Posted in Little Women Home Companion

My daughter and I began a newsletter in 2002 through yahoo groups. Little Women Home Companion was to be an encouragement to mothers and their daughters. The newsletter was a place to share recipes, craft ideas, our thoughts about the Book Little Women and other books of this type and just our thoughts and ideas in general. It has been awhile since I posted a newsletter on the group and in fact I changed the name of the group to Thimble Cottage. I thought I would post the old newsletter here so that others may have the opportunity to enjoy them.

Blessings,

Ginger

Posted in Little Women Home Companion

Posted in Little Women Home Companion

~Little Women Home Companion~

~August 2002 Premier Issue~

~*~

That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their children, to be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.

Titus 2:4,5

~*~

~Beginning Tea Thymes~

~*~

People who hire all these things done for them, never know what they lose for the homeliest tasks get beautified if loving hands do them, and Meg found proof of this, that everything in her small nest, from the kitchen roller to the silver vase on her parlor table, was eloquent of home love and tender forethought.

Louisa May Alcott

Little Women

~*~*~*~

~A Visit With Marmee~

Sharing A Mother’s Thoughts

Dear Mothers,

We welcome you to this first issue of Little Women Home Companion.

We are delighted that you have joined us.

Time passes so quickly and so the baby girl that I held close to my breast at birth now helps me with household chores, writes, draws, produces her own magazine for friends and creates computer graphics. I am watching this young girl become a young lady right before my eyes…so quickly. This newsletter is an opportunity for my daughter and I to work together, to share time together, to learn and grow together. We hope that it will encourage you and your daughter to do the same. We want to share what we are learning with you and hope that you will share with us.

May God bless your family,

Jenny

~*~*~*~

~Poetry Thyme~

It was long years ago that He uttered

This message so tender and sweet,

And women were crowding about Him

And laying their babes at His feet.

He looked with a gentle compassion

On the mothers who knelt at His knee,

And He comforted them with this saying,

“Let the little ones come unto Me.”

Mary Riley Smith

~*~*~*~

~Little Women Companion~

Narrations about each chapter of Little Women

Dear Young Ladies,

This is what the first chapter of Little Women was about.

Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy were all sitting in the parlor complaining. Meg (Margaret), Jo (Josephine), Beth (Elizabeth), started acting. Amy was stiff as a board and could not faint properly (she was not gifted with acting). The girls then began to talk about Christmas. They were going to buy presents for themselves. After thinking about it they changed their minds and decided to buy gifts for Marmee. Jo wanted to buy slippers and army boots. Meg wanted to buy gloves. Amy wanted to buy perfume (and would still be able to buy something for herself) and Beth wanted to buy handkerchiefs. Actually everyone wanted to buy slippers for Marmee but Beth wanted to first. That is how the idea to buy for Marmee instead of themselves got started.

Marmee came in. She had a letter from Papa. They could not read it until after supper. They were so anxious that Jo gobbled up her tea and dropped her bread butter side down. Afterwards they read the letter and cried. They decided to be brave and act like the pilgrims in Pilgrim’s Progress till father came home. Marmee left them a guide book under a pillow on Christmas day and they sang, ”Crinkle, crinkle ‘ittle tar.

A written narration by Caiti

Some editing by Mommy

~*~*~*~

~Tea Thyme~

Recipes and Ideas for Tea Thyme

We hope that you as mother and daughters will take time to have tea together. You could make special memories that will last forever.

We have included in this issue some tea ideas to get you started.

Dear Ladies may I suggest that your teatimes need not be formal. I think the thoughts of all the formal china and foods takes away our desire to even begin. A pretty coffee mug of tea, some purchased or homemade cookies and a little soft music in the background is a wonderful beginning. If you have little ones you could have teatime with your older daughter(s) and maybe another mother and her daughter(s) while they have a nap. The purpose is to share time with one another.

This is a recipe from a very dear friend. She made these for a teatime that we shared together around her coffee table. It is a wonderful memory. I know you will enjoy these.

Amy’s Butter Cookies

1 Cup butter, softened (no margarine)

¾ cups sugar

3 teaspoons vanilla

2 cups all purpose flour

½ teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

Mix all well. Roll into 1 inch balls. Place 2 inches apart on a greased cookie sheet. Dip the bottom of a small glass cup into the cookie mix and then into some sugar. Use this to flatten your cookie a little. Bake them in an oven preheated to 375 degree for 6-8 minutes. Serve to loved ones.

~*~*~*~

~The Work Basket~

This month: Household Tip

Fabric Softener Sheet

Make your own fabric softener sheet.

Buy a bottle of liquid fabric softener and a nice spray bottle. Put the softener in the bottle and spray 3-5 squirts onto a washcloth (do not saturate…too much could stain clothes). Throw this into your dryer with your wet clothes and let dry. Take washcloth out and repeat on the next load. This works wonderfully and your fabric softener will last a long time.

An Idea from Karen of

Christian Mothers.org

http://home.att.net/~b.mcgowin/CM/index.html#family

~*~*~*~

~Thimbles and Threads~

Needlework, sewing and crafts

Tea Thyme Napkins

This is a dainty, inexpensive way to make feminine little napkins for your tea thymes.

Purchase a package of men’s white cotton handkerchiefs. You will also need to purchase enough lace to go around the edges (this will vary according to the size of the handkerchief) and white embroidery floss. I would suggest that you wash, dry, and press your hankies first. Sew the lace by hand (or machine) around the edge. Draw pretty little flowers or designs (in pencil) on your napkin and embroider them in white. These are very pretty. Caiti has made these hankies for girl friends and used colored embroidery thread. I have been using them with no frills as napkins for years. This is a very good project for you and your daughter to do together and it is easy to take with you to work on when you will be waiting somewhere or while you watch the younger children play in the park on one of your nature walks.

~*~*~*~

~From Jo’s Writing Garret~

Caiti’s Thoughts

Dear Mothers and daughter,

I cannot believe how this year is flying by. So many wonderful memories have been made and God willing more to be made. I am thankful to the Lord that he has given my mother and myself time to work together on the, “Little Women Home Companion. I hope you will find this companion as pleasant as I have found it . May the lord bless you greatly thru your life.

Sincerely,

Caiti

~*~*~*~

~The Cottage Pantry~

Recipes

Jenny’s

Summer Chicken Salad

8-10 Chicken breast tenderloins, boiled and shredded (approx.3 cups)

1/2 Tablespoon Parsley

1/8 teaspoon (or to taste) Rosemary

1/2 cup Crushed Pineapple

1/4 cup Pecans

1/2 cup Mayonnaise

3/4 cup Red Seedless Grapes, quartered

Salt to taste

Mix together and serve on croissants or homemade rolls.

Makes about 10 sandwiches.

~*~*~*~

~Sparrow Post~

A Creative Letter or visit from our Favorite Fictional Characters

Jo has come to visit Rose Cottage. Her hostess is now just about to serve tea. You are invited to join them. So come in on this autumn day and have warm cup of tea.

It is so nice of you to come for tea Jo!

It was an honor to come. I was delighted after reading your companion ,“Little Women Home Companion.” I was so thrilled about reading all your house hold helps.

Thank-you. We are glad that you enjoyed it.

My sisters and myself had an idea after having read your companion. We have read the Pickwick Papers before and enjoyed it very much and so we decided to make our own newspaper and club.

What is the name of your newspaper?

“The Pickwick Portfolio.”

What does your portfolio consist of?

Ooh, poems I have written, Stories of Knights in shining armor, mini stories, advertisements, and a weekly report of how us sisters are doing. All my sisters and myself contribute something to the Portfolio.

It sounds wonderful! Do you call each other by your regular names or by fictional names for your Portfolio and in your club?

No. We each have a fictional name we have chosen from the book,“The Pickwick Papers.” I am Augustus Snodgrass, Meg is Samuel Pickwick, Beth is Tracy Tupman, and Amy is Nathaniel Winkle. We have meetings in our ,“Club room.” We read our columns from our Portfolio and have the most capital time!

How wonderful. Do come and have tea with us again sometime and share the latest news of “The Pickwick Portfolio.”

~*~*~*~

~Our Window Seat~

Books That We Love

We love books that not only have wonderful information in them but are beautiful as well. We are including in this issue the names of two books that meet both these criteria. These books will help to encourage your families in tea thymes.

If Teacups Could Talk

By Emilie Barnes

Paintings by Sandy Lyman Clough

And

Tea at Glenbrooke

By Robin Joes Gunn

Paintings by Susan Mink Colclough

Both of these books include tea thyme themes, ideas, decorations, and recipes.

May we also suggest?

Sandy’s Tea Society

By Sandy Lyman Clough

Her book is a fictional work about several women that she brought together to start a tea society. We get to meet each lady and learn about how she prepares for the tea that she will host for this group of friends. I think it would help in preparing one to start their own tea society with friends. Sandy has her own website by this same name.

You can visit Sandy at:

http://www.sandysteasociety.com/

~*~*~*~

~The Rose Garden~

Websites That You May Enjoy

 

Genteel Girlhood Companion

Another email newsletters for girls by a mother and daughter.. It is produced by the Titus 2 Ministry. We received a couple of their magazines and loved them. They are taking a break from producing their magazines but have this email version of their newsletter that is free. We are sure you will enjoy it.

http://www.titus2ministry.com/ggcompanion/index.html

~*~*~*~

~Till Next Thyme~

Dear Mothers and Daughters,

We hope that you have enjoyed this issue of Little Women Home Companion. We look forward to sharing some more ideas for homemaking and sharing time together next month. Enjoy your thyme together. Till then….

May God bless you,

Jenny and Caiti

~*~*~*~

Little Women Home Companion is a monthly newsletter for mothers and daughters.

Copyright 2002-2003 Little Women Home Companion

If you would like to share this newsletter with a friend you must include all of the newsletter (do not copy and paste parts of it). Please also include our address as follows so they can have the opportunity to subscribe.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/LittleWomenHomeCompanion

~Blessings~

~*~*~*~

~*~

 

 

Posted in Little Women Home Companion

Little Women Home Companion

October 2002

That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their children,

to be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands,

that the word of God be not blasphemed.

Titus 2: 4-5

A Cozy Home

People who hire all these things done for them, never know what they lose for

the homeliest tasks get beautified if loving hands do them, and Meg found proof of this,

that everything in her small nest, from the kitchen roller to the silver vase

on her parlour table, was eloquent of home love and tender forethought.

Lousia May Alcott

~*~

A Visit With Marmee

Sharing A Mother's Thoughts

Dear mothers and daughters,

One of the most calming sounds that I have heard is the lullaby of ocean waves as they roll onto shore. I grow sleepy, tranquil, as I listen to this beautiful sound. I find it so easy to nap as I enjoy them. Equally peaceful to me is the sound of rain as it gently pitter-patters on the roof of our home. It invites me to lie down and be at rest.

Is it not interesting how sight, sound and scent affect one? As homemakers one of our most important tasks is to create in our homes a peaceful place of rest for our family and friends. We have opportunities to create cozy, inviting homes even if our budgets are limited (I do not know a homemaker with an unlimited budget). We can accomplish much.

The most important thing is our relationship with our Lord and Savior. Daily time spent in His Word (the Bible) and in prayer will create a heart willing to serve Him. Time with our Lord will refresh us and give us strength to perform those tasks that are useful and humbling.

Our next important task for a cozy home is to keep it tidy and clean. I am not speaking of keeping a home spotless for this tends to make mommies very disagreeable when our families do their normal "living" in the home. Just tidy and clean is a good beginning. Having a place for everything and putting it away when finished will make for a lot less work for mothers so train your little ones early. I will be honest with you and say that as a mother I also struggle with keeping everything in place but as time goes by I find that we are improving.

Our children are responsible for some home cleaning tasks. This means that things will not always be as I would have done them but I try to remember that the children are training for their own households. I often remind them that when they have their own homes that they need to make sure that they are kept clean and tidy. Ladies a messy, dirty home discourages the members of the family so. The longer that it is left that way the more discouraged they will become.

Start one room at a time and get it into order. One of the most important things is to get rid of what you do not use. I would like to suggest flylady to those of you that really struggle in this area. Use what ideas will work for your family. It is a good place to start.

Now we will go on to the fun parts of making our homes cozy.

Sound

If you can afford to please purchase a tape or cd of some calming, uplifting music. I love to listen to Beethoven. I find his music inspiring and peaceful. You may want to choose praise music, hymns or some other classical composer but make sure that it is something beautiful that will create an atmosphere of calm and peace in your home. Play it often.

Sight

Make calming and peaceful arrangements of items that you have around your home. Perhaps you could use an 8x10 picture of yourself as a child and place it on a doily and surround it with some taper candles, an old pair of baby shoes, a strand of pearls (fake), maybe a little pair of children's gloves, and some artificial flowers that match your decor. The arrangement is pleasing. The following is a link to a web page where this has been done.

http://www.geocities.com/trents4him/arrangement.html

Do many of this type of arrangement in your home. You can do them by themes such as birdhouses, teatime, nature, fruit, and seashore, ect. Let the creative mind that God has given you go to work. You need not purchase new items or expensive ones. Use those around your home or those you pick up at the thrift or dollar type stores. It is not the items that you have but how you use and arrange them that make your home pleasant. For those of you that do not like to dust a lot I would suggest doilies and tablecloths. Take them off every so often and wash and dry them.

I would like to also suggest that you take every opportunity to learn new craft skills such as crochet, knitting, basket weaving and woodcraft as well as others to enable you to create items for your home and gifts for family and friends.

Scent

How our homes smell really affects friends and family. A clean home needs no other aroma than bread or cake baking in the oven but I have to admit that I love the aroma of scented candles. Remember that they must be watched carefully especially if you have young ones in your home. May I suggest apple, pumpkin and cinnamon scented ones for autumn, cinnamon, peppermint, or Christmas scented ones for winter, lavender or herbal scented ones for spring, and melon or fruit scented ones for summer? How pleasant they make our homes smell.

If you have a fireplace make use of it often. How cozy and inviting to that dear husband would a bowl of chili or beef stew served with some fresh bread and a chocolate cake be when he arrives to a clean home with the gentle sounds of classical music playing in the background and a warm cozy fire burning in the fireplace.

God has blessed us as homemakers with the opportunity to create warm, inviting, comfortable homes. Let us take every serve Him by creating a pleasant home for the husband and family He has blessed us with.

From my home to yours,

Jenny

~*~

Poetry Thyme

Prayer For This House

May nothing evil cross this door,

And may ill-fortune never pry

About these windows; may the roar

And rains go by.

Strengthened by faith, the rafters will

Withstand the battering of the storm.

This hearth, through all the world grow chill

Will keep you warm.

Peace shall walk softly through these rooms,

Touching your lips with holy wine,

Till every casual corner blooms

Into a shrine.

Laughter shall drown the raucous shout

And, though the sheltering walls are thin,

May they be strong to keep hate out

And hold love in.

Louis Untermeyer

~*~

Little Women Companion

Sparrow Post includes a letter written from Jo about this same chapter so

Little Women Companion will return next month.

~*~

Tea Thyme

Teas

My daughter and I thought we would share some of our favorite teas with you. Here are some of them that you may want to try. We have included many herbal teas and some of the caffeinated ones are available in decaf now. We really like vanilla creamer in our tea but be careful with the herbal teas for the creamer will curdle in many of them.

By Celestial Seasonings: These are great on those cold evenings by the fire:

Vanilla Maple Tea...tea with vanilla and sweet maple flavoring

Nutcracker Sweet...tea with vanilla and nutty flavors with cinnamon

Bengal Spice...herbal tea with the flavors of cinnamon, ginger and cardamon with a touch of vanilla

Mandarin Orange Spice...herbal orange and spice tea

English Toffee... a nutty and vanilla flavored herbal tea. It is one of my favorites.

By Twinings: Nice for a formal tea

Earl Grey... has a light citrus flavoring

Lady Jane Grey...has bergamot and citrus flavoring (lighter than Earl Grey)

By Bigelow: Great for informal times with friends

Raspberry Royale...raspberry flavored tea

Constant Comment...tea flavored with oranges and sweet spices

Perfect Peach...Peach flavored herbal tea

Apple and Cinnamon...herbal tea with apple and cinnamon flavors

By Fortunes:

Blueberry Vanilla...Tea with the flavors of blueberries and vanilla

~*~

The Work Basket

Household Hints

Carpet Spots...Apply a little of Spray and Wash (the pump bottle) onto the carpet stain and use a wet, clean white washcloth to rub the spot well. Rinse the washcloth and try to get out as much of the cleaner out as possible. It is best to test this on your carpet first to make sure that it does not change your carpet color. We have used this successfully for about 5 years on tomato sauce, tea and other assorted stains.

~*~

Thimbles and Threads

Christmas Holly Basket

We wanted to give you a pattern for a basket that you could make and found this sweet pattern on the internet. Since it gives you a picture and complete directions we thought we would give you the link so that you can learn to make one yourself. In the future we hope to give you directions for a sweet little tea basket that we made up ourselves.

http://www2.justpatterns.com/weavers/patterns/christmas_holly_basket.html

This link is from the pages of

Mill Race Basket Guild.

~*~

From Jo's Writing Garret

Dear mommies and daughters,

Having a cozy home is such a joy. It is so nice to read a book or just sit down in a cozy room. Handmade little things can make a room more pleasant. Handmade wreaths and dried flowers are a wonderful addition to a room, but the very best thing for any room is a Bible. Reading God's word every day makes all things pleasant.

Caiti

~*~

The Cottage Pantry

Baked Beans
(our family favorite)
2-16ounce cans pork and beans...drained
3/4 cups K C Masterpiece BBQ sauce
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 onion chopped
1/2 cup green pepper chopped
1 tablespoon vinegar

Mix together and bake in 350 degree oven for 45 minutes.

~*~

Sparrow Post

A Dairy Entry by Jo

January 1, 18__

Dear Diary,

How I dreaded the dance at Mrs. Gardiner's tonight. Meg on the other hand was so excited. At first she was discouraged that she did not have a silk to wear but she wore her silvery poplin with a lovely blue velvet snood and lace frills. As for myself I would have preferred to stay at home and write but I went in my maroon poplin with a white linen collar and a white chrysanthemum to decorate my attire. Of course we had to wear gloves and mine were ever so soiled so Meg suggested that we each wear one of her nice ones and carry one of mine in the other hand. Poor Meg. I even burned her hair while trying to curl it with the tongs.

Meg danced with many of the young gentlemen but I kept close to the wall trying to hide the scorched backside of my dress. Although it had been repaired after one of my many close encounters with the fireplace it was still obvious. Oh how I would rather be out fighting with Papa than a lady attending dances.

I met that Laurence boy tonight. He was hiding inside a curtained recess. I found him there when I went to hide from a redheaded guy that I thought was going to ask me to dance. I was a little uncomfortable at first but we began to talk and I enjoyed his company. He told me about his travels and he can speak French. I can only read it. He does not want to go to college. How I would like to trade places with him.

Poor Meg sprained her ankle and the Laurence boy (Laurie) offered us a ride home in his carriage. Meg had little choice for she was not able to walk because of the pain. I saved some of the bonbons from the dance for Amy and Beth. Meg felt that I was in a "great want for manners" by doing this but my sisters enjoyed these very special treats.

Well it is time to rest. So much to think of and so many stories to write. Till we meet again my dear diary.

Jo

~*~

Our Window Seat

Book Reviews

Ester Ried by Isabella McDonald Alden

If you want to read a life-changing book the Bible would be my first choice. My second one would be Ester Ried. This is a fictional story of a young girl who works in her mother's home helping with the care of her brothers and sisters and the borders that her mother has taken in for income since the death of her father. As a Christian Ester has many chances to witness and to encourage her family and friends for Jesus. Sadly Ester lets these opportunities slip away. As the book unfolds we watch as Ester's conversion and what God does with Ester's life once she submits to His lordship. Please ladies if you have the opportunity please read this book. Have your children read it or better yet read it to them. It never ceases to amaze me when an author that lived so long ago speaks through their words to my heart today. I hope this book will encourage and change you and your family for His kingdom.

Jenny

~*~

The Rose Garden

Websites that you may enjoy. We may not agree with everything that you find on these pages!

Steph's Country Kitchen Goodness

Lots of great recipes.

http://members.aol.com/stephndon/recipe.htm

The 21st Century Homekeeper

Encouragement and ideas for the homemaker

http://www.christianhomekeeper.com/

Frugal Homemaker

Recipe, craft and decorating ideas

http://www.frugalhomemaker.com/

FlyLady

Get organized

http://www.flylady.net/

~*~

Marmee's Nature Journal

How relentless are the waves of the ocean. Constantly they roll in and out sometimes gently, sometimes pounding upon the shore destroying all in the way. How beautiful and terrifying it can be. Today I have been watching my little one pitter patter in a puddle of water on the seashore. A while ago this child stood close by concerned that the water would "get them". How like little children we all are. We are afraid to step out of our area of comfort to learn what is ahead. In many ways I find myself as shy as my child. I watch the waves of life afraid to reach out to those around me, to open my heart to someone, to speak to someone I do not know. Most of all I am many times afraid to tell them about my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I try to remember this verse:

What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee.

Psalms 56:3

There are so many people out there that are hurting and scared. Maybe the waves are pounding upon their lives. Maybe they need comfort and words of peace. Maybe they need someone to come beside them and hold their hand and walk along the way with them. Maybe they need Jesus. I hope that you will be in prayer that God will use you and your life to encourage others in their journey.

Jenny

~*~

Till Next Thyme

We hope that you have enjoyed this issue of Little Women Home Companion. It was fun doing this issue for you. We look forward to our next visit with you in November.

Jenny and Caiti

~*~

Little Women Home Companion is a monthly newsletter for mothers and daughters.

Copyright 2002-2003 Little Women Home Companion

If you would like to share this newsletter with a friend you must include the entire newsletter (do not copy and paste parts of it). Please also include our address as follows so they can have the opportunity to subscribe.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/LittleWomenHomeCompanion

~Blessings~

~*~*~*~

~*~

Posted in Little Women Home Companion

Little Women Home Companion

November 2002

That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their children,

to be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands,

that the word of God be not blasphemed.

Titus 2: 4-5

Blessings

People who hire all these things done for them, never know what they lose for

the homeliest tasks get beautified if loving hands do them, and Meg found proof of this,

that everything in her small nest, from the kitchen roller to the silver vase

on her parlour table, was eloquent of home love and tender forethought.

Lousia May Alcott

~*~

A Visit With Marmee

Sharing A Mother's Thoughts

Dear Mothers and Daughters,

Ahhhh...Autumn. I so enjoy the crisp air, the sound of the leaves as they crunch under my feet and the sight of the beautiful reds, golds, and orange of the tree leaves. Autumn also makes me think of familiy and the coziness we enjoy in our homes together.

Thanksgiving was always a special time for my family as sevarl generations would gather together for big dinners and lots of conversations and sharing about our lives. My grandparents homes would nearly burst with all the mommies and daddies, aunts and uncles, children and babies and good food.

Grandma would make egg custard pie that all of her children would hide from each other. There was warmth and love overflowing in these homes and a thankfulness to our Lord for his gracious care and love for us.

I hope that love and thankfulness to our heavenly Father overflows in your home this Thanksgiving.

From my home to yours,

Jenny

~*~

Poetry Thyme

Grace and Thanksgiving

We thank thee, Lord, for quiet upland lawns,

For misty loveliness of autumn dawns,

For gold and russet of the ripened fruit,

For yet another year's fulfilment, Lord,

We thank Thee now.

For joy of glowing colour, flash of wings

We thank Thee, Lord; for all the little things

That make the love and laughter of our days,

For home nad happiness and friends, we praise

And thank Thee now.

Elizabeth Gould

~*~

The Work Basket

Bring in the Light

This is a sweet idea for a way to add a little light into your home. We have made these for years and really enjoy them but must add a word of caution that they must be watched carefully because the raffia and potpourri could become too hot from the flame and could burn. Also care must be taken when buring candles around little children. The hot wax can make for a very bad burn.

Fill a quart canning jar most of the way with colorful potpourri. Use a small glass votive holder that looks like a small flower pot to place in the jar opening. Tie a raffia bow around the jar neck down below the votive holder. Add a painted star or heart to the bow and plave a votive candle inside the votive holder. When your candle burns about 3/4 of the way I would suggest blowing the candle out, waiting for it to cool and replacing with a new candle.

This is a great gift idea for those that like to make their gifts ahead of time. We always begin our gift making early.

You might want to get those Christmas cards addressed early in November!

~*~

Thimbles and Threads

Victorian Dried Flower Wreath

My daughter and I made these lovely little wreaths out of flowers that we have grown and dried. You can do the same with those that have been purchased.

You will need:

3 inch grapevine wreath

Hot glue gun and glue sticks

Bay Leaves

Spanish Moss

These dried flowers:

Lavender

Goldenrod

Statice

Globe Amaranth

Start by gluing the spanish moss onto the bottom and one side of your wreath. Add bay leaf to the top of this. Add golden rod and lavender to the top of this. To cover the stems of the golden rod and lavender glue on the statice. To hide these stems glue the globe amaranth on top. Add a ribbon to the top of the wreath to hang it with . These would make nice Christmas gifts or look lovely hanging on the wall or on a tree.

~*~

From Jo's Writing Garret

Caiti

~*~ 

Sparrow Post

A Journal Entry by Beth March

November, 18__

My Blessings

I am blessed by a marmee and father that loves me so.

I am blessed with my dear sisters; Jo, Meg, and Amy.

I am blessed with dear friends.

I am blessed with the strength and health to help others.

I am blessed with a warm home and food to eat.

I am blessed that God watches over Father so far away at war.

I am blessed with good neighbors like Laurie and Mr. Laurence.

I am blessed with a love for music and a piano to play my music on.

And Father I thank you for these blessings.

Beth

~*~

Our Window Seat

Book Reviews

A Time To Keep

The Tasha Tudor Book of Holidays

By Tasha Tudor

If you long for the simple joys and life of the past you will enjoy this sweet children's book by Tasha Tudor. It begins with a little girl asking her grandmother to tell about her mother's childhood. Back we go in time, month by month enjoying the special activities that this family enjoyed through the years. From bonfires, sledding, and maple sugaring to the lighting of the advent wreath we learn more about the lives of those before us.This little treasure is illustrated with Tasha tudor's lovely folk type illustrations and is one of our favorite books. We hope it will become one of your favorites too!

Jenny

~*~

The Rose Garden

Websites that you may enjoy. We may not agree with everything that you find on these pages!

~*~

Marmee's Nature Journal

I love the beautiful autumn leaves, russet, gold and pumpkin brown, falling slowly to the ground.

In the distance I hear the honking of the geese as they make their journey where they please.

The little squirrels and chipmunks gather their proveisions for the winter months,

And I sit watching, thankful to the mighty God who made it all.

Jenny

~*~

Till Next Thyme

We hope to have the December issue of Little WOmen Home Companion out by Thabksgiving. It will be filled with links and ideas for Christmas crafts and for making and giving.

We hope that you have enjoyed this issue. We look forward to our next visit with you.

By the way we would love to hear from you. Just hit reply and we will get your messages. Your response will not go to the entire group. Only the moderators of the group recieve it.

Blessings,

Jenny and Caiti

~*~

Little Women Home Companion is a monthly newsletter for mothers and daughters.

Copyright 2002-2003 Little Women Home Companion

If you would like to share this newsletter with a friend you must include the entire newsletter (do not copy and paste parts of it). Please also include our address as follows so they can have the opportunity to subscribe.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/LittleWomenHomeCompanion

~Blessings~

~*~*~*~

~*~

Posted in Little Women Home Companion

Little Women Home Companion

March 2003

That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their children, to be discreet, chaste, keepers at

home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.

Titus 2: 4-5

Goodness and Modesty

Having or showing a modest or humble estimate of one's merits

Webster's Dictionary

There is not much danger that real talent or goodness will be overlooked long; even if it is, the consciousness of possessing and using it well should satisfy one, and the great charm of all power is modesty.

Lousia May Alcott

~*~

A Visit With Marmee

Sharing A Mother's Thoughts

Dear Mothers and Daughters,

Even as a young child I longed to be good and pleasing to my family. I remember doing little things like picking flowers and putting them beside my mother's bed hoping that this would please her. Looking back, I realize that my intentions were not only to be pleasing but to be noticed by the person that I was trying to please.

In this chapter of Little Women we find Amy trying to please the girls in her class; but her motives are not pure. She wants to please them to bring honor to herself. She even refuses to share her precious limes with a few of the girls in her class. How like Amy we all can be. We want to be noticed. We want to bring honor and glory to ourselves. Our focus is not on our Lord but on ourselves.

As my walk with God deepens I realize that I need not feel my days with "works" to try to please Him. Jesus paid the price for my sins by his death on the cross. I am to believe upon Him, repent of my sins, ask Him into my heart as Lord and Saviour and to follow Him. The good things I do now are through His strength and to bring honor to His holy name. I am to use the gifts and talents He has blessed me with to glorify Him. I hope that we will all remember that our goodness and talents come from Him.

Jenny

~*~

Poetry Thyme

My Gift

What can I give Him

Poor as I am;

If I were a shepherd,

I would give Him a lamb.

If I were a wise man,

I would do my part.

But what can I give Him?

I will give my heart.

Christina Rossetti

~*~

Tea Thyme

Tea Time Manners

Dear Young Ladies,
Teatime is a very special time for young ladies and I thought I would share with you some rules of etiquette to consider when having tea with a friend.
1) Dress appropriately for the tea. Usually this will mean a dress and perhaps a hat. Keep in mind that dirty clothes and hands are not appropriate.
2) Arrive either slightly ahead or on time for the tea. Do you best not to keep your hostess waiting.
3) Dispose of gum before arriving. Should you forget find a waste basket to dispose of it in as soon as possible.
4) Be on your best behavior: no loud talking, joking or horseplay.
5) Handle the china very carefully so as to not damage it.
6) Make sure that you speak with all the young ladies so that no one feels slighted.
7) Always try a nibble of everything withholding any comment of not liking something.
8) Eat only in areas set aside by the hostess. If in doubt, ask.
9) Always thank your hostess for their invitation.
I hope these rules will help you to better enjoy your teatimes.
Blessings,

Jenny

~*~

The Work Basket

I am forever looking for things to help me with being organized. This wonderful site has many free printables for homeschoolers. There are pages for schedules as well pages for all the subjects that you teach. I especially love the lined paper pages for beginning writers. This is a wonderful site and I know you will enjoy it.

http://donnayoung.org/index.htm

~*~

Thimbles and Threads

A Simple Apron

Use an old twin size sheet to make an apron.
1) Measure 32 inches from the bottom of the sheet up and cut across the width. This the main part of your apron.
2) Cut a 5 inch wide strip across the width of your sheet.
3) Fold the strip in half and press.
4) Open the strip up and fold and press the edges toward the center of the strip on both sides.
5) Now fold the strip in half again with all the edges inside and press.
6) Gather the top of your main apron piece.
7) Measure 14 inches from the middle outward of the 5 inch strip and place a pin. Do this on both sides.
8) Beginning at one pin and finishing at the other, pin gathered edge of main apron piece inside of the 5 inch strip making sure to adjust gathers carefully. Pin all in place.
9) Now begin sewing as close to the edge as possible on the 5 inch strip all the way across.
Enjoy your new apron.

~*~

From Jo's Writing Garret

Dear Mothers and Daughters,

A few weeks ago I read With an Everlasting Love by Kay Arthur. It is about a half Jew and half Gentile young woman. Christiana has a hard life because of her blood.

Joshua the son of the richest man in the city loves Christiana. His father agrees and the young man starts sending her letters asking for her hand in marriage and telling her to constantly read the letters he has sent her. Christiana was surprised How could someone she had never seen before love her? After much thinking upon the matter she accepts his proposal. Joshua has a friend take his place when taking vows and sends a message telling her he will come soon. But what is so wonderful about this is Joshua tells Christiana he loves her, "With an Everlasting Love." Nothing she could do would make him love her less. Through the many years Christiana waits for her Joshua to come her. The excitement some what drifts away. The letters that were sent her are not being read as they should and she does something that would seem to stop Joshua from loving her. When Joshua does come Christiana is so happy. Later when Christiana tells him what she had done, he says he loves her with an everlasting love and that he wishes she had waited. This book portrays the lives of Christians and their walk with the Lord. Sometimes in our daily walk with him the road can get tough. But just to think of all God has done for me and what God will do for me helps me to hold on. We should read God's word and pray to him or else, like Christiana, we will drift away.

But Lord truly loves us with an everlasting love. Nothing in this world we could ever do would make him loves us less.

In Christ,

Caiti

~*~

The Cottage Pantry

Oven-fried Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Grease a 9x13 casserole dish. Peel and cut into bite size chunks 6-8 medium size potatoes. Sprinkle these generously with Lawry's seasoning salt and parsley. Put into your casserole dish and cut 3 tablespoons of margarine into chunks and place on top. Cover tightly with foil and bake till desired tenderness (30-45 minutes).

This idea was from watching my dear sister in law in her kitchen. The parsley was an extra idea that I had to make it look pretty.

Jenny's Egg Salad

Hard boil, peel and dice 8 eggs. Add 3/4 cup of Miracle Whip, 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well and serve on fresh homemade rolls.

Enjoy!

~*~

Sparrow Post

Dear Young Ladies,
*Today I want to share with you a sweet letter from a dear friend. She expressed in her letter the importance of being careful about how we use words. I wanted to share this with you my dear friends. It is something we should all think carefully about.
Lady Jenny Anne

Dear Lady Jenny Anne,
It has been so long since our last letter. I want to share with you and your friends a story about using words.
I am grieved about my behavior sometimes. One morning I awoke very tired and grumpy. There were chores that I was asked to do and I complained about them. My sisters asked questions and I snapped at them. I was grumpy with everyone and everything. That afternoon my dear friend Patience come by and asked for me to have tea with her and her dear friend Endurance. I have to admit that I felt feelings of jealousy at having to share my friend with another and I am afraid that I said unkind works that hurt my dear friend. I ran off to my room crying. After awhile I calmed down and felt convicted of my sin. I began to read my Bible. I found these verses:
Colossians 4:6
Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.
Proverbs 13:3
He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life: but he that openeth wide his lips shall have destruction.
Oh Jenny, I went before the Lord on my knees and asked forgiveness for how I had used my mouth. I had not considered what I had said to anyone. I had been unkind. The Lord forgave me and I went to my mother and sisters and asked their forgiveness. After asking permission, I went to Patience's home. I found her on the veranda with Endurance. I felt a little shy but went before my friend and asked her forgiveness. Oh Jenny, she forgave me and also asked me to join them for tea. It was a lovely afternoon and at the end of it I had found a new friend in Endurance too.! Oh what I had almost missed because of my words.
With Love,
Miss Amy March

~*~

Our Window Seat

Book Reviews

Pollyanna
By
Eleanor H. Porter
If you enjoy reading encouraging books with optimistic characters then this is a book that you will enjoy. Pollyanna, our main character, has been taught by her parents to look for things to be glad for. When her parents pass away she comes to live with her aunt. Pollyanna's bright and sunny outlook on life begins to touch everyone in the little town that she lives in. She visits the sick, forgotten and orphaned bringing love and comfort into their lives. Unfortunately her love does not bring changes into the life of her dear aunt until something tragic happens.
This book and it's sequel Pollyanna Grows Up are wonderful additions to any young girl's library. I read them as an adult and very much enjoyed them.

Jenny

~*~

The Rose Garden

Websites that you may enjoy. We may or may not agree with everything that you find on these pages!

I love clothing from the past and thought that some of you might too. Here is a website with beautiful patterns for clothing from the past.

http://sensibility.com/

 

~*~

Marmee's Nature Journal

Recently I enjoyed a beautiful day outdoors with my family. My daughter and I pruned some of our greenery while the men dug holes for some trees that we will be planting. I had made a large work apron with large pockets for gardening earlier that week. How handy those pockets were for holding my gloves and gardening shears. Once finished my daughter and I made some egg salad sandwiches on homemade rolls for a little picnic. We sat outside with the sun shining on our faces and enjoyed the beauty of God's day. These moments in time are so very special to me. To many they would seem mundane but I like our times at home.

Jenny

~*~

Till Next Thyme

Dear Mothers and Daughters,

So many times as mothers and daughters we look back over our days and feel discourages about what we have accomplished. I had an idea to help rid myself of these feelings and think that some of you might find this helpful too. Make a list of what you do all day long each day for a week. List everything, leaving nothing off your list. At the end of your week look back over your list. I think you will feel pleasantly surprised at all that you did accomplish. We look forward to our visit with you next month.

Jenny and Caiti

~*~

Many of the articles in this issue were used by permission from my daughter. They originally appeared in her magazines Follow Your Heart and An Old Fashioned Girl Gazette which she writes and publishes for a few friends.

~*~

Little Women Home Companion is a monthly

newsletter for mothers and daughters.

Copyright 2003-2004 Little Women Home Companion

If you would like to share this newsletter with a friend you must include the entire newsletter (do not copy and paste parts of it). Please also include our address as follows so they can have the opportunity to subscribe.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/LittleWomenHomeCompanion

~Blessings~

~*~*~*~

~*~

Posted in Little Women Home Companion

Little Women Home Companion

May 2003

That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their children, to be discreet, chaste, keepers at home,

good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.

Titus 2: 4-5

Mother's Day Issue

~*~

A Visit With Marmee

Sharing A Mother's Thoughts

We would like to take this time to welcome all the new readers of our newsletter and would like to thank Sandy who told so many of you about us. We have been reading about you and your families and look forward to sharing with all of you. We hope that you will find much encouragement here.

I also want to thank Suzy, who is one of our readers. I had not read the chapter of Little Women that this newsletter will focus on when I received her email. It was so very encouraging and with it she included part of the quote from Little Women that is below. There is not anything more helpful or powerful that we can teach our children than to trust and believe in the Lord. What an awesome responsibility this is for mothers....and fathers too.

I struggle so much with self-control  as did Jo and Marmee. I think it is so special that Marmee chose to share her struggles with Jo. She could have continued to let Jo think that she was the only one that ever struggled. Have you ever felt that way? You feel so alone thinking that you are the only one that has a certain problem. Is it not so refreshing to have someone comes along side of you and share that they struggle too? I try often to share my struggles with my children. I try to let them know that I struggle with the same things that they do and that I too am still learning to control myself and that we need to ask help from Our Lord for we cannot do it on our own. I hope that you are sharing these things with your own children. May God bless you as you raise them to glorify Him.

Happy Mother's Day

Jenny

~*~

Across the Miles

Correspondence from our readers

Poetry Thyme

This month I have included a very special quote from the chapter that we are reading.

If I don't seem to need help, it is because I have a better friend, even than father, to comfort and sustain me. My child, the troubles and temptations of your life are beginning, and may be many; but you can overcome and outlive them all, if you learn to feel the strength of your Heavenly Father as you do of your earthly one. The more you love and trust Him, the nearer you will feel to Him, and the less you will depend on human power and wisdom. His love and care never tire or change, can never be taken from you, but may become the source of life-long peace, happiness, and strength. Believe this heartily, and go to God with all your little cares, and hope, and sins, and sorrows, as freely and confidingly as you come to your mother.

Lousia May Alcott

 

~*~

Little Women Companion

These were written by Cate a couple of years ago as part of her school work. She was to read the book and write letters to a friend telling about each chapter. We hope you will enjoy them

Chapter 8

Joe Meets Apollyon

Amy was laying in bed sleeping. Marmie and Jo were having a conversation about self-control, but they were worried. I will set you straight on the whole matter. Meg and Jo were going to the theatre with Laurie. Amy wanted to go and Jo  would not let her. Amy was sick. In her anger Amy burnt the book that Jo had been writing. Jo had wanted to have it done before father got home. You can imagine Jo's anger. She would not talk to or forgive Amy. When Jo and Laurie went skating Amy trailed along behind them. Laurie skated on the ice and said not to skate in the center. Jo heard, but not Amy. The ice cracked when Amt skated onto it.  Amy went into the cold water. Laurie and Jo got her out. They took her home and put her to bed. When Amy woke up Jo hugged her.

Cate

~*~

Tea Thyme

Here is a link to some lovely teabag printables.

Just print these out and fill with your favorite teabags for Mother or a dear friend.

http://alenkasprintables.com/teabags.shtml

Jenny

~*~

The Work Basket

Altered Composition Books

These sweet little books were an idea from a list that I am on that is moderated by my dear friend Paula. I have included a link for you to see what they look like and a picture of one that Cate has made. These would also make a very nice prayer journal for mother for Mother's day.

Basic directions are that you use pretty papers, button, ribbons, ect., to cover a composition book. These are the hardback kind that are spotted black and white like a cow. They are wonderful little gifts and brighten school work.

http://www.scrapjazz.com/gallery/showgallery.php?cat=695&thumb=1

~*~ 

Thimbles and Threads

Jar Lid Covers

Cut an 8 1/2 inch circle out of your pretty country print material. Gently press a small 1/8 inch edge over onto the right side of your fabric. Using a zig-zag stitch sew lace over the top of this edge. Cut a 7 1/2 inch piece of narrow elastic and backstitch it to hold in place 1 1/2  inch away from edge of fabric (this includes lace). Using a zig-zag stitch sew over the elastic (be careful not to catch it) all the way around the edge using 1 1/2 inch from the edge as your guide. You will need to stretch it as you sew. Fasten it off. Sew a piece of 1/8 inch satin ribbon in place over the elastic. Tie a bow and enjoy.

 

Another way to make an interesting one is at Debbie Mumm's website as follows:

http://www.debbiemumm.com/potm/march/crafts/marchpotmcrafts.asp

~*~

From Jo's Writing Garret

Dear Mothers and Daughters,

Mother's day is coming up and the roses are blooming. We have our own roses so usually we pick a rose for mommy out of our rose garden for Mother's Day. Sometimes different roses are in bloom when Mother's Day comes so mommy has a variety to choice from.

I have my own little garden with a rose in the middle of it. Surrounding the garden there is some Lavender. In the front of my flower garden is some Tiny Rubies. Tiny Rubies is a small pink/purple flower, so it adds a little color to the front of the garden. Earlier in the spring my mommy and I transplanted some Grape Hyacinths to my garden. Last year mommy planted some tulips in it also. Flowers were already blooming when spring came.

Gardens are such a joy and so is the knowledge that God made each flower in it!

In Christ,

Caiti

~*~

The Cottage Pantry

Chocolate Delight Cake

One German chocolate cake mix prepared as directed on box in a 9 x 13 pan. After it comes out of the oven (and while still hot) poke holes in it and pour one can sweetened condensed milk on top. Top this with 1/8 cup Hershey's chocolate syrup. On top of this you will add 2 individual servings sizes of apple caramel dipping sauce that has been heated slightly in the microwave. Let all cool and then top with Cool Whip. Drizzle Hershey's chocolate syrup on top and add pecans.

This is very similar to a cake that I had at a dear friend's house (her name is Jane). There is nothing like making baskets with dear friends. I did not have an exact recipe but I came home and made this version for my family. It is wonderful!

 

~*~

Sparrow Post

Amy March was lying on her bed with a pillow under her head. She was thinking over what she had done to Jo. There had been no need to burn Jo's manuscript  just because she would not let her go to the theater. Amy felt terrible for burning it. She wished she could go back and fix what she had done. More tears were shed just thinking about it. She looked over at the doorway to find Marmie there. Amy lifted up trying to dry her face a bit so it did not look so obvious that she had been crying, but it was of no use. Her face was was red and her eyes were swollen. Marmie came over to Amy's bed and sat at the end of it. "Amy," said Marmie in a soft clear voice, "I know you must feel terrible for burning Jo's book. You never thought of how you would feel after you did it nor did you think of Jo. Even though you were mad at Jo for not letting you go to the theater you did not have to revenge.  Dear this is the age you must learn to control your anger. You must try to control yourself now of anger so that when you are older you will not have a hard time trying to overcome it. And Amy it is easier to let the Lord help you with self-control or anger. Trying to cure the problem with your own will not make the problem any better." "Oh Marmie," Amy said as she reached over to give her a hug. "I will try."

In time Amy was able to overcome many things in life. And in days she was forgiven by one of her sisters for burning her manuscript.

Caiti

Our Window Seat

Book Reviews

Beatrix Potter and Peter Rabbit

by Nicole Savy

F. Warne & Co.

I treasure small books and this is one of my favorites. It is the story of Beatrix Potter and the sweet Peter Rabbit books that she wrote. Like her many books for children it is very small 4 1/2 x 6 inches. There are black and white pictures of Beatrix and color illustrations from her books. This little book is not only interesting but looks beautiful sitting on a small shelf. We hope you will have the opportunity to share this one with your little ones.

Jenny

~*~

The Rose Garden

Websites that you may enjoy. We may or may not agree with everything that you find on these pages!

We enjoy reading books written by authors from the 19th century. Annie Fellows Johnston is one of these. She wrote The Little Colonel and many others that are the sequels to this. These are hard to find at your local library so we have included a link to them online. Remember these were written at a very different time in our history.  Shirley Temple played the role of The Little Colonel in 1935. It is a very tender story of a little girl and her family during the Civil War.

http://www.littlecolonel.com/Default.htm

~*~

Marmee's Nature Journal

May has always been one of my favorite months. I love the beauty and fragrance of the many flowers that bloom during this month. I love the budding trees and the cheerful sounds of  chirpping friends outside our window. There is the beauty of the little birds and their nest full of eggs and young to enjoy. They make their nest in the ferns and bushes around our home. We search for them and share them with our youngest child. I take so much pleasure in the cool evenings with the breeze gently blowing through my hair and my husband gently holding my hand as we take an evening walk together. I hope that you are also finding much to enjoy in the beauty that God has blessed us with.

Jenny

~*~

Till Next Thyme

Dear Mothers and Daughters,

We both enjoy sharing with all of you and want you to know that you are special. We thank you for the encouraging comments that you send our way. We plan our next issue to be a special one about Hope Chests. We look forward to it and hope that you will too. May God bless you.

Jenny and Caiti

~*~

Little Women Home Companion is a monthly (when possible) bimonthly (when not)

newsletter for mothers and daughters.

Copyright 2003-2004 Little Women Home Companion

If you would like to share this newsletter with a friend you must include the entire newsletter (do not copy and paste parts of it). Please also include our address as follows so they can have the opportunity to subscribe.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/LittleWomenHomeCompanion

~Blessings~

~*~*~*~

~*~

Posted in Little Women Home Companion

Little Women Home Companion

September 2002

That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their children,

to be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands,

that the word of God be not blasphemed.

Titus 2: 4-5

Nature

People who hire all these things done for them, never know what they lose for

the homeliest tasks get beautified if loving hands do them, and Meg found proof of this,

that everything in her small nest, from the kitchen roller to the silver vase

on her parlour table, was eloquent of home love and tender forethought.

Lousia May Alcott

~*~

A Visit With Marmee

Sharing A Mother's Thoughts

Dear Mothers,

I am sitting on the screened porch in the cool of the evening thinking of you. As I write one of our children plays in the backyard. An older child and my husband are working on our vehicle and I

suspect that my daughter is trying to find a quiet moment at the computer. I have had "one of those days". The kind that is so discouraging to me. There have been a lot of emotional ups and downs and I am not pleasant to be with. During these times I get a case of the "want -to -bes. I want to be a better wife, mother, friend. I also tend to feel so unworthy during these times. I have been praying to my Lord to forgive me for my attitude, for encouragement, and women to mentor to me.

As I grow older I realize the importance of women mentoring to one another. I was near thirty

when we began to have children and many of my mentors are and have been women younger than myself. They have had more experience and wisdom than I. I also try to mentor to them from the

experiences that I have had. This newsletter is one way that my daughter and I hope to mentor to you and your daughters. We hope to encourage you in your roles as keepers at home and in homemaking skills. Especially now as so many women work outside the home it has become increasingly important to pass these skills from mother to daughter....from one generation to another. Homemaking skills are so very important to the home and to home life. We need women and young ladies devoted to making their homes a pleasant place for family, a place of comfort and rest for their husbands. We need to teach them what the Bible teaches us in Titus 2 and Proverbs 31. Our Lord will not fail us in these tasks. Just as He knows my discouragement today (I have been talking with Him about it ), I know that "I can do all things through Christ who strenghteneth me". Phillippians 4:13

So can you!

I hope that in some way that opening my heart to you will encourage you to share yourself and your time with your daughter and other young ladies.

Jenny

~*~

Poetry Thyme

Afternoon on a Hill

I will be the gladdest thing

Under the sun!

I will touch a hundred flowers

And not pick one.

I will look at cliffs and clouds

With quiet eyes,

Watch the wind bow down the grass

And the grass rise.

And when the lights begin to show

Up from the town,

I will mark which must be mine,

And then start down.

Edna St. Vincent Millay

~*~

Little Women Companion

Dear Young Lady,

This is what chapter two of Little Women is about.

Joke woke up on Christmas day and found under her pillow a guide book. All the girls received the same book but with different covers. The girls began looking at their presents for Marmee. Amy had exchanged the cheap perfume for a bigger bottle. Beth put some roses on her gift. Marmee came home and opened all the gifts. Marmee told the girls about the Hummels (a family that had very little food). So they took their breakfast to the Hummels. The March's had bread and milk for their breakfast. Later the girls did a play. At the end of it Hannah told them that their mother wanted them for supper. They were all surprised but went downstairs to find a wonderful feast and they guessed where it had come from. It came from Mr. Lawrence who knew Marmee's father. Jo thought that the Lawrence boy (Laurie) had given Mr. Lawrence the idea. The Lawrence boy brought over four hot house bouquets of flowers. Marmee liked the roses from Beth the most. Marmee had not invited Laurie in, but one could tell that he wanted to as hearing the sounds he walked away. Jo wanted to get to know him and maybe let him act with them. Beth wanted to give her bouquet to Papa and was hoping he had a merry Christmas too!

Written narration by Caiti

edited by Mommy

~*~

Tea Thyme

Birdhouse Theme Centerpiece

In the center of your table place an arrangement of birdhouses that are different sizes. Around this arrange Spanish moss or excelsior. Carefully place artificial ivy across the top of the birdhouses and on top of the moss. Take a handful of moss and shape it into a bird nest shape. Place it against one of the birdhouses and fill it with a few wooden eggs painted to resemble real ones. You may want to add some feathers from an obliging bird or some artificial flowers that coordinate with the color of your china. If this centerpiece is to be placed to the back of the table and up against a wall that has an electric outlet you could add some tiny Christmas lights within the moss and ivy. This would really be pretty if your tea was planned for evening hours.

~*~

The Work Basket

How to begin your own nature journal

Needed Items:

Some type of sketchbook ( you can decorate the cover if you like)

Heavy unlined paper in a notebook will do a fine job too.

Pencils

Colored pencils

Watercolors

A nature journal is a very simple thing to start. All one needs to do is to observe and record what they find in nature. An example would be if you were to fins a flower on your lawn. You could draw and then paint or color your sketch. Write down the common and Latin name for the flower. Include the date of your observation and perhaps a poem, quote or hymn about your flower. It is that simple. We hope you will be enjoying your nature notebook soon.

~*~

Thimbles and Threads

Nature Wreath

Needed Items:

Oval or round grapevine wreaths

Spanish Moss

Dried fern, lamb's ear, thyme, and other assorted dried flowers

hot glue gun (remember to help your child with this for they will burn your skin)

Use a hot glue gun to attach Spanish moss to the lower third of your wreath. Carefully glue sprigs of dried fern, lamb's ear, and thyme over the moss. On top of this add your dried flowers.

If you would like a more victorian look then glue a doily on top of the moss. Add the dried items and then lace, string pearls, and buttons. These would also be pretty if you use tiny three inch wreaths and make them into ornaments by gluing a ribbon to the top to hang it with.

~*~

From Jo's Writing Garret

Dear Mothers and Daughters,

About a month ago a couple of doves came to live in one of our front porch ferns. One of them was so tame. My family and I were able to get very close to it. After two baby doves were born they soon left. It was sad. They had been there for awhile and were like friends. The Lord has surrounded us with so much beauty in nature.

Caiti

~*~

The Cottage Pantry

Toffee Cookies

Two sticks of margarine, softened

Three-fourths cup sugar

Three-fourths cup brown sugar

one teaspoon vanilla

Two eggs

One teaspoon baking soda

One-half teaspoon salt

One cup pecans

One-half cup coconut

One-half bag almond toffee bits

Three-fourths cup quick oats

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Cream together margarine, sugars and vanilla. Add eggs beating well.

Stir in flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix it well. Stir in other ingredients. Drop by small spoonfuls onto an ungreased cookie sheet and bake 8-10 minutes.

My daughter and I made these using part of a recipe from a Hershey's Homemade cookbook and then adding our own variations.

~*~

Sparrow Post

Sparrow Post will continue next month.

~*~

Our Window Seat

Book Reviews

Pocketful of Pinecones by Karen Anderola is an inspirational book that is an encouragement to the homeschooling mother. I have spent the last few weeks enjoying my little visits with Carol the fictional mother in the story. Carol share with her homeschooling experiences during the 1930's. She like many of us is unsure about how to homeschool but knows that this is God's direction for her family. Carol begins her homeschooling experience by reading Home Education by a Miss Charlotte Mason. She is encouraged through Miss Mason's writings that she can teach her children and begins by incorporating nature study into their school activities. All of these experiences she share with us through her journal.

We learn about nature through her nature walks with her children. They draw what they observe and name each with both their common and Latin names as well as many poems and hymns. Carol share a year's worth of her homeschooling and nature experiences.

I really enjoyed my little visits with Carol and feel that you would too! I hope that you will take the opportunity to read this book and learn and grow from it.

This book would be very good for both the new and experienced homeschooling mother in learning about how to begin nature study with their children.

Jenny

~*~

The Rose Garden

Websites that you may enjoy

A Christian Home

This website is filled with encouragement, ideas and recipes for the homemaker.

It is one of my favorite places to visit.

~http://www.achristianhome.com/~

A Source of Joy

A lovely website by a faithful young lady that loves the Lord.

~http://soj.hwmagazine.org/~

Literature Admist Roses

This review was submitted by Cay who has developed this website for parents and children that love literature. We feel that you will really enjoy her site.

A literary website that seeks to encourage and support parents and children who have a love for literature. Its purpose is to develop the art and excitement of using great living literature in a learning lifestyle. This site will offer information on different literature study methods, building a book club program, how to develop and organize a home library, use living literature with lapbook learning, make beautiful notebooks and journals and much more! Free forms, book wish lists, and essays will be available soon! A literary book is being developed to help implement and develop these ideas. For more information, go to:

Live a Learning Lifestyle with Living Literature
~ http://www.geocities.com/gibsevengang/literature_study.html ~

           Find out how to make a cherished book into a living book.

                                                ~*~

Marmee's Nature Journal

I have had the opportunity to observe the most fascinating occurrence this month and would like to share it with you. I have been observing a mother at work. This particular mother is a gray dove. She spent many days trying to build her nest in a fern on our front porch. Although I hate to admit it I spent the same amount of days trying to discourage her by pulling it out. I must have missed one day for when I went to check it again she had managed to build her nest and lay her eggs before I caught her. I decided to leave her alone and watch her. At one point this mother even let me and the children touch her tail. This is the first time a wild bird has ever let me touch them so of course she had already won my affection. I would come out and talk with this dedicated mother every morning as I watered my ferns. She was always there. I have never observed a bird that stayed with their nest this way (I suspect it may have been daddy bird at times). When her babies were born she continued to stay with them. I Think daddy helped a lot with either feeding her or the little ones. Alas one morning I awoke to find them gone. I was sad for I had so enjoyed watching this little family that God had created. Later that same day my daughter noticed the young in our landscaping. They are still there with mother and father nearby. I think of that dedicated mother every time I hear the cooing of a dove. I hope that your family will spend some time observing the world that our Lord had made.

I also pray that we will all be as dedicated to our little ones as this mother.

Jenny

~*~

Till Next Thyme

We hope that you have enjoyed this nature issue of Little Women Home Companion. We also hope that this Autumn will find your outdoors with your family learning more about God and this beautiful world that He has made. Maybe He will bless you with the opportunity to meet someone that does not know Him so you can share your love for the Savior with them.

Jenny and Caiti

~*~

Little Women Home Companion is a monthly newsletter for mothers and daughters.

Copyright 2002-2003 Little Women Home Companion

If you would like to share this newsletter with a friend you must include all of the newsletter (do not copy and paste parts of it). Please also include our address as follows so they can have the opportunity to subscribe.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/LittleWomenHomeCompanion

~Blessings~

~*~*~*~

~*~

Posted in Little Women Home Companion

Little Women Home Companion

September and October 2004

That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their children, to be discreet, chaste, keepers at home,

good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.

Titus 2: 4-5

~*~

Poetry Thyme

Browny Bee

Little Mr. browny Bee,

Gather honey for my tea;

Come into my garden, do,

I've every kind of flower for you.

There's blossom on my tiny tree,

And daisies in the grass you'll see;

There's lavender, and scented stocks,

And rows of frilly hollyhocks.

I've marigolds, and pansies too,

And Canterbury-bells of blue;

There's rosemary, and scented thyme,

And foxglove heads you'll love to climb.

I've gilly-flowers, and roses red,

All waiting in my garden bed;

Seek honey where my flowers are

To fill my little honey-jar.

Irene F. Pawsey

~*~

A Visit With Marmee

Sharing A Mother's Thoughts

Ahhh, the smell of new pencils and crayons. White paper ready to be filled with ideas, drawing paper waiting for color from the artists' hands, erasers and new lunch box, a new dress or stiff new blue jeans and big yellow bus all remind me of my days as a child preparing for that first new day of the school year. The start of the new school year with my children is somewhat different. There are still the new pencils and crayons as well as the paper and a few needed wardrobe changes but gone is the yellow school bus replaced by a mini van. My children will wake up to school at home. Our days are filled with learning and growing together. Good books sit on the shelf waiting to be shared. Nature journals record those things that we have observed together. Classical music flows freely in our home. There are art projects, history projects, science projects, magazine articles, aspiring video productions, sample yearbook pages, and crafts projects waiting to be begun or completed. Our lives are busy and we are so blessed to have this opportunity to share these growing, learning years with each other.

Jenny

~*~

Tea Thyme

I want to share with you one of my favorite places for purchasing tea.... Culinary Teas. I am always pleased with my orders. The tea is wonderful and the service is quick. They also have some beautiful teapots that work well for having your own pot of tea or for use with children. The particular teapot that is my favorite is the two-cup Hampton teapot. It is small and precious. I have a white one and a sierra rose one. One of my favorite teas is Sencha Kyoto Cherry Rose Festival Tea. Most of the teas are loose leaf so you will need to purchase a tea ball or strainer. I have found it best to not brew most of my teas for more than three minutes. They tend to be bitter after this amount of time. This company actually provides brewing instructions on the label of the tea that you purchase so there is no guesswork. Candie Yoder and her Aunt Denise Yoder own the company. I talked with Candie this morning and found that they will be carrying a Pumpkin Spice tea as well as many other wonderful varieties come mid-August. I am already looking forward to autumn and a pot of Pumpkin Spice tea.

http://www.culinaryteas.com/

~*~

Thimbles and Threads

Over the past month my mother and I saw the cutest little purse made out of Cool Aid Jammers. After searching on the Internet for instructions she found a very helpful website. Since then she has made a couple of these purses. Below is the website address that she used for instructions for the Cool Aid purse.

http://toocutie.com/juicepouchpurse/juicepouchbydiana.htm

Caiti

~*~

From Jo's Writing Garret

Hello Mothers and Daughters,

Last year a movie called Love Comes Softly aired on the Hallmark channel. A friend of ours was able to record it so our family could view it. Love Comes Softly was adapted from Janette Oke‘s book that has the same title. This movie will be on sell for DVD and probably vhs format on September 14 of this year. This was a very enjoyable film. It was set back in time and it has a godly standpoint.

If you have already seen this movie then you probably are wondering if it will have a sequel. And to answer this question: yes, it is in production right now from the information that I have found. Here is a website address that has more info about this: http://fr.news.yahoo.com/040824/74/40t08.html. The sequel to Love Comes Softly is called Loves Enduring Promise. It is to be aired on the Hallmark channel in November.

In Christ,

Caiti

~*~

The Cottage Pantry

Crispy April Garden Salad

Clean, cut, chop, shred or slice the following ingredients and toss together. Spinach, red cabbage, white cabbage, leaf lettuce, cucumber, carrots, mushrooms, radishes, grape tomatoes, green peppers, bacon bits, and mozzarella cheese. Serve with Poppy seed Dressing (below).

Poppy seed Dressing

Put the following ingredients in a bowl: 1/2 tsp. onion salt, 1/2 tsp. garlic salt, 1 1/2 tsp. dry mustard, 1 1/2 tsp. salt, 3/4 cup sugar, 1 1/2 cup Wesson oil, and 1/2 cup vinegar. 1 tsp. poppy seeds, Mix-beat all ingredients with hand held mixer until thick. Refrigerate.

~*~

Marmee's Nature Journal

Have you noticed it? I did this morning. The subtle changes that occur as summer begin to fade into autumn. This morning I am enjoying to soothing sound of a light rain. A breeze gently kisses my face. I hear the cooing of a dove as it beckons to its mate and in the distance there is a gaggle of geese greeting each other with loud honking. There are the sweet trills of many other little birds, as they make ready for the day. The little insects add into the chorus. Even with all this "noise" it is much quieter than usual. Gone are the mother birds busily building their nests and feeding their young. I think many of them are resting in preparation for their impending journey south. There is the buzz of a few bees as they work to find a bit more nectar from the flowers that are quickly fading away. The spider has left her web for me to enjoy. It glistens with morning dew. I wonder if like Charlotte she had left her egg sack in preparation for next year’s brood of tiny baby spiders. I am making my own preparations for the new school year for my dear children. Am I preparing them well for life? How can I daily encourage them? How can I lead them in a closer walk with our Lord? My heart must trust and rest in HIM.... So must their heart. I gaze upon all that the Lord has made, how the seasons change, how the rain falls upon the thirsty ground, how the sun shines so that His creation may grow and be fruitful.

My heart can trust in HIM. He is worthy to be praised!

~*~

The Rose Garden

Websites that you may enjoy. We may or may not agree with everything that you find on these pages!

Movies! Movies! Movies! A lot of movies are coming on to tape now or perhaps they are showing in a theater. Either way your not sure what the story line is, whether it is family safe, or another reason. Here are some websites that you might find helpful:

Charity's Place

http://www.charitysplace.com/

Plugged In

http://www.pluggedinonline.com/

~*~

Till Next Thyme

We hope that all of you will be blessed as you prepare for the new school year with your loved ones. We also want to thank you for letting us share our lives with you in this way.

Blessings

Jenny and Caiti

P.S. We are so sorry for taking so long on getting this issue sent out. Thank-you for your patience.

~*~

Little Women Home Companion is a monthly (when possible) bimonthly (when not)

newsletter for mothers and daughters.

Copyright 2003-2004 Little Women Home Companion

If you would like to share this newsletter with a friend you must include the entire newsletter (do not copy and paste parts of it). Please also include our address as follows so they can have the opportunity to subscribe.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/LittleWomenHomeCompanion

~Blessings~

~*~*~*~

~*~

Posted in Little Women Home Companion

Little Women Home Companion

June-July-August 2003

That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their children, to be discreet, chaste, keepers at home,

good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.

Titus 2: 4-5

Taking Tea

~*~

A Visit With Marmee

Sharing A Mother's Thoughts

How welcoming and inviting a home is to a friend or daughter when the table is set for tea. The fragrant cup and tea with a heart open to friendship and a sympathic listening ear can do so much to comfort and sooth. I hope that all of you have had a friend or your daughter to tea. Over this past year I have begun to learn about tea and begun to share this special time with friends and with my sweet daughter. We recently had our first visit to a tearoom. It was a pleasure that we hope to soon repeat. I hope that each of you will take the time to reach out to someone who is lonely with a cup of tea and a heart full of friendship.

Jenny

~*~

Tea Thyme Quotes

" Cambric tea was hot water & milk, with only a taste of tea in it, but little girls felt grownup when their mothers let them drink cambric tea."

~ Quote from The Long Winter written by Laura Ingalls Wilder~

"The mug from the washstand was used as Becky's tea cup, and the tea was so delicious that it was not necessary to pretend that it was anything but tea."

~ Written by Frances Hodgson Burnett ~

" You're going out for tea today, be careful what you do; Let all accounts that I hear, be pleasant ones of you."

~ Poem written by Kate Greenaway~

~*~

Little Women Companion

There are so many quotes that touched me as I read the chapter entitled "Meg Goes to Vanity Fair". In particular those about marriage touched me and so I have decided to include them here that you may use them for copywork in your memory book or schoolwork.

"I want my daughters to be beautiful, accomplished, and good; to be admired, loved, respected, to have a happy youth, to be well and wisely married, and to lead useful, pleasant lives, with as little care and sorrow to try them as God sees fit to send. To be loved and chosen by a good man is the best and sweetest thing which can happen to a woman, and I sincerely hope my girls may know this beautiful experience. It is natural to think of it, Meg; right to hope and wait for it, and wise to prepare for it; so that, when the happy time comes, you may feel ready for the duties, and worthy of the joy."

And what are we to do in the meantime one may ask...this is addressed also.

"Leave these things to time; make this home happy, so that you may be fit for homes of your own, if they are offered you, and contented here if not."

Quotes from Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

~*~

Tea Thyme

Iced tea idea

When serving guests or neighbors iced tea and garnishing a lemon use an orange or lime instead. Or be creative and use all three.

Caiti

How to decaffeinate your tea

I have all kinds of caffeinated teas in my cabinet that I have not been using since I am trying to be very careful about my caffeine intake. A few weeks ago I found several websites that gave the same information about how to decaffeinate your tea so I will share it with you. It will not remove all the caffeine but a large portion of it ( I have read about 80%). You bring your water to a boil and pour it over your tea bags or tea leaves ( in your cup or teapot), wait 30 seconds and pour the water out (not the leaves or bag). Pour water over your tea bag or leaves once again and brew as usual. I am enjoying alot of my teas now and hope that you will yours too.

~*~

The Work Basket

Now is a good time to be collecting and drying flowers for potpourri that you can make for autumn. Caiti and I have been collecting and drying lavender and bachelor's buttons, We even dried the leaves from the lavender to use since the were so fragrant. In the fall you can string cranberries as you would popcorn and let them dry. I also cut and dry apples and oranges. You may also want to begin to collect pinecones of different sizes to be used later. A friend suggests that these be put in a warm oven for a while to deter little unwanted critters later on. Some years we have dried Queen Anne's Lace to use for Christmas ornaments. Get your gathering basket and start collecting!

~*~

Thimbles and Threads

We made this teacup pincushion from a miniature teacup ornament. It has not been glued down and was made in around ten minutes.

Teacup Pincushion instructions: Sew What's New

http://www.sew-whats-new.com/projects/t-cup-pin-C.shtml

Teacup Pincushion: Buttons Galore and More

http://www.buttonsgaloreandmore.com/ps-teapincushion.php

Teacup pincushion: Debbie Mumm

http://www.debbiemumm.com/potm/february/crafts/februarypotmcrafts.asp

~*~

From Jo's Writing Garret

Dear Mothers and daughters,

In the past few months I have bought and received quite a few things for my hopechest that has to do with tea. I now have three teacups. My mommy and daddy bought me two matching teacups for my birthday. The design is a beautiful blue hydrangea. My other teacup which I bought from a discount store is a Old Country Roses by Royal Doulton. My mother and I love this set. The teacup design is a dark pink rose with a golden yellow rose, along with rosebuds and leaves. My mommy has bought me a tea strainer and tea infuser. These come in handy when you use loose leaf tea.

This fall I will be starting a tea unit study. I will be learning about different teas and reading different tea books. When I have completed this study I will be required to give a tea party. So as you imagine I am looking forward to starting it

There is a summer tea put out by Celestial Seasonings called Honeysuckle Peach. It has a fruity flavor, but it is not spicy. This make a great morning tea.

Go and brew yourself a cup of hot tea or pour yourself a glass of iced tea. Sit on your porch and enjoy God's beauty while you sip your tea. Have a great summer.

In Christ,

Caiti

~*~

The Cottage Pantry

This is a wonderful muffin recipe. It is a combination of a recipe for blueberry muffins from cooks.com and my own. I hope you enjoy them.

Maraschino Cherry Muffins

1 stick of unsalted butter (real butter), melted

3/4 cup sugar

2 large eggs

1/2 tsp. vanilla

1 teaspoon almond extract

3/4 cup sour cream

2 cups plain, all purpose flour

1/4 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 -10 ounce jar maraschino cherries, drained and quartered

slivered almonds

Cream together butter and sugar and add eggs, vanilla and sour cream. In another bowl sift together flour, salt and baking soda. Add this to your wet mixture and stir until blended well. Add cherries mixing them well. Spoon into greased, texas size muffin pans. Sprinkle with sugar and almonds. Bake in a 375 degree oven (that has been preheated) for 30 minutes. Let cool a few minutes and they will lift right out of your pan.

~*~

Sparrow Post

You are cordially invited to attend a tea given by

Miss Josephine March

And

Mr. Theodore Lawrence

At the March home on August 19, 18- in the year of our Lord.

Jo March had been following Amy March’s advice for decorating a table for tea well nigh over an hour now. Amy was the artistic one in the March family and when anyone needed advice for decorating they would go to her. Each place setting had a place card with a flower drawn on for decoration. In the center of the table was a bouquet sent to the March’s from Teddy. Amy had been learning to paint and with her artistic talent she hand painted a teacup for each place setting which was only six: Marmie, Meg, Beth, Amy, Teddy and of course Jo. Meg had donated six of her best cloth napkins trimmed with lace and Beth had given ribbon to tie them with. All of the sisters in some way helped prepare tea sandwiches and mini desserts. And as for Teddy, he aided in the process to make sure enough flowers were sent to the March’s for their tea.

“I think that is it Jo.” Amy said as she admired the table and gave a sigh. A few knocks came from the front door. Jo with her best manners answered it and Teddy stepped into the parlor. He bowed as if he were a proper gentleman and took off his top hat Jo in return gave a curtsy. “Well Mr. Theodore Lawrence,” she said. “We have taken great pains trying new recipes for our tea. So if it is not to your expectations do not tell us of it.” “Yes indeed ma'am” The two made their way into the dining room where they would have their tea. Marmie, Meg, Beth and Amy were waiting patiently for the hostess in the dining room.

“Take your seats my friends!” Teddy said. The party sat down and Jo began pouring tea. Sugar cubes had been meant to put in the sugar bowl but since Jo had been unable to get them she was to use fine sugar instead. However to any of us sugar and salt looks quite alike in all due respect. Jo was in a hurry earlier that morning trying to prepare tea food and make things look nice at the same time. The sugar jar and salt jar looked so much alike and since Jo was in such a hurry she had mistaken the salt jar for the sugar jar. Poor Jo! Into Beth’s cup of tea she put two nice spoonfuls of fine salt, into Amy’s cup she did the same thing. In all the cups of tea salt was added. Marmie lifted her teacup and sipped her tea. “A queer taste,” she thought. She sipped it again and then puckered her lips. “Jo put salt in not sugar this morning. Poor thing! “ She watched Amy and Beth as they sipped their tea and did the same thing as she herself had done. Jo had also saw Beth and Amy pucker and instantly sipped her tea. “Oh dear!” she said “I am sorry everyone. I put salt instead of sugar in the bowl. Beth will you help me pour out this tea and give them new tea.” Marmie came to the rescue and helped pour new tea. Everything was back as normal. Amy started putting two delicate tea desserts on Teddy’s plate. As you remember he had been told: “If it is not to your expectations do not tell us of it.” The tiny desserts where decorated with small flowers and leaves. Teddy picked one up and took a bight. A bitter taste entered his mouth. Oh! How he wanted to dispose of the taste but slowly swallowed it instead. “How do you like them?’ Meg asked. “I have not tasted anything like them before, Meg!” Teddy replied with a most unusual smile.

Now as you probably already know Beth loved cats and had quite a few herself. But even though Beth trained her cats and told them not to do something ahead of time does not always mean they obey. You see even with the kindest master cats sometimes have a mind of there own. And one of Beth’s cats in particular was hard to train. Tiger, the cat, had been eyeing the tea table for fifteen minutes now. Finally when the tea desserts were beginning to be served Tiger made its jump. In an instant the party did not know what was going on and the platter of desserts had been dropped on the floor by shock. Beth got up out of her seat and shooed Tiger off the table and started scolding him. All the delicate desserts that had taken so much time to make were now inedible. Now the March’s were very upset about this matter, they would have been surprised of how happy Teddy was.

The tea started to take its end and Mr. Lawrence sent his carriage over to pick Teddy up. He said goodbye and told them what a wonderful time he had had.. The March’s started cleaning the table off. All of them except Jo were in the kitchen cleaning dishes or putting things away when Jo noticed one of the beautifully decorated desserts laying on the table. She picked it up and ate a bight. Jo’s face was turned into the most hilarious sour expression. “Oh yuck!” she said to herself. Then remembering Teddy’s smile and what he said to Meg. Jo repeated it “ I have not tasted anything like them before.” That poor boy…”

~*~

Our Window Seat

Book Reviews

Sandy's Tea Society by Sandy Lyman Clough

I spent a refreshing couple of evenings "visiting" with the dear fictional ladies in Sandy's book. Each lady is so very different and yet Sandy brings each of them together and helps them to begin a tea society. All have their strengths and weakness and as we watch them plan teatimes we see how each can be creative. The book is really ideas and themes for tea parties but Sandy uses the story line of these dear ladies to bring it all together and to show ministry opportunities that can happen through a tea society. I hope that you will take the time to "visit" with these lovely ladies too.

Jenny

~*~

The Rose Garden

Websites that you may enjoy. We may or may not agree with everything that you find on these pages!

Anne of Green Gables site: Planning an Anne tea party.

http://www.geocities.com/Hollywood/Theater/5299/teatime.html

Eras of Elegance: Tea with Friends article:

http://www.erasofelegance.com/teawithfriends.html

Seeds of Knowledge: How to start a book club tea group.

http://www.seedsofknowledge.com/teaclub.html

Lady Renee's Rose Garden Tea Room

http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Park/6804/teatime.html

Creative Ladies' Ministry: Planning a ladies tea for your church

http://www.creativeladiesministry.com/planningatea.html

and

http://www.creativeladiesministry.com/mothersdaythemes.html

Sandy's Tea Society: How to start your own tea society.

http://www.sandysteasociety.com/

~*~

Marmee's Nature Journal

I heard it yesterday, that little difference in nature that always happens this time of the year. I have always wondered what it was. The little birds do not chirp very much anymore. There is a stillness in the air as if everything is resting. There is the little hum that the insects make. I become aware that the summer is slowly fading away. Soon the swirl of autumn leaves and the silence of winter will descend upon us all. I can imagine all the little creatures in their burrows taking tea and a long winter's rest.

Jenny

~*~

Till Next Thyme

Dear Mothers and Daughters,

We hope that you will find time to share a cup of tea and the hand of friendship with someone special this month.

Blessings

Jenny and Caiti

~*~

Little Women Home Companion is a monthly (when possible) bimonthly (when not)

newsletter for mothers and daughters.

Copyright 2003-2004 Little Women Home Companion

If you would like to share this newsletter with a friend you must include the entire newsletter (do not copy and paste parts of it). Please also include our address as follows so they can have the opportunity to subscribe.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/LittleWomenHomeCompanion

~Blessings~

~*~*~*~

~*~