houses
-clean out shed- rearrange for spring needs
April
-plan home school year for NEXT year
-continue outside clean up as needed
-prepare garden beds
-Spring Menu plan
May
-yard sale(have list of needed items)
-Freeze some meals for busy summer months
-Gather grilling supplies for spring/summer
-Clean grill
-Begin garden planting
-Sandals/flip-flops for ALL
-Suntan lotion for ALL
-Make a “salad center” in kitchen and keep stocked
-“picnic” center and supplies ready for spring/summer
June
-End of the year testing/evaluators
-WEED garden
-Summer Menu plan
July
-harvest and preservation (canning/freezing) supplies
-WEED garden
August
-HARVEST garden—keep up with preservation
-WEED garden
September
-Fall decorations
-WEED garden
-Harvest—keep up with preservations
-Clothing switch-summer to fall winter…. Get rid of non needed items/ list of needed new items
Dark and rainy-- It is to rain all day-- but that is okay with me. (Except I bet when all this rain is over most of our trees will be bare...and they are so beautiful right now).
***
I am listening to...
Silence-- Ahhhh silence...
***
To Fit and Happy...
We are REALLY trying to get serious about shedding a FEW pounds. All of us can afford to shed some pounds. I am trying to watch the carbs (not too strict though... a lot of our whole food recipes for fall/winter have rice/beans/barley in them). Portion control is being heavily examined and sweets.... This will be a process-- but it NEEDS to happen. Next step finding some form of EXERCISE for each of us.... (more on that later)
***
I am thankful for...
Our family-- I am so amazed at what a sweet time we have had this last month. We have ALL enjoyed this "babymoon" VERY MUCH. (maybe most of all).
***
From the Kitchen
Today is "kitchen day". Not sure what that is going to look like-- hoping to have 2 "kitchen days" per week to get some high maintenance stuff out of the way; like bread baking (not needed this week), granola bars, other baking items, rice / bean making/soaking, things like that....
Found these 2 links that helped me "form" my Kitchen Day-
(you have to scroll down on these links to find the "entry")
***
I am wearing ...
Still in PJ's-- I'll head up to get dressed within the hour... right now everyone is sleeping- and I don't want to wake them. (no early morning showers for me -- it wakes everyone-- I must shower at night)
***
In My CD Player
Christine Getty---Livingroom
Michael W Smith- in the Suburban
***
Towards a real education ...
We are doing pretty well getting the 3 R's in. This week we MUST dive into our Weaver lessons-- they will so fit in with Thanksgiving... and I have the lessons made-- just need to APPLY them.
We have enjoyed a lot of read aloud time this past week-- as I can now finally nurse and read at the same time. (Mostly thanks to an AWESOME nursing cover I bought from a fellow MOMY's).
***
I am thinking...
About our week-- I have broken out a schedule again-- it was nice for a month to just 'enjoy' life-- but we need a BIT more structure-- but I don't want to lose that "enjoyment " either.
***
Around the Hobby Farm
Meat chickens are in the FREEZER. Butcherin went very well-- the guys enjoyed themselves very much, and doing it with our church family was a VERY nice time of fellowship too. (I think they did near 200 chickens that day)
***
I am reading ...
Farmer Boy (our current Read Aloud)
***
I am praying ...
For our Pastor and my brother both who have the Flu.
***
A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week:
Wednesday- Traveling "home" we were able to purchase 75lbs of grass fed beef and it is ready for pick up on Wednesday.
Saturday- Our church is having a Reformation Day Celebration. It is outside with cider making, a campfire and a celtic musician. Depending on the temp. we are hoping to attend.
Cold and BRIGHT. It is getting cooler here-- and that is okay with me. Although-- when the propane bill comes I might disagree!!
***
I am listening to...
Rebekah going to sleep (she talks/fusses a bit to herself). Stephen walking around me-- talking....
***
To Fit and Happy...
Ahh already back in to "regular clothes"-- although I still need to lose quite a few pounds--- to be "FIT". I did a clothing switch to put away all my maternity and summer clothes and get out my nice warmw winter clothes.... I love that-- its like a whole new wardrobe. (It will REALLY be like a whole new wardrobe this summer-- I haven't worn my REGULAR summer clothes for 3 years now due to being pregnant!! )
***
I am thankful for...
Our newest addition-- he is SUCH a sweet addition. He is the happiest most content baby I have had in 8 years!!! He eats and then is content almost anywhere.... he is truely a content and EASY baby!!!
***
From the Kitchen
Our church brough us LOTS of meals-- so all I have to do is warm something up each evening-- NICE!!!
***
I am wearing ...
Jean skirt, burgandy long sleeve shirt, black sox
***
In My CD Player
Christine Getty---Livingroom
WOW Worship (something from the 90's)
***
Towards a real education ...
Yesterday we were able to get in our Reading, Writing and Math and even some History. While at the end of my pregnancy Jason took us to a nearby Army War College and they have a "track" that you can walk around that shows all kinds of Army /War items from different wars (tanks, buildings, helecopters, etc) and we picked up 2 workbooks that we can complete at home to help re-inforce what we saw and learned. They have really enjoyed these workbooks.
I am all ready to go with Weaver next week though-- nice and easy-- starting with Christopher Columbus.
***
I am thinking...
About a few field trips our co-op is having--- and the logistics of going...... hmmmmm
***
Around the Hobby Farm
Saturday is our meat chicken BUTCHERING day!! Daddy and the 2 oldest will go... and I hope they get a few pics....(gross I know-- but it was REAL learning).
***
I am reading ...
The Bible
***
I am praying ...
For a dear Family on my MOMY's board whose 6 year old daughter is near the end of a terminal illness of brain cancer....
Sorry it has taken so long to post.... life is a bit BUSY!! LOL
I don't have pics uploaded yet-- so you'll have to just imagine the cutest 9lbs 15 oz little boy you have EVER seen!! (at 21.5 " long)
He was born on 9/29/09 at 7:58pm....
I was infact induced-- but nothing like previous ones!!
At 11am they put some gel (forget the name) on my cerv$x to help get things going-- and that was ALL it took to get things going.....
I spent most of the day in bed (monitored ) and the rest of the time in the JET TUB!! Ahhhh This is my first time spending time in the "tub" (due to the pitocin I am usually receiving) and can I just tell you it made ALL THE DIFFERENCE IN THE WORLD!! I actually fell asleep SEVERAL times in the tub (during labor)!!! WOW!! THAT is the TICKET!!!
Then at 7:00 the Dr. came in (shift change-- but this is by far our 2nd favorite dr in the practice).... and he broke my water (w/o warning....) and then they wanted monitor me in bed for 30minutes... OUCH--that was tough-- then they thought-- they'd give me one more bag of IV (for strep B) which took 20 minutes... This did make me ANGRY-- because I KNEW how much nicer I would be feeling if only I COULD GET OUT OF THAT BED!!! But-- if you do the math-- after that 20 minutes-- BABY WAS HERE!!!
So I did go ALL NATURAL (as far as pain)--- and looking back NOW-- it wasn't THAT bad-- there were like 10 minutes that I lost my mind (literally) and then-- Ah hem-- 3 PUSHES later he was out and HERE!! (yep-- I don't know how that happened-- Rebekah was like 3 pushes too) but I can tell you not having an Epidural-- made pushing SOOOOo much more effective-- and it FELT GOOD (compared to laying there thru contrax)--
So he is here-- I did have a bit of bleeding drama later in the night and there was some talk of a D&C but thankfuly by 8am things were back under control....
Nathan on the other hand is healthy as a horse-- and eaing VERY WELL!! Those of you who know me well KNOW I struggle VERY much with feeding my babes-- but I AM DETERMINED this time-- and even when he looked a bit jaundice 2 days ago-- we pushed thru and he looks FINE now...and is giving me yellow BM's and wet diapers-- so we'll continue ahead!!!
Well I better get going-- it is time to wake him for a feeding-
Nathan at this point is a tie for my most CONTENT and HAPPY baby-- even when awake-- he barely EVER cries-- he is just happy to sit and be held-- or even lay in the bobby and look around..... VERY content-- just like Zachary was!! (I think we deserve it after little Beka-- whewwww she is still a screamer!! )
It is dark and quiet. The temp. outside these past few days has been WONDERFUL!! Totally my kind of weather!!
***
I am listening to...
Joshua sit at the kitchen table beside me playing with Play-doh. Jason and Zachary in the living room watching Sunday Night Football.
***
To Fit and Happy...
TO be fit and happy-- oh is to have this baby (HEALTHY) and then to get some of these pounds off.... (3 back to back pregnancies don't help).
Ughhh-- and to wear NORMAL clothes--
***
I am thankful for...
My second oldest child-- he is so easy going-- he is my active and mover/shaker-- yet he has a heart of gold. He gets into trouble so many times without even know ing it-- he just as an odd nack for that-- I am really trying to parent him a bit differently-- as he needs some different parenting than his brothers.
***
From the Kitchen
Not me-- whatever someone makes/brings-- will be on the menu-- Dh is off till mid October-- so I'll be in good hands, right!!?!!?
***
I am wearing ...
My bed clothes--(dh's plaid sleeping pants and a t-shirt)
***
In My CD Player
Children's Worship---Livingroom
WOW Worship (something from the 90's)
***
Towards a real education ...
REAL LEARNING-- most likely no book work this week or next!!
***
I am thinking...
How much I wish I would go into labor-- but I am loosing hope-- does my body even know what that means????????
***
Around the Hobby Farm
NO UPDATE
I am reading ...
The Bible
What the Bible Says About Healthy Living By: Rex Russell
Getting ready to start- a yahoo group reading thru Teaching the Trivium-- (they are going slow--
All the above are on hold
***
I am hoping and praying ...
For this baby-- and my patience in waiting--
***
***
Nesting TO Do List
IT"S DONE!!!
***
A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week:
ANYDAY-- BABY ARRIVES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Or Scheduled INUDCTION Tuesday the 29th at 7:30 am (this will be #5 out of #5 for induced babies)
It is dark and quiet. The temp. outside these past few days has been WONDERFUL!! Totally my kind of weather!! Now we do have rain comming for the next 2 days I think-- but I'll take it. (I did get the fall/winter clothes out for all the kids so we are READY for the cooler temps!!)
***
I am listening to...
Rebekah sitting beside me having a midnight snack. (cereal) She didn't get her afternoon nap (due to running an errand) and then by dinner (6:30pm) she was ready for bed-- so I put her to bed at 7pm-- and then she woke up HUNGRY-- so this is the first and hopefully last (for awhile) midnight snacks for her!! LOL
***
To Fit and Happy...
Had to return -- What The Bible Says About Healthy Living By: Rex Russell-- maybe I'll have time later to check it out and read it IN FULL!! LOL
TO be fit and happy-- oh is to have this baby (HEALTHY) and then to get some of these pounds off.... (3 back to back pregnancies don't help).
Ughhh-- and to wear NORMAL clothes--
***
I am thankful for...
My oldest child-- he is such a helper-- and a trooper-- I was never the oldest of more than my little brother-- and I can tell already being the oldest in a larger family if MUCH different... But he does so well-- he really does LOVE and CHERRISH each of his younger siblings. My church family-- Oh my goodness-- a family just drove an hour to bring me 7
***
From the Kitchen
Continuing to eat the meals our church brought last week.... YUMM-O and EASY!!!
I still need to work on Rebekah's menu-- I need to add some "spunk" to it-- not having dairy hangs me up a good bit-- and she does NOT like baby food or eggs? Purreed baby food (veges and meats) were so easy-- and she doesn't eat all that well-- she has to have super soft foods still-- but she thinks she is one of the "big kids" now I guess
***
I am wearing ...
My bed clothes--(I was in bed until Rebekah told me how hungry she was)
***
In My CD Player
Children's Worship---Livingroom
WOW Worship (something from the 90's)
***
Towards a real education ...
The Basics this week (3 R's)
***
I am thinking...
How I wish we did not have the DISH.... ughh my selfcontrol is so weak-- We watch "good" shows-- but still-- TOO much-- now that I am THIS preggo-- I have used it for us to 'vege" out WAY to much. But wow the cooking ideas we ALL have now!! LOL (the Food network is BY FAR our favorite). I do wish we had NOT gotten it-- and after baby arrives-- maybe the downstairs one will be UNPLUGGED.... (so daddy can still watch his football in his room, with his boys-- w/o it being so temping for the rest of us throughout the week.
***
Around the Hobby Farm
NO UPDATE
I am reading ...
The Bible
What the Bible Says About Healthy Living By: Rex Russell
Getting ready to start- a yahoo group reading thru Teaching the Trivium-- (they are going slow--
It is dark and quiet. 1 more day of "hot" weather and then to the temps are going to be in the 70's!! (my FAVORITE TIME OF YEAR). (although that means I need to get some clothing switched around for the kiddos)
***
I am listening to...
Rebekah breathing in the monitor (trying to go to sleep) . The kids watching "Unwrapped" on the Food Channel (how they make different foods-- very interesting).
***
To Fit and Happy...
I am STILL reading- What The Bible Says About Healthy Living By: Rex Russell-- LOVING THIS BOOK!! I haven't touched it all week though-- maybe on days when I am sitting with the new babe?? (doubtful-- I'll probably be sleeping) oh well
I am so looking forward to LOSING weight-- no real plan-- just to be unpregnant for a bit-- to get some of this 3 pregnancy in a row baby weight off!! Ughhh-- and to wear NORMAL clothes-- I have such a better selection of NON-maternity-- because I always say "I hate to buy clothes for only 4-5 months-- but now that we have completed 3 BACK TO BACK pregnancies-- maybe I should've splurged after all!! LOL
***
I am thankful for...
My church family-- Oh my goodness-- a family just drove an hour to bring me 7 FRESHLY made meals for my family to eat during this "end of pregnancy" time-- to bless us-- and OH MY GOODNESS-- a blessing indeed!!!
***
From the Kitchen
The above 7 meals-- that is on the menu-- what else? Nothing!! LOL
I do need to work on Rebekah's menu-- I need to add some "spunk" to it-- not having dairy hangs me up a good bit-- and she does NOT like baby food or eggs? Purreed baby food (veges and meats) were so easy-- and she doesn't eat all that well-- she has to have super soft foods still-- but she thinks she is one of the "big kids" now I guess
***
I am wearing ...
Jean skirt and pink plaid shirt - hair up in a clip
***
In My CD Player
Bach (a children's story of Bach)---Livingroom
Michael W Smith - in the van (can you tell Jason mostly drives)
***
Towards a real education ...
The Basics this week (3 R's)
Our Geosafari and Geosafari Talking globe DID arrive and the kids LOVE them-- I even bought some more "cards" to go with them on Amazon-- they should arrive Wednesday!!
***
I am thinking...
How much I want to have this baby SOON-- how much i want to have this baby naturally (if possible)-- how much I know after todays ultrasound the ol' "induction" question is going to be raised at Wednesday's appointment!! (baby is weighing in at 8.11lbs (give or take .5 per the tech)-- and measuring 39w,6 days--- I have BIG babies-- it's okay-- I'm really not TOO overly concerned..maybe I should be I don't know-- I really can't seem to think straight right now-- (which tells me I am REALLY close to the end-- this always happens to be at the end-- I cannot think-- its such a weird feeling).
***
Around the Hobby Farm
The meat chickens are doing well--
I am reading ...
The Bible
What the Bible Says About Healthy Living By: Rex Russell
Getting ready to start- a yahoo group reading thru Teaching the Trivium-- (they are going slow--
All the above are on hold
***
I am hoping and praying ...
For Jasons work- we are fervently praying his schedule gets changed back to having Saturday nights off-- UPDATE-- his boss said 2 weeks and he will again have Sundays off!! YEAAAA answer to prayer-- but church with 3 littles is going to be a WHOLE other prayer issue!!
For this baby-- and my patience in waiting--
***
***
Nesting TO Do List
(notice this is the same as the last 2 week's list-- nothing got accomplished this week)
Pack my bag--
Get the pack-n-play bassinet set up in my bedroom (after we get the otehr pack-n-play set up downstairs
Update of baby books (I am so sad with how little I have updated Rebekah's--)
***
A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week:
Monday- Ultrasound
Tuesday- Rebekah's 1 year Well Baby Appt (can't wait to see her new stats)
It is dark and quiet. Today looked like rain most of the day-- but never did a drop fall (that I saw).
***
I am listening to...
Rebekah crying in the monitor (trying to go to sleep) . The coffee maker -- getting Jasons coffee ready for work.
***
To Fit and Happy...
Continuing to Read- What The Bible Says About Healthy Living By: Rex Russell-- LOVING THIS BOOK!! (it is taking so long-- because I was reading in the morning-- but Rebekah is really not being very paitent with me....so I'm not getting much in...)
***
I am thankful for...
Birthdays-- and how much they help me to slow down and enjoy and remember that each day is SPECIAL--and these "babies" will not be babies very long.
***
From the Kitchen
I have slowed WAY down in there--
I did get the Grape Jelly done--
Maybe if I have a EXTRA jolt of energy one day I'll get some more bread and granola done-- otherwise-- that is okay....
***
I am wearing ...
Jean skirt and red shirt - hair up in a clip
***
In My CD Player
Children's Worship- Livingroom
Michael W Smith - in the van (can you tell Jason mostly drives)
***
Towards a real education ...
The Basics this week (3 R's)
Get some final plans ready for our big Colonial unit starting-- waiting for a book to arrive to help us make some maps and timelines and so forth.
Our Geosafari and Geosafari Talking globe both should arrive this week!!
***
I am thinking...
Really -- this is the time my brain shuts down-- I really cannot be asked any really meaningful questions right now-- I'm in "baby" mode- (not that I am thinking about baby all the time-- just that I am so pregnat-- my brain goes on a mini vacation)
***
Around the Hobby Farm
The meat chickens are doing well--
I am reading ...
The Bible
What the Bible Says About Healthy Living By: Rex Russell
Husband Coached Childbirth by Bradley
Getting ready to start- a yahoo group reading thru Teaching the Trivium-- (they are going slow--
***
I am hoping and praying ...
For Jasons work- we are fervently praying his schedule gets changed back to having Saturday nights off--
For this baby-- and my patience in waiting--
***
Zachary (8)
His Main focus is READING-- reading aloud to me as much as we can fit in- My mom brought some old magazines (2004-05) Backwoods Home -- so I am sure he will be pouring over these-- he really enjoys reading things such as this....
***
Joshua (7)
Not sure what his focus will be- his focus will be by my side a LOT-- he needs some help with deicision making right now....
***
Stephen (2 Years)
Well he is 2- and his birthday was wonderful-- both sets of grandparents came up for the birthday's (Rebekah's is Saturday) so that was nice.
***
Rebekah (1 YEAR)
Yep-- you read that right-- she will be one on Saturday the 12th!! WOW--
She is still really ON THE MOVE and really talking up a storm (nothing anyone can understand-- but whewwww she is talkative!! )
***
New Baby (BOY) - 6 weeks and counting.
2 weeks to go-- and I know MAYBE 4-- but lets focus on 2--
He is LOW-- and head down-- so we'll see
***
Nesting TO Do List
(notice this is the same as last week's list-- nothing got accomplished this week)
Pack my bag--
Get the pack-n-play bassinet set up in my bedroom (after we get the otehr pack-n-play set up downstairs
Update of baby books (I am so sad with how little I have updated Rebekah's--)
***
A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week:
Monday- My mom and dad came to visit
Tuesday- We are getting DISH Network (I am soo worried about this) but we'll try it for a season I guess (can you beleive we have NOT had a TV for 8 years!! except what local channel came thru the attena). Mostly for Football-- but Jason assures me there will be many educational programs I will enjoy as well. We did just get the "Family" package.
** Well not really-- the beginning of the week was busy-- so this is a MID WEEK DAYBOOK!!
***
Outside My Window ...
It is a BEAUTIFUL DAY!! The weather has been SOO nice here-- very cool in the mornings and just beautiful during they day-- my kind of weather....
***
I am listening to...
Rebekah sitting next to me-- she is quite the LIVELY baby in the morning--- LOUD and HUNGRY. She had her first breakfast and now she waits for her second (she must really beleive that BREAKFAST is the most important meal of the day) LOL
***
To Fit and Happy...
Continuing to Read- What The Bible Says About Healthy Living By: Rex Russell-- LOVING THIS BOOK!! (it is taking so long-- because I was reading in the morning-- but Rebekah is really not being very paitent with me....so I'm not getting much in...)
***
I am thankful for...
My patient husband and boys-- who are so paitent with me-- especially at the end of 3 conseutive pregnancy's.
***
From the Kitchen
I have slowed WAY down in there-- but this week I may have to turn it back up--
Today and/or tomorrow will be GRAPE Jelly making days!!
Then I really should get some more WW bread done and frozen. I would also like to get a FEW batches of granola ready....
I am most thankful for my new coffee maker...mine broke 2 days ago-- is that allowed-- is a coffeee maker allowed to break? Oh my-- I had to wait for Jason to get home yesterday morning (9am) before I had my first cup!! YIKES
***
I am wearing ...
Comfy WARM sleep clothes (just a pair of flannel pants and a sweatshirt) its chilly in the mornings here...
***
In My CD Player
In the Living Room- Bach
In the Van- PASSION
***
Towards a real education ...
The Basics this week (3 R's)
Finish up our Weaver unit- it is basically a day in FIRE SAFETY-- then on too our BIG Colonial Amercia unit-- I got our "read aloud" in the mail yesterday... so we are ready....
***
I am thinking...
How LOUD and Fussy Rebekah is in the mornings-- before and AFTER she eats-- I think she TRIES to wake her brothers-- I really do!!
***
Around the Hobby Farm
The meat chickens are doing well-- Jason is going to help some families in our church do some butchering (of chickens) Saturday-- our church works together on this-- and there are 4-5 Saturdays everyone gets together and gets a LOT done. (some families in our church have been raising 50-150 chickens!!)
**
I am reading ...
The Bible
What the Bible Says About Healthy Living By: Rex Russell
Husband Coached Childbirth by Bradley
Getting ready to start- a yahoo group reading thru Teaching the Trivium-- (they are going slow-- so I THINK I will be able to keep up-- this week it is only readying pages 27-31)
***
I am hoping and praying ...
For Jasons work- we are fervently praying his schedule gets changed back to having Saturday nights off--
For this baby-- and my patience in waiting--
For a family in our church is just found out they are expecting #7
***
Zachary (8)
His Main focus is READING-- reading aloud to me as much as we can fit in--
He will most likely due some mowing-- and the daily chicken chores....
***
Joshua (7)
His focus this week with be math-- really need to get those addition under his belt....
***
Stephen (23 Months)
His birthday is SUNDAY-- so we keep telling him he is "2" and when he says it is SOOOO cute!!! So he is just working on being 2!! LOL
***
Rebekah (11 Months)
Oh my-- she is coming into herself-- yesterday she tried to show us she was just as capable as any other 1 year old-- Josh found her climbing hte stairs (Stephen never bothered with them till we showed him) she was on the 2nd step (I was reading aloud to Stephen on the couch). Then at lunch- I walked over to the kitchen to get something-- and little Rebekah stood up in her highchair backwards!! I'm gonna have to keep my eye on her! Most of my kids are pretty content-- she always wants to be somewhere she is not-- if I put her on the livingroom floor (w/ toys and Stephen playing with her) she is OFF to the kitchen or some other thing)
***
New Baby (BOY) - 6 weeks and counting.
3 weeks to go-- and I know MAYBE 5-- but lets focus on 3--
He is LOW-- and head down-- so we'll see
***
Nesting TO Do List
Pack my bag--
Get the pack-n-play bassinet set up in my bedroom (after we get the otehr pack-n-play set up downstairs
Update of baby books (I am so sad with how little I have updated Rebekah's--)
***
A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week:
Monday- Josh's eye Dr. Appt
Tuesday- My OB appt
Friday- Stephens 1 year old well appt
Friday- dinner at our pastors home
Saturday- chicken butchering
Sunday- travel to Bedford for the day to visit-- and have cake and icecream for Stephen and Rebekah's birthday.
As I am really hoping to go au' natural this time too-- (after 4 medicated births). My thoughts on the previous births were-- if you are making me take pitocin-- then I'll take the "chaser" of an epi to go with it-- I'd be crazy NOT TO!!
SO I am really hoping to NOT have pit-- and go natural-- although THIS quote from the same blog entry-- resinates within me!!
"Long story short, it was tempting, at the suggestion of the nurse, to take a little pitocin to speed things up. Especially as I watched my family grow weary with me. It was almost a pressure to perform–like *I* was holding up progress, and I just wanted it to be over so everyone could get some rest. "
I have heard that the reliance on God is so necessary and strong in these births-- I was talking to a dear friend at church and she shared how much she is in CONSTANT dialog with the Lord during her births-- it is the ONLY thing that keeps her going-- and it made me think-- how LITTLE dialog I have had with the Lord DURING my actual births-- WHY? I didn't really "NEED" him at that moment -- the epi took care of it all.... (sad). Don't get me wrong we do pray and THANK the Lord for the blessing -- but I can tell from listening to women who have gone "natural" that is a DIFFERENT dependence-- one that CHANGES you FOREVER on the "other side".
So I must also link to Generation Cedars "after thoughts" on where the Lord brought her to-- God Has Answered
I am reading Ina May's Guide to Childbirth-- very interersting. Yesterday Jason picked up "Husband Coached Child Birth" by Bradley- (have to laugh Jason said "we've done this before-- what do I need to read-- LOL-- hoping he reads it FAST-- but KNOWING that Jason is such a good labor coach-- he really is there FOR me-- SERVING me-- LOVING me--- )
Here are 2 other NATURAL Homebirths that I really have enjoyed reading--
This quote from LILY of the VALLEY-- sums up what I mentioned above about TOTAL DEPENDENCE UPON GOD in this area.... Maybe its good I am done "nesting" and I can REALLY focus on my children and CALLING UPON THE LORD....
"There were no drugs to disguise the pain, and these were very "real" moments in my life. But the greatest thing about it, was that when you realize that all you have left is God, it is in that very moment that you realize that He is more than enough to meet your every need."
I am a daughter of the KING...learning to be his child and to grow in my relationship with Him....All the while married to my VERY HANDSOME knight for 11 years...as we are progressively filling our quiver full of arrows to someday shoot off at the appointed time...
Our quiver at this time:
Zachary - 8
Joshua - 7
Stephen - 1 (9/07)
Rebekah - (9/08)
and NEW baby BOY - Sept 09
LOL So I gave her the ol' standby (and TRUTH) "Oh we are homeschooling all day--everyday-- my children are always LEARNING.... it is just a matter of WHAT they are learning." (and I must BLUSH and add that since Nathan has been home and we have been watching FOOD NETWORK and the DO IT YOURSELF channel VERY frequently-- they have had a WHOLE lot of Home Ec. and Industrial Arts... LOL-- really though-- they can tell you many things they did not know before-- and are very ANXIOUS to help in the kitchen!! LOL) Oh and don't for get life science-- raising 25 meat chickens from 2 day old babies to the freezer to the kitchen TABLE (last nights dinner) But I did tell her the truth- "sitting and desk time is about 3 hours"-- (because I KNOW that is what she is considering school-- but hoping she will see school is SOOOO much more) I did re-state that that was not counting read aloud time and hands on learning-- and learning to "serve and help" as members of a society (the home and more).
It was me!!! Must be honest..... However it is on VERY VERY little now!! 
) and the rest of the time in the JET TUB!! Ahhhh This is my first time spending time in the "tub" (due to the pitocin I am usually receiving) and can I just tell you it made ALL THE DIFFERENCE IN THE WORLD!! I actually fell asleep SEVERAL times in the tub (during labor)!!! WOW!! THAT is the TICKET!!!
OUCH--that was tough-- then they thought-- they'd give me one more bag of IV (for strep B) which took 20 minutes... This did make me ANGRY-- because I KNEW how much nicer I would be feeling if only I COULD GET OUT OF THAT BED!!! But-- if you do the math-- after that 20 minutes-- BABY WAS HERE!!!
