Grace Full Mom

Buh-Bye!

2011-07-16T19:18:00.000-07:00

My blog has a new home- http://www.gracefullmom.com/ or come see what is happening in St. Augustine

Simply St Augustine

Come over & check it out! Leave me a comment or send an email to let me know you found it!

I hope it's more searchable & easier to use for all of us. See you there!!

The Best Part

2011-07-16T04:31:00.000-07:00

Lynda and I have been friends as long as we've been moms.

We have ~~new church families, 3 moves with us following them into a great neighborhood, births, entrepeneurial dreams with our hubbies, huge job changes, and losses~~ a lot of history- and 13 children- between us.

You know how it can be with great friends... total opposites and yet so very much alike. {smile} That's us.

Well every year, when the homeschool convention rolls around, we claim Friday for "our day". We ride together and catch up on 25 missed phone conversations, chat about the sessions we're excited about and hopes for the coming year. Then comes my favorite part. We go to Biscotti's for a delish lunch (and always miss the session we plan to make it back in time for)!

That's the best part!! Shared memories. Shared lives. Real life (running late, not caring, splashing through the rain, walking into signs, questioning frostitution(!?), big decisions (what to have for dessert) and little decisions (which curriculum to buy), sharing concerns, prayers, drinks and hugs).

Laughing with a tried-and-true friend. The best(est) part. :)

Why Smaller is Better

2011-07-15T06:16:00.000-07:00

Today is the day! I'm headed to the local homeschool convention.

It's true, it is much much smaller than FPEA in Orlando, but I still go every year. Why? Because sometimes smaller is better!

1. It's local! I can get to know other local homeschoolers by volunteering with HERI, chatting in the hallways, and meeting friends of friends.

2. Networking... it's helpful in homeschooling just like it is in corporate America! I learn who to go to for testing, evaluations, questions about high school, great field trip ideas, and tips on how to homeschool with preschoolers by talking to others who have "been there".

3. Smaller crowds mean I can have "face time" with speakers. If I am fascinated, challenged by, or curious about a speaker's topic, I can follow up with a conversation. The same goes for vendors- if I'm having a hard time teaching a particular concept in Math, I can go to Math-U-See's booth and speak to my rep in person!

4. Convenience. If I don't go local (and my friends & their friends don't go) then I may not have the OPTION to attend my hometown convention next year!

So, if you're undecided, take the time and make the effort to attend, glean from, and support our local convention. See you at HERI!

HERI- Jacksonville Homeschool Convention!

2011-07-14T06:09:00.000-07:00

I'm excited for this weekend... tomorrow and Saturday I'm headed to the annual H.E.R.I. Homeschool Convention at the Prime Osborne Convention Center in downtown Jacksonville.

What a blessing to have this helpful resource for current or potential homeschooling families RIGHT HERE in our own area!! The very first contact I had with homeschooling information was a H.E.R.I. (Home Education Resources and Information) convention.

It's not too late to go, here's their website with helpful information. You can pay at the door!

And here is the program with the speaker listing & description of sessions. I'm looking forward to hearing Todd Wilson again, he's an engaging speaker and encouraging Homeschool Dad. (Okay, okay, I should make those lowercase... but sometimes it does take a superhero to fill that role!)

See you there!!

At Your Request

2011-07-13T06:04:00.000-07:00

We made these cupcakes for Clara's First Birthday. The recipe (link below) is from Better Homes & Garden's 150 Sweet Recipes Cupcake magazine- Granny bought it for Lauren, our 9-year-old-cupcake expert.

My friend Gini requested this recipe after eating one (or was it two?) cupcake at the beach and taking home the rest "for her hubby". :) Yes, carrot cake fans, they're really that good! It's a nice update of a carrot cake- the cream cheese filling is a nice surprise- and a cupcake is the perfect size to enjoy but not over-indulge. Unless you eat three.

Carrot Pineapple Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting- Link to the original recipe

This Morning's Harvest

2011-07-12T06:04:00.000-07:00

Guess what's for dinner tonight? Grilled Eggplant, fresh okra and a salad with cucumbers, peppers, tomatoes and goat cheese! Our harvest this morning is dinner tonight!

Many people think that you can't grow anything in the heat of a Florida summer, but we're still enjoying the bounty of our garden.

We harvested the first of our garlic last week and a few pears are starting to ripen. Our first cantaloupe was almost ready, but a squirrel or raccoon beat us to it. {There is currently a warrant out for this creature, dead or alive.}

It's time to pull the plants that are finished producing- for us, that includes tomatoes and brussel sprouts. I'm going to solarize this patch of garden- cover the ground with plastic & let the sun "cook out" any nematodes and fungi enjoying my garden. {Any experience doing that?} Everything deserves a rest- I'm thinking of God telling the Israelites to give their land a Sabbath Rest in Leviticus 25.

I'm happy to give my little garden a rest and am looking forward to mixing in a handfull or two of compost when it's time to put in my fall garden!

Meal Planning Monday

2011-07-11T06:00:00.000-07:00

We are enjoying some sweet family time with GeGe this week. I love being in the kitchen with my grandma, but Lauren has mostly replaced me! She and GeGe get in there and whip up some yummy meals. I won't be too jealous. ;)

GeGe is leading the meal planning most days, but I do have a Mexican Black Bean Chili in the Crock Pot this week- it's a new recipe & I'm excited to try it. Vegetarian Crock Pot recipes are often bland & boring, so I'm happy to be building a good collection of tasty ones!

If you have any tried-and-true veggie crock recipes, I'd love you to share them! Email it to me and I'll post on the blog for others to enjoy, too!

OH MY GOSH!!

2011-07-10T19:03:00.000-07:00

Okay, I probably should have come up with a more sophisticated title... but I'm in such an amazingly strange state of excited, in awe and totally relaxed that I can't come up with anything better!!!

Homeschooling moms, be very jealous. I was sitting in the same chair Mrs. Tracy Klicka sat in last week! And Bev Bradley not long before that and David & Shirley Quine then Jan Bloom before that... it's like ~~walking through Mount Vernon~~ sitting in the president's chair in the Oval Office!! AAAHHH!!! Now I know how Toni (aka TheHappyHousewife) felt when sleeping in Cinderella's Castle!

Bob & Tina Farewell, our family by a wonderful marriage, are graciously allowing us to stay in their super-awesome Tree House and I'm in heaven!! (Note the plush robe and perfectly large-but-still-pretty teacup!) If you don't know of the Farewells or any of the folks I mentioned above, you really must take the time to peruse their websites, read their books, and listen to any seminars you can find online. As homeschool pioneers, they have years of experience and a true heart for homeschooling our children from the heart. Amazing people, I tell you. (Umm... if you are one of those people I mentioned & you want your name off my blog, I'm happy to do that, too. Sorry. Can I have your autograph?!)

Seriously, though, our family is enjoying some time away in Lake Wales. I love being with my GeGe and the time was made even better by Mom joining us! My sis & her kiddos are coming soon as is Dad! Add our amazing cousins, who live next door to GeGe, and the fact that we get the treat of visiting with the Farewells... I'm sure you'll understand my excitement!

Get to know the folks above. Amazing people. And, what is so encouraging to me, they are just like you and just like me. They love their children. They homeschool(ed), serve, speak, write, encourage out of the abundant goodness of God. I'm inspired to do the same.

ONE, beautiful baby!

2011-07-09T10:34:00.000-07:00

You know what I'm going to say- but bear with me... I cannot believe our baby girl is one year old already! {You know you've said it too!}

We celebrated with lots of Daddy time (and lots of time in arms for this teething baby girl) and concluded with a delicious Carrot Pineapple Cupcake with Cream Cheese Frosting. Yum. She l.o.v.e.d. hers!! And she loved sharing with her brother, too!

Even though Lauren is usually our Cupcake Queen, she just had the treat of baking 60 WICKED awesome cupcakes for our friend Arden (I'll post about those another time). So Timothy had a turn in the kitchen baking Clara's delish Bday cupcakes!

After presents & the Birthday song, we enjoyed our newest tradition: we tucked everyone else in bed and let the Birthday Girl stay up late for some special Mamma & Daddy time! We played with Clara's new baby, read Jan Brett's On Noah's Ark and laughed as little Clara walked back and forth doling out her sweet little kisses to me & her Daddy.

It was a sweet ending to a sweet birthday for ONE sweet baby girl! Happy Birthday, little Clara.

Meal Planning Monday

2011-07-04T14:34:00.000-07:00

HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY!!!

We're enjoying the 4th- what a perfect summer day to celebrate freedom, family and yummy food! We just finished cleaning up after the neighborhood parade & enjoyed a refreshing glass of Watermelon Lemonade and are kicking back for an easy rest-of-the day.

M- Ravioli with Pesto and a fresh side salad
T- Fresh caught Trout & Flounder with Sweet Potatoes and Pineapple Carrot Cupcakes for Clara's Birthday!!
W- Sweet & Sour Veggie Stir Fry
R- Garden fresh Greens & Cannellini Beans over Polenta (never made it last week...)
F- Pizza with fresh Chevre & Tomatoes from the garden

YUMMY & Easy week this week!

Keeping Garden-Fresh Herbs Fresh

2011-06-29T05:58:00.001-07:00

My herb garden is my favorite... but with the heat of summer setting in, I know my precious herbs' days are numbered! Many have already bolted, others I'm constantly clipping to keep them from going to seed.

I love to watch the butterflies visit when they flower, but I'm into gardening to eat fresh and save money, sorry butterflies. Maybe we can compromise... I'm trying something new (thanks to a friend on facebook!) to hopefully accomplish both!

Resa said to clip my basil & store it in a vase to have fresh basil available at my fingertips. She listed a second benefit- the basil will start to root and I can plant another plant!

I'm trying it out. (See my picture? Chris brought me some sweet mini-roses!) I'm wondering... will it work for parsley as well?

Make time for FUN!

2011-06-28T06:31:00.000-07:00

I am so serious.

I love to smile and laugh, but my default mode is "get it done and move on to the next thing". I guess that sinful focus on to-do's instead of relationships is affectionately referred to as task-oriented.

Since I'm wired that way, I have to be really intentional about having fun with my children. I could definitely spend the whole day accomplishing tasks and miss out on the privilege I have as a homeschooling mamma to develop relationships with my littles... to truly get to know them.

Enter the glasses.

I bought them in the $1 bin and we took them to the zoo. Everyone took turns wearing them because, well we don't already get enough looks as a family of 8. {hahaha}

It was fun! We laughed and posed and made some silly memories... and didn't see every exhibit. {pat pat pat on the back!} Now I'm brainstorming my next way to lighten up... how do you make time for fun?

Meal Planning Monday

2011-06-27T06:00:00.000-07:00

We have family coming in town for the 4th & Clara's Birthday and a special night out at the beach- this week's menu is shaping up to be yummy!

M- Bruschetta (made with tomatoes and basil from my garden!) and a BIG Italian Salad with peppers from the garden, marinated olives, fresh parmesan and a homemade balsamic viniagrette!
T- My VFSITWWW (very favorite soup in the whole wide world) the Sweet Potato Bisque from Biscotti's
W- Dinner & a concert-by-the-sea in St Augustine
R- Greens & Cannellini Beans over Polenta
F- Roasted Potato Salad & Chris' Amazing fish cakes
S- Veggie Pot Pie in individual puff Pastry Bowls
S- 3rd of July COOK OUT!

If anything looks good, come on over! If anything looks great, ask for the recipe!

meet me in the garden

2011-06-25T12:00:00.000-07:00

Alex said he hadn't seen me in a while.

I'm on a first-name basis with all the Publix employees- Alex is the solemn Russian in the produce department. I had to confess to him: I don't need to come as often because I'm getting my produce somewhere else... My own backyard!

Chris & I have attempted gardening for all 13 years of our marriage. Some years we have bell peppers, others the tomatoes flow in all summer long... but this is the first year my garden has been bountiful enough to save trips to Publix!

I haven't bought eggplant or collard greens in months, cucumbers are plentiful, the bell peppers and tomatoes are keeping us supplied, and okra is starting to roll in. The green beans and squash were tasty but I didn't plant enough. Oops.

And my herbs... oh, the herb garden is my favorite!! It's a little messy but fruitful beyond imagination... kind of how I view our family! {smile}

There is more, but I won't bore you. Some are ready before I know it (radishes!) and others take their time (onions & garlic). The lemon flaunts it's fruit but strawberries are nestled among large, deep green leaves like jewels in velvet.

My blueberries were trampled by well-meaning children... I need to find them a safer place for next year. The sticks are only a couple of inches above the ground, but I think they'll come back. That's the thing about a garden. With a lot of love and even more work, it'll yield abundantly. Hmm... sounds a lot like the rest of life...

Reinventing the Wheel

2011-06-24T05:17:00.000-07:00

Our evaluations & tests are complete for the 2010-2011 school year. It was a successful homeschool year according to the principal (Daddy O) and according to the state.

I'm starting to think about next year and I've realized when addressing challenges, I may need to do more than apply a band-aid.

"Once we've decided to go somewhere, it's too late to ask the question: 'Should we really go there?' Too often we are too busy trying to keep the car running, the spare tire patched and the clothes washed to ask the question: 'Should we really be taking this trip in the first place?" -Joel Salatin, Salad Bar Beef

What does my school day need to look like? What subjects do I need to cover? Do they have to be "taught" as "subjects"? To borrow from Mr. Salatin, perhaps I shouldn't "be taking that trip in the first place."

Perhaps learning should be integrated into lifestyle instead of making room for compartmentalized, school-style education in our life. I'm gonna ask my Abba for some direction before I start planning this year. I'm looking forward to seeing where 2011-2012 school year takes us!

One Proud Mamma

2011-06-23T17:56:00.000-07:00

Be still, my Mamma's heart... Benjamin went with Mr. Seth & Dad today to buy his first guitar!

He's been saving up for a while and waiting patiently until he had the money and the time with our expert consultant. When he got home, Mr. Eric taught him a couple of chords and leant him a book. And with that, he's on his way!

Clara thought he was doing a mighty fine job. She clapped for him from Daddy's lap (everybody loves a captive audience) and then fell asleep to her brother's strums. My little man... {happy sigh}

timers are this mom's best friend

2011-06-22T12:08:00.000-07:00

My sweetest, snuggliest boy reminds me of Ferdinand the Bull- always stopping to smell the flowers.

I love how he savors life... but when it comes to cleaning his room or doing his math, he needs some help learning how to stay on task.

Using a timer- whether this counting-down Time Tracker or the timer on the kitchen stove- helps him learn to use his time wisely. It's almost as motivating as the promise of a snack when he's finished!

When Mamma's Sick...

2011-04-26T08:20:00.000-07:00

When Mamma is sick, all kinds of things happen.

Note the shorts and undies in the bread machine. They're Andrew's. Enough said. ;)

The vacuum cleaner head is missing. Not the vac, just the attachment we need to clean the wood floors. Hmm...

Most of my magazines have corners (or whole pages) chewed off... really, Clara? I'm sure Daddy fed you and I *know* I nursed you plenty!

Of course, some pretty wonderful things happened, as well. Lauren cooked several meals. (Ben cooked one, but we put him back on kid duty after that one... Lauren's kitchen skills are, shall we say, more honed?) Ben played with Andrew, Georgia and Clara so I could rest. Georgia took a nap yesterday (a miracle, I tell you!)

And, most importantly, I've been reminded of what matters most. Laying in the backyard together, listening to Timothy's stories about ninjas, sharing favorite parts of movies... The Lord has reminded me of what matters most, and that right now is *real life* time spent with my sweet little ones. Thanks, Abba.

A Happy {sick} Day

2011-04-25T14:57:00.000-07:00

What makes a sick day a happy {sick} day?

1~ No more fever for Mamma. 98.4 baby, yeah!

2~ My new, funky, fun Birthday Turtle. My sis got it for me and it makes me smile.

3~ Gorgeous weather. Breezy enough to enjoy being outside under the shade of the crepe myrtle, beside my funky turtle.

4~ A snuggly, warm baby who wants to nurse and snuggle a lot but is well enough to still play and be happy!

5~ A baby book (thanks, Jadi & Aunt Terrie!) for Clara and time to make it perfect.

6~ A hubby who cares for me (us) so well, makes yummy food, keeps the house running so I can rest.

7~ Time to read magazines Mamma gave me months ago and learn about gardening in the state I love.

8~ A nice phone chat with that same, sweet Mamma.

9~ Friends who pick up my sick-slack without a thought.

10~ The ding-dong of my doorbell and the blessing of a happy neighbor delivering freshly picked strawberries with a gorgeous smile.

Today was a happy {sick} day!!

I'm so grateful for the Lord's kindness in these ways and so many more...

of Sunflower Houses and housekeeping

2011-03-01T08:44:00.000-08:00

The weather is beautiful and I'd rather be pittering in the yard than keeping house inside. So I've decided to accomplish both by planting a Sunflower House!

We have a corner of the yard that has no grass growing and I think instead of sodding it this weekend, we just may create a perfect playspace for the kiddos. We'll sow sunflower seeds for the four walls, leave a doorway open and allow morning glories to climb to fill in the magical little hut. (See my amazing sunflowers I made in Paint?)

Here's a helpful link if you want to try one, too.

I don't have hubby approval yet (he was going to lay sod this Saturday) so we'll have to wait to see for sure but I think it could be a fun spring project! Any other sunflower house builders out there?

Favorite Things... baby gifts!

2011-02-18T06:31:00.000-08:00

I believe the Bible when it says, "Children are a blessing from the Lord." So I love babies & consequently go to a lot of baby showers. Sometimes an adorable outfit or perfectly soft baby blanket is just the gift... but other times I want something a bit different. Something useful and, well, something I would want to receive!

Since I hate "dust collectors", you won't find me buying statues or even many picture frames... I go for practical. Here are my Top 5 favorite baby gifts to give... or receive!

1) Teething Feeder
It's a funny name, but they are great! You put some food inside and baby can enjoy the yummy real food without choking. Sassy makes one with a cover for portability and at just under $5, they're affordable.

2) A perfectly soft, beautifully special Blankie
Soft ones that are silky on one side are favorites at our house. Comfy cotton blankets are snuggly, too. Ben's was turquoise with deer on it, Clara's has a monkey head and is super-soft, the other kiddos had the soft/silky combination ones. Georgia Anne still snuggles her "Bahee" every nap & bedtime. It's nice to have a special snuggle buddy that doesn't wiggle or kick!

3) Great board books or picture books

I like gifts that baby can grow in to. Maybe I'll do a post on good picture books sometime- I purchased Ben's first good book at a homeschool convention 10 years ago and haven't stopped buying them since!

4) Larger size baby clothes

My babies never fit in the newborn size for more than a week or two (if at all). The 0-3 month ones quickly follow suit. Larger sizes are always appreciated!

5) Kiddopotamus Bib

I love this bib! It's wipeable & has a scoop to catch spills. The only drawback is that it snags longer hair, but since most children don't get long hair for a long time, I think it's a safe bet. Love this!

Essential Questions

2011-02-14T20:24:00.000-08:00

I am a curious soul. And this really has me perplexed!

We broke a bottle of Eucalyptus Essential Oil recently. The closest thing to salvage the oil was a sandwich bag, so we dumped it in there. I meant to transfer it to glass right away but the day got away from me & so before bed I set the whole bag in a styrofoam cup. I was assuming the EO would melt the bag & figured that putting it in the cup would at least keep the mess off the counter.

In the morning, the EO was still in the plastic bag! It didn't eat through the bag! I was shocked! BUT... it somehow ate a hole in the styrofoam cup!?!?!

How can a contained oil erode something it isn't in contact with?!?

Last night, at 7:20, I tried to duplicate the whole situation. I wanted a "controlled experiment" to 1) ensure there wasn't EO on the outside of the bag that really caused the reaction and 2) because it's just soo cool & I wanted to do it again! LOL!

An hour later, at 8:14, the cup I poured EO directly already has a hole... a large part of it has already "melted" onto the counter. The first time there was no residue remaining. It's a much more dramatic reaction & much faster. Thus, I am certain no EO was on the outside of the bag the first time. The 2nd cup (with EO contained in a bag like the 1st time) seems to have started to become tacky... but it's too early to really tell.

The next morning, this is what the 2nd cup (the one duplicating the original reaction) looked like. The same thing happened. You can see the beginning of the hold here... and the bag is "stuck" to the styrofoam enough to lift the cup, though I can pull it away without causing any damage. The longer I left it, the more it ate away (though with no residue like when EO was directly in contact w/the cup). It eventually did eat a hole through just like the 1st cup. Nutty!

What I want to know is... HOW and WHY did the EO eat through the styrofoam cup but not the bag? Is the plastic bag porus? I'm so curious!?!

I've been advised to try the same thing w/nail polish remover... so I'm working on that as we speak. I'll update the post with the results. Any answers out there?! You'll be my hero!

**2/15 Update**
I did the same "experiment" with nail polish remover replacing the EO... but I used "non acetone" nail polish remover & I think I was supposed to be testing for the effects of acetone. Oops. I'll scrounge up some of the type with acetone and repeat & post. There were NO noticeable effects w/the non-acetone nail polish remover to the bag or cup.

Meal Planning Mondays

2011-02-14T06:50:00.000-08:00

Soo... do you ever have one of those weeks where things don't quite go as you've planned? I think that's what Solomon meant when he penned, "The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps." -Prov 16:9

Last week was one of those. Clara had her first fever and needed Mamma to hold her alllllllll day for a couple of days. Daddy O ordered pizza one night (bless him!) and... I can't even remember what we had the other night. ?? Either way, we have some meals I purchased ingredients for that we never made, so this week is much the same as last week's plans.

M- cheese sandwiches

T- dinner with friends (potato leek soup, salad, french bread, cheese plate)
W- homegroup... Bertolli Soup (italian veggie soup served over bread)
R- Stuffed Shells (for real this time!)
F- Crock BBQ Venison Sandwiches

S- Veggie Crumble and a family photo shoot! YAY!

Favorite Things... Board Books!

2011-02-11T17:31:00.000-08:00

Everyone has favorite things. I thought I'd share a few of my favorite things on a few Fridays.

My favorite book today is a new one Granny got us when Clara was born. Little Sisters Are... by Beth Norling. It's a quick, sweet book about snuggly, loud, whiney, fun little sisters. It makes me smile and is a board book I actually like. As opposed to books that count random items. I can do that without a book. I like books that either tell a story or have great illustrations or both. This one gets a free pass because I just like it.

Now that I think about it, I have another more favorite board book. Each Peah Pear Plum was a Christmas book and I really like it. It rhymes, is has fun illustrations ("can you find the three bears?") and alludes to nursery rhymes I may otherwise have forgotten! It has a wicked witch in it, which was almost a deal breaker, but since Robin Hood is shooting at her we overlooked Her Naughtiness. That one's by Janet & Allen Ahlberg. More favorite board books include Mr Brown can Moo by Dr Seuss, We're Going on a Bear Hunt by Michael Rosen and Sandra Boynton's hilarious But Not the Hippopotamus. Oh! Good Night, Gorilla is a great wordless book (find the red balloon in each illustration!). Of course the "touch and feel" books are enjoyed by children of all ages... Lauren, at 9, still loves to touch the sticky pads of the frog in the animal book.

Do you want to make a Mamma really happy next baby shower? Bring a *good quality* board book as a great gift! One with a good story that she won't mind reading to her toddler again and again.

Meal Planning Mondays

2011-02-07T05:40:00.000-08:00

This week is an extra special week... My niece, Lilly Anne, was born today!! Some of the meals I have planned are to double so I can bring some food to my sweet sister and her family to lighten their load as we celebrate this little one's birth.

Here's what's on the agenda:

M- Veggie Crumble vegan

T- Mushroom & Walnut Stuffed Shells vegan (yes, these are the same stuffed shells from two weeks ago, I never made them. I used the mushrooms in a delish soup Mrs Suzanne gave me the recipe for. So I bought more shrooms & we're trying again)

W- I'm going to Mom's to await a birth! Chris is on his own.

R- CROCK- Burritos vegan (Well, not entirely vegan... Chris loves sour cream, so we'll add that)

F- Broccoli Soup vegan (Yep- without cream or cheese!)

S- Baked Potatoes

S- Bertolli Soup vegan

This is funny! I didn't realize how many meals we have are dairy-free. Well, there ya have it. This week's menu. Nutritious and delicious. ;)

At Your Request

2011-01-27T05:16:00.001-08:00

Roasted Veggie Stew

This is a delicious and hearty dinner. Bonus: It's also fairly easy. Try it & let me know what you think!

And I like to double or triple the ingredients to make a nice big pot- it is very yummy & leftovers are good, too! So when it calls for 2 parsnips, I just use a whole bag (etc). Enjoy!!

Roasted Veggie Stew

2 tsp fresh thyme, snipped
2 parsnips, peeled and chopped 1/2" cube for all the chopped veggies
1 potato, peeled & chopped
1 rutabaga, you guessed it, peeled & chopped
2 carrots, peeled and cubed (haha- got tired of typing chopped)
1 onion, cut into 8 wedges
1 Tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
3 c veggie broth
15 oz can great northern beans, rinsed & drained

Toss all the "peeled & chopped" veggies plus the onion with the oil. Sprinkle with salt. Spread on a cookie sheet & roast in a 450 degree oven until brown & tender. (30 min ish?)

Meanwhile, bring the broth & beans to a boil in a large pot. (If you only have dry thyme, add it here.) Add the roasted veggies and return to a boil. Simmer 5 minutes or so & stir in the thyme (if you snipped fresh from the garden). I like to mash some of the soup at this point for a slightly thicker consistency.

At Your Request...

2011-01-26T18:05:00.000-08:00

Red Pepper and Pignolia Sauce
This sauce is versatile, easy, tasty & healthy! You only need a bit on your grains, as it's very rich. I served it over Israeli Couscous tonight & loved it. On other occasions, I've used it to top rigatoni, brown rice, and even veggies. Use your imagination!

For the roasted peppers- you can buy a jar *or* you can just toss 3 whole peppers on a cookie sheet & roast in the oven. This time I did mine at the last minute. Put them in at 500 for, oh, 45 minutes or until the skin is blistery & can peel right off. Then peel, seed & enjoy.

Red Pepper and Pignolia Sauce

1c roasted red peppers (2-3 peppers)
3 Tbsp olive oil
2 Tbsp pine nuts, lightly pan toasted
1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
1+ Tbsp basil
1 clove garlic
1/2 tsp allspice
1/2 tsp salt

Combine all ingredients in a blender or food processor. Process until creamy & smooth. Serve over pasta or grains.

That's it!

Meal Planning Mondays

2011-01-24T08:00:00.000-08:00

Week two of Meal Planning Mondays. Here is last week's menu. I may not write that we're having salad every day, but we do. Sometimes I make it fancy, others it's just mixed greens, dressing and a few nuts. I like to make homemade dressing and it's quite easy with my Williams Sonoma salad dressing bottle with recipes printed on it. Chris gave me that and a salad spinner one Mother's Day and it has gotten SO much use! I {love} it! Here's a similar one, but I just shake mine- no gadget to stir.

M- Winter Veggie Stew (Roasted Rutabagas + Parsnips + Onions + Carrots + Potatoes = warm & yummy goodness!)
T- Ben & Timothy's Birthday! This year, Timothy requested pumpkin pancakes for breakfast. Since we have Apolojax, it'll be quick PB&Js for lunch, and Ben wants BBQ Beef Ribs on the smoker for dinner. We'll serve those with smoked new potatoes & {ahem} salad.
W- Red Pepper & Pignolia Sauce over quinoa
R- Linguine (I forgot which sauce I'm making. Sorry!)
F- Pizza
S- Creamy Lentil Soup
S- Stuffed Shells

Last week, Mauricio took me up on the offer to pick a night & pop in. Who will it be this week? Give us a call & come on over!

Anyone Read This Book?

2011-01-23T19:39:00.000-08:00

I just read a review of Large Family Logistics over on Raising Olives. She's plugging the book- says it's changed the way they do life in a lot of ways... I'm curious. Skeptical. Interested. Looking for a miracle!

I've seen the book in Vision Forum but glossed right over it. We have our little routine down, so why rock the boat? But when she said 1)it's helped them even after keeping house fairly well for years and 2) she's offering 2 books FOR FREE well, let's just say she got my attention!

I hope I win!!

Have any of you read it? I wonder if I should buy it... add it to the ever-growing stack of books I am reading. Maybe I'll win & the decision will be easy!

Sabbath Rest

2011-01-22T20:04:00.000-08:00

I planned a crockpot meal for tomorrow so we can enjoy a Sunday off. A Sabbath rest.

Abba worked 6 days & on the 7th, He rested. I see wisdom there... I get it in here {pointing at my heart} but just can't always get it into here {pointing at my head}! It's hard to get all the work needed in a household of 8 accomplished where I won't be starting Monday at such a deficit it's not worth trying...

So back to the crockpot. I planned a crock pot meal (Asparagus Strata) as a step in the right direction. That's a little less work and hopefully a little more time to share a laugh, a hug, a game with the ones I love most.

What do you do to allow time for special memories? Do you sing, study the Word, nap? What sets the Lord's day apart for you?

Meal Planning Mondays

2011-01-17T06:00:00.000-08:00

I am often asked, "What exactly do you eat?" Sometimes because people are wondering what {mostly} veggie people enjoy for dinner and sometimes because the thought of cooking for 8 three times daily seems daunting. So I'm going to start posting our weekly menu on Mondays. If you want to stop by, now you can browse the week's offerings and know which night to show up. ;)

M- Navy Bean Soup, Rolls & Salad

T- Baked Eggplant over pasta w/Italian Salad

W- Homemade Mac & Cheese, Stewed Apples & Veggie Dippers (homegroup night- we all eat together)

R- Crock- Venison with Stout & Potatoes (and salad)

F- Stir Fry (Asian Salad)

S- Roasted Veggie Stew

S- Crock- Asparagus Strata

Kindness Matters

2011-01-16T12:21:00.000-08:00

Chris is out of town with Ben. Man trip to the Everglades- you know, wrestling gators, camping with boa constrictors and fishing from dawn to dusk. I can't wait to hear all about the memories they made!!

But I digress... After church today, I took the kiddos to Applebees for a quick lunch on the way home. The hostess sat us across from an older couple peacefully enjoying their meal. I silently prayed the children would be well-behaved so we didn't ruin their lunch!! Not that Lauren, Timothy, Andrew, Georgia Anne & Clara are bad, they're very sweet, but after being quiet in church all morning there is lots of energy stored up!!

Long story short, the man did some magic tricks to make Georgia Anne smile and I realized, with relief, that they love children and we were ok to relax. {whew!} Here's the cool part- when our server brought our check, he told me they had given him money to pay for part of our dinner!!! I am totally blown away & blessed & grateful!! Thank you, friendly folks!

There is another matter of kindness I should say thanks for- the unmerited favor I have received from God! He didn't just pay for my meal, he paid for my admission to the best banquet in eternity! I have done nothing to deserve His love, but He has become man, lived sinlessly and then died bearing my sins to achieve my forgiveness.

I'm smiling, grateful for all the love shown today. I think of the adage, "To whom much is given, much is required." I'll look for chances to live out this loving kindness today to my family and neighbors because Kindness Matters.

Bird Watching

2011-01-15T19:05:00.000-08:00

I'm working on February's article for The Creekline and wanted to reference a cute little brown bird I saw playing in my birdbath yesterday. Birds never play in my birdbath! Maybe it's the junk that's always corralled there... But these teeny, tenacious flitterers were playing in the water, around the tacklebox and in spite of the ice floating in it from the previous night's 30 degree low!!

I'm like a proud parent! So I googled "small brown bird Florida". I'm sure I can ID it from a picture. I mean, how many little brown birds can there be?

Google's results were so funny I had to share with you!!

A HAWK?! That's small?! They eat little brown birds for dinner!!

No, Google, I don't think a hawk is the cute little brown birdie I was looking for. What else can you offer?

Seriously?! A PELICAN!?! The first word I typed in was small. I don't think pelicans are small by any definition. Maybe compared to a pteradactyl. Or an ostrich. But that's not the point. Well, I think I saw a sparrow or a thrush or something of the sort... I can't tell you for sure because, well, you know. I guess I need to find a good bird ID website- homeschool research project for Ben, maybe?!

Humble Orthodoxy in Dug Down Deep

2011-01-06T11:55:00.000-08:00

I just finished Dug Down Deep (which I enjoyed over a cup of tea last night.) A few passages really jumped out at me- I'm posting them here for my own reminder as much as for others' sake! :)

"...while we shouldn't be mean and spiteful in representing biblical truth, neither should we apologize for believing that God has been clear in his Word. The humility we need in our theology is first and foremost a humility before God. As pastor Mark Dever puts it, 'Humble theology [is] theology which submits itself to the truth of God's Word.' This is a good reminder for me."

"But truth can be known. And what the Bible teaches should be obeyed. Just because we can't know God exhaustively doesn't mean we can't know him truly (Psalm 19:7-10; John 17:17). Just because there is mystery in God's Word doesn't mean we can pretend God hasn't spoken clearly in the Bible.

"Christian humility,' Dever writes, 'is to simply accept whatever God has revealed in His Word. Humiligy is following God's Word wherever it goes, as far as it goes, not either going beyond it or stopping short of it... The humility we want in our churches is to read the Bible and believe it... It is not humble to be hesitant where God has been clear and plain."

Harris goes on to say the same thing we talked about in homegroup last night which is the same thing I heard on my iPod Tuesday night in a message by Elyse Fitzpatrick. (Think God is trying to tell me something?!) He says:

"Do you want to keep your orthodoxy humble? Try to live it. Don't spend all your time theorizing about it, debating about it, or blogging about it. {teehehe!} Spend more energy living the truth you know than worrying about what the next guy does or doesn't know. Don't measure yourself by what you know. Measure yourself by your practice of what you know. {emphasis mine}"

Lord- Let your Word inform & shape every area of my life. ~Amen~

A Cup of Tea and Thee and Me

2011-01-05T18:59:00.000-08:00

Chris just went to bed & the kiddos are all in their spots (oops- Georgia Anne just flew by & is in the bed with Andrew. Did I see that? Nah...)

I'm not quite ready for bed, so I'm about to enjoy a cup of Sleepytime, Dug Down Deep by Joshua Harris & a tea cookie. Two tea cookies. Yes, that's better.

Looking forward to a couple of minutes of down time...

Plenty of Time

2011-01-04T06:53:00.000-08:00

School starts in 5 minutes. The Christmas decorations are all over the dining room- where we do school. The laundry room (completely clean Saturday/Sunday) is again home to overflowing baskets & piles of clean laundry on the counter. But it's okay... I've got plenty of time!

I am not escaping into the computer (this time). I'm talking to myself instead of listening to myself. (I'm more convincing in print.) I have enough time each day to accomplish the things the Lord is calling me to. Methinks I should do a study on this topic; it's a constant struggle here on school days!

The truth is- the homeschooling mom often doesn't have the luxury to focus on one task at a time.So I'm hoping the Lord will help me keep my priorities right today. That I can lay all the other "need to's" aside when my littles come up to me for help with a baby doll's dress, tying a shoe, or the same math problem for the third time. I want the children to see that, with the help of the Holy Spirit, I have Plenty of Time for them.

Ten Ways to Say Thanks

2011-01-01T08:57:00.000-08:00

How many people generously gave you and your children gifts this Christmas? You have that many opportunities to teach your children gratitude right now!

I wrote my January article in The Creekline on this very topic (these article & last January's are both posted on my website if you want to read them.) Lauren wrote Thank You notes on the cards she received from Granny & Papa for Christmas. How will you say THANKS this year?

The Gospel Song

2011-01-01T08:21:00.000-08:00

Our homeschool group hopes to sing this song in a couple of months. Since we're a wide range of ages, it may sound about like this... and that would be a perfect way to put a smile on some folks' faces at the Nursing Home. :)

Any suggestions for another song to sing?

Never too Late...

2010-12-31T21:37:00.001-08:00

Black Line 5x7 folded card

Create personalized greeting cards and invitations by Shutterfly.

View the entire collection of cards.

Of home theatres and the theatre of the heart...

2010-12-30T08:41:00.000-08:00

The ladder is out because I've decided to install a Mommy version of a home theatre system. I put speakers up on top of my desk, put the projector in the desk's hutch and will leave my laptop on the desk to play DVDs from. Lauren & I have a date with The Sound of Music when I'm all done. :)

While I'm cleaning & working, I'm listening to a very interesting & helpful session from a homeschooling convention, Meeting With God: A Toolbox Approach by Marcia Sommerville. This is covering how to teach the children to spend a meaningful time with God. Please listen!

Okay- back to work!

What Can I Give??

2010-12-25T06:29:00.000-08:00

The Next Gift!!

This December, there were a lot of family traditions we had to skip. But there was a very special one we kept this morning!

When someone has the privilege of opening a gift, they then get to choose the next one to *give*.

It blesses my Mamma heart to hear the children ask, "Can I give the next gift?!"

9:36. Stockings were pilfered, gifts given, breakfast shared and now a full day available to make memories. Like reading the rest of the Christmas Story from Luke around the fire. Those are the memories that count!! Merry Christmas, friends!

What Can I Give?

2010-12-23T12:43:00.000-08:00

A Rice Krispie Pop!

Timothy wanted to make these yummy gifts for his brothers and sisters. It was the perfect thing because he is old enough to stir & melt the marshmallows and butter, mix in the krispies, and have a lot of fun decorating the "pops".

We added popsicle sticks to the rice krispie treats to mix it up a bit. I've seen them dipped in or drizzled with chocolate as well, but the faces he made from dried fruit are so Timbo!!

Whether you're wanting to make a last minute treat or gathering ideas for next year, try this one! Kiddos with allergies can also make this treat- we even have a healthy version that is sugar free & uses brown rice syrup to sweeten & bond. We didn't use that one. ;)

Merry Christmas!!!

What Can I Give?

2010-12-05T08:08:00.000-08:00

A Reindeer Ornament!

This simple ornament is special because it records the size of your child's hand- I imagine unpacking this next year and hearing Andrew exclaim, "Wow! I'm big now!"

It's pretty much a no-brainer, so I'll just list the supplies you need & let you go from there.

*Cardboard or Card stock (to trace hand on)
* Brown Pipe Cleaner for antlers
* Red button, pom pom, paint (etc) for nose
* Googly eye, black marker, sequin (etc) for eye
* Single Hole Punch & Ribbon to hang

One craft book suggested covering the whole handprint in felt. Or you could paint your little one's palm and press onto the cardboard. Or leave it plain. Or decorate it. Or cut it out of the tanned skin of a recently-bagged deer. What? You forgot to tan yours? Hmm- look for road kill? No? Okay, maybe we should just stick with paint. ;)

Traditions

2010-12-03T18:51:00.000-08:00

Too Much of a Good Thing?

I love traditions. Cider or Hot Chocolate while decorating the tree, stockings first thing Christmas morning with a fireside breakfast, three gifts each just like Jesus...

This year, I feel like this photo of our Nativity Scene. Like I'm missing something. What?! Most of our shopping is done. School is light, field trips & parties going smoothly, so what gives? I think... I *think* among all my good traditions, I'm missing Jesus. I'm trying one too many traditions. We added one big one (daily) and subtracted our annual Christmas Gingerbread Nativity Unit Study. I thought the gingerbread nativity wasn't worth the hassle... but I'm kind of missing it!

As I meditate on what's going on... I wonder if I got so caught up in "doing the right ones" that I am missing the heart of Christmas? For all the headaches that come with the *stupid* Gingerbread Nativity, it is wonderfully focused on the Christmas story.

So I'm considering starting over. Monday is a new week... what do you think? Shall I go back to my first hate ... er... love? LOL Toss the "New and Improved" Christmas traditions and just stick with the flawed, fun(ny), ones?

I think I'm answering myself as I type. There are soooo many different traditions because each family is unique. And we don't want the ones that are great for other families. We need to do whatever will turn our hearts to Jesus, the Christ. Messiah. Baby. Emmanuel = God with us! Oh, Merry Christmas!

What Can I Give?

2010-12-01T09:00:00.000-08:00

Have you ever seen such a cool bookmark?

(Shake your head "no"!)

Timothy made these last year and I think they're pretty special. They've held up well, so we won't be making them this year... because that would be redundant. Unique, long-lasting, and beautiful. Email me a picture if you make them- I'll post it here for others to see!

:How To:
1) Have fun with watercolors on white paper. Let dry.
2) Cut card stock (any color) into desired bookmark size.
3) Cut the dry watercolor into strips, blocks, hearts, lines, or whatever your Picasso wants!
4) Glue the watercolor shapes onto the card stock.
5) Write a message on the back. Young children can dictate and sign. Don't forget the date!
6) Laminate. I took ours to School Aids and had it laminated for a couple of dollars. You could buy contact paper and do it yourself, but only if you have no school supply store within a hundred miles... it's cheaper & easier & lasts longer if they do it.

Give with a good book, in a Christmas card, or wrap it!

What Can I Give?

2010-11-28T08:09:00.000-08:00

A Christmas Star

Okay, this post is TOP SECRET if you are Mema or Granny. Otherwise, read on.

This simple ornament was made with love by Timothy, 5 years old. He did it all by himself. Well, I handled clean-up. I'm a pro at cleaning up. ;)

:How To:
1) Take five (5) popsicle sticks. You can eat the popsicle first (no biting!) or you can just buy a box of sticks. But what fun is that? (Umm, yeah... more sugar this month?! We bought the box of sticks.) Lay said sticks in a star shape. Glue along the way. Timothy took out a glue stick and did all of this without me. If your child is younger, you can hot-glue ahead of time.
2) Paint whatever color their little heart desires.
3) Timbo wanted a super-special ornament, so we "painted" on a glue wash (water glue down a bit and paint on w/a paintbrush) and then he sprinkled colored sprinkle things on the star for extra pizzaz. He's that kind of guy. Andrew would have just broken the ornament apart at this point and used it as a sword.
4) This is apparently the MOST IMPORTANT STEP. I know this because Timothy has *repeatedly* told me we must put the string on!! We still haven't done this but don't worry, he won't let me forget.
5) Write the lucky dawg who is getting this amazing gift's name on the back in permanent marker (we used a silver paint pen) and let the artist sign his name.

Wrap. Give. Smile. Because it was easy, they did it all by themselves, and that makes you a pretty fun mom. Consider this idea my gift to you. Merry Christmas!

What Can I Give?

2010-11-27T13:04:00.000-08:00

You can give a friendly Greeting!

There are many ways to share your life with friends and family far and near. A perinneal favorite (made better when accompanied by food or photos) is the Christmas Card!!

Now, over the years I've observed three camps of Christmas-card-writers. There is the "traditional card signer". Your Aunt Isabel picks out a lovely card in a foil-lined envelope, signs her name (and the chihuahua's, too) and considers her duty fulfilled for another year. Lovely on the wall, these are somewhat lacking in the "personal touch" department.

The second camp would be the "letter writers" camp. Your cousin, who homeschools her twelve children out on their organic farm, writes a brief four-page update of their life over the past year (pausing mid-letter to put the bread in the oven and give her 14 year old a calculus test). It is accompanied by a bookmark hand-embroidered by six-year-old Grace. Lovely. Truly... lovely.

You know the third group- the "family photo" in an envelope. You love seeing the fam but wish there was at least a "Merry Christmas- Love you!" handwritten on there somewhere!

This year, Shutterfly is offering a family photo greeting card- making your Christmas Card duties easier than ever. You pick the photo (or photos) to share and have room inside for a handwritten note. It has the personal feel of a letter but brings none of the guilt to your readers... ;)

I'm trying to decide between the card at the top of the page and a quicker (but still striking) flat stationary card like this.

I've given Shutterfly photo books as gifts in the past and been very pleased with them. And I thought of doing a mug for my coffee-loving Dad. They cover it all! But I'm for sure going to be mailing a sweet photo card because they're offering a great promotion for bloggers to earn free cards!

Look for your Olsen family card in the mail this year... and I hope my letter never made you roll your eyes and want to burn it. My goal is to share some laughs and show Christ's sufficiency in every event in our lives! I'm glad I could find a photo card to hopefully accomplish the same purpose. Here's to one more way to say Merry Christmas!

What Can I Give?

2010-11-27T08:00:00.000-08:00

I've been asked, "What do your children make for Christmas Presents?" This month, I'll attempt to share. I'm not a crafty person, so please don't stone me for the really simple (or simply ugly) ones!

As today is the first day, I'll post the most time consuming so you have plenty of time. Drum Roll, please! (dum da da dum dum dummmm...)

It's a Reindeer Ornament!!!
* Cut three pieces of seven count plastic canvas about 1 5/8" or 10 holes square.
* Take two squares and slip stitch two sides together.
* Hold the two stitched pieces together and open the unstitched sides. Stitch the third square on one side of the unstitched plastic.
* Continue to corner and down other side, you now have a pyramid effect.
* Now the "reindeer" can be squeezed and the unstitched side will open like a mouth!!
* The one my sunday school teacher gave me as a child had a tag that read, "Squeeze my cheeks and I'll give you a kiss." Or you could put, "Give me a squeeze and I'll give you a kiss." I've opted not to do tags at all. ;)
* Hershey kisses are used for the kiss. Attach a piece of yarn to the back to hang as an ornament.

This is a great "keeper". You can make one for each kiddo. They can make them for grandparents or teachers or friends. Sometimes, I'll move it to a new branch every time I put a new Hershey Kiss in so it's like a treasure hunt in our tree. Have fun with it!

* The photo on this is not one I made, it is from the net. I can't find the link for attribution (it's from last year).

What Can I Give?

2010-11-26T08:00:00.000-08:00

It's Christmastime! Moms and Dads are carefully choosing gifts- and at our house, the children are realizing "it is more blessed to give than to receive" as well! But with 6 kiddos, we can't give them enough money to each buy gifts for each other and for grandparents and friends! Simple solution? The crafty Christmas.

Confession: I am not a "crafty" person. (Mostly because I don't deal well with messes.) But this time of year I do strive to overcome my complex and help the children create Christmas gifts!

We have made ornaments from popsicle sticks, a reindeer that holds a hershey kiss (coming tomorrow), doll clothes, bookmarks, potholders, birdhouses... lots of hands-on and inexpensive ways for children to show their care!

The Dollar Store is a great option (we let the children do chores- like folding socks- to earn $ for gifts), but I maintain that gifts from children are more meaningful when they're handmade.

Check back often for lots of Merry Christmas Gift Ideas!!

Thanksliving

2010-11-20T11:38:00.000-08:00

This pumpkin has quite a story. Chris and I married young and started out with nothing, nada, zilch. Family and a few friends blessed us with what we needed and over the years, the Lord has provided all we needed... abundantly more than that, even!

Mom waved her magic wand to help me decorate with little and over the years that has come along as well... Enter the pumpkin. For a few years now, Mom has bought us a decoration for the house each fall. I love fall and it is so fun to look around at the gems that have been added to our home- what memories each holds!

"The Pumpkin" was one of the first fall decorations I had and I cherished it! Not only is it beautiful, but the sentiment behind it is so close to my heart. I displayed it with pride (mostly the good kind) for all our friends and neighbors to see. Now people would know we don't just decorate for Thanksgiving, we are reminding ourselves of God's goodness!!

Only a few days into ownership, a sweet little Olsen decided to explore the pumpkin... and knocked it over... and busted it into lots of pieces. I was crushed! I cried, I sobbed, I couldn't believe that of everything in the house, they had to break this one special decoration! I finally got something nice and... and... Now how would visitors know we loved the Lord?

WHOA!! Then I heard myself! (God is so patient with me!) He reminded me that my sweet children are *way* more important and precious than this silly (well, gorgeously silly- but silly nonetheless) decoration! Would I crush their spirit over this broken globe? And about the visitors... really, Allie? If I need a pumpkin with "We Give Thanks to God" blazed across the front for people to figure out we live in awe of and in love with God, well, then I'm really not following Him too well, now am I?!

Chris took all those many pieces and lovingly repaired my crushed pumpkin. The Lord took all the pieces of my stony, sinful heart and renewed a right spirit in me.

Thanksliving... this month is reminding me to live a life of thanks to Abba God(loving & patient Daddy who also corrects me for my bad attitude) . With the help of a glued-together pumpkin.

Thanksliving

2010-11-18T10:34:00.001-08:00

I am thankful for the flexibility of homeschooling. Today we finalized our Thanksgiving Menu and will start baking! The children and I will learn new cookie recipes together... I'm willing to bet theirs will turn out better than mine!! I'm such an imprecise baker.

We're also going to create some games to play on Thanksgiving and read the history of the holiday. I think Timothy may be able to read a book this year! What a wonderful first. Another first... This is the first year in a decade we have not made our Thankful Family Tree. But I'm hopeful we can keep the focus right in spite of this sad sad oversight.

A brighter first- Clara's first tooth popped through today!! At only four months, she is the youngest Olsen to get her first tooth. :P Happy Thanksgiving...

Thanksliving

2010-11-06T09:00:00.000-07:00

I am thankful for this man.

Fun, thoughtful, hard-working, responsible, generous, creative, pleasant, patient, flexible- what's not to love?!

Twelve sweet years. He is the most patient man I know, as evidenced by 12 years of marriage to me!!

When I read of Christ's love for the church and marriage being a reflection of that- I know exactly what Jesus meant because I see it in the way Chris lays down his life for his family. And I can only hope Christ's work will be reflected in me as clearly as I see it in my hubby's life.

Thanksliving. I want to live a life of thanks.

Thanksliving

2010-11-05T09:06:00.000-07:00

I am thankful for friends.

"Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. 10 For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up!" -Ecclesiastes 2:9 & 10

We went to a Corn Maize last week and got totally lost. (I still have no idea how we were supposed to follow that little map!) If we each looked at our maps and our questionairres, we would have ended up at two dozen different points- all lost! We stuck together. Followed one map and made it out.

I'm grateful for an abundance of God-fearing friends right now. When we are each looking to the Word of God for direction, we can help one another when one starts to stumble. My accountability gals, best bud from years ago, homeschool co-op Mammas, friends from church & some just plopped in my life by the Lord...

Buddies. Partners. Come-along-side-and-encourage-ers. I am thankful for friends.

p.s. This months' title is swiped from a friend's blog, "Thanksliving * Gratitude as an Act of Worship! (Thanks!)

Thanksliving

2010-11-04T18:33:00.000-07:00

I am thankful for family.

Dad was moved from Shands to a rehab facility today. Nothing like seeing life hanging in the balance to remind me how precious it is!! Dad's recovery is going much quicker than expected and our family is thanking our gracious Lord, Creator and Healer, for working in Dad's body. Jesus has sustained Mom as she cares for Dad, given doctors wisdom and given Dad favor in getting in hospitals & rehab facilities that usually take days or more to open up a bed. We have a lot to be thankful for!

Because of Dad's condition, instead of going to Tallahassee for our annual ginormous family gathering (which totally rocks!) we'll be keeping it simple with Granny, Pops, and Auntie, Uncle T & Landon. This is the first thanksgiving Krissy & I will be doing the cooking and our family will gather around the table and pray and share. I'll miss the big family- but I'm looking forward to the intimacy of immediate family. I hope I can express to each what I'm most thankful for in my smiles, actions, and a yummy homecooked meal as well as with my words. Today, this month, and all the time- I'm thankful for family.

Must Listen Message for Mammas!

2010-10-01T20:28:00.000-07:00

Last night, I listened to an encouraging message for mammas of small children, The Lord is In Your Boat. Take 30 minutes to be encouraged by Carolyn Mahaney as she shares Truth for us from Luke 8. Then post what particular part was helpful!

Love like Crazy

2010-09-05T18:11:00.000-07:00

Diane, my MIL, said this song should be our theme song. :) It's such a sweet one, enjoy!

A (not so) Quiet Morning at Home

2010-08-22T07:59:00.000-07:00

It sure would be nice if the kiddos were snuggly like this picture right now! We're home on a Sunday morning (weird!). Georgia Anne had a runny nose off and on the last few days, so we decided I should stay home from church with her *just in case*. She's fine. Ask me how I know?!

{How do you know, Allie?}

Well, she has been running around the house all morning- she and Andrew are building forts and conquering ottomans and playing together. Andrew has been quite disappointed that he didn't get to go to church but is playing well with sister. Well, he just ran over her toe with an ottoman, but he's playing well other than that. :) It was an accident and she's fake crying- he's hugging her & apologizing and now tickling her saying, "that's a fake cry! Fake crying girl!" Those two crack me up.

Anyways, I'm using my time (between putting up hair, getting drinks, changing diapers, etc etc) to listen to a great sermon on reaching out. Check August 8 & 15. I heard Part 2 last Sunday at Mom & Dad's church- it was challenging & encouraging! And even though I'm only getting Part 1 in fits & spurts b/c I'm being interrupted a LOT, it's good.

Actually, I think I'll stop listening & play and then come back. :) I hope you're enjoying your Sunday and that the Lord is growing you through time in His Word!!

Why I love Florida...

2010-08-21T13:16:00.000-07:00

Or, more appropriately, "Why I love my family..."

Run for their Lives

2010-08-21T11:18:00.000-07:00

Why Support Run For Their Lives? from Mauricio Belgrano on Vimeo.

If you are a runner, or a walker, or just like to hear about opportunities to make a difference in people's lives... watch this trailer on an upcoming race! See you there!!

Party Shots

2010-07-20T18:56:00.000-07:00

Last night was our "Welcome Clara" party! Georgia Anne enjoyed all 3 of her servings of the Eggplant Parmesan dinner Kim brought over. :) It was so very delish!! What a great way to start the party!

Timbo & Lauren made posters to welcome their baby sister. We measured all the kiddos on the growth chart- it was fun to see how much (or little!) each of them had grown over the past year and a bit.

Then- the PENGUIN RACE! What a BLAST! The winner (Timbo) was showered with party popper confetti and we all retired to the kitchen for some "CLARA" brownies Lauren made. What a fun evening & some great memories.

From Generation to Generation...

2010-07-19T08:49:00.000-07:00

Clara is two weeks old today. We'll have our "Welcome Clara Allison" party tonight... we've had fun doing that with each of the kiddos. We'll record the children's height on their growth chart, play some games (the Penguin Race is a staple), eat a sweet treat and dote on the new baby. I love making family memories!

Speaking of memories... this picture is of Clara's first Sunday heading to church. I dressed her in an outfit I wore when I was a baby!! I'm *so* not a packrat, so it's impressive that I not only still have it (thanks, Mom!) but that I remembered to put it on her while if fits!

I'm more concerned with passing on our godly heritage than passing on cute clothes- and we try to accomplish that in many ways. Some fun (welcoming babies with a family party!) and some more challenging (consisitently doing family devotions).

What special memories do you have & what do you strive to pass on to your own children? How?

Sweet Baby Girl!

2010-07-18T20:17:00.000-07:00

Check out her fuzzy little noggin! :)

Clara is sleeping well and very awake when she's awake. I'll post some pictures of her with Lauren soon. Chris says Lauren has logged more Clara time than he has! One thing is certain- the kiddos all *love* their new little sister!

Homeschool Encouragement

2010-07-17T19:47:00.000-07:00

I'm missing the HERI homeschool convention! I am always recharged when I go, but Clara was too young to head out there this year.

Chris had a great "plan b"- listen to workshops online! I found some great ones from the Christian Home Educators of Colorado (CHEC) convention... all the audio from 2006-2009! I have already listened to 4, with many more marked for future encouragement, inspiration, and teaching. CHEC it out! (haha- pun intended!)

Also, I found this entry to Raising Olives' blog doing a review on Sonlight- the curriculum we use. We've used it for 2 years and are very happy with it. Here is a link to the review and an entry for a $50 gift card toward a Sonlight purchase!

Oh! And one more link- These messages from Mark Hamby of Lamplighter Publishing are challenging. I clicked on Vol 1 and then 1. Strong Willed Parent and highly recommend that workshop!

Happy Homeschooling!

Happy Birthday Gran!

2010-07-15T07:33:00.000-07:00

Thursday, July 15. Happy Birthday to my Mommy! We celebrated while she was here helping with Clara- Chris put candles in a burnt bagel in her honor (she has the reputation for burning bread...).

Happy Birthday, Mom! Thanks for your stories, being quick to laugh, and your example of loving selflessly. I love you!

Resting

2010-07-14T17:05:00.000-07:00

Clara is asleep on my chest. Every part of her little 9 day old person is relaxed as she rests in completely contented sleep. Her 5 brothers and sisters talk, play, call, laugh, kiss her, and even cry all around us... and yet Clara's blissful breathing remains unchanged.

I find myself constantly doing, constantly striving. I bustle around the house picking up, washing, coaching the children. I say "coaching" instead of "teaching" because often I'm more concerned with the performance of my "team" than with their hearts. Well, that's what my actions show, anyways.

Oh, for the childlike trust, rest, contentment that my little ones show! Lord, help me to learn from them and not to "coach" their hearts out of trusting and resting. You carry me, strengthen me, and help me. (Isaiah 41:10) You gently lead me as I parent! (Isaiah 40:11) Help me to rest in you. Teach me to "be still and know [you are] God." -Psalm 46:10

Clara Slideshow for GeGe!

2010-07-13T14:05:00.000-07:00

You asked for more pictures of little Clara- here are a few! I will try to put more up soon to hold you over 'til you meet her! Come visit soon!

Georgia Anne Welcomes Clara Allison!!

2010-07-13T07:16:00.000-07:00

She's here! Clara Allison was born July 5 and is already a wonderful part of our family!! All her brothers and sisters love to hold her, kiss her, help burp her, and just snuggle beside her!

Clara was born at 8:33 Monday morning and weighed 7 pounds, 12 ounces. She was only 20.5 inches long! Such a little peanut!

Both Clara and Mommy are doing well and, after a week of Granny caring for us, I think I'm ready to get back to work. Our church family & friends are bringing meals this week to help me transition back to normal. :)

We're thanking Abba, our wonderful Heavenly Father, for such a smooth labor and recovery and precious little gift!

Happy 3rd of July!

2010-07-03T10:43:00.000-07:00

Our neighborhood's annual "4th of July Parade" was today- and it was a BLAST! Daddy O even got in on the action by pulling the float with Mr Jamey. (They're really strong! haha)

Afterwards, we had pizza in the front of the neighborhood and then the firetruck opened the hoses on the kids! What a fun way to cool off!!

Happy 3rd (and 4th!) of July!

Every Florida Boy Needs to know...

2010-06-26T08:42:00.000-07:00

how to fish (first importance) and how to surf!!

Today was Ben AND Chris' first day surfing!! Mr. Holger was an excellent teacher & the Lord provided gentle waves for a great first time.

All the guys surfed from 7:30 'til 10 ish and then grabbed a surfer's breakfast at a nearby beach spot. Mr. Holger said Ben is a natural- and Chris said they've created a monster. Hehe Papa can't wait to come up and help "learn him good". :)

A Day Off

2010-06-09T08:03:00.000-07:00

Wow. I haven't laid around and read books all morning... ever. Well, not since my life as Mamma to many, anyways. But after a week and a half of swim lessons (during which regular activities failed to realize we were busy and continued as usual) I decided to take the day off!

Okay, I never would have- but my sweet hubby is teaching me how to slow down. So I'm looking at a cleaning kit on the floor of my bathroom, toys on the floor in the family room, and 4 pineapple & 4 pints of strawberries that need to be chopped before tonight's wedding shower... but I am not stressed. I am not stressed. (That bore repeating!)

Instead, I'm listening to Jeff Purswell's escatalogical message on the End Times while tidying my room (okay, I can't take the day COMPLETELY off!) and weeding through piles of books so my room can be a haven when baby comes- not a pigpen!

This post is to remind me that life goes on- slowing down is a good thing.

A few more pictures...

2010-05-13T15:29:00.000-07:00

For my non-facebooking friends, here are some more pictures from our Apple Pie Celebration!!

National Apple Pie Day!!

2010-05-13T07:26:00.000-07:00

Today is National Apple Pie Day. It has also been an absolutely crazy morning. SO I've decided to ditch the schedule and bake apple pies & study this tasty subject!!

When life hands you lemons- use them to keep the apples from turning brown! The only question that remains is... with or without ice cream?!?!?

I'll (try to) post pictures later. Happy A.P.Day!!

**Update**
We made & ate 7 individual apple pies WITH ice cream! Delish & what a fun day of school! :)

Tile Time!

2010-02-28T09:04:00.001-08:00

Yay for handy and willing hubbies!! Chris started tiling our foyer & dining room this weekend. Eventually, we'll tile the whole foyer, dining room & kitchen.

Marianne, our tile consultant/sales gal/friend steered us toward porcelain for it's durability- and I'm already grateful! Andrew was "helping" this morning & hammered the just-installed tile... and it didn't even chip!

Andrew seems determined to help Daddy grow in grace during this project. Yesterday, he ran straight onto the wet tile (bad, bad, bad!). Chris just picked him up and brought him to me, told Andrew not to walk on the freshly laid tile, and went to work fixing the now crooked tile. Now, if *that* isn't the Lord helping Daddy O to be patient, self-controlled and loving, I don't know what is!

So I'm thankful for the provision of tile, for Chris laying it & for patience with the project & my patience with all the M*E*S*S! It's going to be so much easier to keep clean than carpet under the dining room table!!! :)

Straight Paths

2010-02-23T21:08:00.000-08:00

A few late night thoughts and a picture of our beautiful (2nd youngest) child. Proof that God can use all things (even sleeplessness) for my good!!

How can we teach our children to walk the "straight path" when we feel like we are running in circles ourselves?

Proverbs 3:5-6 Offers a few tips:
1Trust in the Lord with all your heart
2Don't depend on your own understanding
3In all your ways acknowledge him
4He will make your path straight!

Am I spending time in the Word and with my Creator? Am I praying, petitioning even, and thanking God then walking in His peace like Phil 4:6-7 says?

Am I depending on my own understanding? Making my lists & filling my days without direction from Him? (ouch- this is painful!)

Lord, I'm grateful for Your timing, Your faithfulness, Your care. Thank you for showing me TRUTH and for straightening my path. Please help me to love You & Your Word so much that I'll make You a priority no matter how busy life seems. Teach me to meditate on your Word and enjoy your presence... Amen!!!

Proof I love my children...

2010-02-01T12:48:00.001-08:00

I LOVE all things food. I love to cook, to grocery shop at gourmet stores and gaze at the delicious offerings, and most of all I love to eat!

That is why it is particularly difficult for me to have a pantry that looks like THIS!

It's been like this since Christmas. I had it all neat before Christmas but it's been steadily declining since then. >sigh< I almost organized it today but realized I should really fold the laundry and clear it from the couch instead of creating another mess all over the breakfast table. :)

I desire my children to know how to cook, clean behind themselves- in other words, contribute to family life. And that's why my pantry looks like a tornado hit! It's more important to allow them to contribute than for everything to be perfect. And it's more important to snuggle as they wake up from naps than for me to be organizing the pantry.

So welcome to the chaotic side of GraceFull Mom! That basket will contain the tupperware it's intended to... and others will neatly corral napkins once again. I'll be able to step into my walk-in pantry as will my quite capable kitchen helpers who will then be able to reach the shelves to return things where they belong. :) Until then, I *try* to remind myself- this season of preparation is about the hearts of my littles, not the state of my beloved pantry.

p.s. I went to take a picture of my mess and found Ben cleaning out my pantry for me! Talk about providential timing! :)

Thoughts on Motherhood

2010-01-12T14:12:00.001-08:00

I find myself so caught up in living out motherhood most days that I don't really think of the motives for what I do. I thank the Lord that He has ingrained in me core values to pass on to the kiddos!

So what exactly is mothering? Is it keeping laundry clean and faces washed and tummies full of nutritios food? Yes, of course... but it is so much more.

I'm thinking of writing my next article on mothering. It's an art that's largely lost in our fast-paced society. Or at least, it's changing it's face and not all for the better.

Do you have thoughts on mothering? I'd love your input as I develop my article. Be forewarned... If you comment, I may quote you. ;)

p.s. The photo is Mom holding Georgia Anne, so it's technically "Grandmothering" but seeing as how that's an extension of Mothering, and I learned Mothering from my Mom, I found it quite appropriate.

Gingerbread Houses Change...

2009-12-15T07:19:00.000-08:00

We're all sick! So we're cancelling *our part* of the gingerbread houses. Everyone else is still going, we are just not so we won't be providing the houses. Ya'll bring your own or someone bring enough for everyone or just decorate graham crackers and have fun!

Sorry we'll miss you- our Merry Christmas is not getting you sick.

"Gingerbread" Houses

2009-12-09T13:30:00.000-08:00

Most of you know my history with Gingerbread... it's shaky, at best. So this year, we're going to make Graham Cracker Houses instead. :)

Now, don't get your hopes up... even if we use graham crackers, the houses won't look like the one in the picture. :) But the kiddos will have a great time, cleanup will be a breeze, and we can all split the cost by bringing a contribution!

I'm going to assemble the houses the day before so they'll dry and the kiddos can decorate w/abandon. You RSVP # of children and pick what candy you'll bring from the below list (or be creative!) by leaving a comment here.

Losco Park, Friday Dec 18, 10:00. Bring a sack lunch, too. Merry Christmas!

**Candy Needs**
mini Candy Canes
Peppermints
Gumdrops
2 containers white frosting
M&Ms
Mini Red Hots
Chocolate Nonpariels (those chocolates w/little white candy dots on top)
Twizzlers (gross tasting, but they look cute!)
box of snack size ziploc bags
roll of paper towels, baby wipes, 1 grown up pair scissors, and a whole bunch of Publix bags to take the houses home in w/o gooing up the car

Thanksgiving Fun!

2009-11-25T12:10:00.000-08:00

My intention was to upload a fun Thanksgiving Idea each day... but we've been so busy having a good time that I didn't get around to it. :)

Since it's a little late to share all of the fun crafts we did, I'll suggest some Thanksgiving Day Games you can play with the fam or to keep little ones from underfoot while the ladies are in the kitchen!

This year, I am bringing some things for the kiddos to play alone and others to do all together:
1) Draw with Sidewalk Chalk (Mayflower contest, anyone?)
2) Turkey Toss (Beanbag into a gobblin' turkey!)
3) Pilgrim Relay (Boys vs. Girls- grownups included!)
4) Bubbles! (No explanation necessary)
5) Indian Corn Hunt (like looking for a needle in a haystack...)

And another idea I had but didn't get to... pick up paint swatches and have the kiddos find something in nature to match the different hues. I thought it could be an adventure to look for bright red, oranges, pinks, grays, etc. Oh, and you could always collect fall leaves and make a collage or leaf rubbing.

Enjoy your Thanksgiving! Time with family is precious and this is a way to get the oldest laughing with your little ones!

Holiday Tip #1

2009-11-12T09:06:00.000-08:00

Holiday Tip #1: Get Your Sitters Early!

I waited to post this until I had sitters secure for the two Christmas Parties we're attending... I have to practice what I preach!

We like to do most of our celebrating as a family, but for the evenings that are too late for the little ones or for grownups-only gatherings, plan early!

It's so easy to make a phone call to your favorite sitters, but just as easy to forget. :) Grab the phone (or shoot an email) and mark one thing off the list! Look how easy that was- this is going to be an easy-breezy Christmas.

Christmas Shopping

2009-11-12T06:59:00.001-08:00

I have the itch. Today is a brrr... cold day. It's a fire day, a hot chocolate day, a prepare for Thanksgiving and Christmas kind of day!

The children are choosing favorite game and craft ideas for Thanksgiving while I nurse Georgia Anne for her nap. I'm excited to go up and hear what they think of when we talk about Thanksgiving. Family, a trip to Tallahassee and food all come to my mind.

Oh, but my topic was Christmas Shopping! That's because I have a neat idea that I want to share. Even with a budget, moms are often subject to impulse buys. And $5 here and $20 there will blow a budget every time!

I've taken my Christmas list to a new level. As the catalogs start pouring in, I fold down everything I like. Then I go back through and cut out the items and glue into a folder, one page per person I'm shopping for. Sometimes I don't cut out something I folded down- that's impulse elimination phase 1. :) Phase 2 is gluing in... if there are 2 things that are similar, or if all of a sudden that remote control toy (and the 10 batteries it needs) doesn't seem so practical, I toss it.

Phase 3 is... (drum roll...) my Hubby! We look through my folder together (well, except for his pages) and he helps clarify our choices for the year. No return lines, no over-abundance of toys that will break in 3 days anyway... we pare it down to 3 gifts per kiddo and some stocking stuffers.

Freedom!! Now I have a purposeful list and when I hit the stores (or websites) if I see something I just "have to buy" I can look at the pictures we already chose and weigh my options wisely.

What do you do to keep expenses down?

Our first field trip this year!

2009-09-11T12:49:00.000-07:00

Today was our first field trip with our Learning on the Go co-op! The children learned about the history of the pretzel (a monk shaped bread dough into the shape of a child praying w/folded arms & the 3 holes represent the Trinity) and then shaped & baked their own. Afterwards, some of us went to the pool for some fun splash time. Good times.

Right now, the kiddos are enjoying popsicles on the back porch- then we're going to go out front to put up some flags and pray for the families who lost loved ones eight 9/11s ago.

I'm also praying that the Lord will continue extending his care & mercies to us. "If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray then I will turn & heal their land."

Hi Mom! Hi Dad!

2009-09-05T13:52:00.000-07:00

Here are some pix to show the family. We took these when we went to Animal Kingdom a few weeks ago. :) Love you guys.

a summer break

2009-08-20T07:54:00.000-07:00

Chris is using my computer for work while he waits for his new laptop to arrive. Just thought I'd explain this loooong lapse in posting. :) It's been a good (albeit forced) computer abstinence. Balance is a good thing! I'll try to check in soon!

Here's a picture of me & my wonderful hubby on our 11th anniversary! We were headed out to a fabulous dinner at Bern's in Tampa. My sweet hubs surprised me and what a surprise it was!! Love you, hon! Thanks for really knowing (and still loving!) me!

Independance Day 2009!!

2009-07-05T17:29:00.000-07:00

I'm leaning back in Chris' comfy recliner thinking over our full weekend. So many sweet memories! So many little kindnesses... I pray my appreciation for "the little things" will never become dulled.

Friday, July 3, we enjoyed time at the beach with Granny & Papa; they brought breakfast and the Lord provided perfect waves and a cooling breeze. Later in the day, we sent the guys to the store for cheese & tomatoes and instead they brought home a delicious spread from Whole Foods- all to keep Mom & me out of the kitchen. What amazing guys! And it was delish!

Saturday morning, July 4, Mema & Pa came up and helped the children put some finishing touches on our float for our neighborhood's 4th of July parade. After the parade, Andrew and Timbo checked out a firetruck and we all enjoyed Jenk's pizza up at the Am center.

My favorite story from the weekend: I was out of paper towels. We don't use them all the time but they are definitely missed when we don't have any!! Well, Saturday afternoon Charlie went to the store and surprised me with a HUGE pack of paper towels! The good ones!! An hour later, my Dad came in with... a HUGE pack of paper towels! Select-a-Size! I can't tell you how special I felt that these two Dads in my life heard me mention I was out and then went to the store just to bless me. I feel so spoiled!! Thanks, Dad & Pa!

We celebrated our country's freedom July 4 with friends (old & new) and LOTS of fireworks! Good food was plentiful (another blessing! Cookies, Cheesecake, Pasta Salad, Artichoke & Tom Salad, Drinks... all came in just as needed!) and no one was permanently hurt through the games, fireworks or fireants. :)

I always want to live with an awareness of the Lord's work in my life. Weather, sunsets, friends, laughter... He is good to all and His mercies are over all He has made!!

Quotable Quotes

2009-06-29T05:37:00.000-07:00

"Cool! I can make tire tracks in the dust!" -Ben while playing with his "off-road" black Lego car

"Hey Mom, why [is the] beach inside?" -Andrew when the kiddie pool was on its way to the backyard

"I love you, Mamma. " -Timbo, being sweet to his sick Mamma

And the picture you see is of Lauren, our little chef, putting the final touches on a Southwestern salad & dressing she made.

Georgia Anne is standing at my feet now being adorable... yes, you read right, STANDING! I'm going to go sit outside in the pool with them now, brain & fingers are too wiped out to do any more. PTL for flexible summer days (and that my children are obedient and my New York Super Fudge Chunk ice cream will be waiting for me when I recover!)

Carpe Diem vs. Slow & Steady

2009-06-19T07:05:00.000-07:00

I have a little whisperer on each shoulder.

C.D. cheers, "Drop everything and go play with the children!"

"Don't be silly! Finish this small vacuum job and put away the cleaner so you won't come back inside to a mess!" responds S & S with measured words.

"Messes will always be around! It'll be too hot to go outside if you wait much longer. First things first! Enjoy your little ones." demands C.D.

S&S sighs, "Oh please! Enjoy the children? Will you really be enjoying them when you come inside to mounds of laundry, a grocery list to be made & shopping to do and you stub your toe on the vacuum cleaner you left out?!"

Today, I finished the vacuuming in my bathroom and assigned the kitchen to Lauren. I'm going to put the cleaner away before going outside... I hate stubbing my toe! I'm leaving the laundry and now going outside (even though it's hot) and still wandering just what the right thing to do would be?!

In the end, I needed to just DO something! I can vascillate all day and accomplish neither fun nor to-dos. It's time to stop overthinking and start living!

p.s. Isn't Krissy so cute with Landon sleeping on her shoulder? It has nothing to do with the post- I just love my sister! :)

2009-06-09T20:02:00.000-07:00

A new year, a new name, but the Biblically-based teaching remains a constant. Chris went to NEXT this year and says he's taking me next time! No longer a "singles conference" (formerly New Attitude), NEXT is online & needs your attention! Like now! 2009 NEXT Messages Yes, you. Click that link.

D.A. Carson's message was my fave, but they're all wonderful. Make sure to listen in order... and then tell me which ministered to you the most.

The World's Best Muffins!

2009-05-31T17:24:00.000-07:00

So good that the photo I'm showing you of the muffin depicts them perfectly- eaten up! (Note the crumbs on Andrew's lips- that's what's left.) Yes, these muffins are that good!

Now, I used to be a recipe hoarder... but I have learned that somethings are too good not to share! Enjoy these moist, flavorful muffins for breakfast, tea time, or anytime you want to share a special moment with your sweet family!

Allie's* So Very Yummy Nana Crunch Muffins
3 c flour (can replace 1 c w/whole wheat if you'd like)
2 c sugar
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 pound unsalted butter, melted & cooled
2 x-lg eggs
3/4 c milk
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 c mashed RIPE (read: sweet, almost rotten & mushy) nanas
1 c diced nanas
1 c small diced walnuts
1 c granola
1 c shredded coconut (I buy unsweetened from the HFS)

1) Sift flour, sugar, powder, soda, salt into a large bowl.
2) Mix eggs, milk, vanilla & mashed nanas in a bowl.
3) Stir butter into flour mixture (bowl 1) and then combine this with the wet stuff(bowl 2) only till it's all combined. You shouldn't overmix muffins- lumps are ok.
4) Fold in diced bananas, granola, coconut and walnuts. Use an ice cream scoop (it's so much cleaner!) to scoop into lined or sprayed muffin cups, filling all the way up to the top! Sprinkle tops with finely chopped walnuts, granola or coconut.
5) Bake in a preheated 350 oven until the tops are brown 25-30 minutes. 15 ish for mini muffins.

This recipe is good for a few days and even frozen & reheated, unlike most muffin recipes. The secret is all the butter & all the nanas. The higher the fat in a muffin, the longer it stays moist & tasty! YUM!!! Be prepared to exercise self-control b/c you'll want to eat them all up right away!

*I found this recipe 10 years ago in a magazine... it's undergone a few changes (like healthy flour & extra vanilla) but someone else deserves the credit for these tasty morsels. Whoever you are, THANK YOU!!!

Firsts...

2009-05-30T18:19:00.000-07:00

Teresa came over to hang with the kiddos last night so Chris and I could have some time off. (Isn't she sweet!?) We decided to bring Andrew with us and Georgia Anne for some one-on-one time (or two-on-two, as it were) and also to focus on some behaviour issues. Training him to come when we call, be still at the table, and not ask "WHAT???" all night long is a lot easier without 3 other adorable little distractions.

It wasn't all training and seriousness, though! We had a very important first!! Andrew's first HOT Krispy Kreme donut! When it was my turn to order, he chimed in with, "We'll have two." But of course!

Look- he's leading well already and he's only two!

Link Tutorial

2009-05-29T09:17:00.000-07:00

I (Chris) will show you how to make your links look pretty now. A Cup of Grace. Grace Covenant Church's womens' blog.

Brotherly Love

2009-05-28T20:50:00.000-07:00

You know those moments when everything is going perfectly? The big kids were playing happily (together!), Timothy & Andrew were taking their naps and Georgia Anne was exploring happily. Of course that couldn't all last too long. Georgia Anne started crying and Andrew (supposed to be napping) rushed to my bedroom.

Andrew: "Georgia Anne crying!"
Me: "Yes, I hear her."
Andrew: "Georgia Anne need you."
Me: "Thanks. I'll go get her."
Andrew: "Georgia Anne crying me hit her on heeeaad."

Ah HA! The truth comes out! At least he fessed up, right? Turns out she was about to do a "no no" and... whack! He stopped her, all right!

Do I love my children, family & friends enough to stop them from sinning... no matter what the cost?

Grateful for Laughter

2009-04-29T20:44:00.000-07:00

The house is quiet now except for the steady hum of the dishwasher. I love modern appliances. I can type this blog while it washes the plates, cups and silverware of 29 of my best buddies. :) Yes, it was Game Night here at the Olsens and what a night!!

Throughout dinner, games with the kiddos, then games for the big folks, I heard laughter. How kind of God to give this gift so freely! I want to publicly thank the Lord for laughter, food, friends (not necessarily in that order... food def goes first LOL *grin*). His Word says, "every good and perfect gift comes from above." (James 1:17) Thanks, Abba. Man... if we can have this much fun here, can you imgine what HEAVEN will be like!??!

Birthday Surprises

2009-04-16T04:51:00.001-07:00

I think we should have birthdays at least twice a year! All the calls, emails, facebook posts, cards, surprise packages in the mail (Wow!) and personal visits make the day so fun!! I am so blessed to have you guys for friends!!

Mom doesn't keep special gifts and calls for birthdays. We have "UnBirthdays" all the time! Dad jokes with her that she won't have any inheritance to leave because she's going to spend it all now. I think she's on to something, though. I love giving little "I love yous" now while I can watch everyone enjoy themselves!

Today's picture is with my Birthday Ice Cream Buffet! Stacey was sooo sweet to bring over all these yummy flavors for a fun tasting. What a fun way to spend a few hours with friends!! Thanks, Stacey! You made my Bday special!

The children had made and wrapped special pictures for me, Chris brought home some chocolate dipped fruit (and a pink Guy Harvey shirt!) and the Lord sent a day of perfect weather we all enjoyed outside. That night, Seth came over to hang out with the kiddos while Chris & I ate some yummy dinner out. The gift of time was wonderful! I'm so grateful for birthdays- they're a chance to show love to each other and I definitely experienced this on April 10!!

Locust for my Birthday

2009-04-10T05:25:00.000-07:00

Today is my birthday. Yippee! The locust swarms should make today memorable! LOL We went to a Jacksonville Suns baseball game last night, so I didn't have a chance to make the locusts. Soooo... I think it'll be a family project and then we'll let them "swarm" (eeewww)- hopefully they won't eat my Birthday Cake!

Umm... do I *get* a birthday cake if I don't make it?

(p.s. No Birthday Cake, but I did get some incredible Dark Chocolate dipped strawberries & apples and the locusts couldn't find them b/c I kept them hidden in their box in the fridge. I managed to eat almost all of them all by myself... Andrew swiped a bite of apple, but I forgive him. *grin*)

What, the hail?!

2009-04-08T22:10:00.001-07:00

Today, we had flies, gnats AND dead animals! We had to combine some days since I didn't start on time. :) Aren't you glad the Lord doesn't slam us like that?! Whew! He never gives more than we can handle but always provides a way of escape. Thank you, Lord!

Tomorrow, the weather looks gorgeous... sunny skies with a 100% chance of hail!! I'm trying to decide whether to actually let the children throw ice at each other or what. I mean, just laying ice all over the windowsills is not enough... but hurling ice at one another could go from fun to overboard veeeery quickly. Maybe we'll go to The Loop for some crushed ice!

How else could we "do" this plague? We could eat all our meals cold... nah! Ideas welcome!

Ribbitt... ribbitt...

2009-04-06T19:50:00.000-07:00

"But if you refuse to let them go, behold, I will plague all your country with frogs." Exodus 8:2

The water-to-blood plague went well today, except that all day long, Timbo would ask if he could drink some blood, which sounds quite disturbing to outside observers. LOL

Tomorrow, the forecast calls for FROGS... and lots of them. Now, one frog can be cute. Two calls for a frog-race. En masse they are admittedly icky, but cockroaches would be too! So why did Yahweh choose frogs? Check this out:

These critters were associated with the annual inundation of the Nile. So they were associated with fruitfulness, blessedness, with a good harvest and were naturally deified. Their "frog goddess" was goddess of both fertility and resurrection. I want you to remember those two because God really sticks it to this goddess; He really puts her down. Fertility, resurrection. You could not, by the way, kill a frog. They were sacred. In fact, if you intentionally killed a frog, you were put to death. In some cases, if you unintentionally killed a frog, you were put to death. Remember that law in light of what is going to happen here, and you will understand the problem they were facing. They could not kill one single frog. (Peninsula Bible Church)

So God (as in the God of Abraham, Isaac & Jacob, not the false god Egyptians called Pharoah) made the very frogs that Egyptians considered worthy of worship into something detestable to them! He alone deserves our worship.

The PLAGUE! The PLAGUE!

2009-04-05T18:03:00.000-07:00

So in spite of my best intentions (read previous blog) I forgot to start the plagues on time! LOL So I'll just end up doubling up on a couple. There are 12 (kidding- 10) plagues and only 7 days till Easter, so we'll just combine a couple. :) Tomorrow, we begin.

Moses and Aaron did as the Lord commanded. In the sight of Pharaoh and in the sight of his servants he lifted up the staff and struck the water in the Nile, and all the water in the Nile turned into blood. ~Exodus 7:20

So the children will wake up on a seemingly normal day to find water cups red, red water in the sink, toilets, etc... anywhere there is water, it'll be (you guessed it!) blood red.

My goal in incorporating the plagues into our Resurrection Celebration is to go beyond the Easter Bunny. Why do most parents say they "do" the Easter Bunny & Santa, etc? Because "we don't want to take away their fun". But in allowing our Holy Days to focus on these fantastical characters, are we taking the emphasis away from holy scripture and THE Fantastic God whom we serve?

I propose that parents can (and should) fill our family life with fun and memorable and magical (though true and historical) events straight from the Word of God. It brings the Word to life. Let's find our fulfillment and joy in Him from the youngest children to the oldest granny. Let's celebrate HIM this season.

Guess What's Coming?

2009-03-29T19:31:00.000-07:00

I bet you can't guess what I'm thinking... No, it has nothing to do with play dates or politics or vacations or food. Okay, it does have a little to do with food. :) And how you view this event has everything to do with how you engage in politics... But I digress.

Okay, Easter is coming! This is arguably one of the most important days within the church and yet most people give little thought to Easter beyond buying a new dress or maybe an Easter basket. But we should!

I'm a little extra-excited this year because Easter and Passover coincide with each other. The unity of all of scripture was never as clear to me as when we first kept Passover. No, we didn't sacrifice a lamb- I know that was taken care of on the Cross! What I didn't know was all of the other ways Jesus fulfilled OT traditions and prophecies. Like the red ribbon running through the park in this picture, all of scripture points to our saviour and, ultimately, His death for us.

Take some time over the next week to think of ways to share BIBLICAL truths with your children this Easter! I don't mean sticking a Bible Story Book in their Easter baskets (though you can do that as well), but actually looking into scripture with the kiddos and finding your joy and your identity and your family traditions in His Word!

Simple is for GIRLS!

2009-03-26T09:07:00.000-07:00

Can you believe Georgia Anne is already 6 months old? Today was the day to take down her cradle and re-do Chris' and my bedroom as a sanctuary. I love it as a nursery but am excited to have an oasis of calm on those busy days.

So my plan was to use a simple wrench to take down the cradle. I enlisted Timbo to be my handyman. You know it's always a great idea to allow the youngest child possible to do a job, so he was my man. He, in turn, asked his big bro to help him find the right wrench. He and Ben returned from the garage with the Mechanic's Toolbox full of socket thingies and the wrench thing that goes click click click when you turn it!! Yikes!

After Ben & Timothy spent 10 minutes trying to find the right size socket, I walked over and picked up a wrench and said, "Why don't you just use this?"

Ben's response? "Daddy said using a socket is easier!"

And when I asked Chris about this, he chuckled, "I'm surprised he didn't use the drill with socket attachment!"

Two words from Mom: OH BROTHER!!