Harvest Lane Cottage

Traveling the World

2012-02-01T05:00:00.000-06:00

The Story Book

I've traveled the world twice over, Met the famous; saints and sinners, Poets and artists, kings and queens, Old stars and hopeful beginners, I've been where no-one's been before, Learned secrets from writers and cooks All with one library ticket To the wonderful world of books. Unknown

New Math?

2012-01-31T17:01:00.002-06:00

2012-01-31T15:24:00.000-06:00

Someday....
I just love the colors in this painting. They're so peaceful.

Five Minute Friday: Tender

2012-01-27T17:37:00.000-06:00

It's another 5 Minute Friday over at Gypsy Mama's.
To join in write for just 5 minutes on the topic of the week; click here.

TENDER

Go!

Tender, my first thought is of a juicy, tender steak. Medium. Baked potato with butter, sour cream, salt and pepper on the side. Filet minion is my favorite. Around here, the best place I know to go for steak is The Red Onion in Joplin, Missouri.

Oh, Laura, you can't have steak, you're doing the Daniel fast!

Try again!

Tender, hugs and kisses from my sweetheart of 30 years and husband of 25 years, Lowell. My thoughts are turning to Valentine's Day and how to make it special this year not just for Lowell and I, but for the kids. I bought some cute little red heart plastic plates a couple of days ago. I thought they'd look great with salad on them before the main course each evening. Yes, salad. I'm planning on serving a lot more salads with our dinners. They're good for us; and, they help fill tummies, too.

One more minute...
Hmmm...
Tender, Love me tender Love me sweet, Never Let me go.
Guess you know who sang that.

Stop!

Fabulous Guacamole - Made it, loved it.

2012-01-23T09:21:00.003-06:00

Source: copykat.com via Laura on Pinterest

This is the fabulous guacamole that we tried recently. It's some of the best we've had. I found it on Pinterest. Just click the photo to go to the recipe. It's also Daniel Fast friendly. You've got to try this one!

A Mile in His Shoes & a Giveaway!

2012-01-16T22:06:00.001-06:00

I just spent a delightful evening with friends enjoying a fabulous family movie. I smiled and laughed and just had a good time.

Dean Cain gives a heartfelt performance as a coach whose team is down on it's luck. As he's traveling to check out a new pitching candidate, his car runs off the road. He meets Mickey (Luke Schroder), a pig loving 18 year old ~~boy~~ man with Aspberger's syndrome, a form of autism. As they're walking to the house for the phone, Mickey talks of his pigs and their love of apples. He loves smashing apples. Mickey's father is an unfriendly, hard man who lets Coach Murph use his phone then orders him back to his car, but not before the coach sees a miracle outside the window.

Mickey is outside feeding the pigs. He's throwing apples at an old bucket that's nailed up above the pig trough. The bucket's not the only thing that's nailed. He nails the bucket every time. Murph tries talking to Mickey's father but hits a brick wall. He leaves his card and goes on his way. The story unfolds and Mickey ends up getting his chance to try out for the team. I'm not telling another thing about the story line; because, it's just so good, you've got to watch it yourself.

There was one little scene I just loved. Mickey and his dad were in their living room. Mickey was watching a baseball game. Mickey is glued to the set. His dad was reading a paper. His mother came in, didn't say a word, but placed a plate of cookies beside his father. As his father took a cookie, he found a little card under it that changed the course of Mickey's life.

Schroder and Cain give excellent performances. They seem as if they truly are the characters they are portraying. I was very pleased. This is a Dove family film.

A Mile in His Shoes is based on a true story.

A Mile in His Shoes is rated PG. I am pretty picky about what I allow my children to watch. To me PG means I need to preview the program prior to allowing my children, especially my younger children to watch it. I found that the thematic elements that were less than wholesome, a party and a fight, were handled well. A child would see far more in a Disney movie than in this movie.

I think this rates 5 stars.

NOW FOR THE GIVEAWAY!

JUST LEAVE ME A COMMENT ON THIS POST TELLING ME ONE OF YOUR FAVORITE FAMILY MOVIES.

On February 14, I'll pull a name out of the basket and notify the winner.

“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or

services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it

on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally

and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance

with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the

Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Black Bean Salad with Fresh Corn, Red Peppers, Avacado, Cilantro and Lime I Pinned It! I Did It!

2012-01-15T15:39:00.004-06:00

Today's lunch!

Here's the recipe!

Thursday we started a Daniel Fast with our Church. Thursday night we had plain pears, plain corn, and plain steamed broccoli. Then, I found out we can be creative. We found this recipe on onceuponachef.com and modified it for the fast. I found information about the Daniel Fast, a 21 day partial fast, at The Ultimate Daniel Fast blog. That's where I found the lists of do's and don'ts for food. It's not nearly as restrictive as I first thought. Mainly, we're staying away from meats, dairy and other animal products, white flour, yeast and leavening, and any kind of sugar, honey or sweetner.

During this time, we are consecrating ourselves to the Lord and consecrating 2012 to the Lord. I am also reading the Bible with Professor Horner's Reading Plan. It's basically ten chapters a day in ten different places. It's quite a challenge to get the reading done. It's an even bigger challenge to get my reading done for my book reviews!

Happy New Year everyone!

Maybe this is the time for you to consecrate yourself to Jesus Christ, too.

Laura

Blessed to be a Blessing

Linking with Vermont Sewing Cottage.

It's National De-Lurker Day! Do drop in!

2012-01-14T10:35:00.000-06:00

Hello, it's National De-Lurker Day!

I remember in college that the professor always said to picture your reader as you write. If you say hi, and tell me what you're interested in reading, I'll be able to picture my readers as I write.

I invite you to introduce yourself. I have many readers and followers whom I've never heard from. If you're a quiet, keep your comments to yourself, reader, won't you please drop in and tell me a bit about yourself and what you like to read about?

May you have a wonderful weekend!

Laura
Happy at Home

True Confessions

2012-01-11T12:54:00.000-06:00

1. I absolutely love hot homemade cocoa all year long, even summer! My Grandma Mamie got me hooked when I was a girl.

2. I am really enjoying Professor Horton's Bible reading program. It's available on youversion.com; but I'm using my Bible. Basically, I'm reading a chapter a day in each of ten different spots in the Bible. I have been amazed how I keep hearing people refer to verses I've just read!

3. I like creamy peanut butter best.

4. My windows need to be washed.

5. This month my reading list looks like it did in college. I'm reading the following books for reviews: Four Letter Words, One Month to Live, and The Circle Maker. I'm also reading 10 chapters of Bible a day.

6. I'm feeling guilty; because, I want snow. I know there's a lot of rebuilding being done in Joplin; but, couldn't we have a few inches in Carthage? Please God?

7. I love listening to Paul Cardall. His music is so relaxing.

True Confessions inspired by Lizzie at A Dusty Frame.

A Few Wintery Recipes

2012-01-10T13:23:00.004-06:00

I thought I'd link up to a few of our family's favorite winter-time recipes. There's nothing expensive here. Just some down home frugal cooking.

Real Cream of Broccoli Soup

Skillet Beef Stew

Spicy Bean Soup

Spicy Can Opener Soup

Happy January!

Laura

Happy at Home

Linking with:
Growing Home: Teach Me Tuesdays.
Raising Homemakers
Deep Roots at Home
A Wise Woman Builds Her Home

Five Minute Friday: Roar

2012-01-06T21:28:00.001-06:00

Let’s do it. Let’s just write without worrying if it’s just right or not.
For only five short, bold, beautiful minutes. Let your mind and your words and your heart fly free; wild – no editing, no over thinking.
Won’t you join me?

Subject: Roar

Go!

Roar. The sound of a tornado ripping homes and lives apart. The sound of a lion ripping through the still air of the savannah. The sound of a crowd cheering in the stands. The sound of a jet tearing through the sky at unheard of speeds. The sound of a waterfall plummeting a hundred feet below. The sound of a mama bear protecting her cubs. The sound of a volcano spewing lava and debris in the air. The sound of race cars tearing up the track. The sound of a bunch of kids in the back of the car or van. The sound of life in the 21st century.

In contrast- the still small voice of our Lord God. Here Him in the silence.

Stop!

Book Review: The Future Door

2012-01-05T16:22:00.000-06:00

$9.99
Juvenile Fiction
By Jason Lethcoe
Published by Thomas Nelson
2nd in the No Place Like Holmes Series.

Book Description

"A mystery is afoot at 221 Baker Street, but will Griffin Sharpe be able to figure out the clues before the future catches up with the past? When Sherlock Holmes moves out of Baker Street, a new tenant moves in—a mysterious woman named Elizabeth who has long been a fan of Holmes. When she discovers that Griffin and his uncle are also detectives, she becomes very friendly. So when Elizabeth goes missing along with a special invention, Griffin sets out to rescue her. But finding Elizabeth will take them on a race against the clock that bends time itself!" from Thomas Nelson.

My take on the book....

This is the second in the No Place Like Holmes series. It began a little slow for me. Whether that was because I'd not read the first book or not, I'm not sure. It actually took me a few chapters to get into it. It's a good thing I paid attention in the beginning. Everything means something in this book. Details! Details! The time traveling back and forth made some interesting problems. It got so twisted around that I didn't even want to put it down. The characters are well developed and likeable. The bad guys are very bad; but, the majority of the book is focusing on the good guys and how they're figuring it all out. I'm giving it to my children 12 and 14 to read next. It's juvenile fiction; and, I think it's good.

All opinions expressed herein are my own.

Happy

2012-01-02T08:34:00.000-06:00

...new year... new start... fresh leaf... do over... resolution... fresh start... new day... begin again... forgive and forget... goal setting... new vision... new provision... dieting... exercising... cleaning... organizing....

Whatever the new year means to you. I pray that you will seek God in a new and more committed way. His mercies are new every morning. New can happen any morning, any moment with God. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousnes.

Pastor Dan has challenged our congregation to read more of the Bible in January than in all of 2011. I don't know if I can do that or not; but, I'm up for the challenge. What about you?

Hope 4 Joplin 2011 Tornado video

2011-12-31T05:29:00.000-06:00

These numbers are even higher now. Thank you everyone for your support and prayers. We've got a long way to go; but, the generosity, love, and prayers you all are providing are making recovery much much easier.

Our family lives 10 miles from Joplin. My husband, Lowell Lane, is the operations manager for the Joplin Family Worship Center relief organization. If you want to help by volunteering or making a donation, we can help you get your help to the folks of Joplin.

Wishing on a Star

2011-12-30T08:06:00.000-06:00

...won't get you very far; but, praying to and worshiping the Creator of the stars will.

2011-12-29T21:56:00.000-06:00

officeclipart.com

This is a nice tidy pile of paper. It does not resemble the messy pile of paper that I tackled today. My remaining pile of paper is much neater but will need further action.

~grin~

Working through the clutter,

Laura

Getting the Itch....

2011-12-26T21:34:00.001-06:00

I'm getting the itch. I'll bet you're getting it, too. Time to clean up and clear out again. The excesses of Christmas always make me ready for cut backs. I think I'll plan to have a yard sale the first weekend of March. That gives me plenty of time to go through everything. If I can just make some hard decisions. Well, maybe I'll start next week. ~grin~

Linking with Raising Homemakers.

I Love the Lord!

2011-12-25T06:03:00.000-06:00

Thank you God for your ultimate gift~ eternal life with You through your Son Jesus Christ!

Visions of Sugar Plums Sort of....

2011-12-24T15:07:00.000-06:00

Hallelujah Flash!

2011-12-24T08:12:00.003-06:00

I would join right in!
I know you cannot see the picture; just click it. It's great.

Watch More Christian Videos on GodVine.com

Carol of the Bells for 12 Cellos

2011-12-23T06:58:00.000-06:00

Hang in there ladies! We're almost there! Just a bit more cooking, shopping and wrapping!

Give yourself permission for good enough. It doesn't have to be perfect. They need a happy wife and mom!

"If we would just back up and let God be God..."

2011-12-22T07:10:00.000-06:00

"If we would just back up and let God be God, let the Holy Spirit do the work in a person's life, it's amazing what God will do if we shut up. It's amazing. I'm telling you... truth. We really do think God that God needs our help to change a life; but, God was God before you got here."
T.D. Jakes

Snow Snow Snow Snow

2011-12-21T14:57:00.000-06:00

Send some my way!

Visions of Sugarplums... A Collection of Christmas Cookery E-Book

2011-12-21T08:33:00.001-06:00

Visions of Sugarplums is thoughtfully arranged with vintage illustrations—a lovely keepsake for yourself or a special gift for a friend.Visions of Sugarplums: A Collection of Christmas Cookery is a delightful ebook published by Lizzie of A Dusty Frame, filled with those exceptional recipes of holidays past. My mouth waters as I examine the contents:

Gingerbread Waffles
Warm Cranberry Punch
Sweet Potato Casserole
Moravian Cookies
Toffee Squares
Epiphany Cake
Julgrot (Swedish Rice Pudding)
Triple Layer Brownies
Vintage Molasses Cake

The book is sprinkled with holiday traditions from around the world and their corresponding recipes, like finding the lucky single almond in the Julgrot. You’ll find inspirational quotes, a section on making homemade ornaments from kitchen ingredients, suggested family traditions, snow day ideas, and a list of favorite Christmas books. And, of course, lots of love.

Visions of Sugarplums is thoughtfully arranged with vintage illustrations—a lovely keepsake for yourself or a special gift for a friend.

I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas!

2011-12-20T14:57:00.000-06:00

Two Meals From a Large Package of Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts

2011-12-20T06:47:00.000-06:00

Last week I put a large package of boneless chicken breasts in the crock pot, seasoned them with lots of salt and pepper, and let them cook on low all day.

The meat was fork tender; so, I shredded it and let it set in the broth for a few minutes. I used half of the chicken to make bbq sandwiches and used the broth and the other half for hot chicken sandwiches. I used Bull's Eye original sauce.

I made a gravy with the broth then added shredded chicken to the gravy. I then piled up the meal: a slice of bread followed by mashed potatoes and then smothered in chicken and gravy. Ooh yum!

A thrilling Christmas Time on the Frontier by “A Pastor’s Wife”

2011-12-18T20:56:00.003-06:00

A thrilling Christmas time on the Frontier by “A Pastor’s Wife”

I remember a day one winter that stands out like a boulder in my life. The weather was unusually cold; our salary had not been regularly paid and it did not meet our needs when it was.
My husband was away much of the time, traveling from one district to another. Our boys were well, but my little Ruth was ailing and at best none of us were decently clothed. I patched and re -patched, with spirits sinking to the lowest ebb. The water gave out in the well and the wind blew through the cracks in the floor.
The people in the parish were kind, and generous too, but the settlement was new and each family was struggling for itself. Little by little, at the time I needed it most, my faith began to waver.
Early in life I was taught to take God at His word, and I thought my lesson was well learned. I had lived upon the promises in dark times until I knew, as David did, who was my Fortress and my Deliverer. Now a daily prayer for forgiveness was all that I could offer.
My husband’s overcoat was hardly thick enough for October, and he was often obliged to ride miles to attend some meeting or funeral.
Christmas was coming; the children always expected their presents. I remember the ice was thick and smooth and the boys were each craving a pair of skates. Ruth, in some unaccountable way, had taken a fancy that the doll I had made were no longer suitable; she wanted a nice large one, and insisted on praying for it.
I knew it was impossible, but, oh! how I wanted to give each child his present. It seemed as if God had deserted us. But I did not tell my husband all this. He worked so earnestly and heartily, I supposed him to be as hopeful as ever. I kept the sitting room cheerful with an open fire, and I tried to serve our scanty meals as invitingly as I could.
That morning before Christmas, James was called to see a sick man. I put up a piece of bread for his lunch–it was the best I could do–wrapped my plaid shawl around his neck and then tried to whisper a promise as I often had, but the words died away upon my lips. I let him go without it.
That was a dark, hopeless day. I coaxed the children to bed early, for I could not bear their talk. When Ruth went, I listened for her prayer. She asked for the last time most explicitly for her doll and for skates for her brothers. Her bright face looked so lovely when she whispered to me,
“You know I think they’ll be here early tomorrow morning, Mama” that I thought I could move Heaven and earth to save her from disappointment. I sat down alone and gave way to the most bitter tears.
Before long James returned, chilled and exhausted. He drew off his boots. The thin stockings clipped off with them and his feet were red with cold. “I wouldn’t treat a dog that way; let alone a faithful servant,” I said. Then as I glanced up and saw the hard lines in his face and the look of despair, it flashed across me that James had let go too.
I brought him a cup of tea, feeling sick and dizzy at the very thought. He took my hand and we sat for an hour without a word. I wanted to die and meet God and tell Him His promise wasn’t true–my soul was so full of rebellious despair.
There came a sound of bells, a quick step and a loud knock at the door. James sprang to open it. There stood Deacon White. “A box came by express just before dark. I brought it around as soon as I could get away. Reckoned it might be for Christmas. ‘At any rate’ I said, ‘they shall have it tonight.’ Here is a turkey my wife asked me to fetch along and these other things I believe belong to you.”
There were a basket of potatoes, and a bag of flour. Talking all the time, he hurried in the box and then with a hearty good night, he rode away.
Still without speaking, James found a chisel and opened the box. He drew out first a thick red blanket and we saw that beneath it, the box was full of clothing. It seemed at that moment as if Christ fastened upon me a look of reproach. James sat down and covered his face with his hands. “I can’t touch them,” he explained. “I haven’t been true, just when God was trying me to see if I could hold out. Do you think I could not see how you were suffering? And I had no word of comfort to offer. I know now how to preach the awfulness of turning away from God.”
“James,” I said, clinging to him, “don’t take it to heart like this. I am to blame. I ought to have helped you. We will ask Him together to forgive us.”
We poured out words of praise–Bible words, for nothing else could express our thanksgiving.
It was eleven o’ clock; the fire was low and there was the great box with nothing touched but the warm blanket we needed. We piled on some fresh logs, lighted two candles and began to examine our treasures.
We drew out an overcoat. I made James try it on–just the right size–and I danced around him, for all my lightheartedness had returned. There was a cloak and he insisted on seeing me in it. My spirits always infected him and we both laughed like foolish children.
There was a warm suit of clothes also and three pairs of woolen hose. There were a dress for me and yards of flannel, a pair of arctic overshoes for each of us and in mine a slip of paper. I have it now and mean to hand it down to my children. It was Jacob’s blessing to Asher: “Thy shoes shall be iron and brass; and as thy days so shall thy strength be.”
In the gloves, evidently for James, the same dear hand had written: “I the Lord thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee.”
It was a wonderful box and packed with thoughtful care. There were a suit of clothes for each of the boys and a little red gown for Ruth. There were mittens, scarf, and hood, and down in the center–a box. We opened it and there was a great wax doll!! I burst into tears again and James wept with me for joy. It was too much! And then we both exclaimed again, for close behind it came two pairs of skates. There were books for us to read–some of them I had wished to see–stories for the children to read, aprons and underclothing, knots of ribbon, a gay little tidy, a lovely photograph, needles, buttons, and thread, a muff, and an envelope containing a ten dollar gold piece.
At last we cried over everything we took up. It was past midnight and we were faint and exhausted even with happiness. I made a cup of tea, cut a fresh loaf of bread and James boiled some eggs. We drew up the table before the fire. How we enjoyed our supper! And then we sat talking over our life and how sure a help God always proved.
You should have seen the children the next morning! The boys raised a shout at the sight of their skates–Ruth caught up her doll and hugged it tightly without a word; then she went into her room and knelt by her bed.
When she came back she whispered to me, “I knew it would be here Mama, but I wanted to thank God just the same, you know.”
“Look here, Wife, see the difference!” We went to the window and there were the boys out of the house already and skating on the crust with all their might.
My husband and I both tried to return thanks to the church in the East that sent us the box–and have tried to return thanks unto God every day since.
Hard times have come again and again, but we have trusted in Him–dreading nothing so much as a doubt of His protecting care. “They that seek the Lord shall not want any good thing.”

Reprinted by permission from Lizzie at A Dusty Frame. She typed it up from a very old book.

Linking with Raising Homemakers.

A Promise of Hope by Amy Clipston Review

2011-12-18T12:29:00.000-06:00

Secrets, betrayal, lies, fears, and restless nights all revolve around Peter, Sarah's husband, who died in a fire. Inner struggles arise when Luke comes to Bird-in-Hand to find his relative Peter. Who is Luke, really? Who was Peter, really? Can Sarah trust either man? Was her marriage a fake?

Sarah Troyer is reeling from the shock of losing her husband in a fire while carrying his ~~first child~~ twins. DeLana is mystified when Peter's letters stop abruptly. What is her connection to Peter, an Amish man? Luke's father has died leaving Luke determined to find Peter and reconnect with family only to find that Peter claimed to be an orphan. Norman, a fine Amish widower hopes to help Sarah through the grieving process and a bit more.

Set in quaint Lancaster County among buggies and a plain Amish life, A Promise of Hope, Amy Clipston has continued the character development of the Kauffman family and friends in this the second book of the Kauffman Amish Bakery Series. The first was A Gift of Grace.

I really enjoy Amy Clipston's style of writing. My teacher in high school used to say, "Don't tell me, show me." I think Mrs. Clipston is excellent at drawing word pictures. Thanks for another great book!

*I received this book from Zondervan in exchange for an honest review.

In Christ Alone

2011-12-13T15:09:00.001-06:00

Nativity by Jon McNaughton Item #: 5244378 available from art.com.

In Christ alone, I make my boast.

He gives me breath. Genesis 2:7
He gives me life. Jeremiah 10:23
He gies me hope for the future. Psalm 42:5
He gives me faith. Hebrews 11:1
He gives me peace with my past. Romans 5:1
He gives me wisdom. Proverbs 2:1-6
He gives me love. 1 John 4:10
He gives me eternal security in insecure times. John 14:27
He gives me provision for my needs. Philipians 4:10-20
He gives me the ability to look beyond myself to care for others. John 13:34-35
He meets me where I am and takes me to where he wants me to be. Jeremiah 6:16, Deuteronomy 31:8
In Christ alone, I make my boast.

I Invite You...

2011-12-12T08:18:00.000-06:00

I invite you to come and see my Christmas pinboard on Pinterest! Pinterest is a great place to "file" some of the great ideas you come across as you are browsing the web. Here are a few to whet your appetite. Click on the photos to go to the original post. Click here if you want to see my pinterest boards.

An Excellent Gift...The Christmas Singing by Cindy Woodsmall 30% off coupon code from WaterBrook Multnomah

2011-12-10T00:29:00.000-06:00

I really enjoyed this book. I think it would be an excellent gift or a little something for yourself.
Read my review.

Guess what!

WaterBrook Multnomah is offering 30% off and free shipping on The Christmas Singing (and any other title) when your readers use promo code CHRISTMAS11 at checkout on WaterBrookMultnomah.com. The coupon code expires on December 20th, 2011.

The Christmas Singing (Chapter 1 Excerpt)

It Began as a Comment About Giving

2011-12-09T08:52:00.000-06:00

It began as a comment about giving on Annie's blog, Scrappalachia. As I wrote, I thought I should share it with you, too.

We have seen miraculous giving over the last 7 months. My husband is director of operations for the Joplin, Missouri Tornado Relief effort at Joplin Family Worship Center.

Thousands of volunteers have come to help from across America and the world. Millions of dollars worth of supplies have passed through our hands and been distributed to those affected by the tornado. We have served thousands of meals and continue to do so.

We want to be, as our pastor says, "Jesus with skin on".

It's what our family and our church has been doing to give, it's what we'll be doing to give for another four or five years. It has changed us. It's now who we are. We are blessed to be a blessing.

If you or your readers would like to help by volunteering or donating, please go to http://jfwc.org for information on how to help us help Joplin.

Please pray for Joplin. It will be a very difficult season for many people. Counselors are seeing a lot of post traumatic stress and depression.

Happy Christmas!
Laura Lane

Giveaway! not your mama's stitching ends 12/29

2011-12-08T09:51:00.003-06:00

Pork Loin with Garlic Mashed Potatoes

2011-12-08T08:29:00.000-06:00

Last evening's dinner, pork loin with garlic mashed potatoes and peas.
My husband just posted the recipe at his blog.

It was delicious!

Tree Trimming Tradition

2011-12-07T08:07:00.004-06:00

Tree in Town Square," December 4, 1948

by Stevan Dohanos

art.com

Tonight's the night.

We're going to decorate the Christmas tree.

I give the children an ornament each year.

We put the ornaments on the tree chronologically beginning with the wired gold tinsel "I love you" that my husband made for me while we were dating. I tell the story of our life as we go, something from each year. My husband usually hangs our couple ornaments. The children begin adding their ornaments when we get to their birth year. If they complain, I just tell them they're not born yet!

Tradition!

Linking with

Raising Homemakers

Making Merry Tonight

2011-12-05T23:11:00.000-06:00

Enjoyed the Christmas parade tonight with old friends and family.

Ah, tradition!

Seasonal Work Wanted

2011-12-05T05:08:00.000-06:00

Seasonal Work by David Harden at art.com

There's always a bit more seasonal work around Christmas isn't there?

I'm doing extra cleaning, extra planning, extra baking, extra cooking, extra making, and extra decorating.

How is your seasonal work coming?

Are you keeping your focus on Christ, on those you love, and those less fortunate?

Happy Advent!

Are You Going Home for Christmas?

2011-12-03T05:00:00.005-06:00

Are you going home for Christmas?

Have you written you'll be there?

Going home to kiss the mother

and to show her that you care?

Going home to greet the father

in a way to make him glad?

If you're not, I hope there'll never come

a time you'll wish you had.

Just sit down and write a letter-

it will make their heart strings hum

with a tune of perfect gladness

if you'll tell them that you'll come.

~Edgar Guest

I encourage you to pick up the phone or a pen right now and reach out to your momma, your dad, and your loved ones. There's a reason people send Christmas cards this time of year.

Happy Christmastime!

*Click painting to get the free screensaver.

5 Minute Friday... Tired

2011-12-03T00:02:00.002-06:00

It's time for another 'Five Minute Friday'. 'Five Minute Friday' is where as, our hostess, and inspiration, The Gypsy Mama, puts it, we write "For only five short, bold, beautiful minutes. Unscripted and unedited. We just write without worrying if it’s just right or not."
Go

Tired
It is 11:56 p.m.; I have reason to be tired.
I've been tired for a few weeks now.
It's been a constant feeling of busy and on the go ever since the Maple Leaf Festival the third Saturday of October.

There was the festival, then the Family Movie Night at church, then the Harvest Party at church, then the Tea Party for Survivors of the Joplin tornado at church, then choir practice started for the Christmas play, then the Home Decor Christmas decorations giveaway, then Thanksgiving dinner at the Church, then the Thanksgiving dinner for the Work Force crew at the Church, then Thanksgiving with friends and family at our house, then two blessed days of no one going to the church to work, then...then...then.... You get the picture. The next couple of weeks will be the same.

We have given given given over the last six months. We have also received received received.
We have learned the phrase that Pastor Dan Wermuth repeats often is true. "We are blessed to be a blessing."

Stop

Busy and Blessed,
Laura

Pitsco Medieval Machines

2011-12-02T07:46:00.000-06:00

When this box arrived in the mail, I thought Michael would jump for joy. He is very into medieval castles, knights, and weaponry. This was the perfect item for Michael to help me review.

Medieval Machines Pack

A Pitsco Exclusive

True confession time. I did not help my son build these machines. It was father son time. I did, however, listen in while they worked. It took them a couple of hours to put the catapult together. It sure brought out the nuances of their relationship. ~grin~

They found the instructions to be pretty clear for the catapult. It was just a matter of punching out the pieces, figuring out exactly how they fit together, and gluing them with crazy glue. Simple enough, but challenging to actually do. They had some trouble fitting the pieces together and even broke a piece. They glued it back together and went on. My son, Michael, is 12. He grew impatient with waiting for the glue to dry at each stage; but, that's a 12 year old thing. Hubby was happy to spend the drying time at the computer. ~smile~ After it was all put together and dry, there were some adjustments that had to be made in order to make it throw the little clay balls like it should. Michael experimented with moving the throwing arm a bit, making different sized balls, and adding a second rubber band to increase the tension. I new the moment he had it right.

You see, I was sitting in the living room with my back to the dining room table...and the catapult. I was sewing peacefully when I felt something lodge in my rather fluffy hair. It wasn't a spit wad ladies, though my hair was a perfect target in high school. ~sigh~ It was a small clay projectile! It had overshot the goal a bit. I was then bombarded by a few more to Michael's delight.

Hmmmmm..... was this a good idea?

Michael went on to work on the trebuchet himself. After his experience with Dad, he was able to do the second machine by himself. It took him about the same amount of time. He did complain that the wood wasn't strong enough. He broke another piece and had to glue it back together. When he finished the machine, he got his brother and sisters to help him test it. It worked. They had a lot of fun together. The ages ranged from 10-20. It was wonderful to hear them trying different things. I did stay out of the range of fire this time.

This kit also came with a booklet with history of the siege machines and experiments to do with them. Michael read the book in anticipation of building the machines.

*****

From the website:

"From The Lord of the Rings to Night at the Museum, we are fascinated by these medieval devices. Now, use that interest to teach basic math, science, and problem-solving skills. With this pack, your child learns about catapults and trebuchets through hands-on activities that cover three areas:

Science: Tension versus torsion, elasticity, gravity and levers, and force and motion
Math: Metric conversion, calculating averages, and prediction
Experiments: Mass versus distance, testing rubber bands, targeting, and more

They will discover the history of medieval siege machines as well as the concepts required to build and use them.
Includes a Trebuchet Kit, Catapult Kit, Mass Plates, and the Siege Machines book.
Note: Most guide activities require additional items such as measurement and hand tools – see the Specs tab for more information."
Available from Pitsco.
Product ID: W37789
$21.95

Age range: Intermediate to Middle School
Request a catalog.

I think that this is a great idea instead of buying yet another plastic toy or game for Christmas or a birthday.
We received this kit at no charge through The Old Schoolhouse Crew review program. The opinions expressed are my own and true. I didn't pay for it; but, it would have been worth it!

Christmas is The Season

2011-12-01T11:00:00.000-06:00

"Christmas is the season for kindling the fire of hospitality in the hall,

the genial flame of charity in the heart."

~Washington Irving

It seems we grow so very busy around Christmas time. What are we busy with? Is it shopping, cooking, cleaning, worrying that we aren't buying enough...doing enough? Could it be that maybe, just maybe, we need to rethink the whole month of December?
What's most important?
Who's most important?
Can we make a choice and a plan right now to focus on those two things?
The goal is to spend this month doing those things that really matter with those who really matter.

First, set some time aside, fifteen minutes, an hour, and afternoon, whatever you have. Use this time to brainstorm what is most important to you and your family this month. This will be different for each family. It may even be different for each family member. Now is the time to get your thoughts on paper; then, speak with your husband and even your children. Consider traditions, hospitality, giving, creating things, cooking, Advent activities, church activities. Which things are most important? Which things are you ready to let go? Think about how much time and preparation each of those things will take.

Next, think about who's most important. Your husband and children are a given. Extended family? Friends? Church members whom you don't know well but would like to get to know? Your children's friends? Business associates? Your best girlfriends? The new family in the neighborhood, strangers? You get the idea. Who do you want to make sure that you make time for this month?

Now, think about your home, family, homeschool, business, and church activities. How do they fit into the calendar? Do they meet the most important criteria? Is there anything that needs to be pruned for a season?

Now's the time to think and plan for all these things. Fit these things into the calendar leaving white space on your calendar for quiet evenings at home and for spontaneity and rest. This will be challenging but worth it. You can do this. You can make this the best Christmastime ever by doing what is most important to you with those who are most important to you.

*Click the picture to get the free wallpaper.

Artistic Pursuits The Old Schoolhouse Review

2011-12-01T09:28:00.000-06:00

Dad is the artist. He draws and oil paints. Mom cannot draw a stick man with style. Given time, a few lessons from this book could change that. Well, that is if this old dog can learn a few tricks.

My children, on the other hand, are enjoying this book very much. The text is written so that the child can read, study, and do the drawing on his own. This is a big plus for moms like me who are art phobic. Click the book for more information about this level.

We reviewed Grades The Elements of Art and Composition Grades 4-6 book one by Brenda Ellis. I liked the conversational tone of the writing. Each Unit consisted of four lessons:

1. Vocabulary and Creative Exercise
2. Art Appreciation and Art History
3. Techniques
4. Application

The author is not trying to make your child draw a picture that looks just like what they drew. The idea is that your child should learn to make their own original art. Mrs. Ellis teachs students to:

1. "Learn to observe the world around you- to really see it."
2. "Learn what to look for."
3. "Learn to focus on one element of art at a time, while drawing, and block out the others."

We're just a few lessons into the book. The children started with Dad but will continue on their own. Mom will help and learn along with the kids. I don't really know much about teaching art; but, this book makes sense to me. More importantly, it's making sense to my children.

It is non-consumable; so, I am able to use it with all three of my children at once. That's a plus for a mom on a budget. It retails for $42.95.

Supply kits are available.

Artistic Pursuits' philosophy and how they teach art.

PayPal accepted

No Risk Satisfaction Guarantee For Individual Orders

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book in order to provide a review for the TOS Review Crew. I was under no obligation to provide a favorable review.

Stow and Go Winner

2011-12-01T08:45:00.000-06:00

Stow and Go Winner--

Rebecca at Rebecca's Hearth and Home

Rebecca, congratulations. I'll be e-mailing you for your address.

Everyone else, thank you for entering. I'll be posting another giveaway soon.

Meanwhile, do drop by Rebecca's for a visit. She has a wonderfully encouraging homemaking blog.

Giveaway at The Old Schoolhouse Magazine Toydle Fort

2011-12-01T08:00:00.000-06:00

The Old Schoolhouse Magazine is giving away 3 Big Toydle Forts!

Is this great or what? Three lucky winners will have fun with the toy every kid (and kid-at-heart) would love to own. To find out more information about the Toydle Forts and enter the giveaway stop by the TOS Crew blog at http://homeschoolcrew.com/784246/ .

You can also visit Toydle on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/pages/toydle/212465224055.

NOTE: This contest is open to residents of the United States ONLY. TOS Staff and TOS Crew Members (and their families) are not eligible to enter this contest.

What a wonderful Christmas, birthday or just-for-fun gift for anyone! Click now, what are you waiting for?

Pay the Taxes or Pay the Rent?

2011-11-30T11:00:00.000-06:00

Click flag for free download.

You know and I know that taxes are way too high; and, so is the national debt. I don't debate that. I do not, however, get angry or upset about paying our taxes. Why? I see paying our taxes a little differently. I see paying our federal taxes as paying rent to live in the most wonderful country in the world. Rent to have freedom like nowhere else. Freedom to make choices that contradict popular opinion. Freedom to worship my God and my Lord Jesus Christ in the way I choose. Sold out to Jesus and not hiding it...that's worth the price in itself.

Laura
Thankful

Joplin Tornado Before and After

2011-11-30T08:29:00.000-06:00

Please pray for Joplin residents this month. It's going to be very hard for many people.

Gayla of Prairie Flower Cottage shared her story here.

This is the video she shared on her blog.

Please read her story.

It's one of thousands.

Please help us help Joplin tornado victims.

God has blessed; we've come a long way; we have a long way to go.

Thank you for your prayers and your support.

Stories Behind the Greatest Hits of Christmas, Ace Collins, Book Review

2011-11-28T13:30:00.001-06:00

Read sample.

Browse inside.

I confess. I was listening to Christmas music in October. I've read of the origins of some of the older carols and hymns; but, this was the first book I've read about more contemporary Christmas songs.
I was familiar with all of the songs. The tunes jingled merrily through my mind as I was reading. Beginning with the first song recorded with electric microphones, Oh Come All Ye Faithful, and proceeding through decades of popular titles including White Christmas, Here Comes Santa Claus, Jingle Bells and fourteen others, you will not only enjoy the details behind the songs, you also will enjoy the history surrounding them.
This book reads like a history of 20th century Christmas music. I really enjoyed learning the stories behind each of the popular songs. What I didn't expect was that I would get a feeling for what the musical climate was during the early part of the 20th century. Many of my favorites were written either just prior to, during or just after World War II. There was a real need for upbeat songs that would bring cheer and good feelings about being home for Christmas. I was also surprised to find that some of the best wintry snow songs were written during the heat of the summer in California.
Christmas lovers, history lovers, and music lovers will all agree that this book enriches our appreciation of the times and the music itself. I plan to read it again with my children, sing the songs, and maybe even look up some of the original versions on youtube.

Enjoy this book and have yourself a merry little Christmas!

Laura
Happy at Home

I received this book for free from Zondervan in exchange for an honest review.

Thankfulness Day 28 Love & Hope

2011-11-28T05:06:00.000-06:00

Love and Hope by Sue Allemend 8 x 8 inches From art.com

I am so thankful for love and hope, two things I receive from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ through the Holy Spirit.

Without these two things, life would be unhappy at best, unbearable at worst.

May God grant you love and hope.

Laura

Happy, Loved, Loving, and Hopeful

Thankfulness Day 27 Grace and Mercy

2011-11-27T17:45:00.000-06:00

I am thankful for grace and mercy when I mess up, don't measure up, or just outright sin. I can always go back to Father God and repent and get a new fresh start. Thank you Jesus for making that possible.

There is grace for me to pick up this list again even though I've missed several days. Thank you God.

The Christmas Lodge Review

2011-11-26T21:16:00.000-06:00

I just watched this movie and it was great! I encourage you to watch it if you get the chance!

I loved that it was a good clean family film. Scripture and Jesus Christ were referenced throughout. I love it when a movie gives glory to God.

I received this as a gift. This isn't an official review. I just enjoyed this movie.

Mine is the Night Book Review

2011-11-26T14:49:00.001-06:00

I have a major complaint about this book. I didn't want it to end! The characters in Liz Curtis Higgs books, Here Burns my Candle and its sequel, Mine is the Night, were so endearing, I'll miss them!   Mrs. Higgs is possibly the best storyteller of our time. However, she doesn't really tell the story; she shows it. I could see the colors, hear the lilt of the voices, feel the warmth of the kindnesses and the chill of the fears.

This novel concludes the story of Marjory and Elizabeth Kerr; but, I wish this were a series that would go on and on.   I can certainly see it as a mini-series.

I was drawn into Mine is the Night quickly. The initial scene is one of action and suspense. The year is 1746. Mrs. Marjory Kerr and her daughter-in-law, Mrs. Elizabeth Kerr, were both widowed in the Jacobite revolution. They have lost their land, their money, and their titles as a result of their ties to the Jacobites. Danger abounds as dragoons search out remaining traitorous Jacobites.   The Kerrs arrive in Selkirk in the Borderlands penniless to find that things were not as they thought they would be. Money sent to care for their cousin with whom they will reside and to care for the Kirk (church) has not been received. Their servant Gibson did not arrive and announce their arrival and make preparations. Poverty awaits; but, they make the best of it with industry and a determination to trust God with their future as well as their present.

I certainly do recommend this book if you are a reader of historical romance novels. It can be read as a stand-alone book; however, there is a depth of understanding that will be missing if you do not read Here Burns my Candle first. There are no graphic love scenes in this book. It is clean. I will not allow my teenage daughter to read it; because, I consider it to be a book for adult women.

Listen as Liz Curtis Higgs tells you of the story.

This is the sequel to Here Burns my Candle that I reviewed a few months ago.

Read an excerpt.

This is available as an paperback or an e-book.

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

Decorating for Christmas with New Wallpaper

2011-11-26T14:31:00.000-06:00

Just click on the picture to download free wallpaper.

Why not do a little redecorating for Christmas? There are lots of free wallpapers available on the web. I like this one.

Don't fret about Christmas. Gifts don't have to be bought. Just determine to show extra love and kindness to those you love and those with whom you come into contact this season. As my Pastor Dan says, "Be Jesus with skin on."

Thoughts of Thanksgiving ~ Edgar A. Guest

2011-11-23T08:20:00.000-06:00

Available from art.com

"Give me the end of the year an' its fun
When most of the plannin' an' toilin' is done;
Bring all the wanderers home to the nest,
Let me sit down with the ones I love best,
Hear the old voices still ringin' with song,
See the old faces unblemished by wrong,
See the old table with all of its chairs
An' I'll put soul in my Thanksgivin' prayers."

Edgar A. Guest

Thanksgiving

Feeling Stressed? Thanksgiving Week Part 2 My Menu

2011-11-22T08:00:00.000-06:00

Here's what this week's menu will look like for me:

Tuesday

Breakfast-
Cereal with milk
Bananas

Lunch-
Chicken soup (leftover from Sunday lunch) with added noodles
Bread & butter

Supper-
We'll be having Thanksgiving dinner with my husband's employees.

Snack-
Cookies

Wednesday

Breakfast-
Cereal with milk
Fruit

Lunch-
Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches
Pretzels
Canned fruit

Supper-
Queso w/hamburger and chips
I like a snacky type supper on the evening before a big dinner.
Cookies

Thanksgiving

Breakfast-
Oatmeal

Dinner-

Turkey
Mashed Potatoes
Gravy
German Apple Stuffing
Green Beans w/ Ham Hocks & Onion
Mom's Scalloped Corn
Rolls
Pumpkin Pie
Cool Whip

Guests will bring:
Ice
Cranberry Orange Relish
Pickle slices with cream cheese & dried beef
Blueberry Cobbler
Stuffed Mushrooms

There are only 10 or 12 of us. I think we'll have plenty. We'll eat about 1:00.

Supper-
We usually just snack at supper time on Thanksgiving.

Dessert-
We'll just grab what sounds good.

Friday

Breakfast-

French Toast

Lunch-
Leftovers
Sandwiches

Supper-
Spaghetti

Dessert-
To Be Announced

Saturday

Breakfast-
Oatmeal or Dad Cooks

Lunch-
PBJ & chips

Supper-
Chicken and Dumplings
Mashed Potatoes

Sunday

Breakfast-
Cereal

Lunch-
Ham & Beans
Cornbread

Supper-
Clean out the refrigerator!

Dessert-
To Be Announced

I went shopping in my pantry and made a list of the things I still need.

MY SHOPPING LIST:

milk (3 gallons)

bread 3 loaves (sandwich)

3 lbs ground beef

2 dozen eggs
sliced ham
Velveeta Queso Blanco
Cool Whip (2)
tortilla chips (2)
pretzels (2)

Rotel

flour (3)

saltine crackers

evaporated milk (3)

celery

onions

potatoes
2 apples
ice
matches
plastic knives

Are You Getting Stressed? Thanksgiving Week Part 1

2011-11-21T20:26:00.001-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving Week! Yes, really!

Okay, some of you may be getting a little stressed at this point. Thanksgiving is but a few days away.

First, take a deep breath. Now, go take your turkey out of the freezer. Put it in the refrigerator to thaw slowly and safely. Now, get yourself a delicious drink; and, put on some relaxing music if you like. Pandora has some great Christmas music. Sit down with paper and pen right now and think think think.

We have a lot of control over how much tension we have in our own minds over holiday dinners. Planning is so very important. Here are some ideas that might help you:

Start with today.

Plan your meals for each day from now until the end of the weekend. Try to use the food you have on hand as much as possible to save your money for special items you will need to celebrate. Plan for a few impromptu snacks as well. Write this out for every meal. Then make a list of every item you will need.

Now, ask yourself a few questions.
Where will you be for Thanksgiving? Will you be providing the meal? Bringing something to a dinner? Traveling? Needing snacks for the car? Candles? Decorations? Jot down any notes you might need.

When you're done with all of this, you should have a shopping list. First, shop your pantry and freezer. Check off what you already have. You should be left with a shopping list. Check it twice and add anything else you need.

Now, plan to go to the store as soon as possible. Take your list!

Tomorrow I'll share my week's menu and my shopping list.

God bless you and destress you!

Laura
Happy at Home
Not in the Car

Loving the Holidays, Thanksgiving and Christmas

Thankfulness..... Day 21 Fruits

2011-11-21T07:54:00.007-06:00

This morning, I am thankful for fruit. I received a gift of a case of bananas this weekend. I'm going to peel them and put them in freezer bags whole. That way, when I make banana cake like I did this weekend, I'll have them ready to go. I'm thankful for the bananas; but, I'm also thankful for the fruits of the Spirit which continue to grow in me: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control*.

I've berrated myself over the years. You see, although I have all these fruits in my life, none of them is fully ripe. None is perfect, none is complete. Each of these fruits is growing in me at a different rate. The key word here is growing. My fruit isn't ripe. You know, sometimes underripe fruit isn't very sweet. Sometimes I'm not very sweet. Just this morning God revealed to me that this is a process for us just as it is a process for the fruit to first blossom then grow tiny fruits and grow and grow until they are ready to be picked and enjoyed.

My prayer would be that God would continue to grow and ripen me in these areas. Would you join me in this prayer?

Father, God, I thank you that by Jesus' Stripes I am healed.
I thank you that He sent the Holy Spirit to teach us and comfort us.
I ask Father that you continue to grow me up and ripen me up in the areas of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. I ask the same for my readers.
I ask this in Jesus' Name. Amen.

*Galations 5:22-23 Some versions say long-suffering instead of patience. To me, it's basically the same.

Thankfulness Day 19 Ingredients

2011-11-19T08:55:00.003-06:00

Cinnamon

nutmeg

ginger

cloves

flour

sugar

salt

baking soda

baking powder

yeast

...all good things that make good things for good people I love.

Thankfulness Day 18 Volunteers

2011-11-18T18:48:00.003-06:00

I thank God for the thousands of volunteers who have come through Joplin and Joplin Family Worship Center to help Joplin. For information about how you can help, click here.

Thankfulness Day 17 Getting Around

2011-11-16T23:10:00.001-06:00

car
gas
money to buy gas
heat in the car
windshield wipers

...just trying to convince myself that I'm thankful to be able to get around when I want and need to. ~smile~

Really, I am thankful that we have a car.

Thankfulness Day 16 Home

2011-11-16T08:37:00.003-06:00

Thank you God for HOME.

I can tell when I've been running about too much.
I start feeling overwhelmed and frazzled.
The laundry piles up.
The dust piles up.
The clutter piles up.
The to do list is not to done. ~grin~
I just want to hide in my home and work on it.
I want to stay home.
So I canceled my appointments for the rest of the week.
Yes, there's church tonight and choir practice tomorrow night.
I cannot cancel those; but, the doctor will be just as happy to see my children for check-ups in January as she would be this week.
So. I'm. Staying. Home.

Enter Sew & Stow Giveaway here.

Thankfulness Day 15 SEW & STOW GIVEAWAY!

2011-11-15T07:23:00.007-06:00

CONTEST OVER
CONGRATULATIONS TO PROVERBS31HEART !

I AM THANKFUL FOR YOU, MY READERS!

GIVEAWAY!

My bookshelves overfloweth. This is a new never-used book.

To enter:

Leave me a comment with your favorite Christmas book or movie.

Giveaway ends November 30th at midnight.

Make sure you leave your e-mail address so that I may contact you.

I'll draw a winner on December 1st.

You will have 48 hours to respond or another name will be drawn.

Thankfulness 14... Bringing a Little Joy to Joplin 2011

2011-11-14T03:55:00.005-06:00

Thank you to all who have given so generously to help the citizens of Joplin in our tornado recovery. This will be the first Thanksgiving and Christmas without loved ones and without the homes that were lost. We at Joplin Family Worship Center will be hosting an event on Saturday to distribute new Christmas decorations. Will you consider helping in Bringing a Little Joy to Joplin?

"It is such a blessing to be part of such a great event. This family has worked so hard to help the families who lost everything in the Joplin Tornado. They called me this evening and told me it looks like they have a 40 foot moving truck packed with Christmas Decor items headed to Joplin from St. Louis.

This event will take place on Saturday November 19, 2011 at Joplin Family Worship Center located at 5290 E. 7th Street Joplin, Mo. Doors open at 12 and close at 4pm.

We will have all kinds of items from trees, lights, ornaments, nativity sets, and much much more. We will also be playing Christmas music, have cider, and a few snacks.This is a first come first serve event, but you must have a photo I.D. and proof of your distruction address such as a FEMA letter." Lowell Lane

If you'd like to help with replacing Christmas decorations for Joplin tornado victims, you may make tax deductible donations Joplin Family Worship Center at www.JFWC.org/giving or call (417) 623-6134.

Thank you all for your prayers and for your generosity to Joplin.

Laura Lane
Lowell Lane

Thankfulness Day 13 First

2011-11-13T16:07:00.007-06:00

Thirty years ago today...

first date...

first love...

first husband...

only husband....

Thank you God!

Thankfulness Day 12 Being a Homemaker

2011-11-12T08:38:00.002-06:00

"To be happy at home

is the ultimate result

of all ambition."

~Samuel Johnson~

I thankful for my home and the blessing of being a homemaker.

Thankfulness Day 11 Unexpected

2011-11-11T20:51:00.002-06:00

"Stop drop and write."

Five minutes unedited. Join us at the gypsy mama.

UNEXPECTED

Amy was unexpected. She was the most delightful surprise I ever got. I'm so glad. I knew we'd have Emily. I knew we'd have Michael and Matthew. Amy was our exceedingly abundantly more than we could think or ask. Thank you thank you thank you God! Amy is so loving and cheerful. She's cuddly and happy. She's smart and pretty. She loves to be girly in dresses and play hard with the boys. She's just the greatest. Thank you thank you thank you God! I'm so glad that she's my youngest; because, I get to keep her for a long long time yet. You see she's just ten. So we've got at least eight more years together. Thank you thank you thank you God! I'm going to keep her just as long as You let me, Lord. I love you Amy girl!

My Thoughts About Michelle Duggar's 20th Baby

2011-11-11T00:02:00.000-06:00

Picture Credit TLC

I've heard some disturbing words about Mrs. Duggar expecting her 20th child. I believe that this is a decision for Mr. and Mrs. Duggar and God, not for the media or anyone else. Obviously, the three of them are in agreement. God indicates that large families are a blessing. I'm happy for Mrs. Duggar and her family. May God bless her and baby and keep them in perfect health.

TEA WITH MICHELLE DUGGAR FREE THROUGH 11/11/11!

2011-11-10T18:26:00.001-06:00

I'll be having tea with Michelle Duggar in a couple of weeks. You can too!

Vision Forum is offering the Tea with Michelle Duggar DVD for free with coupon code: FREEDVD. All you have to do is to pay for shipping. Offer ends Nov 11th.

Thanks for letting me know Rebecca!

Thankfulness Day 10 Books

2011-11-10T15:01:00.003-06:00

I am thankful for books and the ability to read.

I Can't Find My Children! College Prep Genius

2011-11-10T10:30:00.002-06:00

Well, I couldn't for awhile anyway. They kept disappearing. First I would notice things were a bit too quiet. Then, I'd look around. Where were they? On their beds, on my bed, on the sofa, on the porch, anywhere they could slip away for a few minutes. They were reading these books.

The Vocab Cafe books

I love the concept of working SAT words into stories and having definitions at the bottom of the page. The review words at the back of the chapters would be good for drilling spelling and definitions.

Josh Burke, from Vocab Cafe, describes the series like this, "Each book contains an original, narrative story that includes 300 SAT-level vocabulary words interspersed throughout the plot. The vocabulary selections are bold-italicized with a corresponding definition and pronunciation guide at the bottom of every page. The goal is to help students learn words in context, and thus make the process of vocabulary building more effective and fun."

Before I say another word, keep in mind that I am a conservative Christian homeschooling mother. We do not watch television. My children are not exposed to youth culture on a regular basis. I reviewed these products with my 12 and 14 year olds. These facts influence the way I viewed these books.

Things I liked:
-The concept of using SAT words in stories for young adults is good.
-The concept of writing definitions at the bottom of the pages is good.
-The concept of including the pronunciation of the SAT words in the definitions is good.
-Using bold italics for the SAT words made them easy to pick out.
-The length of the stories is good.

Things I didn't like:
-The stories I read moved too slowly to keep my interest well.
-The SAT words fit awkwardly into the sentences. It seemed that the author wrote a sentence then substituted a hard word for an easy word.
-For a college bound SAT prep book, I didn't expect the errors in grammar and spelling that could have been avoided by careful proof-reading and editing.
-The graphic violence in I.M. for Murder was inappropriate for young readers.
-The boy-girl relationship focus in some of the stories was inappropriate for young readers.
-Keeping secrets from parents, disobedience to parents, disrespect for authority, and destruction of property was presented as admirable actions.

Who might benefit best from this product:
-I think that public school students or teachers may find these books to be beneficial.
-College bound students who read popular teen books.
-Older teens.

This product is part of the College Prep Genius. College Prep Genius was created by a homeschooling mom dedicated to helping your student increase his or her SAT scores. The creator's children went to college on a free ride scholarship. Imagine that, free college for your kids! I encourage you to go to their website, look at their products, and decide for yourself. The other products look great.

Right now you can buy three books and get one free. Get the set for $38.85, or buy individual books for $12.95 each.

My children may not have been the best testers of these books.

Please click the button to see what other crew members thought of this product.

I received this product free in exchange for an honest review.

The Keeper Suzanne Woods Fisher

2011-11-10T10:15:00.000-06:00

Thankfulness Day 9 Hens and Eggs

2011-11-09T09:56:00.001-06:00

I'm thankful for these

who give us these.

Pinning with Purpose, Too.

2011-11-08T16:52:00.001-06:00

I just joined Pinterest. As I understand it, when I find a photo of something I think I'd like to make or post I'd like to remember, I just "pin" it on a virtual bulletin board.

My friend, Sue at Country Pleasures, has been pinning for awhile. She's been filling her boards with great ideas. She's put out a challenge to pin with a purpose and make something we've pinned each month. So, I pinned her Apple Squares with Maple Glaze. I'm going to make it sometime this month. I cannot wait. Thanks for the idea, Friend Sue! I'd show you a photo; but, I'm not sure of the etiquette of Pinterest yet. You may look at what I've pinned so far here.

I'm linking with Sue!

The Christmas Lamp Book Review

2011-11-08T09:17:00.001-06:00

This was a quick and fun Christmas read. By the way, I am not really rushing the season for me. I love Christmas books all year round. I start listening to Christmas music in September whenever the mood strikes. It's great nesting, baking, crafting music. Christmas novels just make me feel like snuggling under a warm blanket and relaxing. If it's cold enough for a blanket, it's close enough to Christmas for a good story.

I chose The Christmas Lamp because it is set in Nativity, Missouri, not far from Branson and Springfield. Nativity is a once upon a time town that no longer exists; but, it was the perfect setting for the story.

Nativity is facing the same dilemma that many small towns have faced over the last fifty or sixty years. Once a thriving town with abundant highway traffic, now bypassed by the new highway system, Nativity is struggling.

Enter Jake Briscoe. Briscoe is a numbers guy. Too busy for love and friendship, he's spent his life working and working hard. His latest work is to balance Nativity's budget and to try to save the town. While he's not anti-Christmas cheer, he's definitely anti-Christmas spending.

This doesn't set well with Roni Elliott who has lived in Nativity her entire life. Christmas spirit and Nativity just go together, from the huge Christmas tree that receives more than it's share of attention by motorists, to the home decorating contest, she loves it all. All the things that make Christmas the "most wonderful time of the year" in Nativity cost money. Money that the town and Roni consider well worth it.

Will Jake Briscoe and Roni Elliott find a middle ground and save Nativity?

I enjoyed this book. The chapters had convenient breaks making this an easy book to pick up and read for just a few minutes at a time. That makes it easy to read in the car, while standing in line, or as a quick break between activities.

Please enjoy these sneak peaks from Zondervan.

I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed are my own.

Feel free to start your Merry Christmas whenever you're ready!

Thankfulness Day 8 Above Rubies

2011-11-08T08:30:00.004-06:00

Nancy Campbell's ministry has changed my life. Her influence helped change us from a confirmed one child family to a full-house family of six. Nancy, her daughters, and her crew of volunteers create, publish, and distribute Above Rubies Magazine. She is so generous with her time and resources. She longs to see women embrace motherhood as a sacred calling. Thank you Nancy! Thank you God! Please bless her Lord!

From Above Rubies, "For over 33 years Nancy Campbell has been publishing the Above Rubies Magazine, as an unpaid labor of love, supported by a very small band of dedicated volunteers.
Supporting family and motherhood in these tumultuous and uncertain times, Above Rubies is definitely a major international ministry, reaching and playing a crucial role in over 100 countries of the world. The magazine currently circulates over 160,000 copies worldwide – and if 160,000 are being distributed, readership is estimated to be more like half a million!"

Above Rubies magazine is supported by donations. When God provides the funds, Nancy has the magazines printed and distributed by mail. Many ladies receive multiple copies so that they can distribute them to other ladies, leave them in waiting rooms, pass them out at church or homeschool groups, or to neighbors.

Subscriptions are free; but, the magazines are of great value.

Click For Godly Encouragement from the
Above Rubies Women's Ministry

Thankfulness Day 7 PD and PC

2011-11-07T08:58:00.003-06:00

Pastor Dan and Cindy Wermuth

Joplin Family Worship Center

Blessed to be a Blessing

Jesus with skin on

Love God and love others

God is changing the face of this ministry

Search inside God

Build an altar

Words of encouragement

Words of affirmation

Words of hope

Words of love

Brother of another mother

Sister of another mister

After seven years of drought and famine in our lives, Pastor Dan and Cindy were a river of God's love and God's blessing into our lives.

They awakened a part of me that had been dormant for a long, long time.

I'm growing again in a way I hadn't for awhile.

Thank you.

We love you.

We are honored to serve with you.

Thankfulness Day 6 Help and Hope for Joplin

2011-11-06T11:55:00.007-06:00

Thank you to everyone who has helped Joplin. We simply cannot ever thank everyone enough. We've got a strong start on recovery. This is a video update. You can reach Joplin Family Worship Center by clicking the button below. God bless you.

Linking with Brenda.

Thankfulness Day 5 Christian Radio

2011-11-05T08:17:00.002-05:00

I'm listening to Ranger Bill, Warrior of the Woodlands. It's a radio program that I've listened to for most of my adult life. It's part of the Saturday morning line-up at our local Christian radio station. We also listen to Adventures in Odyssey, Down Gilead Lane, and Jonathan Park. They are a great alternative to Saturday morning cartoons. Our children don't watch t.v.; but, even before our television was disconnected, we didn't watch. We have our reasons for that; but, that's another post. One point though, it sure reduces the gimmees.

I thank God for Christian radio and specifically the old-time style radio stories. If you don't have this available to you locally, please click on the photo. You can listen to KNEO on-line all around the world. They've got a lot of great programs for adults as well.

God bless you friends!
Laura
Blessed to be a blessing

Linking with Brenda

Thankfulness Day 4 All Home

2011-11-04T06:45:00.051-05:00

May 22, 2011

5:41

We heard no sirens... only a tremendous thundering that didn't stop.

I thank God...

We were all home.

We were all safe.

We were all praying for Joplin

...THANK YOU GOD...

Thank you God that you preserved us and so many lives across Joplin. Though we were miles from the destruction, the path of the tornado was headed our way. May we continue to give and share your love, the love of God with those who were affected.

Thank you for the thousands of volunteers you've sent and the generous supplies you've sent. May we continue to be generous to those in need both in body and in spirit.

Amen.

Linking with Brenda.

Thankfulness Day 3 Life Verses

2011-11-03T06:45:00.085-05:00

Have you heard of life verses?
Basically, it is a verse or verses that the Lord has given to you, that has quickened your spirit, that you hold onto for life. Many verses minister to us for a season. "All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness." 2 Timothy 3:16 A life verse differs in that it stays with you. It guides your thinking and actions for a long extended time presumably life. Pastor Dan Wermuth of Joplin Family Worship Center shared his last night.

"So he answered me and said to me: "This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: 'Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,' says the LORD of hosts." Zechariah 4:6 This verse filters how he looks at the world and influences his actions. It's been quite a powerful verse as he leads our church and volunteers from across the country in the Joplin tornado relief efforts.

I thank God for my life verse. He gave it to me years ago. I am given to anxiety if I don't ask the Holy Spirt to guard my thoughts. Bills, extended illness, pain, homeschooling, family tension, all can add to anxiety. I have to remind myself to be anxious for NO THING. You can read about my experience with this verse here.

"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7

Now that's a verse to mark in your Bible! For that matter, the whole fourth chapter of Philippians is a great place to camp out until you have its truths deep in your heart and mind. With the holidays* and all the extra ministry activities coming up, I think I'm going to camp there this week. Care to join me?

Think about it, search the Lord and His Word. Ask your Father what your life verse is. He loves it when we seek Him. "Blessed are those who keep His testimonies, who seek Him with the whole heart." Psalm 119:1-3

Just something to think about....

Laura

*For me, the holidays are Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. With that in mind, I don't mind Happy Holidays.

Linking with Brenda

Thankfulness Day 2 The Hands of God

2011-11-02T05:30:00.003-05:00

I'm thankful that God was there protecting His people in the storm on May 22, 2011.

I'm thankful that even now He is at work rebuilding, renewing, restoring, and bringing revival in the hearts of His people.

Linking with Brenda.

Thankfulness Day 1 Jesus Christ

2011-11-01T14:17:00.004-05:00

November...

Autumn golds and browns take over for many of the oranges and reds. My thoughts turn to Thanksgiving and its preparations. Who to invite, what to serve, how to decorate, and of course Pilgrim stories with the children.

My thoughts also go to my blessings, to the people for whom I am thankful, to the things for which I am thankful, and to my God. This is a month of thanks giving and thanks living at Harvest Lane Cottage. I intend to write each day about someone for whom or something for which I am thankful.

I am thankful for my relationship with God, the Lord Jesus Christ who made it possible for me to be reconciled to God and be saved, and for His Holy Spirit who comforts me and teaches me all things.

I continue to learn more and more and to be changed more and more by reading God's word, the Bible, praying, and spending time worshiping God.

It's changed my life. Read my story here: Frightened of God

May God bless you.
I challenge you to make your own thirty days of thankfulness.

Fall Into Reading 2011 - Update

2011-10-31T06:37:00.007-05:00

This is an update on my progress in the Fall Into Reading Challenge at callapidder days. Click the button to read the details of the challenge.

Here's my reading list:

1) Educating the Wholehearted Child
2) Raising Real Men
3) ~~Falling to Pieces~~
4) ~~The Christmas Singing~~
5) ~~Three Cups~~
6) Pilgrim books to the kids in November
7) All the Christmas books I can get my hands on!

Want to join us? Click the button for information and get reading! The challenge ends December 21st.

The Christmas Singing ~ Cindy Woodsmall

2011-10-30T16:53:00.003-05:00

Read chapter one of The Christmas Singing by Cindy Woodsmall.

Cindy Woodsmall does not disappoint in this lovely Christmas Romance. Gideon and Mattie are childhood friends and teenage sweethearts. Their hearts beat together as they enjoy all the wonders that wholesome youthful activities can bring. Until suddenly, Gideon shuts Mattie out. After Gideon goes home early after a Christmas Eve singing, Mattie visits him on Christmas day. She finds him with an Englisher woman in his arms. He breaks their relationship off abruptly.

The story picks up in Mattie Cakes, where Mattie has built a business and a life for herself six hours away from her hometown. She has taken the craft of cake baking and turned into an art with countless hours of experimenting, planning, and implementing. Everyone loves a Mattie Cake. She has a new man in her life, Sol, a quiet man who has a passion for hunting. He lets her do her thing; she lets him do his thing. Convenient companionship, I'd call it. She still struggles with the anger and hurt that Gideon brought to her heart when he broke it three years later. What will happen when there is a sudden tragedy that sends her back to her hometown?

Will her love for Sol survive seeing Gideon face to face again?

Mrs. Woodsmall's relationships with women within the Amish community give her an insight into customs and details that many Amish genre novels do not include. I always feel like I'm right there; and, I'm part of things. The characters are not stiff and odd. They exhibit true to life emotions, fear, fatigue, exhilaration, tenderness, anger, hope, and love. I enjoy her books because I do not have to fear that there will be inappropriate themes or language. I feel safe. I'm a G rated reader.

The backdrop of snow, sleigh rides, weddings, and Christmas makes this is an excellent book to slip into during the holiday rush for a relaxing read on a cool Autumn or Winter night.

I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.

Happy Autumn!

We Carve Pumpkins

2011-10-29T07:06:00.008-05:00

We carve pumpkins.
My husband explains why here.

Autumn Fires ~ Robert Louis Stevenson

2011-10-28T08:46:00.001-05:00

"In the other gardens
And all up the vale,
From the autumn bonfires
See the smoke trail.

Pleasant summer over
And all the summer flowers,
The red fire blazes,
The gray smoke towers.

Sing a song of seasons!
Something bright in all,
Flowers in the summer
Fires in the fall!"

- Robert Louis Stevenson

Something to Think About... Christmas Preparations

2011-10-27T07:05:00.021-05:00

Hello Ladies!
The 2011 Maple Leaf Festival is now history for Carthage. What does that mean for me? It means the time is going to go faster and faster until New Year’s Day! I am all for preparing early for Christmas. What I’ve found is that if I’m not ready by early December, I spend all of December in a stressed out frenzy. That’s not the kind of memory I want my kids to have of me! Am I jumping the gun? No, I don’t think so. I want to be mindful of my time so that I can enjoy December and Advent with my children. I want the focus to be on Jesus, not on the fuss of it all.

How are you doing? Are you thinking through what you want to do yet? Any presents made or bought or planned yet? Think about what you want this season to be like. Think about what meals you’ll be preparing, what snacks and baking you’ll want to do. Think about the gifts you’ll want to prepare. It’s not too early to start getting it all down on paper.

No idea where to begin? Begin with prayer! Ask the Lord how you can honor Him with the celebration of His birth. He’ll put some ideas in your head. You’ll probably find that you can simplify a lot.
Now is the time to talk with family members about scaling back on gift giving this year before anyone gets caught up in the gimme spirit instead of the Holy Spirit. It can happen to adults, too. We just paint a pretty face over it and call it the spirit of giving.

Well, I suppose I’ve given you something to think about. For additional help in getting your thoughts on paper, you might look at the holiday control journal on www.FlyLady.net . It’s free to download.

May God bless you with peace, hope, and focus this holiday season!
Laura

Excellence in Literature

2011-10-26T14:20:00.034-05:00

Be still my heart! Literature!

You love it or hate it, but you're not likely neutral.

What if you could use a literature course to help your child gain a love great literature? What if you could use a literature course to help your child gain advanced placement or earn CLEP credit? Interested? This is a complete introduction to literature course. It is geared toward students in the 8th grade or higher. If your child does the additional reading and writing, AP or CLEP credit is a possibility.

Excellence in Literature: Reading and Writing Through the Classics is the first of five Literature courses offered by Janice Campbell at Everyday Education:

Introduction to Literature (English I)

Literature and Composition (English II)

American Literature: A Survey Course (English III)

British Literature: A Survey Course (English IV)

World Literature: A Survey Course (English V)

Excellence in Literature: Reading and Writing Through the Classics

From Everyday Education:

"By the end of the course, students will:

*Understand the process of writing, including the use of tools such as a writer's handbook, dictionary, and thesaurus.

*Have specific understanding of selected representative texts by major authors of the periods studied.

*Have a general understanding of the historical and cultural contexts of the works.

*Be able to analyze literary texts and present thoughtfully developed ideas in writing.

*Demonstrate competence in essay organization, style, and mechanics."

Some of the course contents include:

How to Read a Book

Discerning Worldview Through Literary Periods

Around the World in Eighty Days

Jane Eyre

Treasure Island

The Tempest

Gulliver's Travels

Formats and Models

Approach Paper Format

Sample Poetry Analysis

What an MLA Formatted Essay Looks Like

Excellence in Literature Evaluation Rubric

132 pages

I liked:

This is a very thorough introduction to literature. My daughter was able to read and implement the curriculum primarily on her own at 14 years old. Mind you, she is a reader and a writer. She's been reading a minimum of an hour a day for several years. She is also a self-motivated writer. She has a blog, writes stories, poetry, and wrote her first research paper because she wanted to at age 12. I just want you to understand the type of child who is using this book.

Reasonable prices: $27.00 for e-book, $29.00 plus $4.95 shipping for spiral bound print book

$139 if you want a binder with all the grades in it.

Read Emily's Review at her blog, Teen for the Lord.

A notebook, paper, a pencil, and our computer were all we needed. It's not consumable.

Good for a visual learner; but, some of the books can be found on-line in a audio format.

Mrs. Campbell used a nice variety of short stories and novels.

Short stories were used to introduce the methods of analysis and of writing approach papers.

There was nearly as much writing as reading. Originally, I thought it would basically be a reading list.

Mrs. Campbell included detailed intructions for how to do the reading, the analysis, and the writing.

She also included a rubric for evaluation.

I didn't like:

I found that I didn't really like this particular product as an e-book. I would prefer to have a hard copy in my hand. Fortunately, for those of us who are old time paper book lovers, this book is also available in print form. I did print out some of the chapters that I needed.

Some of the links on the e-book didn't work right. I had to go to the website and search. Each time, I found what I needed.

FAQ
Janice Campbell's blog
Every Day Education Catalog
Many other products are available to help you with transcripts, writing, college, and more. Just take a look at their on-line catalog.

Based on Emily's review and my own, I highly recommend this.
Click the button below to read more reviews.

I received this product free of charge as part of the Old Schoolhouse Crew review team.

Three Cups

2011-10-24T00:02:00.001-05:00

Three Cups A Lesson in Life and Money for Children

Story by Tony Townsley
Written by Mark St. Germain
Illustrated by April Willy

Give, save, spend. Three things that we as adults need to do. Three things that we as adults need to teach the children in our lives. This is a beautifully illustrated book that teaches children how to use the money that they receive in a responsible way. A young boy receives a gift of three cups from his father and mother. They are labeled give, save, and spend. The father promises adventure and an allowance. The story of how the boy grows and uses the cups follows. The adventure comes in those things which his discipline allows him to do with the money.
My children are aged 10, 12, and 14. Father read this book aloud to the family. The older children thought it was a nice book. My youngest thought it was wonderful. She wants cups of her own. The child in the story was five years old when he received his cups. I think that five to ten year olds would enjoy this book. It is, however, certainly applicable to older children as well. I really enjoyed this book. I will read it aloud again to my children, perhaps many times to my youngest. I think you and your young children will enjoy it as well.

You can click on Read below to enjoy a preview of the book from Thomas Nelson.


Buy		Read

I received this book free in exchange for an honest review.

Hope 4 Joplin

2011-10-23T08:15:00.000-05:00

Hope 4 Joplin

If you'd like to help the families of Joplin, you can do so through Joplin Family Worship Center's Disaster Resource Center. We have helped thousands of volunteers to find ways to help in Joplin's recovery. We also provide food, clothing, and household goods directly to citizens of the community who were directly impacted by the tornado by destruction of their homes or loss of their jobs. We are able to do so only because of the generosity of people from all across the country.

There are lots of ways to help.

Go to Hope 4 Joplin to find out how you fit into the recovery picture.

Thank you for helping Joplin Family Worship Center help Joplin.

Have You Met Jesus?

2011-10-23T07:25:00.001-05:00

Have you met Jesus?

Would you like to?

He has completely changed my life, who I am, how I live. I am forgiven for all the bad I've thought or done. Christians really are not perfect. We really do have forgiveness from God the creator of all because of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

I have peace with God.
I have hope for my future.
Do you?

6 steps to knowing God

Extreme Makeover Home Edition is in Joplin Missouri!

2011-10-22T11:46:00.000-05:00

7 houses

7 days

Thank you Extreme Makeover Home Edition!

Get involved!

Falling to Pieces

2011-10-22T05:54:00.000-05:00

Ever picked up a book and didn't want to put it down? This is one of those books. Just look at the trailer that Zondervan made for Mrs. Chapman's book.

This trailer definitely got my interest. I couldn't wait to order the book. This is the first Amish mystery book that I've read. To my surprise, I truly giggled aloud several times while reading this book. Amusing phrases were sprinkled throughout the book providing a little levity at sporadic intervals. I just wanted to say, "Listen to this!" over and over. This was not met with much enthusiasm by my children who were already reading their own books.

Characters:

Aunt Daisy, owner of Daisy's Quilt Shop, loved by Amish and Englishers alike.

Callie, Daisy's niece who inherits the Quilt shop. She's haunted by her past. She wants to sell the store and return to Houston.

Deborah, Amish lady who brings quilts to Callie to sell on ebay. She becomes Callie's good friend.

Shane, a hard-nosed detective investigating a murder

and a cast of memorable characters

In a nutshell, Callie comes to Shipshewana to settle her Aunt Daisy's estate. A realtor convinces to open the quilt shop to make it more attractive to potential buyers. Deborah shows up with three quilts she wants Callie to sell on ebay in order to make a higher profit. A snoopy rude man shows up in the shop. The snoopy rude man... oops! Almost spoiled it.

This book has unexpected twists and turns just like any good mystery should. The odd thing is, you know who done it from the beginning. And yet, you don't. He's ruthless and will stop at nothing to get what he wants. Can he be stopped before another victim is found?

This is my must-read of October!

I received this book from Zondervan in exchange for an honest review.

Christmas Wishes... Want to be Knitting Mittens for Your Kittens?

2011-10-21T15:49:00.000-05:00

Want to be knitting mittens for your little kittens for Christmas? I learned to knit mittens last year by watching a series of video tutorials from Knit Picks.

The instructions are clear. My kids loved their mittens. They're all asking for another pair this year! Wool mittens are so very warm. Give it a try. If you can knit and purl, you can do this. I buy my supplies at Knit Picks.

The Gift Guide is Coming!

2011-10-20T15:46:00.000-05:00

Yay! Timberdoodle is one of my favorite places to do my Christmas shopping! I cannot wait to get their new gift guide.

You can get one at http://timberdoodle.com .

Book Review: Raising Real Men

2011-10-20T14:33:00.000-05:00

Click book to read sample chapter.

If only I'd known... boys really will be boys... they have to be. How else will they become men? I have learned so much reading this book. It's really okay for Michael to play rough. It's really okay to be fascinated with guns and hunting and fishing and other icky stuff. I thought I was doing great as a boy

mom. I could handle the snakes and lizards and toads and frogs... in their happy hands in the house! But, so much of the boy stuff just seemed so so so unkind and harsh. Wrestling, fighting, bossing his sisters and me, I just cringed. Now I realize that these behaviors are not only normal, they are good for boys when channeled properly. So many of the things that my boys have done that have iritated me aren't just annoying habits, they're normal boy habits. Boys think differently, learn differently, act differently than their sisters and mother. They are not being bad or suffering from attention deficit disorder. It's just how their bodies are wired. They are wired for movement, action, focus. Girls are wired to be relational. Boys are about action. Girls are about feeling.

So, what good is all this? First of all, I feel better about my boys. Second, Hal and Melanie Young have given me a lot of practical advice on how I can not only understand and tolerate (smile) my sons, but how I can help them to become godly men. Topics covered include helping your son find good heroes, adventure and recklessness, responsibility, weapons and violence, leadership and obedience, competition, doing real things, teaching them diligently, handling money, teaching your boys, manners, work roles, love and war, becoming a man, and many other related topics. This is the best book about raising sons that I have ever read. Many books come and go in my house. This one is here to stay for a long long time... at least until both my boys are men.

Hal & Melanie Young

List Price: $15.00

Timberdoodle Price: $12.75

Raising Real Men

Boy Friendly Outdoor Learning

Free Homeschooling Catalog

I received this book from Timberdoodle in exchange for an honest review.

October Thoughts ~ Joseph Pullman Porter

2011-10-19T11:23:00.000-05:00

"Crispy air and azure skies,
High above, a white cloud flies,
Bright as newly fallen snow.
Oh the joy to those who know October!

Colors bright on bush and tree.
Over the weedy swamp, we see
A veil of purple and brown and gold.
Thy beauty words have never told. October!

Scolding sparrows on the lawn,
Rabbits frisking home at dawn,
Pheasants midst the sheaves of grain,
All in harmony acclaim, October!

Brown earth freshly turned by plow,
Apples shine on bended bough,
Bins o'erflowed with oats and wheat,
And satisfaction reigns complete. October!

Radiant joy is everywhere.
Spirits in tune to the spicy air,
Thrill in the glory of each day.
Life's worth living when we say, October!"
- Joseph Pullman Porter

Carpe Diem ~ Seize the Day

2011-10-19T09:57:00.000-05:00

Carpe Diem ~ Sieze the Day

This is it.

This day.

It's all we have.

No promise of tomorrow.

Will you find joy in this day?

Look for it.

It's there.

Perhaps hiding under the surface.

Search for it like treasure.

Nehemiah 8:10

"Then he said to them, "Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet, and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the LORD is your strength."

Wits and Wagers

2011-10-19T08:39:00.000-05:00

Some of you many remember that we are not a game playing family- yet. Each game review that we do is teaching us to "play nice" together as a family. We're learning not to pout when it doesn't go our way. We're learning to be happy for each other. We're learning not to be bossy with each other. We're learning to follow directions. We're learning to be kind. We're learning that rules are rules. We are learning patience. We're learning to have fun in a whole new way for our family.

Things we liked:
The meeples game pieces were cute. See the little yellow guy on the front of the package? He's a meeple. It was nice to hold something that wasn't plastic. These were made of wood. Northstar Games describes them like this, "The game features 300 new family-friendly questions. And even better than that, Wits & Wagers Family includes Meeples-- fun, cute, human shaped wooden pieces that the players use to select which answers they think are correct. Meeples have been a hallmark in European style strategy games for years, but this is the first time they have made an appearance in a party game."

Dad and Mom really didn't have much of an advantage over the kids when it came to answering the questions. I really had them bluffed when I answered the question about how many indians came to the first Thanksgiving, though. They were all sure I knew the answer. Nope. I was guessing just like they were. ~grin~ See, even if moms don't know everything, when they're young, they think we do.

There are 150 question cards and a little tray that they sit in. There are two questions on each card. You ask the top question; then, move it to the back of the tray after the answer has been revealed. You leave the cards in the same order no matter how many games you play. After around ten games, you'll come to the little card that tells you that you've been through all the questions. From that point on, you read the second question on each card. In this way, you will answer 300 questions prior to repeating a question. It keeps it all fresh and keeps the playing field level for all players.

I liked the scoring. It was simple enough that our youngest child (10) could be scorekeeper. She often feels like everyone is telling her what to do. This gave her a chance to be in charge. You get a point if your answer is closest to correct without going over. All the answers are numbers. You get a point if you put your little meeple on the correct answer. You get two points if you put your big meeple on the correct answer. You can put your meeples on anyone's answer.

Things we didn't like:

We haven't come up with anything yet.

We tried the game out with 5 players. I am looking forward to playing it in a group when our friends come over. I think it could be a fun party game. I'm not the only one. Wits & Wagers Family has won awards. Check it out!

Wits & Wagers retails for $19.99. You can order it on-line or go to their website to find a store near you.

Age 8 & up
3-10 players
Northstar Games

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I received this game free of charge for an honest review as part of the Old Schoolhouse Review Crew.

Visual Latin $10 off

2011-10-18T11:08:00.000-05:00

Click to go to the Visual Latin website.

Want to try Visual Latin?

Here's a little October gift: use the code OCT$10 and get $10 off any Visual Latin product. Use it quickly - it's only good through this Friday, Oct 21!

Autumn Thoughts ~ Emily Dickinson

2011-10-18T08:11:00.000-05:00

"The morns are meeker than they were,
The nuts are getting brown;
The berry's cheek is plumper,
The rose is out of town.

The maple wears a gayer scarf,
The field a scarlet gown.
Lest I should be old-fashioned,
I'll put a trinket on."

- Emily Dickinson